bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Model‐Based Analysis of Flow‐Mediated Dilation and Intima‐Media Thickness
Authors: Bartoli G. , Menegaz G. , Lisi M. , Di Stolfo G. , Dragoni S. , Gori T.
Published: April 2009

We present an end‐to‐end system for the automatic measurement of flow‐mediated dilation (FMD) and intima‐media thickness (IMT) for the assessment of the arterial function.
The video sequences are acquired from a B‐mode echographic
scanner. A spline model (deformable template) is fitted to the
data to detect the artery boundaries and track them all along
the video sequence. The a priori knowledge about the image
features and its content is exploited. Preprocessing is performed
to improve both the visual quality of video frames for visual
inspection and the performance of the segmentation algorithm
without affecting the accuracy of the measurements. The system
allows real‐time processing as well as a high level of interactivity
with the user. This is obtained by a graphical user interface
(GUI) enabling the cardiologist to supervise the whole process
and to eventually reset the contour extraction at any point in time.
The system was validated and the accuracy, reproducibility, and
repeatability of the measurements were assessed with extensive
in vivo experiments. Jointly with the user friendliness, low cost,
and robustness, this makes the system suitable for both research
and daily clinical use.
Low-Cost Transceiver Architectures for 60 GHz Ultra Wideband WLANs
Authors: Tatu S. O. , Moldovan E. , Affes S.
Published: April 2009

Millimeter-wave multiport transceiver architectures dedicated to 60 GHz UWB short-range communications are proposed in this paper. Multi-port circuits based on90°hybrid couplers are intensively used for phased antenna array, millimeter-wave modulation and down-conversion, as a low-cost alternative to the conventional architecture. This allows complete integration of circuits including antennas, in planar technology, on the same substrate, improving the overall transceiver performances.
Fetal Heart Rate Patterns in Monochorionic Twins Following Acute Twin-Twin Transfusion
Authors: Suzuki Shunji , Iwasaki Nao , Ono Shuichi , Igarashi Miwa , Murata Tomoaki
Published: April 2009

Background. We present here 2 cases of acute twin-twin transfusion occurred during vaginal labor in monochorionic-diamniotic twin pregnancies.Case. Fetal heart rate tracings showed tachycardia in the donor twin in the first case, while they showed reassuring patterns in both twins in the second case.Conclusion. These differences in changes of fetal heart rate in the donor twins following acute twin-twin transfusion may be resulted from the differences in amount of transfusion and elapsed time.
Applications of Cu@C Nanoparticles in New Dye‐Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Liao Chang-Yu , Wang H. Paul , Chen F.-L. , Huang C.-H. , Fukushima Y.
Published: April 2009

To enhance the efficiency of a newly developing dye‐sensitized solar cell (DSSC), the Cu@C (Cu size = 7 and 20 nm) core‐shell nanoparticles‐dispersed molten salt‐conjugated electrolyte has been studied. Experimentally, the efficiencies (η) of the DSSC are in the range of 2.70–4.09% with a short‐circuit photocurrent density (JSC) of 5.775–9.910 mA/cm2. Interestingly, it is found that dispersion of 1% of the Cu@C (Cu size = 7 nm) nanoparticles in the molten salt‐(1,2‐dimethyl‐3‐propylimidazolium iodide (DMPII)) conjugated electrolyte results in an enhancement (about 11%) of the η (4.06%). Greater fractions (3–10%) of the Cu@C nanoparticles dispersed in the molten salt cause a poor performance (lower JSC and η) of the DSSC possibly due to interference of the internal electron transportation routes in the DSSC by oxidation of Cu with I2 originally in the electrolyte.
Relationship between Investigative Biomarkers and Radiographic Grading in Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis
Authors: Anitua Eduardo , Sánchez Mikel , de la Fuente Maria , Azofra Juan , Zalduendo Mar , Aguirre Jose J. , Andía Isabel
Published: April 2009

Objective. To examine new investigative biomarkers and their relevance for radiographic severity in knee osteoarthritis.Methods. The group comprised 63 patients with 73 knees examined. Patients were divided according to radiographic severity to allow for comparison of biomarker levels. Hyaluronic acid (HA), matrix metalloproteases (MMP-1, MMP-3 and MMP-13), tissue inhibitors of metalloproteases (TIMP-1 and TIMP-2), platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF-AB), transformed growth factor (TGF-β), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) and insulin-like growth factor (IGF-I) were measured on synovial fluid and in plasma releasate at a single time point. Principal component analysis (PCA) followed by analysis of covariance were applied to evaluate data.Results. Four different groups of biomarker were identified in plasma releasates. The first (platelet number, PDGF-AB and TGF-β) and second groups (HA and IGF-I) were related to radiographic severity,P=.005andP=.022, respectively. The third (MMP-1 and TIMP-2) and fourth groups (MMP-3 and TIMP-1) represented the catabolic balance, but were not associated to radiographic grading. Three different clusters of biomarkers were found in synovial fluid but did not show any significant association to radiographic grading.Conclusions. New imaging approaches to assess structural deterioration and correlation with biomarker levels are warranted to advance in OA research.
Preparation, Characterization, and Analytical Application of Ramipril Membrane‐Based Ion‐Selective Electrode
Authors: Arida Hassan , Ahmed Mona , Ali Abdallah
Published: April 2009

The fabrication and electrochemical evaluation of two PVC membrane‐based Ion‐Selective electrodes responsive for ramipril drug have been proposed. The sensitive membranes were prepared using ramipril‐phosphomolibdate and ramipril‐tetraphenylborate ion‐pair complexes as electroactive sensing materials in plasticized PVC support. The electrodes based on these materials provide near‐Nernestian response (sensitivity of 53 ± 0.5–54 ± 0.5 mV/concentration decade) covering the concentration range of 1.0 × 10−2–1.0 × 10−5 mol L−1 with a detection limit of 3.0 × 10−6–4.0 × 10−6 mol L−1. The suggested electrodes have been successfully used in the determination of ramipril drug in some pharmaceutical formulations using direct potentiometry with average recovery of >96% and mean standard deviation of <3% (n = 5).
Dietary Sulforaphane-Rich Broccoli Sprouts Reduce Colonization and Attenuate Gastritis inHelicobacter pylori–Infected Mice and Humans
Authors: Yanaka Akinori , Fahey Jed W. , Fukumoto Atsushi , Nakayama Mari , Inoue Souta , Zhang Songhua , Tauchi Masafumi , Suzuki Hideo , Hyodo Ichinosuke , Yamamoto Masayuki
Published: April 2009

The isothiocyanate sulforaphane [SF; 1-isothiocyanato-4(R)-methylsulfinylbutane] is abundant in broccoli sprouts in the form of its glucosinolate precursor (glucoraphanin). SF is powerfully bactericidal against Helicobacter pylori infections, which are strongly associated with the worldwide pandemic of gastric cancer. Oral treatment with SF-rich broccoli sprouts of C57BL/6 female mice infected with H. pylori Sydney strain 1 and maintained on a high-salt (7.5% NaCl) diet reduced gastric bacterial colonization, attenuated mucosal expression of tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-1β, mitigated corpus inflammation, and prevented expression of high salt-induced gastric corpus atrophy. This therapeutic effect was not observed in mice in which the nrf2 gene was deleted, strongly implicating the important role of Nrf2-dependent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory proteins in SF-dependent protection. Forty-eight H. pylori–infected patients were randomly assigned to feeding of broccoli sprouts (70 g/d; containing 420 μmol of SF precursor) for 8 weeks or to consumption of an equal weight of alfalfa sprouts (not containing SF) as placebo. Intervention with broccoli sprouts, but not with placebo, decreased the levels of urease measured by the urea breath test and H. pylori stool antigen (both biomarkers of H. pylori colonization) and serum pepsinogens I and II (biomarkers of gastric inflammation). Values recovered to their original levels 2 months after treatment was discontinued. Daily intake of sulforaphane-rich broccoli sprouts for 2 months reduces H. pylori colonization in mice and improves the sequelae of infection in infected mice and in humans. This treatment seems to enhance chemoprotection of the gastric mucosa against H. pylori–induced oxidative stress.
Dual Processes in the Psychology of Mathematics Education and Cognitive Psychology
Authors: Gillard Ellen , Van Dooren Wim , Schaeken Walter , Verschaffel Lieven
Published: April 2009

Research in the psychology of mathematics education has been confronted with the fact that people blatantly fail to solve tasks they are supposed to be able to solve correctly given their available domain-specific knowledge and skills. Also researchers in cognitive psychology have encountered such phenomena. In this paper, theories that have been developed in both fields to account for these findings are discussed. After giving a summary of the state of the art in both fields, we argue that bringing together these largely separately developed (sets of) theories creates opportunities for both domains and we suggest a way in which this can be done.
The Technological Mediation of Mathematics and Its Learning
Authors: Hoyles Celia , Noss Richard
Published: April 2009

This paper examines the extent to which mathematical knowledge, and its related pedagogy, is inextricably linked to the tools – physical, virtual, cultural – in which it is expressed. Our goal is to focus on a few exemplars of computational tools, and to describe with some illustrative examples, how mathematical meanings are shaped by their use. We begin with an appraisal of the role of digital technologies, and our rationale for focusing on them. We present four categories of digital tool use with their differing potential to shape mathematical cognition. The four categories are: (1) dynamic and graphical tools, (2) tools that outsource processing power, (3) new representational infrastructures, and (4) the implications of high-bandwidth connectivity on the nature of mathematics activity. In conclusion, we draw out the implications of this analysis for mathematical epistemology and the mathematical meanings students develop. We also underline the central importance of design, both of the tools themselves and the activities in which they are embedded.
Exercise Tolerance Measurements in Pulmonary Vascular Diseases and Chronic Heart Failure
Authors: Piepoli Massimo F.
Published: April 2009

The hallmark symptoms of heart failure are dyspnoea and fatigue during exercise. In recent years, the physiologic response to progressive exercise using direct measures of ventilation and gas exchange, commonly termed the ‘cardiopulmonary exercise test’ (CPET), has evolved into an important clinical tool in the management of patients with heart failure. CPET provides a global assessment of the integrated response to exercise involving the pulmonary, cardiovascular, haematopoietic, neuropsychological and skeletal muscle systems. This information cannot be obtained through investigation of the individual organ system in isolation. The noninvasive, dynamic physiologic overview permits the evaluation of both submaximal and peak exercise responses providing the physician with relevant information for clinical decision making. The use of CPET in the management of chronic heart failure patients is increasing, with the understanding that resting pulmonary and cardiac function testing cannot reliably predict exercise performance and functional capacity and that, furthermore, overall health status and prognosis are better predicted by indices of exercise tolerance than by resting measurements.
Pattern of Upper Respiratory Tract Infections and Physicians’ Antibiotic Prescribing Practices in Bahrain
Authors: Senok Abiola C. , Ismaeel Abdulrahman Y. , Al-Qashar Fahad A. , Agab Wahid A.
Published: April 2009

Objective: To evaluate the pattern of antibiotic prescriptions for paediatric upper respiratory tract infections (URTI) and determine the associated predictors for such antibiotic use in the Kingdom of Bahrain. Subjects and Methods: From March 2005 to March 2006, demographic data, clinical presentation, investigations and antibiotic prescription for children with URTI (n = 184) at the Bahrain Defence Force Hospital was recorded. To assess the factors which influence physician antibiotic prescription for URTI, a cross-sectional survey of doctors was carried out using a pre-tested questionnaire which was administered to paediatricians, general practitioners and emergency room physicians. Results: Antibiotics were given to 95 of the 184 (51.6%) patients, mainly children <3 years (40/95). Significant association was demonstrated for antibiotic prescription, age and diagnosis of tonsillitis or acute otitis media (p < 0.05). Amoxicillin (37/95) was the most frequently prescribed antibiotic, followed by β-lactam/β-lactamase combination and second-generation cephalosporins. Fever, younger age, sore throat and presence of earache increased the likelihood of antibiotic prescription. Data from the cross-sectional survey of doctors revealed that lack of national guidelines, parental pressure and diagnostic uncertainty contributed to antibiotic overuse. Conclusion: Antibiotic overuse for the treatment of paediatric URTI remains a problem in our setting. We suggest the development of national guidelines which are integrated with structured continuing medical education courses, public awareness campaigns and the introduction of rapid streptococcal antigen tests in the outpatient clinic.
Decreased Nucleoside Transport and hENT1 Transporter Expression in Beta-Thalassemia Major
Authors: Al-Massaeid Arwa Lufti , Craik James D.
Published: April 2009

Objective: This study investigated nucleoside transport activity and transporter polypeptide expression in erythrocytes from β-thalassemia major patients to determine if inhibition of transport activity is a sensitive indicator of oxidative membrane damage. Materials and Methods: Blood samples were obtained from 54 patients, diagnosed as having β-thalassemia major prior to therapeutic transfusion, and 20 normal subjects. Uptake of 3H-uridine into washed erythrocytes was measured at room temperature using short incubation periods (5 s) and a rapid inhibitor oil stop protocol. Erythrocyte membranes were analyzed by SDS-PAGE and nucleoside (hENT1) and glucose (GLUT-1) transporter polypeptides quantitated on immunoblots. Results: Uridine uptake was significantly lower in β-thalassemic cells than in normal erythrocytes (20.03 ± 1.08 pmol/108 cells/ 5 s, mean ± SEM, n = 31, vs. 31.15 ± 1.21 pmol/108 cells/5 s, n = 20; p < 0.0001). Expression of hENT1 was significantly lower in β-thalassemic cells (23.90 ± 1.01 arbitrary units, n = 54) than in controls (101.20 ± 2.43 arbitrary units, n = 20; p < 0.001) but expression of GLUT-1 was not changed appreciably (101.80 ± 2.43 arbitrary units, n = 54, for thalassemic cells; 102.60 ± 3.02 arbitrary units, n = 20, for control cells; p = 0.87). Conclusions: Erythrocytes from β-thalassemia major patients showed decreased uridine transport which was associated with decreased nucleoside transporter expression. The process(es) mediating a selective decrease in hENT1 polypeptides in β-thalassemia major was/were not determined.
Evaluation of the Pharmaceutical Quality of Some Quinine Preparations Sold in Nigeria
Authors: Nnamdi Jolly A. , Arhewoh Ikhuoria M. , Okhamafe Augustine O. , Enato Ehijie F.O.
Published: April 2009

Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine the pharmaceutical quality of quinine preparations sold in Nigerian markets. Materials and Methods: The organoleptic and physicochemical properties of quinine tablets, as well as oral liquids and parenteral quinine preparations, were assessed according to British Pharmacopoeia (BP) and unofficial standards as recommended by the manufacturers. Results:Of the 6 brands of tablets assessed, 4 passed the uniformity of content test and 5 the disintegration test, but only 2 the dissolution test. The pH of 2 of the 6 brands of oral liquid preparations met BP standards, while only 1 oral liquid met the BP standard for percentage content. The assay further demonstrated that 4 brands of the parenteral preparations met BP standards for quinine content. All the parenteral preparations were found to be sterile. Conclusion: Quinine preparations sold in Nigeria varied considerably in their pharmaceutical quality. A strict check of the quality of brands of quinine by regulatory agencies and distributors before they are sold to the public is therefore recommended.
Impairment in Flow-Mediated Vasodilatation of the Brachial Artery in Acromegaly
Authors: Baykan Merih , Erem Cihangir , Gedikli Ömer , Hacıhasanoglu Arif , Erdogan Turan , Kocak Mustafa , Kaplan Şahin , Korkmaz Levent , Çelik Şükrü
Published: April 2009

Objective: The aim of this study was to assess flow-mediated dilatation (FMD) of the brachial artery in patients with acromegaly. Subjects and Methods: We prospectively evaluated 25 patients with acromegaly (14 females, 11 males; aged 42 ± 12 years; growth hormone (GH) levels 34 ± 14 ng/ml) and 27 control subjects (15 females, 12 males; aged 45 ± 8 years; GH levels 3 ± 1.5 ng/ml). The patients and controls were matched for age, gender, body mass index, cigarette smoking, blood pressure, lipid levels, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and its duration. Endothelial function, measured as FMD of the brachial artery using ultrasound, was calculated in the 2 groups. The endothelial function was evaluated by assessing 1-min postischemic FMD of the brachial artery. Results: The FMD was lower in patients with acromegaly (9.97 ± 3.5%) than in controls (16.1 ± 3.4%), and the difference was statistically significant (p = 0.0001). Conclusion: Endothelial dysfunction may develop in the preclinical phase of atherosclerosis in patients with acromegaly. Endothelium-dependent FMD may be impaired in acromegalic patients, and measurement of endothelial function may identify high-risk individuals earlier.
Intrapartum Performance of Patients Presenting with Diabetes Mellitus in Pregnancy
Authors: Diejomaoh Michael F. , Gupta Madhu , Farhat Rasheda , Jirous Jiri , Al-Jaber Manal , Mohd Asiya T.
Published: April 2009

Objective: To investigate the intrapartum performance of pregnancies complicated by diabetes mellitus (DM). Subjects and Methods: A pilot study (April–June 2005) of medical records of patients with DM admitted into the labour wards of the Maternity Hospital, Kuwait, was undertaken. Consecutive patients, matched for age and parity with the study group and with no medical complications, admitted for induction of labour during the study period served as the control. The ethnicity, obstetric/medical history and antenatal course of the index pregnancy were extracted. The intrapartum, postpartum and the neonatal outcome were documented. Statistical analysis was performed using χ2 and alternative Welch t tests. Results: During the study period, 3,005 patients were delivered at the hospital, and 177 of these (the study population) presented with DM, an incidence of 5.9%. Another 177 patients admitted for induction of labour served as the control. Of the 177 study patients, 86 (48.6%) were Kuwaitis, and the remaining 91 (51.4%) were non-Kuwaitis, of whom 41 were Arabs (23.2%), 34 Indians (19.2%), and 16 Asians (9%). Of the controls, 65 (36.7%) and 112 (63.3%) were Kuwaitis and non-Kuwaitis, respectively. Of the 177 study patients, 128 (72.3%) presented with gestational DM. The significant complications were pregnancy-induced hypertension (13, 7.3%) and premature rupture of membranes (14, 7.9%). The incidence of caesarean section in the study population (58, 32.8%) was significantly higher than that of the controls (35, 19.8%; p = 0.008). Although the mean gestational ages at delivery in both groups were comparable (p = 0.669), the mean birth weight in the study group was significantly higher, 3.315 ± 0.605 vs. 3.160 ± 0.594 kg (p = 0.012). The neonatal complications in the diabetic patients were shoulder dystocia (4, 2.3%) and Erb’s palsy (12, 1.1%); there were more perinatal deaths (3) in the control group. Conclusion: The incidence of DM was high, and the rate of caesarean section significant. The maternal and neonatal morbidity were high. A prospective study is recommended for enhanced management guidelines.
Granulomatous Inflammatory Response in a Case of Typhoid Fever
Authors: Bharadwaj S. , Anim J.T. , Ebrahim F. , Aldahham A.
Published: April 2009

Objective: To present a case of culture-proven typhoid fever in which granulomas were demonstrated histologically in the ileum and mesenteric lymph nodes. Clinical Presentation and Intervention: A 47-year-old Pakistani man underwent emergency hemicolectomy for severe bleeding per rectum associated with diarrhea. Two large ulcers in the ileum, near the ileocolic junction, as well as mesenteric lymph nodes showed both necrotizing and non-necrotizing granulomas in addition to mixed inflammatory infiltrate on histology. Conclusion: Typhoid fever may be considered as one of the causes of the differential diagnoses of granulomatous inflammation of the small intestine.
Salmonella Infection after Surgery of Small Intestine Foreign Bodies
Authors: Lin Jiun-Nong , Lai Chung-Hsu , Huang Chun-Kai , Chung Hsing-Chun , Liang Shiou-Haur , Lin Hsi-Hsun
Published: April 2009

Objective: To report the first case of Salmonella enterica serotype choleraesuis infection after surgery for small intestine foreign bodies. Clinical Presentation and Intervention: A 52-year-old woman presented to our hospital with the chief complaint of left abdominal pain for 1 day. The plain kidney-ureter-bladder film and abdominal computed tomography scan showed foreign bodies in the peritoneum. Metallic foreign bodies in the jejunum were found during surgery. Following surgery, the patient developed fever, and blood culture yielded Salmonella enterica serotype choleraesuis. The patient recovered smoothly after antibiotic therapy. Conclusion:Salmonella enterica serotype choleraesuis is a highly invasive serotype of nontyphodial Salmonella. In addition to gastroenteritis, bacteremia, or extraintestinal localized infections, physicians should know that it could complicate intestinal surgery.
Coexistence of Mucous Retention Cyst and Basal Cell Adenoma Arising from the Lining Epithelium of the Cyst
Authors: Antoniades D. , Epivatianos A. , Markopoulos A. , Kolokotronis A. , Zaraboukas T.
Published: April 2009

Objective: To report 2 cases of coexisting mucous retention cyst and basal cell adenoma arising from the lining epithelium of the cyst. Clinical Presentation and Intervention: Two cases of painless swellings, well-demarcated, soft to palpation, and located in the submucosa of the upper lip were clinically examined with the provisional diagnosis of mucocele or salivary gland tumor. Histological examination showed the presence of a large unilocular cystic cavity in many parts surrounded by single or bilayered lining epithelium composed of flattened to cuboidal cells, and in other parts surrounded by projections of cells arranged in a trabecular pattern far into the cystic cavity. The trabeculae were composed of basal and low columnar cells that sometimes formed small duct-like structures. Immunohistochemistry showed that the lining epithelium of the cystic cavity and the cells of the projections expressed cytokeratin 7 and high-molecular-weight cytokeratins. The cells of the projections were weakly positive for S-100 protein and negative for vimentin and α-smooth muscle actin. Based on the results, a diagnosis of coexisting mucous retention cysts and basal cell adenomas arising from the lining epithelium of cysts was made. Conclusion: The coexistence of mucous retention cysts and basal cell adenomas arising from the lining epithelium of the cyst is reported.
Relationship between Extracellular Water Fraction of Total Body Water Estimated by Bioimpedance Spectroscopy and Cardiac Troponin T in Chronic Haemodialysis Patients
Authors: Park Jongha , Chung Hyun Chul , Kim Min Soo , Kim Shin-Jae , Chang Jai Won , Lee Jong Soo
Published: April 2009

Background/Aims: The ratio of extracellular water to total body water (ECW/TBW) estimated by bioimpedance spectroscopy (BIS) may be a useful volume index in haemodialysis (HD) patients, but its direct relation to cardiovascular (CV) outcomes has been rarely evaluated. Methods: We investigated the relationship between ECW/TBW by BIS and cardiac troponin T (cTnT) level, a biochemical surrogate of CV mortality. Results: Seventy-four HD patients without ischemic heart disease (age 51.6 ± 13.2 years; male:female ratio 36:38; diabetes 37.8%) were recruited. Post-HD ECW/TBW was positively correlated to log cTnT levels (r = 0.60, p < 0.01). In multivariate regression models, male sex (β = 0.23, p = 0.03), diabetes mellitus (β = 0.21, p = 0.04), log high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (β = 0.21, p = 0.04) and post-HD ECW/TBW (β = 0.37, p < 0.01) were independent risk factors for elevated log cTnT levels. Conclusion: Post-HD ECW/TBW by BIS is worthy of further evaluation as a pathophysiological index for reducing CV mortality in HD patients.
A New Strategy of Using Keratinocytes for Skin Graft: Animal Experimental Study of Keratinocyte Suspension Combined with the Dermal Substitutes
Authors: Xiao S.C. , Zhu S.H. , Li H.Y. , Yang J. , Xia Z.F.
Published: April 2009

Objective: To provide a new and simple strategy for keratinocyte transplantation. Methods: Keratinocyte suspension and dermal substitutes including acellular dermal matrix (ADM) and collagen membrane were prepared. Full-thickness skin defect wounds of Balb/c-nu mice were created and the mice were assigned into 5 groups: the control group, where the wound was grafted with keratinocyte suspension only; the one-step ADM and collagen membrane groups, where the wound was grafted with ADM or collagen membrane plus dripping of keratinocyte suspension; the two-step ADM and collagen membrane groups, where keratinocyte suspension was dripped 2 weeks after ADM or collagen membrane grafting. The percentage of epithelium was observed. Results: Two weeks after grafting, no evidence of re-epithelialization was seen in the one-step ADM group, and the re-epithelialization rate in the one-step collagen membrane group, two-step ADM group and two-step collagen membrane group was 54.1, 41.8 and 76.8%, respectively, indicating that the re-epithelialization rate in the two-step collagen membrane group was higher than that in the other two groups (p < 0.01). Conclusions: Keratinocyte suspension combined with dermal substitutes grafting offers a more flexible way of making use of keratinocytes. Compared with ADM, microporous collagen membrane is a more preferable option for combined use with keratinocyte suspension for skin grafting.
Inhibition of the Cutaneous Response to Histamine by H1-Blocking Agents
Authors: Van Neste D. , Rihoux J.P.
Published: April 2009

A controlled, randomized, double-blind, cross-over study was performed in 10 healthy volunteers in order to compare changes of cutaneous blood flow values (CBFV, laser Doppler flowmetry, Periflux, Perimed, S) in histamine-challenged skin before and after administration of a capsule containing either 10 mg cetirizine or 60 mg terfenadine. The overall pattern of the basal cutaneous wheal and flare response to the agonists (histamine: aqueous solution: Hsol, or Phazet®: Hprick) and control saline solution, showed the expected range of clinical effects, i.e. Hsol > Hprick > saline. Similarly, the increase of CBFV on the flare area was higher around the histamine injections as compared with saline. Surprisingly, CBFV was decreased at the site of Hsol and Hprick injections as compared with the levels recorded at the control injections. The following changes were noted after intake of H1-blocking agents. (1) There was a reduction of the areas of wheal and flare at all injection sites after administration of the H1 blockers, this reduction being consistently greater under cetirizine than terfenadine. (2) CBFV, measured 1 cm from the site of Hsol injection (i.e., within the area of normal flare response), was decreased only with cetirizine. In the smaller flare area induced by Hprick, CBFV was equally suppressed by both drugs. (3) At the site of agonist injection, along with a reduction of the size of the wheal, we observed significant increases in CBFV after drug intake. Under these experimental conditions, this quantitative pharmacologic in vivo assay of agonist-antagonist interactions suggests that after initial administration of normally prescribed doses, cetirizine may possess more anti-H1 activity than terfenadine.
Investigation of the Skin Thinning Effect of Prednicarbate and Other Corticoids in Mouse Skin
Authors: Lubach Dietrich , Kietzmann Manfred
Published: April 2009

In this investigation skin fold thinning was determined after topical application of several potent corticosteroids in hairless mice using a simple mechanical measuring device. The skin thinning effect of prednicarbate was compared with other corticosteroids (amcinonide, Β-methasone-17-valerate, clobetasol-17-propionate, diflorasone-17,21 -diacetate, hydrocortisone-21 -acetate). Prednicarbate produced a clear thinning of skin. Like other tested dermatocorticoids prednicarbate caused a significant atrophy of the mouse tail epidermis. By prednicarbate the 3H-thymidine triphosphate incorporation into epidermal DNA was inhibited.
Neurogenic Inflammation
Authors: Lynn Bruce
Published: April 2009

The main elements of neurogenic inflammation in the skin – antidromic vasodilatation, axon reflex flare and neurogenic plasma extravasation – are briefly described. New evidence is presented for a contribution from small myelinated fibres, as well as unmyelinated fibres, to antidromic vasodilatation. The mechanisms underlying flare are discussed and it is argued that weak coupling between C-fibre terminals must be important in determining the extent of spread of vasodilatation. The extent to which neurogenic factors contribute to a range of inflammatory models and to inflammatory disease states is discussed; it is argued that the importance of neurogenic mechanisms may have been underestimated.
The Relevance of Salicylic Acid in the Treatment of Plaque Psoriasis with Dithranol Creams
Authors: de Mare S. , Calis N. , den Hartog G. , van Erp P.E.J. , van de Kerkhof P.C.M.
Published: April 2009

The relevance of salicylic acid in dithranol creams was evaluated in a double-blind study. Patients with chronic plaque psoriasis were treated using a short-contact schedule for dithranol on an outpatient basis. A left-right comparison was carried out between sites treated with either dithranol with 2 % salicylic acid (D+S) or dithranol in the same base without salicylic acid (D-S). Clinical results were evaluated once a week using the psoriasis area severity index. In order to quantify the improvement, flow cytometric measurements were done using the monoclonal antibody Ks8.12, recognizing keratin 16 in normal and lesional epidermis. Simultaneously, relative DNA content was quantified which previously was described as a useful method to monitor a therapeutic effect. Both PASI scores and Ks8.12 binding decreased after 6 weeks treatment with D+S and D-S. However, percentages of cells in SG2M phases did not show a significant change. No significant difference was observed between sites treated with either D+S or D-S. Therefore we conclude that the addition of salicylic acid in a concentration of 2 % does not enhance the efficacy of dithranol creams and we confirm that Ks8.12 is a useful quantitative marker for therapeutic efficacy.
Effects of Ciclosporin and Protein Synthesis Inhibitors on Cutaneous Inflammation in Mouse Skin
Authors: Griffiths R.J. , Wood B.E. , Li S. , Blackham A.
Published: April 2009

Ciclosporin is clinically effective in a variety of inflammatory skin diseases. We have therefore studied the effects of the drug on cutaneous inflammation in mice. Ciclosporin inhibited the inflammatory response to 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA) and to the contact sensitising agent oxazolone when applied topically to mouse skin. The drug had no effect on arachidonic acid-induced inflammation. The protein synthesis inhibitor cycloheximide showed a similar profile of activity. Ciclosporin, like actinomycin D but unlike cycloheximide, was only effective in inhibiting the inflammatory response to TPA if given 0.5 h before, but not 2 h, after TPA. These results suggest that the anti-inflammatory activity of ciclosporin in the skin is due to an effect on the production of proinflammatory proteins.
Determination of Acitretin and 13-cis-Acitretin in Skin
Authors: Laugier J.-P. , Berbis P. , Brindley C. , Bun H. , Geiger J.-M. , Privat Y. , Durand A.
Published: April 2009

The aim of the study was to investigate the concentrations of Ro 10–1670 (acitretin) and its isomeric metabolite Ro 13–7652 (cis-acitretin) after multiple oral dosing of acitretin. We used a highly sensitive HPLC method for simultaneous determination of the 2 retinoids with a quantification limit of 2 ng/ml in plasma and 10 ng/g in total skin (epidermis and dermis). In hairless rats receiving orally 8 mg/kg acitretin once daily during 8 days, blood and skin samples were taken at different time points between 5 and 96 h after the last dose. After 96 h, appreciable concentrations of Ro 10–1670, but not Ro 13–7652 could be measured in the skin, whereas both isomers were below the quantification limit in plasma. In psoriatic patients treated with a once daily dose of 30 mg acitretin, blood samples and biopsies were taken after 1 month of treatment (i.e. under steady state conditions). 24 h after the last drug intake, skin concentrations of acitretin were approximately 10 times higher than those observed in plasma. Ro 10–1670 concentrations in the skin were approximately 3–5 times higher than for Ro 13–7652 and concentrations of both isomers were higher in lesional compared to uninvolved skin.
A New Model: Bipediculated Dorsal Flap of Hairless Rat for Cutaneous Blood Flow Evaluation
Authors: Auclair F. , Besnard M. , Dupont C. , Wepierre J.
Published: April 2009

To study the influence of cutaneous blood flow upon the transdermal penetration of drugs, an original in vivo model, the bipediculated dorsal flap (BDF) of the hairless rat is described. This model is constituted by a dorsal cutaneous muff on both sides of the spinal column. The blood circulation was maintained symmetrically on both skin insertion pedicles. Two radiotracers, 86Rb and 201T1 (respective half-lives: 18 and 3 days), known to measure nutritional blood flows, are compared in this model. In the back skin, over and under the flap, mean blood flow (expressed as percentage of injected dose per gram skin) was similar with Rb (9.5 ± 3.1) ·10-2 and Tl (10.2 ± 2.1)· 10-2. Equivalent values were obtained in BDF skin (non ligated pedicle): Rb (8.4 ± 1.3) · 10-2, Tl (9.5 ± 2.7) · 10-2. In BDF skin, cutaneous blood flow was lower by 70–91 % in the ligated pedicle (compared to the nonligated) for both radioisotopes. Identical 86Rb and 201T1 distributions suggest the use of 201T1 for further experiments of cutaneous blood flow.
Fetal Pathology in Second-Trimester Miscarriages
Authors: Joó József Gábor , Beke Artúr , Berkes Enikő , Papp Zoltán , Rigó, Jr. János , Papp Csaba
Published: April 2009

Objective: We aimed to analyze, based upon autopsy, the main characteristics of miscarriages in the second trimester. Methods: We have processed the results of fetopathological investigations of 544 aborted fetuses resulting from 486 second-trimester miscarriages. Results: Malformation could be identified in 13.05% of all cases. In almost one third of the patients there was a positive history. In the cases having a malformation, expressed dominance of male fetuses could be observed. Among the fetopathologically identified malformations, 49 were isolated. The most common was the single umbilical artery (22.4%). In 1.3% of the cases a chromosome aberration was verified. Conclusion: Miscarriage in pregnancies complicated by a malformation occurs approximately 3 weeks earlier than in cases without a confirmed malformation. There is practically no difference between affected and unaffected miscarriages as far as the cumulative ratio of positive history is concerned. A single umbilical artery alone predisposes to miscarriage, while in association with other malformations it may result from chromosome aberration.
Detection of Human Bocavirus from Fecal Samples of Hungarian Children with Acute Gastroenteritis
Authors: Szomor Katalin N. , Kapusinszky Beatrix , Rigó Zita , Kis Zoltán , Rózsa Mónika , Farkas Ágnes , Szilágyi Andrásné , Berencsi György , Takács Mária
Published: April 2009

Objectives: Human bocavirus (HBoV), a newly identified member of the Parvoviridae family is associated with respiratory tract and gastroenteric infections, mostly of young children. HBoV infections show a seasonal distribution with the peak in temperate areas being in the winter months. Methods: In our study, 35 throat swabs from children under 5 years with acute respiratory symptoms and 61 stool samples from children (<5 years) with acute gastroenteritis were collected in the period of October 2007–March 2008. A HBoV-specific polymerase chain reaction for detection of the virus, and sequence analysis for identification of virus variants were performed. Results: Although respiratory samples were all negative, 3.3% of stool samples (2/61) proved to be positive for HBoV. The virus carrier children were 3 and 5 years old. The ratio of HBoV positive samples is similar to international results (2.1–5.5%). Conclusions: According to the result of sequence analysis of HBoV, the occurrence of genotype 2 of HBoV in Hungary is confirmed.
Cellular and Biochemical Characterization of the Anti-Inflammatory Effects of DuP 654 in the Arachidonic Acid Murine Skin Inflammation Model (Part 1 of 2)
Authors: Harris Richard R. , Mackin William M. , Batt Douglas G. , Rakich Suzanne M. , Collins Robert J. , Bruin Elaine M. , Ackerman Neil R.
Published: April 2009

The possible utility of DuP 654, a potent 5-lipoxygenase inhibitor, for treating human inflammatory skin disease was investigated in murine skin treated with 1.0 mg arachidonic acid (AA). When DuP 654 was applied to murine skin treated with AA, it inhibited the resulting inflammation and influx of cells. High performance liquid chromatography and radioimmunoassay analysis of lipid extracts from AA-treated ears indicated that the influx of polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMN) was temporally preceded by an appearance of significant amounts of 5-HETE (6.7 ± 1.4 ng/ear) and Leukotriene B4 LTB4 0.92 ± 0.2 ng/ear) when compared with extracts of untreated ears (5-HETE, 02 ± 0.3 ng/ear; LTB4, < 0.1 ng/ear). The levels of the 5-lipoxygenase products were reduced by treatment with 10 µg/ear DuP 654. Lipid extracts from AA-treated ears contain chemotactic activity for human PMN and this chemotactic activity in the AA-treated ears could be reduced but not eliminated by immunosorption with anti-LTB4 antibodies coupled to protein A-agarose. The appearance of the chemotactic activity was inhibited by DuP 654. Taken together, these data suggest that DuP 654 may have utility in human inflammatory skin disease.
High Capacity of Human Skin for N-Acetylation of Arylamines
Authors: Kawakubo Yo , Yamazoe Yasushi , Kato Ryuichi , Nishikawa Takeji
Published: April 2009

Human skin showed high activity of cytosolic N-acetylation for two typical arylamine substrates, p-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) and 2-aminofluorene (AF). Their specific activities (per milligram protein basis) were comparable with those of hamster skin, which is known to have high acetylating capacities for several arylamines. In hamster skin, two other types of acetylation, N-hydroxy-4-acetylaminobiphenyl-dependent N-acetylation of AF (NN´-acetyltransfer) and acetyl CoA-dependent O-acetylation of 2-hydroxyamino-6-methyl-pyrido[1,2-α:3´,2´-d]irnidazole (O-acetylation) also occurred, but no appreciable activity was observed in human skin for these two reactions. These results suggest that arylamines including prohaptens and carcinogens may be modified metabolically through N-acetylation at the first contact site, human skin. In addition, a good correlation was observed for N-acetylations of PABA and AF in human skin, implying that these N-acetylations may be catalyzed by the same or a closely related enzyme in human skin.
Noninvasive Transdermal Chemical Collection. I. In vitro Adsorption Characteristics of Gel/Charcoal Matrices
Authors: Bradley Charles R. , Conner Dale P. , Peck Carl C.
Published: April 2009

We characterized in vitro adsorption of representative chemicals in candidate gel/charcoal matrices being investigated for use in noninvasive transdermal chemical collection. Binding properties of three model compounds of widely varying water and lipid solubilities (theophylline, methotrexate, and parathion) were studied in hydrophilic (agarose, or polyvinyl alcohol/polyvinyl pyrrolidone) and lipophilic (silicone) gel/charcoal compositions. Analysis of adsorption isotherms indicate that agarose is the superior gel selection for hydrophilic compounds such as theophylline and methotrexate (greater than 90% uptake for each), and that a silicone lipogel allows for greatest lipophilic (parathion) adsorption (greater than 95% uptake).
Noninvasive Transdermal Chemical Collection. II. In vitro and in vivo Skin Permeability Studies
Authors: Bradley Charles R. , Almirez Ramona G. , Conner Dale P. , Rhyne Patricia R. , Peck Carl C.
Published: April 2009

In vitro and in vivo skin permeability studies were conducted to investigate properties of several candidate transdermal chemical collection devices (TCDs). The TCD consists of a binding reservoir of activated charcoal suspended in a gel medium which is occlusively placed in direct contact with the skin. Binding of three model compounds (theophylline, methotrexate, and parathion) was studied in hydrophilic (agarose or PVA/PVP) and lipophilic (silicone) gel/carbon compositions. The effects of gel composition, compound hydrophilicity/lipophilicity, and hydration of skin on quantity of transdermally collected chemical and ‘apparent’ permeability were investigated using a ‘fuzzy’ rat animal model. In vitro and in vivo apparent permeability coefficients (Kp; cm/h) for amphophilic theophylline (6.95 0-4 and 8.34 10-4, respectively) and hydrophilic methotrexate (3.5 10-3 and 3.2 10-4, respectively) using an agarose aquagel TCD were greater than the corresponding Kp values obtained when silicone lipogel TCDs were employed (0.3 10-4 and 3.2 10-4, respectively, for theophylline; no measurable methotrexate was collected). Occlusive hydration of skin profoundly increased permeability of the hydrophyilic model compound, methotrexate. In vivo Kp values for lipophilic parathion were greater with a silicone TCD (6.7 10-4) than with an agarose TCD (3.8 10-4). We conclude that it is possible to influence transdermal chemical collection through modifications in the gel composition and by hydration of the skin.
An Ultrastructural Study of Transcutaneous Migration of Polymorphonuclear Leukocytes following Application of Leukotriene B4
Authors: Paulissen M. , Copius Peereboom-Stegeman J.H.J. , van de Kerkhof P.C.M.
Published: April 2009

In the present study the ultrastructural aspects of the migration of polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMN) in apparently normal skin following the epicutaneous application of leukotriene B4 (LTB4) were studied and it was investigated whether this model is representative of the migration of PMN in psoriatic skin. At the ultrastructural level the following features were observed: degranulation of PMN, formation of fenestrations and gaps of the endothelium, a multilayered basal lamina and hyperactive endothelial cells with protrusions and focal necrosis of these cells. Epicutaneous application of LTB4 is a practical approach to study the dynamics of the interaction between PMN and the endothelium in vivo.
Morphometric Computerized Analysis as a Method to Assess Skin Atrophy Caused by Corticosteroids
Authors: Pelfini C. , Vignini M. , Calligaro A.
Published: April 2009

We have employed morphometric computerized analysis to quantify changes in atrophic skin. Atrophy was induced on volunteers by means of the Duhring chamber assay, using two commercial corticosteroids with a steroid-free base as control. After 20 days, atrophy was assessed by subjective examination and rated on a five-point scale. After 10 and 20 days, positive replicas of the areas under test were obtained. Photographic reproductions of these replicas were stored in the image memory of an interactive automatic computerized image analysis system, Kontron Zeiss Ibas 2, and processed with a suitable program. After selection of the measurement area by means of a circular measurement window, the ‘continuous tone’ image was converted to a ‘binary’ one by means of a dynamic discrimination function, in order to perform an automatic evaluation of the percentage area corresponding to the shadows cast by the surface markings. Morphometric computerized analysis proved to be a sensitive method for quantifying skin atrophy. A high degree of correspondence with subjective examination was shown. The method allows an objective differentiation between a mid-potency and a high-potency topical corticosteroid.
A Method for the Determination of Viscoelastic Parameters of Human Hair in Relation to Its Structure
Authors: Nikiforidis G. , Tsambaos D. , Balas C. , Bezerianos A.
Published: April 2009

An analytical model and the corresponding experimental procedure are presented, which make it possible to separately analyze the viscous and elastic components of human hair. Moreover, a computerized experimental system is described with which a standardized quantitative determination of the most important mechanical parameters of human hair can be performed. Comparative investigations of the mechanical behavior of hair specimens obtained from the frontoparietal and occipital scalp regions of 10 healthy human subjects showed no statistically significant differences with regard to their mechanical parameters. Nevertheless, the paired analysis of the mechanical parameters of thin and thick hair specimens revealed that the values of two of these parameters are significantly higher in thin than in thick hair specimens. These findings suggest that there are mechanical parameters of human hair related to gross hair morphology, whereas others depend on hair microstructure.
Kinetics of Sebum Excretion Evaluated by the Sebutape® – Chromameter® Technique
Authors: Piérard Gérald E. , Piérard-Franchimont Claudine , Kligman Albert M.
Published: April 2009

We present a novel method for studying the changing characteristics of sebum excretion of facial skin over a 3-hour period. Sebum production can be quantified by analysis of the pore patterns formed on a sebum-sensitive tape (Sebutape®). We applied the CIE principles of reflectance colorimetry by measuring L*, a* and b* of Sebutapes every 15 min during 3 h of sebum collection. This combined technique yielded valuable new informations on the kinetics of sebum excretion, allowing the distinction between the follicular reservoir effect and the sebum flow.