bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relationship between Hemostatic Markers and Circulating Biochemical Markers of Collagen Metabolism in Patients with Aortic Aneurysm
Authors: Ihara Akihiro , Kawamoto Toshiharu , Matsumoto Kengo , Kawamoto Jun , Katayama Akira , Yoshitatsu Masao , Izutani Hironori , Ihara Katsuhiko
Published: December 2004

Our objective was to determine the relationship between plasma levels of hemostatic molecular markers – D-dimer and thrombin-antithrombin III complex (TAT) – and circulating biochemical markers of collagen metabolism – aminoterminal propeptide of type III procollagen (PIIIP) and carboxyterminal propeptide of type I procollagen (PICP) – in patients with aortic aneurysm. The subjects were 43 patients with aortic aneurysm (AA; mean age 71 years) and 26 age-matched controls (mean age 75 years). The mean D-dimer, TAT and PIIIP levels were higher in the patients than in the controls (p < 0.0001, 0.0001 and 0.012, respectively), while the mean PICP level was similar to that in the controls. Increased D-dimer had a significant correlation with PIIIP (r = 0.412, p = 0.006) and PICP (r = 0.342, p = 0.0246), while TAT correlated with PIIIP (r = 0.3194, p = 0.0374), but not with PICP. There was also a significant correlation (r = 0.306, p = 0.0463) between PIIIP and PICP. As shown by the significant positive correlations among D-dimer, TAT and PIIIP, accelerated fibrinolysis and thrombogenesis induce an increase of collagen degradation and procollagen synthesis in atherosclerotic lesions. These findings show that D-dimer and TAT, especially the former, may be useful markers to monitor the progression and predict the prognosis of AA.
Operational Definition of a Causative Contact Allergen – A Study with Six Fragrance Allergens
Authors: Hostýnek Jurij J. , Maibach Howard I.
Published: December 2004

In practice, the clinical diagnosis of allergic contact dermatitis is often highly problematic with the identification of the specific allergen that has actually caused a patient’s particular dermatitic episode being even more difficult. A large number of reports in the literature are able to identify a number of substances to which the patient is allergic without clearly indicating a causal link to the patient’s current problem. For the reader of such reports, it is often difficult to judge if this link has been established, and for this reason, a number of criteria have been proposed to determine if reported positive patch test reactions are clinically relevant. These criteria include the degree of information given on the selection and condition of the patients, patch testing conditions, the intensity and duration of reactions, reactions occurring simultaneously to other patch test materials, the likelihood of confounding factors such as cross-reactions and excited skin occurring, linkage to specific consumer products or environmental sources of the putative allergen and follow-up with appropriate use testing. Criteria are also suggested for evaluating a substance’s allergenic potency from reports of predictive testing. These include the availability of details on the test methodology, maximization procedures, the selection criteria for test and control subjects and of the exact test scores. The applicability of these criteria are tested in separate publications on 6 fragrance allergens, for which information is provided on patch test concentrations.
Role of Ceramides in Skin Stress: Ultraviolet Light, Tape Stripping and Crowding
Authors: Choi Myeong Jun , Maibach Howard I.
Published: December 2004

Stratum corneum intercellular lipids regulate skin water barrier function and water-holding capacity; their modification may impair these properties. Physical and chemical stresses diminish barrier function. Acute barrier disruption by tape stripping increases sphingomyelinase and serine palmitoyltransferase activity; ceramide contents are increased to restore barrier function. Overcrowding stress induces dry skin, and the barrier function impairment correlates with decreased skin cera- mides. The effect of UV irradiation on ceramide content and barrier function varies with doses and UV wavelength. Stress-induced ceramide generation may induce apoptosis in cultured human keratinocytes and restore barrier function. This review focuses on the role of ceramides in physical and chemical stress, suggesting that refinement and extension of this academic domain may lead to therapeutic advances.
Efficacy of a Topical Agent, MAS063D (‘Atopiclair’), in the Treatment of Sodium Lauryl Sulphate-Induced Irritant Contact Dermatitis
Authors: Zhai Hongbo , Villarama Clarissa D. , Hafeez Zeba Hasan , Maibach Howard I.
Published: December 2004

Background: Irritant contact dermatitis (ICD) is commonly treated with topical corticosteroids. MAS063D (‘Atopiclair’) is a nonsteroidal effective in atopic dermatitis. Objective: To determine the efficacy of a topical agent, MAS063D, in managing ICD. Methods: Two sites of ICD were created using sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) in 20 volunteers; MAS063D was then applied to one and a vehicle-only control to the other. Measurements were taken at baseline, 24, 48 and 72 h. Results: The objective measurements of blood flow volume (BFV), skin color (a*) and transepidermal water loss (TEWL) all showed statistically significant benefits of MAS063D over the vehicle-only control. BFV and a* were significantly better at all time points (p = 0.046, p = 0.045, respectively, at 72 h) and TEWL at 48 and 72 h (p = 0.02 at 72 h). Conclusion: MAS063D demonstrated benefits over vehicle in three clinically meaningful outcomes of SLS-induced ICD.
Attenuation of Leukocyte Sequestration by Selective Blockade of PECAM-1 or VCAM-1 in Murine Endotoxemia
Authors: Nolte D. , Kuebler W.M. , Muller W.A. , Wolff K.-D. , Messmer K.
Published: December 2004

Background: Molecular mechanisms regulating leukocyte sequestration into the tissue during endotoxemia and/or sepsis are still poorly understood. This in vivo study investigates the biological role of murine PECAM-1 and VCAM-1 for leukocyte sequestration into the lung, liver and striated skin muscle. Methods: Male BALB/c mice were injected intravenously with murine PECAM-1 IgG chimera or monoclonal antibody (mAb) to VCAM-1 (3 mg/kg body weight); controls received equivalent doses of IgG2a (n = 6 per group). Fifteen minutes thereafter, 2 mg/kg body weight of Salmonella abortus equi endotoxin was injected intravenously. At 24 h after the endotoxin challenge, lungs, livers and striated muscle of skin were analyzed for their myeloperoxidase activity. To monitor intravital leukocyte-endothelial cell interactions, fluorescence videomicroscopy was performed in the skin fold chamber model of the BALB/c mouse at 3, 8 and 24 h after injection of endotoxin. Results: Myeloperoxidase activity at 24 h after the endotoxin challenge in lungs (12,171 ± 2,357 mU/g tissue), livers (2,204 ± 238 mU/g) and striated muscle of the skin (1,161 ± 110 mU/g) was significantly reduced in both treatment groups as compared to controls, with strongest attenuation in the PECAM-1 IgG treatment group. Arteriolar leukocyte sticking at 3 h after endotoxin (230 ± 46 cells × mm–2) was significantly reduced in both treatment groups. Leukocyte sticking in postcapillary venules at 8 h after endotoxin (343 ± 69 cells/mm2) was found reduced only in the VCAM-1-mAb-treated animals (215 ± 53 cells/mm2), while it was enhanced in animals treated with PECAM-1 IgG (572 ± 126 cells/mm2). Conclusion: These data show that both PECAM-1 and VCAM-1 are involved in endotoxin-induced leukocyte sequestration in the lung, liver and muscle, presumably through interference with arteriolar and/or venular leukocyte sticking.
Pulsatility Index Determination by Flowmeter Measurement: A New Indicator for Vascular Resistance?
Authors: Aleksic M. , Heckenkamp J. , Gawenda M. , Brunkwall J.
Published: December 2004

Background: Peripheral resistance (R) is measured by flow (Q) and a pressure difference (P1-P2), where R equals (P1-P2)/Q. The pulsatility index (PI) has been used to assess peripheral vascular resistance by measuring flow velocities. Alternatively, PI can be expressed by the ratio of the flow volume amplitude and mean flow volume which both are quantified by a flowmeter. While reflected flow due to a distally located stenosis will considerably influence PI, this parameter theoretically could provide a good estimation of resistance. The appropriateness of this presumption has not been evaluated in this setting though, why the correlation of PI in flow recordings was examined by comparing PI with the true R using the stenosis of the internal carotid artery (ICA) as a clinical model. Methods: The volume flow in the ICA was measured by a transit-time flowmeter in 400 patients undergoing carotid endarteriectomy. The pressure in the common carotid artery (CCA) proximal to and in the ICA distal to the stenosis was determined by direct puncture allowing the calculation of a pressure gradient (PG) and R in analogy to Ohm’s law. R and PI were then correlated using Spearman’s correlation. Results: The blood flow in the ICA ranged from 2 to 478 ml/min with a median value of 165. The median PG was 14 mm Hg (0 to 88). Median R was 0.08 mm Hg × min / ml (0–26.5). PI varied between 0.8 and 114.1 with a mean of 1.9. Since a concentration of R and PI values in the lower ranges was observed, a logarithmic transformation was performed. Log PI showed only weak correlation to log R (r = 0.426, p < 0.0001). Conclusions: Log PI was intermediately correlated to log R in carotid artery stenosis, with a low discriminating power in the lower ranges due to the close distribution of measurements. Further studies are required to clarify the role of PI in hemodynamic questions and its general usefulness in other fields of vascular surgery like in peripheral bypass surgery.
Lichtenstein Inguinal Hernioplasty Using Butyl-2-Cyanoacrylate versus Sutures
Authors: Nowobilski W. , Dobosz M. , Wojciechowicz T. , Mionskowska Lucjanna
Published: December 2004

The Lichtenstein hernioplasty has become a popular method in inguinal hernia repair. This study compared two methods of mesh fixation and wound closure. Forty-six men with unilateral inguinal hernia were randomized into two groups. In the control group polypropylene mesh was anchored with 3/0 Dexon sutures, fascia and skin were closed with sutures 3/0 Dexon and 3/0 Monosof. In the study group, the mesh was secured with butyl-2-cyanoacrylate adhesive and the fascia and skin were also glued with the adhesive. The costs of materials, duration of the operation, amount of postoperative analgesic doses, pain score after the first and the 7th postoperative day and return to daily activity were recorded. No recurrences during the mean follow-up of 4.7 months were observed and the cosmetic effect was very good. In the study group with tissue adhesive the patients had significantly lower pain score after the first postoperative day and had a tendency to require less analgetic doses and to return earlier to their daily activity. Duration of the operation was similar in both groups. The cost of sutures and tissue adhesive used in both procedures was comparable. The use of tissue adhesive in mesh fixation and wound closure seems to be a promising technique in Lichtenstein hernia repair.
Quantitative Reduction of Methyl Tetrazolium by Fresh Vein Homograft Biopsies in vitro Is an Index of Viability
Authors: Galambos B. , Csönge L. , Olah A. , von Versen R. , Tamas L. , Zsoldos P.
Published: December 2004

Objective: The color density of the methyl tetrazolium (MTT) test is proportional to mitochondrial enzyme activity thus reflecting cellular viability. The aim was to evaluate the MTT test as a viability assay for vein homograft studies. Materials and Methods: Fresh intact vein samples were harvested during multi-organ procurement. The reliability of the MTT assay was tested by a fluorescent dye combination (1 µg/ml propidium iodide PI and 4 µM/ml SYTO-16 stains). The enzyme kinetics of the reaction was also investigated. The optimal reagent concentration, biopsy size and incubation period were established. Results: There was a linear relationship between the vein homograft’s weight and the pigment production activity. A nonspecific reaction (8.6%) was observed in negative controls. The MTT cleavage up to 0.1% (w/v) follows the Michaelis kinetics. The Michaelis constant (2,805 ± 130 µM), the maximal velocity (196 ± 2.2 × 10–5 µM s–1) and the velocity constant (6.98 ± 0.2 × 10–7 s–1) was calculated. The viability assessed by fluorescent dyes simultaneously visualized the live/dead cell ratio, which can be calculated by image analysis software. Conclusion: The use of MTT in colorimetric assays offers high sensitivity. The assay is simple, inexpensive, and reproducible in vein homograft studies.
Caries Trends 1996–2002 among 6- and 12-Year- Old Children and Erosive Wear Prevalence among 12-Year-Old Children in The Hague
Authors: Truin G.J. , van Rijkom H.M. , Mulder J. , van‘t Hof M.A.
Published: December 2004

In 2002 a dental survey amongst 6- and 12-year-old schoolchildren (n = 832) in The Hague was carried out. The caries findings were compared with findings from earlier studies in The Hague. Caries prevalence (% of caries-free children) and caries experience (mean dmfs scores) among 6-year-old children had not changed significantly in the period 1996–2002. However, a significant increase of caries-free 12-year-old children of low socio-economic status was found in the period 1996–2002. The proportions of caries-free 12-year-old Dutch, Turkish and Moroccan children of low socio-economic status were 88, 69 and 78%, respectively, in 2002. The average DMFT score of 12-year-olds reached a minimum of 0.2. In 2002, 24% of the 12-year-olds exhibited signs of erosion, indicating that the presence of erosive wear was high among youngsters in The Hague.
The Effect of Five Years’ Implementation of Caries-Preventive Methods in Swedish High-Risk Adolescents
Authors: Källestål C.
Published: December 2004

Aim: To study the effectiveness of four different preventive programmes within a group of adolescents at high risk of caries. Subjects and Methods: In 1995, a cohort of 12-year-olds was examined for caries and completed a questionnaire. Subjects identified as being at high risk were examined every year until 2000 when they were 17 years old. This high-risk group was subdivided into four groups, each individual randomly assigned to one of four preventive programmes: (A) information on tooth-brushing techniques; (B) prescription of fluoride lozenges; (C) semi-annual applications of fluoride varnish; (D) quarterly appointments where participants were given individualised information on oral hygiene and diet as well as an application of fluoride varnish. The outcomes examined were the caries increment in dentine, enamel and fillings. Poisson regression was used to assess the influence of background, preventive factors and habits. Results: The number of 12-year-olds in the high-risk group was 1,134 in 1995, of which 925 were still participants in 2000. The differences between the programmes in mean 5-year increment were not significant. Less risk of caries increment was shown for those who had at least one sealant and for those who belonged to the fluoride varnish group (C). A higher risk was observed for adolescents from working-class homes, and for those who reported often eating sweets and not brushing their teeth twice a day at all examinations during the whole study period. Conclusions: The preventive programmes tested were equal in showing low efficiency in adolescents with high caries risk.
A Randomised Controlled Trial to Determine the Effectiveness of Glass Ionomer Sealants in Pre-School Children
Authors: Chadwick B.L. , Treasure E.T. , Playle R.A.
Published: December 2004

Background: Caries levels in pre-school children remain high in some areas of the UK. Studies of glass ionomer fissure sealants show their potential for caries prevention in permanent teeth, but their use in primary teeth has not been reported. Aim: To determine whether a glass ionomer fissure sealant placed on primary molars in pre-school children at high risk of developing dental caries can decrease the incidence of dental caries. Material: 508 children aged 18–30 months from high caries areas of South Wales with caries-free first primary molars were recruited to the trial after informed consent. Methods: This was a placebo-controlled individual randomised controlled trial (RCT). All children (n = 508) received a standard package of dental health education. Children in the test group (n = 241) had their first primary molars sealed with glass ionomer. All the children were re-examined once at varying intervals between 12 and 30 months. Results: Analysis of the caries data revealed no significant difference between test and control groups for any of the parameters examined. Examination of the confidence intervals showed no indication that there might be a difference even if the sample size had been increased. Conclusion: There is no evidence that the intervention as used in this population had any effect on caries incidence and it cannot be recommended as a clinical procedure.
Intra-Oral Fluoride Retention 3 Minutes after Fluoride Mouthrinsing in 4- to 5-Year-Old Children: Effects of Fluoride Concentration and Rinsing Time
Authors: Adachi K. , Nakagaki H. , Tsuboi S. , Maruyama S. , Goshima M. , Shibata T. , Mukai M. , Robinson C. , Mariano R.B.
Published: December 2004

This study was undertaken to explore the site-specific retention rate and the possibility of shortening fluoride (F) mouthrinsing time of kindergarten children. Fluoride retention after 10-, 20- and 30-second mouthrinsing was determined in 43 kindergarten children aged 4–5 years. Tooth surfaces were sampled by a paper point method. Fluoride concentrations in the salivary film on tooth surfaces increased from primary molars to primary incisors in the maxilla and decreased from primary molars to primary incisors in the mandible. The fluoride solution reached the primary molars even after a 10-second rinse, but F concentrations were higher after 20 s than after 10 s and significantly higher after 30 s than after 10 s. No significant difference was observed between 20 and 30 s. The average total F retained in the mouth was 0.13 mg after 20 s and 0.17 mg after 30 s. It was concluded that 30-second mouthrinsing, which is used extensively in Japanese kindergartens, can be shortened to 20 s.
Structural Changes in Human Dental Enamel after Subablative Erbium Laser Irradiation and Its Potential Use for Caries Prevention
Authors: Apel C. , Meister J. , Götz H. , Duschner H. , Gutknecht N.
Published: December 2004

Numerous studies have confirmed the potential of erbium laser irradiation for increasing the acid resistance of dental enamel. The objective of the present paper was to investigate the effect of subablative erbium laser irradiation on the structure and acid resistance of dental enamel by means of confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). To this end, 12 samples of human dental enamel were irradiated with subablative energy densities (Φ) of an Er:YAG (λ = 2.94 µm, Φ = 6 J/cm2) and an Er:YSGG laser (λ = 2.79 µm, Φ = 8 J/cm2). The enamel surfaces of 6 samples were polished prior to irradiation. The remaining 6 samples were left intact (without polishing procedures) and, in the further course of the study, they were subjected to 1-week in situ demineralisation. All irradiated test surfaces were assigned a control surface on the same sample. The changes following laser irradiation and the in situ wearing time were assessed qualitatively using a confocal laser scanning microscope. The irradiation of dental enamel with subablative erbium laser irradiation produces fine cracks in the enamel surface. These cracks act as starting points for acid attack and favour deep demineralisation. These changes reduce or eliminate the positive effect of subablative erbium laser irradiation observed in connection with caries-preventive use. The clinical use of subablative erbium laser irradiation to prevent caries would appear not to make sense under the conditions studied.
Comparison of Viable Cell Yield from Excised versus Aspirated Adipose Tissue
Authors: von Heimburg Dennis , Hemmrich Karsten , Haydarlioglu Sevinc , Staiger Harald , Pallua Norbert
Published: December 2004

The correction of soft-tissue defects by adipose tissue transplantation often produces poor and unpredictable results. The implantation of isolated and cultured preadipocytes offers a solution to this problem since these cells differentiate into adipocytes when implanted in vivo. A field of major interest is to maximize the yield of preadipocytes isolated from adipose tissue showing only low contamination with other cell types. Aspiration and excision are two concurrent clinical ways of harvesting adipose tissue for the isolation of preadipocytes. This tissue is usually discarded after surgery. In this study, the yield of preadipocytes obtained from liposuction material was compared to that of excised adipose tissue. Furthermore, we determined the loss of precursor cells if isolation of preadipocytes was delayed for 24 h. Preadipocytes were isolated from the stromal cell fraction of human subcutaneous adipose tissue samples. Harvesting of adipose tissue by suction was performed according to the Coleman procedure (manually applied negative pressure using a 10-ml syringe with a blunt tip cannula). Isolation was either carried out within 60 min after extraction or after storage for 24 h in culture medium at 4°C. Isolated preadipocytes were cultured for 24 h, trypsinized and counted in a Neubauer chamber. Our results show clearly that the yield of preadipocytes isolated from liposuction material (within 60 min after extraction and after 24 h of storage) is higher than the cell yield from excised adipose tissue. Overnight storage for 24 h leads to a significant loss of preadipocytes in excised tissue but not in liposuction material. The high yield of cells isolated from liposuction material proves that extraction by suction does not damage the stromal cell fraction in the adipose tissue. If cell isolation is not performed immediately after the operation, liposuction material is clearly the better alternative for storage.
Olfactory Structures in Staged Human Embryos
Authors: Müller F. , O'Rahilly R.
Published: December 2004

The olfactory region was investigated in 303 serially sectioned human embryos, 23 of which were controlled by precise graphic reconstructions. The following findings in the embryonic period are new for the human. (1) The nasal plates arise at the neurosomatic junction, as do also the otic placodes. (2) Crest comes from the nasal plates later (stage 13) than the maximum production in the neural folds (stage 10). (3) The crest arises and migrates during a much longer time (at least until the end of the embryonic period) than the neural crest of the head, where origin and migration end at stage 12. (4) Olfactory nerve fibres enter the brain at stage 17, the vomeronasal fibres and those of the nervus terminalis at stages 17 and 18. (5) Fibre connections between the olfactory tubercle and the olfactory bulb, as well as those to the amygdaloid nuclei, forebrain septum, and hippocampus, develop during and after stage 17. (6) Mitral cells appear late in the embryonic period. (7) Localized, although incomplete, lamination of the olfactory bulb is detectable at the embryonic/fetal transition. (8) Tangential migratory streams of neurons, from stage 22 to the early fetal period, proceed from the subventricular zone of the olfactory bulb towards the future claustrum; they remain within the insular region but are separated from the cortical plate. (9) In future cebocephaly morphological indications may be visible as early as stage 13. The various findings are integrated by means of staging, and current information for the fetal period is tabulated from the literature.
Sudden Death in Prader-Willi Syndrome during Growth Hormone Therapy
Authors: Sacco Michele , Di Giorgio Girolamo
Published: December 2004

We describe a child with Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) aged 3 years and 11 months who suddenly died 7 months after the initiation of GH therapy. The child never showed respiratory problems, but suffered from severe obesity. This case raises the question about the association between sudden death in children with PWS (with or without respiratory problems) and GH therapy, as already suspected in the recent past. We suggest that further epidemiological studies are required in order to determine more accurately the frequency of this causal connection and better understand its pathogenesis.
Effect of Androgens on Sexual Differentiation of Pituitary Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid Receptor Subunit GABAB Expression
Authors: Bianchi María S. , Catalano Paolo N. , Bonaventura María M. , Silveyra Patricia , Bettler Bernhard , Libertun Carlos , Lux-Lantos Victoria A.R.
Published: December 2004

Previous work demonstrated a sexually dimorphic ontogenic expression of γ-aminobutyric acid receptors (GABABR) in rat pituitary. As sex steroids determine sex-specific expression patterns, we now studied the effect of sex hormones on pituitary GABABR expression. GABABR subunits, measured by Western blot and by semi-quantitative RT-PCR and luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and testosterone measured by RIA were determined in two experimental designs: First experimental design: 8- and 15-day-old females (8F, 15F); 8F and 15F treated with 100 µg testosterone propionate (TP) on day 1 of life (8F100TP, 15F100TP), 8- and 15-day-old males (8M, 15M) and 8M and 15M castrated on day 1 (8MC, 15MC). Second experimental design: 8-day-old female and male animals: 8F, 8F100TP, 8F treated with 1 µg/day TP on days 1–4 (8F1TP), 8F treated with the androgen antagonist Flutamide (Flut: 2.5 mg/100 g BW of pregnant mother on days E17-E23) (8F-Flut), 8M, 8MC, 8M treated with Flut as above (8M-Flut) and 8MC-Flut. In these animals, in addition, GABA, glutamate, aspartate and taurine were measured by HPLC in hypothalami and cortex. In the first set of experiments, GABAB1R mRNA/protein expression was higher in 8F than in 15F, 8M or 15M. In 8F100TP, GABAB1R mRNA/protein decreased to male levels. TP treatment did not alter GABAB1R expression in 15F. There was no difference in GABAB1R expression between 8M and 15M and neonatal castration did not modify its expression. In the second set of experiments, TP (1 µg) or Flut did not modify GABAB1R in 8F, while 100 µg TP continued to decrease GABAB1R expression. In 8M, Flut, alone or with castration, increased GABAB1R mRNA/protein expression to 8F. Hypothalamic GABA content followed the same pattern as pituitary GABABR expression in 8-day-old animals, suggesting a cross-regulation. With regard to hormonal levels, 100 µg, but not 1 µg TP altered gonadotropins at 8 days, although both treatments effectively androgenized females as evidenced by lack of cycling. We conclude that androgens, acting pre- and postnatally, decrease pituitary GABABR subunit expression.
Preference on the Treatments for Menorrhagia in Hong Kong Chinese Women
Authors: Leung Pui Ling , Ng Pui Shan , Tam Wing Hung , Yuen Pong Mo
Published: December 2004

Background: Menorrhagia is a common gynecological problem and its management options vary from medical to surgical treatment. With the development of the new minimally invasive therapies, there is a paucity of data in the preference and acceptance on these treatment options, especially in the Chinese population. Methods: An anonymous survey using a self-constructed questionnaire was undertaken on women with heavy menstrual bleeding referred to the specialty clinic in a university teaching hospital. The aim was to elicit women’s knowledge and preferences for the treatment options for menorrhagia. Results: A total of 200 Chinese women returned their questionnaire with a response rate of 62%. Over 90% of them were unaware of other alternative treatment options for menorrhagia. Eumenorrhea was the desired treatment outcome in 173 (86.5%) women while only 15 (7.5%) and 12 (6%) wished to have oligomenorrhea and amenorrhea respectively. Drug therapy was the preferred first-line treatment in 87% and none preferred to undergo hysterectomy. When the medical treatment failed, 16% of women would not accept any other forms of treatment. For the rest of them, an L-norgestrel-releasing intrauterine device was the preferred option in 53.6%, endometrial ablation in 19%, while only 5.4% would prefer hysterectomy. Conclusion: The awareness of alternative treatment options for menorrhagia in Hong Kong Chinese women is very deficient and eumenorrhea is the desired treatment outcome, rather than oligomenorrhea or amenorrhea.
The Helix aspersa (Brown Garden Snail) Allergen Repertoire
Authors: Martins Luís Miguel Lourenço , Peltre Gabriel , da Costa Faro Carlos José Fialho , Vieira Pires Euclides Manuel , da Cruz Inácio Filipe Fernando
Published: December 2004

Background: Ingestion of snails can induce strong asthmatic or anaphylactic responses, mainly in house-dust-mite-sensitized patients. The aim of this study was to identify the Helix aspersa (Hel a), Theba pisana (The p) and Otala lactea (Ota l) allergens and the extent of their cross-reactivity with the Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus (Der p) mite. Patients and Methods: In 60 atopicpatients, skin prick tests (SPT) to snail and D. pteronyssinus, total and specific IgE, specific IgE immunoblots, RAST and immunoblot inhibition assays were performed. Results: Mean total IgE was >1,000 kU/l. Mean specific IgE (class 6 for Der p and class 2 for Hel a) SPT were positive in 44 patients for snail and in 56 for mite. Isoelectric focusing (IEF) and SDS-PAGE followed by immunoblotting of H. aspersa extract enabled the identification of 27 and 20 allergens, respectively. Myosin heavy chains from snails (molecular weight >208 kDa) disclosed two major allergens. Hel a and Der p RAST were strongly inhibited by their homologous extracts, with Hel a RAST being inhibited by the Der p extract to a much greater extent (72.6%) than the inverse (5.6%). A complete inhibition of the immunoblots by their homologous extract was obtained. However, Hel a extract did not inhibit Der p IEF separated recognition. On the other hand, mite extract extensively inhibited snail immunoblots from both IEF and SDS-PAGE separations. Immune detection on chicken, pig, rabbit, cow and horse myosins did not reveal any IgE cross recognition with snail. Conclusions: In most cases of snail allergy, mite appeared to be the sensitizing agent. Nevertheless, snails may also be able to induce sensitization by themselves. This hypothesis is supported by the finding of specific IgE to Hel a in 2 patients who did not show specific IgE to Der p, and one of them was suffering from asthma after snail ingestion.
Severe Allergy to Sharon Fruit Caused by Birch Pollen
Authors: Bolhaar S.T.H.P. , van Ree R. , Ma Y. , Bruijnzeel-Koomen C.A.F.M. , Vieths S. , Hoffmann-Sommergruber K. , Knulst A.C. , Zuidmeer L.
Published: December 2004

Background: Allergy to sharon fruit (persimmon) has been only rarely reported. Cross-reactivity with pollen (profilin and Bet v 6) appeared to be involved, but Bet v 1 has not been implicated previously. Objective: It is our aim to identify whether Bet v 1 sensitization is linked to sharon fruit allergy. Methods: Two patients with a reaction upon first exposure to sharon fruit were included in the study, as well as 7 patients with birch-pollen-related apple allergy. Sensitivity was assessed by skin prick testing (SPT), a radio-allergosorbent test (RAST) and immunoblotting. RAST analysis was performed for Bet v 1, Bet v 2 and Bet v 6. Cross-reactivity was evaluated by RAST and immunoblot inhibitions. Biological activity of IgE was measured by basophil histamine release. Sharon fruit allergy was evaluated by double-blind placebo-controlled food challenge (DBPCFC) or open challenge (OC). Results: Both sharon-fruit-allergic patients demonstrated positive reactions in the RAST (8.6 and 6.2 IU/ml, respectively) and SPT (wheal area 37 and 36 mm2). Sharon fruit allergy was confirmed by DBPCFC in 1 patient. The second patient refused a challenge because of the severe initial reaction. Sera from both patients were reactive to Bet v 1 and Bet v 6, which was cross-reactive with sharon fruit by inhibition assays. The patient with the severest reactions was reactive to profilin on immunoblotting. However, profilin did not induce significant histamine release, nor did Bet v 6. Bet v 1 induce approximately 60% histamine release. An OC with sharon fruit in 7 patients allergic to birch pollen and apple, who had not eaten sharon fruit previously, was positive in 6/7 cases. Conclusions: Birch-pollen-related allergy to sharon fruit is mediated by the known cross-reactive pollen allergens including Bet v 1 and may become more of a problem should sharon fruit consumption increase.
An Increased Adjuvanticity of Liposomes by the Inclusion of Phosphatidylserine in Immunization with Surface-Coupled Liposomal Antigen
Authors: Mori Masahito , Nishida Mitsuhiro , Maekawa Naoya , Yamamura Hiroyuki , Tanaka Yuriko , Kasai Michiyuki , Taneichi Maiko , Uchida Tetsuya
Published: December 2004

Background: Exposure of phosphatidylserine (PS) on apoptotic cells is known to result in the enhanced recognition of apoptotic cells by phagocytes. By the inclusion of PS in the lipid component of liposomes, increased liposome immune adjuvant activity was expected. Methods: In the present study, two different liposome preparations containing either PS, i.e. PS-liposome, or phosphatidylcholine (PC), i.e. PC-liposome, were made, and macrophage recognition, processing, and antigen presentation of surface-coupled liposomal antigen were compared. Results: When ovalbumin-liposome conjugates were added to a culture of macrophages, enhanced recognition and processing of ovalbumin by the macrophages were observed by the inclusion of PS in the liposomes. The results correlated well with those regarding macrophage antigen presentation of liposome-coupled ovalbumin. Furthermore, in vivo immunization in mice with ovalbumin-liposome conjugates made with PS-liposomes induced a significantly higher level of anti-ovalbumin IgG antibody production than was induced by ovalbumin-liposome conjugates made with PC-liposomes. IgE-selective unresponsiveness was induced by ovalbumin-liposome conjugates regardless of the lipid components of liposomes. Conclusions: These results suggest that the inclusion of PS in liposomes enhances recognition and processing of surface-coupled liposomal antigen by macrophages, and increases liposome immune adjuvant activity.
Isolated Placental Vessel Response to Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor and Placenta Growth Factor in Normal and Growth-Restricted Pregnancy
Authors: Szukiewicz Dariusz , Szewczyk Grzegorz , Watroba Mateusz , Kurowska Ewa , Maslinski Slawomir
Published: December 2004

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and placenta growth factor (PlGF) cause vasodilation. We examined the vasomotor response of isolated placental vessels to VEGF and PlGF in normal (group I) and intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR)-complicated pregnancy (group II). Rings of vessels were prepared in vitro and mounted on the vessel myograph plunged in tissue bath. The magnitude of dilation to increased doses of VEGF and PlGF has been studied. VEGF is a more potent vasodilator than PlGF. Both, VEGF- and PlGF-induced vasorelaxation was diminished in the IUGR (group II) nearly by half, compared to control (group I). Relative placental nitric oxide deficiency, or decreased sensitivity to VEGF and PlGF may contribute to the development of high impedance fetoplacental circulation.
Occurrence of Cognitive Impairment and Dementia after the Age of 60: A Population-Based Study from Northern Italy
Authors: De Ronchi Diana , Berardi Domenico , Menchetti Marco , Ferrari Giuseppe , Serretti Alessandro , Dalmonte Edoardo , Fratiglioni Laura
Published: December 2004

Objective: To evaluate the age, gender and education distribution of both cognitive impairment and dementia in the whole old age range of the elderly (from 61 years of age and over). Subjects and Methods: The study population consisted of all subjects born in 1930 or before, living in the municipality of Faenza and Granarolo, Italy (n = 7,930). A two-phase study design was implemented, by using the Mini-Mental State Examination and Global Deterioration Scale as screening instruments. The DSM-III-R diagnostic criteria were used for the clinical diagnosis of dementia. A subject was classified as affected by cognitive impairment, no dementia (CIND) if he/she scored 2 or more standard deviations lower than the corrected mean MMSE score. Results: The prevalences of dementia and CIND were 6.5 per 100 (95% CI 5.9–7.0) and 5.1 per 100 (95% CI 4.6–5.6), respectively. The prevalence of CIND was higher than that of dementia in the youngest old groups (61–74 years), both in men and women, whereas the opposite pattern was present among the older old (75+). In the older age groups, dementia prevalence increased exponentially with age, while CIND prevalence was more stable. There was not a substantial gender difference in CIND prevalence in all ages. Only in the subpopulation of higher educated subjects, women had a higher prevalence of both dementia and CIND than men. Lower educated subjects had a higher prevalence of both dementia and CIND. When compared to higher educated persons, subjects without any schooling had odds ratios of 10.9 (CI 7.0–16.7) and 16.7 (CI 11.2–25.0) for dementia and CIND, respectively. Conclusions: Cognitive impairment is very common in the younger old ages (under 70 years of age), whereas dementia becomes predominant after 75 years of age. Both conditions are strongly related to the educational level.
Prevention of Venous Thromboembolism in Surgical Patients
Authors: Agnelli Giancarlo
Published: December 2004

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a common complication of surgical procedures. The risk for VTE in surgical patients is determined by the combination of individual predisposing factors and the specific type of surgery. Prophylaxis with mechanical and pharmacological methods has been shown to be effective and safe in most types of surgery and should be routinely implemented. For patients undergoing general, gynecologic, vascular, and major urologic surgery, low-dose unfractionated heparin or low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) are the options of choice. For low-risk urologic surgery, early postoperative mobilization of patients is the only intervention warranted. For higher-risk patients, including those undergoing elective hip or knee replacement and surgery for hip fracture, vitamin K antagonists, LMWH, or fondaparinux are recommended. For patients undergoing neurosurgery, graduated elastic stockings are effective and safe and may be combined with LMWH to further reduce the risk of VTE. The role of prophylaxis is less defined in patients undergoing elective spine surgery, as well as laparoscopic and arthroscopic surgery. A number of issues related to prophylaxis of VTE after surgery deserve further clarification, including the role of screening for asymptomatic deep vein thrombosis, the best timing for initiation of pharmacological prophylaxis, and the optimal duration of prophylaxis in high-risk patients.
Preventing Venous Thromboembolism in Medical Patients
Authors: Leizorovicz Alain , Mismetti Patrick
Published: December 2004

Given the increased number of patients hospitalized for acute medical illnesses and the associated risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE), the use of prophylaxis has become a public health matter. Thromboprophylaxis is not widely practiced in acutely ill medical patients, due in part to the heterogeneity of this group and the perceived difficulty in assessing those who would most benefit from treatment. Nevertheless, the results of recent well-conducted clinical trials support the evidence-based recommendations for more widespread systematic use of low-dose low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) or unfractionated heparin (UFH) in this population. Three large well-controlled studies (MEDENOX, PREVENT, and ARTEMIS) in acutely ill medical patients confirm previous findings that different at-risk patient populations show a consistent 50% reduction in VTE events with LMWH and fondaparinux. A meta-analysis in nearly 5000 patients in internal medicine comparing UFH and LMWH revealed a trend for reduction of deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism with LMWH. Based on duration of use in clinical trials in acutely ill medical patients, prophylactic treatment with UFH and LMWH is recommended for 2 weeks.
Comparing the Costs, Risks, and Benefits of Competing Strategies for the Primary Prevention of Venous Thromboembolism
Authors: Avorn Jerry , Winkelmayer Wolfgang C.
Published: December 2004

Systematic cost-effectiveness analyses of regimens used for preventing venous thromboembolism (VTE) are becoming increasingly important for several reasons: the aging of the population, with an accompanying increase in admissions for orthopedic procedures or other surgery; expanded indications for thromboprophylaxis in nonsurgical patients; and the introduction of more expensive new agents that may increase safety and efficacy. At the same time, health care systems are under unprecedented pressure to contain the costs of care, particularly medications. Such economic analyses are made more difficult by the paucity of clinical trials comparing treatment regimens to one another rather than to placebo. Several methodological issues must be kept in mind when evaluating cost-effectiveness analyses of VTE prophylaxis. These include the perspective from which the analysis is performed (eg, the health care system as a whole versus a particular payer), limitations of trial data (eg, artificially short time horizons), and definition of outcomes (eg, flawed definition and grouping together of adverse effects or treatment failures). Quantifying costs across nations and health care systems is problematic as well. Another challenge is the extrapolation of efficacy data from highly monitored study patients to routine practice settings. Nevertheless, cost-effectiveness analyses of VTE treatments conducted in orthopedic surgery, trauma, general surgery, and acute medical settings can help define the relationships among expenditures, adverse outcomes, and patient benefit for particular therapeutic strategies in a variety of clinical situations.
A Being of Value: Educating for Environmental Advocacy
Authors: Newton Lisa
Published: December 2004

This paper explores the conceptual links between the intellectual mastery of the content of a course on the ecological and economic aspects of environmental preservation, and the felt commitment to environmental preservation. I discuss the sense in which a practical ethics course is necessarily oriented to the adoption of a normative agenda, in this case to making recognition of environmental value part of the requirements of the course, and present some experience from my own university's seminar on environmental studies.
trans-1,2-Dichloroethylene for Improving Fire Performance of Urethane Foam
Authors: Wu Jinhuang , Bertelo Christopher , Caron Laurent
Published: December 2004

In the United States, HCFC-141b was phased out of urethane foam applications on January 1, 2003. Zero ozone depletion potential (ODP) alternatives, such as hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) and hydrocarbons (normal pentane, isopentane, and cyclopentane), have been introduced to replace HCFC-141b. However, none of these alternatives can match the performance of HCFC-141b in terms of handling, economics, and overall final product performance. In particular, the fire performance of hydrocarbons-based foams cannot reach the performance previously achieved with HCFC-141b.

trans-1,2-Dichloroethylene is a liquid at room temperature (b.p. 48 C). It does not deplete the ozone layer1, and it has very low global warming potential (GWP) because it has very short atmospheric lifetime.

We have recently reported that when trans-1,2-dichloroethylene is used in urethane foams with hydrocarbons, it could improve the fire performance of the foams, based on a small-scale fire test (Mobil 45). In this paper, we report physical properties of hydrocarbons/trans-1,2-dichloroethylene foams, such as dimensional stability and compressive strength. We have also extended our studies of the use of trans-1,2-dichloroethylene, and report on the fire performance of HFC-blown urethane foams incorporating trans-1,2-dichloroethylene2.
Continuous Foam Extrusion of Rigid-rod Polyphenylenes
Authors: Carter Roy , Wang Jin , Lee Patrick C. , Park Chul B.
Published: December 2004

A novel family of processable rigid-rod polymers with outstanding mechanical properties have been recently introduced (Parmax® Self-Reinforced Polymers (SRPs)). These materials, among other applications, are of interest in the field of high-performance, rigid structural foam. In this study, the foam processability of Parmax® SRP resin is investigated using a single-screw foam extrusion setup and butane as a blowing agent. The effects of die temperature (i.e. the foaming temperature) on the cell size, cell density, cell morphology, and volume expansion ratios are investigated. Blowing agent concentrations and their effects on foam creation are also examined. Microcellular Parmax® SRP foams with cell population densities on the order of 109-1010 cells/cm3 and expansion ratios ranging from 1.5 to 2 are fabricated.
Heterogeneous Nucleation in Foams as Assessed by In-line Ultrasonic Measurements
Authors: Tatibouet Jacques , Gendron Richard
Published: December 2004

The conditions prevailing during the nucleation stage of the thermoplastic foam extrusion process in which a physical foaming agent is involved are one of the key steps in the design and optimization of the process. The conditions that induce phase separation and bubble nucleation are obviously linked to the solubility parameters, i.e., temperature and pressure at a given foaming agent content, conditions that can be probed during degassing experiments. It has been reported that adding a nucleating agent can significantly modify these degassing conditions. An in-line detection method based on ultrasonic sensors has proven to be sensitive to the onset of the phase separation. This method was used to investigate the influence of both talc and foaming agent concentrations on the nucleation cell density and degassing conditions for polystyrene-HFC-134a mixtures. A qualitative model based on foaming agent concentration gradient near the nucleating agent particles is proposed.
Emotions in everyday life: probability of occurrence, risk factors, appraisal and reaction patterns
Authors: Scherer Klaus R. , Wranik Tanja , Sangsue Janique , Tran Véronique , Scherer Ursula
Published: December 2004

In a quasi-representative survey, 1242 respondents were asked to describe a situation or event that had elicited an emotion on the previous day. They were also asked to report on the respective appraisal and reaction patterns as well as to verbally label the experience. In addition, they completed a rating list on the relative frequency of experiencing each of 14 emotions and a medical symptom list. The data are interpreted in terms of the odds of experiencing a particular type of emotion in everyday life, mediated by “risk factors” such as culture, socio-demographic background, personality, health, and situational context. Further results concern typical appraisals and reactions for different emotions and relationships between everyday emotions and subjective well-being (life satisfaction and subjective health).