bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluating and Ranking the Vulnerability of Global Marine Ecosystems to Anthropogenic Threats
Authors: HALPERN BENJAMIN S. , SELKOE KIMBERLY A. , MICHELI FIORENZA , KAPPEL CARRIE V.
Published: July 2007

Abstract:  Marine ecosystems are threatened by a suite of anthropogenic stressors. Mitigating multiple threats is a daunting task, particularly when funding constraints limit the number of threats that can be addressed. Threats are typically assessed and prioritized via expert opinion workshops that often leave no record of the rationale for decisions, making it difficult to update recommendations with new information. We devised a transparent, repeatable, and modifiable method for collecting expert opinion that describes and documents how threats affect marine ecosystems. Experts were asked to assess the functional impact, scale, and frequency of a threat to an ecosystem; the resistance and recovery time of an ecosystem to a threat; and the certainty of these estimates. To quantify impacts of 38 distinct anthropogenic threats on 23 marine ecosystems, we surveyed 135 experts from 19 different countries. Survey results showed that all ecosystems are threatened by at least nine threats and that nine ecosystems are threatened by >90% of existing threats. The greatest threats (highest impact scores) were increasing sea temperature, demersal destructive fishing, and point‐source organic pollution. Rocky reef, coral reef, hard‐shelf, mangrove, and offshore epipelagic ecosystems were identified as the most threatened. These general results, however, may be partly influenced by the specific expertise and geography of respondents, and should be interpreted with caution. This approach to threat analysis can identify the greatest threats (globally or locally), most widespread threats, most (or least) sensitive ecosystems, most (or least) threatened ecosystems, and other metrics of conservation value. Additionally, it can be easily modified, updated as new data become available, and scaled to local or regional settings, which would facilitate informed and transparent conservation priority setting.
Lag Effects in the Impacts of Mass Coral Bleaching on Coral Reef Fish, Fisheries, and Ecosystems
Authors: GRAHAM NICHOLAS A. J. , WILSON SHAUN K. , JENNINGS SIMON , POLUNIN NICHOLAS V. C. , ROBINSON JAN , BIJOUX JUDE P. , DAW TIM M.
Published: July 2007

Abstract:  Recent episodes of coral bleaching have led to wide‐scale loss of reef corals and raised concerns over the effectiveness of existing conservation and management efforts. The 1998 bleaching event was most severe in the western Indian Ocean, where coral declined by up to 90% in some locations. Using fisheries‐independent data, we assessed the long‐term impacts of this event on fishery target species in the Seychelles, the overall size structure of the fish assemblage, and the effectiveness of two marine protected areas (MPAs) in protecting fish communities. The biomass of fished species above the size retained in fish traps changed little between 1994 and 2005, indicating no current effect on fishery yields. Biomass remained higher in MPAs, indicating they were effective in protecting fish stocks. Nevertheless, the size structure of the fish communities, as described with size‐spectra analysis, changed in both fished areas and MPAs, with a decline in smaller fish (<30 cm) and an increase in larger fish (>45 cm). We believe this represents a time‐lag response to a reduction in reef structural complexity brought about because fishes are being lost through natural mortality and fishing, and are not being replaced by juveniles. This effect is expected to be greater in terms of fisheries productivity and, because congruent patterns are observed for herbivores, suggests that MPAs do not offer coral reefs long‐term resilience to bleaching events. Corallivores and planktivores declined strikingly in abundance, particularly in MPAs, and this decline was associated with a similar pattern of decline in their preferred corals. We suggest that climate‐mediated disturbances, such as coral bleaching, be at the fore of conservation planning for coral reefs.
A Meta‐Analysis of Bird Responses to Uniform Partial Harvesting across North America
Authors: VANDERWEL MARK C. , MALCOLM JAY R. , MILLS STEPHEN C.
Published: July 2007

Abstract: Most data on the effects of partial‐harvest silviculture (where live trees are purposely retained at the time of harvest) on birds come from one or a few discrete harvesting treatments. It is thus difficult to infer species responses across a continuous gradient of tree retention from individual studies. To quantify the levels of tree retention expected to produce specified changes in the relative abundance of individual species, we carried out a meta‐analysis of 42 studies that examined the impacts of uniform partial harvesting on North American birds. Of 34 species, sigmoidal models showed a negative effect of harvesting for 14 species and a positive effect for 6 species. Ovenbirds (Seiurus aurocapilla) and Brown Creepers (Certhia americana) were the species most sensitive to harvesting. Most of the 14 species that were negatively affected by harvesting showed 25%, 50%, and 75% reductions in abundance (relative to control sites) at tree retention levels ranging from 45 to 85%, 30–70%, and 15–50%, respectively. A few species, such as Yellow‐rumped Warblers (Dendroica coronata), exhibited these levels of response at lower tree retention or were not predicted to decrease by 75% in harvested stands. Five of the 6 species that were positively affected by harvesting showed at least a 50% increase in abundance at nearly all levels of tree retention, although other early successional bird species did not appear to benefit from the relatively small openings created by uniform partial harvesting. Three of 20 species exhibited stronger responses to harvesting at a given level of tree retention in boreal and northern mixed forests of North America than other regions of the continent, but, with these exceptions, lack of variation among forest regions supported the broad‐scale generality of species' responses to harvesting. The species response models we developed represent useful tools for evaluating stand‐level impacts of partial harvesting on birds within an adaptive management framework. Uniform partial harvesting at light and, to a lesser degree, moderate intensities may be effective approaches to managing habitat for late successional bird species as part of broader ecosystem‐based forest management.
A Novel Mutation in KCNQ1 Associated with a Potent Dominant Negative Effect as the Basis for the LQT1 Form of the Long QT Syndrome
Authors: AIZAWA YOSHIYASU , UEDA KAZUO , SCORNIK FABIANA , CORDEIRO JONATHAN M. , WU YUESHENG , DESAI MAYURIKA , GUERCHICOFF ALEJANDRA , NAGATA YASUTOSHI , IESAKA YOSHITO , KIMURA AKINORI , HIRAOKA MASAYASU , ANTZELEVITCH CHARLES
Published: July 2007

Introduction: Long QT Syndrome (LQTS) is an inherited disorder characterized by prolonged QT intervals and life‐threatening polymorphic ventricular tachyarrhythmias. LQT1 caused by KCNQ1 mutations is the most common form of LQTS.

Methods and Results: Patients diagnosed with LQTS were screened for disease‐associated mutations in KCNQ1, KCNH2, KCNE1, KCNE2, KCNJ2, and SCN5A. A novel mutation was identified in KCNQ1 caused by a three‐base deletion at the position 824–826, predicting a deletion of phenylalanine at codon 275 in segment 5 of KCNQ1 (ΔF275). Wild‐type (WT) and ΔF275‐KCNQ1 constructs were generated and transiently transfected together with a KCNE1 construct in CHO‐K1 cells to characterize the properties of the slowly activating delayed rectifier current (IKs) using conventional whole‐cell patch–clamp techniques. Cells transfected with WT‐KCNQ1 and KCNE1 (1:1.3 molar ratio) produced slowly activating outward current with the characteristics of IKs. Tail current density measured at −40 mV following a two‐second step to +60 mV was 381.3 ± 62.6 pA/pF (n = 11). Cells transfected with ΔF275‐KCNQ1 and KCNE1 exhibited essentially no current. (Tail current density: 0.8 ± 2.1 pA/pF, n = 11, P = 0.00001 vs WT). Cotransfection of WT‐ and ΔF275‐ KCNQ1 (50/50), along with KCNE1, produced little to no current (tail current density: 10.3 ± 3.5 pA/pF, n = 11, P = 0.00001 vs WT alone), suggesting a potent dominant negative effect. Immunohistochemistry showed normal membrane trafficking of ΔF275‐KCNQ1.

Conclusion: Our data suggest that a ΔF275 mutation in KCNQ1 is associated with a very potent dominant negative effect leading to an almost complete loss of function of IKs and that this defect underlies a LQT1 form of LQTS.
Evaluation of an Individualized Strategy of Cavotricuspid Isthmus Ablation as an Adjunct to Atrial Fibrillation Ablation
Authors: SHAH DIPEN C. , SUNTHORN HENRI , BURRI HARAN , GENTIL‐BARON PASCALE
Published: July 2007

Objectives: To evaluate supplementary cavotricuspid isthmus (CTI) ablation as an adjunct to atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation in selected patients.

Background: It is unclear whether routine CTI ablation is beneficial in all patients undergoing AF ablation.

Methods and Results: In patients undergoing AF ablation, additional CTI block was created only for those with typical atrial flutter (Afl) before or during the ablation. Out of 188 consecutive patients (108 male, 56 ± 9 years), 75 underwent CTI ablation (Group CTI+) and left atrial (LA) ablation (circular mapping‐guided extensive pulmonary vein isolation in all and linear LA ablation when required), while 113 underwent LA ablation alone (Group CTI−). Group CTI+ patients had smaller LA and less frequently persistent/permanent AF and linear LA ablation. Over a follow‐up of 30 ± 10 months, complications (4% vs 5%, P = NS), typical Afl occurrence (1.3% and 2.6%, P = NS) and AF recurrence (25% and 28%, P = NS) were similar. Atypical Afl was more common in Group CTI− (4 vs 14%, P = 0.026). Eighty‐two percent and 79% of patients in Groups CTI+ and CTI−, respectively, remained arrhythmia free in stable sinus rhythm without antiarrhythmic drug treatment (P = NS).

Conclusions: Avoiding supplementary CTI ablation in AF ablation patients without evidence of typical flutter does not result in a higher incidence of typical Afl. Despite more persistent/permanent AF and larger LA in patients without evidence of typical flutter, a strategy of selective supplementary ablation resulted in similar and low AF recurrence rates in the group without CTI ablation compared with the group with CTI ablation.
Quantification of Shock‐Induced Microscopic Virtual Electrodes Assessed by Subcellular Resolution Optical Potential Mapping in Guinea Pig Papillary Muscle
Authors: WINDISCH HERBERT , PLATZER DIETER , BILGICI EREK
Published: July 2007

Introduction: The primary objective of this study was the quantitative description of shock‐induced, locally occurring virtual electrodes in natural cardiac tissue.

Methods and Results: Multiscale optical potential mapping using 10×, 20×, and 40× magnifying objectives, achieving resolutions of 0.13, 0.065, and 0.033 mm, was performed when applying uniform shocks (±10 V/cm, 5 ms) during diastole and action potential plateau. A procedure was developed to identify local potential deviations as depolarizing or hyperpolarizing peaks and to quantify their occurrence and characteristic amplitudes, lateral extents, and dynamics. At shock onset, peaks of either polarity developed significantly faster (τ= 0.92 ± 0.65 ms, N = 64) than the average bulk polarization (τ= 2.25 ± 0.96 ms, P < 0.001) and appeared locally fixed, changing their polarity at shock reversal. The mean peak magnitude (21.2 ± 12 mV) and the amplitude distribution were essentially independent from the magnification. The peak density continuously increased with decreasing peak extent (taken at 70% of the amplitude), reaching a maximum of ∼3 peaks/mm2 in the range of ∼30–65 μm. There was no correlation between peak amplitude and size throughout. Potentially exciting peaks were found with a density of 0.04–0.2 peaks/mm2 corresponding to estimated 1–5 peaks/mm3.

Conclusions: Our results suggest that microscopic inhomogeneities form a substantial substrate for far‐field excitation in natural cardiac tissue. Here, we effectively bridged the gap between the extensively studied myocyte cultures and larger heart preparations.
Antidepressant selection: Proceedings from a TCA/SSRI Consensus Conference
Authors: Mendlewicz J. , Lecrubie Y.
Published: July 2007

Mendlewicz J, Lecrubier Y for the TCNSSRI Consensus Panel. Antidepressant selection: Proceedings from a TCNSSRI Consensus Conference.

Acta Psychiatr Scand 2000: 101: 5–8. © Munksgaard 2000.

Objective: Despite significant advances in treatment choice, the use of antidepressants in clinical practice remains far from optimal. One aspect of antidepressant use, initial antidepressant selection, is the most immediately influential way to improve clinical outcomes. The purpose of this conference was to review the available literature on the two most common classes of antidepressants — the tricylic antidepressants (TCAs) and the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) — and come to consensus on recommendations for initial antidepressant selection.

Method: A panel of experts in psychiatry and health services research was convened to systematically review and discuss the available literature on the TCAs and SSRIs in the treatment of depression and related affective disorders.

Results: The consensus group concluded that growing evidence suggests that TCAs are no longer justified as first‐line antidepressant therapy in most settings. In addition, emerging differences in the tolerability profiles and breadth of indication of the SSRIs are important to consider when making an initial treatment choice.

Conclusion: While the coming years will bring new treatment options, clinicians currently have the ability to improve clinical outcomes and the long‐term prognosis of depression. The following pages provide information to make informed antidepressant choices, thereby providing a higher quality of antidepressant treatment for the patient in actual clinical practice.
Tricyclic antidepressants and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors: use during pregnancy, in children/adolescents and in the elderly
Authors: Emslie G. , Judge R.
Published: July 2007

Emslie G, Judge R. Tricyclic antidepressants and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors: use during pregnancy, in children/adolescents and in the elderly.

Acta Psychiatr Scand 2000: 101: 26–34. © Munksgaard 2000.

Objective: Depressive disorders can occur at any point in the lifespan. One way of differentiating antidepressants is by examining their efficacy and safety in the special patient populations that exist along the lifespan. Thus, we examine clinical data that is available regarding the use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) at three distinct points in the lifespan: childhood and adolescence, pregnancy and late adulthood.

Method: Literature regarding the use of antidepressants in children and adolescents, pregnancy and the elderly was reviewed.

Results: Clinical data suggest that SSRIs should be first line treatment in children and adolescents as TCAs have questionable efficacy and definite safety issues. Similarly, although TCAs and SSRIs show equivalent efficacy in elderly patients, the safety profile of the SSRIs makes them a more prudent choice in this population. Finally, although there is no definitive data that contraindicates the use of a particular antidepressant in pregnancy, the bulk of reassuring pregnancy outcome data exists for the SSRIs, specifically for fluoxetine.

Conclusion: Although no single antidepressant can ever be recommended for every patient, SSRIs should be considered the first‐line choice in the treatment of depression in special patient populations.
Economic outcomes associated with tricyclic antidepressant and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor treatments Ior depression
Authors: Crown W. H.
Published: July 2007

Crown WH. Economic outcomes associated with tricyclic antidepressant and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor treatments for depression. Acta Psychiatr Scand 2000: 101: 62–66. © Munksgaard 2000.

Objective: To compare the economic outcomes associated with the tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) and the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) in the treatment of depression.

Method: A literature review of pertinent studies was performed. The advantages and disadvantages of clinical trials versus observational studies are described, and the breadth of the economic outcome measure chosen for the conclusions reached is discussed. Results: The inclusion and exclusion criteria of clinical trials, in combination with their strict provider and patient study protocols, limit their generalizability to naturalistic treatment settings. Retrospective studies of patients can provide valuable information about the experiences and costs incurred by patients in actual treatment. However, confounding factors (both observable and unobservable) limit the amount of confidence that can be placed in inferences about treatment effects. Randomized prospective studies with naturalistic follow‐on may help to mitigate some of the concern about treatment confounders which has traditionally been associated with non‐randomized observational studies.

Conclusion: Retrospective studies and one randomized prospective study of the economic outcomes of TCA versus SSRI treatment have found the SSRIs to be less expensive than TCAs when total direct medical expenditures are considered. However, additional studies are needed to address this issue.
Optical phenomenon of peri‐implant soft tissue. Part I. Spectrophotometric assessment of natural tooth gingiva and peri‐implant mucosa
Authors: Park Sang E. , Da Silva John D. , Weber Hans‐Peter , Ishikawa‐Nagai Shigemi
Published: July 2007

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to investigate the difference in optical appearance of the soft tissues labial to dental implants and to analyze the effects of titanium implant neck colors transmitted through the marginal mucosa.

Materials and methods: Fourteen patients with 15 Straumann® single implant replacements in the maxillary anterior region were recruited. Color measurements of the peri‐implant mucosa of test sites and the gingivae of contralateral or adjacent natural teeth as controls were made at the facial aspect of the teeth using a spectrophotometer. The color data (CIELAB color coordinates; L*, a*, b* and C*) in five incremental areas of 1 × 2 mm from the gingival margin toward the apical direction were obtained.

Results: A significant difference existed (P<0.01) between the test site and the control site on the mean L* and b* values in all five incremental areas (area 1–5). In contrast, there was no significant difference in the mean a* values. Discrepancies between color distributions of soft tissues were stronger in areas close to the gingival margin and decreased toward the apical direction. The mean color difference ΔE between the test site and the control site was 7.7 in area 1 and decreased toward area 5 with a value of 6.5. However, there was no statistical difference in each of the mean values of differences in optical data, ΔL*, Δa* and Δb*, when five incremental areas of the control and the test sites were compared.

Conclusion: It was observed that the color of soft tissue around the titanium implant was significantly different compared with the gingiva of natural teeth. Significantly lower values of CIELAB color coordinates, L* and b* were found in the peri‐implant soft tissue.
Should patients be informed about the risk of heparin‐induced thrombocytopenia before prolonged low‐molecular‐weight heparin thromboprophylaxis post‐trauma/orthopedic surgery?
Authors: Lubenow Norbert , Hinz Peter , Ekkernkamp Axel , Greinacher Andreas
Published: July 2007

Objectives:  Heparin‐induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) is an immune‐mediated prothrombotic adverse drug effect that occurs less frequently with low‐molecular‐weight heparin (LMWH) than with unfractionated heparin (UFH) in post‐trauma/orthopedic surgery patients. The life‐threatening nature of HIT raises the question whether informed consent for this treatment‐induced adverse effect should be obtained, particularly as LMWH is often continued during the outpatient period when clinical and platelet count monitoring become problematic. Paradoxically, refusal of thromboprophylaxis as a result of seeking informed consent could increase risk for thrombosis.

Methods:  We evaluated in patients undergoing routine LMWH thromboprophylaxis post‐trauma/orthopedic surgery the feasibility of obtaining informed consent, using a standardized questionnaire to determine patient preferences. We also identified the proportion of HIT patients in our laboratory comprised of trauma/orthopedic surgery patients from 1995–1997 and 2002–2004 (time periods characterized, respectively, by UFH and LMWH thromboprophylaxis for this patient population).

Results:  None of 460 patients in whom informed consent was administered rejected LMWH thromboprophylaxis. The patients’ perception of the informed consent process and the written information provided about the risk of HIT and its risk due to clinical consequences were highly favorable. From 1995–1997 to 2002–2004, the proportion of HIT identified among trauma/orthopedic surgery patients declined from 30.3% to 1.2% (P < 0.0001).

Conclusions:  Obtaining informed consent about HIT is feasible in written form and does not cause refusal of LMWH thromboprophylaxis. Despite the uncommon occurrence of HIT during LMWH thromboprophylaxis, informed consent increases patient’s awareness of this potentially life‐threatening adverse drug effect, an outcome that could increase outpatient recognition of the diagnosis.
First clinical experience with simvastatin to overcome drug resistance in refractory multiple myeloma
Authors: Schmidmaier Ralf , Baumann Philipp , Bumeder Irmgard , Meinhardt Gerold , Straka Christian , Emmerich Bertold
Published: July 2007

In vitro statins overcome cell adhesion‐mediated drug resistance at non‐toxic concentrations that are achievable in humans by standard dose simvastatin. A pilot phase‐II trial was initiated to determine feasibility and antimyeloma efficacy. In six myeloma patients refractory to two cycles of bortezomib or bendamustine simvastatin was concomitantly administered during further two cycles. The therapy was well tolerated without grade 3/4 toxicity. Intrapatient (cycles I/II vs. III/IV) and interpatient comparison (vs. ten patients without simvastatin) showed reduction of drug resistance by inhibition of HMG‐CoA‐reductase. In summary, this is the first phase II experience to study antimyeloma activity of statins in humans.
Pretargeted antibody‐guided radioimmunotherapy in a child affected by resistant anaplastic large cell lymphoma
Authors: Palumbo Giuseppe , Grana Chiara M. , Cocca Francesca , De Santis Rita , Del Principe Domenico , Baio Silvia M. , Mei Riccardo , Paganelli Giovanni
Published: July 2007

Anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL) is characterized by preferential paracortical and intrasinusoidal lymph node involvement by large anaplastic tumor cells expressing the CD30 antigen. Up to 80% of pediatric patients with ALCL can be cured with multi‐agent chemotherapeutic regimens. Patients resistant to chemotherapy or suffering from early relapse have a poor prognosis and a poor chance of survival. In these cases, the highly aggressive clinical course of ALCL, associated with systemic symptoms and extranodal involvement, has been treated with different approaches in various cooperative trials, including conventional chemotherapy and human stem cell transplantation (HSCT). However, the optimal treatment has not yet been defined, in particular in cases of relapse.

More recently, radioimmunotherapy has been studied with encouraging results in cancer patients, including non‐Hodgkin’s lymphoma.

Here we describe the case of a pediatric ALCL, relapsing after HSCT, treated with pretargeted antibody‐guided radioimmunotherapy, obtaining a complete remission, with excellent quality of life over the past 10 months.
Increased QT variability in young asymptomatic patients with β‐thalassemia major
Authors: Magrì Damiano , Sciomer Susanna , Fedele Francesco , Gualdi Gianfranco , Casciani Emanuele , Pugliese Pellegrina , Losardo Anna , Ferrazza Giancarlo , Pasquazzi Eleonora , Schifano Erika , Magnanti Marzia , Matera Sabrina , Marigliano Vincenzo , Piccirillo Gianfranco
Published: July 2007

Background:  Despite recent progress in iron chelation therapy, sudden cardiac death due to malignant ventricular arrhythmias remains a vexing, clinical problem in patients with β‐thalassemia major (TM). In this study we assessed whether the major indices of QT variability, emerging tools for risk stratification of sudden cardiac death, differ in young asymptomatic patients with TM and healthy persons.

Methods: Thirty patients with TM and 30 healthy control subjects underwent a 5‐min electrocardiography recording to calculate the following variables: QT variance (QTv), QTv normalized for mean QT (QTVN) and QT variability index (QTVI). All subjects also underwent a two‐dimensional and Doppler echocardiography study and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to determine cardiac and hepatic T2* values.

Results: No differences were observed in clinical and conventional echo‐Doppler findings in healthy control subjects and patients with TM whereas QTv, QTVN and QTVI values were significantly higher in patients than those in controls (QTv, P < 0.001; QTVN, P < 0.05 and QTVI, P < 0.001) and cardiac T2* and hepatic MRI T2* values were significantly lower in patients with TM (P < 0.001). The indices of temporal QT variability correlated significantly with MRI data.

Conclusions: Young asymptomatic patients with TM have increased cardiac repolarization variability as assessed by QT variability indices, probably due to cardiac iron deposition. These easily assessed, non‐invasive markers could be used to identify increased myocardial repolarization lability early in asymptomatic patients with TM.
Biochemical and white blood cell profiles of baboon neonates consuming formulas with moderate and high dietary long‐chain polyunsaturated fatty acids
Authors: Hsieh A.T. , Anthony J.C. , Diersen‐Schade D.A. , Nathanielsz P.W. , Thomas Brenna J.
Published: July 2007

Background  Clinical chemistry and complete blood count (CBC) values were determined in 14 term baboons (Papio species) consuming formula with moderate or high levels of dietary long‐chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFA) from 2–12 weeks of age.

Method  Neonates were randomized to three groups: C: Control, no LCPUFA; L: 0.33% docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)/0.67% arachidonic acid (ARA) (w/w); L3:1.00% DHA/0.67% ARA (w/w). Blood chemistries were assessed at 6 and 12 weeks and CBC parameters were measured at 2, 4, 8, 10, 12 weeks of age.

Results  Dietary LCPUFA had significant effects on serum triglyceride (C > L,L3) and calcium (L > C,L3). No other significant effects of diet were detected; pooled values are presented for all other parameters.

Conclusion  These data provide longitudinal biochemical and white cell/platelet/immunological data on LCPUFA‐fed baboons over the first 12 weeks of life. Data ranges are similar to reference data in cases for which values exist and hematological changes reflect trends observed during human neonatal development.
An in vivo study of the mechanical properties of facial skin and influence of aging using digital image speckle correlation
Authors: Staloff Isabelle Afriat , Guan E. , Katz Steven , Rafailovitch Miriam , Sokolov Aryeh , Sokolov Sara
Published: July 2007

Background/purpose: The skin on the face is directly attached to the muscle through the superficial musculoaponeurotic system. We show that this can be used to probe skin mechanical properties, in vivo, using, digital image speckle correlation (DISC), a technique that measures the intrinsic cutaneous pore structure displacement following a natural facial deformation.

Methods: We take a series of images, which are then analyzed with DISC to create a displacement vector diagram, from which we can obtain spatially resolved information regarding facial deformation. We then studied the functional form of the displacement as a function of age, location on the face, and skin treatment. Finally, through DISC vector field analysis we investigate the mechanism of wrinkle formation.

Results: We first show that facial skin displacement follows the direction of muscular movement and reflects the magnitude of the applied forces. Using DISC vector field analysis, we find that as the skin ages the distribution of forces becomes more condensed, with a marked spatial asymmetry. Analysis of the data, in the perioral region, we find that the skin elasticity decreases exponentially with age, with a decay constant of approximately 32 years. Similar results, but with a larger amplitude, were also found for the periorbital region. Finally, DISC vector field analysis also shows that the location of maximal stress correlated with the location of existing facial wrinkles.

Conclusion: The DISC method, as a non‐contact technique, is a potential clinical research tool for the diagnosis of facial skin condition and underlying muscular activity. We demonstrate how these factors can be used to monitor the effects of aging, formation of wrinkles, and the efficacy of topical applications of skin creams.
A nonlinear elastic behavior to identify the mechanical parameters of human skin in vivo
Authors: Delalleau A. , Josse G. , Lagarde J.‐M. , Zahouani H. , Bergheau J.‐M.
Published: July 2007

Background/purpose: Various analyses have been performed to identify the mechanical properties of the human skin tissue in vivo. They generally use different approaches and hypotheses (behavior laws as well as mechanical tests) and the obtained results are consequently difficult to analyze and compare. In this paper, an inverse method that can be adapted to any kind of mechanical tests and behavior laws is presented.

Method: A suction deformation performed on the volar aspect of the forearm of a subject is considered. This test is modeled with the finite element method to compare the experimental and simulated curves using an inverse method that allows the skin mechanical parameters identification. This process is based on two optimization algorithms, Kalman's filter and Gauss–Newton's methods. To account for the nonlinear behavior of the skin, a specific nonlinear elastic law, which is then compared with standard linear elastic and neo‐Hookean's mechanical behaviors, was developed.

Results: The obtained results first prove that neither linear elasticity nor neo‐Hookean's laws can be used to model the skin. On the contrary, the nonlinear elastic model presents a relevant fit of the experimental curves. The skin thickness is also proved to be another key point to be taken into consideration.

Conclusions: The obtained results are successfully compared with literature and the reliability of the proposed method is underlined with the identification of 300 additional experimental curves. The different works we are currently focusing on are finally introduced.
Confocal laser microscopic imaging of conspicuous facial pores in vivo: relation between the appearance and the internal structure of skin
Authors: Sugata Keiichi , Nishijima Takafumi , Kitahara Takashi , Takema Yoshinori
Published: July 2007

Background/purpose: Conspicuous facial pores are one of the more serious esthetic defects of most concern to women. Previous microscopic observations of the skin surface around conspicuous pores have discovered large hollows and uneven skin tone. In this study, the observation area was extended from the skin surface to deeper skin to find the characteristic features of conspicuous pores in a wider spectrum.

Methods: First, a magnified surface image of the cheek skin was obtained using a video microscope. Second, replicas were collected from the same area. Third, the horizontal cross‐sectioned images of the epidermis and papillary dermis in different depths were non‐invasively obtained using in vivo confocal laser scanning microscopy. These images were compared with each other to find a correlation between features of the skin surface and those of deeper layers.

Results: In cross‐sectioned images of conspicuous pores, a strongly undulated epidermal–dermal junction was commonly observed around a pore's opening. Areas with this feature correlated well to the areas with larger hollows and an uneven skin tone.

Conclusion: Our results indicate that there is a positive correlation between the incidence of the characteristic feature at the epidermal–dermal junction and the visual appearance of a pore.
Fatty acid synthase expression in squamous cell carcinoma of the tongue: clinicopathological findings
Authors: Silva SD , Perez DE , Nishimoto IN , Alves FA , Pinto CAL , Kowalski LP , Graner E
Published: July 2007

Background:  Overexpression of fatty acid synthase (FAS), the cytosolic enzyme responsible for the conversion of dietary carbohydrates to fatty acids, has been reported in several human malignancies and pointed as a potential prognostic marker for some tumors. This study investigated whether FAS immunohistochemical expression is correlated with the clinicopathological characteristics of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC).

Materials and methods:  The clinical features of 102 patients with OSCC of the tongue treated in a single institution were obtained from the medical records and all histopathological diagnoses were reviewed. The expression of FAS was determined by the standard immunoperoxidase technique in formalin‐fixed and paraffin‐embedded specimens and correlated with the clinicopathological characteristics of the tumors.

Results:  Eighty‐one cases (79.41%) were positive for FAS. Microscopic characteristics such as histological grade (P < 0.05), lymphatic permeation (P < 0.001), perineural infiltration (P < 0.05), and nodal metastasis (P < 0.02) were associated with FAS status. A significantly lower survival probability for patients with advanced clinical stage (log‐rank test, P < 0.001), lymph nodes metastasis (log‐rank test, P < 0.001), presence of vascular permeation (log‐rank test, P = 0.05), and perineural invasion (log‐rank test, P = 0.01) was observed in the studied samples.

Conclusion:  The expression of FAS in OSCC of the tongue is associated with the microscopic characteristics that determine disease progression and prognosis.
SHED repair critical‐size calvarial defects in mice
Authors: Seo BM , Sonoyama W , Yamaza T , Coppe C , Kikuiri T , Akiyama K , Lee JS , Shi S
Published: July 2007

Objective:  Stem cells from human exfoliated deciduous teeth (SHED) are a population of highly proliferative postnatal stem cells capable of differentiating into odontoblasts, adipocytes, neural cells, and osteo‐inductive cells. To examine whether SHED‐mediated bone regeneration can be utilized for therapeutic purposes, we used SHED to repair critical‐size calvarial defects in immunocompromised mice.

Materials and methods:  We generated calvarial defects and transplanted SHED with hydroxyapatite/tricalcium phosphate as a carrier into the defect areas.

Results:  SHED were able to repair the defects with substantial bone formation. Interestingly, SHED‐mediated osteogenesis failed to recruit hematopoietic marrow elements that are commonly seen in bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell‐generated bone. Furthermore, SHED were found to co‐express mesenchymal stem cell marker, CC9/MUC18/CD146, with an array of growth factor receptors such as transforming growth factor β receptor I and II, fibroblast growth factor receptor I and III, and vascular endothelial growth factor receptor I, implying their comprehensive differentiation potential.

Conclusions:  Our data indicate that SHED, derived from neural crest cells, may select unique mechanisms to exert osteogenesis. SHED might be a suitable resource for orofacial bone regeneration.
The association of osteoprotegerin gene polymorphisms with periodontitis
Authors: Park O‐J , Shin S‐Y , Choi Y , Kim M‐H , Chung C‐P , Ku Y , Kim K‐K
Published: July 2007

Background:  It has been demonstrated that genetic variation accounts for approximately half of the variance in periodontitis. The reported association of polymorphisms in the osteoprotegerin (OPG) gene with osteoporosis suggests that the OPG gene may also influence the genetic risk for periodontitis.

Subjects and methods:  We investigated the distribution of OPG gene polymorphisms in 49 patients with aggressive (n = 14) or chronic (n = 35) periodontitis and 49 control subjects without periodontitis, using polymerase chain reaction (PCR)–restriction fragment length polymorphism and PCR–single strand conformation polymorphism followed by direct sequencing.

Results:  A total of seven known polymorphisms and one new mutation, G373A, were identified. The T950 and G1181 alleles were more common in patients with periodontitis (P = 0.028 and P = 0.047, respectively) than in control subjects. Especially, G1181 allele was associated with patients with aggressive periodontitis.

Conclusion:  The TG haplotype of T950C and G1181C polymorphisms in the OPG gene may be useful genetic markers for the prediction of periodontitis. Further studies in a larger population are required to determine whether these alleles directly contribute to periodontitis susceptibility.
The Movies
Authors: Martindale C. C.
Published: July 2007

I was swallowing some coffee in the Paddington refreshment-room when my neighbour said to me suddenly :

“‘Ave you seen Tarzan of the Apes?”

“I’m afraid not, Sergeant,” said I (for he was an R.A.M.C. Sergeant, and happier than many a man need be). “But I’ve noticed the posters.”

“Ar,” said he. “Now if you sets store by Lord Darwin’s the’ry, I won’t say as that ain’t how it mightn’t ‘ave happened.”

“There you are !” said I discreetly.

“There’s some,” said he, “as may ; and there’s some as mayn’t. But you take it from me, may or mayn’t, there’s some wot’ll think different from wot they do. Nor yet from wot they did.”

Failing to disentangle this, and seeing that ten o’clock was imminent, I was unable to probe further his philosophy, and said “Good night.”
Patriotism
Authors: Brennell Dorothea E.
Published: July 2007

Napoleon once said the love of country was the first virtue of civilized man. Opinions differ as to the desirability, one may say the “virtuousness,” of some virtues, but in all ages the patriot has been one whom men have delighted to honour.

Yet though all agree that “Patriotism” is a great good, the word itself is travestied almost as frequently as other great words, e.g. “Mysticism,” “Rights,” etc. etc.

One conception there is, beautiful, poetical, and partially true ; it is the more emotional love of country, one may say of the material country, its hills and glens, plains and streams, and along with these go its traditions, all for which it stands. Men look up to their land as something which possesses them, to which they owe fealty, the land of their fathers, the cradle of their race, the beloved spot of Mother Earth round which clings all that mysterious something which makes “home.” It is an intense absorbing love which passes into a kind of worship, which produces the national literature of a country ; it is the sentiment with which the Frenchman speaks of “La France,” the Italian of “Italia,” the Irishman of “Erin,” the Scot of “Bonnie Scotland,” and the Englishman, too, of his “Motherland” (though he can call it “Blighty” and looks upon it rather as a cherished and priceless possession than as a goddess with the right to command his all). A certain proportion of such affection must exist in all Patriotism, but the thing itself is more than this.
The Profession of Journalism
Authors: Gibbs Philip
Published: July 2007

In a recent book called Fleet Street and Downing Street, by Mr. Kennedy Jones, who was one of the driving forces behind that enormous engine of publicity known as “ the Northcliffe Press,” there are some candid remarks about the status and influence of modern journalism. In a series of chapters he argues that journalism has become more of a business than a profession, and, in one chapter, he states bluntly that at no previous time has the reading public been so suspicious of the “ news “ presented to it by English newspapers as it is to-day owing to the suppression, exaggeration or falsification of news for political reasons. I think both statements are true, at the present time, and as a journalist proud of my “ profession,” and of what I refuse to call my “ business,” I think both are lamentable.

It is a curious thing that during the past twenty-five years which have seen the evolution of the New Journalism, represented by the Northcliffe Press, with many other imitators and rivals, two opposing tendencies have been at work. The first is the gradual loss of political prestige, owing to the capture of the papers’ policy by financial and wire-pulling groups, and the second is the social elevation of the journalist himself, especially in the lower ranks of the newspaper world. Both these changes have been brought about by the same pioneers, and I prophecy that there will soon be a struggle between the professional journalist and the business groups that control his work and life.
The Collected Poems of Alice Meynell
Authors: Burdett Osbert
Published: July 2007

The substance of most books of modem verse is the succession of scattered emotions remaining to those who have no philosophy of life, who cannot see the wood for the trees, who suffer the ache of an inner vacuity, who clutch at the passing straw of any transient emotion because that wandering wisp is the only tangible thing in the disorder of their attention. But an ache for something which is not there, a confession of something wanting, a search for some centre on which to repose : none of these is a substitute for a positive quality. It is the absence of a personality which these reveal; they are symptoms, not revelations. The lack which earnestness, striving, purpose (ugly words for ugly vices) betray in life and in prose, this scatter-brained emotionalism betrays in poetry. The first cannot speak, nor the second sing. This explains why we read most contemporary books of verse with impatience, and why, if we read many of them, all sense of standard seems to depart from us.

Here I have tried to make the effort which most readers will hardly be at pains to make for themselves, the effort to diagnose the disorder of which most modern verse is the reflection. Since this dis-ease, with the disillusion which accompanies it, is now endemic, we should recognize its nature and then fortify ourselves by a study of those writers, classical and modern, who in different degrees belong to the true order of poetry.
St. Thomas Aquinas and Biblical Criticism
Authors: McNabb Vincent
Published: July 2007

We purpose (1) to set down a few passages from the Summa Theologica of St. Thomas Aquinas dealing with Biblical Criticism ; and (2) to give a short commentary on them.

“In discussing matters of this kind, two rules are to be observed, as Augustine teaches (Gen. ad litt. i). The first is to hold the truth of Scripture without wavering. The second is that since Holy Scripture can be explained in a multiplicity of senses, one should adhere to a particular explanation only in such measure as to be ready to abandon it, if it be proved with certainty (certa ratione) to be false, lest Holy Scripture be exposed to the ridicule of unbelievers, and an obstacle be placed to their believing (Ia Qu. 68, Art. 1, Eng. Tr.).

“As, however, this theory (i.e. an infinite body of waters beyond the heavens) can be shown to be false by solid reasons (per veras rationes), it cannot be held to be the sense of Sacred Scripture. It should rather be considered that Moses was speaking to ignorant people (rudi populo) and that out of condescension to their weakness he put before them only such things as are apparent to sense” (ibid., Art. 3).
On Curiosity
Authors: Reeves John‐Baptist
Published: July 2007

“Jack, be quiet,” cried Mrs. Beeby to her husband. “Can’t you see I’ve got an idea !” She was sketching rapidly and intently the first rough outlines of a drawing. All Mrs. Beeby’s drawings were exquisite.

The Professor sniggered.

“You never had an idea in your life, my sweet,” he said. “Given an idea, you wouldn’t be a woman—much less the adorable woman that I love.”

The Professor was wrong, as professors frequently are. But the excitement of a brilliant course of lectures in metaphysics was still upon him, and he was unconsciously soothing himself by making playful (and erroneous) application of things he had read and thought and spoken about of late, copiously and in the orthodox abstract professorial way.

He said much more, and his wife, for all her industrious drawing, contradicted him cleverly. Yet their pretty war of words is of no more concern to us here than the prettier truce of hearts of which it was a graceful camouflage. For this, good reader, by your leave, is not a love story. It is a solemn attempt to discuss, in a practical and homely way, some of the very big things professors expound grandiloquently and in moods not always consonant with common sense.
“Peace … Where There is no Peace”
Authors: Keable Robert
Published: July 2007

Friday, April 15, 1921, is a day to mark in the Kalendar. We are still so near to it that there is no need to detail the Conferences, Proclamations, Appeals, and Letters which marked the stages of the fever of that hectic week ; enough that on Friday morning the Army, the Special Reserve and the new Defence Force were ready for war, that the Triple Alliance had called on the workers of the country for a General Strike, and that 10 p.m. was to have seen Great Britain as near to the modern equivalent of civil war as at any time since 1642. Yet that night one placard at least proclaimed the general relief. It blazoned one word—Peace.

On the Saturday, the Press offered a bewildered country its explanations. One section had it, in the words of the Morning Post, that “The Great Bluff” of Labour had “failed.” Other papers told that Mr. Thomas had stared revolution in the face and had been too timid—or too brave, which you please— to face it. Others attributed the dramatic end to a realization on the part of the leaders of the Triple Alliance that their men were not staunch behind them. At least one crowned the Premier with fresh laurels. A new Cromwell had saved his country with the threat of something that approximated to 500,000 bayonets. At any rate it was “ peace.”
Should Money Make Money?
Authors: Barker Austin
Published: July 2007

This question most men to-day would answer with a prompt and confident “Yes.” It will be the conclusion offered in this paper that, in this affirmative answer, fashionably put forward and passively accepted, most men to-day are making an ethical and radical mistake.

At the outset be it noted the question propounded is : “Should money make money?” We are not concerned directly or primarily with the question : “Does money make money?” To that query all your bankers, stockbrokers, politicians and dividend hunters would no doubt reply with a ready affirmative. That query is for the moment beside the mark, though it may be pointed out in passing that even there the commonly accepted view may be anything but the truth. Our question, “Should money make money?” is one of ethics or morals: in other words it is a question of right and wrong.

Now, the problem is really one of exchange, for it is quite patent that of itself money does not beget money. A half-crown, however warmly placed and in whatever well-lined pocket, cannot produce a litter of sixpences or threepenny-bits.