bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tacrolimus ointment 0.1% in the treatment of allergic contact eyelid dermatitis
Authors: Katsarou A , Armenaka M , Vosynioti V , Lagogianni E , Kalogeromitros D , Katsambas A
Published: January 2009

Background  Tacrolimus inhibits T‐lymphocyte activation and dermal Langerhans’ cells, without the side‐effects of corticosteroids. The safety profile of tacrolimus makes it a promising therapeutic option for dermatitis affecting the delicate periorbital skin.

Objective  To access the efficacy and tolerability of tacrolimus ointment 0.1% in the treatment of allergic contact eyelid dermatitis.

Patients and methods  Twenty adults (16 women, 4 men) with eyelid dermatitis and with at least one positive patch test reaction to relevant contact allergens were treated with topical tacrolimus in a prospective, open‐label, non‐comparative clinical study. Dermatitis was graded at baseline, at day 30 and day 60, using a 4‐point grading system for the following parameters: erythema, oedema, scaling, lichenification, fissuring (investigator assessment) and burning/stinging and pruritus (patient assessment).

Results  All patients completed the study. Erythema, oedema, scaling and lichenification showed improvement from baseline to 30 days of treatment (P < 0.001), but fissuring was not significantly affected. At 60 days, no further improvement of these investigator parameters was observed. Patient parameters improved significantly by day 30 (P < 0.004) and there was a trend for further improvement at the end of 60 days (for burning, P = 0.046; for pruritus, P = 0.059). Ten per cent of patients mentioned burning and itching, at the application site, during the first days of treatment. No other adverse events were observed.

Conclusion  Topical tacrolimus is a promising alternative in patients with allergic contact eyelid dermatitis. Therapy was effective by 1 month and was well tolerated. These preliminary results merit a larger, controlled, study.

Conflict of interest

This study was not funded by a drug company, and none of the investigators have received financial support/grants by the makers of the drug tacrolimus.
Restraint Procedures and Challenging Behaviours in Intellectual Disability: An Analysis of Causative Factors
Authors: Matson Johnny L. , Boisjoli Jessica A.
Published: January 2009

Background  Persons with intellectual disability often evince challenging behaviours. Efforts have been underway for some time to develop prosocial or positive skill acquisition treatments to address challenging behaviours. However, physical/mechanical and chemical restraint is still commonly used in many clinical and community settings. Such interventions may be planned or unplanned and in some cases implemented by staff/parents with little training.

Method  Physical/mechanical and chemical restraint and the factors that may result in the use and maintenance of restraint are reviewed.

Results  The type, rate and intensity of challenging behaviours, and the age of the affected individual and residential placement appear to be among the major factors that put these persons at risk for restraint.

Conclusions  Restraint is still a commonly used intervention employed with people with challenging behaviours. Physical and chemical restraint should be used as a last resort, part of a planned programme, and implemented by trained people.
Developmental regulation of tau phosphorylation, tau kinases, and tau phosphatases
Authors: Yu Yang , Run Xiaoqin , Liang Zhihou , Li Yi , Liu Fei , Liu Ying , Iqbal Khalid , Grundke‐Iqbal Inge , Gong Cheng‐Xin
Published: January 2009

Tau is a neuronal microtubule‐associated protein. Its hyperphosphorylation plays a critical role in Alzheimer disease (AD). Expression and phosphorylation of tau are regulated developmentally, but its dynamic regulation and the responsible kinases or phosphatases remain elusive. Here, we studied the developmental regulation of tau in rats during development from embryonic day 15 through the age of 24 months. We found that tau expression increased sharply during the embryonic stage and then became relatively stable, whereas tau phosphorylation was much higher in developing brain than in mature brain. However, the extent of tau phosphorylation at seven of the 14 sites studied was much less in developing brain than in AD brain. Tau phosphorylation during development matched the period of active neurite outgrowth in general. Tau phosphorylation at various sites had different topographic distributions. Several tau kinases appeared to regulate tau phosphorylation collectively at overlapping sites, and the decrease of overall tau phosphorylation in adult brain might be due to the higher levels of tau phosphatases in mature brain. These studies provide new insight into the developmental regulation of site‐specific tau phosphorylation and identify the likely sites required for the abnormal hyperphosphorylation of tau in AD.
The essential role of ERK in 4‐oxo‐2‐nonenal‐mediated cytotoxicity in SH‐SY5Y human neuroblastoma cells
Authors: Lee Hyun‐Pil , Zhu Xiaochun , Zhu Xiongwei , Skidmore S. Chad , Perry George , Sayre Lawrence M. , Smith Mark A. , Lee Hyoung‐gon
Published: January 2009

Lipid peroxidation byproducts, such as 4‐hydroxynonenal (HNE) and 4‐oxo‐2‐nonenal (ONE), induce cell death in a wide variety of cell types, partly by modulating intracellular signaling pathways. However, the specific mechanisms involved, particularly for ONE, are unclear while c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase (JNK) has been shown to be essential in HNE‐mediated cytotoxicity. In this study, we examined the role of mitogen‐activated protein kinases signaling pathways in ONE‐induced cytotoxicity in SH‐SY5Y human neuroblastoma cells and found that ONE strongly induces the phosphorylation of extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK) and JNK, but not p38 MAPK. Interestingly, a transient exposure of the cells to ONE resulted in cell death, which contrasts with HNE‐mediated toxicity. Importantly, blocking the ERK pathway, but not the JNK pathway, protected cells against ONE‐induced cytotoxicity indicating a striking difference between the ONE‐ and HNE‐mediated cytotoxicity mechanisms. Furthermore, inhibition of ERK reduced ONE‐induced phosphorylation of p53, a key modulator of the cellular stress response, and the proteolytic cleavage of poly (ADP‐ribose) polymerase (PARP), a hallmark of apoptosis. Overall, these data strongly suggest that ERK plays an essential role in ONE‐mediated cytotoxicity and that ERK is an upstream component of p53‐mediated apoptosis.
RESPONSES TO SOLAR UV RADIATION OF THE DIATOM SKELETONEMA COSTATUM (BACILLARIOPHYCEAE) GROWN AT DIFFERENT Zn2+ CONCENTRATIONS1
Authors: Gao Guang , Gao Kunshan , Giordano Mario
Published: January 2009

Zn availability in the ocean has been suggested to limit primary production by affecting CO2 acquisition processes for photosynthesis, therefore influencing the global carbon cycle. Also, UV radiation (UVR, 280–400 nm) is known to affect primary production in different ways. It remains to be ascertained whether Zn availability and UVR can act synergistically, antagonistically, or independently on oceanic primary production. We cultured the cosmopolitan diatom Skeletonema costatum (Grev.) Cleve under different radiation treatments with or without UVR (only photosynthetically active radiation), at 0, 3, and 10 pmol · L−1 Zn2+. Specific growth rate, photosynthetic carbon assimilation, external carbonic anhydrase (eCA) activity, and estimated cell abundance increased with increasing concentrations of Zn2+ from 0 to 3 and 10 pmol · L−1, irrespective of the radiation treatment. Higher eCA activity was observed in the cells grown at the high level of Zn2+ in the presence of UVR. An approximately linear relationship between μ and the daily dose of PAR was observed at 3 and 10 pmol · L−1 Zn2+ concentrations. However, the dependency of μ on the daily PAR dose disappeared when the cells were grown in the presence of UVR, which overall depressed both μ and photosynthetic carbon assimilation. The inhibitory effect of UVR was inversely related to Zn2+ concentrations. The ultraviolet‐B (UVB)‐related inhibition of growth and photosynthesis decreased with time, reflecting a faster acclimation of the cells to UVR at replete Zn2+ levels. Overall, growth in the presence of higher Zn2+ concentrations reduced the sensitivity to UV radiation in Skeletonema costatum.
GROWTH AND PHOTOPROTECTION IN THREE DINOFLAGELLATES (INCLUDING TWO STRAINS OF ALEXANDRIUM TAMARENSE) AND ONE DIATOM EXPOSED TO FOUR WEEKS OF NATURAL AND ENHANCED ULTRAVIOLET‐B RADIATION1
Authors: Laurion Isabelle , Roy Suzanne
Published: January 2009

Long‐term growth response to natural solar radiation with enhanced ultraviolet‐B (UVB) exposure was examined in two species of dinoflagellates [Alexandrium tamarense (M. Lebour) Balech, At, and Heterocapsa triquetra (Ehrenb.) F. Stein, Ht], including two strains of A. tamarense, one from Spain and another from UK, and one diatom species (Thalassiosira pseudonana Hasle et Heimdal). We examined whether variable photoprotection (mycosporine‐like amino acids [MAAs] and xanthophyll‐cycle pigments) affected photosynthetic performance, phytoplankton light absorption, and growth. Growth rate was significantly reduced under enhanced UVB for the UK strain of At and for Ht (both grew very little) as well as for the diatom (that maintained high growth rates), but there was no effect for the Spanish strain of At. MAA concentration was high in the dinoflagellates, but undetectable in the diatom, which instead used the xanthophyll cycle for photoprotection. The highest cell concentrations of MAAs and photoprotective pigments were observed in the UK strain of At, along with lowest growth rates and Fv/Fm, indicating high stress levels. In contrast, the Spanish strain showed progressive acclimation to the experimental conditions, with no significant difference in growth between treatments. Increase in total MAAs followed linearly the cumulative UVB of the preceding day, and both total and primary MAAs were maintained at higher constitutive levels in this strain. Acclimation to enhanced UVB in the diatom resulted in an increase in PSII activity and reduction in nonphotochemical quenching, indicating an increased resistance to photoinhibition after a few weeks. All four species showed increased phytoplankton light absorption under enhanced UVB. Large intrastrain differences suggest a need to consider more closely intraspecific variability in UV studies.
MORPHOLOGICAL AND MOLECULAR CHARACTERIZATION OF SPECIES OF THE GENUS CENTROCERAS (CERAMIACEAE, CERAMIALES), INCLUDING TWO NEW SPECIES1
Authors: Won Boo Yeon , Cho Tae Oh , Fredericq Suzanne
Published: January 2009

Centroceras clavulatum (C. Agardh) Montagne is widely reported as being a prime example of a cosmopolitan red algal species. Instead, C. clavulatum is here determined as restricted to northern Chile, Peru, southern California, southern Australia, and New Zealand. Specimens identified using the current species concept for “C. clavulatum” fall into nine morphological groups that correspond to highly supported clades in phylogenetic analyses. Three of these clades correspond to the resurrected species Centroceras gasparrinii (Meneghini) Kützing, C. hyalacanthum Kützing, and C. micracanthum Kützing. Two others are recognized as new species: Centroceras rodmanii sp. nov. from southern Chile, which is characterized by hooked spines arranged in a whorl at the node, a spine or flattened gland cell cut off from the first cortical initials, and a single acropetal cortical cell issued from the second cortical initials; and C. tetrachotomum sp. nov. from South Africa, which has a tetrachotomous branching pattern, straight spines in a whorl, an acropetal cortical cell and a spine or a flattened gland cell cut off from the first cortical initials, and a two‐celled acropetal filament cut off from the second cortical initials. Three additional species from South Africa are also recognized as distinct species. All phylogenetic analyses of the rbcL gene, LSU rDNA, and SSU rDNA were consistent with the vegetative and tetrasporangial morphological distinctions, thus supporting the resurrection of three species and the description of two new species.
SYMBIODINIUM NATANS SP. NOV.: A “FREE‐LIVING” DINOFLAGELLATE FROM TENERIFE (NORTHEAST‐ATLANTIC OCEAN)1
Authors: Hansen Gert , Daugbjerg Niels
Published: January 2009

We examined a free‐living Symbiodinium species by light and electron microscopy and nuclear‐encoded partial LSU rDNA sequence data. The strain was isolated from a net plankton sample collected in near‐shore waters at Tenerife, the Canary Islands. Comparing the thecal plate tabulation of the free‐living Symbiodinium to that of S. microadriaticum Freud., it became clear that a few but significant differences could be noted. The isolate possessed two rather than three antapical plates, six rather than seven to eight postcingular plates, and finally four rather than five apical plates. The electron microscopic study also revealed the presence of an eyespot with brick‐shaped contents in the sulcal region and a narrow anterior plate with small knob‐like structures. Bayesian analysis revealed the free‐living Symbiodinium to be a member of the earliest diverging clade A. However, it did not group within subclade AI (=temperate A) or any other subclades within clade A. Rather, it occupied an isolated position, and this was also supported by sequence divergence estimates. On the basis of comparative analysis of the thecal plate tabulation and the inferred phylogeny, we propose that the Symbiodinium isolate from Tenerife is a new species (viz. S. natans). To elucidate further the species diversity of Symbiodinium, particularly those inhabiting coral reefs, we suggest combining morphological features of the thecal plate pattern with gene sequence data. Indeed, future examination of motile stages originating from symbiont isolates will demonstrate if this proves a feasible way to identify and characterize additional species of Symbiodinium and thus match ribotypes or clusters of ribotypes to species.
NUSAP Method for Evaluating the Data Quality in a Quantitative Microbial Risk Assessment Model forSalmonellain the Pork Production Chain
Authors: Boone Ides , Van der Stede Yves , Bollaerts Kaatje , Vose David , Maes Dominiek , Dewulf Jeroen , Messens Winy , Daube Georges , Aerts Marc , Mintiens Koen
Published: January 2009

The numeral unit spread assessment pedigree (NUSAP) system was implemented to evaluate the quality of input parameters in a quantitative microbial risk assessment (QMRA) model forSalmonellaspp. in minced pork meat. The input parameters were grouped according to four successive exposure pathways: (1) primary production (2) transport, holding, and slaughterhouse, (3) postprocessing, distribution, and storage, and (4) preparation and consumption. An inventory of 101 potential input parameters was used for building the QMRA model. The characteristics of each parameter were defined using a standardized procedure to assess (1) the source of information, (2) the sampling methodology and sample size, and (3) the distributional properties of the estimate. Each parameter was scored by a panel of experts using a pedigree matrix containing four criteria (proxy, empirical basis, method, and validation) to assess the quality, and this was graphically represented by means of kite diagrams. The parameters obtained significantly lower scores for the validation criterion as compared with the other criteria. Overall strengths of parameters related to the primary production module were significantly stronger compared to the other modules (the transport, holding, and slaughterhouse module, the processing, distribution, and storage module, and the preparation and consumption module). The pedigree assessment contributed to select 20 parameters, which were subsequently introduced in the QMRA model. The NUSAP methodology and kite diagrams are objective tools to discuss and visualize the quality of the parameters in a structured way. These two tools can be used in the selection procedure of input parameters for a QMRA, and can lead to a more transparent quality assurance in the QMRA.
Diurnal foraging routines in a tropical bird, the rock finch Lagonosticta sanguinodorsalis: how important is predation risk?
Authors: Brandt Miriam J. , Cresswell Will
Published: January 2009

An animal's foraging decisions are the outcome of the relative importance of the risk of starvation and predation. Fat deposition insures against periods of food shortage but it also carries a cost in terms of mass dependent predation risk due to reduced escape probability and extended exposure time. Accordingly, birds have been observed to show a unimodal foraging pattern with foraging concentrated at the end of the day under conditions of predictable food resources and high predation risk. We tested this hypothesis in a tropical granivorous finch, the rock firefinch Lagonosticta sanguinodorsalis, in an outdoor aviary experiment during which food was provided ad lib and the risk of predation was varied by providing food either adjacent to, or 5 m away from cover. Rock firefinches showed a bimodal foraging pattern regardless of the risk of predation at which they fed. The results suggest that predation is relatively unimportant in shaping their daily feeding pattern despite mass gain during the day being similar to temperate birds. Foraging patterns closely follow diurnal temperature variation and this is suggested to be the main determinant of the observed bimodal pattern.
Parasites, condition, immune responsiveness and carotenoid‐based ornamentation in male red‐legged partridge Alectoris rufa
Authors: Mougeot Francois , Pérez‐Rodríguez Lorenzo , Sumozas Nuria , Terraube Julien
Published: January 2009

Sexual ornaments might indicate better condition, fewer parasites or a greater immune responsiveness. Carotenoid‐based ornaments are common sexual signals of birds and often influence mate choice. Skin or beaks pigmented by carotenoids can change colour rapidly, and could be particularly useful as honest indicators of an individual's current condition and/or health. This is because carotenoids must be acquired through diet and/or allocation for ornamental coloration might be to the detriment of self‐maintenance needs. Here, we investigated whether the carotenoid‐based coloration of eye rings and beak of male red‐legged partridges Alectoris rufa predicted condition (mass corrected for size), parasite load (more specifically infection by coccidia, a main avian intestinal parasite) or a greater immune responsiveness (swelling response to a plant lectin, phytohaemagluttinin, or PHA). Redness of beak and eye rings positively correlated with plasma carotenoid levels. Also, males in better condition had fewer coccidia, more circulating carotenoids and a greater swelling response to PHA. Carotenoid‐based ornamentation predicted coccidia abundance and immune responsiveness (redder males had fewer coccidia and greater swelling response to PHA), but was only weakly positively related to condition. Thus, the carotenoid pigmentation of beak and eye rings reflected the current health status of individuals. Our results are consistent with the hypothesis that allocation trade‐offs (carotenoid use for ornamentation versus parasite defence needs) might ensure reliable carotenoid‐based signalling.
Sex‐specific food provisioning in a monomorphic seabird, the common guillemotUria aalge: nest defence, foraging efficiency or parental effort?
Authors: Thaxter Chris B. , Daunt Francis , Hamer Keith C. , Watanuki Yutaka , Harris Mike P. , Grémillet David , Peters Gerrit , Wanless Sarah
Published: January 2009

Sexual differences in food provisioning rates of monomorphic seabirds are well known but poorly understood. Here, we address three hypotheses that attempt to explain female‐biased food provisioning in common guillemotsUria aalge: (1) males spend more time in nest defence, (2) females have greater foraging efficiency, and (3) males allocate a greater proportion of foraging effort to self‐maintenance. We found that males spent no more time with chicks than females but made longer trips and travelled further from the colony. There was extensive overlap between sexes in core foraging areas, indicating that females were not excluding males from feeding opportunities close to the colony. However, as a result of their longer trips, the total foraging areas of males were much greater than those of females. There was no difference between sexes in overall dive rate per hour at sea, in behaviour during individual dives or in a number of other measures of foraging efficiency including the frequency, depth and duration of dives and the dive: pause ratio during the final dive bout of each trip, which was presumably used by both sexes to obtain prey for the chick. These data strongly suggest that sexes did not differ in their ability to locate and capture prey. Yet males made almost twice as many dives per trip as females, suggesting that males made more dives than females for their own benefit. These results support the hypothesis that female‐biased food provisioning arose from a difference between sexes in the allocation of foraging effort between parents and offspring, in anticipation of a prolonged period of male‐only post‐fledging care of the chick, and not from differences in foraging efficiency or time spent in nest defence.
High expression of BCL3 in human myeloma cells is associated with increased proliferation and inferior prognosis
Authors: Brenne Anne‐Tove , Fagerli Unn‐Merete , Shaughnessy Jr John D. , Våtsveen Thea Kristin , Rø Torstein Baade , Hella Hanne , Zhan Fenghuang , Barlogie Bart , Sundan Anders , Børset Magne , Waage Anders
Published: January 2009

Background:  BCL3 is a putative oncogene encoding for a protein belonging to the inhibitory κB‐family. We experienced that this putative oncogene was a common target gene for growth‐promoting cytokines in myeloma cell lines.

Methods:  Gene expression of BCL3 was studied in 351 newly diagnosed myeloma patients, 12 patients with smouldering myeloma, 44 patients with monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance and 22 healthy individuals. Smaller material of samples was included for mRNA detection by RT‐PCR, protein detection by Western blot and immunohistochemistry, and for cytogenetic studies. A total of eight different myeloma cell lines were studied.

Results:  Bcl‐3 was induced in myeloma cell lines by interleukin (IL)‐6, IL‐21, IL‐15, tumor necrosis factor‐α and IGF‐1, and its upregulation was associated with increased proliferation of the cells. In a population of 351 patients, expression levels of BCL3 above 75th percentile were associated with shorter 5‐yr survival. When this patient population was divided into subgroups based on molecular classification, BCL3 was significantly increased in a poor risk subgroup characterized by overexpression of cell cycle and proliferation related genes. Intracellular localization of Bcl‐3 was dependent on type of stimulus given to the cell.

Conclusion:  BCL3 is a common target gene for several growth‐promoting cytokines in myeloma cells and high expression of BCL3 at the time of diagnosis is associated with poor prognosis of patients with multiple myeloma (MM). These data may indicate a potential oncogenic role for Bcl‐3 in MM.
Microcirculatory modifications of psoriatic lesions during topical therapy
Authors: Rosina Paolo , Giovannini Andrea , Gisondi Paolo , Girolomoni Giampiero
Published: January 2009

Background/purpose: Videocapillaroscopy (VCP) can be used to explore microcirculatory modifications in skin diseases. Psoriasis presents a specifically altered capillaroscopic pattern with ‘bushy’ capillaries and a disarranged microangioarchitecture. The aim of the present study is to compare the clinical and capillaroscopic modifications of a psoriatic target lesion during topical therapy.

Methods: Thirty patients with chronic plaque psoriasis were included in the study. Clinical and capillaroscopic modifications in comparable lesions of the elbows were analyzed during different topical therapies (calcipotriol, betamethasone dipropionate and calcipotriol plus betamethasone dipropionate) at baseline, and after 15 and 30 days of therapy. A clinical global score (modified Psoriasis Area Severity Index), the mecapillary density per square mm and the mean diameter of capillary loops were measured.

Results: Topical therapy with combined betamethasone dipropionate and calcipotriol induced a higher decrease in erythema, infiltration and desquamation (P<0.001), and a significant reduction of the mean ‘bush’ diameter (P<0.001) and capillary number/mm2 (P<0.05) compared with betamethasone and calcipotriol alone. Microvascular restoration to a normal pattern, as detected by VCP, was faster than clinical improvement (P<0.05).

Conclusion: Videocapillaroscopy is an easily executable and non‐invasive technique that detects early microcirculatory changes in psoriasis during topical therapy.
Intravital imaging in zebrafish using quantum dots
Authors: Son Sang Wook , Kim Jae Hwan , Kim Su Hyun , Kim Ho , Chung Ah‐Young , Choo Jae Bum , Oh Chil Hwan , Park Hae‐Chul
Published: January 2009

Background/aims: Fluorescent quantum dots (QDs) are powerful multipurpose interfaces of nanotechnology providing long‐term and multicolor imaging of cellular and molecular interactions. The application of QDs in living organisms is just beginning to be explored, and zebrafish embryos may be suitable vertebrate model organisms for intravital imaging with QDs. To investigate their potential in skin research, we used QDs as microangiography contrast agents and attempted to visualize the cardiovascular system in zebrafish. We also attempted to find the pathway relationship between the cardiovascular system and the nerve network using QDs together with the transgenic zebrafish line.

Method: Quantum Dot QD605, which reveals green color under the fluorescent microscope, was used as a microangiography contrast agent. The olig2‐Dsred transgenic zebrafish line, which expresses motor neurons in red color, was used together with QDs. Images of QD605‐injected embryos were recorded with a digital camera.

Results: Combining the green fluorescence of QD605 and the red fluorescence of olig2‐Dsred transgenic zebrafish, we could obtain detailed images manifesting the spatial relationship between the vascular and the nervous system of zebrafish

Conclusion: QDs could easily be used as a bright microangiography agent in living embryos. Our image of the vascular and motor nervous system in zebrafish showed a similar pattern of trajectory overall. However, their segmented repetitive networks along the dorsoventral axis were not completely overlapped.
Use of high‐resolution ultrasound to monitor the healing of leg ulcers: a prospective single‐center study
Authors: Kuhn Christoph , Angehrn Fiorenzo
Published: January 2009

Background: The quality and extent of leg ulcer healing in deeper skin layers remains poorly defined using standard visual inspection alone. High‐resolution ultrasound (HR‐US) offers a non‐invasive, quantitative and objective assessment of dimensional and structural changes deep within the wound.

Methods: In a prospective, single‐center study, healing of chronic, treatment‐resistant leg ulcers was monitored by standard photography and HR‐US.

Results: Twenty patients with 22 ulcers were enrolled. After study entry, treatment comprised continuation of conventional management (n=4) or application of Apligraf® (n=17) or Thiersch (n=1). All ulcers receiving a graft were classified as ‘clinically healed’ by visual inspection within a maximum of 5 weeks. With conventional management, closure required a period of several months in three out of four cases. After covering the ulcer with Apligraf®, the skin reconditioned, resulting in fair skin color and a smooth skin surface in all but one case. HR‐US images, however, revealed large subepidermal deficits of elastic and collagenous fibers at the time of ‘clinical healing’ in 14/18 engrafted ulcers, findings that are strongly indicative of a weakened skin scaffolding.

Conclusion: We suggest that the healing process for chronic ulcers can be monitored with both standard visual inspection (photography) and HR‐US to allow early intervention.
Photoplanimetric evaluation and impedance measurement of split‐thickness skin grafts: a new model for objective wound‐healing assessment in clinical trials
Authors: Hauser J. , Lehnhardt M. , Daigeler A. , Langer S. , Steinau H. U. , Vogt P. M.
Published: January 2009

Purpose: The objective assessment of wound healing is a challenging task especially in the context of clinical trials. Because the clinical evaluation of wounds and the wound‐healing quality is often influenced by the subjective view of the physician, there is great need for a reliable, quantitative and objective wound model that would help to obtain statistically useful data. Here, we present a wound model and non‐invasive analysis techniques to evaluate human wound healing. The model described was used in a clinical trial on 167 patients treated with a new wound therapeutic agent.

Methods: The study was conducted on 167 patients receiving split‐thickness mesh grafts (1 : 1.5 and 0.1 mm) after reconstructive procedures. The re‐epithelialization of the mesh holes and the leakage of wound serum served as the main parameters of wound healing. The quantitative evaluation of the epithelialization rate was performed by photoplanimetry and impedance measurement. These data were correlated with the clinical wound assessment of two independent physicians.

Results: The study showed that computer‐aided photoplanimetry, in combination with impedance measurement, is a feasible and very useful method to evaluate the re‐epithelialization rate of mesh skin grafts.

Conclusion: The model described is a viable method to evaluate human wound healing in clinical trials.
Root formation of an autotransplanted tooth
Authors: Lon Luis Filipe Siu , Cerci Bruno Bochnia , Baboni Fernanda Brasil , Maruo Hiroshi , Guariza‐Filho Odilon , Tanaka Orlando Motohiro
Published: January 2009

Abstract –  Traumatic injuries with loss of anterior teeth occur more frequently in children. Treatment of the dental trauma is complex and requires a comprehensive and accurate diagnostic and treatment plan. It is also important to consider the biological, functional, esthetic, and economic aspects. The purpose of this article is to show a case report with a successful root formation and periodontal healing after autotransplantation of maxillary second right premolar in place of maxillary right central incisor site. Tooth autotransplantation may be considered as a viable treatment option instead of a conventional prosthetic and implant rehabilitation.
Prevalence and factors associated to dental trauma in infants 1–3 years of age
Authors: Jorge Kelly Oliva , Moysés Samuel Jorge , E Ferreira Efigênia Ferreira , Ramos‐Jorge Maria Letícia , De Araújo Zarzar Patrícia Maria Pereira
Published: January 2009

Abstract –  The aims of this study were to assess the epidemiology of traumatic dental injuries (TDI) to primary teeth in infants and toddlers between 1 and 3 years of age and investigate whether TDI was related to biological and social factors. A representative sample of infants and toddlers in the city of Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil (n = 519) was examined during a vaccination campaign. The evaluation of clinical signs of previous dental trauma was performed by nine previously calibrated examiners (intra‐examiner Kappa = 0.95%; inter‐examiner Kappa = 0.88%). Data were analysed through descriptive analysis, the chi‐squared test (P < 0.050) and logistic regression. The prevalence of dental trauma was 41.6%. Among the 519 children examined, 193 (37.2%) had enamel fractures, 30 (5.7%) had enamel–dentin fractures and only three (0.6%) had enamel–dentin fractures involving the pulp. Dental care had been performed within the first 24 h in 4.1% of the sample and after 36 h in 0.8% of the sample. There was no statistically significant difference between genders. The most reported aetiologies were falls (28.8%) and collisions (6.8%). There were no statistically significant associations between the prevalence of dental trauma and non‐nutritive sucking habits, dental caries or lip incompetence (P > 0.050). Children of mothers with low levels of schooling (0–6 years of study) had a greater prevalence of TDI (P = 0.001). The results of the logistic regression also demonstrated a significant association between dental injury and the Social Vulnerability Index (P = 0.045). Children from families with high social vulnerability (worse living conditions) had a 1.51 (95% confidence interval 1.0–2.2) greater chance of exhibiting TDI. These results can help guide the implementation of health promotion policies.
Autotransplantation of first premolar to replace a maxillary incisor – 3D‐volume tomography for evaluation of the periodontal space
Authors: Harzer Winfried , Rüger Daniel , Tausche Eve
Published: January 2009

Abstract –  The anterior maxilla is the most traumatized region during childhood and tooth loss is frequently involved. Space closure with implants is contraindicated in growing patients and maintenance of space is necessary over a long period. Transplantation of premolars from the mandible with two‐third to three‐quarter root formation wide open foramen provides the best prognosis for permanent survival.

Case report:  This report describes the management of a 10 year old girl with autotransplantation to replace an upper incisor by a lower premolar under consideration of special care for the periodontal ligament during surgical procedure. A 3‐D imaging with digital volume tomography (DVT) was used 20 months after transplantation to evaluate the periodontal morphology.

Discussion:  Autotransplantation of premolars with incomplete root formation to replace maxillary incisor is a treatment alternative after traumatic loss of teeth. There were no signs of pathosis like resorption or ankylosis and a normal periodontal space demonstrated with DVT. There is no need for endodontic treatment before transplantation. In this case of autotransplantation of a premolar, the DVT after 20 months gives evidence of a successful regeneration of the periodontal ligament.
Therapy of metastasized Merkel cell carcinoma with liposomal doxorubicin in combination with radiotherapy
Authors: Wobser Marion , Kürzinger Natalie , Ugurel Selma , Bröcker Eva‐B. , Becker Jürgen C.
Published: January 2009

Background: Merkel cell carcinoma is a rare skin cancer of neuroendocrine origin, which is characterized by a high rate of recurrence, metastatic spread and mortality. Because of its rarity, evidence‐based therapeutic regimens are difficult to establish. Merkel cell carcinoma is known to be both radio‐ and chemosensitive. Toxicity is a key factor in assessing any regimen, as the patients are usually elderly and likely to have other significant medical problems.

Patients and Methods: We retrospectively evaluated five patients with metastatic Merkel cell carcinoma to see if liposomal doxorubicin (Caelyx® or Myocet®) in combination with radiotherapy exhibited clinical anti‐tumoral effects accompanied by acceptable side effects.

Results: The outpatient chemotherapy regimen was tolerated without major side effects and produced good response rates. All patients achieved at least tumor stabilization; four of five had a partial remission. Effects of therapy were usually seen in the first cycle of therapy but the responses were of short duration with an average interval of two months until progression.

Conclusions: As combined radiochemotherapy with liposomal doxorubicin is well tolerated even in older patients with other illnesses and can be given on an outpatient basis, it is an attractive option for metastatic Merkel cell carcinoma. Based on response rate or overall survival, it offers no advantages compared to polychemotherapy.
Antiphospholipid antibodies and lipoprotein(a) in obese children
Authors: Pascut Devis , Princi Tanja , Donato Michela , Tamaro Giorgio , Parco Sergio
Published: January 2009

Aim: Antiphospholipid (aPL) antibodies, Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] and obesity are considered three independent risk factors for development of cardiovascular diseases. We investigate the presence of aPL antibodies and the Lp(a) concentration in 190 obese and 30 healthy children divided into prepubertal and pubertal, compared with healthy adults.

Results: aPL antibodies were detected in 2.65% of prepubertal and in 2.59% of pubertal obese children. Considering results obtained by Lp(a) test, 4.4% of prepubertal and 5.2% of pubertal obese children and 17.5% of healthy adults were at risk for development of cardiovascular diseases.

Conclusion: The presence of various prothrombotic risk factors increases the probability of developing thrombosis. Considering aPL antibodies there is no statistically significant difference among the different considered groups; therefore each category has the same risk factor. The Lp(a) distribution in adults is significantly different from the Lp(a) distribution in prepubertal (p = 0.012) and pubertal (p = 0.029) obese children. There is no significant difference among prepubertal subjects (p = 0.632) as well as pubertal subjects (p = 0.465), independently from the BMI. These results suggest the control of BMI in young population to avoid the presence of the obesity as another independent prothrombotic risk factor to be added to aPL and Lp(a) in the future adulthood.
Comparison of cytokine responses in nasopharyngeal aspirates from children with viral lower respiratory tract infections
Authors: Byeon Jung Hye , Lee Jin Chul , Choi Ic Sun , Yoo Young , Park Sang Hee , Choung Ji Tae
Published: January 2009

Aim: To determine whether nasopharyngeal aspirates (NPAs) cytokine response is different according to the causative viruses in children with lower respiratory tract infections (LRTI).

Methods: NPAs from 277 children with LRTI caused by respiratory virus were evaluated. Based on the proven viral agents, LRTI patients were divided into four groups. Levels of IL‐4, IL‐5 and IFN‐γ were determined by ELISA.

Results: Patients with influenza virus infection demonstrated significantly lower IL‐4 and IL‐5 levels than those with other three groups. Patients with respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection showed an increase in production of IL‐4 and IL‐5, and a decrease in the IFN‐γ level when compared to patients with influenza virus infection. Interestingly, a similar Th2 response was seen in patients with parainfluenza virus or adenovirus infection.

Conclusion: These results demonstrate that respiratory viruses can induce different local cytokine responses. However, Th2 biased responses are not unique for RSV but seem to be predominant in respiratory viruses of young children.
Acute non‐oliguric kidney failure and cholestatic hepatitis induced by ibuprofen and acetaminophen: a case report
Authors: Zaffanello Marco , Brugnara Milena , Angeli Silvia , Cuzzolin Laura
Published: January 2009

The combined use of acetaminophen with ibuprofen has long been in clinical use because the target of action of each drug is different and they do not interfere with each other. Appropriate dosing and managing of these drugs do not likely lead to organ toxicity. However, both acetaminophen and ibuprofen can induce liver problems and acute kidney failure, respectively, if administered at high doses. We report the case of a female child, in treatment with both acetaminophen and ibuprofen, administered at therapeutic antipyretic doses in condition of volume depletion, who suffered acute kidney and liver failure.

Conclusion: The combined ibuprofen and acetaminophen treatment, even if administered at therapeutic dosages and in a reduced number of doses, may be dangerous in conditions of volume depletion.
HPV Infection in Women: Psychosexual Impact of Genital Warts and Intraepithelial Lesions
Authors: Graziottin Alessandra , Serafini Audrey
Published: January 2009

Introduction

Genital Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection is the most commonly occurring sexually transmitted viral infection in humans. HPV is a wide family of DNA viruses, which may cause benign skin and mucosal tumors (genital, anal, or oral warts), intraepithelial neoplasias, and/or malignant cancers in different organs. Women are more susceptible to the oncogenic effect of HPVs, mostly at the genital site on the uterine cervix.

Aims

This review analyzes the impact of: (i) genital warts (GWs) and their treatment; (ii) HPV-related genital, oral, and anal precancerous lesions on women’s sexual function.

Methods

A Medline search was carried out. Search terms were HPV, GWs, intraepithelial neoplasia, cervical cancer, anal cancer, oral cancer, epidemiology, HPV risk factors, sexual dysfunctions, desire disorders, arousal disorders, dyspareunia, vulvar vestibulitis, vulvodynia, orgasmic difficulties, sexual repertoire, couple sexual problems, depression, anxiety, pap smear, screening program, therapy, and vaccines.

Main Outcome Measures

Sexual consequences of HPV infection in women, specifically GWs and intraepithelial HPV-related neoplasia.

Results

Psychosexual vulnerability increases with number of recurrences of HPV infections. Depression, anxiety, and anger are the emotions most frequently reported. However, to date, there is no conclusive evidence of a specific correlation between HPV infection and a specific female sexual disorder. The relationship between HPV and vulvar vestibulitis/vulvodynia-related dyspareunia seems not to be direct. Counseling problems, the role of anti-HPV vaccine, and the concept of the high-risk partner are discussed. The reader is offered a practical approach with clinically relevant recommendations that may prove useful in his/her daily practice when dealing with HPV-infected women and couples.

Conclusion

The evidence of psychosexual consequences of HPV-related GWs and intraepithelial lesions is limited. Specific research on the sexual impact of GWs and intraepithelial HPV-related lesion in women is urgently needed.
Validation of the Decreased Sexual Desire Screener (DSDS): A Brief Diagnostic Instrument for Generalized Acquired Female Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD)
Authors: Clayton Anita H. , Goldfischer Evan R. , Goldstein Irwin , DeRogatis Leonard , Lewis-D’Agostino Diane J. , Pyke Robert
Published: January 2009

Introduction

An accurate diagnosis of Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD) currently relies on a time-consuming interview with an expert clinician. Limited access to such expertise means that many women with HSDD remain undiagnosed. The Decreased Sexual Desire Screener (DSDS) was developed to provide clinicians who are neither trained nor specialized in Female Sexual Dysfunction (FSD) with a brief diagnostic procedure for the diagnosis of generalized acquired HSDD in women.

Methods

A prospective non-treatment multicenter study enrolled 263 women at 27 centers in North America in order to test the validity of the DSDS for diagnosing generalized acquired HSDD in women. Subjects completed the DSDS at the screening visit and their answers were reviewed with a clinician who was not an expert in FSD (“non-expert clinician”). Separately and while being unaware of the non-expert clinician’s diagnosis, an expert clinician conducted a standard diagnostic interview.

Main Outcome Measures

Diagnostic outcomes (generalized acquired HSDD or not) were compared. Primary endpoints included the sensitivity and specificity of the DSDS relative to the standard diagnostic interview. Subject and non-expert clinician debriefing were obtained via a written, structured interview. This ensured that a large sample could be tested under uniform conditions across multiple sites.

Results

Diagnostic assessment by DSDS and standard diagnostic interview were in agreement in 85.2% (224/263) of cases, with the sensitivity and specificity of the DSDS 83.6% and 87.8%, respectively. Debriefing showed that the five DSDS questions were well understood by 85.4% (76/89) of subjects included in the debriefing exercise, while non-expert clinicians considered the DSDS questions adequate to diagnose HSDD in 92.9% (235/253) of cases.

Conclusions

The DSDS is a sensitive and specific brief diagnostic instrument for generalized acquired HSDD in women that is quick and easy to use.
Genetics of Indoxacarb resistance in Helicoverpa armigera (Hubner)
Authors: GHODKI Basweshwar S. , THAKARE Shivcharan M. , MOHARIL Mangesh P. , RAO Nagarjuna G. V.
Published: January 2009

The present investigation was done with the aim of studying the genetics of Indoxacarb resistance. Selection of Helicoverpa armigera (Hubner) with Indoxacarb was done for eight generations to develop resistance. Reciprocal crosses between resistant and susceptible populations were made to understand the population genetics of Indoxacarb resistance in H. armigera. Generation‐wise selection with Indoxacarb was evaluated for resistance development in H. armigera. The LC50 of Indoxacarb was 2.81 p.p.m. for the first selected generation, and it increased to 272.55 p.p.m. after eight selected generations, which is a 1238.86‐fold resistance compared to the susceptible strain. The estimated realized heritability (h2) after eight generations of selection with Indoxacarb was 0.45. The number of generations required for a tenfold increase in LC50 (1/R) was estimated to be 2.59. The response to Indoxacarb selection in H. armigera was 0.39, the estimated selection differential (S) was 0.87, and the phenotypic standard deviation (σp) was 0.03. Reciprocal crosses between Indoxacarb resistant and susceptible strains revealed that the inheritance of Indoxacarb resistance was autosomal: neither maternal effect nor linkage was evident. The values of DLC (0.10 and 0.09) indicated completely recessive inheritance of Indoxacarb resistance.
Trends in integrated pest management strategies for the control of Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner) caterpillars on chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.)
Authors: WAKIL Waqas , ASHFAQ Muhammad , KWON Yong Jung , GHAZANFAR M. U.
Published: January 2009

A study was carried out at the University of Arid Agriculture, Rawalpindi, Pakistan to integrate different control measures against Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner) on chickpea, to minimize the use of hazardous insecticides and develop an eco‐friendly management program. Cultural (weeding), mechanical (hand picking), biological (release of Trichogramma chilonis), microbial (spraying of Bacillus thruingiensis) and chemical (Steward) control practices were applied three times at 10 day intervals individually and also in various combinations. The application of Steward proved most effective when applied alone, with 0.41 larvae/plant, pod infestation of 9.31% and the highest grain yield (1203.66 g/plot); however, the integration of weeding, hand picking and Steward proved to be the most effective in reducing the larval population (0.12 larvae/plant) with minimum pod infestation (5.45%) on variety CM‐2000, which resulted in the maximum grain yield (1260.33 g/plot). The cost–benefit ratio in the treatment where Steward was applied alone was 1:2.20, and it was 1:3.53 where weeding and hand picking practices were integrated.
First report of cottony‐cushion scale (Icerya purchasi) on red berried mistletoe (Viscum cruciatum)
Authors: RUBIALES Diego , FERNÁNDEZ‐APARICIO Mónica
Published: January 2009

Cottony‐cushion scale (Icerya purchasi) infestation on red berried mistletoe (Viscum cruciatum) is reported for the first time. Mistletoe is a hemiparasitic plant that was parasitizing stems of olive trees; however, I. purchasi infested only the mistletoe and not the olive. Economic implications are discussed.