bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pulsed dye laser vs. photodynamic therapy in the treatment of refractory nail psoriasis: a comparative pilot study
Authors: Fernández‐Guarino M , Harto A , Sánchez‐Ronco M , García‐Morales I , Jaén P
Published: March 2009

Background  Nail psoriasis is often refractory to traditional treatments, and patients with nail psoriasis usually demand a therapeutic option. Both photodynamic therapy (PDT) and pulse dye laser (PDL) have proved effective for plaque‐type psoriasis, but they have not been evaluated in nail psoriasis. On the other hand, delta‐aminolaevulinic acic has been shown to penetrate into the nail matrix and nail bed occluded with bioadhesive patches.

Objectives  To compare the efficacy of PDT and PDL in the treatment of nail psoriasis

Methods  We studied 61 nails treated with PDT and 60 nails treated with PDL in a group of 14 patients. The PDT used PDL as the light source. Sessions were applied monthly treating one hand with PDT and the other with PDL. The hand treated with PDT was occluded with methyl‐aminolaevulinic acic (MAL, Metvix®) for 3 h using a bioadhesive patch. The nails treated were evaluated at baseline, and after 3 and 6 months according to the Nail Psoriasis Severity Index (NAPSI) score.

Results  A decrease in NAPSI score was observed with both treatments and in both nail matrix and nail bed involvement. No statistical differences were found between PDT and PDL (P = 0.632, P = 0.084, P = 0.535, at baseline, and 3 and 6 months, respectively), and between nail matrix and nail bed NAPSI scores (P = 0.423 and P = 0.853, respectively). The subjective impression of the patients was good, especially regarding the decrease in the pain.

Conclusions  PDL seems to be effective in the treatment of nail psoriasis and improves nail matrix and nail bed involvement. MAL does not seem to play role in the clinical response.

Conflicts of interest

None declared.
Early parental depression and child language development
Authors: Paulson James F. , Keefe Heather A. , Leiferman Jenn A.
Published: March 2009

Objective:  To examine the effects of early maternal and paternal depression on child expressive language at age 24 months and the role that parent‐to‐child reading may play in this pathway.

Participants and methods:  The 9‐month and 24‐month waves from a national prospective study of children and their families, the Early Childhood Longitudinal Study – Birth Cohort (ECLS‐B), provided data on 4,109 two‐parent families. Depressive symptoms were measured with a short form of the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES‐D). Parents reported on positive parent–infant interactions, child expressive vocabulary, and demographic and health information at child age 9 and 24 months. Linear regression was used to estimate associations between depression, parenting, and child vocabulary. Structural equation modeling was used to test the hypothesis that parent reading behavior mediates the parent depression to child vocabulary pathway. These models were adjusted for demographic indicators.

Results:  As previously reported from this national sample, 14% of mothers and 10% of fathers exhibited elevated levels of depressive symptoms at 9 months. For both mothers and fathers, depression at 9 months was negatively associated with contemporaneous parent‐to‐child reading. Only for fathers, however, was earlier depression associated with later reading to child and related child expressive vocabulary development. A model describing this pathway demonstrated a significant indirect pathway from depression to vocabulary via parent reading to child.

Conclusions:  Depression is a significant problem among both mothers and fathers of young children, but has a more marked impact on the father’s reading to his child and, subsequently, the child’s language development.
Ant‐plants and fungi: a new threeway symbiosis
Authors: Defossez Emmanuel , Selosse Marc‐André , Dubois Marie‐Pierre , Mondolot Laurence , Faccio Antonella , Djieto‐Lordon Champlain , McKey Doyle , Blatrix Rumsaïs
Published: March 2009

DOI: 10.1111/j.1469-8137.2009.02863.x
Commentary p 785
The relationship of cerebral palsy subtype and functional motor impairment: a population‐based study
Authors: SHEVELL MICHAEL I , DAGENAIS LYNN , HALL NICHOLAS ,   THE REPACQ CONSORTIUM
Published: March 2009

Aim Traditionally, cerebral palsy (CP) had been classified according to the distribution and quality of motor impairment. A standardized functional classification of gross motor skills has recently been validated – the Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS). The relationship between the neurological subtype of CP and GMFCS level remains undefined in CP.

Method The Quebec Cerebral Palsy Registry (Registre de la paralysie cérébrale au Québec [REPACQ]) over a 4‐year birth interval (1999–2002 inclusive) identified 301 children with CP. Information on both CP subtype and GMFCS level was available for 243 children (138 males, 105 females) with final data extraction at a mean age of 44 months (SD 14mo, range 24–79mo). Proportions of children with a particular CP subtype at GMFCS levels I to III versus levels IV to V were determined and compared.

Results CP subtype versus GMFCS levels I to III or IV to V was distributed proportionally as follows: spastic diplegic, 51/52 (98%) versus 1/52 (2%); spastic quadriparetic, 20/85 (24%) versus 65/85 (76%); spastic hemiplegic, 76/77 (99%) versus 1/77 (1%); dyskinetic, 4/16 (25%) versus 12/16 (75%); other (triplegic or ataxic–hypotonic), 10/13 (77%) versus 3/13 (23%). These distributions (proportions) all yielded significant (p<0.001) Pearson χ2values.

InterpretationNeurological subtype is a powerful predictor of functional status related to ambulation. This has implications for counseling families.
First‐trimester increase in oxidative stress and risk of small‐for‐gestational‐age fetus
Authors: Potdar N , Singh R , Mistry V , Evans MD , Farmer PB , Konje JC , Cooke MS
Published: March 2009

Objective  Investigation of increased oxidative stress in early pregnancy and association with an increased risk of small‐for‐gestational‐age (SGA) fetus.

Design  Longitudinal case–control study.

Setting  University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust, Leicester, UK.

Population  Low‐risk pregnant women with no current or pre‐existing medical illness were recruited at a large teaching hospital from 2004 to 2006.

Methods  Recruitment performed at the time of the dating ultrasound scan (12 ± 2 weeks of gestation). Spot urine samples collected at 12 ± 2 and 28 ± 2 weeks of gestation were analysed for 8‐oxo‐7,8‐dihydro‐2′‐deoxyguanosine (8‐oxodG) by liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry). SGA was defined as birthweight <10th centile based on customised centile calculator (www.gestation.net). This identified the cases (n= 55), whereas controls (n= 55) were mothers whose babies were appropriate for gestational age (AGA, birthweight 10th–90th centile). Statistical analysis was performed using GraphPad Prism v.5. The relationship between maternal urinary 8‐oxodG at different gestations and customised SGA was investigated by nonparametric tests.

Main outcome measures  Customised SGA and AGA pregnancies.

Results  Urinary 8‐oxodG concentrations were significantly increased in pregnancies with subsequent SGA compared with concentrations in normal pregnancies; 12 weeks: 2.8 (interquartile range [IQR] 1.96–3.67) versus 2.2 (IQR 1.26–3.28) pmol 8‐oxodG/μmol creatinine (P= 0.0007); 28 weeks: 2.21 (IQR 1.67–3.14) versus 1.68 (IQR 1.16–2.82) pmol 8‐oxodG/μmol creatinine (P < 0.0002). Concentrations decreased significantly between week 12 and 28 (P= 0.04 and P= 0.02 for controls and cases).

Conclusions  In this study, urinary 8‐oxodG at 12 and 28 weeks were elevated in SGA compared with AGA pregnancies. This may reflect early placental changes predating clinical features of SGA.
Towards a critical political ecology of human–forest interactions: collecting herbs and mushrooms in a Bulgarian locality
Authors: Staddon Chad
Published: March 2009

This paper presents a critical political ecology of human–forest interactions in a Bulgarian locality. Based on primary fieldwork carried out annually since 1992, the argument is advanced that even in a relatively small space, environment–society relationships are sufficiently complex to make the enterprises of empirical analysis and theory‐building quite challenging. Yet, as this case study of informal resource use practices shows, it is precisely because environment–society relationships are so intertwined that a ‘symmetrical’ treatment of humans and non‐human actors is required; one that takes us well beyond the traditional political ecology of Blaikie or Black, but which, I shall argue, does not escape it entirely. Through a detailed ethnographic account of herb and mushroom collecting I develop the idea of ‘symmetry’ in three distinct ways. First I will explore the by now well‐publicised notion that non‐humans can be actors too. Second this basic insight will be developed via the more advanced conceptualisation of entities such as Thrift's ‘effloresences’ or expressions of ‘distributed’ information spaces and applied to the case study of herb and mushroom collection in a southwestern Bulgarian locality. Finally I consider the theoretical and practical policy implications of this analysis for all concerned, but most particularly those who claim to ‘manage’ and ‘regulate’ human–forest interactions.
Longitudinal monocyte Human leukocyte antigen‐DR expression is a prognostic marker in critically ill patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis
Authors: Berres Marie‐Luise , Schnyder Barbara , Yagmur Eray , Inglis Brett , Stanzel Sven , Tischendorf Jens J. W. , Koch Alexander , Winograd Ron , Trautwein Christian , Wasmuth Hermann E.
Published: March 2009

Background: Critical illness in cirrhotic patients is associated with a poor prognosis and increased susceptibility to infections. Monocyte HLA‐DR expression is decreased in cirrhotic patients, but its prognostic value has not been investigated prospectively.

Methods: Thirty‐eight critically ill patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis were included in this prospective study. On admission to the intensive care unit (ICU), inflammatory parameters (C‐reactive protein, procalcitonin and lipopolysaccharide‐binding protein), interleukin (IL)‐10, interferon (IFN)‐γ serum levels, tumour necrosis factor (TNF)‐αex vivo stimulation (whole blood assay) and HLA‐DR expression on monocytes (FACS analysis) were determined. Immune parameters were furthermore measured every third day until discharge from the ICU or death of the patients.

Results: Intensive care unit mortality of the cirrhotic patients was 34.2%. During admission, TNF ex vivo, IFN‐γ and HLA‐DR expression were lower in non‐survivors (all P<0.05), while IL‐10 levels were increased in non‐survivors compared with survivors (P=0.001). However, individual values clearly overlapped between groups. Prospective analysis revealed that monocyte HLA‐DR expression remained stable or increased in survivors, but decreased in non‐survivors (P=0.002). A decrease in HLA‐DR expression between admission and day 3 was strongly associated with decreased IFN‐γ levels and increased ICU mortality (hazard ratio 3.36, P=0.008), mostly owing to late sepsis. This association was independent of the sequential organ failure assessment and model for end‐stage liver disease score.

Conclusions: Here we establish the relative HLA‐DR expression (admission/day 3) as a prognostic marker for ICU mortality in critically ill cirrhotic patients. These results may guide the evaluation of immune‐modulating therapies in these patients.
High‐risk Population for Gastric Cancer Development Based on Serum Pepsinogen Status and Lifestyle Factors
Authors: Yamaji Yutaka , Watabe Hirotsugu , Yoshida Haruhiko , Kawabe Takao , Wada Ryoichi , Mitsushima Toru , Omata Masao
Published: March 2009

Background: Gastric atrophy is a major risk factor for non‐cardiac gastric cancer. Serum pepsinogen status could identify people at high‐risk for gastric cancer development during our previous cohort study. However, lifestyle‐related factors may additionally affect this risk.

Materials and methods: A total of 6983 Japanese were followed up by annual endoscopy in the previous study, and 43 cases of gastric cancer including two cardiac cancers developed. In most subjects, the body length and weight were measured and a questionnaire was applied to gather information regarding life habits. The risk of non‐cardiac gastric cancer development during surveillance was re‐analyzed based on serum pepsinogen, sex, age, body mass index (BMI), alcohol, and smoking habit.

Results: A total of 6158 subjects with 37 non‐cardiac gastric cancer development (male/female = 4259/1899, mean age = 49.0, mean follow‐up period = 4.79 years) were entered into analysis. In a multivariate analysis, old age (by 10 years; (odds ratio) OR, 2.8; p < .001), alcohol (weekly; OR, 2.4; p = .03), smoking (current; OR, 5.6; p = .006 and past; OR, 3.9; p = .04), and pepsinogen status (“atrophic”; OR, 6.2; p < .001) were independent risk factors, whereas BMI was not. The annual incidence of gastric cancer was 1.2% in the older subjects aged ≥ 60 years with “atrophic” pepsinogen status. Moreover, it was as high as 2.9% when they had both alcohol and current smoking habits.

Conclusions: Old age, alcohol, and smoking habits additionally promoted the risk for gastric cancer in subjects with gastric atrophy.
Gadolinium‐Associated Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis in a 9‐Year‐Old Boy
Authors: Foss Clare , Smith Jeff K. , Ortiz Luis , Hanevold Coral , Davis Loretta
Published: March 2009

Abstract:  We describe a 9‐year‐old boy on chronic hemodialysis who presented with hyperpigmented, tightly bound‐down, indurated plaques of his bilateral lower extremities. Pertinent history included a recent series of magnetic resonance imaging tests utilizing gadolinium‐based contrast media. Histopathology showed widened septae with increased fibroblasts and collagen in the subcutis consistent with nephrogenic systemic fibrosis. Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis is a unique fibrosing disorder characterized by skin thickening of the extremities and trunk, resembling that seen in systemic sclerosis. The majority of cases have been reported in dialysis or renal transplant patients. This case of nephrogenic systemic fibrosis in a young child is presented to raise awareness in the pediatric community of nephrogenic systemic fibrosis and of gadolinium contrast being a possible trigger.
The Dimensionality of DSM‐IV Alcohol Use Disorders Among Adolescent and Adult Drinkers and Symptom Patterns by Age, Gender, and Race/Ethnicity
Authors: Harford Thomas C. , Yi Hsiao‐ye , Faden Vivian B. , Chen Chiung M.
Published: March 2009

Background:  There is limited information on the validity of Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition (DSM‐IV) alcohol use disorders (AUD) symptom criteria among adolescents in the general population. The purpose of this study is to assess the DSM‐IV AUD symptom criteria as reported by adolescent and adult drinkers in a single representative sample of the U.S. population aged 12 years and older. This design avoids potential confounding due to differences in survey methodology when comparing adolescents and adults from different surveys.

Methods:  A total of 133,231 current drinkers (had at least 1 drink in the past year) aged 12 years and older were drawn from respondents to the 2002 to 2005 National Surveys on Drug Use and Health. DSM‐IV AUD criteria were assessed by questions related to specific symptoms occurring during the past 12 months. Factor analytic and item response theory models were applied to the 11 AUD symptom criteria to assess the probabilities of symptom item endorsements across different values of the underlying trait.

Results:  A 1‐factor model provided an adequate and parsimonious interpretation for the 11 AUD criteria for the total sample and for each of the gender–age groups. The MIMIC model exhibited significant indication for item bias among some criteria by gender, age, and race/ethnicity. Symptom criteria for “tolerance,”“time spent,” and “hazardous use” had lower item thresholds (i.e., lower severity) and low item discrimination, and they were well separated from the other symptoms, especially in the 2 younger age groups (12 to 17 and 18 to 25). “Larger amounts,”“cut down,”“withdrawal,” and “legal problems” had higher item thresholds but generally lower item discrimination, and they tend to exhibit greater dispersion at higher AUD severity, particularly in the youngest age group (12 to 17).

Conclusions:  Findings from the present study do not provide support for the 2 separate DSM‐IV diagnoses of alcohol abuse and dependence among either adolescents or adults. Variations in criteria severity for both abuse and dependence offer support for a dimensional approach to diagnosis which should be considered in the ongoing development of DSM‐V.
National Institutions and the Globalized Political Economy of Technological Change: An Introduction
Authors: Breznitz Dan
Published: March 2009

In the last three decades research across the social sciences has made great advances in the political economy of technological change. Nonetheless, many of these insights are solely tied to national, sometimes regional, explanations of industrial R&D and innovation rates. Meanwhile, the impacts of the international system, and of the actions of individual countries, on technological changes across many countries, are increasingly more pronounced. It is therefore imperative that we expand our theoretical conceptualizations. For these reasons we have gathered, in this special issue, economists, political scientists, geographers, and sociologists to explore in a comparative way what we view as some of the critical areas for research at two different level of analysis—business and nations. This introduction will outline their major research themes and provide a brief history of the debate.
Achieving symptomatic remission in out‐patients with schizophrenia – a naturalistic study with quetiapine
Authors: Wobrock T. , Köhler J. , Klein P. , Falkai P.
Published: March 2009

Objective:  Symptomatic remission was defined as a score of mild or less on each of eight key schizophrenia symptoms on the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS‐8). To evaluate the symptomatic remission criterion in clinical practice and to determine predictors for achieving symptomatic remission, a 12‐week non‐interventional study (NIS) with quetiapine was conducted in Germany.

Method:  For the comparison of patients with and without symptomatic remission, sociodemographic and clinical variables of 693 patients were analyzed by logistic regression for their predictive value to achieve remission.

Results:  Four hundred and four patients (58.3%) achieved symptomatic remission after 12 weeks’ treatment with quetiapine. Remission was significantly predicted by a low degree of PANSS‐8 total score, PANSS single items blunted affect (N1), social withdrawal (N4), lack of spontaneity (N6), mannerism and posturing (G5), and low disease severity (CGI‐S) at baseline. Predictors of non‐remission were older age, diagnosis of schizophrenic residuum, multiple previous episodes, longer duration of current episode, presence of concomitant diseases, and alcohol abuse.

Conclusion:  This study demonstrated that the majority of schizophrenia out‐patients achieved symptomatic remission after 12 weeks treatment and confirms the importance of managing negative symptoms in order to achieve disease remission.
Bone response to free form‐fabricated hydroxyapatite and zirconia scaffolds: a histological study in the human maxilla
Authors: Malmström Johan , Slotte Christer , Adolfsson Erik , Norderyd Ola , Thomsen Peter
Published: March 2009

Objectives: Synthetic and biological materials are increasingly used to provide temporary or permanent scaffolds for bone regeneration. This study evaluated the effect of material chemistry and microporosity on bone ingrowth and osseointegration of zirconia (ZrO2) and hydroxyapatite (HA) scaffolds in the human maxilla.

Material and methods: Twelve patients subjected to dental implant placement were enrolled in the study. Scaffolds of ZrO2 and HA were placed in the maxilla of each subject, using a randomization protocol. After 3 months of healing, biopsies were harvested comprising the scaffolds and surrounding bone tissue. The biopsies were processed for histological evaluation and morphometric analysis (bone ingrowth and bone‐to‐scaffold contact).

Results: Healing was uneventful in all cases. All scaffolds demonstrated a measurable bone response using light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Microporous HA scaffolds revealed four times larger bone ingrowth and seven times larger bone contact as compared with ZrO2 scaffolds.

Conclusion: The results show that chemistry and microporosity of HA promote bone ingrowth and bone contact of ceramic scaffolds in human maxilla.
Spontaneous progression of ligatured induced peri‐implantitis at implants with different surface characteristics. An experimental study in dogs II: histological observations
Authors: Albouy Jean‐Pierre , Abrahamsson Ingemar , Persson Leif G. , Berglundh Tord
Published: March 2009

Aim: The aim of the present study was to analyze tissue reactions to plaque formation following ligature removal in experimental peri‐implantitis at commercially available implants in dogs.

Material and methods: Mandibular premolars and the three anterior premolars in both sides of the maxilla were extracted in six Labrador dogs. After 3 months, four implants representing four different implant systems – groups A (turned), B (TiOblast), C (SLA), D (TiUnite) – were placed in a randomized order in the right side of the mandible. Three months after implant installation, experimental peri‐implantitis was initiated by placement of ligatures and plaque formation. The ligatures were removed when about 40–50% of the supporting bone was lost. After the subsequent 24‐week period of continued plaque accumulation, block biopsies containing implants and their surrounding tissues were obtained and prepared for histological analysis.

Results: All types of implants exhibited extensive inflammatory cell infiltrates and large associated crater‐formed osseous defects. The lesions were consistently characterized by insufficient encapsulation of pus and biofilm layers and the inflammatory cell infiltrates extended apical of the pocket epithelium. The presence of numerous osteoclasts indicated active tissue destruction. The vertical dimension and the overall surface area of the infiltrated connective tissue (ICT) were larger at implants of group D than at other implant types.

Conclusion: It is suggested that spontaneous progression of peri‐implantitis is associated with severe inflammation and tissue destruction.
Stability change of chemically modified sandblasted/acid‐etched titanium palatal implants. A randomized‐controlled clinical trial
Authors: Schätzle Marc , Männchen Roland , Balbach Ulrike , Hämmerle Christoph H. F. , Toutenburg Helge , Jung Ronald E.
Published: March 2009

Aim: The aim of this randomized‐controlled clinical study was to examine stability changes of palatal implants with chemically modified sandblasted/acid‐etched (modSLA) titanium surface compared with a standard SLA surface, during the early stages of bone healing.

Materials and methods: Forty adult volunteers were recruited and randomly assigned to the test group (modSLA surface) and to the control group (SLA surface). The test and control implants had the same microscopic and macroscopic topography, but differed in surface chemistry. To document implant stability changes resonance frequency analysis (RFA) was performed at implant insertion, at 7, 14, 21, 28, 35, 42, 49, 56, 70 and 84 days thereafter. RFA values were expressed as an implant stability quotient (ISQ).

Results: Immediately after implant installation, the ISQ values for both surfaces tested were not significantly different and yielded mean values of 73.8±5 for the control and 72.7±3.9 for the test surface. In the first 2 weeks after implant installation, both groups showed only small changes and thereafter a decreasing trend in the mean ISQ levels. In the test group, after 28 days a tendency towards increasing ISQ values was observed and 42 days after surgery the ISQ values corresponded to those after implant insertion. For the SLA‐control group, the trend changed after 35 days and yielded ISQ values corresponding to the baseline after 63 days. After 12 weeks of observation, the test surface yielded significantly higher stability values of 77.8±1.9 compared with the control implants of 74.5±3.9, respectively.

Conclusion: The results support the potential for chemical modification of the SLA surface to positively influence the biologic process of osseointegration and to decrease the healing time.
Regulation of immune responses by interleukin‐27
Authors: Yoshida Hiroki , Yoshiyuki Miyazaki
Published: March 2009

Summary: Cytokine‐mediated immunity plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of various diseases including autoimmunity. Recently, interleukin‐27 (IL‐27) was identified, which, along with IL‐12, IL‐23, and IL‐35, belongs to the IL‐12 cytokine family. These family members play roles in the regulation of T helper (Th) cell differentiation. IL‐27 is unique in that while it induces Th1 differentiation, the same cytokine suppresses immune responses. In the absence of IL‐27‐mediated immunosuppression, hyper‐production of various pro‐inflammatory cytokines concomitant with severe inflammation in affected organs was observed in IL‐27 receptor α chain (WSX‐1)‐deficient mice infected with Trypanosoma cruzi. Experimental allergic or inflammatory responses were also enhanced in WSX‐1‐deficient mice. The immunosuppressive effects of IL‐27 depend on inhibition of the development of Th17 cells (a newly identified inflammatory T‐helper population) and induction of IL‐10 production. Moreover, administration of IL‐27 or augmentation of IL‐27 signaling suppresses some diseases of autoimmune or allergic origin, demonstrating its potential in therapy of diseases mediated by inflammatory cytokines. In this review, we discuss recent studies on the role of IL‐27 in immunity to parasitic and bacterial infections as well as in allergy and autoimmunity in view of its pro‐ and anti‐inflammatory properties.
A role of miR‐27 in the regulation of adipogenesis
Authors: Lin Qun , Gao Zhanguo , Alarcon Rodolfo M. , Ye Jianping , Yun Zhong
Published: March 2009

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are involved in a plethora of important biological processes, from embryonic development to homeostasis in adult tissues. Recently, miRNAs have emerged as a class of epigenetic regulators of metabolism and energy homeostasis. We have investigated the role of miRNAs in the regulation of adipogenic differentiation. In this article, we demonstrate that the miR‐27 gene family is downregulated during adipogenic differentiation. Overexpression of miR‐27 specifically inhibited adipocyte formation, without affecting myogenic differentiation. We also found that expression of miR‐27 resulted in blockade of expression of PPARγ and C/EBPα, the two master regulators of adipogenesis. Importantly, expression of miR‐27 was increased in fat tissue of obese mice and was regulated by hypoxia, an important extracellular stress associated with obesity. Our data strongly suggest that miR‐27 represents a new class of adipogenic inhibitors and may play a role in the pathological development of obesity.
Physiological Effects of a Novel Immune Stimulator Drug, (1,4)‐α‐d‐Glucan, in Rats
Authors: Koppada Ravishankar , Norozian Faraz M. , Torbati Dan , Kalomiris Sophia , Ramachandran Cheppail , Totapally Balagangadhar R.
Published: March 2009

Abstract:  The (1,4)‐α‐d‐glucan (α‐d‐glucan), derived from medicinal plant, Tinospora cordifolia, activates human lymphocytes with downstream synthesis of the pro‐ and anti‐inflammatory cytokines, in vitro. We investigated physiological and immunological effects of a low and a high dose of α‐d‐glucan (0.5 and 10 mg/kg), in vivo, testing the hypothesis that intravenous administration of α‐d‐glucan does not affect haemodynamic, respiratory, haematological, and immune responses in normal rats. Male rats (300–400 g) were anaesthetized, tracheostomized, and catheterized in one femoral artery and vein. The mean arterial blood pressure and heart rate were continuously recorded. The baselines for gas exchange, differential blood cell count, and plasma concentration of TNF‐α, IL‐1β, IL‐4, IL‐6, and IFN‐γ were determined. Rats were then randomly assigned to controls (n = 7), a low dose (0.5 mg/kg; n = 10), and a high dose (10 mg/kg; n = 7) of α‐d‐glucan for a six 6 hr study period. Gas exchange, differential cell count, plasma concentration of TNF‐α, IL‐1β, IL‐4, IL‐6, and IFN‐γ, and mean arterial blood pressure values remained within physiological range. Intravenous administration of 10 mg/kg α‐d‐glucan created tachycardia, associated with hyperventilation, and significant reductions in the blood haemoglobin and haematocrit concentrations. We suggest that these in vivo effects of α‐d‐glucan should be considered for future clinical and/or experimental trials.
Female Sexual Well-Being Scale™ (FSWB Scale™): Development and Psychometric Validation in Sexually Functional Women
Authors: Rosen Raymond C. , Bachmann Gloria A. , Reese Jennifer Barsky , Gentner Louis , Leiblum Sandra , Wajszczuk Charles , Wanser Rita
Published: March 2009

Introduction

No validated instrument exists for measuring female sexual well-being (FSWB™) in women without medical/psychosocial conditions.

Aims

To develop and psychometrically validate a self-administered Female Sexual Well-Being Scale™ (FSWB Scale™) for assessing sexual well-being in sexually functional women.

Methods

Important aspects of FSWB™ were identified via focus groups, debriefing interviews, and administration of an initial scale to 111 US women aged 21–72 years reporting normal sexual function (Female Sexual Function Index >26). Principal components analysis and psychometric validity testing of a FSWB Scale™ were conducted in a second study of 332 women.

Main Outcome Measures

To develop a FSWB Scale, based on qualitative input from women reporting normal sexual function, and determine its factor structure and psychometric validity.

Results

Four aspects of FSWB were identified from the qualitative research. Women’s preferred language to describe sexual well-being and preferred response formats were incorporated into the scale. A principle components analysis of quantitative study data from 332 women aged 21–72 years reporting normal sexual function identified 5 factors with eigenvalues >1: interpersonal domain (6 items), cognitive-emotional domain (5 items), physical arousal domain (3 items), orgasm-satisfaction domain (3 items), and external lubrication domain (2 items). The external lubrication domain did not demonstrate strong positive correlations with the other 4 domains, so it was not retained in the final scale. A high degree of internal consistency was demonstrated for the 4 domains (Cronbach’s alpha values: 0.84–0.92). Test-retest reliability over a 2-week period was high (r > 0.80) or moderately high (r > 0.70) for the 4 domain scores. Correlation coefficients between FSWB Scale domain scores and standardized scale scores for female sexual function, depression, and social desirability demonstrated the construct validity of the FSWB Scale.

Conclusion

A 17-item FSWB Scale was developed and psychometrically validated as a reliable, multidimensional, self-administered instrument for assessing sexual well-being in women of different ages.
THIN‐LAYER DRYING BEHAVIORS OF OLIVE LEAVES (OLEA EUROPAEA L.)
Authors: ERBAY ZAFER , ICIER FILIZ
Published: March 2009

Recently, interest in olive leaves has increased because of their high phenolic contents. Although the critical process in olive leaf treatment is drying, the drying behavior of olive leaves has not been known yet in the literature. In this study, olive leaves were dried in a tray drier at the temperature range of 50–70C and velocity range of 0.5–1.5 m/s. Eleven different semitheoretical thin‐layer drying curve models were used to characterize the drying behavior of olive leaves. Effects of drying air temperature and velocity on model coefficients were determined by multiple regression analysis. The correlation coefficient (r), the reduced chi square (χ2) and the root mean square error (RMSE) were taken as the statistical criteria parameters for model comparisons. It was found that the modified Henderson and Pabis model represented drying characteristics best with r = 0.9955. Effective diffusivity was computed by taking account of temperature and air velocity. The temperature‐ and velocity–temperature‐dependent activation energies were 60.97 ± 3.21 and 75.98 kJ/mol, respectively. It was concluded that olive leaves could be dried successfully by thin‐layer drying procedure, and the drying rate was influenced mainly by drying air temperature.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Olive trees are important plants covering ∼8 million hectares in the whole world. Recent studies have shown that olive leaves have higher amounts of phenolic contents such as oleuropein and hydroxytyrosol. Oleuropein is especially a very valuable component in food, medicines and in the drug industry.

Although the importance of olive leaves has been discussed in several scientific studies, there have been few studies for using olive leaves industrially. Because the main process in olive leaf treatment is drying, modeling and determining the drying behavior is an important step for designing and optimizing the olive leaf treatment. Unfortunately, there has been no study ever carried out explaining the drying behavior of olive leaves in open literature to the best of the authors' knowledge.
Lateral line system of fish
Authors: BLECKMANN Horst , ZELICK Randy
Published: March 2009

The lateral line is a sensory system that allows fishes to detect weak water motions and pressure gradients. The smallest functional unit of the lateral line is the neuromast, a sensory structure that consists of a hair cell epithelium and a cupula that connects the ciliary bundles of the hair cells with the water surrounding the fish. The lateral line of most fishes consists of hundreds of superficial neuromasts spread over the head, trunk and tail fin. In addition, many fish have neuromasts embedded in lateral line canals that open to the environment through a series of pores. The present paper reviews some more recent aspects of the morphology, behavioral relevance and physiology of the fish lateral line. In addition, it reports some new findings with regard to the coding of bulk water flow.
Soundscapes and the sense of hearing of fishes
Authors: FAY Richard
Published: March 2009

Underwater soundscapes have probably played an important role in the adaptation of ears and auditory systems of fishes throughout evolutionary time, and for all species. These sounds probably contain important information about the environment and about most objects and events that confront the receiving fish so that appropriate behavior is possible. For example, the sounds from reefs appear to be used by at least some fishes for their orientation and migration. These sorts of environmental sounds should be considered much like “acoustic daylight,” that continuously bathes all environments and contain information that all organisms can potentially use to form a sort of image of the environment. At present, however, we are generally ignorant of the nature of ambient sound fields impinging on fishes, and the adaptive value of processing these fields to resolve the multiple sources of sound. Our field has focused almost exclusively on the adaptive value of processing species‐specific communication sounds, and has not considered the informational value of ambient “noise.” Since all fishes can detect and process acoustic particle motion, including the directional characteristics of this motion, underwater sound fields are potentially more complex and information‐rich than terrestrial acoustic environments. The capacities of one fish species (goldfish) to receive and make use of such sound source information have been demonstrated (sound source segregation and auditory scene analysis), and it is suggested that all vertebrate species have this capacity. A call is made to better understand underwater soundscapes, and the associated behaviors they determine in fishes.
Secondary neurogenesis and telencephalic organization in zebrafish and mice: a brief review
Authors: WULLIMANN Mario F.
Published: March 2009

Most zebrafish neurodevelopmental studies have focused on the embryo, which is characterized by primary neurogenesis of mostly transient neurons. Secondary neurogenesis becomes dominant in the hatching larva, when major brain parts are established and begin to differentiate. This developmental period allows for a comparative analysis of zebrafish brain organization with amniotes at equivalent stages of neurogenesis. Within a particular time window, the early forebrains of mice (Embyronic stage [E] 12.5/13.5 days [d]) and zebrafish (3 d) reveal highly comparable expression patterns of genes involved in neurogenesis, for example proneural and other transcription factors (Neurogenin1, NeuroD, Mash1/Zashla and Pax6). Further topological correspondences are seen in the expression of LIM and homeobox genes, such as Lhx6/7, Tbr2 and Dlx2a. When this analysis is extended to gamma‐aminobutyric acid/glutamic acid decarboxylase (GABA/GAD) cell patterns during this critical time window, an astonishing degree of similarity between the two species is again seen, for example regarding the presence of GABA/GAD cells in the subpallium, with the pallium only starting to be invaded by such cells from the subpallium. Furthermore, the expression of proneural and other genes correlates with GABA cell patterns (e.g. Mash1/Zash1a gene expression in GABA‐positive and Neurogenin1/NeuroD in GABA‐negative telencephalic regions) in mice and zebrafish. Data from additional vertebrates, such as Xenopus, are also highly consistent with this analysis. Therefore, the vertebrate forebrain appears to undergo a phylotypic stage of secondary neurogenesis, characterized by regionally separated GABAergic (inhibitory) versus glutamatergic (excitatory) cell production sites, which are obscured later in development by tangential migration. This period is highly advantageous for molecular neuroanatomical cross‐species comparisons.
Oculometry findings in high myopia at adult age: considerations based on oculometric follow‐up data over 28 years in a cohort‐based Danish high‐myopia series
Authors: Fledelius Hans C. , Goldschmidt Ernst
Published: March 2009

Purpose:  To present and discuss oculometry data in a series of adults with high myopia followed between the ages of 26 and 54 years. Emphasis is on axial length (AL) findings and corneal curvature radius (Crad).

Methods:  Thirty‐four out of the 39 individuals recruited as teenagers from a Copenhagen 1948 birth cohort with myopia of at least 6 D have had current follow‐up exams, to include AL measurements (by ultrasound, 1974–2002; the latter year also with the Zeiss IOLMaster) and keratometry. The cross‐sectional and longitudinal analyses are based primarily on the eyes with high myopia; however, the fellow eye is also assessed in unilateral cases.

Results:  At age 54 years, the maximum myopia in the series was −26 D; the highest AL value was 35.4 mm. The myopia had increased in most, with an increase from the 26‐year oculometry baseline averaging 1.0 D [standard deviation (SD) 1.84]. Ultrasound measurements over the 28 years gave a significant correlation between axial eye elongation and myopia progression of adult age (r = 0.65). The regression line was y = 0.43 + 0.36x, with myopia increase on the x‐axis. Throughout sessions, the association between AL and refraction was given by correlation coefficients numerically above 0.8, whereas AL and Crad had r‐values of 0.3–0.5. However, a mean Crad in the sample of 7.66 (SD 0.28) mm meant that the more general expectancy of rather flat corneas in high myopia was not fulfilled. Our data further suggested a reduction in lens power over the study period.

Conclusion:  In relation to refraction, AL and Crad remain the two main oculometry parameters. Apparently the correlation patterns regarding the cornea that are broadly valid for axial ametropia in the population cannot be extended to the marginal high myopia tail of the distribution. A significant proportion of eyes with high myopia thus had steeper corneas than expected, as a so‐called index contribution (albeit a small one) to the marginal refractive error.
BIOACTIVE GLASS SHELL GROWTH OF A Si–Na–Ca–P LAYER ON GOLD NANOPARTICLES FUNCTIONALIZED WITH MERCAPTOPROPYLTRIMETHYLOXYSILANE–SILICATE–TETRAETHYLOTHOSILICATE
Authors: WANG CHIH-KUANG , CHEN SZU-HSIEN , LI WAN-YUN , LAI CHERN-HSIUNG , CHEN WEN-CHENG
Published: March 2009

Calcium phosphate and silicate-modified gold surfaces have potential applications in orthopedic and dental reconstruction, especially when combined with bone cement or dental resins. The aim of this study was to evaluate the formation of a Si – Na – Ca – P glass system nanoshell on functionalized gold nanoparticles. Stable gold nanoparticle suspensions were prepared by controlled reduction of HAuCl 4 using the sodium citrate method to obtain a nanogold-mercaptopropyltrimethyloxysilane (MPTS)–silicate–tetraethylothosilicate (TEOS)-capped particle solution. The nanoshells were formed when directly reacted with a 10-4 M calcium phosphate ion solution. The median nanoparticle diameter was observed to be 15 nm. The MPTS–silicate–TEOS–functionalized nanoshell more effectively formed a glass shell as compared with a nonsilicate nanoshell. The changes in the surface morphology and composition were observed by a scanning transmission electron microscope equipped with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. As seen using EDS, the nanoshell was in a glass phase with CaO -poor layers.
CORROSION INHIBITORY EFFECT OF FEW PIPERIDIN-4-ONE OXIMES ON MILD STEEL IN HYDROCHLORIC ACID MEDIUM
Authors: SENTHILKUMAR A. N. , THARINI K. , SETHURAMAN M. G.
Published: March 2009

Three piperidin-4-one oxime derivatives viz. 3,5-dimethyl-2,6-diphenyl-piperidin-4-one oxime (DDPO), 3-ethyl-2,6-diphenyl-piperidin-4-one oxime (EDPO), and 1-methyl-3-isopropyl-2, 6-diphenyl-piperidin-4-one oxime (MIDPO) were synthesized. Corrosion inhibiting ability of these compounds in 1 M HCl was studied using weight loss study, potentiodynamic polarization measurements, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, XRD and SEM with EDS measurements. Weight loss studies revealed that all the three oximes are good corrosion inhibitors. The order of inhibiting ability of these compounds is as follows: DDPO > EDPO > MINDO. Results of the polarization measurement showed that these inhibitors do not alter the mechanism of either hydrogen evolution or mild steel dissolution reaction, proving the mixed mode of inhibition. At constant acid concentration, increase of inhibitor concentration increased the charge transfer resistance (R ct ), complimented with decrease of double layer capacitance (C dl ), thereby indicating the increase of percentage inhibition efficiency. XRD and SEM with EDS analysis provided strong proof for the existence of inhibitor film over the mild steel surface.
The Institutional Origins of Inequality in Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: van de Walle Nicolas
Published: March 2009

This article provides a political explanation for the unexpectedly high levels of income inequality found in the African region today. Traditional explanations for inequality are reviewed and found not to be compelling. Instead, it is argued that natural endowments in the region shaped the nature of colonial institutions, which in turn created the conditions for the high levels of inequality found today. The surprisingly high levels of inequality in Africa can be understood as resulting from a process of class formation linked to dynamics of state building that have their origins in the economic institutions of the early colonial state. Insofar as political power has often been used to gain economic advantages during the postcolonial era, inequality has changed little over the past 40 years, despite the official focus on development and poverty alleviation by donors and governments alike.
Provision of a voluntary exercise environment enhances running activity and prevents obesity inSnark-deficient mice
Authors: Ichinoseki-Sekine Noriko , Naito Hisashi , Tsuchihara Katsuya , Kobayashi Ikumi , Ogura Yuji , Kakigi Ryo , Kurosaka Mitsutoshi , Fujioka Rumi , Esumi Hiroyasu
Published: March 2009

The present study was performed to investigate the involvement of SNARK in physical activity levels in mice. To examine the acute effect of SNARK deficiency on voluntary running, Snark-deficient mice ( Snark+/−: n = 16) and their wild-type counterparts ( Snark+/+: n = 16) were assigned to sedentary or exercise (1 wk voluntary wheel running) groups. In addition, to clarify the differences in voluntary running activity and its effect between genotypes, mice ( Snark+/+: n = 16; Snark+/−: n = 16) were also kept in individual cages with/without a running wheel for 5 mo. Unexpectedly, in both voluntary running experiments, running distances were increased in Snark+/−mice compared with Snark+/+mice. Under sedentary conditions, body and white adipose tissue weights were increased significantly in Snark+/−mice. However, no significant differences were observed between the two genotypes under exercise conditions, and the values were significantly less than those under sedentary conditions in the long-term experiment. In the short-term experiment, serum interleukin-6 level in exercised Snark+/+mice was the same as that in sedentary Snark+/+mice, whereas that in sedentary Snark+/−mice was significantly lower than in the other groups. In contrast, serum leptin level was reduced significantly in exercised Snark+/−mice compared with sedentary Snark+/−mice. The results of this study demonstrated that exposure to an environment that allows voluntary exercise promotes increased running activity and prevents obesity in Snark-deficient mice.
Role for cumulus cell-produced EGF-like ligands during primate oocyte maturation in vitro
Authors: Nyholt de Prada Jenna K. , Lee Young S. , Latham Keith E. , Chaffin Charles L. , VandeVoort Catherine A.
Published: March 2009

The developmental competence of in vitro-matured (IVM) rhesus macaque cumulus oocyte complexes (COCs) is deficient compared with in vivo-matured (IVM) oocytes. To improve oocyte quality and subsequent embryo development following IVM, culture conditions must be optimized. A series of experiments was undertaken to determine the role of epidermal growth factor (EGF) during IVM of rhesus macaque COCs. The addition of Tyrphostin AG-1478 (a selective inhibitor of the EGF receptor EGFR) to the IVM medium yielded fewer oocytes maturing to metaphase II of meiosis II (MII), decreased cumulus expansion, and a lower percentage of embryos that developed to the blastocyst stage compared with untreated IVM controls, indicating that EGFR activation is important for IVM maturation in the rhesus macaque. However, the addition of recombinant human EGF (r-hEGF) to the IVM medium did not enhance outcome. The expression of mRNAs encoding the EGF-like factors amphiregulin, epiregulin, and betacellulin in cumulus cells indicates that these factors produced by cumulus cells may be responsible for maximal EGFR activation during oocyte maturation, precluding any further effect of exogenous r-hEGF. Additionally, these results illustrate the potential futility of exogenous supplementation of IVM medium without prior knowledge of pathway activity.