bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Mesenchymal stem cell therapy in skin: why and what for?
Authors: Khosrotehrani Kiarash 
Published: March 2013

AbstractIn recent years, few stem cells have gained as much clinical notoriety as mesenchymal stem cells. Indeed, MSCs are already in use for a range of systemic inflammatory and autoimmune conditions that also affect the skin, such as acute and chronic graft versus host disease or lupus erythematosus. Most interestingly, these cells are able to improve skin wound healing in multiple preclinical models and few patient series. An additional potential of these cells is the delivery of missing structural elements in skin inherited disorders. However, we here contend that MSCs are not appropriate for cell replacement therapies in the context of wound healing. Indeed, engraftment of cells in the dermis is poor in the absence of irradiation and the observed effects seem mainly due to paracrine factors. In this viewpoint, we favour the hypothesis of a replete niche and competition with resident mesenchymal populations in the dermis not allowing the engraftment of newly delivered MSCs. Consequently, we propose that the benefit of MSCs may be at least in part reproduced by the growth factors or immunomodulatory molecules that they produce. In any case, the rapid progress in this field has allowed the emergence of important questions in skin biology that need to be addressed in parallel with the predictable future use of MSCs in the clinic.
Interactions between angiotensin AT1 receptor antagonists and second‐generation antiepileptic drugs in the test of maximal electroshock
Authors: Łukawski Krzysztof , Janowska Agnieszka , Jakubus Tomasz , Czuczwar Stanisław J. 
Published: March 2013

AbstractThe anticonvulsant activity of angiotensin AT1 receptor antagonists, losartan (2‐n‐butyl‐4‐chloro‐5‐hydroxymethyl‐1‐[(2′(1H‐tetrazol‐5‐yl)‐biphenil‐4‐yl)methyl]imidazole) and telmisartan (49‐[(1,49‐dimethyl‐29‐propyl[2,69‐bi‐1H‐benzimidazo]‐19‐yl)methyl]‐[1,19‐biphenyl]‐2‐carboxylic acid), has been reported recently. It is suggested that AT1 receptor antagonists may affect the protective action of antiepileptic drugs. The aim of this study was to determine the influence of losartan and telmisartan on the anticonvulsant activity of some second‐generation antiepileptics (lamotrigine – LTG, oxcarbazepine – OXC, and topiramate – TPM). For this purpose, the maximal electroshock seizure (MES) test in mice was used. Additionally, the drug combinations were checked for adverse effects in the passive avoidance and chimney tests. In the MES test, losartan at the doses of 30 and 50 mg/kg, administered intraperitoneally (i.p.), potentiated the protective action of LTG (P < 0.01). This interaction was not accompanied by a significant change of LTG level either in plasma or in the brain. Telmisartan at the dose of 30 mg/kg i.p. enhanced the anticonvulsant action of TPM (P < 0.01). However, this interaction was pharmacokinetic in nature, as telmisartan significantly increased plasma and total brain concentrations of TPM (P < 0.001). The combinations of AT1 receptor antagonists with antiepileptic drugs did not affect retention in the passive avoidance test or motor coordination in the chimney test. The potentiation of the anticonvulsant action of LTG by losartan probably on account of pharmacodynamic interactions, make this combination important for further experimental and clinical studies. The combination of telmisartan and TPM is less beneficial due to pharmacokinetic interactions.
Nitrogen and carbon contents and δ15N and δ13C signatures in six bryophyte species: assessment of long‐term deposition changes (1980–2010) in Spanish beech forests
Authors: Delgado Verónica , Ederra Alicia , Santamaría Jesús Miguel 
Published: March 2013

AbstractIn this study we used recent (2010) and herbarium material (1980) of six bryophyte species to assess long‐term atmospheric deposition in natural forested areas in northern Spain. For this purpose, tissue nitrogen and carbon content, as well as δ13C and δ15N signatures of samples of Hypnum cupressiforme, Polytrichastrum formosum, Leucobryum juniperoideum, Rhytidiadelphus loreus, Homalothecium lutescens and Diplophyllum albicans were analysed and comparisons made between years and species. In addition, the usefulness of each of the six species was evaluated. The range of values observed was similar to that in other studies carried out in rural areas. Significantly lower values were found in 2010 for N (H. cupressiforme), δ15N (R. loreus and D. albicans), C (R. loreus) and δ13C (all except L. juniperoideum). Our natural areas are thus now less influenced by atmospheric pollutants than they were, most probably due to changes in some traditional local activities. Differences were observed between species for all the four parameters studied, so different species must not be analysed together. Finally, R. loreus and H. lutescens seem to be good bioindicators, sensitive even with a few samples, although further studies are needed to corroborate their usefulness.
Geodynamic processes in the NW Bohemian swarm earthquake region, Czech Republic, identified by continuous gas monitoring
Authors: Weinlich F. H. , Stejskal V. , Teschner M. , Poggenburg J. 
Published: March 2013

AbstractThe time series of two continuously operating gas monitoring stations at Oldřišská and Nový Kostel located along seismoactive faults in the epicentral area of the NW Bohemian swarm earthquakes (Czech Republic) are compared with water level fluctuations in two boreholes positioned along these faults and with gas flux variations of a mofette at the Soos mofette field at 9 km distance. The seasonal trend of the monitored CO2 concentration with a maximum in November and a minimum in March/April is governed by groundwater temperatures, superimposed in spring by soil temperatures. CO2 concentration variations identified at Oldřišská are also reflected in gas flux variations in the Soos mofette and/or water level fluctuations of two boreholes. Variations in the gas monitoring recordings of station at Nový Kostel are also linked with variations at Oldřišská. In all data sets, diurnal variations generated by earth tides occur, reflecting a daily stress – fault permeability cycle. Additional stress interferes with this cycle. Significant, abrupt changes are attributed to geodynamic processes linked with seismic events, as revealed by local seismicity or by the transient of waves of a strong remote earthquake. Simultaneous variations of the gas concentrations in the Nový Kostel area and in the gas flux in the Soos point to an interconnected hydraulic conductive fault systems present in the northern part of the Cheb Basin. Sharp falls in gas concentration, during or subsequent to, earthquake swarms may reflect fault compression associated with impeded gas migration. However, gas variations also occur in periods without seismic activity, indicating changes in fault permeability were caused by local aseismic fault movements, as revealed by events with opposite trends in the gas recordings at Oldřišská, Nový Kostel and the Soos. Therefore, a mathematical approach to establish a correlation between seismicity and gas geochemical variations is not possible.
Treatment for life for severe haemophilia A– A cost‐utility model for prophylaxis vs. on‐demand treatment
Authors: Farrugia A. , Cassar J. , Kimber M. C. , Bansal M. , Fischer K. , Auserswald G. , O'Mahony B. , Tolley K. , Noone D. , Balboni S. 
Published: March 2013

SummaryProphylaxis has been established as the treatment of choice in children with haemophilia and its continuation into the adult years has been shown to decrease morbidity throughout life. The cost of factor therapy has made the option questionable in cost‐effectiveness studies. The role of prophylaxis in pharmacokinetic dosage and tolerization against inhibitor formation were used to model the cost utility of prophylaxis vs. on‐demand (OD) therapy over a lifetime horizon in severe haemophilia A. The model was applied to a single provider national health system exemplified by the United Kingdom's National Health Service and a third party provider in the United States. The incremental cost‐effectiveness ratio (ICER) was estimated and compared to threshold values used by payer agencies to guide reimbursement decisions. A cost per quality‐adjusted life year (QALY) was also estimated for Sweden. Prophylaxis was dominant over OD treatment in the UK. The model resulted in an ICER – $68 000 – within the range of treatments reimbursed in the USA. In Sweden, a cost/QALY of SEK 1.1 million was also within the range of reimbursed treatments in that country. Dosage‐ and treatment‐induced inhibitor incidence were the most important variables in the model. Subject to continuing clinical evidence of the effectiveness of pharmacokinetic dosage and the role of prophylaxis in decreasing inhibitor incidence, treatment for life with prophylaxis is a cost‐effective therapy, using current criteria for the reimbursement of health care technologies in a number of countries.
Combination therapy of natural human interferon‐beta and ribavirin for chronic hepatitis C patients with injection drug use
Authors: Morikawa Hiroyasu , Kozuka Ritsuzo , Fujii Hideki , Iwai Shuji , Enomoto Masaru , Tamori Akihiro , Saito Shinobu , Kawada Norifumi 
Published: March 2013

AimThe aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of combination therapy using natural human interferon‐β and ribavirin (IFN‐β/RBV) for chronic hepatitis C patients who were injection drug users (IDU) and resident in the Airin district of Osaka, containing the biggest slums in Japan.MethodsTwenty‐nine IDU with chronic hepatitis C received combination therapy of IFN‐β/RBV. The psychiatrist in charge evaluated the scores of the Zung Self‐rating Depression Scale (SDS), a self‐rating scale based on 20 questions. Univariate logistic regression analyses were used to determine the factors that significantly contributed to complete treatment and a sustained virological response (SVR).ResultsThirteen of the 29 patients achieved SVR according to the intention to treat analysis. All patients with a rapid virological response achieved SVR. No patient required a reduced dose of RBV because of a decrease in their hemoglobin level, or of IFN‐β because of a low level of white blood cells and platelet count. Two patients had psychological side‐effects and stopped the therapy early in the treatment; one patient had depression and the other had anxious depression. Univariate logistic regression analyses indicated that the stage of fibrosis was the only factor that contributed to SVR, and that the SDS test and past drug abuse contributed to completion of the treatment.ConclusionIFN‐β/RBV combination therapy is useful for treating IDU.
Risk factors for recurrence after curative resection of hepatitis C‐related hepatocellular carcinoma in patients without postoperative interferon therapy
Authors: Yamashita Yo‐ichi , Shirabe Ken , Toshima Takeo , Tsuijita Eiji , Takeishi Kazuki , Harimoto Norifumi , Ikegami Toru , Yoshizumi Tomoharu , Ikeda Tetsuo , Soejima Yuji , Maehara Yoshihiko 
Published: March 2013

AimHepatitis C (HC)‐related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC; HC‐HCC) is highly recurrent.MethodsFrom 1995–2007, 183 curative hepatic resections for primary solitary HC‐HCC without postoperative interferon therapy were included in this study. The patients were divided into three groups: (i) 2 cm or less (n = 56); (ii) more than 2 cm to less than 5 cm (n = 79); and (iii) 5 cm or more (n = 48). Independent risk factors for HC‐HCC recurrence for each group were determined.ResultsIndependent risk factors for recurrence were aspartate aminotransferase or alanine aminotransferase (AST/ALT) of 80 IU/L or more (hazard ratio [HR], 2.1; P = 0.02) in patients with HCC of 2 cm or less, des‐γ‐carboxy prothrombin of 100 mAU/mL or more (HR, 2.5; P = 0.02) and AST/ALT of 80 IU/L or more (HR, 2.1; P = 0.04) in patients with HCC of more than 2 cm to less than 5 cm, and the presence of macroscopic portal vein tumor thrombus (HR, 2.8; P = 0.02) and AST/ALT of 80 IU/L or more (HR, 2.1; P = 0.04) in patients with HCC of 5 cm or more. All 13 late recurrences of 1 year or more after hepatic resection (27.1%) in patients with HCC of 5 cm or more were accompanied by AST/ALT of 80 IU/L or more.ConclusionAST/ALT of 80 IU/L or more is an independent risk factor for the recurrence of primary solitary HC‐HCC after curative resection irrespective of the primary HC‐HCC size.
Effects of ivermectin residues on dung invertebrate communities in a UK farmland habitat
Authors: Sutton Gemma , Bennett James , Bateman Mark 
Published: March 2013

Abstract

Ivermectin is a broad‐spectrum antiparasitic drug, routinely administered to livestock worldwide, and concerns have been raised about its impacts on non‐target dung fauna and pasture systems. This study reports the effect of sward structure (long sward, short sward, or bare ground) on ivermectin persistence and cowpat colonisation by invertebrates, during an on‐farm experiment in the United Kingdom.

The levels of ivermectin in cowpats were high [21 899 μg kg−1 (dry weight) 1 day after treatment with a pour‐on formulation] and remained detectable throughout the 47‐day trial. Residue breakdown occurred, but levels persisted above those lethal to some invertebrates. Sward structure had no significant effect on ivermectin levels.

Ivermectin residues affected cowpat colonisation. Diptera were present in significantly lower numbers in treated cowpats. Coprophagous Coleoptera were less affected by ivermectin residues, although some species were present in significantly higher numbers in treated cowpats in the long sward environments.

The non‐target effects of pesticides are currently of concern to policy makers. The results of this research add further weight to these concerns, particularly with regard to the duration for which ivermectin persists in situ in UK pasture, and because of the preferential attraction to treated cowpats exhibited by coprophagous Coleoptera.
Relating rheological measurements to primary and secondary skin feeling when mineral‐based and Fischer–Tropsch wax‐based cosmetic emulsions and jellies are applied to the skin
Authors: Bekker M. , Webber G. V. , Louw N. R. 
Published: March 2013

SynopsisRheology measurements were correlated to skin sensations occurring when cream and petroleum jelly cosmetic products containing different amounts of synthetic Fischer–Tropsch wax were applied to the skin. A panel of 15 people with a background in cosmetic product development were asked to rate skin feelings when a range of petroleum jelly and cream samples are applied to the skin. Primary skin feel, or the spreadability of a cosmetic product, was correlated to the product's flow onset and maximum viscosity as measured by a Anton Paar rheometer, whereas secondary skin feel or the sensation occurring at the end of application when the product was completely rubbed into the skin was correlated to the product's viscosity measured at high shear rates. The cream samples prepared with a petroleum jelly containing 10% and 20% Fischer–Tropsch wax fell within the boundary of good primary skin feeling of cream products. Predominantly, synthetic petroleum jellies were given the best assessments in terms of primary skin feeling and were used with mineral‐based petroleum jellies to determine the boundary of good primary skin feeling for petroleum jelly products. The further away a product falls from this rheological boundary the poorer the skin feeling assessment appears to be by the panel. Products containing Fischer–Tropsch waxes were given the best assessment by the panel for secondary skin feeling. Comments from the panel include that these products feel silky and light on the skin. The higher the Fischer–Tropsch wax content, the lower viscosity was at high shear rate (ϒ = 500 s−1) and the higher the assessment by the panel. Rheological measurements can be used to objectively determine skin sensation when products are applied to the skin; this may shorten research and development times. A rheology boundary of certain product viscosity and shear stress applied is associated with good primary skin feeling for lotions, creams and petroleum jellies. Lower product viscosity at high shear rate seems to be associated with better secondary skin feeling. Products with higher Fischer–Tropsch wax content appear to be rated higher in terms of secondary skin feeling.
‘Surviving the sting’: the use of solicited diaries in children and young people with oral mucosal disease
Authors: O' Donnell Suzi Carew , Marshman Zoe , Zaitoun Halla 
Published: March 2013

BackgroundChronic oral mucosal conditions, including oral ulcers, commonly affect children and young people and are capable of significant pain and morbidity. Little is known about patient perception of paediatric oral medicine services offered in relation to these conditions. The concept of a diary is increasingly recognised as a valuable way to capture patient events and perspective in healthcare research.Aim of the paperThis article provides the background to the use of solicited diaries as a method of accessing the perspective of children and young people and describes a service evaluation that aimed to explore the experiences of young people with chronic oral ulcers attending the paediatric oral medicine clinic in a UK Dental Hospital.ResultsChronic oral ulcers were found to significantly impact on a variety of physical and psychosocial aspects of young people's lives. Overall, feedback regarding the specialist service was positive but suggestions were made for improvements.ConclusionThis article reviews the use of the solicited diary within healthcare research. It also illustrates the value of the diary in exploration of children and young people's perspective on their chronic oral mucosal disease. In addition, a need for further research in this area has been highlighted.
Female crickets assess relatedness during mate guarding and bias storage of sperm towards unrelated males
Authors: Tuni C. , Beveridge M. , Simmons L. W. 
Published: March 2013

AbstractRecent evidence shows that females exert a post‐copulatory fertilization bias in favour of unrelated males to avoid the genetic incompatibilities derived from inbreeding. One of the mechanisms suggested for fertilization biases in insects is female control over transport of sperm to the sperm‐storage organs. We investigated post‐copulatory inbreeding‐avoidance mechanisms in females of the cricket Teleogryllus oceanicus. We assessed the relative contribution of related and unrelated males to the sperm stores of double‐mated females. To demonstrate unequivocally that biased sperm storage results from female control rather than cryptic male choice, we manipulated the relatedness of mated males and of males performing post‐copulatory mate guarding. Our results show that when guarded by a related male, females store less sperm from their actual mate, irrespective of the relatedness of the mating male. Our data support the notion that inhibition of sperm storage by female crickets can act as a form of cryptic female choice to avoid the severe negative effects of inbreeding.
Risk‐induced hatching timing shows low heritability and evolves independently of spontaneous hatching in red‐eyed treefrogs
Authors: Gomez‐Mestre I. , Warkentin K. M. 
Published: March 2013

AbstractPlasticity in the timing of transitions between stages of complex life cycles allows organisms to adjust their growth and development to local environmental conditions. Genetic variation in such plasticity is common, but the evolution of context‐dependent transition timing may be constrained by information reliability, lag‐time and developmental constraints. We studied the genetic architecture of hatching plasticity in embryos of the red‐eyed treefrog (Agalychnis callidryas) in response to simulated predator attacks using a series of paternal and maternal half‐sibs from a captive breeding colony of wild‐collected animals. We compared the developmental timing of induced early hatching across sibships and estimated cross‐environment genetic correlations between induced and spontaneous hatching traits. Additive genetic variance for induced early hatching was very low, indicating a constraint on the short‐term evolution of earlier hatching timing. This constraint is likely related to the maturation of the hatching mechanism. The most plastic genotypes produced the most extreme spontaneous hatching phenotypes, indicating that developmental range, per se, is not constrained. Cross‐environment genetic correlation in hatching timing was negligible, so the evolution of spontaneous hatching in this species has not depended on the evolution of risk‐induced hatching and vice versa.
The Development and Validation of the Male Genital Self-Image Scale: Results from a Nationally Representative Probability Sample of Men in the United States
Authors: Herbenick Debby , Schick Vanessa , Reece Michael , Sanders Stephanie A. , Fortenberry J. Dennis 
Published: March 2013

ABSTRACT

Introduction
Numerous factors may affect men's sexual experiences, including their health status, past trauma or abuse, medication use, relationships, mood, anxiety, and body image. Little research has assessed the influence of men's genital self-image on their sexual function or behaviors and none has done so in a nationally representative sample.

Aims
The purpose of this study was to, in a nationally representative probability sample of men ages 18 to 60, assess the reliability and validity of the Male Genital Self-Image Scale (MGSIS), and to examine the relationship between scores on the MGSIS and men's scores on the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF).

Methods
The MGSIS was developed in two stages. Phase One involved a review of the literature and an analysis of cross-sectional survey data. Phase Two involved an administration of the scale items to a nationally representative sample of men in the United States ages 18 to 60.

Main Outcome Measures
Measures include demographic items, the IIEF, and the MGSIS.

Results
Overall, most men felt positively about their genitals. However, 24.6% of men expressed some discomfort letting a healthcare provider examine their genitals and about 20% reported dissatisfaction with their genital size. The MGSIS was found to be reliable and valid, with the MGSIS-5 (consisting of five items) being the best fit to the data.

Conclusion
The MGSIS was found to be a reliable and valid measure. In addition, men's scores on the MGSIS-5 were found to be positively related to men's scores on the IIEF.