bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preventive effect of melatonin on the progression of α‐naphthylisothiocyanate‐induced acute liver injury in rats
Authors: Ohta Yoshiji , Kongo Mutsumi , Kishikawa Teruaki
Published: March 2003

Abstract: The preventive effect of melatonin on the progression of α‐naphthylisothiocyanate (ANIT)‐induced acute liver injury with cholestasis was examined in rats treated once with the hepatotoxin [75 mg/kg body weight (BW), i.p.]. In rats treated with ANIT alone, liver injury with cholestasis occurred 24 hr after treatment and progressed at 48 hr, judging from the serum levels of hepatobiliary marker enzymes and components. Melatonin (10 or 100 mg/kg BW) was orally administered to the ANIT‐treated rats, 24 hr after the hepatotoxin treatment at which time hepatic injury had already developed. The administered indoleamine prevented the progression of liver cell damage rather than biliary cell damage more effectively at the higher dose than at the lower dose. In rats treated with ANIT alone, the serum and hepatic concentrations of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, an index of lipid peroxidation, and the hepatic activity of myeloperoxidase, an index of tissue neutrophil infiltration, increased 24 hr after treatment and further increased at 48 hr. In the liver of rats treated with ANIT alone, Cu,Zn‐superoxide dismutase activity decreased 24 hr after treatment and was further reduced at 48 hr, although there was no change in Mn‐superoxide dismutase activity. Catalase and Se‐glutathione peroxidase activities also decreased at 48 hr, while reduced glutathione concentrations remained increased at 24 and 48 hr. The melatonin administered to the ANIT‐treated rats attenuated the increases in serum and hepatic concentrations of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances and the decreases in hepatic activities of Cu,Zn‐superoxide dismutase, catalase, and Se‐glutathione peroxidase found at 48 hr after the hepatotoxin treatment more effectively at the higher dose than at the lower dose; on the other hand, melatonin treatment had no effect on the increases in hepatic myeloperoxidase activity and reduced glutathione concentration found at 48 h. These results indicate that orally administered melatonin at pharmacological doses prevents the progression of ANIT‐induced acute liver injury, mainly liver cell damage, in rats, and suggest that the administered melatonin exerts these preventive effects through its direct and indirect antioxidant actions.
Physical activity and bone mineral acquisition in peripubertal girls
Authors: Lehtonen‐Veromaa M. , Möttönen T. , Svedström E. , Hakola P. , Heinonen O. J. , Viikari J.
Published: March 2003

The association of the amount and type of physical activity with bone mineral acquisition was studied in 191 peripubertal Caucasian girls aged 9–16 years (66 gymnasts, 65 runners, and 60 nonathletic controls). Weight, height, stage of puberty, the amount of leisure‐time physical activity, and years of training were recorded, and dietary calcium and vitamin D were assessed by a semi‐quantitative questionnaire. The bone area, the bone mineral density (BMD), and the bone mineral content (BMC) of the femoral neck, lumbar spine and antebrachium were measured by dual‐energy x‐ray absorptiometry. The unadjusted mean values of BMD at the femoral neck were 15.2% higher in the pubertal gymnasts than in the controls (P<0.001). Compared with the controls, the mean BMC adjusted for bone area of the pubertal gymnasts at the femoral neck and lumbar spine was 16.4% and 10.8% higher, respectively. When comparing the association of the type of physical activity among the pubertal athletics by multiple regression analysis, height, physical activity, gymnastics, and Tanner stage emerged as significant variables and accounted for 54.7% and 63.4% of the total variation in BMD of the femoral neck and lumbar spine, respectively. These results indicate that physical activity is associated with bone mineral acquisition in peripubertal girls and that high‐impact weight‐bearing exercise seems to be particularly associated with the increase of the BMD at the femoral neck.
Passive tensile stress and energy of the human hamstring muscles in vivo
Authors: Magnusson S. P. , Aagaard P. , Simonsen E. B. , Bojsen‐Møller F.
Published: March 2003

The present study measured passive resistance to stretch in the hamstring muscles during a standardized stretch maneuver to estimate tensile forces and energy of the individual hamstring muscles in 7 flexible and 6 inflexible persons defined according to joint range of motion. Using a dynamometer, knee joint moment was measured during slow passive knee extension to a maximal angle (dynamic phase) followed by a 90‐s static phase. Cross‐sectional areas (CSA) of the separate hamstring muscles were obtained with magnetic resonance (MR) imaging. Mathematical modeling was used to calculate instantaneous muscle length and joint moment arm for each muscle. Subsequently, passive muscle tension (N/cm2) was calculated based on moment arm lengths, knee joint moments, and CSA. Maximal tolerated joint angle was greater in flexible (Δ1.30±0.06 rad) than inflexible (Δ0.84±0.06 rad) subjects, P<0.01. The peak tension at maximal angle was greater in flexible (81.8±12.5 N/cm2) than inflexible subjects (29.3±4.1 N/cm2), P<0.001. For the separate muscles the overall change in muscle length (Δ cm) and moment arm (Δ cm) differed between groups, P<0.01. Similarly, muscle stiffness (Δ tension/Δ muscle length) was greater in flexible than inflexible subjects in the final 3 cm, P<0.01, and in the final 20% of length change, P<0.01. Absorbed energy (mJ/cm2)was greater in flexible than inflexible subjects in the final 40% of length change, P<0.05. These data show that flexible persons can attain a greater angle of stretch with an accompanying greater tensile stress and energy than inflexible persons due to an apparant greater tolerance to the externally applied load, and larger change in moment arm. The obtained stress data appear to be in the toe region of a ‘classical’ stress–strain curve, and energy rather than stiffness may therefore be more appropriate to analyze during the stretch procedure.
Laser Doppler flowmetry in the assessment of tendon blood flow
Authors: Åström M.
Published: March 2003

This review of laser Doppler flowmetry (LDF) focuses on indications and limitations in general and the author’s experience of LDF in the assessment of tendon perfusion in particular. LDF is easy to use, minimally invasive and well suited for the study of relative changes in perfusion during rapid events. Problems specifically related to LDF include motion artifacts, a non‐flow dependent output of unknown significance and uncertainty regarding the spatial resolution. The human Achilles tendon has a lower perfusion at the insertion but otherwise an even distribution of blood flow. Male gender, advancing age and mechanical loading of the tendon are associated with diminished tendon blood flow. The lesion in chronic degenerative Achilles tendinopathy is associated with hyperemia of uncertain origin.
Tendon tissue sampling
Authors: Movin T.
Published: March 2003

Mechanical load is regarded as the most important etiologic factor in cumulative trauma disorders affecting human tendons. At present there is limited knowledge concerning adaptation and the influence of training on human tendon tissue and the time process of developing a chronic tendon disorder. Tendon tissue samples and data concerning tendon pathology and repair have been derived from biopsies removed during surgery for rupture or pain conditions and from autopsy material. The ultrasound‐guided percutanous core biopsy technique provides the possibility to obtain tendon tissue from human Achilles and patellar tendon with limited discomfort for the individual. The specimens can be used for diagnostic purposes or for research and have the potential to highlight novel knowledge in, for example, the early stages of painful human tendon disorders. The fact that the procedure is invasive is a limitation. Autopsy material has limitations regarding poor information on case history, post mortem alterations and legal regulations on the use of tissue for medical purposes. The inflammatory process quickly affects ruptured tendons. The subcutanous tendons that sustain a rupture are commonly characterized by degenerative alterations. Many tendon ruptures are treated with surgery, facilitating easy access to biopsy material. In summary, tendon tissue sampling in humans has obvious limitations. The recently described use of the core biopsy technique in human tendon research and diagnosis gives potential for new knowledge concerning human tendon adaptation, repair and disease.
Sensorimotor control of knee stability. A review
Authors: Solomonow M. , Krogsgaard M.
Published: March 2003

Traditionally, the concept of joint stability considered the displacement (or subluxation) of two bones relative to each other as the measurement index, and attributed the preservation of such stability in its physiologic range to the various ligaments associated with the joint. Although the ligaments are indeed the major restraints of any joint, the significant contribution of the musculature toward joint stability had been grossly overlooked or neglected until the last 15 years. The value and importance of muscular activity in that role becomes immediately apparent if one performs even a superficial functional comparison of muscles and ligaments. Ligaments are passive viscoelastic structures, whereas muscles are dynamic viscoelastic organs. The viscoelastic effects of the ligaments are activated and applied strictly upon the geometric and kinematic configuration of the joint traversing through its range of motion according to fixed force‐displacement relationships. The musculature, however, can apply passive viscoelastic effects to the joint when not active (passive tone) and variable dynamic viscoelastic effects when contracting under voluntary or reflexive control, and at any desirable point in the range of motion and in response to joint speed, external load, gravity, pain, and so forth, while executing the functional objective of the movement set by the individual. Preservation of joint stability cannot be ascribed to the ligaments alone, but should be considered as a synergistic function in which bones, joint capsules, ligaments, muscles, tendons, and sensory receptors and their spinal and cortical neural projects and connections function in harmony.

The objective of this report is to first review the anatomy and physiology of the various mechanoreceptors and their neural pathways about the joint, and describe some of the current concepts of the reflex arcs elicited by such receptors, with special emphasis on biomechanical outcomes relative to stability. The role of the musculature in maintaining stability while controlling joint motion is then reviewed, with data obtained from experiments performed on humans and animals. Finally, some clinical findings from patients with anterior cruciate ligament deficiency using a brace that simulates the ligament–muscle functions is described.
Articular cartilage lesions and anterior knee pain
Authors: Joensen A. M. , Hahn T. , Gelineck J. , Overvad K. , Ingemann‐Hansen T.
Published: March 2003

The present case–control study included as cases 24 athletes with anterior knee pain, and 17 controls, matching the cases according to gender and age. All cases had their most symptomatic knee examined by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Among controls one knee was chosen for examination at random. The MRI of the patella showed articular cartilage lesions in 17 out of 24 cases, whereas among the controls 4 out of 17 had articular cartilage lesions. (Odds Ratio 7.9 (95% confidence interval 1.9–33)). However, presence of articular cartilage lesions was not associated with duration of symptoms or intensity of the anterior knee pain. The present study showed a significant positive association between presence of articular cartilage lesions in the patella and presence of anterior knee pain, but further studies are needed to examine the relationship in detail.
Good clinical results but persisting side‐to‐side differences in calf muscle strength after surgical treatment of chronic Achilles tendinosis: A 5‐year follow‐up
Authors: Öhberg L. , Lorentzon R. , Alfredson H.
Published: March 2003

We have prospectively studied calf muscle strength (isokinetic concentric and eccentric muscle strength at 90 °/s and 225 °/s of angular velocity in 24 patients (17 males and 7 females, mean age 43.0 years) surgically treated for chronic Achilles tendinosis (at the 2–6 cm level in the tendon). The mean follow‐up time was 5 years (range 31–82 months). Surgery was followed by immobilization in a weight‐bearing below the knee plaster cast for 2–6 weeks, followed by a stepwise increasing strength training programme. Strength measurements (peak torque) were done preoperatively, and 1 and 5 (mean) years postoperatively. Preoperatively, concentric plantar flexion peak torque at 90 °/s and 225 °/s and eccentric plantar flexion torque at 90 °/s were significantly lower (12.3%, 19.7% and 8.5% respectively) on the injured side compared to the non‐injured side. Postoperatively, at the 5‐year follow‐up, 22 out of 24 patients (92%) were satisfied with the operation and active at their desired level (running, tennis, badminton, walking). There was no significant increase in concentric and eccentric calf muscle strength postoperatively. Concentric plantar flexion peak torque at 90 °/s and 225 °/s and eccentric plantar flexion peak torque at 90 °/s were still significantly lower (7.2%, 8.6% and 8.8% respectively) on the injured side compared to the non‐injured side. In conclusion it seems that the calf muscle strength deficit seen on the injured side preoperatively in this group of patients remains despite 92% of the patients being pain‐free and active in sports or at recreational level after the operation. However, the percentage side‐to‐side difference is relatively low, and might not have any clinical relevance.
Effects of montelukast on physical performance and exercise economy in adult asthmatics with exercise‐induced bronchoconstriction
Authors: Steinshamn S. , Sandsund M. , Sue‐Chu M. , Bjermer L.
Published: March 2003

Leukotriene antagonists are effective in the treatment of exercise‐induced bronchoconstriction. Montelukast is a specific cysteinyl‐leukotriene receptor1 antagonist without known effects on the pulmonary vessels, which in theory should be advantageous with respect to gas exchange.

In addition to lung function, we investigated the effects of montelukast on parameters of gas exchange and physical performance in 16 asthmatics with exercise‐induced bronchoconstriction in a double‐blind cross‐over placebo‐controlled study. Subjects were tested at an ambient temperature of −15°C with a tread mill exercise protocol consisting of consecutive workloads of 80% V'O2max (6 min), rest (4 min), 60% V'O2max (6 min) and step increments of exercise until exhaustion.

Montelukast reduced the maximum post‐exercise fall in FEV1 (P < 0.01), improved the running time to exhaustion in 11 of 16 test subjects (one unchanged) (P = 0.03), and reduced the Borg score at exhaustion (P = 0.03) and the breathing frequency after 3 min at 60% V'O2max (P = 0.03). V'O2, V'CO2, minute ventilation, ventilatory equivalents, respiratory exchange ratio, heart rate and oxygen pulse were not significantly different after montelukast and placebo.

We conclude that montelukast has a beneficial effect on physical performance in most adults with exercise‐induced asthma without any observed effect on gas‐exchange parameters.
Anaerobic power and muscle strength characteristics of 11 years old elite and non‐elite boys and girls from gymnastics, team handball, tennis and swimming
Authors: Bencke J. , Damsgaard R. , Saekmose A. , Jørgensen P. , Jørgensen K. , Klausen K.
Published: March 2003

The aim of the present investigation was to study the possible effects of specificity of training on muscle strength and anaerobic power in children from different sports and at different performance levels in relation to growth and maturation status. Hundred and eighty‐four children of both gender participating either in swimming, tennis, team handball or gymnastics were recruited from the best clubs in Denmark. Within each sport, the coach had divided the children into an elite (E) and non‐elite (NE) group according to performance level and talent. Tanner stage assessment and body weight and height measurements were performed by a physician. The anaerobic performances were assessed by Wingate tests and jumping performance in squat jump (SJ), countermovement jump (CMJ) and drop jump (DJ) from two heights. Most of the differences between groups in Wingate performance disappeared when the data were normalised to body mass. The gymnasts were the best jumpers and their superiority were increased in the more complex motor coordination tasks like DJ. The results may indicate some influence of training specificity, especially on the more complex motor tasks as DJ and there may be an effect of training before puberty. The performance in the less complex motor tasks like cycling and SJ and CMJ may also be influenced by specific training, but not to the same extent, and heritance may be an important factor for performance in these anaerobic tasks.
The use of MRI scan of knee injuries in an emergency department
Authors: Frihagen F. , Kvakestad R. , Melhuus K. , Engebretsen L.
Published: March 2003

We present a retrospective study of the number of arthroscopically verified total meniscus and cruciate ligament tears seen in our Emergency department one year before, and one year after introducing magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) as a diagnostic tool. The number of total ruptures of the anterior cruciate ligament increased from 34 (1.7% of total 2003 patients) to 67 (2.9% of total 2277). The number of ruptures of the medial meniscus increased from 42 (2.1%) to 87 (3.8%). The number of ruptures of the lateral meniscus remained unchanged. In the first 12 months after introducing MRI we ordered 513 (23%) scans of the total number of 2277 patients with an acute knee condition. Thirty‐nine (8%) of these were described with no pathology, 227 (44%) showed total meniscus or cruciate ligament tears. The remaining 247 (48%) were mainly degenerative or partial injuries. The cost per additional new diagnosis was approximately USD 800. The introduction of MRI has enabled us to identify a larger number of patients with meniscus and cruciate ligament injuries.
Calf muscle function after Achilles tendon rupture.
Authors: Möller M. , Lind K. , Movin T. , Karlsson J.
Published: March 2003

In a prospective, randomised, multicentre study, 112 patients with Achilles tendon rupture (ATR) were allocated to surgical treatment (n=59), followed by early functional rehabilitation using a brace, and non‐surgical treatment (n=53), i.e. eight weeks of plaster treatment. In this study, the results of the isokinetic muscle strength evaluation are presented for contractions in both the concentric and the eccentric mode, plantar flexion and dorsiflexion, two angular velocities and three different positions of the subject. The heel‐raise test for endurance, maximum calf circumference and tendon width were also evaluated. The re‐rupture rate was 20.8% in the non‐surgically‐treated group and 1.7% in the surgically‐treated group. No significant differences were found between the treatment groups in terms of the isokinetic strength measurements and the endurance test among the patients who did not sustain a re‐rupture. If a re‐rupture is avoided, both surgical and non‐surgical treatment for ATR produce good functional outcome; however, the muscle function was not restored after two years in either group.
Comparison of functional outcome after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction resulting in low, normal and increased laxity
Authors: Sernert N. , Kartus J. , Köhler K. , Ejerhed L. , Brandsson S. , Karlsson J.
Published: March 2003

The aim of the study was to analyse and compare the results after arthroscopic anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction using patellar tendon autografts in three groups of patients. The groups were determined by knee laxity as measured with the KT‐1000 arthrometer at the follow‐up two to five years after the reconstruction. Group A (n=15) had an anterior side‐to‐side laxity difference of <−3 mm (i.e. the reconstructed knee was less lax than the contralateral non‐injured knee), Group B (n=376) had a difference of ≥−1, but ≤+2 mm and Group C (n=38) had a difference of ≥6 mm. All the patients had a normal contralateral knee. In Group A, 7/15 (47%) patients and, in Group B, 82/375 (22%) patients had an extension deficit of ≥5° (P=0.052). The corresponding values in terms of flexion deficit were 8/15 (53%) and 99/375 (26%) respectively (P=0.04) (one missing value in Group B). In Group C, 14/38 (37%) had an extension deficit (P=0.04; Group B vs Group C). Group C displayed worse results than Group B in terms of the Lysholm score and the one‐leg‐hop test (P=0.001 and P=0.011 respectively). The corresponding comparison between Group A and Group B revealed no significant differences. We conclude that a considerable number of patients showed persisting deficits in range of motion (ROM) after an ACL reconstruction. No major differences were found if they were analysed in subgroups with decreased, near normal or with increased knee laxity. The worst residual functional impairment, as measured with the Lysholm score and one‐leg‐hop test, was found in the group with increased knee laxity and most ROM deficits in the knees with decreased laxity.
“Living high − training low” altitude training improves sea level performance in male and female élite runners
Authors: Stray‐Gundersen J. , Chapman R. F. , Levine B. D.
Published: March 2003

Acclimatization to moderate high altitude accompanied by training at low altitude (living high–training low) has been shown to improve sea level endurance performance in accomplished, but not élite, runners. Whether élite athletes, who may be closer to the maximal structural and functional adaptive capacity of the respiratory (i.e. oxygen transport from environment to mitochondria) system, may achieve similar performance gains is unclear. To answer this question, we studied 14 élite men and eight élite women before and after 27 days of living at 2500 m while performing high‐intensity training at 1250 m. The altitude sojourn began 1 week after the USA Track and Field National Championships, when the athletes were close to their season's fitness peak. Sea level 3000‐m time trial performance was significantly improved by 1.1% (95% confidence limits 0.3–1.9%). One‐third of the athletes achieved personal best times for the distance after the altitude training camp. The improvement in running performance was accompanied by a 3% improvement in maximal oxygen uptake (72.1 ± 1.5–74.4 ± 1.5 ml kg− 1 min− 1). Circulating erythropoietin levels were near double initial sea level values 20 h after ascent (8.5 ± 0.5–16.2 ± 1.0 IU ml−1). Soluble transferrin receptor levels were significantly elevated on the 19th day at altitude, confirming a stimulation of erythropoiesis (2.1 ± 0.7–2.5 ± 0.6 μ g ml‐1). Hb concentration measured at sea level increased 1 g dl−1 over the course of the camp (13.3 ± 0.2–14.3 ± 0.2 g dl−1). We conclude that 4 weeks of acclimatization to moderate altitude, accompanied by high‐intensity training at low altitude, improves sea level endurance performance even in élite runners. Both the mechanism and magnitude of the effect appear similar to that observed in less accomplished runners, even for athletes who may have achieved near maximal oxygen transport capacity for humans.
Characterization of the physical properties of the stratum corneum by a new tactile sensor
Authors: Sakai Shingo , Sasai Shu , Endo Yoko , Matue Kohji , Tagami Hachiro , Inoue Shintaro
Published: March 2003

Background/aims: The physical properties of the stratum corneum (SC) change with its water content, which is regulated by the presence of water solutes (natural moisturizing factors) and lipids in the SC, and are considered to be responsible for the induction of desquamation, skin surface roughness, and fine wrinkles. Recently a new type of tactile sensor developed for evaluating the physical properties of objects has been introduced as a simple, non‐invasive method to evaluate them; because the data obtained with this sensor have not yet been characterized in detail, we compared them with other physical parameters of the skin.

Methods: A change in resonant frequency (Δf  ) was measured under various levels of pressure applied by a tactile sensor placed on the cheeks of 29 women. We also measured high‐frequency conductance that reflects the hydration state of the skin surface, water holding capacity of the SC, transepidermal water loss (TEWL), skin flexibility, skin elasticity, amino acid composition of the SC, and desquamation index of the SC at the same time, and evaluated the correlation between Δf and other physical parameters.

Results: The correlation between Δf and high‐frequency conductance of the SC, and that between Δf and the water holding capacity of the SC were substantially high. Δf under high pressure was more closely correlated with the acidic amino acid ratio of the SC. Δf also showed a correlation with desquamation index for thickness of the SC as well as with skin elasticity, independent of the applied pressure.

Conclusions: Because Δf determined with the tactile sensor correlated with other physical parameters specific to the properties of the SC, such as high frequency conductance of the SC, its water holding capacity, ratio of acidic amino acids, and the desquamation index for thickness, the physical properties of the SC may be adequately evaluated with the measurements of Δf.
Irregularity skin index (ISI): a tool to evaluate skin surface texture
Authors: Setaro Michele , Sparavigna Adele
Published: March 2003

Background/aims: Irregularity of skin surface microtopography is difficult to evaluate in Euclidean geometry. Using a fast Fourier transform (FFT), it is possible to convert a space field into a frequency field and to obtain quantitative evaluation of this important feature of the skin. The aim of the present study was to test the applicability of a new parameter, derived from computer assisted FFT, to skin texture, in order to quantify its irregularity. This parameter has the additional advantage of being anisotropic.

Method: The study was conducted on 50 female volunteers. Skin replicas were performed on a healthy area that was not chronically photo‐exposed. A new parameter, called “irregularity skin index” (ISI), was identified from FFT. The correlation with volunteers’ age was calculated.

Results: ISI was calculated by FFT in two different directions (referred to the x and y axis of the diagram of the FFT and named, respectively, ISIωx and ISIωy). The irregularity skin indexes increased with age of the subjects, showing a correlation with age of r=0.47 (ISIωx) and r=0.51 (ISIωy).

Conclusion: By showing a relatively good correlation with age, ISI seems to be a promising parameter for the study of ageing skin.
Repeatability of in vitro measurements of the ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) by spectrophotometry with automatic sampling
Authors: Hoffmann K. , Kesners P. , Bader A. , Avermaete A. , Altmeyer P. , Gambichler T.
Published: March 2003

Background/aims: Spectrophotometric assessment (in vitro) is the most established method for determining the ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) of textiles. Apart from stringent requirements for measurement precision, practical methods are required for the routine determination of the UPF. We report here spectrophotometric measurements of textiles using a newly developed autosampler. Measurement precision was evaluated under repeatable conditions.

Methods: Fifteen different textiles were spectrophotometrically assessed for the determination of the UPF. Sample handling inside the spectrophotometer was performed with a computer‐controlled sampling device, capable of loading and unloading a textile sample from a magazine as well as rotating the sample perpendicular to the spectrometer beam. In order to evaluate the repeatability of measurements, one sample of each textile was assessed eight times under the same conditions in the same laboratory.

Results: A mean percentage of the standard error of 1% [EUPF] was calculated for the UPF measurements. For UPFs >30, a significantly higher EUPF was found (r=0.78; P<0.001). EUV (3.9%) of ultraviolet A (UVA) transmission differed significantly from EUV (1.1%) of ultraviolet B (UVB) transmission (P<0.05).

Conclusions: Though a slight decrease of repeatability was observed for UVA transmission measurements and UPFs higher than 30, our data indicate a high measurement precision under repeatable conditions. In conclusion, spectrophotometric measurements of textiles with the aid of the autosampler presented have been shown to be highly practical, time saving and precise.
Influence of age on the wrinkling capacities of skin
Authors: Batisse Dominique , Bazin Roland , Baldeweck Thérèse , Bernard Querleux  , Jean‐Luc Lévêque
Published: March 2003

Background: Comparisons of clinical assessment with measurement of physical parameters are rare.

Objective: To standardize the horizontal wrinkling of the skin in order to define a reference chart of the different wrinkling grades and to propose an interpretation of the clinical pattern in terms of skin layers thickness and mechanical parameters.

Methods: A device allowing reproducible wrinkling of the skin was made. The skin folds created in this way were clinically assessed on women of different ages. Measurements of the mechanical properties of the skin were carried out by using a Torquemeter. Skin layers' thicknesses were measured by using in vivo Confocal Microscopy (CM) and Ultrasound Imaging (B mode).

Results: Skin wrinkling grades increase versus age. Skin elasticity, extensibility and echogenicity decrease also versus age and the wrinkling grade. Wrinkling appears to be related to skin rigidification (for both stratum corneum and dermis) coupled to a certain weakening of the upper dermis (loss of echogenicity).

Conclusion: This study points out the key role of the age‐related alterations of the upper dermis in skin wrinkling capacities.
Molecular Structures of Proteins Involved in Vesicle Coat Formation
Authors: Wakeham Diane E. , Ybe Joel A. , Brodsky Frances M. , Hwang Peter K.
Published: March 2003

This review includes 16 structures of vesicle coat components and accessory proteins and a description of their roles in vesicle budding or coat disassembly.
Hermansky–Pudlak Syndrome and Related Disorders of Organelle Formation
Authors: Huizing Marjan , Anikster Yair , Gahl William A.
Published: March 2003

Hermansky–Pudlak syndrome (HPS) consists of a group of genetically heterogeneous disorders which share the clinical findings of oculocutaneous albinism, a platelet storage pool deficiency, and some degree of ceroid lipofuscinosis. Related diseases share some of these findings and may exhibit other symptoms and signs but the underlying defect in the entire group of disorders involves defective intracellular vesicle formation, transport or fusion. Two HPS‐causing genes, HPS1 and ADTB3A, have been isolated but the function of only the latter has been determined. ADTB3A codes for the β3A subunit of adaptor complex‐3, responsible for vesicle formation from the trans‐Golgi network (TGN). The many HPS patients who do not have HPS1 or ADTB3A mutations have their disease because of mutations in other genes. Candidates for these HPS‐causing genes include those responsible for mouse models of HPS or for the ‘granule’ group of eye color genes in Drosophila. Each gene responsible for a subset of HPS or a related disorder codes for a protein which almost certainly plays a pivotal role in vesicular trafficking, inextricably linking clinical and cell biological interests in this group of diseases.
Regulation of Organelle Membrane Fusion by Pkc1p
Authors: Lin Andrew , Patel Sheetal , Latterich Martin
Published: March 2003

Membrane fusion relies on complex protein machineries, which act in sequence to catalyze the fusion of bilayers. The fusion of endoplasmic reticulum membranes requires the t‐SNARE Ufe1p, and the AAA ATPase p97/Cdc48p. While the mechanisms of membrane fusion events have begun to emerge, little is known about how this fusion process is regulated. We provide first evidence that endoplasmic reticulum membrane fusion in yeast is regulated by the action of protein kinase C. Specifically, Pkc1p kinase activity is needed to protect the fusion machinery from ubiquitin‐mediated degradation.
Probing the Machinery of Intracellular Trafficking with the Atomic Force Microscope
Authors: Kumar Sanjay , Hoh Jan H.
Published: March 2003

Atomic force microscopy has emerged as a powerful tool for characterizing single biological macromolecules, macromolecular assemblies, and whole cells in aqueous buffer, in real time, and at molecular‐scale spatial and force resolution. Many of the central elements of intracellular transport are tens to hundreds of nanometers in size and highly dynamic. Thus, atomic force microscopy provides a valuable means of addressing questions of structure and mechanism in intracellular transport. We begin this review of recent efforts to apply atomic force microscopy to problems in intracellular transport by discussing the technical principles behind atomic force microscopy. We then turn to three specific areas in which atomic force microscopy has been applied to problems with direct implications for intracellular trafficking: cytoskeletal structure and dynamics, vesicular transport, and receptor–ligand interactions. In each case, we discuss studies which use both intact cellular elements and reconstituted models. While many technical challenges remain, these studies point to several areas where atomic force microscopy can be used to provide valuable insight into intracellular transport at exquisite spatial and energetic resolution.
The Polarity of the Retinal Pigment Epithelium
Authors: Marmorstein Alan D.
Published: March 2003

The diversity of epithelia in the body permits a multitude of organ‐specific functions. One of the foremost examples of this is the retinal pigment epithelium. Located between the photoreceptors of the retina and their principal blood supply, the choriocapillaris, the retinal pigment epithelium is critical for the survival and function of retinal photoreceptors. To serve this purpose, the retinal pigment epithelium cell has adapted the classic Golgi‐to‐cell‐surface targeting pathways first described in such prototypic epithelial cell models as the Madin‐Darby canine kidney cell, to arrive at a unique distribution of membrane and secreted proteins. More recent data suggest that the retinal pigment epithelium also takes advantage of its inherent asymmetry to augment the classical pathways of Golgi‐to‐cell‐surface traffic. As retinal pigment epithelium transplants and gene therapy represent potential cures for retinal degenerative diseases, understanding the basis of the unique polarity properties of retinal pigment epithelium cells will be a critical issue for the development of future therapies.
Hassles with Taking Out the Garbage: Aggravating Aggresomes
Authors: Garcia‐Mata Rafael , Gao Ya‐Sheng , Sztul Elizabeth
Published: March 2003

Diverse human diseases ranging from amyloidosis to neurodegenerative diseases are now recognized as ‘conformational diseases’ caused by protein misfolding and protein aggregation. Misfolded and aggregated proteins are usually handled in the cell through chaperone‐mediated refolding, or when that is impossible, destroyed by proteasomal degradation. Recent evidence suggests that cells might have evolved a third pathway that involves the sequestration of aggregated proteins into specialized ‘holding stations’ called aggresomes. The aggresomal pathway provides a mechanism by which aggregated proteins form particulate (∼ 200 nm) mini‐aggregates that are transported on microtubules (MTs) towards the MT organizing center (MTOC) by a process mediated by the minus‐end motor protein dynein. Once at the MTOC, the individual particles pack into a single, usually spherical aggresome (1–3 μm) that surrounds the MTOC. Aggresomes are dynamic: they recruit various chaperones and proteasomes, presumably to aid in the disposal of the aggregated proteins. In addition, the formation of an aggresome is likely to activate the autophagic clearance mechanism that terminates in lysosomal degradation. Hence, the aggresome pathway may provide a novel system to deliver aggregated proteins from the cytoplasm to lysosomes for degradation. Although it is clear that many pathological states correlate with the formation of aggresomes, their causal relationships remain hotly debated. Here, we describe the current state of our knowledge of the aggresome pathway and outline the open questions that provide the focus of current research.
Self‐Assembly Is Important for TIP47 Function in Mannose 6‐Phosphate Receptor Transport
Authors: Sincock Paul M. , Ganley Ian G. , Krise Jeffrey P. , Diederichs Sven , Sivars Ulf , O'Connor Brian , Ding Li , Pfeffer Suzanne R.
Published: March 2003

TIP47 (tail‐interacting protein of 47 kDa) binds to the cytoplasmic domains of mannose 6‐phosphate receptors and is required for their transport from endosomes to the trans‐Golgi network in vitro and in living cells. TIP47 occurs in cytosol as an oligomer; it chromatographs with an apparent mass of ∼ 300 kDa and displays an S‐value of ∼ 13. Recombinant TIP47 forms homo‐oligomers that are likely to represent hexamers, as determined by chemical cross‐linking. Removal of TIP47 residues 1–151 yields a protein that behaves as a monomer upon gel filtration, yet is fully capable of binding mannose 6‐phosphate receptor cytoplasmic domains. The presence of an oligomerization domain in the N‐terminus of TIP47 was confirmed by expression of N‐terminal residues 1–133 or 1–257 in mammalian cells. Co‐expression of full‐length TIP47 with either of these fragments led to the formation of higher‐order aggregates of wild‐type TIP47. Furthermore, the N‐terminal domains expressed alone also occurred as oligomers. These studies reveal an N‐terminal oligomerization domain in TIP47, and show that oligomerization is not required for TIP47 recognition of mannose 6‐phosphate receptors. However, oligomerization is required for TIP47 stimulation of mannose 6‐phosphate receptor transport from endosomes to the trans‐Golgi in vivo.
The significance and management of periodontal lesions in HIV infection
Authors: Robinson PG
Published: March 2003

It is now almost 20 years since we reported the existence of a previously unknown lesion, oral hairy leukoplakia, and its unexpected nature as the only human disease in which there is prolific replication of the gamma‐herpesvirus, Epstein–Barr virus (EBV). Since then, it has become clear that, in the HIV‐infected population, oral lesions are of particular significance. Their presence in individuals of unknown HIV serostatus is highly suggestive of HIV infection, while in people who are known to be HIV‐infected, the development of oral candidiasis or hairy leukoplakia – often the very first lesions to occur – indicates that the battle between HIV virion production and destruction of immunologically important cells on, versus replacement of those cells has shifted in favour of HIV. These observations have led to the almost universal inclusion of oral lesions in staging and classification schemes for HIV infection. Recently, lower frequencies of oral disease have been seen in those on HIV therapy, except that oral warts may become more common as the viral load falls and CD4 count rises.

OBJECTIVES: To review the significance and management of periodontal lesions seen in HIV infection.

DESIGN: Traditional review.

RESULTS: HIV‐associated periodontal lesions may be categorised as unusual forms of gingivitis, necrotizing periodontal diseases and exacerbated periodontitis. These lesions are significant in the extent to which they mark the underlying HIV disease and have service planning implications. Only limited data are available to inform guidelines for the management of individual patients.

CONCLUSIONS: Research of the effectiveness of interventions for HIV‐associated periodontal lesions is needed.
Bone mineral density of the mandible in ovariectomized rats: analyses using dual energy X‐ray absorptiometry and peripheral quantitative computed tomography
Authors: Kuroda S , Mukohyama H , Kondo H , Aoki K , Ohya K , Ohyama T , Kasugai S
Published: March 2003

INTRODUCTION: Although previous studies have shown that maxillary molar extraction in ovariectomized (OVX) animals causes mandibular loss of bone, it is still questionable as to whether estrogen deficiency affects mandibles with functional occlusion.

MATERIALS and METHODS: To answer this question, 13‐week‐old female Sprague–Dawley rats were bilaterally OVX or sham‐operated. After 109 days, the bone mineral density (BMD) of the femurs and mandibles was measured using dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry (DEXA) and peripheral quantitative computed tomography (pQCT).

RESULTS: In DEXA analysis, although the BMD of the total mandible of the OVX rats was similar to that of the sham‐operated rats, the BMD of the condylar region in the OVX rats had decreased by 12.5%. In pQCT analysis, decrease in trabecular BMD of the mandibular bone was detectable but low in the molar region (maximal 13%), whereas no difference was seen in cortical BMD. In the femurs, the trabecular bone prominently decreased in OVX rats (30% decrease in pQCT analysis) as previously reported.

CONCLUSION: This study revealed regional differences in the mandibular bone decrease in OVX rats. Although the mechanism of low susceptibility of the mandible to estrogen‐deficient conditions remains unknown, it is likely that mechanical stress derived from functional occlusion is preventing bone loss in this pathological condition. Furthermore, this study demonstrated the advantage of pQCT in analyzing rat mandibular bone.
Delirium Symptoms in Post‐Acute Care: Prevalent, Persistent, and Associated with Poor Functional Recovery
Authors: Marcantonio Edward R. , Simon Samuel E. , Bergmann Margaret A. , Jones Richard N. , Murphy Katharine M. , Morris John N.
Published: March 2003

OBJECTIVES: To determine the prevalence of delirium symptoms at the time of admission to post‐acute facilities, the persistence of delirium symptoms in this setting, and the association of delirium symptoms with functional recovery.

DESIGN: Prospective cohort study.

SETTING: Eighty‐five post‐acute care facilities: 55 rehabilitation hospitals and 30 skilled nursing facilities in 29 states.

PARTICIPANTS: Five hundred fifty‐one consenting patients aged 65 and older newly admitted to participating facilities from acute care hospitals.

MEASUREMENTS: Data were collected as part of a field study effort related to the Minimum Data Set (MDS). Basic demographic data, medical comorbidity, delirium symptoms, and functional status—activities of daily living (ADLs) and instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs)—were obtained from MDS assessments performed within 4 days of admission and again 1 week later by the patient's primary nurse. Six delirium symptoms (easily distracted, periods of altered perception, disorganized speech, periods of restlessness, periods of lethargy, and mental function varies over the course of a day) were assessed after appropriate training.

RESULTS: Of the 551 patients (mean age ± standard deviation 78 ± 7, 64% women), 126 had delirium symptoms on post‐acute admission, for an overall prevalence of 23%. In patients with delirium symptoms on the admission assessment, 1 week later, 14% had completely resolved, 22% had fewer delirium symptoms, 52% had the same number of symptoms, and 12% had more symptoms. Of those with no delirium symptoms on admission, 4% had new symptoms 1 week later. Patients who had the same number of or more delirium symptoms at the second assessment had significantly worse ADL and IADL recovery than those with fewer or resolved delirium symptoms or those with no delirium symptoms at either assessment. Persistent delirium symptoms remained significantly associated with worse ADL and IADL recovery after adjusting for age, comorbidity, dementia, and baseline functional status.

CONCLUSIONS: The data from this study provide strong preliminary evidence that, in patients newly admitted to post‐acute care facilities from acute care hospitals, delirium symptoms are prevalent, persistent, and associated with poor functional recovery. Educational efforts are warranted to help post‐acute facility staff recognize and manage this common and morbid condition.
Identifying Older People at Risk of Abuse During Routine Screening Practices
Authors: Shugarman Lisa R. , Fries Brant E. , Wolf Rosalie S. , Morris John N.
Published: March 2003

OBJECTIVES: To examine the association between various characteristics of community‐based older people and a constructed measure of potential elder abuse.

DESIGN: Cross‐sectional design.

SETTING: Public community‐based long‐term care programs in Michigan.

PARTICIPANTS: Individuals aged 60 and older seeking home and community‐based services in Michigan between November 1996 and October 1997 (N = 701).

MEASUREMENTS: Data were collected using the Minimum Data Set for Home Care (MDS‐HC) assessment. The dependent variable is a constructed measure of potential elder abuse reflecting physical and emotional abuse and neglect. Independent variables include demographic characteristics; diagnoses; behavioral measures; and cognitive, physical, and social functioning.

RESULTS: Several measures of social support and social function were strongly associated with the signs of a potentially abusive environment: brittle support (odds ratio (OR) = 3.5, 90% confidence interval (CI) = 1.5–8.1), older person feels lonely (OR = 2.4, 90% CI = 1.3–4.5), and older person expresses conflict with family/friends (OR = 2.3, 90% CI = 1.2–4.3). Home care participants' alcohol abuse, psychiatric illness, lack of ease interacting with others, and short‐term memory problems were also significantly associated with the signs of potential elder abuse.

CONCLUSIONS: The results of this study suggest that the signs of potential elder abuse are associated with a diminishing social network and poor social functioning, although some characteristics of the older person's health are contributing factors. Improved understanding of the link between those characteristics and potential abuse will help healthcare providers, case managers, and others identify older people at high risk of abuse.
Segments missing from the draft human genome sequence can be isolated by transformation‐associated recombination cloning in yeast
Authors: Kouprina Natalay , Leem Sun‐Hee , Solomon Greg , Ly Albert , Koriabine Maxim , Otstot John , Pak Eugene , Dutra Amalia , Zhao Shaying , Barrett J Carl , Larionov Vladimir
Published: March 2003

The reported draft human genome sequence includes many contigs that are separated by gaps of unknown sequence. These gaps may be due to chromosomal regions that are not present in the Escherichia coli libraries used for DNA sequencing because they cannot be cloned efficiently, if at all, in bacteria. Using a yeast artificial chromosome (YAC)/ bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC) library generated in yeast, we found that approximately 6% of human DNA sequences tested transformed E. coli cells less efficiently than yeast cells, and were less stable in E. coli than in yeast. When the ends of several YAC/BAC isolates cloned in yeast were sequenced and compared with the reported draft sequence, major inconsistencies were found with the sequences of those YAC/BAC isolates that transformed E. coli cells inefficiently. Two human genomic fragments were re‐isolated from human DNA by transformation‐associated recombination (TAR) cloning. Re‐sequencing of these regions showed that the errors in the draft are the results of both missassembly and loss of specific DNA sequences during cloning in E. coli. These results show that TAR cloning might be a valuable method that could be widely used during the final stages of the Human Genome Project.