bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pulmonary epithelioid haemangioendothelioma mimicking central lung cancer
Authors: SHANG AnDong , WANG XueFen
Published: March 2009

A 40‐year‐old woman was hospitalized for investigation of dry cough, dyspnoea, and pain and swelling in the large joints of the arms and legs. Chest CT revealed a left hilar mass with partial atelectasis in the apical segment of the left lower lobe. X‐ray of the wrists, elbows, ankles and knee joints showed a periosteal reaction, associated with hypertrophic pulmonary osteoarthropathy. Endobronchial biopsy suggested a pulmonary epithelioid haemangioendothelioma. Whole left lung resection was performed and the patient died of respiratory failure 1 month postoperatively.
Studies of anti‐inflammatory effects of Rooibos tea in rats
Authors: Baba Haruna , Ohtsuka Yoshikazu , Haruna Hidenori , Lee Tsubasa , Nagata Satoru , Maeda Masato , Yamashiro Yuichiro , Shimizu Toshiaki
Published: March 2009

Background:  Rooibos tea is known to be caffeine free with abundant flavonoids. Aspalathin and nothofagin, the main flavonoids contained in Rooibos tea, have stronger anti‐oxidative activity than other flavonoids.

As oxidative stress can induce inflammation, the anti‐inflammatory effects of Rooibos tea were investigated using a rat colitis model.

Methods:  Seven‐week‐old Wister rats were divided into two groups: one group given Rooibos tea, and one given water. After four weeks of breeding, serum superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels were determined using the Electron Spin Resonance analysis. Urine 8‐hydroxy‐2′‐deoxyguanosine (8‐OHdG) concentrations were also determined as reflections of DNA damage using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Furthermore, rats were administrated dextran sodium sulfate (DSS), which is known to induce colitis in rodents, with or without Rooibos tea to evaluate its anti‐inflammatory activity. Clinical symptoms, hemoglobin, serum iron and SOD levels were compared between the groups.

Results:  There were no significant differences in bodyweight gain or laboratory data between the groups. The serum SOD levels were significantly increased, and urine 8‐hydroxy‐2′‐deoxyguanosine levels were significantly decreased in the Rooibos group compared with the controls (P < 0.05 in each). After DSS administration, the serum SOD levels were significantly higher in the Rooibos group compared to the controls (P < 0.05). As a result, a decreased hemoglobin level, observed in the control group, was prevented in the Rooibos group after the DSS challenge.

Conclusion:  Rooibos tea may prevent DNA damage and inflammation by its anti‐oxidative activity in vivo. As Rooibos tea is free from caffeine, routine intake may be safe and useful in reducing oxidative stress in children.
Identifying Common Causes of UK and French Riots Occurring Since the 1980s
Authors: WADDINGTON DAVID , KING MIKE
Published: March 2009

Abstract: This article constitutes a response to the article by Fabien Jobard (in this issue) concerning the recent riots in France. It explores differences and commonalities between the events in France in 2005 and the urban disorders that occurred in England and Wales from the 1980s to 2001, placing the latter into three distinct categorical and temporal waves. Initially, it revisits the essence of Jobard's piece before providing an overview of the UK riots. It then analyses the overarching contexts of each of the three periods, and those of the French riots, as a basis for identifying the main causal similarities.
From the numinous to the sacred
Authors: MacKenna Christopher
Published: March 2009

Abstract:  Jung took the idea of the ‘numinous’ from Rudolf Otto's book Das Heilige (E.T. The Idea of the Holy) and made it central to his understanding of religion. However, as Lucy Huskinson has recently pointed out, this involves a misreading of Otto's work in which we have to look beyond the numinous (which is the non‐rational factor in religion) towards the ‘holy’ which, like a symbol, holds the rational and non‐rational aspects of religious experience together in a personally transformative way. This understanding of the spiritual and psychological journey is supported by case material in which a numinous experience, arising in the context of intensive analytical psychotherapy, proved to be but the first step in a process which led, through a period of mourning, towards the development of the patient's capacity to symbolize. In the light of this, the author suggests that the sacred is to be found in the capacity for a certain quality of symbolic relatedness—to self and other—which may or may not be attended by numinous experience.
The family myth: its deconstruction and replacement with a balanced humanized narrative
Authors: Kradin Richard
Published: March 2009

Abstract:  According to Carl Jung the mythopoeic activities of the collective unconscious contribute to the trajectory of personal individuation (Segal 1998). The ‘family myth’ represents an imaginal narrative that emphasizes the importance of the family's founders, its collective values, and its position with respect to ‘outsiders’. Sigmund Freud identified the importance of the Oedipal myth as the basis of nuclear family dynamics (Rudnytsky 1992); however, the ‘myth of the family’ represents in reality a ‘family of myths’, each emphasizing different elements of potential interpersonal dynamics. But whereas some myths foster the child's optimal separation from parental influence and promote the process of individuation, others tend to hinder development.

One potentially deleterious form of the family myth tends to serve the narcissistic wishes of parents in their bid to maintain influence over the child by fostering the archetypal features of their role. The children who are the targets of the myth are thwarted in their psychological development by virtue of the fact that they are denied the opportunity to humanize their archetypal projections onto their parent(s). The result is a persistence of childlike attitude with respect to people and situations that they encounter outside the nuclear family. The persistent constellation of the child archetype is evidenced by features of the puer aeternus, with deficits in the ability to work, form stable adult relationships, and create a separate nuclear family. The significance of this type of family myth in the inappropriate preservation of puerile attitudes is examined and the desire of the offending parent(s) to promote their own immortality is explored. The contribution of the myth to the transference and transference resistance is explicated and suggestions are offered with respect to how to approach this critical issue in analysis.
A traditional medicinal herb Paeonia suffruticosa and its active constituent 1,2,3,4,6‐penta‐O‐galloyl‐β‐d‐glucopyranose have potent anti‐aggregation effects on Alzheimer’s amyloid β proteins in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Fujiwara Hironori , Tabuchi Masahiro , Yamaguchi Takuji , Iwasaki Koh , Furukawa Katsutoshi , Sekiguchi Kyoji , Ikarashi Yasushi , Kudo Yukitsuka , Higuchi Makoto , Saido Takaomi C. , Maeda Sumihiro , Takashima Akihiko , Hara Masahiko , Yaegashi Nobuo , Kase Yoshio , Arai Hiroyuki
Published: March 2009

The deposition of amyloid β (Aβ) protein is a consistent pathological hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) brains; therefore, inhibition of Aβ fibril formation and destabilization of pre‐formed Aβ fibrils is an attractive therapeutic and preventive strategy in the development of disease‐modifying drugs for AD. This study demonstrated that Paeonia suffruticosa, a traditional medicinal herb, not only inhibited fibril formation of both Aβ1–40 and Aβ1–42 but it also destabilized pre‐formed Aβ fibrils in a concentration‐dependent manner. Memory function was examined using the passive‐avoidance task followed by measurement of Aβ burden in the brains of Tg2576 transgenic mice. The herb improved long‐term memory impairment in the transgenic mice and inhibited the accumulation of Aβ in the brain. Three‐dimensional HPLC analysis revealed that a water extract of the herb contained several different chemical compounds including 1,2,3,4,6‐penta‐O‐galloyl‐β‐d‐glucopyranose (PGG). No obvious adverse/toxic were found following treatment with PGG. As was observed with Paeonia suffruticosa, PGG alone inhibited Aβ fibril formation and destabilized pre‐formed Aβ fibrils in vitro and in vivo. Our results suggest that both Paeonia suffruticosa and its active constituent PGG have strong inhibitory effects on formation of Aβ fibrils in vitro and in vivo. PGG is likely to be a safe and promising lead compound in the development of disease‐modifying drugs to prevent and/or cure AD.
Successful establishment of the invasive fire ant Solenopsis invicta in Taiwan: insights into interactions of alternate social forms
Authors: Yang Chin‐Cheng Scotty , Shoemaker D. DeWayne , Wu Jo‐Chao , Lin Yi‐Kai , Lin Chung‐Chi , Wu Wen‐Jer , Shih Cheng‐Jen
Published: March 2009

Aim  Understanding the factors underlying the successful establishment of invasive ant species is critical for developing quarantine strategies to prevent additional invasions as well as for determining how such species overcome the selective pressures in invaded areas. Although several studies have revealed differences in the social organization and population genetics of invasive ants in their native and introduced ranges, few studies have considered the potential interactions between alternate social forms within newly‐invaded areas simply because many invasive ants are characterized as polygyne or unicolonial.

Location  Taoyuan and Chiayi County, Taiwan.

Methods  Both social forms (polygyne and monogyne) of the red imported fire ant, Solenopsis invicta, occur in two separately invaded areas in Taiwan (Taoyuan and Chiayi). We employed intensive sampling methods and diagnostic polymerase chain reaction assays to determine the distribution of these two social forms in both infested areas in Taiwan.

Results  The distribution of social forms differs dramatically between the two infested areas, consistent with different invasion histories regarding the original make‐up of individuals comprising the initial founder group. The Taoyuan population likely was colonized initially by ants of both social forms, with the subsequent spread characterized by continuous outward movement of the two forms, particularly the monogyne form. In contrast, the initial founders of the Chiayi population likely were of the polygyne social form only, suggesting the monogyne social form in this population appeared only recently and likely arose directly from polygyne queens converting to the alternate social form.

Main conclusions  Our results provide detailed insights into the invasion history of S. invicta in Taiwan and suggest that the distinct reproductive biology of the two social forms may have shaped the current distribution of S. invicta in these infested areas and that the dynamics of two forms may affect the long‐term persistence and potential for spread of this pest ant species.
Aging and cancer cell biology, 2009
Authors: Campisi Judith , Yaswen Paul
Published: March 2009

Cancer is an age‐related disease in organisms with renewable tissues. A malignant tumor arises in part from genomic damage, which can also drive age‐related degeneration. However, cancer differs from many age‐related degenerative diseases in that it entails gain‐of‐function changes that confer new (albeit aberrant) properties on cells, resulting in vigorous cell proliferation and survival. Nonetheless, interventions that delay age‐related degeneration – for example, caloric restriction or dampened insulin/IGF‐1 signaling – often also delay cancer. How then is the development of cancer linked to aging? The answer to this question is complex, as suggested by recent findings. This Hot Topic review discusses some of these findings, including how genomic damage might alter cellular properties without conferring mutations, and how some genes that regulate lifespan in organisms that lack renewable tissues might affect the development of cancer in mammals.
Adaptive Smoothing for Isoclinic Parameter Evaluation in Digital Photoelasticity
Authors: Kasimayan T. , Ramesh K.
Published: March 2009

Abstract:  In digital photoelasticity, one gets whole field information of isoclinic and isochromatic parameters based on intensity processing. Isoclinic values are undefined at isochromatic fringe contours and this appears as noise in the isoclinic phasemap which affects stress separation adversely. A new adaptive smoothing algorithm to remove the noise due to isochromatic‐isoclinic interaction that automatically takes care of the isotropic points and π jumps present in the isoclinic phasemap is proposed. It is validated for the benchmark problem of a ring under diametral compression and verified for an angled bracket.
Changing Images of the Nation in England, Germany and the Netherlands: A Comparison
Authors: De Roode Sven
Published: March 2009

This article surveys how national self‐awareness, national master narratives and political action in the Netherlands, England and Germany were dominated by self‐images of being a Protestant nation through the nineteenth century until the 1960s in a comparative perspective. In spite of the existence of considerable Catholic minorities in all three countries under investigation, nineteenth century's processes of nation building were marked by the dominance of Protestants in the societal and political realm. Nineteenth century's historical master narratives in the ‘second confessional age’ forged a ‘symbiotic relationship’ between Protestantism and the nation. Historians played a crucial part in its establishment and consolidation. Throughout the nineteenth century Protestant historians nationalized religion and sacralized the nation. Although inclusive master narratives existed alongside Protestant imaginations of the past, Protestant historians enjoyed a privileged position in confessionally mixed states such as the Netherlands, England and Germany. The sacralization of the nation was epitomized in ideas of being a chosen people, an elect or holy nation. The decisive overall feature of corresponding Protestant self‐images was the belief in the singularity of the prevailing nation and its history. This article sets out to show that the alleged uniqueness did not correspond to reality. A comparative survey of dominant national self‐images reveals that they are less unique than propagated and rather overlap and resemble each other substantially.
PHOTOPHYSIOLOGY OF A TURF ALGAL COMMUNITY: INTEGRATED RESPONSES TO AMBIENT LIGHT AND STANDING BIOMASS1
Authors: Copertino Margareth S. , Cheshire Anthony , Kildea Tim
Published: March 2009

This study investigated the variation in the relationship between photosynthesis and ambient light (P‐E curves) for turf algal communities on a temperate reef off the coast of South Australia, analyzing the integrated effects of ambient light and standing biomass. The photophysiology of turfs was studied in situ on a seasonal basis, examining algal communities growing on artificial substrate (plates) at depths of 4 m and 10 m. P‐E curves and estimates for the photokinetic parameters (Pm, Rd, α, Ek, and Ec) were obtained through oxygen evolution methods, using an automated underwater respirometer. Photoacclimation responses to changes in ambient light were strongly affected by the biomass of the community. Pm showed an inverse relationship to standing biomass, irrespective of depth and season, which was considered to be a response to self‐shading and boundary layer effects. Biomass effects imposed a high variance on estimates for all photosynthetic parameters, overshadowing differences observed for season and depth. Biomass also affected photoinhibition on turf communities, where significant afternoon depression of photosynthesis was observed in sparse turf patches when compared to denser patches. High areal productivity rates were maintained across all seasons with a significant decrease only being observed during winter.
GRACILARIA HUMMII SP. NOV. (GRACILARIALES, RHODOPHYTA), A NEW NAME FOR THE AGAROPHYTE “GRACILARIA CONFERVOIDES” HARVESTED IN NORTH CAROLINA DURING WORLD WAR II1
Authors: Hommersand Max H. , Wilson Freshwater D.
Published: March 2009

Gracilaria hummii Hommers. et Freshwater is proposed as a new name for the inshore cylindrical species found in North Carolina that was treated as Gracilaria confervoides (L.) Grev. during World War II, and more recently as G. verrucosa (Huds.) Papenf. Molecular evidence places G. hummii in the Gracilis‐group in Gracilaria together with G. gracilis (Stackh.) Steentoft, L. M. Irvine et Farnham, the name currently applied to specimens formerly identified as G. confervoides and G. verrucosa. G. hummii differs from G. gracilis in possessing shallower male conceptacles in which the spermatangial filament originates from a surface cortical cell rather than from a subcortical cell. The cystocarps are similar, except that the gonimoblasts of G. hummii are attached to the base of the pericarp by numerous, prominent thickened terminal tubular cells and because terminal tubular cells are absent above the midregion of the cystocarp or in the vicinity of the ostiole. The gonimoblasts are subtended by a bundle of longitudinally oriented, thick‐walled secondary filaments of a type that has not been described before in Gracilaria but that may be characteristic of some other species. G. hummii occupies a basal position in the Gracilis‐group and is distinct from all other cylindrical North Carolina Gracilaria species, according to the molecular and morphological evidence.
The Language That Came Down the Hill: Slang, Crime, and Citizenship in Rio de Janeiro
Authors: Roth‐Gordon Jennifer
Published: March 2009

ABSTRACT  In Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, the register of slang has historically been embraced to forge salient social and spatial distinctions, demarcating the physical space of the favela (shantytown) and naturalizing the exclusion of its residents. In this article, I examine the ongoing enregisterment of slang in Rio's current context of profound social inequality, democratic instability, heightened urban violence, and geographic proximity. Within this climate of fear and insecurity, newly vulnerable and newly marginalized city residents draw on and reify salient speech repertoires to negotiate rights to the city and to the nation‐state that have become increasingly threatened along socioeconomic, racial, and residential lines. I argue that the enregisterment of slang constructs newly emergent citizenship categories that both challenge and reinforce Brazil's entrenched regime of differentiated citizenship, illuminating the productive role of linguistic differentiation in the modern nation‐state. [Keywords: slang, crime, citizenship, marginality, Brazil]
Governmentality and the Family: Neoliberal Choices and Emergent Kin Relations in Southern Ethiopia
Authors: ELLISON JAMES
Published: March 2009

ABSTRACT Rather than strictly local expressions of relatedness, kinship in southern Ethiopia has long been entangled with broad political and economic forces as people negotiate relations with each other, past generations, and the state. Accompanying government reforms in the 1990s, idioms of individualism and choice have circulated in transnational and national neoliberal discourses of development, rights, and economics. People in southern Ethiopia who use ideologies of ascribed social statuses to define local social hierarchies have employed these discourses in reshaping relatedness through an expansive trade association, which is referred to as a family and works through kinship principles of descent and generation. Drawing from recent scholarship on kinship and new reproductive technologies, I argue that, through mobile knowledges in neoliberal contexts, people choose this family and its lineage founder, transforming descent relations and land‐based ideologies. These choices represent the workings of neoliberal governmentality in altering cultural relations of power and inequality. [Keywords: kinship, neoliberalism, governmentality, hereditary status groups, Ethiopia]
Becoming a Hurdler: How Learning Settings Afford Identities
Authors: Nasir Na'ilah Suad , Cooks Jamal
Published: March 2009

In this article, we present a model for thinking about how learning settings provide resources for the development of the practice‐linked identities of participants, drawing on data from a study on an African American high school track and field team. What does it mean to make an identity available in the context of a learning setting? In this article, we draw on current theories in anthropology, psychology, sociology, and sociocultural theory to develop a conceptual frame that might be helpful in addressing these questions. We focus on how individuals are offered (and how they take up) identities in cultural activities. We define three types of identity resources that were made available to student‐athletes learning to run track and explore how they took shape in teaching and learning interactions in track. [identity, learning, African American students, culture]
MgAl2O4‐Spinel Synthesized by High‐Energy Ball Milling and Reaction Sintering
Authors: Henkel Lars , Koch Dietmar , Grathwohl Georg
Published: March 2009

A new way to prepare magnesia‐alumina‐spinel was investigated making use of a mixed powder system of MgO and metallic Al‐3 wt% Mg. Intensive ball milling was applied which provides the formation of new powder particles as composite of both components in intimate contact. The new configuration of the particles had a significant impact on the reaction sintering behavior leading to single phase spinel microstructures at moderate temperatures below 1400°C. Optimized milling of the powder mixture was therefore required providing reduced crystallite sizes and strongly enlarged interfacial area shared by the reacting components. The optimal milling time was identified by the complete reaction of the starting powders to spinel during sintering. Shorter milling times led to incomplete reactions and longer milling times contaminated the milling product by debris from the milling tools. The amount of interfaces generated by the intimate mixing dominated the sintering reaction kinetics whereas the specific surfaces area was of secondary importance.
Kinetics of Self‐Crack‐Healing of Alumina/Silicon Carbide Composite Including Oxygen Partial Pressure Effect
Authors: Osada Toshio , Nakao Wataru , Takahashi Koji , Ando Kotoji
Published: March 2009

Self‐crack‐healing behavior under a combustion gas atmosphere with a low oxygen partial pressure, , is important for actualizing ceramic gas turbines, but to date only self‐crack‐healing behavior in air has been investigated. In this study, we investigated crack‐healing behaviors at 1273–1773 K under several levels of. Crack‐healing in atmospheres withgave rise to the complete strength recovery of cracked specimens, resulting from passive oxidation. Based on the obtained results, the kinetics for strength recovery by self‐crack‐healing was expressed as a function of healing temperature, TH (K), and(Pa). The strength recovery rate for complete crack‐healing, vH (s−1), could be expressed as
image

Using this rate equation, one can evaluate the healing time for complete strength recovery under combustion gas in a gas turbine.
Molten‐Salt Synthesis and Characterization of Nickel‐Doped Forsterite Nanocrystals
Authors: Sun Hong‐Tao , Fujii Minoru , Nitta Noriko , Mizuhata Minoru , Yasuda Hidehiro , Deki Shigehito , Hayashi Shinji
Published: March 2009

Nickel‐doped forsterite (Ni2+:Mg2SiO4) nanocrystals have been synthesized by a facile molten‐salt approach in the presence of NaCl and a surfactant (NP‐7.5). The products were characterized by X‐ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), high‐resolution TEM, selected area electron diffraction (SAED), and luminescence spectra measurements. The crystal size could be controlled by tailoring the synthesis parameters. TEM, high‐resolution TEM, and SAED results revealed the single crystalline character of Mg2SiO4 nanoparticles. A possible model for the growth of Ni2+:Mg2SiO4 nanocrystals was postulated. The obtained Ni2+:Mg2SiO4 nanocrystals show strong, super broad, near‐infrared luminescence at room temperature. These doped Mg2SiO4 nanocrystals are promising gain mediums for super broadband optical amplification.
Detection of Acute Diazepam Exposure in Bone and Marrow: Influence of Tissue Type and the Dose‐Death Interval on Sensitivity of Detection by ELISA with Liquid Chromatography Tandem Mass Spectrometry Confirmation*
Authors: Watterson James H. , Botman Jolina E.
Published: March 2009

Abstract:  Enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS/MS) were used to detect diazepam exposure in skeletal tissues of rats (n = 15) given diazepam acutely (20 mg/kg, i.p.), and killed at various times postdose. Marrow, epiphyseal, and diaphyseal bone were isolated from extracted femora. Bone was cleaned, ground, and incubated in methanol. Marrow underwent ultrasonic homogenization. Extracts and homogenates were diluted in phosphate buffer, and then underwent solid‐phase extraction and ELISA. Relative sensitivity of detection was examined in terms of relative decrease in absorbance (ELISA) and binary classification sensitivity (ELISA and LC/MS/MS). Overall, the data showed differences in relative sensitivity of detection of diazepam exposure in different tissue types (marrow > epiphyseal bone > diaphyseal bone), which is suggestive of heterogenous distribution in these tissues, and a decreasing sensitivity with increasing dose‐death interval. Thus, the tissue type sampled and dose‐death interval may contribute to the probability of detection of diazepam exposure in skeletal tissues.
Identification of Risk Factors for Self‐Injurious Behavior in Male Prisoners*
Authors: Lanes Eric
Published: March 2009

Abstract: Male prisoners with (n = 132) and without (n = 132) histories of engaging in self‐injurious behavior (SIB) were matched on conviction prefix and custody level. Conditional logistic regression revealed that a combination of risk factors from domains defined by developmental, offense history, mental health, and institutional functioning factors correctly classified 93% of the prisoners in the sample (ROC AUC = 0.89, S.E. = 0.005, p < 0.0001). Model specificity was 92.6% and sensitivity was 95.3%. False positive and false negative rates were 2.3% and 3.4%, respectively. Implications for the assessment of prisoners at risk for SIB as well as suggested future directions for SIB prisoner research are discussed.
Reliability of Third Molar Development for Age Estimation in a Texas Hispanic Population: A Comparison Study*
Authors: Kasper Kathleen A. , Austin Dana , Kvanli Alan H. , Rios Tara R. , Senn David R.
Published: March 2009

Abstract:  Evaluating third molars from 950 Hispanic individuals aged 12–22 years using Demirjian’s schematic for crown and root formation found that Hispanic third molar development was 8–18 months faster than American Caucasians as reported by Mincer, Harris and Berryman in 1993. This represents a statistically significant increase. Earlier development was more apparent in the later stages F through H. Hispanic males reach developmental stages faster than Hispanic females and maxillary third molars reach developmental stages faster than mandibular third molars in both sexes. The earliest age observed for stages B–H (e.g., Stage H first observed at age 13.92 years in females) and the oldest age observed for Stages B–G were developed to facilitate age prediction of unknown individuals. Prediction tables for minimum and maximum age for an observed stage (e.g., if a female maxillary third molar is stage F it means she is older than 13 years) for each sex‐jaw group were calculated.
Complex patterns of mitochondrial dynamics in human pancreatic cells revealed by fluorescent confocal imaging
Authors: Kuznetsov Andrey V. , Hermann Martin , Troppmair Jakob , Margreiter Raimund , Hengster Paul
Published: March 2009

Mitochondrial morphology and intracellular organization are tightly controlled by the processes of mitochondrial fission–fusion. Moreover, mitochondrial movement and redistribution provide a local ATP supply at cellular sites of particular demands. Here we analysed mitochondrial dynamics in isolated primary human pancreatic cells. Using real time confocal microscopy and mitochondria‐specific fluorescent probes tetramethylrhodamine methyl ester and MitoTracker Green we documented complex and novel patterns of spatial and temporal organization of mitochondria, mitochondrial morphology and motility. The most commonly observed types of mitochondrial dynamics were (i) fast fission and fusion; (ii) small oscillating movements of the mitochondrial network; (iii) larger movements, including filament extension, retraction, fast (0.1–0.3 μm/sec.) and frequent oscillating (back and forth) branching in the mitochondrial network; (iv) as well as combinations of these actions and (v) long‐distance intracellular translocation of single spherical mitochondria or separated mitochondrial filaments with velocity up to 0.5 μm/sec. Moreover, we show here for the first time, a formation of unusual mitochondrial shapes like rings, loops, and astonishingly even knots created from one or more mitochondrial filaments. These data demonstrate the presence of extensive heterogeneity in mitochondrial morphology and dynamics in living cells under primary culture conditions. In summary, this study reports new patterns of morphological changes and dynamic motion of mitochondria in human pancreatic cells, suggesting an important role of integrations of mitochondria with other intracellular structures and systems.
Inhibition of fatty acid biosynthesis prevents adipocyte lipotoxicity on human osteoblasts in vitro
Authors: Elbaz Alexandre , Wu Xiying , Rivas Daniel , Gimble Jeffrey M. , Duque Gustavo
Published: March 2009

Although increased bone marrow fat in age‐related bone loss has been associated with lower trabecular mass, the underlying mechanism responsible remains unknown. We hypothesized that marrow adipocytes exert a lipotoxic effect on osteoblast function and survival through the reversible biosynthesis of fatty acids (FA) into the bone marrow microenvironment. We have used a two‐chamber system to co‐culture normal human osteoblasts (NHOst) with differentiating pre‐adipocytes in the absence or presence of an inhibitor of FA synthase (cerulenin) and separated by an insert that allowed unidirectional trafficking of soluble factors only and prevented direct cell–cell contact. Supernatants were assayed for the presence of FA using mass spectophotometry. After 3 weeks in co‐culture, NHOst showed significantly lower levels of differentiation and function based on lower mineralization and expression of alkaline phosphatase, osterix, osteocalcin and Runx2. In addition, NHOst survival was affected by the presence of adipocytes as determined by MTS‐formazan and TUNEL assays as well as higher activation of caspases 3/7. These toxic effects were inhibited by addition of cerulenin. Furthermore, culture of NHOst with either adipocyte‐conditioned media alone in the absence of adipocytes themselves or with the addition of the most predominant FA (stearate or palmitate) produced similar toxic results. Finally, Runx2 nuclear binding was affected by addition of either adipocyte conditioned media or FA into the osteogenic media. We conclude that the presence of FA within the marrow milieu can contribute to the age‐related changes in bone mass and can be prevented by the inhibition of FA synthase.
Plaque‐like osteoma cutis with transepidermal elimination
Authors: Haro Rosario , Revelles Juan M. , Angulo Jorge , Fariña Maria del C. , Martín Lucia , Requena Luis
Published: March 2009

Osteoma cutis is a rare lesion that consists of the presence of bone tissue within the dermis and/or hypodermis. It may be classified as primary osteoma cutis, when bone tissue develops in the skin without any pre‐existing lesion and secondary osteoma cutis, which is more frequent and occurs when osseous tissue develops on a pre‐existing lesion. We present a case of primary plaque‐like osteoma cutis involving the scalp, left forehead and left cheek, which appeared in an adult male. Histopathological study showed several islands of mature osseous tissue involving the full thickness of the dermis. In some areas, there was also transepidermal elimination of bone spicules. We review the literature about previously reported similar cases.
Reduction in QSART and vasoactive intestinal polypeptide expression in the skin of Parkinson’s disease patients and its relation to dyshidrosis
Authors: Kawada Morihiro , Tamada Yasuhiko , Simizu Hirokazu , Yanagishita Takeshi , Yamashita Noriko , Ishida Natsuko , Watanabe Daisuke , Yoshida Mari , Ibi Tatsu , Sahashi Kou , Hashizume Yoshio , Matsumoto Yoshinari
Published: March 2009

Background:  With regards to dyshidrosis in Parkinson’s disease (PD), there is no established and consistent view on the occurrence sites, frequency and etiology, although there have been several reports on hypohidrosis of the limbs and sudoresis on the face/cervical region.

Methods:  Hydrosis in the forearms of PD patients and healthy individuals were compared by quantitative sudomotor axon reflex test (QSART). The expression of various neuropeptides and α‐synuclein was examined with immunohistochemical staining.

Results:  There was a significant reduction in QSART of PD patients but not of healthy controls. Reduced expression of vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP) was also detected in the sweat glands of PD patients.

Conclusion:  Reduction in QSART and VIP expression in the sweat glands might be involved in the dyshidrosis of PD patients.
Utility of p63 in the differential diagnosis of atypical fibroxanthoma and spindle cell squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Gleason Briana C. , Calder Kenneth B. , Cibull Thomas L. , Thomas Antoinette B. , Billings Steven D. , Morgan Michael B. , Hiatt Kim M. , Smoller Bruce R.
Published: March 2009

Atypical fibroxanthoma (AFX), spindle cell squamous cell carcinoma (SCSCC) and spindle cell melanoma are the primary entities in the differential diagnosis of a cytologically atypical spindle cell tumor arising on sun‐damaged skin. AFX is generally regarded as a diagnosis of exclusion in this context: in the absence of S100 or keratin reactivity, a diagnosis of AFX is favored. However, keratin reactivity may be focal or even absent in SCSCC, and although numerous positive markers of AFX have been proposed, none has shown sufficient sensitivity and specificity for routine diagnostic use. We evaluated 20 AFX and 10 SCSCC with a panel of cytokeratins and p63 to assess the utility of the latter antibody in this differential diagnosis. All 10 SCSCC showed strong expression of p63, whereas all 20 AFX were p63 negative. Two additional cases (excluded from the study) were negative for keratins and S100 on initial shave biopsies, resulting in a favored diagnosis of AFX, but p63 stains performed retrospectively were positive. However, review of the excision specimens in both cases revealed deep subcutaneous extension, excluding AFX. p63 reactivity argues against the diagnosis of AFX and is therefore a useful addition to the standard immunohistochemical panel for cutaneous spindle cell neoplasms.
Sublingual traumatic ulceration (a Riga‐Fede disease): report of two cases
Authors: Choi Sung Chul , Park Jae Hong , Choi Young Chul , Kim Gyu‐Tae
Published: March 2009

Abstract –  Sublingual traumatic ulceration is rare and a benign, ulcerative and granulomatous process that occurs as a result of repetitive trauma of the oral mucosal surfaces by the teeth. Treatment should begin conservatively and should focus on eliminating the source of the trauma. In our cases, we chose the conservative treatment by grinding the teeth and placing composite resin over the offending teeth and applied orabase. At the follow‐up, we confirmed that the lesion was resolved and infant was feeding normally.
G‐DRG Version 2009: New Developments
Authors: Müller Marcel L. , Forschner Andrea , Wenke Andreas , Luger Thomas A. , Rompel Rainer , Roeder Norbert , Hensen Peter
Published: March 2009

The update of the G‐DRG system for the year 2009 has been successfully negotiated. Like in the past years, changes are minimal and not dramatic, but they significantly enhance the quality of the DRG system. Once again, the German DRG system demonstrates its versatility and reliability for clinical reimbursement purposes.

In the field of dermatology, several improvements or enhancements can be identified; the average case mix index that declined in the past years should now rise by 0.5 percent for 2009. Oncology cases are affected especially by this increase. Some refinements advanced for several years by the German Dermatologic Society (DDG) have been recognized –complex therapies like vacuum wound therapy, isolation due to multi‐resistant infections and multiple primary tumors now have better cost weights.

Although there still remain some minor problems like reimbursement of cost‐intensive treatments, German dermatology is in summary very well prepared for the year 2009.
Managing children with acute non‐traumatic limp: the utility of clinical findings, laboratory inflammatory markers and X‐rays
Authors: Reed Lucy , Baskett Abby , Watkins Nicholas
Published: March 2009

Objectives:  To examine the utility of clinical findings, laboratory markers and X‐ray radiographs (X‐ray) in the assessment of children presenting with an acute non‐traumatic limp.

Methods:  A retrospective review of all children who received hip X‐rays over a 2 year period in the Children's Emergency Department, Starship Children's Hospital, Auckland, New Zealand. Children were identified from the radiology database and clinical notes reviewed. Children aged 0–12 years old were included if the limp was acute (less than 2 weeks of duration) with no history of trauma. X‐rays were reported by a consultant paediatric radiologist. Univariate and multivariate analysis was performed to determine predictors of osteomyelitis and septic arthritis. Receiver operator curves were used to assess the optimum cut‐off points for C reactive protein (CRP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and white cell count (WCC).

Results:  A total of 350 patients were enrolled. There were 21 (6%) abnormal X‐rays . Fever, non‐weight bearing, raised white cell count, raised erythrocyte sedimentation rate and raised CRP were all associated with increased risk of septic hip or osteomyelitis. The optimum inflammatory marker cut‐off was a CRP of 12 with a sensitivity of 87% and specificity of 91%.

Conclusion:  In acute non‐traumatic limp, X‐rays of the hips diagnose slipped upper femoral epiphysis, as such they should be routinely used from the age of 9 years upwards. Below this age they are of little value. Inflammatory markers have utility in risk‐stratifying children and selecting a group in whom to proceed with definitive tests to exclude osteomyelitis or septic hip. Children with a short history and minimal symptoms can be managed with appropriate follow up and no investigations.
Effect of N‐Acetyl Cysteine against Aluminium‐induced Cognitive Dysfunction and Oxidative Damage in Rats
Authors: Prakash Atish , Kumar Anil
Published: March 2009

Abstract:  Aluminium is a potent neurotoxin involved in the initiation and progression of various cognitive disorders like Alzheimer's disease. Chronic aluminium exposure induces oxidative stress and increases amyloid beta levels in vivo. The role of oxidative stress has been well‐suggested in these cognitive problems. Therefore, the present study was designed to explore the possible role of N‐acetyl cysteine against aluminium mediating cognitive dysfunction and oxidative stress in rats. Aluminium chloride (100 mg/kg, p.o.) was given to rats daily for 6 weeks. N‐acetyl cysteine (per se; 50 and 100 mg/kg, i.p.) pre‐treatment was given 30 min. before aluminium daily for 6 weeks. On the third (21st day) and sixth week (42nd day) of the study, various behavioural tests (Morris water maze and elevated plus maze task paradigms) and locomotion (photoactometer) were done to evaluate cognitive tasks. The rats were killed on the 43rd day following the last behavioural test, and various biochemical tests were performed to assess the extent of oxidative damage. Chronic aluminium chloride administration resulted in poor retention of memory in Morris water maze, elevated plus maze task paradigms and caused marked oxidative damage. It also caused a significant increase in the acetylcholinesterase activity. Chronic administration of N‐acetyl cysteine significantly improved memory retention in tasks, attenuated oxidative damage and acetylcholinesterase activity in aluminium‐treated rats. The study suggests a neuroprotective effect of N‐acetyl cysteine against aluminium‐induced cognitive dysfunction and oxidative damage.
Relationship Satisfaction and Erectile Functions in Men Receiving Laparoscopic Radical Prostatectomy: Effects of Provision and Receipt of Spousal Social Support
Authors: Knoll Nina , Burkert Silke , Kramer Jürgen , Roigas Jan , Gralla Oliver
Published: March 2009

Introduction

Prostate carcinoma ranges among the most common cancers in German men. One of its standard treatments is radical prostatectomy (RP). Postoperative comorbidities of RP include erectile dysfunctions, which may impact patients’ relationship quality. Little is known, to date, about patients’ and their partners’ psychosocial resources that might reduce the risk of damage to relationship outcomes. Such resources include spousal social support interactions.

Aim

We investigated cross-sectional and prospective relations of patient-reported and partner-reported received and provided spousal support, and patients’ indicators of erectile functions and relationship satisfaction prior to and 1 year following laparoscopic radical prostatectomy.

Main Outcome Measures

Patient-reported relationship satisfaction (Relationship Questionnaire; Fragebogen zur Partnerschaftsdiagnostik) and erectile functions (International Index of Erectile Function) were investigated as main outcomes.

Methods

One hundred thirty-nine patients and their heterosexual partners provided data prior to and 12 months after the operation. Main outcomes were patient-reported relationship satisfaction and erectile functions. In addition to several covariates, central predictors were patients’ and partners’ accounts of received and provided spousal support. Data were assessed using questionnaires.

Results

Erectile functions were associated with patients’ relationship satisfaction presurgery, but not 12 months postsurgery. Patient-reported received and provided support was positively associated with relationship satisfaction at all times. Patient-reported provision of support was also related with better erectile functions prior to and postsurgery. Some of these associations could be replicated using partner accounts of respective support indicators.

Conclusions

Regarding patients’ relationship satisfaction and sexual functions, findings associate more consistent benefit with patients’ own provision of supports when compared with their own support receipt.
Developing and Validating a Taiwan Version of the Female Sexual Function Index for Pregnant Women
Authors: Chang Shiow-Ru , Chang Ting-Chen , Chen Kuang-Ho , Lin Ho-Hsiung
Published: March 2009

Introduction

Health professionals should pay more attention to the sexual concerns of pregnant women. An assessment instrument for female sexual function is needed for pregnant women in the Taiwanese population.

Aim

To translate the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) from English to traditional Chinese, and to evaluate the reliability and validity of this new version for pregnant women.

Methods

Test–retest reliability of the newly developed Taiwan version of the FSFI for pregnant women was assessed in 55 pregnant women who completed this version of the questionnaire at two time points within 4 weeks. The internal consistency reliability and construct validity of the Taiwan version of the FSFI in a medical center in Taiwan were evaluated using a random sample of 121 pregnant women.

Main Outcome Measures

Reliability was tested using Cronbach’s alpha coefficient, Kappa statistics, McNemar’s test, and Pearson’s correlation coefficient. Construct validity was verified by factor analysis using the principal component option.

Results

The Taiwan version of the FSFI showed adequate test–retest reliability for pregnant women. The Pearson correlation coefficient of the total score was 0.69, Kappa statistics showed good reproducibility for most items, and McNemar’s test confirmed that there were no significant differences in the test–retest pair for the 19 items of the scale. The internal consistency reliability of the scale was excellent (Cronbach’s [alpha] = 0.96). Three factors were identified with eigenvalues ≥1.03, explaining 87.10% of the total variance. The first, second, and third factors were “coitus,”“satisfaction,” and “desire”, accounting for 72.32%, 9.37%, and 5.42% of the variance, respectively.

Conclusion

The results provided evidence of the validity and reliability of the Taiwan version of the FSFI for pregnant women. The questionnaire is a suitable instrument for measuring the sexual function of pregnant women and will be useful in research, teaching, and clinical practice.
Correlates of Sexually Related Personal Distress in Women with Low Sexual Desire
Authors: Rosen Raymond C. , Shifren Jan L. , Monz Brigitta U. , Odom Dawn M. , Russo Patricia A. , Johannes Catherine B.
Published: March 2009

Introduction

Sexual distress is an important component of diagnostic criteria for sexual dysfunctions, but little is known about the factors associated with sexual distress in women with low sexual desire.

Aim

To investigate the correlates of sexual distress in women with self-reported low sexual desire.

Methods

The Prevalence of Female Sexual Problems Associated with Distress and Determinants of Treatment Seeking study was a cross-sectional, nationally representative, mailed survey of U.S. adult women. There were 31,581 respondents (response rate 63.2%) to the 42-item questionnaire that measured sexual function, sexual distress, demographic, and health-related factors. Multivariable logistic regression was used to explore the correlates of distress.

Main Outcome Measures

Low sexual desire was defined as a response of “never” or “rarely” to the question, “How often do you desire to engage in sexual activity?” Sexual distress was measured with the Female Sexual Distress Scale (range 0–48), with a score of 15 or higher indicating presence of distress.

Results

Of 10,429 women with low desire, 2,868 (27.5%) had sexual distress (mean age 48.6 years, 81% with a current partner). Women without distress were 10 years older on average, and 44% had a current partner. Having a partner was strongly related to distress (odds ratio 4.6, 95% confidence interval 4.1–5.2). Other correlates were age, race, current depression, anxiety, lower social functioning, hormonal medication use, urinary incontinence, and concurrent sexual problems (arousal or orgasm). Dissatisfaction with sex life was more common in women with low desire and distress (65%) than in those without distress (20%).

Conclusions

Age has a curvilinear relationship with distress, and the strongest correlate of sexual distress was having a current partner. Sexual distress and dissatisfaction with sex life are strongly correlated. Distress is higher in women with low sexual desire in a partner relationship; further research on this factor is needed.