bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Role of Ekphrasis in Creating Hierotopy in “Mirozhsky Poems” by Vsevolod Rozhnyatovsky
Authors:   Pskov State University, Moteyunayte Ilona V.
Published: June 2023

The article is devoted to the analysis of Vsevolod Rozhnyatovsky’s “Mirozhsky poems” (2013), which demonstrates the sacralization of the place described therein. The author shows how the title toponym exists in the cultural consciousness of the Pskovites (the name of the river is absorbed by the name of the temple, which has been turned into a museum). Its composition outlines a peculiar lyrical plot: the subtitles of the book indicate the author’s path from museum work through contact with the Christian religion and art to his own poetic creativity in line with the Christian idea of the Logos. The motif of leaving the temple allows the poet to spread the received in it “knowledge” about the creatureliness of the world to the entire city, which is perceived as a city-temple; the acquired poetic gift turns his book of poems into a kind of prayer for a person of the 20th century, shocked by the meeting with the Christian artistic tradition. The article pays particular attention to the specifics of the poetic ekphrasis, which represents the descriptions of the frescoes of the Transfiguration Cathedral of the Pskov Mirozhsky Monastery. There is the analysis of the position of the subject of the speech (inside the temple but at the same time inside the frescoes plot) based on the contributions of three poems containing the ekphrastic descriptions. This is seen as a kind of illustration to the Pavel Florensky’s ideas of about the icon and church art. The article also indicates to the connections of the 20th century author’s perception of frescoes with the 12th century icon-painting program, which reflects the theological controversy about the union of divine and human God the Son’s nature. The poet’s fascination with this topic attested to the relevance of hierotopy even for the end of the 20th century.
Gaston Vidal: “Two Acts in Front of a Conscience,” “Shakespearean Story” (The Sources of I. Babel’s Stories about the First World War)
Authors:   A.M. Gorky Institute of World Literature of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Pogorelskaia Elena I.
Published: June 2023

For the first time, the 11th and 15th chapters of G. Vidal’s book “Characters and Anecdotes of the Great War” (Paris, 1918) were translated into Russian. These chapters served as the source for the plot of three stories by I. Babel (1920) about the First World War — “On the Field of Honor,” “Deserter,” “The Family of Father Maresco.” The publication of the translation is accompanied by an analytical article in which the stories that became the first experience of military prose for the future author of “Red Cavalry” are compared with Vidal’s texts. Babel’s stories “On the Field of Honor” and “The Deserter” were written based on the 11th chapter of Vidal, and the 15th chapter was rewrote by him into the story “The Family of Father Maresco.” Babel preserved the storylines, details of front-line life described by Vidal, individual replicas coincide almost verbatim, but the form of presentation in them differs from the French original. Vidal’s narration is in the first person, while Babel’s in the first two stories is from the third person. Detailed psychological characteristics of the characters and detailed descriptions of the situation from Vidal’s book by Babel are given more concise and succinctly. His stories cannot be considered as a translation in its purest form, rather one can talk about an arrangement or even an interpretation of a French source. At the same time, both Vidal and Babel clearly show the brutality of war and victims caused by the war.
EDUCAÇÃO ESCOLAR NO SISTEMA PRISIONAL CONTEMPORÂNEO
Authors: Oliveira Menezes Reinaldo , D'Arc Oris da Silva Joana
Published: June 2023

O presente trabalho tem como objetivo refletir sobre a educação escolar no sistema prisional contemporâneo. Destacando os marcos legais e documentos oficiais que expressam e orientam o direito à educação nestes espaços não formais. Pensar a educação neste contexto é destacar a importância da educação para o processo transformador do ser humano, ou seja, a educação tem a função de promover a reintegração social do sujeito em situação de privação de liberdade. Para o desenvolvimento deste trabalho temos como abordagem qualitativa, com o suporte das pesquisas bibliográfica e documental. Portanto, promover a acessibilidade da pessoa privada de liberdade, é promover não só a reintegração social via a educação, como promover o exercício da cidadania independente do fato julgado. Nestes termos, a educação escolar no sistema prisional tem sido um desafio para a reintegração social da pessoa privada de liberdade na contemporaneidade.
Keynes, Schumpeter e Minsky em Pequim: uma interpretação teórica da dinâmica da centralização financeira chinesa pós-reforma de 1978
Authors: Costa Novais Ivo , Feitosa Hortencio Victor Emmanuel , Moreira Uallace
Published: June 2023

No início deste século, a China já contava com um dos maiores e mais volumosos recursos de financiamento estatal do mundo. A expansão desse modelo, liderado e centralizado pelo Estado, foi o episódio que conduziu a economia daquele país à crescente importância na arena global. Tal processo se baseou em um movimento de longo prazo e teve implicações de largo alcance e no seu desenvolvimento econômico, sobretudo na arquitetura financeira internacional. Diante desse contexto, este artigo busca um posicionamento plural perante o debate teórico sobre a dinâmica de centralidade financeira do Estado chinês. Para alcançar esse objetivo, discute as diferentes contribuições de autores considerados clássicos no entendimento da relação entre Estado e instituições financeiras, apresentadas em uma retrospectiva cronológica, baseada nas principais abordagens e conceitos referentes à formação e ao crescimento dos bancos, bem como sua relação com o financiamento do desenvolvimento econômico. Foram revisitadas as diretrizes teóricas traçadas nas análises de Schumpeter (1997), Hilferding (1985), Stiglitz (1993), Zysman (1983), Keynes (2012) e Minsky (2008), na tentativa de ilustrar a relação estreita (e estratégica) entre financiamento estatal e o desenvolvimento econômico chinês.
Competências do professor-gestor e sua influência no desempenho organizacional
Authors: Cunha Cavalcante Júnior Florisvaldo , Gonçalves Ferreira Amorim Tânia Nobre
Published: June 2023

Em virtude da ampliação do sistema de ensino nos últimos anos, as Instituições de Ensino Superior – IES, especialmente as privadas, têm vivenciado um cenário de concorrência acirrada, que as obriga a se ajustarem às novas demandas discentes, acadêmicas e econômicas, associadas ao aumento dos custos operacionais e redução discente.  Buscou-se analisar as competências gerenciais e sua influência na gestão das IES privadas, por meio de um estudo de caso, em uma IES do Vale do São Francisco, Pernambuco. No  Brasil,  Fleury  e  Fleury  (2001,  p.188)  definem  a  competência como  “um  saber  agir  responsável  e  reconhecido,  que  implica  mobilizar,  integrar, transferir conhecimentos, recursos e habilidades, que agreguem valor econômico à organização e valor social ao indivíduo”. Outro aspecto relevante é destacado por Fleury e Fleury (2001), ao reforçarem que a identificação das competências deve estar alinhada aos objetivos da organização, tecendo uma conexão entre a estratégia e a gestão de pessoas. Utilizou-se um questionário online com todos os 35 tutores dos cursos de Bacharelado em Administração e Ciências Contábeis, em que foram listadas 10 competências gerenciais mais importantes. Identificou-se que o principal gestor não atende ou atende parcialmente à maioria das competências: Empreendedorismo e Inovação; Capacidade Gerencial, Orientação para o Cliente, Trabalho em Equipe e Visão Estratégica. Estes resultados são preocupantes para o desempenho e continuidade organizacional.
Efeitos das exportações no crescimento econômico dos municípios paulistas: uma abordagem espacial para o ano de 2017
Authors: Ramos da Silva Neto Darcy , Elias de Souza Adeilson
Published: June 2023

O objetivo deste estudo foi analisar os efeitos do setor exportador no crescimento econômico dos municípios paulistas utilizando uma abordagem espacial. O método utilizado foi a Análise Exploratória dos Dados Espaciais (AEDE), por meio da aplicação dos índices de Moran global e local, e a estimação de modelos espaciais, para verificar a relação do investimento, da taxa de crescimento da população e exportações no progresso econômico dos municípios paulistas no ano de 2017. Os resultados indicaram que o crescimento econômico dos municípios do estado de São Paulo é autocorrelacionado espacialmente. Em relação às estimações, observa-se que as exportações desses municípios tiveram efeitos positivos e contribuíram para o progresso econômico dessas áreas.
O profissional de Economia: importância do estágio e desafios do mercado de trabalho
Authors: Da Silva Bomfim Aldey , Santana Junior Gildásio
Published: June 2023

O objetivo deste artigo é mostrar a importância do estágio na formação do profissional de Economia e analisar os desafios do mercado de trabalho nessa área específica. A metodologia utilizada foi revisão bibliográfica e os instrumentos de coleta de dados, a Lei n.º 11.788/2008, que regulamenta o estágio no Brasil, as Diretrizes Curriculares do curso de Ciências Econômicas da UESB, a Resolução CNE/CES n.º 4, que institui as Diretrizes Curriculares Nacionais do curso de graduação bacharelado em Ciências Econômicas e das atividades profissionais que constituem o mercado de trabalho do economista. Segundo o estudo, o economista diferencia-se dos demais profissionais, já que desenvolve capacidades específicas e passa por uma sólida formação teórica, histórica e instrumental durante a graduação, adquirindo competências e habilidades para atuar no mercado de trabalho. Constata-se, portanto, a necessidade de sensibilizar as organizações para ofertar oportunidades de estágio aos estudantes e a importância de estes conhecerem a Lei de Estágio e seus benefícios para a formação do profissional, do ser humano e do cidadão.
A experiência de curricularização da extensão no Instituto Federal de São Paulo: uma análise introdutória
Authors: Labigalini Fuini Lucas , Bovo Audria Alessandra , Machado Dias Vagno Emygdio
Published: June 2023

Considerando a importância da atividade extensionista como um dos pilares da formação dos Institutos Federais, sobretudo no esforço de aproximação das práticas e saberes institucionais com as demandas das comunidades do entorno dos campi, pretende-se, neste artigo, apresentar e discutir as propostas e projetos institucionais emanados pela Rede Federal de Educação Profissional, Científica e Tecnológica, tendo por interesse principal entender o processo de aproximação da Extensão com as atividades de Ensino no Instituto Federal de São Paulo por meio das iniciativas de Curricularização da Extensão (CE). Este texto se apoia em metodologia de pesquisa bibliográfico- documental e de dados primários, em um estudo de tipo exploratório e qualitativo, tendo em vista a análise dos fundamentos históricos, legais e teóricos da extensão como um dos pilares do ensino universitário e da educação profissional e tecnológica, cumprindo com seu objetivo social, acadêmico e institucional.
Organizational culture, financial reporting quality, and good governance: Evidence from Islamic financial institutions
Authors: Azwari Peny Cahaya , Naz’aina Naz’aina , Barkah Qadariah , Nuraliati Ayke , Taufik Ahmad , Rizki Mulyani , Mulyani Ninik
Published: June 2023

This study aimed to verify the magnitude of the influence of organizational culture on the quality of financial reporting and its impact on good governance in zakat bodies and institutions in Indonesia. The magnitude of the gap between the potential and realization of zakat accumulation due to not yet growing awareness about the benefits of zakat and the lack of public trust in the institution of zakat tended to surrender their own zakat directly (Subiyanto, 2014; Zuraya, 2013; Jahar, 2010). The study was in the form of explanatory research using primary data and a questionnaire, as a research instrument, with regression analysis tools and unit analysis in zakat agencies and institutions in Indonesia. The results showed that organizational culture had a significant effect on the quality of financial reporting and good governance in the medium and low categories, the quality of financial reporting had a significant effect on the good governance in the low category, and the organizational culture had an indirect effect on good governance in low quality on financial reporting.
Effects of Pregnancy-Induced Hypertension on Early-Onset Neonatal Thrombocytopenia
Authors: Ling Ye , Zhou Cailing , Li Lu , Zhang Meixian , Wang Lizhen
Published: June 2023

Background Gestational hypertension and preeclampsia are
potentially linked to similar pathophysiological processes. Maternal
preeclampsia increases the occurrence of early-onset neonatal
thrombocytopenia. We hypothesized that maternal gestational hypertension
would likewise impact the incidence of early-onset neonatal
thrombocytopenia. Therefore, we conducted a retrospective study to
validate our hypothesis. Methods In this study, we included 538
neonates, comprising 318 and 220 neonates born to healthy mothers and
those with pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH), respectively. The
minimum platelet count within 72 hours of birth was recorded for these
neonates. The incidence of early-onset thrombocytopenia in neonates in
relation to maternal gestational hypertension, preeclampsia, and health
status was evaluated. The differences between the three groups were
analyzed using the chi-square test. Logistic regression analysis was
conducted to assess the relationship between maternal gestational
hypertension or preeclampsia and the risk of early-onset neonatal
thrombocytopenia. Results The incidence of early-onset
thrombocytopenia in neonates born to mothers with preeclampsia was
significantly higher than in those born to mothers with gestational
hypertension or healthy mothers. Significant differences were observed
between the three groups (30.0% vs. 13.3% vs. 7.9%, P <
0.001). Maternal gestational hypertension (OR=2.55, 95% CI 1.10–5.91,
P < 0.05) and preeclampsia (OR=2.41, 95% CI 1.18–4.93, P
<0.05) increased the risk of early-onset neonatal
thrombocytopenia when compared to healthy mothers. Conclusions
Our findings suggest that maternal gestational hypertension increases
the occurrence of early-onset neonatal thrombocytopenia. Therefore, we
recommend conducting platelet count screening in the early stages for
newborns of mothers with gestational hypertension.
Challenges and Emerging Patterns in Big Data Analytics
Authors: Saeed Imran , KUMAR RAJESH
Published: June 2023

Organizations across various sectors, including businesses, governmental
entities, and industries, have directed their focus towards big data.
The reason behind this is its inherent value in enhancing productivity,
generating new revenue streams, and facilitating better decision-making.
Despite the evident tactical and operational advantages of big data,
there exist several issues in its collection, storage, analysis, and
presentation [1]. In order to fully capitalize on the benefits and
opportunities offered by big data, all sectors must strive to develop
robust data-driven strategies, implement appropriate technologies, and
cultivate the necessary capabilities to extract the desired value. This
study conducts a systematic analysis of current research, aiming to shed
light on the challenges associated with big data and the existing
approaches and technologies employed to tackle them. Through the
utilization of relevant search phrases and keywords, a systematic review
was conducted by searching Elsevier’s Scopus database as well as other
reputable journals with high impact. The findings reveal research that
provides insights into the difficulties encountered in big data and the
current tools and methodologies employed to address them. While the
literature has extensively discussed major data challenges, it is
crucial to emphasize that not all these challenges have been fully
resolved, for further research and presenting ongoing challenges and
implications.
Human neutrophil-like cells demonstrate antimicrobial responses to the chronic cyst form of Toxoplasma gondii
Authors: Wilson Emma H. , Bergersen Kristina V. , Ramirez Ashley D. , Kavvathas Bill , Mercer Frances
Published: June 2023

The protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii infects approximately
2.5 billion people worldwide. Infection induces a rapid dissemination of
parasites throughout the body followed by the formation of lifelong
cysts within neurons of the host brain. Both stages require a dynamic
immune response comprised of both innate and adaptive cells. Neutrophils
are a primary responding cell to acute infection and have been observed
in the brain during murine chronic infection. Previous studies
investigating human neutrophils found that invasion by Toxoplasma
tachyzoites inhibits apoptosis of neutrophils, prolonging their survival
under inflammatory conditions. Here, we demonstrate the differentiation
of two distinct subsets following exposure of human
neutrophil-like-cells (HNLC) to Toxoplasma cysts. In vitro
stimulation and imaging studies show cyst-specific induction of
cytokines and cyst clearance by HNLCs. Further testing demonstrates that
aged HNLCs perform less phagocytosis of cysts compared to non-aged
HNLCs. In conclusion, this study identifies a novel response of HNLCs to
Toxoplasma cysts and may indicate a role for neutrophils in the
clearance of cysts during human infection with Toxoplasma.
The Study of Anti Rabies Virus Effect of Shougong Powder
Authors: Zhang Minmin , Fan Yun , Wang Xueliang , Wang Jinghua , Chen Rong , Pan Husheng , Xiao Yanqun , Wang Heyao , Huang Weigang , Wang Hualiang
Published: June 2023

Rabies is a lethal infectious disease caused by rabies virus (RABV). The
mortality rate is very high after the appearance of clinical symptoms,
with a survival rate of almost 0%. There is presently no cure for
rabies. In the present study, we investigated whether the extract of
Shougong powder-a calcium powder prepared from gecko that has
demonstrated immunomodulatory properties in mice-is an effective
treatment for rabies. The antiviral effects of the extract were
evaluated both in vitro and in vivo with the cytotoxicity and antiviral
assays and by immunofluorescence analysis, quantitative real-time
(qRT)-PCR, and western blotting. The results showed that Shougong powder
and its extract increased survival rate in RABV-infected mice is up to
60% and 50% respectively, even in 20 times of LD50. Whereas the
control groups treated with Isoprinosine (IPS) or saline are only 20%
and 0% survival (P=0.011). qRT-PCR and western blot analyses showed
that the extract strongly inhibited viral mRNA expression and protein
synthesis in vitro: expression of the N, P, M, G, and L genes of RABV
was decreased by 28.8%–45.0% in the IPS group (P<0.05) and
by 50.1%–59.0% in the extract group (P<0.05) relative to
the control group. These results demonstrate that Shougong powder has
antiviral effects against RABV and can potentially be used for the
treatment for rabies.
Improved Technique to Control Prosthetic Limbs Using EMG Signal Based on Deep Recurrent Neural Networks and LSTM
Authors: Selmy Ayman S. , Alimam Hajar , Mohamed Wael A.
Published: June 2023

Due to the increasing number of amputees and the need to use
prosthetics that simulate human limbs, an improved technique is proposed
to classify hand gestures using Deep Recurrent Neural Networks (DRNN)
based on the surface Electromyographic (sEMG) signal on the forearm. The
implemented models are built on FeedForward Neural Networks (FFNN), Deep
Recurrent Neural Networks (DRNN), and Long Short-Term Memory Networks
(LSTM) using two types of datasets. They were recorded for four and
seven motions, respectively. Both were written by MYO armband, and the
conception of the technique is divided into two main phases applied to
the two types of datasets. Two DRNN models are implemented, the First is
a multi-classifications DRNN with all datasets files imported
simultaneously. Each data file is then imported separately as input to
the second binary classification DRNN model. Classification results for
the multi-DRNN classifier and binary one are compared according to both
datasets separately. Results show that the average accuracy for
multi-classifications was (95%, 86%) for both datasets while binary
classification was 99% accurate for each model. Additionally,
precision, recall, andf1− scorewere determined
for both datasets, yielding better results.
Clinical Outcomes at 9-10 Years of Age in Children Born with Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator Related Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Ren Clement , Carroll Brian J. , Ostrenga Joshua S. , Fink Aliza K. , Antos Nicholas , Cromwell Elizabeth A.
Published: June 2023

Background and Objectives: There are limited data on cystic fibrosis
(CF) transmembrane conductance regulator-related metabolic syndrome
(CRMS) outcomes beyond infancy. The goal of this study was to analyze
outcomes of infants with CRMS up to the age of 9-10 years using the CF
Foundation Patient Registry (CFFPR). Methods: We analyzed data from the
CFFPR for individuals with CF and CRMS born between 2010-2020. We
classified all patients based on the clinical diagnosis reported by the
CF care center and the diagnosis using CFF guideline definitions for CF
and CRMS, classifying children into groups based on agreement between
clinical report and guideline criteria. Descriptive statistics for the
cohort were calculated for demographics, nutritional outcomes, and
microbiology for the first year of life and lung function and growth
outcomes were summarized for ages 6-10 years. Results: From 2010-2020,
there were 8,765 children with diagnosis of CF or CRMS entered into the
CFFPR with sufficient diagnostic data for classification, of which 7,591
children had a clinical diagnosis of CF and 1,174 had a clinical
diagnosis of CRMS. CRMS patients exhibited normal nutritional indices
and pulmonary function up to age 9-10 years. The presence of respiratory
bacteria associated with CF, such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa from
CRMS patients ranged from 2.1-9.1% after the first year of life.
Conclusions: Children with CRMS demonstrate normal pulmonary and
nutritional outcomes into school age. However, a small percentage of
children continue to culture CF-associated respiratory pathogens after
infancy.
Geolocation and immersion loggers reveal adult red-footed boobies are year-round residents in the tropical Indian Ocean
Authors: Votier Stephen , Corcoran Grace , Carr Pete , Dunn Ruth , Freeman Robin , Nicoll Malcolm , Wood Hannah , Trevail Alice
Published: June 2023

Bio-logging has revealed much about high-latitude seabird migratory
strategies, but tropical species are comparatively understudied. Here we
use geolocators to study the year-round movement behaviour of adult
red-footed boobies (Sula sula rubripes) from the Chagos
Archipelago, tropical Indian Ocean. Light levels suggest that red-footed
boobies are resident in the archipelago year-round, although there are
large latitudinal errors this close to the equator. However, immersion
data revealed tracked birds returned to land year-round, with no
extended at-sea periods, further indicating this population is
non-migratory. Our findings have important implications for seabird
conservation and phylogenetics, as well as for assessing the impact of
seabird nutrients on coral reef ecosystems.
Proliferating activity of dermal fibroblasts in keloids and hypertrophic scars.
Authors: Nakaoka H , Miyauchi S , Miki Y
Published: June 2023

Monoclonal antibodies were used to demonstrate proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) and Ki-67 antigen of dermal fibroblasts in formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue sections of keloids, hypertrophic scars and normal skin. PCNA-stained fibroblasts were more pronounced than Ki-67, which showed only scanty Ki-67-positive fibroblasts. The mean density of dermal fibroblasts was significantly higher in keloids and hypertrophic scars than in normal skin (p < 0.01). The proliferating activity of fibroblasts detected by PCNA was significantly higher in keloids than in hypertrophic scars or normal skin (p < 0.01). The mean densities and the proliferating activities were apparently not correlated with the age of the patient. This indicates that keloids, with higher density and proliferating activity of dermal fibroblasts, continue to increase their volume and invade the surrounding tissue, while hypertrophic scars, with higher density and lower proliferating activity, show a tendency towards spontaneous regression.
Fatal vascular involvement in systemic lupus erythematosus following epidermolysis bullosa acquisita.
Authors: Yoon J , Moon T K , Lee K H , Kim S C
Published: June 2023

Epidermolysis bullosa acquisita may be associated with various systemic diseases, including systemic lupus erythematosus. We describe the clinical and immunological findings in a 38-year-old women with epidermolysis bullosa acquisita and systemic lupus erythematosus. The epidermolysis bullosa acquisita preceded a dramatic flare of systemic lupus erythematosus and fatal cerebral vasculitis. If serologic evidence of lupus erythematosus develops during the course of epidermolysis bullosa acquisita, a thorough investigation is warranted to rule out potentially life-threatening systemic lupus erythematosus.
Immunohistochemical detection of p53 protein expression in HPV-induced condyloma acuminatum.
Authors: Tendler Y , Schwartz Y , Reshef R , Shasha S M , Rotter V , Shkolnik T
Published: June 2023

Immunohistochemical peroxidase staining for p53 protein was performed on 22 condyloma acuminatum tissue samples from patients infected with human papillomavirus (HPV). The purpose of our study was to understand the benign character of this syndrome. The patients studied were infected by HPV type 6 and 11. Two monoclonal antibodies, PAbs DO-1 and 240, were used to detect the p53 protein. Overexpression of wild-type p53 was found in the nuclei of the basal cell layers. In healthy tissues and non-infected patients no p53 protein expression was detected. We would like to speculate that infection with HPVs and their viral protein E7, which is implicated in disruption of normal growth, may regulate the induction of wild-type p53 over-expression, as is known for DNA-damaging agents such as UV- or X-radiation.
In situ localization of chloroquine and immunohistological studies in UVB-irradiated skin of photosensitive patients.
Authors: Sjölin-Forsberg G , Berne B , Eggelte T A , Karlsson-Parra A
Published: June 2023

Chloroquine can prevent photosensitivity reactions, but its mechanism of action is poorly understood. To investigate if the drug may interfere with inflammatory or immunological mechanisms of the UV-induced erythema of photosensitive patients, we studied the localization of chloroquine in the skin and its effect on the epidermal/dermal expression of IL-1, TNF-alpha, IL-6 and ICAM-1 and the occurrence of different lymphoid cells in normal skin and UVB-induced erythema in 8 patients with photosensitive discoid and systemic lupus erythematosus and 4 patients with polymorphic light eruption (PMLE), before and during chloroquine treatment. Using a specific monoclonal antibody against chloroquine, we found a strong granular staining pattern of mainly keratinocytes in all biopsy specimens from normal and erythematous skin during chloroquine treatment. In non-irradiated skin, T lymphocytes, macrophages and HLA-DR expressing cells were sparsely distributed within the dermis in similar amounts before and during chloroquine treatment. In UVB-induced erythema an increase in the number of these cells, mainly located in the dermal perivascular area, was seen before medication. During chloroquine treatment such cellular infiltration was reduced. ICAM-1 expression was detected on the endothelium of dermal vessels but not on keratinocytes. The accumulation of chloroquine in the epidermis and the decreased cellular infiltration in erythematous skin during chloroquine treatment indicate a local anti-inflammatory effect. This effect may be due to either unspecific UV-protective properties of the drug or to some specific downregulating action by chloroquine on keratinocyte function.
The microbial flora in venous leg ulcers without clinical signs of infection. Repeated culture using a validated standardised microbiological technique.
Authors: Hansson C , Hoborn J , Möller A , Swanbeck G
Published: June 2023

The change of ulcer size in relation to the presence of species and quantities of microorganisms was analysed in 58 patients with venous leg ulcers, all without clinical signs of infection. Microbiological samples were taken on the day of inclusion and then repeated 4 times at monthly intervals or until the ulcer had healed or was too small to be cultured from. There was growth of microorganisms in all ulcers, and the numbers were below 10(4) per mm2 of ulcer surface in all cases. No correlation was found between ulcer size change and the species and amounts of microorganisms. Sixty-nine species were isolated. Staphylococcus aureus was found in 88%, Enterococcus faecalis in 74%, Enterobacter cloacae and Peptococcus magnus in 29%, and fungi in 11% of the samples. One or more obligate anaerobe species was found in 41% of the samples and in half of the ulcers and constituted 62% of all bacterial species. The colonising ulcer flora was markedly constant over time in the individual ulcers regardless of change in size. Resident bacterial species were found in 57 of the 58 ulcers. If all samples were considered, the microorganisms were associated with not more than one fifth of the variability in healing rate, as shown by linear multiple regression analysis. The same species of microorganisms were found in ulcers that decreased (or healed) and in those that increased in size. Although an association between the microorganisms and ulcer healing could not be ruled out in this study, there seems to be no indication for routinely performed culture in the absence of clinical signs of infection in venous leg ulcers.
Three-dimensional architecture of human cutaneous vascular lesions: a scanning electron microscopic study of corrosion casts.
Authors: Arashiro K , Ohtsuka H , Miki Y
Published: June 2023

Corrosion casts were made from angiosarcoma of the scalp of an elderly person, Klippel-Trenaunay syndrome, pseudo-Kaposi's sarcoma, diffuse neonatal hemangiomatosis, cavernous the superficial fine and medium-sized vascular networks of the skin were replaced by abnormal balloon-like dilatations, extravasated fringes, glomerular structures, sinusoidal vessels or localized bulla-like structures of the capillary loops, depending on the nature of the cutaneous vascular lesions. The corrosion cast technique is helpful for understanding the 3-D patterns of various vascular lesions. hemangioma and arteriovenous malformation and were examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The normal scalp from a cadaver was studied as a control for the angiosarcoma of the scalp. the SEM of the vascular corrosion casts clearly demonstrated the fine three-dimensional (3-D) architectures of malignant and benign cutaneous vascular lesions
Electronic infrared thermography as a method of assessing herpes labialis infection.
Authors: Biagioni P A , Lamey P J
Published: June 2023

The purpose of this study was to ascertain the applicability of infrared thermography to study the natural history of herpes labialis lesions. Since thermography is capable of detecting changes not visible to the naked eye, then it may be of value in complementing clinical examination of the various stages of herpes labialis. In addition, thermographic imaging is quantitative and therefore allows for an accurate assessment of temperature changes accompanying the disease process, both within patients and between patients. Ten female patients suffering from herpes labialis were studies (mean age 25 +/- 5 years). In all cases herpes simplex virus Type 1 was isolated by the HEP-2 technique. No treatment was instituted and patients were clinically assessed and thermographically imaged daily from the prodromal phase through to resolution. A marked temperature increase (1 degree C minimum) was observed within hours of the prodromal phase and maintained until day 4. As the lesions progressed to vesicle formation, the central area of the vesicle was noted to be cooler due to the insulating effect of the fluid. Even by day 6 a significant 0.5 degree C temperature increase over background was present at the involved site and this returned to normal within 8 to 10 days. The area of thermographic involvement was three to four times larger than the clinical area of involvement (60-100 mm2 versus 20-25 mm2). To assess reproducibility, we also studied patients through two additional untreated herpes labialis episodes. The prodromal phase was reproducible thermographically and characterized by a temperature increase of 1.42 degrees C +/- 0.2 degrees C.
Comparison of the effect of hydrocortisone, hydrocortisone-17-butyrate and betamethasone on collagen synthesis in human skin in vivo.
Authors: Haapasaari K M , Risteli J , Koivukangas V , Oikarinen A
Published: June 2023

It has been shown previously that topical corticosteroid treatment decreases collagen synthesis in human skin in vivo and that the adverse effects are due to reduced collagen synthesis. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of hydrocortisone, hydrocortisone-17-butyrate and betamethasone on collagen synthesis in human skin in vivo. Fourteen healthy male volunteers applied hydrocortisone, hydrocortisone-17-butyrate, betamethasone and vehicle twice a day for one week to four separate areas marked on their abdominal skin. The collagen synthesis rate in the skin was measured by assaying collagen propeptides from the suction blisters induced on the treated areas. Aminoterminal propeptide of type I procollagen (PINP) and aminoterminal propeptide of type III procollagen (PIIINP) were measured from skin blister fluid using radioimmunoassays. Skin thickness was measured with ultrasound. Hydrocortisone decreased the two propeptides studied in the suction blister fluids less than did hydrocortisone-17-butyrate and betamethasone, but the interindividual variation was great. Hydrocortisone-17-butyrate and betamethasone had almost similar decreasing effects on the propeptides in the suction blister fluid. Hydrocortisone decreased the concentrations of PINP and PIIINP by about 35%. In some subjects (4/14) the decline of the collagen propeptide levels was over 50%. The decline in the concentration of PINP was 63% by hydrocortisone-17-butyrate and 69% by betamethasone, while the decrease in PIIINP was 55% by hydrocortisone-17-butyrate and 62% by betamethasone. None of the treatments had any effect on skin thickness within one week. In conclusion, it seems that hydrocortisone is less atrophogenic than hydrocortisone-17-butyrate and betamethasone, as shown by radioimmunoassays for collagen propeptides. The order of inhibitory potency of the three glucocorticoids on collagen synthesis was hydrocortisone < hydrocortisone-17-butyrate < betamethasone. Thus, assay of collagen propeptides from suction blisters can be used to screen various steroids with respect to their action on collagen synthesis.
Topical cis-urocanic acid suppresses both induction and elicitation of contact hypersensitivity in BALB/C mice.
Authors: Lauerma A I , Aioi A , Maibach H I
Published: June 2023

Cis-urocanic acid, converted from trans-urocanic acid in stratum corneum by ultraviolet B irradiation, has been shown to impair contact hypersensitivity induction. To study whether topical cis-urocanic acid also alters contact hypersensitivity elicitation, as well as immediate hypersensitivity and acute irritation, we treated mice with 1% topical cis-urocanic acid or vehicle prior to induction or elicitation of hypersensitivity to contact allergen oxazolone or respiratory allergen trimellitic anhydride or prior to acute irritation from croton oil. Topical cis-urocanic acid suppressed both induction and elicitation of contact hypersensitivity to oxazolone. However, no effect by cis-urocanic acid on induction or elicitation of trimellitic anhydride allergy or croton oil irritation was seen. The possible efficacy of topical cis-urocanic acid as a treatment of inflammatory skin diseases responsive to ultraviolet B irradiation may be worthwhile to investigate.
Urinary excretion of melanocyte metabolites during treatment with chloroquine phosphate.
Authors: Sjölin-Forsberg G , Hansson C , Kågedal B , Gannedahl E L , Berne B
Published: June 2023

The antimalarial drug chloroquine is also used in the prevention of photodermatoses and in patients with inflammatory connective diseases. The drug binds strongly to melanin. Melanocytic activity can be studied by analysis of the urinary markers of eumelanin (6-hydroxy-5-methoxyindole-2-carboxylic acid, 6H5MI-2-C) and phaeomelanin (5-S-cysteinyl-dopa, 5-S-CD). To determine whether chloroquine interacts with this activity, we measured the urinary excretion of the two metabolites in 16 patients with either systemic or discoid lupus erythematosus, polymorphic light eruption or rheumatoid arthritis, during a period with and without treatment with chloroquine phosphate. Two control groups consisting of 7 untreated patients and 10 healthy subjects were also included in the study. During medication, there was a significant increase in 5-S-CD excretion, while the excretion of 6H5MI-2-C was not significantly affected. No significant changes in the excretion of any of the two urinary markers were found in the untreated patients, while a non-significant increase in 5-S-CD excretion was seen in the healthy controls at the follow-up.
Raised serum androgens and increased responsiveness to luteinizing hormone in men with acne vulgaris.
Authors: Ramsay B , Alaghband-Zadeh J , Carter G , Wheeler M J , Cream J J
Published: June 2023

We have investigated the hormone profiles and the relationship between serum testosterone and luteinizing hormone in men with long-standing acne vulgaris. In the controls, age correlated with the free androgen index and with serum dehydroepiandrosterone-sulphate, so for the purposes of comparison 33 men with acne vulgaris were age-matched against 33 controls. Compared with controls, the acne patients had higher medians of serum androstenedione, testosterone and free androgen index. In both groups there was a significant correlation between testosterone and luteinizing hormone levels. For a given level of luteinizing hormone the patients with acne tended to have higher levels of serum testosterone than normal controls. These results indicate that in this group of men with long-standing acne there was either increased responsiveness of the target organ to luteinizing hormone or there was an increased amount of androgen-secreting tissue.
HPV infection in male partners of women with squamous intraepithelial neoplasia and/or high-risk HPV.
Authors: Strand A , Rylander E , Wilander E , Zehbe I
Published: June 2023

In order to estimate the prevalence of HPV infection in male partners of women with squamous intraepithelial lesions and/or high risk HPV, we examined 25 men. In situ hybridisation or polymerase chain reaction was used to detect HPV DNA in biopsied tissue or cell samples from the genital epithelium. Twenty (80%) of the male consorts had clinical features suggestive of HPV infection. Of these, 18 (90%) had detectable HPV DNA, 11 (65%) of the high risk type. In 9 cases HPV DNA was detected by in situ hybridisation and in 9 by polymerase chain reaction. Concordance between female and male HPV type was found in 8 cases (32%), but regarding high-risk HPV carriage as such, 10 (40%) couples corresponded. A search for HPV infection in male partners of women known to be infected with high-risk HPV seems worthwhile.
The effect of antiseptic solutions on microorganisms in venous leg ulcers.
Authors: Hansson C , Faergemann J
Published: June 2023

The effect on the microbial ulcer flora of wet gauze dressings soaked in antiseptic solutions used for desloughing leg ulcers is not known. Quantitative cultures were therefore performed in 45 venous leg ulcers, before application and after 15 minutes' treatment with gauze dressings with four different antiseptic solutions: aluminium acetotartrate (Alsol) 1%, potassium permanganate 0.015%, acetic acid 0.25% and chloramine 0.25%. The percentage of ulcers with each type of microorganism did not differ before and after application of the antiseptic solutions. Staphylococcus aureus was found in 79% of the ulcers, gram-negative rods in 39%, S. epidermidis in 21%, Proteus spp in 21%, Pseudomonas spp in 14% and fungi in none. Potassium permanganate reduced the mean number of bacteria per ulcer from 4.4 x 10(6) to 0.9 x 10(6) (ns), chloramine from 2.7 x 10(6) to 2.2 x 10(6) (ns), Alsol from 1.2 x 10(7) to 3.5 x 10(6) (ns) and acetic acid from 6.3 x 10(6) to 2.6 x 10(5) (p = 0.007). S. aureus was reduced by acetic acid (p = 0.002), gram-negative rods by both chloramine (p = 0.03) and acetic acid (p = 0.03). The number of Pseudomonas, Proteus, S. epidermidis and Streptococcus haemolyticus group G was not reduced significantly (p > 0.05) by any of the solutions.
Multinucleate cell angiohistiocytoma. A review and report of four cases.
Authors: Cribier B , Gambini C , Rainero M , Grosshans E
Published: June 2023

Multinucleate cell angiohistiocytoma (MCA) was first characterized by Smith & Wilson-Jones. Although only a few cases have been published, this very characteristic benign tumor is probably not rare. The clinical pictures are firm circumscribed papules, mainly of the hands, which progress slowly over the years. The histologic features show an increase of capillaries and venules in the reticular dermis, overlaid by epidermal hyperplasia. Bizarre-shaped multinucleate cells are present between the vessels, and factor XIIIa-positive interstitial cells are increased in number. MCA can be easily recognised if the pathologist is aware of the diagnosis. We present here the clinical, histologic and immunopathologic features of 4 new cases and review the literature.
Oxidative activation of the propolis hapten isoprenyl caffeate.
Authors: Hansson C , Ezzelarab M , Sterner O
Published: June 2023

The reactions of isoprenyl caffeate, the strongest allergen known to be present in propolis, with plausible functional groups of proteins were studied. The thiols glutathione and cysteine, which add to isoprenyl caffeate after having been oxidised to the corresponding quinone, served as model substances. The structure of the thiol adducts was determined by spectroscopic methods, addition being found to occur at C-2. The results support the hypothesis that the catecholic propolis hapten is a pro-hapten that forms a complete antigen after oxidation to caffeate quinone and addition to nucleophilic groups of proteins.
The hair root pattern after calcipotriol treatment for scalp psoriasis.
Authors: Kuijpers A L , Van Baar H M , Van Gasselt M W , Van de Kerkhof PC
Published: June 2023

Scalp psoriasis is associated with hair loss and an increased telogen/anagen ratio. Topical treatment of scalp psoriasis (with corticosteroids, dithranol or tar) results in decreased scaling, induration and erythema of the plaques. Calcipotriol is effective in the treatment of psoriasis vulgaris. However, the potent growth-inhibiting potential of this compound might theoretically induce hair loss. A study was designed to find out to what extent calcipotriol treatment modulates the percentage of anagen and telogen hair during treatment of scalp psoriasis. A group of 26 patients participated in a placebo-controlled dose-finding study on the efficacy of calcipotriol in scalp psoriasis. Hair plucks before and after treatment were taken. The telogen/anagen ratio remained unaffected during 6 weeks of calcipotriol treatment. No correlation was demonstrated between efficacy of treatment and quantification of telogen/anagen ratio. It can be concluded that the growth-inhibiting potential of calcipotriol is not reflected in the in vivo hair growth pattern during calcipotriol treatment.
Methotrexate-linked ventricular arrhythmias.
Authors: Kettunen R , Huikuri H V , Oikarinen A , Takkunen J T
Published: June 2023

A 36-year-old male, who 1 year previously had survived a large anterior myocardial infarction, followed by cardiac arrest, was treated a few months for psoriasis with oral methotrexate, at single weekly oral doses of up to 10 mg, when he had to be hospitalized due to anginal pain and palpitation. Repeated 24-hour electrocardiogram recordings revealed ventricular ectopy up to 580 premature beats per hour. The ventricular premature beats were almost completely abolished after a few days' discontinuation of methotrexate therapy but recurred a few hours after an attempt to restart it had been made. A coronary angiogram showed only minimal wall abnormalities. Electrophysiological testing and endomyocardial biopsy were normal.
The cellular dermal infiltrate in experimental immediate type cutaneous hypersensitivity.
Authors: Sjögren F , Anderson C , Groth O
Published: June 2023

A previously developed guinea pig model for the study of the dermal inflammatory cell infiltrate of allergic, toxic, and irritant reactions was adapted to the study of the immediate intradermal reaction to ovalbumin. Comparison of qualitative and quantitative counts of infiltrating cells at three levels in the dermis showed that counting 20 subepidermal fields starting from the injection point of the allergen gave reliable figures. The reaction showed microscopically two phases. The first was of rapid onset and characterized by a high proportion of neutrophils, unlike the picture seen in the previously studied (allergic and toxic) reaction types. In the second phase, which can be termed "late phase" reaction, mononuclear cells and basophil granulocytes predominated. The late phase of the reaction bears similarities to the delayed allergic contact reaction at the same timepoint in that the response was rich in basophils. There were, however, other differences e.g. eosinophils and neutrophils were more common.
The presence of body hair influences the measurement of skin hydration with the Corneometer.
Authors: Lodén M , Hagforsen E , Lindberg M
Published: June 2023

Techniques for the assessment of skin hydration are often based on the electrical properties of the stratum corneum. A commonly used instrument for measurements of skin moisture is the corneometer, which detects changes in the dielectric constant of the material in contact with the probe. It has been suggested that different materials, for example cream residues and desquamating scales, may interfere with the Corneometer readings, but this question has not been settled conclusively in previous studies. In the present study the influence of body hair was examined. Significantly lower Corneometer values were obtained on the dorsal aspect of the forearm than on the volar aspect (p < 0.05), indicating that the former region was less hydrated than the latter. After shaving of the skin, however, there was no difference in the Corneometer readings between the two regions. Thus, the presence of hair needs to be considered when the hydration status of the skin is examined with the use of a Corneometer.
Age-related regional variations of human skin blood flow response to histamine.
Authors: Tur E
Published: June 2023

The process of ageing involves many changes in the skin. These changes are not necessarily uniform, so the pattern of regional variations may vary with ageing. The aim of the present study was to assess age-related regional variations in skin function, by measuring the cutaneous microvascular response to histamine. Histamine was topically applied to the back and forearm of a young and an aged group of volunteers (n = 28, 14 in each group), and the response was quantified utilizing laser Doppler flowmetry. The following parameters were calculated from the data and compared between the two groups: (i) peak response