bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inosine induces presynaptic inhibition of acetylcholine release by activation of A3 adenosine receptors at the mouse neuromuscular junction
Authors: Cinalli A R , Guarracino J F , Fernandez V , Roquel L I , Losavio A S
Published: June 2013

Background and Purpose

The role of inosine at the mammalian neuromuscular junction (NMJ) has not been clearly defined. Moreover, inosine was classically considered to be the inactive metabolite of adenosine. Hence, we investigated the effect of inosine on spontaneous and evoked ACh release, the mechanism underlying its modulatory action and the receptor type and signal transduction pathway involved.

Experimental Approach

End‐plate potentials (EPPs) and miniature end‐plate potentials (MEPPs) were recorded from the mouse phrenic‐nerve diaphragm preparations using conventional intracellular electrophysiological techniques.

Key Results

Inosine (100 μM) reduced MEPP frequency and the amplitude and quantal content of EPPs; effects inhibited by the selective A3 receptor antagonist MRS‐1191. Immunohistochemical assays confirmed the presence of A3 receptors at mammalian NMJ. The voltage‐gated calcium channel (VGCC) blocker Cd2+, the removal of extracellular Ca2+ and the L‐type and P/Q‐type VGCC antagonists, nitrendipine and ω‐agatoxin IVA, respectively, all prevented inosine‐induced inhibition. In the absence of endogenous adenosine, inosine decreased the hypertonic response. The effects of inosine on ACh release were prevented by the Gi/o protein inhibitor N‐ethylmaleimide, PKC antagonist chelerytrine and calmodulin antagonist W‐7, but not by PKA antagonists, H‐89 and KT‐5720, or the inhibitor of CaMKII KN‐62.

Conclusion and Implications

Our results suggest that, at motor nerve terminals, inosine induces presynaptic inhibition of spontaneous and evoked ACh release by activating A3 receptors through a mechanism that involves L‐type and P/Q‐type VGCCs and the secretory machinery downstream of calcium influx. A3 receptors appear to be coupled to Gi/o protein. PKC and calmodulin may be involved in these effects of inosine.
Prediction of kidney graft failure using clinical scoring tools
Authors: Gourishankar Sita , Grebe Scott O. , Mueller Thomas F.
Published: June 2013

Background

Donor organ quality is a key determinant of graft function, and considerable efforts have been made to identify donor and transplant factors predicting inferior outcomes. This has resulted in the development of various scoring tools to aid in allocation of kidneys.

Methods

The performance of four donor quality scoring systems in predicting delayed graft function, and death‐censored graft failure was examined in a single‐center cohort of 730 consecutive deceased donor kidneys transplanted between 1990 and 2004. The predictive accuracy of the variables was analyzed with receiver operating characteristic curves and graft survival distribution.

Results

The three outcome tools, that is, deceased donor score (DDS; Am J Transplant, 3, 2003, 715), donor risk score (DRS; Am J Transplant, 5, 2005, 757) and kidney donor risk index (KDRI; Transplantation, 88, 2009, 231) provided a significant and equivalent prediction of graft failure by using variables available at time of transplantation (p < 0.01). The risk of delayed graft function was predicted by the (DGF) nomogram (J Am Soc Nephrol, 14, 2003, 2967; Am J Transplant 10, 2010, 2279) with a high degree of discrimination (concordance index of 0.69, p < 0.01).

Conclusions

Our findings validate four pre‐operative clinical scoring tools to predict early and late graft outcome in an independent, single‐center set of kidney transplants.
Can flat‐type brownish microlesions in the orohypopharynx be followed up without biopsy or endoscopic resection?
Authors: Takemura Kenichi , Doyama Hisashi , Nakanishi Hiroyoshi , Takeda Yasuhito , Kito Yosuke , Ito Renma , Hayashi Tomoyuki , Tsuji Kunihiro , Tominaga Kei , Yoshida Naohiro , Waseda Yohei , Tsuji Shigetsugu , Yamada Shinya , Niwa Hideki , Katayanagi Kazuyoshi , Kurumaya Hiroshi , Okada Toshihide
Published: June 2013

Background

Narrow‐band imaging (NBI) is useful for detecting superficial oropharyngeal lesions. However, the diagnostic and treatment guidelines for NBI are not established. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the treatment strategy for these microlesions.

Methods

From October 2008 to September 2009, 68 flat‐type brownish microlesions were observed in the orohypopharynx using NBI. Lesions were examined via magnifying NBI (M‐NBI) and followed up without biopsy or endoscopic resection for >12 months. To clarify the characteristics, lesions were compared with the endoscopic characteristics of flat‐type lesions diagnosed by biopsy and endoscopic resection as squamous cell carcinoma and high‐grade intraepithelial neoplasia.

Results

The average diameter of the 68 lesions was 1.6 mm (range, 0.5–5 mm). At the 1‐year follow up, 19 lesions had disappeared. No size increases or morphological changes wereobserved among 49 lesions followed for >1 year. At 2 years, 10 patients had dropped out and 11 lesions had disappeared. No changes were observed among 28 lesions followed for >2 years. Of the flat‐type lesions as squamous cell carcinoma and high‐grade intraepithelial neoplasia, a distinct border and irregular distribution of atypical vessels were observed in all cases using M‐NBI. These findings were observed in two of 68 flat‐type brownish microlesions during follow up.

Conclusion

Although there is some possibility of squamous cell carcinoma or high‐grade intraepithelial neoplasia, flat‐type microlesions of ≤5 mm diameter in the orohypopharynx may be followed for up to 2 years without biopsy or endoscopic resection.
With Liberty and Some Justice for a Few: Thinking Theologically about Criminal Justice
Authors: Nelson Derek R.
Published: June 2013

The current crisis in the American criminal justice system begs for theological response, and its sources need theological critique. The recent proposed statement of the ELCA draws attention to the needs of victims of crime and their families, and makes sensible recommendations for paths to greater justice. In doing so it is important to remember what forms of justice are possible under the jurisdiction of fallible, earthly institutions.
Save It for God: Confession and the Irrelevance of the Judicial System with Special Attention to Dostoevsky's The Brothers Karamazov
Authors: Webb Stephen H.
Published: June 2013

Confession is essential for spiritual growth, but the judicial system provides little room for it. The judiciary is particularly unequipped to help convicts grapple with their guilt. Dostoevsky was the first to raise this critique in The Brothers Karamazov.
Participation in children with disabilities – a public health perspective
Authors: Michelsen Susan I
Published: June 2013

This commentary is on the original article by Mâsse et al. on pages 729–736 of this issue.
Hemin therapy suppresses inflammation and retroperitoneal adipocyte hypertrophy to improve glucose metabolism in obese rats co‐morbid with insulin‐resistant type‐2 diabetes
Authors: Ndisang J. F. , Jadhav A.
Published: June 2013

Aim

Visceral adiposity and impaired glucose metabolism are common patho‐physiological features in patients co‐morbid with obesity and type‐2 diabetes. We investigated the effects of the heme‐oxygenase (HO) inducer hemin and the HO blocker stannous‐mesoporphyrin (SnMP) on glucose metabolism, adipocyte hypertrophy and pro‐inflammatory cytokines/mediators in Zucker diabetic fatty (ZDF) rats, a model characterized by obesity and type‐2 diabetes.

Methods

Histological, morphological/morphometrical, Western immunoblotting, enzyme immunoassay, ELISA and spectrophotometric analysis were used.

Results

Treatment with hemin enhanced HO‐1, HO activity and cGMP, but suppressed retroperitoneal adiposity and abated the elevated levels of macrophage‐chemoattractant protein‐1 (MCP‐1), ICAM‐1, tumour necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α), interleukin 6 (IL‐6), IL‐1β, NF‐κB, c‐Jun‐NH2‐terminal‐kinase (JNK) and activating‐protein (AP‐1), with parallel reduction of adipocyte hypertrophy. Correspondingly, important proteins of lipid metabolism and insulin‐signalling such as lipoprotein lipase (LPL), insulin‐receptor substrate‐1 (IRS‐1), GLUT4, PKB/Akt, adiponectin, the insulin‐sensitizing and anti‐inflammatory protein and adenosine‐monophosphate‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) were significantly enhanced in hemin‐treated ZDF rats.

Conclusion

Elevated retroperitoneal adiposity and the high levels of MCP‐1, ICAM‐1, TNF‐α, IL‐6, IL‐1β, NF‐κB, JNK and AP‐1 in untreated ZDF are patho‐physiological factors that exacerbate inflammatory insults, aggravate adipocyte hypertrophy, with corresponding reduction of adiponectin and deregulation of insulin‐signalling and lipid metabolism. Therefore, the suppression of MCP‐1, ICAM‐1, TNF‐α, IL‐6, IL‐1β, NF‐κB, JNK, AP‐1 and adipocyte hypertrophy, with the associated enhancement of LPL, adiponectin, AMPK, IRS‐1, GLUT4, PKB/Akt and cGMP in hemin‐treated ZDF are among the multifaceted mechanisms by which the HO system combats inflammation to potentiate insulin signalling and improve glucose and lipid metabolism. Thus, HO inducers may be explored in the search of novel remedies against the co‐morbidities of obesity, dysfunctional lipid metabolism and impaired glucose metabolism.
Why Do Small States Receive More Federal Money? U.S. Senate Representation and the Allocation of Federal Budget
Authors: Larcinese Valentino , Rizzo Leonzio , Testa Cecilia
Published: June 2013

Empirical research on the geographic distribution of U.S. federal spending shows that small states receive disproportionately more dollars per capita. This evidence, often regarded as the consequence of Senate malapportionment, in reality conflates the effects of state population size with that of state population growth. Analyzing outlays for the period 1978–2002, this study shows that properly controlling for population dynamics provides more reasonable estimates of small‐state advantage and solves a number of puzzling peculiarities of previous research. We also show that states with fast‐growing population loose federal spending to the advantage of slow‐growing ones independently of whether they are large or small. The two population effects vary substantially across spending programs. Small states enjoy some advantage in defense spending, whereas fast‐growing ones are penalized in the allocation of federal grants, particularly those administered by formulas limiting budgetary adjustments. Hence, a large part of the inverse relationship between spending and population appears to be driven by mechanisms of budgetary inertia, which are compatible with incrementalist theories of budget allocation.
Regulation of mitochondrial dynamics and distribution by synapse position and neuronal activity in the axon
Authors: Obashi Kazuki , Okabe Shigeo
Published: June 2013

Proper distribution of axonal mitochondria is critical for multiple neuronal functions. To understand the underlying mechanisms for population behavior, quantitative characterisation of elemental dynamics on multiple time scales is required. Here we investigated the stability and transport of axonal mitochondria using live‐cell imaging of cultured mouse hippocampal neurons. We first characterised the long‐term stability of stationary mitochondria. At a given moment, about 10% of the mitochondria were in a state of transport and the remaining 90% were stationary. Among these stationary mitochondria, 40% of them remained in the same position over several days. The rest of the mitochondria transited to mobile state stochastically and this process could be detected and quantitatively analysed by time‐lapse imaging with intervals of 30 min. The stability of axonal mitochondria increased from 2 to 3 weeks in culture, was decreased by tetrodotoxin treatment, and was higher near synapses. Stationary mitochondria should be generated by pause of moving mitochondria and subsequent stabilisation. Therefore, we next analysed pause events of moving mitochondria by repetitive imaging at 0.3 Hz. We found that the probability of transient pause increased with field stimulation, decreased with tetrodotoxin treatment, and was higher near synapses. Finally, by combining parameters obtained from time‐lapse imaging with different time scales, we could estimate transition rates between different mitochondrial states. The analyses suggested specific developmental regulation in the probability of paused mitochondria to transit into stationary state. These findings indicate that multiple mitochondrial behaviors, especially those regulated by neuronal activity and synapse location, determine their distribution in the axon.
Direction‐specific adaptation of motion‐onset auditory evoked potentials
Authors: Grzeschik Ramona , Böckmann‐Barthel Martin , Mühler Roland , Verhey Jesko L. , Hoffmann Michael B.
Published: June 2013

Auditory evoked potentials (AEPs) to motion onset in humans are dominated by a fronto‐central complex, with a change‐negative deflection 1 (cN1) and a change‐positive deflection 2 (cP2) component. Here the contribution of veridical motion detectors to motion‐onset AEPs was investigated with the hypothesis that direction‐specific adaptation effects would indicate the contribution of such motion detectors. AEPs were recorded from 33 electroencephalographic channels to the test stimulus, i.e. motion onset of horizontal virtual auditory motion (60° per s) from straight ahead to the left. AEPs were compared in two experiments for three conditions, which differed in their history prior to the motion‐onset test stimulus: (i) without motion history (Baseline), (ii) with motion history in the same direction as the test stimulus (Adaptation Same), and (iii) a reference condition with auditory history. For Experiment 1, condition (iii) comprised motion in the opposite direction (Adaptation Opposite). For Experiment 2, a noise in the absence of coherent motion (Matched Noise) was used as the reference condition. In Experiment 1, the amplitude difference cP2 − cN1 obtained for Adaptation Same was significantly smaller than for Baseline and Adaptation Opposite. In Experiment 2, it was significantly smaller than for Matched Noise. Adaptation effects were absent for cN1 and cP2 latencies. These findings demonstrate direction‐specific adaptation of the motion‐onset AEP. This suggests that veridical auditory motion detectors contribute to the motion‐onset AEP.
Fish diversity in European lakes: geographical factors dominate over anthropogenic pressures
Authors: Brucet Sandra , Pédron Stephanie , Mehner Thomas , Lauridsen Torben L. , Argillier Christine , Winfield Ian J. , Volta Pietro , Emmrich Matthias , Hesthagen Trygve , Holmgren Kerstin , Benejam Lluís , Kelly Fiona , Krause Teet , Palm Anu , Rask Martti , Jeppesen Erik
Published: June 2013

We aimed to distinguish the relative contributions of natural and anthropogenic local factors on patterns of fish diversity in European lakes at different geographical scales.

We compiled data from standardised fish monitoring using multimesh benthic gill nets, information on lake morphometry and on geographical, climatic and anthropogenic pressure variables from 1632 lakes in 11 European countries. By means of regression trees, we determined those natural and anthropogenic factors and their thresholds that best predicted local fish diversity, density and mean size. Generalised linear models were used to assess the influence of anthropogenic factors at smaller geographical and morphometric scales.

Local fish species richness and diversity were related mainly to morphometric and (bio)geographical/climatic variables. Larger and deeper lakes in warm areas tended to be the most species rich and diverse. Fish density was related mainly to anthropogenically driven productivity but also was sensitive to geographical/climatic factors. Thus, warmer and shallower lower‐altitude European lakes, which are usually more eutrophic, had higher fish densities than cold and deeper higher‐altitude lakes. Fish size increased with altitude and declined with increasing seasonality and temperature.

After controlling for the natural factors, productivity had a positive effect on fish species richness and diversity, whereas it negatively influenced fish size.

Our results suggest that macroecological patterns of lake fish diversity across Europe are best predicted by natural factors. The contribution of anthropogenic factors to fish diversity was evident only via the effect of eutrophication at smaller geographical scales, whereas no effect could be found from hydromorphological pressures. From an applied perspective, these results suggest that bioassessment and biodiversity evaluation might be most effectively conducted and interpreted locally, where anthropogenic effects on biodiversity become more apparent. At a macroecological scale, the strong effect of environmental temperature on most components of fish diversity suggests future changes in fish diversity as a consequence of climate change.
Laparoscopic findings of congenital hepatic fibrosis: A case report and review of the published work
Authors: Komatsu Michiharu , Tanaka Naoki , Shibata So‐Ichirou , Kimura Takefumi , Ichikawa Yuki , Morita Susumu , Joshita Satoru , Nagaya Tadanobu , Umemura Takeji , Ichijo Tetsuya , Matsumoto Akihiro , Yoshizawa Kaname , Tanaka Eiji
Published: June 2013

A 33‐year‐old man visited a hospital after vomiting blood. Emergent esophagogastroduodenoscopy revealed the presence of varices in the lower esophagus. The patient did not have a past history of alcohol consumption and was negative for hepatitis B and C viruses. He was referred to our hospital for closer examination. Portal hypertension was detected by conventional imaging modalities, but signs of liver cirrhosis, thrombosis, stenosis, malformation of the portal vein and bile duct abnormalities were not observed. We performed laparoscopy‐guided liver biopsy to examine the cause of portal hypertension. In addition to prominent development of collateral vessels on hepatic ligaments and the omenta, marbled whitish markings with black‐green spots were dispersed over the liver surface, but nodular formation and lymphatic vesicles were not found. Biopsied specimen demonstrated severe dense fibrosis in portal areas and von Meyenburg complexes (vMC). Based on these findings, the diagnosis of congenital hepatic fibrosis (CHF) was made. Post‐biopsy hemostasis was confirmed under laparoscopy and no major complications occurred after biopsy. We reviewed 11 cases of CHF which had undergone laparoscopy in Japan, including our case. Marbled whitish markings, black‐green spots and collateral vessels were seen in 11, five and seven cases, respectively. When we encounter the patients having portal hypertension of unknown etiology, laparoscopy‐guided liver biopsy should be considered as a safe and useful diagnostic procedure. Black‐green spots in marbled whitish markings, which reflect vMC in broad fibrotic areas, are laparoscopic characteristics of CHF.
Antibacterial mode of action of seed essential oil of Eleutherococcus senticosus against foodborne pathogens
Authors: Bajpai Vivek K. , Sharma Ajay , Baek Kwang‐Hyun
Published: June 2013

This study investigated the antibacterial mechanism of action of the seed essential oil of Eleutherococcus senticosus (ESEO) against foodborne pathogenic bacteria. Preliminarily, the ESEO (1000 μg disc−1) showed potential antibacterial effect as diameter of inhibition zones (12.0 ± 0.2–37.0 ± 2.0 mm) against the tested foodborne pathogens. The MIC and MBC values of ESEO against the tested bacteria were found in the range of 125–500 and 500–1000 μg mL−1, respectively. At MIC concentration, the ESEO had potential inhibitory effect on the cell viability of the tested pathogens. In addition, SEM analysis showed the inhibitory effect of ESEO as confirmed by considerable morphological alterations on the cell wall of B. cereus ATCC 13061 and E. coli O157:H7 ATCC 43889. Moreover, the ESEO revealed its mode of action against foodborne pathogens on membrane integrity as confirmed by release of extracellular ATP, 260‐nm absorbing materials and leakage of potassium ions. These findings confirm that the ESEO can be used as a potential antibacterial agent in food industry to inhibit the growth of various foodborne pathogens.
Silodosin versus naftopidil for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia: A multicenter randomized trial
Authors: Yamaguchi Kenya , Aoki Yutaka , Yoshikawa Tetsuo , Hachiya Takahiko , Saito Tadanori , Takahashi Satoru
Published: June 2013

This was a multicenter randomized trial to investigate the clinical efficacy and the impact on sexual function of alpha‐1A selective silodosin and alpha‐1D selective naftopidil for treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia. A total of 97 patients with lower urinary tract symptoms/benign prostatic hyperplasia who had an International Prostate Symptom Score of 8 or more were randomly assigned to receive silodosin (8 mg/day, n = 53) or naftopidil (75 mg/day, n = 44). Before and 4, 8 and 12 weeks after treatment, International Prostate Symptom Score and its quality of life score were used to assess lower urinary tract symptoms. Also, International Index of Erectile Function‐5, and an original questionnaire were used to evaluate erectile function and ejaculation for sexually active patients, respectively. The silodosin group showed advantages in terms of voiding symptoms and quality of life of International Prostate Symptom Score when compared with the naftopidil group. Both silodosin and naftopidil showed no significant effect on International Index of Erectile Function‐5. A total of 23 sexually active patients in the silodosin group experienced more ejaculatory impairment than 21 patients in the naftopidil group, with a decrease of ejaculation volume (87% vs 40%, P = 0.003), prolonged time to ejaculation (56% vs 33%, P = 0.027) and decrease of orgasm (50% vs 39%, P = 0.027). These results suggest that alpha‐1A selective blockers are more effective for voiding symptoms, whereas alpha‐1D selective blockers offer a minor degree of ejaculatory dysfunction.
Utilisation des bilans actuariels pour évaluer la viabilité des régimes de pensions de la sécurité sociale
Authors: Billig Assia , Ménard Jean‐Claude
Published: June 2013

La méthodologie choisie pour établir le bilan comptable d'un régime de pensions de sécurité sociale dépend principalement du mode de financement du régime. En se fondant sur l'exemple du Régime de pensions du Canada, le présent article montre que, si la pérennité financière d'un régime par répartition ou par capitalisation partielle est évaluée au moyen d'un bilan actuariel, la méthodologie retenue devrait tenir compte des cotisations qui seront versées à l'avenir par les assurés actuels et futurs. Il examine les bilans établis pour un groupe ouvert, ainsi que les méthodes utilisées aux Etats‐Unis et en Suède.
Mechanical Evaluation of Adjunctive Fixation for Prevention of Periprosthetic Femur Fracture With the Zurich Cementless Total Hip Prosthesis
Authors: Pozzi Antonio , Peck Jeffrey N. , Chao Peini , Choate Christina J. , Barousse Dan , Conrad Bryan
Published: June 2013

Objective

To evaluate whether cerclage wire or a lateral plate increases the peak‐torque load to failure, compared to femora without adjunctive fixation, in femora implanted with Zurich Cementless stems.

Study Design

In vitro biomechanical study.

Sample Population

Paired femora from adult dogs (n = 24) weighing 28–35 kg.

Methods

Pairs of femora were implanted with a stem and randomly assigned to 2 treatment groups: cerclage or plate. Within each pair, either 3 loop cerclage wires or a laterally applied 12‐hole Advanced Locking Plate System 10‐mm plate (ALPS 10) were implanted in a femur, whereas the contralateral femur acted as control with no adjunctive fixation. After application of a static axial load each specimen was loaded to failure in torsion. Peak torque load at failure was compared between femora with each adjunctive fixation and the control using a paired t‐test; P < .05 was considered significant.

Results

In both treatment groups, femora with adjunctive fixation failed at higher loads compared to the femora without fixation; however, significant difference in peak torque at failure between treated femora and control was found only in the plated group (P < .05). Femora implanted with plates and with cerclage were 13.9% and 7.2% stronger in torsion than the femora without fixation, respectively.

Conclusions

Adjunctive fixation with a laterally applied ALPS 10 may aid in the prevention of peri‐prosthetic fractures associated with Zurich Cementless medium stems.
Between History and Dogma: On the Spirit of Tradition in the Demands and Limitations of Modernity
Authors: Koerpel Robert C.
Published: June 2013

The philosophical anthropology of the twentieth-century French Catholic philosopher Maurice Blondel has had a significant impact on modern and contemporary theology. However, Blondel's less well-known idea of tradition in the text History and Dogma remains to be adequately assessed by the English-speaking world. In order to appreciate Blondel's contribution to the idea of tradition in modern Catholicism and to discover how his thought remains a rich resource for contemporary theology, this essay traces the shifts in late-medieval theological discourse that reveal a gradual move toward conceptualizing tradition as a bureaucratic reality mediated through institutional and juridical means which comes to full expression during the modernist crisis in the Roman Catholic Church. Having situated Blondel's thought within the historical and theological development of the modern idea of tradition in Catholicism, the essay argues that Blondel offers an alternative account of tradition as ‘liturgical action,’ which vivifies Christ's sacramental presence in tradition and resists reducing tradition to a bureaucratic reality or a natural phenomenon.
Genetic contributions to continuity and change in attachment security: a prospective, longitudinal investigation from infancy to young adulthood
Authors: Lee Raby K. , Cicchetti Dante , Carlson Elizabeth A. , Egeland Byron , Andrew Collins W.
Published: June 2013

Background

Longitudinal research has demonstrated that individual differences in attachment security show only modest continuity from infancy to adulthood. Recent findings based on retrospective reports suggest that individuals' genetic variation may moderate the developmental associations between early attachment–relevant relationship experiences and adult attachment security. The purpose of this study was to use a prospective, longitudinal design to investigate genetic contributions to continuity and changes in attachment security from infancy to young adulthood in a higher risk sample.

Methods

Infant attachment security was assessed using the Strange Situation Procedure at 12 and 18 months. Adults' general attachment representations were assessed using the Adult Attachment Interview at ages 19 and 26. Romantic attachment representations were assessed with the Current Relationship Interview (CRI) at ages 20–21 and ages 26–28. Individuals were genotyped for variants within the oxytocin receptor (OXTR), dopamine D4 receptor (DRD4), and serotonin transporter linked polymorphic region (5‐HTTLPR) .

Results

The continuity of attachment security from infancy into young adulthood was consistently moderated by OXTR genetic variation. Infant attachment security predicted the security of adults' general and romantic attachment representations only for individuals with the OXTR G/G genotype. This interaction was significant when predicting adult attachment security as measured by the Adult Attachment Interview at ages 19 and 26 and the CRI at ages 26–28. Dopamine D4 receptor and 5‐HTTLPR genetic variation did not consistently moderate the longitudinal associations between attachment security during infancy and adulthood.

Conclusions

This study provides initial longitudinal evidence for genetic contributions to continuity and change in attachment security from infancy to young adulthood. Genetic variation related to the oxytocin system may moderate the stability of attachment security across development.
Maternal warmth and directiveness jointly moderate the etiology of childhood conduct problems
Authors: Alexandra Burt S. , Klahr Ashlea M. , Neale Michael C. , Klump Kelly L.
Published: June 2013

Background

Prior studies exploring gene–environment interactions (GxE) in the development of youth conduct problems (CP) have focused almost exclusively on single‐risk experiences, despite research indicating that the presence of other risk factors and or the absence of protective factors can accentuate the influence of a given risk factor on CP. The goal of the current study was to fill this gap in the literature, evaluating whether risky and protective aspects of parenting might combine to jointly moderate the etiology of CP.

Methods

The sample consisted of 500 child twin pairs from the Michigan State University Twin Registry (MSUTR). Child CP was assessed using multiple informant reports. Maternal warmth and directiveness were assessed via videotaped dyadic interactions between mothers and each of their twins.

Results

Biometric GxE analyses revealed that directiveness and warmth did appear to jointly moderate the etiology of CP. In particular, shared environmental influences were accentuated by colder, less directive or ‘less engaged’ mothering, whereas genetic influences were strongest when the child was experiencing warmer, more directive or ‘more authoritative’ mothering.

Conclusions

Such findings serve to highlight the synergistic effects of risky and protective experiences on child outcomes. They also provide additional empirical support for the bioecological form of GxE, which postulates that, in some cases, genetic influences may be most strongly expressed in the presence of low‐risk environments.
Family Work Through Time and Space: An Ecological Perspective
Authors: Perry‐Jenkins Maureen , Newkirk Katie , Ghunney Aya K.
Published: June 2013

The goal of the current article is to describe how an ecological perspective could further our understanding of the division of labor in families. We consider how social contexts, or “space,” in conjunction with individual, family, social, and historical “time” influence the division of labor in families as well as its consequences for family members' well‐being and relationship quality. Research is examined that explores how social class, race and ethnicity, family structure and life course issues directly and indirectly affect the division of labor in families. Using examples from current research, we show that at times the predictors and outcomes of the division of family labor differ as a function of the social context in which they occur and as a function of unique historical and social time periods. An ecological perspective provides a framework for considering how the complex power and influence processes in families play out in different ways as a function of social values and norms reflected in our race and ethnicity, social class, gender, life stage, and family structure.
Feasibility and Validity of Dementia Assessment by Trained Community Health Workers Based on Clinical Dementia Rating
Authors: Han Hae‐Ra , Park So‐Youn , Song Heejung , Kim Miyong , Kim Kim B. , Lee Hochang Ben
Published: June 2013

Objectives

To determine the level of agreement between dementia rating by trained community health workers (CHWs) based on the Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR) and the criterion standard: physician diagnosis.

Design

Cross‐sectional validation study.

Setting

Community gathering places such as ethnic churches, senior centers, low‐income elderly apartments, and ethnic groceries in the Baltimore–Washington metropolitan area.

Participants

Ninety community‐dwelling Korean‐American individuals aged 60 and older.

Measurements

The CDR is a standardized clinical dementia staging instrument used to assess cognitive and functional performance using a semistructured interview protocol. Six CHWs trained and certified as CDR raters interviewed and rated study participants. A bilingual geriatric psychiatrist evaluated participants independently for dementia status.

Results

CHWs rated 61.1% of the participants as having mild cognitive impairment (MCI; CDR = 0.5) or dementia (CDR≥1), versus 56.7% diagnosed by the clinician. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis demonstrated good predictive ability of CDR rating by trained CHWs (area under the ROC curve = 0.86, 95% confidence interval = 0.78–0.93, sensitivity = 85.5%, specificity = 88.6%) in detecting MCI and dementia.

Conclusion

The findings provide preliminary evidence that trained CHWs can effectively identify community‐dwelling elderly Korean adults with MCI and dementia for early follow‐up assessment and care in a community with scarce bilingual caregivers and programs.
Metamorphic evolution of medium‐temperature ultra‐high pressure (MT‐UHP) eclogites from the South Dabie orogen, Central China: an insight from phase equilibria modelling
Authors: Wei C. J. , Qian J. H. , Tian Z. L.
Published: June 2013

Medium‐temperature ultrahigh pressure (MT‐UHP) eclogites from the south Dabie orogen, as represented by samples from the Jinheqiao, Shuanghe and Bixiling areas, consist of garnet, omphacite, phengite, epidote, hornblendic amphibole, quartz/coesite and rutile with or without kyanite and talc. Garnet is mostly anhedral and unzoned, but a few porphyroblasts are weakly zoned with core–mantle increasing grossular (Xgr) and decreasing pyrope (Xpy) contents. Garnet compositions are closely correlated with the bulk compositions. For instance, the Xpy and Xgr contents are positively correlated with the bulk MgO and CaO contents. Phengite is occasionally zoned with core–rim deceasing Si content, and phengite grains as inclusions in garnet show higher Si than in the matrix, suggesting differently resetting during post‐peak stages. The maximum Si contents are mostly 3.60–3.63 p.f.u. for the three areas. Pseudosections calculated using THERMOCALC suggest that the MT‐UHP eclogites should have a peak assemblage of garnet + omphacite + lawsonite + phengite + coesite in most rocks of higher MgO content. In this assemblage, the Xpy in garnet mostly depends on bulk compositions, whereas the Xgr in garnet and the Si contents in phengite regularly increase, respectively, as temperature and as pressure rise, and thus, can provide robust thermobarometric constraints. Using the Xgr and Si isopleths in pseudosections, the peak P–T conditions were estimated to be 40 kbar/730 °C for the Jinheqiao, 41 kbar/726 °C for the Shuanghe, and 37–52 kbar and 700–830 °C for the Bixiling eclogites. Some eclogites with higher FeO are predicted to have a peak assemblage of garnet + omphacite + coesite ± phengite without lawsonite, where the garnet and phengite compositions highly depend on bulk compositions and generally cannot give available thermobarometric constraints. Decompression of the eclogites with lawsonite in the peak stage is inferred to be accompanied with cooling and involves two stages: an early‐stage decompression is dominated by lawsonite dehydration, resulting in increase in the mode of anhydrous minerals, or further eclogitization, and formation of epidote porphyroblasts and kyanite‐bearing quartz veins in eclogite. As lawsonite dehydration can facilitate evolution of assemblages under fluid‐present conditions, it is difficult to recover real peak P–T conditions for UHP eclogites with lawsonite. This may be a reason why the P–T conditions estimated for eclogites using thermobarometers are mostly lower than those estimated for the coherent ultramafic rocks, and lower than those suggested from the inclusion assemblages in zircon from marble. A late‐stage decompression is dominated by formation of hornblendic amphibole and plagioclase with fluid infiltration. The lawsonite‐absent MT‐UHP eclogites have only experienced a decompression metamorphism corresponding to the later stage and generally lack the epidote overprinting.
From flint razors to lasers: a timeline of hair removal methods
Authors: Fernandez Alexandra A , França Katlein , Chacon Anna H , Nouri Keyvan
Published: June 2013

Today, most do not go a day without practicing or hearing about new hair removal methods. However, little is discussed about the history of hair removal and the development of most hair removal methods since the period of cavemen. Avoiding decapitation and fitting in with society are two of many reasons for the development of this now normative practice. Knowledge of the hair growth cycle is vital in understanding the efficacy of various hair removal methods as well as the difference between epilation and depilation. While laser hair removal (LHR) is one of the most common cosmetic procedures practiced in the world, according to the FDA, the only current permanent form of hair removal is electrolysis. These two methods as well as various other ones are discussed in this article. Further developments are being made every day to better treat the removal of blonde and white hair as well as to diminish the pain of hair removal. With these developments, dermatologists will better understand the advancement of hair removal methods and the reasons why patients may seek treatment.
Lateral oblique forehead lines: redefining sleeping lines and treatment with botulinum toxin A
Authors: De Boulle Koenraad , G Turkmani Mohammed
Published: June 2013

Background

Lateral oblique forehead lines had previously been defined as “sleeping lines.” We present arguments to support the premise that these lines are not caused by sleeping position, but arise instead from the repeated contraction of powerful frontalis and orbicularis oculi muscles and can therefore be successful treated with onabotulinum toxin A.

Objectives

To understand the causes behind the development of lateral oblique forehead lines and to look at treatment outcomes using onabotulinum toxin A.

Methods

An examination of facial anatomy and physical laws that could influence the formation of lateral oblique forehead lines was performed. Case studies of two male subjects presenting with these lines and treated with onabotulinum toxin A are discussed.

Results

Lateral oblique forehead lines were shown to be the result of muscular contraction rather than sleeping position. There were positive esthetic results in the appearance of these forehead lines in the two patients treated with onabotulinum toxin A.

Conclusion

This new definition of lateral oblique forehead lines is important because it allows for the possibility of treating overactive muscular activity with onabotulinum toxin A thereby diminishing the appearance of the lines.
Combination of herbal extracts and platelet‐rich plasma induced dermal papilla cell proliferation: involvement of ERK and Akt pathways
Authors: Rastegar Hosein , Ahmadi Ashtiani Hamidreza , Aghaei Mahmoud , Ehsani Amirohushang , Barikbin Behrooz
Published: June 2013

Background and aims

Recently, platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) has attracted attention in various medical fields, including plastic surgery, treatment for problematic wounds, and dermatology. Specifically, PRP has been tested during hair transplantation to reduce swelling and pain and to increase hair density. We examined the effects of PRP and herbal extracts combination in order to identify potential stimulants of hair growth.

Methods

PRP was prepared using the double‐spin method and applied to dermal papilla cells (DPCs). MTT viability test and BrdU cell proliferation assay were used to study the effect of herbal extracts and PRP on proliferation of DPCs. To understand the mechanisms of herbal extracts and PRP involved in the regulation of hair growth, we evaluated signaling pathways and measured the expressions of ERK and Akt, by Western blot.

Results

Combination of herbal extracts and PRP was found to induce significant proliferation of human DPCs at concentrations ranging from 1.5% to 4.5%. The present study shows that herbal extracts and PRP affect the expressions of extracellular signal–regulated kinase (ERK) and Akt in DPCs.

Conclusion

In this study, we have shown that combination of herbal extracts and PRP plays an active role in promoting the proliferation of human dermal papilla (DP) cells via the regulation of ERK and Akt proteins, and this may be applicable to the future development of herbal extracts and PRP combination therapeutics to enhance hair growth.
Hypo‐collagenesis in photoaged skin predicts response to anti‐aging cosmeceuticals
Authors: Sachs Dana L , Rittié Laure , Chubb Heather A , Orringer Jeffrey , Fisher Gary , Voorhees John J
Published: June 2013

Background

Chronic sun exposure causes photoaging, the appearance of prematurely aged skin. This phenomenon is characterized by progressive alteration of the dermal extracellular matrix, including elastin and collagen fibers. While many cosmeceuticals claim to improve the appearance of photoaged skin, data are lacking regarding their ability to induce molecular responses associated with wrinkle effacement, particularly increased collagen production.

Aims

To conduct a meta‐analysis to determine whether there was a factor(s) that could predict response to various cosmeceuticals.

Patients/Methods

Hundred subjects enrolled in five separate studies of cosmeceuticals containing: L‐ascorbic acid, pentapeptide, α‐lipoic acid, yeast extract, or 1% idebenone. Five groups consisting of 16–20 volunteers applied one cosmeceutical to their photodamaged forearms for several weeks. Punch biopsies were obtained pretreatment and post‐treatment and analyzed for typeIprocollagen byELISA.

Results

Analysis of basal collagenesis reinforced the notion that hypo‐collagenesis is associated with photoaging severity, independent of age or gender. Treatment outcome varied greatly among subjects, ranging from no improvement to a 7‐fold increase in collagenesis. Retrospective statistical meta‐analysis was conducted to determine whether age, gender, type of cosmeceutical, or evidence of hypo‐collagenesis in untreated skin could predict responsiveness to cosmeceuticals. Our analysis revealed that subjects with hypo‐collagenesis responded 6.4 times more often than subjects with normo‐collagenesis.

Discussion

Hypo‐collagenesis was the only factor that influenced treatment outcome. This study therefore identifies hypo‐collagenesis as the unique parameter predicting anti‐aging cosmeceutical treatment outcome. These findings provide a basis for future cosmetic testing and the potential development of custom formula skin care.
Tannase‐converted green tea catechins and their anti‐wrinkle activity in humans
Authors: Hong Yang‐Hee , Jung Eun Young , Shin Kwang‐Soon , Yu Kwang‐Won , Chang Un Jae , Suh Hyung Joo
Published: June 2013

Background

This study was performed to investigate the anti‐wrinkle effects of topical applications of green tea extract with high antioxidant activity by tannase treatment. Increases in gallic acid (GA), (−)‐epigallocatechin (EGC), and (−)‐epicatechin (EC) were observed in the green tea extract after tannase treatment.

Objectives

This study was performed to investigate the anti‐wrinkle effects of topical applications of green tea extract exhibiting high antioxidant activity after tannase treatment.

Methods

Subjects, randomly divided into two groups, received the application of either tannase‐converted green tea extract (TGE) or normal green tea extract (NGE) on their crow's feet for 8 weeks. The anti‐wrinkle effects were evaluated with two methods: (i) self‐assessment; and (ii) average roughness of skin surface (Ra, Rz, and Rt value) using skin replica and Skin‐Visiometer SV 600.

Results

The scavenging abilities of TGE against radicals were significantly higher compared to NGE. The evaluation of skin wrinkle index values after 8 weeks of treatment showed that reductions of Ra, Rz, and Rt values in the TGE group were significantly greater than in the NGE group, which indicated that tannase treatment improved the anti‐wrinkle effects of green tea extract. According to the overall ratings for wrinkle treatment by applying the formulations, most of the TGE group (63.60%) reported marked or moderate improvement in wrinkles compared with only 36.30% of the NGE group.

Conclusion

Tannase treatment can improve the antioxidant activity of green tea extract, conferring anti‐wrinkle activities. These results suggest that TGE may have beneficial properties as an anti‐wrinkle agent.
Sensory Lexicon Development Using Trained Panelists in Thailand and the U.S.A.: Soy Sauce
Authors: Cherdchu P. , Chambers E. , Suwonsichon T.
Published: June 2013

Twenty soy sauce products were presented to two sensory panels, one in Thailand and one in the U.S.A. Both panels had extensive training conducting descriptive sensory studies. Neither group had tested soy sauce previously; however, they had different familiarity with soy sauce. Each group separately evaluated samples during the same time period, then met in Thailand to compare and discuss their generated lexicons. Most attributes listed by each group of panelists provided similar definitions and references. Although, a few attributes were not used by one or the other panel because that term either does not exist in both languages (e.g., “cured” is not a term for the Thai panel), represented an uncommon characteristic (e.g., “roaches” for the American panel), or were complex concepts (e.g., “brown”), the panelists used references to assist their understanding of unclear attributes. After discussion, both panels agreed on 59 attributes with definitions and references for a soy sauce lexicon. The article presents attributes in English and Thai.

Practical Applications

A universal lexicon developed by different groups of trained panelists could reduce confusion and make the lexicon more understandable. A universal lexicon would help researchers in other countries to understand product quality. Additionally, the developed lexicon allows researchers to conduct studies with the same standard method in different laboratories enabling comparable results.
Higher prevalence of obesity in Greek children living in rural areas despite increased levels of physical activity
Authors: Tambalis Konstantinos D , Panagiotakos Demosthenes B , Kavouras Stavros A , Papoutsakis Sofia , Sidossis Labros S
Published: June 2013

Aim

The purpose of the present study was to evaluate whether levels of physical activity (PA) and sedentary behaviours could explain observed differences in the prevalence of childhood obesity in a sample of Greek children.

Methods

Epidemiological study. PA and sedentary behaviours were assessed by a self‐administrated PA checklist. Body mass index (BMI) was calculated from measured weight and height. A representative sample of Greek children aged 10–12 years attending fifth and sixth grade (n = 3195), living in rural and urban areas, were enrolled. Maturation status was not evaluated due to technical reasons.

Results

Prevalence of obesity was higher among children living in rural areas as compared with urban areas (12.1% vs. 10.7%, P < 0.01). Surprisingly, children living in rural areas had higher levels of self‐reported PA (P < 0.001) and met current PA guidelines to a greater extent than their urban counterparts (P < 0.05). Furthermore, boys had higher levels of total, low‐to‐moderate intensity and vigorous intensity physical activity, as well as sedentary behaviours, than girls (all P‐values <0.05). Stratified analysis by BMI category revealed that normal weight boys and girls had higher levels of total PA and vigorous intensity physical activity compared with overweight and obese boys from the same type of setting (all P‐values <0.05).

Conclusions

Children living in rural areas have higher levels of PA and more frequently met PA guidelines than their urban counterparts, despite a higher prevalence of obesity.