bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of a vitamin A palmitate and antioxidant‐containing oil‐based moisturizer on photodamaged skin of several body sites
Authors: Rawlings Anthony V , Stephens Thomas J , Herndon James H , Miller Monae , Liu Yan , Lombard Kim
Published: February 2013

Background

Cumulative lifetime sun exposure is accepted as having a very important role to play in the expression of the signs of photoaging, which is then superimposed on the intrinsic processes involved in the chronological aging of skin. Many groups have evaluated the effects of emulsion‐based products, mostly although not exclusively, on the face using a variety of actives including retinoids and antioxidants. Nevertheless, the effect of a topical anhydrous product on photodamaged skin has not been reported in the literature.

Aims

The objective of this study was to clinically evaluate the effect of a vitamin A palmitate and antioxidant‐containing oil‐based moisturizer on facial, neck, decolletage, arms, and lower leg body sites.

Methods

In a randomized, controlled and efficacy grader‐blinded clinical study conducted over 12 weeks, while at the same time recording the changes in skin condition for a no‐treatment group over the same time period, live clinical expert grading of all body sites and also grading of photographs for the face and neck assessed changes in the signs of photodamage was performed for the treatment and no‐treatment groups.

Results

Compared to the no‐treatment group, and to baseline, the oil improved fine lines, coarse wrinkles, mottled pigmentation, uneven skin tone, roughness, firmness, and clarity of the skin on the face and neck and was also shown to improve crepey skin texture, dryness, scaling and roughness on the decolletage, arms and lower legs at the primary end point at 12 weeks (P < 0.001). Moreover, improvements in a variety of parameters were observed as quickly as 2 weeks. In general, the degree of improvement was greatest in the order legs > arms > decolletage > face > neck.

Conclusions

Collectively, these results show the cumulative improvements in the signs of photoaging compared to a no‐treatment control group for the oil‐based antiaging moisturizer for the first time. The differences in the efficacy of the vitamin A palmiate and antioxidant oil‐based moisturizer on different body sites probably reflect the differences in likely photodamage.
Gender difference in tooth autotransplantation with complete root formation: a retrospective survey
Authors: Yoshino K. , Ishizuka Y. , Sugihara N. , Kariya N. , Namura D. , Noji I. , Mitsuhashi K. , Kimura H. , Fukuda A. , Kikukawa I. , Hayashi T. , Yamazaki N. , Kimura M. , Tsukiyama K. , Yamamoto K. , Fukuyama A. , Hidaka D. , Shinoda J. , Mibu H. , Shimakura Y. , Saito A. , Ikumi S. , Umehara K. , Kamei F. , Fukuda H. , Toake T. , Takahashi Y. , Miyata Y. , Shioji S. , Toyoda M. , Hattori N. , Nishihara H. , Matsushima R. , Nishibori M. , Hokkedo O. , Nojima M. , Kimura T. , Fujiseki M. , Okudaira S. , Tanabe K. , Nakano M. , Ito K. , Kuroda M. , Fukai K. , Matsukubo T.
Published: February 2013

Gender‐related risk factors in the survival of transplanted teeth with complete root formation have not yet been identified. The purpose of this study was to investigate gender differences in tooth autotransplantation at dental clinics. We asked participating dentists to provide information on transplantations they had undertaken from 1 January 1990 to 1931 December 2010. The data were screened to exclude patients who underwent more than one transplantation, smokers or those whose smoking habits were unknown, patients under 30 or who were 70 years old and over, cases where the transplanted teeth had incomplete root formation or multiple roots and those with fewer than 20 present teeth post‐operation. We analysed 73 teeth of 73 males (mean age, 47·2 years) and 106 teeth of 106 females (mean age, 45·3 years) in this study. The cumulative survival rate and mean survival time were calculated using the Kaplan–Meier method. The cumulative survival rate for males was 88·3% at the 5‐year mark, 64·8% at 10 years and 48·6% at 15 years; for females, it was 97·2% at the 5‐year mark, 85·9% at 10 years and 85·9% at 15 years. A log‐rank test indicated the difference between males and females to be significant (P = 0·011). There was also a significant difference in the main causes for the loss of transplanted teeth: males lost more transplanted teeth due to attachment loss than females (P < 0·05). These results indicate that males require more attention during the autotransplantation process, particularly at the stage of pre‐operation evaluation and that of follow‐up maintenance.
Elemental ion release from fixed restorative materials into patient saliva
Authors: Elshahawy W. , Ajlouni R. , James W. , Abdellatif H. , Watanabe I.
Published: February 2013

The objective of this study was to quantitatively investigate the elemental ion release from the fixed gold alloy and ceramic crowns into patient saliva. Twenty patients who participated in the study were divided into two equal groups; 1) full coverage type IV gold crowns and 2) full coverage CAD‐CAM‐fabricated ceramic crowns. Saliva collection and clinical evaluation of marginal integrity and gingival health were performed before crowns preparation, 3 months and 6 months after crowns placement. Clinical evaluations were conducted using California Dental Association criteria. Collected saliva samples were analysed for element release using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer. The zinc, copper, palladium, gold and silver were released from type IV gold crowns into saliva, while the silicon and aluminium were released from ceramic crowns. A clinically significant number of subjects had increased release of zinc from baseline to three‐month recall and increased silicon release from baseline to both three‐month and six‐month recalls. For all elements, the subjects' counts for the case of three‐month recall to six‐month recall were never higher than that of the case of baseline to three‐month recall except for palladium. No obvious adverse effects on marginal integrity or gingival health were noticed. Significant increased releases of zinc from cast gold crowns and silicon from CAD‐CAM‐fabricated ceramic crowns into the saliva were evident after 3 months of clinical service.
Development of Flavor Lexicon for Freshly Pressed and Processed Blueberry Juice
Authors: Bett‐Garber K.L. , Lea J.M.
Published: February 2013

A lexicon with 32 aroma/flavor, taste and mouthfeel attributes was developed for blueberry juice. Twenty blueberry products were used to develop the lexicon. It was tested with frozen blueberries that were thawed and hand‐pressed to make juices (P1, P2 or P3) and bottled juices (B1, B2, B3 or B4). Freshly pressed juices had significantly (P ≤ 0.05) higher scores in blueberry, strawberry, floral, sweet aroma and sweet taste except for processed juice, B4, which was also high in sweet taste. In comparison, the four bottled juices were significantly (P ≤ 0.05) higher in cranberry, molasses/dark corn syrup, canned tomato, fermented, processed berry juice, sour aroma and pungency aroma. In addition, all three hand‐pressed juices plus B4 were significantly lower than B1, B2 and B3 in wine‐like, bitter taste, sour taste, astringent, metallic, tongue numbing and throat burn attributes. Processed blueberry juice had a different flavor profile than freshly pressed juice.

Practical Application

Blueberry juice offers many health benefits. Blueberry juices are appealing to consumers because of their high antioxidant levels and convenience. This lexicon provides a means to evaluate blueberry juice flavor, whether freshly pressed or processed. These descriptors will facilitate monitoring the changes in flavor during processing and storage and will assist processors to determine the impact of processing methods on product flavor quality. They will also be useful to evaluate breeding and production practices on juice flavor.
Of war and sausages: A case‐directed review of infant botulism
Authors: Barnes Michelle , Britton Philip N , Singh‐Grewal Davinder
Published: February 2013

Within a 3‐month period, two infants presented non‐specifically to hospital and rapidly progressed developing flaccid paralysis. Both children were diagnosed with infant botulism. We briefly review these two cases and discuss the diagnostic and management issues involved with this rare childhood disease.
Bronchoscopic evaluation of unexplained recurrent and persistent pneumonia in children
Authors: Gokdemir Yasemin , Cakir Erkan , Kut Arif , Erdem Ela , Karadag Bulent , Ersu Refika , Karakoc Fazilet
Published: February 2013

Background

Persistent or recurrent pneumonia in children can pose a significant challenge to paediatricians and respiratory physicians.

Aim

The aim of this study is to determine the role of flexible bronchoscopy (FB) in evaluation of recurrent or persistent pneumonia that remain otherwise unexplained by non‐invasive diagnostic tests in children.

Methods

Retrospective evaluation of patients who underwent FB with an indication of recurrent or persistent pneumonia from 1997 to 2011.

Results

Among 2600 FB procedures, 434 (17%) were performed with the indication of recurrent or persistent pneumonia. There were 237 (54%) boys. Median age at presentation was 84 months, and median duration of symptoms was 9 months. FB led to specific diagnosis in 33% of the cases. The most common diseases diagnosed by FB were malacia disorders (n: 32, 7%), aspirated foreign body (n: 30, 7%), endobronchial tuberculosis (n: 20, 5%), congenital airway anomalies (n: 14, 3%), mucus plugs (n: 14, 3%), pulmonary haemosiderosis (n: 12, 3%) and middle lobe syndrome (n: 11, 3%). During FB, only 6% of the patients had minor complications such as transient hypoxia, stridor and tachycardia.

Conclusions

In our study, FB proved to be a safe and effective tool in evaluation of children with persistent or recurrent pneumonia. FB is indicated for children with recurrent or persistent pneumonia where the underlying diagnosis remains unclear even after non‐invasive diagnostic tests.
Computer use and letter knowledge in pre‐school children: A population‐based study
Authors: Castles Anne , McLean Gregor MT , Bavin Edith , Bretherton Lesley , Carlin John , Prior Margot , Ukoumunne Obioha , Wake Melissa , Reilly Sheena
Published: February 2013

Aim

To explore the link between pre‐school children's general home computer use and their letter knowledge.

Methods

As part of the Early Language in Victoria Study, a community cohort of 1539 four‐year‐old children was tested on letter knowledge as well as on non‐verbal intelligence, oral language, articulation and phonological awareness. Performance on these measures was examined in relation to parent‐questionnaire responses exploring home literacy environment and the amount of time children spent using the computer.

Results

A positive correlation between computer use and letter knowledge was found, and this association was still evident after controlling for other cognitive and environmental factors known to predict the development of letter knowledge in young children.

Conclusions

Greater computer use in pre‐school children appears to have a positive association with emerging literacy development. Future research needs to examine the nature of that association.
Anti-inflammatory effect of a sulphated polysaccharide fraction extracted from the red algae Hypnea musciformis via the suppression of neutrophil migration by the nitric oxide signalling pathway
Authors: de Brito Tarcisio Vieira , Prudêncio Rafael da Silva , Sales Adriano Bezerra , Vieira Júnior Francisco das Chagas , Candeira Starley Jone Nogueira , Franco Álvaro Xavier , Aragão Karoline Sabóia , Ribeiro Ronaldo de Albuquerque , Ponte de Souza Marcellus Henrique Loiola , Chaves Luciano de Sousa , Freitas Ana Lúcia Ponte , Medeiros Jand-Venes Rolim , dos Reis Barbosa André Luiz
Published: February 2013

Objectives

The aim of this study was to evaluate the anti-inflammatory effect of a sulphated polysaccharide fraction (PLS) extracted from the alga Hypnea musciformis and investigate the possible involvement of the nitric oxide (NO) pathway in this effect.

Methods

The anti-inflammatory activity of PLS was evaluated using inflammatory agents (carrageenan and dextran) to induce paw oedema and peritonitis in Swiss mice. Samples of paw tissue and peritoneal fluid were removed to determine myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity, NO3/NO2 levels, and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) level. The involvement of NO in the modulation of neutrophil migration in carrageenan-induced paw oedema or peritonitis was also investigated.

Key findings

Compared with vehicle-treated mice, mice pretreated with PLS (10 mg/kg) inhibited carrageenan-induced and dextran-induced oedema; it also inhibited total and differential peritoneal leucocyte counts in a model of peritonitis. These PLS effects were reversed by l-arginine treatment and recovered with the administration of a NO synthase blocker (aminoguanidine). Furthermore, PLS reduced the MPO activity, decreased IL-1β levels, and increased NO3/NO2 levels in the peritoneal cavity.

Conclusions

PLS reduced the inflammatory response by modulating neutrophil migration, which appeared to be dependent on the NO pathway.
Cardioprotective effects of different flavonoids against myocardial ischaemia/reperfusion injury in Langendorff-perfused rat hearts
Authors: Testai Lara , Martelli Alma , Cristofaro Mario , Breschi Maria C , Calderone Vincenzo
Published: February 2013

Objective

Flavonoids are important components of ‘functional foods’, with beneficial effects on the cardiovascular function, mainly due to their antioxidant activity. Many flavonoids exert antihypertensive, anti-atherosclerotic and antiplatelet activity and positive effects against endothelial dysfunction. Recent evidence indicates that they exert cardioprotective effects against myocardial ischaemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury. The aim of this work was to investigate these properties for flavonoids with different structural characteristics.

Methods

In this work, the cardioprotective effects of eight flavonoids endowed with different structural characteristics were tested on Langendorff-perfused rat hearts submitted to 30 min of global ischaemia followed by 120 min of reperfusion (I/R).

Key findings

Only the 5-hydroxy-substituted derivatives, such as 5-hydroxy flavone, apigenin, chrysin and naringenin, conferred on the hearts an improved post-ischaemic functional recovery associated with lower extension of tissue injury. A similar pharmacological profile was exhibited by 5-methoxy flavone. In contrast, 6-hydroxy flavone, 7-hydroxy flavone and 4′-hydroxy flavanone did not confer significant protection against the injury induced by I/R.

Conclusions

Some flavonoids exhibit direct cardioprotective effects against the injury induced by drastic I/R and this pharmacological property seems to be related to their structural characteristics. Such an influence of structural requirements seems to indicate that the cardioprotective effects may be due to the interaction with specific pharmacological targets.
Role of gastric mucus secretion, oxinitrergic system and sulfhydryl groups on the gastroprotection elicited by Polygala cyparissias (Polygalaceae) in mice
Authors: Klein-Júnior Luiz Carlos , Santin José Roberto , Lemos Marivane , Silveira Alessandro Conrado de Oliveira , Rocha Jady Alice Rodrigues , Beber Ana Paula , Wagner Theodoro Marcel , Bresolin Tania Mari Bellé , Bella-Cruz Alexandre , Cechinel-Filho Valdir , Faloni de Andrade Sérgio
Published: February 2013

Objectives

This study has aimed to assess the mechanisms of action for the gastroprotective effect of the acetone extract (PCAE) and methanol fraction (PCMF) of Polygala cyparissias, as well as to evaluate the activity of 1,3,6,8-tetrahydroxy-2,7-dimethoxyxanthone (1), 1,7-dihydroxy-2,3-dimethoxyxanthone (2) and astragalin (3).

Methods

Gastric secretion and mucus content were determined by pylorus ligation in mice. Nitric oxide (NO) and sulfhydryl group participation were observed by the pretreatment of mice with L-NAME or NEM. Acute ulcer was induced by ethanol/HCl and chronic ulcer by acetic acid. Anti-Helicobacter pylori activity was evaluated by the agar solid dilution assay.

Key findings

Neither PCAE nor PCMF had the ability to reduce H+ concentration. However, both of them enhanced mucus secretion. PCAE demonstrated its gastroprotection in a NO-dependent manner, while PCMF exerted the activity depending on the sulfhydryl group. In chronic ulcer, the curative ratios for the PCAE and PCMF were 67.5 and 58.4%, respectively. No effect over H. pylori was detected. Compounds 1, 2 and 3 were able to reduce lesions in the order of 79.6, 73.8 and 67.6%, respectively.

Conclusions

The data suggested that PCAE and PCMF displayed antiulcer activity due to different mechanisms and with the participation of phenolic compounds obtained from the plant.
Virulence of Curvularia in a murine model
Authors: Paredes Katihuska , Capilla Javier , Sutton Deanna A. , Mayayo Emilio , Fothergill Annette W. , Guarro Josep
Published: February 2013

We have evaluated the virulence of two clinically relevant species of Curvularia; Curvularia spicifera and C. hawaiiensis, using an experimental model of disseminated infection in immunocompromised mice. Several inocula were tested over a range 1 × 103–1 × 106 colony‐forming units/animal. Both species had a similar behaviour, producing a high mortality. Tissue burden and histopathology studies demonstrated that lung was the organ most affected.
‘Independence is not given, it is taken’: the Ivorian cinquantenaire and competing history/ies of independence
Authors: N'Guessan Konstanze
Published: February 2013

This article explores competing histories of independence in Côte d'Ivoire. The 2010 commemoration of fifty years of independence led to competing histories about how and if the nation achieved independence in 1960. The postelectoral crisis of 2010–2011 that followed soon afterwards has been interpreted by supporters of the outgoing president Laurent Gbagbo as an attempt by France and the international community to re‐colonise Côte d'Ivoire. The article asks how different versions of this history are connected to different political projects and how they have changed through time. The article will analyse these processes of meaning‐making in a historiology of Ivorian independence, thus contributing to constructivist accounts of nationhood, collective memory and historiography. The paper thus argues that different media of recalling the past in the present, such as commemoration and historiography, should be studied in a complementary manner to understand how (joint) remembering and forgetting are tools and mirrors of nations at work.
Frequency and clinical features of suicide attempts in elderly patients in Japan
Authors: Kato Koji , Akama Fumiaki , Yamada Keigo , Maehara Mizuki , Saito Mai , Kimoto Keitaro , Kimoto Kousuke , Takahashi Yuki , Sato Reiko , Ichimura Atsushi , Matsumoto Hideo
Published: February 2013

The objective of this study was to investigate the clinical features of suicide attempts in elderly patients (≥65 years) in Japan. We enrolled 546 patients who attempted suicide and were hospitalized for inpatient treatment. Characteristics were compared between the elderly and non‐elderly patients. Compared with the non‐elderly group, the incidence of mood disorders was significantly higher and the average length of stay in the intensive care unit and the duration of hospitalization were significantly longer in the elderly group. Elderly patients hospitalized for attempted suicide were more likely to have mood disorders than the non‐elderly.
Characterizing Ultraviolet Germicidal Irradiance Luminaires
Authors: Leuschner Wilhelm , Salie Faatiema
Published: February 2013

In upper‐room ultraviolet germicidal irradiance (UVGI) design, irradiance is an important characteristic, with two opposing dominant dynamics: high‐level irradiation on the microorganism and minimum levels of irradiance on human skin and eyes. The use of high‐level ray‐tracing procedures is followed in establishing radiance and irradiance levels. The main constants in a room influencing these calculations are the spectral and spatial characteristics of the radiation sources in the inter‐reflecting surfaces inside the luminaire, as well as the surfaces in the room. The most important characteristic to be determined for the radiation source prior to calculations is its spatial radiant intensity distribution. This characterization is performed using a gonioradiometer. The complexity of the physical construction of the luminaire will determine the extent to which measurements have to be taken. Accurate gonioradiometer readings provide the required radiant intensities in all directions for computer‐aided design (CAD), and can also be used to determine the total radiant flux leaving the luminaire, as well as calculating isoirradiance surfaces around the UVGI luminaire. This study will present a laboratory experimental approach to deriving the radiant intensity distribution of a UVGI luminaire. The UVGI luminaire is then characterized in situ, and compared with the gonioradiometric output.
Sequestration of PDC‐109 Protein by Specific Antibodies and Egg Yolk Cryoprotects Bull Spermatozoa
Authors: Srivastava N , Srivastava SK , Ghosh SK , Jerome A , Das GK , Mehrotra S
Published: February 2013

Contents

PDC‐109, one of the most abundant proteins in bovine seminal plasma, has detrimental effect on spermatozoa in a time‐ and concentration‐dependent manner. Therefore, we hypothesized that sequestration of detrimental protein from ejaculates would be beneficial following cryopreservation of sperm cells. To this aim, we evaluated the effect of sequestration of PDC‐109 either by anti‐PDC‐109 antibodies (Ab) or egg yolk (EY) alone or by the synergistic action of EY + Ab in minimizing cryoinjury to bull spermatozoa. PDC‐109 protein was purified by applying two‐step chromatography procedures. The purified protein was injected in rabbits to raise antibodies which were isolated using ion‐exchange chromatography. After checking the Ab cross‐reactivity, they were quantitated and added to ejaculates, either alone or in addition to EY in Tris‐glycerol (TG) extender. Thus, ejaculates were processed in extender containing EY + TG (group I), Ab + TG (group II) or EY + Ab + TG (group III). Semen quality parameters (SQPs) viz. viability and acrosome integrity (FITC‐PSA), cryoinjury to spermatozoa (chlortetracycline, CTC assay) and in vitro fertility of protein‐sequestered‐semen (zona‐penetration assay) were evaluated. A significant (p < 0.05) improvement in post‐thaw SQPs as well as in non‐capacitated spermatozoa observed at pre‐freeze and post‐thaw stages of cryopreservation in group III compared with other groups indicated reduction in protein‐mediated cryoinjury. From this study, it can be concluded that sequestration of PDC‐109 by synergistic action of EY+Ab as compared to either of them alone significantly improve sperm quality and minimize cryoinjury to bull spermatozoa upon storage at ultra‐low temperatures.
Peptic ulceration, Helicobacter pylori seropositivity and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Siva Roshan , Birring Surinder S. , Berry Michael , Rowbottom Anita , Pavord Ian D.
Published: February 2013

Background and objective

We have suggested that chronic inflammation of other foregut derivatives might be associated with airway inflammation and amplification of the response to inhaled stimuli such as cigarette smoke leading to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). One of the commonest causes of chronic foregut inflammation is gastritis secondary to Helicobacter Pylori infection. We tested the hypothesis that peptic ulceration and H. Pylori seropositivity are associated with COPD independently of other shared risk factors.

Methods

We reviewed primary care medical records and performed full lung function tests on 329 miners seen over 2 years as part of a compensation scheme. We also performed H. Pylori serology in patients with varying degrees of severity of COPD compared with a matched control population.

Results

The prevalence of peptic ulcer disease in the groups classed as normal, chronic bronchitis, mild, moderate and severe COPD was 3.2%, 16.2%, 21.4%, 42.4% and 56.2%, respectively. There was a strong and independent relationship between the presence of peptic ulcer disease and percent of predicted forced expiratory volume in 1 s (−13.3%; 95% confidence interval: 6.7–19.9; P < 0.001) and forced expiratory volume in 1 s/forced vital capacity ratio (−5.06%; 95% confidence interval: 1.8–8.2; P < 0.001). Positive H. pylori serology was present in 54.7% of 58 patients with COPD and 23.5% of 17 controls (P = 0.026).

Conclusions

Our findings suggest a relationship between peptic ulcer disease and COPD that is more that just a shared susceptibility to different environmental stimuli.
Development of the Parents' Perception of their Involvement in their Child's Tennis Activity Questionnaire (Q‐PPICTA)
Authors: Hurtel V. , Lacassagne M.‐F.
Published: February 2013

The purpose of this study was to develop and validate a questionnaire for assessing parents' perception of their involvement in their children's tennis activity (Q‐PPICTA). The validation required four successive studies. In study 1, a preliminary version of the questionnaire was formulated after selecting and adapting items taken from existing questionnaires and interviews conducted with the parents of 36 young tennis players. Three factors for measuring parental involvement in sport were identified and retained: emotional, logistic, and informational supports. In study 2, exploratory factor analyses were performed on data collected from 214 parents of tennis players. Results attested the questionnaire's three‐factor structure and ascertained its internal consistency. In study 3, a confirmatory factor analysis as well as tests on convergent and discriminant validity were carried out on data gathered from a different sample of 220 parents of tennis players. Statistics confirmed the questionnaire's three‐factor structure and reliability. In study 4, the questionnaire's external construct validity was compared with another sample consisting of 192 parents and their children. Overall, results underlined satisfactory psychometric properties for the Q‐PPICTA. Nevertheless, further studies are required to confirm the questionnaire's accuracy, reliability, and temporal validity.
Do pre‐operative knee laxity values influence post‐operative ones after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction?
Authors: Signorelli C. , Bonanzinga T. , Lopomo N. , Marcheggiani Muccioli G. M. , Bignozzi S. , Filardo G. , Zaffagnini S. , Marcacci M.
Published: February 2013

The objective of this study was to verify whether pre‐reconstruction laxity condition effects post‐reconstruction outcome. A total of 100 patients who underwent navigated Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) reconstruction were included in the study and knee laxity analysed retrospectively. The knee was assessed in six different laxity tests before and after ACL reconstruction, namely antero‐posterior (AP) and internal‐external (IE) at 30° and 90°, and varus‐valgus (VV) rotations at 0° and 30° of flexion. For each test, the least square (LS) fitting line based on pre‐operative‐to‐post‐operative laxity value was calculated. To what degree the post‐operative laxity value is explainable by the corresponding pre‐operative condition was evaluated by the LS line slope. Post‐operatively, for each single patient, the grade of laxity decreased at any evaluated test. The strongest influence of pre‐operative‐to‐post‐operative laxity values was found during IE30 and IE90 tests. While AP30 and VV0 tests seem to be those in which the post‐reconstruction laxity was barely affected by the pre‐surgery condition. The analysis of the global laxity reduction confirms the previous results. Following this hypothesis, our study remarks on the importance of combined lesions to secondary restraints and the importance of fully understanding the residual laxity to optimize the surgical technique.
Multiracial Church Attendance and Support for Same‐Sex Romantic and Family Relationships
Authors: Perry Samuel L.
Published: February 2013

Research has found that attending a racially diverse congregation promotes more favorable attitudes toward interracial dating, marriage, and adoption, but does participation in an integrated faith community promote tolerance toward other non‐traditional romantic and family forms? This study examines the relationship between involvement in a racially diverse congregation and support for same‐sex romantic and family relationships. Data are taken from the 2005 Baylor Religion Survey. I fit logistic regression models to estimate the effect of attending a multiracial church on support for homosexuality, same‐sex marriage, and same‐sex adoption, net of sociodemographic and religious controls. Results indicate that persons who attend churches where between 25 and 75 percent of attendees are of another race are more likely to support gay sex, marriage, and adoption compared with those who attend more racially homogenous churches. This relationship generally holds when models are estimated for evangelicals and mainline Protestants separately, but not for Catholics. Findings suggest a link between religion‐based racial prejudice and heterosexism/homophobia and that increased exposure to racial diversity may promote a general tolerance toward non‐traditional romantic couples and families.
Age‐related changes in skin bio‐mechanical properties: the neck skin compared with the cheek and forearm skin in Korean females
Authors: Kim Eunjoo , Cho Gayoung , Won Nam Gae , Cho Juncheol
Published: February 2013

Background

There are many reports on regional variations in skin bio‐mechanical properties, but few studies have been performed on the neck. The neck is sun‐exposed and continues to move so the neck skin can be more apt to aging.

Methods

The skin properties of the neck, cheek, and ventral forearm of 58 Korean female volunteers in good health (25–64 years old, 42.3 ± 11.7) were assessed non‐invasively with skin measuring devices, and the correlation with age and wrinkles was analyzed.

Results

Neck skin was more extensible, elastic and visco‐elastic than the cheek. The dermal layer for the neck skin was thinner and more intense than the cheek, but the results were opposite when compared with the skin of the forearm. We could observe that the subcutaneous layer was divided by the fascia with regard to the neck skin, and this thickness increased BMI‐dependently. The neck skin had the correlation between R0, R3, and dermal thickness. The correlation coefficient of elasticity on the neck with ages was −0.550 and the elasticity on the neck skin was highly negatively correlated with age than any other sites. Therefore, this bio‐mechanical property was important for determining the aging. TEWL was correlated with ages for only neck skin(R = 0.368). We found that the wrinkles on the neck were correlated with age, the elasticity, skin color (L*), TEWL.

Conclusion

The biomechanical properties of the neck skin were highly correlated with age than skin parameters of other sites. These results were influenced by constant movement and sun‐exposure, and therefore, the neck wrinkles were apt to form.
Does skin hydration influence keratinocyte biology? In vivo evaluation of microscopic skin changes induced by moisturizers by means of Reflectance Confocal Microscopy
Authors: Marco Manfredini , Giovanna Mazzaglia , Silvana Ciardo , Silvia Simonazzi , Francesca Farnetani , Caterina Longo , Giovanni Pellacani
Published: February 2013

Background

Skin hydration is defined as the water content of the epidermis and the dermis. In vivo reflectance confocal microscopy offers the opportunity to determine in vivo the kinetics of the skin after the application of topical products.

Objective

To define confocal features associated with dry skin and assess the microscopic effects of different moisturizers.

Methods

Ten healthy volunteers were enrolled for the study. Two different formulations were tested: petrolatum and a commercially available emulsion. Measurements were performed from baseline to 3 h after removal of the occlusion at regular time points. Nine confocal features were assessed: furrows' size, overall interkeratinocyte reflectance, furrows' morphology, scales, skin surface irregularity, non‐rimmed dermal papillae, exocytosis, dermal inflammation and collagen type. Furrows' size and interkeratinocyte reflectance were also quantitated using a digital analysis. Stratum corneum capacitance was recorded.

Results

At baseline, RCM showed the presence of micro‐scales and high skin surface irregularity score. After the application of topical products, the scale score decreased significantly; Furrow's size and Digital Furrow's Size had a marked and directly correlated decrement. Furrow's morphology and Epidermal Irregularity scores decreased from baseline to 30 min, the latter reaching a plateau in product application areas. Interestingly, interkeratinocyte reflectance progressively increased with the application of the topical products, while remained stable in the control area, confirmed by Digital Interkeratinocytes reflectance quantitation.

Conclusion

RCM revealed that the changes involve the skin surface by reducing the micro‐scales and epidermal irregularity. Even more interestingly, RCM showed that higher interkeratinocytes' brightness is seen for moisturizer, but not for the control area. This RCM finding could be linked to keratinocyte membrane protein exposure and/or substance release in the interkeratinocytic space.

To sum up, RCM represents a useful imaging tool to analyze the morphologic changes at different time points following the application of topical products.
Concordance between in vivo reflectance confocal microscopy and optical histology of lymphomatoid papulosis
Authors: Ardigò Marco , Donadio Carlo , Vega Hernando , Cota Carlo , Moscarella Elvira , Agozzino Marina
Published: February 2013

Background

Lymphomatoid papulosis is a primary cutaneous CD30+ T‐cell lymphoma clinically characterized by a benign, chronic, recurrent course with self‐limited papulo‐nodular skin lesion eruption. In vivo Reflectance Confocal Microscopy is a non‐invasive technique for real‐time imaging of the superficial layers of the skin down to the superficial dermis with cellular‐level resolution close to conventional histopathology. RCM has been previously reported to be useful in the in vivo evaluation of inflammatory diseases, skin tumours and also cutaneous lymphomas. Only two articles have been published on cutaneous lymphomas and none detailing confocal features of LyP. The aim of this manuscript was to describe the confocal features of LyP and their histological correlation to evaluate the possible application of this non‐invasive tool in this T‐cell lymphoma subtype clinical management.

Methods

Five patients with histological diagnosis of LyP were imaged with RCM, followed by a skin biopsy on a clinically selected lesion.

Results

High grade of correspondence between RCM and histopathology of LyP was observed, disclosing the potential rule of RCM at least for biopsy site selection.

Conclusion

Future studies on RCM for LyP vs. other cutaneous T‐cells lymphomas and inflammatory skin diseases are needed to assess specificity and sensibility of our preliminary data.
The JR blood group system: identification of alleles that alter expression
Authors: Hue‐Roye Kim , Zelinski Teresa , Cobaugh Adam , Lomas‐Francis Christine , Miyazaki Toru , Tani Yoshihiko , Westhoff Connie M. , Reid Marion E.
Published: February 2013

Background

The ABCG2 gene encodes antigens of the JR blood group system. Red blood cells (RBCs) from individuals homozygous for ABCG2 null alleles are nonreactive with polyclonal and monoclonal anti‐Jra. However, some RBCs have been defined as Jr(a+W/–) or Jr(a–), particularly when tested with polyclonal anti‐Jra. In an effort to resolve these apparent serologic ambiguities, the current study was undertaken.

Study Design and Methods

Hemagglutination of RBCs from two individuals known to express a single copy of functional ABCG2 were compared to RBCs from eight unrelated, previously characterized, Jr(a+W/–) donors. Standard polymerase chain reaction–based methods were used to characterize ABCG2 alleles.

Results

Two monoclonal anti‐Jra clones agglutinated RBCs from the eight Jr(a+W/–) study subjects. Two of these subjects were homozygous for a missense ABCG2 change (c.1858A; Asp620Asn). Two were heterozygous for two missense changes; one was c.1858G>A and c.421C>A (Asp620Asn; Gln141Lys), and the other was c.1714A>C and c.421C>A (Ser572Arg; Gln141Lys). The remaining four subjects were heterozygous for c.421C>A (Gln141Lys), and for one of four null alleles.

Conclusions

We have identified three ABCG2 alleles that are newly associated with weakened Jra expression. One of these is novel, the missense allele c.1714A>C (Ser572Arg) and two that have been previously described c.421C>A (rs2231142; Gln141Lys) and c.1858G>A (rs34783571; Asp620Asn). In addition, we found a novel, presumed null allele, c.1017_1019delCTC (Ser340del).
Ulcerative fungal keratitis in a Brown Swiss cow
Authors: Voelter‐Ratson Katrin , Monod Michel , Braun Ueli , Spiess Bernhard M.
Published: February 2013

An 11‐year‐old Brown Swiss cow was referred to the Farm Animal Department of the Veterinary Teaching Hospital in Zurich, Switzerland, because of lateral recumbency due to puerperal hemolytic anemia. The animal had developed enophthalmos due to dehydration at the time of presentation. Two days after hospitalization, the cow showed blepharospasm and epiphora of the right eye. Ophthalmic examination of the right eye revealed a fluorescein‐positive, paraxial, superficial corneal ulcer with focal edema, and mild superficial neovascularization. White corneal stromal infiltrates were seen at the edges of the ulcer bed. After initial topical treatment with an antibiotic ointment (Neomycin 3.5 mg/g, Bacitracin 250 IU/g) three times a day, an increase in corneal infiltrates was noted on re‐examination 2 days later. Several fluorescein‐negative, punctate, stromal, white opacities were seen dorsal to the ulcer. Cytology demonstrated the presence of fungal hyphae. Topical treatment with 2% miconazole ointment and 0.36% K‐EDTA eye drops six times daily and four times daily, respectively, from the second day and continued antibiotics three times daily resolved the clinical symptoms within 6 days. Fungal culture identified the fungal organism as Eurotium amstelodami.
Proper isometric actions of hyperbolic groups on -spaces
Authors: Nica Bogdan
Published: February 2013

We show that every non-elementary hyperbolic group $\G $ admits a proper affine isometric action on $L^p(\bd \G \times \bd \G )$, where $\bd \G $ denotes the boundary of $\G $ and $p$ is large enough. Our construction involves a $\G $-invariant measure on $\bd \G \times \bd \G $ analogous to the Bowen–Margulis measure from the ${\rm CAT}(-1)$ setting, as well as a geometric, Busemann-type cocycle. We also deduce that $\G $ admits a proper affine isometric action on the first $\ell ^p$-cohomology group $H^1_{(p)}(\G )$ for large enough $p$.
Logarithmic derivatives of Artin -functions
Authors: Cho Peter J. , Kim Henry H.
Published: February 2013

Let $K$ be a number field of degree $n$, and let $d_K$ be its discriminant. Then, under the Artin conjecture, the generalized Riemann hypothesis and a certain zero-density hypothesis, we show that the upper and lower bounds of the logarithmic derivatives of Artin $L$-functions attached to $K$ at $s=1$ are $\log \log |d_K|$ and $-(n-1) \log \log |d_K|$, respectively. Unconditionally, we show that there are infinitely many number fields with the extreme logarithmic derivatives; they are families of number fields whose Galois closures have the Galois group $C_n$ for $n=2,3,4,6$, $D_n$ for $n=3,4,5$, $S_4$ or $A_5$.
Weil–Châtelet divisible elements in Tate–Shafarevich groups I: The Bashmakov problem for elliptic curves over
Authors: Çiperiani Mirela , Stix Jakob
Published: February 2013

For an abelian variety $A$ over a number field $k$ we discuss the maximal divisible subgroup of ${\mathrm{H} }^{1} (k, A)$ and its intersection with the subgroup Ш$(A/ k)$. The results are most complete for elliptic curves over $ \mathbb{Q} $.
Intervertebral anticollision constraints improve out‐of‐plane translation accuracy of a single‐plane fluoroscopy‐to‐CT registration method for measuring spinal motion
Authors: Lin Cheng‐Chung , Lu Tung‐Wu , Shih Ting‐Fang , Tsai Tsung‐Yuan , Wang Ting‐Ming , Hsu Shih‐Jung
Published: February 2013

Purpose:

The study aimed to propose a new single‐plane fluoroscopy‐to‐CT registration method integrated with intervertebral anticollision constraints for measuring three‐dimensional (3D) intervertebral kinematics of the spine; and to evaluate the performance of the method without anticollision and with three variations of the anticollision constraints via anin vitro experiment.

Methods:

The proposed fluoroscopy‐to‐CT registration approach, called the weighted edge‐matching with anticollision (WEMAC) method, was based on the integration of geometrical anticollision constraints for adjacent vertebrae and the weighted edge‐matching score (WEMS) method that matched the digitally reconstructed radiographs of the CT models of the vertebrae and the measured single‐plane fluoroscopy images. Three variations of the anticollision constraints, namely, T‐DOF, R‐DOF, and A‐DOF methods, were proposed. Anin vitro experiment using four porcine cervical spines in different postures was performed to evaluate the performance of the WEMS and the WEMAC methods.

Results:

The WEMS method gave high precision and small bias in all components for both vertebral pose and intervertebral pose measurements, except for relatively large errors for the out‐of‐plane translation component. The WEMAC method successfully reduced the out‐of‐plane translation errors for intervertebral kinematic measurements while keeping the measurement accuracies for the other five degrees of freedom (DOF) more or less unaltered. The means (standard deviations) of the out‐of‐plane translational errors were less than −0.5 (0.6) and −0.3 (0.8) mm for the T‐DOF method and the R‐DOF method, respectively.

Conclusions:

The proposed single‐plane fluoroscopy‐to‐CT registration method reduced the out‐of‐plane translation errors for intervertebral kinematic measurements while keeping the measurement accuracies for the other five DOF more or less unaltered. With the submillimeter and subdegree accuracy, the WEMAC method was considered accurate for measuring 3D intervertebral kinematics during various functional activities for research and clinical applications.
Development of a new control strategy for 3D MRI‐controlled interstitial ultrasound cancer therapy
Authors: Goharrizi Amin Yazdanpanah , N'Djin William Apoutou , Kwong Raymond , Chopra Rajiv
Published: February 2013

Purpose:

MRI‐controlled interstitial ultrasound therapy is being developed as a minimally invasive, image‐guided treatment for localized cancers. The method uses an interstitial multielement ultrasound applicator to deliver high‐intensity ultrasound energy to tissue in order to achieve thermal coagulation in a target volume.

Methods:

A new temperature feedback control algorithm incorporating a proportional‐integral controller is introduced to tackle a multiple‐input single‐output control problem arising in MRI‐controlled interstitial ultrasound cancer therapy. The inputs to the controller block are the frequency, rotation rate, and applied power of an interstitial applicator and the output is the boundary temperature during treatment. Multiplanar magnetic resonance (MR) thermometry is acquired continuously during heating and used in the feedback control algorithm to achieve spatial control over treatment.

Results:

The method has been evaluated for prostate cancer treatment as an initial clinical application. Spatial treatment accuracy of a few millimeters is demonstrated in both simulations and experiments with the new controller. The spatial treatment accuracy of the new algorithm is shown to be equivalent or slightly improved over the existing approach implemented for this technology; however, the implementation of the new algorithm is much simpler, and does not involve time‐intensive tuning of gain constants.

Conclusions:

The study demonstrates the potential advantages of a new automatic temperature control system adapted to image guided interstitial ultrasound therapy.
Population Pharmacokinetic Analysis of Colistin in Burn Patients
Authors: Lee Jongtae , Han Seunghoon , Jeon Sangil , Hong Taegon , Song Wonkeun , Woo Heungjeong , Yim Dong-Seok
Published: February 2013

Colistin is increasingly used as a salvage therapy for nosocomial infections caused by multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria such as
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
and
Acinetobacter baumannii
. However, the available pharmacokinetic (PK) data for colistin are limited to guide dosing. The aim of this study was to develop a population PK model of colistin and to identify the optimal dosage regimens for burn patients. Fifty patients with burns ranging from 4% to 85% of total body surface area who had been treated with colistimethate sodium (CMS) were studied. CMS, which is hydrolyzed
in vivo
to an active metabolite, was intravenously administered every 12 h. Blood samples were collected at 0, 1, 2, 4, 6, and 8 h after more than five infusions to measure the colistin concentration using a liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) system. The population PK model was developed using nonlinear mixed effect modeling (NONMEM, v. 6.2). A one-compartment linear PK model for colistin best described the data. The covariates included in the final model were creatinine clearance for the relative fraction of CMS converted into colistin and the presence of edema for the turnover rate constant of CMS converted into colistin. A steady-state 24-h area under the concentration-time curve was simulated from 1,000 virtual patients receiving 150 mg colistin base activity every 12 h using the final model. Relative to previous studies with critically ill patients, the elimination half-life of colistin (6.6 h) was much shorter, and continuous renal replacement therapy was not a significant covariate for any PK parameters.
Favorable Outcome of Neonatal Cerebrospinal Fluid Shunt-Associated Candida Meningitis with Caspofungin
Authors: Jans Jop , Brüggemann Roger J. M. , Christmann V. , Verweij Paul E. , Warris Adilia
Published: February 2013

InvasiveCandidainfections associated with medical devices are very difficult to cure without device removal. We present a case of neonatal cerebrospinal fluid shunt-associatedCandidameningitis, in which removal of the device was precluded, that was successfully treated with caspofungin. Pharmacokinetic assessment of caspofungin concentrations in cerebrospinal fluid showed that exposure was adequate in the presence of a high systemic exposure. In complex cases of neonatalCandidainfections involving medical devices, the addition of caspofungin might be beneficial.