bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Mediational Role of Parenting on the Longitudinal Relation Between Child Personality and Externalizing Behavior
Authors: Prinzie Peter , Van Der Sluis Cathy M. , De Haan Amaranta D. , Deković Maja
Published: June 2010

ABSTRACT
Building on prior cross‐sectional work, this longitudinal study evaluated the proposition that maternal and paternal overreactive and authoritative parenting mediates the effect of child personality characteristics on externalizing behavior. Data from the Flemish Study on Parenting, Personality, and Problem Behavior were used in a moderated mediation analysis (N=434). Teachers rated children's Big Five characteristics, fathers and mothers rated their parenting, and 3 years later, children rated their externalizing behavior. Mediational analysis revealed both direct and indirect effects. Higher levels of Extraversion and lower levels of Benevolence were related directly to higher levels of child externalizing behavior. Higher levels of paternal authoritative parenting and lower levels of maternal overreactivity were related to lower scores on externalizing behavior. In addition, the relation between Benevolence, Emotional Stability, and externalizing behavior was partially mediated by parental overreactivity. Conscientiousness had an indirect effect on externalizing behavior through paternal authoritative parenting. Relations were not moderated by child gender. This study is of theoretical interest because the results demonstrate that parenting is a mediating mechanism that accounts for associations between personality and externalizing behavior.
Trend Curve Optimal Control Model for Optimizing Pavement Maintenance Strategies Consisting of Various Treatments
Authors: Rashid Mohammad Mamunur , Tsunokawa Koji
Published: June 2010

Abstract:  Most literature on pavement maintenance optimization for the case of continuous time assumes only one type of maintenance treatment, such as overlay, to be applicable and demonstrates solution procedures with simple cases of limited scopes. However, as overlays may not always be appropriate, depending on traffic loading/pavement situations, the objective of this article is to propose an optimization approach based on the trend curve optimal control model, to obtain optimal strategies possibly consisting of overlay, resealing, and reconstruction. The applicability of the solution procedure is demonstrated with several cases representing a variety of traffic loading/pavement situations. The solutions indicate that an optimal maintenance strategy can consist of multiple types of treatments depending on the situation, illustrating the versatility of the proposed procedure.
Institutional Isomorphism Revisited: Convergence and Divergence in Institutional Change
Authors: Beckert Jens
Published: June 2010

Under the influence of groundbreaking work by John Meyer and Brian Rowen, as well as Paul DiMaggio and Walter Powell, over the last 30 years research in the new sociological institutionalism has focused on processes of isomorphism. I argue that this is a one-sided focus that leaves out many insights from other institutional and macrosociological approaches and does not do justice to actual social change because it overlooks the role played by divergent institutional development. While the suggestion of divergent trends is not new, there have been few attempts to integrate divergence into the theoretical premises of the new sociological institutionalism. Based on the typology proposed by DiMaggio and Powell, I show that the mechanisms identified by them as sources of isomorphic change can support processes of divergent change as well. The theoretical challenge is to identify conditions under which these mechanisms push institutional change toward homogenization or divergence.
Practicing Intersectionality in Sociological Research: A Critical Analysis of Inclusions, Interactions, and Institutions in the Study of Inequalities
Authors: Choo Hae Yeon , Ferree Myra Marx
Published: June 2010

In this article we ask what it means for sociologists to practice intersectionality as a theoretical and methodological approach to inequality. What are the implications for choices of subject matter and style of work? We distinguish three styles of understanding intersectionality in practice: group-centered, process-centered, and system-centered. The first, emphasizes placing multiply-marginalized groups and their perspectives at the center of the research. The second, intersectionality as a process, highlights power as relational, seeing the interactions among variables as multiplying oppressions at various points of intersection, and drawing attention to unmarked groups. Finally, seeing intersectionality as shaping the entire social system pushes analysis away from associating specific inequalities with unique institutions, instead looking for processes that are fully interactive, historically co-determining, and complex. Using several examples of recent, highly regarded qualitative studies, we draw attention to the comparative, contextual, and complex dimensions of sociological analysis that can be missing even when race, class, and gender are explicitly brought together.
Beyond the Elementary Forms of Moral Life: Reflexivity and Rationality in Durkheim's Moral Theory
Authors: Kenny Robert Wade
Published: June 2010

Was Durkheim an apologist for the authoritarianism? Is the sociology founded upon his work incapable of critical perspective; and must it operate under the presumption that social agents, including sociologists themselves, are incapable of reflexivity? Certainly some have said so, but they may be wrong. In this essay, I address these questions in the light of Durkheim's revisionary sociology of morals. I elaborate on unfinished elements in Durkheim's abruptly concluded (because of his early and unexpected death) scholarship, pointing out Durkheim's recognition that co-present moral spheres always exist in an organically complex society, and explaining how these co-present spheres obligate social agents to untether from any absolute moral affiliations. Ultimately, then, the argument shows how the solidarity/social-order relationship is transcended within Durkheim's sociology, even by Durkheim himself.
Involving children with learning and communication difficulties: the perspectives of teachers, speech and language therapists and teaching assistants
Authors: Feiler Anthony , Watson Debby
Published: June 2010

Accessible summary

 Some children with disability find it hard to make choices because they cannot talk.

 Schools are trying to find ways to help them to be more included.

 People that support these children need to work together better.

 All children need to feel included at school.

Recent policy initiatives in the United Kingdom within the field of disability have rightly highlighted the importance of hearing the child’s voice. However, it is also imperative that professionals work effectively together to enable this to happen. This study presents the perspectives of teachers, speech and language therapists and teaching assistants on involving children with severe learning and communication difficulties in decision‐making at school. Key findings are discussed, and these are presented under three main themes: child‐focused issues, professional practice and variation in perspective according to professional role. The discussion explores the links between these findings and the research and policy literature and considers the need for professional development opportunities that enhance effective teamwork.
Drought impacts on the Amazon forest: the remote sensing perspective
Authors: Asner Gregory P. , Alencar Ane
Published: June 2010

Drought varies spatially and temporally throughout the Amazon basin, challenging efforts to assess ecological impacts via field measurements alone. Remote sensing offers a range of regional insights into drought‐mediated changes in cloud cover and rainfall, canopy physiology, and fire. Here, we summarize remote sensing studies of Amazônia which indicate that: fires and burn scars are more common during drought years; hydrological function including floodplain area is significantly affected by drought; and land use affects the sensitivity of the forest to dry conditions and increases fire susceptibility during drought. We highlight two controversial areas of research centering on canopy physiological responses to drought and changes in subcanopy fires during drought. By comparing findings from field and satellite studies, we contend that current remote sensing observations and techniques cannot resolve these controversies using current satellite observations. We conclude that studies integrating multiple lines of evidence from physiological, disturbance‐fire, and hydrological remote sensing, as well as field measurements, are critically needed to narrow our uncertainty of basin‐level responses to drought and climate change.
Temporal stability of regression‐based electrooculographic correction coefficients
Authors: Pham Trieu T. H. , Croft Rodney J. , Cadusch Peter J.
Published: June 2010

A means of accounting for ocular artifact in the electroencephalograph (EEG) is to subtract portions (Bs) of ocular voltage measured by the electrooculograph (EOG) from the EEG. Some such EOG correction methods calculate Bs at one time and use these to correct data recorded at a different time; these require information about the temporal stability of the Bs. This study investigated the stability of Bs over a 2‐hr EEG recording session. Participants performed 5 eye movement tasks, each separated by 30 min. Four EOG correction methods were then used to calculate Bs from each of the 5 data sets, resulting in VEOG, HEOG, and REOG (where appropriate) Bs for each methods at each of the 5 time points. We did not find evidence that Bs changed over the 2‐hr period, nor of any difference in temporal stability between the methods. This study suggests that it is appropriate to employ Bs calculated from calibration trials to correct data recorded within at least a 2‐hr time window.
Low‐dose bafilomycin attenuates neuronal cell death associated with autophagy‐lysosome pathway dysfunction
Authors: Pivtoraiko Violetta N. , Harrington Adam J. , Mader Burton J. , Luker Austin M. , Caldwell Guy A. , Caldwell Kim A. , Roth Kevin A. , Shacka John J.
Published: June 2010

J. Neurochem. (2010) 114, 1193–1204.

We have shown previously that the plecomacrolide antibiotics bafilomycin A1 and B1 significantly attenuate cerebellar granule neuron death resulting from agents that disrupt lysosome function. To further characterize bafilomycin‐mediated cytoprotection, we examined its ability to attenuate the death of naïve and differentiated neuronal SH‐SY5Y human neuroblastoma cells from agents that induce lysosome dysfunction in vitro, and from in vivo dopaminergic neuron death in C. elegans. Low‐dose bafilomycin significantly attenuated SH‐SY5Y cell death resulting from treatment with chloroquine, hydroxychloroquine amodiaquine and staurosporine. Bafilomycin also attenuated the chloroquine‐induced reduction in processing of cathepsin D, the principal lysosomal aspartic acid protease, to its mature ‘active’ form. Chloroquine induced autophagic vacuole accumulation and inhibited autophagic flux, effects that were attenuated upon treatment with bafilomycin and were associated with a significant decrease in chloroquine‐induced accumulation of detergent‐insoluble α‐synuclein oligomers. In addition, bafilomycin significantly and dose‐dependently attenuated dopaminergic neuron death in C. elegans resulting from in vivo over‐expression of human wild‐type α‐synuclein. Together, our findings suggest that low‐dose bafilomycin is cytoprotective in part through its maintenance of the autophagy‐lysosome pathway, and underscores its therapeutic potential for treating Parkinson’s disease and other neurodegenerative diseases that exhibit disruption of protein degradation pathways and accumulation of toxic protein species.
Dopamine is not essential for the development of methamphetamine‐induced neurotoxicity
Authors: Yuan Jie , Darvas Martin , Sotak Bethany , Hatzidimitriou George , McCann Una D. , Palmiter Richard D. , Ricaurte George A.
Published: June 2010

J. Neurochem.(2010)114, 1135–1142.

It is widely believed that dopamine (DA) mediates methamphetamine (METH)‐induced toxicity to brain dopaminergic neurons, because drugs that interfere with DA neurotransmission decrease toxicity, whereas drugs that increase DA neurotransmission enhance toxicity. However, temperature effects of drugs that have been used to manipulate brain DA neurotransmission confound interpretation of the data. Here we show that the recently reported ability ofl‐dihydroxyphenylalanine to reverse the protective effect of alpha‐methyl‐para‐tyrosine on METH‐induced DA neurotoxicity is also confounded by drug effects on body temperature. Further, we show that mice genetically engineered to be deficient in brain DA develop METH neurotoxicity, as long as the thermic effects of METH are preserved. In addition, we demonstrate that mice genetically engineered to have unilateral brain DA deficits develop METH‐induced dopaminergic deficits that are of comparable magnitude on both sides of the brain. Taken together, these findings demonstrate that DA is not essential for the development of METH‐induced dopaminergic neurotoxicity and suggest that mechanisms independent of DA warrant more intense investigation.
Mechanism of verapamil action on wild‐type and slow‐channel mutant human muscle acetylcholine receptor
Authors: Moriconi Claudia , Di Castro Maria Amalia , Fucile Sergio , Eusebi Fabrizio , Grassi Francesca
Published: June 2010

J. Neurochem. (2010) 114, 1231–1240.

Verapamil, a Ca2+ channel blocker widely used in clinical practice, also affects the properties of frog and mouse muscle acetylcholine receptor (AChR). Here, we examine the mechanism of action of verapamil on human wild‐type and slow‐channel mutant muscle AChRs harboring in any subunit a valine‐to‐alanine mutation of 13′ residue of the pore‐lining M2 transmembrane segment. Verapamil, after a pre‐treatment of 0.5–10 s, accelerated the decay of whole‐cell or macroscopic outside‐out currents within milliseconds of ACh application even at clinically attainable doses. Recordings of unitary events in the cell‐attached and outside‐out configurations showed that verapamil does not alter single‐channel conductance, but reduces channel open probability, by prolonging the dwell time into the closed state for wild‐type and all mutant AChR. The duration of channel openings decreased only for the εV265A‐AChR, by shortening the longest exponential component of the open‐time distribution. These results provide a rationale for the therapeutic use of verapamil in the slow‐channel syndrome and emphasize the major role played by ε subunit in controlling the functional properties of human muscle AChR, as revealed by the peculiar alterations imparted by mutations in this subunit.
The effect of protein kinase C‐delta knockdown on anti‐free radical enzyme and neuropeptide Y gene expression in phenylpropanolamine‐treated rats
Authors: Kuo Dong‐Yih , Yang Shun‐Fa , Chu Shu‐Chen , Chen Chin‐Hsiu , Chen Pei‐Ni , Hsieh Yih‐Shou
Published: June 2010

J. Neurochem.(2010)114, 1217–1230.

Hypothalamic neuropeptide Y (NPY) has been reported to involve in regulating behavioral response of phenylpropanolamine (PPA), a sympathomimetic agent. This study explored if protein kinase C (PKC)‐δ signaling participated in this regulation. Moreover, possible roles of anti‐free radical enzyme catalase (CAT) and nitrogen oxide synthase (NOS) were also examined. Rats were treated daily with PPA for 4 days. Changes in food intake and hypothalamic NPY, PKCδ, CAT, and NOS contents were assessed and compared. Results showed that PKCδ and CAT increased during PPA treatment, which were concomitant with decreases in NPY content and food intake, while the change of NOS was expressed differently. Moreover, PKCδ knockdown could modify PPA anorexia as well as NPY and CAT expression, while NOS expression remained unchanged. Furthermore, pre‐treatment with NOS inhibitor could modify both PPA anorexia and NPY content. It is suggested that PKCδ participates in the anorectic response of PPA via the modulation of NPY and CAT, while NOS contribute to this modulation via a different mechanism during PPA treatment. Results provide molecular mechanism of NPY‐mediated PPA anorexia and may aid the therapeutic research of PPA and other anti‐obesity drugs.
Stimulated dopamine overflow and alpha‐synuclein expression in the nucleus accumbens core distinguish rats bred for differential ethanol preference
Authors: Pelkonen Anssi , Hiltunen Mikko , Kiianmaa Kalervo , Yavich Leonid
Published: June 2010

J. Neurochem.(2010)114, 1168–1176.

The key neurochemical systems and structures involved in the predisposition to substance abuse and preference to ethanol (EtOH) are not known in detail but clearly dopamine (DA) is an important modulator of addiction. Recent data indicate that alpha‐synuclein (α‐syn), a pre‐synaptic protein, plays a role in regulation of DA release from the pre‐synaptic terminals in striatum and the expression of this protein is different after drug abuse or following abstinence. In the present work, we analysed stimulated DA overflow in the dorsal and ventral striatum in EtOH naïve alko alchohol (AA) and alko non‐alchohol (ANA) rats selected for more than 100 generations for their differential EtOH preference. In the same structures, we studied the expression of α‐syn using western blotting. AA rats, in comparison with ANA rats, showed a marked reduction of stimulated peak DA overflow and higher levels of α‐syn in the nucleus accumbens core. In the same structure, DA re‐uptake was increased in AA rats in comparison with ANA rats. The effects of EtOH at low (0.1 g/kg) and higher (3 mg/kg) doses on DA overflow measured in the nucleus accumbens shell were similar in both lines. These results indicate that high expression of α‐syn may contribute to the reduced DA overflow and the possible activation of re‐uptake in the nucleus accumbens core of AA rats in comparison with ANA rats.
Bimatoprost 0.03% gel for cosmetic eyelash growth and enhancement
Authors: Woodward Julie A , Haggerty Chris J , Stinnett Sandra S , Williams Zinaria Y
Published: June 2010

Objective  To evaluate a bimatoprost gel for enhancing eyelash growth, adverse effects, and change in intraocular pressure (IOP).

Methods  Prospective, double‐masked, randomized controlled study. Fifty‐two patients without ocular disease were assigned a control or bimatoprost 0.03% gel to apply to the eyelid margin once a day.

Results  The adjusted mean change in eyelash length from baseline to 6 months was 0.77 mm in the bimatoprost group and −0.12 mm in the control group (P = 0.004). Adverse effects were experienced by 2 of 16 patients (12.5%) in the control group and 9 of 36 patients (25%) in the bimatoprost gel group. Mean change in IOP from baseline to 6 months was 0.685 mmHg in the control group and −2.04 mmHg in the bimatoprost group (P = 0.009).

Conclusions  Bimatoprost gel was effective in enhancing eyelash growth. The most common adverse effect for the bimatoprost gel was conjunctival and eyelid hyperemia, while the most severe was recurrent anterior uveitis. Mean IOP was reduced in subjects using the bimatoprost gel.
Visible changes of female facial skin surface topography in relation to age and attractiveness perception
Authors: Samson Nadine , Fink Bernhard , Matts Paul J , Dawes Nancy C , Weitz Shannon
Published: June 2010

Objectives  Evolutionary psychology suggests that a woman’s age and physical appearance are important mate choice criteria. Given that changes in female facial skin surface topography are important, prominent visible signs of aging, male perceptual sensitivity for variation in this trait may also affect preference and attractiveness judgment.

Methods  Two experiments were conducted to investigate perception (Experiment 1) and noticeability (Experiment 2) of skin surface topography manipulations in facial images of six British women, aged 45–65 years. In Experiment 1 skin surface topography cues were completely removed on the cheeks, the “crow’s feet” area adjacent to the eye, under the eyes, above the upper lip, and on the forehead while, in Experiment 2, it was removed gradually (20% increments) on the forehead and around the eyes. In both experiments, stimuli were presented to American and German participants (total N = 300, aged 15–55 years) in omnibus pair‐wise combinations (within‐face). With each pair, respondents were asked to select that face which they considered as younger looking (Experiments 1 and 2) and more attractive (Experiment 1).

Results  Faces with skin surface topography cues removed were judged significantly younger and more attractive than their original (unmodified) counterparts, with modifications on the forehead and around the eyes showing the highest differences. In these areas, participants were able to detect at least a 20% visual change in skin surface topography.

Conclusions  The results support the assertion that even small changes in skin surface topography affect the perceptions of a woman’s facial age and attractiveness and may, thus, also influence men’s mate preferences.
Applications of nanomedicine in dermatology: use of nanoparticles in various therapies and imaging
Authors: Abramovits William , Granowski Patricia , Arrazola Peter
Published: June 2010

Background  Nanoscale technology is rapidly being incorporated into medicine. Nanodermatology concentrates on the use of nanomaterials (sized less than 1000 nm) on the skin. This article gives basic descriptions of various nanomaterials currently used in dermatology.

Methods  Studies retrievable through PubMed and other relevant literature from the nanotechnology industry pertaining to the use of nanoparticles in dermatology are reviewed. The authors provide their insight into potential applications for skin conditions.

Results  Nanotechnology‐based products and technology have a promising, inevitable future in medicine particularly in dermatology, such as prevention of disease, treatment, and imaging with less invasiveness.

Conclusions  The advent of nanoparticles including nanostructured lipid particles and solid lipid nanoparticles, dendrimers, and quantum dots have already many cosmetic applications as well as great potential in dermatologic applications.
Paradoxical darkening and removal of pink tattoo ink
Authors: Kirby William , Kaur Ravneet Ruby , Desai Alpesh
Published: June 2010

It is widely accepted that Q‐switched lasers are the gold‐standard treatment for the resolution of unwanted tattoo ink. Although much safer than other tattoo removal modalities, the treatment of tattoo ink with Q‐switched devices may be associated with long‐term adverse effects including undesired pigmentary alterations such as tattoo ink darkening. Darkening of tattoo ink is most often reported in cosmetic, flesh‐toned, white, peach, and pink tattoos. In this paper, we briefly review a case of pink tattoo ink that initially darkened paradoxically but eventually resolved with continued Q‐switched laser treatments.
Synergistic action of a triple peptide complex on an essential extra‐cellular matrix protein exhibits significant anti‐aging benefits
Authors: Byrne Adam John , Al‐Bader Tamara , Kerrigan Deirdre , Hickey Sinead , Laloeuf Aurelie , Rawlings Anthony Vincent
Published: June 2010

Basement membranes are thin structures present in the extracellular matrix that provide a supporting framework on which epithelial and endothelial cells reside. Type IV collagen is present ubiquitously in all basement membranes and plays an important role in cell adhesion, migration differentiation, and growth. These are especially important at the dermoepidermal junction (DEJ) in skin. A reduction in the levels of DEJ proteins occurs in photodamaged skin and especially Type IV collagen at the base of a wrinkle. In these studies, the ability of a triple peptide complex (TPC) to stimulate the production of collagen IV in human skin fibroblasts and its effects on photoaged skin was investigated. Fibroblasts, matured to represent “aged” cells, were stimulated for 72 h with the TPC as well as the three individual peptides constituting the complex, and collagen IV production by the fibroblasts was determined immunochemically. The results show that stimulation with the individual peptides at doses found in 1% (v/v) of the TPC did not result in soluble collagen IV production above levels detected by the non‐stimulated cells. However, after stimulation with 1% (v/v) of the TPC, collagen IV was produced by the cells (1.4 ng/ng total protein ± 0.4 SD, n = 5) when compared to control un‐stimulated cells (0.32 ng/ng total protein ± 0.1 SD, n = 5). This indicates that the combination of the individual peptides is necessary to synergistically stimulate collagen IV production. These findings suggest that the TPC could play a role in the strengthening of the DEJ through its ability to produce collagen IV. In order to determine whether these results translated into significant effects in vivo, we performed two studies. In the first four‐week study, a double blind, placebo‐controlled and fully randomized clinical study on 22 healthy Caucasian volunteers displaying moderate periorbital wrinkles, a significant reduction in wrinkle parameters determined by profilometry was observed over the 4‐week period in comparison to the placebo. This result was reproduced in a 12‐week monadic study which also showed improvements in expertly graded wrinkle scores. Collectively, these results effectively demonstrate the anti‐aging applications of the TPC.
Barbed sutures “lunch time” lifting: evidence‐based efficacy
Authors: Atiyeh Bishara S , Dibo Saad A , Costagliola Michel , Hayek Shady N
Published: June 2010

There is a growing trend nowadays for patients to seek the least invasive treatments possible with less risk of complications and downtime to correct rhytides and ptosis characteristic of aging. Nonsurgical face and neck rejuvenation has been attempted with various types of interventions. Suture suspension of the face, although not a new idea, has gained prominence with the advent of the so called “lunch‐time” face‐lift. Although some have embraced this technique, many more express doubts about its safety and efficacy limiting its widespread adoption. The present review aims to evaluate several clinical parameters pertaining to thread suspensions such as longevity of results of various types of polypropylene barbed sutures, their clinical efficacy and safety, and the risk of serious adverse events associated with such sutures. Early results of barbed suture suspension remain inconclusive. Adverse events do occur though mostly minor, self‐limited, and of short duration. Less clear are the data on the extent of the peak correction and the longevity of effect, and the long‐term effects of the sutures themselves. The popularity of barbed suture lifting has waned for the time being. Certainly, it should not be presented as an alternative to a face‐lift.
When is a haircut medically necessary?
Authors: Efron Melissa , Reichenberg Jason , Magid Michelle
Published: June 2010

We present the case of a psychotic female, admitted to our inpatient psychiatric facility, who had not cut her hair for over 20 years based on her religious beliefs. In this report, we discuss her case, evaluate whether or not it was medically necessary to cut her hair, and review several widely accepted religious practices regarding the cutting of hair.
The frequency of polycystic ovary syndrome in females with resistant acne vulgaris
Authors: Maluki Azar Hadi
Published: June 2010

Background  Acne vulgaris in females may be resistant to treatment in spite of topical and systemic therapy for a sufficient period. In this condition, acne may be a manifestation of underlying endocrine conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Objective  To evaluate the frequency of PCOS in females with resistant acne vulgaris.

Patients and methods  This case‐controlled study was conducted in the Department of Dermatology and Venereology in The Teaching Hospital in Al‐Najaf during the period from October 2007 to November 2008. One hundred and twenty‐three female patients with resistant acne vulgaris were included in this study. One hundred and twenty‐three women, age‐matched, without acne were enrolled as a control group. Detailed history, clinical examination, abdominal ultrasound study, and hormonal assays were obtained for the patients and the control group.

Results  One hundred and twenty‐three females with resistant acne were included; their ages ranged from 17 to 40 years with a mean of 25.016 ± 6.041 (SD). One hundred and twenty‐three control women without acne were enrolled; their ages ranged from 17–40 years with a mean of 26.014 ± 6.251 (SD). The patients and the control group are age‐matched (P = 0.192). It was found that 63 patients (51.2%) with resistant acne have PCOS in comparison to only eight control women (6.2%). The difference is highly significant.

Conclusion  Polycystic ovary syndrome is an important contributing factor in females with resistant acne vulgaris.
Predictors of the intima‐media thickness of carotid artery in asymptomatic newly detected severe hypercholesterolemic patients
Authors: Vladimirova‐Kitova L. , Deneva T. , Marinov B.
Published: June 2010

Background:  Data about predictors of intima‐media thickness (IMT) of common carotid artery (CCA) in asymptomatic subjects with newly detected severe hypercholesterolemia is scarce.

Aim:  This research is aimed at studying the predictors of the IMT of CCA among basic atherogenic risk biomarkers – lipid [total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides, high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, Apolipoprotein‐B, Apolipoprotein‐Ai, Apolipoprotein‐B/A1 index] and non‐lipid, [asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA), total homocysteine, cell adhesion molecules] in asymptomatic subjects with newly detected severe hypercholesterolemia.

Methods:  Two hundred and fifty asymptomatic patients with severe, newly hypercholesterolemia and 200 controls were evaluated. Hypercholesterolemia was defined as TC > 7·5 mm and LDL cholesterol > 4·9 mm. The ADMA and cell adhesion molecules were determined by ELISA and total homocysteine by high‐performance liquid chromatography.

Results:  There was significant difference between the two groups in respect to all lipid biomarkers (P<0·001). Hypercholesterolemic patients had significantly higher level of ADMA, sVCAM‐1, sICAM‐1, IMT (P<0·001), whereas no significant difference was found between two groups with respect to total homocysteine, P‐selectin and E‐selectin (P>0·05). A strong positive correlation between IMT mean and age (rxy = 0·714; P<0·001), Apolipoprotein‐B (rxy = 0·706; rxy < 0·001), Apolipoprotein‐B/A1 (rxy = 0·324; P<0·001), ADMA (rxy = 0·603; P<0·001) was found. The subsequent linear and multiple regression analysis selected age and Apolipoprotein‐B as most significant factors in relation to IMT mean. Apolipoprotein‐B is a better factor for assessment of risk, as LDL cholesterol underestimates the risk in asymptomatic subjects with newly detected severe hypercholesterolemia, until more rapid and feasible methods for measurement of small and dense LDL are available.
Declining Fertility and the Use of Cesarean Delivery: Evidence from a Population‐Based Study in Taiwan
Authors: Ma Ke‐Zong M. , Norton Edward C. , Lee Shoou‐Yih D.
Published: June 2010

Objective. To test the hypothesis that declining fertility would affect the number of cesarean sections (c‐sections) on maternal demand, but not medically indicated c‐sections.

Data Sources. The 1996–2004 National Health Insurance Research Database in Taiwan for all singleton deliveries.

Study Design. Retrospective population‐based, longitudinal study. Estimation was performed using multinomial probit models.

Principal Findings. Results revealed that declining fertility had a significant positive effect on the probability of having a c‐section on maternal request but not medically indicated c‐section.

Conclusions. Our findings offer a precautionary note to countries experiencing a fertility decline. Policies to contain the rise of c‐sections should understand the role of women's preferences, especially regarding cesarean deliveries on maternal request.
Troglitazone induces cytotoxicity in part by promoting the degradation of peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor γ co‐activator‐1α protein
Authors: Liao Xuemei , Wang Yanfei , Wong Chi‐Wai
Published: June 2010

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Troglitazone (Tro), rosiglitazone (Rosi) and pioglitazone (Pio) are anti‐diabetic thiazolidinediones that function as ligands for peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor γ (PPARγ); however, Tro has been withdrawn from the market due to liver toxicity issues. Mitochondrial dysfunction induced by Tro has been suggested to be an important mechanism behind its cytotoxicity. Constitutively active nuclear hormone receptors, oestrogen‐related receptor α and γ are thought to regulate mitochondrial mass and oxidative phosphorylation together with their co‐activators PPARγ co‐activator‐1α and ‐1β (PGC‐1α and PGC‐1β). Hence, in this study, we investigated whether Tro affects the expression and activity levels of these regulators.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Cellular viability was measured by an ATP‐based assay. Mitochondrial mass and reactive oxygen species (ROS) were quantified by two different fluorogenic probes. Apoptosis was measured by an Annexin‐V‐based kit. Gene expression at the levels of mRNA and protein was measured by quantitative RT‐PCR and Western analysis. Over‐expression of PGC‐1α was mediated by an adenovirus.

KEY RESULTS Tro, but not Rosi or Pio, selectively stimulated PGC‐1α protein degradation. As a result, Tro reduced mitochondrial mass, and superoxide dismutases 1 and 2 expressions, but induced ROS to initiate apoptosis. Using a ubiquitin–proteasome inhibitor MG132, it was established that blocking PGC‐1α degradation partially suppressed the reduction of mitochondrial mass. Importantly, over‐expressing PGC‐1α partially restored the Tro‐suppressed mitochondrial mass and attenuated the cytotoxic effects of Tro.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Collectively, these results suggest that PGC‐1α degradation is an important mechanism behind the cytotoxic effects of Tro in the liver.
Advanced glycation end products (AGEs) activate mast cells
Authors: Sick E , Brehin S , André P , Coupin G , Landry Y , Takeda K , Gies JP
Published: June 2010

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSEAdvanced glycation endproducts (AGEs) represent one of the many types of chemical modifications that occur with age in long‐lived proteins. AGEs also accumulate in pathologies such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, neurodegeneration and cancer. Mast cells are major effectors of acute inflammatory responses that also contribute to the progression of chronic diseases. Here we investigated interactions between AGEs and mast cells.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACHESHistamine secretion from AGEs‐stimulated mast cells was measured. Involvement of a receptor for AGEs, RAGE, was assessed by PCR, immunostaining and use of inhibitors of RAGE. Production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and cytokines was measured.

KEY RESULTSAdvanced glycation endproducts dose‐dependently induced mast cell exocytosis with maximal effects being obtained within 20 s. RAGE mRNA was detected and intact cells were immunostained by a specific anti‐RAGE monoclonal antibody. AGEs‐induced exocytosis was inhibited by an anti‐RAGE antibody and by low molecular weight heparin, a known RAGE antagonist. RAGE expression levels were unaltered after 3 h treatment with AGEs. AGE‐RAGE signalling in mast cells involvesPertussistoxin‐sensitive Gi‐proteins and intracellular Ca2+increases as pretreatment withPertussistoxin, caffeine, 2‐APB and BAPTA‐AM inhibited AGE‐induced exocytosis. AGEs also rapidly stimulated ROS production. After 6 h treatment with AGEs, the pattern of cytokine secretion was unaltered compared with controls.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONSAdvanced glycation endproducts activated mast cells and may contribute to a vicious cycle involving generation of ROS, increased formation of AGEs, activation of RAGE and to the increased low‐grade inflammation typical of chronic diseases.
Quercetin potentiates insulin secretion and protects INS‐1 pancreatic β‐cells against oxidative damage via the ERK1/2 pathway
Authors: Youl E , Bardy G , Magous R , Cros G , Sejalon F , Virsolvy A , Richard S , Quignard JF , Gross R , Petit P , Bataille D , Oiry C
Published: June 2010

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Quercetin lowers plasma glucose, normalizes glucose tolerance tests and preserves pancreatic β‐cell integrity in diabetic rats. However, its mechanism of action has never been explored in insulin‐secreting β‐cells. Using the INS‐1 β‐cell line, the effects of quercetin were determined on glucose‐ or glibenclamide‐induced insulin secretion and on β‐cell dysfunctions induced by hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). These effects were analysed along with the activation of the extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK)1/2 pathway. N‐acetyl‐L‐cysteine (NAC) and resveratrol, two antioxidants also known to exhibit some anti‐diabetic properties, were used for comparison.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Insulin release was quantified by the homogeneous time resolved fluorescence method and ERK1/2 activation tested by Western blot experiments. Cell viability was estimated by the [3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyl tetrazolium bromide] (MTT) colorimetric assay.

KEY RESULTS Quercetin (20 µmol·L−1) potentiated both glucose (8.3 mmol·L−1)‐ and glibenclamide (0.01 µmol·L−1)‐induced insulin secretion and ERK1/2 phosphorylation. The ERK1/2 (but not the protein kinase A) signalling pathway played a crucial role in the potentiation of glucose‐induced insulin secretion by quercetin. In addition, quercetin (20 µmol·L−1), protected β‐cell function and viability against oxidative damage induced by 50 µmol·L−1 H2O2 and induced a major phosphorylation of ERK1/2. In the same conditions, resveratrol or NAC were ineffective.

CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS Quercetin potentiated glucose and glibenclamide‐induced insulin secretion and protected β‐cells against oxidative damage. Our study suggested that ERK1/2 played a major role in those effects. The potential of quercetin in preventing β‐cell dysfunction associated with diabetes deserves further investigation.
Territory and Power: Critiques and Reassessments of a Classic Work
Authors: Bradbury Jonathan , John Peter
Published: June 2010

This introduction to the special issue provides an exploration of the scholarly analysis of Jim Bulpitt's Territory and Power in the United Kingdom: An Interpretation. It first addresses the principal theoretical concerns and the historical interpretation that Bulpitt pursued in Territory and Power. It discusses the main lines of criticism that have been laid against the book and how in turn these have been rebutted. The article then assesses how the contributions made in this special issue provide fresh reflection on the book's contribution to the study of UK and comparative politics before suggesting how Territory and Power could shape the agenda of future research.
The Strange Death of Unionist Scotland
Authors: Keating Michael
Published: June 2010

Jim Bulpitt understood the UK as an eminently political creation, emphasizing the role of elites in managing diversity. He can be criticized for underplaying the ideology of union, for dismissing Labour unionism and for an excessively central and Tory perspective. His insights, however, remain useful in analysing the current collapse of unionism, if not of the Union itself. His key concept of central autonomy explains why current neo-unionist efforts to forge Britishness are unlikely to succeed, since they imply a stronger territorial articulation of the state itself.
Bulpitt in America: Presidential Approaches, Territorial Politics and the Field of Urban Policy
Authors: Savitch H. V. , Osgood Jeffery L.
Published: June 2010

This article examines Jim Bulpitt's seminal work on UK territorial politics within the American context. We approach territorial politics by examining the ebbs and flows of American urban policy during the period 1964 to 2008. In doing so, our analysis explores changes in presidential approaches towards urban policy, and thus center–periphery relations, based on the outcomes of electoral politics. We find that conditions specific to the USA cause American territorial politics to be continually fluid, often erratic and highly differentiated by party affiliation.
Suboccipital Nerve Blocks for Suppression of Chronic Migraine: Safety, Efficacy, and Predictors of Outcome
Authors: Weibelt Silvia , Andress‐Rothrock Diane , King Wesley , Rothrock John
Published: June 2010

(Headache 2010;50:1041‐1044)

Background.— Approximately 1 in 50 Americans is afflicted by chronic migraine (CM). Many patients with CM describe cervicogenic headache. Options for treating CM effectively are at present quite limited.

Objective.— To determine the safety and efficacy of occipital nerve blocks (ONBs) used to treat cervicogenic chronic migraine (CCM) and to identify variables predictive of a positive treatment response.

Methods.— Using a uniform dose and injection paradigm, we performed ONBs consecutively on a series of patients presenting with CCM. Patients were stratified according to specific findings found to be present or absent on physical examination. A positive treatment outcome was defined as a 50% or greater reduction in headache days per month over the 30 days following treatment relative to the 30‐day pre‐treatment baseline. We used a 5‐point Likert scale as one of the secondary outcome variables.

Results.— We treated 150 consecutive patients with unilateral (37) or bilateral (113) ONBs. At the 1‐month follow‐up visit 78 (52%) exhibited evidence of a positive treatment response according to the primary outcome variable, and 90 (60%) reported their headache disorder to be “better” (44; 29%) or “much better” (46; 30%). A total of 8 (5%) patients reported adverse events within the ensuing 72 hours, and 3 (2%) experienced adverse events that reversed spontaneously but required emergent evaluation and management.

Conclusion.— For suppression of CCM, ONBs may offer an attractive alternative to orally administered prophylactic therapy.
Chronic Migraine With Medication Overuse Pre–Post Withdrawal of Symptomatic Medication: Clinical Results and fMRI Correlations
Authors: Grazzi Licia , Chiapparini Luisa , Ferraro Stefania , Usai Susanna , Andrasik Frank , Mandelli Maria Luisa , Bruzzone Maria Grazia , Bussone Gennaro
Published: June 2010

(Headache 2010;50:998‐1004)

Background.— Chronic migraine with symptomatic medication overuse (CMwMO) is a common and often debilitating clinical condition. Withdrawal of the offending drug(s) is considered the first step in management. Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) may be a useful technique for obtaining information on particular neuronal changes in the pain network involved in this condition.

Objective.— To identify specific fMRI patterns in patients suffering from CMwMO before and after withdrawal intervention.

Methods.— We collected fMRI data from a group of patients suffering from CMwMO, evaluating those patients prior to and 6 months following withdrawal. We applied stimuli at sites far removed from where the headaches were experienced. Moreover, pre‐intervention fMRI data from the headache patients were compared with those obtained from headache‐free and otherwise healthy controls.

Results.— Before withdrawal, the right supramarginal gyrus, the right inferior and superior parietal cortex were hypoactive. Activity recovered to almost normal 6 months after withdrawal of the offending medications.

Conclusions.— The hypoactivation we detected in the lateral pain system indicate that there exists a modification of the pain network in CMwMO and that these changes are reversible with therapy.
Web‐Based Training in Geriatrics for Medical Residents: A Randomized Controlled Trial Using Standardized Patients to Assess Outcomes
Authors: Westmoreland Glenda R. , Counsell Steven R. , Tu Wanzhu , Wu Jingwei , Litzelman Debra K.
Published: June 2010

Although Web‐based instruction offers an advantageous approach to medical education, few studies have addressed the use of Web‐based education to teach clinical content at the postgraduate level. Even fewer studies have addressed clinical outcomes after the Web‐based instruction, yet postgraduate training requirements now focus on outcomes of training. A randomized trial was conducted to compare knowledge of postgraduate year (PGY) 1 residents after Web‐based with that after paper‐based instruction and to compare residents' clinical application of their instruction using unannounced standardized patients (SPs) and unannounced activated standardized patients (ASPs). PGY 1 residents were assigned to a month‐long ambulatory rotation during which they were randomized as a block to Web‐ or paper‐based instruction covering the same four geriatric syndromes (dementia, depression, falls, and urinary incontinence). Outcome measures were mean change scores for before and after testing and scores from SP and ASP clinical encounter forms (checklist, chart abstraction, and electronic order entry). Residents who completed the Web‐based instruction showed significantly greater improvement on the knowledge tests than those who received paper‐based instruction. There were no significant differences in the scores from the SP and ASP clinical encounters except that the chart abstraction score was better for Web‐based group than the paper‐based group for dementia. Web‐based instruction is an educational tool that medical residents readily accept and can be used to improve knowledge of core geriatrics content as measured using immediate posttesting. More‐intensive educational interventions are needed to improve clinical performance by trainees in the care of older patients.
Geriatric Patients: Oral Health and the Operating Room
Authors: Yasny Jeffrey S. , Silvay George
Published: June 2010

Many patients requiring surgery possess poor oral health. The presence of decayed teeth and periodontitis represent potentially potent causes of odontogenic infection that could significantly compromise the surgical outcome. Geriatric patients presenting for surgery who have not had a dental examination for years may be harboring an undetected oral infection. In the perioperative period, the harmful effects of such an infection are amplified in terms of treatment and expenses. This article will elaborate on the association between oral health and systemic disease, present unique intraoral characteristics of elderly patients, and emphasize the importance of obtaining a dental evaluation and treating any acute oral infection before surgery. Augmenting the awareness of the perioperative dental considerations in the geriatric population can lead to the implementation of effective and preventive measures that can contain costs and achieve optimal patient care.