bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy and safety of human placenta extract in alleviating climacteric symptoms: Prospective, randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial
Authors: Lee Yoo‐Kyung , Chung Hyun Hoon , Kang Soon‐Beom
Published: November 2009

Aim:  To assess the efficacy and safety of human placenta extract in the relief of climacteric symptoms.

Methods:  A prospective, randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial was performed on 108 women with menopausal symptoms. Human placenta extract or placebo was administered to the women for 4 weeks. Climacteric symptoms were assessed with the Kupperman Index (KMI).

Results:  Both groups showed a significant reduction in the KMI score at the end of treatment. However, the decrease in the KMI score was significantly greater in the product group than in the placebo group (−12.30 ± 10.44 vs −7.15 ± 9.11, P = 0.012) after 4 weeks of treatment. The level of lipid profiles and liver function tests demonstrated no significant changes before and after treatment in both groups.

Conclusion:  Human placenta extract reduced climacteric symptoms more than the placebo. The safety evaluation showed a good safety and tolerability profile in the placenta extract group. The results of the present study suggest that human placenta extract can be an alternative therapy in women with menopausal symptoms.
A case of fulminant type 1 diabetes mellitus associated with pregnancy
Authors: Murabayashi Nao , Sugiyama Takashi , Kihira Chikara , Kusaka Hideto , Sugihara Taku , Sagawa Norimasa
Published: November 2009

Fulminant type 1 diabetes associated with pregnancy is very rare. However if it occurs, the rapid onset is associated with an extremely high risk of fetal death. Therefore, it is important for physicians to make an appropriate diagnosis as early as possible and to begin immediate treatment of both the mother and the fetus. We report a case of fulminant type 1 diabetes associated with pregnancy in which a good outcome was achieved for both the mother and the fetus.
Spontaneous uterine rupture during a second trimester pregnancy with a history of laparoscopic myomectomy
Authors: Goynumer Gokhan , Teksen Ahmet , Durukan Birol , Wetherilt Lale
Published: November 2009

Uterine rupture is one of the most feared obstetric complications, carrying an increased risk of maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality. Here, we present a case of spontaneous uterine rupture during the first half of pregnancy. The patient did not report any recent trauma, however she had a history of laparoscopic myomectomy conducted three years earlier. The uterine rupture was 6–7 cm in length, located at the fundal level and was thought to originate from the previous myomectomy scar. In this report, we discuss the importance of choosing the right surgical technique and suturing method in patients undergoing myomectomy who desire to conceive in the future, and how obscure the findings of uterine rupture during pregnancy can be.
Field theory for biogeography: a spatially explicit model for predicting patterns of biodiversity
Authors: O'Dwyer James P. , Green Jessica L.
Published: November 2009

Predicting the variation of biodiversity across the surface of the Earth is a fundamental issue in ecology, and in this article we focus on one of the most widely studied spatial biodiversity patterns: the species–area relationship (SAR). The SAR is a central tool in conservation, being used to predict species loss following global climate change, and is striking in its universality throughout different geographical regions and across the tree of life. In this article we draw upon the methods of quantum field theory and the foundation of neutral community ecology to derive the first spatially explicit neutral prediction for the SAR. We find that the SAR has three phases, with a power law increase at intermediate scales, consistent with decades of documented empirical patterns. Our model also provides a building block for incorporating non‐neutral biological variation, with the potential to bridge the gap between neutral and niche‐based approaches to community assembly.

Ecology Letters (2010) 13: 87–95
The prognostic value of circulating big endothelin‐1 in patients undergoing potentially curative resection for colorectal cancer
Authors: Lloyd G. M. , Neal C. P. , Arun C. , London N. J. M. , Hemingway D. M.
Published: November 2009

Aim  Elevated circulating endothelin‐1 (ET‐1) has been demonstrated in patients with colorectal cancer (CRC). The aim of this study was to examine the prognostic value of plasma big ET‐1, the stable precursor of ET‐1, in cancer‐specific survival in patients having curative surgery for CRC.

Method  Seventy‐seven patients undergoing potentially curative surgery for CRC between January 2000 and January 2001 were studied. Clinicopathological data were obtained from a prospectively maintained database including long‐term follow‐up information (median follow up 84 months). The influence of plasma big ET‐1 and clinicopathological variables upon over cancer‐specific survival was determined by univariate and multivariable analysis.

Results  On univariate analysis, advanced Dukes’ stage, tumour size and patient age were associated with shortened overall survival. Advanced Dukes’ stage was the only factor associated with shortened survival on multivariable analysis. Plasma big ET‐1 showed no association with either overall or cancer‐specific survival following CRC resection.

Conclusion  Plasma big ET‐1 appears to have no prognostic value in primary CRC.
Diabesity: therapeutic options
Authors: Colagiuri S.
Published: November 2009

A pathogenic relationship exists between type 2 diabetes and obesity. Over the last decade, the escalation in diabetes cases has paralleled the rapid increase in obesity rates, constituting a global health crisis. Environmental risk factors attributed to the global increase in obesity include the consumption of high‐calorie, high‐fat foods and inadequate physical activity. Obese individuals may also have a genetic predisposition for obesity. Both diabetes and obesity confer an elevated risk of developing a range of complications and comorbidities, including cardiovascular disease, hypertension and stroke, which can complicate disease management. This review examines the aetiology of the linkages between diabetes and obesity and the range of available therapies. Recent clinical evidence substantiating the efficacy and safety of incretin‐based antidiabetic therapies is analysed, in addition to data on antiobesity therapeutic strategies, such as antiobesity agents, behaviour modification and bariatric surgery. Glucose control is often accompanied by weight‐neutral or modest weight reduction effects with DPP‐4 inhibitor treatment (sitagliptin, vildagliptin, saxagliptin) and weight loss with GLP‐1 receptor agonist therapy (exenatide, liraglutide). Studies of antiobesity agents including orlistat, sibutramine and rimonabant have shown attrition rates of 30–40%, and the long‐term effects of these agents remain unknown. Bariatric surgical procedures commonly performed are laparoscopic adjustable banding of the stomach and the Roux‐en‐Y gastric bypass, and have produced type 2 diabetes remission rates of up to 73%. Therapeutic strategies that integrate glycaemic control and weight loss will assume greater importance as the prevalence of diabetes and obesity increase.
Abarelix and other gonadotrophin‐releasing hormone antagonists in prostate cancer
Authors: Kirby Roger S. , Fitzpatrick John M. , Clarke Noel
Published: November 2009

Hormonal therapy is the main recommended treatment for locally advanced and metastatic prostate cancer. Luteinizing hormone‐releasing hormone (LHRH) agonists, such as buserelin, goserelin, leuprorelin and triptorelin, stimulate the pituitary’s gonadotrophin‐releasing hormone (GnRH) receptor, ultimately leading to its de‐sensitization and subsequent reduction of LH and testosterone levels. However, this reduction is accompanied by a well described increase or ‘surge’ in LH and testosterone levels, necessitating the concomitant administration of an antiandrogen to combat the potential effects of transient acceleration in cancer activity. Two pure GnRH antagonists have been developed, abarelix and degarelix, that are devoid of any agonist effect on the GnRH receptor and consequently do not result in testosterone flare. Abarelix was the first GnRH antagonist to be developed and was approved by the USA Food and Drug Administration in 2004 for the initiation of hormonal castration in advanced or metastasizing hormone‐dependent prostate carcinoma, when rapid androgen suppression is necessary. Clinical data on both abarelix and degarelix show that they can produce rapid and sustained decreases in testosterone to castrate levels without the need for co‐administration of an antiandrogen, and with a very low complication rate in the short term.
Gene polymorphisms and prostate cancer: the evidence
Authors: Dianat Seyed S. , Margreiter Markus , Eckersberger Elisabeth , Finkelstein Julia , Kuehas Franklin , Herwig Ralf , Ayati Mohsen , Lepor Herbert , Djavan Bob
Published: November 2009

OBJECTIVE

Prostate cancer is still the most frequent noncutaneous male malignancy and is the second most common cause of cancer death. Genetic factors have been extensively studied in different countries. In addition, numerous genome–wide association studies have been performed in developed countries. Genetic tests will be applied in the near future for diagnosis, therapeutic, and prognostic significance. Therefore, we reviewed the association of several important pathways and genes with critical functions in prostate cancer development or progression.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We performed a PubMed® search using several key words such as prostate cancer, names of important genes with critical function, and polymorphisms. Then, we reviewed retrieved articles as well as relevant articles from 1997 to 2009.

RESULTS

There are conflicting results of studies on some gene polymorphisms in association with prostate cancer. Most of the inconsistent results have been reported in studies investigating the vitamin D receptor gene polymorphism in association with prostate cancer. Genes related to angiogenesis and cell adhesion genes are more promising. Following results of future studies, the use of antibodies blocking over‐expressed genes or proteins may be supported in patients with prostate cancer.

CONCLUSIONS

The difference between the results of studies on gene polymorphisms in prostate cancer may be explained partly by ethnic differences, limited sample size, and other risk or protective factors modifying these effects. Genome‐wide studies are currently performed in developed countries and extensive use of this type of analysis may merit consideration in other countries. Furthermore, future studies are needed to further investigate environmental and diet factors interactions with genetic factors.
Vascular endothelial growth factor and mTOR pathways in renal cell carcinoma: differences and synergies of two targeted mechanisms
Authors: Mulders Peter
Published: November 2009

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is among the most resistant tumours to chemotherapy, radiotherapy and hormonal therapy. Cytokine therapy is effective in a small subset of patients, but it is associated with substantial toxicity and rarely benefits patients with extensive tumour burdens or adverse prognostic factors. Since 2005, clinical trials have shown significant clinical benefits for five molecularly targeted therapies in patients with advanced RCC. These agents constitute two mechanistic classes: (i) angiogenesis inhibitors targeting the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) ligand (bevacizumab, in combination with interferon‐a) or VEGF receptors (sunitinib, sorafenib); and (ii) inhibitors of the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signalling (temsirolimus, everolimus). This review assesses the mechanistic distinctions and functional overlaps of these classes of agents, and discusses key characteristics of their respective clinical efficacy and side‐effect profiles in patients with RCC, some of which might affect patient selection and treatment strategies. Current research is designed to optimize the use of these agents, as well as the development of new investigational therapies within these mechanistic classes. The differences and synergies are particularly important for understanding the best ways to integrate VEGF/VEGF receptor inhibitors and mTOR inhibitors for combination or sequential treatment of patients with advanced RCC.
Migrants' perceptions of using interpreters in health care
Authors: Hadziabdic E. , Heikkilä K. , Albin B. , Hjelm K.
Published: November 2009

Background:  The number of foreign‐born people who do not share a common language has increased due to extensive international migration, which will increase in the future. There is limited knowledge about the users' perceptions of interpreters in health care.

Aim:  To describe how individuals from former Yugoslavia, living in Sweden, perceived the use of interpreters in Swedish healthcare services.

Method:  A phenomenographic approach was employed. Data were collected by semi‐structured interviews during 2006–2007 with 17 people, aged 29–75 years, from former Yugoslavia, living in Sweden.

Findings:  Three descriptive categories were identified: (1) prerequisites for good interpretation situations; (2) the interpretation situation – aspects of satisfaction or dissatisfaction; and (3) measures to facilitate and improve the interpreter situation. The interpreter's competence, attitude, appearance and an appropriate environment are important prerequisites for interpretation. The interpreter was perceived as being a communication aid and a guide in the healthcare system in terms of information and practical issues, but also as a hindrance. A desirable professional interpreter was perceived as highly skilled in medical terminology and language, working in face‐to‐face interaction.

Conclusion:  Using an interpreter was perceived as a hindrance, though also needed in communication with healthcare staff and as a guide in the healthcare system. Face‐to‐face interaction was preferred, with the interpreter as an aid to communication. As part of individual care planning it is important to use interpreters according to the patients' desires. Healthcare organizations and guidelines for interpreters need to be developed in order for patients to have easy access to highly skilled professional interpreters.
Night shift work experiences among Iranian nurses: a qualitative study
Authors: Nasrabadi A.N. , Seif H. , Latifi M. , Rasoolzadeh N. , Emami A.
Published: November 2009

Aim:  To describe the perceptions held by Iranian registered nurses (IRNs) concerning their night shift work experiences.

Background:  Due to the nature of nursing work and the need for 24‐h coverage every day, the majority of nurses work night shifts in their professional practice. Evidence from several studies indicates that night working is a challenge for most nurses. This situation can cause many forms of physical and emotional stress.

Methods:  A qualitative design was used with purposeful sampling. Eighteen IRNs from four different general educational hospitals in Iran took part in the study. Data were collected via semi‐structured interviews and analysed according to qualitative content analysis.

Findings:  Three main themes were identified from the data: (a) socio‐cultural impacts of night work, (b) health‐related impacts of night work, and (c) night work as an opportunity for gaining more clinical experiences and learning more.

Conclusion:  The impact of shift work on nurses' daily professional behaviour and adverse health outcomes related to shift work should be well understood and considered when organizing healthcare systems. We need to identify ways to support nurses who work nights and also give attention to the caregiver's needs.
Nursing students and teaching of codes of ethics: an empirical research study
Authors: Numminen O. H. , Leino‐Kilpi H. , Van Der Arend A. , Katajisto J.
Published: November 2009

Aim:  To explore graduating nursing students' perception of nurse educators' teaching of codes of ethics in polytechnics providing basic nursing education in Finland.

Background:  Codes of ethics are regarded as an essential content in most nursing ethics curricula. However, little is known about how their teaching is implemented.

Methods:  Descriptive, cross‐sectional design was used in this study. A total of 214 nursing students responded to a structured questionnaire with one open‐ended question. The data was analysed statistically by SPSS and content analysis.

Findings:  Students perceived teaching of the codes as fairly extensive. The emphasis was on the nurse–patient relationship. Less attention was paid to nursing in wider social contexts. Educators' use of teaching and evaluation methods was narrow. Students whose teaching had been integrated into clinical training perceived that teaching had been more extensive. However, students did not perceive integration to clinical training as a much used teaching format. Students assessed their own knowledge and ability to apply the codes as mediocre. Those educators, whose knowledge about the codes students had assessed as adequate, were also perceived to teach the codes more extensively.

Conclusions:  Regardless of the responding students' positive description of the teaching, the findings should be interpreted with caution, due to the students' limited interest to respond. In teaching ethics, particular attention should be paid to more versatile use of teaching and evaluation methods, organization of integrated teaching, educators' competence in ethics, and student outcomes so that the importance of ethics would come across to all nursing students.
Improving Public Confidence in the Criminal Justice System: An Evaluation of a Communication Activity
Authors: SINGER LAWRENCE , COOPER SUZANNE
Published: November 2009

Abstract: Drawing on criminological, communications and marketing theory, a booklet containing facts about the criminal justice system (CJS) was designed and delivered to over 2,000 members of the public in three different ways. Knowledge of, and attitudes toward, the CJS were tested before and after receipt of the booklet and the results compared with a control group. The experiment provides evidence, based on a rigorous research methodology, that effective presentation of national and local crime statistics and other CJS information can have a positive impact on public confidence. The findings also demonstrate that the delivery mechanism of information is also important.
Anxiolytic‐like effect of Carvacrol (5‐isopropyl‐2‐methylphenol) in mice: involvement with GABAergic transmission
Authors: Melo Francisca Helvira Cavalcante , Venâncio Edith Teles , De Sousa Damião Pergentino , De França Fonteles Marta Maria , De Vasconcelos Silvânia Maria Mendes , Viana Glauce Socorro Barros , De Sousa Francisca Cléa Florenço
Published: November 2009

Carvacrol (5‐isopropyl‐2‐methylphenol) is a monoterpenic phenol present in the essencial oil of many plants. It is the major component of the essential oil fraction of oregano and thyme. This work presents the behavioral effects of carvacrol in animal models of elevated plus maze (EPM), open field, Rotarod and barbiturate‐induced sleeping time tests in mice. Carvacrol (CVC) was administered orally, in male mice, at single doses of 12.5; 25 and 50 mg/kg while diazepam 1 or 2 mg/kg was used as standard drug and flumazenil (2.5 mg/kg) was used to elucidate the possible anxiolytic mechanism of CVC on the plus maze test. The results showed that CVC, at three doses, had no effect on the spontaneous motor activity in the Rotarod test nor in the number of squares crossed in the open‐field test. However, CVC decreased the number of groomings in the open‐field test. In the plus maze test, CVC, at three doses significantly increased all the observed parameters in the EPM test and flumazenil was able to reverse the effects of diazepam and CVC. Therefore, CVC did not alter the sleep latency and sleeping time in the barbiturate‐induced sleeping time test. These results show that CVC presents anxiolytic effects in the plus maze test which are not influenced by the locomotor activity in the open‐field test.
Human–environment interactions in residential areas susceptible to landsliding: the Flemish Ardennes case study
Authors: Van Den Eeckhaut Miet , Poesen Jean , Vandekerckhove Liesbeth , Van Gils Marijn , Van Rompaey Anton
Published: November 2009

Studies on landslide susceptibility and landslide risk generally start from the assumption that mainly natural factors control the occurrence of landslides. The role of human activity is considered less important. We investigated the role of human–environment interactions in the Flemish Ardennes, Flanders' most landslide‐susceptible region. The establishment of a detailed landslide inventory brought insight into the spatial occurrence of landslides and into the different landslide types and characteristics. A statistical model, i.e. logistic regression, allowed the significance of environmental factors controlling landslide occurrence to be determined, and a landslide susceptibility map to be produced. Being a residential area, however, the Flemish Ardennes is a region where humans play an active role with regard to landslide risk. Although the location of many archaeological sites in this area is known, almost no archaeological sites are found on landslide‐susceptible hillslopes. This might indicate that in prehistorical and historical times humans were more familiar with local environmental characteristics and avoided unstable hillslopes. Comparison of topographic maps (1777–2001), on the contrary, indicate that over the last 250 years buildings and other infrastructures have been constructed on old landslides. Given that humans are living, working and driving on or close to unstable hillslopes, the landslide risk has therefore increased. The landslide inventory map and the landslide susceptibility map are important tools for landslide risk reduction. Here ‘science meets policy’, as both maps allow linking construction norms and other mitigation measures to hillslopes already affected by landslides and to susceptibility classes with very high, high and moderate landslide susceptibility.
Spontaneous Interspecific Hybridization and Patterns of Pollen Dispersal in Ex Situ Populations of a Tree Species (Sinojackia xylocarpa) that is Extinct in the Wild
Authors: ZHANG JIN‐JU , YE QI‐GANG , YAO XIAO‐HONG , HUANG HONG‐WEN
Published: November 2009

Abstract:  For endangered plants interspecific hybridization occurring in ex situ collections may lead to failure of reintroduction actions. We used Sinojackia xylocarpa, a well documented Chinese endemic species that is extinct in the wild, as a model case to address this concern. We used paternity analyses to assess the spontaneous hybridization and patterns of pollen flow between S. xylocarpa and its congener species, S. rehderiana, in conserved populations in Wuhan Botanic Garden. Interspecific hybridization events were detected in seven out of eight maternal trees of S. xylocarpa, and an average of 32.7% seeds collected from maternal trees of S. xylocarpa were hybrids. The paternity of 93 out of 249 seedlings from S. xylocarpa assigned to S. rehderiana provided convincing evidence that spontaneous interspecific hybridization occurred extensively in the living garden collection we studied. Different patterns of pollen dispersal (predominantly short‐distance vs. long‐distance pollination) were observed between intra‐ and interspecific hybridization events in the garden. Pollen dispersal within the ex situ populations was not restricted by distance, as evidenced by a lack of significant correlations between the average effective pollen dispersal distance (δ) and the geographic distances (d1 and d2) between maternal and paternal trees. The interspecific pollen‐dispersal distance ranged from 10 to 620.1 m (mean 294.4 m). Such extensive hybridization in ex situ collections could jeopardize the genetic integrity of endangered species and irrevocably contaminate the gene pool if such hybrids are used for reintroduction and restoration. We recommend strongly that measures be taken to minimize the genetic risks of this kind of hybridization, including establishing buffer zones in ex situ collections, manipulating flowering phenology, testing seed lots before use in reintroduction programs, and controlling pollination for seed purity.
Activation of MAP kinases, Akt and PDGF receptors in injured peripheral nerves
Authors: Yamazaki Takashi , Sabit Hemragul , Oya Takeshi , Ishii Yoko , Hamashima Takeru , Tokunaga Ayano , Ishizawa Shin , Jie Shen , Kurashige Yoichi , Matsushima Takako , Furuta Isao , Noguchi Makoto , Sasahara Masakiyo
Published: November 2009

A number of receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) and the downstream phosphatidylinositol‐3‐kinase (PI3K)/Akt and mitogen‐activated protein (MAP) kinase signaling pathways have been critically involved in peripheral nerve regeneration. Here, we examined the activation of PI3K/Akt and MAP kinase pathways, and platelet‐derived growth factor receptors (PDGFRs) in the distal segments of crushed rat sciatic nerve from 3 to 28 days after injury. In Western blot analyses, the phosphorylated forms of extracellular signal‐regulated protein kinase (ERK) and c‐Jun NH2‐terminal kinases (JNKs) were highly augmented on days 3 and 7 and on days 7 and 14 after injury, respectively. Phosphorylated Akt and p38 consistently increased from 3 to 28 days after injury. Phosphorylated PDGFR‐α and ‐β were also increased from 3 to 14 days. In the immunohistological analyses, phosphorylated ERK and PDGFR‐α were co‐localized in many activated Schwann cells and regrowing axons 3 days after injury, while PDGFR‐β was localized in a few spindle‐shaped cells. The detected temporal profile of RTK signaling appears to be crucial for the regulation of Schwann cell proliferation and following redifferentiation. Furthermore, the immunohistological studies suggested a role of ERK and PDGFR‐α in axon regeneration as well.
Impact of Tricuspid Regurgitation and Prior Coronary Bypass Surgery on the Geometry of the Coronary Sinus: A Rotational Coronary Angiography Study
Authors: BLENDEA DAN , HEIST E. KEVIN , DAS SAUMYA , DANIK STEPHAN , BARRETT CONOR , MELA THEOFANIE , RUSKIN JEREMY N. , SINGH JAGMEET P.
Published: November 2009

Coronary Venous Geometry in Patients Undergoing CRT. Introduction: The coronary sinus (CS) is often distorted in patients with advanced cardiomyopathy, making CS cannulation difficult. The objective of this study was to examine the impact of the underlying cardiac pathology on the variability of the CS anatomy, using rotational coronary venous angiography (RCVA).

Methods and Results:
Seventy‐nine patients undergoing RCVA for cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) were evaluated: age 63 ± 15 years, 43% with prior coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). Aspects of the CS anatomy which could impact cannulation were examined: the CS ostial angle, the posterior displacement of the CS away from the atrioventricular groove, a measure of CS curvature, and the presence of stenoses and aneurysmal dilatations. The CS ostial angle was variable (65–151°, mean 119 ± 19°, <90° in 8 patients) and decreased significantly (P = 0.0022) with increasing severity of tricuspid regurgitation (TR), reaching 94 ± 18° in patients with severe TR. The posterior displacement of the CS was significantly more accentuated in patients with prior CABG when compared with the patients without CABG (7.1 ± 3.7 vs 4.5 ± 2.8 mm; P = 0.0246). The decrease in luminal diameter at the CS–great cardiac vein (GCV) junction was 2.0 ± 1.0 mm, being more pronounced in patients with prior CABG versus nonCABG (26 vs 20%; P = 0.042). Stenoses and aneurysmal dilatations of the CS–GCV were encountered in 4 (5%) and 6 (8%) of patients, respectively, all of them with prior CABG, representing 12% and 18% of the CABG group.

Conclusion:
The CS anatomy in patients undergoing CRT is variable, and is impacted by the severity of the underlying TR and history of a prior CABG. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 21, pp. 436–440, April 2010)
The catechol o‐methyltransferase (COMT) val158met polymorphism modulates the association of serious life events (SLE) and impulsive aggression in female patients with borderline personality disorder (BPD)
Authors: Wagner S. , Baskaya Ö. , Anicker N. J. , Dahmen N. , Lieb K. , Tadić A.
Published: November 2009

Wagner S, Baskaya Ö, Anicker NJ, Dahmen N, Lieb K, Tadić A. The catechol o‐methyltransferase (COMT) val158met polymorphism modulates the association of serious life events (SLE) and impulsive aggression in female patients with borderline personality disorder (BPD).

Objective:  We analyzed i) the effects of serious life events (SLE) on impulsive aggression, and ii) modulating effects of the COMT Val158Met polymorphism on the association between SLEs and impulsive aggression in borderline personality disorder (BPD).

Method:  One hundred and twelve female BPD patients from Germany were included in this study. Impulsive aggression was assessed by the Buss‐Durkee‐Hostility Inventory (BDHI).

Results:  Childhood sexual abuse was associated with lower BDHI sum score (P = 0.003). In COMT Val158Val carriers, but not in Val/Met and Met/Met carriers, childhood sexual abuse and the cumulative number of SLEs were associated with lower BDHI sum scores (P < 0.05).

Conclusion:  This study analyzing a specific gene × environment interaction in female BPD patients suggests an association between SLEs and impulsive aggression, as well as a modulating effect of the COMT Val158Val genotype on the relation between SLEs and impulsive aggression.
Modulation of tropoelastin and fibrillin‐1 by infrared radiation in human skin in vivo
Authors: Chen Zhou , Zhuo Feng‐Lin , Zhang Shang‐Jun , Tian Yan , Tian Shan , Zhang Jian‐Zhong
Published: November 2009

Background: The heat produced by exposure to infrared radiation (IR) has been demonstrated to modulate the expression of tropoelastin and fibrillin‐1, the two main components of elastic fibers in human skin in vivo. However, the effect of IR range of radiations on tropoelastin and fibrillin‐1 expression has not been thoroughly investigated.

Methods: Eighteen volunteers were enrolled in this study involving three trials. Time‐dependent, dose‐dependent and cumulative effects of IR were investigated, respectively. Tropoelastin and fibrillin‐1 expression was measured by immunohistochemical staining on skin biopsy samples from volunteers. In addition, we also measured tropoelastin mRNA expression by a real‐time RT‐polymerase chain reaction.

Results: A single dose of IR (2 minimal heating dose) induced a time‐dependent increase in tropoelastin expression at the protein level. An inverse correlation was found between the alterations of tropoelastin and fibrillin‐1. Furthermore, IR was found to increase tropoelastin expression in a dose‐dependent manner at both the mRNA and the protein level. Repeated low doses of IR increased tropoelastin expression and decreased fibrillin‐1 expression at the protein level in the dermis. Meanwhile, the number of both fibers along the dermal–epidermal junction was increased.

Conclusion: IR can alter the expression of tropoelastin and fibrillin‐1, which may result in abnormal elastic fiber formation.
Effects of Q‐switched and long‐pulsed 1064 nm Nd:YAG laser on enlarged facial pores
Authors: Lee Chang Nam , Kim You Jeong , Lee Hyun Seung , Kim Hei Sung
Published: November 2009

‘Enlarged facial pore’ is a subjective term, which is not clearly defined but often complained by many. A diverse range of treatments are used though evidence of efficacy remains largely anecdotal. We report a series of nine patients who underwent a split face trial with Q‐switched 1064 nm Nd:YAG and long‐pulsed 1064 nm Nd:YAG laser to treat enlarged facial pores.
Reduced ultraviolet irradiation delays subsequent squamous cell carcinomas in hairless mice
Authors: Togsverd‐Bo Katrine , Lerche Catharina M. , Poulsen Thomas , Hædersdal Merete , Wulf Hans Christian
Published: November 2009

Background: Ultraviolet (UV) radiation induces non‐melanoma skin cancer (NMSC), and UV prophylaxis is essential to prevent skin cancer. It is unclear whether patients diagnosed with squamous cell carcinomas (SCC) may benefit from reduced UV exposures in terms of delaying the development of new tumors. The objective was to evaluate the significance of discontinued or reduced UV exposure for the development of subsequent skin tumors.

Methods: Seven groups of mice (n=175) were irradiated with UV doses of 2 and 4 standard erythema doses (SED) that were continued, reduced or discontinued at the time of appearance of the first skin tumor.

Results: The development of new tumors was delayed, corresponding to the degree of reductions in UV dose in an inversely linear manner. Discontinuation of UV doses delayed the median times to the second tumor by 24 days (2 SED, P=0.0549) and 33.5 days (4 SED, P<0.0001), and when reduced to 1 SED, the median delays were 18 days (2 SED, P=0.0469) and 33 days (4 SED, P<0.0001). The median delay to the third tumor was after UV reduction 47 days (4 SED, P<0.0001) and 35 days (2 SED, P=0.151), and after UV discontinuation 49 days (4 SED, P<0.0001) and 44 days (2 SED, P=0.111).

Conclusion: This suggests that patients with SCC may benefit from reduced UV exposure.
Measurements of the upper body ultraviolet exposure to golfers: non‐melanoma skin cancer risk, and the potential benefits of exposure to sunlight
Authors: Downs Nathan J. , Schouten Peter W. , Parisi Alfio V. , Turner Joanna
Published: November 2009

Background: Geographically, Queensland presents an extreme ultraviolet exposure climate to members of the public engaged in outdoor recreational activity. The risk of developing a skin cancer or an eye disease as a result of incidental exposure to naturally occurring ultraviolet radiation in the outdoor environment is proportionately high in a Queensland population compared with fair‐skinned population groups residing in comparable Northern Hemisphere latitudes. In contrast to these risks, elderly members of this high growth population group have been reported to be vitamin D deficient. The risks and potential benefits of exposure to sunlight in southern Queensland are assessed in this study with respect to recreational golfing. This sport is a popular recreational activity for the Queensland population and must be played during daylight hours.

Methods: The erythemal and vitamin D effective ultraviolet exposure measured to the forearm, upper back and vertex are presented for individuals playing golf under various atmospheric conditions in a 7‐month period extending from summer to winter.

Results: Mean summertime exposures were measured in the 2008 study period as be 1.4, 2.2 and 3.2 standard erythema doses (SED) at forearm, upper back and vertex sites, respectively, compared with respective wintertime forearm, upper back and vertex exposures of 0.2, 0.3 and 0.5 SED, where summertime exposures were recorded in the mean solar zenith angle (SZA) ranges of 56–59° and wintertime exposures were recorded in the mean SZA range 74–83°. Vitamin D3 effective exposures were determined to vary from between 225, 325 and 475 J/m2 during summer and 48, 59 and 88 J/m2 during winter for the respective forearm, upper back and vertex body sites measured in the above mean SZA ranges.

Conclusion: Exposures to ambient ultraviolet during winter on the golf course between 15:00 and 17:30 hours could be beneficial for office workers for the production of vitamin D. Optimizing exposure periods to late afternoon in the winter months and taking adequate sun protection measures in the summer months are important strategies that golfers can utilize for long‐term preventative health.
Detecting autologous blood transfusions: a comparison of three passport approaches and four blood markers
Authors: Mørkeberg J. , Sharpe K. , Belhage B. , Damsgaard R. , Schmidt W. , Prommer N. , Gore C. J. , Ashenden M. J.
Published: November 2009

Blood passport has been suggested as an indirect tool to detect various kinds of blood manipulations. Autologous blood transfusions are currently undetectable, and the objective of this study was to examine the sensitivities of different blood markers and blood passport approaches in order to determine the best approach to detect autologous blood transfusions. Twenty‐nine subjects were transfused with either one (n=8) or three (n=21) bags of autologous blood. Hemoglobin concentration ([Hb]), percentage of reticulocytes (%ret) and hemoglobin mass (Hbmass) were measured 1 day before reinfusion and six times after reinfusion. The sensitivity and specificity of a novel marker, Hbmr (based on Hbmass and %ret), was evaluated together with [Hb], Hbmass and OFF‐hr by different passport methods. Our novel Hbmr marker showed superior sensitivity in detecting the highest dosage of transfused blood, with OFF‐hr showing equal or superior sensitivities at lower dosages. Hbmr and OFF‐hr showed superior but equal sensitivities from 1 to 4 weeks after transfusion compared with [Hb] and Hbmass, with Hbmass being the only tenable prospect to detect acute transfusions. Because autologous blood transfusions can be an acute practice with blood withdrawal and reinfusion within a few days, Hbmass seems to be the only option for revealing this practice.
Osteotome Sinus Floor Elevation without Bone Grafts – A 3‐Year Retrospective Study with Astra Tech Implants
Authors: Fermergård Robert , Åstrand Per
Published: November 2009

Background: The bone support for implants in the posterior part of the maxilla is often poor. This condition may be treated with augmentation of the maxillary sinus floor. The most common technique used is to elevate the sinus floor by inserting a bone graft through a window opened in the lateral antral wall. In 1994, a less‐invasive technique using osteotomes was suggested by Summers.

Purpose: The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical and radiographic outcome of implants placed in the posterior maxilla with the osteotome sinus floor elevation (OSFE) technique without grafting.

Materials and Methods: The study population comprised 36 consecutive patients in whom 53 implants were inserted with the OSFE technique. The indication for sinus floor elevation was that the bone height below the maxillary sinus was considered to be 10 mm or less.

Results: The mean height of the alveolar process in the intended implant sites was 6.3 ± 0.3 mm, and the mean elevation of the sinus floor was 4.4 ± 0.2 mm. Two implants in edentulous patients were lost at the 1‐year follow‐up, and one more at the 3‐year examination. The remaining 50 implants inserted were in function, giving a 3‐year cumulative survival rate of 94%. Implants used in single‐tooth replacements and in partially edentulous cases had a 100% survival rate.

The marginal bone level at the time of loading of the implants was 0.1 ± 0.04 mm below the reference point. One year later, the corresponding value was 0.5 ± 0.06 mm. The mean bone loss between the two examinations was 0.4 ± 0.05 mm. At the final examination after 3 years, the mean bone level was situated 0.6 ± 0.09 mm below the reference point, indicating a nonsignificant change between 1 year and 3 years.

Conclusions: The OSFE technique, without bone grafts, was found to produce predictable results in the treatment of 36 patients with restricted bone volume in the posterior part of the maxilla.
Olfactory receptor signaling is regulated by the post‐synaptic density 95, Drosophila discs large, zona‐occludens 1 (PDZ) scaffold multi‐PDZ domain protein 1
Authors: Dooley Ruth , Baumgart Sabrina , Rasche Sebastian , Hatt Hanns , Neuhaus Eva M.
Published: November 2009

The unique ability of mammals to detect and discriminate between thousands of different odorant molecules is governed by the diverse array of olfactory receptors expressed by olfactory sensory neurons in the nasal epithelium. Olfactory receptors consist of seven transmembrane domain G protein‐coupled receptors and comprise the largest gene superfamily in the mammalian genome. We found that approximately 30% of olfactory receptors possess a classical post‐synaptic density 95, Drosophila discs large, zona‐occludens 1 (PDZ) domain binding motif in their C‐termini. PDZ domains have been established as sites for protein–protein interaction and play a central role in organizing diverse cell signaling assemblies. In the present study, we show that multi‐PDZ domain protein 1 (MUPP1) is expressed in the apical compartment of olfactory sensory neurons. Furthermore, on heterologous co‐expression with olfactory sensory neurons, MUPP1 was shown to translocate to the plasma membrane. We found direct interaction of PDZ domains 1 + 2 of MUPP1 with the C‐terminus of olfactory receptors in vitro. Moreover, the odorant‐elicited calcium response of OR2AG1 showed a prolonged decay in MUPP1 small interfering RNA‐treated cells. We have therefore elucidated the first building blocks of the putative ‘olfactosome’, brought together by the scaffolding protein MUPP1, a possible central nucleator of the olfactory response.

Structured digital abstract

 MINT‐7290305: OR2AG1 (uniprotkb:Q9H205) physically interacts (MI:0915) with MUPP1 (uniprotkb:O75970) by anti tag coimmunoprecipitation (MI:0007)

 MINT‐7289999, MINT‐7290250, MINT‐7290063, MINT‐7290110: OR2AG1 (uniprotkb:Q9H205) binds (MI:0407) to MUPP1 (uniprotkb:O75970) by peptide array (MI:0081)

 MINT‐7290162: mOR283‐1 (uniprotkb:Q9D3U9) binds (MI:0407) to MUPP1 (uniprotkb:O75970) by peptide array (MI:0081)

 MINT‐7290128: mOR‐EG (uniprotkb:Q920P2) binds (MI:0407) to MUPP1 (uniprotkb:O75970) by peptide array (MI:0081)

 MINT‐7290219: hOR3A1 (uniprotkb:P47881) binds (MI:0407) to MUPP1 (uniprotkb:O75970) by peptide array (MI:0081)

 MINT‐7290191: hOR1D2 (uniprotkb:P34982) binds (MI:0407) to MUPP1 (uniprotkb:O75970) by peptide array (MI:0081)

 MINT‐7289922: AC3 (uniprotkb:Q8VHH7) and MUPP1 (uniprotkb:O75970) colocalize (MI:0403) by fluorescence microscopy (MI:0416)

 MINT‐7289933, MINT‐7289954, MINT‐7289978: OR2AG1 (uniprotkb:Q9H205) binds (MI:0407) to MUPP1 (uniprotkb:O75970) by pull down (MI:0096)
Interleukin‐1‐inducible MCPIP protein has structural and functional properties of RNase and participates in degradation of IL‐1β mRNA
Authors: Mizgalska Danuta , Węgrzyn Paulina , Murzyn Krzysztof , Kasza Aneta , Koj Aleksander , Jura Jacek , Jarząb Barbara , Jura Jolanta
Published: November 2009

In human monocyte‐derived macrophages, the MCPIP gene (monocyte chemoattractant protein‐induced protein) is strongly activated by interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β). Using bioinformatics, a PIN domain was identified, spanning amino acids 130‐280; such domains are known to possess structural features of RNases. Recently, RNase properties of MCPIP were confirmed on transcripts coding for interleukins IL‐6 and IL‐12p40. Here we present evidence that siRNA‐mediated inhibition of the MCPIP gene expression increases the level of the IL‐1β transcript in cells stimulated with LPS, whereas overexpression of MCPIP exerts opposite effects. Cells with an increased level of wild‐type MCPIP showed lower levels of IL‐1β mRNA. However, this was not observed when mutant forms of MCPIP, either entirely lacking the PIN domain or with point mutations in this domain, were used. The results of experiments with actinomycin D indicate that lower levels of IL‐1β mRNA are due to shortening of the IL‐1β transcript half‐life, and are not related to the presence of AU‐rich elements in the 3′ UTR. The interaction of the MCPIP with transcripts of both IL‐1β and MCPIP observed in an RNA immunoprecipitation assay suggests that this novel RNase may be involved in the regulation of expression of several genes.
FAKING IN PERSONNEL SELECTION: TRADEOFFS IN PERFORMANCE VERSUS FAIRNESS RESULTING FROM TWO CUT‐SCORE STRATEGIES
Authors: BERRY CHRISTOPHER M. , SACKETT PAUL R.
Published: November 2009

Most faking research has examined the use of personality measures when using top‐down selection. We used simulation to examine the use of personality measures in selection systems using cut scores and outlined a number of issues unique to these situations. In particular, we compared the use of 2 methods of setting cut scores on personality measures: applicant‐data‐derived (ADD) and nonapplicant‐data‐derived (NADD) cut‐score strategies. We demonstrated that the ADD strategy maximized mean performance resulting from the selection system in the face of applicant faking but that this strategy also resulted in the displacement of deserving applicants by fakers (which has fairness implications). On the other hand, the NADD strategy minimized displacement of deserving applicants but at the cost of some mean performance. Therefore, the use of the ADD versus NADD strategies can be viewed as a strategic decision to be made by the organization, as there is a tradeoff between the 2 strategies in effects on performance versus fairness to applicants. We quantitatively outlined these tradeoffs at various selection ratios, levels of validity, and amounts of faking in the applicant pool.
Hurricane Disturbance Alters Secondary Forest Recovery in Puerto Rico
Authors: Flynn Dan F.B. , Uriarte María , Crk Tanja , Pascarella John B. , Zimmerman Jess K. , Aide T. Mitchell , Caraballo Ortiz Marcos A.
Published: November 2009

Land‐use history and large‐scale disturbances interact to shape secondary forest structure and composition. How introduced species respond to disturbances such as hurricanes in post‐agriculture forest recovery is of particular interest. To examine the effects of hurricane disturbance and previous land use on forest dynamics and composition, we revisited 37 secondary forest stands in former cattle pastures across Puerto Rico representing a range of exposure to the winds of Hurricane Georges in 1998. Stands ranged from 21 to>80 yr since agricultural abandonment and were measured 9 yr posthurricane. Stem density decreased as stands aged, while basal area and species richness tended to increase. Hurricane disturbance exerted contrasting effects on stand structure, contingent on stand age. In older stands, the basal area of large trees fell, shifting to a stand structure characteristic of younger stands, while the basal area of large trees tended to rise in younger stands with increasing hurricane disturbance. These results demonstrate that large‐scale natural disturbances can alter the successional trajectory of secondary forest stands recovering from human land use, but stand age, precipitation and soil series were better predictors of changes in stand structure across all study sites. Species composition changed substantially between census intervals, but neither age nor hurricane disturbance consistently predicted species composition change. However, exposure to hurricane winds tended to decrease the abundance of the introduced treeSpathodea campanulata, particularly in smaller size classes. In all sites the abundance of the introduced treeSyzygium jambosshowed a declining trend, again most strongly in smaller size classes, suggesting natural thinning through succession.
Beyond Tropical Forests Adoption: Contextualizing Conservation Strategies
Authors: Romero Claudia , Peña‐Claros Marielos
Published: November 2009

The complexity of factors driving tropical deforestation demand integrated approaches from concerned researchers and policy makers. Strict protection is sometimes the most appropriate mode of conservation, but conservation through management is often the better option. In either case, this essay highlights the importance of considering the social/cultural, economic, and political contexts in which these forests are threatened. By attempting to understand the cultural settings, institutional architectures and dynamics, and local expectations, and then by combining the concepts and tools of a range of disciplines, researchers will be more likely to forge lasting partnerships and increase their potential for sustained improvement in resource management and overall forest conservation.