bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Getting on with life: Accepting the permanency of an Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator
Authors: Williams Anne M. , Young Jeanne , Nikoletti Sue , McRae Shelley
Published: May 2007

Increasing numbers of people with cardiovascular disease are requiring the insertion of Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators (ICDs). Although these devices are an effective life‐saving treatment, psychological distress sometimes accompanies their insertion. A qualitative approach was used to explore the experiences, concerns and needs of recipients of the device in Western Australia. Twenty‐two tape‐recorded interviews were carried out and transcribed verbatim. This paper focuses on the physical and psychological adjustments following the insertion of the device. A central theme of ‘getting on with it’ used to cope with the permanency of the device was identified. This was an approach to life in which the presence of the device was accepted and then put aside while life was continued and optimized. This study provides directions for the identification of persons who might be experiencing difficulties adjusting, or who are taking extended amounts of time to accept the permanency of the device.
Photoselective vaporization of the prostate with the potassium‐titanyl‐phosphate laser in men with prostates of >100 mL
Authors: Rajbabu Krishnamoorthy , Chandrasekara Srinath K. , Barber Neil J. , Walsh Kilian , Muir Gordon H.
Published: May 2007

OBJECTIVES

To assess the efficacy of photoselective vaporization of the prostate (PVP) in men with prostates of >100 mL and causing bladder outlet obstruction (BOO), using the high‐power 80 W potassium‐titanyl‐phosphate laser (GreenLight PV®, Laserscope, San Jose, CA, USA), which offers rapid tissue ablation with minimal bleeding.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We assessed 54 consecutive patients with prostates of >100 mL (mean 135, sd 42, range 100–300) who had PVP between May 2003 and August 2005. Evaluations before PVP included urine flowmetry, the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), a quality‐of life (QoL) score, prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) level, and prostate volume measured by transrectal ultrasonography (TRUS).

RESULTS

The mean (sd, range) duration of PVP was 81.6 (22.9, 39–150) min, the mean energy used for PVP was 278 (60, 176–443) kJ and the mean duration of catheterization after PVP was 23.0 (17.1, 0–72) h. The mean (sd) maximum urinary flow rate improved from 8.0 (3.1) to 18.2 (8.1), 18.5 (9.2), 17.9 (7.8) and 19.3 (9.8) mL/s at 3, 6, 12 and 24 months, respectively. The IPSS and QoL scores showed similar improvements, and there was a statistically significant reduction in PSA level and prostate volume after PVP. There was no major complication and no patient had transurethral resection syndrome or a blood transfusion.

CONCLUSIONS

The 80 W KTP laser PVP offers rapid tissue ablation in patients with BOO caused by a large prostate. The short‐ and medium‐term outcomes show that this technique can be a viable alternative to open prostatectomy.
Interannual to decadal changes in area burned in Canada from 1781 to 1982 and the relationship to Northern Hemisphere land temperatures
Authors: Girardin Martin P.
Published: May 2007

Aim  Temporal variability of annual area burned in Canada (AAB‐Can) from ad 1781 to 1982 is inferred from tree‐ring width data. Next, correlation analysis is applied between the AAB‐Can estimates and Northern Hemisphere (NH) warm season land temperatures to link recent interannual to decadal changes in area burned with large‐scale climate variations. The rationale in this use of tree rings is that annual radial increments produced by trees can approximate area burned through sensing climate variations that promote fire activity.

Location  The statistical reconstruction of area burned is at the scale of Canada.

Methods  The data base of total area burned per year in Canada is used as the predictand. A set of 53 multicentury tree‐ring width chronologies distributed across Canada is used as predictors. A linear model relating the predictand to the tree‐ring predictors is fitted over the period 1920−82. The regression coefficients estimated for the calibration period are applied to the tree‐ring predictors for as far back as 1781 to produce a series of AAB‐Can estimates.

Results  The AAB‐Can estimates account for 44.1% of the variance in the observed data recorded from 1920 to 1982 (92.2% after decadal smoothing) and were verified using a split sample calibration‐verification scheme. The statistical reconstruction indicates that the positive trend in AAB‐Can from c. 1970–82 was preceded by three decades during which area burned was at its lowest during the past 180 years. Correlation analysis with NH warm season land temperatures from the late 18th century to the present revealed a positive statistical association with these estimates.

Main conclusions  As with previous studies, it is demonstrated that the upward trend in AAB‐Can is unlikely to be an artefact from changing fire reporting practices and may have been driven by large‐scale climate variations.
Evaluating the potential eye irritancy of shampoos
Authors: BELL MELISSA , HOLMES PAMELA M. , NISBET TIMOTHY M. , UTTLEY MARGARET , ABBE NORMAN J. VAN
Published: May 2007

Synopsis

Experience in a large manufacturing unit showed that splashes of undiluted shampoo only produced transient effects in the eyes of production and packaging staff; over the same period, very few complaints of eye irritation were received from shampoo users, none of which were of a serious nature. Predictive testing is needed to make sure that new formulations are not severe eye irritants though rabbit eye testing may tend to exaggerate the likely human response.

Detergent concentration is the principal factor influencing findings in the rabbit eye and an active matter content of 2.5–3.0% (usually representing a 20% aqueous dilution of shampoo) gives the best discrimination between formulations whilst producing no signs of distress in the animals; for typical anionic shampoos, testing at this concentration is recommended, without subsequent rinsing. Rabbit eye tests should never be conducted at higher concentrations until their innocuousness at 20% dilution has been shown and, even then, stronger preparations should only be instilled if they contain new ingredients for which the potential risk in human use are unknown. Conduct of all rabbit eye testing as a comparison with a ‘control’ formulation of equivalent concentration, known to be well tolerated under market conditions, is recommended.

For preliminary screening, an in vitro test using freshly‐isolated buccal mucosa cells from human volunteers may be useful, irritancy being assessed by the proportion of cells showing loss of visible nuclei when examined by phase‐contrast microscopy.

Evaluation de l'irritation oculaire par les shampooings
The Skin Blood Supply Factor (SBSF): a useful index for hyperaemia‐producing fitness cosmetics
Authors: BILEK P. , DOSKOCZIL S. , GREITER F. , PROKOP L. , SILADIJ T.
Published: May 2007

Synopsis

While topical agents cannot really ensure an adequate nutrition of the skin, the natural skin function can at least be stimulated by hyperaemia‐producing substances for topical use, which act on the peripheral circulation and thus promote regeneration and nutrition of the skin.

In studies involving male and female sports students a given product was applied to the thighs and abdomen. Prior to and 1 h after application skin temperature was measured at accurately defined sites. The quotient computed between the maximum temperatures at treated and untreated test sites was defined to be the Skin Blood Supply Factor. Within the limits of this definition, maximum temperatures of 32.45° C and 32.25° C in treated and untreated skin areas, respectively, give a Skin Blood Supply Factor of 1.04. This is equivalent to a product‐induced temperature rise of 4%.

Our tests showed that for a physiological effect to be achieved the factor must not be lower than 1.02. In view of peripheral vascular function and considering that product application is virtually unlimited, a factor of 1.08 should not be exceeded.

Le facteur d'activation de la circulation sanguine cutanée (SBSF): un indice pour le développement de produits cosmetiques hyperhemiants.
The gas chromatographic determination of humectants
Authors: CHAMBERS N. , CROPPER E. , PUTTNAM N. A.
Published: May 2007

Synopsis

A rapid gas chromatographic method is described for the simultaneous determination of glycerol, sorbitol or mannitol in a variety of raw materials or finished products.

The method is based upon the direct conversion, normally without predrying, of sample humectants into their acetate derivatives by bomb reaction with acetic anhydride in the presence of pentaerythritol added as internal standard. The resultant acetates are determined by g.l.c.; a complete determination requires about 30 min. The method, as described, is not applicable to samples containing borax or boric acid derivatives.

Le dosage d'humectants par chromatographie en phase gazeus
Biochemical effects of unsaponifiable lipidic components of avocado and soya bean administered percutaneously on the connective tissue components of hairless rat skin
Authors: LAMAUD EVELYNE , ROBERT ALEXANDRE M. , WEPIERRE JACQUES
Published: May 2007

Synopsis

The unsaponifiable lipidic fractions of avocado and soya bean were administered percutaneously, on the dorsal skin of hairless rats for 15 days, in a 5% sweet almond oil solution. This treatment produced a modification of dermal connective tissue components. The biochemical analysis showed an increase of soluble proteins, especially of salt soluble collagen together with a decrease of proteins insoluble in neutral buffer. The ratio, soluble proteins:insoluble proteins, increases as well as the ratio soluble collagen: insoluble collagen. These modifications can be considered as a result of the activation of connective tissue metabolism.

The above results are in agreement with those obtained when the unsaponifiables were administered per os to rats.

Effets biochimiques, sur le tissu conjonctif sous cutané des insaponifiables de soja et d'avocat adminstrés par voie percutanée chez le rat sans poils
The extraction, quantification, and nature of hair lipid
Authors: SHAW D. A.
Published: May 2007

Synopsis

A sensitive method is described for the spectrophotometric assay of hair lipid extracted from hair samples less than 10 mg in weight, i.e. for amounts of lipid down to about 5 μg. The solvent‐free lipid extract is charred by heating in conc. sulphuric acid and the light absorbance of the acid is subsequently measured, after dilution, at 375 nm. Diethyl ether extracted only about one‐third of the total hair lipid after 10 min at room temperature but this probably constitutes most of the surface hair lipid.

Water‐saturated ether heated under reflux extracted about two‐thirds of the total lipid from hair which had been previously equilibrated in an atmosphere of 100% relative humidity. Saponified internal hair lipid was extracted after dissolution of the hair in aq. 2 M potassium hydroxide. Examination of the hair lipid extracts by thin layer chromatography and gas–liquid chromatography suggested that most of the internal lipid was of sebaceous origin.

L'extraction, dosage et l'identification des lipides du cheveu
Hair lipid and surfactants. Extraction of lipid by surfactants and lack of effect of shampooing on rate of re‐fatting of hair
Authors: SHAW D. A.
Published: May 2007

Synopsis

The efficiences of extraction of hair lipid by aqueous solutions of surfactants, using a one‐stage washing procedure, are highly variable, roughly averaging 50% of the lipid readily extractable with diethyl ether at room temperature. Anionic surfactants are significantly more efficient than the non‐ionic surfactant, Tween 20R. Repeated washing of hair continually removes lipid. It is suggested that a one‐stage washing procedure removes essentially all the hair‐surface lipids and that differences in cleaning efficiences of surfactants reflect differences in the amounts of internal hair lipid eluted. Variation of the frequency of shampooing from once to three times weekly had no significant effect on the rate of re‐fatting of hair when two anionic surfactants in commercial shampoo formulations were investigated, i.e. no evidence was obtained in support of either the hypothesis for a feedback mechanism for control of the level of hair lipid, or the suggestion that surfactants can directly stimulate sebaceous gland activity.

Lipides du cheveu et surfactants‐extraction des lipides par les surfactants et absence d'effet des shampooings sur le taux de regraissage du cheveu
Preparation and characterisation of the C10 to C18 even‐numbered triethanolamine alkyl sulphates
Authors: BADWAN A. A. , JAMES K. C. , PUGH W. J.
Published: May 2007

Synopsis

The preparation and characterisation of purified C10 to C18 even‐numbered triethano‐lamine alkyl sulphates are described. Critical micelle concentrations were determined at 25°C, using both conductance and drop volume methods. The authenticity and purity of the products are established, and evidence presented for amending the accepted melting points for two of the compounds.

Preparation et identification des alkysulfates de triethanolamine en C10, C12, C14, C16, C18
Electrical impedance changes and water content in O/W emulsions during evaporation
Authors: SAETTONE M. F. , NANNIPIERI E. , CERVETTO L. , ESCHINI N. , CARELLI V.
Published: May 2007

Synopsis

A method for measuring the variation of electrical impedance (Z) of thin layers (0.1 mm) of O/W emulsions during evaporation in a controlled environment is presented. The evaporation of an emulsion base (A) either as such and containing 1% glycerin (B) or 1% sodium pyrrolidonecarboxylate (C) was investigated for 120 min at constant air temperature (25°C) and relative humidity (55%). The measured impedance of the emulsion layers increased by three orders of magnitude during the evaporation cycles. The relationship between impedance and water content of the evaporating emulsion layers was investigated. Each emulsion showed a complex linear relationship between log Z and water content, the relationship being represented by two (three, for emulsion A) linear portions in the graph. Plots of water content vs. time, temperature vs. time and rate of water loss vs. water content of the emulsion layers are presented. The data appear to indicate that evaporation proceeds via distinct stages, whose correspondence to different mechanisms of water evaporation is discussed. The potentiality of the present method for water analysis, and for investigating structural changes in emulsions during evaporation, is also discussed.

Les variations d'impédance électrique et la teneur en eau d'émulsions huile dans eau en cours d'évaporation
A statistical model for predicting the particle distribution of an atomised powder in liquid mixture
Authors: CALLINGHAM M.
Published: May 2007

Synopsis

A general stochastic model has been derived to show how a particulate solid phase dispersed in a liquid phase will be distributed through drops of the liquid when it is atomised into air or emulsified into an immiscible liquid. The process is applicable to the atomisation that occurs with an aerosol antiperspirant of the suspension type. The model accounts for the disproportionation of such systems by particle size that occurs during atomisation. It also provides a vehicle, in the case of an aerosol antiperspirant, for relating measurements taken in‐flight by a laser imaging method with measurements of the constituent powder obtained by scanning electron microscopy to the amount and composition of material collected by the Hexhlet Elutriator, and shows these methods to be complementary.

Une modeèle statistique pour prévoir la distribution des particules d'une poudre atomisée dans un liquide
Differential thermal analysis of human sebum as a new approach to rheological behaviour
Authors: BORE P. , GOETZ N. , CARON J. C.
Published: May 2007

Synopsis

The oily aspect of a hair is not only the consequence of an excessive lipidic production on the scalp; the quality of the fatty mixture should also be considered.

Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) is a useful tool for qualitative examination of human sebum. The melting curves recorded using this technique characterise the seborrhoeic state of the subject, their profile being related to the clinical appreciation.

Data from DSC are correlated with other physico‐chemical characteristics of sebum, especially with the proportion of unsaturated fatty acids in the whole fatty acids fraction.

The straight chain monoenic acids have been more closely examined. A number of positional isomers can be seen; the distribution of the C18 isomers varies according to the seborrhoeic state of the subject.

L'analyse énthalpique differentielle du sébum. Une nouvelle approche concernant la rhéologie.
L'excrétion sébacée. Méthodes d'étude. Intervention des facteurs physiques environnants
Authors: BLANC D. , AGACHE P.
Published: May 2007

Synopsis

L'excrétion sébacée constitue une intéressante méthode indirecte de quantification de l'activité sécrétoire de ces glandes, malgré les fluctuations engendrées par des facteurs physiques environnants, tels que température cutanée et sudation. Les techniques d'exploration de l'excrétion sébacée se doivent d'être rigoureuses et au mieux codifiées, aussi bien dans la détermination de ses paramètres statiques (casual level ou CL) que dynamiques (sebum excretion rate ou SER). La méconnaissance encore à l'heure actuelle des mécanismes fins régissant l'excrétion sébacée, l'impossibilité d'affirmer ou d'infirmer une autorégulation, rendent compte des ecueils rencontrés dans l'exploration et la compréhension de ces phénomènes.

Sebum Excretion. Methods of measurement and influence of physical factors

Sebum excretion is the entire feature which governs sebum outflow to the skin surface through follicular pore. It can be measured by numerous methods, the first of which, devised by Emanuel in 1936, was a solvent extraction followed by desiccation and weighing. At present, virtually the only methods used are the gravimetric and photometric ones. The first one, using absorbent paper to collect the sebum, was introduced by Strauss and Pochi, and improved by Cunliffe and Shuster. Schaefer and Kuhn‐Bussius’ photometric method is about as accurate as the previous one, but more simple and more rapid to use.

Two parameters can be used to quantify sebum excretion: one static, the casual level (CL), i.e. the skin surface lipid amount of a non protected area neither wiped nor washed; the other is dynamic, the sebum excretion rate (SER), i.e. the skin surface lipid flow of a previously cleaned area. The significant differences of these values between different sex and/or age matched groups, give an account of the various stimulation levels of the sebaceous glands according to the underlying endocrine state.

Several attempts have been made to show a sebum excretion regulation. Unfortunately, because of the divergences of their results, there is still no definite evidence of such an event occuring. Numerous experiments have also been carried out on the effects of skin temperature and sweat on sebum excretion.

The first of these two parameters can act upon sebum skin surface spreading by changing sebum viscosity. The second one can modify local surface tension.

Finally, the existence of a circadian rhythm constitutes a further parameter which must not be neglected when interpreting investigations of sebum excretion.
Current concept of allergic skin reactions
Authors: POLAK LADISLAV
Published: May 2007

Synopsis

On the basis of literature and experimental work the present views on the mechanism of the development of allergic skin reactions of the contact type are reviewed.

Precursors of effector cells originating from stem cells are stimulated by the antigenic complex formed by the application of the hapten to the skin. Autologous skin proteins and macrophages play an important role in this preparatory and antigen recognition phases. Activated T lymphocytes proliferate in the draining lymph node and differentiate into effector and memory cells. The former react to a repeated application of the hapten with release of mediators inducing a skin inflammatory reaction. The latter produce further effector cells thus enhancing the degree of contact sensitivity (booster effect).

The hapten application also activates a specific control mechanism consisting of lymphocytes with the same specificity but adverse activity. These cells, called suppressors, restrict the development of further effector cells thus limiting the degree of contact sensitivity.

Elimination of suppressor cells leads to an enhancement of the degree of contact sensitivity whereas an intended extreme activation of these cells induces a state of specific immunological unresponsiveness (tolerance).

Concept générale des réactions allergiques cutanées
The metabolism of androgens in male pattern alopecia: a review
Authors: BINGHAM K. D.
Published: May 2007

Synopsis

The studies carried out on the metabolism of testosterone and other circulating androgens in human scalp skin and hair follicles have been reviewed with the aim of understanding the role of these androgens in male pattern alopecia (baldness).

Le metabolisme des androgènes dans la calvitie chez l'homme
The inhibitory effect of some amphoteric surfactants on the irritation potential of alkylsulphates
Authors: DOMÍNGUEZ J. GARCÍA , BALAGUER F. , PARRA J. L. , PELEJERO C. M.
Published: May 2007

Synopsis

The physico‐chemical and biological properties of an amphoteric/anionic system and its behaviour against a proteinic support have been thoroughly investigated. A considerable inhibition of adsorption of SLS (sodium lauryl sulphate) on human callus caused by the presence of definite amounts of AABet (alkyl‐amido‐betaines) in the treatment bath is observed. These physico‐chemical results are in agreement with those obtained by some in vivo biological tests. A mechanism of the process via the formation of mixed micelles is postulated emphasizing the stability of such systems as a function of pH, the influence of the chain length of the amphoteric surfactant and the molar relative ratio SLS/AABet. Consequently, our work offers the possibility of a wide applicability of the synergic mixtures of both types of surfactants to inhibit considerably skin irritation of cosmetic finished products.
Study of the photochemical behaviour of sunscreens – benzylidene camphor and derivatives
Authors: BECK IRÉNA , DEFLANDRE ANDRÉ , LANG GÉRARD , ARNAUD RÉNE , LEMAIR JAQUES
Published: May 2007

Synopsis

Benzylidene camphor derivatives have been currently used as ultraviolet filters in sunscreen compositions. When solutions of these compounds are exposed to the light from a solar simulator, a photoinduced cis‐trans isomerization is observed. The initial quantum yields of this photochemical isomerization of studied molecules have been determined in several solvents. Their photochemical behaviour depends neither on the concentration nor on the presence or absence of oxygen or other inhibitors such as isopropanol or biacetyl. It means that the lifetime of the precursor states of isomerization is about 10−12s, that is to say, too short for them to react with neighbouring molecules.

For each compound, the ratio of the respective concentrations of ‘E’ and ‘Z’ forms was also determined by photostationary state. A good agreement between theoretical and experimental values of this ratio shows that the studied compounds are only very slightly photodegradable. This was confirmed by the low values of photodegradation quantum yields.

In case of the studied compounds, the isomerization process observed is totally reversible. During irradiation a photostationary state is quickly reached, each isomer may change into the other form after absorption of a photon which leads to a mixture of isomers. In practice, it is this mixture of E and Z forms which acts as UV filters.

It may be said that a very short lifetime of the excited states, a good light stability and a reaction inertia under light irradiation make these compounds excellent sunscreen agents.

Comportement photochimique des antisolaires. Benzylidène camphre et certans de ses dérivés
The effect of hair care products on dandruff
Authors: ABBE NORMAN J. VAN , BAXTER PATRICIA M. , JACKSON JILL , BELL MELISSA A. , DIXON HAROLD
Published: May 2007

Synopsis

Although the role of micro‐organisms located on the surface of the scalp is disputed by some authors, lipolytic organisms within the hair follicle may still be implicated in the causation of dandruff. Scale formation appears to be an adaptive response to threshold scalp irritation, taking the form of minimal parakeratosis possibly induced by products of lipolysis permeating thin regions of the horny layer. No single pathogen is yet clearly identifiable but effective anti‐dandruff compounds display good antimicrobial activity against the typical lipolytic scalp microflora; this activity is retained in the presence of sebum and a feature of the most efficacious anti‐dandruff agents is their good substantivity to the epidermal horny layer.

L'action des produits capillaires sur les pellicules
Mutagenicity of aminonitrophenol compounds in Salmonella typhimurium: a study of structural‐activity relationships
Authors: SHAHIN MAJDI M. , BUGAUT A. , KALOPISSIS G.
Published: May 2007

Synopsis

In our studies of structure‐activity relationships, four aminonitrophenol isomers and eleven derivatives of 3‐amino‐4‐nitrophenol and 4‐amino‐3‐nitrophenol were tested for their ability to induce mutations in Salmonella typhimurium strains TA1535, TA100, TA1537, TA1538 and TA98. In the presence of an Aroclor‐1254‐induced rat‐liver microsomal activation system (S9mix), 4‐N‐β‐hydroxyethylamino‐3‐nitroanisole and (4‐amino‐3‐nitro) phenoxyethanol were mutagenic in several of these strains. The compounds 3‐amino‐4‐nitrophenol, 3‐N‐methylamino‐4‐nitrophenol, 3‐N‐β‐hydroxyethylamino‐4‐nitrophenol, 3‐amino‐4‐nitroanisole, 3‐N‐methylamino‐4‐nitroanisole, 3‐N‐β‐hydroxyethylamino‐4‐nitroanisole, (3‐amino‐4‐nitro)phenoxyethanol, (3‐methylamino‐4‐nitro)phenoxyethanol, (3‐N‐β‐hydroxyethylamino‐4‐nitro)phenoxyethanol, 4‐amino‐3‐nitrophenol and 4‐N‐β‐hydroxyethylamino‐3‐nitrophenol were inactive, both in the presence and in the absence of S9 mix. In contrast to the results with 3‐amino‐4‐nitrophenol and 4‐amino‐3‐nitrophenol, which were negative, the isomers 2‐amino‐4‐nitrophenol and 2‐amino‐5‐nitrophenol were found to be mutagenic. These results on mutagenic and non‐mutagenic aminonitrophenols and their derivatives suggest that the occurrence of mutagenic activity among these compounds depends on the nature of the substituent chemical groups and their position in the molecular structure of the compounds.

Aminonitriphenols: relation structure‐activité
Safety evaluation of some humectants and moisturizers used in cosmetic formulations
Authors: GUILLOT J. P. , MARTINI M. C. , GIAUFFRET J. Y. , GONNET J. F. , GUYOT J. Y.
Published: May 2007

Synopsis

Safety tests have been carried out on some humectants and moisturizers, continuing a study involving commonly used cosmetic ingredients (1–6). The test substances (listed in Table I) were products from various suppliers and of different types and grades. The ocular and cutaneous tolerance tests have been conducted on animals following the official French methods but with some complements or modifications (28–36). Each compound has been tested as supplied and diluted in water. Pathological lesions of the ocular mucous membrane were provoked by lactic acid at 20 and 10% concentrations. A slight corneal opacity was also noted with ethoxydiglycol and polyamino sugar condensate and a significant irritation with hexylene glycol (non‐diluted). In dilutions of 10 or 20%, these substances were non‐irritating. Only one product (lactic acid) has given a moderate primary cutaneous irritation (PII = 2.50), when applied undiluted. The indices obtained with the other raw materials correspond to a non‐irritating application.

With the exception of lactic acid (the study being terminated after 1 week), no significant adverse reaction was macroscopically and histologically observed after daily application (neat) for 6 weeks.

Finally, the predictive sensitizing tests (guinea‐pig) carried out with two samples of propylene glycol proved to be negative.

Evaluation toxicologique d'agents d'hydratation utilisés en cosmétologie
Emulsification des huiles végétales: application à l'huile d'olive
Authors: DELONCA H. , ALVARADO D. , SAUNAL H. , Et J. PASSET , LAGET J.P.
Published: May 2007

Synopsis

Le présent travail a eu pour but de comprendre les phénomènes régissant la stabilité des émulsions H/E à base d'huile d'olive et de tensio actifs non ioniques. Ces surfactifs ont été utilisés en association (un émulsif hydrophile/un émulsif lipophile) de façon à obtenir une gamme de valeurs HLB s'étendant de 7 à 12. Dans ces conditions l'émulsification de l'huile d'olive n'a été possible que dans le cas où l'émulsif lipophile du couple comportait une chaine stéarique, isostéarique ou stéarylique, et lorsque l'émulsif hydrophile possédait une chaine hydrophile de poids moléculaire moyen (400 < PM < 600). Ces résultats tendent à confirmer la théorie selon laquelle la stabilité des émulsions est favorisée par un film interfacial de type lamellaire.

Ce travail a également permis de mettre en évidence la fragilité de la notion de HLB critique dans le cas de l'huile d'olive.

Emulsification of vegetable oils: application to olive oil
The influence of fatty alcohols on the structure and stability of creams prepared with polyethylene glycol 1000 monostearate/fatty alcohols
Authors: ECCLESTON G. M.
Published: May 2007

Synopsis

Liquid paraffin in water emulsions stabilized by PEG 1000 monostearate and alcohols cetostearyl (c/s) myristyl (C14), cetyl (C16) or stearyl (C18) and ternary systems prepared by dispersing each fatty alcohol and surfactant in water were examined during 30 days using a Ferranti‐Shirley cone and plate viscometer. Microscopical diffusion experiments investigated interaction between PEG 1000 monostearate solution and each alcohol at high and low temperature.

The rheological properties of each ternary system and corresponding emulsion were similar. Formulations prepared from pure C14, C16 or c/s alcohols were semisolid immediately after preparation. Flow curves were in the form of anticlockwise hysteresis loops with spur points. On ageing for 24 h, structure built‐up over a time scale similar to that observed in diffusion experiments, so that apparent viscosities increased. However, on further ageing the pure C14 and C16 alcohol systems were not as stable as those prepared with c/s alcohol. In contrast, the pure C18 systems were mobile liquids and the emulsion cracked within days. This correlated with diffusion experiments where little interaction was observed between stearyl alcohol and PEG 1000 monostearate.

Emulsion consistencies and stabilities were related to the low temperature structures formed in the continuous phases.

L'influence des alcools gras sur la structure et la stabilité des crèmes préparées à partir de systèmes monostéarate de polyéthylène glycol 1000/alcools gras.
An investigation of detergent action on cells in vitro and possible correlations with in vivo data
Authors: SCAIFE M. C.
Published: May 2007

Synopsis

A cell fluorescence method for quantifying the effects of detergents on cultured cell lines is described. The results are discussed in relation to other findings in the literature. These results are compared to data obtained with the same detergents in the rabbit eye test and the possible correlations and discrepancies are considered.

Details are given of the culture of two human epithelioid cell lines (HeLa and HEp2) and their utilization in a procedure to assess the cytotoxicity of detergents on cells in monolayer culture. The method is dependent on the ability of relatively intact cells to liberate and retain fluorescein from fluorescein diacetate. Ethidium bromide, a red fluorescent compound, is used to stain the nuclear material remaining in membrane‐damaged cells. The results of the in vitro test are compared to the data obtained from the responses seen in the rabbit eye on instillation of the same detergents. For sodium and triethanolamine alkyl sulphates at comparable concentrations, an increase in chain length increases the in vitro cytotoxicity but decreases the effects seen in the conjunctivae, cornea and iris. For the C12, C14 and C16 alkyl trimethylammonium bromides, an increase in chain length increases in vitro cytotoxicity as well as the in vivo responses. Tweens 20 and 40 appeared more damaging in vivo than Tweens 60 and 80; this differentiation was not observed in vivo. The findings of both tests are discussed in terms of detergent solubilities, penetration of, and adsorption of tissues in vivo as well as the effects of detergents on enzymes.
Motor Unit Number Estimation Using Reversible Jump Markov Chain Monte Carlo Methods
Authors: Ridall P. G. , Pettitt A. N. , Friel N. , McCombe P. A. , Henderson R. D.
Published: May 2007

We present an application of reversible jump Markov chain Monte Carlo sampling from the field of neurophysiology where we seek to estimate the number of motor units within a single muscle. Such an estimate is needed for monitoring the progression of neuromuscular diseases such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Our data consist of action potentials that were recorded from the surface of a muscle in response to stimuli of different intensities applied to the nerve supplying the muscle. During the gradual increase in intensity of the stimulus from the threshold to supramaximal, all motor units are progressively excited. However, at any given submaximal intensity of stimulus, the number of units that are excited is variable, because of random fluctuations in axonal excitability. Furthermore, the individual motor unit action potentials exhibit variability. To account for these biological properties, Ridall and co-workers developed a model of motor unit activation that is capable of describing the response where the number of motor units, N, is fixed. The purpose of this paper is to extend that model so that the possible number of motor units, N, is a stochastic variable. We illustrate the elements of our model, show that the results are reproducible and show that our model can measure the decline in motor unit numbers during the course of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Our method holds promise of being useful in the study of neurogenic diseases.
Adaptive Gaussian Markov Random Fields with Applications in Human Brain Mapping
Authors: Brezger A. , Fahrmeir L. , Hennerfeind A.
Published: May 2007

Functional magnetic resonance imaging has become a standard technology in human brain mapping. Analyses of the massive spatiotemporal functional magnetic resonance imaging data sets often focus on parametric or non-parametric modelling of the temporal component, whereas spatial smoothing is based on Gaussian kernels or random fields. A weakness of Gaussian spatial smoothing is underestimation of activation peaks or blurring of high curvature transitions between activated and non-activated regions of the brain. To improve spatial adaptivity, we introduce a class of inhomogeneous Markov random fields with stochastic interaction weights in a space-varying coefficient model. For given weights, the random field is conditionally Gaussian, but marginally it is non-Gaussian. Fully Bayesian inference, including estimation of weights and variance parameters, can be carried out through efficient Markov chain Monte Carlo simulation. Although motivated by the analysis of functional magnetic resonance imaging data, the methodological development is general and can also be used for spatial smoothing and regression analysis of areal data on irregular lattices. An application to stylized artificial data and to real functional magnetic resonance imaging data from a visual stimulation experiment demonstrates the performance of our approach in comparison with Gaussian and robustified non-Gaussian Markov random-field models.
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and Alzheimer's disease – clinical and neuropathological considerations in two cases
Authors: Rusina R. , Sheardová K. , Rektorová I. , Ridzoň P. , Kulišt’ák P. , Matěj R.
Published: May 2007

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) may be accompanied by cognitive impairment; when present, it is mainly in the form of frontotemporal impairment. We report on two cases with clinically defined ALS that subsequently developed dementia. Neuropathological examination showed not only the typical neuropathological hallmarks characteristic of ALS but, surprisingly, also showed neurofibrillary tangles and neuritic plaques in sufficient numbers to fulfill the diagnostic criteria of definite Alzheimer's disease.
Clinical usefulness of intrathecal antibody testing in acute Lyme neuroborreliosis
Authors: Ljøstad U. , Skarpaas T. , Mygland Å.
Published: May 2007

The aim of the study was to examine diagnostic sensitivity and temporal course of intrathecal Borrelia burgdorferi (Bb) antibody production in acute Lyme neuroborreliosis (LNB). We recruited consecutive adult patients with LNB diagnosis based on strict selection criteria. Serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSFs) were obtained, and clinical examination was performed pre‐treatment, and 13 days and 4 months post‐treatment. Pre‐treatment positive Bb antibody index (AI) was detected in 34 of 43 (79%). All nine pre‐treatment Bb AI negative patients, and 26 of 34 pre‐treatment Bb AI positive patients reported symptom duration <6 weeks. Eight patients, all Bb AI positive, reported symptom duration of 6 weeks or longer. Consequently, pre‐treatment diagnostic sensitivity of Bb AI was 74% when symptom duration was <6 weeks, and 100% when 6 weeks or longer. Three patients converted from negative to positive Bb AI status post‐treatment. The six patients who were persistently Bb AI negative had lower CSF cell count and protein at presentation, when compared with the patients with positive Bb AI. In conclusion, the diagnostic sensitivity of Bb AI is suboptimal in acute early LNB. Repeated post‐treatment Bb AI testing, to confirm or reject LNB diagnosis, is unreliable, as the majority of initial Bb AI negative patients remained negative at follow‐up.
A unique case of limb‐girdle muscular dystrophy type 2A carrying novel compound heterozygous mutations in the human CAPN3 gene
Authors: Matsubara E. , Tsuchiya A. , Minami N. , Nishino I. , Pappolla M. A. , Shoji M. , Abe K.
Published: May 2007

A unique sib pair afflicted by limb girdle muscular dystrophy type 2A (LGMD2A) is described showing a slowly progressive autosomal recessive type of muscular dystrophy with onset in the third and fourth decades. The patients had early asymmetric muscle involvement characterized by prominent biceps brachii atrophy with sparing of the knee extensors. Additional findings included elevation of serum creatine kinase level, myopathic EMG changes and dystrophic type of pathology on muscle biopsy. Asymmetrical wasting of muscles in the extremities exhibited uniform and highly selective CT imaging patterns. RNA and DNA analyses confirmed novel compound heterozygous mutations (R147X/L212F) in the human CAPN3 gene.
Anterior ischemic optic neuropathy in moyamoya disease: a first case report
Authors: Chen C. S. , Lee A. W. , Kelman S. , Wityk R.
Published: May 2007

Neuro‐ophthalmological manifestations in moyamoya disease are usually the result of cerebrovascular involvement of the visual pathways. We report a case of ischemic optic neuropathy due to ocular hypoperfusion as a result of moyamoya disease, despite a prior internal to external carotid artery bypass with normal hemisphere perfusion. The blood supply of the optic nerve, a proposed pathogenesis of an anterior ischemic optic neuropathy and complications of the ocular ischemic syndrome are discussed.
Do Enlargements Make the European Union Less Cohesive? An Analysis of Trust between EU Nationalities*
Authors: DELHEY JAN
Published: May 2007

This article analyses the impact enlargements have had on the social cohesion of the European Union (EU), measured as generalized interpersonal trust between EU nationalities. Based on a quantitative‐dyadic approach, Eurobarometer surveys from 1976 to 1997 are utilized. The key result is that enlargements do not necessarily weaken cohesion, but southern enlargement and the recent eastern enlargement did. The integrative effect of enlargement depends on the extent to which acceding nations differ from existing club members in three main dimensions: the level of modernization (mechanisms: prestige), cultural characteristics (mechanisms: similarity) and their power in the international system (mechanisms: perceived threat).
The place of special schools in a policy climate of inclusion
Authors: Head George , Pirrie Anne
Published: May 2007

In November 2003, the Scottish Executive Education Department (SEED) commissioned the SCRE Centre at the University of Glasgow to evaluate the impact of Section 15 of the Standards in Scotland's Schools etc Act 2000. The evaluation took place between January 2004 and August 2005. A major strand of the research was the impact of the presumption of mainstreaming on special schools, including an exploration of the changing role of special schools, and the changing demands on staff in special education. The evidence presented in this paper suggests that whilst there may be widespread support for specialist provision within a policy climate of inclusion, the sector has undergone significant changes in the last few years. These changes have had a particular impact on the curriculum, teaching and learning, and ‘specialness’ of special schools. However, not all of these changes are due to the impact of mainstreaming.
Preparing for inclusive education: the pre‐course experiences of prospective secondary school teachers on a UK‐based training course
Authors: Pearson Sue
Published: May 2007

Progress towards inclusive education has been linked to the professional development of teachers, including their initial training. This study explores the range and nature of the experiences that students bring to a one‐year Post Graduate Certificate in Education course for prospective secondary teachers in England. The data was gathered through questionnaires given to the whole cohort. There was a high response rate although a consequence of this approach was a reliance on self‐reports. The analysis illustrates the diversity of experiences across the cohort that may impact on beliefs and attitudes of the individuals. If planning of teacher development is to be effective, providers need information of this type to inform their planning and delivery.
Hydraulic conductivity and porosity under conventional and no‐tillage and the effect of three species of cover crop in northern France
Authors: Carof M. , De Tourdonnet S. , Coquet Y. , Hallaire V. , Roger‐Estrade J.
Published: May 2007

We studied soil hydraulic conductivity (K) and porosity in five combinations of soil tillage and cover crop management systems. Treatments were winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) grown on a conventionally tilled soil (CT), on a no‐till soil (NT), and on an NT with three different cover crops: red fescue (Festuca rubra L.; Fr), bird's‐foot‐trefoil (Lotus corniculatus L.; Lc) and alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.; Ms). Measurements were made on a loamy soil in Grignon, France, in November 2004, May 2005 and October 2005. K and mean size of hydraulically active pores were measured in situ at three water potentials (−0.6, −0.2 and −0.05 kPa) at the soil surface and at 10 cm depth. In November 2004 and May 2005, pore space was described using 2D image analysis of pores on undisturbed soil samples in the 0–10 cm layer and in the 10–20 cm layer. The major differences were caused by soil tillage that created two heterogeneous soil layers and increased K in the 0–10 cm layer relative to NT. The effects of cover crop on K and porosity were not affected by the root type: there were no major differences between the grass cover crop (fibrous‐root type) and the leguminous ones (tap‐root type). However, we recorded larger functional pores and more tubules in the no‐till treatments with a cover crop, compared with the no‐till treatment without cover crop; this was probably the result of root activity. Although these changes generally did not result in larger values of K, they participated in the maintenance of soil structure and K over time.
Phosphorus losses in surface run‐off from grazed permanent pastures on a volcanic soil from Chile
Authors: Alfaro M. A. , Salazar F. J.
Published: May 2007

Reactive (RP) and organic phosphorus (OP) losses from grazed paddocks were determined on a volcanic soil during 2004 and 2005. Paddocks were grazed by Holstein Friesian steers (3.5 steers ha−1) and received N (67.5 kg ha−1) and P fertilizer (30 kg P ha−1). Total losses ranged between 4 and 15 g P ha−1 year−1 and were greatly affected by incidental P losses associated with spring P fertilizer application. Reactive P constituted 90% of the total losses on average. Due to the high water infiltration capacity of the soil, run‐off was <1% of total drainage, therefore, phosphorus losses in run‐off were small.
Effects of compaction on soil surface water repellency
Authors: Bryant R. , Doerr S. H. , Hunt G. , Conan S.
Published: May 2007

Water repellency can reduce the infiltration capacity of soils over timescales similar to those of precipitation events. Compaction can also reduce infiltration capacity by decreasing soil hydraulic conductivity, but the effect of compaction on soil water repellency is unknown. This study explores the effect of compaction on the wettability of water repellent soil. Three air‐dry (water content ∼4 g 100 g−1) silt loam samples of contrasting wettability (non‐repellent, strongly and severely water repellent) were homogenized and subjected to various pressures in the range 0–1570 kPa in an odeometer for 24 h. Following removal, sample surface water repellency was reassessed using the water drop penetration time method and surface roughness using white light interferometry. An increase in compaction pressure caused a significant reduction in soil surface water repellency, which in turn increases the soil's initial infiltration capacity. The difference in surface roughness of soils compacted at the lowest and highest pressures was significant (at P > 0.2) suggesting an increase in the contact area between sessile water drops and soil surfaces was providing increased opportunities for surface wetting mechanisms to proceed. This suggests that compaction of a water repellent soil may lead to an increased rate of surface wetting, which is a precursor to successful infiltration of water into bulk soil. Although there may be a reduction in soil conductivity upon compaction, the more rapid initiation of infiltration may, in some circumstances, lead to an overall increase in the proportion of rain or irrigation water infiltrating water repellent soil, rather than contributing to surface run‐off or evaporation.