bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Growth, maturation and photosynthesis of the brackish water alga Rhizoclonium sp. (Cladophoraceae, Chlorophyta) in relation to salinity
Authors: MatsuyamaSerisawa Kazuyo , Serisawa Yukihiko , Tanaka Jiro
Published: September 2004

The effects of salinity on growth, maturation and photosynthesis were examined in the filamentous alga Rhizoclonium sp. (Cladophoraceae, Chlorophyta) growing in a brackish water habitat in a canal draining into Tokyo Bay, Japan. In this habitat Rhizoclonium sp. was exposed to a wide salinity range, both daily, 5–23‰ during November 1996, and hourly, 6–24‰ during the spring tide day. From the results of culture experiments, growth and maturation of Rhizoclonium sp. occurred in the wide salinity range of 10–40‰ at 20 μmol photons m‐2s‐1 at 20°C, but did not occur at salinity of 0‰. Light saturation on the photosynthesis‐irradiance curve at 20°C at 20‰ was reached at 100 μmol photons m‐2s‐1, which is characteristic for shade‐adapted algae. On the photosynthesis‐salinity curve at 20°C at saturated irradiance (160 μmol photons m‐2s‐1), the net photosynthetic rate increased with increasing salinity up to 30‰ but decreased at 40‰. On the photosynthesis–salinity curve at 20°C at 20 μmol photons m‐2s‐1 (at near in situ irradiance), the photosynthetic rates were almost the same in the salinity range from 0 to 40‰. Therefore, this species is able to grow, reproduce and photosynthesize with a relative efficiency in a wide salinity range, which shows that it is well adapted to a brackish water environment.
Renal trauma in Australian Rules Football: an institutional experience
Authors: Lee Steven , Thavaseelan Jeff , Low Vincent
Published: September 2004

Background:  Australian rules football is the most popular team sport in Australia. Literature on severe abdominal injuries in this sport is limited. The present study aims to review cases of renal trauma in Australian football at our institution.

Methods:  A retrospective study was performed. All men admitted to our institution with renal trauma or haematuria associated with Australian football from July 1995 to July 2001 were analysed.

Results:  There were 13 cases of renal trauma; two were grade V injuries requiring nephrectomy.

Conclusion:  Renal injury will be intermittently encountered owing to the popularity of Australian football. Renal injuries are often difficult to assess and early recognition, management and referral to a district hospital is crucial.
Development of a parathyroid database in Melbourne and review of the last 50 cases
Authors: Yeung Meei J. , Serpell Jonathan W.
Published: September 2004

Background:  Minimally invasive parathyroidectomy (MIP) is only possible if preoperative localization studies accurately identify the abnormal parathyroid tissue. The aim of the present paper was to evaluate the accuracy of these studies in our geographical region and the consequences on MIP.

Methods:  A Filemaker Pro database was designed and a retrospective analysis was carried out on the last 50 parathyroidectomies.

Results:  There were a total of 49 patients who underwent parathyroidectomy; with one patient having two operations. Forty‐nine preoperative ultrasound localization studies were performed. Ultrasound sensitivity of correct localization of abnormal parathyroids was 41% with a false positive rate of 25%. Twenty‐two sestamibi scans identified 14 abnormal parathyroids. Sestamibi scanning had a sensitivity of 32% for correct localization and a false positive rate of 32%. There were 16 different radiologists or nuclear medicine physicians involved with the nuclear medicine scans, and 22 different radiologists involved in the preoperative ultrasound scans. Forty‐seven patients were cured of hyperparathyroidism after a primary operation, with a total of 48 patients in all being cured following re‐exploration. One patient was lost to follow up. The success of primary exploration was therefore 96% and following re‐exploration this increased to 98%.

Conclusion:  We found preoperative localization studies to have low sensitivities and high false positive rates. To move successfully towards MIP, we need to identify a radiologist with a special interest in localization studies to achieve greater accuracy.
Skin protection beneath the tourniquet a prospective randomized trial
Authors: Din Robert , Geddes Tony
Published: September 2004

Background:  Complications have been reported as a consequence of tourniquet application. These include skin abrasions, blisters and, breaks. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the difference in clinical outcome using tourniquets with and without skin protection.

Methods:  A prospective randomized trial was performed on consecutive patients undergoing elective total knee replacement or knee arthroscopy. The patients were randomly allocated to one of three treatment groups: group 1, tourniquet without skin protection; group 2, tourniquet with Soffban skin protection (BSN Medical, Melbourne, Australia); and group 3, tourniquet with the Atlantech skin protection drape (Atlantech Medical Devices, Harrogate, UK). All patients had identical tourniquets, tourniquet pressure and skin sterilization method. At the conclusion of the case, the tourniquet was removed and the skin beneath the tourniquet was inspected and recorded into one of four categories: skin normal, skin abrasions, skin blisters and skin break.

Results:  One hundred and fifty consecutive eligible patients having a total knee replacement or arthroscopy were included in the present study. There were 82 total knee replacements and 68 knee arthroscopies There were 89 women and 61 men, the mean age was 51 years. No significant difference in patient demographics were found between the groups. The overall skin complication rate was lower in the tourniquet skin protected groups. Total skin complication rate in the non‐skin tourniquet protected group was 12 patients out of 50. In the skin protected tourniquet groups, the number of skin complications was six out of 100. This was statistically significant P = 0.0034 (χ2‐test).

Conclusion:  We recommend that lower limb tourniquets should be used with skin protection beneath them.
Synovial sarcoma − towards a simplified approach to prognosis
Authors: Campbell Catherine , Gallagher John , Dickinson Ian
Published: September 2004

Background:  Synovial sarcoma is a high grade sarcoma that usually occurs in adults. Numerous studies have attempted to identify prognostic factors that might allow more effective treatment for particular subgroups of patients.

Methods:  We studied 25 histologically confirmed cases of synovial sarcoma in an attempt to identify particular patient, tumour or treatment characteristics that might have a prognostic significance using Cox proportional hazards regression modelling to identify differences in survival rates. All patients received their definitive surgical treatment from a single orthopaedic surgeon reducing the likelihood of bias related to variations in surgical technique.

Results:  Statistically significant higher survival rates were seen in female patients (P = 0.040) and in patients aged <50 years (P = 0.028). There was also a tendency towards higher survival rates in those cases with upper limb tumours, tumours less than 50 mm in size, and tumours that histologically showed low grade tumour nuclei. Differences in survival were not seen with the percentage of epithelioid, spindled or poorly differentiated areas present, the number of mitoses, or the presence of necrosis. No treatment characteristics were associated with differences in survival.

Conclusions:  The present study has confirmed that male sex and older age are unfavourable prognostic features in synovial sarcoma. Additionally, the histological grade of synovial sarcomas might be more accurately and simply determined based on an assessment of nuclear grade alone.
Novel imaging strategy for the detection of fat embolism after arthroplasty
Authors: Bruce Warwick , Van der Wall Hans , Peters Matthew , Morgan Lucy , Hian Liaw Yong , Storey Geoffrey
Published: September 2004

Introduction:  Respiratory complications are common after arthroplasty with fat emboli and thromboembolic disease (PTE) being the most serious. As fat embolism from bone marrow should contain reticuloendothelial cells, we hypothesized that these cells take up colloid in the lung. A prospective tomographic study of 99m Tc phytate and perfusion was performed within 24 h after arthroplasty.

Methods:   Tomographic lung studies were acquired after 99m Tc phytate and 99m Tc MAA injection. Pre‐ and postoperative arterial blood gases (ABG), radiography/computed tomography were obtained. ABG were analysed as the difference in alveolar‐arterial oxygen gradients, pre‐ and postoperatively (DA‐a).

Results:  Forty patients were studied, 16 with hip and 24 with knee arthroplasties. Lung uptake of 99m Tc phytate was present in 35% of cases. PTE was detected in 25 of 38 (67%) patients evaluated. DA‐a was significantly different between patients with PTE/fat embolism and without either entity (P < 0.05).

Conclusion:  A simple test is available for the detection of fat embolism in the lungs. It can specifically differentiate this common cause of hypoxia from PTE.
Paediatric constipation for adult surgeons − article 1: targeting the cause
Authors: Sutcliffe Jonathan R. , King Sebastian K. , Southwell Bridget R. , M Hutson John
Published: September 2004

Constipation is very common in all age groups and can be resistant to standard therapies, producing chronic morbidity. Childhood onset constipation frequently produces symptoms that persist into adulthood. Recent advances have been made in the diagnosis and treatment of childhood constipation that could have application in adult practice.

In the first part of the present review, the methods of differentiation of patients with a disorder of colonic motility from those with an anorectal hold‐up are discussed. Slow transit constipation, with distinct features on colonic manometry and scintigraphy, has only recently been recognized in children. This diagnosis, together with a novel method of placement of a manometric catheter, is described. While the cause of slow transit constipation remains unclear, clinical features that differ between children and adults may provide an insight into the aetiology.

The diagnosis of intestinal neuronal dysplasia is explained and the controversy surrounding the diagnosis outlined. We propose that the traditional histological criteria exclude many other clinically significant forms of dysplasia of the enteric nervous system and should be extended.
A safe technique for the insertion of the Hasson cannula
Authors: Gett Rohan M. , Joseph Mark G.
Published: September 2004

Background:  Most techniques of Hasson cannula insertion still involve a significant risk of visceral or vascular damage. This is true even for the modified open techniques of cannulation.

Methods:  A technique of sequential clipping and elevation of abdominal wall layers is described, which permits safer Hasson cannulation at the umbilicus or at other sites on the abdomen even in the presence of underlying adhesions.

Results:  Eight hundred and seventy‐six patients underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy using this technique of Hasson cannulation. Forty‐two of these patients had the cannula placed at other sites other than the umbilicus because of previous surgery and suspected adhesions. Using this technique there were no major complications. Specifically, this technique did not incur any cases of visceral or vascular damage.

Conclusions:  The technique of sequential clipping and elevation of all layers of the abdominal wall during the insertion of the Hasson cannula allows for safer entry into the peritoneal cavity.
Appendico‐gastrostomy: a new technique for long‐term feeding
Authors: Mohta Anup
Published: September 2004

A new technique of non‐refluxing gastrostomy using the appendix is described for long‐term feeding of children. The appendix is transplanted on its vascular pedicle and serves as a catheterizable non‐refluxing conduit. The technique can be utilized when the appendix is available near the stomach as in malrotation.
In‐use efficacy of a chlorhexidine in alcohol surgical rub: a comparative study
Authors: Grabsch Elizabeth A. , Mitchell David J. , Hooper Jonathan , Turnidge John D.
Published: September 2004

Background:  Although full surgical scrubs are performed prior to each case on an operating list, optimum regimens for hand cleaning have yet to be determined, and in‐use efficacy evaluations are very limited.

Methods:  A crossover study was undertaken comparing a chlorhexidine in detergent/alcohol regimen with povidine‐iodine detergent scrub, within an orthopaedic operating environment. Depending on the skin asepsis regimen used, five surgical team members scrubbed or rubbed prior to each case for a complete operating list. Bactericidal efficacy was measured using the ‘glove‐juice’ technique before and after hand asepsis, and at the completion of each case.

Results:  The chlorhexidine regimen caused substantial and sustained reductions in hand bacterial counts (>50‐fold prior to case 1) during surgical cases. Application of alcoholic chlorhexidine prior to each subsequent case reduced bacterial counts to the same level as the original scrub. In contrast, the povidine‐iodine scrub reduced counts <3‐fold prior to the first case and <2‐fold in subsequent cases. The chlorhexidine regimen also resulted in persistent bactericidal effects between cases, as counts prior to application of cases 2 and higher were significantly lower than prior to case 1 (>7‐fold for case 2 vs case 1).

Conclusions:  The chlorhexidine regimen demonstrated excellent bactericidal efficacy throughout an operating list, and was superior to povidine‐iodine scrubbing in all aspects. The alcoholic chlorhexidine regimen is simpler and should have wide surgical application.
Rectal cancer masquerading as an amoeboma: case report and review of the literature
Authors: Agrez Michael , Karihaloo Costa , Reeves Glenn , Puvaneswary Murugasu , Sturm Lucillie , Scurry James
Published: September 2004

Despite the prevalence of amoebiasis in many parts of the world, amoebomas are relatively uncommon. Amoebomas within the colorectum are indistinguishable from carcinomas either macroscopically or by barium enema examination and the presence of both conditions is much rarer still. Herein, we describe such a case and review the possible reasons for their coexistence.
Selective intermediate‐/small‐conductance calcium‐activated potassium channel (KCNN4) blockers are potent and effective therapeutics in experimental brain oedema and traumatic brain injury caused by acute subdural haematoma
Authors: Mauler Frank , Hinz Volker , Horváth Ervin , Schuhmacher Joachim , Hofmann Heiko A. , Wirtz Stephan , Hahn Michael G. , Urbahns Klaus
Published: September 2004

Early deterioration and death after brain injury is often the result of oedema in the injured and peri‐lesional tissue. So far, no pharmacotherapy is available that exhibits significant brain oedema‐reducing efficacy in patients. We selected two low molecular weight compounds from different chemical classes, a triazole (1‐[(2‐chlorophenyl)diphenylmethyl]‐1,2,3‐triazole) and a cyclohexadiene (methyl 4‐[4‐chloro‐3‐(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]‐6‐methyl‐3‐oxo‐1,4,7‐tetrahydroisobenzofuran‐5‐carboxylate) to characterize their pharmacological properties on KCNN4 channels (intermediate/small conductance calcium‐activated potassium channel, subfamily N, member 4) in vitro as well as in vivo. In vitro we replaced potassium by rubidium (Rb+) and determined Rb+ fluxes evoked by 10 µm of the calcium ionophore A23187 on C6BU1 rat glioma cells. Compared with known KCNN4 blockers, such as clotrimazole (IC50 = 360 ± 12 nm) and charybdotoxin (IC50 = 3.3 ± 1.9 nm), the triazole and cyclohexadiene were considerably more potent than clotrimazole and displayed similar potencies (IC50 = 12.1 ± 8.8 and 13.3 ± 4.7 nm, respectively). In the rat acute subdural haematoma model, both the triazole and cyclohexadiene displayed reduction of brain water content (−26% at 0.3 mg/kg and −24% at 0.01 mg/kg) and reduction of the intracranial pressure (−46% at 0.1 mg/kg and −60% at 0.003 mg/kg) after 24 h when administered as a 4‐h infusion immediately after brain injury. When infarct volumes were determined after 7 days, the triazole as well as the cyclohexadiene displayed strong neuroprotective efficacy (−52% infarct volume reduction at 1.2 mg/kg and −43% at 0.04 mg/kg, respectively). It is concluded that blockade of KCNN4 channels is a new pharmacological approach to attenuate acute brain damage caused by traumatic brain injury.
Why do we produce errors of commission? An ERP study of stimulus deviance detection and error monitoring in a choice go/no‐go task
Authors: Elton Martin , Spaan Marcus , Ridderinkhof K. Richard
Published: September 2004

The present study investigated event‐related brain potential (ERP) reflections of stimulus deviance detection and error monitoring recorded during a go/no‐go auditory oddball task. The mismatch negativity and error negativity were analysed as indices of these processes, respectively. We examined whether errors of commission occurred because of failures to detect stimulus deviance. On error trials the mismatch negativity amplitude did not differ between big and small deviant stimuli and was clearly reduced as compared with mismatch negativity amplitude on correct trials. Following an error response an error negativity was elicited, the amplitude of which was unaffected by stimulus deviancy. This pattern of ERP results was interpreted as supporting the defective deviance detection hypothesis.
Zonal ablation of the olfactory sensory neuroepithelium of the mouse: effects on odorant detection
Authors: Vedin Viktoria , Slotnick Burton , Berghard Anna
Published: September 2004

Olfactory sensory neurons that express a specific odorant receptor, out of a thousand different, are unevenly distributed within, but restricted to one of four zones of the neuroepithelial sheet in the nasal cavity in the mouse. This zonal restriction of neurons expressing the same odorant receptor may have consequences, e.g. in case of localized injury. We found that the chemical dichlobenil can produce specific and permanent ablation of neurons in odorant receptor expression zone 1, while a higher dichlobenil dose causes reversible toxicity in neighboring zones. In behavior tests, mice lacking part of the olfactory epithelium had an increased detection threshold concentration of two–four orders of magnitude for some odorants but not others, resembling the phenomenon of specific hyposmia. This indicates that the broad tuning properties of single odorant receptors and their large number cannot fully compensate for loss of the receptor(s) with the highest sensitivity for a particular odorant.
Deficits in a lateralized associative learning task in dopamine‐depleted rats with functional recovery by dopamine‐rich transplants
Authors: Dowd Eilís , Dunnett Stephen B.
Published: September 2004

Experimental therapies for Parkinson's disease (PD) are commonly validated in unilateral animal models using simple tests of motor asymmetry such as rotation, stepping and cylinder tests. However, the human disorder is considerably more complex than this, and alternative tests that permit a more complete evaluation of the efficacy and mechanism of action of novel treatments are needed. In this study, an operant task that assesses the selection, initiation and execution of lateralized movements was used to investigate the effects of embryonic dopamine cell transplants in the unilateral medial forebrain bundle (MFB) lesion model of PD. Lesioned Lister Hooded rats had a pronounced contralateral selection and initiation deficit, as well as an impairment in execution of movements bilaterally. They also attempted fewer trials and made more procedural errors than unlesioned rats. Transplantation of fetal dopaminergic neurons to the striatum led to a marked improvement in specific parameters and a more modest improvement in others. The graft improved the contralateral selection deficit and the execution of movements bilaterally, but had no effect on the initiation of contralateral movements. Transplanted rats also attempted more trials and made fewer errors. In contrast, the more commonly used stepping and cylinder tests revealed no functional effect of the graft. This data suggests that this operant task may be a powerful tool for validating and elucidating the mechanism of action of experimental brain repair therapies prior to entering the clinic.
GABAA receptors containing the α5 subunit mediate the trace effect in aversive and appetitive conditioning and extinction of conditioned fear
Authors: Yee Benjamin K. , Hauser Jonas , Dolgov Vadim V. , Keist Ruth , Möhler Hanns , Rudolph Uwe , Feldon Joram
Published: September 2004

A reduction in α5 subunit‐containing γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA)A receptors has been reported to enhance some forms of learning in mutant mouse models. This effect has been attributed to impaired α5 GABAA receptor‐mediated inhibitory modulation in the hippocampus. The introduction of a point mutation (H105R) in the α5 subunit is associated with a specific reduction of α5 subunit‐containing GABAA receptors in the hippocampus. The present study examined the modulation of associative learning and the extinction of conditioned response in these animals. The strength of classical conditioning can be weakened when a trace interval is interposed between the conditioned stimulus and unconditioned stimulus. Here we report that this ‘trace effect’ in classical conditioning was absent in the mutant mice − they were insensitive to the imposition of a 20‐s trace interval. This effect of the mutation was most clearly in the female mice using an aversive conditioning paradigm, and in the male mice using an appetitive conditioning paradigm. These gender‐specific phenotypes were accompanied by a resistance to extinction of conditioned fear response in the mutant mice that was apparent in both genders. Our results identify neuronal inhibition in the hippocampus mediated via α5 GABAA receptors as a critical control element in the regulation of the acquisition and expression of associative memory.
Changes in endocannabinoid levels in a rat model of behavioural sensitization to morphine
Authors: Viganò Daniela , Valenti Marta , Grazia Cascio Maria , Di Marzo Vincenzo , Parolaro Daniela , Rubino Tiziana
Published: September 2004

The opioid and cannabinoid systems co‐operate to regulate physiological processes such as nociception and reward. The endocannabinoid system may be a component of the brain reward circuitry and thus play a role not only in cannabinoid tolerance/dependence, but also in dependence/withdrawal for other misused drugs. We provide evidence of a cannabinoid mechanism in an animal model of morphine drug‐seeking behaviour, referred to as behavioural sensitization. The present study was designed to test the effects of the CB1 cannabinoid receptor antagonist SR141716A in two different phases of morphine sensitization (induction and expression) and to measure the brain contents of arachidonoylethanolamide (anandamide, AEA) and 2‐arachidonoylglycerol (2‐AG), the two main endogenous ligands for cannabinoid receptors in the different phases of morphine sensitization. The cannabinoid antagonist modified the signs of morphine sensitization when administered in the expression phase, whereas co‐administration of SR141716A and morphine in the induction phase only slightly affected the behavioural responses, suggesting that CB1 receptor blockade attenuates the behavioural manifestations of morphine sensitization but not its development. AEA and 2‐AG were affected differently by morphine during the two phases of behavioural sensitization. The alterations were in opposite directions and specific for the cerebral area analysed (caudate putamen, nucleus accumbens, hippocampus and prefrontal cortex). The results suggest that the endocannabinoid system undergoes profound changes during the different phases of sensitization to morphine in rats, providing a possible neurochemical basis for the previously observed cross‐sensitization between opiates and cannabinoids.
Induction of c‐fos in specific thalamic nuclei following stimulation of the pedunculopontine tegmental nucleus
Authors: Ainge James A. , Jenkins Trisha A. , Winn Philip
Published: September 2004

The pedunculopontine tegmental nucleus (PPTg) is a major source of cholinergic input to the thalamus. Tracing studies have established that the PPTg has projections to many thalamic nuclei and electrophysiological studies have shown acetylcholine (ACh) to have characteristic effects on thalamic neurons. Behavioural studies point to a role for the PPTg in attention and it is possible that a key substrate for this is the ability of the PPTg to modify sensorimotor gating through the thalamus. However, it is not clear how altered PPTg activity effects neuronal activity across the thalamus en masse. We have attempted to examine this by stimulating the PPTg in freely moving rats and measuring thalamic activation withc‐fos immunohistochemistry. The PPTg was stimulated by unilateral microinjection of the l‐glutamate uptake inhibitor l‐trans‐pyrrolidine‐2,4‐dicarboxylic acid (PDC) with the rationale that reuptake blockade increases locally the availability of endogenous neurotransmitter. It was shown that PDC microinjection into PPTg produced clear and consistent changes in Fos immunoreactivity in several thalamic nuclei, but most markedly in the centrolateral, ventrolateral and reticular nuclei. A second study was carried out to determine the gross behavioural effects of intra‐PPTg l‐glutamate blockade. No changes in locomotion or other general behaviours were observed, indicating that observed changes in thalamic Fos expression were not the result of increased behavioural output but rather a direct consequence of increased neuronal activity from PPTg input. The present data extend previous work establishing pedunculopontine–thalamic connections by specifying which particular nuclei are most affected by PPTg activation.
Hippocampal formation is required for geometric navigation in pigeons
Authors: Vargas Juan Pedro , Petruso Edward J. , Bingman Verner P.
Published: September 2004

The geometric properties of bounded space have attracted considerable attention as a source of spatial information that can guide goal navigation. Although the use of geometric information to navigate has been observed in every species studied to date, the neural mechanisms that support the representation of geometric information are still debated. With the purpose of investigating this topic, we trained pigeons with lesion to the hippocampal formation to search for food in a rectangular‐shaped arena containing one wall of a different color that served as the only distinctive environmental feature. Although lesioned pigeons learned the task even faster than control animals, probe trials showed that they were insensitive to geometric information. Control animals could encode and use both geometric and feature information to locate the goal. By contrast, lesioned pigeons relied exclusively on the feature information provided by the wall of a different color. The results indicate that the avian hippocampal formation is critical for learning the geometric properties of space in homing pigeons.
In vivo assessment of the efficacy of an innovative face care system in subjects with mild acne vulgaris1
Authors: Scherdin U. , Presto S. , Rippke F. , Nielsen J. , Strassner M. , Imadojemun A. , Gärtner E. , Herpens A. , Korting H. C. , Bielfeldt S.
Published: September 2004

Synopsis

The purpose of our studies was to verify efficacy and skin compatibility of a medical face care system containing 2% lactic acid (LA) as active ingredient in a specially designed vehicle (Follicle Targeting System) in adult subjects with mild acne vulgaris. The first study (46 patients) demonstrated superiority of 2% LA in comparison to 2% salicylic acid with respect to number of comedones and inflammatory lesions. The second study evaluated 90 patients receiving distinct combinations of face care products (Eucerin® Impure Skin, Hamburg, Germany), i.e. cleansing gel, facial tonic (2% LA) and cream gel (2% LA). All treatments were performed twice daily over a 12 weeks period. Lesion counts, cyanoacrylate biopsies and determination of quality of life by questionnaires were performed at different timepoints. A reduction of comedones by 56% corresponding to an 46% increase of quality of life index was demonstrated in patients applying cleansing gel, facial tonic and cream gel. For the first time we were able to show a significant improvement concerning the quality of life after using a new face care line. Especially adults with mild forms of acne may benefit from this effective skin care regimen.
Topical niacinamide reduces yellowing, wrinkling, red blotchiness, and hyperpigmented spots in aging facial skin1
Authors: Bissett D. L. , Miyamoto K. , Sun P. , Li J. , Berge C. A.
Published: September 2004

Synopsis

Previous clinical testing of topical niacinamide (vitamin B3) has revealed a broad array of improvements in the appearance of aging facial skin. The study reported here was done to confirm some of those previous observations and to evaluate additional end points such as skin anti‐yellowing. Caucasian female subjects (n = 50, aged 40–60 years) participated in a 12‐week, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, split‐face, left–right randomized clinical study assessing two topical products: moisturizer control product versus the same moisturizer product containing 5% niacinamide. Niacinamide was well tolerated by the skin and provided significant improvements versus control in end points evaluated previously: fine lines/wrinkles, hyperpigmentation spots, texture, and red blotchiness. In addition, skin yellowing (sallowness) versus control was significantly improved. The mechanism by which this array of benefits is achieved with niacinamide is discussed.
The function of polyglyceryl erucate/isostearate/ricinoleate
Authors: Noguchi Y. , Terada R. , Ohki J. , Anpo M. , Tamura K.
Published: September 2004

Today, it is said that the formula design of cosmetics from ingredients of plant origin is an indispensable way and trend. From this consideration, cosmetic materials made from animal and synthetic petroleum ingredients are becoming less usable. Instead, cosmetic materials are designed from ingredients of plant origin and many and various botanical ingredients are being developed. Lanolin, which is one of the animal‐based ingredients, is said to have ideal functions as a cosmetic oil, and it has been used in many fields such as make‐up cosmetics as well as hair and skin care products for a long time. However, unfortunately, lanolin is an animal‐based ingredient; therefore, the development of a botanical ingredient to replace lanolin was desired. Polyglyceryl‐8 decaerucate/isostearate/ricinoleate, which we have developed, is an ester oil originating from plants and has an equivalent or higher function than lanolin. We have confirmed that our developed ester oil has various excellent characteristics such as a water‐holding capability 2.5 times higher than that of lanolin, high air permeability, moisture keeping in dermal layers, protection of hair from changes in external environmental humidity, and excellent gloss and excellent dispersability of pigments. Thus, this newly developed ester oil is expected to be a promising new botanical cosmetic ingredient which can be applied in various fields.
Ethosomes and liposomes as topical vehicles for azelaic acid: a preformulation study
Authors: Esposito E. , Menegatti E. , Cortesi R.
Published: September 2004

The basic properties and the in vitro release rate kinetics of azelaic acid (AA), alternatively vehiculated in different phospholipid‐based vesicles such as ethosomes or liposomes, were investigated. Ethosomes were produced by a simple method based on addition of an aqueous phase to an ethanol solution (comprised between 20 and 45%, v/v) of soy phosphatidyl choline (5%, w/w) and AA (0.2%, w/w) under mechanical stirring. Liposomes were obtained by the same composition in the absence of ethanol with the reverse‐phase evaporation method. Vesicle size was measured by photon correlation spectroscopy (PCS), evidencing smaller mean diameters and narrower dimensional distributions in the case of ethosomes with respect to liposomes. In order to obtain homogeneously sized vesicles, both ethosomal and liposomal dispersions were extruded through polycarbonate membranes with pores of calibrated diameter (400 and 200 nm). Vesicle morphology was characterized by freeze‐fracture scanning electron microscopy (SEM) showing the presence of unilamellar vesicles both in liposome‐ and in ethosome‐based dispersions. Free energy measurements of the vesicle bilayers were conducted by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). AA diffusion from ethosomal or liposomal dispersions and from ethosomes and liposomes incorporated in a viscous gel was investigated by a Franz cell assembled with synthetic membranes. The release rate was more rapid from ethosomal systems than from liposomal systems. In particular, ethosomes produced by the highest ethanol concentration released AA more rapidly, and the same trend was found using viscous forms.
Time‐of‐flight secondary ion mass spectrometry analysis of the application of a cationic conditioner to ‘clean’ hair
Authors: Harvey A. , Carr C. M.
Published: September 2004

In this study the applicability of the surface‐sensitive Time‐of‐flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (ToF‐SIMS) technique to hair analysis and associated aqueous processing is evaluated. ToF‐SIMS analysis of ‘as received’ human hair indicates the presence of silicones, anionic surfactants, and cationic conditioners, from previous treatments, on the fiber surface. Cleaning of the hair with SLS or SLES results in adsorption of the surfactants onto the fiber surface. In particular, the more non‐polar surfactant components have greater substantivity for the fiber surface, as indicated by the relative increase in their ToF‐SIMS intensity. Application of the Incroquat Behenyl 18‐MEA conditioner to both ‘virgin’ and bleached hair results in the adsorption of the cationic C18, C20, C22, and C21 surfactant components onto the hair surface. The ToF‐SIMS data indicate higher levels of conditioner on the bleached hair relative to the undamaged hair.
Investigation of atmospheric oxidation of propyl gallate in an anionic surfactant system in the absence and presence of ascorbic acid
Authors: Szymula M.
Published: September 2004

The antioxidant efficiency of two hydrophilic species, ascorbic acid (AA) and propyl gallate (PG), in an anionic surfactant system are studied. AA and PG are dissolved/solubilized in a microemulsion formed by water, pentanol, and sodium dodecyl sulfate. The determination of PG decomposition/oxidation kinetics shows enhanced oxidation of PG with increasing pentanol concentration in the system. When AA and PG are both present in water, in surfactant aqueous solution, and in the studied microemulsion systems, the molecular complex AA–PG is formed. After some time the complex decomposes.
A study of the photolightening mechanism of blond hair with visible and ultraviolet light
Authors: Takahashi T. , Nakamura K.
Published: September 2004

In this study the photolightening behavior of blond hair was investigated. The results demonstrated that visible (VIS) and ultraviolet (UV) light lighten blond hair through different mechanisms. VIS light was found to contribute much more to the lightening of blond hair than UV light, and acted directly, while UV light only lightened blond hair that had been washed following irradiation. VIS and UV light both, however, lightened to a similar degree isolated melanin granules and decomposed melanin granules that were exposed on a cross section of blond hair. These results indicate that melanin granules are equally sensitive to both forms of light while blond hair is most sensitive to VIS light. The results also indicate that hair tissues, excluding melanin granules, are damaged by UV light but not by VIS light. Based on these facts, the hypothetical lightening mechanism of UV light is assumed to be that UV light preferentially attacks and damages hair tissues rather than melanin granules. This occurs only after the hair is washed, as the washing process removes the melanin granules that effuse from loose hair fibers. In contrast, VIS light preferentially attacks and decomposes the melanin granules rather than other tissues, and also results in the lightening of blond hair but without the need for subsequent washing. We also found that while VIS light destroys the structure of isolated melanin granules, UV light does not act in a similar manner. Consequently, it is proven that VIS and UV light attack different sites of the melanin granule, even though the lightening rates from both light sources are similar.
Testing aggregation consistency across geography and commodities*
Authors: Liu Qinghua , Shumway C. Richard
Published: September 2004

Consistent aggregation of production data across commodities and Western USA states was tested using Lewbel's generalised composite commodity theorem. The applicability of the generalised composite commodity theorem for testing consistent geographic aggregation was demonstrated and applied to two groups of states. Consistent commodity aggregation was tested in each state for two output groups and three input groups and in one state for a larger number of groups. Most tests for commodity aggregation supported consistent aggregation of inputs but not outputs. Consistent geographic aggregation was supported for each output and input category across Pacific Northwest states but only for inputs across all Western states.
What's it worth? An examination of historical trends and future directions in environmental valuation*
Authors: Adamowicz Wiktor L.
Published: September 2004

The present paper reviews activity in environmental valuation by examining trends in publication rates over the past three decades. It also provides an overview of the demand for environmental valuation by academic markets and by policy markets. The results of this historical analysis suggest that there is not as much use of environmental valuation in policy analysis as could be expected given the academic efforts on this topic. The paper also provides an overview of the future directions that environmental valuation research is likely to take given current research efforts.
Where's the economics? The core discipline of farm management has gone missing!*
Authors: Malcolm Bill
Published: September 2004

Economic illiteracy is abundant in farm management analysis. Failure to understand that economics is the core discipline of farm‐management analysis and failure to apply the whole‐farm approach leads to wrong questions being asked and wrong answers being given. The power of economic thinking is in making sense of resource allocation questions in farm systems characterised by much complexity and powerful dynamics. The challenge for those who continue to work in farm management economics is to re‐establish theoretically sound farm‐management analysis based on economics as the core discipline.
Diamorphine for pain relief in labour : a randomised controlled trial comparing intramuscular injection and patient‐controlled analgesia
Authors: McInnes Rhona J. , Hillan Edith , Clark Diana , Gilmour Harper
Published: September 2004

Objectives  To compare the efficacy of diamorphine administered by a patient‐controlled pump (patient‐controlled analgesia) with intramuscular administration for pain relief in labour.

Design  Randomised controlled trial.

Setting  The South Glasgow University Hospitals NHS Trust.

Sample  Primigravidae and multigravidae in labour at term (37–42 weeks).

Methods  Women were randomised in labour to the study (patient‐controlled analgesia) or control group (intramuscular). Randomisation was achieved through a random permuted block design stratified by parity. Study group women were given a loading dose of 1.2 mg diamorphine intravenously and then attached to the pump. Control group women received intramuscular diamorphine as per hospital protocol. Participants were also given 3 mg of buccal Stemetil. Data were collected throughout labour and at six postnatal weeks.

Main outcome measures  Analgesia requirements during labour and women's satisfaction with the method of pain relief.

Results  Women in the study group (patient‐controlled analgesia) used significantly less diamorphine than women in the control group (intramuscular) but were significantly more likely to state that they were very dissatisfied with their use of diamorphine and were significantly more likely to opt out of the trial before the birth of the baby. The majority of women in both groups used other analgesia concurrent with diamorphine such as Entonox, aromatherapy or TENS.

Conclusions  Patient‐controlled analgesia administration of diamorphine for the relief of pain in labour offers no significant advantages over intramuscular administration. The results also suggest that diamorphine is a poor analgesic for labour pain irrespective of the mode of administration.
Umbilical artery blood gas parameters in neonates with early onset seizures who die
Authors: Williams Keith P. , Singh Avash
Published: September 2004

Objective  To relate umbilical artery blood gas parameters to mortality among neonates with hypoxic–ischaemic encephalopathy related to early onset seizures.

Design  Population cohort study.

Setting  British Columbia Women's Hospital.

Population  Forty‐seven infants at ≥32 weeks of gestation admitted to NICU with early onset seizures secondary to hypoxic–ischaemic encephalopathy with umbilical artery blood gases done at delivery.

Methods  Patients were divided into two groups: (1) Infants with neonatal seizures who survived, and (2) infants with neonatal seizures who died related to hypoxic–ischaemic encephalopathy complications. Comparison of umbilical artery pH, PO2, PCO2, base deficit was done between the two groups with Student's t tests.

Main outcome measures  Umbilical artery pH, PO2, PCO2 and base deficit.

Results  The PO2 was significantly higher in the group that expired (18.36 ± 9.15 vs 12.33 ± 7.51). There were no significant differences in any other blood gas parameters between the groups.

Conclusion  Neither the umbilical artery pH nor base deficit is predictive of neonatal death in infants with hypoxic–ischaemic encephalopathy with seizures. The finding of a high PO2 in neonates who died may indicate an inability of those infants to efficiently extract oxygen from blood.
A history of sexual abuse and health: a Nordic multicentre study
Authors: Hilden Malene , Schei Berit , Swahnberg Katarina , Halmesmäki Erja , Langhoff‐Roos Jens , Offerdal Kristin , Pikarinen Ulla , Sidenius Katrine , Steingrimsdottir Tora , Stoum‐Hinsverk Hildegun , Wijma Barbro
Published: September 2004

Objectives  To determine if a history of sexual abuse is associated with objective and subjective indicators of health and if certain abusive incidents had a stronger impact on health than others.

Design  A cross‐sectional, multicentre study.

Setting  Five gynaecological departments in the five Nordic countries.

Sample  Three thousand five hundred and thirty‐nine gynaecology patients.

Methods  The NorVold Abuse Questionnaire (NorAQ) on abuse history and current health was mailed to all patients who consented to participate.

Main outcome measures  Reason for index visit at the gynaeocological clinic as well as several questions on health were recorded. General health status was measured as self‐estimated health, psychosomatic symptoms (headache, abdominal pain, muscle, weakness, dizziness), number of health care visits and number of periods on sick leave.

Result  A history of sexual abuse was reported by 20.7% of respondents. A history of sexual abuse was significantly associated with chronic pelvic pain as reason for index visit (P < 0.01), laparoscopic surgery (P < 0.01), psychosomatic symptoms (P < 0.01), self‐estimated poor health (P < 0.01), many health care visits (P < 0.01) and high incidence of sick leave (P < 0.01). Several subgroups within the group of sexually abused women were more likely to report poor health: women abused as both children and adults, women who experienced additional emotional and/or physical abuse and women abused by a person they knew.

Conclusion  Sexual abuse has a profound impact on women's health. Taking a history of sexual abuse seems particularly warranted when the patient presents with chronic pelvic pain or symptoms of a vague and diffuse nature.
Maternal cardiac function during pregnancy at high altitude
Authors: Kametas Nikos A. , McAuliffe Fionnuala , Krampl Elisabeth , Chambers John , Nicolaides Kypros H.
Published: September 2004

Objective  To investigate the maternal cardiovascular adaptation in pregnancy at high altitude, compared with that at sea level.

Design  Cross sectional study.

Setting  Two maternity units providing routine antenatal care: one at 4370 m above sea level (Cerro de Pasco, Peru) and one at sea level (Lima, Peru).

Population  We examined 175 pregnant women at 5–41 weeks of gestation and 16 non‐pregnant controls resident at high altitude and 132 pregnant women and 18 non‐pregnant controls at sea level.

Methods  Two‐dimensional and M‐mode echocardiography of the left ventricle.

Main outcome measures  Maternal cardiac output and left ventricular longitudinal and transverse systolic function indices.

Results  Pregnancy at high altitude, compared with sea level, is associated with 11% lower birthweight and 31% lower maternal cardiac output, due to 15% lower stroke volume and 11% lower heart rate. The lower stroke volume was due to a lower preload and impaired longitudinal and transverse left ventricular systolic function. Mean arterial pressure was about 8% lower during pregnancy at high altitude versus sea level. Pregnant women at high altitude failed to expand their intravascular space to the same extent as the sea level group: cardiac output increased by 17%, left atrial diameter by 12% and end‐diastolic diameter by 1% at high altitude versus 41%, 25% and 5%, respectively, at sea level.

Conclusions  Pregnancy at high altitude, compared with sea level, is characterised by lower cardiac output due to lower heart rate and lower stroke volume and reduced expansion of the maternal intravascular space compared with the non‐pregnant state.
Randomised controlled trial of bipolar radio‐frequency endometrial ablation and balloon endometrial ablation
Authors: Bongers Marlies Y. , Bourdrez Petra , Mol Ben W.J. , Heintz A. Peter M. , Brölmann Hans A.M.
Published: September 2004

Objective  To compare the effectiveness of two second‐generation ablation techniques, bipolar radio‐frequency impedance‐controlled endometrial ablation (NovaSure) and balloon ablation (ThermaChoice), in the treatment of menorrhagia.

Design  Double‐blind, randomised, controlled trial.

Setting  A large teaching hospital with 500 beds in The Netherlands.

Population  Women suffering from menorrhagia referred by their general practitioner.

Methods  Women suffering from menorrhagia, without intracavitary abnormalities, were randomly allocated to bipolar radio‐frequency ablation (bipolar group) and balloon ablation (balloon group) in a 2:1 ratio. At follow up, both women and observers were unaware of the type of treatment that had been performed.

Main outcome measures  The main outcome measure was amenorrhea at 3, 6 and 12 months after randomisation.

Results  One hundred and twenty‐six women were included in the study, of which 83 were allocated to the bipolar group, and 43 to the balloon group. No complications occurred in either of the treatment groups. At the one‐year follow up stage, amenorrhea rates were 43% (34/83) in the bipolar group and 8% (3/43) in the balloon group (treatment effect in time P < 0.001). At this stage, 90% of the patients in the bipolar group were satisfied with the result of the treatment against 79% in the balloon group (treatment effect in time P= 0.003).

Conclusion  The bipolar radio‐frequency impedance‐controlled endometrial ablation system is more effective than balloon ablation in the treatment of menorrhagia.