bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Trust and Health Information Exchanges: Qualitative Analysis of the Intent to Share Personal Health Information
Authors: Busch-Casler Julia , Radic Marija
Published: August 2023

Background

Digital health has the potential to improve the quality of care, reduce health care costs, and increase patient satisfaction. Patient acceptance and consent are a prerequisite for effective sharing of personal health information (PHI) through health information exchanges (HIEs). Patients need to form and retain trust in the system(s) they use to leverage the full potential of digital health. Germany is at the forefront of approving digital treatment options with cost coverage through statutory health insurance. However, the German population has a high level of technology skepticism and a low level of trust, providing a good basis to illuminate various facets of eHealth trust formation.

Objective

In a German setting, we aimed to answer the question, How does an individual form a behavioral intent to share PHI with an HIE platform? We discussed trust and informed consent through (1) synthesizing the main influence factor models into a complex model of trust in HIE, (2) providing initial validation of influence factors based on a qualitative study with patient interviews, and (3) developing a model of trust formation for digital health apps.

Methods

We developed a complex model of the formation of trust and the intent to share PHI. We provided initial validation of the influence factors through 20 qualitative, semistructured interviews in the German health care setting and used a deductive coding approach to analyze the data.

Results

We found that German patients show a positive intent to share their PHI with HIEs under certain conditions. These include (perceived) information security and a noncommercial organization as the recipient of the PHI. Technology experience, age, policy and regulation, and a disposition to trust play an important role in an individual’s privacy concern, which, combined with social influence, affects trust formation on a cognitive and emotional level. We found a high level of cognitive trust in health care and noncommercial research institutions but distrust in commercial entities. We further found that in-person interactions with physicians increase trust in digital health apps and PHI sharing. Patients’ emotional trust depends on disposition and social influences. To form their intent to share, patients undergo a privacy calculus. Hereby, the individual’s benefit (eg, convenience), benefits for the individual’s own health, and the benefits for public welfare often outweigh the perceived risks of sharing PHI.

Conclusions

With the higher demand for timely PHI, HIE providers will need to clearly communicate the benefits of their solutions and their information security measures to health care providers (physicians, nursing and administrative staff) and patients and include them as key partners to increase trust. Offering easy access and educational measures as well as the option for specific consent may increase patients’ trust and their intention to share PHI.
User and Usability Testing of a Web-Based Genetics Education Tool for Parkinson Disease: Mixed Methods Study
Authors: Han Noah , Paul Rachel A , Bardakjian Tanya , Kargilis Daniel , Bradbury Angela R , Chen-Plotkin Alice , Tropea Thomas F
Published: August 2023

Background

Genetic testing is essential to identify research participants for clinical trials enrolling people with Parkinson disease (PD) carrying a variant in the glucocerebrosidase (GBA) or leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) genes. The limited availability of professionals trained in neurogenetics or genetic counseling is a major barrier to increased testing. Telehealth solutions to increase access to genetics education can help address issues around counselor availability and offer options to patients and family members.

Objective

As an alternative to pretest genetic counseling, we developed a web-based genetics education tool focused on GBA and LRRK2 testing for PD called the Interactive Multimedia Approach to Genetic Counseling to Inform and Educate in Parkinson’s Disease (IMAGINE-PD) and conducted user testing and usability testing. The objective was to conduct user and usability testing to obtain stakeholder feedback to improve IMAGINE-PD.

Methods

Genetic counselors and PD and neurogenetics subject matter experts developed content for IMAGINE-PD specifically focused on GBA and LRRK2 genetic testing. Structured interviews were conducted with 11 movement disorder specialists and 13 patients with PD to evaluate the content of IMAGINE-PD in user testing and with 12 patients with PD to evaluate the usability of a high-fidelity prototype according to the US Department of Health and Human Services Research-Based Web Design & Usability Guidelines. Qualitative data analysis informed changes to create a final version of IMAGINE-PD.

Results

Qualitative data were reviewed by 3 evaluators. Themes were identified from feedback data of movement disorder specialists and patients with PD in user testing in 3 areas: content such as the topics covered, function such as website navigation, and appearance such as pictures and colors. Similarly, qualitative analysis of usability testing feedback identified additional themes in these 3 areas. Key points of feedback were determined by consensus among reviewers considering the importance of the comment and the frequency of similar comments. Refinements were made to IMAGINE-PD based on consensus recommendations by evaluators within each theme at both user testing and usability testing phases to create a final version of IMAGINE-PD.

Conclusions

User testing for content review and usability testing have informed refinements to IMAGINE-PD to develop this focused, genetics education tool for GBA and LRRK2 testing. Comparison of this stakeholder-informed intervention to standard telegenetic counseling approaches is ongoing.
Psychodermatological Disorders in Patients With Primary Psychiatric Conditions: Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Ajani Atinuke Arinola , Olanrewaju Fatai Olatunde , Oninla Olumayowa Abimbola , Ibigbami Olanrewaju , Mosaku Samuel Kolawole , Onayemi Olaniyi Emmanuel , Olasode Olayinka
Published: August 2023

Background

Psychodermatological disorders (PDs) and their associations with mental health problems are one of the most frequent research themes in dermatology outpatient settings. Surprisingly, very few studies have been conducted to evaluate PDs among patients with primary psychiatric conditions. As such, the relationship between preexisting psychiatric conditions and comorbid PDs is underrepresented in the literature.

Objective

This study examined the prevalence and distribution of PDs among adults with primary psychiatric conditions and determined their association with underlying psychiatric diagnoses.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional analysis at a tertiary health care facility in southwestern Nigeria. Comorbid PDs were identified and classified using preexisting classification systems. A bivariate analysis was conducted to determine the association between PDs and underlying psychiatric conditions. The level of statistical significance was set at P<.05.

Results

The study included 107 patients with mental health disorders, of whom 64 (59.8%) were female. The mean age of the patients was 40.73 (SD 13.08) years. A total of 75 (75/107, 70%) patients had at least one comorbid PD. The prevalence of PDs was highest in patients with affective disorders (15/20, 75%) and least in those with schizophrenia (45/66, 68%). PDs associated with delusions or hallucinations and somatoform symptoms were 9 and 13 times more frequent in patients with anxiety disorders compared to those with other psychiatric conditions (P=.01; odds ratio [OR] 9.88, 95% CI 1.67-58.34 and P=.003; OR 13.13, 95% CI 2.34-73.65), respectively. In contrast, patients with schizophrenia were significantly less likely to be diagnosed with dermatoses resulting from delusions or hallucinations (P=.002; OR 0.04, 95% CI 0.00-0.75). A weak but significant negative association was also found between psychophysiological PDs and anxiety disorders (ϕ=–0.236; P=.02).

Conclusions

This study provides important insights into the overwhelming burden of psychodermatological conditions in patients with mental health disorders and specific associations with underlying psychiatric diagnosis.
Trust and Health Information Exchanges: Qualitative Analysis of the Intent to Share Personal Health Information (Preprint)
Authors: Busch-Casler Julia , Radic Marija
Published: August 2023

BACKGROUND

Digital health has the potential to improve the quality of care, reduce health care costs, and increase patient satisfaction. Patient acceptance and consent are a prerequisite for effective sharing of personal health information (PHI) through health information exchanges (HIEs). Patients need to form and retain trust in the system(s) they use to leverage the full potential of digital health. Germany is at the forefront of approving digital treatment options with cost coverage through statutory health insurance. However, the German population has a high level of technology skepticism and a low level of trust, providing a good basis to illuminate various facets of eHealth trust formation.

OBJECTIVE

In a German setting, we aimed to answer the question, How does an individual form a behavioral intent to share PHI with an HIE platform? We discussed trust and informed consent through (1) synthesizing the main influence factor models into a complex model of trust in HIE, (2) providing initial validation of influence factors based on a qualitative study with patient interviews, and (3) developing a model of trust formation for digital health apps.

METHODS

We developed a complex model of the formation of trust and the intent to share PHI. We provided initial validation of the influence factors through 20 qualitative, semistructured interviews in the German health care setting and used a deductive coding approach to analyze the data.

RESULTS

We found that German patients show a positive intent to share their PHI with HIEs under certain conditions. These include (perceived) information security and a noncommercial organization as the recipient of the PHI. Technology experience, age, policy and regulation, and a disposition to trust play an important role in an individual’s privacy concern, which, combined with social influence, affects trust formation on a cognitive and emotional level. We found a high level of cognitive trust in health care and noncommercial research institutions but distrust in commercial entities. We further found that in-person interactions with physicians increase trust in digital health apps and PHI sharing. Patients’ emotional trust depends on disposition and social influences. To form their intent to share, patients undergo a privacy calculus. Hereby, the individual’s benefit (eg, convenience), benefits for the individual’s own health, and the benefits for public welfare often outweigh the perceived risks of sharing PHI.

CONCLUSIONS

With the higher demand for timely PHI, HIE providers will need to clearly communicate the benefits of their solutions and their information security measures to health care providers (physicians, nursing and administrative staff) and patients and include them as key partners to increase trust. Offering easy access and educational measures as well as the option for specific consent may increase patients’ trust and their intention to share PHI.
User and Usability Testing of a Web-Based Genetics Education Tool for Parkinson Disease: Mixed Methods Study (Preprint)
Authors: Han Noah , Paul Rachel A , Bardakjian Tanya , Kargilis Daniel , Bradbury Angela R , Chen-Plotkin Alice , Tropea Thomas F
Published: August 2023

BACKGROUND

Genetic testing is essential to identify research participants for clinical trials enrolling people with Parkinson disease (PD) carrying a variant in the glucocerebrosidase (GBA) or leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) genes. The limited availability of professionals trained in neurogenetics or genetic counseling is a major barrier to increased testing. Telehealth solutions to increase access to genetics education can help address issues around counselor availability and offer options to patients and family members.

OBJECTIVE

As an alternative to pretest genetic counseling, we developed a web-based genetics education tool focused on GBA and LRRK2 testing for PD called the Interactive Multimedia Approach to Genetic Counseling to Inform and Educate in Parkinson’s Disease (IMAGINE-PD) and conducted user testing and usability testing. The objective was to conduct user and usability testing to obtain stakeholder feedback to improve IMAGINE-PD.

METHODS

Genetic counselors and PD and neurogenetics subject matter experts developed content for IMAGINE-PD specifically focused on GBA and LRRK2 genetic testing. Structured interviews were conducted with 11 movement disorder specialists and 13 patients with PD to evaluate the content of IMAGINE-PD in user testing and with 12 patients with PD to evaluate the usability of a high-fidelity prototype according to the US Department of Health and Human Services Research-Based Web Design & Usability Guidelines. Qualitative data analysis informed changes to create a final version of IMAGINE-PD.

RESULTS

Qualitative data were reviewed by 3 evaluators. Themes were identified from feedback data of movement disorder specialists and patients with PD in user testing in 3 areas: content such as the topics covered, function such as website navigation, and appearance such as pictures and colors. Similarly, qualitative analysis of usability testing feedback identified additional themes in these 3 areas. Key points of feedback were determined by consensus among reviewers considering the importance of the comment and the frequency of similar comments. Refinements were made to IMAGINE-PD based on consensus recommendations by evaluators within each theme at both user testing and usability testing phases to create a final version of IMAGINE-PD.

CONCLUSIONS

User testing for content review and usability testing have informed refinements to IMAGINE-PD to develop this focused, genetics education tool for GBA and LRRK2 testing. Comparison of this stakeholder-informed intervention to standard telegenetic counseling approaches is ongoing.

CLINICALTRIAL
Modification of Cassava Starch With Combination of Steaming and Acid Hydrolysis and Use as Encapsulant in Nanoencapsulation of Cocoa Leaf Crude Extract (Theobroma cacao L)
Authors: Dewi Ratih Kumala , Supiyanto Supriyanto , Pranoto Yudi , Murdiati Agnes
Published: August 2023

The utilization of native cassava starch in the food industry is limited. It needs a modified process to increase its utilization. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of a combination of steaming and acid hydrolysis and determine the best temperature and hydrolysis time that is suitable to apply as an encapsulant in the nanoencapsulation process of cocoa leaf crude extract. Modification of cassava starch used 50 ℃, 60 ℃, and 70 ℃ temperatures for 30, 60, and 90 minutes with HCl pH 1. The result showed that modified cassava starch produced from a combination of steaming and acid hydrolysis at 70℃ for 30 minutes has the best specifications with 60.48% solubility, 12.38% hygroscopicity, pasting profile (PV=48; BV=3; FV=66; SV=21). Then, it is combined with Arabic gum and used in the nanoencapsulation process using spray drying. This study showed that encapsulation can protect phenolic compounds of cocoa leaf crude extract resulting brownish-red color surrounded by a black circle. Nanocapsule powder has 13.56% moisture content, 350.3 nm particle size, 16.93 zeta potential, and 84.30% encapsulation efficiency. The combination of steaming and acid hydrolysis at 70 ℃ for 30 minutes produces modified cassava starch which is suitable for use as an encapsulant in the nanoencapsulation process of crude extract of cocoa leaves.
Archetypes of power
Authors:   Lomonosov Moscow State University, Veselov Yuriy
Published: August 2023

The article is focused on the author’s understand- ing of the phenomena that are the basis of the ideological picture of the world of different social group categories. The author presents the histori- cal stage-by-stage development of the fundamental ideas that are the essence of social identity and, consequently, influence the legitimization of power throughout the organized history of mankind and in modern times. This understanding of archetypes in political science is presented for the first time. The article is built around the concept of “arche- type” and expands its meaning to political and ideological dimensions. Thus, using the methodolo- gy of categories of archetypes, the following forms prevailing in the organized history of mankind were identified: archetypes of the Sun, Church, Nation and Law. Such forms can be a convenient meth- odology in conflictology, political science, and the science of international relations. The presented approach opens a new theoretical direction in these sciences.
Evaluating the relationship between economic potential and welfare of the population as exemplified by industrial regions of the Russian Federation
Authors:   Chelyabinsk Branch of the Institute of Economics of the Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Melenkina Svetlana , Uzhegov Artem ,   Chelyabinsk Branch of the Institute of Economics of the Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences
Published: August 2023

Introduction. The study of the economic potential of industrial regions is an important task in modern economics. Industrial regions play a key role in the country’s economy, as they are the main centers of production and services, create jobs and contrib- ute to the development of other sectors of the economy. One of the main tools for analyzing the economic potential of industrial regions is to assess their opportunities to attract investment, develop production, improve the quality of life and well-being of the population. This makes it possible to identify problem areas in the region’s economy and develop measures to eliminate them. The purpose of the study. The study is devoted to identifying the relationship between the economic potential and the welfare of the population as exemplified by industrial regions of the Russian Federation. Methods. The main research methods used by the authors are the review and content analysis of scientific approaches in this subject area, collecting and processing statistical information, supplement- ing methods for assessing the economic poten- tial and well-being of the population, calculating relevant integral indicators, interregional compari- sons and ranking territories according to selected criteria. Scientific novelty of the research. Within the framework of the study, the authors propose a methodology for selecting industrial regions, sup- plement tools for assessing the level of economic potential of an industrial region, and propose a method for selecting indicators for assessing the level of well-being of the population of an industrial region. Results. According to the results of the study, there is a weak relationship between the economic potential and the well-being of the population of industrial regions. Carrying out the calculations de- scribed in the article on a regular basis can become a key factor in ensuring effective monitoring of the socio-economic situation in certain territories. Conclusions. The study is important for under- standing which factors have the greatest impact on the well-being of the residents of the regions and what measures need to be taken to improve the level of economic development of the region and social protection of the population. The results of the study can be used to develop effective strate- gies for the development of regions and improving the life quality of people.
Teaching philosophy to children: tough questions and their obvious consequences
Authors:   National Academy of Sciences of Belarus, Doronina Svetlana
Published: August 2023

The article analyzes the main world problems and prospects for the development of teaching philosophy to children, substantiates the relevance of introducing philosophical practices, its teaching methods into the education system. The author carries out a theoretical reconstruction of the main provisions, problems and prospects for develop- ing the “Philosophy for Children” (p4c) movement, which is of particular interest due to its greatest informativeness in covering the current state of teaching philosophy to children. Introduction. Modern studies of teaching philoso- phy to children are of great importance because of their relevance in solving a whole range of modern educational problems. The search for new priority areas for teaching philosophy to children is aimed at finding the best ways to correct the modern edu- cation system by demonstrating and justifying the effectiveness of using p4c methods and ap- proaches. The purpose of the study is to explicate the main problems and prospects, as well as the relevance of teaching philosophy to children in the current conditions of the society development. Methods. The author uses both general scien- tific methods of analysis and synthesis, as well as methods of comparative analysis and theoretical reconstruction. Scientific novelty of the research. The article carries out a theoretical reconstruction and analysis of the main problems of teaching philosophy to children, substantiates the relevance of introducing the ideas and methods of p4c into the system of pre- and school education in order to compensate for the shortcomings of informational approaches to teaching and the formation of demanded skills and abilities in children. Results. The author substantiates the relevance of applying ideas and methods of p4c in pre-school and school education, and demonstrates the ad- vantages of its approaches in solving a number of educational and upbringing problems, the effective- ness of using philosophical tools in the develop- ment and education of children. Conclusions. Emphasizing the issue of teaching philosophy to children makes it possible to estab- lish a number of legitimate questions of pedagogi- cal, methodological, ethical, political, and other nature, the solution of which determines the choice of priority directions for developing and transform- ing the modern education system, the solution of urgent problems, without correcting of which most of the children may lose a significant cultural and intellectual experience.
Digital literacy as a tool for preventing destructive practices in the digital environment: following the materials of the regional scientific and practical conference
Authors:   South Ural State University (National Research University), Penner Regina , Salganova Elena ,   South Ural State University (National Research University), Bredihin Sergey ,   Chelyabinsk Institute of the Vocational Education Development, Shchetinina Elizaveta ,   Chelyabinsk Institute of the Vocational Education Development
Published: August 2023

Introduction. On February 28, 2023, on the basis of South Ural State University, with the support of the Research Center for Monitoring the Prevention of Destructive Manifestations in the Educational Environment (Chelyabinsk Institute of the Develop- ment of Vocational Education), there was held a regional scientific and practical conference “Preven- tion of destructive practices in the digital environ- ment and measures to improve the digital literacy of students: presentation of research results and the formation of an expert community in the field of social sciences and humanities in the region”. The purpose of the study is to present the key ideas from the reports and the results of the con- ference. Methods. In order to present the key ideas from the reports, the authors use general scientific methods, such as analysis and synthesis, induction, deduction, abstraction. Scientific novelty of the research. In the current discourse of the conference, digital was defined as a new human habitat, which contains the potential for human growth and at the same time anthropo- logical and social risks. Results. In meta-reality, between real and virtual, only monitoring of public opinion on existing and potential social threats is not enough. In this case, sociatria can be a practical response to digital threats and risks. Conclusion. In the current digital environment, constructive practices of individual social subjects and social groups coexist with destructive practices. Sociatria can become a social response to the issue of monitoring, preventing and combating digital threats, and digital literacy is an anthropological response that should be created in the educational environment.
Cell-Type Composition Affects Adipose Gene Expression Associations With Cardiometabolic Traits
Authors: Brotman Sarah M. , Oravilahti Anniina , Rosen Jonathan D. , Alvarez Marcus , Heinonen Sini , van der Kolk Birgitta W. , Fernandes Silva Lilian , Perrin Hannah J. , Vadlamudi Swarooparani , Pylant Cortney , Deochand Sonia , Basta Patricia V. , Valone Jordan M. , Narain Morgan N. , Stringham Heather M. , Boehnke Michael , Kuusisto Johanna , Love Michael I. , Pietiläinen Kirsi H. , Pajukanta Päivi , Laakso Markku , Mohlke Karen L.
Published: August 2023

Understanding differences in adipose gene expression between individuals with different levels of clinical traits may reveal the genes and mechanisms leading to cardiometabolic diseases. However, adipose is a heterogeneous tissue. To account for cell-type heterogeneity, we estimated cell-type proportions in 859 subcutaneous adipose tissue samples with bulk RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) using a reference single-nuclear RNA-seq data set. Cell-type proportions were associated with cardiometabolic traits; for example, higher macrophage and adipocyte proportions were associated with higher and lower BMI, respectively. We evaluated cell-type proportions and BMI as covariates in tests of association between >25,000 gene expression levels and 22 cardiometabolic traits. For >95% of genes, the optimal, or best-fit, models included BMI as a covariate, and for 79% of associations, the optimal models also included cell type. After adjusting for the optimal covariates, we identified 2,664 significant associations (P ≤ 2e−6) for 1,252 genes and 14 traits. Among genes proposed to affect cardiometabolic traits based on colocalized genome-wide association study and adipose expression quantitative trait locus signals, 25 showed a corresponding association between trait and gene expression levels. Overall, these results suggest the importance of modeling cell-type proportion when identifying gene expression associations with cardiometabolic traits.

Article Highlights
Cell-type composition affects adipose gene expression associations with cardiometabolic traits
Authors: M. Brotman Sarah , Oravilahti Anniina , D. Rosen Jonathan , Alvarez Marcus , Heinonen Sini , van der Kolk Birgitta , Fernandes Silva Lilian , J. Perrin Hannah , Vadlamudi Swarooparani , Pylant Cortney , Deochand Sonia , V. Basta Patricia , M. Valon Jordan , N. Narain Morgan , M. Stringham Heather , Boehnke Michael , Kuusisto Johanna , I. Love Michael , H. Pietiläinen Kirsi , Pajukanta Päivi , Laakso Markku , L. Mohlke Karen
Published: August 2023

Understanding differences in adipose gene expression between individuals with different levels of clinical traits may reveal the genes and mechanisms leading to cardiometabolic diseases. However, adipose is a heterogeneous tissue. To account for cell-type heterogeneity, we estimated cell-type proportions in 859 subcutaneous adipose tissue samples with bulk RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) using a reference single nuclear RNA-seq dataset. Cell-type proportions were associated with cardiometabolic traits; for example, higher macrophage and adipocyte proportions were associated with higher and lower body mass index (BMI), respectively. We evaluated cell-type proportions and BMI as covariates in tests of association between >25,000 gene expression levels and 22 cardiometabolic traits. For >95% of genes, the optimal, or best fit, models included BMI as a covariate, and for 79% of associations, the optimal models also included cell type. After adjusting for the optimal covariates, we identified 2,664 significant associations (P ≤ 2e-6) for 1,252 genes and 14 traits. Among genes proposed to affect cardiometabolic traits based on colocalized genome-wide association study and adipose expression quantitative trait locus signals, 25 showed a corresponding association between trait and gene expression levels. Overall, these results suggest the importance of modeling cell-type proportion when identifying gene expression associations with cardiometabolic traits.

Article Highlights

· Our goal was to create a resource of trait-gene expression associations on a genome-wide scale across several cardiometabolic traits that accounts for cell-type heterogeneity.

· We aimed to determine if cell-type composition affects trait-gene associations.

· We found that adjusting for both BMI and cell-type proportion is the best-fitting model for most trait-gene expression associations in adipose tissue. We identified 2,664 significant associations for 1,252 genes and 14 traits using a linear model that accounts for cell-type composition and BMI.

· Our findings suggest that cell-type composition should be considered when assessing the association between adipose gene expression and cardiometabolic traits.
Mesenchymal aspects of dermatology.
Authors: Asboe-Hansen G.
Published: August 2023

No abstract available
Degranulation and regranulation of human mast cells. An electron microscopic
Authors: Kobayasi T , Asboe-Hansen G.
Published: August 2023

No abstract available
An immunochemical study on mastocytosis. (Urticaria pigmentosa).
Authors: Sasaki S , Clausen J.
Published: August 2023

No abstract available
Analysis of etiological factors of squamous cell skin cancer of different
Authors: Swanbeck G , Hillström L.
Published: August 2023

No abstract available
Influence of solvents and surface active agents on the barrier function of the
Authors: Fredriksson T.
Published: August 2023

No abstract available
Hydrolysis of Soman and Tabun (two organophosphorus cholinesterase inhibitors) in
Authors: Fredriksson T.
Published: August 2023

No abstract available
Tinea granulomatosa cruris.
Authors: Gip L , Molin L.
Published: August 2023

No abstract available
Legislation on occupational dermatoses
Authors: Pirilä V. , Fregert S. , Bandmann HJ. , Calnan CD , Cronin E. , Hjorth N. , Magnusson B. , Maibach HI. , Malten KE. , Meneghini CL. , Wilkinson DS.
Published: August 2023

No abstract available
Keratosis follicularis spinulosa decalvans in a family from northern Finland
Authors: Kuokkanen K.
Published: August 2023

No abstract available
Regeneration of human epidermal surface and water barrier function after stripping. A combined study with electron microscopy and measurement of evaporative loss
Authors: G Eriksson , LO. Lamke
Published: August 2023

No abstract available
Adiposis dolorosa associated with defects of lipid metabolism
Authors: R Blomstrand , L Juhlin , H Nordenstam , R Ohlsson , B Werner , J. Engström
Published: August 2023

No abstract available
Treatment of gonorrhoea with aqueous benzyl penicillin plus probenecid
Authors: AM Niordson , S. Ullman
Published: August 2023

No abstract available
Studies on dithranol and dithranol-like compounds. I. Binding to nucleic acids
Authors: Swanbeck G. , Zetterberg G.
Published: August 2023

No abstract available
Syringeal hidradenoma--an unusual eccrine tumour
Authors: E Shmunes , A Izumi , H. Beerman
Published: August 2023

No abstract available
The association of generalized granuloma annulare with antithyroid antibodies
Authors: Gross PR , Shelley WB
Published: August 2023

No abstract available
Serum lipoproteins in middle-aged men with psoriasis
Authors: Vahlquist C , Michaëlsson G  , Vessby B
Published: August 2023

Elevated serum triglyceride and low serum HDL cholesterol levels have been reported to be risk factors for occlusive vascular disease. In 20 middle-aged men with psoriasis the serum lipoprotein pattern was compared with that in a group of healthy middle-aged men. In thirteen of the 20 patients the psoriasis was mild to moderate and in seven patients it was severe and widespread. Both groups of patients had elevated levels of both VLDL and LDL triglycerides. They also showed a tendency towards higher VLDL and lower HDL cholesterol levels than the controls. The abnormalities were more pronounced in patients with severe psoriasis. The lipoprotein pattern found in this study may possibly indicate that psoriasis is associated with an increased risk of occlusive vascular disease.
Purified trichophytin: lymphocyte reactivity in vitro and trichophytin-induced suppression
Authors: Torssander J , Wasserman J  , Von Stedingk LV , Kaaman T  , Lilja G
Published: August 2023

Three trichophytin preparations from different strains of Trichophyton mentagrophytes were produced according to the ethylene glycol method and assessed for their lymphocyte stimulation activity in vitro (LST). These trichophytin preparations showed significant variations in their effects on cord lymphocytes reactivity. The preparations also varied in their stimulation of lymphocytes from patients with dermatophytosis. Conclusions could be drawn about the immunological specificity, sensitivity and lymphocyte toxicity, which is important for the standardization of antigens. Furthermore, it was demonstrated that trichophytin-preincubated lymphocytes mediated a suppression of lymphocyte reactivity to this antigen.
Retinoids and systemic chemotherapy in cases of advanced mycosis fungoides. A report from the Scandinavian Mycosis Fungoides Group
Authors: Molin L , Thomsen K  , Volden G , Jensen P  , Knudsen E , Nyfors A , Schmidt H.
Published: August 2023

In cases of advance mycosis fungoides, the systemic chemotherapy combination of bleomycin, cyclophosphamide and prednisolone was given to 8 cases, and the same 3-drug combination with the addition of oral retinoids given to 12 cases. All cases were in a progressive phase of the disease. Remission was obtained in 5/8 cases treated with the combination and in 7/12 cases treated with the combination plus retinoids. The remissions were complete in half of the cases, but relapse occurred within 3 to 6 months in all but 2 cases. The two treatment patient groups were not fully comparable but the conclusion is that the addition of retinoids to systemic chemotherapy combination regimens is of some advantage. There still exists, however, need of more adequate treatment modalities in advanced mycosis fungoides.
Oral retinoids in mycosis fungoides and Sézary syndrome: a comparison of isotretinoin and etretinate. A study from the Scandinavian Mycosis Fungoides Group
Authors: Molin L , Thomsen K  , Volden G , Aronsson A  , Hammar H , Hellbe L , Wantzin GL , Roupe G.
Published: August 2023

Thirty-nine patients with mycosis fungoides in various stages or S√©zary syndrome were treated with isotretinoin and 29 with etretinate as single drug therapy. Complete remission within 2 months was obtained with isotretinoin in 8 cases (21%) and partial remission in another 15 cases (38%). Etretinate induced complete remission in 5 cases (21%) and partial remission in 11 (46%). Only 1 case with S√©zary syndrome went into partial remission. The first sign of remission occurred in 2 to 4 weeks. During continued treatment remissions could not always be maintained. Isotretinoin and etretinate were considered to be of equal potency in the treatment of mycosis fungoides.
Erythrokeratodermia variabilis: immunohistochemical and ultrastructural studies of the epidermis
Authors: McFadden N , Oppedal BR  , Ree K , Brandtzaeg P
Published: August 2023

Immunohistochemical and ultrastructural study of the epidermis was performed in a 53-year-old female with erythrokeratodermia variabilis (EKV) before and after treatment with the aromatic retinoid Etretinate (RO 10-9359). Aberrant expression of cytokeratin PKK2 (Labsystems, Helsinki, Finland) in lesional EKV stratum corneum was observed; this feature disappeared after Etretinate therapy. A normal distribution of DR-positive dendritic Langerhans´ cells was seen in diseased, control and post-treatment skin specimens. The striking finding of this study was thus the shift to a basal cell-type keratin reactivity in stratum corneum in lesional skin, perhaps a reflection of cytoskeleton features related to cell adhesion. Increased adhesion between the cells in stratum corneum might account for the retention type of hyperkeratosis characteristic of EKV.
Ultrastructural changes of Treponema pallidum isolated from secondary syphilitic skin lesions
Authors: Poulsen A , Kobayasi T  , Secher L , Weismann K
Published: August 2023

Treponema pallidum was isolated from various types of secondary syphilitic skin lesions. From moist genital papules and from condylomata lata several treponemes were isolated whereas few were isolated from dry papules of the trunk. One third of the observed treponemes were morphologically different from treponemes isolated from human chancres. Especially the nose-piece structures of the terminal parts of the treponemes were deviating. Some nose-pieces were coated by a fuzzily outlined electron dense substance, whereas others were degenerated or nearly separated from the cytoplasmic body. Other treponemes were missing their nose-piece as avirulent saprophytic treponemes. Recent studies have indicated that the nose-pieces are essential for the tissue attachment of treponemes and the treponemal virulence. The significance of the altered nose-piece structure observed is discussed.
Immunocompetent cells of fixed drug eruption
Authors: Visa K , Käyhkö K  , Stubb S , Reitamo S
Published: August 2023

The positive provocation test reactions of the skin of six patients with fixed drug eruption (FDE) were studied from timed skin biopsies taken between 2 hours and 9 days after the appearance of FDE. Monoclonal antibodies to the following immunocompetent cell surface epitopes were used: T3, T4, T6, T8, T9, M1, Ia1, Drc, Leu7 and B cell. The dermal infiltrate comprised 60-80% of T lymphocytes at all the times studied. Cells with T4 and T8 epitopes were displayed in similar numbers. A transient decrease in the number of T6+ cells of the epidermis could be detected with a simultaneous and also transient increase of the T6+ cells in the dermis, which suggests a possible traffic of Langerhans´ cells from the epidermis to the dermis. The epidermal Ia1+ cells showed changes similar to but less marked than the T6+ cells. The number of the dermal Ia1+ cells increased continuously. In the late biopsies these Ia1+ cells comprised up to 90% of the infiltrating cells. Except for the finding of a reduction of T6+ and Ia1+ epidermal cells, the cellular kinetics of FDE are similar to those seen in both cutaneous immunological and irritant reactions.
Baseline water loss and sweat gland response in acne patients during treatment with isotretinoin
Authors: Kiistala R , Lauharanta J  , Kiistala U
Published: August 2023

Eleven acne patients were treated with isotretinoin for 3-7 months. The water barrier function and the response of sweat glands to dilute methacholine injections were examined on upper back skin at onset and at several visits during therapy. Bilaterally located test sites representing healthy skin or skin sites which were least affected by acne lesions were selected for the study. The same sites were used at each visit for assessing the parameters. Although skin dryness was a common finding on the face and arms, no significant changes in baseline water loss (BWL) rates were found on the back skin during isotretinoin treatment. Instead there was a significant increase in the sweat gland responsiveness to methacholine during isotretinoin treatment as measured by the evaporimetric technique. Furthermore, in four out of five patients the numbers of active sweat glands, counted in plastic imprints from the stimulated test sites, showed a similar increase during therapy when compared to pretreatment values.
Production of interleukin-2 and interleukin-2 inhibitor in patients with palmoplantar pustulosis
Authors: Shiohara T , Kobayashi M  , Ishii Y , Nagashima M
Published: August 2023

We studied production of interleukin-2 (IL-2) and IL-2 inhibitor from peripheral blood of patients with palmoplantar pustulosis (PPP). Nineteen patients were divided into two groups: those with and those without arthro-osteitis. Although IL-2 production in both groups of patients was within normal limits, those with arthro-osteitis showed greater fluctuation in relation to the disease activity. The IL-2 production of five PPP patients with arthro-osteitis was greatly enhanced in the inactive stage compared with the active stage. Sera from two patients treated with a combination of etretinate and colchicine contained extremely low levels of IL-2 inhibitory activity. The increased IL-2 production in the inactive stage may be due in part to the depletion of IL-2 inhibitor-producing cells by the treatment.
Tooth pits: an early sign of tuberous sclerosis
Authors: Requena Caballero L , Liron de Robles J  , Requena Caballero C , Sánchez Yus E  , Hernández Moro B
Published: August 2023

The pit-shaped enamel defects seem to be pathognomonic of tuberous sclerosis and its detection may be an important help in the early diagnosis of this disease, especially in oligosymptomatic cases and when the dermatologic signs are still absent or only slightly evident.
A follow-up study of leg and foot ulcer patients
Authors: Hansson C , Andersson E  , Swanbeck G
Published: August 2023

Three hundred and fifty patients treated in 1980 at the Department of Dermatology for leg and foot ulcers were asked to come for an interview concerning the development of their ulcerations up to the end of 1983. Forty-five of 186 patients were free from ulcers from 1981 to 1983. Thirty patients had leg ulcers continuously throughout the period and their ulcers were not healed at any time. Ninety-six patients had died during the follow-up period, and the total mortality rate compared to an age-matched population was shown to be approximately doubled for both men and women. When analysing the causes of death, it was found that the ischemic heart disease mortality rate was twice that of the age-matched population but the mortality rate for malignant diseases was about the same.
T-helper cell activation in bullous pemphigoid
Authors: Schaller J , Haustein UF  , Fiebig H
Published: August 2023

In 10 untreated patients suffering from acute bullous pemphigoid the number of peripheral blood T cells (CD 3), T suppressor (CD 8) and T helper cells (CD 4) as well as activation antigens (DR and Tac) bearing lymphocytes was evaluated by monoclonal antibodies. While the pan-T cell population (CD 3) and T suppressor subpopulation (CD 8) were normal, the T helper subpopulation (CD 4) and the number of DR and Tac positive lymphocytes were significantly increased in the acute stage of bullous pemphigoid when compared to the age- and sex-matched controls. Phenotypically those DR positive cells belonged to the pan-T cell population (CD 3) at 66% and to the T helper subpopulation (CD 4) at 53% respectively. Under treatment with immunosuppressants the cell counts returned to normal suggesting a T helper cell activation to be involved in the acute stage of bullous pemphigoid.
Solid facial edema as a complication of acne vulgaris: treatment with isotretinoin and clofazimine
Authors: Helander I , Aho HJ.
Published: August 2023

We present two patients, a 20-year-old female and an 18-year-old male, who suffered from persistent solid facial edema as a complication of acne vulgaris. They were treated with isotretinoin with moderate response and thereafter with lymph massage with further response. The female patient also received clofazimine with good response.
Acrodermatitis chronica atrophicans in association with lichen sclerosus et atrophicans: tubulo-interstitial nephritis and urinary excretion of spirochete-like organisms
Authors: Aberer E , Neumann R  , Lubec G
Published: August 2023

We report about a 38-year-old male patient with coexisting acrodermatitis chronica atrophicans, lichen sclerosus et atrophicans and recurrent diabetic metabolic disorders since 9 years. Serologically IgG antibodies against Borrelia burgdorferi could be detected. Moveless winded structures, morphologically resembling borreliae could be demonstrated in the urine sediment by dark field microscopy. Additionally a tubulo-interstitial nephritis was diagnosed by the presence of a dysmorphic hematuria, a pathological polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and raised alpha 1- and beta 2-microglobulin in the urine. We suggest that the excreted spirochete-like structures are borreliae. They may be the putative infectious agent for the development of lichen sclerosus et atrophicans in the genital area.
Abnormal vitamin D metabolism in patients with psoriasis
Authors: Staberg B , Oxholm A  , Klemp P , Christiansen C
Published: August 2023

To elucidate if psoriatic skin involvement induces changes in vitamin D metabolism, the serum concentrations of the major vitamin D metabolites (25-hydroxy-vitamin D(2+3) (25OHD), 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D(2+3) (1,25(OH)2D), and 24,25-dihydroxyvitamin D(2+3) (24,25(OH)2D)) were studied in a group of patients with psoriasis, who had not been exposed to ultraviolet radiation at least three months before the investigation. Serum concentrations of 1,25(OH)2D were significantly reduced in 17 patients with disseminated psoriasis compared to healthy age and sex matched controls (22.3 pg/ml versus 35.0 pg/ml (p less than 0.001)) and compared to 15 patients with moderate extended psoriasis (22.3 pg/ml versus 38.3 pg/ml (p less than 0.005)). Serum concentrations of the two other metabolites were not significantly decreased. In patients with moderate psoriatic skin manifestations, the values of the three vitamin D metabolites were normal. It is concluded that patients with disseminated psoriasis demonstrate decreased serum concentrations of the vitamin D metabolite 1,25(OH)2D. Since 1,25(OH)2D plays a role in differentiation and proliferation of epidermal cells, the abnormal low serum level of 1,25(OH)2D might be of importance for the abnormalities in cell maturation and proliferation found in psoriatic skin.
The effect of UV-light on human skin microorganisms
Authors: Faergemann J , Larkö O.
Published: August 2023

Pityrosporum orbiculare, Candida albicans, Staphylococcus epidermidis and S. aureus were irradiated with UVA and UVB light in vitro. UVB inhibited growth much more effectively than UVA. P. orbiculare was the most sensitive and S. aureus the least sensitive organism. With a dose of 900 mJ cm-2 of UVB a 50 times reduction in number of colony forming units was seen for S. aureus and for the other organisms a total inhibition of growth was seen. When P. orbiculare was irradiated with monochromatic light at 300, 330 and 360 nm the highest antimicrobial activity was seen at 300 nm. If these in vitro observations correlates with the effect of UV-light treatment of various skin disorders is still unclear.
Reduced density of T6-positive epidermal Langerhans´ cells in uninvolved skin of patients with psoriasis
Authors: Oxholm A , Oxholm P  , Staberg B
Published: August 2023

The Langerhans´ cell (LC) density is known to be reduced in skin lesions as compared to uninvolved skin in patients with psoriasis. It is, however, still unsettled whether the LC density in uninvolved psoriatic skin differs from the density in normal skin. We have enumerated epidermal LC in uninvolved skin from 15 patients with stable psoriasis and in 15 healthy subjects. Punch biopsies from non-sunexposed skin from the buttock were taken. Epidermal sheets were separated by EDTA and LC then stained with an indirect immunoperoxidase technique using the mouse monoclonal antibody OKT6. The LC density was significantly reduced in uninvolved skin of patients with psoriasis (mean +/- SD: 375 +/- 37/mm2) as compared to healthy controls (544 +/- 168/mm2) (p less than 0.01). A reduced number of LC in uninvolved psoriatic skin is in accordance with previous reports demonstrating an impaired DNCB reactivity in patients with psoriasis. Whether the reduction in LC density is of pathogenic importance for psoriasis is unknown.