bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Can early malignant melanoma be differentiated from atypical melanocytic nevus by in vivo techniques?
Authors: Gutkowicz‐Krusin D. , Elbaum M. , Szwaykowski P. , Kopf A. W. 
Published: October 2006

Background/aims: Differentiation between early (Breslow thickness less than 1 mm) malignant melanoma (MM) and atypical melanocytic nevus (AMN) remains a challenge even to trained clinicians. The purpose of this study is to determine the feasibility of reliable discrimination between early MM and AMN with noninvasive, objective, automatic machine vision techniques.Methods: A data base of 104 digitized dermoscopic color transparencies of melanocytic lesions was used to develop and test our computer‐based algorithms for classification of such lesions as malignant (MM) or benign (AMN). Histopathologic diagnoses (30 MM and 74 AMN) were used as the “gold standard” for training and testing the algorithms.Results: A fully automatic, objective technique for differentiating between early MM and AMN from their dermoscopic digital images was developed. The multiparameter linear classifier was trained to provide 100% sensitivity for MM. In the blind test, this technique did not miss a single MM and its specificity was comparable to that of skilled dermatologists.Conclusions: Reliable differentiation between early MM and AMN with high sensitivity is possible using machine vision techniques to analyze digitized dermoscopic lesion images.
Diagnosis of cutaneous melanoma: accuracy of a computerized image analysis system (Skin View)
Authors: Cristofolini M. , Bauer P. , Boi S. , Cristofolini P. , Micciolo R. , Sicher M. C. 
Published: October 2006

Background/aims: Early diagnosis is essential for reducing the high mortality of CM (cutaneous melanoma). An expert dermatologist has a diagnostic accuracy of 85% but, in performing mass screening, the problem is to transfer the experience of a specialized centre to peripheral health clinics. Therefore, some computerized analysis systems were made. The aim of this paper is to compare the diagnostic accuracy of one such system, the Skin View System (SVS), to the accuracy of a well trained dermatologist in order to establish the real usefulness of the instrument and to verify how much it can help the diagnostic accuracy of the clinician in a dermatology setting.Method: During a campaign for the early diagnosis of CM, 176 patients with small and flat pigmentary lesions underwent clinical diagnosis, computerized analysis with SVS and skin biopsy. For clinical and computerized diagnosis, we evaluated sensitivity, specificity, true and negative predictive value.Results: The statistical evaluation, in our study, reveals that the computerized system has a diagnostic accuracy lower than that of a trained dermatologist.Conclusions: This computerized system does not help the clinician in the diagnosis of pigmented lesions.
Efficient segmentation of large‐area skin images: a statistical evaluation
Authors: Filiberti D. P. , Gaines J. A. , Bellutta P. , Ngan P. , Perednia D. A. 
Published: October 2006

Background/aims: This paper is the second of a series describing research and development performed by the SPOTS project towards automating the process of monitoring pigmented lesions for change over time. Several parameters of the system are introduced along with the methods used for determining appropriate settings. We then describe our experimental setup and present a detailed statistical analysis to evaluate system performance.Methods: There exist three sets of parameters in our system related to image segmentation, classification, and a region‐growing step that can be individually tuned. The multiresolution hierarchical segmentation algorithm contains both a set of weights for the tristimulus color values used in calculating color differences and a contrast threshold used to identify root nodes that represent image segments. These were tuned using a synthetic image to simulate a pigmented lesion with irregular border and by estimating the parameters by successive approximations. The neural network classification used to detect lesion segments was trained using a 10‐fold cross‐validation, and the output classification threshold was set to yield a small false negatives ratio. Finally, there is a growing threshold used to determine whether neighbor regions should be merged in the region‐growing step that was selected to minimize the change in area for different translations of a synthetic lesion. In order to evaluate the performance of the system, we compared the identified lesions with manually localized lesions. Ten images of the same area were taken from two subjects presenting lesions of varying size and different background skin texture. A sample of two images from the set was used to simulate variations in acquisition. Five operators were asked to trace lesion boundaries in two passes, separated by a few days, to evaluate the consistency of operators among themselves. The system was then run on the images using the optimal set of parameters. The results were analyzed for independent observation, matched pass, and doubly‐matched pass data.Conclusions: Independent observation data indicates that the system finds significantly more objects than any of the human operators, but the areas reported are not significantly different on average. Matched pass data show that the correlations of the system with human operators is quite high. The system agrees with humans only slightly less than they do among themselves and has a tendency to report slightly smaller areas. The correlation between system and human peformance was further reinforced by the doubly‐matched arrangement. These results indicate that our system is as reliable and consistent as our human reference, yielding similar performance.
Color analysis of nevus of Ota for evaluation of treatment with a Q‐switched alexandrite laser
Authors: Miyamoto Hiroshi , Takiwaki Hirotsugu , Yamano Masahiro , Ahsan Kamrul , Nakanishi Hideki 
Published: October 2006

Background/aims:The Q‐switched alexandrite laser shows excellent results in treating nevi of Ota. This study sought to examine the utility of color monitoring of the lesion for quantifying the efficacy of laser treatment.Methods:Lesion images were obtained from 12 patients using a video microscope before and after a series of laser treatments. The RGB color data in a 50 mm2 area of the images were converted into coordinates of three color systems and compared with clinical evaluation.Results:On three coordinates representing the brightness of skin color (the intensity, the L* and the melanin index), there were significant differences between data obtained before and after treatment (P<0.01), in accord with clinical impressions. Darker lesions tended to show more improvement. Coordinates based on chromaticity were less useful for evaluation of treatment.Conclusions:Color analysis of nevi of Ota is useful for quantifying efficacy of laser treatment, especially when assessed in a small area of the lesion.
Pilot study using high‐frequency diagnostic ultrasound to assess surgical wounds in renal transplant patients
Authors: Calvin M. , Modarai B. , Young S. R. , Koffman G. , Dyson M. 
Published: October 2006

Background:The majority of renal transplant patients will sustain at least one acute rejection episode during the first 4 months, following transplantation. Clinical rejection is rarely an all‐or‐nothing reaction, and the first episode seldom progresses to complete renal destruction. The functional changes induced by rejection appear to be in large part reversible; therefore the recognition and treatment of the rejection episode, before the development of severe renal damage, are of extreme importance.Methods:This pilot study describes a technique of non‐invasive wound assessment used to monitor 14 transplant patients, over a 3 week post‐operative period. The technique involved the use of 20 MHz diagnostic ultrasound, in conjunction with fractal image analysis. Ultrasound scans of both wounded and adjacent uninjured tissue were taken 5, 7, 11, 14 and 21 days post‐surgery.Results:When patients were divided into those who experienced allograft rejection and those who did not, a distinct trend appeared. In those who did not reject, the fractal signature of the wound progressed towards that of normal tissue in a linear fashion. In patients that did reject, the fractal signature initially progressed towards normal until day 11, then changed direction moving away from normal, between days 11 and 14. The patients experiencing allograft rejection were clinically diagnosed around a mean time of 14 days post‐surgery. It is therefore possible that this shift in fractal signature may correlate with graft rejection.Conclusion:The results of this pilot study indicate that high frequency diagnostic ultrasound, coupled with appropriate image analysis, may be a useful adjunct to renal function assessment.
Phosphorus metabolites in human skin and muscle obtained by phosphorus‐31 magnetic resonance spectroscopy
Authors: Wright A. C. , Bohning D. E. , Spicer K. M. 
Published: October 2006

Background/aims:Characterization of skin phosphometabol‐ism in vivo by non‐invasive magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) might allow assessment of ischemic or irradiative damage.Methods:Based on a study of 17 healthy volunteers, we present statistical analyses for intra‐ and inter‐tissue metabolite concentration ratios, as well as for pH and [Mg2+].Results:Results contrasted steady‐state energy metabolism in skin and muscle, showing lower phosphocreatine/ATP, higher percentage of inorganic phosphate, phosphodiesters and phos‐phomonoesters, and higher pH and [Mg2+] in skin than in muscle.Conclusion:Results were consistent with known skin physiology and structure and suggested an inverse relationship between skin phosphodiester levels and melanin.
Allergic contact reactions in the skin assessed by electrical impedance – a pilot study
Authors: Nicander Ingrid , Ollmar Stig , Rozell Barbro Lundh , Emtestam Lennart 
Published: October 2006

Background/aims:In our previous studies of the electrical impedance of the skin, we formulated a set of physical indices that could be used to distinguish between the cutaneous effects produced by different chemical irritants. We now describe an investigation of allergic contact reactions, using the same set of impedance indices for characterization.Methods:Skin reactions were induced in the forearm of eight female patients who were allergic to nickel by exposure to nickel sulphate in petrolatum at various concentrations. The responses were evaluated by measurements of electrical impedance and transepidermal water loss, as well as by visual scoring and biopsy. Normal skin was used for controls.Results:Different degrees of allergic contact reactions were produced, and the changes in value of the impedance indices were found to follow a particular pattern. This pattern diverged markedly from that obtained in controls, and the differences were statistically significant.Conclusions:Our results suggest that, by the application of a technique based on electrical impedance, it will be possible to characterize allergic skin reactions.
Irritancy testing of sodium laurate and other anionic detergents using an open exposure model
Authors: Tupker R. A. , Vermeulen K. , Fidler V. , Coenraads P. J. 
Published: October 2006

Background/aims:The irritant potency of soap (sodium laurate, LAU) as opposed to other anionic detergents is not uniformly agreed upon. The aim of the study was to compare the irritancy of sodium laurate with that of sodium laurylsulphate (SLS), sodium cocoyl isethionate and disodium lauryl 3‐ethoxysulphosuc‐cinate by means of a 4‐day repeated open exposure model in order to achieve a more realistic mimicry of daily practice.Methods:The effects of the exposures were evaluated by: a) number of fulfilled exposures, b) visual score after exposures, and c) transepidermal water loss (TEWL) after exposures.Results:In the majority of subjects, exposure to LAU had to be stopped because of burning sensations, erythema and/or scaling. The number of fulfilled exposures to LAU was lower than that of SLS. The other agents were tolerated very well. These less irritative agents had much lower visual scores and TEWL values after the repeated exposures compared with LAU and SLS.Conclusions:The explanation for the irritant nature of LAU in the present study might be the type of alkyl chain length distribution. Its 12‐carbon chain content was ≤ 99%, and this agent can therefore be designated as pure sodium laurate. The same holds true for SLS. In daily practice, however, soap is a mixture of different – less irritant – chain lengths. Therefore, these findings cannot be extrapolated to commercially available soap bars.
Does lipid sampling with the Sebutape technique disturb the skin physiology?
Authors: Clarys P. , Lambrecht R. , Barel A. O. 
Published: October 2006

Background/aims:Lipid sampling with the Sebutape technique takes at least 1 h in order to obtain a representative follicular pattern. Subsequent morphometric analysis reveals different parameters on the sebum excretion. However, application of Sebutape may disturb the normal skin physiology, and hence sebum excretion, due to an occlusive effect. The aim of the present study was to evaluate whether collection of skin surface lipids with Sebutape influences skin parameters such as TEWL, skin temperature and stratum corneum hydration.Methods:On the forehead, a comparison was made between skin sites covered with a Sebutape and contralateral control sites. Prior to removal of the Sebutape, skin temperature under the tape was measured. Immediately after removal of the tape, TEWL and skin capacitance were estimated. The same parameters were determined on the control sites. Furthermore, a comparison was made on the forearms between the occlusion effect of Sebutape application and a complete occlusion with a plastic tape. Hydration of the skin was measured as function of time after removal of both occlusive applications.Results:We detected only a very weak influence of Sebutape application on TEWL and skin hydration. Skin temperature was not affected. A significant difference was detected between the application of Sebutape and the application of a plastic occlusion.Conclusions:Lipid sampling with Sebutape has only minor or no influence on the skin physiology as demonstrated by TEWL, skin temperature and stratum corneum capacitance measurements.
A refined method to evaluate diapers for effectiveness in reducing skin hydration using the adult forearm
Authors: Akin Frank J. , Lemmen Jac T. , Bozarth Dena L. , Garofalo Martin J. , Grove Gary L. 
Published: October 2006

Background/aims:Excessive skin hydration resulting from wet undergarments is a major cause of diaper rash in children and contributes to severe dermatitis in incontinent adults. Advancements in absorbent technology have led to diapers and incontinent garments that not only absorb urine, but also transfer it to different regions, and lock it away from the skin. The purpose of the present study was to develop a reliable method to assess the effectiveness of absorbent articles in mitigating skin hydration.Methods:Disposable diapers with different absorbent structures were wrapped around the forearms of adult volunteers, loaded with urine substitute, and held in place for 1 h. Hydration of the volar region was measured by evaporimetry and compared with that of skin in the diaper region of children who had worn control loaded diapers in the usual way. The amount of fluid retained in various diaper layers and in the superabsorbent polymer core was measured.Conclusions:Evaporative water loss measurement on adult forearms was shown to be a reliable test for comparing the effectiveness of absorbent articles in preventing excessive skin hydration provided that 1) the complete garment was used and 2) fluid was loaded in a manner that simulated normal urination. Skin on adult forearms and skin in the diaper region of children were concordant in their response to wet diapers. Skin wetness was directly related to the amount of liquid retained in absorbent layers close to the skin.
High resolution laser Doppler perfusion imaging for the investigation of blood circulatory changes after microdialysis probe insertion
Authors: Lindén Maria , Wårdell Karin , Andersson Thomas , Anderson Chris 
Published: October 2006

Background/aim:Cutaneous microdialysis enables in vivo sampling of substances in the extracellular space in human skin. It is usual to allow an equilibration time to elapse after tissue trauma caused by probe insertion. One of the prerequisites for correct interpretation of data is detailed knowledge of the effect of insertion and presence of the probe in the skin, especially in the tissue closest to the membrane.Methods:Laser Doppler perfusion imaging was used to investigate the time required for blood perfusion to return to near normal levels after probe insertion. The standard system was used in parallel with a high resolution system. The latter gave 3600 measurement sites in an area of 2 cm × 2 cm and thus enabled a detailed study of circulatory changes immediately around the membrane. Perfusion levels prior to probe insertion as well as the perfusion response to probe insertion were recorded by both systems.Results:In agreement with previous findings, the perfusion levels were found to return to near normal levels within 60 min. Individual variations were, however, seen. High resolution laser Doppler perfusion imaging provided detailed visualisation of these variations both spatially and over time.Conclusions:High resolution laser Doppler perfusion imaging is superior to standard laser Doppler perfusion imaging in detailed visualisation of the variations in skin blood perfusion after microdialysis probe insertion. The individual variations seen can be of importance in the interpretation of microdialysis data.
A comparison between a tristimulus colorimeter (Minolta ChromaMeter CR‐200) and two spectrophotometers (Minolta Spectrophotometer CM‐508i and CM‐2002). Quantification of UV‐B induced erythema in a hairless guinea pig model
Authors: Fullerton A. , Keiding J. 
Published: October 2006

Background/aims:A comparison was made between a tristimulus colorimeter (Minolta ChromaMeter CR 200) and two spectrophotometers (Minolta CM‐508i and CM‐2002). The object was to compare skin colour data in the CIE 1976 L*a*d*colour space system obtained with the different instruments after UV‐B exposure.Methods:Guinea pigs were exposed on their dorsal trunk with UV‐B light for different time periods. Skin colour in the L*a*b* system was measured 6 and 24 h after exposure.Results:Reproducible and objective measurements expressed in the CIE system were obtained with all three instruments. A strong correlation was found between the Minolta Chromameter CR200 and each of the two spectrophotometers. However, absolute values found with the Minolta ChromaMeter CR 200, especially for b*, differed from values obtained with the two spectrophotometers.Conclusions:The instruments were, despite minor inter‐instrumental variation, suited for objective evaluation of erythema. The spectrophotometers were somewhat cumbersome to use due to their heavy weight and difficulties in positioning within the test sites; the Minolta CromaMeter CR200 (or later versions) is thus preferable for simple routine measurements. Use of the spectophotometers appears only indicated where specific information about skin pigments or photoactive substances relative to wavelength is needed.
Microwave corneosurfametry: a minute assessment of the skin compatibility of surfactant‐containing products
Authors: Goffin Véronique , Piérard‐Franchimont Claudine , Piérard Gérald E. 
Published: October 2006

Background/aims:Surfactants may elicit several undesirable effects on the skin. The stratum corneum is one of the targets showing primary changes after a short contact with detergents. Corneosurfametry was introduced as an ex vivo bioassay to assess the interaction and compatibility of surfactants with human stratum corneum. The present work introduces a variant of the regular corneosurfametry test.Method:Microwaving set at 750 W for 30 s was used to shorten the duration of the technical procedure and to allow the rating of neat surfactant‐containing products. The color of samples (L.* and Chroma C*) was measured to derive the colorimetric index of mildness (CIM), the values of which rise from 0 to 70 with increasing surfactant mildness toward human stratum corneum. Data were compared with standard corneosurfametry performed at 20 and 40°C.Results:Data indicate that increasing the temperature of the test solutions and microwaving alter the CIM values of most surfactants. Only the most gentle products are little affected. An overall good correlation exists between the regular and microwave corneosurfametry data.Conclusions:Microwave corneosurfametry is a new sensitive tool for predicting skin compatibility of surfactants.
Mild and below threshold skin responses to sodium lauryl sulphate assessed by depth controlled electrical impedance
Authors: Nicander Ingrid , Ollmar Stig 
Published: October 2006

Background/aims:There is a need for objective and noninvasive methods to quantify and classify weak reactions in the skin. We have explored the capacity of the electrical impedance technique to evaluate mild irritant skin reactions and responses below the clinical threshold by using low concentrations of sodium lauryl sulphate.Methods:Twenty‐one healthy subjects were patch tested with 0.004, 0.02, 0.1 and 0.5% sodium lauryl sulphate on both volar forearms. An unoccluded area was used as a reference site. Values were recorded before application and 24 h after removal of the chambers. The magnitude and phase of electrical impedance were measured in the frequency range 1 kHz to 1 MHz at five depth settings. Four indices were devised from the impedance data, and the values obtained were statistically analysed.Results:Between day 1 and day 3, statistically significant differences were found from the concentration of 0.02%, and the significance level increased from depth 1 to depth 5.Conclusion:Our results confirm that the electrical impedance method is a sensitive technique for detection of macroscopically negative responses induced by sodium lauryl sulphate, and that depth selection can be used to optimise the signal‐to‐noise ratio.