bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Delayed apoptosis of human monocytes exposed to immune complexes is reversed by oxaprozin: role of the Akt/IκB kinase/nuclear factor κB pathway
Authors: Ottonello Luciano , Bertolotto Maria , Montecucco Fabrizio , Bianchi Giordano , Dallegri Franco
Published: March 2009

Background and purpose:  Monocytes‐macrophages play a key role in the initiation and persistence of inflammatory reactions. Consequently, these cells represent an attractive therapeutic target for switching off overwhelming inflammatory responses. Non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are among the most common drugs for the symptomatic treatment of rheumatic diseases. Their effects have been explained on the basis of cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibition. However, some of the actions of these drugs are not related to inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis.

Experimental approach:  We examined the effect of oxaprozin on apoptosis of immune complex‐activated monocytes in comparison with drugs of the same class, and the signalling pathway that leads activated monocytes exposed to oxaprozin to apoptosis. In particular, we studied the activity of caspase‐3, the involvement of IκB kinase (IKK)‐nuclear factor κB (NF‐κB) system and the activity of X‐linked mammalian inhibitor of apoptosis protein (XIAP), Akt and mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) in activated monocytes in the presence of oxaprozin.

Key results:  Immune complexes caused the inhibition of monocyte apoptosis. Oxaprozin reversed in a dose‐dependent manner immune complex‐induced survival of monocytes, without affecting the apoptosis of resting cells. Other NSAIDs are ineffective. The activity of oxaprozin was related to inhibition of Akt activation that, in turn, prevented p38 MAPK, IKK and NF‐κB activation. Consistently, the inhibition of NF‐κB activation reduced the production of the anti‐apoptotic molecule XIAP, leading to uncontrolled activity of caspase 3.

Conclusions and implications:  These results suggest that oxaprozin exerts its anti‐inflammatory activity also through COX‐independent pathways. It is likely that oxaprozin‐mediated inhibition of the Akt/IKK/NF‐κB pathway contributes to its anti‐inflammatory properties.
Use and Overuse of Antimigraine Drugs by Pharmacy Personnel in France: COTA Survey
Authors: Donnet Anne , Lantéri‐Minet Michel , Aucoin François , Allaf Bashar
Published: March 2009

Background.— Pharmacy personnel are supposed to be well informed of recommendations for proper migraine management, but their easy access to medicines may favor self‐medication and promote medication overuse for those with frequent migraine attacks.

Objective.— The main objective of the COTA survey was to investigate migraine management by pharmacy personnel who considered themselves as migraineurs.

Methods.— Out of 22,000 pharmacies currently open in France, a questionnaire was proposed to a random sample of ∼4000 pharmacies with at least 1 self‐considered migraineur in the pharmacy staff who accepted to complete and return the questionnaire. The reality of migraine was assessed by the study questionnaire according to the International Classification of Headache Disorders, 2nd edition (ICHD‐II) criteria. In addition, the study questionnaire inquired about subjects' demographics, headache characteristics, consumption of medications for headaches, subjects' satisfaction with the usual treatment of headaches and treatment effectiveness. Medication overuse was defined in terms of treatment days per month during the previous 3 months according to the ICHD‐II criteria for medication overuse headache.

Results.— Some 74% of the 3326 participating pharmacies with a self‐considered migraine subject among their staff actually returned the survey questionnaire. Using the ICHD‐II criteria, migraine was confirmed in 85% of participating subjects, of whom 38% were under medical supervision and had asked for a prescription, and 27% used recommended medications. The treatment used was truly effective for only 31% of migraineurs. Medication overuse was observed in 21% of all participating subjects, mostly migraineurs. Most migraineurs with medication overuse (81%) used nonrecommended treatments.

Conclusions.— Considering their pivotal role in advising migraine patients who seek their help with self‐management, migraine education of pharmacy personnel about proper migraine management should be reinforced.
Menarche in Girls and Headache – A Longitudinal Analysis
Authors: Kröner‐Herwig Birgit , Vath Nuria
Published: March 2009

Background.— Puberty is assumed to influence the occurrence of headache, increasing the risk for recurrent episodes, especially in girls. The increase of headache, in particular recurrent headache, in girls from around the age of 12 on, is often ascribed to the occurrence of menarche as the most stringent indicator of completed puberty.

Objectives.— We examined the hypothesis that the occurrence of menarche in girls is predictive of recurrent headache in reference to no or rare headache in the past 6 months. Furthermore, the assumption was tested that headache episodes increase after onset of menarche but remain unchanged in girls not having experienced their first menstruation. We also expected a higher probability of migraine type of headache after menarche. In a further analysis girls with and without menarche were compared with boys, and a difference between gender only for girls with menarche was predicted.

Methods.— In an epidemiological study recruiting 8800 families with children 7‐14 years in Southern Lower Saxony (Germany), we conducted 3 yearly panels based on postal questionnaires. Headache data are based on self‐report of children from 9 years on. Parents were asked for information regarding the onset of menarche. Approximately 1100 girls and about the same number of boys constitute the sample for our analyses.

Results.— The results of a logistic regression analysis demonstrate that in 11‐ to 16‐year‐old girls having experienced menarche in either the year of the assessment of headache or 2 years before that, the risk for recurrent headache is increased when compared with girls without menarche. Intraindividual longitudinal analyses, however, do not support our hypotheses that after the onset of menarche headaches become more frequent. The expected differences in headache between girls with menarche and boys were found. The risk for migraine‐like headaches is not significantly higher after onset of menarche than before.

Conclusions.— Thus, results do not consistently support the hypothesis that puberty is a moderator of headache frequency. Even in cases where the outcome of regression analyses is supportive of our expectations, explained variance is diminutive (maximum 2.2%). Thus, the influence of menarche on headache seems to be only marginal.
DISINTEGRATION OF THE CELLS OF SIPHONOUS GREEN ALGA CODIUM EDULE (BRYOPSIDALES, CHLOROPHYTA) UNDER MILD HEAT STRESS1
Authors: Lee Tzan‐Chain , Hsu Ban‐Dar
Published: March 2009

The siphonous green alga Codium edule P. C. Silva (Bryopsidales, Chlorophyta) has the highest covering ratio among the macroalgae on the coral reef of Nanwan Bay in southern Taiwan, but its population in the subtidal region drastically decreases from July to September each year. The objective of this study was to determine whether the high temperature of summer could be the basis for this population decrease. Chlorophyll fluorescence measurements revealed that when the algae were incubated at 35°C (a temperature that can be reached in southern Taiwan during the summer), their photosynthetic activities were almost completely inhibited after about 8 h. The circadian rhythm of photosynthesis was disrupted at a temperature as low as 32°C. TEM studies showed that 4 h incubation at 35°C induced a decrease in turgidity accompanied by vacuole shrinkage and plasmolysis. The marked disintegrative changes, including damage to organelles, such as chloroplasts and nuclei, occurred after about 8 h, at which time central vacuoles collapsed and the cell interior was then filled with numerous small vesicles. Our results suggested that the rise in seawater temperature during the summer could be one of the major causes of the massive death of C. edule in the field.
EFFECTS OF MODERATE HEAT STRESS AND DISSOLVED INORGANIC CARBON CONCENTRATION ON PHOTOSYNTHESIS AND RESPIRATION OF SYMBIODINIUM SP. (DINOPHYCEAE) IN CULTURE AND IN SYMBIOSIS1
Authors: Buxton Lucy , Badger Murray , Ralph Peter
Published: March 2009

The influence of temperature and inorganic carbon (Ci) concentration on photosynthesis was examined in whole corals and samples of cultured symbiotic dinoflagellates (Symbiodinium sp.) using combined measurements from a membrane inlet mass spectrometer and chl a fluorometer. In whole corals, O2 production at 26°C was significantly limited at Ci concentrations below ambient seawater (∼2.2 mM). Further additions of Ci up to ∼10 mM caused no further stimulation of oxygenic photosynthesis. Following exposure to 30°C (2 d), net oxygen production decreased significantly in whole corals, as a result of reduced production of photosynthetically derived oxygen rather than increased host consumption. Whole corals maintained a rate of oxygen evolution around eight times lower than cultured Symbiodinium sp. at inorganic carbon concentrations <2 mM, but cultures displayed greater levels of photoinhibition following heat treatment (30°C, 2 d). Whole corals and cultured zooxanthellae differed considerably in their responses to Ci concentration and moderate heat stress, demonstrating that cultured Symbiodinium make an incongruous model for those in hospite. Reduced net oxygen evolution, in whole corals, under conditions of low Ci (<2 mM) has been interpreted in terms of possible sink limitation leading to increased nonphotochemical energy dissipation. The advantages of combined measurement of net gas exchange and fluorometry offered by this method are discussed.
Confocal Examination of Subsurface Cracking in Ceramic Materials
Authors: Etman Maged K.
Published: March 2009

Purpose: The original ceramic surface finish and its microstructure may have an effect on crack propagation. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relation between crack propagation and ceramic microstructure following cyclic fatigue loading, and to qualitatively evaluate and quantitatively measure the surface and subsurface crack depths of three types of ceramic restorations with different microstructures using a Confocal Laser Scanning Microscope (CLSM) and Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM).

Materials and Methods: Twenty (8 × 4 × 2 mm3) blocks of AllCeram (AC), experimental ceramic (EC, IPS e.max Press), and Sensation SL (SSL) were prepared, ten glazed and ten polished of each material. Sixty antagonist enamel specimens were made from the labial surfaces of permanent incisors. The ceramic abraders were attached to a wear machine, so that each enamel specimen presented at 45 degrees to the vertical movement of the abraders, and immersed in artificial saliva. Wear was induced for 80K cycles at 60 cycles/min with a load of 40 N and 2‐mm horizontal deflection. The specimens were examined for cracks at baseline, 5K, 10K, 20K, 40K, and 80K cycles.

Results: Twenty‐ to 30‐μm deep subsurface cracking appeared in SSL, with 8 to 10 μm in AC, and 7 μm close to the margin of the wear facets in glazed EC after 5K cycles. The EC showed no cracks with increasing wear cycles. Seventy‐μm deep subsurface cracks were detected in SSL and 45 μm in AC after 80K cycles. Statistically, there was significant difference among the three materials (p < 0.05). Bonferroni multiple comparison of means test confirmed the ANOVA test and showed that there was no statistical difference (p > 0.05) in crack depth within the same ceramic material with different surface finishes.

Conclusions: The ceramic materials with different microstructures showed different patterns of subsurface cracking.
Effect of Artificial Saliva Storage on Microhardness and Fracture Toughness of a Hydrothermal Glass‐Ceramic
Authors: Fahmy Nadia Z. , Guindy Jylan El , Zamzam Mohamed
Published: March 2009

Purpose: This study evaluated the effect of artificial saliva storage on the hardness, crack length, and fracture toughness of a glazed, polished, and bleached hydrothermal low‐fusing glass‐ceramic (Duceram LFC).

Materials and Methods: Forty ceramic discs were constructed. The discs were assigned to four groups (n = 10) according to their surface finish: Gp1—Autoglaze, Gp2—Autoglaze/ground/diamond‐polished, Gp3—Overglaze, Gp4—Overglaze/ground/diamond‐polished. Each group was further divided into two subgroups forming eight total subgroups (n = 5). Subgroup A was unbleached; Subgroup B was bleached. Testing was performed before and after 21 days of artificial saliva storage. Data were presented as means and standard deviation (SD). ANOVA was used, along with Duncan's post hoc test for pairwise comparison between the means when ANOVA test was found significant (p≤ 0.05).

Results: Surface treatments such as glazing, polishing, and bleaching, saliva storage, and the interaction between these variables had a statistically significant effect on mean values of microhardness, crack length, and fracture toughness of the specimens. There was a statistically significant increase in microhardness and fracture toughness mean values, while crack length values decreased after saliva storage. Polished specimens recorded the smallest crack lengths and fracture toughness, and highest hardness values before and after saliva storage. No difference in fracture toughness values was evident between glazed and polished specimens. Mean crack lengths decreased after saliva storage in all the tested specimens. Hardness values increased after saliva storage. The autoglazed group showed significantly higher fracture toughness, lower crack length, and microhardness than the overglazed group.

Conclusions: Surface finishing procedures and artificial saliva storage had a statistically significant effect on mean values of microhardness, crack length, and fracture toughness. This in vitro study suggests that fracture toughness of ceramics may be affected by different surface treatments such as glazing, polishing, bleaching, or a combination; however, in this study Duceram LFC proved its self‐healing property after 3‐week storage in artificial saliva.
Use of a Magnetic Attachment to Retain an Obturator Prosthesis for an Osseous Defect
Authors: Kawamoto Shin‐ichiro , Hamamura Syunichi , Kawahara Hideki , Nishi Yasuhiro , Nagaoka Eiichi
Published: March 2009

Tooth loss accompanied by a massive defect of the alveolar bone can cause serious problems such as food deposit and esthetic impairment. This report describes procedures for the fabrication of an osseous defect obturator prosthesis connected to a fixed partial denture by a magnetic attachment along with the clinical outcome.
Ductal Endoscopy of the Breast: More Painful at the Luteal Phase?
Authors: Zografos George C. , Zagouri Flora , Sergentanis Theodoros N. , Oikonomou Vassiliki , Fotou Maria , Nonni Aphrodite , Patsouris Effstratios
Published: March 2009

Purpose:  To assess the putative predictors that may influence the pain experienced during ductal endoscopy of the breast.

Methods:  The pain experienced was evaluated in 19 consecutive premenopausal women with bloody nipple discharge scheduled for ductal endoscopy. The visual analog scale (VAS) was used to estimate the degree of pain. The duration of the procedure, the history of lactation, and the phase of the menstrual cycle were evaluated with respect to pain experienced. Statistical analysis followed.

Results:  The average reported pain (VAS score, mean ±  standard deviation) was 5.79 ± 1.51 while the maximum pain was 8.26 ± 0.99. The average reported pain was marginally associated with the duration of the procedure in contrast to the maximum. Women who were at the luteal phase of their menstrual cycle exhibited a higher average reported pain. The history of breastfeeding was not associated with the average reported pain, but it was associated with less intense maximum pain.

Conclusions:  Pain during ductal endoscopy of the breast is influenced by a host of factors: some immutable (such as history of lactation) and others variable (day of menstrual cycle). The latter (ie, avoidance of the luteal phase) may be targeted for the minimization of pain.
High Production Volume Chemical Amine Oxides [C8–C20] Category Environmental Risk Assessment
Authors: Sanderson Hans , Tibazarwa Caritas , Greggs William , Versteeg Donald J. , Kasai Yutaka , Stanton Kathleen , Sedlak Richard I.
Published: March 2009

An environmental assessment of amine oxides has been conducted under the OECD SIDS High Production Volume (HPV) Program via the Global International Council of Chemical Associations (ICCA) Amine Oxides Consortium. Amine oxides are primarily used in conjunction with surfactants in cleaning and personal care products. Given the lack of persistence or bioaccumulation, and the low likelihood of these chemicals partitioning to soil, the focus of the environmental assessment is on the aquatic environment. In the United States, the E‐FAST model is used to estimate effluent concentrations in the United States from manufacturing facilities and from municipal facilities resulting from consumer product uses. Reasonable worst‐case ratios of predicted environmental concentration (PEC) to predicted no effect concentration (PNEC) range from 0.04 to 0.003, demonstrating that these chemicals are a low risk to the environment.
What's Wrong with Hazard‐Ranking Systems? An Expository Note
Authors: Cox, Jr. Louis Anthony (Tony)
Published: March 2009

Two commonly recommended principles for allocating risk management resources to remediate uncertain hazards are: (1) select a subset to maximize risk‐reduction benefits (e.g., maximize the von Neumann‐Morgenstern expected utility of the selected risk‐reducing activities), and (2) assign priorities to risk‐reducing opportunities and then select activities from the top of the priority list down until no more can be afforded. When different activities create uncertain but correlated risk reductions, as is often the case in practice, then these principles are inconsistent: priority scoring and ranking fails to maximize risk‐reduction benefits. Real‐world risk priority scoring systems used in homeland security and terrorism risk assessment, environmental risk management, information system vulnerability rating, business risk matrices, and many other important applications do not exploit correlations among risk‐reducing opportunities or optimally diversify risk‐reducing investments. As a result, they generally make suboptimal risk management recommendations. Applying portfolio optimization methods instead of risk prioritization ranking, rating, or scoring methods can achieve greater risk‐reduction value for resources spent.
Anti‐TB drug resistance levels and patterns among Mycobacterium tuberculosis isolated from newly diagnosed cases of pulmonary tuberculosis in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Authors: MATEE MECKY , MFINANGA SAYOKI , HOLM‐HANSEN CAROL
Published: March 2009

Anti‐tuberculosis drug resistance levels and patterns of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) isolated from newly diagnosed tuberculosis (TB) patients in Temeke district in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania were investigated. A total of 226 Mtb isolates from 564 TB suspects with no previous history of anti‐TB treatment were tested for drug resistance against rifampicin, isoniazid, streptomycin and ethambutol on Lowenstein Jensen (LJ) medium using the proportion method. Of the 226 isolates, 22 (9.7%) were resistant to any one of the four anti‐TB drugs; nine (3.99%) isolates were isoniazid mono‐drug resistant and eight (3.54%) isolates were streptomycin mono‐drug resistant. Multi‐drug resistance, defined as resistance to both rifampicin and isoniazid, was observed in three (1.3%) isolates and two were also resistant to streptomycin and ethambutol. One (0.44%) isolate had poly resistance to isoniazid and streptomycin. The level of anti‐TB drug resistant Mtb in Temeke, an HIV endemic area, remained constant between 1995 and 2007. The level of resistance to any one of the four anti‐TB drugs was between 9.0% and 10%, resistance to individual drugs <4% and multi‐drug resistance <2%.
Connexin abundance in resistance vessels from the renal microcirculation in normo‐ and hypertensive rats
Authors: BRAUNSTEIN THOMAS HARTIG , SORENSEN CHARLOTTE MEHLIN , HOLSTEIN‐RATHLOU NIELS‐HENRIK
Published: March 2009

The expression of connexins in renal arterioles is believed to have a profound impact on conducted responses, regulation of arteriolar tonus and renal blood flow. We have previously shown that in renal preglomerular arterioles, conducted vasomotor responses are 40% greater in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) than in normotensive Sprague–Dawley (SD) rats. Because conducted vasomotor responses depend on the cell–cell communication mediated through gap junctions, we hypothesized that the increased magnitude of conducted vasomotor response in SHR is associated with an increased amount of connexins in renal arterioles. To test this hypothesis, the amount of connexin 37 (Cx37), Cx40 and Cx43 was assessed in renal arterioles from normo‐ and hypertensive rats using quantitative immunofluorescence laser confocal miscroscopy. To account for differences in genetic background, we included both normotensive Wistar–Kyoto (WKY) and SD rats in the study. In all three strains of rats, and for all three isoforms, the expression of connexins was predominantly confined to the endothelial cells. We found a significantly increased abundance (240 ± 17.6%, p<0.05) of Cx37 in arterioles from WKY compared with SD and SHR. This high abundance of Cx37 was not related to blood pressure because normotensive SD demonstrated a level of Cx37 similar to that of SHR. Additionally, we found no evidence for an increased abundance of Cx40 and Cx43 in renal arterioles of SHR when compared with normotensive counterparts.
Reactive lymphadenopathy in Ugandan patients and its relationship to EBV and HIV infection
Authors: KALUNGI SAM , WABINGA HENRY , BOSTAD LEIF
Published: March 2009

In Uganda, a large number of biopsied enlarged lymph nodes is diagnosed as reactive lymphoid hyperplasia (RLH) not indicative of a specific etiologic agent. The aim of this study was to examine the spectrum of RLH in lymph node biopsies in Ugandan patients and their possible association with HIV and EBV infection. Ninety biopsies were retrieved and included in the study. The predominant RLH type was follicular, found in 45 (50.0%) of the cases. Positive staining for LMP‐1 was found in six cases (6.7%), EBNA‐1 in 36 cases (40.0%) and HIV1‐p24 in 15 cases (16.7%), respectively. A combination of EBV and HIV positivity was found in 46 (52.2%) of the cases. EBV infection was associated with hyperplastic germinal centers (p<0.01). HIV1‐p24 positive staining was associated with follicle fragmentation (p<0.01) but not hyperplastic GC (p=0.08). In conclusion, RLH in Ugandan patients is frequently associated with EBV and HIV infection. The histologic features of the lymph nodes are not specific for any individual infection, but a high number of EBV‐positive cases are associated with hyperplastic GC, and follicular fragmentation is characteristic of HIV infection.
Skin sensitization potency and cross‐reactivity of p‐phenylenediamine and its derivatives evaluated by non‐radioactive murine local lymph node assay and guinea‐pig maximization test
Authors: Yamano Tetsuo , Shimizu Mitsuru
Published: March 2009

Background:  p‐Phenylenediamine (PPD)‐related chemicals have been used as antioxidants in rubber products, and many cases of contact dermatitis caused by these chemicals have been reported.

Objective:  The aim of this study was to investigate relative sensitizing potency and cross‐reactivity among PPD derivatives.

Methods:  Five PPD derivatives, p‐aminodiphenylamine (PADPA), N,N′‐diphenyl‐p‐phenylenediamine (DPPD), N‐isopropyl‐N′‐phenyl‐p‐phenylenediamine (IPPD), N‐(1,3‐dimethylbutyl)‐N′‐phenyl‐p‐phenylenediamine (DMBPPD), N‐(1‐methylheptyl)‐N′‐phenyl‐p‐phenylenediamine (MHPPD), and the core chemical PPD were evaluated for their sensitizing potency and cross‐reactivity using the non‐radioactive murine local lymph node assay (LLNA) and the guinea‐pig maximization test (GPMT).

Results:  PPD and all the derivatives were identified as primary sensitizers in both tests. The order of potency in the LLNA was as follows: IPPD and PADPA > PPD > DMBPPD and MHPPD > DPPD. In the GPMT, all six groups of animals sensitized with one of these chemicals cross‐reacted to four other derivatives. Specifically, the five groups that have a common basic PADPA structure, that is PADPA, DPPD, IPPD, DMBPPD, and MHPPD, all reacted to each other at almost the same scores, while none of them reacted to PPD.

Conclusions:  The cross‐reactivity profile found in the study was to some extent different from that in previous human data, where distinction between cross‐reaction and concomitant primary sensitization is not always clear.
Delayed reactions to reusable protective gloves
Authors: Pontén Ann , Dubnika Inese
Published: March 2009

The materials in plastic protective gloves are thought to cause less contact allergy than rubber gloves. Our aim was to estimate the frequency of delayed reactions to different types of reusable protective gloves among dermatitis patients. 2 × 2 cm pieces of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) gloves, nitrile gloves, and natural rubber latex (NRL) gloves were tested as is in consecutive dermatitis patients tested with the baseline series. Among 658 patients, 6 patients reacted to PVC gloves and 6 patients to the NRL gloves. None reacted to both these types of gloves. Five of six patients with reactions to rubber gloves reacted to thiuram mix in the baseline series. Delayed reactions to reusable PVC gloves may be as common as to reusable NRL gloves. In contrast to most reactions to the NRL glove, the reactions to the PVC glove had no obvious association with reactions to any allergen(s) in the baseline series.
A double‐blind, randomized assessment of the irritant potential of sunscreen chemical dilutions used in photopatch testing*
Authors: Kerr Alastair C. , Niklasson Bo , Dawe Robert S. , Escoffier Anne‐marie , Krasteva Maya , Sanderson Brian , Ferguson James
Published: March 2009

Background:  The maximum concentration of organic sunscreen filters in current usage that does not lead to irritant reactions when performing photopatch testing is not known. Such irritant reactions can be misinterpreted as positive photoallergic contact dermatitis reactions.

Objective:  To determine the frequency of irritant reactions to 19 organic sunscreen filters in current use.

Patients/Methods:  Ninety‐four healthy volunteers were photopatch tested using the European consensus methodology to three different concentrations (2%, 5%, and 10%) of 19 organic sunscreen filters at the Photobiology Unit in Dundee, UK.

Results:  Of the 94 subjects recruited, 80 were analysed after withdrawals and exclusions. Of the 19 organic sunscreen filters studied, only 2 compounds led to irritant reactions in ≥5% subjects. Five per cent and 10% benzophenone‐4 led to irritant reactions in four and six subjects, respectively. Five per cent methylene bis‐benzotriazolyl tetramethylbutylphenol led to irritant reactions in six subjects, but unlike benzophenone‐4, this was not in a dose‐dependent fashion.

Conclusions:  When performing photopatch testing according to the European consensus methodology with these 19 organic sunscreen filters, a 10% concentration is suitable for all filters, except benzophenone‐4, which should be tested at a concentration of 2%.
Do ‘cinnamon‐sensitive’ patients react to cinnamate UV filters?
Authors: Pentinga Stefanie E. , Kuik Dirk J. , Bruynzeel Derk P. , Rustemeyer Thomas
Published: March 2009

Background:  Use of sunscreens has increased dramatically worldwide, and some sunscreen chemicals may be allergens. Ultraviolet (UV) filters are added to various cosmetic products. Cinnamate UV filters are structurally related to cinnamon‐related fragrances.

Objective:  The purpose of this study was to determine if ‘cinnamon‐sensitive’ patients show positive photopatch tests to cinnamate UV filters and, therefore, should avoid these UV filters.

Method:  We photopatch tested cinnamon‐sensitive patients (n = 18) with cinnamon, cinnamon‐related fragrances, Myroxylon pereirae, and two cinnamate UV filters.

Results:  No positive photopatch test to cinnamate UV filters was found (95% confidence interval 0–13%).

Discussion:  The risk of developing unwanted allergic contact dermatitis because of cinnamate UV filters in cinnamon‐sensitive patients seems to be low, but our study population was small. Therefore, we recommend cinnamon‐sensitive patients to perform a use test, for example the repeated open application test, before using cosmetic products containing cinnamate UV filters. In addition, physicians and patients should be aware that many sunscreens contain (cinnamon‐related) fragrances and could, therefore, elicit allergic contact dermatitis in cinnamon‐sensitive patients, independently from other potential sensitizing components of the sunscreen.
Protective effects of a cream containing Dead Sea minerals against UVB‐induced stress in human skin
Authors: Portugal‐Cohen Meital , Soroka Yoram , Ma’or Zeevi , Oron Miriam , Zioni Tamar , Brégégère François Menahem , Neuman Rami , Kohen Ron , Milner Yoram
Published: March 2009

Background: Dead Sea (DS) mud and water are known for their unique composition of minerals, and for their therapeutic properties on psoriasis and other inflammatory skin diseases. Their mode of action, however, remains poorly known.

Objectives: To analyse the ability of Dermud™, a leave‐on skin preparation containing DS mud and other ingredients like DS water, zinc oxide, aloe‐vera extract, pro‐vitamin B5 and vitamin E, to antagonize biological effects induced by UVB irradiation in skin when topically applied in organ cultures.

Methods: We have used human skin organ cultures as a model to assess the biological effects of UVB irradiation and of Dermud™ cream topical application. Skin pieces were analysed for mitochondrial activity by MTT assay, for apoptosis by caspase 3 assay, for cytokine secretion by solid phase ELISA, for overall antioxidant capacity by ferric reducing antioxidant power and Oxygen radical absorbance capacity assays (epidermis) or by cyclic voltammetry (external medium), and for uric acid (UA) content by HPLC.

Results: We report that UVB irradiation decreases cell viability, total antioxidant capacity and UA contents in the epidermis of skin organ cultures, while increasing the levels of apoptosis in cells and their cytokine secretion. Topical application of Dermud™ decreased all these effects significantly.

Conclusions: Our results clearly show that Dermud™ has protective, anti‐oxidant and anti‐inflammatory properties that can antagonize biological effects of UVB irradiation in skin. It may therefore be able to reduce skin photodamage and photoaging, and more generally to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in skin pathologies.
Melatonin improves placental efficiency and birth weight and increases the placental expression of antioxidant enzymes in undernourished pregnancy
Authors: Richter Hans G. , Hansell Jeremy A. , Raut Shruti , Giussani Dino A.
Published: March 2009

Abstract:  Melatonin participates in circadian, seasonal and reproductive physiology. Melatonin also acts as a potent endogenous antioxidant by scavenging free radicals and upregulating antioxidant pathways. The placenta expresses melatonin receptors and melatonin protects against oxidative damage induced in rat placenta by ischemia‐reperfusion. One of the most common complications in pregnancy is a reduction in fetal nutrient delivery, which is known to promote oxidative stress. However, whether melatonin protects placental function and fetal development in undernourished pregnancy is unknown. Here, we investigated the effects of maternal treatment with melatonin on placental efficiency, fetal growth, birth weight and protein expression of placental oxidative stress markers in undernourished pregnancy. On day 15 of pregnancy, rats were divided into control and undernourished pregnancy (35% reduction in food intake), with and without melatonin treatment (5 μg/mL drinking water). On day 20 of gestation, fetal biometry was carried out, the placenta was weighed and subsequently analyzed by Western blot for xanthine oxidase, heat shock protein (HSP) 27 and 70, catalase, manganese superoxide dismutase (Mn‐SOD) and glutathione peroxidase 1 (GPx‐1). A separate cohort was allowed to deliver to assess effects on birth weight. Maternal undernutrition led to a fall in placental efficiency, disproportionate intrauterine growth retardation and a reduction in birth weight. Maternal treatment with melatonin in undernourished pregnancy improved placental efficiency and restored birth weight, and it increased the expression of placental Mn‐SOD and catalase. The data show that in pregnancy complicated by undernutrition, melatonin may improve placental efficiency and birth weight by upregulating placental antioxidant enzymes.
Relationships Between Low‐Income African American Mothers and Their Home Visitors: A Parents as Teachers Program
Authors: Woolfolk Tara N. , Unger Donald G.
Published: March 2009

Relationships that developed between low‐income African American mothers and home visitors in a Parents as Teachers program were studied. Qualitative open‐ended interviews were conducted with mothers. Results indicated that even though the program was designed to deliver the same curriculum to all parents, there were differences in the focus of the visits. Mothers actively made efforts to shape the focus of the mother‐home visitor relationships. Diversity within mother‐home visitor relationships was associated with the fit between a mother’s perceptions of her home visitor and home visiting services and her parenting needs. Implications are provided for enhancing the responsiveness of home visiting programs to the needs of low‐income African American parents and for conducting program evaluations in ways that assess home visiting programs in the context of diverse parent‐home visitor relationships.
Shadowed by War: Building Community Capacity to Support Military Families
Authors: Huebner Angela J. , Mancini Jay A. , Bowen Gary L. , Orthner Dennis K.
Published: March 2009

The context of military service has changed greatly since the events of 9/11. The forward deployment of service members to active war zones, which involves the issues of separation, time away from home, and eventual reunion, increases the vulnerability of their families to multiple, negative short‐term and long‐term effects. This article explores these issues and suggests a new approach to building support systems to support these military families. To this end, a capacity‐building framework is introduced, and 4 diverse and innovative social action programs consistent with this approach are highlighted. Implications for implementing the community capacity‐building model are presented.
The Voice of Experience: How Social Scientists Communicate Family Research to Policymakers
Authors: Friese Bettina , Bogenschneider Karen
Published: March 2009

Because scientific understanding of communicating family research to policymakers is incomplete, qualitative interviews were conducted with social scientists experienced in bridging the gulf between research and family policy. In keeping with the tenets of 2 communities and community dissonance theories, the underutilization of research in policymaking was attributed, in part, to misperceptions and miscommunication between researchers and policymakers who operate in different cultures. Social scientists identified cultural barriers they encountered and rewards they experienced when communicating research to policymakers. Ten recommendations detail pragmatic strategies for communicating across conflicting cultures to promote greater use of research in family policy decisions. The findings suggest a paradigm shift away from simply disseminating research to policymakers and toward developing collaborative relationships with them.
Target for Glycemic Control in Type 2 Diabetic Patients on Hemodialysis: Effects of Anemia and Erythropoietin Injection on Hemoglobin A1c
Authors: Uzu Takashi , Hatta Tsuguru , Deji Naoko , Izumiya Tamani , Ueda Hisami , Miyazawa Itsuko , Kanasaki Masami , Isshiki Keiji , Nishio Toshiji , Arimura Tetsuro
Published: March 2009

In hemodialysis (HD) patients the glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) level may underestimate glycemic control. The aim of this study is to estimate accurate glycemic control in type 2 diabetic patients on HD. Type 2 diabetes patients (N = 87) who had been receiving maintenance HD for at least one year were enrolled. HbA1c and the percentage of glycated albumin relative to total the serum albumin (%GA) were measured in blood samples and the factors that affected the %GA/HbA1c ratio were examined. There were significant and positive correlations between the plasma glucose and either the HbA1c levels (r = 0.539, P < 0.01) or the %GA level (r = 0.520, P < 0.01). No relationship between the serum albumin levels and %GA levels was observed. A weekly dose of erythropoietin (EPO) was positively correlated with the ratio of %GA/HbA1c and hematocrit (Ht) correlated negatively. There was no significant correlation between the %GA/HbA1c level and the EPO dose in patients with Ht ≥ 30%, although a significant correlation was found between those parameters in the Ht < 30% group. The mean of the %GA/HbA1c ratios in patients with Ht ≥ 30%, with Ht < 30% and treated with EPO < 100 IU/kg/week, and with Ht < 30% and treated with EPO ≥ 100 IU/kg/week were 3.41, 3.56 and 4.13, respectively. In HD patients, accurate glycemic control may be estimated as: HbA1c × 1.14 if Ht ≥ 30%; HbA1c × 1.19 if Ht < 30% and treated with low dosages of EPO; and HbA1c × 1.38 if Ht < 30% and treated with high dosages of EPO.
Single Lipoprotein Apheresis Session Improves Cardiac Microvascular Function in Patients With Elevated Lipoprotein(a): Detection by Stress/Rest Perfusion Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Bohl Steffen , Kassner Ursula , Eckardt Rahel , Utz Wolfgang , Mueller‐Nordhorn Jacqueline , Busjahn Andreas , Thomas Hans‐Peter , Abdel‐Aty Hassan , Klingel Reinhard , Marcovina Santica , Dietz Rainer , Steinhagen‐Thiessen Elisabeth , Schulz‐Menger Jeanette , Vogt Anja
Published: March 2009

The aim of this study was to explore the effects of a single lipoprotein apheresis session on myocardial stress/rest (S/R) perfusion in patients with elevated lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)) and coronary artery disease using cardiac magnetic resonance imaging. Twenty patients with Lp(a) > 60 mg/dL and coronary artery disease were randomized into a control or a treatment group. Both groups underwent cardiac magnetic resonance imaging with assessment of left ventricular function, perfusion and viability, and the treatment group underwent lipoprotein apheresis immediately afterwards. Repeat magnetic resonance imaging was performed at 24 h for both groups and at 96 h for just the treatment group. The transmyocardial perfusion gradient (i.e. endo‐epi ratio [EER]) was determined and a comprehensive parameter of resting and adenosine‐induced stress perfusion was derived (EER‐S/R). While the hematocrit remained unchanged, apheresis reduced lipoproteins and rheological parameters: Lp(a) − 55.1%, total cholesterol − 34.5%, low density lipoprotein (LDL) − 54.6%, Lp(a)‐corrected LDL − 54.3%, high density lipoprotein − 17.4%, apolipoprotein B − 39.2%, plasma viscosity − 10.7%, and fibrinogen − 30.6% at 24 h (P < 0.05 for all). At 96 h these parameters, except for plasma viscosity, apolipoprotein B and Lp(a)‐corrected LDL, recovered but did not reach baseline values (P < 0.05 for all). The EER‐S/R at 24 h was lowered by therapy (ΔEER‐S/R 5%; P < 0.03), whereas this effect disappeared at 96 h. The ejection fraction (EF) was slightly improved at 24 h (67.07 ± 6.28% vs. 64.89 ± 6.39%; ΔEF 2.2%, P < 0.05) and returned to baseline at 96 h. In the control group no corresponding changes were detected. In conclusion, cardiac magnetic resonance imaging detects subtle treatment‐related changes in regional myocardial perfusion in patients with elevated Lp(a) and coronary artery disease undergoing lipoprotein apheresis.
A Case Report of Amitriptyline Poisoning Successfully Treated With the Application of Plasma Exchange
Authors: Belen Burcu , Akman Alkim , Yüksel Nurullah , Dilsiz Günter , Yenicesu Idil , Olguntürk Rana
Published: March 2009

Amitriptyline is a very frequently prescribed antidepressant agent and is very often involved in attempted suicides. Amitriptyline intoxication necessitates primary therapeutic approaches that include gastric irrigation and recurrent administration of activated charcoal. In the case of pronounced anticholinergic findings, physostigmine is of proven benefit and hypertonic sodium bicarbonate can be used to shorten the QRS duration and AV interval. In cases of a comatosed state, hemoperfusion and plasma exchange can be used. In this case report we present a case of severe amitriptyline poisoning that we successfully managed with plasma exchange. We confirmed a 59.5% reduction in the amitriptyline plasma level in our patient after a single plasma exchange session. She was discharged by the third day of admission without any complications. According to current literature, our patient is the fifth patient treated with plasma exchange to be the subject of a publication.
A Case Report of Successful Long‐term Relapse Control by Protein‐A Immunoadsorption in an Immunosuppressive‐treated Patient With End‐stage Renal Disease Due to Wegener's Granulomatosis
Authors: Koch Michael , Kohnle Matthias , Trapp Rudolf
Published: March 2009

A long‐term female hemodialysis patient with end‐stage renal disease due to Wegener's granulomatosis (WG) experienced a severe relapse when immunosuppressive therapy was switched from prednisone and cyclophosphamide to azathioprine maintenance therapy. Ten courses of protein A immunoadsorption therapy and switching immunosuppressive therapy to mycophenolate mofetil have proved to be very successful and free of side effects. The patient has fully recovered from all clinical WG symptoms and is still in remission ten months after the treatment.
Standard on Microbiological Management of Fluids for Hemodialysis and Related Therapies by the Japanese Society for Dialysis Therapy 2008
Authors: Kawanishi Hideki , Akiba Takashi , Masakane Ikuto , Tomo Tadashi , Mineshima Michio , Kawasaki Tadayuki , Hirakata Hideki , Akizawa Tadao
Published: March 2009

The Committee of Scientific Academy of the Japanese Society for Dialysis Therapy (JSDT) proposes a new standard on microbiological management of fluids for hemodialysis and related therapies. This standard is within the scope of the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), which is currently under revision. This standard is to be applied to the central dialysis fluid delivery systems (CDDS), which are widely used in Japan. In this standard, microbiological qualities for dialysis water and dialysis fluids are clearly defined by endotoxin level and bacterial count. The qualities of dialysis fluids were classified into three levels: standard, ultrapure, and online prepared substitution fluid. In addition, the therapeutic application of each dialysis fluid is clarified. Since high‐performance dialyzers are frequently used in Japan, the standard recommends that ultrapure dialysis fluid be used for all dialysis modalities at all dialysis facilities. It also recommends that the dialysis equipment safety management committee at each facility should validate the microbiological qualities of online prepared substitution fluid.
Evaluation of Noble Gas Recharge Temperatures in a Shallow Unconfined Aquifer
Authors: Cey Bradley D. , Hudson G. Bryant , Moran Jean E. , Scanlon Bridget R.
Published: March 2009

Water table temperatures inferred from dissolved noble gas concentrations (noble gas temperatures, NGT) are useful as a quantitative proxy for air temperature change since the last glacial maximum. Despite their importance in paleoclimate research, few studies have investigated the relationship between NGT and actual recharge temperatures in field settings. This study presents dissolved noble gas data from a shallow unconfined aquifer heavily impacted by agriculture. Considering samples unaffected by degassing, NGT calculated from common physically based interpretive gas dissolution models that correct measured noble gas concentrations for “excess air” agreed with measured water table temperatures (WTT). The ability to fit data to multiple interpretive models indicates that model goodness‐of‐fit does not necessarily mean that the model reflects actual gas dissolution processes. Although NGT are useful in that they reflect WTT, caution is recommended when using these interpretive models. There was no measurable difference in excess air characteristics (amount and degree of fractionation) between two recharge regimes studied (higher flux recharge primarily during spring and summer vs. continuous, low flux recharge). Approximately 20% of samples had dissolved gas concentrations below equilibrium concentration with respect to atmospheric pressure, indicating degassing. Geochemical and dissolved gas data indicate that saturated zone denitrification caused degassing by gas stripping. Modeling indicates that minor degassing (<10% ΔNe) may cause underestimation of ground water recharge temperature by up to 2°C. Such errors are problematic because degassing may not be apparent and degassed samples may be fit by a model with a high degree of certainty.
Does Board Independence Matter in Companies with a Controlling Shareholder?
Authors: Dahya Jay , Dimitrov Orlin , McConnell John J.
Published: March 2009

A number of studies have reported value discounts for listed companies in countries that provide weak legal protection to minority shareholders. Such studies typically attribute these discounts to the ability, and the well‐documented tendency, of controlling shareholders to extract a disproportionate share of corporate resources for “private benefits.” This tendency and the resulting discounts create a dilemma for those controlling shareholders intent on maximizing value for not just themselves, but all shareholders: How can such controlling shareholders assure their minority shareholders that they will not exploit their power to expropriate resources and so eliminate the discount from their companies' shares?

This article investigates the possibility that such discounts can be reduced by appointing boards of directors made up of individuals who are independent of the controlling shareholders. Based on the systematic analysis of some 800 companies representing 22 countries, the authors' recent study reports that corporate values are consistently higher when boards are more independent of controlling shareholders—and that this relationship is especially strong in those countries that afford fewer rights to minority shareholders.

What is likely to cause controlling shareholders to appoint more independent directors—a change that, after all, effectively limits the controlling shareholders' power and “degrees of freedom”? The answer provided by the authors is that board independence is most likely to be pursued by companies with controlling shareholders that also have major growth opportunities that must be funded mainly with outside equity.
Re‐inscribing the urban abject: Ngai Tahu and the Gothic Revival
Authors: McNaughton Howard
Published: March 2009

Abstract:   The 1960s, in Fredric Jameson's analysis, saw a radical re‐formulation of global imperialism, with pockets of the ‘third world’ being incorporated into the first (Jameson 1991, p. 128). On a local level, this implied for colonized peoples a re‐negotiation of social space in the face of urbanization. One culture's civilizing mission becomes another's grid of control, resulting in ghettoization, the marginalization of ‘abject zones’ where the visibility of the clean and proper city is suspended. This paper examines the case of Christchurch, where the garden as an index to civility becomes a paradoxical veneer in the face of biculturalism and decolonization.