bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Studies of anti‐inflammatory effects of Rooibos tea in rats
Authors: Baba Haruna , Ohtsuka Yoshikazu , Haruna Hidenori , Lee Tsubasa , Nagata Satoru , Maeda Masato , Yamashiro Yuichiro , Shimizu Toshiaki 
Published: March 2009

AbstractBackground:  Rooibos tea is known to be caffeine free with abundant flavonoids. Aspalathin and nothofagin, the main flavonoids contained in Rooibos tea, have stronger anti‐oxidative activity than other flavonoids.As oxidative stress can induce inflammation, the anti‐inflammatory effects of Rooibos tea were investigated using a rat colitis model.Methods:  Seven‐week‐old Wister rats were divided into two groups: one group given Rooibos tea, and one given water. After four weeks of breeding, serum superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels were determined using the Electron Spin Resonance analysis. Urine 8‐hydroxy‐2′‐deoxyguanosine (8‐OHdG) concentrations were also determined as reflections of DNA damage using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Furthermore, rats were administrated dextran sodium sulfate (DSS), which is known to induce colitis in rodents, with or without Rooibos tea to evaluate its anti‐inflammatory activity. Clinical symptoms, hemoglobin, serum iron and SOD levels were compared between the groups.Results:  There were no significant differences in bodyweight gain or laboratory data between the groups. The serum SOD levels were significantly increased, and urine 8‐hydroxy‐2′‐deoxyguanosine levels were significantly decreased in the Rooibos group compared with the controls (P < 0.05 in each). After DSS administration, the serum SOD levels were significantly higher in the Rooibos group compared to the controls (P < 0.05). As a result, a decreased hemoglobin level, observed in the control group, was prevented in the Rooibos group after the DSS challenge.Conclusion:  Rooibos tea may prevent DNA damage and inflammation by its anti‐oxidative activity in vivo. As Rooibos tea is free from caffeine, routine intake may be safe and useful in reducing oxidative stress in children.
The family myth: its deconstruction and replacement with a balanced humanized narrative
Authors: Kradin Richard 
Published: March 2009

Abstract:  According to Carl Jung the mythopoeic activities of the collective unconscious contribute to the trajectory of personal individuation (Segal 1998). The ‘family myth’ represents an imaginal narrative that emphasizes the importance of the family's founders, its collective values, and its position with respect to ‘outsiders’. Sigmund Freud identified the importance of the Oedipal myth as the basis of nuclear family dynamics (Rudnytsky 1992); however, the ‘myth of the family’ represents in reality a ‘family of myths’, each emphasizing different elements of potential interpersonal dynamics. But whereas some myths foster the child's optimal separation from parental influence and promote the process of individuation, others tend to hinder development.One potentially deleterious form of the family myth tends to serve the narcissistic wishes of parents in their bid to maintain influence over the child by fostering the archetypal features of their role. The children who are the targets of the myth are thwarted in their psychological development by virtue of the fact that they are denied the opportunity to humanize their archetypal projections onto their parent(s). The result is a persistence of childlike attitude with respect to people and situations that they encounter outside the nuclear family. The persistent constellation of the child archetype is evidenced by features of the puer aeternus, with deficits in the ability to work, form stable adult relationships, and create a separate nuclear family. The significance of this type of family myth in the inappropriate preservation of puerile attitudes is examined and the desire of the offending parent(s) to promote their own immortality is explored. The contribution of the myth to the transference and transference resistance is explicated and suggestions are offered with respect to how to approach this critical issue in analysis.
A traditional medicinal herb Paeonia suffruticosa and its active constituent 1,2,3,4,6‐penta‐O‐galloyl‐β‐d‐glucopyranose have potent anti‐aggregation effects on Alzheimer’s amyloid β proteins in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Fujiwara Hironori , Tabuchi Masahiro , Yamaguchi Takuji , Iwasaki Koh , Furukawa Katsutoshi , Sekiguchi Kyoji , Ikarashi Yasushi , Kudo Yukitsuka , Higuchi Makoto , Saido Takaomi C. , Maeda Sumihiro , Takashima Akihiko , Hara Masahiko , Yaegashi Nobuo , Kase Yoshio , Arai Hiroyuki 
Published: March 2009

AbstractThe deposition of amyloid β (Aβ) protein is a consistent pathological hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) brains; therefore, inhibition of Aβ fibril formation and destabilization of pre‐formed Aβ fibrils is an attractive therapeutic and preventive strategy in the development of disease‐modifying drugs for AD. This study demonstrated that Paeonia suffruticosa, a traditional medicinal herb, not only inhibited fibril formation of both Aβ1–40 and Aβ1–42 but it also destabilized pre‐formed Aβ fibrils in a concentration‐dependent manner. Memory function was examined using the passive‐avoidance task followed by measurement of Aβ burden in the brains of Tg2576 transgenic mice. The herb improved long‐term memory impairment in the transgenic mice and inhibited the accumulation of Aβ in the brain. Three‐dimensional HPLC analysis revealed that a water extract of the herb contained several different chemical compounds including 1,2,3,4,6‐penta‐O‐galloyl‐β‐d‐glucopyranose (PGG). No obvious adverse/toxic were found following treatment with PGG. As was observed with Paeonia suffruticosa, PGG alone inhibited Aβ fibril formation and destabilized pre‐formed Aβ fibrils in vitro and in vivo. Our results suggest that both Paeonia suffruticosa and its active constituent PGG have strong inhibitory effects on formation of Aβ fibrils in vitro and in vivo. PGG is likely to be a safe and promising lead compound in the development of disease‐modifying drugs to prevent and/or cure AD.
Successful establishment of the invasive fire ant Solenopsis invicta in Taiwan: insights into interactions of alternate social forms
Authors: Yang Chin‐Cheng Scotty , Shoemaker D. DeWayne , Wu Jo‐Chao , Lin Yi‐Kai , Lin Chung‐Chi , Wu Wen‐Jer , Shih Cheng‐Jen 
Published: March 2009

AbstractAim  Understanding the factors underlying the successful establishment of invasive ant species is critical for developing quarantine strategies to prevent additional invasions as well as for determining how such species overcome the selective pressures in invaded areas. Although several studies have revealed differences in the social organization and population genetics of invasive ants in their native and introduced ranges, few studies have considered the potential interactions between alternate social forms within newly‐invaded areas simply because many invasive ants are characterized as polygyne or unicolonial.Location  Taoyuan and Chiayi County, Taiwan.Methods  Both social forms (polygyne and monogyne) of the red imported fire ant, Solenopsis invicta, occur in two separately invaded areas in Taiwan (Taoyuan and Chiayi). We employed intensive sampling methods and diagnostic polymerase chain reaction assays to determine the distribution of these two social forms in both infested areas in Taiwan.Results  The distribution of social forms differs dramatically between the two infested areas, consistent with different invasion histories regarding the original make‐up of individuals comprising the initial founder group. The Taoyuan population likely was colonized initially by ants of both social forms, with the subsequent spread characterized by continuous outward movement of the two forms, particularly the monogyne form. In contrast, the initial founders of the Chiayi population likely were of the polygyne social form only, suggesting the monogyne social form in this population appeared only recently and likely arose directly from polygyne queens converting to the alternate social form.Main conclusions  Our results provide detailed insights into the invasion history of S. invicta in Taiwan and suggest that the distinct reproductive biology of the two social forms may have shaped the current distribution of S. invicta in these infested areas and that the dynamics of two forms may affect the long‐term persistence and potential for spread of this pest ant species.
Aging and cancer cell biology, 2009
Authors: Campisi Judith , Yaswen Paul 
Published: March 2009

SummaryCancer is an age‐related disease in organisms with renewable tissues. A malignant tumor arises in part from genomic damage, which can also drive age‐related degeneration. However, cancer differs from many age‐related degenerative diseases in that it entails gain‐of‐function changes that confer new (albeit aberrant) properties on cells, resulting in vigorous cell proliferation and survival. Nonetheless, interventions that delay age‐related degeneration – for example, caloric restriction or dampened insulin/IGF‐1 signaling – often also delay cancer. How then is the development of cancer linked to aging? The answer to this question is complex, as suggested by recent findings. This Hot Topic review discusses some of these findings, including how genomic damage might alter cellular properties without conferring mutations, and how some genes that regulate lifespan in organisms that lack renewable tissues might affect the development of cancer in mammals.
Changing Images of the Nation in England, Germany and the Netherlands: A Comparison
Authors: De Roode Sven 
Published: March 2009

AbstractThis article surveys how national self‐awareness, national master narratives and political action in the Netherlands, England and Germany were dominated by self‐images of being a Protestant nation through the nineteenth century until the 1960s in a comparative perspective. In spite of the existence of considerable Catholic minorities in all three countries under investigation, nineteenth century's processes of nation building were marked by the dominance of Protestants in the societal and political realm. Nineteenth century's historical master narratives in the ‘second confessional age’ forged a ‘symbiotic relationship’ between Protestantism and the nation. Historians played a crucial part in its establishment and consolidation. Throughout the nineteenth century Protestant historians nationalized religion and sacralized the nation. Although inclusive master narratives existed alongside Protestant imaginations of the past, Protestant historians enjoyed a privileged position in confessionally mixed states such as the Netherlands, England and Germany. The sacralization of the nation was epitomized in ideas of being a chosen people, an elect or holy nation. The decisive overall feature of corresponding Protestant self‐images was the belief in the singularity of the prevailing nation and its history. This article sets out to show that the alleged uniqueness did not correspond to reality. A comparative survey of dominant national self‐images reveals that they are less unique than propagated and rather overlap and resemble each other substantially.
Complex patterns of mitochondrial dynamics in human pancreatic cells revealed by fluorescent confocal imaging
Authors: Kuznetsov Andrey V. , Hermann Martin , Troppmair Jakob , Margreiter Raimund , Hengster Paul 
Published: March 2009

AbstractMitochondrial morphology and intracellular organization are tightly controlled by the processes of mitochondrial fission–fusion. Moreover, mitochondrial movement and redistribution provide a local ATP supply at cellular sites of particular demands. Here we analysed mitochondrial dynamics in isolated primary human pancreatic cells. Using real time confocal microscopy and mitochondria‐specific fluorescent probes tetramethylrhodamine methyl ester and MitoTracker Green we documented complex and novel patterns of spatial and temporal organization of mitochondria, mitochondrial morphology and motility. The most commonly observed types of mitochondrial dynamics were (i) fast fission and fusion; (ii) small oscillating movements of the mitochondrial network; (iii) larger movements, including filament extension, retraction, fast (0.1–0.3 μm/sec.) and frequent oscillating (back and forth) branching in the mitochondrial network; (iv) as well as combinations of these actions and (v) long‐distance intracellular translocation of single spherical mitochondria or separated mitochondrial filaments with velocity up to 0.5 μm/sec. Moreover, we show here for the first time, a formation of unusual mitochondrial shapes like rings, loops, and astonishingly even knots created from one or more mitochondrial filaments. These data demonstrate the presence of extensive heterogeneity in mitochondrial morphology and dynamics in living cells under primary culture conditions. In summary, this study reports new patterns of morphological changes and dynamic motion of mitochondria in human pancreatic cells, suggesting an important role of integrations of mitochondria with other intracellular structures and systems.
Inhibition of fatty acid biosynthesis prevents adipocyte lipotoxicity on human osteoblasts in vitro
Authors: Elbaz Alexandre , Wu Xiying , Rivas Daniel , Gimble Jeffrey M. , Duque Gustavo 
Published: March 2009

AbstractAlthough increased bone marrow fat in age‐related bone loss has been associated with lower trabecular mass, the underlying mechanism responsible remains unknown. We hypothesized that marrow adipocytes exert a lipotoxic effect on osteoblast function and survival through the reversible biosynthesis of fatty acids (FA) into the bone marrow microenvironment. We have used a two‐chamber system to co‐culture normal human osteoblasts (NHOst) with differentiating pre‐adipocytes in the absence or presence of an inhibitor of FA synthase (cerulenin) and separated by an insert that allowed unidirectional trafficking of soluble factors only and prevented direct cell–cell contact. Supernatants were assayed for the presence of FA using mass spectophotometry. After 3 weeks in co‐culture, NHOst showed significantly lower levels of differentiation and function based on lower mineralization and expression of alkaline phosphatase, osterix, osteocalcin and Runx2. In addition, NHOst survival was affected by the presence of adipocytes as determined by MTS‐formazan and TUNEL assays as well as higher activation of caspases 3/7. These toxic effects were inhibited by addition of cerulenin. Furthermore, culture of NHOst with either adipocyte‐conditioned media alone in the absence of adipocytes themselves or with the addition of the most predominant FA (stearate or palmitate) produced similar toxic results. Finally, Runx2 nuclear binding was affected by addition of either adipocyte conditioned media or FA into the osteogenic media. We conclude that the presence of FA within the marrow milieu can contribute to the age‐related changes in bone mass and can be prevented by the inhibition of FA synthase.
Reduction in QSART and vasoactive intestinal polypeptide expression in the skin of Parkinson’s disease patients and its relation to dyshidrosis
Authors: Kawada Morihiro , Tamada Yasuhiko , Simizu Hirokazu , Yanagishita Takeshi , Yamashita Noriko , Ishida Natsuko , Watanabe Daisuke , Yoshida Mari , Ibi Tatsu , Sahashi Kou , Hashizume Yoshio , Matsumoto Yoshinari 
Published: March 2009

Background:  With regards to dyshidrosis in Parkinson’s disease (PD), there is no established and consistent view on the occurrence sites, frequency and etiology, although there have been several reports on hypohidrosis of the limbs and sudoresis on the face/cervical region.Methods:  Hydrosis in the forearms of PD patients and healthy individuals were compared by quantitative sudomotor axon reflex test (QSART). The expression of various neuropeptides and α‐synuclein was examined with immunohistochemical staining.Results:  There was a significant reduction in QSART of PD patients but not of healthy controls. Reduced expression of vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP) was also detected in the sweat glands of PD patients.Conclusion:  Reduction in QSART and VIP expression in the sweat glands might be involved in the dyshidrosis of PD patients.
G‐DRG Version 2009: New Developments
Authors: Müller Marcel L. , Forschner Andrea , Wenke Andreas , Luger Thomas A. , Rompel Rainer , Roeder Norbert , Hensen Peter 
Published: March 2009

SummaryThe update of the G‐DRG system for the year 2009 has been successfully negotiated. Like in the past years, changes are minimal and not dramatic, but they significantly enhance the quality of the DRG system. Once again, the German DRG system demonstrates its versatility and reliability for clinical reimbursement purposes.In the field of dermatology, several improvements or enhancements can be identified; the average case mix index that declined in the past years should now rise by 0.5 percent for 2009. Oncology cases are affected especially by this increase. Some refinements advanced for several years by the German Dermatologic Society (DDG) have been recognized –complex therapies like vacuum wound therapy, isolation due to multi‐resistant infections and multiple primary tumors now have better cost weights.Although there still remain some minor problems like reimbursement of cost‐intensive treatments, German dermatology is in summary very well prepared for the year 2009.
Managing children with acute non‐traumatic limp: the utility of clinical findings, laboratory inflammatory markers and X‐rays
Authors: Reed Lucy , Baskett Abby , Watkins Nicholas 
Published: March 2009

AbstractObjectives:  To examine the utility of clinical findings, laboratory markers and X‐ray radiographs (X‐ray) in the assessment of children presenting with an acute non‐traumatic limp.Methods:  A retrospective review of all children who received hip X‐rays over a 2 year period in the Children's Emergency Department, Starship Children's Hospital, Auckland, New Zealand. Children were identified from the radiology database and clinical notes reviewed. Children aged 0–12 years old were included if the limp was acute (less than 2 weeks of duration) with no history of trauma. X‐rays were reported by a consultant paediatric radiologist. Univariate and multivariate analysis was performed to determine predictors of osteomyelitis and septic arthritis. Receiver operator curves were used to assess the optimum cut‐off points for C reactive protein (CRP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and white cell count (WCC).Results:  A total of 350 patients were enrolled. There were 21 (6%) abnormal X‐rays . Fever, non‐weight bearing, raised white cell count, raised erythrocyte sedimentation rate and raised CRP were all associated with increased risk of septic hip or osteomyelitis. The optimum inflammatory marker cut‐off was a CRP of 12 with a sensitivity of 87% and specificity of 91%.Conclusion:  In acute non‐traumatic limp, X‐rays of the hips diagnose slipped upper femoral epiphysis, as such they should be routinely used from the age of 9 years upwards. Below this age they are of little value. Inflammatory markers have utility in risk‐stratifying children and selecting a group in whom to proceed with definitive tests to exclude osteomyelitis or septic hip. Children with a short history and minimal symptoms can be managed with appropriate follow up and no investigations.
Effect of N‐Acetyl Cysteine against Aluminium‐induced Cognitive Dysfunction and Oxidative Damage in Rats
Authors: Prakash Atish , Kumar Anil 
Published: March 2009

Abstract:  Aluminium is a potent neurotoxin involved in the initiation and progression of various cognitive disorders like Alzheimer's disease. Chronic aluminium exposure induces oxidative stress and increases amyloid beta levels in vivo. The role of oxidative stress has been well‐suggested in these cognitive problems. Therefore, the present study was designed to explore the possible role of N‐acetyl cysteine against aluminium mediating cognitive dysfunction and oxidative stress in rats. Aluminium chloride (100 mg/kg, p.o.) was given to rats daily for 6 weeks. N‐acetyl cysteine (per se; 50 and 100 mg/kg, i.p.) pre‐treatment was given 30 min. before aluminium daily for 6 weeks. On the third (21st day) and sixth week (42nd day) of the study, various behavioural tests (Morris water maze and elevated plus maze task paradigms) and locomotion (photoactometer) were done to evaluate cognitive tasks. The rats were killed on the 43rd day following the last behavioural test, and various biochemical tests were performed to assess the extent of oxidative damage. Chronic aluminium chloride administration resulted in poor retention of memory in Morris water maze, elevated plus maze task paradigms and caused marked oxidative damage. It also caused a significant increase in the acetylcholinesterase activity. Chronic administration of N‐acetyl cysteine significantly improved memory retention in tasks, attenuated oxidative damage and acetylcholinesterase activity in aluminium‐treated rats. The study suggests a neuroprotective effect of N‐acetyl cysteine against aluminium‐induced cognitive dysfunction and oxidative damage.
Relationship Satisfaction and Erectile Functions in Men Receiving Laparoscopic Radical Prostatectomy: Effects of Provision and Receipt of Spousal Social Support
Authors: Knoll Nina , Burkert Silke , Kramer Jürgen , Roigas Jan , Gralla Oliver 
Published: March 2009

ABSTRACT

Introduction
Prostate carcinoma ranges among the most common cancers in German men. One of its standard treatments is radical prostatectomy (RP). Postoperative comorbidities of RP include erectile dysfunctions, which may impact patients’ relationship quality. Little is known, to date, about patients’ and their partners’ psychosocial resources that might reduce the risk of damage to relationship outcomes. Such resources include spousal social support interactions.

Aim
We investigated cross-sectional and prospective relations of patient-reported and partner-reported received and provided spousal support, and patients’ indicators of erectile functions and relationship satisfaction prior to and 1 year following laparoscopic radical prostatectomy.

Main Outcome Measures
Patient-reported relationship satisfaction (Relationship Questionnaire; Fragebogen zur Partnerschaftsdiagnostik) and erectile functions (International Index of Erectile Function) were investigated as main outcomes.

Methods
One hundred thirty-nine patients and their heterosexual partners provided data prior to and 12 months after the operation. Main outcomes were patient-reported relationship satisfaction and erectile functions. In addition to several covariates, central predictors were patients’ and partners’ accounts of received and provided spousal support. Data were assessed using questionnaires.

Results
Erectile functions were associated with patients’ relationship satisfaction presurgery, but not 12 months postsurgery. Patient-reported received and provided support was positively associated with relationship satisfaction at all times. Patient-reported provision of support was also related with better erectile functions prior to and postsurgery. Some of these associations could be replicated using partner accounts of respective support indicators.

Conclusions
Regarding patients’ relationship satisfaction and sexual functions, findings associate more consistent benefit with patients’ own provision of supports when compared with their own support receipt.