bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ample genetic variation but no evidence for genotype specificity in an all-parthenogenetic host–parasitoid interaction
Authors: Sandrock C. , Gouskov A. , Vorburger C.
Published: January 2010

Antagonistic coevolution between hosts and parasites can result in negative frequency-dependent selection and may thus be an important mechanism maintaining genetic variation in populations. Negative frequency-dependence emerges readily if interactions between hosts and parasites are genotype-specific such that no host genotype is most resistant to all parasite genotypes, and no parasite genotype is most infective on all hosts. Although there is increasing evidence for genotype specificity in interactions between hosts and pathogens or microparasites, the picture is less clear for insect host–parasitoid interactions. Here, we addressed this question in the black bean aphid (Aphis fabae) and its most important parasitoid Lysiphlebus fabarum. Because both antagonists are capable of parthenogenetic reproduction, this system allows for powerful tests of genotype × genotype interactions. Our test consisted of exposing multiple host clones to different parthenogenetic lines of parasitoids in all combinations, and this experiment was repeated with animals from four different sites. All aphids were free of endosymbiotic bacteria known to increase resistance to parasitoids. We observed ample genetic variation for host resistance and parasitoid infectivity, but there was no significant host clone × parasitoid line interaction, and this result was consistent across the four sites. Thus, there is no evidence for genotype specificity in the interaction between A. fabae and L. fabarum, suggesting that the observed variation is based on rather general mechanisms of defence and attack.
Treatment of Persistent Mating‐Induced Endometritis in Mares with the Non‐Steroid Anti‐Inflammatory Drug Vedaprofen
Authors: Rojer H , Aurich C
Published: January 2010

Contents

Recently, successful treatment of mares with a history of persistent mating‐induced endometritis (PMIE) with dexamethasone has been reported. As systemic treatment of horses with glucocorticoids should be handled with caution, we tested the hypothesis that treatment with the non‐steroid anti‐inflammatory drug (NSAID) vedaprofen, an inhibitor of cyclooxygenase‐2, may have comparative, positive effects on fertility. Barren mares with a history of repeated PMIE were treated with vedaprofen (n = 8; initially 2 mg/kg bodyweight followed by 1 mg/kg orally twice daily) from 1 day before the first insemination to 1 day after ovulation or left untreated (n = 9). All mares received oxytocin (20 I.E. s.c.) thrice daily. Uterine swabs were collected for bacteriology and cytology. The day after ovulation, fluid accumulation was detected in three control mares and four treated mares (n.s.). The percentage of neutrophils in uterine cytology was significantly increased in comparison to the day before ovulation irrespective of treatment. Pregnancy was confirmed in two of nine mares in the control group and seven of eight mares in the treatment group (p < 0.05). NSAIDs may positively affect fertility in mares with a history of PMIE.
Intra‐arterial 5‐fluorouracil/interferon combination therapy for hepatocellular carcinoma with portal vein tumor thrombosis and extrahepatic metastases
Authors: Katamura Yoshio , Aikata Hiroshi , Kimura Yuki , Kawaoka Tomokazu , Takaki Shintaro , Waki Koji , Hiramatsu Akira , Kawakami Yoshiiku , Takahashi Shoichi , Ishikawa Masaki , Hieda Masashi , Kakizawa Hideaki , Chayama Kazuaki
Published: January 2010

Background and Aims:  We investigated the efficacy of intra‐arterial 5‐fluorouracil (5‐FU) and systemic interferon (IFN)‐α (5‐FU‐IFN) in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with portal vein tumor thrombosis in the first branch or trunk (Vp3/4) and extrahepatic metastases.

Methods:  We examined 17 HCC patients with Vp3/4 and extrahepatic metastases (meta group) and 31 HCC patients with Vp3/4 (non‐meta group). Baseline intrahepatic tumor factors and the hepatic reserve were similar between groups. The extrahepatic metastases of the meta group were not considered prognostic factors. Following the administration of 5‐FU/IFN to all patients, we compared the survival rates, response, time to progression (TTP), and safety between groups.

Results:  For intrahepatic HCC, complete response, partial response, stable disease, progressive disease, and drop out were observed in no (0%), one (6%), seven (41%), nine (53%), and no (0%) patients of the meta group, and in five (16%), seven (23%), 13 (42%), five (16%) and one (3%) patient of the non‐meta group, respectively. The response rate was significantly lower in the meta group (6% vs 39%, P = 0.018). The median TTP of intrahepatic HCC and the median survival time were significantly shorter in the meta group than in the non‐meta group (1.6 vs 6.3 months, P = 0.0001, and 3.9 months vs 10.5 months, P < 0.0001, respectively). The multivariate analysis showed that the absence of extrahepatic metastases was a significant and independent determinant of both TTP of intrahepatic HCC (P < 0.001) and overall survival (P < 0.001). No patient died of extrahepatic HCC‐related disease.

Conclusions:  The efficacy of 5‐FU/IFN for advanced HCC with Vp3/4 and extrahepatic metastases was markedly limited.
Accuracy of high‐frequency catheter‐based endoscopic ultrasonography according to the indications for endoscopic treatment of early gastric cancer
Authors: Kim Gwang Ha , Park Do Youn , Kida Mitsuhiro , Kim Dae Hwan , Jeon Tae Yong , Kang Hyun Jeong , Kim Dong Uk , Choi Cheol Woong , Lee Bong Eun , Heo Jeong , Song Geun Am
Published: January 2010

Background and Aim:  The development of endoscopic treatment, such as endoscopic submucosal dissection, extends the indications for endoscopic resection in patients with early gastric cancer (EGC). Endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) is the first‐choice imaging modality for determining the depth of invasion of gastric cancer. The aim of the present study was to prospectively assess the accuracy of EUS for determining the depth of EGC, according to the accepted/extended indications.

Methods:  We prospectively included a total of 181 lesions in 178 patients, with an endoscopic diagnosis of EGC, who underwent EUS for staging the depth of tumor invasion using a 20‐MHz catheter probe. We investigated the accuracy of EUS for determining the depth of endoscopically‐suspected EGC and then analyzed the difference in the accuracy of EUS according to the accepted/extended indications.

Results:  Of the 178 patients, five patients were dropped because of the absence of final histological results. For the 176 lesions in 173 patients, the accuracy of EUS assessment for the depth of tumor invasion was 80.7% (142 of 176 lesions). The accuracy of EUS for the lesions with accepted indications and with extended indications was 97.6% (40 of 41 lesions) and 83.6% (46 of 57 lesions), respectively (P = 0.040). Of the lesions with extended indications, the accuracy of EUS decreased especially for the lesions with ulceration and those with minute submucosal invasion (79.2% and 42.9%, respectively).

Conclusions:  The accuracy of EUS for the lesions with the extended indications was lower than that for the lesions with the accepted indications. In particular, lesions with ulceration and minute submucosal invasion should be carefully considered prior to endoscopic treatment by pretreatment EUS staging.
Favorable α‐fetoprotein decrease as a prognostic surrogate in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma after radiofrequency ablation
Authors: Tsai Ming‐Chao , Wang Jing‐Houng , Hung Chao‐Hung , Kee Kwong‐Ming , Yen Yi‐Hao , Lee Chuan‐Mo , Hu Tsung‐Hui , Chen Chien‐Hung , Lu Sheng‐Nan
Published: January 2010

Background and Aim:  To assess the significance of adequate α‐fetoprotein decrease in monitoring the treatment effects of radiofrequency ablation (RFA) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients.

Methods:  A total of 72 RFA treatments in 54 HCC patients were analyzed. The favorable α‐fetoprotein decrease was defined as the α‐fetoprotein half‐life of less than 7 days. The efficacy of the ablation response is assessed by standard imaging modality, a computed tomography scan 1 month after RFA. We assessed the correlation between different α‐fetoprotein decreases and treatment outcomes by standard imaging modality.

Results:  Of the 72 therapies, 15 (21%) were favorable α‐fetoprotein decreases. Fifty‐one (71%) therapies showed concordant results through standard image modality and α‐fetoprotein decrease, including 14 (27%) therapies with a complete radiological response and favorable α‐fetoprotein decrease, and the remaining 37 (73%) therapies with an incomplete radiological response and unfavorable α‐fetoprotein decrease. The accuracy was 70.8% by using α‐fetoprotein decrease in the detection treatment response based on a complete radiological response. Among the 34 therapies with a complete radiological response, 14 therapies with a favorable α‐fetoprotein decrease had a better disease‐free survival curve than 20 therapies with an unfavorable α‐fetoprotein decrease (P = 0.003). Only one case had a favorable α‐fetoprotein decrease, but incomplete radiological response, with massive necrosis, with the exception of a small residual tumor.

Conclusions:  A favorable α‐fetoprotein decrease has better predictive power for disease‐free survival than for an unfavorable α‐fetoprotein decrease. HCC patients after RFA with an unfavorable α‐fetoprotein decrease should be considered to have undergone incomplete treatment, despite the complete response by standard image modality post‐RFA.
Polymorphisms in promoter region of FAS and FASL gene and risk of gastric cardiac adenocarcinoma
Authors: Zhou Rong‐Miao , Wang Na , Chen Zhi‐Feng , Duan Ya‐Nan , Sun Dong‐Lan , Li Yan
Published: January 2010

Background and Aim:  The FAS and FASL system play an important role in regulating apoptotic cell death. This study was designed to investigate the correlation of FAS‐1377 G/A, ‐670 A/G and FASL‐844 T/C polymorphisms with susceptibility to gastric cardiac adenocarcinoma in a population of a high‐incidence region of Hebei Province.

Methods:  FAS‐1377 G/A, ‐670 A/G and FASL‐844 T/C polymorphisms were genotyped by polymerase chain reaction–restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis in 262 gastric cardiac carcinoma (GCA) patients and 524 healthy controls.

Results:  Family history of upper gastrointestinal cancer (UGIC) might increase the risk of developing GCA (age‐ and sex‐adjusted odds ratio [OR] = 1.38, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.02–1.86). The overall allelotype and genotype distributions of FAS‐1377 G/A, and FASL‐844 T/C polymorphisms in GCA patients did not significantly differ from that in healthy controls (P > 0.05). Compared with individuals with a FAS‐670 A/A genotype, individuals with an A/G genotype in a smoker group had a lower risk of developing GCA (age, sex, and family history of UGIC adjusted OR = 0.55, 95% CI = 0.34–0.88). When the genotypes of FAS and FASL single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) were combined to analyze, no significant correlation was found between these SNP and the risk for GCA development.

Conclusion:  In the high‐incidence region of Hebei Province, FAS‐1377 G/A and FASL‐844 T/C polymorphisms were not associated with the risk of GCA. However, the FAS‐670 A/G genotype might decrease the risk of GCA for smoker individuals.
Prevalence and clinical characterization of patients with acute hepatitis B induced by lamivudine‐resistant strains
Authors: Hayashi Kazuhiko , Katano Yoshiaki , Ishigami Masatoshi , Itoh Akihiro , Hirooka Yoshiki , Nakano Isao , Yoshioka Kentaro , Yano Motoyoshi , Toyoda Hidenori , Kumada Takashi , Goto Hidemi
Published: January 2010

Background and Aims:  Acute hepatitis caused by lamivudine (LMV)‐resistant strains has not been reported, and the clinical impact of LMV‐resistant strains on acute hepatitis is not known. The aim of this study was to investigate the molecular and clinical characteristics of patients with acute hepatitis B caused by LMV‐resistant strains.

Methods:  Forty‐five patients with acute hepatitis B were studied. Hepatitis B virus (HBV) subgenotypes and LMV‐resistance mutations were determined by direct sequencing of the preS and polymerase regions, respectively.

Results:  HBV subgenotypes A2 (n = 18), B1 (n = 1), B2 (n = 3), B3 (n = 2), C1 (n = 1), C2 (n = 19) and C6 (n = 1) were detected in patients with acute hepatitis. LMV‐resistance mutations were detected in two patients. LMV‐resistance mutations (L180M, M204I) were detected in a patient with subgenotype C2 who had acute self‐limited hepatitis. The other patient with LMV‐resistance mutations (L180M, M204V) was infected with subgenotype A2 and had severe hepatitis.

Conclusion:  LMV‐resistant strains are rare, but they are starting to be found in patients with acute hepatitis B. Surveillance for detecting drug‐resistant HBV strains would be important for clinical practice.
Irritable bowel syndrome: Epidemiology, diagnosis and treatment: An update for health‐care practitioners
Authors: Grundmann Oliver , Yoon Saunjoo L
Published: January 2010

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), a chronic gastrointestinal disorder, affects from 3–20% of the US population, depending on sociocultural and comorbid factors. IBS is characterized by a symptom complex of abdominal pain and abnormal bowel habits that present as diarrhea or constipation, and general physical weakness in the absence of abnormal morphological, histological or inflammatory markers. The main diagnostic Rome III criteria as established by international professional organizations are based on exclusion criteria and the occurrence and rate of symptoms. Because the pathophysiology and causes of IBS are poorly understood, treatment approaches are mainly focused on symptom management to maintain everyday functioning and improve quality of life for persons with IBS. The mainstay of intervention is pharmacological treatment with antispasmodics and antidiarrheals for diarrhea, prokinetics and high‐fiber diets for constipation, and supportive therapy with low‐dose antidepressants to normalize gastrointestinal motility. Other interventions include lifestyle and dietary changes, psychotherapy, herbal therapies and acupuncture. The purpose of this review is to critically assess benefits and risks of current treatment approaches as well as promising complementary and alternative therapies.
Characteristics of delayed hemorrhage after endoscopic sphincterotomy
Authors: Kim Kyeong Ok , Kim Tae Nyeun , Kim Sung Bum , Lee Jun Young
Published: January 2010

Background and Aims:  Hemorrhage is one of the most common complications associated with endoscopic sphincterotomy (EST). Although most hemorrhage occurs immediately after EST, delayed hemorrhage may occur, even several days after EST. We analyzed the incidence, clinical features, treatment and risk factors for delayed hemorrhage following EST.

Methods:  The medical records of 1549 patients who underwent EST between January 2000 and December 2006 were reviewed retrospectively. Delayed hemorrhage was defined as hemorrhage that developed 24 h after EST.

Results:  Of the 1549 patients who underwent EST, early hemorrhage during the procedure occurred in 45 patients (2.9%) and delayed hemorrhage occurred in 20 patients (1.3%). The time interval between EST and delayed hemorrhage was 4.8 ± 3.2 days (range, 1–15 days). Major hemorrhage developed in 80% of the patients with delayed hemorrhage. The mean decrease of hemoglobin was 3.5 ± 1.9 g/dL. The presenting symptoms of delayed hemorrhage included melena (80%), postural hypotension (80%), resting tachycardia (45%) and acute cholangitis (20%). All bleeding was successfully controlled by endoscopic treatment. Based on multivariate analysis, chronic kidney disease (CKD), hypertension and ischemic heart disease (IHD) were significant risk factors for delayed hemorrhage.

Conclusion:  Complete control of intra‐procedural bleeding is an important step in the prevention of late post‐EST hemorrhage. Careful observation for delayed hemorrhage after EST, especially in patients with CKD, hypertension and IHD, is recommended.
Percutaneous radiofrequency ablation as first‐line treatment for small hepatocellular carcinoma: Results and prognostic factors on long‐term follow up
Authors: Waki Koji , Aikata Hiroshi , Katamura Yoshio , Kawaoka Tomokazu , Takaki Shintaro , Hiramatsu Akira , Takahashi Shoichi , Toyota Naoyuki , Ito Katsuhide , Chayama Kazuaki
Published: January 2010

Background and Aims:  We evaluated the prognosis and associated factors in patients with small hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC; up to 3 nodules, each up to 3cm in diameter) treated with percutaneous radiofrequency ablation (RFA) as first‐line treatment.

Methods:  Eighty‐eight consecutive patients who underwent percutaneous RFA as first‐line treatment were enrolled, among whom 70 who had hypervascular HCC nodules which were treated by a combination of transcatheter arterial chemoembolization and RFA. RFA was repeated until an ablative margin was obtained.

Results:  The rate of local tumor progression at 1 and 3 years was 4.8% and 4.8%, respectively. The rate of overall survival at 3 and 5 years was 83.0% and 70.0%, and the rate of disease‐free survival at 3 and 5 years was 34.0% and 24.0%, respectively. On multivariate analysis, age (< 70 years; hazard ratio [HR] = 2.341, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.101–4.977, P = 0.027) and indocyanine green retention rate at 15 min (< 15%; HR = 3.621, 95% CI = 1.086–12.079, P = 0.036) were statistically significant determinants of overall survival, while tumor number (solitary, HR = 2.465, 95% CI = 1.170–5.191, P = 0.018) was identified for disease‐free survival. Overall survival of patients with early recurrence after RFA was significantly worse than that of patients with late recurrence. Tumor size was the only independent risk factor of early recurrence after RFA of HCC (tumor size > 2 cm; risk ratio [RR] = 4.629, 95% CI = 1.241–17.241, P = 0.023).

Conclusion:  Percutaneous RFA under the protocol reported here has the potential to provide local tumor control for small HCC. In addition to host factors, time interval from RFA to recurrence was an important determinant of prognosis.
Treatment of type I gastric neuroendocrine tumors with somatostatin analogs
Authors: Khuroo Mehnaaz Sultan , Khuroo Mohammad Sultan , Khuroo Naira Sultan
Published: January 2010

Background and Aim:  There are limited data on response and long‐term follow‐up of octreotide therapy in type‐I gastric neuroendocrine tumors. The objective of the present study was to assess the response of type‐I gastric neuroendocrine tumors to octreotide‐long acting, repeatable (LAR) therapy and evaluate long‐term follow up of such patients after therapy.

Methods:  Three patients with documented type‐I gastric neuroendocrine tumors from a tertiary gastroenterology centre were studied. Octreotide‐LAR therapy 20 mg intramuscularly every 28 days was administered for one year. Serum gastrin and chromogranin levels, gastroscopies and biopsies from tumor nodules at 6 months and one year on therapy and every 6 months after completion of drug therapy were taken. Follow‐up after completion of therapy extended for 3 years in two and 2.5 years in one patient.

Results:  During octreotide therapy there was normalization of serum gastrin levels and serum chromogranin levels. Tumors in all three patients had regressed at 6 months of treatment. Following cessation of therapy, there was progressive rise of serum gastrin to pre‐treatment levels. Serum chromogranin levels remained within normal limits. Gastroscopic and histologic examination of gastric biopsies did not reveal recurrence of tumors in any patients. All patients tolerated therapy well and became asymptomatic soon after drug therapy.

Conclusions:  Octreotide‐LAR therapy causes regression of type‐I gastric neuroendocrine tumors. After completion of drug therapy there was no recurrence of tumors even with continued hypergastrinemia. Octreotide therapy should be considered as one of the treatment options in such patients.
Terlipressin therapy for reversal of type 1 hepatorenal syndrome: A meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Sagi Sashidhar V , Mittal Sahil , Kasturi Krishna S , Sood Gagan K
Published: January 2010

Background and Aim:  Hepatorenal syndrome (HRS) is a serious complication of advanced liver disease and carries a poor prognosis. Recent trials have indicated that terlipressin may be effective in reversing HRS. Our aim was to evaluate the efficacy of terlipressin therapy in reversing type 1 HRS defined as a serum creatinine <1.5 mg/dL during treatment.

Methods:  Randomized controlled trials in which patients with type 1 HRS received at least 3 days of terlipressin therapy and albumin in the intervention arm were included after a systematic search of the published English reports. Studies with other vasoconstrictor therapies in the control group were excluded.

Results:  A total of 223 patients with HRS type 1 in four different trials, were included in the final analysis. Alcohol‐related cirrhosis was the most common underlying etiology. The risk ratio for reversal in type 1 HRS with terlipressin therapy was 3.66 (95% confidence interval 2.15–6.23). Recurrence of HRS was low (8%). Serious side‐effects requiring discontinuation of therapy were seen only in 6.8% of patients on terlipressin therapy. There was a trend towards improved transplant‐free survival at 90 days in the terlipressin group (relative risk 1.86 95% confidence interval 1.0–3.4, P = 0.05).

Conclusions:  Terlipressin is effective in reversing HRS type 1. Recurrence of HRS is rare with at least 14 days of therapy. Serious side‐effects requiring discontinuation of therapy are less common. There appears to be a survival benefit in patients with HRS treated with terlipressin.
Population‐based cases control study of inflammatory bowel disease risk factors
Authors: Gearry Richard B , Richardson Ann K , Frampton Christopher M , Dodgshun Andrew J , Barclay Murray L
Published: January 2010

Background and Aim:  The rapid increase in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) incidence confirms the importance of environment in its etiology. We aimed to assess the role of childhood and other environmental risk factors in IBD.

Methods:  A population‐based case‐control study was carried out in Canterbury, New Zealand. Participants comprised 638 prevalent Crohn's disease (CD) cases, 653 prevalent ulcerative colitis (UC) cases and 600 randomly‐selected sex and age matched controls. Exposure rates to environmental risk factors were compared. Unadjusted and adjusted odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) are presented.

Results:  A family history of IBD (CD OR 3.06 [2.18–4.30], UC OR 2.52 [1.90–3.54]), cigarette smoking at diagnosis (CD OR 1.99 [1.48–2.68], UC OR 0.67 [0.48–0.94]), high social class at birth (CD and UC trend, P < 0.001) and Caucasian ethnicity (CD OR 2.04 [1.05–4.38], UC OR 1.47 [1.01–2.14]) were significantly associated with IBD. City living was associated with CD (P < 0.01). Being a migrant was associated with UC (UC OR 1.40 [1.14–2.01]). Having a childhood vegetable garden was protective against IBD (CD OR 0.52 [0.36–0.76], UC OR 0.65 [0.45–0.94]) as was having been breast‐fed (CD OR 0.55 [0.41–0.74], UC OR 0.71 [0.52–0.96]) with a duration‐response effect. Appendicectomy, tonsillectomy, infectious monomucleosis and asthma were more common in CD patients than controls (P < 0.01).

Conclusions:  The importance of childhood factors in the development of IBD is confirmed. The duration‐response protective association between breast‐feeding and subsequent development of IBD requires further evaluation, as does the protective effect associated with a childhood vegetable garden.
Inhibitory effect of human interferon‐beta‐1a on activated rat and human hepatic stellate cells
Authors: Rao Hui‐Ying , Wei Lai , Wang Jiang‐Hua , Fei Ran , Jiang Dong , Zhang Quan , Chen Hong‐Song , Cong Xu
Published: January 2010

Background and Aims:  Hepatic stellate cells (HSC) are the primary cell type mediating hepatic fibrosis. Although known for its antiviral effects, the inhibitory effects of interferon‐beta (IFN‐β) on HSC treatment have not yet been established.

Methods:  Both human and rat activated HSC cell lines were incubated with increasing concentrations of recombinant human IFN‐β1a (rhIFN‐β1a) for 24, 48 or 72 h. The effects of rhIFN‐β1a on α‐smooth muscle actin (α‐SMA), collagen types I and III, transforming growth factor‐β1 (TGF‐β1), platelet‐derived growth factor‐BB (PDGF‐BB), and mothers against decapentaplegic homolog (Smad4, Smad7) expression in HSC were examined using Western blotting and immunocytochemistry. Proliferation of HSC was evaluated via bromodeoxyuridine assay.

Results:  rhIFN‐β1a treatment had a dose‐dependent, inhibitory effect on α‐SMA and collagen type I protein expression. In addition, rhIFN‐β1a decreased the expression of collagen type III, TGF‐β1, PDGF‐BB and Smad4 protein expression in HSC compared with untreated cells. We also observed increased Smad7 protein expression and decreased proliferation in rhIFN‐β1a‐treated HSC.

Conclusions:  Our data suggest that rhIFN‐β1a treatment decreased α‐SMA and collagen expression and inhibited the activation of HSC through the inhibition of the TGF‐β and PDGF pathways.
Endoscopic band ligation plus argon plasma coagulation versus scleroligation for eradication of esophageal varices
Authors: Harras Fouad , Sheta El Shazly , Shehata Mona , Saadany Sherif El , Selim Mahmoud , Mansour Loai
Published: January 2010

Background and Aim:  The aim of this study was to evaluate endoscopic band ligation plus argon plasma coagulation versus scleroligation.

Methods:  Patients were randomized to: Group I, 50 patients subjected to endoscopic injection sclerotherapy; Group II, 50 patients subjected to variceal band ligation; Group III, 50 patients subjected to combined endoscopic sclerotherapy and band ligation; and Group IV, 50 patients subjected to endoscopic band ligation plus argon plasma coagulation.

Results:  A comparison of the number of therapeutic sessions showed that group III underwent significantly fewer sessions. As regards post‐treatment complications, Group I showed a high incidence of transient pyrexia, transient dysphagia and/or retrosternal pain and ulceration, while in group II a higher incidence of rebleeding was demonstrated, as well as a higher incidence of esophageal varix recurrence after eradication during the follow‐up period. A higher mortality incidence was detected in groups I and II. The follow‐up incidence did not significantly differ between the different study groups.

Conclusion:  Scleroligation allows very rapid eradication of varices, has a low recurrence rate, avoids the disadvantage of high recurrence of band ligation alone, and does not require special skills over sclerotherapy or band ligation. Also, band ligation plus argon plasma coagulation allows for very rapid eradication of varices, and a low recurrence rate, with no obvious recorded complications, but it has the disadvantage of being the most expensive technique and requires special equipment that is only available in a few endoscopic centers.
Locoregional therapies for hepatocellular carcinoma: Which patients are most likely to gain a survival advantage?
Authors: Mahady Suzanne E , Charlton Barbara , Fitzgerald Patrick , Koorey David J , Perry John F , Waugh Richard C , McCaughan Geoffrey W , Strasser Simone I
Published: January 2010

Background and Aim:  Locoregional therapies for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are considered to confer a survival advantage, however, the patient group that should be targeted is not clearly defined. This study aimed to determine the impact on survival of locoregional therapies compared with supportive care, within prognostic categories as stratified by the Cancer of the Liver Italian Program (CLIP) scoring system.

Methods:  A prospective database was used to identify those patients who were treated with either locoregional therapy (n = 128) or supportive care (n = 92). Survival analysis was performed for groups matched by CLIP score at presentation. Comparison of important prognostic factors was undertaken and univariate and multivariate analysis was performed to assess determinants of survival.

Results:  Use of locoregional therapies was only associated with a survival benefit in patients with a CLIP score of 1 or 2. In this group, the median survival in patients who received locoregional therapies was 25.0 months (95% confidence interval 22.7–27.4) compared with 8.9 months (95% confidence interval 7.3–10.5) for supportive care (P = 0.001). For patients with CLIP scores of 3 or greater, no survival benefit of locoregional therapies was observed. Multivariate analysis revealed locoregional intervention, CLIP score, tumor symptoms, α‐fetoprotein level, bilirubin and alkaline phosphatase level as independent prognostic indicators.

Conclusion:  Locoregional therapies should be targeted specifically to patients with non‐advanced hepatocellular carcinoma as assessed by validated scoring systems. Use of these therapies in patients with advanced disease does not appear to be associated with a survival benefit and may expose patients to unnecessary harm.
Asymptomatic chronic hepatitis B virus infection does not increase the risk of diabetes mellitus: A ten‐year observation
Authors: Huang Zei‐Shung , Huang Tien‐Shang , Wu Tzy‐Haw , Chen Ming‐Fong , Hsu Ching‐Sheng , Kao Jia‐Horng
Published: January 2010

Background and Aim:  Chronic hepatitis C virus infection has been known to increase the risk of diabetes. Whether this association holds true for chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection remains unclear. We thus conducted this study to investigate the influence of asymptomatic chronic HBV infection on the incidence of diabetes in a longitudinal cohort.

Methods:  A total of 1233 adults who received health examinations in 1997–1998 and in 2000–2001 were enrolled. Among them, 483 subjects who received a third health examination in 2006–2008 were further sampled. The prevalence and incidence of diabetes between asymptomatic HBV carriers and non‐HBV controls were compared using the χ2‐test and logistic regression.

Results:  In 1997–1998, the prevalence rates of diabetes (9.49 and 12.0%) and glucose intolerance (28.5 and 25.4%) in HBV carriers and non‐HBV controls were comparable (P > 0.05). There was no significant correlation between asymptomatic HBV infection and the presence of diabetes in subjects examined in 1997–1998, 2000–2001, or 2006–2008 when adjusted for age, gender, and body mass index (P > 0.05). In 296 non‐diabetic subjects during 1997–1998, the ten‐year incidence of diabetes/glucose intolerance was similar between HBV carriers and non‐HBV controls (40.0 and 38.7%, P > 0.05). Moreover, no significant correlation was found between asymptomatic HBV infection and the incidence of diabetes/glucose intolerance in 2006–2008 (P = 0.775).

Conclusions:  Compared to non‐HBV controls, subjects with asymptomatic chronic HBV infection do not have an increased risk of diabetes, and thus HBV itself is not pro‐diabetic.
Myocardial ischemia during endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography: An overlooked issue with significant clinical impact
Authors: Lee Ching‐Tai , Lee Thung‐Lip , Liao Wei‐Chih , Chang Chi‐Yang , Tai Chi‐Ming , Chiang Tsung‐Hsien , Tu Chia‐Hung , Tseng Wei‐Kung , Lin Jaw‐Town
Published: January 2010

Background and Aim:  The occurrence of peri‐procedural myocardial ischemia with endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) has been documented, but its significance remains controversial. This study aimed to investigate the incidence and risk factors of myocardial ischemia during ERCP procedures and to analyze the potential association between myocardial ischemia and post‐ERCP complications.

Methods:  Ambulatory 24‐h ST‐segment monitoring from 30 min prior to 24 h after ERCP was obtained on 71 patients from September 2006 to August 2007. Changes in vital signs during ERCP, post‐ERCP complications, and their outcomes were recorded and analyzed.

Results:  Cardiac ischemia occurred in 13 patients (18.3%) during ERCP and one patient developed myocardial infarction. More patients in the ischemic group (38.5%) than in the non‐ischemic group (5.2%) had ST‐T changes in pre‐ERCP resting electrocardiography (P < 0.01). Hypotension during ERCP was found only in the ischemic group (15.4% vs 0%; P = 0.03). Patients with cardiac ischemia during ERCP had a significantly higher rate of elevated serum amylase and lipase levels (53.8% vs 15.5%; P < 0.01) and post‐ERCP pancreatitis (30.8% vs 6.9%; P = 0.03). Multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed that cardiac ischemia during ERCP (OR: 5.21, P = 0.050) and pancreatic duct cannulation (OR: 5.7, P = 0.036) were independent predictors for post‐ERCP pancreatitis.

Conclusions:  ST‐T changes on resting electrocardiography and intra‐procedural hypotension are risk factors of myocardial ischemia during ERCP. Post‐ERCP hyperamylasemia, hyperlipasemia, and pancreatitis were associated with myocardial ischemia during ERCP.
Expression of advanced glycation end products and related molecules in diabetic fibrovascular epiretinal membranes
Authors: Abu El‐Asrar Ahmed M , Missotten Luc , Geboes Karel
Published: January 2010

Abstract

Purpose:  To investigate associations between expressions of advanced glycation end products (AGEs), transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐β), tumour necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) and integrins and correlations between their expression and level of vascularization and proliferative activity in diabetic fibrovascular epiretinal membranes.

Methods:  Membranes from eight patients with active proliferative diabetic retinopathy and nine patients with inactive proliferative diabetic retinopathy were studied by immunohistochemistry.

Results:  Blood vessels expressed AGEs, TGF‐β, TNF‐α and αvβ3 integrin in 5, 13, 8 and 8 membranes, respectively. Stromal cells expressed AGEs, TNF‐α and αvβ3 integrin in 15, 13 and 3 membranes, respectively. There was no immunoreactivity for αvβ5, α5β1 and α2β1 integrins. There were significant correlations between number of blood vessels expressing CD34 and number of blood vessels expressing AGEs (rs = 0.496; P = 0.043), TGF‐β (rs = 0.777; P < 0.001) and TNF‐α (rs = 0.699; P = 0.002). There were significant correlations between number of blood vessels expressing AGEs and number of blood vessels expressing TGF‐β (rs = 0.532; P = 0.028) and TNF‐α (rs = 0.626; P = 0.007). The correlation between number of blood vessels expressing TNF‐α and αvβ3 integrin was significant (rs = 0.617; P = 0.008). Number of blood vessels expressing CD34 (P = 0.001), TGF‐β (P = 0.006) and TNF‐α (P = 0.002) and stromal cells expressing AGEs (P = 0.001) and TNF‐α (P = 0.004) were significantly higher in active membranes than in inactive membranes.

Conclusion:  Interactions of AGEs, TGF‐β, TNF‐α and αvβ3 integrin might be involved in pathogenesis of proliferative diabetic retinopathy fibrovascular proliferation.
Prospective evaluation of changes in anterior segment morphology after laser iridotomy in Chinese eyes by rotating Scheimpflug camera imaging
Authors: Li Shuning , Wang Hongtao , Mu Dapeng , Fu Jing , Wang Xiaozhen , Wang Jian , Wang Ningli
Published: January 2010

Abstract

Background:  To investigate the 3‐D morphology changes of anterior segment in primary angle‐closure suspect and primary angle‐closure after laser peripheral iridotomy (LPI) using rotating Scheimpflug camera.

Methods:  A total of 37 eyes of 25 patients were enrolled in the study. Just before and after LPI, rotating Scheimpflug camera was performed on each selected eye by one skilled ophthalmologist. Comparison of anterior segment parameters before and after LPI such as central corneal thickness, central anterior chamber depth, peripheral anterior chamber depth, anterior chamber volume, pupil diameter and anterior chamber angle of cross‐section photographs from 0° to 180° (ACA) were analysed.

Results:  Before and after LPI, central corneal thickness increased from 537.92 ± 27.92 µm to 541.49 ± 27.85 µm (P = 0.074); no statistic changes of central anterior chamber depth were found before LPI (1.72 ± 0.27 mm) and after LPI (1.70 ± 0.24 mm) (P = 0.337); peripheral anterior chamber depth deepen from 0.89 ± 0.26 to 1.14 ± 0.26 mm (P = 0.000); anterior chamber volume increased from 55.54 ± 14.25 to 82.65 ± 17.63 mm3 (P = 0.000); average pupil diameter of all patients are 1.72 ± 0.42 and 1.63 ± 0.46 mm, respectively, showed no statistic difference (P = 0.228). ACA widen from 25.51 ± 5.66° to 28.11 ± 5.67° in 9 o'clock direction(P = 0.005), and from 25.77 ± 5.15° to 27.91 ± 4.87° in 3 o'clock direction after LPI (P = 0.020).

Conclusion:  LPI induce dramatic changes of 3‐D anterior segment morphology in primary angle‐closure suspect and primary angle‐closure.
Quantification of stress redistribution due to mismatch in creep properties in welded branch pipes
Authors: LEE K.‐H. , KIM Y.‐J. , YOON K.‐B. , NIKBIN K. , DEAN D.
Published: January 2010

This paper reports steady‐state stress distributions within the weld metal in a welded branch component, via detailed three‐dimensional elastic‐creep finite element analyses. The creep exponent and constants for the base and weld metal are systematically varied to simulate under‐matching, even‐matching and over‐matching conditions in creep. Various loading conditions are also considered to see the effect of the loading mode. It is found that the mismatch effect in creep on steady‐state stresses within the weld metal can be uniquely quantified by the mismatch factor, defined as a function of creep exponent and constant. Ratios of section‐averaged (effective and maximum principal) stresses for the mismatched case to those for the even‐matched case are linearly dependent on the mismatch factor.
Cannabinoid modulation of limbic forebrain noradrenergic circuitry
Authors: Carvalho Ana F. , Mackie Kenneth , Van Bockstaele Elisabeth J.
Published: January 2010

Both the endocannabinoid and noradrenergic systems have been implicated in neuropsychiatric disorders. Importantly, low levels of norepinephrine are seen in patients with depression, and antagonism of the cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1R) is able to induce depressive symptoms in rodents and humans. Whether the interaction between the two systems is important for the regulation of these behaviors is not known. In the present study, adult male Sprague–Dawley rats were acutely or chronically administered the CB1R synthetic agonist WIN 55,212‐2, and α2A and β1 adrenergic receptors (AR) were quantified by Western blot. These AR have been shown to be altered in a number of psychiatric disorders and following antidepressant treatment. CB1R agonist treatment induced a differential decrease in α2A‐ and β1‐ARs in the nucleus accumbens (Acb). Moreover, to assess long‐lasting changes induced by CB1R activation, some of the chronically treated rats were killed 7 days following the last injection. This revealed a persistent effect on α2A‐AR levels. Furthermore, the localization of CB1R with respect to noradrenergic profiles was assessed in the Acb and in the nucleus of the solitary tract (NTS). Our results show a significant topographic distribution of CB1R and dopamine beta hydroxylase immunoreactivities (ir) in the Acb, with higher co‐localization observed in the NTS. In the Acb, CB1R‐ir was found in terminals forming either symmetric or asymmetric synapses. These results suggest that cannabinoids may modulate noradrenergic signaling in the Acb, directly by acting on noradrenergic neurons in the NTS or indirectly by modulating inhibitory and excitatory input in the Acb.
Communities contain closely related species during ecosystem disturbance
Authors: Helmus Matthew R. , Keller Wendel (Bill) , Paterson Michael J. , Yan Norman D. , Cannon Charles H. , Rusak James A.
Published: January 2010

Ecology Letters (2010) 13: 162–174

Predicting community and species responses to disturbance is complicated by incomplete knowledge about species traits. A phylogenetic framework should partially solve this problem, as trait similarity is generally correlated with species relatedness, closely related species should have similar sensitivities to disturbance. Disturbance should thus result in community assemblages of closely related species. We tested this hypothesis with 18 disturbed and 16 reference whole‐lake, long‐term zooplankton data sets. Regardless of disturbance type, communities generally contained more closely related species when disturbed. This effect was independent of species richness, evenness, and abundance. Communities already under stress (i.e., those in acidic lakes) changed most when disturbed. Species sensitivities to specific disturbances were phylogenetically conserved, were independent of body size, and could be predicted by the sensitivities of close relatives within the same community. Phylogenetic relatedness can effectively act as a proxy for missing trait information when predicting community and species responses to disturbance.
Analysis of acid‐stressed Bacillus cereus reveals a major oxidative response and inactivation‐associated radical formation
Authors: Mols Maarten , Van Kranenburg Richard , Van Melis Clint C. J. , Moezelaar Roy , Abee Tjakko
Published: January 2010

Acid stress resistance of the food‐borne human pathogen Bacillus cereus may contribute to its survival in acidic environments, such as encountered in soil, food and the human gastrointestinal tract. The acid stress responses of B. cereus strains ATCC 14579 and ATCC 10987 were analysed in aerobically grown cultures acidified to pH values ranging from pH 5.4 to pH 4.4 with HCl. Comparative phenotype and transcriptome analyses revealed three acid stress‐induced responses in this pH range: growth rate reduction, growth arrest and loss of viability. These physiological responses showed to be associated with metabolic shifts and the induction of general stress response mechanisms with a major oxidative component, including upregulation of catalases and superoxide dismutases. Flow cytometry analysis in combination with the hydroxyl (OH·) and peroxynitrite (ONOO‐)‐specific fluorescent probe 3′‐(p‐hydroxyphenyl) fluorescein (HPF) showed excessive radicals to be formed in both B. cereus strains in bactericidal conditions only. Our study shows that radicals can indicate acid‐induced malfunctioning of cellular processes that lead to cell death.
THE FISCAL FRAMEWORK OF MONETARY POLICY
Authors: FELDSTEIN MARTIN
Published: January 2010

This paper i11ustrates the importance of the fiscal framework for monetary analysis by discussing three separate issues. I begin by examining how the fiscal framework changes the macroeconomic equilibrium associated with different steady state rates of money growth. This includes a summary of research that I have presented elsewhere and comments on several additional aspects of the way in which the fiscal structure destroys the neutrality of monetary policy.

The second section deals with the short‐run impact of changes in monetary policy. Here again the fiscal structure complicates the economy's response to monetary policy.

The final section looks at the effect of the fiscal structure on the central banks choice of monetary policies. Fiscal structures are likely to influence the policies adopted because they affect the costs and benefits of monetary policies.
MARKET STRUCTURE AND POLITICAL INFLUENCE: NEW DATA ON POLITICAL EXPENDITURES, ACTIVITY, AND SUCCESS
Authors: ESTY DANIEL C. , CAVES RICHARD E.
Published: January 2010

This paper utilizes new data to evaluate the determinants of the political influence of thirty‐five manufacturing industries on the U.S. Congress during 1976–80. Several measures of influence serve to distinguish between political activity and success. Seller concentration and geopolitical dispersion increase both activity and success, but neither industry size nor leading‐firm size proves significant. We test whether political expenditures facilitate obtaining the favors conferred on an industry by its market structure or by influence independent of that strurture; statistical inference strongly confirms both roles.
PRODUCT SAFETY IN A REGULATED INDUSTRY: EVIDENCE FROM THE RAILROADS
Authors: GOLBE DEVRA L.
Published: January 2010

It is sometimes argued that a relaxation of price controls in a regulated industry would lead to a decrease in profits and hence to an incentive for firms to skimp on safety. Theory does not allow us to sign the relationship between prices and safety a priori. Analysis of data from the railroad industry from 1963–67 indicates 1) profitable railroads have fewer accidents per mile than do unprofitable roads; 2) for profitable roads, if there is any relationship at all between accidents and profitability it is positive: more profitable roads have more accidents (per mile); and 3) for unprofitable roads, accident rates rise as losses rise.
The ENDOGENEITY OF MONEY DURING THE GERMAN HYPERINFLATION: A REAPPRAISAL
Authors: PROTOPAPADAKIS ARIS
Published: January 2010

This paper provides evidence that casts doubt on the conclusioon of several studies of the German hyperinflation that, since government raised most of its revenue from money creation, the money supply process was endogenous. This conclusion in the literature is based on the assumption that the money supply and the price level can be described by linear ARIMA models. It is shown here that the linearity assumption is violated by the data and that relaxing this assumption reverses the earlier results. The paper provides additional evidence in support of the finding that the money supply process may be exogenous.
THE SUBSTITUTABILITY OF BLACK, HISPANIC, AND WHITE LABOR
Authors: BORJAS GEORGE J.
Published: January 2010

This paper analyzes the extent of labor market competition among blacks, hispanics, and whites in the United States. The specification of a generalized Leontief production function leads to an empirically tractable system of input demand functions. The estimation of the demand system, using the 1976 Survey of Income and Education, reveals that (a) blacks and hispanics are complementary inputs; (b) hispanics and whites may also be complements; and (c) blacks and whites are not complements and may be substitutes.
HOURS OF OPERATION RESTRICTIONS AND COMPETITION AMING RETAIL FIRMS
Authors: MORRISON STEVEN A. , NEWMAN ROBERT J.
Published: January 2010

This study examines the redistributive effects of government regulations concerning the hours in which retail stores may remain open for business. Throughout Canada, municipal by ‐laws restrict nighttime shopping hours to a few specified days of the week. In analyzing the outcome of these restrictions, a model of consumer behaviour is used which emphasizes the consumers's decision concerning the allocation of purchases between small and large retail outlets. The empirical results are consistant with the theoretical model, indicating that such market intervention redistributes sales from large to small stores
HETEROGENEOUS FIRMS AND THE ORGANIZATION OF PRODUCTION
Authors: OI WALTER Y.
Published: January 2010

Firms in the same industry exhibit systematic differences in the organization of production and the structure of employment. Entrepreneurial ability is the specific scarce input that limits the size of a firm. This input must be allocated to two activities, coordinating production and monitoring workers. Able entrepreneurs can convert calendar time into larger supplies of coordinating effort that enable them to assemble large firms. Greater ability implies a higher shadow price of time which increases the implicit costs of monitoring. A dispersion of entrepreneurial abilities generates an equilibrium size distribution of firms. Differences in monitoring costs affect the choice of worker productivities, the design of products, and the organization of production. The monitoring cost hypothesis advanced in this paper goes a long way in explaining the equilibrium of an industry containing heterogeneous firms that differ in size and behavior.