bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Non‐invasive evaluation of inflammation in atopic dermatitis*
Authors: Hoffmann Klaus , Dirschka Thomas , Schwarze Hartmut , Stücker Markus , El‐Gammal Stefan , Hoffmann Andrea , Altmeyer Peter
Published: July 2006

In atopic dermatitis the inflammatory reaction is quantified either clinically or histologically. While clinical evaluation has the major disadvantage of inter‐ and intraoperator variance, histological investigation requires invasive procedures. Therefore, standard techniques which provide both an objective and non‐invasive form of examination are desirable.

We investigated 20 patients with atopic dermatitis by means of high resolution 20‐MHz b‐*scan ultrasound. Investigations were performed on inflammatory skin lesions at regular intervals using a standardized combination of external treatment with α‐methyl‐prednisolon‐aceponat ointment and UV‐A/UV‐B phototherapy until the lesions had healed. Skin colour (erythema) was assessed with the Minolta Chromameter CR 200 colorimeter according to the L*a*b* colour system.

Sonograms of affected skin show a zone of low echogenicity below the so‐called entry‐echo. We refer to this as the echolucent area. Healing of a lesion is seen as a decrease in thickness and an increase in density of the skin in the sonographic image; the echolucent area disappears totally when the lesion has clinically healed. In five patients we excised small areas of skin to compare the sonographic and histological pictures of exactly the same site. This showed that the thickness of the subepidermal echolucent area corresponds to the inflammatory reaction representing both edema and cellular infiltration.

Comparing the findings in sonography with the change in skin colour measurements we found that the a*‐value of the L*a*b* colour system representing redness correlated well with the sonographic density of the echolucent area. In conclusion, 20‐MHz‐b‐scan sonography and colorimetry are suitable methods for non‐invasive, objective evaluation of the inflammatory process in atopic dermatitis.
Cockayne syndrome and lichen actinicus
Authors: Schepis Carmelo , Palazzo Rosaria , Fabrizi Giuseppe , Motta Vincenzo
Published: July 2006

The authors describe the case of a young woman aged 22 years admitted to our Institute with a diagnosis of Cockayne syndrome. On admission she presented with a photoexposed dermatitis diagnosed, on the basis of clinical and histological aspects, as lichen planus actinicus. Cockayne Syndrome is characterized by precocious aging and other important signs such as dwarfism, mental retardation, photosensitivity, retinal atrophy and progressive neurological deterioration. The syndrome is autosomal recessive with normal infancy and onset of the first signs of deterioration within the first years of life. Lichen planus actinicus is a typical papular dermatitis of the photoexposed parts found in tropical and Mediterranean regions, which may be conditioned by racial factors. This is the first description in literature of a case of lichen planus actinicus in Cockayne syndrome.
An evalution of atopic diseases in relation to immediate skin test reactions among schoolchildren in the Sør‐Varanger community
Authors: Dotterud Lars Kåre , Kvammen Bjørn , Lund Eiliv , Faik Edvard S.
Published: July 2006

Aim To compare the frequency of questionnaire based diagnosis of atopic diseases to those of clinical findings and sensitization and to evaluate the reliability of self‐reported reactions to allergens with those confirmed by skin prick tests.

Background Not only airborne allergens but also environmental indoor and outdoor air pollution are regarded as risk factors for the development of respiratory diseases in children. Metals, soot, SO2, passive smoking and pollution from new building materials irritate both the skin and the respiratory mucosa and also increase the risk of atopic sensitization. A strong indication that atopic diseases are common in Sør‐Varanger community, an area heavily polluted by the nearby Russian smelting plants, prompted us to investigate this hypothesis.

Subjects The clinical and immunological examination involved 424 out of 575 schoolchildren aged 7–12 years.

Results A total of 36% of the subjects were atopic; i.e. atopic dermatitis was established in 23% and mucous membrane atopy in 18%. 44% were definite non‐atopies, leaving 14% not classifiable in either group and 6% latent atopies. Sensitization was confirmed by positive prick tests in 69% of children with a history of pollen allergy and 11% of those with a history of allergy to animal dander.

Conclusions Skin prick tests are of little value in the diagnosis of atopic dermatitis but of major importance for the confirmation of mucous membrane atopy. In cases of controversy between history, clinical findings and sensitization, it is difficult to decide between atopies and non‐atopies. Allergological examinations may be restricted to individuals with a positive symptom‐based diagnosis only.
Zalcitabine‐associated pharyngeal ulcers
Authors: Nandwani R. , Moyle G.J. , Perry N. , Hooker M. , Gazzard B.G.
Published: July 2006

Objective To report the development of giant pharyngeal ulcers in a series of HIV‐positive patients after commencing zalcitabine therapy. We also present an algorithm for the clinical management of oral ulceration in HIV‐infected individuals.

Design and subjects Prospective review of patients who were prescribed zalcitabine. a nucleoside analogue reverse transcriptase inhibitor of HIV, at a single UK centre.

Setting HIV out‐patient clinic at the Chelsea and Westminster Hospital in London.

Outcome measured Oro‐pharyngeal ulceration associated with zalcitabine therapy.

Results We report 3 cases of zalcitabine‐associated oral toxicity which manifested as atypical giant pharyngeal ulcers. The subjects were all male homosexual non‐smokers who were participating in the Medical Research Council Delta trial and had previously been randomised to receive didanosine or matching placebo in combination with zidovudine, before commencing open label zalcitabine.

Conclusions

Oral ulceration is a documented side‐effect of zalcitabine, which may produce larger atypical lesions in some individuals. Possible predisposing factors and proposed mechanisms for zalcitabine‐associated pharyngeal ulceration are discussed.
Infectious dermatoses in adult diabetic patients
Authors: Al‐Jabre Salih Hamad Mohamad , Al‐Sultan Ali Ibrahim
Published: July 2006

Background The views about the increased prevalence of cutaneous infections in diabetic patients are in conflict.

Objectives To study the prevalence of cutaneous infections in diabetic patients.

Methods 100 non‐insulin dependent diabetics and 100 controls were studied. Complete skin examination and routine dermatologic tests were used in the diagnosis of cutaneous infections.

Results The overall prevalence of infections was higher in diabetic than non‐diabetic patients. The toe webs were the most commonly affected sites. The frequency of erythrasma was significantly higher in diabetics, but not of candidosis, tinea versicolor, dermatophytosis and staphylococcal and viral infections.

Conclusion In diabetics, erythrasma was the most frequently encountered skin infection.
High prevalence of atopy suggesting a role as co‐factor in the clinical manifestation of condylomata acuminata
Authors: Ruzicka Thomas , Geltinger Stefan
Published: July 2006

Background A high proportion of those infected with human papilloma virus remain asymptomatic. The co‐factors predisposing to the clinical manifestation of condylomata acuminata are unknown. Atopy represents a minimal form of cellular immune deficiency and shows a high association with mucocuta‐neous infections. Its role in condylomata acuminata has never been investigated.

Objectives To determine the role of atopy in the manifestation of condylomata acuminata.

Design The presence of predisposing factors was assessed by clinical data, and serological, microbiological and proctological investigations. Atopy was evaluated by a standardised procedure, and an atopy score calculated and correlated with extent, duration and relapse rate of condylomata acuminata.

Subjects Fifty‐eight patients with condylomata acuminata were investigated at the Department of Dermatology of the University of Munich.

Results A high proportion of patients showed predisposing local factors, such as coexistent infections, anal eczema or haemorrhoids. Many patients showed stigmata of atopy. A positive association was seen between atopy score and relapse of condylomata acuminata. The presence of atopy could be identified as a predisposing factor.

Conclusions Atopy is common in patients with condylomata acuminata and may represent a co‐factor for the development of clinically evident papillomas in persons infected with HPV, and offer an explanation for the high relapse rate of condylomata acuminata.
Apoptosis, the dermatologist, the venereologist and the patient
Authors: Gaffney Eoin F. , Cotter Thomas G.
Published: July 2006

Apoptosis is the genetically mediated process whereby individual cells determine their deletion from normal and diseased tissues. Deregulation of apoptosis occurs to a greater or lesser extent in malignant tumours and in certain skin diseases, and also largely accounts for the progressive depletion of CD4+ lymphocytes in HIV infection. Greater understanding of apoptosis modulation by oncogenes and tumour suppressor genes such as c‐myc. Fas, p53, bcl‐2, and abl will facilitate the development of new therapeutic strategies for cancer and other diseases.
Acroangiodermatitis
Authors: Dias Margarida , Cardoso Jorge , Afonso Ana , Rodrigues Ana
Published: July 2006

Kaposi‐like acroangiodermatitis or pseudo‐Kaposi's sarcoma is a reactive angiodysplasia of the cutaneous blood vessels that resembles true Kaposi's sarcoma, both clinically and histologically. We report a 17‐year‐old girl with congenital spina bifida and myelomeningocele and cutaneous lesions localized on the lower limbs. Clinical, functional and histological investigation led to a diagnosis of Kaposi‐like acroangiodermatitis.
Atypical herpes zoster in a patient with AIDS
Authors: Fernández‐Díaz M.L. , Herranz P. , de Lucas R. , González‐García J. , Suárez‐Marrero M.C. , Contreras F. , Casado M.
Published: July 2006

Objective To report a case of persistent infection by varicella‐zoster virus (VZV) in an HIV‐infected patient who presented with atypical, hyperkeratotic viral lesions and a partial response to acyclovir.

Methods Viral changes found on histopathological examination; definitive diagnosis of VZV infection was established by viral culture.

Results Lesions of chronic hyperkeratotic herpes zoster responded partially to acyclovir therapy, and complete resolution was achieved with intravenous foscarnet. Absence of visceral involvement.

Conclusion Prolonged acyclovir therapy for herpes virus infections in HIV‐seropositive patients may represent an important pathogenic factor for the appearance of atypical clinical forms associated with drug‐resistant viral strains.
Raised galactose plus galactose‐1‐phosphate blood levels in patients under PUVA therapy
Authors: Schulpis Kleopatra H. , Georgala Sophia , Michas T. , Papakonstantinou E.D. , Chadjidakis J. , Kalogerakou M. , Stratigos J.
Published: July 2006

Background PUVA has become a preferred method of treatment for vitiligo and psoriasis. However, 8‐methoxypsoralen (8‐MOP) as well as a high galactose diet may cause liver and kidney function damage and enhance cataract formation.

Patients and Methods Twenty one patients aged 32 ± 2.6 yrs with vitiligo (N= 11) or psoriasis (N= 10) underwent eye‐examination, liver and kidney function tests and galactose + galactose 1‐phosphate (gal + gal P) blood evaluation using Porton‐Cambridge Ltd reagents, before and after the 12th PUVA treatment during a 35–40 day study.

Results All these functional tests including eye‐examination were normal before and after commencing therapy. However, the mean gal + gal P blood levels (1.29 ± 0.41 mg/dl) were statistically elevated (2.95 ± 0.42 mg/dl) at the end of the study. It is suggested that 8‐MOP either impairs liver function or acts as an inhibitor of the enzymes responsible for galactose metabolism. We propose gal + gal P blood estimation in all patients before and, at intervals, after the initiation of PUVA therapy in order to prevent as early as possible an additional risk factor for liver or kidney dysfunction as well as cataract formation.
Acute myelomonocytic leukemia revealed by a chickenpox‐like rash
Authors: Hoen Bruno , Neidhardt Anne C , Aghassian Catherine , Dorvaux Véronique , Witz Francis , Canton Philippe
Published: July 2006

An unusual case of leukemia cutis is presented. A 42‐year‐old man presented with a vesicular skin rash mimicking chickenpox. Skin biopsy firmly ruled out the diagnosis of varicella and revealed an infiltration of the superficial derma by myeloblasts. Bone marrow aspirates confirmed the diagnosis of acute myelomonocytic leukemia (type M4).
Pruritic urticarial papules and plaques of pregnancy (PUPPP): a clinicopathological review of 35 patients
Authors: Powell Frank C. , Dervan Peter , Wayte Jeffrey , O'Loughlin Sean
Published: July 2006

The clinical features of 35 cases of Pruritic Urticarial Papules and Plaques of Pregnancy (PUPPP) seen over an 8 year period were reviewed with regard to age and gestational stage of onset, evolution and severity of disease and response to therapy. The histologic features in biopsies from 15 patients were analysed for pattern and extent of inflammatory change and the composition of the inflammatory cells were studied with a panel of monoclonal antibodies. This study confirmed PUPPP to be a well defined clinical entity mainly occurring in young primagravidas in the third trimester and usually responsive to topical treatments. Histologically, perivascular upper and mid‐dermal inflammatory changes were present in all biopsies with epidermal spongiosis and vesiculation a prominant feature in many cases. The inflammatory infiltrate was composed of an admixture of T lymphocytes and macrophages.
Cyclosporin A in the treatment of cutaneous vasculitis. Clinical and cellular effects
Authors: Tosca A.D. , Ioannidou D.J. , Katsantonis J.C. , Kyriakis K.P.
Published: July 2006

Background Treatment of cutaneous vasculitis(CV) is an unsettled issue. Cyclosporin A (Cy‐A) has been successfully used in dermatoses with immunologic background. some systemic vasculitides and Behcet's disease.

Objective To check the therapeutic potential of Cy‐A in severe or recalcitrant cases of CV was considered of interest. The effects on the in situ cell populations involved in the inflammatory‐immune events were further investigated.

Methods An open clinical trial (12 cases) was carried out. An immunohistochemical study was also performed, evaluating skin specimens from established lesions, before and 48 h after Cy‐A first administration. The effect on endothelial adhesion molecules, integrin bearing leukocytes, T‐cells, lymphomononuclear cells and dendrocytes in the dermis as well as on epidermal antiyenic determinants focused our interest.

Results Reduced endothelial ICAM‐1 expression was shown. Cy‐A was proved to adversely affect b2 integrin expression and therefore adhesion pathways. T‐cells, epidermal dendritic cells and dendrocytes were found decreased. On clinical grounds, a very early therapeutic response was noted. Tolerance was good in the dose of 5mg/kg/day. Relapses, however, have not been avoided.

Conclusion Cy‐A seems to be very effective on both the clinical and cellular level where inflammatory‐immunologic events seem to be temporarily inhibited.
Pityrosporum ovale and seborrhoeic dermatitis in HIV‐seropositive and HIV‐seronegative men. Quantitative cultures and serological studies
Authors: Bergbrant Ing‐Marie , Faergemann Jan , Voog Ewa , Löwhagen Gun‐Britt
Published: July 2006

Background Previous studies of quantitative determinations of Pityrosporum ovale in HIV‐seropositive patients with and without seborrhoeic dermatitis are contradictory.

Objective To investigate the number of P. ovale among HIV‐seronegalive and HIV‐seropositive men using contact plates containing cow's milk as the main lipid source and to analyse sera with ELISA for IgG antibodies to a P. ovale protein extract.

Results There was no difference in the number of P. ovale between healthy controls and HIV‐positive patients with and without seborrhoeic dermatitis. HIV‐seropositive patients had significantly lower IgG antibody litres to a P. ovale protein extract compared with healthy individuals.
Comparative effects of two different calcipotriol (MC 903) cream formulations versus placebo in psoriasis vulgaris. A Randomised, Double‐Blind, Placebo‐Controlled, Parallel Group Multi‐Centre Study1
Authors: Harrington Christine I. , Goldin David , Lovell Christopher R. , Van de Kerkhof Peter , Nieboer Cees , Austad Joar , Molin Lars , Clareus Birgitta Wilson , Rask‐Pedersen Eva
Published: July 2006

Background Calcipotriol ointment is an effective treatment For psoriasis vulgaris. Although cream formulations have a less emollient effect they are often more acceptable to patients.

Objective To compare calcipotriol 50 μg/g in two different cream formulations with vehicle in patients with psoriasis vulgaris.

Method A randomised, double‐blind, parallel group, multi‐centre, comparison of cream A in which calcipotriol 50μg/g is dissolved, cream B in which calcipotriol 50 μg/g is suspended as tine particles and vehicle. A 2‐week wash‐out period was followed by 8 weeks double‐blind treatment.
Papular‐purpuric “gloves and socks” syndrome
Authors: Martins César , Gonçalo Margarida , Mariano Angelina , Baptista A. Poiares
Published: July 2006

Papular‐purpuric “gloves and socks” syndrome is a recently isolated acute self resolving disease. It is characterised by symmetrical cutaneous lesions on the hands and feet, with a sharp limit at the wrists and ankles, presenting a gloves and socks look. Lesions begin as a pruritic oedema and erythema and turn purpuric. Oral mucosal lesions, high fever and arthralgia are also present. Parvovirus B19 has been implicated in this exanthematic disease in about 50% of the cases. We recently observed two typical cases of this syndrome; only one patient had serologic evidence of recent infection by Parvovirus B19.
Acquired idiopathic cutaneous elastolysis of the papillary and mid‐dermis: distinct but related conditions. Report of two cases
Authors: Betti Roberto , Inselvini Elena , Crosti Carlo
Published: July 2006

Among the acquired idiopathic cutaneous elastolytic disorders, pseudoxanthoma elasticum‐like papillary dermal elastolysis (PDE) and mid‐dermal elastolysis (MDE) are conditions not frequently reported in the literature.

We report 2 cases: the first an older woman with typical papular and plaque‐like lesions on both sides of her neck and shoulders and the second a 42‐year‐old woman with fine wrinkles scattered all over the Hunk, shoulders and abdomen. Histological examination of the first case revealed loss of the elastic fibers limited to the papillary dermis, instead in the second case the loss was observed in the mid‐dermis.

We discuss the possibility that PDE and some cases of mm‐inflammatory MDE may represent distinct but related entities in a “spectrum” of acquired elastolysis and that they may be an expression of intrinsic aging.
Acquired perforating folliculitis in chronic renal failure: report of two cases
Authors: Bianchi Luca , Innocenzi Daniele , Iraci Stefano , Zicari Luigi
Published: July 2006

Background Patients with chronic renal failure, regardless of its cause, with/without hemodialysis/peritoneal dialysis, showed cutaneous alterations. Two patients had a follicular hyperkeratotic papular eruption, with clinical and histological features of perforating folliculitis.

Methods A dermatological examination and multiple skin biopsies were done.

Results We diagnosed acquired perforating folliculitis in two chronic renal failure patients on hemodialysis. The lesions were located predominantly on the lower extremities with hyperkeratotic papules and small nodules. Microscopically, the papule always affected the follicular structure. The follicle was widely dilated and packed with keratotic material, necrotic debris and degenerated basophilic coarse connective fibers passing which passed through follicular perforations.

Conclusion Acquired perforating folliculitis is a cutaneous manifestation in chronic renal failure, with/without hemodialysis treatment, that can mimic essential primary perforating folliculitis. Transepidermal elimination mechanisms and the distinction between primary and acquired perforating dermatoses arc discussed.
The genetic epidemiology and autoimmune pathogenesis of alopecia areata
Authors: McMichael Amy J.
Published: July 2006

Unlit recently, there was only circumstantial evidence to support the autoimmune and genetic etiology of alopecia areata. The advent of HLA stereotyping and linkage analysis has revealed an increase in specific HLA alleles in patients with alopecia areata and controls. Even more current is the detection of autoantibodies to the hair follicle in the sera from humans with alopecia areata and laboratory animal models of the disease. Recent experiments suggest that there may even be specific HLA class II alleles that play a protective role against the development of alopecia areata. Herein, the circumstantial data and the confirmed linkage data to support a genetic/autoimmune interplay theory of alopecia areata are discussed. The temporal advancements of research in the area of the HLA typing are reviewed for the disease.
Lymphangioma and lymphangiectasis of the vulva
Authors: Virgili A. , Corazza M.
Published: July 2006

Background Lymphangioma circumscriptum and lymphangiectasis are uncommon in the vulvar area.

Patients Three cases of lymphangiectasis and one case of Lymphangioma circumscriptum affecting the vulva are reported. While the lymphangiectasis arose after hysterectomy, vulvectomy and lymphadenectomy, respectively, no causes were found in the woman affected by Lymphangioma circumscriptum. All four cases were treated with diathermocoagulation and cryotherapy without recurrence.

Conclusions Lymphangiomas and lymphangiectasis share similar clinical and pathological features but have different etiopathogenesis. Lymphangioma may be congenital while lymphangiectasis is always secondary to chronic lymphedema due to infective, obstructive and neoplastic diseases. Misdiagnosis and confusion with other more common pathologies is probably the cause of the apparent rarity of these lymphatic disorders.
Selective heat therapy in cutaneous leishmaniasis: a preliminary experience using the 585 nm pulsed dye laser
Authors: Meawad Osama B.
Published: July 2006

Aim The purpose of this paper is to examine the effect of the yellow pulsed dye laser on the natural history of cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL).

Materials and methods A 31 year old Saudi patient suffered from CL due to L. tropica. He was treated with 585 nm. 450 μs flashlamp pulsed dye (FLPD) laser. The patient received two laser sessions, 2 weeks apart using 5 mm spot size with a fleunce range of 8–8.5 J/cm2.

Results The lesion healed completely within 6 weeks with hyperpigmentation. At 16 weeks, the skin exhibited excellent texture with no scarring or recurrence.

Discussion The ability to achieve a high temperature at structures or individual cells with minimal injury in healthy tissue and/or selective destruction of superficial dermal capillaries may in theory explain the possible efficacy of FLPD laser in CL. However, the exact mechanism(s) remains unknown.

Conclusion The use of FLPD laser may promise local, practical, and a safe alternative form of heat therapy in CL. It has a unique advantage of possible scar improvement. Further extensive well‐controlled studies are indicated.
Diagnosis and therapy of intraurethral condylomata acuminata
Authors: Ritschel Susanne , Heimbach Dirk , Brühl Peter
Published: July 2006

Background Condylomata acuminata is one of the commonest sexually transmitted diseases. The urethra is involved in up to 30% of cases.

Case report A case of intraurethral condylomata acuminata is presented as an illustration of diagnosis and therapy.

Comment Meatoscopy allows direct visualisation of meatal condylomata. Ascending urethrogram or contrast voiding cysturethrography can show filling defects suspicious of condylomata acuminata: urethroscopy is diagnostic. In the author's opinion, laser therapy is the treatment of choice.
Women with clinically significant hirsutism always have detectable endocrinological abnormalities
Authors: Al‐Khawajah Marwan M. , Fouda Neel Mona A.
Published: July 2006

Aim In this study a consecutive series of 120 hirsute Saudi women were thoroughly investigated fur possible causes of their hirsutism.

Methods In addition to a detailed clinical evaluation the following hormones were measured: testosterone, free testosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate, prolactin, progesterone, luteinising hormone, follicle stimulating hormone, thyroid stimulating hormone. T3, T4, cortisol, 17‐hydroxyprogesterone, androstenedione and dihydrotestosterone.

Results All evaluate patients had at least one hormonal abnormality and 85.9% had at least one of the five major androgens elevated. Polycystic ovaries were found in 59% of the patients, hyperprolactinaemia in 34.6%, and 14.1% had congenital adrenal hyperplasia.

Conclusion We recommend a two‐step laboratory work‐up that will unravel a cause for hirsutism in most if not all hirsute women.
A statistical analysis of the characteristics of pigmented skin lesions using epiluminescence microscopy
Authors: Dellino M. , Fabbrocini G. , Argenziano G. , Magliocchetti N. , Nofroni I.
Published: July 2006

Due to the fact that not all pigmented skin lesions (PSL) can be diagnosed solely by their clinical appearance, additional criteria are required to optimize the clinical diagnosis of atypical nevus and melanoma. Epiluminescence microscopy is a non‐invasive in vivo examination that often helps to improve the accuracy of clinical diagnosis of such lesions. Years of experience have indicated some differential epiluminescent patterns for benign and malignant PSL but there is some controversy about certain borderline lesions for which histological examination is always necessary. In our study we performed a statistical analysis of data concerning 183 PSL to determine characteristics significantly associated with these lesions allowing identification of epiluminescent criteria suggestive of atypical nevus and malignant melanoma. Using the chi‐quadro test and stepwise regression logistic model, we identified the following epiluminescent pattern as a risk factor for atypical nevus and malignant melanoma: irregular pigment network, presence of capillaries, irregular and abrupt ending of overall pigmentation, irregular brown globules and irregular shape and size of black dots.
Carcinoma erysipeloides of the breast: two case reports
Authors: Virgili Annarosa , Maranini Chiara , Malfa Vilma La
Published: July 2006

Carcinoma erysipeloides (CE) is an uncommon cutaneous metastasis of breast carcinoma; it may be confused with erysipelas and other inflammatory lymphedemas. We report two cases of CE in women previously treated by mastectomy for ductal invasive carcinoma, CE is the clinical manifestation of dissemination of neoplastic cells in the cutaneous lymphatic vessels: thus it has a very poor prognosis despite all therapies.
Sources of Sex Discrimination in Educational Systems: A Conceptual Model
Authors: Kutner Nancy G. , Brogan Donna
Published: July 2006

A conceptual model is presented which relates numerous variables believed to contribute to sexism in American education. Discrimination is viewed as intervening between two sets of interrelated independent variables and the dependent variable of sex inequalities in educational attainment. The two sets of independent variables are 1) internal psychological-cognitive structures of individuals who participate in the educational system, and 2) the educational system itself. Six internal psychological-cognitive structures are emphasized: sex-role orientation, sex difference stereotypes, ego strength, self-concept, and educational and occupational expectations. Sex-role orientation changes are viewed as the key to significant change in the total system described by the model.
The Psychosocial Factors of the Abortion Experience: A Critical Review
Authors: Shusterman Lisa Roseman
Published: July 2006

The literature on the psychosocial factors of abortion is critically reviewed. It is concluded that due to faulty methodology no general statements can be made about these factors for women receiving illegal abortions. It appears that the data showing that women receiving therapeutic abortions experienced favorable psychological conseuqences are stronger than the data indicating negative consequences. Studies of abortion on request, which, for the most part, have been methodologically sound, indicate that the new abortion patients are mostly young, unmarried women who are not in a social position to bear and care for a child. They tend to end their pregnancies for social and economic reasons. Further, they are either not aware of or not concerned about the possibility of getting pregnant at the time of intercourse, or they have a contraceptive failure. Finally, the psychological consequences of abortion on request appear to be mostly benign.
Styles of Leadership
Authors: Denmark Florence L.
Published: July 2006

This paper will examine not leadership per se but the issue of what kinds of leaders emerge in what kinds of groups. It will focus on women—the kinds of women leaders that emerge, the styles of leadership utilized by women in contrast to those utilized by men, and the effects these kinds of leadership have on group behavior.
Effect of Sex-Linked Vocational Information on Reported Occupational Choices of High School Juniors
Authors: Hurwitz Robin Elaine , White Mary Alice
Published: July 2006

Information about new occupational opportunities for women was read by 144 high school juniors, while 106 other juniors read information about opportunities in general. All students subsequently selected occupations from a list of 40 occupations that would be “most appropriate” for each of five male and five female students described in mock profiles. Two forms of profiles were used, differing only in gender designated for each student description. Differences were found in the “status” of occupations chosen for boy profiles versus girl profiles, based on the median amount of education and annual earnings of people having these occupations, with boys consistently receiving higher level occupations than girls. A three-way analysis of variance indicated that the difference between occupational status scores given to boys arid girls was significantly less in the group receiving information about opportunities for women ( p < .01). It was suggested that it may be appropriate to consider vocational information as an important and alterable variable affecting occupational choice.
Sex-related Differences in the Development of the Motive to Avoid Success, Sex Role Identity, and Performance in Competitive and Noncompetitive Conditions
Authors: Romer Nancy
Published: July 2006

Horner's (1968) study of the motive to avoid success (M-s) was replicated on fifth- through eleventh-grade males and females. Children were given a Thematic Apperception Test (TAT)-like measure of M-s and a sex role identity questionnaire. They also performed scrambled word tasks in competitive and noncompetitive situations. While there were no sex-related differences or linear age trends in M-s imagery, sex and grade differences were found in the specific reasons given for avoiding success. The presence of M-s imagery in TAT-like stories did not predict significantly better performance on any one condition for all age and sex groups. However, ninth- and eleventh-grade females with M-s performed better in noncompetitive conditions, while their counterparts without M-s performed better in competitive conditions. The opposite pattern was found for males across all grades: those with M-s performed better in a competitive condition, those without M-s performed better in a noncompetitive condition. These results support Horner's hypothesis for older adolescent females but raise questions about the nature of the relationship between M-s imagery and competitive performance for males and young females. Sex role identity was not related to M-s, thus casting doubt on the notion that M-s is a direct function of female sex role acceptance.
Status of Professional Couples in Psychology
Authors: Butler Matilda , Paisley William
Published: July 2006

Biographic data from the 1958 and 1973 APA membership directories provide information on the status of professional couples in psychology. The “professional couple syndrome” is examined as well as myths surrounding explanations of the greater success of husbands. Changes over the fifteen-year period are presented for chronological age, professional age, status of degree-granting institution, current employer, status of employer if an academic institution, and current position. Findings show the couples are remarkably similar in all characteristics except one: Husbands hold higher positions than their wives. This finding persists even among couples who graduated from the same university in the same year and are employed at the same institution. Evidence of discrimination is clear for 1958. Although wives made progress by 1973, the effects of sexism are still present. Data from several studies of APA membership indicate the couples are similar to other psychologists. Women psychologists continue to occupy lower and nonsupervisory positions.
Attitudes Toward Women: A Comparison of Asian-born Chinese and American Caucasians
Authors: Braun Jean S. , Chao Hilda M.
Published: July 2006

Asian-born Chinese and Caucasian American men and women were compared on attitudes toward women, using the Spence-Helmreich Attitude Toward Women Scale. All subjects—74 Americans, 85 Chinese—were between 30 and 55 years of age and had at least a bachelor's degree. Chinese subjects were Mandarin in origin. The prediction that Chinese subjects would be more liberal was not confirmed. Women were more liberal than men on two factors: first, vocational, educational, and intellectual roles; second, marital relations and obligations. Ethnic differences were not a main effect on other factors but a significant interaction was obtained in three factors: freedom and independence; dating, courting, and etiquette; and drinking, swearing, and telling jokes. On these factors Caucasian females scored in the liberal direction and so did Chinese males. Caucasian males and Chinese females were consistently and significantly more conservative.
Sex Bias in Student Evaluations of College Professors
Authors: Kaschak Ellyn
Published: July 2006

Fifty male and 50 female students were asked to evaluate the teaching methods of three male and three female professors in two traditionally male, two traditionally female, and two relatively non-sex-linked fields. Each method was attributed to a male professor on one form and a female on another. A descriptive paragraph for each of the six areas was followed by six bipolar ratings scales. The different ratings assigned as a function of the sex of student and professor are discussed in relation to previous findings.
The Effects of Nonsexist Television Commercials and Perceptions of Reality on Children's Attitudes About Women
Authors: Pingree Suzanne
Published: July 2006

To test the hypothesis that television content can teach sex-typed attitudes, this study presented third and eighth graders with television commercials showing either traditional or nontraditional women. Crossing this manipulation, the children's perceptions of the reality of the commercials were altered with instructions that the characters in the commercials were all real people (reality set), that they were all acting (acting set), or that the commercials were just like ones seen at home (no instructions). Results showed that the children's perceptions of reality were successfully manipulated, and that younger children thought all content was more real. The two sets of commercials were found to have a significant differential impact on the children's attitudes about women only for groups that had been instructed about reality. For these groups, there was an interaction with sex of subject so that eighth grade boys had more traditional attitudes about women after viewing the nontraditional women, while all other groups showed the reverse pattern of means. Finally, rather than the predicted interaction, perceived reality had a main effect such that children who believed the characters to be acting were less traditional in their attitudes about women. This result is supported by a matching correlation between the two variables for the noninstructed groups.
Therapists: Their Attitudes and Information About Women
Authors: Sherman Julia , Koufacos Corinne , Kenworthy Joy Anne
Published: July 2006

The Therapists’ Information About Women Scale (TIWS) and Therapists’ Attitude Toward Women Scale (TAWS) are presented. Results from a sample of 184 therapists (social workers, psychiatrists, and psychologists) showed no significant differences among professions; however, women therapists were significantly better informed, more liberal, and less stereotyped in their attitudes. Information and attitudes were correlated.57. Though attitudes were more liberal than stereotyped, many therapists showed a lack of pertinent information and attitudes likely to conflict with those of their women patients.
Women Law Students’ Descriptions of Self and the Ideal Lawyer
Authors: Coplin Jane W. , Williams John E.
Published: July 2006

This study employed the Adjective Check List to assess descriptions of self and ideal lawyer among women law students in terms of sex-trait stereotypes and need structures. When compared to a sample of female undergraduates, the law students exhibited more self-confidence and autonomy. However, the law students perceived the ideal lawyer to be more rational and less emotional than themselves. While the female law students and female undergraduates had theoretically feminine self-descriptions, the law students’ perception of the ideal lawyer was relatively quite masculine. It was proposed that the perception of the legal profession as requiring primarily masculine traits may affect the self-selection of women into the field and may limit the occupational aspirations of women within the profession.
I Will Follow Him: Myth, Reality, or Forced Choice—Job-Seeking Experiences of Dual-Career Couples
Authors: Wallston Barbara Strudler , Foster Martha A. , Berger Michael
Published: July 2006

Recent PhDs in psychology and biological sciences with spouses who were also professionals were surveyed; the focus was on their joint job-seeking. Couples frequently described egalitarian decision rules. But traditional patterns were also evident, particularly among the biological-science sample. Egalitarianism decreased in the actual job decisions made, but here the traditional alternative was frequently cited as a forced choice. Responses to simulations showed egalitarian decisions to be common under low constraint conditions. Constraints such as the need for a job and time pressure produced more nonegalitarian decisions. However, under these hypothetical conditions, the constraints were as likely to produce nontraditional as traditional following. It is suggested that the high traditionality of actual job decisions is, at least in part, a result of institutional constraints.
Anti-Nepotism's Ghost: Attitudes of Administrators Toward Hiring Professional Couples
Authors: Pingree Suzanne , Butler Matilda , Paisley William , Hawkins Robert
Published: July 2006

Laws and policies are often the formalization of attitudes. The attitudes that originally led to the policy continue even when the policy no longer exists. We felt the anti-nepotism policies, declared discriminatory by HEW's Office of Civil Rights, were still in effect in the attitudes of college and university faculty. To test this, we surveyed the chairpersons of departments of psychology and sociology concerning their attitudes toward hiring a professional couple in their department. Responses to the question “Overall, how likely is it you would support the hiring of a professional couple?” indicated opposition by 37% of the chairpersons, neutrality by 25%, and support by 38%. When asked to list comments under four headings—advantages to department, disadvantages to department, professional advantages to couple, and professional disadvantages to couple—we found that supporters were more likely than opposers to mention advantages to the department and to the couple and that opposers were more likely than supporters to mention disadvantages to the department and to the couple. The types of comments made by the chairpersons may be useful to academic couples wishing to work together.

“When James J. Gibson, a psychologist, moved from Smith College to Cornell University in 1948, his wife, Eleanor, also a psychologist, applied for a teaching job in her husband's department. Sixteen years later, she was hired.…

“When Janet Taylor Spence went to the University of Texas in 1964, she had to forego teaching in the psychology department because her husband was already employed there. Instead she moved into the educational psychology department… In 1967 her husband died and she moved into the psychology department. A year later, she was named department chairman.”
Wives' Employment Status and Marital Adjustment: Yet Another Look
Authors: Staines Graham L. , Pleck Joseph H. , Shepard Linda J. , O'Connor Pamela
Published: July 2006

The effects of wives' employment status on wives' and husbands' evaluations of their own marital adjustment are examined in two recent national surveys. Working wives whose husbands also work report having wished they had married someone else and having thought of divorce significantly more often than housewives, but do not score significantly lower on ratings of marital satisfaction or marital happiness, or on four other specific components of marital adjustment. Wives' employment status does not significantly affect husbands' reports of marital adjustment. The negative effects of wives' employment on wives' reports of marital adjustment are then found to be restricted specifically to mothers of preschool children, and to wives with less than a high school diploma. No empirical support emerges for two major hypotheses to account for the negative effects of wives' employment on wives' marital adjustment in these two subgroups, one hypothesis concerning wives' role load and the second concerning wives' and husbands' attitudes toward wives' employment. There is some evidence, however, that these factors are moderators of the negative effects of wives' employment on wives' marital adjustment, in particular, that high role load moderates the negative effects of employment among mothers of preschool children.
Implicit Theories of Masculinity and Femininity: Dualistic or Bipolar?
Authors: Foushee H. Clayton , Helmreich Robert L. , Spence Janet T.
Published: July 2006

The present study addressed the question of whether persons' implicit personality theories include the notion that the possession of masculine and feminine characteristics tend to preclude each other so that the two clusters of attributes are perceived to be negatively correlated. Subjects (college students) were given one of four basic descriptions of a group of men or women. These descriptions specified the presence or absence of “masculine” or “feminine” attributes as defined by the Personal Attributes Questionnaire (PAQ). Subjects given descriptions specifying the presence or absence of “masculine” characteristics were asked the extent to which they could make inferences about the presence or absence of “feminine” characteristics. An analogous procedure was implemented for the descriptions specifying the presence or absence of “feminine” characteristics. The results confirm the hypothesis that individuals tend to perceive a negative relationship between masculinity and femininity in others.
Sex Role Identity, Androgyny, and Sex Role Transcendence: A Sex Role Strain Analysis
Authors: Garnets Linda , Pleck Joseph H.
Published: July 2006

This paper first reviews three different theoretical constructs concerning the psychological significance of sex role related characteristics in personality functioning: sex role identity, androgyny, and sex role transcendence. A new conceptual analysis concerning sex-typing, sex role strain analysis, is presented. According to this analysis, the relationship between sex role related personality characteristics and psychological adjustment, especially self-esteem, is moderated by two variables: perception of the ideal member of the same sex, and sex role salience. These two variables; taken in conjunction with real self-concept, generate five sex role strain outcomes. The constructs of sex role identity, androgyny, and sex role transcendence are interpreted in terms of this sex role strain analysis. The implications of this analysis for current research and for understanding the dynamics of both individual and social change in sex roles are briefly described.
Theoretical and Operational Conceptualizations of Psychological Androgyny: Implications for Measurement
Authors: Downing Nancy E.
Published: July 2006

Research has demonstrated that the original operationalization of psychological androgyny using the t-ratio procedure accurately represents four of its five fundamental theoretical components. A new operationalization of androgyny, the median split technique, has recently been adopted, and this procedure also adequately denotes the same four theoretical components. However, the two procedures differ in the distribution of scores produced and in the results obtained in two recent studies. The implications of these differences are discussed and future directions for the measurement of psychological androgyny are investigated.
Experience and Personality Differences Among Breast- and Bottle-feeding Mothers
Authors: Berg-Cross Linda , Berg-Cross Gary , McGeehan Deborah
Published: July 2006

Twenty breast-feeding (BF) mothers and twenty artificially feeding (AF) mothers were studied to assess the relationship between different feeding modes and the mother's enjoyment of feeding and her attitude toward and style of weaning the child to a cup. Besides administering a 30-45-minute semistructured interview, a sensation seeking scale and the Multiple Affect Adjective Checklist (MAACL) were administered. Results indicated the BF mothers were higher sensation seekers, more satisfied with the feeding experience, and more ambivalent about weaning than the AF mothers. The BF mothers favored waiting for the child to initiate weaning, and breast-fed males were weaned significantly later than bottle-fed males. It appears that mode of feeding and optimal levels of stimulation are related to how the mother experiences infant feeding, although additional research is warranted.
Cognitive Performance as a Function of Sex and Handedness: An Evaluation of the Levy Hypothesis
Authors: Sherman Julia
Published: July 2006

Investigated incidence of left-handedness and non-right-handedness in a sample of 9th-grade students ( n = 313). In comparison, incidence among undergraduates is underestimated. Girls were not significantly more right-handed than boys in the 9th grade sample but were significantly ( p<.01) more right-handed than boys in a sample of math students, grades 9-11 ( n = 1097). Handedness did not affect math achievement (Test of Academic Progress), verbal (Quick Word Test), or spatial (Space Relations Test of the Differential Aptitude Test) performance in the 9th ( n = 108) or 10th ( n = 75) grade students. for 11th grade students ( n = 98) a significant sex-by-handedness-by-measures (verbal spatial) interaction was found ( p<.05). Results did not support the hypothesis of Levy's that left-handedness decreases spatial performance and benefits verbal performance, nor did the results support the further hypothesis that the cognitive pattern of higher verbal than spatial performance often considered characteristic of females can be attributed to more bilateral cerebral verbal function in females as in left-handers.