bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy of skin self‐examination for the early detection of melanoma
Authors: Hamidi Reyhaneh , Peng David , Cockburn Myles
Published: January 2010

The National Cancer Institute's “Melanoma Action Plan” calls for reduction of melanoma mortality through early detection. Routine skin self‐examination (SSE) has the potential to increase chances of early detection and treatment and may be the key to melanoma survival. We provide a focused review of the accuracy of SSE for detecting premalignant lesions and cutaneous risk factors for melanoma, with suggestions for future directions for enhancing measurement of SSE accuracy and ways in which to improve the public's perceptions of melanoma efficacy. We examined published data on the efficacy of skin self‐examination for the early detection of melanoma. We searched the MEDLINE database for publications between January 1, 1987 and June 1, 2007 using search terms for “melanoma” and “self‐examination.” We found that sensitivity of skin self‐examination is low, ranging from 25% to 93%, while specificity is generally higher (83% to 97%). Attempts to increase improve the lay public's perceptions of the early signs of melanoma have proved effective, while those aimed at increasing accuracy of SSE with targeted interventions have been moderately successful. SSE's insensitivity for detection of pigmented lesions should prompt further investigation of educational interventions to enhance its accuracy and lead to its adoption as a cheap, simple screening tool. Assessment of the accuracy and efficacy of SSE should proceed using standardized definitions and measurements such that it is easier to pool data on the overall value of SSE as a screening modality.
Effect of pulse width of a variable square pulse (VSP) erbium:YAG laser on the treatment outcome of periorbital wrinkles in Asians
Authors: Manuskiatti Woraphong , Siriphukpong Sujittra , Varothai Supenya , Wanitphakdeedecha Rungsima , Fitzpatrick Richard E.
Published: January 2010

Background  Uses of appropriate laser parameters are essential for an optimum outcome with minimal risks of complications.

Objective  To evaluate the effect of pulse width of a variable square pulse (VSP) Er:YAG laser on the treatment outcome.

Methods  Twenty‐four Thais with periorbital wrinkles received two treatments with a low‐fluence, VSP Er:YAG laser resurfacing 1 month apart. Subjects were randomly divided into two groups and treated with two different parameters including a pulse width of 0.3 ms (short pulse, SP) for one group and a pulse width of 250 ms (super‐long pulse, SL) for the other group. Assessments were evaluated at baseline, 1‐month and 3‐month follow‐up visits.

Results  After one treatment, 63.7% and 33.4% of the subjects in the SP and SL groups, respectively, were assessed to have obvious to marked improvement of their wrinkles. After two treatments, a higher percentage of the subjects were rated to have obvious to marked improvement including 91% and 66.7% in the SP and SL groups, respectively. There was no significant difference in therapeutic outcome between the SP and SL groups.

Conclusions  There was no significant difference in efficacy and side effects, between the SP and SL groups. However, a trend toward better response with the shorter pulse width was observed.
Impact of Starvation on Lasius niger’ Exploration
Authors: Mailleux Anne‐Catherine , Devigne Cedric , Deneubourg Jean‐Louis , Detrain Claire
Published: January 2010

Exploration allows animals to discover food resources, detect competitors and update their general knowledge of the habitat surroundings. Although the vital importance of exploration, its functional and proximal complexity is often underestimated. In this article, we study the exploring activities of Lasius niger, an aphid‐tending ant species that has frequently to face fluctuations in honeydew availability. We study how foragers adjust collectively their exploration strategy to starvation to evidence the mechanisms involved in the adjustment of exploration to the food needs. We also study the social interactions between explorers and nestmates in order to enlighten the individual mechanisms regulating the exploring strategies according to starvation. Our experiments showed that the proportion of nestmates leaving the nest increases twofold after a prolonged starvation of 8 d. Highly starved scouts do not trigger the departure of nestmates by a direct physical contact (antennation) and do not trigger the departure by laying a trail pheromone as they do to recruit nestmates to a food resource. After long starvation periods, higher nestmates mobilisation seems to be based on their increased motivation to leave the nest and explore a new area. This study of social interactions has deciphered the importance of the role allocated to each behavioural group during boosted exploration.
Variation in Helper Type Affects Group Stability and Reproductive Decisions in a Cooperative Breeder
Authors: Schürch Roger , Heg Dik
Published: January 2010

Recent studies have shown that differences in life history may lead to consistent inter‐individual variation in behavioural traits, so‐called behavioural syndromes, animal personalities or temperaments. Consistencies of behaviours and behavioural syndromes have mainly been studied in non‐cooperative species. Insights on the evolution of cooperation could be gained from studying individual differences in life histories and behavioural traits. Kin selection theory predicts that if an individual’s reproductive ability is low, it had to aim at gaining inclusive fitness benefits by helping others. We tested this prediction in the cooperatively breeding cichlid Neolamprologus pulcher, by assessing reproductive parameters of adults that had been tested earlier for aggressiveness and for their propensity to assist breeders when they had been young (‘juveniles’). We found that juvenile aggression levels predicted the acceptance of a subordinate in the group when adult. Males which were aggressive as juveniles were significantly more likely to tolerate a subordinate in the group when compared with males which were peaceful as juveniles, whereas females which were more aggressive as juveniles tended to expel subordinates more often. Females produced significantly smaller clutches when paired to males which had helped more as a juvenile, despite the fact that adult males hardly provided direct brood care. There was no evidence that females with a high propensity to help when young, produced smaller clutches or eggs when adult, but they took longer to lay their first clutch when compared with females with a low propensity to help when young. These results suggest that variation in behavioural types might explain variation in cooperation, the extent of group‐living and reproductive decisions.
Effect of α‐Tocopherol on Bovine In Vitro Fertilization
Authors: Marques A , Santos P , Antunes G , Chaveiro A , Moreira da Silva F
Published: January 2010

Contents

The objectives of this work are to determine if exogenous supplementation with α‐tocopherol increases the in vitro fertilization (IVF) rate of bovine oocytes and improves viability of selected spermatozoa after ‘swim‐up’. The percentage of fertilized oocytes was significantly but negatively correlated (r = −0.941, p < 0.01) with the concentration of α‐tocopherol. The control resulted in 95% of fertilized oocytes, which decreased as follows: 25 μM α‐tocopherol (α25) 86%, 50 μM α‐tocopherol (α50) 74%, 100 μM α‐tocopherol (α100) 66% and 200 μM α‐tocopherol (α200) 56%. Relatively to sperm viability after ‘swim‐up’ with α‐tocopherol supplementation, this antioxidant proved to have a beneficial effect as its concentration increased up to α50, decreasing for the concentrations of α100 and α200. Control resulted in 83% of live cells and 16% of dead cells; α25 resulted in 88% of live cells and 12% of dead cells; α50 resulted in 91% of live cells and 9% of dead cells; α100 resulted in 67% of live cells and 33% of dead cells; and finally α200 resulted in 57% of live cells and 42% of dead cells. In summary, the present study allows to conclude that, in our conditions, supplementation with the antioxidant α‐tocopherol in IVF of bovine oocytes has a detrimental effect on fertilization rates. Nevertheless, exogenous supplementation with α‐tocopherol at a concentration of 50 mM in the sperm‐TALP media during the ‘swim‐up’ technique has a significant beneficial effect on the selected spermatozoa viability.
Role of prostaglandin E2and its receptors in the process of ductus arteriosus maturation and functional closure in the rabbit
Authors: Fan Fen‐Ling , Zhu Sen , Chen Li‐Hong , Zou Yu‐Liang , Fan Li‐Hong , Kang Ji‐Hong , Ma Ai‐Qun , Guan You‐Fei
Published: January 2010

1. Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) is a common congenital heart defect in premature infants. The present study was designed to determine the role of the prostaglandin (PG) E2pathway in the process of ductus arteriosus (DA) maturation and functional closure.

2. Changes in PGE2pathway‐related enzymes and receptors in DA in preterm and term rabbits were examined at both the mRNA and protein levels. In addition, responses of DA rings toPo2and PGE2were determined.

3. Circulating PGE2levels remained high until 2 h after birth. High levels of the EP4receptor were found in preterm DA. These tissues were sensitive to PGE2, which caused vessel dilation, but were insensitive to increasedPo2. In contrast, DA tissues from term rabbits exhibited an immediate contractile response to increasedPo2and PGE2treatment resulted in vasoconstriction, which was associated with increased EP3and decreased EP4receptor expression in term DA.

4. In conclusion, the preterm PDA is maintained by high levels of PGE2, which mainly binds to the EP4receptor under conditions of hypoxia. In contrast, in the term DA, in which levels of the EP3receptor are higher than in preterm DA, exposure to PGE2resulted in vasoconstriction under normoxic conditions. These findings suggest that blocking the EP4receptor may represent a more selective treatment for the preterm PDA, whereas activating the EP3receptor may be more suitable for the treatment of the term PDA.
The phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase–Akt pathway protects cardiomyocytes from ischaemic and hypoxic apoptosis via mitochondrial function
Authors: Song Hua‐Pei , Zhang Lei , Dang Yong‐Ming , Yan Hong , Chu Zhi‐Gang , Huang Yue‐Sheng
Published: January 2010

1. After a severe burn, a marked decrease in myocardial blood flow results in ischaemic and hypoxic injury, which subsequently leads to apoptosis or necrosis. Phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase (PI3‐K)/Akt is an important intracellular signal transduction molecule that regulates cell proliferation, differentiation, glucose metabolism and migration. However, the function and mechanisms of the PI3‐K–Akt pathway in cardiomyocyte apoptosis after a burn remain unclear.

2. In the present study, an in vivo rat model of burn injury and an in vitro hypoxic model using rat cardiomyocytes were established. In burned rats, the expression of PI3‐K and phosphorylated (p‐) Akt expression increased, as did myocardial apoptosis. Inhibition of the PI3‐K–Akt pathway with 1.4 mg/kg LY294002 caused a significant increase in the myocardial apoptotic index compared with hypoxia alone in the in vivo model.

3. Cardiomyocytes cultured under hypoxic conditions exhibited increased apoptosis, decreased cell viability, enhanced caspase 3 activity, a decreased mitochondrial membrane potential, increased cytoplasmic calcium transients and increased p53 and Bax mRNA expression. Pretreatment with 50 μmol/L LY294002 significantly enhanced all these negative indicators compared with hypoxia alone. In contrast, pretreatment of cells with 200 ng/mL insulin‐like growth factor‐1, an activator of PI3‐K–Akt, significantly ameliorated the effects of hypoxia, although control levels were not reached.

4. These findings indicate that activation of the PI3‐K–Akt pathway induced by ischaemia and hypoxia after a severe burn can protect cardiomyocytes from apoptosis. This anti‐apoptotic effect is most likely mediated via the mitochondria and changes in p53 and Bax gene expression, intracellular [Ca2+] and caspase 3 activity.
Effect of tocopheryl phosphate on key biomarkers of inflammation: Implication in the reduction of atherosclerosis progression in a hypercholesterolaemic rabbit model
Authors: Libinaki Roksan , Tesanovic Sonja , Heal Aileen , Nikolovski Billie , Vinh Antony , Widdop Robert E , Gaspari Tracey A , Devaraj Sridevi , Ogru Esra
Published: January 2010

1. Many studies have evaluated the effectiveness of α‐tocopherol (vitamin E) in the development and progression of cardiovascular diseases, with conflicting results reported on the protective effect of this anti‐oxidant.

2. The present study examined the effectiveness of a novel tocopheryl phosphate mixture (TPm) compared with that of α‐tocopherol (TA) on key pro‐inflammatory markers involved in atherogenesis, including interleukin (IL)‐1β, IL‐6, IL‐8, plasminogen activator inhibitor‐1, tumour necrosis factor‐α and C‐reactive protein (CRP), as well as vascular function and lesion development in rabbits fed a 2% cholesterol diet.

3. Treatment with TPm, incorporated into the rabbit food at four doses ranging from 60 to 360 mg/kg chow, resulted in a significant reduction in plasma levels of all pro‐inflammatory cytokines and biomarkers that appeared to be somewhat dose dependent. Conversely, treatment with TA, at a dose equivalent to the highest dose of TPm used, only decreased plasma levels of CRP, IL‐6 and IL‐8. Both TPm and TA treatment significantly improved vascular function to a similar extent, although TPm was more effective in reducing lesion development.

4. The reduction in these key pro‐inflammatory markers appears to follow the improvement in the atherogenic state of the animals, indicating that the anti‐inflammatory properties of TPm may be potentially beneficial in inflammatory disease states.
Gastric acid is the key modulator in the pathogenesis of non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drug‐induced ulceration in rats
Authors: Zinkievich J Michael , George Sunil , Jha Shalinee , Nandi Jyotirmoy , Levine Robert A
Published: January 2010

1. In the present study, we investigated the role of gastric acid (GA) secretion on non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drug (NSAID)‐induced ulcerogenesis in vivo. Rats were administered single oral doses of selective cyclo‐oxygenase (COX)‐1 (SC‐560; 2.5 mg/kg), COX‐2 (DFU; 25 mg/kg) or non‐selective COX (indomethacin; 25 mg/kg) inhibitors. Three groups (basal, histamine‐stimulated and histamine with lansoprazole) were pylorus ligated 2 h after inhibitor administration and killed 2 h later. Another group without pylorus ligation received only inhibitors and was killed after 18 h.

2. At 4 h, indomethacin increased the ulcer index (UI) and myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity in basal and histamine‐stimulated states, whereas SC‐560 only increased MPO activity. Histamine‐stimulated, but not basal, GA was further enhanced by indomethacin and SC‐560 via increased proton pump expression. Lansoprazole (10 mg/kg) reduced the UI, MPO activity and GA to basal levels with SC‐560 and DFU and to near basal with indomethacin. Indomethacin and SC‐560 significantly inhibited prostaglandin (PG) E2, without significantly affecting COX‐1 and COX‐2 expression. Although DFU inhibited PGE2 by one‐third, it did not affect COX expression.

3. At 18 h, indomethacin significantly increased the UI and MPO activity, whereas PGE2 synthesis was less inhibited, indicating a return to control levels. In contrast, PGE2 synthesis was higher than control with SC‐560. Furthermore, COX‐2 expression was significantly elevated with indomethacin and SC‐560, explaining the source of augmented PGE2 synthesis. Proton pump expression remained elevated, comparable with 4 h levels, with indomethacin and SC‐560. However, DFU had no significant effect on the aforementioned parameters.

4. The data suggest that NSAID‐induced ulcerogenesis is dependent on the amount of GA secretion derived from increased proton pump expression and requires inhibition of both COX‐1 and COX‐2.
Pipoxolan inhibits proliferation of HL‐60 human leukaemia cancer cells by arresting the cell cycle at the G0/G1 phase
Authors: Sheu Ming‐Jyh , Chou Pei‐Yu , Huang Chin‐Shiu , Tsai I‐Chun , Chien Yi‐Chung , Lin Sung‐Yuan , Tsai Huei‐Yann , Cheng Hsu‐Chen , Wu Chieh‐Hsi
Published: January 2010

1. The aim of the present study was to investigate the molecular mechanisms by which pipoxolan exerts its inhibitory effects and apoptotic activity in human leukaemia HL‐60 cells.

2. The effects of pipoxolan on the proliferation of HL‐60 cells and on the distribution of cells within different phases of the cell cycle were investigated indirectly using a Trypan blue assay and a flow cytometer, respectively. The effects of pipoxolan on the apoptosis of HL‐60 cells was investigated using DNA fragmentation and flow cytometer. The expression of factors affecting the cell cycle and apoptosis, including p53, p21, Bax, Bcl2, cytochrome c, caspase 3 and caspase 9, was examined by western blotting.

3. At 6.25 μg/mL, pipoxolan significantly induced apoptosis in human leukaemia HL‐60 cells after 24 h exposure. In addition, HL‐60 cells were arrested in the G0/G1 phase via the induction of p53/p21 by pipoxolan. Apoptosis was associated with an increased Bax/Bcl‐2 ratio, cytochrome c release, cleavage of procaspases‐9 and ‐3 and hydrolysis of poly(ADP‐ribose) polymerase. Intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) seem to play a key role in the pipoxolan‐induced apoptosis, because high levels of ROS were produced early in the drug treatment. Apoptosis was significantly abrogated by the free radical scavenger N‐acetylcysteine (NAC).
Disposition of isosteviol in the rat isolated perfused liver
Authors: Jin Hongping , Wang Jiping , Gerber Jacobus P , Davey Andrew K
Published: January 2010

1. The aim of the present study was to investigate the mechanisms involved in the clearance of isosteviol using the rat isolated perfused liver.

2. Six livers from male Sprague‐Dawley rats were perfused with 15.7 μmol isosteviol in a recirculating system. Perfusate and bile samples were collected for 60 min and the liver was collected at the end of the perfusion. All samples collected were incubated with α‐glucuronidase. Isosteviol–glucuronide was determined as equivalent isosteviol. Isosteviol concentrations were determined using a previously developed liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry method. The final isosteviol liver/perfusate (L/P), bile/liver (B/L) and isosteviol‐glucuronide in bile/liver (BG/LG) ratios were determined.

3. Isosteviol has a high clearance (21.4 ± 4.8 mL/min) from the perfusate, with a short half‐life (13 ± 4 min). α‐Glucuronidase incubation revealed that isosteviol is conjugated in the liver and excreted into the bile. There was no isosteviol‐glucuronide detected in perfusate samples. The total recovery of the rat isolated perfused liver system is 74 ± 14% and glucuronidated isosteviol accounted for 23 ± 4% of the administered dose.

4. In conclusion, we are the first to characterize the metabolism of isosteviol using rat isolated liver perfusion. Our results strongly suggest that the liver is the main organ of isosteviol elimination and that isosteviol is glucuronidated in the liver before it is excreted into the bile.
Renoprotective effects of mineralocorticoid receptor blockade in heminephrectomized (pro)renin receptor transgenic rats
Authors: Mizuguchi Yuki , Ichihara Atsuhiro , Seki Yasufumi , Sakoda Mariyo , Kurauchi‐Mito Asako , Narita Tatsuya , Kinouchi Kenichiro , Bokuda Kanako , Itoh Hiroshi
Published: January 2010

1. Nephropathy and elevated plasma aldosterone concentrations (PAC) have been observed in (pro)renin receptor transgenic (TG) rats. In the present study, we hypothesized that PAC and/or mineralocorticoid receptor contribute to the nephropathy of TG rats. To test this hypothesis, the effects of a high‐sodium (8% NaCl) diet and heminephrectomy on PAC were examined.

2. Feeding of the high‐sodium diet for 12 weeks similarly decreased PAC in TG and wild‐type (WT) rats. Heminephrectomy further reduced PAC in TG rats fed a high‐sodium diet, but had no effect on PAC in WT rats fed a high‐sodium diet.

3. Next, the effects of eplerenone (125 mg/kg per day) and dietary salt restriction (0.36% NaCl diet) on proteinuria and renal morphology were examined in rats fed a high‐sodium diet or subjected to heminephrectomy. Both eplerenone and dietary sodium restriction significantly reduced the arterial pressure of TG rats, but had no effect in WT rats. In TG rats, treatment with eplerenone significantly decreased urinary protein excretion, but dietary sodium restriction did not.

4. Nephrin and podocin mRNA levels, as determined by real‐time quantitative reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction, were significantly lower in TG rats than in WT rats. In TG rats, eplerenone treatment significantly increased nephrin mRNA levels, but not podocin mRNA levels. Dietary salt restriction significantly increased mRNA levels of both nephrin and podocin. Although zonula occludens (ZO)‐1 mRNA levels were similar in both WT and TG rats, eplerenone treatment significantly decreased ZO‐1 mRNA levels in TG rats.

5. The results of the present study suggest that the improvement in proteinuria following eplerenone treatment is independent of its effects on sodium balance and may be mediated by effects on the expression of slit diaphragm proteins.
Glipizide controlled‐release tablets, with or without acarbose, improve glycaemic variability in newly diagnosed Type 2 diabetes
Authors: Bao Yu‐Qian , Zhou Jian , Zhou Mi , Cheng Yi‐Jia , Lu Wei , Pan Xiao‐Ping , Tang Jun‐Ling , Lu Hui‐Juan , Jia Wei‐Ping
Published: January 2010

1. The aim of the present study was to compare the effects of glipizide controlled‐release (CR) tablets monotherapy with that of glipizide CR tablets plus acarbose on glycaemic variability in newly diagnosed Type 2 diabetes (T2DM) patients using a continuous glucose‐monitoring system (CGMS).

2. Forty newly diagnosed T2DM patients whose glycated haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels ranged from 7.0% to 9.8% were randomized to either monotherapy or combination therapy. Overall glycaemic control and blood glucose variability were evaluated by CGMS parameters.

3. After 8 weeks treatment, fasting and postprandial blood glucose, HbA1c, glycated albumin (GA), mean blood glucose (MBG), mean amplitude of glycaemic excursions (MAGE), postprandial incremental area under the curve (AUCpp) and homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance decreased significantly in both groups (P < 0.01). There was also a significant decrease in the mean of daily differences (MODD) in the combination therapy group. Mean changes in MBG, MAGE, MODD and AUCpp were significantly greater in the combination therapy group than in the monotherapy group (all P < 0.01), whereas no significant differences were found in the mean changes of HbA1c and GA. Multivariate regression analysis showed that the decrement in AUCpp was significantly associated with decreases in MAGE.

4. In conclusion, glipizide CR tablets alone or in combination with acarbose can improve overall blood glucose levels and glycaemic variability. Combination therapy using glipizide CR tablets and acarbose was more effective in reducing intraday and day‐to‐day glycaemic variability than glipizide CR tablet monotherapy.
Brain uptake of diazepam and phenytoin in a genetic animal model of absence epilepsy
Authors: Nicolazzo Joseph A , Steuten Jessica A , Charman Susan A , Taylor Nerida , Davies Philip J , Petrou Steven
Published: January 2010

1. Although many studies have assessed changes to brain uptake of anti‐epileptic drugs (AEDs) in chemically and electrically induced seizure models, there are limited data available on changes to brain uptake of AEDs in spontaneous seizure animal models, such as genetic absence epilepsy.

2. In the present study, the brain uptake of diazepam and phenytoin was assessed in a genetic mouse model of absence seizures harbouring a human GABAA receptor γ2‐subunit gene GABRG2 mutation (R43Q) and results were compared with those obtained during acute seizures induced by subcutaneous administration of pentylenetetrazole (PTZ; 90 mg/kg). Diazepam and phenytoin were administered intraperitoneally at doses of 2 and 30 mg/kg, respectively, and brain and plasma concentrations were determined 60 min after administration using liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry.

3. Although the brain uptake of phenytoin was significantly reduced following PTZ administration, no changes were observed in phenytoin disposition in the genetic absence epilepsy model. Similarly, the brain uptake of diazepam was significantly enhanced following PTZ administration, but it was not affected in absence epilepsy.

4. The cerebrovascular plasma volume (assessed by administration of the non‐absorbable marker [14C]‐inulin) was not significantly different in saline‐treated compared with PTZ‐treated mice and in wild‐type compared with mutant R43Q mice.

5. These results demonstrate that although the brain uptake of AEDs may be altered in acute seizure models, similar changes to brain uptake may not be observed in the non‐convulsive genetic absence epileptic model.
Effects of emotionally charged sounds in schizophrenia patients using exploratory eye movements: Comparison with healthy subjects
Authors: Ishii Youhei , Morita Kiichiro , Shouji Yoshihisa , Nakashima Youko , Uchimura Naohisa
Published: January 2010

Aims:  Emotion‐associated sounds have been suggested to exert important effects upon human personal relationships. The present study was aimed to characterize the effects of the sounds of crying or laughing on visual cognitive function in schizophrenia patients.

Methods:  We recorded exploratory eye movements in 24 schizophrenia patients (mean age, 27.0 ± 6.1 years; 14 male, 10 female) and age‐matched controls. The total eye scanning length (TESL) and total number of gaze points in the left (left TNGP) and right (right TNGP) visual fields of the screen and the number of researching areas (NRA) were determined using eye‐mark recording in the presence/absence of emotionally charged sounds.

Results:  Controls' TESL for smiling pictures was longer than that for crying pictures irrespective of sounds. Patients' TESL for smiling pictures, however, was shorter than for crying pictures irrespective of the sounds. The left TNGP for smiling pictures was lower in patients than controls independent of sound. Importantly, the right TNGP was significantly larger with laughing sounds than in the absence of sound. In controls, the NRA for smiling pictures was significantly greater than for crying pictures irrespective of sound. Patient NRA did not significantly differ between smiling and crying pictures irrespective of sound.

Conclusion:  Eye movements in schizophrenia patients' left field for smiling pictures associated with laughing sounds particularly differed from those in controls, suggesting impaired visual cognitive function associated with positive emotion, also involving pleasure‐related sounds, in schizophrenia.
Randomized controlled trial of laparoscopic anterior versus posterior fundoplication for gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease
Authors: Khan Mansoor , Smythe Anne , Globe Jenny , Stoddard Christopher J. , Ackroyd Roger
Published: January 2010

Background:  The aim of the study was to compare the effect of laparoscopic anterior and posterior fundoplication on gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease by means of a prospective randomized controlled trial.

Methods:  One hundred and three patients were randomised to undergo either anterior (53) or posterior (50) fundoplication. Initial enrolment and subsequent clinical appointments were undertaken 1, 3, 6 and 12 months after the procedure using a standardized questionnaire. Ambulatory pH monitoring and manometry were undertaken both preoperatively and at approximately 3 months post‐procedure.

Results:  The mean operating time was similar in both groups (48 versus 52 min). Two operations in each group were converted to open surgery. Post‐operative dysphagia in the first month was higher in the posterior fundoplication group compared with the anterior group (at 1 month, P= 0.002; and at 3 months, P= 0.014). The number of individuals suffering from post‐operative heartburn was greater in the anterior fundoplication group (at 1 month, P= 0.008; at 3 months, P < 0.001; and at 6 months, P= 0.002). Eight individuals required reoperation in the anterior group and two individuals in the posterior group (P= 0.057).

Conclusion:  Anterior and posterior fundoplication each have their advantages and disadvantages. There is an increased risk of early post‐operative dysphagia after posterior fundoplication. Anterior fundoplication carries a greater risk of persistent or recurrent reflux. Overall, a posterior fundoplication produces a better management option for controlling gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease when compared with an anterior fundoplication technique which utilizes unilateral fixation of the gastric fundus.
Radiographic assessment of alignment following TKA: outline of a standardized protocol and assessment of a newly devised trigonometric method of analysis
Authors: Balakrishnan Vikram , De Steiger Richard , Lowe Adrian
Published: January 2010

Background:  An important determinant of long‐term outcomes following total knee arthrolplasty (TKA) is post‐operative alignment as measured on radiographs. Thus far, radiographs have been measured using the goniometer method (GM) and no standard protocol has been followed. The aim of this prospective study was to: (i) outline a protocol for radiographic measurement following TKA; and (ii) compare the accuracy of the traditional GM with a new trigonometric method (TM) of radiographic analysis.

Methods:  A protocol for the measurement of alignment on radiographs following TKA was outlined in detail with step‐by‐step instructions. A new TM of angle measurement was also delineated. Alignment was measured on 51 post‐operative TKA radiographs. A single angle was chosen and measured by two observers using both the GM and TM.

Results:  The TM had a precision of 1.06° compared with 1.5° using the GM. The standard deviation of the TM was significantly smaller than the GM (P= 0.033). The intra‐class correlation coefficient of the TM was 0.94 versus 0.90 for the GM.

Conclusion:  The study detailed a protocol for the measurement of axial alignment of the limbs and components following TKA, and provided evidence that a newer TM of angle measurement was superior in terms of precision and intra‐rater reliability in comparison with the traditional method.
An investigation on the high stress sensitivity of fatigue life of rolled AZ31 magnesium alloy under constant amplitude fatigue loading
Authors: CHAMOS A. N. , CHARITIDIS C. A. , SKARMOUTSOU A. , PANTELAKIS SP. G.
Published: January 2010

In the present work, an investigation on the high stress sensitivity of the fatigue life of the AZ31 rolled magnesium alloy under constant amplitude fatigue loading has been carried out. Different damage parameters were involved to quantify fatigue damage accumulation at the various scales of material volume corresponding to the changing fatigue damage mechanisms that prevail at the various stages of the fatigue life. The experimental work included mainly nano‐indentation measurements to evaluate hardness evolution at the nano‐scale due to cyclic plasticity, results of micro‐crack monitoring by using the replication technique and fractographic analysis to obtain the fracture characteristics of the fatigue specimens after failure. The hexagonal close‐packed structure of the alloy and the resulting difficulty for the activation of five independent slip systems required for homogeneous plastic deformation were considered to determine the high stress sensitivity of the fatigue life observed for the rolled AZ31 alloy under the investigated loading conditions.
Remifentanil in children
Authors: SAMMARTINO MARIA , GARRA ROSSELLA , SBARAGLIA FABIO , DE RISO MARIELLA , CONTINOLO NICOLA
Published: January 2010

Remifentanil has gained the confidence of anesthesiologists and has given a real opportunity to change the way anesthesia is given. It can be considered the ideal opioid despite many obstacles to pediatric use: the condition of ‘off‐label’, the lack of wide randomized clinical trials, and the fear of adverse events because of its high potency. Experiences in the field with this opioid over the years encouraged its use. Use has been associated with N20 and volatile agents for general anesthesia and with propofol for total intravenous anesthesia (TIVA). It seems very useful for sedation inside and outside the operating room and in intensive care for both short painful procedures and synchronization with mechanical ventilation. However, its unique pharmacokinetic characteristics causing rapid onset and offset of effect appear unchanged in small children and even in premature neonates and need to be really confirmed by further pharmacokinetic studies. Moreover, the real risks of tolerance and hyperalgesia should be evaluated in the pediatric population. In this review, we go through the newer aspects of this versatile drug that has been proposed as ‘the pediatric anesthetist’s opiate’.
Allometry and spatial scales of foraging in mammalian herbivores
Authors: Laca Emilio A. , Sokolow Susanne , Galli Julio R. , Cangiano Carlos A.
Published: January 2010

Ecology Letters (2010) 13: 311–320

Herbivores forage in spatially complex habitats. Due to allometry and scale‐dependent foraging, herbivores are hypothesized to perceive and respond to heterogeneity of resources at scales relative to their body sizes. This hypothesis has not been manipulatively tested for animals with only moderate differences in body size and similar food niches. We compared short‐term spatial foraging behavior of two herbivores (sheep and cattle) with similar dietary niche but differing body size. Although intake rates scaled allometrically with body mass (mass0.75), spatial foraging strategies substantially differed, with cattle exhibiting a coarser‐grained use of the ‘foodscape.’ Selectivity by cattle (and not sheep) for their preferred food was more restricted when patches were smaller (< 10 m2). We conclude that differences in spatial scales of selection offers a plausible mechanism by which species can coexist on shared resources that exhibit multiple scales of spatial heterogeneity.
Novel antagonistic interactions associated with plant polyploidization influence trait selection and habitat preference
Authors: Arvanitis Leena , Wiklund Christer , Münzbergova Zuzana , Dahlgren Johan P. , Ehrlén Johan
Published: January 2010

Ecology Letters (2010) 13: 330–337

Polyploidization is an important mechanism for sympatric speciation in plants. Still, we know little about whether plant polyploidization leads to insect host shifts, and if novel interactions influence habitat and trait selection in plants. We investigated herbivory by the flower bud gall‐forming midge Dasineura cardaminis on tetraploids and octoploids of the herb Cardamine pratensis. Gall midges attacked only octoploid plant populations, and a transplantation experiment confirmed this preference. Attack rates were higher in populations that were shaded, highly connected or occurred along stream margins. Within populations, late‐flowering individuals with many flowers were most attacked. Galling reduced seed production and significantly influenced phenotypic selection on flower number. Our results suggest that an increase in ploidy may lead to insect host shifts and that plant ploidy explains insect host use. In newly formed plant polyploids, novel interactions may alter habitat preferences and trait selection, and influence the further evolution of cytotypes.
Environmental stability and lake zooplankton diversity – contrasting effects of chemical and thermal variability
Authors: Shurin Jonathan B. , Winder Monika , Adrian Rita , Keller Wendel (Bill) , Matthews Blake , Paterson Andrew M. , Paterson Michael J. , Pinel‐Alloul Bernadette , Rusak James A. , Yan Norman D.
Published: January 2010

Ecology Letters (2010) 13: 453–463

Environmental variability in space and time is a primary mechanism allowing species that share resources to coexist. Fluctuating conditions are a double edged sword for diversity, either promoting coexistence through temporal niche partitioning or excluding species by stochastic extinctions. The net effect of environmental variation on diversity is largely unknown. We examined the association between zooplankton species richness in lakes and environmental variability on interannual, seasonal and shorter time scales, as well as long‐term average conditions. We analyzed data on physical, chemical and biological limnology in 53 temperate zone lakes in North America and Europe sampled over a combined 1042 years. Large fluctuations in pH, phosphorus and dissolved organic carbon concentration on different time scales were associated with reduced zooplankton species richness. More species were found in lakes that showed greater temperature variation on all time scales. Environmental variability on different time scales showed similar or, in some cases, stronger associations with zooplankton species richness compared with long‐term average conditions. Our results suggest that temporal fluctuations in the chemical environment tend to exclude zooplankton species while temperature variability promotes greater richness. The results indicate that anthropogenic increases in temporal variability of future climates may have profound effects on biodiversity.
TAX REVISIONS OF 2004 AND PRO SPORTS TEAM OWNERSHIP
Authors: COULSON N. EDWARD , FORT RODNEY
Published: January 2010

Tax law revisions of 2004 altered the “roster depreciation allowance” enjoyed by pro sports team owners. Supporters claimed this would practically eliminate costly legal oversight by the IRS and, ultimately, increase owner tax bills. Government officials and leagues remained silent on team value impacts but outside analysts argued they would rise by 5%. We model this policy change and investigate it empirically. Supporters in Congress were absolutely correct that owner tax payments should increase but outside analysts underestimated team value increases by half. No wonder Major League Baseball and the National Football League favored the revision.(JELD21, G38, H25, L83)
The Anatomy of Anger: An Integrative Cognitive Model of Trait Anger and Reactive Aggression
Authors: Wilkowski Benjamin M. , Robinson Michael D.
Published: January 2010

ABSTRACT
This paper presents an integrative cognitive model, according to which individual differences in 3 cognitive processes jointly contribute to a person's level of trait anger and reactive aggression. An automatic tendency to attribute hostile traits to others is the first of these cognitive processes, and this process is proposed to be responsible for the more frequent elicitation of anger, particularly when hostile intent is ambiguous. Rumination on hostile thoughts is the second cognitive process proposed, which is likely to be responsible for prolonging and intensifying angry emotional states. The authors finally propose that low trait anger individuals use effortful control resources to self‐regulate the influence of their hostile thoughts, whereas those high in trait anger do not. A particular emphasis of this review is implicit cognitive sources of evidence for the proposed mechanisms. The authors conclude with a discussion of important future directions, including how the proposed model can be further verified, broadened to take into account motivational factors, and applied to help understand anger‐related social problems.
Socially Explosive Minds: The Triple Imbalance Hypothesis of Reactive Aggression
Authors: Van Honk Jack , Harmon‐Jones Eddie , Morgan Barak E. , Schutter Dennis J. L. G.
Published: January 2010

ABSTRACT
The psychobiological basis of reactive aggression, a condition characterized by uncontrolled outbursts of socially violent behavior, is unclear. Nonetheless, several theoretical models have been proposed that may have complementary views about the psychobiological mechanisms involved. In this review, we attempt to unite these models and theorize further on the basis of recent data from psychological and neuroscientific research to propose a comprehensive neuro‐evolutionary framework: The Triple Imbalance Hypothesis (TIH) of reactive aggression. According to this model, reactive aggression is essentially subcortically motivated by an imbalance in the levels of the steroid hormones cortisol and testosterone (Subcortical Imbalance Hypothesis). This imbalance not only sets a primal predisposition for social aggression, but also down‐regulates cortical–subcortical communication (Cortical‐Subcortical Imbalance Hypothesis), hence diminishing control by cortical regions that regulate socially aggressive inclinations. However, these bottom‐up hormonally mediated imbalances can drive both instrumental and reactive social aggression. The TIH suggests that reactive aggression is differentiated from proactive aggression by low brain serotonergic function and that reactive aggression is associated with left‐sided frontal brain asymmetry (Cortical Imbalance Hypothesis), especially observed when the individual is socially threatened or provoked. This triple biobehavioral imbalance mirrors an evolutionary relapse into violently aggressive motivational drives that are adaptive among many reptilian and mammalian species, but may have become socially maladaptive in modern humans.
Rejection Sensitivity and the Rejection–Hostility Link in Romantic Relationships
Authors: Romero‐Canyas Rainer , Downey Geraldine , Berenson Kathy , Ayduk Ozlem , Kang N. Jan
Published: January 2010

ABSTRACT
Rejection sensitivity is the disposition to anxiously expect, readily perceive, and intensely react to rejection. In response to perceived social exclusion, highly rejection sensitive people react with increased hostile feelings toward others and are more likely to show reactive aggression than less rejection sensitive people in the same situation. This paper summarizes work on rejection sensitivity that has provided evidence for the link between anxious expectations of rejection and hostility after rejection. We review evidence that rejection sensitivity functions as a defensive motivational system. Thus, we link rejection sensitivity to attentional and perceptual processes that underlie the processing of social information. A range of experimental and diary studies shows that perceiving rejection triggers hostility and aggressive behavior in rejection sensitive people. We review studies that show that this hostility and reactive aggression can perpetuate a vicious cycle by eliciting rejection from those who rejection sensitive people value most. Finally, we summarize recent work suggesting that this cycle can be interrupted with generalized self‐regulatory skills and the experience of positive, supportive relationships.
Extrinsic Value Orientation and Affective Forecasting: Overestimating the Rewards, Underestimating the Costs
Authors: Sheldon Kennon M. , Gunz Alexander , Nichols Charles P. , Ferguson Yuna
Published: January 2010

ABSTRACT
We examined affective forecasting errors as a possible explanation of the perennial appeal of extrinsic values and goals. Study 1 found that although people relatively higher in extrinsic (money, fame, image) compared to intrinsic (growth, intimacy, community) value orientation (REVO) are less happy, they nevertheless believe that attaining extrinsic goals offers a strong potential route to happiness. Study 2's longitudinal experimental design randomly assigned participants to pursue either 3 extrinsic or 3 intrinsic goals over 4 weeks, and REVO again predicted stronger forecasts regarding extrinsic goals. However, not even extrinsically oriented participants gained well‐being benefits from attaining extrinsic goals, whereas all participants tended to gain in happiness from attaining intrinsic goals. Study 3 showed that the effect of REVO on forecasts is mediated by extrinsic individuals' belief that extrinsic goals will satisfy autonomy and competence needs. It appears that some people overestimate the emotional benefits of achieving extrinsic goals, to their potential detriment.
Personality and Health, Subjective Well‐Being, and Longevity
Authors: Friedman Howard S. , Kern Margaret L. , Reynolds Chandra A.
Published: January 2010

ABSTRACTPersonality traits can be employed to guide understanding of trajectories to health and longevity, but long‐term longitudinal study and multifaceted assessment of healthy aging are crucial. Following up on the life span study initiated by Lewis Terman, we assessed 4 validated factors of personality in young adulthood in 1940, constructed a multifactor measure of participants' healthy aging in 1986, and collected death certificates through 2007 (to determine longevity) on a sample of 1,312 Terman participants (732 men). Neuroticism predicted worse physical health and subjective well‐being in old age and, for women, higher mortality risk, but for men, neuroticism predicted decreased mortality risk. For both sexes, extraversion predicted old‐age social competence, whereas conscientiousness predicted men's old‐age productivity. Differential patterns of association between personality traits and healthy aging components are informative about individual personality characteristics and long‐term health outcomes.
Global Warming, Proportional Carbon Taxes, and International Fund for Atmospheric Stabilization
Authors: Uzawa H.
Published: January 2010

In this paper, we prove in terms of a simple dynamic model of global warming that sustainable time‐paths of the atmospheric accumulations of carbon dioxide are obtained as the standard market equilibrium under the system of proportional carbon taxes, where the carbon taxes are levied at the rate that is proportional to the per capita national income of each country, with the discounted present value of the impact coefficient of global warming as the coefficient of proportion.
Sustained Comparative Advantage and Semi‐Endogenous Growth
Authors: Petsas Iordanis
Published: January 2010

This paper constructs a two‐country (Home and Foreign) general‐equilibrium model of Schumpeterian growth without scale effects. The scale effects property is removed by introducing a distinct specification in the knowledge production function which generates semi‐endogenous growth. In this model of semi‐endogenous growth, an increase in the rate of population growth rate raises Home's relative wage and lowers its range of goods exported to Foreign. An increase in the size of innovations increases Home's relative wage but with an ambiguous effect on its comparative advantage. The model generates a unique steady‐state equilibrium in which there is complete specialization in both goods and R&D production within each country.
Solutions of a Nonhomogeneous Burgers Equation
Authors: Rao Ch. Srinivasa , Yadav Manoj K.
Published: January 2010

In this article, we construct solutions of a nonhomogeneous Burgers equation subject to certain unbounded initial profiles. In an interesting study, Kloosterziel [1] represented the solution of an initial value problem (IVP) for the heat equation, with initial data in , as a series of the self‐similar solutions of the heat equation. This approach quickly revealed the large time behavior for the solution of the IVP. Inspired by Kloosterziel [1]'s approach, we express the solution of the nonhomogeneous Burgers equation in terms of the self‐similar solutions of a linear partial differential equation with variable coefficients. Finally, we also obtain the large time behavior of the solution of the nonhomogeneous Burgers equation.