bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interleukin-1Beta and Interleukin-8 Expression Correlate with the Histomorphological Changes in Esophageal Mucosa of Patients with Erosive and Non-Erosive Reflux Disease
Authors: Mönkemüller Klaus , Wex Thomas , Kuester Doerthe , Fry Lucia C. , Peitz Ulrich , Beyer Mike , Roessner Albert , Malfertheiner Peter
Published: April 2009

Background: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) leads to endoscopic and histomorphological changes in the gastroesophageal (GE) mucosa. Aims: To evaluate the expression of the cytokines interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and interleukin-8 (IL-8) in the GE mucosa in GERD patients and controls and to correlate the cytokine expression with the histomorphological parameters. Methods: One hundred and fifteen patients, 48 with erosive reflux disease (ERD) and 41 with non-erosive reflux disease (NERD) with typical GERD-related symptoms, and 26 controls were included. Endoscopic and histological characterization of esophagitis was performed according to the Los Angeles and Ismeil-Beigi/Vieth criteria, respectively. Mucosal gene expression levels of IL-1β and IL-8 were analyzed by real-time RT-PCR. Results: ERD and NERD patients revealed significant higher levels of IL-1β and IL-8 transcript levels in the cardia and esophageal mucosa than controls. The esophageal mucosa revealed elevated IL-8 (2.5- and 8.7-fold) and IL-1β (4.1- and 7.8-fold) transcript levels in NERD and ERD, respectively. Histological analysis demonstrated a stepwise increase of dilatation of intercellular spaces and the degree of basal cell hyperplasia from controls, NERD towards ERD. Gene expression levels of both cytokines correlated with histology. Conclusions: ERD and NERD are associated with an induction of the proinflammatory cytokines IL-1β and IL-8 that correlates with histomorphological changes in esophageal mucosa.
Chemical Interference with Aging
Authors: Kormendy Ch.G. , Bender A.D.
Published: April 2009

The studies reviewed here reflect only a modest and conceptually limited beginning in gerontological pharmacology. Germane to the future course of research is whether prolongation of either mean or maximum life-span brings about a true deceleration of the overall aging process or only in certain biological functions. Prolongevity with out efficacy, that is without the addition of useful years, is merely an academic exercise. Hence, we suggest that agents which prolong life-span should also be tested in the laboratory for their ability to modify those functional parameters which are known to change significantly with age. To list a few, these might include measuring rates of de novo protein (enzyme) synthesis, properties of collagen, and antigen-antibody response. Furthermore, we believe that a scientific attack on specific age-associated decrements in mental and physical function could serve an immensely useful and practical purpose.
The Effect of Age on Tissue Protein Synthesis
Authors: Hrachovec J.P.
Published: April 2009

Currently available data on the effect of age in tissue protein synthesis and turnover are reviewed and experimental evidence is presented on age changes in amino acid incorporation by rat liver purified microsomes. It has been observed that the purification of ‘crude’ microsomal preparations from contaminating lysosomes by density gradient centrifugation is accompanied by an increase in amino acid incorporatmg activity of the microsomal preparations, no matter whether these are prepared from young or from old animals, and that the amino acid incorporating activity of rat liver purified microsomes prepared from old animals (19–25 months) is lower than that prepared from adult animals (7–11 months) which in turn is lower than that from young animals (2–3 months), no matter whether the activity is expressed per mg of microsomal protein or per mg of microsomal RNA. Also, experimental evidence is presented which is consistent with the presence in liver purified microsomes of heat-labile inhibitor(s) of amino acid incorporation, and with their accumulation (or increase in effect) in the microsomes with the age of the animal. Several major features of the decline with age in tissue protein synthesis are outlined and a number of possible factors or causes, beside the microsomal inhibitor(s), contributing to the decline with age in tissue protein synthesis, are discussed.
Thermal Denaturation of DNA and Chromatin of Early and Late Passage Human Fibroblasts
Authors: Comings D.E. , Vance Carol K.
Published: April 2009

Studies of DNA and chromatin isolated from early, mid and late passage human fibroblasts showed that the mean temperature of denaturation (Tm) did not change with increasing generations in culture. An increase in the Tm of chromatin when studied under similar conditions of low ionic strength is a well defined characteristic of aging in vivo. These observations suggest there may be fundamental differences in the mechanisms ofaging in in vivo non-proliferating compared to in vitro proliferating systems.
In vitro Aging-like Changes in the Cross-linking Characteristics of Collagen from Intramuscular Connective Tissue
Authors: McClain P.E.
Published: April 2009

The physical-chemical characteristics of intramuscular connective tissues (IMCT) collagen were studied in relation to in vitro aging.No change in the quantity of either salt- or acid-soluble tropocollagen was evident in samples stored at 4°C for 100 h. The β-subunit composition of the extracts from the 100-hour samples was, however, significantly greater, indicating that intramolecular cross-links had formed in vitro. The amino acid composition and hydrothermal shrinkage temperatures were similar in both the 0- and 100-hour samples. No change in solubility or subunit composition was evident in samples stored for 6 months at ––40°C.
Changes in the Thermal Decomposition of Aorta, Tendon and Articular Cartilage in Experimental Lathyrism
Authors: Bihari-Varga Magdolna , Biró T. , Lévai Julia
Published: April 2009

A thermal analytical method was applied to study the effect of experimental lathyrism on the composition and structural stability of aorta, tendon and hyaline cartilages of rabbits.A defect in collagen and elastin synthesis, resulting in the production of labile cross-linkages within the fibrillar protein moiety of the connective and vascular tissues of growing animals could be demonstrated. In the aorta and tendon of young rabbits glycosa4minoglycan concentration increased in the first 20 days of treatment. In the investigated tissues of adult animals β-amino-propionitrile-feeding caused no alterations.
The Effect of Intensive Nervous Stimulation on Certain Physico-Chemical Properties of Rat Tail Tendon and Uterus Collagen
Authors: Árvay A. , Takács I. , Ladányi P. , Balogh Á. , Benkö K.
Published: April 2009

The authors simultaneously studied the physico-chemical properties of rat tail tendon (amount of labile hydroxyproline, changes of thermo-isometric tension) and uterine collagen (collagen content, total hydroxyproline, labile hydroxyproline ratio) during the biological ageing of control animals and experimental animals of identical age, exposed to long-lasting stressful stimulation. Similar changes to the tail tendon were found in the uterine collagen. The localisation of increased uterine collagen production under the given experimental conditions, besides the fibroblasts, was partly found in the smooth muscle cells transformed to fibroblastic direction as revealed by electron microscopic investigation of the myometrium.
Effect of Porcine Calcitonin on Bone Resorption in Adult Rats and Mice
Authors: Anderson G.H. , Draper H.H.
Published: April 2009

Porcine calcitonin was administered twice daily at rates of 50 or 5 MRC U/kg/day to 25-month-old mice which had been chronically labelled with 45Ca. No consistent effect of the hormone on isotope excretion was observed over a 25-day period. Similar results were observed when calcitonin was administered to 45Ca- labelled 10-month-old rats at rates of 100 or 10 U/kg/day. The higher level induced a depression in 45Ca excretion for about 10 days but was ineffective thereafter. Both levels induced an increase in urine Ca excretion. These experiments indicate that porcine calcitonin is not effective in inhibiting bone resorption in adult rats or aged mice.
Evolution du coefficient d’assimilation de glucose avec l’ âge chez le rat
Authors: Gommers A.
Published: April 2009

The concentrations of glucose in blood during fasting and during hyperglycemia induced by intravenous injection (1 g/kg glucose) were determined in 3 groups of adult rats aged 3, 12 and 24 months. The fasting glycemia is remarkably stable independent of the age of the rat (mean 86 mg/l00 ml). In contrast, the glucose up-take coefficient diminishes in a highly significant way between 3 and 12 months of age. These results show that ageing induces an early loss of tolerance to glucose in the animal, which is quite independent of the phenomena of digestion usually discussed.
Dental Abnormalities in Aged Mice
Authors: Robins M.W. , Rowlatt C.
Published: April 2009

1. A high incidence of abnormalities of the maxillary incisor was found amongst aged mice in a colony of C57BL/Icrf mice. The anomalies were virtually absent in young adult and middle-aged mice of the colony.2.The frequency distrubution of affected animals in the samples of the aged population suggested a progressive increase in the frequency of defects after 24 months. 3. Hair impaction in the gingival tissues of both maxillary and mandibular incisors was found in mice of all ages. 4. Serial observations on a group of aged mice revealed that unilateral abnormalities of the incisor had no immediate deliterious effect on the mouse while bilateral anomalies tended to result in rapid loss of weight and death. 5. Investigations on the heads of a group of aged mice dying from natural causes demonstrated that the molar teeth are normal except for severe wear. 6. Radiological and histological studies of the same group of mice revealed many pathological features including the presence of secondary incisors, dens in dente and odontome-like structures. Loose hairs were commonly present in the gingival sulci and also deeply-embedded in the periodontal ligament of both normal and abnormal incisors
Protein Turnover and Protein Synthesis Following Actinomycin-D Injection as a Function of Age in Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Wattiaux J.M. , Libion-Mannaert M. , Delcour J.
Published: April 2009

The influence of aging on the stability of mRNA has been investigated in Drosophila by measuring the incorporation of 3H-leucine into thorax and ovary proteins after injection of actinomycin-D. In the ovary, there is an identical decrease at any age in the rate of protein synthesis following injection of the drug. Thus, no age-related difference can be found in the stability of the corresponding mRNA templates, whose half-life is about 8–9 h. In the thorax, however, actinomycin-D significantly stimulates 3H-leucine incorporation in young flies, but slightly inhibits protein synthesis in old individuals. Thus, aging involves a progressive loss of stability of the mRNA templates responsible for the synthesis of thorax proteins. Flies of various ages have also been pulse-labeled with 3H-leucine in order to measure the rate of protein synthesis. Incorporation into ovary proteins exhibits, in function of age, a pattern of variation which follows the egg-laying curve, with a maximum early in adult life. Incorporation into thorax proteins, on the other hand, steadily increases with age. Similarly, the decrease of radioactivity in thorax proteins following a single injection of 3H-leucine is more rapid in old individuals.
Solitary Small- to Medium-Sized Pleomorphic T-Cell Nodules of Undetermined Significance: Clinical, Histopathological, Immunohistochemical and Molecular Analysis of 26 Cases
Authors: Leinweber Bernd , Beltraminelli Helmut , Kerl Helmut , Cerroni Lorenzo
Published: April 2009

Background: Solitary skin nodules composed of pleomorphic T lymphocytes are often the source of diagnostic problems. Objective: To characterize the clinicopathological features, prognosis and optimal treatment modalities of patients with solitary lymphoid nodules of small- to medium-sized pleomorphic T lymphocytes. Methods: Twenty-six patients were analysed for clinical, histopathological, immunophenotypical, molecular and follow-up data. Results: Lesions were located mainly on the head and neck (n = 16; 61.5%) or trunk (n = 8; 30.8%). Histopathology showed non-epidermotropic nodular or diffuse infiltrates of small- to medium-sized pleomorphic T lymphocytes. Monoclonality was found by PCR in 54.2% of cases (n = 13/24). After a mean follow-up of 79.7 months, a local recurrence could be observed only in 1 patient. Conclusions: Our patients have a specific cutaneous lymphoproliferative disorder characterized by reproducible clinicopathological features. The incongruity between the indolent clinical course and the worrying histopathological features poses difficulties in classifying these cases unambiguously as benign or malignant. We suggest to describe these lesions as ‘solitary small- to medium-sized pleomorphic T-cell nodules of undetermined significance’. Irrespective of the name given to these equivocal cutaneous lymphoid proliferations, follow-up data support a non-aggressive therapeutic strategy.
Aging Well Together – A Mini-Review
Authors: Rohr Margund K. , Lang Frieder R.
Published: April 2009

We review the contribution of social integration on the process of successful aging. Building on empirical findings, we describe three major challenges and potentials of social contexts that are related to the elasticity, role differentiation, and the risk potentials of social relationships in adulthood. We propose a model of aging well together that advances concepts of selection, optimization, and compensation to social aging and to the mastery of relationship demands. According to the model, individuals are choosing and seeking positive social experience, improving the fit of their social environment, and they counterbalance the risks of social contact. We provide exemplary empirical evidence for the existence of such regulatory contributions of social bonding on aging well. Several implications for researchers as well as practitioners in the field of gerontology are extracted. Future research needs to further disentangle the dynamic and complex nature of social relationship effects on positive aging.
Rate of Kidney Function Decline in Older Adults: A Comparison Using Creatinine and Cystatin C
Authors: Shlipak Michael G. , Katz Ronit , Kestenbaum Bryan , Fried Linda F. , Newman Anne B. , Siscovick David S. , Stevens Lesley , Sarnak Mark J.
Published: April 2009

Background/Aims: The aim of this study was to determine the decline in the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) in elderly persons and to compare estimates based on creatinine and cystatin C. Methods: In the Cardiovascular Health Study, GFR changes in an elderly cohort were estimated from serum creatinine and cystatin C measured at baseline, year 3 and year 7 in 4,380 participants (age 72 ± 5 years at entry). Outcomes were mean eGFR decline, incident chronic kidney disease (CKD) and rapid decline in eGFR (annual loss >3 ml/min/1.73 m2). Results: Mean annual eGFR loss as estimated from creatinine was 0.4 ± 3.6 ml/min/1.73 m2, with 16% of the participants experiencing a rapid decline. Mean eGFR loss as estimated from cystatin C was 1.8 ± 2.6, with 25% of the participants experiencing a rapid decline (p < 0.001 for both). Among participants without baseline CKD, incident CKD was detected at year 7 in 10% (n = 263) using creatinine and 19% (n = 544) using cystatin C (p < 0.001). Increasing age was the strongest predictor of rapid decline; adjusted odds ratios were 1.38 (1.16–1.65), 1.62 (1.31–1.99) and 2.96 (2.28–3.84) for participants aged 70–74, 75–79 and 80+ at baseline, compared with those aged 65–69. Conclusion: In elderly persons, cystatin C estimated substantially larger declines in kidney function than creatinine did. Defining the optimal measurement of kidney function in elderly persons should be a high priority for future research.
What a Girl Wants, What a Girl Needs
Authors: Garcia Crystal A. , Lane Jodi
Published: April 2009

Most arrests among girls are attributable to status offenses and property crimes; however, the number of girls arrested for assault and other violent crimes is increasing. Although arrest patterns among girls may be changing, the way the system responds has not. Correctional programs have almost always been designed with the male offender in mind—ignoring the needs of at-risk and delinquent girls. The paucity of gender-specific programming might have seemed acceptable in the past; however, academics and practitioners now agree that girls’ needs can no longer be ignored. The purpose of this article is to (a) report on findings from a focus group study that examines what at-risk and delinquent girls claim they want and need from the system, (b) determine whether what the girls say they want is similar to what the literature says they need, and (c) provide practical recommendations that practitioners can use to improve the status of girls in their care.
The Journey Is the Goal
Authors: Bradford G. Kenneth , Sterling Molly Merrill
Published: April 2009

A founder and exemplar of Existential-Humanistic Psychotherapy, James Bugental left a rich legacy in his many publications. But more importantly, it was his unwavering dedication to the search for authenticity that attests to the fertile depth of his life. Drawing upon his personal presence, his final words, and his pith instructions in teaching the art of psychotherapy, this article honors the heart of his work. Above all, he emphasized the practice of presence: daring to be open and responsive to an Other, and the willingness to trust in the mystery of being. While much therapy seeks answers or insights, for Jim, the discovery of vital meaning was less important than the experiential process of searching for it. As he said, “life is not a problem to be solved but a mystery to be lived.” How to more fully live the mystery of our lives is his remarkable legacy.
Union Democracy Reexamined
Authors: Levi Margaret , Olson David , Agnone Jon , Kelly Devin
Published: April 2009

Trade union leaders serve dual, seemingly contradictory roles. They must command militant organizations in conflicts with employers. Simultaneously, they must be accountable and democratically responsive to their members. Few unions possess the institutions or leadership to accomplish both. This article analyzes the practices of the International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU), in which effective contract negotiation (including leadership during strikes) and an informed, active rank-and-file democracy are mutually supportive. We offer an alternative to standard accounts of union democracy. While the claims are based on a detailed case study, the theoretical model and its insights hold for labor unions and organizations more broadly.
Mobilizing the State: The Erratic Partner in Brazil's Participatory Water Policy
Authors: Neaera Abers Rebecca , Keck Margaret E.
Published: April 2009

Studies of participatory governance generally examine the input (deliberation, participation) and/or output (accountability) side of policy processes. Often neglected is the throughput: Does the state have the political and technical capacity to implement the decisions that deliberative bodies make? In this study of Brazilian river-basin committees, the authors find that activists inside and outside the state often must collaborate to overcome resistance to change and provide state officials with resources they lack. They argue that this does not constitute the transfer of state responsibility to private actors but rather the mobilization of a state's capacity to defend the public interest.
Racial and Gender Differences in Kin Support
Authors: Haxton Clarisse L. , Harknett Kristen
Published: April 2009

This article uses qualitative and quantitative data for a recent birth cohort from the Fragile Families and Child Wellbeing study to compare kin support patterns between African Americans and Hispanics. It focuses on financial and housing support from grandparents and other kin during the transition to parenthood. Qualitative analysis ( n = 122 parents) uncovers distinctions in the way African American and Hispanic parents discuss their family networks, with African Americans emphasizing relations with female kin and Hispanics emphasizing a more integrated system. Consistent with these findings, quantitative analysis ( n = 2,472 mothers and n = 2,639 fathers) finds that compared with Hispanic parents, African American parents are more likely to receive financial and housing support from grandmothers and less likely to receive support from both grandparents. Contrary to expectations that fathers would be the primary support recipients in Hispanic households, the authors find that mothers are the more common recipients of support among African Americans and Hispanics.
Translocation Pathway of the Intratracheally Instilled C60 Fullerene from the Lung into the Blood Circulation in the Mouse: Possible Association of Diffusion and Caveolae-mediated Pinocytosis
Authors: Naota Misaki , Shimada Akinori , Morita Takehito , Inoue Kenichiro , Takano Hirohisa
Published: April 2009

Ultrafine particles are ubiquitous in ambient urban and indoor air from multiple sources and may contribute to adverse respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. Recently, it has been demonstrated that ultrafine particles (UFPs) are translocated from the lung into the systemic circulation. The exact pathway, however, for the translocation in the lung remains unclear. In this study, we examined the translocation pathway of intratracheally instilled C60 fullerene particles from the lung into the blood circulation in the mouse. Using light microscopy, aggregated particles of fullerene were observed in the capillary lumen in the lung and the pulmonary lymph nodes immediately after instillation. Electron microscopic analysis demonstrated an increased number of pinocytotic vesicles (caveolae) of various sizes in the type 1 alveolar epithelial cells (AEC) and endothelial cells; occasional caveolae containing some particulate substances were observed. In addition, particles of various sizes were observed throughout the structure of the air-blood barrier (ABB). These findings suggest that fullerene particles may pass the ABB by both diffusion and caveolae-mediated pinocytosis, resulting in immediate translocation into the systemic circulation.
Ratings of symptoms and comfort in dementia patients at the end of life: comparison of nurses and families
Authors: van der Steen JT , Gijsberts MJ , Knol DL , Deliens L , Muller MT
Published: April 2009

After-death reporting by proxies on end-of-life outcomes is used in research and can also be used to target institutions directly to improve practice. We compared the scores of family caregivers and nurses on two End-of-Life in Dementia Scales (EOLD) scales: Symptom Management (SM; range 0–45) over the last 3 months of life and Comfort Assessment in Dying (CAD; range 14–42). Higher scores represent better outcomes. Four Dutch nursing homes retrospectively enrolled 48 decedents with dementia. Total mean scores for family caregivers and nurses were 28.7 (SD 9.6) versus 25.2 (SD 12.7) for the SM and 31.7 (SD 5.5) versus 32.8 (SD 8.2) for the CAD. Mean item scores also did not differ much. Concordance Correlation Coefficients were 0.42 (SM) and 0.04 (CAD). Mean evaluations of end of life with dementia corresponded reasonably well between family and professional caregivers, but correspondence of individual observations was poor to moderate, suggesting serious differences in individual ratings but little systematic difference.
Pregabalin versus naltrexone in alcohol dependence: a randomised, double-blind, comparison trial
Authors: Martinotti G. , Di Nicola M. , Tedeschi D. , Andreoli S. , Reina D. , Pomponi M. , Mazza M. , Romanelli R. , Moroni N. , De Filippis R. , Di Giannantonio M. , Pozzi G. , Bria P. , Janiri L.
Published: April 2009

Pregabalin (PRE) acts as a presynaptic inhibitor of the release of excessive levels of excitatory neurotransmitters by selectively binding to the α2-δ subunit of voltage-gated calcium channels. In this randomised, double-blind comparison trial with naltrexone (NAL), we aimed to investigate the efficacy of PRE on alcohol drinking indices. Craving reduction and improvement of psychiatric symptoms were the secondary endpoints. Seventy-one alcohol-dependent subjects were detoxified and subsequently randomised into two groups, receiving 50 mg of NAL or 150—450 mg of PRE. Craving (VAS; OCDS), withdrawal (CIWA-Ar) and psychiatric symptoms (SCL-90-R) rating scales were applied. Alcohol drinking indices and craving scores were not significantly different between groups. Compared with NAL, PRE resulted in greater improvement of specific symptoms in the areas of anxiety, hostility and psychoticism, and survival function (duration of abstinence from alcohol). PRE also resulted in better outcome in patients reporting a comorbid psychiatric disorder. Results from this study globally place PRE within the same range of efficacy as that of NAL. The mechanism involved in the efficacy of PRE in relapse prevention could be less related to alcohol craving and more associated with the treatment of the comorbid psychiatric symptomatology.
Lithium-induced suicidal erythrocyte death
Authors: Nicolay JP , Gatz S. , Lang F. , Lang UE
Published: April 2009

Lithium (Li+), an effective drug for treatment of bipolar disorders, is known to alter several Ca2+ transporting systems. Increased cellular Ca2+ has in turn been shown to stimulate eryptosis, the suicidal death of erythrocytes. Eryptosis is characterised by exposure of phosphatidylserine (PS) at the erythrocyte surface and by cell shrinkage. The present experiments explored whether Li+ influences eryptosis. In erythrocytes from healthy volunteers, cytosolic Ca2+ activity (Fluo-3 fluorescence), cell volume (forward scatter) and PS exposure (annexin V binding) were determined by fluorescence-activated cell sorting analysis. Exposure to Li+ (≥1 mM) did not significantly modify forward scatter but significantly increased cytosolic Ca2+ activity (within 3 h) and annexin binding (within 48 h). The effect was paralleled by increase of cellular adenosine triphosphate concentration. Glucose depletion (24 h) strongly increased PS exposure, an effect significantly enhanced in the presence of Li+ (≥1 mM). In conclusion, Li+ triggers suicidal erythrocyte death, an effect at least partially due to increase of cytosolic Ca2+ activity.
Relation of exploratory behaviour to plasma corticosterone and Wfs1 gene expression in Wistar rats
Authors: Sütt S. , Raud S. , Abramov U. , Innos J. , Luuk H. , Plaas M. , Kõks S. , Zilmer K. , Mahlapuu R. , Zilmer M. , Vasar E.
Published: April 2009

Male Wistar rats exhibit significant variations in exploratory behaviour in the elevated plus-maze (EPM) model of anxiety. We have now investigated the relation between exploratory behaviour and levels of corticosterone and systemic oxidative stress. Also, the expression levels of endocannabinoid-related and wolframin (Wfs1) genes were measured in the forebrain structures. The rats were divided into high, intermediate and low exploratory activity groups. Exposure to EPM significantly elevated the serum levels of corticosterone in all rats, but especially in the high exploratory group. Oxidative stress indices and expression of endocannabinoid-related genes were not significantly affected by exposure to EPM. Wfs1 mRNA level was highly dependent on exploratory behaviour of animals. In low exploratory activity rats, Wfs1 gene expression was reduced in the temporal lobe, whereas in high exploratory activity group it was reduced in the mesolimbic area and hippocampus. Altogether, present study indicates that in high exploratory activity rats, the activation of brain areas related to novelty seeking is apparent, whereas in low exploratory activity group the brain structures linked to anxiety are activated.
Proteomic analysis of rat hippocampus exposed to the antidepressant paroxetine
Authors: McHugh PC , Rogers GR , Glubb DM , Joyce PR , Kennedy MA
Published: April 2009

Antidepressant drugs can exert significant effects on the mood of a patient suffering major depression and other disorders. These drugs generally have pharmacological actions on the uptake or metabolism of the neurotransmitters serotonin, noradrenaline and, to a lesser extent, dopamine. However, there are many aspects of antidepressant action we do not understand. We have applied proteomic analysis in a rat hippocampal model in an attempt to identify relevant molecules that operate in pathways functionally relevant to antidepressant action. Rats were administered either 5 mg/kg daily of the antidepressant paroxetine or vehicle for 12 days, then hippocampal protein was recovered and resolved by 2-D gel electrophoresis. After antidepressant exposure, we observed increased expression or modification of cytochrome c oxidase, subunit Va, cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor 2A interacting protein, dynein, axonemal, heavy polypeptide 3 and RHO GDP-dissociation inhibitor alpha. Decreased expression or modification was observed for complexin 1 (CPLX1), alpha-synuclein, parvalbumin, ribosomal protein large P2, prohibitin, nerve growth factor, beta subunit (NGFB), peroxiredoxin 6 (PRDX6), 1-acylglycerol-3-phosphate O-acyltransferase 2_predicted, cystatin B (CYTB) and lysosomal membrane glycoprotein 1. CPLX1, the most strongly regulated protein observed, mediates the fusion of cellular transport vesicles with their target membranes and has been implicated in the pathophysiology of mood disorders, as well as antidepressant action. CPLX1 and the other proteins identified may represent links into molecular processes of importance to mood dysregulation and control, and their respective genes may represent novel candidates for studies of antidepressant pharmacogenetics.
An open pilot study of tiagabine in alcohol dependence: tolerability and clinical effects
Authors: Paparrigopoulos T. , Tzavellas E. , Karaiskos D. , Malitas P. , Liappas I.
Published: April 2009

There is evidence that GABAergic anticonvulsants can be efficacious in the treatment of alcohol dependence and in the prevention of alcohol relapse because these agents act on the substrate that is involved in alcoholism. Tiagabine, a selective GABA transporter1 reuptake inhibitor, may be a promising candidate for the treatment of alcohol-dependent individuals. In this randomized, open pilot study, we aimed to investigate the efficacy and tolerability of tiagabine as adjunctive treatment of alcohol-dependent individuals (N = 60) during the immediate post-detoxification period and during a 6-month follow-up period following alcohol withdrawal. A control non-medicated group of alcohol-dependent individuals (N = 60) was used for comparisons in terms of anxiety and depressive symptoms, craving and drinking outcome. Although a steady improvement in terms of psychopathology, craving and global functioning was observed in both groups throughout the study, subjects on tiagabine improved significantly more compared to the control subjects (P < 0.001). Furthermore, the relapse rate in the tiagabine group was lower than in the control group (7 vs 14.3%). Tiagabine was well tolerated and only a minority of the participants reported some adverse effects in the beginning of tiagabine treatment. Results from this study suggest that tiagabine is a safe and effective medication for the management of alcohol dependence when given adjunctively to a standard psychotherapy treatment. Further studies are warranted before definite conclusions can be reached.
Anxiety - bridging the heart/mind divide
Authors: Davies SJC , Esler M. , Nutt DJ
Published: April 2009

Although the complimentary roles of heart and brain in anxiety have been recognised for centuries, the precise contribution of each and more importantly perhaps their interplay has proved difficult to describe. Recent data from human brain imaging and cardiovascular physiology studies are beginning to delineate the mechanistic pathways of anxiety disorders in general and panic in particular. Evidence for a dysfunction of brain gamma-amino butyric acid-A and serotonin (5HT) systems in both panic and cardiovascular regulation is reviewed along with new evidence for altered sympathetic nervous system activity in the heart and periphery. Testable hypotheses and research ideas are suggested.
Fast Bowlers in Cricket Demonstrate Up to 3- to 4-Week Delay Between High Workloads and Increased Risk of Injury
Authors: Orchard John W. , James Trefor , Portus Marc , Kountouris Alex , Dennis Rebecca
Published: April 2009

Background

Limited research in cricket bowlers and baseball pitchers has shown a correlation between workload and injury risk.

Hypothesis

Acute high bowling workload in cricket leads to increased risk of bowling injury in future matches.

Study Design

Cohort study (prognosis); Level of evidence, 2.

Methods

One hundred twenty-nine pace (fast) bowlers who bowled in 2715 player matches over a period of 10 seasons were followed to compare overs bowled in each match and injury risk subsequent to the match.

Results

Bowlers who bowled more than 50 overs in a match had an injury incidence in the next 21 days of 3.37 injuries per 1000 overs bowled, a significantly increased risk compared with those bowlers who bowled less than 50 overs (relative risk [RR], 1.77; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.05–2.98). Bowlers who bowled more than 30 overs in the second inning of a match had a significantly increased injury risk per over bowled in the next 28 days (RR, 2.42; 95% CI: 1.38–4.26). Time periods of less than 21 days or more than 28 days after the match in question did not yield significant differences in injury risk per over bowled between high and low workload bowlers.

Conclusion

High acute workload in cricket fast bowlers may lead to a somewhat delayed increased risk of injury up to 3 to 4 weeks after the acute overload, possibly via a mechanism of damaging immature (repair) tissue.

Clinical Relevance

Cricket fast bowling and possibly baseball pitching workloads require scrutiny not just for acute injuries but also for injury prevention in the subsequent month.
Feelings of Safety Among Male Inmates
Authors: Wolff Nancy , Jing Shi
Published: April 2009

“Safety paradox” refers to the paradoxical phenomenon in which prisoners feel safe in ostensibly unsafe places --prisons. A general model of feeling safe was used to better understand the role of individual and environmental factors on inmate perception of safety inside prison. We tested theoretically derived hypotheses of vulnerability, victimization, and social disorder, under the assumption of rationality. Using survey data from approximately 7,000 male inmates residing in 13 adult prisons within a single state correctional system, hierarchical linear models were estimated to predict probabilities of feeling safe from specific types of harm and perpetrators. Findings support hypotheses of differential impact and the seriality of victimization, interprison variation, and social disorder impact but not vulnerability hypotheses. Localized social relations and recent victimization experiences had the largest individual and collective impact on feeling safe against harms inside prison ( n = 137)
Refusing the Market
Authors: Eikenberry Angela M.
Published: April 2009

This article extends critical and normative theorizing about the assumptions and implications of marketization for nonprofit and voluntary organizations and suggests an alternative discourse. It describes reasons for the increasing marketization of nonprofit and voluntary organizations and what the literature has shown to be problematic about marketization. It argues that one way to resist colonization by the market is for academics and practitioners of voluntary and nonprofit organizations to create and apply a democratic counterdiscourse.
Factors Influencing Funder Loyalty to Microfinance Institutions
Authors: Gutiérrez-Nieto Begoña , Serrano-Cinca Carlos
Published: April 2009

This study unveils which factors affect decisions to fund Microfinance Institutions (MFIs). A quality-loyalty model is proposed to explain funder—MFI relationships. The role played by outreach and sustainability as perceived quality antecedents within a MFI has been studied. The model includes MFI transparency as an antecedent of trust. The proposed model is tested using a survey of 116 managers of MFI funding bodies. The analytical technique used to test the model is Partial Least Squares (PLS). The results suggest that both outreach and sustainability are important for MFI funders. The managerial implications for MFIs are discussed.
Dowry among Indian Muslims
Authors: Waheed Abdul
Published: April 2009

The discourse on dowry in India has generally been confined to non-Muslim communities, with little research undertaken on dowry among Muslims. This article, based on secondary source material, surveys the practice of dowry among Indian Muslims as it has existed and continues to exist in different forms and in different regions. ‘Dowry’ is an ambiguous word that does not have a uniform or standard definition, and there are wide-ranging regional variations in people's understanding of it. Technically, it is the property of the bride but, in practice, the husband's parents, brothers and sisters have access to it. Indian Muslims commonly use the Arabic word jahez for dowry and, very often, justify the practice in terms of jahez-e-fatimi. Islamists classify jahez into two categories. The first comprises some essential articles for the outfit of the bride as well as for conjugal life. The other is made up of valuable goods, clothes, an amount of money settled on after bargaining, and lavish food and hospitality for the barat. They say the former is a very old and established practice, while the latter is a recent phenomenon among Indian Muslims and mostly prevalent in south India—in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Maharashtra. However, this article takes a contrary view, saying that the practice of jahez has not been voluntary but coercive among Indian Muslims for a long time. It has its origin in the Muslim social structure and the lifestyles of the nobility in north India.
The Japan HOspice and Palliative Care Evaluation Study (J-HOPE Study): Views About Legalization of Death With Dignity and Euthanasia Among the Bereaved Whose Family Member Died at Palliative Care Units
Authors: Okishiro Nao , Miyashita Mitsunori , Tsuneto Satoru , Sato Kazuki , Shima Yasuo
Published: April 2009

There has been a debate in appropriateness of legalization of death with dignity and euthanasia in Japan. To clarify views about these issues, we conducted a large nationwide study of the bereaved whose family member died at palliative care units. The percentages of 429 bereaved family members (response rate 65%) who affirmed legal authorization were 52 for death with dignity and 45 for euthanasia and who affirmed assignment at the discretion of the physician involved were 37 for death with dignity and 38 for euthanasia. In conclusion, views about legalization of death with dignity and euthanasia among the bereaved are inconsistent. No consensus is reached as to legislation of these issues.
Morality, Equality, or Locality: Analyzing the Determinants of Support for Same-sex Marriage
Authors: Gaines N. Susan , Garand James C.
Published: April 2009

In this article, the authors develop a model in which they depict individuals’ support for same-sex marriage as a function of several clusters of independent variables, including symbolic politics, moral and religious attitudes and attachments, feelings toward gays and lesbians, women’s rights and gender roles, concern for minority and civil rights, demographic attributes, and the local context. Using data from the 2004 American National Election Studies survey and the U.S. Census, the authors find that attitudes toward same-sex marriage are a function of moral and religious considerations, attitudes toward gays and lesbians, and gender roles. They find little evidence that attitudes toward women’s rights and civil rights for African Americans affect attitudes toward same-sex marriage. Finally, they find that contextual effects are limited only to those respondents who reside in counties with a very high percentage of same-sex partnered couples.
Trauma Victim: Yes or No?
Authors: Thoresen Siri , Øverlien Carolina
Published: April 2009

The aim of this study is to explore the reasons why it may be difficult to answer questions regarding violence, sexual abuse, and other potentially traumatic events (PTEs). Qualitative and quantitative methods are used with a nonrepresentative community sample of 628 women who respond to a Web survey. Altogether, 65% do not find it difficult to answer any PTE questions. Difficulties in answering occur more frequently with violence and sexual abuse items and are associated with exposure. Reasons for difficulties in answering include “event fit” (severity, frequency, force), “me as a victim” (responsibility, reactions, protection, memory), and “you as abuser” (intention, protection).
“Boys Will Be Boys” and Other Gendered Accounts
Authors: Weiss Karen G.
Published: April 2009

An examination of 944 victim narratives from the National Crime Victimization Survey (NCVS) finds that one in five women who reveal an incident of sexual victimization to the NCVS excuse or justify their situations, largely by drawing on social vocabularies that suggest male sexual aggression is natural, normal within dating relationships, or the victim's fault. The study's findings substantiate the influence that rape myths and gender stereotypes have on victims' perceptions of their own unwanted sexual situations and demonstrate the ways in which cultural language delimits victims' recognition of sexual victimization as crime and inhibits reporting to the police.
Structuring a Competency-Based Accounting Communication Course At the Graduate Level
Authors: Sharifi Mohsen , McCombs Gary B. , Fraser Linda Lussy , McCabe Robert K.
Published: April 2009

The authors describe a graduate capstone accounting class as a basis for building communication skills desired by both accounting practitioners and accounting faculty. An academic service-learning (ASL) component is included. Adopted as a required class for a master of science degree in accounting at two universities, this course supports accounting accreditation. Surveys offer evidence that both accounting practitioners and faculty rate, in slightly different order, the three most important skills as written communication, oral communication, and analytical/critical thinking. Accounting curricula worldwide are under pressure to develop better skills in these areas as well as to meet assessment and accreditation directives and criteria. The authors designed a communication course utilizing ASL that not only meets all of the above objectives but also provides the student with hands-on experiential learning. Information about this course provides a guide to accounting and business faculty who may wish to pursue such an approach in their schools.
Cognitive-Behaviorally-Oriented Group Rehabilitation of Adults With ADHD
Authors: Salakari Anita , Virta Maarit , Grönroos Nina , Chydenius Esa , Partinen Markku , Vataja Risto , Kaski Markus , Iivanainen Matti
Published: April 2009

Objective: Recently, novel psychological treatments for adult ADHD have been reported with promising results. However, studies about long-term treatment effects are scanty. The authors study effects of cognitive-behaviorally-oriented group rehabilitation during a 6-month follow-up. Method: Participating in the rehabilitation were 29 adults, of whom 25 were reached 3 and 6 months later. ADHD and other psychiatric symptoms were assessed with self-ratings (Brown ADD Scale for Adults, Symptom Check List—90 [SCL-90], 16 ADHD-related items of SCL-90, Beck Depression Inventory). Participants from the pretreatment period served as their own controls. Results: Participants having improvement in ADHD symptoms during treatment ( n = 11) maintained most of the benefit during follow-up. They also had a decrease in other psychiatric symptoms, but this did not fully persist through the follow-up. Of all participants, 72% found their overall situation improved as compared to the pretreatment situation. Conclusion: Results suggest that cognitive-behaviorally-oriented group rehabilitation of ADHD adults might have long-term benefits.
Disability pensioning: Can ethnic divides be explained by occupation, income, mental distress, or health?
Authors: Claussen Bjørgulf , Dalgard Odd Steffen , Bruusgaard Dag
Published: April 2009

Background: We aimed to test the hypothesis that differences in disability pensioning among different ethnic groups were attributable to differences in occupation, income, health, and mental distress. Methods: In a health survey conducted between 2000 and 2001 in Oslo, nearly half (48.7%; 11,072) of all inhabitants aged 40, 45 and 59—60 years participated. Survey data related to work, general health and mental distress were linked to disability pension data from the National Insurance Administration, and to income and country of origin data from Statistics Norway. A total of 9195 persons were eligible for disability pension at the end of 2000. Results: Approximately 5% received a disability pension in the 4 years following the health survey. An age- and gender-adjusted odds ratio of 2.27 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.55—3.23) among immigrants from developing countries and Eastern Europe as compared to ethnic Norwegians was reduced to 0.88 (95% CI 0.46—1.67) after adjusting for occupation, working conditions, and income. The odds ratio was further reduced to 0.63 (95% CI 0.32—1.25) when self-reported health and mental distress were added to the model. Conclusions: The higher risk of receiving a disability pension among immigrants from developing countries and Eastern Europe than among ethnic Norwegians was largely explained by work factors and level of income. The addition of mental distress and self-reported health to the multivariate model further reduced the risk, although not significantly different from ethnic Norwegians.
Considering Organizational Factors in Addressing Health Care Disparities: Two Case Examples
Authors: Griffith Derek M. , Yonas Michael , Mason Mondi , Havens Betsy E.
Published: April 2009

Policy makers and practitioners have yet to successfully understand and eliminate persistent racial differences in health care quality. Interventions to address these racial health care disparities have largely focused on increasing cultural awareness and sensitivity, promoting culturally competent care, and increasing providers’ adherence to evidence-based guidelines. Although these strategies have improved some proximal factors associated with service provision, they have not had a strong impact on racial health care disparities. Interventions to date have had limited impact on racial differences in health care quality, in part, because they have not adequately considered or addressed organizational and institutional factors. In this article, we describe an emerging intervention strategy to reduce health care disparities called dismantling (undoing) racism and how it has been adapted to a rural public health department and an urban medical system. These examples illustrate the importance of adapting interventions to the organizational and institutional context and have important implications for practitioners and policy makers.
Integrating Dental Health Into a Family-Oriented Health Promotion Approach in Guatemala
Authors: Antonarakis Gregory S.
Published: April 2009

The family is the core institution around which the life of each family member revolves. The health status of one family member depends on that of the others. Consequently, health promotion should be targeted at families and communities. Oral and dental health can be integrated into the general health promotion program within families, utilizing principles akin to the common risk factor approach. This article describes a health promotion structure in Guatemala. The family-oriented health promotion approach that is applied in Guatemala suggests a suitable approach that can be incorporated into general health plans elsewhere.