bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reduced frequency of atopic dermatitis in quinoline‐allergic patients: the ‘hapten‐atopy hypothesis’
Authors: McFadden John P. , White Jonathan M. L.
Published: March 2008

Background:  While allergy to food proteins is almost exclusively found in association with atopy, it has been our experience that contact allergy to some contact allergens/haptens with both cutaneous and gastrointestinal exposures is reduced in atopic dermatitis (AD) patients as a group.

Objective:  To assess the contact allergy rates of two classes of antimicrobial haptens, one with both cutaneous and gastrointestinal exposures (quinolines) and one with only significant cutaneous exposure (aminoglycosides), with respect to the presence or absence of AD.

Methods:  Contact allergy rates to neomycin (aminoglycoside) and quinoline mix/clioquinol in patients attending the St John’s Institute of Dermatology for diagnostic patch testing were retrospectively analysed; current AD and history of AD were noted.

Results:  In comparison to neomycin‐allergic subjects, there was a highly significant negative association between quinoline contact allergy and current presence of AD (P = 0.0028); negative association between quinoline contact allergy and a history of AD did not reach significance (P = 0.07).

Conclusions:  In comparison to an antimicrobial with no significant gastrointestinal exposure (neomycin), contact allergy to quinolines is negatively associated with the presence of AD. This is in contrast to food protein allergy, which is strongly associated with atopy. Possible explanations could include (i) confounding factors or (ii) AD patients are efficient at orally tolerising haptens and inefficient at orally tolerising proteins, secondary to their atopic status or (iii) oral tolerance of haptens antagonizes tolerance of food proteins and also leads to an immunological shift towards atopy (hapten‐atopy hypothesis).
Patients with vulval pruritus: patch test results
Authors: Utaş Serap , Ferahbaş Ayten , Yıldız Sinem
Published: March 2008

Background:  Persistent vulval pruritus is a frequent problem and patients may not show signs of a primary vulval dermatosis. Allergic contact sensitivity is an important factor in such patients but may also occur as a secondary event in women with vulval dermatoses.

Objectives:  We aim to describe women with vulval pruritus who were evaluated for vulval dermatoses. We patch tested to help define or exclude allergens.

Methods:  In a 3‐year period, 50 women with vulval pruritus were examined for existence of vulval dermatosis. All the patients were patch tested to the European Baseline Series, medicaments, preservatives, vehicles, cosmetics and products they routinely used.

Results:  Ages of the patients ranged from 22 to 62 years (mean 39.9 ± 9 years) and duration of the diseases ranged from 0.5–360 months (mean 56.1 ± 65.6 months). 52% of the women had at least 1 positive patch test. 8 patients (16%) had 1 or more relevant allergic positive reactions. The relevant allergens were usually cosmetics, preservatives and medicaments.

Conclusions:  Women with vulval pruritus were patch tested to help define or rule our allergens. Contact allergy incidence in these patients is high. The relevant allergens were usually cosmetics, preservatives and medicaments.
In vitro characterization of a monoclonal IgGκ from a patient with planar xanthomatosis*
Authors: Horne McDonald K. , Merryman Paula , Cullinane Ann , Remaley Alan T.
Published: March 2008

Objective:  To characterize a monoclonal IgGκ (MAb) from a patient with planar xanthoma that precipitated with serum lipids at reduced temperature.

Methods:  The molecular weight (Mr), sensitivity to proteases, and glycosylation of the purified MAb were analyzed. The specificity of the MAb was tested by measuring cryoprecipitation with pure high‐ (HDL) and low‐density (LDL) lipoproteins. The effect of choline, phosphocholine, and glycerol 3‐phosphate on the precipitation temperature of LDL by the MAb was studied.

Results:  The MAb was larger than normal IgG due to hyperglycosylation of the MAb light chain. It formed cryoprecipitates with pure HDL and LDL as well as the lipids extracted from these lipoproteins. Fab fragments of the MAb lowered the temperature of its precipitation with LDL. Choline, phosphocholine, and glycerol 3‐phosphate also lower the precipitation temperature.

Conclusion:  This is the first human IgG reported with apparent specificity for phosphocholine antigens. Its precipitation with lipids at reduced temperature suggests that it recognizes conformations of phospholipid head groups that develop below core body temperature.
Identification of HLA‐A2 restricted T‐cell epitopes within the conserved region of the immunoglobulin G heavy‐chain in patients with multiple myeloma
Authors: Belle Sebastian , Han Fang , Condomines Maud , Christensen Olaf , Witzens‐Harig Mathias , Kasper Bernd , Kleist Christian , Terness Peter , Moos Marion , Cremer Friedrich , Hose Dirk , Ho Anthony D. , Goldschmidt Hartmut , Klein Bernard , Hundemer Michael
Published: March 2008

Objective:  The aim of this study is the identification of HLA‐A2 restricted T‐cell epitopes in the conserved region of the immunoglobulin‐G‐heavy‐chain (IgGH) that can be used for immunotherapy in multiple myeloma (MM) patients.

Methods:  After the IgGH gene sequence was scanned for HLA‐A2 restricted T‐cell epitopes with a high binding affinity to the MHC‐I‐complex, promising nona‐peptides were synthesized. Peptide specific CD8 +  T‐cells were generated from peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) of healthy donors (HD) and patients with MM using peptide pulsed dendritic cells (DC) in vitro. The activation and cytotoxicity of CD8 +  T‐cells was analyzed by IFN‐α ELISpot‐assay and 51Chromium release‐assay. HLA‐A2 restriction was proven by blocking T‐cell activation with anti‐HLA‐A2 antibodies.

Results:  Two HLA‐A2 restricted T‐cell epitopes–TLVTVSSAS derived from the IgGH‐framework‐region 4 (FR4) and LMISRTPEV from the constant region (CR)‐induced expansion of specific CD8 +  T‐cells from PBMC in two of three (TLVTVSSAS) and one of three (LMISRTPEV) HD respectively. Specific T‐cells were induced from PBMC in two of six (TLVTVSSAS) and eight of 19 (LMISRTPEV) patients with MM. Specific CD8 +  T‐cells also lysed peptide‐pulsed target cells in 51Chromium release‐assay. LMISRTPEV specific CD8 + T‐cells from MM patients lysed specifically the HLA‐A2 +  IgG myeloma cell line XG‐6.

Conclusion:  We identified two HLA‐A2 restricted T‐cell epitopes–TLVTVSSAS and LMISRTPEV–which can yield an expansion of CD8 +  T‐cells with the ability to kill peptide‐loaded target cells and HLA‐A2 +  IgG+ myeloma cells. We conclude that TLVTVSSAS and LMISRTPEV could be T‐cell epitopes for immunotherapy in MM patients.
Cytokines in crevicular fluid and orthodontic tooth movement
Authors: Ren Yijin , Vissink Arjan
Published: March 2008

This review aimed to evaluate studies on cytokines in the gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) during orthodontic treatment, summarizing the regulation patterns of the most commonly studied cytokines and exploring their clinical implications. To achieve this, a number of key databases were searched using MESH terms and free text terms. An additional search was made by reference tracking. The procedures suggested by the QUOROM statement were followed. Data from the included studies were extracted into orthodontic mechanics, GCF sampling/handling methods, and cytokine measurements. From the 85 relevant studies identified, 23 studies could be included. Common drawbacks consisted mainly of inadequacies in the study design (e.g. short duration and small number of study subjects). The most consistent result was a peak of cytokine levels at 24 h. Associations existed between prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β) and pain, velocity of tooth movement, and treatment mechanics. Interleukin‐1β and PGE2 showed different patterns of up‐regulation, with IL‐1β being more responsive to mechanical stress and PGE2 more responsive to synergistic regulation of IL‐1β and mechanical force. The results might be taken to support, at the cellular level, the use of light continuous forces for orthodontic treatment.
Confirmative factor analysis of the dimensions of the Child Oral Health Impact Profile (Dutch version)
Authors: Geels Lot Marie , Hoogstraten Johan , Prahl‐Andersen Birte
Published: March 2008

The aim of this study was to examine the subscales of the Child Oral Health Impact Profile (COHIP). The Dutch version of the COHIP consists of the subscales ‘Oral Symptoms’, ‘Functional Well‐being’, ‘Emotional Well‐being’, ‘School’, and ‘Peer Interaction’. The questionnaire was administered to a sample of 510 children in Amsterdam. Missing data were replaced with the personal mean. Subsequently, questionnaire reliability was investigated by means of corrected item‐total correlations and Cronbach’s alpha if‐item‐deleted. Based on these results, six items were excluded from further analysis.Then, the questionnaire and its subscales were examined using confirmative factor analyses. One‐factor models were fitted on each subscale and a five‐factor model was applied to the entire questionnaire. In several cases, model fit was below an acceptable level. In conclusion, the structure of five subscales does not seem to be entirely supported in this study population.
Micropermeability of current self‐etching and etch‐and‐rinse adhesives bonded to deep dentine: a comparison study using a double‐staining/confocal microscopy technique
Authors: Sauro Salvatore , Pashley David H. , Mannocci Francesco , Tay Franklin R. , Pilecki Peter , Sherriff Martyn , Watson Timothy F.
Published: March 2008

Water sorption decreases the mechanical properties and the bond strengths of resin‐bonded dentine. The aim of this study was to evaluate the micropermeability of several self‐etching and etch‐and‐rinse adhesives. Optibond FL, Silorane, Scotchbond 1XT, G‐Bond, and DC‐Bond were bonded under simulated pulpal pressure. A 10 wt% solution of ammoniacal silver nitrate and a 1 wt% solution of rhodamine B were injected into the pulp chamber at 20 cm of water pressure. The dentine–adhesive interfaces were examined using a confocal scanning microscope. Micropermeability was detected in all the adhesives. DC‐Bond, G‐Bond, and Scotchbond 1XT showed voids along the resin‐bonded interface. Silorane and Optibond FL showed an adhesive layer that was free from water trees and micropermeability. The double staining technique is a method that gives accurate results in the study of the resin‐dentine micropermeability. Each class of adhesive has a different distribution of micropermeability. The higher the micropermeability, the higher the risk of defects at the resin–dentine interface, which may represent the pathway for hydrolytic and enzymatic degradation of resin–dentine bonds over time.
Distal cis‐regulatory elements are required for tissue‐specific expression of enamelin (Enam)
Authors: Hu Yuanyuan , Papagerakis Petros , Ye Ling , Feng Jerry Q. , Simmer James P. , Hu Jan C‐C.
Published: March 2008

Enamel formation is orchestrated by the sequential expression of genes encoding enamel matrix proteins; however, the mechanisms sustaining the spatio–temporal order of gene transcription during amelogenesis are poorly understood. The aim of this study was to characterize the cis‐regulatory sequences necessary for normal expression of enamelin (Enam). Several enamelin transcription regulatory regions, showing high sequence homology among species, were identified. DNA constructs containing 5.2 or 3.9 kb regions upstream of the enamelin translation initiation site were linked to a LacZ reporter and used to generate transgenic mice. Only the 5.2‐Enam–LacZ construct was sufficient to recapitulate the endogenous pattern of enamelin tooth‐specific expression. The 3.9‐Enam–LacZ transgenic lines showed no expression in dental cells, but ectopic β‐galactosidase activity was detected in osteoblasts. Potential transcription factor‐binding sites were identified that may be important in controlling enamelin basal promoter activity and in conferring enamelin tissue‐specific expression. Our study provides new insights into regulatory mechanisms governing enamelin expression.
Distribution of SIBLING proteins in the organic and inorganic phases of rat dentin and bone
Authors: Huang Bingzhen , Sun Yao , Maciejewska Izabela , Qin Disheng , Peng Tao , McIntyre Bradley , Wygant James , Butler William T , Qin Chunlin
Published: March 2008

The SIBLING protein family is a group of non‐collagenous proteins (NCPs) that includes dentin sialophosphoprotein (DSPP), dentin matrix protein 1 (DMP1), bone sialoprotein (BSP), and osteopontin (OPN). In the present study, we compared these four proteins in different phases of rat dentin and bone. First, we extracted NCPs in the unmineralized matrices and cellular compartments using guanidium‐HCl (G1). Second, we extracted NCPs closely associated with hydroxyapatite using an EDTA solution (E). Last, we extracted the remaining NCPs again with guanidium‐HCl (G2). Each fraction of Q‐Sepharose ion‐exchange chromatography was analyzed using sodium dodecyl sulfate–polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS–PAGE), Stains‐All stain, and with western immunoblotting. In dentin, the NH2‐terminal fragment of DSPP and its proteoglycan form were primarily present in the G1 extract, whereas the COOH‐terminal fragment of DSPP was present exclusively in the E extract. The processed NH2‐terminal fragment of DMP1 was present in G1 and E extracts, whereas the COOH‐terminal fragment of DMP1 existed mainly in the E extract. Bone sialoprotein was present in all three extracts of dentin and bone, whereas OPN was present only in the G1 and E extracts of bone. The difference in the distribution of the SIBLING proteins between organic and inorganic phases supports the belief that these molecular species play different roles in dentinogenesis and osteogenesis.
Melatonin maintains mitochondrial membrane potential and attenuates activation of initiator (casp‐9) and effector caspases (casp‐3/casp‐7) and PARP in UVR‐exposed HaCaT keratinocytes
Authors: Fischer T. W. , Zmijewski M. A. , Wortsman J. , Slominski A.
Published: March 2008

Abstract:  Melatonin is a recognized antioxidant with high potential as a protective agent in many conditions related to oxidative stress such as neurodegenerative diseases, ischemia/reperfusion syndromes, sepsis and aging. These processes may be favorably affected by melatonin through its radical scavenging properties and/or antiapoptotic activity. Also, there is increasing evidence that these effects of melatonin could be relevant in keratinocytes, the main cell population of the skin where it would contribute to protection against damage induced by ultraviolet radiation (UVR). We therefore investigated the kinetics of UVR‐induced apoptosis in cultured keratinocytes characterizing the morphological and mitochondrial changes, the caspases‐dependent apoptotic pathways and involvement of poly(ADP‐ribose) polymerase (PARP) activation as well as the protective effects of melatonin. When irradiated with UVB radiation (50 mJ/cm2), melatonin treated, cultured keratinocytes were more confluent, showed less cell blebbing, more uniform shape and less nuclear condensation as compared to irradiated, nonmelatonin‐treated controls. Preincubation with melatonin also led to normalization of the decreased UVR‐induced mitochondrial membrane potential. These melatonin effects were followed by suppression of the activation of mitochondrial pathway‐related initiator caspase 9 (casp‐9), but not of death receptor‐dependent casp‐8 between 24 and 48 hr after UVR exposure. Melatonin down‐regulated effector caspases (casp‐3/casp‐7) at 24–48 hr post‐UV irradiation and reduced PARP activation at 24 hr. Thus, melatonin is particularly active in UV‐irradiated keratinocytes maintaining the mitochondrial membrane potential, inhibiting the consecutive activation of the intrinsic apoptotic pathway and reducing PARP activation. In conclusion, these data provide detailed evidence for specific antiapoptotic mechanisms of melatonin in UVR‐induced damage of human keratinocytes.
Day/night differences in stress‐induced gastric lesions in rats with an intact pineal gland or after pinealectomy
Authors: Konturek Stanisław J. , Brzozowski Tomasz , Konturek Piotr C. , Zwirska‐Korczala Krystyna , Reiter Russel J.
Published: March 2008

Abstract:  The formation of acute gastric lesions depends upon the balance between the aggressive factors promoting mucosal damage and the natural defense mechanisms. Previous studies have shown that melatonin inhibits gastric acid secretion, enhances the release of gastrin, augments gastric blood flow (GBF), increases the cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2)–prostaglandin (PG) system and scavenges free radicals, resulting in the prevention of stress‐induced gastric lesions. Besides the pineal gland, melatonin is also generated in large amounts in the gastrointestinal tract and due to its antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory properties; this indole might serve as local protective endogen preventing the development of acute gastric damage. The results of the present study indicate that stress‐induced gastric lesions show circadian variations with an increase in the day time and a decline at night. These changes are inversely related to plasma melatonin levels. Following pinealectomy, stress‐induced gastric mucosal lesions were more pronounced both during the day and at night, and were accompanied by markedly reduced plasma melatonin levels with a pronounced reduction in mucosal generation of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), GBF and increased free radical formation and by small rise in plasma melatonin during the dark phase. We conclude that stress‐induced gastric ulcerations exhibit a circadian variation with an increase in the day and attenuation at night and that these fluctuations of gastric stress ulcerogenesis occur also after pinealectomy, depending upon the interaction of COX–PG and free radicals, probably mediated by the changes in local gastric melatonin.
Topically applied growth factors change skin cytoplasmic creatine kinase activity and distribution and produce abnormal keratinocyte differentiation in murine skin
Authors: Zemtsov Alexander , Montalvo‐Lugo Victor
Published: March 2008

Background/purpose: The skin has a functional and active phosphocreatine (PCR)/creatine kinase (CPK) system that regenerates adenosine triphosphate energy reserves during periods of ischemia. The objective of this study was to evaluate how topically applied growth factors affect CPK activity and distribution, and what histological changes growth factors induce in murine skin.

Methods: Epidermal growth factor (EGF), transforming growth factor α (TGF‐α) and suramin (growth factor inhibitor) were applied to murine skin for nine days before mice were sacrificed and CPK level and distributions were measured.

Results: TGF‐α considerably increased CPK activity. Both EGF and TGF‐α induced a CPK MM to CPK BB transition and histologically induced abnormal differentiation of keratinocytes.

Conclusion: The skin PCR/CPK system is affected by growth factors. Furthermore, this system appears to play an important role, both in the normal physiology of skin and pathophysiological conditions such as psoriasis and carcinogenesis.
Point‐spread imaging for measurement of skin translucency and scattering
Authors: Jiang Zhi‐xing , Kaplan Peter D.
Published: March 2008

Background/purpose: The translucency of skin has long been identified as an important cue for healthy and youthful looking skin. There is currently no universal definition for skin translucency let alone a measurement method. We propose that skin translucency is the light scattering beneath skin surface. We demonstrate the use of polarization gated point spreading imaging for non‐invasive, in vivo measurement of the translucency and the reduced scattering coefficient of skin.

Methods: We developed a polarization‐gated point‐spread imaging system to measure the spread of the incident pencil‐thin laser beam on the skin. Skin translucency was calculated as the spread of the laser beam. From the measurement of the shift of the light diffuse center from the light injection point, the reduced scattering coefficient of the skin was calculated. We validated the measurement technique with milk as an in vitro model for skin.

Results and conclusion: The measured of milk solution was found to be linearly proportional to the milk concentration, in agreement with Beer's law. The calculated translucency decreased as the milk concentration increased or as the reduced scattering coefficient increased. It was also found that the translucency decreased as the absorption coefficient of the milk solution increased. The measured translucency of a set of custom made clay tiles correlated well with the consumer perception of the incremental ranking of the translucency. In vivo measurement of skin translucency and the reduced scattering coefficient were carried out on several volunteers. The measured reduced scattering coefficient was in agreement with those in the literature. The measured skin translucency for different skin ethnicities of Caucasian, North Asian, South Asian and African American were in line with the expectation that skin translucency decreases as the skin color gets darker.
Visualizing nuclei in skin cryosections: viable options to 4′6‐diamidino‐2‐phenylindol for confocal laser microscopy
Authors: Gläser K. , Wilke K. , Wepf R. , Biel S. S.
Published: March 2008

Background: Visualization of nuclei in skin (cryo‐) sections is essential for both, rapid overview and reliable orientation within skin samples. Therefore, nuclear staining is a very common counterstain for immunohistochemical studies of human skin as this nuclear staining precisely depicts the cellular distribution within the epidermis. Moreover, it clearly shows the epidermal–dermal border as well as the transition zone between the living and the cornified layers of the epidermis. For standard epifluorescence microscopy, 4′6‐diamidino‐2‐phenylindol (DAPI) is commonly used. For confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM), however, DAPI is often not suitable because its excitation maximum is in the ultraviolet (UV) range (Exmax 359 nm) when bound to DNA, and UV lasers and the corresponding optics are not part of CLSM standard configuration.

Methods: In order to find an adequate DAPI substitute that is excitable with standard visible light lasers, the following nuclear stains were tested: LOLO™‐1 iodide (Exmax 565 nm), TOTO®‐3 iodide (Exmax 642 nm), LO‐PRO™‐1 iodide (Exmax 567 nm), SYTO® 84 (Exmax 567 nm), SYTO® 85 (Exmax 567 nm), SYTOX® Green (Exmax 488 nm) and SYTOX® Orange (Exmax 547 nm), Propidium iodide (Exmax 535 nm). Besides optimal concentration and incubation time, following criteria were also evaluated: photobleaching, background, e.g. cytoplasmic staining of RNA, and sensitivity to different fixation conditions (unfixed, IEM fixation, PLP fixation and PFA fixation).

Results: According to these criteria Sytox® Green showed the best overall staining score and can be used for variously fixed skin samples and shows a distinct and stable green nuclear fluorescence.
Border detection in dermoscopy images using statistical region merging
Authors: Emre Celebi M. , Kingravi Hassan A. , Iyatomi Hitoshi , Alp Aslandogan Y. , Stoecker William V. , Moss Randy H. , Malters Joseph M. , Grichnik James M. , Marghoob Ashfaq A. , Rabinovitz Harold S. , Menzies Scott W.
Published: March 2008

Background: As a result of advances in skin imaging technology and the development of suitable image processing techniques, during the last decade, there has been a significant increase of interest in the computer‐aided diagnosis of melanoma. Automated border detection is one of the most important steps in this procedure, because the accuracy of the subsequent steps crucially depends on it.

Methods: In this article, we present a fast and unsupervised approach to border detection in dermoscopy images of pigmented skin lesions based on the statistical region merging algorithm.

Results: The method is tested on a set of 90 dermoscopy images. The border detection error is quantified by a metric in which three sets of dermatologist‐determined borders are used as the ground‐truth. The proposed method is compared with four state‐of‐the‐art automated methods (orientation‐sensitive fuzzy c‐means, dermatologist‐like tumor extraction algorithm, meanshift clustering, and the modified JSEG method).

Conclusion: The results demonstrate that the method presented here achieves both fast and accurate border detection in dermoscopy images.
Diagnostic image analysis of malignant melanoma in in vivo confocal laser‐scanning microscopy: a preliminary study
Authors: Gerger Armin , Wiltgen Marco , Langsenlehner Uwe , Richtig Erika , Horn Michael , Weger Wolfgang , Ahlgrimm‐Siess Verena , Hofmann‐Wellenhof Rainer , Samonigg Hellmut , Smolle Josef
Published: March 2008

Background/purpose: In this study we assessed the applicability of image analysis and a machine learning algorithm on diagnostic discrimination of benign and malignant melanocytic skin tumours in in vivo confocal laser‐scanning microscopy (CLSM).

Methods: A total of 857 CLSM tumour images including 408 benign nevi and 449 melanoma images was evaluated. Image analysis was based on features of the wavelet transform. For classification purposes we used a classification tree software (CART). Moreover, automated image analysis results were compared with the prediction success of an independent human observer.

Results: CART analysis of the whole set of CLSM tumour images correctly classified 97.55% and 96.32% of melanoma and nevi images. In contrast, sensitivity and specificity of 85.52% and 80.15% could be reached by the human observer. When the image set was randomly divided into a learning (67% of the images) and a test set (33% of the images), overall 97.31% and 81.03% of the tumour images in the learning and test set could be classified correctly by the CART procedure.

Conclusion: Provided automated decisions can be used as a second opinion. This can be valuable in assisting diagnostic decisions in this new and exciting imaging technique.
Lack of correlation between minimal erythema dose and skin phototype in a colombian scholar population
Authors: Sanclemente Gloria , Zapata José‐F , García José‐J , Gaviria Ángela , Gómez Luis‐F , Barrera Marcela
Published: March 2008

Background: Sun exposure and skin phototype are the most relevant risk factors for skin cancer. Colombia has high levels of ultraviolet radiation during the whole year, therefore, both, high UVI's and outdoor worker's daily activities, in our country are very important risk factors for the development of cutaneous cancer. To date no study has evaluated the usefulness of Fitzpatrick's skin phototype classification in Colombians and its correlation with the minimal erythema dose (MED) and constitutional skin color. Such information is gaining importance in other nations due to the fact that several country's population is becoming more ethnically diverse.

Objectives: To determine the skin phototype, accumulated sun exposure, sun protection behavior, MED and phenotype in a Colombian school population.

Methods: Last year high school students from the western Antioquia were invited to participate by phone and letter through their respective school directors. A self‐questionnaire was handled to each student. A representative sample of the universe was selected for a medical examination by a dermatologist in order to validate the results of the self‐questionnaire. The constitutional skin color was determined with the chromameter CR 300 Minolta®. The MED was defined as the minimal dose of UVB being able to induce erythema 24 h later.

Results: Eight schools of the area agreed to participate in the study, and a total of 911 students (58% girls and 42% boys) filled‐out the self‐questionnaire. Sun exposure in the majority of individuals was in a level between moderate and very high. Ninety percent of students do not use any sun protection device or cream. Only a 50% of concordance between self‐assessed skin phototype vs. medical skin phototype was found, and the highest concordance corresponded to skin phototype II (82%). There was a marked difference in skin photosensitivity of Colombians compared with reports in Caucasians. We observed a marked overlapping in MED's and L* values in phototypes II and III.

Conclusions: The Fitzpatrick's classification was not useful in Hispanic populations such as ours. Therefore, a new skin‐phototype classification system is required. In our population the constitutional color was a good predictor of the MED but it did not correlate with skin phototype. The self‐assessed questionnaire method was not useful to determine skin cancer risk in our population. The majority of this population has light skin phototypes and is highly exposed to solar UV radiation without proper protection.
A basis function feature‐based approach for skin lesion discrimination in dermatology dermoscopy images
Authors: Joe Stanley R. , Stoecker William V. , Moss Randy H. , Rabinovitz Harold S. , Cognetta Armand B. , Argenziano Giuseppe , Peter Soyer H.
Published: March 2008

Background: Skin lesion color is an important feature for diagnosing malignant melanoma. New basis function correlation features are proposed for discriminating malignant melanoma lesions from benign lesions in dermoscopy images. The proposed features are computed based on correlating the luminance histogram of melanoma or benign labeled relative colors from a specified portion of the skin lesion with a set of basis functions. These features extend previously developed statistical and fuzzy logic‐based relative color histogram analysis techniques for automated mapping of colors representative of melanoma and benign skin lesions from a training set of lesion images.

Methods: Using the statistical and fuzzy logic‐based approaches for relative color mapping, melanoma and benign color features are computed over skin lesion region of interest, respectively. Luminance histograms are obtained from the melanoma and benign mapped colors within the lesion region of interest and are correlated with a set of basis functions to quantify the distribution of colors. The histogram analysis techniques and feature calculations are evaluated using a data set of 279 malignant melanomas and 442 benign dysplastic nevi images.

Results: Experimental test results showed that combining existing melanoma and benign color features with the proposed basis function features found from the melanoma mapped colors yielded average correct melanoma and benign lesion discrimination rates as high as 86.45% and 83.35%, respectively.

Conclusions: The basis function features provide an alternative approach to melanoma discrimination that quantifies the variation and distribution of colors characteristic of melanoma and benign skin lesions.
Validation of a non‐contact technique for local skin temperature measurements
Authors: George J. , Bensafi A. , Schmitt A. M. , Black D. , Dahan S. , Loche F. , Lagarde J. M.
Published: March 2008

Here we propose to quantify local temperature variations using thermal imaging to assess the effect of dermatological lasers.

Objectives: To quantify the temperature raise induced by laser application and to differentiate the effects of a potassium titanyl phosphate (KTP) laser and an intense pulsed light (IPL).

Methods: A randomized comparative study was performed on 10 adult volunteers with symmetrical rosacea treated by KTP laser or IPL. Skin temperature measurements were performed on inclusion, immediately after laser treatment and 3 min after thermal water application, using a high‐resolution (0.08 °C) infrared thermal video camera.

Results: KTP laser treatment induced a significant rise in local skin temperature whereas no significant change was revealed by the IPL treatment. The infrared camera is a reliable and reproducible technique that allows a follow‐up of skin temperature without skin contact.

Conclusion: Thermography using an infrared camera could potentially be applied in clinical pharmacology for inflammatory reactions or scarring processes.
Neural basis of sensitive skin: an fMRI study
Authors: Querleux Bernard , Dauchot Katia , Jourdain Roland , Bastien Philippe , Bittoun Jacques , Anton Jean‐Luc , Burnod Yves , De Lacharrière Olivier
Published: March 2008

Background/purpose: About 50% of women declare themselves to have sensitive skin. However, sensitive skin still appears to be a questionable problem not corresponding to a specific physiological pattern. To objectivate the neural basis of sensitive skin, we measured cerebral response to cutaneous provocative tests in self‐perceived sensitive and non‐sensitive skin subjects using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI).

Methods: Subjects were divided into two groups according to their self‐perceived characterization by using a dedicated questionnaire about their skin reactivity. Event‐related fMRI was used to measure cerebral activation associated with skin discomfort induced by a simultaneous split‐face application of lactic acid and of its vehicle.

Results and discussion: In both groups, skin discomfort due to lactic acid increased activity in the primary sensorimotor cortex contralateral to application site and in a bilateral fronto‐parietal network including parietal cortex, prefrontal areas around the superior frontal sulcus, and the supplementary motor area. However, activity was significantly larger in the sensitive skin group. Most remarkably, in the sensitive skin group only, activity spreaded into the ipsilateral primary sensorimotor cortex and the bilateral peri‐insular secondary somatosensory area. Our results demonstrate that, compared with control subjects, self‐perceived sensitive skin subjects have a specific cerebral activation during skin irritative test, which allows us to hypothesize that self‐perceived sensitive skin is intrinsically linked to a specific neurophysiologic pattern for these subjects.

Conclusion: This study demonstrates that fMRI is an effective objective method for measuring cerebral processes underlying skin reactivity and contributes to a better understanding of the neural basis of the sensitive skin phenomenon.
Moisture Evaluator: a direct measure of fingertip skin hydration during object manipulation
Authors: André T. , De Wan M. , Lefèvre P. , Thonnard J.‐L.
Published: March 2008

Background/purpose: The mechanical properties of the fingertip skin are very important when studying dexterous manipulation. These properties are strongly influenced by the level of skin hydration. Currently, there is no device capable of measuring skin moisture during object manipulation.

Methods: Skin moisture levels during object manipulation were measured using the Moisture Evaluator, a probe consisting of gold‐covered electrodes connected to a resistor–capacitor circuit. In vivo calibration was performed by comparison with measurements obtained using a Corneometer® at two normal force levels (0.2 and 2 N).

Results: Measurements from the Moisture Evaluator were well correlated with those from the Corneometer®.

Conclusion: A new device for evaluating skin moisture at the fingertip has been designed and validated.
Tape stripping on a human nail: quantification of removal
Authors: Tudela E. , Lamberbourg A. , Cordoba Diaz M. , Zhai H. , Maibach H. I.
Published: March 2008

Background/purpose: Tape stripping is commonly used to investigate the stratum corneum (SC). This study assesses if protein quantitative tape stripping method was suitable for human nails.

Method: We used a colorimetric method to quantify proteins removed by the tape. Water barrier functions as a result of tape stripping were also observed by changes in transonychial water loss (TOWL) from the baseline.

Results: Using tape stripping, we observed no difference between nails in the protein quantity removed by tape stripping (P=0.39). The mean TOWL before and after tape stripping were 6.9 and 9.3 g/m2/h, respectively; this was significantly increased in tape stripped nails (P<0.0001).

Conclusion: Tape stripping seems to be an effective method to extract proteins from human nail plate and may aid the study of nail structure and function. Further studies are needed to extend our results in terms of age, gender, ethnicity and disease.
In vivo evaluation of the protective capacity of sunscreen by monitoring urocanic acid isomer in the stratum corneum using Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Egawa Mariko , Iwaki Haruhi
Published: March 2008

Background/purpose: Urocanic acid (UCA) is a major ultraviolet (UV) ray‐absorbing component in the epidermis, and it isomerizes from the trans to the cis form upon exposure to UV radiation. Continuous measurement of UCA isomers in the skin at the same area is not available using conventional methods. This study aimed to evaluate the protective capacity of sunscreen by non‐invasively monitoring the trans‐UCA (t‐UCA) amount in the stratum corneum (SC) by confocal Raman spectroscopy.

Methods: In vivo Raman spectra of the skin at the cheek or volar forearm were obtained from 27 healthy Japanese volunteers of different ages (age range, 22–53 years) throughout a whole year using confocal Raman spectroscopy. Eighteen healthy male Japanese volunteers (age range, 25–52 years) were enrolled for the evaluation of the protective capacity of sunscreen. The concentration depth profile of t‐UCA relative to keratin was calculated from the Raman spectra in the 400–2200 cm−1 region. Then, the integrated amount within the depth of 0–12 μm was calculated, which represented the total amount of t‐UCA in the SC.

Results: The integrated amount of t‐UCA in the cheek skin was significantly lower than that in the volar forearm skin throughout a year. The amount of it in the volar forearm skin was significantly the lowest in summer, but not in the cheek skin. The amount of t‐UCA decreased immediately after UV exposure even below 1 minimal erythema dose, remained low for 1 week, and gradually increased up to the initial level about 2 weeks after UV exposure. The decrease in the t‐UCA amount was hindered by the application of sunscreen on the skin surface. There were no statistical differences in response to UV exposure between the erythema‐positive and erythema‐negative groups.

Conclusions: The monitoring of the amount of t‐UCA in the SC by confocal Raman spectroscopy is a good method to assess the efficacy of sun protective substances.
Millimeter wave reflectivity used for measurement of skin hydration with different moisturizers
Authors: Alekseev S. I. , Szabo I. , Ziskin M. C.
Published: March 2008

Background/aims: A new non‐invasive method for determining the free water content in human skin has been developed. The method analyzes the reflection of millimeter (mm) wavelength electromagnetic waves. The amount of reflection of mm waves depends on an electrical property (namely, the permittivity) of the skin, and this depends upon the free water content of the various skin layers. The aim of the present study was to use the mm wave reflectometry method for determination of free water content in healthy skin treated with different hydrating substances.

Methods: Skin lotion, pure water, glycerol, and petroleum jelly (an occlusive substance) were used for hydration of skin. The amount of free water was calculated using the permittivity values of skin layers found from fitting a three layer skin model to measured reflection data. The skin model consisted of (1) the stratum corneum (SC), (2) the viable epidermis plus the dermis, and (3) fat layers.

Results: Mm wave reflection was significantly affected by the water content of the thick SC of the palm but not by the very thin SC of the forearm. Treatment of the forearm and palm skin with different hydrating substances produced notable changes of the free water content in the SC, but not in the viable epidermis or dermis. The greatest hydration was produced by pure water and skin lotion, and the lowest by petroleum jelly. However, petroleum jelly produced prolonged retention of water in the SC following its hydration by other moisturizers. The content of free water was found to return to its baseline value after removal of moisturizers in as short a time as 8.3 min.

Conclusion: The study shows that mm wave reflectometry can be used as a sensitive technique for the non‐invasive determination of water content in living skin.
Integrated real‐time Raman system for clinical in vivo skin analysis
Authors: Zhao Jianhua , Lui Harvey , McLean David I. , Zeng Haishan
Published: March 2008

Background: Raman spectroscopy is a non‐invasive optical technique that can probe the molecular structure and conformation of biochemical constituents. The probability of Raman scattering is exceedingly low (∼10−10), and consequently up to now the practical application of Raman spectroscopy to clinical medicine has been limited by either the weak spectral signal or by the long data acquisition times. Recent advances in Raman hardware and probe design have reduced spectral acquisition times, paving the way for clinical applications.

Methods: We present an integrated real‐time Raman spectroscopy system for skin evaluation and characterization, which combines customized hardware features and software implementation. Real‐time data acquisition and processing includes CCD dark‐noise subtraction, wavelength calibration, spectral response calibration, intensity calibration, signal saturation detection, cosmic ray rejection, fluorescence background removal, and composition modeling. Real‐time in vivo Raman measurement of volar forearm skin is presented to illustrate the methods and modeling.

Results: The system design implemented full‐chip vertical hardware binning to improve the signal‐to‐noise ratio by 16‐fold. The total time for a single in vivo measurement with analysis can be reduced to 100 ms with this implementation. Human skin was well modeled using the base Raman spectra.

Conclusion: In vivo real‐time Raman can be a very promising research and practical technique for skin evaluation.
Automated body hair counting and length measurement
Authors: Vallotton P. , Thomas N.
Published: March 2008

Background/purpose: Hair loss or hair excess is a common condition. There is a growing need to quantitatively assess the success of interventions aimed at replenishing areas that lack hair or at removing hair from areas such as the back, the legs, or the arms. Non‐invasive methods that do not require staining are highly desirable because the staining process itself may affect the efficacy of the treatment.

Methods: We introduce a system based on a flatbed scanner and on novel and sensitive image analysis algorithms to count the number of hairs and their individual length. Additionally, a measure of hair visibility is introduced, which allows assessing objectively the severity of the condition.

Results: Our system is able to detect even hairs that are difficult to see to a human observer. It is robust to skin impurities or variations in the skin texture and colour. Scanner imaging ensures a sharp image over the whole field. The system analyses on the order of two images per minute, making it suitable for large clinical studies. Counts delivered by a human counter vs. the software were within 10% of each other (N=12).

Conclusion: Based on our results, we expect that the software will be useful to a number of researchers investigating medical and cosmetic issues involving objective assessment of pilosity. The algorithm itself may be of use for other applications.
Surgical extrusion of a partially erupted and crown dilacerated incisor
Authors: Çalışkan Mehmet Kemal , Tekin Uğur
Published: March 2008

Abstract –  A case report of treatment for an incompletely erupted maxillary central incisor with crown dilaceration in a 12‐year‐old boy is described. The tooth was repositioned with surgical extrusion and endodontically treated through use of calcium hydroxide paste. Clinical and radiographic examination 2 years after completion of combined surgical and endodontic treatment revealed periapical healing and no signs of root resorption.
A long‐term follow up of spontaneously healed root fractures later subjected to orthodontic forces – two case reports
Authors: Duggan Derek , Quinn Frank , Sullivan Michael O’
Published: March 2008

Abstract –  There is evidence that many dental injuries which result in root fractures may not require active treatment in cases where the coronal fragment is minimally displaced and does not exhibit clinical signs or symptoms. This paper discusses two individual cases where spontaneous root fracture healing was observed and this healing was apparently not compromised by later orthodontic tooth movement. The observation periods for the two cases were 13 and 18 years since the original root fractures occurred.
The effect of a 10% carbamide peroxide bleaching agent on the phosphate concentration of tooth enamel assessed by Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Santini Ario , Pulham Colin R. , Rajab Ahmed , Ibbetson Richard
Published: March 2008

Abstract –  The study assessed changes in phosphate concentrations of surface enamel treated with a proprietary bleaching agent (‘PEROXIDE’) containing 10% carbamide peroxide over a 28‐day period using Raman spectroscopy. Six non‐carious human molar teeth (age range 12–21 years), extracted for orthodontic reasons, were used. From the enamel face of each half tooth, a near flat enamel section, approximately 2 × 2 mm, was cut, providing 12 specimens. Each specimen was treated with 10% carbamide peroxide for 8 h day−1 for 28 consecutive days, with Raman spectra being obtained prior to bleaching and after 7, 14, 21 and 28 days. Raman spectra were acquired on a confocal LabRam 300 spectrometer fitted with an Olympus B microscope (Olympus, Middlesex, UK).The difference in the maximum peak values for phosphate group concentrations were tested using the Friedman test (non‐parametric anova) and Dunn’s multiple comparison test. An intense broad band at 980 cm−1, characteristic of phosphate groupings, was always observed. At 7 and 14 days, and again at 28 days, there was a significant decrease in the phosphate group concentration compared with base‐line measurements (P < 0.05) but not at 21 days (P > 0.05). Ideally, bleaching should not be continued to a point where surface enamel is lost, and the present study suggests that a regime using 10% carbamide peroxide should not extend to 7 days.
Comparative in vitro study of the sealing efficiency of white vs grey ProRoot mineral trioxide aggregate formulas as apical barriers
Authors: Stefopoulos Spyridon , Tsatsas Dimitrios V. , Kerezoudis Nikolaos P. , Eliades George
Published: March 2008

Abstract –  Mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) has been proposed as one of the materials which can be used in a one‐visit apexification technique. Recently conventional grey MTA has been replaced by a new white MTA formula. The aim of this study was to compare the root canal adaptation of white MTA to that of grey MTA when used as an apical barrier in teeth with open apices. We also examined whether a previous calcium hydroxide intracanal medication affects MTA's sealing ability and investigated the ability to remove calcium hydroxide from the root canal walls. Forty‐nine teeth were prepared in a manner to simulate a divergent open apex of immature teeth. Four teeth were used in a preliminary experiment to demonstrate the inefficacy of calcium hydroxide removal from the canal walls in teeth with open apices. Four groups of 10 teeth each were created: groups A and B were treated with calcium hydroxide intracanal medication and then received an apical plug of grey and white MTA respectively. Groups C and D received an apical plug of grey and white MTA respectively without previous intracanal medication. Four teeth served as negative and one as a positive control. The marginal adaptation and sealing ability of the apical barrier were tested by means of a dye tracer (basic fuchsine) after longitudinal sectioning. It was found that MTA apical barrier resisted displacement during gutta‐percha condensation. Calcium hydroxide pretreatment, adversely affected white MTA sealing ability (P < 0.05).