bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Analytical Solutions Using Integral Formulations and Their Coupling with Numerical Approaches
Authors: Morel‐Seytoux Hubert J. 
Published: September 2014

AbstractAnalytical and numerical approaches have their own distinct domains of merit and application. Unfortunately there has been a tendency to use either one or the other even when their domains overlap. Yet there is definite advantage in combining the two approaches. Being relatively new this emerging technique of combining the approaches is, at this stage, more of an art than a science. In this article we suggest approaches for the combination through simple examples. We also suggest that the integral formulation of the analytical problems may have some advantages over the differential formulation. The differential formulation limits somewhat the range of linear system descriptions that can be applied to a variety of practical problems. On the other hand the integral approach tends to focus attention to overall integrated behavior and properties of the system rather than on minute details. This is particularly useful in the coupling with a numerical model as in practice it generally deals also with only the integrated behavior of the system. The thesis of this article is illustrated with some simple stream‐aquifer flow exchange examples.
Groundwater Resources Potential in Hard Rock Terrain: A Multivariate Approach
Authors: Earon Robert , Dehkordi S. Emad , Olofsson Bo 
Published: September 2014

AbstractGroundwater resources are limited and difficult to predict in crystalline bedrock due to heterogeneity and anisotropy in rock fracture systems. Municipal‐level governments often lack the resources for traditional hydrogeological tests when planning for sustainable use of water resources. A new methodology for assessing groundwater resources potential (GRP) based on geological and topographical factors using principal component analysis (PCA) and analysis of variance (ANOVA) was developed and tested. ANOVA results demonstrated statistically significant differences in classed variable groups as well as in classed GRP scores with regard to hydrogeological indicators, such as specific capacity (SC) and transmissivity. Results of PCA were used to govern the weight of the variables used in the prediction maps. GRP scores were able to identify 79% of wells in a verification dataset, which had SC values less than the total dataset median. GRP values showed statistically significant correlations using both parametric (using transformed datasets) and non‐parametric methods. The method shows promise for municipal or regional level planning in crystalline terrains with high levels of heterogeneity and anisotropy as a hydrogeologically and statistically based tool to assist in assessing groundwater resources. The methodology is executed in a geographic information systems environment, and uses often readily available data, such as geological maps, feature maps and topography, and thus does not require expensive and time‐consuming aquifer tests.
Serum granulysin levels as a predictor of serious telaprevir‐induced dermatological reactions
Authors: Suda Goki , Yamamoto Yoshiya , Nagasaka Astushi , Furuya Ken , Kudo Mineo , Chuganji Yoshimichi , Tsukuda Yoko , Tsunematsu Seiji , Sato Fumiyuki , Terasita Katsumi , Nakai Masato , Horimoto Hiromasa , Sho Takuya , Natsuizaka Mitsuteru , Ogawa Kouji , Ohnishi Shunsuke , Chuma Makoto , Fujita Yasuyuki , Abe Riichiro , Taniguchi Miki , Nakagawa Mina , Asahina Yasuhiro , Sakamoto Naoya ,   NORTE Study Group
Published: September 2014

AimTelaprevir‐based therapy for chronic hepatitis C patients is effective; however, the high prevalence of dermatological reactions is an outstanding issue. The mechanism and characteristics of such adverse reactions are unclear; moreover, predictive factors remain unknown. Granulysin was recently reported to be upregulated in the blisters of patients with Stevens–Johnson syndrome (SJS). Therefore, we investigated the risk factors for severe telaprevir‐induced dermatological reactions as well as the association between serum granulysin levels and the severity of such reactions.MethodsA total of 89 patients who received telaprevir‐based therapy and had complete clinical information were analyzed. We analyzed the associations between dermatological reactions and clinical factors. Next, we investigated the time‐dependent changes in serum granulysin levels in five and 14 patients with grade 3 and non‐grade 3 dermatological reactions, respectively.ResultsOf the 89 patients, 57 patients had dermatological reactions, including nine patients with grade 3. Univariate analysis revealed that grade 3 dermatological reactions were significantly associated with male sex. Moreover, serum granulysin levels were significantly associated with the severity of dermatological reactions. Three patients with grade 3 dermatological reaction had severe systemic manifestations including SJS, drug‐induced hypersensitivity syndrome, and systemic lymphoid swelling and high‐grade fever; all were hospitalized. Importantly, among the three patients, two patients' serum granulysin levels exceeded 8 ng/mL at onset and symptoms deteriorated within 6 days.ConclusionMale patients are at high risk for severe telaprevir‐induced dermatological reactions. Moreover, serum granulysin levels are significantly associated with the severity of dermatological reactions and may be a predictive factor in patients treated with telaprevir‐based therapy.
Emotional assessment of patients with oral lichen planus
Authors: Alves Mônica Ghislaine Oliveira , do Carmo Carvalho Bruna Fernandes , Balducci Ivan , Cabral Luiz Antonio Guimarães , Nicodemo Denise , Almeida Janete Dias 
Published: September 2014

AbstractBackgroundOral lichen planus is a chronic immune‐mediated disease with an estimated prevalence of 0.5–2.5% in the general population. Patients with oral lichen planus are often emotionally unstable and anxious and may develop concomitant systemic disorders. The objective of this study was to evaluate emotional characteristics of patients with oral lichen planus.MethodsTwo groups were studied: the first group consisted of 48 patients with a diagnosis of oral lichen planus, and the second group consisted of controls without the disease matched for age and gender at a proportion of 1 : 1. The emotional state of the patients was evaluated using the State‐Trait Anxiety Inventory, SF‐36 generic quality of life questionnaire, and the Self Reporting Questionnaire‐20.Results and conclusionsThe present investigation demonstrated the presence of anxiety and depression in patients with oral lichen planus and a negative impact of the disorder on the patient's quality of life as indicated by impairment of the physical aspect, vitality, mental health, and social aspect domains. This could indicate that associated psychological treatment may be important in the follow‐up of these patients.
Polymorphisms in nucleotide excision repair genes and basal cell carcinoma of the skin
Authors: Pesz Karolina A. , Bieniek Andrzej , Gil Justyna , Laczmanska Izabela , Karpinski Pawel , Makowska Izabela , Trusewicz Alicja , Sasiadek Maria M. 
Published: September 2014

AbstractBackgroundMutations in nucleotide excision repair (NER) genes are the cause of xeroderma pigmentosum, a genetic syndrome with proneness to basal cell carcinoma (BCC) of the skin. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) may affect the effectiveness of DNA repair and hence influence individual susceptibility to a variety of neoplasms. The aim of this study was to find associations between SNPs in selected NER genes and sporadic BCC development.Materials and methodsThe study group consisted of 100 patients with histopathologically confirmed BCCs and the control group of 100 elderly individuals with no personal history of any cancer. DNA isolated from peripheral blood lymphocytes was genotyped for seven SNPs in five different NER genes. Statistical analyses for associations were performed.ResultsA weak association between XPD exon 6 silent C/A polymorphism and BCC development risk was found when comparing single polymorphisms between the two groups. When considering sex and SNPs, men with the A‐allele in XPC intron 11 C/A have been found to have a decreased risk of BCC.ConclusionsThere is no consistency in association studies between SNPs and BCC susceptibility. SNPs in NER genes seem to have an insignificant influence on the risk of developing BCC of the skin.
Herpes zoster‐associated severity and duration of pain, health‐related quality of life, and healthcare utilization in Taiwan: a prospective observational study
Authors: Tsai Tsen‐Fang , Yao Chien‐An , Yu Hsin‐Su , Lan Cheng‐Che , Chao Sheau‐Chiou , Yang Jen‐Hung , Yang Kuo‐Chia , Chen Ching‐Yu , White Ron R. , Psaradellis Eliofotisti , Rampakakis Emmanouil , Kawai Kosuke , Acosta Camilo J. , Sampalis John S. 
Published: September 2014

AbstractBackgroundTo assess the severity and duration of herpes zoster (HZ)‐associated pain (ZAP) and its impact on quality of life (QoL) and healthcare utilization (HCRU) from a patient perspective in routine care in Taiwan.MethodsA prospective, observational, single‐cohort study was conducted in five centers across Taiwan. Patients were recruited at different time points during their HZ episode and were followed for ≤180 days. ZAP was assessed with the Initial Zoster Impact Questionnaire and the Zoster Brief Pain Inventory, QoL with the EQ‐5D, and HCRU with a simple questionnaire.ResultsA total of 150 patients were included with a mean age of 64.9 years and mean time since rash onset of 18.8 days. Prodromal pain was experienced by 64.7% of patients, of whom 91.8% reported moderate‐to‐severe pain. At enrollment, 98.0% of patients experienced ZAP. Mean ± SD worst pain score decreased from 5.95 ± 3.09 at enrollment to 2.65 ± 2.98 at 30 days and 0.28 ± 0.83 at 180 days. Postherpetic neuralgia was observed in 20.7% of patients. Mean ± SD EQ‐5D score significantly decreased (P < 0.001) from 0.91 ± 0.16 before rash onset to 0.67 ± 0.18 after rash onset, showing significant QoL deterioration up to 60 days. The impact of HZ on QoL and pain severity was similar across age groups. Significant HCRU was observed including visits to the doctor (83.3% of patients), specialist (30.7%), emergency department (24.7%), physiotherapist (23.3%), and hospitalizations (20.7%).ConclusionSevere morbidity and significant HCRU are associated with HZ in Taiwan, supporting the need for early intervention and preventive strategies to reduce the HZ‐associated burden of illness.
Giant melanocytic nevus with malignant melanoma: a rare disorder in a black African child
Authors: Katibi Oludolapo Sherifat , Ogunbiyi Adebola , Brown Biobele Jotham , Adeyemi Oyedeji Oladele 
Published: September 2014

IntroductionGiant congenital melanocytic nevus (GCMN) is rare in babies of African descent. Unfortunately, it has an increased potential for malignant transformation.ReportA 3‐year‐old female child presented with a 6‐month history of multiple nodules on an existing giant congenital melanocytic nevus and swelling in the right axilla of four weeks duration. Skin biopsy of the nodular skin lesions was in keeping with a metastatic malignant melanoma (Clark stage 4). She completed a full course of chemotherapy but subsequently died four months after presentation.ConclusionPatients with large GCMN should be counseled and followed up appropriately to improve and prolong life.
Bathing suit ichthyosis caused by a TGM1 mutation in a Tunisian child
Authors: Benmously‐Mlika Rym , Zaouak Anissa , Mrad Ridha , Laaroussi Nadia , Abdelhak Sonia , Hovnanian Alain , Mokhtar Insaf 
Published: September 2014

AbstractBackgroundBathing suit ichthyosis (BSI) is an uncommon phenotype classified as a minor variant of autosomal recessive congenital ichthyosis (ARCI).ObjectivesWe report a case of BSI in a 3‐year‐old Tunisian girl with a novel mutation of the transglutaminase 1 gene (TGM1).Case ReportThis infant had been born with a collodion membrane encasing her entire body. From the age of three months, brownish scaling was noted on the bathing suit area. Histology showed orthohyperkeratosis with acanthosis of the epidermis. The granular layer was normal, and the superficial dermis was mildly inflammatory, confirming a diagnosis of proliferating ichthyosis. Molecular analysis in the patient and her parents revealed the mutation I304F of TGM1. Treatment with emollients and keratolytics partially improved the patient's skin condition.ConclusionsBathing suit ichthyosis is an uncommon phenotype unique in its topography, which involves the trunk but spares the face and extremities. Previous studies using molecular analysis have shown that BSI is caused mainly by mutations in TGM1. Twenty missense mutations have been reported in BSI. Of these 20 missense mutations, nine occurred only in patients with the BSI phenotype and 11 were common to BSI and other types of ARCI. Until recently, there has been no genotype‐phenotype correlation. Therefore, the same mutation of the transglutaminase 1 could result in either generalized ARCI or BSI. The present case demonstrates this phenotype in a White Tunisian patient with a novel mutation of TGM1 (I304F) not previously reported in BSI.
The efficacy of methotrexate plus pioglitazone vs. methotrexate alone in the management of patients with plaque‐type psoriasis: a single‐blinded randomized controlled trial
Authors: Lajevardi Vahide , Hallaji Zahra , Daklan Soroush , Abedini Robabeh , Goodarzi Azadeh , Abdolreza Mona 
Published: September 2014

AbstractRecently, thiazolidinediones have shown to be efficacious with a favorable safety profile when used in the treatment of chronic plaque‐type psoriasis. The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the efficacy and safety of a combination of methotrexate plus pioglitazone and methotrexate alone in plaque‐type psoriasis. A total of 44 adult patients with plaque‐type psoriasis were included in the study. Patients were randomized to treatment with methotrexate alone (group A) or methotrexate plus pioglitazone (group B) for 16 weeks. The primary efficacy outcome measure was psoriasis area and severity index (PASI) score change between the study groups at week 16 relative to baseline. The secondary efficacy outcome measure was dermatology life quality index (DLQI) score change between the two groups at week 16 relative to baseline. The PASI 75 score was also measured. After 16 weeks of therapy, the percentage of reduction in the mean PASI score was 70.3% in group B and 60.2% in group A. PASI 75 was achieved in 14 patients (63.6%) in group B compared with two patients (9.1%) in group A within 16 weeks, which was significant (P < 0.001). At 16 weeks from the baseline, a 63.6% decrease in the mean DLQI score of group B was seen, while the decrease for group A was 56.9%. Pioglitazone enhances the therapeutic effect of methotrexate in plaque‐type psoriasis, as demonstrated by a reduction in the mean PASI scores. In terms of DLQI, there was no extra benefit by the addition of pioglitazone to methotrexate therapy.
Effects of loratadine and cetirizine on serum levels of neuropeptides in patients with chronic urticaria
Authors: Başak Pinar Y. , Vural Huseyin , Kazanoglu Oya O. , Erturan Ijlal , Buyukbayram Halil I. 
Published: September 2014

AbstractH1‐receptor inhibiting drugs, namely loratadine and cetirizine, were frequently used in treatment of chronic urticaria. Urticarial weal and flare reactions, a neurogenic reflex due to neuropeptides, were reported to be more effectively inhibited by cetirizine than loratadine. The aim of this study was to determine and compare the effects of systemic loratadine and cetirizine treatments on serum levels of selected neuropeptides in chronic urticaria. Treatment groups of either systemic loratadine or cetirizine (10 mg/d), consisting of 16 and 22 patients, respectively, were included. Serum levels of stem cell factor (SCF), neuropeptide Y (NPY), calcitonin gene‐related peptide (CGRP), nerve growth factor (NGF), vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP), and substance P (SP) were detected before and after one week of treatment with antihistamines. Serum NPY and VIP levels were significantly decreased when compared before and after treatment with antihistamines (P < 0.001 and P < 0.01, respectively). SCF and NGF values were also decreased after antihistamine treatment (P < 0.05). Post‐treatment levels of CGRP were significantly higher compared with pretreatment values, while no significant difference was detected between pre and post treatment levels of SP. Cetirizine was significantly more effective than loratadine on lowering serum levels of SCF among the other neuropeptides. Systemic loratadine and cetirizine treatments in patients with chronic urticaria precisely caused variations in serum levels of neuropeptides. The predominant effect of cetirizine compared to loratadine on reducing serum SCF levels might be explained with anti‐inflammatory properties of cetirizine.
Do suncreens protect us?
Authors: Maslin Douglas L. 
Published: September 2014

AbstractSunlight stimulates a multitude of important biological effects on skin, causing, amongst other pathological changes, photocarcinogenesis. Sunscreens are designed to provide protection against these harmful properties of ultraviolet radiation, and public health campaigns have been employed to encourage their use. Despite this, there has been a continued rise in the incidence and mortality of the most harmful skin cancer, malignant melanoma. This review article therefore looks at the role of ultraviolet radiation in causing skin cancer; summarizes the available evidence on both the beneficial and harmful effects of sunscreen use; and concludes with practical advice on how we might advise our patients to best protect themselves from photocarcinogenesis.
Keeping up with the times: revising the dermatology residency curriculum in the era of molecular diagnostics and personalized medicine
Authors: LaChance Avery , Murphy Michael J. 
Published: September 2014

AbstractBackgroundThe clinical use of molecular diagnostics, genomics, and personalized medicine is increasing and improving rapidly over time. However, medical education incorporating the practical application of these techniques is lagging behind. Although instruction in these areas should be expanded upon and improved at all levels of training, residency provides a concentrated period of time in which to hone in on skills that are practically applicable to a trainee's specialty of choice. Although residencies in some fields, such as pathology, have begun to incorporate practical molecular diagnostics training, this area remains a relative gap in dermatology residency programs.MethodsHerein, we advocate for the incorporation of training in molecular diagnostics and personalized medicine into dermatology residency programs and propose a basic curriculum template for how to begin approaching these topics.Results/ConclusionsBy incorporating molecular diagnostics into dermatology residency training, dermatologists have the opportunity to lead the way and actively shape the specialty's transition into the era of personalized medicine.
“Pocket sandwich” dressing in auricular surgery
Authors: Schmidtberger Lindsey , El Tal Abdel Kader , MacFarlane Deborah F. 
Published: September 2014

AbstractBackgroundThe auricular dressing presents a challenge to medical staff and patients alike. The task is to dress the ear, which may include exposed cartilage, in a manner that provides protection but does not distort auricular anatomy.MethodsTwo lengths of adhesive tape are sandwiched over the posterior and anterior aspects of the ear to cover the defect in an occlusive manner, creating a “pocket sandwich”‐type dressing.ResultsThis method results in a dressing that can be used to cover a post‐surgical defect on any part of the ear. It is inexpensive and easily reproducible by the patient.ConclusionsThe present dressing is non‐bulky, easy to perform, and encases the ear in a pocket of adhesive tape. Further advantages are that it avoids the auricular distortion that may occur with overly bulky dressings, provides an occlusive environment, is esthetically pleasing, and comfortably accommodates eyewear. We highly recommend its use for ear wound defects.
Clinical and dermoscopic evaluation of cutaneous leishmaniasis
Authors: Ayhan Erhan , Ucmak Derya , Baykara Sule Nergiz , Akkurt Zeynep Meltem , Arica Mustafa 
Published: September 2014

AbstractBackgroundDermoscopy is a method to aid in the visualization of the epidermis and dermis. In recent years, the use of dermoscopy in the diagnosis of non‐melanocytic lesions such as those of leishmania cutis has increased.ObjectivesThis study was intended to establish whether dermoscopic investigation has any diagnostic value in cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL).MethodsFifty‐five patients diagnosed with CL at the Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine, Dicle University, between February and October 2012, were included in the study. Collectively, the patients exhibited a total of 127 lesions.ResultsThe mean ± standard deviation age of the patients was 25.7 ± 21.3 years (range: 4–86 years). Twenty‐three (41.8%) patients were male, and 32 (58.2%) were female. In dermoscopy, teardrop‐like structures were observed in 42.5% of the lesions. Vascular structures were detected in 115 (90.6%) lesions; no vascular structures were observed in 12 (9.4%) lesions. Branching, linear, comma‐like, and polymorphic vessels were seen more commonly in lesions on the face; pin‐point and hairpin‐like vessels were seen more commonly in lesions on the upper extremities.ConclusionsWhen the findings obtained in this study were evaluated along with those reported in the literature, it became apparent that follicular plugs, also called “teardrop‐like structures”, seen on the face and neck may be a dermoscopic feature specific to CL. As hairpin‐like vessels seen in an asymmetric radial arrangement were often observed on parts of the body other than the face, further dermoscopic studies comparing the lesions of CL with other ulcerating lesions are necessary.
Performance evaluation of the automated nucleated red blood cell enumeration on Sysmex XN analyser
Authors: Tantanate C. , Klinbua C. 
Published: September 2014

SummaryIntroductionPresence of peripheral blood nucleated red blood cell (NRBC) is associated with pathological conditions and leads to the overestimation of white blood cell count in automated haematology analysers (HA). The authors evaluated NRBC enumeration by a new HA Sysmex XN (XN) to demonstrate the precision and comparability to manual count (MC) at the various NRBC values.MethodsSpecimens with initially NRBC positive were included. For precision assessment, 8 levels of NRBCs were repeatedly analysed. For comparison study, 234 specimens were analysed by both XN and MC.ResultsFor precision study, the percentage of coefficient of variation ranged from 14% to 45.6% and 1.2% to 4.4% for MC and XN, respectively. For comparison study between XN and MC, NRBCs ranged from 0% to 612.5%. Regression analysis demonstrated an r2 of 0.98. The mean bias of 14.1% with 95% limits of agreement between –48.76% and 76.95% was found. The NRBC counts from XN appeared to be more in accordance with MC when the NRBCs were lower than 200% with the concordance rate of 94.2%.ConclusionThe automated NRBC enumeration by XN was precise and could replace the traditional MC, especially for the specimens with NRBCs lower than 200%.