bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Christoph Martin Wielands Märchen ‘Pervonte oder die Wünsche’ oder: Ein Aufklärer und Didaktiker als Märchenerzähler
Authors: Arendt Dieter
Published: March 2003

Christoph‐Martin Wielands Vers‐Kunst ist zwar von der Literaturwissenschaft häufig behandelt, aber sein Vers‐Märchen »Pervonte oder die Wünsche« ist seltsamerweise vernachlässigt worden, obwohl es innerhalb der Märchen‐Tradition einen höchst bedeutsamen Platz einnimmt: Zwischen französischer Märchen‐Feen‐Invasion und deutscher Märchen‐Poesie bewahrt es zwar die aufklärerisch‐didaktische Intension, desillusioniert aber zugleich die modische Märchen‐Poesie in einer Weise, die über den retrospektiven Moment hinausweist in die Zukunft. Das ungewöhnliche häufig variierte Motiv der Märchen‐Wünsche ‐ exemplarisch: Ilsebill in Runges Märchen »Von dem Fischer und syner Fru – findet ihr Echo noch in der Gegenwart, nicht nur in der restituierten Intentions‐Philosophie etwa bei Ernst Bloch, sodern auch in der Poesie, beispielhaft in Günter Grass' Roman »Der Butt«. Wieland, Zeitgenosse von Aufklärung, Klassik und Romantik stellt sich mit seinem »Pervonte«‐Märchen vor als didaktischer Poet zeitloser Moderne.
Bellow's passionate speech
Authors: York R. A.
Published: March 2003

Saul Bellow's novels are often considered to be didactic in the sense that the author expresses his judgement of the modern world through the views of his characters. This paper argues that the judgement expressed is extremely unclear and that the characters are often presented as very unreliable guides. The characters are concerned with self‐invention or self‐justification – which may often imply a criticism of the contemporary world – and they appeal to the reader above all through the rhetorical energy of their speech, which distinguishes the individuals from a mass society, and is also subject to ironic or comic treatment on the part of the author. This rhetoric is conveyed in some of the novels through first person narrative, in which case much of the concern of the narrators is to establish an image of themselves conspicuously in the eyes of the reader. Other novels are written in the third person; in these the narrators' perspective may still be close to that of a central character, but there is also a more explicit recognition of the variety of possible judgements of characters' attitudes and conduct. Overall it is argued that Bellow's work is heteroglossic in nature and characterised by a dramatic sense of personality in which the individual forms himself by choosing a role.
Paludes and the Subversion of the moral Subject
Authors: Due Reidar A.
Published: March 2003

This article is a reading of André Gide's early text Paludes. I try to show how the text, by staging a series of thought experiments, carries out a reflection on the concept of subjectivity. The text subverts a conception of the subject based on the puritan morality of Gide's family. As an alternative to this moral subject the text imagines a purely aesthetic subject detached from moral and social obligations. This movement towards an aesthetic concept of subjectivity mirrors Gide's development as a writer during the 1890s.

Je m'inquiète de ne savoir qui je serai; je ne sais même pas celui que je veux être; mais je sais bien qu'il faut choisir. Je voudrais cheminer sur des routes sûres, qui mènent seulement où j'aurais résolu d'aller; mais je ne sais pas; je ne sais pas ce qu'il faut que je veuille.1

The self becomes an abstract possibility which tries itself out with floundering in the possible, but does not budge from the spot, nor get to any spot, for precisely the necessary is the spot; to become oneself is precisely a movement at the spot.2
Tyrosinase Gene Expression in the Kupffer Cells of Rana esculenta L.
Authors: GUIDA GABRIELLA , GALLONE ANNA , MAIDA IMMACOLATA , BOFFOLI DOMENICO , CICERO ROSA
Published: March 2003

The liver of Amphibia and Reptilia shows a dark‐brown pigmentation due to the presence of particular melanin‐containing cells that are different from melanocytes and derive from cells of macrophage lineage (Kupffer Cells), which have been shown to have an autonomous capacity to synthesize melanins. To date, as far as we know, there are no reports in the literature about the genetic system of tyrosinase as regards these melanin‐synthesizing cells; we carried out the present study to analyze how the tyrosinase gene may function. We showed that the Kupffer cells of Rana esculenta L. do indeed have a transcriptionally active tyrosinase gene. Evidence of this was obtained by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction analysis carried out on both the liver tissue and the Kupffer cells in culture. Moreover, analysis of the cells in culture enabled us to observe that, by increasing the culture time from 0 to 72 hr, an appreciable increase occurred in the amplification products of the tyrosinase gene, as well as in the level of dopa oxidase activity and in the quantity of melanin in the cells. The results of the present study demonstrate that frog Kupffer cells possess an active tyrosinase gene and that the increase of the tyrosinase mRNA accumulation closely correlates with phenotypic differentiation, in terms of increased dopa oxidase activity and melanosome content. This provides further strong support of the hypothesis that amphibian Kupffer cells possess an endogenous ability to synthesize melanin and suggests the involvement of the transcriptional level of control in the modulation of their melanogenic activity.
Quantitation and Visualization of Ultraviolet‐Induced DNA Damage Using Specific Antibodies: Application to Pigment Cell Biology
Authors: KOBAYASHI NOBUHIKO , KATSUMI SACHIKO , IMOTO KYOKO , NAKAGAWA AKEMI , MIYAGAWA SACHIKO , FURUMURA MINAO , MORI TOSHIO
Published: March 2003

The major types of DNA damage induced by sunlight in the skin are DNA photoproducts, such as cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers (CPDs), (6‐4)photoproducts (6‐4PPs) and Dewar isomers of 6‐4PPs. A sensitive method for quantitating and visualizing each type of DNA photoproduct induced by biologically relevant doses of ultraviolet (UV) or sunlight is essential to characterize DNA photoproducts and their biological effects. We have established monoclonal antibodies specific for CPDs, 6‐4PPs or Dewar isomers. Those antibodies allow one to quantitate photoproducts in DNA purified from cultured cells or from the skin epidermis using an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. One can also use those specific antibodies with in situ laser cytometry to visualize and measure DNA photoproducts in cultured cells or in the skin, using indirect immunofluorescence and a laser‐scanning confocal microscope. This latter method allows us to reconstruct three‐dimensional images of nuclei containing DNA photoproducts and to simultaneously examine DNA photoproducts and histology in multilayered epidermis. Using those techniques, one can determine the induction and repair of these three distinct types of DNA photoproducts in cultured cells and in the skin exposed to sublethal or suberythematous doses of UV or solar simulated radiation. As examples of the utility of these techniques and antibodies, we describe the DNA repair kinetics following irradiation of human cell nuclei and the photoprotective effect of melanin against DNA photoproducts in cultured pigmented cells and in human epidermis.
Melanophore Appearance in Wild and Red Tilapia Embryos
Authors: Hilsdorf Alexandre Wagner S. , Penman David J. , Farias Eduardo Cunha , Mcandrew Brendan
Published: March 2003

Red tilapia has aroused interest in many countries for its commercial potential. This tilapia strain combines a desirable coloration and appearance with other advantageous farming characteristics. To study the early appearance of melanophore pigmentation in tilapia, a red tilapia strain originating from Thailand and a wild type coloration of Oreochromis niloticus were used as broodstock to produce artificially wild × wild and red × red progenies. The larvae were assessed periodically up to the first feeding and were recorded. Wild type fish showed a regular appearance of stellate melanophores. In the red strain, the pattern of chromatophores varies from total absence of black spotting to different degrees of macromelanophore distribution. Comparison between red and wild types showed that these two tilapia can be easily scored at day 7. Further, we present indications that the pigmentation over the body develops independently of the initial degree of pigmentation.
Fish Chromatophores as Cytosensors in a Microscale Device: Detection of Environmental Toxins and Bacterial Pathogens
Authors: Chaplen Frank W. R. , Upson Rosalyn H. , Mcfadden Philip N. , Kolodziej Wojtek
Published: March 2003

Fish chromatophores from Betta splendens are used as the cytosensor element in the development of a portable microscale device capable of detecting certain environmental toxins and bacterial pathogens by monitoring changes in pigment granule distribution. The adaptation of chromatophores to a microscale environment has required the development of enabling technologies to produce miniaturized culture chambers, to integrate microfluidics for sample delivery, to miniaturize image capture, and to design new statistical methods for image analyses. Betta splendens chromatophores were selected as the cytosensor element because of their moderate size, their toleration of close contact, and most importantly, for their responses to a broad range of chemicals and pathogenic bacteria. A miniaturized culture chamber has been designed that supports chromatophore viability for as long as 3 months, and that can be easily transported without damage to the cells. New statistical methods for image analyses have been developed that increase sensitivity and also decrease the time required for detection of significant changes in pigment granule distribution. Betta chromatophores have been tested for their responses to selected pathogenic bacteria and chemical agents. We discuss in detail the aggregation of pigment granules seen when chromatophores are incubated with Bacillus cereus, a common cause of food poisoning. Also described are the more subtle responses of chromatophores to a class of environmental chemical toxins, polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons. We show that the chromatophores are able to detect the presence of certain polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons at concentrations lower than the Environment Protection Agency (EPA) 550.1 standards.
Differential Expression of Tissue Factor and Tissue Factor Pathway Inhibitor in Metastatic Melanoma Lesions
Authors: Kageshita Toshiro , Funasaka Yoko , Ichihashi Masamitsu , Ishihara Tsuyoshi , Tokuo Hiroshi , Ono Tomomichi
Published: March 2003

Tissue factor (TF) is involved in tumor progression and metastatic potency in some malignant tumors and its function is regulated by tissue factor pathway inhibitor (TFPI) therefore the interaction of both molecules is crucial for their functional role. We evaluated the clinical relevance of TF and TFPI expression in benign and malignant melanocytic lesions. Expression of both was examined by immunoperoxidase staining using serial tissue sections in 16 nevi, 34 primary and 15 metastatic melanoma lesions. TF and TFPI were ubiquitously expressed in benign and malignant melanocytic lesions. This finding was confirmed by Western blot analysis using cultured human melanocytes, nevi cells (NCN) and melanoma cell lines.

Although TF expression was not associated with malignant transformation and disease progression, TFPI expression in primary and metastatic melanoma lesions was significantly lower and weaker than that in nevi lesions in terms of intensity and percentage of stained cells. In addition, TFPI expression in metastatic lesions was significantly lower and weaker than that of TF. These results suggest that the relative expression of TF to TFPI may play a crucial role in the malignant transformation and metastatic potency in melanocytic cells.
An Ultrastructural and Carotenoid Analysis of the Red Ventrum of the Japanese Newt, Cynops pyrrhogaster
Authors: Matsui Kumi , Marunouchi Junsuke , Nakamura Masahisa
Published: March 2003

The ventral skin of the wild Japanese newt Cynops pyrrhogaster is creamy at metamorphosis, but turns red when mature. The color of the ventral skin of laboratory (lab)‐reared newts stays yellow throughout their life. However, the mechanism for the red coloration of this animal still remains unknown. In this study, we have performed ultrastructural and carotenoid analyses of the red ventrum of wild and lab‐reared Japanese newts. Using electron microscopy, we observed a number of xanthophores having ring carotenoid vesicles (rcv) and homogenous carotenoid granules (hcg) in the ventral red skin of the wild newt. In the skin, β‐carotene and five other kinds of carotenoids were detected by thin‐layer chromatography (TLC). In the ventral yellow skin of lab‐reared newts, however, only β‐carotene and three other kinds of carotenoids were found. The total amount of carotenoids in the red skin of the wild adult newt was six times more than that of the yellow skin of the lab‐reared newt. Moreover, rcv were more abundant in xanthophores in red skin, but hcg were more abundant in yellow skin. These results, taken together, suggest that the presence of carotenoids in rcv in xanthophores is one of the critical factors for producing the red ventral coloration of the Japanese newt C. pyrrhogaster.
Tissue Plasminogen Activator is Released into Cultured Medium by Cultured Human Uveal Melanocytes
Authors: Wang Yafei , Hu Dan‐Ning , Mccormick Steven A. , Savage Howard E. , O'Rourke James
Published: March 2003

Melanoma cells produce tissue plasminogen activator (t‐PA) that plays an important role in tumor invasion and metastasis. The production of t‐PA by normal human uveal melanocytes has not been reported previously. In order to explore this possibility, we studied the production of t‐PA by cultured human uveal melanocytes and compared that with the production by cultured human uveal melanoma cells and epidermal melanocytes. Human adult uveal melanocytes were isolated and cultured from donor eyes. The cells were cultured in serum‐free medium for 48 h and the conditioned medium then collected for the plasminogen activator (PA) activity assay. Free PA activity was tested in an amidolytic assay using a t‐PA standard curve. PA type was identified by fibrinography and antihuman t‐PA and urokinase plasminogen activator (u‐PA) blocking antibodies. Free PA activity was found in the conditioned medium of normal melanocytes and melanoma cells. The predominant PA activity was t‐PA. Normal uveal melanocytes produced more t‐PA (3.23 ± 0.73 IU/105 cells/24 h) than that of epidermal melanocytes (1.25 IU/105 cells/24 h) but much less than uveal melanoma cells (11.0 ± 3.39 IU/105 cells/24 h). Western blot analysis revealed that most t‐PA in conditioned media were one‐chain t‐PA with molecular weight of 69 kDa. Our study indicates that uveal melanocytes may contribute to the free t‐PA activity previously found in aqueous humor and choroidal eye cup superfusions. Therefore, this function of uveal melanocytes may play a role in intraocular matrix remodeling, fibrinolysis and aqueous humor outflow.
Cloning and Molecular Characterization of a SDS‐Activated Tyrosinase from Marinomonas mediterranea
Authors: López‐serrano Daniel , SAnchez‐Amat Antonio , Solano Francisco
Published: March 2003

The sequence of the tyrosinase gene cloned from Marinomonas mediterranea is reported. It is the second tyrosinase cloned from a Gram negative bacterium. Its size is higher than that of Gram positive tyrosinases from Streptomyces, and more similar to the eukaryotic enzymes. Its sequence shares the features of copper‐binding sites found in all tyrosinases. Based in the comparison of tyrosinases from all types of organisms, an extension of the characteristic signatures existing at Prosite is proposed. This tyrosinase shares with some plant and amphibian tyrosinases a strong specific activation by submicellar concentrations of SDS. Intrinsic fluorescence and kinetic properties indicate that the activation is caused by an SDS‐dependent conformational change that facilitates the substrate accessibility to the dicopper active site.
Chemical and Instrumental Approaches to Treat Hyperpigmentation
Authors: Briganti Stefania , Camera Emanuela , Picardo Mauro
Published: March 2003

Many modalities of treatment for acquired skin hyperpigmentation are available including chemical agents or physical therapies, but none are completely satisfactory. Depigmenting compounds should act selectively on hyperactivated melanocytes, without short‐ or long‐term side‐effects, and induce a permanent removal of undesired pigment. Since 1961 hydroquinone, a tyrosinase inhibitor, has been introduced and its therapeutic efficacy demonstrated, and other whitening agents specifically acting on tyrosinase by different mechanisms have been proposed. Compounds with depigmenting activity are now numerous and the classification of molecules, based on their mechanism of action, has become difficult. Systematic studies to assess both the efficacy and the safety of such molecules are necessary. Moreover, the evidence that bleaching compounds are fairly ineffective on dermal accumulation of melanin has prompted investigations on the effectiveness of physical therapies, such as lasers. This review which describes the different approaches to obtain depigmentation, suggests a classification of whitening molecules on the basis of the mechanism by which they interfere with melanogenesis, and confirms the necessity to apply standardized protocols to evaluate depigmenting treatments.
Immunodetection of noncollagenous matrix proteins during periodontal tissue regeneration
Authors: Kawaguchi Hiroyuki , Ogawa Tetsuji , Kurihara Hidemi , Nanci Antonio
Published: March 2003

The interface between denuded dentin and regenerative periodontal tissue was investigated in a rat alveolar bone defect model using morphological and immuno‐cytochemical approaches. The dentin surface was surgically exposed along the palatal roots of maxillary first molars. At 3 weeks post treatment, animals were perfused and treated regions from decalcified mandibles were embedded in Epon for ultrastructural studies or LR White for post‐embedding immunogold labeling. Thin tissue sections were incubated with antibodies against noncollagenous matrix (osteopontin, bone sialoprotein, osteocalcin and fibronectin) and plasma (α2HS‐glycoprotein and albumin) proteins. While in some cases, regenerative events took place directly on the denuded dentin surface, the interface between the denuded dentin and regenerating periodontal tissue was frequently characterized by the presence of an interfacial zone. This zone sometimes showed an electron‐dense, cement line‐like, planar accumulation of organic material immunoreactive for osteopontin and bone sialoprotein. Immunolabeling for osteocalcin and α2HS‐glycoprotein was moderate and diffuse throughout the interfacial zone, whereas labeling with antibodies to albumin and fibronectin resulted in a weak reaction. It is concluded that accumulation of bone sialoprotein and osteopontin is a primary event during the formation of regenerative cementum onto denuded root surfaces.
Epidermal growth factor in saliva and serum of patients with cyclosporin‐induced gingival overgrowth
Authors: Markopoulos A. K. , Belazi M. , Drakoulakos D. , Petrou‐americanou C. , Sioulis A. , Sakellari D. , Papanayotou P.
Published: March 2003

The purpose of this study was to investigate the presence of epidermal growth factor (EGF) in patients receiving cyclosporin therapy who had gingival overgrowth and to determine whether there were any differences between these patients and normal healthy controls. Seventeen patients with cyclosporin‐induced gingival overgrowth and seventeen age‐ and sex‐matched controls who were taking cyclosporin but had healthy gingiva were used for this study. Unstimulated whole saliva was collected from all individuals by expectoration. Gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) was also collected from all individuals. Blood was additionally collected from all subjects and serum was separated by keeping the samples overnight at 4°C. EGF levels in all cases were measured by an ELISA assay. EGF concentrations were found to be significantly higher in the saliva of patients with cyclosporin‐induced gingival overgrowth compared to the control group (401.2±31.1 pg/ml and 144.3±31.4 pg/ml, respectively), whereas the results were reversed in the serum (67.0±15.6 pg/ml and 141.6±17.7 pg/ml, respectively). EGF was not detected in the samples of GCF in either group. This study thus demonstrated an increase in EGF levels in the saliva and a decrease of EGF in the serum of patients with cyclosporin‐induced gingival overgrowth.
The effects of a high‐carbohydrate diet on the stress‐strain behavior of the periodontal ligament of the distal root of the mandibular first molar in hamsters
Authors: Yamazaki Y. , Komatsu K. , Arai T. , Chiba M.
Published: March 2003

We analyzed stress‐strain curves in transverse sections at three different root levels of the cervical, middle, and apical regions of the distal root of the mandibular first molar in hamsters fed a high‐carbohydrate (experimental group) or standard (control group) diet for 8 weeks. Each section was loaded in vitro at a rate of 5 mm/min in an extrusive direction. The rupture sites and the structures of birefringent collagen fibers in the periodontal ligament were also analyzed. The maximum shear stress, tangent modulus, and failure strain energy density of the periodontal ligament were significantly greater in the cervical region than in the middle and apical regions in both the control and experimental groups. The maximum shear stress, tangent modulus, and failure strain energy density of the periodontal ligament in the experimental group were significantly lower than those in the control group at the ervical and middle regions. The maximum shear strain was significantly greater in the experimental group than in the control group at the middle and apical regions. Histological sections showed that the periodontal ligament ruptured irregularly in both groups. The collagenous fibers of the ligament in the experimental group appeared to be thinner and less birefringent at the cervical and middle regions of the root. These results suggest that a high‐carbohydrate diet differentially affects the collagen fibers in the periodontal ligament as a function of the root level, and that these effects are evident in changes in the mechanical properties of the ligament.
Methodology of three‐dimensional determination of root surface roughness
Authors: Kocher Thomas , Langenbeck Natascha , Rosin Michael , Bernhardt Olaf
Published: March 2003

In comparing and evaluating the instruments that are used in root debridement, roughness constitutes a standard variable that is assessed. The purpose of this study was to describe the conditions and requirements for the three‐dimensional roughness measurements of tooth roots using a laser profilometer. Impressions were made of 60 instrumented and 12 untreated root surfaces, which were then measured using a dynamically focussing optical profilometer (Mikrofocus, UBM, Karlsruhe, Germany). To separate roughness from the form of the tooth, a low pass filter was applied. This meant that the longer wavelengths – which roughly approximated the root forms – were subtracted from the measured profile. We then used an individualized Fourier transformation to define the threshold at which roughness becomes waviness. Roughness parameters were Ra (average roughness) and Rz (average roughness in the z dimension) for two‐ and three‐dimensional measurements. To describe the requirements for the measurement, we studied the effect of pixel density and the field size on the average roughness value, Ra. We found that Ra increases with pixel density until 400 per mm is reached, after which it does not change meaningfully. Furthermore, Ra is highly dependent upon the area of the field to be scanned, increasing in line with the area, and does not approach one value within the surface available on one tooth. The correlation coefficients between the two‐dimensional and three‐dimensional Ra and Rz values ranged from 0.7 to 0.8. We conclude that roughness values are strongly dependent on the measurement conditions and the results of one study cannot be directly compared to another. In addition, it was found that two‐dimensional measurements are sufficient for characterizing root surfaces.
Dialister pneumosintes, a new putative jreiodontal pathogen
Authors: Ghayoumi Nooshin , Chen Casey , Slots Jørgen
Published: March 2003

Recent studies have implicated Dialister pneumosintes as a candidate jreiodontal pathogen. This study determined the association of subgingival D. pneumosintes with demographic variables (age and gender) and the presence of subgingival jreiodontopathic Bacteroides forsythus and Porphyromonas gingivalis. Microbial identification by established PCR techniques was jreformed in samples from 149 jreiodontitis patients. Subgingival D. pneumosintes occurred with significantly higher prevalence in older individuals and was closely associated with subgingival B. forsythus. D. pneumosintes may play an important role in the microbial complex responsible for destructive jreiodontal disease.
Distribution pattern of versican, link protein and hyaluronic acid in the rat jreiodontal ligament during exjreimental tooth movement
Authors: Sato R. , Yamamoto H. , Kasai K. , Yamauchi M.
Published: March 2003

The ability of the jreiodontal ligament (PDL) to rapidly remodel is the basis of orthodontic tooth movement. During the tooth movement, matrix proteoglycans (PGs) may play important roles in spatial, mechanical and biological aspects for the maintenance and repair of the PDL. The aim of this study was to characterize the distribution of a large hyaluronic acid (HA)‐binding proteoglycan, versican, link protein (LP) and HA in the rat molar PDL during exjreimental tooth movement by histochemical and immunohistochemical methods. Exjreimental tooth movement was jreformed according to Waldo's method. Histologically, regressive changes, such as decrease of fibroblasts and collagen fibers and exudative change of edema were observed in the compressive side and progressive changes, such as proliferation of fibroblasts and collagen fibers, in the strain side one day after treatment. By 3 days after tooth movement, regressive or progressive changes were not observed in either side. Using monoclonal antibodies specific to versican core protein or LP, the positive immunoreactivity for both molecules was constantly observed throughout the PDL. After the exjreimental force was applied to the tooth, however, the immunostainings of versican and LP became significantly intense only in the compressive side but decreased in the strain side. The intensity in the compressive side was strongest one day after the force was applied and gradually diminished thereafter. HA of both sides did not change during exjreimental tooth movement. Since HA is present in the PDL, large amounts of versican and LP expressed in the compressive side may create large hydrated aggregates via their association with HA that dissipates the compressive force applied to this tissue.
Periodontal conditions among adults in Southern Thailand
Authors: Baelum V. , Pisuithanakan S. , Teanpaisan R. , Pithpornchaiyakul W. , Pongpaisal S. , Papapanou P. N. , Dahlén G. , Fejerskov O.
Published: March 2003

Objective:  To describe the periodontal conditions among 30–39‐ and 50–59‐year‐old rural Thais from the Province of Songkhla, Southern Thailand.

Methods:  A total of 359 dentate persons were given a clinical examination comprising recordings of plaque and calculus in six teeth, and bleeding on probing, attachment level and pocket depth in six sites of all teeth present, except third molars. The same examiner carried out all examinations. Information on religious faith, smoking habits and use of betel was obtained by interview. A subset consisting of 60 persons was reexamined for attachment level 6 months later by another examiner.

Results:  The oral hygiene conditions were poor with abundant amounts of both plaque and calculus. Gingival bleeding was essentially ubiquitous. The prevalence of attachment loss ≥ 4 mm was 92% among 30–39‐year‐olds and 100% among 50–59‐year‐olds. The average percentage of sites affected in the two age groups was 23.9% and 63.9%. Pockets ≥ 4 mm were seen in 84% of the 30–39‐year‐olds and in 93% of the 50–59‐year‐olds. Older age, Thai Buddhist faith and a high percentage of sites with calculus were significant positive predictors of a high percentage of sites with attachment loss ≥ 4 mm, whereas older age and Thai Buddhist faith were the only statistically significant predictors of a high percentage of sites with attachment loss ≥ 7 mm.

Conclusion:  The results indicate that this Thai population may have more widespread and severe periodontal destruction than other Asian populations, but failed to confirm the contention that Muslim faith is associated with more severe periodontal destruction.
Laminin‐ and fibronectin‐like molecules produced by periodontal ligament fibroblasts under serum‐free culture are potent chemoattractants for gingival epithelial cells
Authors: Ohshima Mitsuhiro , Tokunaga Kanami , Sato Satoshi , Maeno Masao , Otsuka Kichibee
Published: March 2003

Previously, we revealed that hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) or an HGF‐like factor secreted by periodontal ligament fibroblasts (PLF) and gingival fibroblasts cultured in the presence of serum was a major chemoattractant for gingival epithelial cells, and suggested that it might play a role in epithelial invasion. However, our recent study showed that serum‐free culture of PLF and gingival fibroblasts produced potent chemoattractants other than HGF for gingival epithelial cells. To identify these chemoattractants, PLF‐conditioned medium (PLF‐CM) from serum‐free cultures was obtained, concentrated, and separated by gel filtration column chromatography, and the chemotactic activity for gingival epithelial cells of each eluted fraction was monitored by a modified Boyden chamber assay. The chemoattractant activity was eluted at a molecular mass of around 600 kDa, which would include laminin and fibronectin, but not HGF, determined by ELISA. The chemotactic activity was reduced by treatment with antilaminin and/or antifibronectin polyclonal antibodies. Western blots using both antibodies revealed that the PLF‐CM contained laminin‐ and fibronectin‐like molecules. Along with HGF, these large glycoprotein molecules produced by PLF may be involved in the pathogenesis and progression of periodontitis by inducing the apical migration of epithelial cells.
Effects of Epomediol on Ethinyloestradiol‐Induced Changes in Glutathione Homeostasis in the Rat
Authors: Cuevas Maria Jose , Almar Mar , González‐Gallego Javier
Published: March 2003

Abstract: Epomediol is a synthetic terpenoid compound that has been reported to reduce ethinyloestradiol‐induced cholestasis. The choleretic action of epomediol is related to an increase in both the bile acid‐dependent and independent fractions of bile flow, but the role of glutathione metabolism and transport is still unknown. This study was aimed to evaluate if changes in glutathione homeostasis could contribute to the beneficial effects of epomediol in rats with ethinyloestradiol‐induced cholestasis. When compared to control animals, ethinyloestradiol treatment resulted in a significant decrease in the liver concentration of reduced (GSH) and oxidized glutathione. Both GSH and oxidized glutathione concentrations returned to normal in animals receiving ethinyloestradiol plus epomediol. Ethinyloestradiol administration induced a significant decrease in plasma and renal GSH and the tripeptide was almost absent from bile. Combined treatment with epomediol plus ethinyloestradiol normalised renal GSH and both biliary and liver cysteine were significantly increased. Liver and kidney γ‐glutamyltranspeptidase activities were higher in rats receiving ethinyloestradiol and still remained elevated in animals with the combined treatment. Liver γ‐glutamylcysteine synthetase activity rose significantly by administration of ethinyloestradiol plus epomediol but the corresponding mRNA levels were not modified. Changes in glutathione homeostasis and higher biliary levels of GSH amino acid constituents could contribute to the beneficial effects of epomediol in rats with ethinyloestradiol‐induced cholestasis.
Clomipramine Induces the Opening of Na+ Channels in the Frog Skin Epithelium
Authors: Alves Paula F. , Graça Inês C. , Moura Teresa F.
Published: March 2003

Abstract: This paper studies the effect of clomipramine on the electrical parameters of the frog skin epithelium. We have found that clomipramine induces: 1) an increase in short circuit current that is equivalent to an increase in net Na+ flux, 2) an increase in total transepithelial conductance, 3) a depolarisation of the apical barrier, and 4) a decrease in the fractional resistance of the apical membrane. These results suggest that clomipramine promotes an increase in the sodium permeability of the apical barrier by increasing either the concentration of amiloride‐sensitive Na+ channels or by increasing their individual conductance. Using kinetic models, values for the affinity constants for clomipramine and amiloride were estimated (KClo=(18.1±1.04)×10−6 M; KAmil=56×10−8 M). Identical studies were performed for eel intestinal epithelium and no significant changes on the short circuit current were observed.
A case of actinic prurigo showing hypersensitivity of skin fibroblaststo ultraviolet A (UVA)
Authors: Kuno Y. , Sato K. , Hasegawa K. , Tsuji T.
Published: March 2003

We here report a patient with actinic prurigo. He had had erythematous papulovesicular eruptions on the sun‐exposed sites from fall to early summer for 4 years. The lesions healed leaving atrophic scars. The histology showed epidermal necrosis and dermal dense perivascular lymphohistiocytic infiltration and edema. His minimal erythema doses to ultraviolet B (UVB) and UVA were normal and lowered, respectively. Skin lesions were produced by repeated irradiation with UVA plus UVB, but not with UVA alone. Then he was diagnosed as having actinic prurigo. Skin fibroblasts from the patient were hypersensitive to UVA. We believe that the hypersensitivity relates to the pathomechanisms of the photosensitivity in the case. UVA sensitivity of fibroblasts may be useful for differentiating actinic prurigo, hydroa vacciniforme, and other similar photosensitive disorders.
Cumulative UV radiation dose and outcome in clinical practice: effectiveness of trioxsalen bath PUVA with minimal UVA exposure
Authors: Snellman E. , Rantanen T. , Sundell J.
Published: March 2003

Background: The cumulative artificial ultraviolet (UV) exposure dose of dermatological patients was prospectively monitored in clinical conditions for a total of 2 years (August 1997 – July 1999). We focused on whole body UV treatments, i.e. the trioxsalen (TMP) bath PUVA, the broad‐band UVB, and the UVA plus UVB phototherapy.

Methods: Irradiance of the UV devices was calibrated with a spectroradiometer. The cumulative UV doses received by the patients were recorded. A visual analog scale scoring system (VAS) was employed to assess the improvement of various skin conditions at the end of the treatment course.

Results: The analysis included 265 patients (141 females and 124 males) and a total of 311 UV treatment courses. Treatments consisted of 86 courses of TMP bath PUVA for psoriasis with a mean cumulative UVA dose of 3.54 J/cm2 and an improvement rate of 89%. For other conditions, 30 courses were needed, with a cumulative UVA dose of 1.47 J/cm2 and an improvement rate of 76%. Altogether, 47 UVB courses were undertaken for psoriasis, and the mean cumulative unweighted UV dose was 2.20 J/cm2, equivalent to 85 standard erythema doses (SED), and an improvement rate of 85%. A total of 25 UVB courses was used for other skin conditions with a mean UV dose of 1.05 J/cm2, equivalent to 40 SED, and an improvement rate of 71%. A total of 123 courses of UVA plus UVB phototherapy were completed, resulting in a mean cumulative dose of 73.01 J/cm2 for UVA and 0.75 J/cm2 for the unweighted UVB, equivalent to 29 SED. The VAS improvement rate was 85%.

Conclusion: The exceptionally low mean cumulative UVA dose in the TMP bath PUVA, taken together with the previous report showing no increase in the risk of squamous cell carcinoma or cutaneous malignant melanoma after TMP bath PUVA, suggests that TMP bath PUVA is an effective and safe therapeutic option.
Collagen loss in photoaged human skin is overestimated by histochemistry
Authors: Kligman Lorraine H. , Schwartz Elaine , Sapadin Allen N. , Kligman Albert M.
Published: March 2003

It is well known that photoaged skin is characterized by increases in dermal matrix components that include glycosaminoglycans, proteoglycans and masses of abnormal elastic fibers accompanied by substantial collagen loss. Histochemical staining of such tissue gives the impression of “massive” loss of collagen and its replacement by these other matrix components. Early biochemical studies have lent support to this notion with a reported decrease in total collagen of ∼45% compared to protected skin. More recent studies report considerably less, but varying, amounts of collagen loss. Rarely have the two approaches, histochemistry and biochemical analysis, been used in the same study to examine the same tissue. In this study, collagen loss was quantified biochemically in paired biopsies from sun‐protected and sun‐exposed arm skin of moderately photoaged female subjects (age 51–77 years). The values obtained were compared with histochemical and immunochemical findings. Quantitatively, collagen loss on a per mg protein basis was small compared to the histochemical appearance.
Effect of pentoxifylline on sunburn cell formation in a novel supravital human skin model
Authors: Simics Enikö , Mahunka Maria , Horkay Irén , Bohnert Elisabeth , Moll Ingrid , Jung Ernst G.
Published: March 2003

Background/Aim: The aim of this study was to determine whether pentoxifylline (Pf) has an effect on sunburn cell (SBC) formation in humans.

Methods: A novel supravital human skin model was used. Normal skin samples were placed on gauze in completed RPMI 1640 Medium and remained vital for 48 h. Three concentrations of Pf (7.5, 15.0 and 30.0 μg/ml) were tested. After 2 h, each skin sample was irradiated with 120 mJ/cm2 of UVB. After 24‐h incubation, the samples were formalin fixed, paraffin embedded and sections were stained with haematoxylin‐eosin.

Results: The mean count of SBC (10.43±1.35 (SEM)) was significantly higher in the control group (without Pf) compared with its mean count in 7.5 μg/ml Pf (5.18±0.62, P<0.001), or 15.0 μg/ml Pf (5.79±1.70, P<0.001), or 30.0 μg/ml Pf (4.37±1.47, P<0.001).

Conclusion: Pentoxifylline reduced SBC formation in our supravital human skin model. It presumably acts as an antioxidant agent.
Comparison of three techniques for evaluating skin erythemal response for determination of sun protection factors of sunscreens: high resolution laser Doppler imaging, colorimetry and visual scoring
Authors: Wilhelm K.‐P. , Kaspar K. , Funkel O.
Published: March 2003

Background/Purpose: Sun protection factor (SPF) measurement is based on the determination of the minimal erythema dose (MED). The ratio of doses required to induce a minimal erythema between product‐treated and untreated skin is defined as SPF. The aim of this study was to validate the conventionally used visual scoring with two non‐invasive methods: high resolution laser Doppler imaging (HR‐LDI) and colorimetry. Another goal was to check whether suberythemal reactions could be detected by means of HR‐LDI measurements.

Material and methods:

Four sunscreens were selected. The measurements were made on the back of 10 subjects. A solar simulator SU 5000 (m.u.t., Wedel, Germany) served as radiation source. For the visual assessment, the erythema was defined according to COLIPA as the first perceptible, clearly defined unambiguous redness of the skin. For the colorimetric determination of the erythema, a Chromameter CR 300 (Minolta, Osaka, Japan) was used. The threshold for the colorimetry was chosen according to the COLIPA recommendation as an increase of the redness parameter Δa*=2.5. For the non‐contact perfusion measurements of skin blood flow, a two‐dimensional high resolution laser Doppler imager (HR‐LDI) (Lisca, Linköping, Sweden) was used. For the HR‐LDI measurements, an optimal threshold perfusion needed to be established.

Results: For the HR‐LDI measurements basal perfusion +1 standard deviation of all basal measurements was found to be a reliable threshold perfusion corresponding to the minimal erythema. Smaller thresholds, which would be necessary for detection of suberythemal responses, did not provide unambiguous data. All three methods, visual scoring, colorimetry and HR‐LDI, produced similar SPFs for the test products with a variability of <5% between methods. The HR‐LDI method showed the lowest variation of the mean SPF. Neither of the instrumental methods, however, resulted in an increase of the sensitivity of SPF determination as compared with visual scoring.

Conclusion: Both HR‐LDI and colorimetry are suitable, reliable and observer‐independent methods for MED determination. However, they do not provide greater sensitivity and thus do not result in lower UV dose requirements for testing.
Age dependence of ultraviolet light‐induced erythema following narrow‐band UVB exposure
Authors: Gloor M. , Scherotzke A.
Published: March 2003

Background/Purpose: A report in the literature suggests longer duration and greater intensity of late phase UVB erythema in older people. The aim of this study was to identify differences in minimum erythema dose (MED) and intensity of UV‐induced erythema after narrow band UVB exposure between older and younger individuals in the late phase of UVB erythema.

Methods: Using the UVA/TL 01 UV skin tester (Waldmann Medizintechnik, Villingen‐Schwenningen, Germany), MED was determined for narrow‐band UVB exposure in 20 young subjects aging from 20–40, and 20 elderly subjects over 70 years of age. The intensity of UV‐induced erythema was measured by chromametry (a*‐value and L‐value) and laser Doppler 48 h after irradiation. Minimum erythema dose (MED) was additionally assessed visually.

Results: Elderly subjects showed no statistical different MED compared to younger subjects. However, the erythema intensity 48 h after narrow‐band UVB exposure was significantly greater in the elderly.

Conclusions: Narrow‐band UVB therapy may, in case of over dosage, produce more intense erythema in the late phase of UVB erythema in old people than in younger individuals.
The importance of using broad spectrum SPF 30+  sunscreens in tropical and subtropical climates
Authors: Poon Terence S. C. , Barnetson Ross StC.
Published: March 2003

Background/Purpose: To evaluate the Sun Protection Factors (SPF) of six sunscreens sold in Australia, using an ultraviolet (UV) spectrum which mimics sunlight as closely as possible, and by using volunteers with a range of skin types to reflect the Australian population.

Methods: Open prospective study. Seventy‐five volunteers of skin types 1–3 were tested in a dermatology research laboratory in a major metropolitan teaching hospital in Sydney, Australia in the years 2000–2001. Sunscreen SPF's were measured using a solar simulator and procedures which complied with the Australian Standard.

Results: Sun Protection Factors, as measured by a solar simulator more approximating to natural sunlight than commercial simulators, and using individuals of skin type 1–3, were shown to be approximately between 50% and 80% of their labelled value. Sunscreen application method can also affect SPF measurement.

Conclusion: For a number of reasons, Sun Protection Factors are often overestimated. In addition, many individuals use less than half the amount of sunscreen recommended. Those living in tropical or subtropical climates should be encouraged to use only broad spectrum SPF 30+  sunscreens to achieve adequate protection from the sun.
Experimental study on phototoxicity and the photosensitization potential of ketoprofen, suprofen, tiaprofenic acid and benzophenone and the photocross‐reactivity in guinea pigs
Authors: Sugiura Mariko , Hayakawa Ritsuko , Xie Zhenlin , Sugiura Keiji , Hiramoto Keiichi , Shamoto Mikihiro
Published: March 2003

Background: Ketoprofen, suprofen and tiaprofenic acid are arylpropionic anti‐inflammatories. Their chemical structures share the same elements as the benzoyl radical and the tiophene ring. We experienced nine cases of ketoprofen photoallergy, seven cases of suprofen photoallergy and three cases of tiaprofenic photoallergy.

Purpose:
  To find the key structure of photosensitivity and photocross‐reactivity to ketoprofen, suprofen and tiaprofenic acid.

Methods: Three animals were tested for phototoxicity and six animals for the photosensitization potentials of ketoprofen, suprofen, tiaprofenic acid and benzophenone, and the photocross‐reactivity of the above chemicals. Test substances were applied symmetrically on both sides of the animals' backs. The animals were irradiated with 180 mJ/cm2 UVB (½ MED) and 10 J/cm2 UVA on the left side. The reactions were read on days 2, 3 and 4. The photosensitization potentials of ketoprofen, suprofen, tiaprofenic acid and benzophenone were determined using the Adjuvant‐Strip method. Six animals were assigned to each test group and to a control group.

Results:  Ketoprofen, suprofen, tiaprofenic acid and propionic acid showed negative reactions with the phototoxic test. Benzophenone showed phototoxic reactions to 40% acetone (ac.), 20% ac. and 10% ac. Therefore, we used 5% aq. benzophenone with the photosensitization test. Ketoprofen was the strongest photosensitizer (6/6) and showed photocross‐reactivities to suprofen (2/6), tiaprofenic acid (3/6) and benzophenone (6/6). Suprofen was a strong photosensitizer (4/6) and showed photocross‐reactivities to ketoprofen (1/4) and tiaprofenic acid (2/4), but not to benzophenone. Tiaprofenic acid was also a photosensitizer (2/6) but showed a photocross‐reactivity only to benzophenone (2/2). Benzophenone was also the strongest photosensitizer (6/6), but did not photocross‐react to the above three chemicals.

Conclusion:  From the test results, it appears that benzoyl radical is the key structure for photosensitivity and the photocross‐reactivity of ketoprofen, suprofen and tiaprofenic acid. The whole structure of benzophenone was needed to induce photosensitization of benzophenone. The animals that were photosensitized from the entire structure of benzophenone did not photocross‐react to ketoprofen, suprofen or tiaprofenic acid.
Nitrosation of melatonin by nitric oxide: a computational study
Authors: Turjanski Adrián G. , Sáenz Daniel A. , Doctorovich Fabio , Estrin Darío A. , Rosenstein Ruth E.
Published: March 2003

Melatonin is being increasingly promoted as a therapeutic agent for the treatment of jet lag and insomnia, and is an efficient free radical scavenger. We have recently characterized a product for the reaction of melatonin with nitric oxide (NO), N‐nitrosomelatonin. In the present work, reaction pathways with N1, C2, C4, C6 and C7 as possible targets for its reaction with NO that yield the respective nitroso derivatives have been investigated using semiempirical AM1 computational tools, both in vacuo and aqueous solution. Specifically, two different pathways were studied: a radical mechanism involving the hydrogen atom abstraction to yield a neutral radical followed by NO addition, and an ionic mechanism involving addition of nitrosonium ion to the indolic moiety. Our results show that the indolic nitrogen is the most probable site for nitrosation by the radical mechanism, whereas different targets are probable considering the ionic pathway. These results are in good agreement with previous experimental findings and provide a coherent picture for the interaction of melatonin with NO.