bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lemon Juice, Sunlight, and Tattoos
Authors: Chapel J. L. , Leonard M. W. , Millikan Larry E.
Published: March 2008

In folklore, tattoos are thought to fade if rubbed with lemon juice and exposed to sunlight. The authors tested this hypothesis on shaved, tattooed rats. Tattooed controls were used. Additional substances and conditions were included in the study (tretinoin gel, liquid nitrogen, and dermabrasion). The authors conclude that India ink tattoos do not fade significantly with sunlight and lemon juice nor with the application of tretinoin gel, liquid nitrogen, or combinations thereof.
Ultrastructural Features of Malignant Syphilis and Demonstration of Treponema pallidum
Authors: Bahmer Friedrich A. , Anton‐Lamprecht Lingrun
Published: March 2008

ABSTRACT: This paper reports a case of malignant syphilis (man, 39 years old) in whom ultrastructural investigations of a typical nodule revealed an extremely low amount of bacteria with the characteristics of Treponema pallidum in poorly differentiated cells of the dermal infiltrate with plasma cells, stimulated the lymphocytes, and neutrophils as predominating cell types. Most of the microorganisms bore signs of disintegration. Vascular changes and exocytosis were only demonstrable by light microscopy in a second nodule. Together with the high production rate of immunoglobulins and an excessive inflammatory reaction, these findings point to an aberrant biologic reaction pattern of those patients who develop malignant syphilis. Unfortunately, further investigations concerning a possible impairment of cellular immunity as supposed in the literature, had not been possible in the present case.
Chlorella Photosensitization
Authors: Jitsukawa Kumiko , Suizu Reiko , Hidano Akira
Published: March 2008

ABSTRACT: Swelling followed by erythematopurpuric lesions on sun‐exposed areas of the body developed in five patients. All patients were found to have ingested chlorella. The histopathologic changes consisted of swelling of endothelial cells and thrombosis of small blood vessels in the dermis and the subcutaneous fatty tissue. The photosensitizing agent contained in chlorella tablets was proved to be pheophorbide‐a and its ester.
Surgical Approach to the Treatment of Refractory Lesions of Pemphigus Vulgaris
Authors: Haim S. , Abraham Z. , Hirshowitz B.
Published: March 2008

ABSTRACT: A patient with pemphigus vulgaris had lesions on the lip that proved to be refractory to intralesional corticosteroid therapy and to treatment with azathioprine and later to daily administration of 250 mg of prednisone. The patient developed marked cushingoid features and deep vein thrombosis, rendering the continuation of the prednisone therapy unadvisabie. Total vermilionectomy of the affected lip was performed and the prednisone was gradually tapered, taking care that oral lesions remained under control. Eighteen months after the operation, the patient is receiving a single alternate‐daily dose of 20 mg prednisone. and both the lip and oral lesions are in remission.
Darier's Disease in Twins
Authors: Mohd Kader Naina
Published: March 2008

A 27‐year‐old, unmarried twin woman of the ethnic Malay presented with numerous tiny, firm, rough‐textured papules distributed symetrically over the faceb, neck, and chest for 13 years (Figs. 1 and 2) A few areas were covered with yellowish crusts and were slightly malodorous. The lesions burned and itched during warm weather and while sweating. Subungual hyperkeratosis and V‐shaped ridging of the nails were noted. There was no history of similar disease in the family.

Both twins were of small stature and had normal menstrual cycles. The first twin weighed 31 kg and measured 59 cm in height. Her rolled fingerprints showed a total ridge count of 130. Her eyes were myopic, which was corrected by a – 12.5 lens on the right and a –5.5 lens on the left. She had divergent strabismus. Skin biopsy of the lesion showed hyperkeratosis and suprabasal cleft formation. Marked dyskeratosis was the feature with corps and ronds, grains, and acanthelytic cells. The histologic picture was characteristic of Darier's disease. This twin had type B blood, anti‐D Rh positive, and the genotype was CDe/CDe (R1 R1). The second twin was 31 kg in weight and 59 cm in height. Rolled fingerprints showed a ridge count of 126. She, too, had myopia, which was corrected by –8.5 lens on the right eye and –5.5 lens on the left. Her laboratory tests showed blood group B, anti‐D, Rh positive, and genotype CDe/CDe (R1 R1). Biopsy of the lesion showed microscopic features of Darier's disease.
Kaposi's Sarcoma on a Lymphedematous Immunocompromised Limb
Authors: Ruocco V. , Astarita C. , Guerrera V. , Lo Schiavo A. , Moscariello C. G. R. , Satriano R. A. , Pisani M.
Published: March 2008

ABSTRACT: Kaposi's sarcoma appeared on a chronically lymphedematous leg oi a 75‐year‐old man. lmrnunologic investigations revealed a lack of cellular immune response confined to the involved lower limb. Regional disorders of immune surveillance are thought to play an important role in the early stages of Kaposi's sarcoma.
Combination Therapy of Sodium Stibogluconat and Rifampin in Cutaneous Leishmaniasis
Authors: Pareek S.S.
Published: March 2008

ABSTRACT: Thirty‐two patients having cutaneous leishmaniasis were divided into two groups: 16 were treated with sodium stibogluconate 600 mg intramuscularly daily for 12 days and 16 were treated with 600 mg rifampin daily for 21 days. The failure rate was 56% and 50%, respectively. The 17 patients who did not respond were treated with a combination of two drugs, which produced bettter results in 13 of the 17 patients.
Impaired Motility and Random Migration of Viatl Polymorphonuclears in Vitro after therapy with Oral Aromatic Retionoid in Psoriasis
Authors: Bauer Ralf , Sschotz Regina , Orfanos Constantin E.
Published: March 2008

ABSTRACT: Vital polymorphonuclears of healthy person and of patients with psoriasis before and after therapy with oral rettnoid (Ro 10–9359) were observed in vitro under standradized conditions. In this model normal pllymorphonuclears showed well‐defined changes entering (A) a stage of resting and accommondation, (B) a state of Movement in loco, and finally, (C) a stage of miration. The rectilinear migration of cells was accompanied bycharacteristic movements of the cytoplasmic granula towards the cytocenturm. Just before the onset of migration, the cell organelles ordered themselves in a defined position within cytoplasm. The survival time of the cells was about 48 haurs, and their degeneration in vitro was reproducible. Polymorphonuclears of psoriasis patients without respiration before therapy with oral retionid showed no changes. In Contrast, the in vitro motility of polymorphonuclears of psoriasis under oral retiniod therapy showed distinct alterations: the movement of the cytoplasmic granula was strongly decelerated, and the regualr arrangement of the cell organelles did not appear. The function of the cytocentrum was obviously impaired; the cells persisted longer in the resting stage and reached the movement state later. A stage of migration failer to appear. The survival time was reduced to approximately 24 hours. These observations suggest that the oral retinoid interferes with the microtubular cell system and inhibits the directional migration of the polymorphonuclear in vitro.
Immunologic and Biochemical Studies on a Patient with Pyoderma Gangrenosum
Authors: Shafi Asghar Syed , Bos J. D. , Kammeijer A. , Cormane R. H.
Published: March 2008

ABSTRACT: A patient with pyoderma gangrenosum without associated disease was studied. Routine investigations showed several abnormalities. High ESR, high alkaline phosphatase and glutamyl transferase (γ‐GT) levels, low iron and iron binding capacity, altered protein spectrum, presence of Staphylococcus aureus and group G hemolytic streptococci in ulcer culture, higher than normal antistreptolysin titers in the serum, and perivascular infiltration in the skin. Biochemical investigations aimed at finding any excessive hydrolytic activity did not reveal the presence of neutral proteases in circulation leaked out from PMN‐leukocytes or elsewhere. Lysozyme levels were higher than normal, amylase and lipase levels were normal and 5’nucleotidase levels were below normal range. TCA‐soluble polypeptides were present in the serum at levels two times higher than those in normal individuals. Immunochemical investigations showed the absence of immune complexes in the serum but presence of high amounts of C‐reactive protein. Total complement activity was higher than normal and so was C3c level. Clq, C4, and C3d levels were within normal range. Biologic studies showed the presence of a factor in patient serum that made guinea pig skin hard, painful, erythematous, and eventually hairless, but not necrotic. A similar factor was either absent in normal serum or present in very low concentration. After salazopyrine treatment, all the above mentioned abnormalities corrected except that 5’nucleotidase activity remained slightly lower than normal, alkaline phosphatase levels remained slightly higher than normal, and C‐reactive protein levels remained very high, though lower than those during intense disease activity.
Coumadin‐induced Skin Necrosis
Authors: Slutzki S. , Bogokowsky H. , Gilboa Y. , Halpern Z.
Published: March 2008

ABSTRACT: Two women developed coumadin‐induced skin necrosis. A 16‐year‐old woman sustained necrosis on the leg after a single dose of the drug, and a 59‐year‐old woman developed gangrene of most of her left breast.
Vohwinkel's Keratoma Hereditarium Mutilans
Authors: Cole Richard D. , McCauley Michael G. , Way Barbara H.
Published: March 2008

ABSTRACT: A 35‐year‐old black man and his two daughters have massive keratoderma of the palms and soles and ainhum‐like constrictions of the fifth toes in two of the three patients. Although there are various types of familial hyperkeratosis, our patients have dermatologic manifestations most consistent with Vohwinkel's keratoma hereditarium mutilans.
Relationship between cytoplasmic male sterility and SPL‐like gene expression in stem mustard
Authors: Yang Jing‐Hua , Zhang Ming‐Fang , Yu Jing‐Quan
Published: March 2008

We studied how mitochondria–nuclear interactions may give rise to cytoplasmic male sterility (CMS) in stem mustard exhibiting abnormal microsporogenesis. In this system, expression of SPL‐like, the counterpart of the Arabidopsis nuclear gene SPOROCYTELESS, is specifically lost in buds of CMS plants. When mitochondrial‐specific inhibitors were applied to wild‐type fertile stem mustard plants, expression of SPL‐like was repressed to some extent. As a consequence, the shape and vigor of pollen grains were severely affected, whereas the fertility of pistils remained unaltered. Thereby, we suggest that a probable pathway responsible for CMS in stem mustard involves mitochondrial retrograde regulation, with SPL‐like as a target nuclear gene for a mitochondrial signal.
Tall Fescue Adaptation to Low Nitrogen Fertilization in Relation to Germplasm Type and Endophyte Infection
Authors: Pecetti L. , Romani M. , Annicchiarico P. , Piano E.
Published: March 2008

Efficient crop growth with low nitrogen (N) application is becoming a requirement to face the concern on excessive N emission to the environment and the increasing cost of fertilizers. This study compared six natural populations and three improved varieties of tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea Schreb.) for dry‐matter yield over 4 years under ordinary N fertilization (450 kg ha−1 in the 4 years) and very low N fertilization (only 40 kg ha−1 prior to sowing). Both endophyte‐infected (EI) and endophyte‐free (EF) forms of each accession were sown. On average, ordinary fertilization implied 30 % higher yield than very low fertilization and the EI germplasm outyielded the corresponding EF germplasm (+4.4 %). Mean yield of improved varieties was higher than that of natural populations under ordinary fertilization (P < 0.05), whereas the two germplasm groups did not differ under very low fertilization. Accession × N fertilization interaction was found among natural populations but not among varieties (P < 0.05). A few natural populations were top‐yielding under very low fertilization and may be exploited, possibly in combination with endophyte infection, to select tall fescue varieties with enhanced performance under limited N application.
Evaluation of iodine levels in the Riverina population
Authors: Uren Leanne J. , McKenzie Geoff , Moriarty Helen
Published: March 2008

Objective:  To assess the iodine status in a random group of adults in a rural region.

Design:  A cross‐sectional study; urinary iodine concentrations (UIC) were correlated with results of a questionnaire that collected demographic information.

Setting:  Primary care.

Participants:  A total of 173 adults from the Riverina region provided a morning midstream urine sample and completed a questionnaire. There were no exclusion criteria.

Main outcome measures:  Iodine status was based upon mean UIC (MUIC) values and categorised according to World Health Organisation criterion. Subgroups were classified according to sex, age, town, salt usage, vitamin/supplement usage, pregnant or breast‐feeding status and diet.

Results:  The MUIC for the study population was 79 μg L

−1

; 29% were iodine‐replete, 52% had mild deficiency and 18.5% were moderately to severely deficient. Use of iodised salt produced a non‐clinically significant increase in MUIC of 81 μg L

−1

compared with 71 μg L

−1

(P = 0.1907). Daily vitamin supplementation led to iodine sufficiency with a MUIC of 111 μg L−1(P = 0.0011). Participants aged 50–59 years had a significantly lower MUIC than participants aged 18–39 years (67 versus 89 μg L−1, respectively, P = 0.0106). Further, the MUIC decreased with age from 18 to 59 years (P = 0.0208).

Conclusions:  A mild iodine deficiency was found in this sample of the Riverina population, consistent with other Australian studies. Salt iodisation might not be an effective strategy to correct iodine deficiencies within Australia.
Mobilising a rural community to lose weight: Impact evaluation of the WellingTonne Challenge
Authors: Lyle David , Hobba Janet , Lloyd Karen , Bennett Debbie , George Trish , Giddings Nicolla , Griffin Norma , Chew Patrick C. L. , Harris Mark , Heading Gaynor
Published: March 2008

Objective:  To evaluate the impact of the WellingTonne Challenge.

Design:  Before–after study.

Setting:  The National Action Agenda for the prevention and control of obesity in Australia identified community action and development as a key theme. The WellingTonne Challenge was a whole‐of‐community project designed to support a small rural community to lose weight and reduce their risk of chronic disease.

Participants:  Adult residents of the Wellington Local Government Area who were overweight or obese.

Results:  The project successfully engaged the community with around 10% of the target group formally participating in the Challenge. Participants achieved a weight reduction of around 3 kg each, as well as positive changes in diet and physical activity. A total of 59% of those who signed up for the Challenge achieved an accumulated loss of 687 kg at the end of the 12‐week program – less than the community goal of 1000 kg.

Conclusion:  The WellingTonne Challenge is a promising intervention. Wider implementation of this approach in other small rural communities might make a significant contribution to the national effort. The opportunity should be taken to undertake a more rigorous evaluation to determine whether this approach benefits communities in the longer term.
Rural obesity, healthy weight and perceptions of risk: Struggles, strategies and motivation for change
Authors: Heading Gaynor
Published: March 2008

Objective:  To explore risk logics, embodiment (the interplay between the physical, social and subjective body) and issues related to adult obesity in remote New South Wales.

Design:  Qualitative multiple‐method design using semistructured interviews and visual aids (food and exercise palm cards) to explore the saliency of food and exercise options. A one‐page demographic survey incorporated self‐reported body mass index.

Participants:  A total of 19 rural adults (13 female; six male).

Setting:  Community in remote New South Wales, Australia.

Results:  Thematic analysis revealed 14 major weight‐related themes. Respondents raised numerous explanations for their weight gain, reported struggles with weight loss, revealed a range of motivations for weight loss and a variety of approaches to risk, not all of which are aligned to dominant health discourse. The need for realistic interventions incorporating social meaning and pleasure seeking is revealed.

Conclusion:  Obesity interventions promoting ‘easy’ healthy choices also need to acknowledge embodiment and social status linked to consumption. Interventions that ignore the complexity surrounding consumption (e.g. the interplay of social taste, group distinction and embodiment) will have lower relevance and effectiveness.
Protocol‐based medical management of post‐ERCP pancreatitis
Authors: Reddy Neelima , Wilcox C Mel , Tamhane Ashutosh , Eloubeidi Mohamad A , Varadarajulu Shyam
Published: March 2008

Background and Aims:  Although numerous studies have evaluated outcomes pertaining to endoscopic retrograde cholangio‐pancreatography (ERCP) complications, studies evaluating outcomes of management of post‐ERCP pancreatitis are scant. This study evaluated the effectiveness of a standard treatment protocol in management of post‐ERCP pancreatitis.

Methods:  This is a retrospective study of consecutive patients managed for post‐ERCP pancreatitis, using a standard treatment protocol over a 3‐year period. By protocol, patients received only intravenous fluids, narcotics, and analgesics for the first 24–72 h after admission. Oral intake was attempted when white cell count was normal or followed a downward trend, abdominal pain was absent or minimal without need for narcotics over a 12‐h period, and serum lipase was less than three times normal range. For patients hospitalized beyond 72 h, an abdomen CT was obtained at days 4 and 10 to guide management. Intravenous antibiotics were administered only for patients with pancreatic necrosis. Jejunal feeding and a meperidine pump for pain control were initiated in symptomatic patients at day 4. Data on ERCP complications were collected prospectively and graded per consensus criteria. Effectiveness of the treatment protocol was evaluated by comparing clinical outcomes of patients managed by protocol versus those managed outside protocol.

Results:  45 of 1976 patients (2.3%) who underwent ERCP developed post‐ERCP pancreatitis. Of the 45 (female 31; mean age 43 years) patients, 32 were managed by protocol and 13 outside protocol. Protocol based management was associated with less severe disease as compared with those managed outside protocol (crude odds ratio (OR) = 11.2; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.9–68.7; P = 0.002). One patient managed outside protocol died of severe pancreatitis. When compared with those managed outside protocol, the median duration of hospital stay (7 vs 3 days; P = 0.01), the use of CT (100% vs 15.6%; P < 0.001), and the use of antibiotics (50% vs 3.1%; P = 0.01) were significantly lower in those managed by protocol. By multiple logistic regression, protocol‐based management was associated with less severe disease (adjusted OR = 18.7; 95% CI = 2.6–132.1; P = 0.003) when adjusted for age, comorbidity, endotherapy and pancreatic stenting.

Conclusions:  A protocol‐based management strategy was associated with less severe pancreatitis, shorter length of hospital stay, need for fewer imaging studies, and use of antibiotics. Prospective validation of these findings is justified.
Economic evaluation of prostate cancer screening with prostate‐specific antigen
Authors: Imamura Tomoaki , Yasunaga Hideo
Published: March 2008

Abstract: Economic issues cannot be ignored in conducting prostate cancer screening using prostate‐specific antigen (PSA). Through an electronic search, we reviewed five descriptive cost studies and nine cost‐effectiveness/cost‐utility analyses concerning PSA screening. Most of the existing evidence was based on mathematical model analysis and the results are enormously disparate. The cost per quality‐adjusted life years (QALY) gained was estimated to be $US 63.37 to $68.32, and $8400 to $23 100, respectively, or was dominated by no screening. Economic studies evaluating PSA screening are still far from sufficient. Urologists, epidemiologists and health economists must jointly conduct further studies on not only mortality but also quality of life assessment and economic evaluation, using randomized clinical trials, for a strict evaluation of the actual efficacy of PSA screening. At present, patients should be thoroughly informed of the limitations of PSA screening and, in consultation with urological specialists, make the personal decision of whether to receive it.
Does biodiversity increase spatial stability in plant community biomass?
Authors: Weigelt Alexandra , Schumacher Jens , Roscher Christiane , Schmid Bernhard
Published: March 2008

We tested the hypothesis that biodiversity decreases the spatial variability of biomass production between subplots taken within experimental grassland plots. Our findings supported this hypothesis if functional diversity (weighted Rao’sQ) was considered. Further analyses revealed that diversity in rooting depth and clonal growth form were the most important components of functional diversity stabilizing productivity. Using species or functional group richness as diversity measures there was no significant effect on spatial variability of biomass production, demonstrating the importance of the biodiversity component considered. Moreover, we found a significant increase in spatial variability of productivity with decreasing size of harvested area, suggesting small‐scale heterogeneity as an important driver. The ability of diverse communities to stabilize biomass production across spatial heterogeneity may be due to complementary use of spatial niches. Nevertheless, the positive effect of functional diversity on spatial stability appears to be less pronounced than previously reported effects on temporal stability.
Dietary patterns and surgically treated benign prostatic hyperplasia: a case control study in Western Australia
Authors: Ambrosini Gina L. , De Klerk Nicholas H. , Mackerras Dorothy , Leavy Justine , Fritschi Lin
Published: March 2008

OBJECTIVES

To investigate dietary patterns and food intake as risk factors for surgically treated benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), as few risk factors have been established for BPH and recently there has been some interest in a role for diet in the development of BPH.

PATIENTS, SUBJECTS AND METHODS

A case‐control study was conducted in Western Australia (WA) during 2001 and 2002. BPH cases were men with a diagnosis of BPH hospitalized for their first prostatectomy. Controls were frequency matched for age and sex from the WA electoral roll. A previously evaluated food‐frequency questionnaire (FFQ) collected information on usual dietary intake 10 years earlier. Factor analysis identified dietary patterns in the FFQ data. Effects of dietary patterns and food intakes on the risk of BPH were examined using unconditional logistic regression, adjusting for various confounders.

RESULTS

In all, 406 cases and 462 controls (aged 40–75 years) provided data. Three dietary patterns were identified, i.e. ‘Vegetable’, ‘Western’ and ‘Health Conscious’. BPH risk was not associated with the ‘Health Conscious’ or ‘Western’ patterns, but there was a lower risk with an increasing score for the ‘Vegetable’ pattern (odds ratio 0.78, 95% confidence interval 0.63–0.98). BPH risk was significantly and inversely related to the intake of total vegetables, dark yellow vegetables, other vegetables, tofu and red meat. There was a higher risk of BPH with increasing intake of high‐fat dairy products.

CONCLUSIONS

These results indicate that vegetables, soy products, red meat and high‐fat dairy foods might be important in the development of BPH.
Analysis of single items on the Self‐Esteem And Relationship questionnaire in men treated with sildenafil citrate for erectile dysfunction: results of two double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trials
Authors: Cappelleri Joseph C. , Althof Stanley E. , O’Leary Michael P. , Tseng Li‐Jung ,   US and International SEAR Study Groups
Published: March 2008

Associate Editor

Michael G. Wyllie

Editorial Board

Ian Eardley, UK

Jean Fourcroy, USA

Sidney Glina, Brazil

Julia Heiman, USA

Chris McMahon, Australia

Bob Millar, UK

Alvaro Morales, Canada

Michael Perelman, USA

Marcel Waldinger, Netherlands

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effect of sildenafil citrate on each item of the 14‐item Self‐Esteem And Relationship (SEAR) questionnaire, which is used to measure self‐esteem, confidence, satisfaction with sexual relationship, and overall relationship satisfaction in men with erectile dysfunction (ED).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Data were combined from two 12‐week, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, flexible‐dose sildenafil trials having identical protocols, one conducted in the USA and the other in Mexico, Brazil, Australia and Japan. All men had ED and were aged ≥18 years. Response categories of each SEAR item used a 4‐week reference period and were based on a five‐point scale (1, almost never/never; 2, a few times; 3, sometimes; 4, most times; 5, almost always/always). The difference (sildenafil vs placebo) in the change from baseline to week 12 was evaluated with a Wilcoxon rank sum test using ridit analysis, and an analysis of covariance model that included treatment group, centre, study and baseline item score.

RESULTS

Compared with the 274 patients receiving placebo, the 279 receiving sildenafil reported significantly greater mean and median improvements (P < 0.001) in each of the 14 SEAR items. The probability of increased psychosocial benefit from baseline to week 12 was higher with sildenafil for each SEAR item, and ranged from 0.60 (‘My partner was unhappy with the quality of our sexual relations’[item reverse‐scored]) to 0.72 (‘I was satisfied with my sexual performance’). Across all items, the mean (sd) probability was 0.67 (0.04) that a randomly selected patient in the sildenafil group would have a more favourable change relative to a randomly selected patient in the placebo group.

CONCLUSIONS

Sildenafil produced substantial and meaningful improvements at the item‐specific level. This analysis complements previously published work on self‐esteem, confidence and relationship satisfaction.
Tyrol Prostate Cancer Demonstration Project: early detection, treatment, outcome, incidence and mortality
Authors: Bartsch Georg , Horninger Wolfgang , Klocker Helmut , Pelzer Alexandre , Bektic Jasmin , Oberaigner Wilhelm , Schennach Harald , Schäfer Georg , Frauscher Ferdinand , Boniol Mathieu , Severi Gianluca , Robertson Chris , Boyle Peter ,   Tyrol Prostate Cancer Screening Group
Published: March 2008

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effectiveness of a well‐controlled programme of early detection and treatment of prostate cancer in the population of Tyrol, Austria, where such a programme of early detection and treatment was initiated in 1988 and where prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) testing was offered for free to all men aged 45–75 years from 1993.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

Comparison of prostate cancer mortality rates in Tyrol and the rest of Austria was accomplished through a generalized additive model. A piecewise linear change‐point Poisson regression model was used to compare mortality rates in Tyrol and the rest of Austria. Standardized mortality ratios were calculated with reference to the mortality rates in 1986–1990.

RESULTS

In all, 86.6% of eligible men have been tested at least once since 1993. Cancer deaths in Tyrol in 2005 were 54% (95% confidence interval [CI] 34–69%) lower than expected compared with 29% (95% CI 22–35%) in the rest of Austria. The decreasing trend in prostate cancer mortality was significantly greater in Tyrol compared with the rest of Austria (P = 0.001). A significant migration to lower stage disease occurred and radical prostatectomy was associated with low morbidity.

CONCLUSIONS

In the Tyrol region where treatment is freely available to all patients, where widespread PSA testing and treatment with curative intent occurs, there was a reduction in prostate cancer mortality rates which was significantly greater than the reduction in the rest of Austria. This reduction in prostate cancer mortality is most probably due to early detection, consequent down‐staging and effective treatment of prostate cancer.
The morbidity of transperineal template‐guided prostate mapping biopsy
Authors: Merrick Gregory S. , Taubenslag Walter , Andreini Hugo , Brammer Sarah , Butler Wayne M. , Adamovich Edward , Allen Zachary , Anderson Richard , Wallner Kent E.
Published: March 2008

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effect of transperineal template‐guided prostate mapping biopsy (TTMB) on urinary, bowel and erectile function.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In all, 129 men had TTMB; a median of 56 biopsy cores were obtained per patient. Tamsulosin (0.8 mg daily) was initiated 2 days before TTMB and continued for 2 weeks. The International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), Rectal Function Assessment Score (R‐FAS), International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF)‐6 and the postvoid residual volume (PVR) were assessed at baseline and after 30 days, except for the IPSS, which was also assessed at 7 days. Several variables were evaluated as predictors of TTMB‐induced morbidity.

RESULTS

The mean patient age was 64.7 years with a mean prostate volume of 74.3 mL; 60 men (46.5%) were diagnosed with prostate cancer. After TTMB, 39.4%, 7.1% and 1.6% of patients remained catheter‐dependent at 0, 3 and 6 days. The median catheter‐dependency was 0, 1, 2 and 3 days for prostate volumes of <60, 60–90, 90–120 and >120 mL, respectively. No patient remained catheter‐ dependent for >12 days or required a transurethral resection secondary to TTMB. The mean IPSS before TTMB was 10.4, and was 4.6 and 3.8 at 7 and 30 days. At baseline and 30 days the mean PVR was 35 and 40 mL, and the median R‐FAS and IIEF scores for patients potent before TTMB were 2.0 and 2.2, and 27.0 and 26.0, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

TTMB is a promising procedure for diagnosing prostate cancer. TTMB‐related morbidity differs from that of standard TRUS biopsy primarily in the incidence of temporary urinary retention, and is comparable in terms of urinary, bowel and erectile function.
Effect of extracellular ATP on the growth of hormone‐refractory prostate cancer in vivo
Authors: Shabbir Majid , Thompson Cecil , Jarmulowiczc Michael , Mikhailidis Dimitri , Burnstock Geoffrey
Published: March 2008

OBJECTIVE

To investigate whether the antineoplastic action of ATP on hormone‐refractory prostate carcinoma (HRPC) cells in vitro also occurs in vivo, by examining the effect of ATP in vivo on tumours resulting from implanted HRPC cells in mice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

HRPC tumour cells DU145 and PC‐3 were implanted into male nude athymic mice. The effect of daily intraperitoneal (i.p.) injections of ATP (25 mm) on the growth of freshly implanted and established HRPC tumours was assessed. Histological examination using light and electron microscopy was used to confirm retention of the original ultrastructure of the implanted tumours.

RESULTS

Daily i.p. injections of ATP significantly reduced the growth of freshly implanted DU145 tumour by 57.8% (P = 0.003), and reduced the rate of growth of established DU145 tumour by 69.0% (P = 0.006). ATP also significantly reduced the growth of freshly implanted PC‐3 tumour by 68.9% (P < 0.001). ATP treatment had no adverse effects on the host mice.

CONCLUSION

Our results show, for the first time, that ATP effectively reduces the growth of advanced HRPC tumours in vivo. This may represent a step in establishing ATP as an effective agent for HRPC treatment.
Single‐port laparoscopic surgery: initial experience in children for varicocelectomy
Authors: Kaouk Jihad H. , Palmer Jeffrey S.
Published: March 2008

OBJECTIVE

To present our initial experience in children undergoing single‐port laparoscopic varicocelectomy (SPLV) using a new approach in which the entire procedure is performed through a multichannel single laparoscopic port inserted in the umbilicus rather than the traditional LV performed through three abdominal ports.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We reviewed our experience with all paediatric patients who had undergone transumbilical SPLV [Uni‐XTM Single Port Access Laparoscopic System, Pnavel Systems, NJ, USA]. This novel 20‐mm laparoscopic port has three working channels and gas insufflation access. The system also includes a variety of curved laparoscopic instruments that can be introduced through the SP. A Hassan technique through an incision within the inferior aspect of the umbilicus is used to obtain laparoscopic port access to the abdominal cavity. The SP is then fixed into position with pre‐placed rectus facial sutures. Using a curved laparoscopic grasper and scissors, an incision is made within the posterior peritoneum on the medial and lateral aspects of the left testicular artery and veins, proximal to the vas deferens. The vessels, both artery and veins, are transected leaving clips both proximally and distally.

RESULTS

Transumbilical SPLV was completed in three consecutive adolescents (aged 13, 15 and 16 years) without placing any additional ports or conversion to open surgery. All procedures were performed for left‐sided grade III varicoceles. The operative duration was <1 h for each procedure. All patients were discharged on the same day as their surgery and none required re‐hospitalization. At a mean (range) follow‐up of 8.7 (6–10) weeks there was a good cosmetic result, with no varicocele recurrence, or intraoperative or postoperative complications including wound infection, hydrocele, or incision site herniation.

CONCLUSION

We report the first use of a multicannula single laparoscopic port in children and for SPLV. This new laparoscopic approach, similar to any new technique, requires further experience to fully evaluate its benefits and limitations.
Understanding the Search for Meaning in Life: Personality, Cognitive Style, and the Dynamic Between Seeking and Experiencing Meaning
Authors: Steger Michael F. , Kashdan Todd B. , Sullivan Brandon A. , Lorentz Danielle
Published: March 2008

ABSTRACT
Although several theories assert that understanding the search for meaning in life is important, empirical research on this construct is sparse. Three studies provide the first extensive effort to understand the correlates of the search for meaning in a multistudy research program. Assessed were relations between search for meaning and well‐being, cognitive style, and the Big Five, Big Three, Approach/Avoidance, and Interest models of personality, with a particular emphasis on understanding the correlates of search for meaning that are independent of presence of meaning. Conceptual models of the relation between search and presence were tested. Findings suggest that people lacking meaning search for it; the search for meaning did not appear to lead to its presence. Study 3 found that basic motive dispositions moderated relations between search for meaning and its presence. Results highlight the importance of basic personality dispositions in understanding the search for meaning and its correlates.
PROMETHEUS BOUND: POLARIZATION IS POSSIBLE IN THE NEOCLASSICAL GROWTH MODEL
Authors: Tsionas Efthymios G. , Theocharis Loukas
Published: March 2008

The paper demonstrates that the standard neoclassical model of stochastic growth in the absence of any other modifications is consistent with club convergence contrary to the analysis in Cetorelli (2002, Journal of Economic Dynamics and Control, 27, pp. 29–50). In that sense, it is not necessary to augment the model with a probability of adverse shocks that is inversely related to aggregate capital stock or provide other modifications.
The evolution of social work practice: implications for the generalist approach
Authors: Hall Ron
Published: March 2008

Historically, social work has assumed a generalist approach to practice. Such an approach involves a broad general knowledge base and skills in several disciplines, fields, etc. Evidence‐based practice (EBP) entails the exactness of scientific research. It is intended for the application of rigorous expertise to arrive at the most effective practice methods based upon objective research findings. The evolution of social work toward a more legitimate practice method can then be realised via the prescripts of EBP.
Effect of inorganic salts on ferric oxalate‐induced decomposition of CI Acid Black 234 under different weather conditions
Authors: Dong Yongchun , He Luchun , Wang Qiufang , Yang Min , Qi Rong , Li Kuixiao
Published: March 2008

In this study, sodium chloride and sodium sulphate were used for investigating their effects on photocatalytic decomposition of a triazo acid dye, CI Acid Black 234, used widely for the coloration of leather and wool products by the Feiii‐oxalate complexes/hydrogen peroxide system under different weather conditions, respectively. Moreover, the photocatalytic degradation and mineralisation of CI Acid Black 234 was also examined by ultraviolet–visible spectrum and total organic carbon measurements. The results indicated that photocatalytic decoloration of CI Acid Black 234 was significantly limited in the presence of inorganic salt. Increasing the concentration of inorganic salt led to a lower decoloration percentage and kinetic reaction constant. The effect of inorganic salt on dye decomposition varied with solar light intensity. Sodium chloride exhibits a much stronger reduction effect on photocatalytic decoloration, degradation and mineralisation than sodium sulphate at similar reaction conditions, especially on a cloudy day.
Healing modulation induced by freeze‐dried platelet‐rich plasma and micronized allogenic dermis in a diabetic wound model
Authors: Pietramaggiori Giorgio , Scherer Saja S. , Mathews Jasmine C. , Alperovich Michael , Yang Ho‐Jik , Neuwalder Jennifer , Czeczuga Joshua M. , Chan Rodney K. , Wagner Christopher T. , Orgill Dennis P.
Published: March 2008

The incidence and prevalence of chronic and diabetic wounds are increasing and clinical treatments to tackle these epidemics are still insufficient. In this study, we tested the ability of freeze‐dried platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) and an allogenic micronized acellular dermal matrix alone and in combination to modulate diabetic wound healing. Therapeutic materials were applied to 1.0 cm2 excisional wounds on genetically diabetic (db/db) mice. Wound‐healing kinetics and new tissue formation were studied at 9 and 21 days posttreatment. Quantitative immunohistochemistry was used to study vascularity and cellular proliferation (days 9 and 21), and collagen deposition was evaluated 21 days postwounding. In vitro, micronized allogenic dermis, when combined with PRP, absorbed nearly 50% of original platelet‐derived growth factor, transforming growth factor‐β, vascular endothelial growth factor, and epidermal growth factor from platelets and stimulated fibroblast proliferation. In vivo, micronized dermis increased the formation of vascularized wound tissue by day 9. Freeze‐dried PRP alone or in combination with micronized dermis increased wound tissue revascularization and proliferation compared with spontaneous healing. The increase in cell proliferation persisted until day 21 only when freeze‐dried PRP was used in combination with micronized dermis. These results indicate that micronized allogenic dermis may be used to provide a dermal matrix to stimulate tissue formation and the combination with PRP may confer additional beneficial growth factors to chronic or diabetic wounds.
Differing responses of human follicular and nonfollicular scalp cells in an in vitro wound healing assay: Effects of estrogen on vascular endothelial growth factor secretion
Authors: Stevenson Susan , Taylor Anthony H. , Meskiri Aisha , Sharpe David T. , Thornton M. Julie
Published: March 2008

Improved wound healing of hairy skin may involve mesenchymal hair follicle cells with stem cell potential and enhancement by estrogen therapy. How estrogen affects follicular dermal papilla (DP) and dermal sheath (DS) cells in wound healing is unknown. Therefore, a comparison of estradiol action on DP, DS, and corresponding interfollicular dermal fibroblasts (DF) in a scratch‐wound assay was performed using matching primary cultures established from female temporo‐occipital scalp. All three cell types expressed mRNA transcripts and protein for estrogen receptors α (ERα) and β (ERβ). DF ERα transcripts were half that of DP and one‐third of DS cells, while DF ERβ transcripts were two‐thirds of DP and DS cells. In the scratch‐wound assay all three cells types migrated at similar rates, but only the rate of DF was enhanced by estradiol. Mechanical wounding increased DNA synthesis rates of all three cell types and increased the secretion of collagen by DF and DS cells. All three secreted similar basal levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), which was increased by wounding DF and DS cells, but not DP cells. DP cells required estradiol to increase VEGF secretion; by contrast VEGF secretion was decreased by estradiol in wounded DS cells. These results highlight differences in the responses of DF, DP, and DS cells to estradiol in a scratch‐wound assay, providing further support for the dichotomy of cellular functions in the hair follicle. Further understanding of the role of estrogen in cutaneous wound healing may have important implications for the management of chronic wounds and scarring.
Impaired wound healing in an acute diabetic pig model and the effects of local hyperglycemia
Authors: Velander Patrik , Theopold Christoph , Hirsch Tobias , Bleiziffer Oliver , Zuhaili Baraa , Fossum Magdalena , Hoeller Daniela , Gheerardyn Raphael , Chen Michael , Visovatti Scott , Svensson Henry , Yao Feng , Eriksson Elof
Published: March 2008

Diabetic wounds result in significant morbidity, prolonged hospitalization, and enormous health‐care expenses. Pigs have been shown to have wound healing resembling that in humans. The aim of this study was to develop a large‐animal model for diabetic wound healing. Diabetes was induced by streptozotocin injection in Yorkshire pigs. Full‐thickness wounds were created and dressed with a sealed chamber. Nondiabetic pigs with or without high glucose wound fluid concentration served as controls. Glucose concentration in serum and wound fluid was measured and collected. Wound contraction was monitored, and biopsies were obtained for measurement of reepithelialization. Wound fluid was analyzed for insulin‐like growth factor‐1 (IGF‐1), platelet‐derived growth factor, and transforming growth factor. Glucose concentration in wound fluid initially followed serum levels and then decreased to undetectable on day 9. Reepithelialization was significantly delayed in diabetic pigs. In nondiabetic pigs, wounds treated in a local hyperglycemic environment, and thus excluding the effects of systemic hyperglycemia, showed no difference in wound closure compared with controls. This suggests that delayed wound healing in diabetes is not induced by local high‐glucose concentration itself. Analysis of growth factor expression showed a marked reduction in IGF‐1 in the diabetic wounds. Diabetic pigs have impaired healing that is accompanied by a reduction of IGF‐1 in the healing wound and is not due to the local hyperglycemia condition itself.
Human dermal fibroblast subpopulations; differential interactions with vascular endothelial cells in coculture: Nonsoluble factors in the extracellular matrix influence interactions
Authors: Sorrell J. Michael , Baber Marilyn A. , Caplan Arnold I.
Published: March 2008

The superficial dermis of adult human skin contains a complex arcading microvasculature that provides nutrient support to the overlying epidermis. We propose that the unique subpopulations of dermal fibroblasts located in the superficial dermis contribute to the organization and maintenance of this elaborate microvasculature. This possibility was tested in a coculture system in which distinct subpopulations of adult human dermal fibroblasts were grown to form high‐density lawns that were then seeded with human umbilical vein vascular endothelial cells (EC). The fibroblast subpopulation cultured specifically from the papillary dermis supported a robust array of highly branched tube‐like structures. In contrast, fibroblasts cultured from the reticular dermis provided an anemic level of support for the formation of tube‐like structures. These varied interactions with vascular EC were not due to the differential production of the potent pro‐angiogenic factors vascular endothelial growth factor‐A or fibroblast growth factor‐2. Instead, the extracellular matrix and/or molecules bound to this matrix appeared to contain instructions that modulated these differential fibroblast–vascular EC interactions. One matrix‐binding growth factor, hepatocyte growth factor/scatter factor, was identified that was both differentially expressed by papillary and reticular dermal fibroblasts and which was shown to be physiologically relevant in the coculture model. These studies highlight the importance of fibroblasts in supporting and maintaining vascular integrity. Furthermore, these studies have important implications for wound repair and may help to explain how fibroblasts contribute to the etiology of nonhealing wounds.
Autonomic consequences of kainic acid–induced limbic cortical seizures in rats: Peripheral autonomic nerve activity, acute cardiovascular changes, and death
Authors: Sakamoto Kenichi , Saito Takeshi , Orman Rena , Koizumi Kiyomi , Lazar Jason , Salciccioli Louis , Stewart Mark
Published: March 2008

Summary

Purpose:Autonomic consequences of seizures are common, but can be severe. We sought to define changes in autonomic activity from limbic cortical seizures and their impact on the heart.

Methods:We studied kainic acid (KA)‐induced seizures in urethane‐anesthetized rats using peripheral nerve, blood pressure (BP), and ECG recordings and echocardiography.

Results:Seizures were associated with massive increases in parasympathetic (vagus nerves) and sympathetic (cervical sympathetic ganglion >renal nerve >splanchnic nerve) activity. Seizure‐associated activity increases were greater than activity changes induced by nitroprusside or phenylephrine (each producing BP changes of >50 mmHg). Increases in c‐fos expression were found in both sympathetic and parasympathetic medullary regions (as well as hypothalamic areas). Baroreceptor reflex function (tested with nitroprusside and phenylephrine) was impaired during seizures. Finally, a significant fraction of the animals died and the mechanism of death was defined through ECG, BP, and echocardiographic measures to be profound cardiac dilatation and bradyarrhythmia leading to hypoperfusion of the brain and ultimately hypoperfusion of the heart. Cardiovascular changes occur within seconds (or less) of autonomic nerve activity changes and death by these mechanisms takes minutes.

Discussion:We propose that the massive parasympathetic and sympathetic outflow that occurs during a seizure gets compounded by respiratory distress (driving both autonomic nervous system divisions in the same direction) causing mechanical dysfunction, slowing the heart, and hypoperfusing the brain.