bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hydrothermal convection in and around mineralized fault zones: insights from two‐ and three‐dimensional numerical modeling applied to the Ashanti belt, Ghana
Authors: HARCOUËT‐MENOU V. , GUILLOU‐FROTTIER L. , BONNEVILLE A. , ADLER P. M. , MOURZENKO V.
Published: May 2009

Among hydrogeological processes, free convection in faults has been cited as a possible cause of gold mineralization along major fault zones. Here, we investigate the effects of free convection to determine whether it can cause giant orogenic gold deposits and their regular spatial distribution along major fault/shear zones. The approach comprises: (i) coupled two‐ and three‐dimensional numerical heat‐ and fluid‐flow simulations of simplified geological models; and (ii) calculation of the rock alteration index (RAI) to delineate regions where precipitation/dissolution can occur. Then, comparing the deduced alteration patterns with temperature distribution, potential areas of gold mineralization, defined by T > 200°C and RAI < 0, are predicted. The models are based on the orogenic Paleoproterozoic ore deposits of the Ashanti belt in western Africa. These deposits occur in the most permeable parts of the fault zone, where the lateral permeability contrast is the highest. For a simple geometry, with a fault zone adjacent to a sedimentary basin half as permeable, we note a transition from three‐dimensional circulation within the fault to a two‐dimensional convective pattern in the basin far from the fault. Moreover, whereas two‐dimensional undulated isotherms dominate in the basin, three‐dimensional corrugated isotherms result from the preferred convective pattern within the fault, thus enhancing a periodic distribution of thermal highs and lows. In our most elaborate three‐dimensional model with an imposed lateral permeability gradient, the RAI distribution indicates that fluid circulation in fault zones gives rise to a spatial periodicity of alteration patterns consistent with field data.
Signaling pathway adaptations and novel protein kinase A substrates related to behavioral sensitization to cocaine
Authors: Boudreau Amy C. , Ferrario Carrie R. , Glucksman Marc J. , Wolf Marina E.
Published: May 2009

Behavioral sensitization is an animal model for aspects of cocaine addiction. Cocaine‐sensitized rats exhibit increased AMPA receptor (AMPAR) surface expression in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) which may in turn enhance drug seeking. To identify signaling pathways contributing to AMPAR up‐regulation, we measured AMPAR surface expression and signaling pathway activation in the NAc of cocaine‐sensitized rats, cocaine‐exposed rats that failed to sensitize and saline controls on withdrawal days (WD) 1, 7, and 21. We focused on calcium/calmodulin‐dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII), extracellular signal‐regulated protein kinase (ERK), and protein kinase A (PKA). In sensitized rats, AMPAR surface expression was elevated on WD7 and WD21 but not WD1. ERK2 activation followed a parallel time‐course, suggesting a role in AMPAR up‐regulation. Both sensitized and non‐sensitized rats exhibited CaMKII activation on WD7, suggesting that CaMKII activation is not sufficient for AMPAR up‐regulation. PKA phosphorylation, measured using an antibody recognizing phosphorylated PKA substrates, increased gradually over withdrawal in sensitized rats, from below control levels on WD1 to significantly greater than controls on WD21. Using proteomics, novel sensitization‐related PKA substrates were identified, including two structural proteins (CRMP‐2 and α‐tubulin) that we speculate may link PKA signaling to previously reported dendritic remodeling in NAc neurons of cocaine‐sensitized rats.
Proteasome–caspase–cathepsin sequence leading to tau pathology induced by prostaglandin J2 in neuronal cells
Authors: Arnaud Lisette T. , Myeku Natura , Figueiredo‐Pereira Maria E.
Published: May 2009

Neurofibrillary tangles (NFT) are a hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease. The major neurofibrillary tangle component is tau that is truncated at Asp421 (Δtau), hyperphosphorylated and aggregates into insoluble paired helical filaments. Alzheimer’s disease brains also exhibit signs of inflammation manifested by activated astrocytes and microglia, which produce cytotoxic agents among them prostaglandins. We show that prostaglandin (PG) J2, an endogenous product of inflammation, induces caspase‐mediated cleavage of tau, generating Δtau, an aggregation prone form known to seed tau aggregation prior to neurofibrillary tangle formation. The initial event observed upon PGJ2‐treatment of human neuroblastoma SK‐N‐SH cells was the build‐up of ubiquitinated (Ub) proteins indicating an early disruption of the ubiquitin‐proteasome pathway. Apoptosis kicked in later, manifested by caspase activation and caspase‐mediated cleavage of tau at Asp421 and poly (ADP‐ribose) polymerase. Furthermore, cathepsin inhibition stabilized Δtau suggesting its lysosomal clearance. Upon PGJ2‐treatment tau accumulated in a large perinuclear aggregate. In rat E18 cortical neuronal cultures PGJ2‐treatment also generated Δtau detected in dystrophic neurites. Levels of Δtau were diminished by caspase 3 knockdown using siRNA. PGD2, the precursor of PGJ2, produced some Δtau. PGE2 generated none. Our data suggest a potential sequence of events triggered by the neurotoxic product of inflammation PGJ2 leading to tau pathology. The accumulation of Ub proteins is an early response. If cells fail to overcome the toxic effects induced by PGJ2, including accumulation of Ub proteins, apoptosis kicks in triggering caspase activation and tau cleavage, the clearance of which by cathepsins could be compromised culminating in tau pathology. Our studies are the first to provide a mechanistic link between inflammation and tau pathology.
The mosasaur tooth attachment apparatus as paradigm for the evolution of the gnathostome periodontium
Authors: Luan Xianghong , Walker Cameron , Dangaria Smit , Ito Yoshihiro , Druzinsky Robert , Jarosius Kristina , Lesot Herve , Rieppel Olivier
Published: May 2009

SUMMARY
Vertebrate teeth are attached to jaws by a variety of mechanisms, including acrodont, pleurodont, and thecodont modes of attachment. Recent studies have suggested that various modes of attachment exist within each subcategory. Especially squamates feature a broad diversity of modes of attachment. Here we have investigated tooth attachment tissues in the late cretaceous mosasaur Clidastes and compared mosasaur tooth attachment with modes of attachment found in other extant reptiles. Using histologic analysis of ultrathin ground sections, four distinct mineralized tissues that anchor mosasaur teeth to the jaw were identified: (i) an acellular cementum layer at the interface between root and cellular cementum, (ii) a massive cone consisting of trabecular cellular cementum, (iii) the mineralized periodontal ligament containing mineralized Sharpey's fibers, and (iv) the interdental ridges connecting adjacent teeth. The complex, multilayered attachment apparatus in mosasaurs was compared with attachment tissues in extant reptiles, including Iguana and Caiman. Based on our comparative analysis we postulate the presence of a quadruple‐layer tissue architecture underlying reptilian tooth attachment, comprised of acellular cementum, cellular cementum, mineralized periodontal ligament, and interdental ridge (alveolar bone). We propose that the mineralization status of the periodontal ligament is a dynamic feature in vertebrate evolution subject to functional adaptation.
Embryonic muscle development in direct and indirect developing marine flatworms (Platyhelminthes, Polycladida)
Authors: Bolaños D. Marcela , Litvaitis Marian K.
Published: May 2009

SUMMARY
We compared embryonic myogenesis of the direct‐developing acotylean polyclad Melloplana ferruginea with that of Maritigrella crozieri, a cotylean that develops via a larval stage. Fluorescently labeled F‐actin was visualized with laser confocal microscopy. Developmental times are reported as percentages of the time from oviposition to hatching: 7 days for M. crozieri and 22  days for M. ferruginea. The epithelium began to form at 30% development in M. crozieri and at 15% development in M. ferruginea. Random myoblasts appeared in peripheral areas of the embryo at 36% and 22–30% development in M. crozeri and M. ferruginea, respectively. Circular and longitudinal muscle bands formed synchronously at 37–44% development in M. crozieri; yolk obscured observations of early myogenesis in M. ferruginea. An orthogonal muscle grid was established by 45–50% development in both species. Diagonal muscles developed in M. ferruginea at 60–71% development. Hence, juveniles of this species hatch with the same basic body‐wall musculature as adults. Larvae of M. crozieri did not hatch with diagonal muscles; these muscles are acquired postmetamorphosis. Additionally, a specialized musculature developed in the larval lobes of M. crozieri. Oral musculature was complex and established by 72% development in both species. Our results are comparable to the muscle differentiation reported for other indirect‐developing polyclads and for direct‐developing species of macrostomid flatworms. Furthermore, they provide additional support that the orthogonal muscle pattern of circular and longitudinal muscles is a symplesiomorphy of Spiralia.
Morphological modularity and assessment of developmental processes within the vole dental row (Microtus arvalis, Arvicolinae, Rodentia)
Authors: Laffont Rémi , Renvoisé Elodie , Navarro Nicolas , Alibert Paul , Montuire Sophie
Published: May 2009

SUMMARYKnowledge of mammalian tooth formation is increasing, through numerous genetic and developmental studies. The prevalence of teeth in fossil remains has led to an intensive description of evolutionary patterns within and among lineages based on tooth morphology. The extent to which developmental processes have influenced tooth morphologies and therefore the role of these processes in these evolutionary patterns are nonetheless challenging. Recent methodological advances have been proposed allowing the inference of developmental processes from adult morphologies and the characterization of the degree of developmental integration/modularity of morphological traits by studying the patterns of variation within and among individuals. This study focuses on the geometric shape of the lower molars of the vole speciesMicrotus arvalis. Our results suggest (i) quasi‐independence of each molar at the developmental level (developmental modules), even slightly stronger for the third molar supporting some genetic and developmental hypotheses and (ii) more pervasive integration processes among molars at the morphological level.
Saltational evolution of trunk segment number in centipedes
Authors: Minelli Alessandro , Chagas‐Júnior Amazonas , Edgecombe Gregory D.
Published: May 2009

SUMMARY
Saltational changes in segment numbers have likely occurred in arthropod evolution, especially if mechanisms of segment formation involve a multiplicative phase, as recently suggested in the evo‐devo literature. Here we provide for the first time evidence of major phenotypic saltation in the evolution of segment number in a lineage of centipedes, with a newly discovered species of scolopender having segment numbers duplicated with respect to its closest relatives, and to all the remaining 700+ species of Scolopendromorpha known to date.
Knowledge, Attitudes, and Behaviors of Elementary School Students Regarding Sun Exposure and Skin Cancer
Authors: Rouhani Panta , Parmet Yisrael , Bessell Ann G. , Peay Tamika , Weiss Alina , Kirsner Robert S.
Published: May 2009

Abstract:  The aim of this study was to assess baseline knowledge of skin cancer, sun protection practices, and perceptions of tanning among third through fifth grade elementary students in Florida. A total of 4,002 students in nineteen elementary schools in Palm Beach County, Florida were surveyed. SunSmart America™ curriculum pretest responses were the main outcome measures. Overall students’ knowledge using a students’ mean knowledge scale scores of skin cancer and sun protection were low (<40% of questions answered correctly) and was found to increase with increasing grade level (p < 0.01). Boys more frequently reported spending greater than 2 hours in the sun when compared with girls (p < 0.01). Girls, however, were more likely to try and get a tan most of the time or always when compared with boys (p = 0.02). Non‐Hispanic White students (51.3%) more frequently reported use of SPF 15 or greater sunscreen “most of the time or always” compared with Hispanic (35.3%) and non‐Hispanic Black (13.4%) students (p < 0.01). Elementary aged students in south Florida have limited knowledge about sun safety, despite spending considerable amount of time in the sun. Sun safe behavior is associated with gender and ethnicity. The findings provide empirical support for the need of a school‐based educational intervention.
Serum Levels of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor and Basic Fibroblastic Growth Factor in Children with Hemangiomas and Vascular Malformations—Preliminary Report
Authors: Przewratil Przemyslaw , Sitkiewicz Anna , Wyka Krystyna , Andrzejewska Ewa
Published: May 2009

Abstract:  Impaired balance between proangiogenic and antiangiogenic factors has been implicated in the development of hemangiomas. Elevated vascular endothelial growth factor serum levels and basic fibroblastic growth factor urine levels in patients with proliferating hemangiomas were reported. However, whether these growth factors can be used for the differential diagnosis of vascular anomalies or assessment of the clinical course of hemangiomas has yet to be determined. We report here our preliminary results of serum vascular endothelial growth factor and basic fibroblastic growth factor levels as an aid in the diagnosis of hemangiomas and in the follow up of patients with this lesion. Twenty two children with infantile hemangioma (13 with proliferating hemangiomas, nine with involuting lesions), five children with vascular malformations, and 25 healthy children study group. Vascular endothelial growth factor and basic fibroblastic growth factor serum levels were analyzed by an ELISA assay. The serum vascular endothelial growth factor concentrations in children with proliferating hemangiomas were significantly higher than in patients with involuting hemangiomas, vascular malformations and healthy patients. The serum basic fibroblastic growth factor concentrations were low and similar in all patients with no statistical correlation between study groups. We concluded that (i) ELISA can easily determine vascular endothelial growth factor concentrations in different phases of hemangioma growth and help distinguishing them from vascular malformations. (ii) A potential role for vascular endothelial growth factor in the pathophysiology of hemangiomas is probable.
Quantitative Assessment of Combination Bathing and Moisturizing Regimens on Skin Hydration in Atopic Dermatitis
Authors: Chiang Charles , Eichenfield Lawrence F.
Published: May 2009

Abstract:  Standard recommendations for skin care for patients with atopic dermatitis stress the importance of skin hydration and the application of moisturizers. However, objective data to guide recommendations regarding the optimal practice methods of bathing and emollient application are scarce. This study quantified cutaneous hydration status after various combination bathing and moisturizing regimens. Four bathing/moisturizer regimens were evaluated in 10 subjects, five pediatric subjects with atopic dermatitis and five subjects with healthy skin. The regimens consisted of bathing alone without emollient application, bathing and immediate emollient application, bathing and delayed application, and emollient application alone. Each regimen was evaluated in all subjects, utilizing a crossover design. Skin hydration was assessed with standard capacitance measurements. In atopic dermatitis subjects, emollient alone yielded a significantly (p < 0.05) greater mean hydration over 90 minutes (206.2% baseline hydration) than bathing with immediate emollient (141.6%), bathing and delayed emollient (141%), and bathing alone (91.4%). The combination bathing and emollient application regimens demonstrated hydration values at 90 minutes not significantly greater than baseline. Atopic dermatitis subjects had a decreased mean hydration benefit compared with normal skin subjects. Bathing without moisturizer may compromise skin hydration. Bathing followed by moisturizer application provides modest hydration benefits, though less than that of simply applying moisturizer alone.
Reptile and Amphibian Responses to Restoration of Fire‐Maintained Pine Woodlands
Authors: Perry Roger W. , Rudolph D. Craig , Thill Ronald E.
Published: May 2009

Fire‐maintained woodlands and savannas are important ecosystems for vertebrates in many regions of the world. These ecosystems are being restored by forest managers, but little information exists on herpetofaunal responses to this restoration in areas dominated by shortleaf pine (Pinus echinata). We compared habitat characteristics and herpetofaunal communities in restored pine woodlands to relatively unmanaged, second‐growth forests in the Ouachita Mountains of western Arkansas, USA. We found woodland restoration with periodic burning affected species differently; some species benefited, some species appeared negatively affected, but most species did not respond clearly either way. Overall reptile captures were significantly (p= 0.041) greater in pine‐woodlands than in unrestored forest; one species of snake and three species of lizards were captured more often in woodlands than unrestored forests. Among anurans, we found no significant difference in captures between woodlands and unrestored forests for any species. Among salamanders, we captured western slimy salamanders (Plethodon albagula) almost exclusively in unrestored forest, but captures of other species did not differ between the two treatments. Historically, the Ouachita region likely consisted of a mosaic that included both fire‐maintained habitats (woodlands, savannas, and prairies) and areas of denser forest on mesic sites that were less likely to burn. Consequently, landscapes that retain both open woodlands and denser, less‐intensely burned forest (in the form of unharvested greenbelts or separate stands) would likely promote and maintain a greater diversity of herpetofauna.
The impact of genetics on the classification of epilepsy syndromes
Authors: Zara Federico , Bianchi Amedeo
Published: May 2009

Recent progress in the genetics of epilepsies may potentially provide important insights into biologic processes underlying epileptogenesis. However, the genetic etiology underlying epilepsy remains largely unknown, and the impact of available genetic data on the nosology of epilepsy is still limited. Therefore, at present, classification of epileptic disorders should be mainly based on electroclinical features. In the future, it is likely that the investigation of familial traits will lead to the definition of novel syndromes and that genotype–phenotype correlations in inherited conditions will shed light on the variable expressivity of epileptic disorders. Moreover, the discovery of new epilepsy genes may allow assessment of whether different phenotypes are etiologically linked.
Clinical spectrum of SCN1A mutations
Authors: Gambardella Antonio , Marini Carla
Published: May 2009

Mutations in the NaV1.1 neuronal sodium channel alpha‐subunit (SCN1A) gene have been documented in a spectrum of epilepsy syndromes, ranging from the relatively benign generalized epilepsy with febrile seizures plus (GEFS+) to severe myoclonic epilepsy in infancy (SMEI), and rare cases of familial migraine. More than 300 new mutations have been identified to date, with missense mutations being the most common in GEFS+ and more deleterious mutations (nonsense, frameshift) representing the majority of SMEI mutations. Microchromosomal abnormalities including SCN1A deletions, amplifications, and duplications are also found in patients with SMEI. Deletions range in size from one single exon to abnormalities extending beyond SCN1A and involving contiguous genes. The majority of SCN1A mutations in SMEI arise de novo. SCN1A mutations are found throughout the protein structure, and some clustering of mutations is observed in the C‐terminus and the loops between segments 5 and 6 of the first three domains of the protein. Functional studies so far show no consistent relationship between changes to channel properties and clinical phenotype.
Changes in Panayiotopoulos syndrome over time
Authors: Capovilla Giuseppe , Striano Pasquale , Beccaria Francesca
Published: May 2009

In its first description (1989), Panayiotopoulos syndrome was defined as an idiopathic epilepsy syndrome with an excellent prognosis, characterized by a clinical ictal triad of nocturnal seizures, tonic deviation of the eyes, and vomiting. The electroencephalographic and clinical features of this condition were highly suggestive of occipital lobe involvement. Subsequently, the concept of this benign age‐related focal epilepsy has been expanded over the years, including a wider and larger spectrum of seizure manifestations far beyond the occipital manifestations, and for which the eponym of Panayiotopoulos syndrome (PS) has been adopted. However, many theoretical and practical points, including diagnostic, genetic, and pathophysiologic issues remain still unresolved for PS.
Malignant migrating partial seizures in infancy: An epilepsy syndrome of unknown etiology
Authors: Coppola Giangennaro
Published: May 2009

The syndrome of malignant migrating partial seizures in infancy was first reported in 1995, and is now included among the childhood epilepsy syndromes in development in the proposal of the revision of the International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE) classification of the epilepsies and epilepsy syndromes. The main clinical features are seizure onset in the first 6 months of life, occurrence of almost continuous migrating polymorphous focal seizures, combined with multifocal ictal electroencephalography (EEG) discharges, and progressive deterioration of psychomotor development. Etiology is so far unknown. Seizures are markedly drug resistant and outcome is generally severe. Based on age at onset, migrating partial seizures in infancy (MMPEI) may be placed between early epileptic encephalopathies (early myoclonic encephalopathy [EME] and early infantile epileptic encephalopathy [EIEE]) and infantile spasms.
Transient epileptic amnesia: An emerging late‐onset epileptic syndrome
Authors: Bilo Leonilda , Meo Roberta , Ruosi Patrizia , De Leva Maria Fulvia , Striano Salvatore
Published: May 2009

Transient epileptic amnesia (TEA) is a distinct neurologic condition occurring in late‐middle/old age and presenting with amnesic attacks of epileptic nature and interictal memory disturbances. For many years this condition has been associated with the nonepileptic condition of transient global amnesia (TGA) and still today is poorly recognized by clinicians. Despite the clinical and laboratory findings that distinguish TEA from TGA, differential diagnosis may be difficult in the individual patient. Every effort must be employed for an early diagnosis, since antiepileptic treatment may readily control both ictal episodes and memory disturbances.
Hepcidin Regulation in Wild‐Type and Hfe Knockout Mice in Response to Alcohol Consumption: Evidence for an Alcohol‐Induced Hypoxic Response
Authors: Heritage Mandy L. , Murphy Therese L. , Bridle Kim R. , Anderson Gregory J. , Crawford Darrell H. G. , Fletcher Linda M.
Published: May 2009

Background /Aims:  Expression of Hamp1, the gene encoding the iron regulatory peptide hepcidin, is inappropriately low in HFE‐associated hereditary hemochromatosis and Hfe knockout mice (Hfe−/−). Since chronic alcohol consumption is also associated with disturbances in iron metabolism, we investigated the effects of alcohol consumption on hepcidin mRNA expression in Hfe−/− mice.

Methods:  Hfe
−/− and C57BL/6 (wild‐type) mice were pair‐fed either an alcohol liquid diet or control diet for up to 8 weeks. The mRNA levels of hepcidin and ferroportin were measured at the mRNA level by RT‐PCR and protein expression of hypoxia inducible factor‐1 alpha (HIF‐1α) was measured by western blot.

Results:  Hamp1 mRNA expression was significantly decreased and duodenal ferroportin expression was increased in alcohol‐fed wild‐type mice at 8 weeks. Time course experiments showed that the decrease in hepcidin mRNA was not immediate, but was significant by 4 weeks. Consistent with the genetic defect, Hamp1 mRNA was decreased and duodenal ferroportin mRNA expression was increased in Hfe−/− mice fed on the control diet compared with wild‐type animals and alcohol further exacerbated these effects. HIF‐1α protein levels were elevated in alcohol‐fed wild‐type animals compared with controls.

Conclusion:  Alcohol may decrease Hamp1 gene expression independently of the HFE pathway possibly via alcohol‐induced hypoxia.
Procysteine Stimulates Expression of Key Anabolic Factors and Reduces Plantaris Atrophy in Alcohol‐Fed Rats
Authors: Otis Jeffrey S. , Guidot David M.
Published: May 2009

Background:  Long‐term alcohol ingestion may produce severe oxidant stress and lead to skeletal muscle dysfunction. Emerging evidence has suggested that members of the interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) family of cytokines play diverse roles in the regulation of skeletal muscle mass. Thus, our goals were (i) to minimize the degree of oxidant stress and attenuate atrophy by supplementing the diets of alcohol‐fed rats with the glutathione precursor, procysteine, and (ii) to identify the roles of IL‐6 family members in alcoholic myopathy.

Methods:  Age‐ and gender‐matched Sprague‐Dawley rats were fed the Lieber‐DeCarli liquid diet containing either alcohol or an isocaloric substitution (control diet) for 35 weeks. Subgroups of alcohol‐fed rats received procysteine (0.35%, w/v) for the final 12 weeks. Plantaris morphology was assessed by hematoxylin and eosin staining. Major components of glutathione metabolism were determined using assay kits. Real‐time PCR was used to determine expression levels of several genes.

Results:  Plantaris muscles from alcohol‐fed rats displayed extensive atrophy, as well as decreased glutathione levels, decreased activities of glutathione reductase and glutathione peroxidase, decreased superoxide dismutase (SOD)‐2 (Mn‐SOD2), and increased NADPH oxidase‐1 gene expression—each indicative of significant oxidant stress. Alcohol also induced gene expression of catabolic factors including IL‐6, oncostatin M, atrogin‐1, muscle ring finger protein‐1, and IGFBP‐1. Procysteine treatment attenuated plantaris atrophy, restored glutathione levels, and increased catalase, Cu/Zn‐SOD1, and Mn‐SOD2 mRNA expression, but did not reduce other markers of oxidant stress or levels of these catabolic factors. Instead, procysteine stimulated gene expression of anabolic factors such as insulin‐like growth factor‐1, ciliary neurotrophic factor, and cardiotrophin‐1.

Conclusions:  Procysteine significantly attenuated, but did not completely abrogate, alcohol‐induced oxidant stress or catabolic factors. Rather, procysteine minimized the extent of plantaris atrophy by inducing components of several anabolic pathways. Therefore, anti‐oxidant treatments such as procysteine supplementation may benefit individuals with alcoholic myopathy.
Preclinical Evaluation of Riluzole: Assessments of Ethanol Self‐Administration and Ethanol Withdrawal Symptoms
Authors: Besheer Joyce , Lepoutre Veronique , Hodge Clyde W.
Published: May 2009

Background: Many of the neurobehavioral effects of ethanol are mediated by inhibition of excitatoryN‐methyl‐d‐aspartate (NMDA) and enhancement of inhibitory γ‐amino‐butyric‐acid (GABA) receptor systems. There is growing interest in drugs that alter these systems as potential medications for problems associated with alcoholism. The drug riluzole, approved for treatment of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), inhibits NMDA and enhances GABAAreceptor system activity. This study was designed to determine the preclinical efficacy of riluzole to modulate ethanol self‐administration and withdrawal.

Methods: Male C57BL/6J mice were trained to lever press on a concurrent fixed‐ratio 1 schedule of ethanol (10% v/v) versus water reinforcement during daily 16‐hour sessions. Riluzole (1 to 40 mg/kg, IP) was evaluated on ethanol self‐administration after acute and chronic (2 week) treatment. To determine if riluzole influences ethanol withdrawal‐associated seizures, mice were fed an ethanol‐containing or control liquid diet for 18 days. The effects of a single injection of riluzole (30 mg/kg) were examined on handling‐induced convulsions after ethanol withdrawal.

Results: Acute riluzole (30 and 40 mg/kg) reduced ethanol self‐administration during the first 4 hours of the session, which corresponds to the known pharmacokinetics of this drug. Ethanol self‐administration was also reduced by riluzole after chronic treatment. Riluzole (30 mg/kg) significantly decreased the severity of ethanol‐induced convulsions 2 hours after ethanol withdrawal.

Conclusions: These results demonstrate that riluzole decreases ethanol self‐administration and may reduce ethanol withdrawal severity in mice. Thus, riluzole may have utility in the treatment of problems associated with alcoholism.
Exploring Correlates of Product Launch in Collaborative Ventures: An Empirical Investigation of Pharmaceutical Alliances
Authors: Talay M. Berk , Seggie Steven H. , Cavusgil Erin
Published: May 2009

This paper examines collaborative ventures leading toward the launch of new products in the pharmaceutical industry. These collaborative ventures are one of the most underresearched areas in the new product literature, yet the preponderance of these collaborative ventures makes it an area of great importance for scholars and practitioners alike. As such, the purpose of the study is to examine why some collaborative projects produce a favorable outcome (the launch of a product) whereas others do not. That is, what characteristics of partner firms in the collaborative ventures and what characteristics of the partnership lead to a successful launch of a new product in the pharmaceutical industry? Secondary data from the pharmaceutical industry are employed in a multinomial logit model. Data from 128 collaborative ventures from 1980 to 2004 are used in the analysis. The partner firms in the collaborative ventures are from various industries ranging from malt beverages to pharmaceutical preparations to electronic and other equipment among others. Of the 128 collaborative ventures, 66 were successful in leading to a new product launch, whereas 62 did not result in the launch of a new product. The results from the multinomial logit analysis suggest that combined marketing resources of parent companies, combined technological intensity of parent companies, and combined asset bases of parent companies contribute to the likelihood of an eventual product launch in a collaborative venture. However, the results of the analysis show that contrary to expectations, technological complementarity of partners in the collaborative venture is not a significant predictor of successful new product launch. The results of the study suggest certain aspects for managers to consider when establishing collaborative ventures. To maximize the possibilities of the collaborative venture leading to the successful launching of a new product, managers should be concerned with the resources potentially available to partners in the collaborative venture from parent firms. These resources are not only of financial nature but also of technological nature. The existence of these resources does not ensure provision of resources to the collaborative venture; however, without the possibility of these resources it appears that successful launch of a product is less likely.
Attribution Biases in the Evaluation of New Product Development Team Members*
Authors: Faure Corinne
Published: May 2009

Managers are often concerned with the potential negative reputation impact of being assigned to a new product development project. Social psychology theories, and in particular the group attribution error theory, suggest that their worries might be justified, with individual team members being evaluated on the basis of the overall project performance, without regard for the processes by which the team outcome was reached. The objective of this paper is to empirically test for the existence of such biases in the evaluation of new product development team members. For this purpose, three independent experiments based on scenarios test the extent to which the group attribution error is at play in the evaluation of new product development team members and the extent to which it can be removed. Overall, this paper indicates that this bias does indeed affect the evaluation of new product development team members as well as decisions based on these evaluations. In the studies presented in this paper, analysis of variance showed that subjects inferred that team members' attitudes were consistent with the decision made and failed to adjust adequately for the decision rule used. Subjects then used these summary judgments as the basis for deciding on reward allocations and making competence attributions about the team members. In Study 1, the decision rule used was either a vote or a team leader decision, and therefore the bias might have been explained by the lack of information available. Study 2, however, provided unambiguous information about team members' positions, yet subjects did not adequately take this information into account. Study 3 replicated these results with experienced new product team managers, suggesting that theses biases are likely to be at play in the workplace. Moreover, subjects in Studies 2 and 3 felt quite confident that their judgments were being fair, even in the cases where these judgments truly were not, which suggests a lack of awareness of the bias on their part. The robustness of this bias should be cause for concerns for managers working in new product development teams or involved in the evaluation of the performance of such teams. The studies conducted in this paper suggest that team members can get unfairly rewarded or punished for decisions over which they have little or no control and that their reputation can also get affected by these decisions. Moreover, the fact that the group attribution error affected evaluations even in the case where experienced participants had specific information about team members' positions suggests that this bias will not be easy to remove.
Investment in Design and Firm Performance: The Mediating Role of Design Management*
Authors: Chiva Ricardo , Alegre Joaquín
Published: May 2009

Design management is an increasingly important concept, research into which is remarkably scarce. Although the literature suggests that design management has an effect on design effectiveness, there is no empirical support for the impact of design management on firm performance. Furthermore, few studies have quantified the contribution that design makes to company performance. The aim of this paper is to analyze the effect of design investment on company performance and how this relationship is mediated by design management skills. Structural equation modeling was used to test the research hypotheses on a data set from the Italian and Spanish ceramic tile industry. Results suggest, first, that design management enhances firm performance. Second, this research also provides empirical evidence that investing in design is positively related to design management. Third, design management plays a significant role in determining the effects of design investment on firm performance. Companies that manage design effectively and efficiently attain better performance than those that do not. Therefore, good design does not emerge by chance or by simply investing in design but rather as the result of a managed process. Additionally, a methodological contribution of the present study lies in the empirical validation of a scale to assess design management skills. Finally, some suggestions are put forward for future lines of research that would complement this study and would go beyond some of its limitations.
Information, Promotion, and the Adoption of Innovative Consumer Durables*
Authors: Song Michael , Parry Mark E.
Published: May 2009

The diffusion of innovative new products is critically dependent on the transmission of relevant information to potential adopters. Existing research indicates that the relative effectiveness of different communication tools depends on the type of information being communicated. Written and verbal communication tools can be effective when consumers make adoption decisions based on search attributes. However, when adoption depends on experience attributes, marketers must find ways to effectively expose consumers to these attributes. In this paper the authors explore the effectiveness of promotional incentives in motivating consumers to engage in behaviors that should increase their understanding of an innovation's experience attributes. To the authors' knowledge, the research described here is the first published study of the relative effectiveness of different promotional vehicles in stimulating adoption of a consumer durable. The empirical analysis is based on data collected in a real‐world experiment involving 614 households. Just over half of these households received a free DVD movie disc as an incentive to participate in the study. The authors assigned the participating households to four treatment groups of 100 households each and a control group of 214 households. The households in the treatment groups received one of four promotional offers that featured some form of a $50 monetary incentive. These promotional offers differed in the degree to which they encouraged behavior that exposed consumers to the experience attributes of a DVD player. After one month the authors surveyed these households again to determine how many purchased a DVD player in the preceding month. An analysis of this experimental data reveals that all four monetary promotions significantly enhanced the probability of adoption. In particular, the average adoption rate among the households receiving one of the monetary incentives was 41%. In contrast, none of the households in the control group reported purchasing a DVD player. Promotions that paid consumers for specific behaviors that precede purchase were no less effective than a coupon that reduces the purchase price by an equivalent amount. In addition, promotions that directly exposed consumers to experience attributes were more effective than promotions that simply provided consumers with the opportunity to learn about experience attributes. Finally, the gift of a free complementary product (a DVD movie) enhanced the effectiveness of three of the four monetary promotions. The authors close with a discussion of managerial implications and directions for future search.
PERSPECTIVE: Revisiting the Digital Divide: An Analysis of Mobile Technology Depth and Service Breadth in the BRIC Countries
Authors: Chircu Alina M. , Mahajan Vijay
Published: May 2009

Can mobile communication technologies bridge the digital divide between developing and developed countries? This paper shows that the divide looks differently from what was previously thought for the fastest‐growing developing countries—Brazil, Russia, India, and China (BRIC) based on 2006 data. While mobile technology depth (number subscriptions as percentage of population) is lower in BRIC, it has been rapidly growing, equaling, or surpassing some developed countries for BRIC such as Russia and Brazil. BRIC such as India and Russia also equal or surpass several developed countries in 2006 in terms of mobile technology breadth (service variety) on 34 individual and five categories of mobile services available worldwide. While some BRIC may be behind developed countries on one of these dimensions in 2006, they are ahead on the other dimension. Thus, the digital divide between BRIC and developed countries can be narrower, absent, or even reversed, depending on the metric used. This paper argues that BRIC can serve as frontrunners whose lessons on technology diffusion can be applied in other developing countries. The paper presents implications for new product and innovation management and digital divide research and for policy making and business processes for high‐tech companies in BRIC and other developing countries.
Selecting the Transthoracic Defibrillation Shock Directional Vector Based on VF Amplitude Improves Shock Success
Authors: BROOKS LEONARD , ZHANG YI , DENDI RAGHUVEER , ANDERSON ROGER H. , ZIMMERMAN BRIDGET , KERBER RICHARD E.
Published: May 2009

Introduction: Termination of ventricular fibrillation (VF) by a defibrillating shock is more likely to occur when the VF amplitude is larger. We hypothesized that a defibrillation shock would achieve higher success if the shock vector was oriented along the largest of the VF amplitudes measured simultaneously in 3 orthogonal ECG leads, and that this axis could be determined near‐instantaneously in real time.

Methods and Results: In 9 closed‐chest anesthetized swine, a new directional defibrillation (DD) device was used to simultaneously measure the VF peak amplitudes displayed by 3 orthogonal pairs of defibrillation electrodes: anterior–posterior, lateral–lateral, and superior–inferior. Four shocks at each of 3 energy levels (30 Joules [J], 50 J, and 100 J) were delivered through the electrode pair measuring the largest (LA) and smallest (SA) VF peak amplitude at the time of the shock. The odds of shock success (VF termination followed by a perfusing rhythm) were 5 times more likely when shocks were delivered from the LA electrodes than the SA electrodes (odds ratio 5.10, 95% CI: 1.39, 18.79). At the intermediate energy level of 50 J, shocks delivered through the LA electrode pairs had an almost 9 times higher odds of shock success than 50 J shocks delivered through the SA electrode pairs (68.3% vs 18.9%, P = 0.002) (odds ratio 8.94, 95% CI: 2.59, 30.82). Transthoracic impedance and current did not differ for shocks delivered in the LA versus SA groups.

Conclusion: Choosing the defibrillation directional vector based on the largest VF amplitude improved shock success.
Efficacy and safety of fumaric acid esters in the long‐term treatment of psoriasis – A retrospective study (FUTURE)
Authors: Reich Kristian , Thaci Diamant , Mrowietz Ulrich , Kamps Anja , Neureither Marcus , Luger Thomas
Published: May 2009

Background: This study collected data on the safety and efficacy of fumaric acid esters (FAE; Fumaderm®) in the long‐term treatment of psoriasis.

Patients and Methods: Patients were included at 163 dermatological centers if they either had been treated continuously with FAE for at least 24 months, or for 36 months with interruptions of no longer than 6 months. Data were reported from baseline, after 3, 6, 12, 24, and 36 or more months of therapy. Safety parameters were monitored and the severity of skin symptoms was assessed by “Physician's Global Assessment” (PGA) and “Psoriasis Area and Severity Index” (PASI).

Results: 984 patients were included with a mean duration of 44 months of continuous treatment. The percentage of patients documented as markedly improved or clear was 67 % after six months, 78 % after 24 months, and 82 % after 36 months of therapy. Improvement was similar in patients with moderate and severe disease. Changes of laboratory parameters were usually insignificant and did not require a modification of FAE treatment in more than 90 % of the cases.

Conclusions: In the long‐term treatment of patients with moderate and severe psoriasis FAE show a good and sustained clinical efficacy combined with a favorable safety profile.
Assessing the Exchange Rate Sensitivity of U.S. Bilateral Agricultural Trade
Authors: Baek Jungho , Koo Won W.
Published: May 2009

This paper uses an autoregressive distributed lag approach to cointegration to examine the short‐ and long‐run effects of exchange rate changes on bilateral trade of agricultural products between the United States and its 10 major trading partners. Results show that, in the long run, while U.S. agricultural exports are highly sensitive to bilateral exchange rates and foreign income, U.S. agricultural imports are mostly responsive to the U.S. domestic income. In the short run, on the other hand, both the bilateral exchange rates and income in the United States and its trading partners are found to have significant impacts on U.S. agricultural exports and imports.

Dans le présent article, nous avons utilisé un modèle autorégressif à retards échelonnés (autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) approach to cointegration) pour examiner les effets à court et à long terme des variations de taux de change sur le commerce bilatéral des produits agricoles entre les États‐Unis et ses dix principaux partenaires commerciaux. Les résultats ont montré que, à long terme, bien que les exportations agricoles des États‐Unis soient très sensibles aux taux de change bilatéraux et au revenu étranger, les importations agricoles des États‐Unis sont principalement sensibles au revenu intérieur des États‐Unis. À court terme, par contre, les taux de change bilatéraux et le revenu des États‐Unis et de ses partenaires commerciaux ont des répercussions considérables sur les exportations et les importations agricoles des États‐Unis.
Does Choice Context Affect the Results from Incentive‐Compatible Experiments? The Case of Non‐GM and Country‐of‐Origin Premia in Canola Oil
Authors: Volinskiy Dmitriy , Adamowicz Wiktor L. , Veeman Michele , Srivastava Lorie
Published: May 2009

We seek to design and implement a WTP elicitation instrument closely resembling an actual grocery shopping experience. An incentive‐compatible choice experiment is used to elicit values for a non‐GM attribute and a country‐of‐origin attribute of Canola oil. The choice context is varied to assess whether revealed‐preference choice experiments are affected by choice variety. A median premium for non‐GM Canola oil is found to approximate C$0.45 or C$0.62/liter according to the choice variety context; different country‐of‐origin effects are also found as choice context varies. Hypotheses as to why these significant effects of choice contexts occur are suggested.

Nous cherchons à concevoir et à mettre en application un instrument de révélation de la VDP qui ressemble étroitement aux choix que fait un consommateur lorsqu’il effectue son marché. Nous avons utilisé une méthode expérimentale compatible avec les incitations des participants afin de découvrir la valeur accordée à deux caractéristiques de l’huile de canola: non génétiquement modifiée et étiquetée selon le pays d’origine. La liste des choix est variée afin d’évaluer si les préférences révélées sont influencées par la gamme de choix. La prime médiane de l’huile de canola non génétiquement modifiée est d’environ 0,45 $CAN ou 0,62 $CAN le litre selon les choix proposés. Différents pays d’origine figurent aussi dans cette liste de choix. Nous avons formulé des hypothèses quant aux raisons pour lesquelles la gamme de choix a des effets importants.