Faceta Direta de Resina Composta utilizando Pigmentos Opacificadores para Reabilitação Estética Anterior de Dente Escurecido: Relato de Caso / Direct Composite Resin Veneer using Opacifying Pigments for Anterior Aesthetic Rehabilitation of Discolored Teeth: Case Report

O tratamento estético de dentes com alteração de cor é um grande desafio na Odontologia Restauradora. Nesse sentido, a utilização de técnicas de estratificação com resina composta associada ao uso de pigmentos opacificadores permite que seja possível restaurar por meio de uma técnica direta, que resulta em um menor desgaste da estrutura dental durante o preparo. Dessa forma, o presente trabalho apresenta um caso clínico de faceta direta de resina composta utilizando associação de três pigmentos opacificadores. Paciente do sexo masculino, 54 anos, procurou atendimento apresentando alteração de cor severa do dente 21, relato de trauma dental, tratamento endodôntico e contraindicação de novo protocolo de clareamento interno, sendo sugerido, como plano de tratamento, a restauração direta com resina composta. Para a confecção da faceta direta de resina, foi utilizada uma mistura de três opacificadores na consistência fluida. Para verificar o valor da camada aplicada da mistura, foram feitas fotografias em preto e branco. A estratificação prosseguiu com camadas de resina translúcida para a base palatina, resina opaca de dentina e resina acromática translúcida para o esmalte. Como resultado, constatou-se a função e eficácia do uso da associação de pigmentos opacificadores na resolução do caso, em seguida, foi realizada uma reavaliação após 30 dias e 7 meses do procedimento restaurador, quando verificou-se a estabilidade de cor da restauração. Concluiu-se, portanto, que a utilização da técnica de estratificação de resinas compostas associada a utilização de pigmentos opacificadores traz resultados estéticos satisfatórios e favoráveis por meio de uma técnica direta, realizada em sessão clínica única e com alta previsibilidade.

The esthetic treatment of teeth with discoloration is a major challenge in restorative dentistry. In this sense, the use of composite resin veneering techniques associated with the use of opacifying stains allows restorations to be made using a direct technique, which results in less wear to the tooth structure during preparation. Thus, the present study presents a clinical case of a direct composite resin veneer using an association of three opacifying pigments. A 54-year-old male patient presented with severe color change on the central upper left incisor, a report of dental trauma, endodontic treatment, and contraindication for a new internal bleaching protocol. In order to make the direct resin veneer, a mixture of three opacifiers in a fluid consistency was used. To check the value of the applied layer of the mixture, black and white photographs were taken. Layering proceeded with translucent resin layers for the palatal base, opaque dentin resin and translucent achromatic resin for the enamel. As a result, the function and efficacy of the use of the association of opacifying pigments was verified in the resolution of the case. A reevaluation was performed 30 days and 7 months after the restorative procedure, when the color stability of the restoration was verified. This case allows to conclude that using composite resin layering technique associated with the use of opacifying pigments brings satisfactory and favorable aesthetic results through a direct technique, performed in a single clinical session and with high predictability.

Mechanism of Combination of Pungent Dispersing Bitter Evacuant in Treatment of Asthma Based on Theory of Five Flavor Compatibility / 中国实验方剂学杂志

Bronchial asthma， a chronic inflammatory airway disease， belongs to the category of wheezing disease in the system of traditional Chinese medicine （TCM）. The wheezing symptom of this disease is mainly caused by the imbalance of lung Qi. According to the theory of five flavor compatibility， the Chinese medicinal materials with five different flavors （pungent， bitter， sour， sweet， and salty） can be combined to produce new functions. The pungent medicinal materials have dispersing effect and the bitter medicinal materials have discharging effect， which are important components in the theory of five flavor compatibility. Pungent herbs and bitter herbs can relieve the adverse lung Qi， occupying an important position in the current medication for the treatment of asthma. However， there is still a lack of in-depth analysis of the TCM theory and mechanism of the compatibility of pungent herbs and bitter herbs in the treatment of asthma. The molecular mechanisms of action of pungent herbs and bitter herbs are closely related to transient receptor potential （TRP） channels and bitter taste receptors （TAS2Rs）， respectively. Ca2+ signaling has been recognized in the process of asthma and is involved in the development of multiple symptoms of asthma. The TRP channels and TAS2Rs located on the cell membrane have been proved to directly regulate the intracellular Ca2+ signal and play a role in the treatment of asthma. Therefore， the dispersing effect of pungent herbs and the discharging effect of bitter herbs may be realized through the Ca2+ signaling pathway mediated by TRPs/TAS2Rs. We summarized the theoretical understanding and modern studies of pungent herbs dispersing lung Qi and bitter herbs discharging lung Qi， aiming to explain the internal relationship and mechanism of the compatibility of pungent herbs and bitter herbs in the treatment of asthma from the perspective of TCM theory and modern medicine. The compatibility of pungent herbs and bitter herbs based on the theory of five flavor compatibility for the treatment of asthma has a solid theoretical basis of TCM， and its mechanism can be verified by modern research. Therefore， it may be a main research direction in the treatment of asthma by Chinese medicinal herbs in the future.

Caso Clínico: Resolución quirúrgica de coartación de aorta en un paciente pediátrico / Case Report: Surgical resolution of aortic coarctation in pediatric patient

INTRODUCCIÓN: La coartación de aorta es una cardiopatía congénita con una incidencia de 4 por cada 10 000 nacidos vivos y puede asociarse o no a ductus arterioso persistente u otras malformaciones. Suele ser asintomático, normalmente se diagnostica mediante los signos clásicos; con gradiente de presión arterial entre extremidades, pulsos reducidos en extremidades inferiores, hipertensión arterial en miembros superiores o, en casos graves, fallo cardiaco izquierdo. Su resolución puede ser percutánea o quirúrgica, dependiendo de la edad y sus características. CASO CLÍNICO: Paciente masculino de 6 años, asintomático, con sospecha de coartación aórtica, por presentar una diferencia entre presiones arteriales de miembros superiores e inferiores, extremidades inferiores con pulsos reducidos y soplo sistólico en foco aórtico. Se solicitó ecocardiograma que informó válvula aórtica bicúspide con rafe, insuficiencia ligera y coartación de aorta; angiotomografía evidenció coartación de aorta yuxtaductal; cateterismo cardiaco objetivó casi nulo paso de contraste a través del defecto, por lo que se programó tratamiento quirúrgico. EVOLUCIÓN: La corrección quirúrgica se realizó mediante coartectomía con anastomosis termino-terminal más cierre del conducto arterioso. Posterior a la intervención se logró objetivar una mejora relevante en el gradiente de presión entre las extremidades. En el postquirúrgico el paciente presentó hipertensión que logró ser controlada, evolucionó favorablemente y recibió el alta a los 4 días sin tratamiento antihipertensivo ambulatorio. CONCLUSIÓN: La expectativa de vida en pacientes intervenidos para corregir su cardiopatía congénita es superior en relación a aquellos que no son intervenidos, por lo que el diagnóstico oportuno supone una herramienta importante para mejorar la calidad y esperanza de vida.

BACKGROUND: Coarctation of the aorta is a congenital heart disease with an incidence of 4 per 10 000 live births, it may or may not be associated with patent ductus arteriosus as well as other malformations. It is usually asymptomatic and diagnosed by its classic signs such as; arterial pressure gradient between extremities, reduced pulses in the lower extremities, arterial hypertension in the upper extremities or, in severe cases, left heart failure. Its resolution can be percutaneous or surgical, depending on the patient's age and the characteristics of the defect. CASE REPORTS: A 6-year-old male patient, asymptomatic, with suspected aortic coarctation, due to a difference between arterial pressures in the upper and lower limbs, lower limbs with reduced pulses, and a systolic murmur in the aortic focus. An echocardiogram was requested, which reported a bicuspid aortic valve with raphe, mild regurgitation, and coarctation of the aorta; CT angiography showed coarctation of the juxtaductal aorta; cardiac catheterization showed almost no passage of contrast through the defect, so surgical treatment was scheduled. EVOLUTION: Surgical correction was performed by coartectomy with end-to-end anastomosis and closure of the ductus arteriosus. After the intervention, a relevant improvement in the pressure gradient between the extremities was observed. In the postoperative period the patient presented hypertension, that we managed to control, the patient progressed favorably and was discharged after 4 days without antihypertensive treatment. CONCLUSION: Life expectancy in patients who underwent surgery to correct a congenital heart disease is higher than in those who don't, so timely diagnosis is an important tool to improve life quality and life expectancy.

Evaluation of depressive symptoms in a sample with social anxiety disorder / Avaliação de sintomas depressivos em uma amostra com transtorno de ansiedade social / Evaluación de sintomas depresivos en una muestra con transtorno de ansiedad social

Individuals with Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD) often also experience depression. This study's objective was to verify the levels of depression present in a sample of individuals diagnosed with SAD and to characterize this sample according to sociodemographic variables. There were 104 participants diagnosed with SAD from a pre-existing database. The sociodemographic and clinical data were analyzed through descriptive statistics, as well as inferential statistics on levels of social anxiety and depressive symptoms, obtained through the Social Anxiety Inventory (SPIN) and Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-II). It was found that more than half of the people had Major Depressive Disorder as a secondary diagnosis and that higher levels of social anxiety correlated positively with higher levels of depressive symptoms. These data show the relationship between depression and social anxiety and corroborate the findings of the literature.

Os indivíduos com transtorno de ansiedade social (TAS) frequentemente apresentam também depressão. O objetivo deste trabalho foi verificar os níveis de depressão presentes em uma amostra de indivíduos diagnosticados com TAS, assim como ca racterizar essa amostra de acordo com as variáveis sociodemográficas. Contou-se com 104 participantes diagnosticados com TAS, provenientes de um banco de dados preexistente. Os dados sociodemográficos e clínicos foram analisados por meio de estatística descritiva, bem como se utilizou estatística inferencial nos níveis de ansiedade social e sintomas depressivos, obtidos por meio do Inventário de Fobia Social (SPIN) e do Inventário de Depressão de Beck (BDI-II). Constatou-se que mais da metade das pessoas possuía transtorno depressivo maior como diagnóstico secundário e que maiores níveis de ansiedade social se correlacionaram positivamente com maiores níveis de sintomas depressivos. Tais dados evidenciam a relação existente entre depressão e ansiedade social, e corroboram os achados da literatura.

Las personas con trastorno de ansiedad social (TAS) a menudo también experimentan depresión. El objetivo de este trabajo fue verificar los niveles de depresión presentes en una muestra de individuos diagnosticados con TAS, así caracterizar esta muestra de acuerdo con las variables sociodemográficas. Hubo 104 participantes diagnosticados con TAS provenientes de una base de datos preexistente. Los datos sociodemográficos y clínicos fueron analizados mediante estadística descriptiva, así como estadísticas inferenciales sobre los niveles de ansiedad social y síntomas depresivos, obtenidos a través del Inventario de Ansiedad Social (SPIN) y el Inventario de Depresión de Beck (BDI-II). Se encontró que más de la mitad de las personas tenían un trastorno depresivo mayor como diagnóstico secundario, y que los niveles más altos de ansiedad social se correlacionaron positivamente con niveles más altos de síntomas depresivos. Estos datos destacan la relación entre la depresión y la ansiedad social, y corroboran los hallazgos de la literatura.

Association Between TAS1R2 Gene Polymorphism (rs12033832) and Sweet Taste Perception Amongst Malay Obese and Nonobese Subjects

@#Introduction: A growing evidence supported that variation of sweet taste perception, mediated by TAS1Rs gene variants could lead to excess sweetened food and beverages intake and also obesity. However, obesity development may also alter individuals' taste sensitivity and perception. Thus, it is best to further investigate whether or not the individuals' sweet taste sensitivity and acceptance are associated with variation in TAS1R2 gene and Body Mass Index (BMI) status. Methods: This comparison cross sectional study comprised of 88 obese and 92 non-obese subjects aged 20-45. All the subjects were genotyped for TAS1R2 gene variant at rs12033832 using polymerase chain reaction – restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP). Suprathreshold sensitivity for sweet taste was assessed using general Labeled Magnitude Scales. Intensity rating and hedonic test were carried out on 2 food samples (tea drink and rose flavoured agar) to examine subject's intensity rating and liking at different sugar contents. Results: Our results showed that rs12033832 of TAS1R2 gene is associated with sweet taste perception among obese and non-obese subjects. No interaction effect between BMI status and TAS1R2 gene variant (rs12022832) was found on sweet taste measures. Overall, non-obese subjects with AA genotype on rs12033832 had the highest sweet taste sensitivity and dislike high sugar content products the most. The effect was reverse among the obese subjects with GG homozygous. Conclusion: These findings suggest that TAS1R2 gene variation plays an important role in sweet taste perception among individuals and may have nutritional implications and obesity.

To Evaluate Role of Transvaginal Sonography over Transabdominal Sonography in Delineating Adnexal Masses

To compare and find diagnostic accuracy of Transvaginal sonography (TVS) over Transabdominalsonography (TAS) in evaluation of adnexal lesions. A cross sectional comparative study of 50 patientsincluding both pre and postmenopausal women who were clinically suspected to have adnexal masswere scanned on Logiq GE C5 Premium ultrasonography unit. TAS was performed with 3.5MHzelectronic macro convex probe followed by TVS with 6.5 MHz end firing electronic TVS probe. TVSwas found to be superior in diagnosing adnexal lesions. In comparison with TAS, TVS diagnosedbenign cystic teratomas (100% versus 40%), endometriomas (90% versus 57.1%), haemorrhagic ovarian cysts (85.7% versus 50%, hydrosalpinx (75% versus 25%), pyosalpinx/tubo-ovarian mass (75%versus 75%), and ectopic pregnancy (100% versus 77.7%). In our study ovarian cancers were betterdetected by TAS due to their large size. TVS was found to be superior in diagnosing adnexal masses ascompared to TAS with more accurate delineation of internal architectural features as wall thicknessand complexity, nodules, septae, papillary projections, internal echoes thereby narrowing the differentials.

Validación del Inventario de Fobia y Ansiedad Social- Forma Breve para universitarios argentinos / Validação do Inventário de Fobia e Ansiedade Social- Forma Breve para universitários argentinos / Validation of the Social Phobia and Anxiety Inventory- Brief Form for Argentinean college

Las problemáticas que afectan la capacidad de las personas para desempeñarse adecuadamente en las interacciones sociales, tales como el trastorno de ansiedad social (Social Anxiety Disorder, SAD), constituyen un ámbito de estudio que ha cobrado gran interés, debido a la importancia que las relaciones sociales tienen en todas las áreas de desempeño de los seres humanos. Sin embargo, se observa una escasez generalizada de estudios sobre ansiedad social en países latinoamericanos, en parte, debido a la ausencia de instrumentos construidos o adaptados a la población general o a conjuntos específicos. En función de ello, el objetivo del presente trabajo fue analizar las propiedades psicométricas del Inventario de Fobia y Ansiedad Social- Forma Breve (SPAI- B) para su utilización en estudiantes universitarios argentinos. Los resultados evidenciaron propiedades psicométricas adecuadas de validez y confiabilidad y se aportó evidencia de validez de grupos contrastados y convergente. Se discuten las limitaciones del estudio y nuevas líneas de investigación. (AU)

As problemáticas que afetam a capacidade das pessoas para terem um desempenho adequado nas interações sociais, como o transtorno de ansiedade social (Social Anxiet Disorder, SAD), constituem um âmbito de estudo que ganhou grande interesse devido à importância que as relações sociais têm em todas as áreas de desempenho dos seres humanos. No entanto, há um déficit generalizado de estudos sobre ansiedade social em países latino-americanos, devido a uma ausência de instrumentos construídos ou adaptados à população geral ou grupos específicos. Com base nisso, o objetivo do presente trabalho foi analisar as propriedades psicométricas do Inventario de Fobia e Ansiedade Social - Forma Breve (SPAI- B) para sua utilização com estudantes universitários argentinos. Os resultados mostraram propriedades psicométricas adequadas de validade e fidedignidade e gerou evidência de validade de grupos contrastados e validade convergente. As limitações do estudo e novas linhas de pesquisa são discutidas. (AU)

The problems that affect people's ability to perform adequately in social interactions, such as Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD), constitute an area of study that has gained great interest, due to the importance that social relations have in all areas of performance of human beings. However, there is a general scarcity of studies on social anxiety in Latin American countries, partly because of the absence of instruments built or adapted to the general population or specific groups. Due to this, the objective of the present investigation was to analyze the psychometric properties of the Spanish version of the Social Phobia and Anxiety Inventory-Short form (SPAI - B) to be used in Argentine college students. The results showed appropriate validity and reliability psychometric properties and it also has been provided evidence of contrasting groups and convergent validity. The limitations of the study and new lines of research are discussed. (AU)

Effect of wheatgrass on DNA damage, oxidative stress index and histological findings in diabetic rats / Efecto del pasto de trigo sobre el daño del ADN, el índice de estrés oxidativo y los hallazgos histológicos en ratas diabéticas

This study was aimed to search the effect of wheatgrass on the Total Antioxidan (TAS)-Oxidan Status (TOS) and DNA damage in rat with diabetes. The rats used in the study were randomly divided into 4 groups that each of has 10 rats: Control group; 1 ml single dose phosphate-citrate buffer injected i.p (pH: 4.5), Diabetes group; 45 mg/kg single dose streptozotocin injected i.p., Wheatgrass group; was given oral wheatgrass (10 ml/kg/day) for 6 weeks, Diabetes +Wheatgrass group; 45 mg/kg single dose streptozotocin injected i.p. and wheatgrass (10 ml/kg/day) was given by oral during 6 weeks. After the process of experiment during 6 weeks, blood sample and pancreas tissue were taken. The analysis were done of blood glucose levels, TAS, TOS levels by colorimetric kits; DNA damage by ELISA kits in serum. The pancreas tissues were examined histopathologically. In the group of Diabetes+Wheatgrass was determined that the levels of glucose levels (p<0.001), TOS (p<0.05) and OSI (p<0.01) statistically decreased and heal histopatolojical compared to diabetes group. In the group of Wheatgrass was determined that the levels of TAS p<0.05 statistically increased from other groups. The statistical significance were not found in the level of serum 8OHdG differences between the groups. The beta cells were seen to increase in the group receiving wheatgrass for therapeutic purposes.As a conclusion, it was determined that wheatgrass strengthened the anti-oxidant defense system and reduced the glucose level in diabetic rats.

El objetivo de este estudio fue buscar el efecto del pasto de trigo sobre el estado total de antioxidantes (TAS) -Oxidan Status (TOS) y el daño del ADN en ratas con diabetes. Las ratas analizadas en el estudio se dividieron aleatoriamente en 4 grupos de 10 ejemplares cada uno: grupo control; 1 ml de tampón fosfato-citrato de dosis única inyectado i.p. (pH: 4,5)., Grupo diabetes; 45 mg / kg de estreptozotocina en dosis única inyectada i.p., grupo pasto de trigo; se administró pasto de trigo oral (10 ml / kg / día) durante 6 semanas, grupo diabetes + pasto de trigo; 45 mg / kg de estreptozotocina en dosis única inyectada i.p. y pasto de trigo (10 ml / kg / día) por vía oral durante 6 semanas. Después del proceso experimental durante 6 semanas, se tomaron muestras de sangre y tejido de páncreas. Se midieron los niveles de glucosa en sangre, TAS, y TOS mediante kits colorimétricos; El daño al ADN fue realizado por kits de ELISA en suero. Los tejidos del páncreas se examinaron histopatológicamente. En el grupo de diabetes + pasto de trigo se determinó que los niveles de glucosa (p <0,001), TOS (p <0,05) y OSI (p <0,01) disminuyeron estadísticamente y curaron histopatológicamente en comparación con el grupo de diabetes. En el grupo de pasto de trigo se determinó que los niveles de TAS p <0,05 se incrementaron estadísticamente con respecto a otros grupos. No fue estadísticamente significativo el nivel de las diferencias séricas de 8OHdG entre los grupos. Se observó que las células beta aumentaron en el grupo que recibió pasto de trigo con fines terapéuticos. Como conclusión, se determinó que el pasto de trigo fortaleció el sistema de defensa antioxidante y redujo el nivel de glucosa en las ratas diabéticas.

Alexitimia en pacientes con asma bronquial atendidos en el servicio de alergia de previsora, Camagüey, Cuba / Alexitimia in patients with bronchial asthma treated in the allergy service of Previsora, Camagüey, Cuba

Antecedentes. Algunas conductas y enfermedades humanas están asociadas con alexitimia, que es la incapacidad de hacer corresponder las palabras con las emociones. Material y método. Del universo de 2490 individuos mayores de 15 años pertenecientes al área de salud Previsora, se obtuvo una muestra constituida por 351 asmáticos (casos) y 355 sanos (controles). Se aplicó la Escala de Alexitimia de Toronto (TAS-20); estadística descriptiva; razón de posibilidades (RP) e intervalo de confianza (IC) de 95% para asociación de alexitimia en los casos y en los controles. Chi-cuadrado (chi 2) y análisis de varianza para diferencias. Resultados. La prevalencia de alexitimia fue de 5,9% en los casos y de 4,2 % en los controles (p=0,18); RP de 1,44; IC95,0%: 0,73-2,84. No se detectaron diferencias entre sexo (p=0,322). Las puntuaciones más altas de alexitimia fueron para edades de 40 a 80 años (p=0,056). En comorbilidad, el predominio de alexitimia fue para asma/rinitis (p=0,034). Hubo asociación de alexitimia con asma moderada y grave (p=0,014). Discusión. En la muestra, la prevalencia de alexitimia fue inferior a estudios realizados en otros contextos, resultado éste que requiere nuevos investigaciones que incluyan también a otras disciplinas. Conclusiones. La prevalencia de alexitimia es baja en los pacientes con asma. Sin embargo, en asma/rinitis y en asmáticos moderados/ severos en nuestra muestra se observó incremento de alexitimia. (AU)

Background: Some human behaviors and diseases are associated with alexithymia, which is the inability to match words with emotions. Material and Method: A sample consisting of 351 asthmatics (cases) and 355 healthy (controls) was obtained from a population of 2490 individuals over 15 years of age belonging to the health area of Previsora. The Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS-20) was applied; Descriptive statistics; odds ratio (RR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) for association of alexithymia in cases and controls. Chi-square (chi 2) and, analysis of variance for differences.Results: The prevalence of alexithymia was 5.9% in the cases and 4.2% in the controls (p = 0, 18); RP of 1.44; CI (95.0%), 0.73-2.84. No differences were detected between sex (p = 0.322). The highest scores for alexithymia were for ages 40 to 80 years (p = 0.056). In co morbidity, the predominance of alexithymia was for asthma / rhinitis (p = 0.034). There was association of alexithymia with moderate and severe asthma (p = 0.014). Discussion: In the sample, the prevalence of alexithymia was lower than studies performed in other contexts; a result that requires new research that also includes other disciplines. Conclusions: The prevalence of alexithymia is low in patients with asthma. However, in asthma / rhinitis and in moderate / severe asthmatics in our sample, increased alexithymia was observed(AU)

Optimization of extract process of anthraquinones from Rhei Radix et Rhizoma by orthogonal test / 中草药

Objective: To optimize the extract process of anthraquinones from the Rhei Radix et Rhizoma (RRR). Methods: The contents of eight bound anthraquinones (Bas) and five free anthraquinones (Fas), a total of 13 original anthraquinones, and total anthraquinones (Tas) in RRR were determined by HPLC. L9(34) orthogonal table was used, with ethanol concentration, solvent ratio, extract time, and number of extract as factors and extract quantity of Tas, five Fas, and eight Bas as the investigation index, respectively, the extract processes of Tas, Fas, and Bas from RRR were optimized. The optimized processes were verified by magnification test. Results: The optimum extract process of Tas and Fas was as follows: five times of 75% ethanol, extracting five times by reflux, 30 min for each time. Using this process, the extraction rate for both original anthraquinones and Tas was about 90%, and Fas extraction rate was over 160%. The optimum extract process of Bas was as follows: five times of 95% ethanol, extracting three times by reflux, 60 min for each time. Using this process, original anthraquinones extraction rate was close to 90%, and the one of Bas was over 80%. Conclusion: The optimized process is simple, stable, feasible, and repeatable, and can be used for the extraction of Tas, Fas, and Bas from RRR, respectively.

Evaluation of the association between the TAS1R2 and TAS1R3 variants and food intake and nutritional status in children

Abstract Taste perception plays a key role in determining individual food preferences and dietary habits and may influence nutritional status. This study aimed to investigate the association of TAS1R2 (Ile191Val - rs35874116) and TAS1R3 (-1266 C/T - rs35744813) variants with food intake and nutritional status in children followed from birth until 7.7 years old. The nutritional status and food intake data of 312 children were collected at three developmental stages (1, 3.9 and 7.7 years old). DNA was extracted from blood samples and the polymorphisms were analyzed by real-time polymerase chain reactions (qPCR) using hydrolysis probes as the detection method. Food intake and nutritional status were compared among individuals with different single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) genotypes. At 3.9 years old, children homozygous (Val/Val) for the TAS1R2 Ile191Val polymorphism ingested less sugar and sugar-dense foods than children who were *Ile carriers. This finding demonstrated that a genetic variant of the T1R2 taste receptor is associated with the intake of different amounts of high sugar-content foods in childhood. This association may provide new perspectives for studying dietary patterns and nutritional status in childhood.

In situ Hybridization for the Detection and Localization of the Bitter Taste Receptor Tas2r108 in the Murine Submandibular Gland

Mammals have 3 pairs of major salivary glands i.e., the parotid, submandibular, and sublingual glands. Saliva secretion of these glands is modulated by taste perception. Salivary glands are composed mainly of acinar and ductal cells. Primary saliva is secreted by acinar cells and modified during ductal flow. Recently, of the murine 35 bitter taste receptors, Tas2r108 was expressed at highest levels in the submandibular gland by qPCR. Further, Tas2r108-transfected cells respond to a range of bitter compounds, such as denatonium, quinine, colchicine, diphenidol, caffeine and dapson. The objective of the present study was to characterize the expression of Tas2r108 mRNA in acinar and/or ductal cells of the submandibular gland using in situ hybridization (ISH). Male 42-60 days old DBA2 mice were used in the study. Messenger RNAs were extracted from the submandibular gland for generating digoxigenin (DIG) labeled-cRNA probes. These probes were transcribed in anti-sense and sense orientation using T7 RNA polymerase. Dot blot hybridization was performed using DIG labeled-cRNA probes, in order to estimate integrity and optimal diluting concentration of these probes. Subsequently, ISH was performed on murine submandibular gland to detect Tas2r108 mRNA. Dot blot hybridization data demonstrated that Tas2r108 DIG labeled-cRNA anti-sense probes specifically detected Tas2r108 cDNA. ISH results showed that the anti-sense probes labeled acinar and ductal cells in the submandibular gland, whereas no staining was visible in sense controls. Interestingly, the Tas2r108 expression levels were higher in acinar than ductal cells. These results suggested that Tas2r108 might be more associated with primary saliva secretion than with ductal modification of saliva composition.

Alexitimia y depresión: evidencia, controversias e implicancias / Alexithymia and depression: evidence, controversies and implications

Background: Several researches have demonstrated the relationship between alexithymia and depression. Some authors support the hypothesis that alexithymia measured by TAS-20 and BVAQ may be a personality trait and others point out that it would be a confrontation mechanism against stressful life events. Objective: To describe the concept of alexithymia, the evidence on its relationship with depression and its correlates within the context of various biopsychosocial aspects. Method: Medline/Pubmed and SciELO databases were used to look for evidence on alexithymia and depression. Results: The higher level of alexithymia, the higher severity of anxiety and depressive symptoms and a worse response to antidepressant treatment. Alexithymia is a risk factor for the development of psychopathological disorders (panic, eating disorders, substance abuse). In the acute phase of a major depressive disorder, alexithymia rates reached 46% and its prevalence was eight times higher in depressive patients than in a general population. Obssesive personality traits were significant predictors of alexithymia and in turn, a triggering and/or perpetuating factor and a prognosis index of psychosomatic illness in the development and maintenance of pain, mainly within a context of a negative affective state like depression. Conclusions: Alexithymia is significantly associated to depression. Future longitudinal studies are required to determine if both conditions are different phenomena or affective and cognitive variants of a unique psychopathological disorder.

Antecedentes: Numerosas investigaciones han demostrado la relación entre alexitimia y depresión. Algunos autores apoyan la hipótesis de que la alexitimia, evaluada por la TAS-20 y el BVAQ, puede ser un rasgo de personalidad y otros señalan que sería un mecanismo de afrontamiento ante eventos vitales estresantes. Objetivo: Describir el concepto de alexitimia y la evidencia de su relación con la depresión y su correlación con diversos aspectos biopsicosociales. Método: Se realizó una búsqueda bibliográfica de evidencia sobre alexitimia y depresión mediante las bases de datos Medline/PubMed, SciELO y textos especializados. Resultados: A mayor nivel de alexitimia, mayor severidad de síntomas ansiosos y depresivos y peor respuesta a antidepresivos. La alexitimia es un factor de riesgo para el desarrollo de trastornos psicopatológicos (pánico, conducta alimentaria, abuso de sustancias). En la fase aguda de un trastorno depresivo mayor, la tasa de alexitimia alcanzó un 46%, siendo su prevalencia ocho veces superior entre depresivos que en la población general. Los rasgos obsesivos de personalidad fueron predictores significativos de alexitimia, siendo ésta además un factor desencadenante y/o perpetuante e índice pronóstico de enfermedades psicosomáticas, favoreciendo el desarrollo y mantención del dolor, principalmente en el contexto de un afecto negativo como la depresión. Conclusiones: La alexitimia se encuentra significativamente asociada a la depresión. Se requieren futuros estudios longitudinales para determinar si ambas condiciones corresponden a fenómenos distintos o a variantes afectivas y cognitivas de un mismo desorden psicopatológico.

Psychometric Properties of the 20-Item Toronto Alexithymia Scale in a Group of Italian Younger Adolescents

OBJECTIVE: Alexithymia is a personality construct that inhibits and interferes with normal affect regulating abilities. The purpose of our study was to assess psychometric properties of TAS-20 in younger adolescents. METHODS: Data were collected from 508 younger adolescents (48.8% male and 51.2% female) with a mean age of 12.56 years (DS=0.50, range: 12-13 years). We administered the following scales: 20-Item-Toronto Alexithymia Scale. RESULTS: The confirmatory factor analysis performed on the second random subsample showed reasonable goodness-of-fit for the oblique bi-factorial model: [chi]2 (32, n=254)=54.22; p=0.008; chi2/df=1.69; NNFI=0.92; CFI=0.95; SRMR=0.05; RMSEA=0.05; 90% confidence interval=0.027-0.078. CONCLUSION: Based on the outcomes of our research we support the idea of evaluating adolescents for alexithymia.

Efficacy of Wrist-ankle Acupuncture plusAuricular Point Sticking for Pre-exam AnxietySyndrome / 上海针灸杂志

ObjectiveTo observe the efficacy of wrist-ankle acupuncture plus auricular point sticking in treating pre-exam anxiety syndrome.MethodSixty patients with pre-exam anxiety syndrome were randomized into a treatment group to receive wrist-ankle acupuncture plus auricular point sticking (30 cases, 11 cases dropped out) and a control group to receive auricular point sticking (30 cases, 1 dropped out). In the treatment group, the bilateral Upper 1 zones were punctured regarding the wrist-ankle acupuncture, and for the auricular point sticking, Heart (CO 15), ear Shenmen (TF 4), Endocrine (CO 18), Adrenal Gland (TG 2p), Subcortex (AT 4) were selected. In the controlgroup, the same auricular points were treated. For both groups, the intervention began from 1 week prior to the exam, 3 d as a treatment course, and the therapeutic efficacy was evaluated after 2 successive courses. The Sarason Test Anxiety Scale (TAS) and autonomic function test were used to assess the anxiety severity before and after treatment. ResultThe total effective rate was 84.2% (16/19) in the treatment group versus 82.8% (24/29) in the control group, and the difference was statistically insignificant (P>0.05). The TAS score dropped significantly in the control group after intervention (P<0.01).ConclusionWrist-ankle acupuncture plus auricular point sticking and auricular point sticking alone both can effectively improve the symptoms of pre-exam anxietysyndrome.

The Relationship between Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms of the Carbonic Anhydrase 6 Gene andPhenylthiocarbamide Taste Sensitivity, Taste Disorder / 대한이비인후과학회지

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The phenylthiocarbamide (PTC) and 6-n-propylthiouracil (PROP) taste sensitivity varies among individuals. Recently, it is reported that PROP taste responsiveness is associated with carbonic anhydrase 6 (CA6) gene polymorphism. The CA6 gene, a zinc metalloprotein in human saliva, is affected in taste function and might be correlated with gustatory diversity. The aim of this study was to examine whether PTC taste sensitivity and taste disorder is associated with the CA6 gene polymorphism rs2274327 (C/T), rs2274328 (A/C), and rs2274333 (A/G). SUBJECTS AND METHOD: A total of 217 healthy normal subjects were recruited as controls, and 50 taste disorder patients were recruited as experimental group. The polymorphisms of CA6 gene were genotyped by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis. All statistical analyses were calculated using the statistical package for the social science software. Haplotypes were estimated by Haploveiw and the PHASE programs. RESULTS: The CA6 gene polymorphisms showed association with taste disorder but not with PTC sensitivity (taster/nontaster). The number of control subjects carrying AA genotype of single nucleotide polymorphism rs2274328 (A/C) in the CA6 gene was higher than the number of the subjects with taste disorder (p=0.048). However, there was no association between controls and taste disorder subjects in the haplotype analysis. CONCLUSION: These data suggest that the CA6 gene polymorphism rs2274328 could affect taste function impairment in patients with taste disorder. This observation requires a further functional study of gustin protein to clarify the association of the CA6 gene polymorphisms with the taste disorder and sensitivity.

Comparisons of Oxidative Stress during Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy and Open Cholecystectomy

PURPOSE: During oxidative stress, the levels of oxygen free radical increase dramatically, which plays a role in apoptosis, aging and is chemic injury, but also leads to positive effects such as induction of host defense genes and mobilization of ion transport systems. It has been suggested that the advantages of laparoscopic surgery are closely related to the reduced oxidative stress that occurs during laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) when compared to open cholecystectomy (OC). This study was conducted to compare oxidative stress markers including total antioxidant status (TAS), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and gluthathione reductase (GR) between the LC group and OC group to determine if these surgical procedures result in different patterns of oxidative stress. METHODS: Our prospective study included fifty patients with symptomatic cholelithiasis and cholecystitis, of whom 25 underwent LC and 25 underwent OC. The plasma levels of oxidative stress markers (TAS, SOD, and GR) were measured preoperatively and on the 1st, 2nd and 3rd postoperative days. RESULTS: The postoperative hospitalization days differed significantly between the two groups (p0.05). An acceptable postoperative decrease in SOD was observed in the OC group, especially after the 2nd postoperative day (p0.05) upon analysis of covariance. A significant postoperative decrease in the level of SOD was observed in the OC group, especially after the 2nd postoperative day (p<0.01), and there was also a significant difference in the serial change in SOD between groups (p=0.020). The level of GR in the OC group decreased significantly on the 2nd postoperative day (p=0.022). Moreover, ANCOVA revealed a significant difference in the serial changes in thelevel of GR between the two groups (p=0.039). CONCLUSION: Our study compared oxidative stress between LC and OC groups based on the levels of TAS, SOD, and GR. We found that minimally invasive surgery, such as laparoscopic cholecystectomy, produced less oxidative stress than open surgery.

Relationship between Taste Genotype and Smoking and Alcohol Intake / 대한이비인후과학회지

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Genetic variations of bitter taste receptors (TAS2R) have shown different responses to bitter taste compounds and the frequencies of these variations were different within and between populations. Recently, single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the TAS2R38 and TAS2R16 genes demonstrated a significant association with smoking and alcohol consumption in several studies. The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between bitter taste gene polymorphism and cigarette smoking and alcohol intake in Korean. SUBJECTS AND METHOD: One hundred seventy four healthy normal volunteers were asked to fill in a questionnaire regarding demographic information, smoking history, frequency of alcohol intake. Peripheral blood samples were obtained for DNA extraction and genotyping. Single nucleotide polymorphisms were identified on the TAS2R38 and TAS2R16 genes. RESULTS: Haplotype analyses of the three SNPs inside the TAS2R38 gene allowed identifying of only two haplotypes that were associated with the non-taster phenotype (AVI homozygous) and the taster phenotype (PAV homozygous and PAV/AVI heterozygous). Common SNP within TAS2R16, which results in aminoacid change in the protein (K172N), is not demonstrated in this study. Smokers and frequent drinkers were more prevalent among non-tasters than tasters in male. CONCLUSION: Functional variants in TAS2R38 correlated with cigarette smoking in the Korean male. Our findings suggest that taster status plays a role in governing the development of nicotine dependence.

Changes in Lymphocyte DNA Damage and Antioxidant Status after Supplementing Propolis to Korean Smokers: A Placebo-Controlled, Double-Blind Cross-Over Trial

Smoking has been known to exacerbate the initiation and propagation of oxidative stresses. Efforts have been made to reduce the smoking-induced oxidative stresses using commercial dietary supplements. Propolis is the resinous substance collected by bees from the leaf buds and bark of trees, especially poplar and conifer trees. In this trial, we examined whether a daily supplementation of 800 mg propolis can protect endogenous lymphocytic DNA damage and modulate antioxidative enzyme activities and the level of antioxidant vitamin in smokers using a placebo-controlled, double-blinded cross-over trial. After two weeks of running-in period, 29 smokers (mean age 34.38 +/- 1.73) received 6 tablets/day of either propolis or placebo pills for 4 weeks. After 2 weeks of washout period the subjects switched they pills for cross-over study. The degree of DNA damage (assessed by tail DNA, tail length and tail moment) was not significantly changed with propolis intake or placebo intake. Similarly, total antioxidant status (TAS) remained at the same level regardless of the treatment. Erythrocyte catalase, glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), superoxide dismutase (SOD), plasma vitamin C and tocopherol level did not differ before and after propolis treatment, and did not differ between treatments. Putting all these results together, we would suggest that it is still too early to claim that propolis possess antioxidative activities.

Dietary Antioxidant Vitamins Intakes and Plasma Antioxidant Levels in Korean Elderly with Diabetes Living in Ulsan / 대한지역사회영양학회지

Diabetic mellitus in an older population is associated with increased basal oxidative stress and free radical accentuated by hyperglycemic challenge. Enhanced free radical in diabetic elderly can cause the oxidative damage and such damage can be protected by antioxidant defense system. It is believed that vitamin C, A and E are the most abundant and effective antioxidants in human plasma. The purpose of this study was to determine the antioxidant status in Korean diabetic elderly using the case-control study. The antioxidant status was examined by determining plasma levels of antioxidant vitamins (vitamin C, A, E, beta-carotene), total antioxidant status (TAS) and thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS) and intakes of vitamin C, A, beta-carotene and retiol. Fasting glucose and HbA1c levels and serum lipid profiles (triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol) were also determined. Diabetic subjects were 122 elderly persons over 60 years old, visiting public health center, and control subjects were 96 healthy elderly persons living in Ulsan, Korea and they were matched by age, gender, smoking and drinking status. The diabetic and control subjects were divided into sub-groups according to the status of using diet therapy and vitamin supplement. The subjects were interviewed to collect data on their general characteristics, disease history, vitamin supplement, diet therapy and health-related habits by questionnaires. Their dietary intakes were obtained by means of semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaires (SQFFQ). Fasting plasma glucose and HbA1c levels were significantly higher in diabetes than in control subjects, and plasma total cholesterol level of diabetes was not significantly different from that of control subjects. However serum HDL cholesterol level of diabetes was significantly lower and serum TG level of diabetes was significantly higher than those of control group. The average vitamin A and beta-carotene intakes of diabetes were significantly higher than those of control subjects. There was no significant difference in plasma vitamin C, beta-carotene, and TBARS levels between two groups, but plasma vitamin A, E and TAS levels were significantly higher in diabetes than those in control group. Plasma vitamin A and TAS levels of diabetic subjects using diet therapy were higher than those of control using diet therapy, and plasma vitamin E, beta-carotene and TAS levels of diabetic subjects using vitamin supplements were significantly higher than those of controls using vitamin supplements. These results suggested that diabetic mellitus could enhance antioxidant defences against reactive oxygen species and interest in healthy eating such as consumption of more antioxidant nutrients.