bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fundamental Frequency Peak Delay in Mandarin
Authors: Xu Yi
Published: April 2003

Fundamental frequency (F₀) peak delay (henceforth peak delay) refers to the phenomenon that an F₀ peak sometimes occurs after the syllable it is associated with either lexically or prosodically. Although peak delay has been reported for various languages, the mechanism of its occurrence has so far remained unclear. In Mandarin, peak delay has been found to occur regularly in the rising (R) tone but not in the high (H) tone. The present study investigates the underlying mechanisms of peak delay by examining its relationship with tone, tonal context, and speech rate. An experiment was conducted to test the possibility that peak delay may occur also in the H tone in Mandarin if the H-carrying syllable is sufficiently shortened. Native speakers of Mandarin Chinese recorded three types of sentences each containing a H, a R, or a weakened H tone. The sentences were produced at three speech rates: normal, fast and slow. Analysis of F₀ contours and peak alignment revealed that at normal speech rate, peak delay occurred regularly in both the R and weakened H tones but only occasionally in the H tone; at slow speech rate, peak delay continued to occur regularly in the R tone but only occasionally in weakened H and rarely in the H tone; at fast speech rate, peak delay occurred not only regularly in the R and weakened H tones, but also frequently in the H tone. Results of F₀ contour alignment analysis indicate that peak delay occurs when there is a sharp F₀ rise near the end of a syllable, regardless of the cause of the rise. The finding of this study provides support for the view that, rather than due to actual misalignment between underlying pitch units and segmental units, much of the variability in the shape and alignment of F₀ contours in Mandarin is attributable to the interaction of underlying pitch targets with tonal contexts and articulatory constraints.
Complications after Selective Posterior Rhizotomy for Spasticity in Children with Cerebral Palsy
Authors: Steinbok Paul , Schrag Christiaan
Published: April 2003

Selective dorsal rhizotomy (SDR) has been shown to be an effective treatment for the spasticity of cerebral palsy, but few studies have addressed specifically the side effects of the procedure. A retrospective study was performed to determine the frequency and nature of complications in 158 children who had undergone SDR at British Columbia’s Children’s Hospital from 1987 to 1996. Intraoperative, preoperative (immediate postoperative until discharge at approximately 7 days) and postdischarge complications occurred in 3.8, 43.6 and 30% of patients, respectively. The most common intraoperative complication was aspiration pneumonia, which was experienced by 2 patients (1.3%). Perioperatively, sensory changes were found in 8.9% of the children, and transient urinary retention in 4.4%. Complications after discharge included back pain starting more than 6 months after surgery in 10.8%, sensory changes in 13.9%, and neurogenic bladder or bowel problems in 12.7%. Persistent sensory changes occurred in 3.8%, were not important functionally, and tended to occur in patients with the largest amount of dorsal root tissue cut. In 8 patients (5.1%), bladder and/or bowel dysfunction attributed to the SDR was present at the latest follow-up, although in only 2 patients (1.3%) this dysfunction was a definite complication of the rhizotomy. The use of pudendal monitoring and/or cutting less than 50% of the S2 roots may have been associated with a lower incidence of long-term sphincter dysfunction. Data about the nature and frequency of complications may result in further modifications to the SDR procedure, and is critical for counseling about SDR and alternative options available for treatment of the child with spastic cerebral palsy.
Self-Report of Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder in Adolescents
Authors: Danckaerts M. , Heptinstall E. , Chadwick O. , Taylor E.
Published: April 2003

The validity of self-report measurement varies widely according to the type of behaviour investigated. For behaviour of overactivity and inattention, adolescents seem to underestimate their problems. Well validated instruments for self-report of attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are lacking yet, and research on ADHD beyond childhood relies quite heavily on self-report. In this study, an attempt is made to validate an adolescent interview scale for DSM-based ADHD symptoms. Results show that the measure has a high inter-rater reliability and is a good predictor of general outcome. However, adolescents do not validly report on symptoms specifically of ADHD. Possible implications for research and clinical practice are formulated.
Lycanthropy in Depression: Two Case Reports
Authors: Rao Kiran , Gangadhar B.N. , Janakiramiah N.
Published: April 2003

Two cases of lycanthropy presenting as part of a depressive disorder are described. The patients responded favorably to pharmacotherapy. In both cases, a positive history of dog bite influenced the presentation of symptoms. The authors speculate whether the defense of identification with the aggressor was operative.
Depression and the Severity of Substance Abuse
Authors: Coelho Rui , Rangel Rui , Ramos Elisabete , Martins Amadeu , Prata Joana , Barros Henrique
Published: April 2003

Background: Psychosocial factors have been considered important in the initiation of drug abuse and seem to affect its clinical course and outcome. Several studies have reported psychopathology, namely depression, to be consistently high in addiction. The aim of this investigation was to evaluate the prevalence of depression and its relationship to the severity of drug abuse in a Portuguese sample of drug addicts. Methods: Two hundred and eighty-five drug addicts (23 women and 262 men, aged between 16 and 41 years old), diagnosed according to the DSM-IV criteria, were contacted during their first visit for treatment at public health centres. Social, demographic and behavioural characteristics of the study sample were obtained by interview using a structured questionnaire. The severity of drug abuse was evaluated using a Portuguese version of the Drug Abuse Screening Test, and depression was assessed by the Zung self-rating depression scale. Results: The prevalence of depression was 51.2% and was higher in females than males (77.8 vs. 48.7%, p = 0.034). A significant correlation was also found between the severity of drug abuse and depression scores, which was also stronger in females (r = 0.53 vs. r = 0.24). Conclusions: This study showed a high prevalence of depression in drug addicts, regardless of the type and duration of drug abuse, and a significant association between depression and severity of drug addiction.
Single Breath Diffusing Capacity for Carbon Monoxide: Effects of Adjustment for Inspired Volume Dead Space, Carbon Dioxide, Hemoglobin and Carboxyhemoglobin
Authors: Viegi Giovanni , Baldi Simonetta , Begliomini Enrico , Ferdeghini Ezio M. , Pistelli Francesco
Published: April 2003

In order to assess the additive effects of taking into account dead space volume (VD), carbon dioxide, hemoglobin (Hb) and carboxyhemoglobin on computation of single breath carbon monoxide diffusing capacity (DLCOsb), we sequentially applied all the corrections recommended by the 1987 American Thoracic Society (ATS) document on DLCOsb standardization. We used data from 739 men (333 nonsmokers and 406 current smokers) and 475 women (403 nonsmokers and 72 current smokers) who underwent measurement of DLCOsb in the decade 1985–1994 at the Lung Function Laboratory of our institute. With respect to the unadjusted DLCOsb value, significant small differences were found for all the corrected formulas, ranging from –0.18 to 1.48 ml/min/mm Hg in men and from –0.24 to 1.57 ml/min/mm Hg in women. After computing the percent change of DLCOsb [(unadjusted – adjusted value) × 100/unadjusted value], we observed that the correction for VD caused an underestimation of DLCOsb of about 5.8% in men and 7.7% in women. However, when all the corrections were considered, these figures decreased to about 0.9% in males and 2.9% in females. Regarding specifically the correction for Hb, the adjusted value was slightly lower in men, while it was somewhat higher in women, with respect to the unadjusted DLCOsb. In conclusion, the corrections suggested by ATS in the computation of DLCOsb, when considered altogether, seem to account for a limited proportion of test variability in usual clinical conditions, especially in males.
Water-Soluble Cooling Lubricants Induce Airway Hyper- responsiveness in Rabbits
Authors: Marek W. , Mensing T. , Fricke H. , Baur X.
Published: April 2003

Airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) to water-soluble cooling lubricants (CL) induced by aerosol administered by tracheal tube was studied in a rabbit model of occupational lung disease. Two commercial CL were examined: the first was of the boric acid amine ester type without biozide (CL-BAE), the second was of the sulfonate type with biozide (CL-SB). 50, 5.0 or 0.5 mg/m3 CL was administered over a period of twice 2 h to six different groups of rabbits. Airway responsiveness (AR) to aerosols of 0.2% and 2.0% acetylcholine solution (ACH) was measured before and after each exposure to CL. A control group A of nine animals not exposed to CL showed no significant respiratory responses following inhalation of 0.2% ACH for 1 min. Conversely, inhalation of 2.0% ACH almost doubled the dynamic elastance (Edyn) in the ACH challenge test in this animal group. Airway resistance (RI), Edyn, slope of inspiratory pressure generation (ΔPes/tI), arterial pressure (Pa) and arterial blood gas tensions (PaO2, PaCO2) were not significantly altered during and after exposures to CL. However, after CL-BAE inhalation of 50 and 5 mg/m3 over 4 h, the amplitude of the ACH-induced airway obstruction indicated by the changes in Edyn rose significantly to almost five times the control response before exposure (group C, D, p < 0.005). Similar changes in RI and ΔPes/tI were obtained. After inhalation of 0.5 mg/m3 CL-BAE (group D), no significant changes in AR were observed. Similar to CL-BAE inhalation of 50 mg/m3, CL-SB caused enlarged AR in the ACH challenge test (group E), whereas no significant changes were found after exposure to 5.0 and 0.5 mg/m3 in groups F and G. In summary, CL aerosols with and without biozide in the range of 50 and 5 mg/m3 applied via tracheal tubes increased AR to ACH within 4 h of exposure in a time- and concentration-dependent manner. It has to be assumed that this augmented AR indicates an increased risk of developing lubricant-induced obstructive lung diseases.
Acute Lung Injury after Inhalation of Water-Proofing Spray while Smoking a Cigarette
Authors: Jinn Yasuto , Akizuki Norikazu , Ohkouchi Minoru , Inase Naohiko , Ichioka Masahiko , Marumo Fumiaki
Published: April 2003

A 34-year-old Japanese woman developed acute lung injury soon after inhaling a water-proofing spray which she applied onto her ski suit while smoking a cigarette at the same time. She initially demonstrated arterial hypoxemia (PaO2 = 59 mm Hg) and ground-glass opacities in both lung fields on the CT scan, which both returned to normal without any medication. Several water-proofing sprays, which are easily obtainable in Japan, contain 1,1,1-trichloroethane, liquefied petroleum gas and fluoride resin. Although these components have not been reported to be toxic to the lung yet, high concentrations of these components and/or the pyrolytic products of fluoride resin may have caused acute lung injury in this case.
An Unusual Case of Esophageal Tuberculosis in an Adult
Authors: Alataş Füsun , Özdemir Necla , Işıksoy Serap , Metintaş Muzaffer , Erginel Sinan , Harmancı Emel , Mutlu Sevda
Published: April 2003

Tuberculous infection of the esophagus is a rare disease and usually occurs secondary to tuberculous mediastinal lymphadenopathy. We report a 74-year-old woman presenting with dysphagia and weight loss. The chest radiograph showed punctuated calcifications lining from the right hilar region to the paracardiac region. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy revealed a 0.5 × 5 cm lesion localized in the 25th cm of the esophagus covered partly with normal mucosa, partly demonstrating ulcerous areas. Biopsy revealed granulomatous infiltrates being tuberculoid in type. Thorax CT showed a calcified lymph node at the right hilum. The patient did not give consent to therapy and died 1 month later.
Pneumothorax Complicating Fatal Bronchiolitis obliterans Organizing Pneumonia
Authors: Kofteridis Diamantis P. , Bouros Demosthenes E. , Vamvakas Lambros N. , Stefanaki Kalliopi S. , Voludaki Argiro E. , Barbounakis Emmanuil M. , Emmanouel Dimitrios S.
Published: April 2003

Bronchiolitis obliterans organizing pneumonia (BOOP) is an uncommon pulmonary disorder, the clinical spectrum of which is variable. We present a fatal case of BOOP, which developed spontaneous pneumothorax, a complication considered rare. Unusual was also the upper lobe distribution of the infiltrates. The histologically diagnosed disease failed to respond to antibiotics and corticosteroids and the 74-year-old patient eventually succumbed with acute respiratory distress syndrome, 50 days after disease onset. Spontaneous pneumothorax should be added to the complications of BOOP, which may adversely affect prognosis.
Allergic Bronchopulmonary Aspergillosis due to Aspergillus niger without Bronchial Asthma
Authors: Hoshino Hideaki , Tagaki Shigeru , Kon Hayato , Shibusa Takashi , Takabatake Hirotsugu , Fujita Akihisa , Sekine Kyuichiroh , Abe Shosaku
Published: April 2003

A 65-year-old woman was admitted to our hospital with a dry cough and pulmonary infiltrates. Chest radiograph and CT revealed mucoid impaction and consolidations. Peripheral blood eosinophilia and elevated serum IgE were observed. Aspergillus niger was cultured repeatedly from her sputum, but A. fumigatus was not detected. Immediate skin test and specific IgE (RAST) to Aspergillus antigen were positive. Precipitating antibodies were confirmed against A. niger antigen, but not against A. fumigatus antigen. She had no asthmatic symptoms, and showed no bronchial hyperreactivity to methacholine. Thus, this case was diagnosed as allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) without bronchial asthma due to A. niger, an organism rarely found in ABPA. The administration of prednisone improved the symptoms and corrected the abnormal laboratory findings.
Organizing Pneumonia Related to Common Variable Immunodeficiency
Authors: Wislez Marie , Sibony Mathilde , Naccache Jean-Marc , Liote Huguette , Carette Marie-France , Oksenhendler Eric , Cadranel Jacques
Published: April 2003

A 68-year-old woman suffering from common variable immunodeficiency (CVI) developed a typical picture of organizing pneumonia. Causative factors other than CVI were eliminated. Several antibiotic regimens failed to improve the patient’s condition, while the clinical manifestations rapidly disappeared under steroid therapy, with complete radiological recovery, but relapsed after steroid withdrawal. Finally, organizing pneumonia was definitely demonstrated by pathological findings obtained by open lung biopsy. Interestingly, pathological examination exhibited two other well-known CVI-associated lesions, i.e. benign lymphoid hyperplasia and noncaseating granuloma. In view of reports in the literature, we speculate that these different histological patterns could have resulted in a spectrum of symptomatic CVI-associated pulmonary disorders that improved under steroid therapy.
Stereotactic Surgery and Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Narabayashi H.
Published: April 2003

With a short description of the historical background, thalamotomy and posteroventral pallidotomy (PVP) are introduced as effective means to alleviate motor symptoms in Parkinson’s disease (PD). Rigidity and dopa-induced dyskinesia are improved and abolished by either of the two procedures, but tremor is more markedly improved by thalamotomy than by PVP. To date, surgical treatment has been important in treating PD. Also, the influence of PVP on psychological symptoms in PD, bradyphrenia and emotional changes offers an important key to understand and to interpret these symptoms.
Treatment of Symptomatic Intracranial Arachnoid Cysts by Stereotactic Cyst-Ventricular Shunting
Authors: D’Angelo Vincenzo , Gorgoglione Leonardo , Catapano Giuseppe
Published: April 2003

Background: The optimal treatment of symptomatic intracranial arachnoid cysts is controversial and different surgical approaches have been described. The aim of the treatment is to reduce the intracystic pressure. To accomplish this goal, many techniques have been proposed, each with specific limitations or failures. Methods: Nine patients with symptomatic arachnoid cysts were treated by stereotactic cyst-ventricular shunting. One patient with suprasellar arachnoid cyst showed signs related to intracranial pressure, the remaining 8 patients complained of headache and/or drug-resistant epilepsy. All the intracranial cysts were supratentorial. The surgical procedure was performed under general anesthesia in 6 cases and local anesthesia in 3 cases. The CRW Stereotactic System (Radionics) was used. The acquisition of both target points (cyst and ventricle) was always realized by means of CT scan slices. A right precoronal burr hole was made and a silicon catheter was stereotactically inserted into the lateral ventricle. Another burr hole was subsequently performed close to the cyst; a silicon catheter was placed in the middle of the cavity in the shortest intracerebral crossing. Then both catheters were connected to a subcutaneous burr hole Ommaya reservoir. Results: All patients tolerated the procedure well and the preoperative clinical signs progressively disappeared or improved. The CT scan at 1, 3, 6 and over 12 months showed progressive reduction in size of the cysts. No clinical recurrence was found at the follow-up (14–73 months). Conclusions: The successful outcome of the above cases suggests that, in carefully selected symptomatic intracranial arachnoid cysts, stereotactic cyst-ventricular shunting is likely to prove an effective operative method.
Updated Neuroimaging Using Intraoperative Brain Modeling and Sparse Data
Authors: Miga Michael I. , Roberts David W. , Hartov Alexander , Eisner Symma , Lemery John , Kennedy Francis E. , Paulsen Keith D.
Published: April 2003

A strategy to update preoperative imaging for image-guided surgery using readily available intraoperative information has been developed and implemented. A patient-specific three-dimensional finite element model of the brain is generated from preoperative MRI and used to simulate deformation resulting from multiple surgical processes. Intraoperatively obtained sparse imaging data, such as from digital cameras or ultrasonography, is then used to prescribe the displacement of selected points within the model. Interpolation to the resolution of preoperative imaging may then be performed based upon the model. The algorithms for generation of the finite element model and for its subsequent deformation have been successfully validated using a pig brain model, and preliminary clinical application in the operating room has demonstrated feasibility.
Tolerance and Tremor Rebound following Long-Term Chronic Thalamic Stimulation for Parkinsonian and Essential Tremor
Authors: Hariz Marwan I. , Shamsgovara Parviz , Johansson Folke , Hariz Gun-Marie , Fodstad Harald
Published: April 2003

Fifty-eight patients, 36 with essential tremor (ET) and 22 with Parkinson’s disease (PD), received deep brain stimulation (DBS) in the thalamic ventral intermediate (Vim) nucleus. The mean follow-up was 17 months for ET and 21 months for PD patients. Stimulation parameters were adjusted as needed, at various intervals after surgery. Results were assessed using routine clinical evaluation and established outcome scales. All patients needed incremental increase in stimulation parameters at various intervals during the first 6–12 months after surgery. The mean voltage 1 week postoperatively was 1.45 V in PD patients, and 1.37 V in ET patients. Twelve months later, the figures were 2.14 V in PD and 2.25 V in ET patients. At 1 year, the Essential Tremor Rating Scale (ETRS) improved from 54 to 28 (p < 0.0001). The motor part of the Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) improved from 37 to 26 (p < 0.01). Tremor items of the UPDRS improved
more markedly (p < 0.0001). One week postoperatively 90% of PD, and 89% of ET patients were tremor free. One year later, 70% of PD and 60% of ET
patients remained mostly tremor free. Upon switching off stimulation, there was a clear tendency for tremor rebound (p = 0.07) in the PD group, requiring continuous 24-hour stimulation in some patients. Permanent non-adjustable ataxia was induced by stimulation in 2 PD patients.
Distinguishing Recurrent Tumor and Radiation Necrosis with Positron Emission Tomography versus Stereotactic Biopsy
Authors: Thompson Todd P. , Lunsford L. Dade , Kondziolka Douglas
Published: April 2003

With the recent approval of reimbursement for positron emission tomography (PET), it has become important to clarify the utility of this diagnostic study. We evaluated the utility of PET to distinguish radiation necrosis from recurrent tumor in a retrospective review of patients with primary glial neoplasms. Fifteen patients had preoperative contrast-enhanced MRI and PET images followed by stereotactic biopsy or craniotomy and histological confirmation. The sensitivity of PET was 43% (6/14) and the specificity was 100% (1/1). We examined the sensitivity of PET as a function of volumetric contrast enhancement on MRI. Eighty percent of true-positive PET studies occurred with volume enhancement greater than 10 cm3. Seventy-five percent of false negatives occurred with volume enhancement less than 6 cm3. Given the clinical significance of distinguishing tumor progression from radiation necrosis, we believe that PET is insufficient to resolve radiation necrosis versus tumor progression.
Percutaneous Absorption of Methylprednisolone Aceponate following Topical Application of Advantan® Lotion on Intact, Inflamed and Stripped Skin of Male Volunteers
Authors: Günther C. , Kecskes A. , Staks T. , Täuber U.
Published: April 2003

Six healthy, elderly volunteers received three topical treatments with Advantan® lotion containing 0.1% of methylprednisolone aceponate (MPA, CAS 86401-95-8) on intact, inflamed and stripped skin in a consecutive fashion at weekly intervals. The lotion (O/W emulsion) containing 14C-MPA (specific radioactivity 1.8 MBq/mg MPA) was applied in an area dose of 5 mg lotion/cm2 on a marked area of 100 cm2 on the back for 24 h. Inflammation was caused by UV-B irradiation at 3 MED 6 h prior to the treatment with the test preparation. Removal of stratum corneum was performed by 20-fold adhesive tape stripping. The concentration of radioactivity was measured in the plasma and in the urine up to 7 days following each treatment. The concentration of radioactivity in the plasma did not exceed the limit of detection of 1.5 ng MPA Eq/ml at any time point. The percutaneous absorption was assessed from the cumulated excretion of radiolabelled substances in the urine corrected for biliary excretion. Less than 0.5% of the dose was percutaneously absorbed through intact skin and through inflamed skin. After removal of the penetration barrier (‘stripping’) the percutaneous absorption increased to 15.4±7.7% of the applied dose.
Molecular Biological Methods for Characterizing Drug-Metabolizing Enzymes in Hepatic and Extrahepatic Tissues
Authors: Friedberg Thomas
Published: April 2003

Drug metabolism influences the pharmacotoxicological properties of a vast array of compounds and is controlled by a complex system of drug-metabolizing enzymes. A thorough understanding of this system allows the more effective development of therapeutic drugs as well as a significant improvement of risk assessment. The early identification of optimal therapeutic problems relating to drug metabolism could reduce the development costs for pharmaceuticals. Recently, techniques using transgenes have become available for this purpose. In these approaches the genetic information for the enzyme under investigation is expressed in vitro or in vivo, following gene transfer. This approach is called ‘heterologous expression’. This article illustrates some examples in which molecular biological methods have been used to analyze those enzymes which control the pharmacotoxicological properties of drugs. Particular emphasis has been placed on the use of these methods to characterize extrahepatic drug-metabolizing enzymes such as those in the skin.
Effect of Avène Spring Water on the Activation of Rat Mast Cell by Substance P or Antigen
Authors: Joly F. , Charveron M. , Ariès M.F. , Bidault J. , Kahhak L. , Beauvais F. , Gall Y.
Published: April 2003

The biological activity of Avène water from two different springs (‘Sainte Odile’ and ‘Val d’Orb’) was studied in vitro on rat peritoneal mast cell activation. A dilution-dependent inhibition of both histamine and prostaglandin D2 antigen-induced release was observed when cells were preincubated with both Avène spring waters. They also inhibited histamine release triggered by substance P. The ability of Avène water to inhibit mast cell activation in vitro may be related with its antiallergic and anti-inflammatory properties and its use in hydrotherapy.
The Induction of Terminal Differentiation Markers by the cAMP Pathway in Human HaCaT Keratinocytes
Authors: Mammone Thomas , Marenus Ken , Maes Daniel , Lockshin Richard A.
Published: April 2003

The terminal differentiation of human epidermal keratinocytes is a complex morphological and biochemical shift from a mitotically active cell to an inert protein cross-linked envelope. This transition is a clearly predetermined cell death mechanism, but it is unlike many other programmed cell deaths in that it is not apoptotic. To explore and contrast the mechanism by which keratinocytes are committed to differentiation rather than apoptosis, we focused on the cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) signaling pathway using selective modulators of intracelluar cAMP levels. Markers of differentiation were assayed by Western blotting. Raising intracelluar cAMP levels by treating HaCaT cells with forskolin, a diterpene, or with isobutylmethylxanthine, a phosphodiesterase inhibitor, and isoproterenol, a β-adrenergic receptor agonist that selectively activates adenylate cyclase, increased the levels of the differentiation markers keratin K1 and K10, involucrin and transglutaminase. H89 and KT5720, both inhibitors of cAMP-dependent protein kinase, suppressed the expression of keratins K1 and K10. These observations are in line with the defined role for cAMP in the control of keratinocyte differentiation.
Determination of the Horny Layer Profile by Tape Stripping in Combination with Optical Spectroscopy in the Visible Range as a Prerequisite to Quantify Percutaneous Absorption
Authors: Weigmann H.-J. , Lademann J. , Meffert H. , Schaefer H. , Sterry W.
Published: April 2003

A new method was developed to determine the horny layer profile of volunteers using tape stripping in combination with UV/visible spectroscopy. The optical absorbance and the weight of corneocyte aggregates were compared as parameters for the determination of the mass of the horny layer particles fixed to the individual tapes. It was shown that the potential disturbances influencing both parameters must be considered critically before calculating the correlation factor, found as R2mean = 0.93 ± 0.05. It was proven that the absorbance in the visible range is better suited than the weight to quantify the amount of corneocyte aggregates removed by a single strip. The new method allows an exact anatomical localization of the individual tapes and all data obtained within the depth profile of the stratum corneum. This was exemplified by the determination of the penetration of chemical and physical UV filters into the horny layer.
Ethanol-Modulated Cytokine Production and Expression in Skin Cells Exposed to Methotrexate
Authors: Shear Neil H. , Landau Marina , Malkiewicz Izabella , Katz Gady G. , Neuman Manuela G.
Published: April 2003

Evidence suggests a link between alcohol consumption, psoriasis and the response of psoriatic patients to methotrexate (MTX) therapy. Ethanol (EtOH) may play a role in the pathogenesis of psoriasis by upregulating the expression and inducing the local secretion of proinflammatory cytokines, e.g. interleukins IL-1α, IL-6, chemokine IL-8 and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α). We investigated whether EtOH or MTX or their combination influence the secretion of these cytokines using normal human primary skin cells (NHPSC) and epidermoid cell line A431. The objectives of this study were: (1) to quantify the differences in cellular changes induced by MTX, (2) to measure the effect of EtOH on MTX toxicity and (3) to determine the relationship between MTX and EtOH exposure and production of proinflammatory cytokines. NHPSC and A431 were incubated with 0–10 mM MTX or α-MEM (control) in the presence or absence of 40 mM EtOH. A formazan 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazole-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay was used as a marker for cell viability (control was 100%). Significance was calculated by ANOVA. Cytokine release into media was quantitated by ELISA. After 24 h of MTX exposure, the release of IL-1α was unchanged. IL-6 increased 1.7 times in both cultures, and IL-8 increased 1.7 times in NHPSC and 2.1 times in A431. TNF-α release increased twice in A431 but not in NHPSC. Human recombinant IL-1α and IL-6 for 24 h had no effect, while TNF-α reduced cytoviability by 30% in NHPSC and 22% in A431. Anti-TNF-α reversed the effect produced by TNF-α in NHPSC and reduced it in A431 (11.8%, p < 0.05). We concluded that in vitro in normal human primary keratinocytes, toxicity and inflammatory responses are enhanced by EtOH.
Assessing the Bioactivity of Cosmetic Products and Ingredients
Authors: Jackson Edward M.
Published: April 2003

Cosmetic ingredients can produce physical effects on the skin as well as positive and negative bioactive effects. Such effects have now been identified, categorized and interpreted. Because of this ongoing research and increased understanding, cosmetics, especially skin care products, are being improved. Targeting specific bioactive effects from newly developed cosmetic products is now possible. This development is aided by refining and expanding existing instrumental analysis which is now capable of elucidating more detailed and statistically significant differences from the use of certain ingredients in cosmetics. However, the ultimate proof of these changes will remain the consumer response to such products. Physical effects and the positive and negative bioactive effects from specific cosmetic ingredients will be discussed in relationship to the anatomy, physiology and condition of human skin. Examples of selected cosmetic ingredients in relationship to the anatomy, physiology and condition of human skin will be given. Demonstrations of selected cosmetic ingredient effects will be by way of clinical observation, instrumental analysis and consumer evaluation.
Current and Future Nail Research – Areas Ripe for Study
Authors: Fleckman Philip
Published: April 2003

This discussion examines five common topics that affect nails adversely, onychomycosis, brittle nails, developmental nail disorders, chronic paronychia and onycholysis. What is known about these processes, what areas of research, old and new, might lead to improved understanding of the underlying basis of the problems and what prospects the future might hold are considered.
EEMCO Guidance to the in vivo Assessment of Tensile Functional Properties of the Skin
Authors: Piérard Gérald E.
Published: April 2003

From an engineering point of view, the skin and subcutaneous tissue represent an integrated load-transmitting structure. It is subjected to intrinsic and environmental influences. An attempt to use a four-layered model is offered to explain how the integument withstands and transmits loads through deforming appropriately. The stratum corneum, the association between the living epidermis and papillary dermis, the reticular dermis and the hypodermis have each their own intimate structures whose tensile functions are ideally balanced to respond adequately to the casual mechanical demands. A series of physiological variables, ageing and skin diseases alter the tensile functions of the organ. In the overall analysis, truly comprehensive multidisciplinary approaches in this field have brought advances in the understanding of functional skin biology. The assessment of tensile functions of skin also provides incentives for progress in skin care.
Pharmacological Effects of a Specific Leukotriene B4 Receptor Antagonist (VML 295) on Blood Leukocytes, Cutaneous Inflammation and Epidermal Proliferation
Authors: Seegers Bianca A.M.P.A. , Andriessen Monique P.M. , van Hooijdonk Candida A.E.M. , de Bakker Els S.M. , van Vlijmen-Willems Ivonne M.J.J. , Parker Gerry L. , van Erp Piet E.J. , van de Kerkhof Peter C.M.
Published: April 2003

VML 295 (LY 293111) is a potent and specific leukotriene4 receptor antagonist. It has previously been shown in human volunteers that VML 295 at a dosage of 48 mg twice daily inhibits the ex vivo leukotriene B4 (LTB4)-induced upregulation of CD11b on peripheral blood neutrophils. A clear dose-response relatinship was shown. In addition, VML 295 inhibits various inflammatory aspects resulting from LTB4 challenge of the skin, again showing a dose-response relationship. In view of the large variation in the elimination half-life of VML 295 (25–88.5 h) in individual human subjects, the present pharmacological study was designed to provide information on the pharmacodynamics of the drug by the assessment of VML 295 plasma concentrations, ex vivo LTB4-induced CD11b upregulation of neutrophils, neutrophil accumulation in the skin following epicutaneous application of LTB4 and epidermal regeneration following standardized surface trauma. A group of 36 healthy volunteers were treated in a double-blind study with VML 295 at 200 mg twice daily, VML 295 at 200 mg once daily or placebo for 7 days. Before treatment, at the end of treatment and following discontinuation of treatment, VML 295 plasma concentrations and CD11b upregulation of blood neutrophils were assessed. In 18 subjects, the effects of the three treatments on LTB4-induced inflammatory were assessed before and at the end of treatment, and in the remaining 18 subjects the effects of these treatments on epidermal regeneration were assessed similarly. VML 295 at 200 mg either twice or once daily has a profound inhibitory effect on ex vivo LTB4-induced CD11b upregulation of blood neutrophils, LTB4-induced neutrophil accumulation in the skin, trauma-induced hyperproliferation of the epidermis and regenerative keratinization. The twice daily dose schedule was significantly more effective than the once daily regimen in reducing ex vivo CD11b stimulation of neutrophils, in blood samples collected 24 h after discontinuation of VML 295 treatment. The twice daily schedule tended to be more efficient in skin biopsies, although this difference was not statistically significant in the number of subjects investigated. A plasma concentration of 100 ng/ml proved to be the threshold for these effects. The profound biological effects, both systemically and cutaneously, as well as the safety profile, make VML 295 a promising drug for skin disorders characterized by epidermal proliferation and neutrophil accumulation.
Age and Sex Variation in Lipid Composition of Human Fingernail Plates1
Authors: Helmdach Marten , Thielitz Anja , Röpke Eva-Maria , Gollnick Harald
Published: April 2003

In contrast to epidermal lipid metabolism, the lipid biochemistry of nails has yet been poorly investigated. Our purpose was to define a reference population of healthy individuals as a base for the better understanding of nail diseases and age-induced changes. Therefore, we developed a method of processing and extracting the nail plates enabling us to assess the most relevant epidermal lipid classes by HPTLC. Our study revealed that nail plate lipid composition varies with age and sex: the lipid composition of the fertile years shows distinct profiles compared to that of childhood and old age, suggesting an influence of sex hormones on nail lipogenesis. Our results open the possibility in the future of an easier comparison between healthy and diseased nails and enable us to investigate factors influencing nail lipid composition such as drugs, metabolic diseases, toxic agents, cosmetics and nail therapeutics.
The Inherent Capacitance of Moisturising Creams: A Source of False Positive Results?
Authors: Jemec Gregor B.E. , Na Renhua , Wulf Hans Christian
Published: April 2003

The capacitance is a frequently used measurement of skin hydration in vivo, therefore any potential for false capacitance results is of importance. This in vitro study is to investigate the capacities of moisturising creams to cause false positive results. Adding different volumes of demineralised water and saline on dry clean plastic-backed tissue paper and measuring the capacitance values, the standard relation curve of capacitance value and volume of water was established. Four moisturising creams, petrolatum, a protective cream and a gel were then applied to the same kind of tissue paper in constant volumes, and were measured for weights and capacitance values over a 1-hour period allowing the gradual evaporation of water and volatile elements. A positive linear relationship was found between volume of water and capacitance value. All the creams had inherent capacitance that correlated with their water content. The inherent capacitance of creams decreased over time and ultimately reached comparable low values. The decrease in capacitance correlated significantly with weight reduction, except for petrolatum, which showed negligible inherent capacitance and weight reduction. The rates of decrease in capacitance value versus cream weight were significantly different for different creams. The results assured that capacitance value correlates to water content, and the inherent capacitance of creams may contribute to false positive skin capacitance in vivo if measured before water and other volatile elements of creams evaporate from the skin surface. In addition, the inherent capacitance and its durability may be relevant characteristics for further comparative studies of moisturisers and their clinical efficacy.
Tazarotene Induces Epidermal Cell Differentiation in the Mouse Tail Test Used as an Animal Model for Psoriasis
Authors: Sebök Bela , Bonnekoh Bernd , Kerényi Monika , Gollnick Harald
Published: April 2003

Disturbed epidermal proliferation and keratinization are major features of psoriatic skin lesions. The so-called mouse tail test is known as an animal model to evaluate the antipsoriatic efficacy of topical drugs with rgard to the induction of orthokeratosis. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effect of tazarotene, a novel, receptor-specific retinoid, by the mouse tail test in a direct comparison to dithranol representing a classical topical antipsoriatic compound. The tails of CFLP mice were treated with tazarotene gel (0.1%, 0.05%), dithranol ointment (1.0%), tretinoin cream (0.05%) and methylcellulose (5%) hydrogel (vehicle control) for 2 weeks. Longitudinal histological sections were prepared from the tail skin, and the degree of orthokeratosis was determined by measuring the horizontal length of the fully developed granular layer within an individual scale in relation to its total length according to a method originally described by Bosman and co-authors. The degree of orthokeratosis was significantly (p ≤ 0.05) increased by 0.1% tazarotene (87 ± 20%), 1.0% dithranol (75 ± 26%), 0.05% tazarotene (59 ± 27%), and 0.05% tretinoin (23 ± 13%) as compared to untreated (11 ± 6%) and methylcellulose hydrogel-treated (13 ± 6%) controls. Under the conditions of the mouse tail test, tazarotene showed a strong potency to induce orthokeratosis. With regard to clinically relevant concentrations this effect was even more pronounced than that observed for dithranol.
Inhibitory Effects of Arotinoids on tRNA Biogenesis
Authors: Papadimou Evangelia , Monastirli Alexandra , Tsambaos Dionysios , Merk Hans F. , Drainas Denis
Published: April 2003

The effects of five arotinoids (Ro 13-7410, Ro 15-0778, Ro 15-1570, Ro 13-6298, Ro 40-8757) on ribonuclease P (RNase P) activity were studied in a cell-free system derived from Dictyostelium discoideum. RNase P is a ribonucleoprotein that endonucleolytically cleaves all tRNA precursors to produce the mature 5′ end. Kinetic analysis showed that these compounds behave as classical competitive inhibitors with Ki values 4.35, 3.6, 2.8 and 0.045 mM for Ro 13-6298, Ro 15-1570, Ro 15-0778 and Ro 13-7410, respectively. Ro 13-7410 was 62, 80 and 97 times more potent in inhibiting the enzyme activity as compared to Ro 15-0778, Ro 15-1570 and Ro 13-6298, respectively, whereas Ro 40-8757 showed no effect on RNase P activity. These results project the significance of the acidic polar terminus in the arotinoid molecule binding to the enzyme. The kinetics of inhibition reflects allosteric interactions of arotinoids with D. discoideum RNase P. Moerover, our findings indicate that the inhibitory effects of arotinoids on tRNA biogenesis can be mediated through mechanisms not involving the retinoid nuclear receptors.
Diagnostic Significance of Prostate-Specific Antigen Velocity at Intermediate PSA Serum Levels in Relation to the Standard Deviation of Different Test Systems
Authors: Manseck A. , Pilarsky C. , Froschermaier S. , Menschikowski M. , Wirth M.P.
Published: April 2003

Serial prostate-specific antigen (PSA) measurements (PSA velocity) as an additional instrument to detect prostatic cancer was introduced in 1992. It has previously been reported that PSA increase per year differed in the last 5 years prior to diagnosis in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (0.18 ng/ml/year), locally confined (0.75 ng/ml/year) and metastasized (4.4 ng/ml/year) cancer of the prostate (CaP) in contrast to healthy men (0.04 ng/ml/year). The ability of PSA velocity to detect organ-confined CaP in patients with intermediate PSA serum values depends therefore on a reliable and reproducible PSA result. The present study comprised 85 men with PSA values between 3 and 8 ng/ml (Abbott IMx). PSA measurements were repeated with Abbott IMx (n = 85 patients) and Hybritech Tandem-E (n = 59 patients) assays. The PSA serum values differed from one examination to the other from 0.02 to 2.74 ng/ml with the Abbott IMx. Standard deviation amounted to 0.35 ng/ml with the Abbott IMx PSA assay. Using the Hybritech Tandem-E assay, mean standard deviation was 1.15 ng/ml and therefore higher than with the Abbott IMx assay. The difference from one test to the other ranged from 0.05 to 4.05 ng/ml with the Hybritech Tandem-E. Using the Abbott IMx assay, 10.6% of all repeat measurements exceeded 1 ng/ml whereas in the Hybritech Tandem-E assay 62.7% of the second measurements differed >1 ng/ml from the first PSA result. An increase in PSA serum values may therefore be due to intratest variation, physiological day-to-day variation as well as prostatic disease. It is important to notice that the intra-assay variation may be greater than the PSA increase per year in a patient with CaP. Therefore, PSA velocity seems to be of limited value.
IL-1ra versus IL-1 Levels in Prostatic Fluid from Prostatitis Patients
Authors: Nishimura Taiji , Abe Hiroyuki , Ito Hiroshi , Ikeda Kazunori , Oka Fumiatsu , Yamamoto Motoko
Published: April 2003

Recent papers reported that the balance between the production of IL-1ra and IL-1 probably influences the regulation of host responses, the severity and prolongation of the inflammatory reaction in some diseases. Therefore, in our continuing investigation to clarify the significance of leukocytosis and its prolongation in prostatic fluid from prostatitis patients, we investigated whether low levels of IL-1ra versus IL-1β secreted in prostatic fluid were the cause of prolonged prostatitis, especially nonbacterial prostatitis (NBP). As a result of the present study, we concluded that a low level of IL-1ra in relation to that of IL-1 secreted in prostatic fluid is unlikely to cause prolongation of NBP for the following reasons: (1) IL-1β was detected in 5 of 10 cases (50.0%), but was slightly elevated in only 2 cases (20.0%) at 14 and 17 pg/ml; (2) the average IL-1ra level was not statistically low compared with that in prostatic fluid from acute bacterial prostatitis (ABP) patients who were cured promptly with antibiotics, and (3) in 5 cases of NBP in which IL-1β was detected, the average IL-1ra/IL-1β ratio was 118 which was comparable to or even higher than that in 3 ABP and 14 acute bacterial cystitis cases in which IL-1β was detected and the ratios were 40 and 88, respectively.
Coincidence of Induratio penis plastica and Erectile Dysfunction
Authors: Wunderlich H. , Werner W. , Schubert J.
Published: April 2003

There are still diverse management options in Peyronie’s disease and diverse opinions about the coincidence of Peyronie’s disease and erectile dysfunction (ED) as well. The connection between Peyronie’s disease and ED has been proved by some articles, but on the other hand authors have refused this fact. We found ED in about 30% of our patients suffering from Peyronie’s disease. We have investigated 61 patients with Peyronie’s disease. A diagnostic pattern for evaluation of angulation and ED are proposed. The tunica albuginea plication technique was used in 35 patients with good results. In our investigation we cannot find any coincidence of Peyronie’s disease with ED.
Synchronous Bilateral Torsion of the Appendix Testis
Authors: Mumtaz F.H. , Khan M.A. , Morgan R.J.
Published: April 2003

Bilateral torsion of testicular appendages is extremely uncommon. We present a rare clinical case of bilateral synchronous torsion of the hydatids of Morgagni. Clinical management was dictated by the clinical findings.
Treatment of a Recurrent Bulbar Urethral Stricture after Urolume Wallstent Implantation with a Second Inner Urethrospiral-2 Urethral Stent
Authors: Shental J. , Chaimowitch G. , Katz Z. , Rozenman J.
Published: April 2003

Although the Urolume wallstent has been proven to be effective in the treatment of bulbar urethral strictures, in some instances obstruction may recur. We present a patient in whom recurrent stricture after wallstent implantation was managed by insertion of a second inner Porges Urethrospiral-2 stent inside the first one.
Electrovaporization of the Prostate versus Laser Ablation of the Prostate in Men with Benign Prostatic Hypertrophy:A Pressure-Flow Analysis
Authors: Shingleton W. Bruce , Kolski John , Renfroe D.L. , Fowler Jr. Jackson E.
Published: April 2003

Purpose: To urodynamically assess the outcome results in a prospective cohort study of electrovaporization of the prostate (TVP) versus laser ablation of the prostate (LAP) in men with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Materials and Methods: A randomized cohort of 10 men were enrolled to undergo a TVP procedure and a second cohort of 10 patients to undergo LAP. Preoperatively and at the 6-month follow-up all patients underwent a pressure-flow urodynamic study. Transrectal ultrasound for prostatic volume was performed at the time of enrollment and at the 6-month follow-up. Results: Preoperatively, all patients except 1 were in the obstructed or equivocal range according to the Abrams-Griffin nomogram. At the 6-month follow-up the mean maximum detrusor pressure (Pdet) maximum flow rate (Qmax) for both groups of patients moved into the equivocal range. The mean prostatic volume for the TVP patients decreased 20% in comparison to a 2% decrease in prostatic volume for LAP patients. Both groups experienced similar decreases in the American Urological Association (AUA) symptom scores and increases in peak flow rates at the 6-month follow-up. Conclusion: Both treatment groups demonstrated a relief in symptoms by urodynamic assessment and AUA symptom score. This was present even though both groups had only a minimal decrease in prostatic volume. A reduction in prostate volume does not appear to be a prerequisite for improvement of symptoms from BPH.