bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Perils of Cognitive Enhancement and the Urgent Imperative to Enhance the Moral Character of Humanity
Authors: PERSSON INGMAR , SAVULESCU JULIAN
Published: July 2008

abstract  As history shows, some human beings are capable of acting very immorally.

1

Technological advance and consequent exponential growth in cognitive power means that even rare evil individuals can act with catastrophic effect. The advance of science makes biological, nuclear and other weapons of mass destruction easier and easier to fabricate and, thus, increases the probability that they will come into the hands of small terrorist groups and deranged individuals. Cognitive enhancement by means of drugs, implants and biological (including genetic) interventions could thus accelerate the advance of science, or its application, and so increase the risk of the development or misuse of weapons of mass destruction. We argue that this is a reason which speaks against the desirability of cognitive enhancement, and the consequent speedier growth of knowledge, if it is not accompanied by an extensive moral enhancement of humankind. We review the possibilities for moral enhancement by biomedical and genetic means and conclude that, though it should be possible in principle, it is in practice probably distant. There is thus a reason not to support cognitive enhancement in the foreseeable future. However, we grant that there are also reasons in its favour, but we do not attempt to settle the balance between these reasons for and against. Rather, we conclude that if research into cognitive enhancement continues, as it is likely to, it must be accompanied by research into moral enhancement.
Life Extension versus Replacement
Authors: ARRHENIUS GUSTAF
Published: July 2008

abstract  It seems to be a widespread opinion that increasing the length of existing happy lives is better than creating new happy lives although the total welfare is the same in both cases, and that it may be better even when the total welfare is lower in the outcome with extended lives. I shall discuss two interesting suggestions that seem to support this idea, or so it has been argued. Firstly, the idea there is a positive level of well‐being above which a life has to reach to have positive contributive value to a population, so‐called Critical Level Utilitarianism. Secondly, the view that it makes an outcome worse if people are worse off than they otherwise could have been, a view I call Comparativism. I shall show that although these theories do capture some of our intuitions about the value of longevity, they contradict others, and they have a number of counterintuitive implications in other cases that we ultimately have to reject them.
Market Reactions to Warnings of Negative Earnings Surprises: Further Evidence
Authors: Xu Weihong
Published: July 2008

Abstract:  This study examines two plausible explanations for Kasznik and Lev's (1995) counterintuitive finding that warning firms are subject to more negative market returns than no‐warning firms. Namely, are the more negative market reactions to warning firms due to their poorer future earnings performance or due to investor overreaction? I find that, compared with no‐warning firms, warning firms experience more severe one‐year‐ahead earnings declines and these earnings declines can explain the stronger market returns to warning firms. However, my results do not support an investor overreaction explanation. The tests of subsequent abnormal returns of warning firms over various windows do not detect stock return reversals due to correction for overreaction. In addition, the greater revisions in analysts' forecasts for warning firms are found to enhance analyst accuracy rather than increase analyst pessimism. Collectively, my results suggest that the more negative market reactions to warning firms reflect investors' rational anticipation of more severe declines in future earnings for warning firms rather than investor overreaction.
Inferring intermediate‐scale fluid flow in a heterogeneous metasedimentary multilayer sequence during progressive deformation: evidence from the Monts d’Arrée slate belt (Brittany, France)
Authors: BERWOUTS I. , VAN NOORDEN M. , MUCHEZ PH. , BOYCE A. J. , SINTUBIN M.
Published: July 2008

Quartz veins in the early Variscan Monts d’Arrée slate belt (Central Armorican Terrane, Western France), have been used to determine fluid‐flow characteristics. A combination of a detailed structural analysis, fluid inclusion microthermometry and stable isotope analyses provides insights in the scale of fluid flow and the water–rock interactions. This research suggests that fluids were expelled during progressive deformation and underwent an evolution in fluid chemistry because of changing redox conditions. Seven quartz‐vein generations were identified in the metasedimentary multilayer sequence of the Upper Silurian to Lower Devonian Plougastel Formation, and placed within the time frame of the deformation history. Fluid inclusion data of primary inclusions in syn‐ to post‐tectonic vein generations indicate a gradual increase in methane content of the aqueous–gaseous H2O–CO2–NaCl–CH4–N2fluid during similar P–T conditions (350–400°C and 2–3.5 kbar). The heterogeneous centimetre‐ to metre‐scale multilayer sequence of quartzites and phyllites has a range of oxygen‐isotope values (8.0–14.1‰ Vienna Standard Mean Ocean Water), which is comparable with the range in the crosscutting quartz veins (10.5–14.7‰ V‐SMOW). Significant differences between oxygen‐isotope values of veins and adjacent host rock (Δ = −2.8‰ to +4.9‰ V‐SMOW) suggest an absence of host‐rock buffering on a centimetre scale, but based on the similar range of isotope values in the Plougastel Formation, an intraformational buffering and an intermediate‐scale fluid‐flow system could be inferred. The abundance of veins, their well‐distributed and isolated occurrence, and their direct relationship with the progressive deformation suggests that the intermediate‐scale fluid‐flow system primarily occurred in a dynamically generated network of temporarily open fractures.
A novel approach based on information theory to rank conservation strategies: an application to amphibian metapopulations
Authors: Gilioli G. , Bodini A. , Baumgärtner J. , Weidmann P. , Hartmann J.
Published: July 2008

Habitat fragmentation, reduction and degradation as well as the quality of habitat connecting environments are critical for species persistence. Spatially explicit metapopulation models considering environmental effects are natural candidates for modelling population viability. However, metapopulations share the inherent uncertainties of the population concept with vague field population definitions. The recognition of the fuzzy nature of populations leads to operational definitions for management purposes. To deal with scarce information and uncertainties in predictions of intervention effects, Adaptive Management is useful. Accordingly, the synthesis of monitoring information is performed with models whose features are continuously adapted to the level of available information. To derive useful indices for conservation strategy evaluation, we propose a novel approach based on the Kullback–Leibler information measure. This is used to evaluate strategies aimed at the conservation of amphibians in an alpine Rhine valley region (Canton of the Grisons, Switzerland) and it is applied to outputs from an incidence function model forBufo bufoandRana temporaria. For these species, establishing four additional breeding sites along the Rhine river is a better strategy than placing two additional sites in intensively cultivated land. Artificial ponds in residential areas contribute to species conservation, and transfer of individuals to new sites has advantages over reliance on spontaneous colonization.Bufo bufoandR. temporariareacted similarly to conservation measures, possibly due to their quite similar ecologies.
Strong host preference of ectomycorrhizal fungi in a Tasmanian wet sclerophyll forest as revealed by DNA barcoding and taxon‐specific primers
Authors: Tedersoo Leho , Jairus Teele , Horton Bryony M. , Abarenkov Kessy , Suvi Triin , Saar Irja , Kõljalg Urmas
Published: July 2008

DOI:10.1111/j.1469-8137.2008.02635.xCommentary p 263
Some chemical and microbiological properties of ghee produced in Eastern Anatolia
Authors: KIRAZCI AYSEGUL , JAVIDIPOUR ISSA
Published: July 2008

Some properties of 30 ghee samples produced in Eastern Anatolia in Turkey were evaluated. Lipolytic bacteria and yeast–mould counts ranged from undetectable to 9.9 × 105 and 6.9 × 105 cfu/g, respectively. Most of the samples showed higher free fatty acids (FFA) and peroxide values (PV) than the limits mentioned in International Dairy Federation standards. Storage at 5°C for 30 days was not sufficient to stop the lipolytic and yeast–mould growth and lipid oxidation of the samples. Ghee samples with considerably higher
trans
‐C18 : 1 and
trans
‐C18 : 2 fatty acids contents were considered to be adulterated with hydrogenated oils. It is recommended that specific attention should be given to technology transfer and the education of traditional dairy product manufacturers.
Effect of Microencapsulation on Viability of Lactobacillus acidophilus LA‐5 and Bifidobacterium bifidum BB‐12 During Kasar Cheese Ripening
Authors: ÖZER BARBAROS , UZUN YAKUP SALIH , KIRMACI HÜSEYIN AVNI
Published: July 2008

The viability of encapsulated Lactobacillus acidophilus LA‐5 and Bifidobacterium bifidum BB‐12 by emulsion or extrusion techniques in Kasar cheese was investigated. The microbiological, biochemical and organoleptic properties of cheeses were assessed throughout 90‐day storage. Results showed that the viability of probiotic bacteria was maintained to a great extent by microencapsulation. No difference was noted between the two encapsulation techniques with regard to bacterial counts, proteolysis and organoleptical properties of the final products. Scalding caused a drastic decline in the counts of probiotic bacteria in all cheeses. Following scalding, while the numbers of nonencapsulated probiotic bacteria decreased continuously in the control cheese, the numbers of encapsulated bacteria remained well above the threshold for a minimum probiotic effect (107 cfu/g).
An investigation of some properties of banana yogurts made with commercial ABT‐2 starter culture during storage
Authors: BAKIRCI IHSAN , KAVAZ ARZU
Published: July 2008

Five yogurt batches were prepared with banana puree and sugar combinations and ABT‐2 (Streptococcus salivarius ssp. thermophilus, Lactobaccilus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium spp.) as starter culture. The addition of fruit influenced (P < 0.05) the syneresis, titratable acidity and pH, whereas the viscosity value, and S. salivarius ssp. thermophilus, L. acidophilus and Bifidobacterium spp. counts were found to be insignificant. Storage time significantly (P < 0.05) affected the syneresis, titratable acidity, pH value, and S. salivarius ssp. thermophilus counts, while the viscosity value and L. acidophilus and Bifidobacterium spp. counts were not affected. The sensory evaluations showed that the sample B was most preferred by panellists.
The effect of vegetable fat on the physicochemical characteristics of dates ice cream
Authors: NAZARUDDIN R , SYALIZA A S , WAN ROSNANI A I
Published: July 2008

The effects of vegetable fats in low‐calorie dates ice cream were studied. Fourteen different formulations were optimized by ‘simplex lattice design’. Three types of fat (palm mid‐fraction, palm olein and rice bran oil) were chosen to investigate their particle size distribution, melting resistance, amount of protein in the aqueous phase, colour, viscosity, total solids, percentage of overrun, fat and calorie value in ice cream. Statistical significance was determined by using analysis of variance and compared with the Duncan multiple range test using the SAS program. The significance level was 95% (P = 0.05). The types of fat used in an ice cream formulation have an impact on the colour, particle size diameter, viscosity and caloric value. A high percentage of palm mid‐fraction (> 12%) gave a high intensity of brightness, but less redness and yellowness, while a high percentage of palm olein and rice bran oil gave high intensity of redness and yellowness. Moreover, viscosity was associated with formulations characterized by a high solid fat content. The more unsaturated and the longer the fatty acid chains of the vegetable fat used in the formulation, the more pronounced was the fat globule destabilization. However, the effect of the different fats on melting resistance was less pronounced.
Influence of autochthonous Argentine goat lactobacillus in ripening of slurry cheese models
Authors: OLISZEWSKI R , VAN NIEUWENHOVE C , GONZÁLEZ S , CHAIA A PÉREZ
Published: July 2008

Three indigenous lactobacilli isolated from autochthonous Argentinean goat cheeses were evaluated in models of ripening of semihard goat cheeses made under microbiologically controlled conditions. Batches A, B and C were manufactured with single strain of Lactobacillus plantarum ETC17, Lactobacillus rhamnosus ETC14 and Lactobacillus casei ETC19, respectively. Lactobacilli counts showed higher values on batch C until ripening on day 18. Chemical composition did not show differences between batches. Batch C showed a higher decrease in pH on day 1, higher liberation of nitrogen water‐soluble cheese extracts and higher free amino acids content up to day 18. Amino acid distribution was analysed by studying the main components.
Heat and/or high‐pressure treatment of skim milk: changes to the casein micelle size, whey proteins and the acid gelation properties of the milk
Authors: ANEMA SKELTE G.
Published: July 2008

Skim milk was subjected to heat, pressure or combined processes. In general, higher levels of whey protein denaturation were observed for milk subjected to combined processes than those heat‐ or pressure‐treated only. Heat treatment caused small changes to the casein micelle size. Pressure treatment decreased the casein micelle size; however, the effect was less marked when heat and pressure treatments were combined. Acidification of the skim milks produced gels with a range of firmness, yield stresses and yield strains depending on the treatments applied. These changes in acid gel properties were not related only to whey protein denaturation levels in the milks.
Possible involvement of sigma‐1 receptors in the anti‐immobility action of bupropion, a dopamine reuptake inhibitor
Authors: Dhir Ashish , Kulkarni S.K.
Published: July 2008

Sigma receptors particularly, sigma‐1 subtype is known to modulate the release of catecholamines in the brain and may participate in the mechanism of action of various antidepressants. The present study investigated the possible involvement of sigma receptors in modulating the anti‐immobility‐like effect of bupropion (a dopamine reuptake inhibitor) using the forced swim test (FST) in mice. Bupropion produced dose‐dependent (10–40 mg/kg, i.p.) reduction in immobility period and the ED50value was found to be 18.5 (7.34–46.6) mg/kg, i.p. (+)‐Pentazocine (2.5 mg/kg, i.p.), a high‐affinity sigma‐1 receptor agonist, produced synergistic response when it was co‐administered with a subeffective dose of bupropion (10 mg/kg, i.p.). On the contrary, pretreatment with progesterone (10 mg/kg, s.c.), a sigma‐1 receptor antagonist neurosteroid, rimcazole (5 mg/kg, i.p.), another sigma‐1 receptor antagonist, or BD 1047 (1 mg/kg, i.p.), a novel sigma‐1 receptor antagonist, reversed the anti‐immobility effects of bupropion (20 mg/kg, i.p.). The various modulators used in the study did not show any effectper seon locomotor activity except bupropion which at a higher dose (15–40 mg/kg, i.p.) significantly increased the locomotor activity. The results for the first time demonstrated the involvement of sigma‐1 receptors in the anti‐immobility effects of bupropion.
Pharmacological treatment of sepsis
Authors: Girbes Armand R.J. , Beishuizen Albert , Van Schijndel Rob J.M. Strack
Published: July 2008

The incidence of sepsis, the combination of a systemic inflammatory response syndrome and documented infection, is as high as up to 95 cases per 100,000 people per year. The understanding of the pathophysiology of sepsis has much increased over the last 20 years. However, sepsis combined with shock is still associated with a high mortality rate varying from 35 to 55%. Causative treatment, source control and antibiotics started as soon as possible, are the cornerstone of therapy in combination with symptomatic treatment in the ICU. The pharmacological interventions, including fluid resuscitation, vasoactive drugs and adjunctive drugs such as steroids, activated protein C are discussed. The possible beneficial role of strict glucose control is also addressed. Since many drug intervention studies were negative, lessons should be learned from earlier experiences for future trials. Source control and level of intensive care should be eliminated as confounders.
Antihypertensive effect of Nigella sativa seed extract in patients with mild hypertension
Authors: Dehkordi Farshad Roghani , Kamkhah Amir Farhad
Published: July 2008

Hypertension (HT) is a lifestyle‐related disease and dietary modifications are effective for its management and prevention. We conducted a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial to evaluate the efficacy of treatment with an oral Nigella sativa (NS) seed extract supplement in patients with mild HT. Subjects were randomized into three groups: a placebo and two test groups that received 100 and 200 mg of NS extract twice a day. After 8 weeks, systolic blood pressure (SBP) values in both case groups were found to be significantly reduced when compared with the baseline values for each group. In addition, the decrease in SBP in the two case groups was statistically significant relative to the placebo group (P < 0.05–0.01). Meanwhile, diastolic blood pressure (DBP) values in the case groups were found to be significantly reduced from the baseline and a significant reduction was also observed in these groups (P < 0.01) when compared with the placebo group. In addition, extract administration reduced both SBP and DBP in a dose‐dependent manner. Meanwhile, NS extract caused a significant decline in the level of total and low‐density‐lipoprotein (LDL)‐cholesterol relative to baseline data. No complications caused by NS were observed. The results suggest that the daily use of NS seed extract for 2 months may have a blood pressure‐lowering effect in patients with mild HT.
Drug‐induced liver injury through mitochondrial dysfunction: mechanisms and detection during preclinical safety studies
Authors: Labbe Gilles , Pessayre Dominique , Fromenty Bernard
Published: July 2008

Mitochondrial dysfunction is a major mechanism whereby drugs can induce liver injury and other serious side effects such as lactic acidosis and rhabdomyolysis in some patients. By severely altering mitochondrial function in the liver, drugs can induce microvesicular steatosis, a potentially severe lesion that can be associated with profound hypoglycaemia and encephalopathy. They can also trigger hepatic necrosis and/or apoptosis, causing cytolytic hepatitis, which can evolve into liver failure. Milder mitochondrial dysfunction, sometimes combined with an inhibition of triglyceride egress from the liver, can induce macrovacuolar steatosis, a benign lesion in the short term. However, in the long term this lesion can evolve in some individuals towards steatohepatitis, which itself can progress to extensive fibrosis and cirrhosis. As liver injury caused by mitochondrial dysfunction can induce the premature end of clinical trials, or drug withdrawal after marketing, it should be detected during the preclinical safety studies. Several in vitro and in vivo investigations can be performed to determine if newly developed drugs disturb mitochondrial fatty acid oxidation (FAO) and the oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) process, deplete hepatic mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA), or trigger the opening of the mitochondrial permeability transition (MPT) pore. As drugs can be deleterious for hepatic mitochondria in some individuals but not in others, it may also be important to use novel animal models with underlying mitochondrial and/or metabolic abnormalities. This could help us to better predict idiosyncratic liver injury caused by drug‐induced mitochondrial dysfunction.
Contribution of endothelium‐derived hyperpolarizing factors to the regulation of vascular tone in humans
Authors: Bellien Jeremy , Thuillez Christian , Joannides Robinson
Published: July 2008

Endothelium plays a crucial role in the regulation of cardiovascular homeostasis through the release of vasoactive factors. Besides nitric oxide (NO) and prostacyclin, increasing evidences show that endothelium‐derived hyperpolarizing factors (EDHF) participate in the control of vasomotor tone through the activation of calcium‐activated potassium channels. In humans, the role of EDHF has been demonstrated in various vascular beds including coronary, peripheral, skin and venous vessels. The mechanisms of EDHF‐type relaxations identified in humans involved the release by the endothelium of hydrogen peroxide, epoxyeicosatrienoic acids (EETs), potassium ions and electronical communication through the gap junctions. The role of EETs could be particularly important because, in addition contributing to the maintenance of the basal tone and endothelium‐dependent dilation of conduit arteries, these factors share many vascular protective properties of NO. The alteration of which might be involved in the physiopathology of cardiovascular diseases. The evolution of EDHF availability in human pathology is currently under investigation with some results demonstrating an increase in EDHF release to compensate the loss of NO synthesis and to maintain the endothelial vasomotor function whereas others reported a parallel decrease in NO and EDHF‐mediated relaxations. Thus, the modulation of EDHF activity emerges as a new pharmacological target and some existing therapies in particular those affecting the renin–angiotensin system have already been shown to improve endothelial function through hyperpolarizing mechanisms. In this context, the development of new specific pharmacological agents especially those increasing EETs availability may help to prevent endothelial dysfunction and therefore enhance cardiovascular protection in patients.
Curcumin prevents and reverses cirrhosis induced by bile duct obstruction or CCl4 in rats: role of TGF‐β modulation and oxidative stress
Authors: Reyes‐Gordillo Karina , Segovia José , Shibayama Mineko , Tsutsumi Victor , Vergara Paula , Moreno Mario G. , Muriel Pablo
Published: July 2008

Curcumin is a phytophenolic compound, which is highly efficacious for treating several inflammatory diseases. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of curcumin in preventing or reversing liver cirrhosis. A 4‐week bile duct ligation (BDL) rat model was used to test the ability of curcumin (100 mg/kg, p.o., daily) to prevent cirrhosis. To reverse cirrhosis, CCl4 was administered chronically for 3 months, and then it was withdrawn and curcumin administered for 2 months. Alanine aminotransferase, γ‐glutamyl transpeptidase, liver histopathology, bilirubin, glycogen, reduced and oxidized glutathione, and TGF‐β (mRNA and protein) levels were assessed. Curcumin preserved normal values of markers of liver damage in BDL rats. Fibrosis, assessed by measuring hydroxyproline levels and histopathology, increased nearly fivefold after BDL and this effect was partially but significantly prevented by curcumin. BDL increased transforming growth factor‐beta (TGF‐β) levels (mRNA and proteins), while curcumin partially suppressed this mediator of fibrosis. Curcumin also partially reversed the fibrosis induced by CCl4. Curcumin was effective in preventing and reversing cirrhosis, probably by its ability of reducing TGF‐β expression. These data suggest that curcumin might be an effective antifibrotic and fibrolitic drug in the treatment of chronic hepatic diseases.
Plasma malondialdehyde levels and opiate withdrawal signs observed in rats treated with morphine plus naloxone: effects of α‐lipoic acid administration
Authors: Pinelli Arnaldo , Cighetti Giuliana , Trivulzio Silvio
Published: July 2008

A number of experimental studies have found that reactive oxygen species are involved during morphine treatment or withdrawal. The aims of this study were to analyse whether morphine administration and/or removal are related to peroxide generation and/or signs of withdrawal in rats, and whether the changes in antioxidant status induced by the administration of an antioxidant may modify peroxide levels and behavioural signs. We injected morphine or morphine and naloxone into rats and evaluated the plasma levels of peroxide malondialdehyde (MDA) and the appearance of withdrawal signs. We also investigated the effects on these parameters induced by the administration of the antioxidant α‐lipoic acid (LA). Morphine treatment increased MDA levels. Abrupt naloxone‐induced morphine withdrawal caused a further and significant increase in MDA, and the appearance of withdrawal signs such as abnormal fecal excretion, shortened latency times and jumping. The administration of LA lowered MDA levels in the rats treated with morphine or morphine plus naloxone, and also decreased MDA values and abstinence signs in the animals treated with morphine plus naloxone. The effects of LA were attributed to its capacity to scavenge peroxides and interfere with the biogenesis of the arachidonic acid metabolites involved in the expression of abstinence symptoms.
Experimental Investigation of Strain Concentrations Caused by Inserts in Sandwich Beams
Authors: Tsouvalis N. G. , Kollarini M. J.
Published: July 2008

Abstract:  This paper presents an experimental study of the strain concentrations developing across the insert–core junctions in a sandwich beam with an implanted stiff insert into its core. Strain measurements were carried out at several positions on the skins and across the insert–core junction, for several sandwich beam specimens loaded in 3‐points bending and having inserts with various geometries. The materials used were typical marine glass/polyester composite and PVC foams and the specimens were manufactured with the vacuum infusion method. A full material characterization was performed for the composite skins. The experimental results demonstrated a pure linear bending response of the specimens, as well as significant strain concentration factors across the insert–core junction, reaching values up to 3.3. Strain concentration factors measured for butt inserts were lower than those measured on the tension side of the specimens with scarf inserts. Transverse strains measurements verified that all specimens were in a plane stress state.
Monitoring of Impacted Aramid‐Reinforced Composites by Embedded PVDF Acoustic Emission Sensors
Authors: Caneva C. , De Rosa I. M. , Sarasini F.
Published: July 2008

Abstract:  An embedded piezoelectric [poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF)] thin film sensors system for acoustic emission (AE) was realized to investigate the possibility of monitoring, in real time, the post‐impact damage in aramid woven fabric‐reinforced epoxy. The same sensors have been used in a previous work on similar specimens tested in flexure but not previously impacted, with the aim of verifying the suitability of these sensors to be embedded and their ability to detect AE signals under loading. This work is a continuation of the previous one aiming at evaluating the ability of these embedded PVDF sensors to point out the presence of impact damage, issue widely studied in literature. Aramid fibre/epoxy composite specimens with embedded PVDFs, previously impacted at different energies, namely 5, 10 and 15 J, were tested using three‐point bending tests. It appeared from mechanical tests that the flexural strength decreased passing from non‐impacted specimens to those impacted with the highest energy and that the embedment of PVDFs in the laminates did not markedly affect the structural integrity of the impacted composites. The degree of impact damage, represented by the decrease in mechanical properties, has been correlated with the AE activity by means of a parametric analysis of the AE signals detected during post‐impact mechanical tests.
Opening New Frontiers in Colonial Spanish American History: New Perspectives on Indigenous‐Spanish Interactions on the Margins of Empire
Authors: Williams Caroline A.
Published: July 2008

Over the past decade, the frontiers of Latin America have received an important scholarly boost, thanks to the publication of a number of new studies – seven of which are discussed below – which have shifted attention away from the sedentary societies that the Spanish encountered in Mesoamerica and the Andean region to examine the protracted and difficult process whereby Spaniards incorporated, or attempted to incorporate, the mainly non‐sedentary or semi‐sedentary peoples who inhabited the margins of empire. Common to all these studies is a concern to explore the agency of indigenous peoples, and as this article will show, they shed new light on, and contribute greatly to our understanding of, Indian responses to the challenges posed by Spanish colonization and missionization in regions long neglected in the historical literature.
The Political and Economic Reverberations of the Cuban Revolution in Mexico
Authors: Schmidt Arthur
Published: July 2008

Cold War era studies considered the Cuban Revolution's influence on Mexico only mild. Current perspectives now interpret Cuba's impact on Mexico as highly significant. The regime crisis generated by the Cuban Revolution gave rise to an authoritarian Mexican state nationalism that repressed dissent, balanced off Cuban and US pressures, and induced private sector cooperation with an expanded economic and social role for government. Mexican state nationalism's apparent ‘solution’ to the domestic and international reverberations of the Cuban Revolution during the 1960s created a pattern of authoritarian political monopoly, dependence on foreign borrowing, and unsustainable heavy industrialization. Historians have tended to overlook how much this ingrained ‘formula’ laid the foundation for the country's disastrous populist policies that emerged after 1970.
Evaluation of a Novel Monoclonal‐Based Antigen‐in‐Stool Enzyme Immunoassay (Premier Platinum HpSA PLUS) for Diagnosis of Helicobacter pylori Infection in Vietnamese Children
Authors: Nguyen Thi Viet Ha , Bengtsson Carina , Nguyen Gia Khanh , Granström Marta
Published: July 2008

Background: Helicobacter pylori infection is difficult to diagnose in children, especially in developing countries where noninvasive methods such as urea breath test are often not available. We evaluate the sensitivity and specificity of a new monoclonal antibody‐based antigen‐in‐stool enzyme immunoassay (Premier Platinum HpSA PLUS) for diagnosis of H. pylori infection in Vietnamese children.

Materials and Methods: Sensitivity of the antigen‐in‐stool test was evaluated in 232 children, 3–15 years of age, who were positive for H. pylori infection by culture from biopsies. For evaluation of the specificity 98 children of similar age with nongastrointestinal conditions and who were negative for H. pylori infection by serologic assays were included with blood and stool samples.

Results: Of the 232 culture‐positive children, 224 were also positive by Premier Platinum HpSA PLUS. Of the 98 control children, 93 were H. pylori negative also in the stool test. The sensitivity of Premier Platinum HpSA PLUS was thus 96.6% (95% CI 93.3–98.5) and the specificity was 94.9% (95% CI 88.5–98.3).

Conclusions: The findings have demonstrated Premium Platinum HpSA PLUS to be a reliable method for detection of H. pylori infection also in children in our area.
Study on the Relationship Between Helicobacter pylori in the Dental Plaque and the Occurrence of Dental Caries or Oral Hygiene Index
Authors: Liu Ying , Lin Huanjian , Bai Yang , Qin Xiaoshu , Zheng Xin , Sun Yong , Zhang Yali
Published: July 2008

Background: The aims of our study were to determine the presence of Helicobacter pylori DNA in the dental plaque of Chinese children aged 3–6 years by nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and to investigate the relationship between this infection and the occurrence of dental caries or oral hygiene index.

Methods: Two hundred and fourteen children from a kindergarten in Guangzhou City of China were evaluated. The children's plaques were assessed by plaque indices of Quigley–Hein. Dental plaque was analyzed using nested PCR for two sets of primers directed to the 860‐bp fragment of H. pylori genomic DNA, which have been reported to be highly sensitive and specific by other researchers.

Results: H. pylori was detected in dental plaque samples from 126 children, and 70 children with dental caries carried H. pylori in dental plaque. Of these children without infection, only 36 of 88 suffered dental caries. Besides, the average dental plaque index of 126 H. pylori‐positive children was higher than that of 88 children without infection. In the present study, there was a significant correlation between H. pylori infection and dental caries or dental hygiene.

Conclusion: The oral cavity may be a reservoir for H. pylori infection in children. H. pylori in dental plaque may play a role in the occurrence of dental caries, and poor oral hygiene may represent a risk factor for H. pylori in the oral cavity.
Detection of Enterohepatic and Gastric Helicobacter Species in Fecal Specimens of Children with Crohn's Disease
Authors: Man Si Ming , Zhang Li , Day Andrew S. , Leach Steven , Mitchell Hazel
Published: July 2008

Background: Although there is compelling evidence to support the role of bacteria in Crohn's disease (CD), there is currently no solid evidence to support the role of any one specific bacterial causative agent. Recent studies have suggested that members of the Helicobacteraceae may play a role in the development of CD. The aim of this study was to further investigate the presence of members of the Helicobacteraceae in children with and without CD.

Materials and methods: Fecal specimens from 29 children with CD, 11 healthy, normal controls, and 26 symptomatic controls with non‐inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) pathology were obtained for DNA extraction and subjected to Helicobacteraceae‐specific polymerase chain reaction (PCR). All PCR‐positive samples were sequenced. The association between the presence of members of the Helicobacteraceae and each study group was statistically analysed using the Fisher's exact test.

Results: Based on Helicobacteraceae‐specific PCR analysis, 59% (17 of 29) of the children with CD were positive, which was significantly higher than that in asymptomatic healthy children [9% (1 of 11); p = .01] and that in symptomatic children with non‐IBD pathology [0% (0/26); p < .0001]. Sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene of positive samples revealed the presence of both enterohepatic Helicobacter species and Helicobacter pylori in fecal specimens.

Conclusions: For the first time, enterohepatic and gastric Helicobacter species have been identified in fecal specimens from children diagnosed with CD using PCR. Our data suggest that Helicobacter species may have a pathogenic role in the development of CD in a considerable proportion of children.
Does the Diagnostic Accuracy of the 13C‐Urea Breath Test Vary with Age Even After the Application of Urea Hydrolysis Rate?
Authors: Yang Hye Ran , Ko Jae Sung , Seo Jeong Kee
Published: July 2008

Background: Endogenous CO2 production may be a possible explanation for higher false‐positive results reported for 13C‐urea breath test (UBT) in children below 6 years. In this study, we evaluated whether age affects the diagnostic accuracy of the 13C‐UBT even after the application of urea hydrolysis rate (UHR) in children.

Methods: A total of 612 13C‐UBTs and endoscopic biopsies were performed on children divided into two groups; children under 6 years (n = 126) and children aged 6–18 years (n = 486). For 13C‐UBT, 75 mg 13C‐urea was ingested, and breath sample was collected 30 minutes later. Delta over baseline (DOB) was determined, and UHR was calculated to normalize the DOB values for endogenous CO2 production.

Results: There was significant difference between the DOB values of children under 6 years and those of children over 6 years in H. pylori‐positive (p = .029) and ‐negative groups (p = .002). On applying the UHR, no significant difference was observed between the UHR values of children under 6 years and those of children over 6 years in H. pylori‐positive (p = .877) and ‐negative groups (p = .427). In 12.6% children under 6 years, false‐positive results were observed on applying the DOB, and in 9.0% on applying the UHR (p = .125).

Conclusions: The 13C‐UBT is a noninvasive method exhibiting high diagnostic accuracy with both UHR as well as DOB. However, high false‐positive results for 13C‐UBT were noted in children below 6 years on applying both UHR as well as DOB. Thus, this may not only be due to the effects of endogenous CO2 production but also due to other factors.
When Does Gastric Atrophy Develop in Japanese Children?
Authors: Kato Seiichi , Kikuchi Shogo , Nakajima Shigemi
Published: July 2008

Background: Long‐term Helicobacter pylori infection causes inflammatory sequelae such as atrophy and intestinal metaplasia in the stomach, which is thought to increase the risk of developing gastric malignancy. We previously reported that gastric atrophy can develop in Japanese children with H. pylori infection, predominantly in the antrum. However, detailed data about the age of children with atrophy are largely lacking.

Methods and results: In the present study, 131 children (79 boys) with H. pylori infection were re‐analyzed for an association between age and the grade of gastric atrophy. The gastric antrum was histologically evaluated in all 131 patients and the corpus in 46 patients. Grade 2 and 3 antral atrophy was observed in 13 and one patients, respectively: the mean age was 12.1 years. Two patients (11 and 14 years old) had grade 2 corpus atrophy but no patients had grade 3. No significant difference was found in age among patients with grade 0, 1 and 2 or 3 atrophy in the antrum (p = .97) and in the corpus (p = .59). None of the patients with grade 2 or 3 atrophy had intestinal metaplasia either in the antrum or in the corpus.

Conclusions: The results of the present study require a careful interpretation because of the retrospective analysis. In high‐risk countries of gastric cancer, however, eradicating H. pylori in childhood could prove more effective in preventing gastric atrophy, ultimately, the development of cancer.
Comparative Study of Helicobacter pylori Eradication Rates of Twice‐Versus Four‐Times‐Daily Amoxicillin Administered with Proton Pump lnhibitor and Clarithromycin: A Randomized Study
Authors: Kim Seung Young , Lee Sang Woo , Jung Sung Woo , Koo Ja Seol , Yim Hyung Joon , Park Jong Jae , Chun Hoon Jai , Lee Hong Sik , Choi Jai Hyun , Kim Chang Duck , Ryu Ho Sang
Published: July 2008

Background: Proton pump inhibitor (PPI)‐containing triple therapy with clarithromycin and amoxicillin is now a standard regimen for Helicobacter pylori eradication in Korea. Amoxicillin has time‐dependent bactericidal activity against H. pylori; we therefore assumed a dosing schedule of amoxicillin would affect the eradication rate of H. pylori. The purpose of this study was to evaluate and compare the efficacy of different amoxicillin dosing schedules for the eradication of H. pylori.

Materials and Methods: One hundred and eighty‐six patients with H. pylori infection were eligible for this study. Patients were randomly assigned to one of two regimens: amoxicillin 1000 mg with clarithromycin 500 mg and omeprazole 20 mg twice daily for 2 weeks (BID group, n = 93), or amoxicillin 500 mg four times daily with clarithromycin 500 mg and omeprazole 20 mg twice daily for 2 weeks (QID group, n = 93). The success of H. pylori eradication was evaluated 4–5 weeks after completing treatment.

Results: Overall eradication rate was 90.3%, and eradication rates were 91.4% in the BID group and 89.2% in the QID group (p = 0.62). Compliances was 95.7% in the BID group and 93.5% in the QID group (p = 0.516); this was the only factor that significantly affected H. pylori eradication in this study. Side effects in both groups were generally mild.

Conclusions: Amoxicillin regimens with PPI and clarithromycin are found to be equally effective and safe in both the BID and QID groups for H. pylori eradication. Therefore, considering patient's comfort, we recommend a twice daily amoxicillin regimen.
Petrology of corundum‐spinel‐sapphirine‐anorthite rocks (sakenites) from the type locality in southern Madagascar
Authors: RAITH M. M. , RAKOTONDRAZAFY R. , SENGUPTA P.
Published: July 2008

‘Sakenites’ constitute a unique association of corundum‐, spinel‐ and sapphirine‐bearing anorthitic to phlogopitic rocks, first described in rocks from an exposure along the beds of the Sakena river to the NW of Ihosy, south Madagascar. The exposure has been revisited and subjected to a detailed petrological and geochemical study. The aluminous anorthitic rocks occur as boudinaged bands and lenses, closely associated with corundum‐, spinel‐ and sapphirine‐bearing phlogopitites, diverse calcsilicate rocks and marbles within a series of biotite‐sillimanite‐cordierite gneisses of the Ihosy granulite unit in the NW of the Pan‐African Bongolava‐Ranotsara shear zone. Bimineralic anorthite + corundum domains preserve the earliest record of a polyphasic evolutionary history that includes two distinct metasomatic episodes. Probable protoliths of these bimineralic rocks were kaolinite‐rich sediments or calcareous bauxites that were altered by Ca or Si infiltration‐metasomatism prior to or coeval with the development of the anorthite‐corundum assemblage. P–T pseudosection modelling of metapelitic gneisses suggests peak‐conditions around 800 °C and 6–7 kbar for the regional high‐grade metamorphism and deformation in the NW part of the Bongolava‐Ranotsara shear zone. The well‐annealed granoblastic‐polygonal textures indicate complete chemical and textural re‐equilibration of the foliated bimineralic rocks during this event. Subsequently, at somewhat lower P–T conditions (750–700 °C, 6 kbar), the influx of Mg‐, Si‐ and K‐bearing fluids into the anorthite‐corundum rocks caused significant metasomatic changes. In zones infiltrated by ‘primary’ potassic fluids, the bimineralic assemblage was completely replaced by phlogopite and Mg‐Al minerals, thereby producing corundum‐, spinel‐ and sapphirine‐bearing phlogopitites. Further advance of the resulting ‘residual’ Mg‐ and Si‐bearing fluids into anorthite‐corundum domains led to partial to complete replacement of corundum porphyroblasts by spinel, spinel + sapphirine or sapphirine, depending on the activities of the solutes. The static textures developed during this second metasomatic episode suggest fluid influx subsequent to intense ductile deformation in the Bongolava‐Ranotsara ductile shear zone c. 530–500 Ma ago.
Behavioral Dependence in Patients With Medication Overuse Headache: A Cross‐Sectional Study in Consulting Patients Using the DSM‐IV Criteria
Authors: Radat Françoise , Creac’h Christelle , Guegan‐Massardier Evelyne , Mick Gérard , Guy Nathalie , Fabre Nelly , Giraud Pierric , Nachit‐Ouinekh Fatima , Lantéri‐Minet Michel
Published: July 2008

Objective.—The aim of this study was to assess behavioral dependence on migraine abortive drugs in medication‐overuse headache (MOH) patients and identify the predisposing factors.

Background.—It is common occurrence that MOH patients relapse after medication withdrawal. Behavioral determinants of medication overuse should therefore be identified in MOH patients.

Methods.—This was a cross‐sectional, multicenter study that included 247 MOH patients (according to International Classification of Headache Disorders, 2nd edition criteria) consulting in French headache specialty centers. Face‐to‐face interviews were conducted by senior neurologists using a structured questionnaire including the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th edition (DSM‐IV) criteria for the evaluation of dependence, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale for the evaluation of anxiety and depression, and 6‐item short‐form Headache Impact Test scale for the determination of functional impact.

Results.—Most MOH patients had pre‐existing primary migraine (87.4%) and current migraine‐type headaches (83.0%). Treatments overused included triptans (45.8%), opioid analgesics alone or in combination (43.3% of patients), and analgesics (27.9%). Nonmigraine abortive substances (tobacco, caffeine, sedatives/anxiolytics) were overused by 13.8% of patients. Two‐thirds of MOH patients (66.8%) were considered dependent on acute treatments of headaches according to the DSM‐IV criteria. Most dependent MOH patients had migraine as pre‐existing primary headache (85.7%) and current migraine‐type headaches (87.9%), and most of them overused opioid analgesics. More dependent than nondependent MOH patients were dependent on psychoactive substances (17.6% vs 6.1%). Multivariate logistic analysis indicated that risk factors of dependence on acute treatments of headaches pertained both to the underlying disease (history of migraine, unilateral headaches) and to drug addiction (opioid overuse, previous withdrawal). Affective symptoms did not appear among the predictive factors of dependence.

Conclusion.—In some cases, MOH thus appears to belong to the spectrum of addictive behaviors. In clinical practice, behavioral management of MOH should be undertaken besides pharmacological management.
Bilateral Pressure Pain Sensitivity Mapping of the Temporalis Muscle in Chronic Tension‐Type Headache
Authors: Fernández‐de‐las‐Peñas César , Ge Hong‐You , Cuadrado Maria Luz , Madeleine Pascal , Pareja Juan A. , Arendt‐Nielsen Lars
Published: July 2008

Purpose.— To analyze pressure pain sensitivity maps in chronic tension‐type headache (CTTH) and healthy controls over nine locations covering the temporalis muscle.

Background.— Lower pressure pain thresholds (PPT) have been found in craniofacial muscles in patients with CTTH. Since the temporalis muscle can play a relevant role in the genesis or maintenance of headache, the determination of pressure pain sensitivity maps of this muscle is needed.

Methods.— A pressure algometer was used to measure PPT over 9 points of the temporalis muscle (3 points in the anterior part of the muscle, another 3 in the middle of the muscle, and the remaining 3 in the posterior part) in 15 females suffering from CTTH and 10 healthy women. A pressure pain sensitivity map of both dominant and nondominant sides in patients and controls was calculated.

Results.— Chronic tension‐type headache patients showed lower PPT as compared with healthy subjects (P < .01). Further, PPT levels of the nondominant side were lower than those on the dominant side for controls (P < .01). Within the CTTH group, more bilaterally homogeneous pressure pain sensitivity maps with PPT decreased from the posterior to anterior column were found, whereas among controls, PPT distribution maps were inhomogeneous with side‐to‐side differences.

Conclusions.— Our data may provide preliminary new key information about muscle sensitivity, since it seems that pressure pain sensitivity maps could be different between CTTH patients and healthy subjects. Further studies with greater sample sizes and other headache populations are now required to confirm our results.