bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Characterization of the barrier function in a reconstituted human epidermis cultivated in chemically defined medium
Authors: Garcia N. , Doucet O. , Bayer M. , Fouchard D. , Zastrow L. , Marty J. P. 
Published: March 2003

SynopsisThe aim of the study was to characterize and assess the maturation process of the barrier function in a reconstituted human epidermis (REp) cultivated in a chemically defined medium. For this purpose histo‐morphological analysis, percutaneous absorption studies and non‐invasive measurements were performed. In order to understand the time course of the barrier development, REp cultivated from the same pool of normal human keratinocytes were harvested and measured after several increasing periods of exposure at the air–liquid interface. From these results we concluded that a maturation period of at least 16 days at the air–liquid interface was required for an optimal barrier function development of REp. At this time point, the permeability of the skin cultures for caffeine (CAF) was 20–25‐fold higher than that of normal human skin (NHS) biopsies. Non‐invasive measurements of skin water content, transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and pH were achieved after the same period of time. Results showed that the stratum corneum (SC) of REp was slightly more hydrated than that of ex vivo and in vivo, human skin. TEWL was slightly higher through REp than through NHS, and the pH of the REp models was very close to that of in vivo, normal human skin. In the latter part, assuming that this type of model could be routinely used, we quantified over a 1‐year period the barrier function variability of this skin culture model between batches. The satisfactory results obtained with a 20% coefficient of variation indicated that this REp model has a consistent and reproducible barrier function. This leads us to suggest that the skin model might be considered an alternative membrane to normal human skin for permeation screening tests.
Development of an in vitro efficacy test for self‐tanning formulations
Authors: Jermann R. , Toumiat M. , Imfeld D. 
Published: March 2003

SynopsisIn the last few years, the desire to acquire a tan without sunbathing has grown. In response, many cosmetic companies have produced self‐tanning preparations. However, to optimize these formulations, a suitable model to assess the colour induced on the skin remains to be developed. We have developed an in vitro method using a synthetic skin in order to study the efficacy of self‐tanning formulations. The in vitro test was then used to study the influence of cosmetic ingredients upon the colour induced by erythrulose‐ or dihydroxyacetone‐containing formulations. Finally, an in vivo study allowed us to relate the results obtained in vitro with those found on human skin. The results show that this in vitro test system is a reliable tool to predict the efficacy of self‐tanning products.
From fact to recommendation: explicit value premises make the conclusion more convincing
Authors: Nilstun T. , Sjökvist P. 
Published: March 2003

Abstract. Nilstun T, Sjökvist P (Lund University, Lund; and Huddinge University Hospital, Huddinge; Sweden). From fact to recommendation: explicit value premises make the conclusion more convincing (Review). J Intern Med 2001; 249: 121–125.In this article we describe one way to use value premises, i.e. conceptions of what is right or wrong, good or bad, just or unjust. They may, in combination with the results from surveys on attitudes, be used to defend normative conclusions, for example changes in professional guidelines. Several ethical principles may be relevant when discussing an end‐of‐life decision. We use the preferences of those involved in or affected by that decision (the principle of autonomy) and the obligation to maximize benefits and minimize harm (the principle of beneficence) as value premises. To illustrate the ethical, empirical and logical issues relevant to assess normative conclusions, we present a Swedish survey of the attitudes of health care workers and the general public. In this survey, the physicians stated that they do not want the family to be the sole decision‐maker, whilst the public did not want the physician to be the sole decision‐maker. As a third option we propose joint decision‐making regarding end‐of‐life decisions. This normative conclusion may be rationally discussed, not only by questioning scientific aspects of the survey, but also by critically assessing value premises (autonomy and beneficence) and the logic of the argument.
Scanning electron microscopy description of a new species of Demodex canis spp.
Authors: Tamura Yukio , Kawamura Yoko , Inoue Isamu , Ishino Seishi 
Published: March 2003

AbstractBetween 1997 and 1999, the prevalence of Demodex canis mites was determined in 150 dogs. In two dogs, we found two different species of mites; Demodex canis and another, unidentified, Demodex mite. The unidentified Demodex mite species had several different morphological features. First, it had a short opisthosoma and an obtuse end. In addition, the fourth coxisternal plate was rectangular and there was a band‐like segmental plate between the fourth coxisternal plate and opisthosoma. Although all of the morphology and the development of male mites could not be investigated in this study, the location of the opisthosoma and the genital pore clearly differed from Demodex canis, suggesting that this unidentified mite is a new species.
A method for isolating a high yield of Arabidopsis chloroplasts capable of efficient import of precursor proteins
Authors: Fitzpatrick Lynda M. , Keegstra Kenneth 
Published: March 2003

SummaryChloroplasts were isolated from Arabidopsis plants grown under different conditions, and using different protocols, to determine a method that would yield chloroplasts capable of binding and importing precursor proteins. Chloroplasts isolated from protoplasts and purified on a Percoll gradient were highly import‐competent, with little non‐specific binding of the precursor, and a high yield of intact chloroplasts (0.1 mg chlorophyll/g FW). Chloroplasts from plants grown on agar plates had a much higher rate of import than those from plants grown on soil. Protein import remained high at all of the ages tested for chloroplasts from plate‐grown plants, whereas it declined during the development of soil‐grown plants. Arabidopsis chloroplasts imported a range of precursor proteins and had nucleotide requirements for binding and import similar to those reported for pea chloroplasts.
Divalent cations and polyamines bind to loop 8 of 14‐3‐3 proteins, modulating their interaction with phosphorylated nitrate reductase
Authors: Athwal Gurdeep S. , Huber Steven C. 
Published: March 2003

SummaryBinding of 14‐3‐3 proteins to nitrate reductase phosphorylated on Ser543 (phospho‐NR) inhibits activity and is responsible for the inactivation of nitrate reduction that occurs in darkened leaves. The 14‐3‐3‐dependent inactivation of phospho‐NR is known to require millimolar concentrations of a divalent cation such as Mg2+ at pH 7.5. We now report that micromolar concentrations of the polyamines, spermidine4+ and spermine3+, can substitute for divalent cations in modulating 14‐3‐3 action. Effectiveness of the polyamines decreased with a decrease of polycation charge: spermine4+ > spermidine3+ >>> cadavarine2+ ≈ putrescine2+ ≈ agmatine2+ ≈ N1‐acetylspermidine2+, indicating that two primary and at least one secondary amine group were required. C‐terminal truncations of GF14ω, which encodes the Arabidopsis 14‐3‐3 isoform ω, indicated that loop 8 (residues 208–219) is the likely cation‐binding site. Directed mutagenesis of loop 8, which contains the EF hand‐like region identified in earlier studies, was performed to test the role of specific amino acid residues in cation binding. The E208A mutant resulted in a largely divalent cation‐independent inhibition of phospho‐NR activity, whereas the D219A mutant was fully Mg2+‐dependent but had decreased affinity for the cation. Mutations and C‐terminal truncations that affected the Mg2+ dependence of phospho‐NR inactivation had similar effects on polyamine dependence. The results implicate loop 8 as the site of divalent cation and polyamine binding, and suggest that activation of 14‐3‐3s occurs, at least in part, by neutralization of negative charges associated with acidic residues in the loop. We propose that binding of polyamines to 14‐3‐3s could be involved in their regulation of plant growth and development.
A novel extinction screen in Arabidopsis thaliana identifies mutant plants defective in early microsporangial development
Authors: Sorensen A. , Guerineau F. , Canales‐Holzeis C. , Dickinson H. G. , Scott R. J. 
Published: March 2003

SummaryFew Arabidopsis mutants defective in early male or female germline development have been reported. A novel extinction screen has been devised which permits the identification of mutants deficient in the earliest stages of anther development. Using mutagenized plants carrying GUS reporter constructs driven by tapetal‐specific promoters originally derived from Brassica genes, a wide spectrum of mutants have been identified in Arabidopsis, ranging from those defective in archesporial cell differentiation to others expressed later in development. Crosses between these lines and known anther development mutants have enabled the identification of lines carrying mutations in genes expressed during very early anther formation. Initial characterization reveals these early mutants fall into two classes, gne (GUS‐negative) 1‐like, and gne2‐like. Members of the gne1 mutant class initiate all four layers of the anther wall and an appropriate number of sporogenous cells; however, as development proceeds the tapetal and middle‐layer cells enlarge, eventually crushing the sporogenous cells. The gne2 class anthers are disrupted at an earlier stage, with the middle and tapetal layers failing to form, and an excess of sporogenous cells developing until the germline aborts late in meiosis II. Analysis of these mutants has already raised questions about the accuracy of current models of angiosperm anther development.
Direct delivery of bacterial avirulence proteins into resistant Arabidopsis protoplasts leads to hypersensitive cell death
Authors: Wu Yan , Wood Michelle D. , Tao Yi , Katagiri Fumiaki 
Published: March 2003

SummaryMany bacterial avirulence (Avr) proteins, including the Pseudomonas syringae proteins, AvrRpt2 and AvrB, appear to be recognized inside the host plant cell by resistance mechanisms mediated by the cognate resistance (R) genes. It is thought that Avr proteins are either delivered directly into the host cell via the bacterial type III secretion system (TTSS) or taken up by the plant cell following secretion into the apoplast through the TTSS. Recently, it was shown that the Xanthomonas campestris AvrBs2 protein can be delivered directly into the host plant cell by the TTSS. However, it is not known whether other type III effectors of phytopathogens behave similarly. Here, using a novel protein transfection method, we demonstrate that AvrRpt2 and AvrB must enter the plant cell to be recognized by R gene‐mediated mechanisms. First, we established a hypersensitive cell death assay for protoplasts using the membrane‐impermeable, nuclear‐staining dye, YO‐PRO‐1, and transgenic Arabidopsis plants that carry an inducible avrRpt2 gene. Second, we transfected E. coli‐produced AvrRpt2 or AvrB proteins into Arabidopsis protoplasts using a protein transfection kit based on the carrier peptide Pep‐1, and demonstrated that hypersensitive cell death occurs in a gene‐for‐gene‐specific manner. In contrast, these Avr proteins failed to elicit hypersensitive cell death when they were applied to protoplasts without the carrier peptide. We conclude that our preparations of E. coli‐produced AvrRpt2 and AvrB are active, that AvrRpt2 and AvrB must be delivered into the plant cell to be recognized, and that a method based on a carrier peptide can be used to introduce proteins into plant cells.
A treatment decision‐making model for infraoccluded primary molars
Authors: Ekim S. L. , Hatibovic‐Kofman S. 
Published: March 2003

Summary.The objective of this paper is to clarify the literature’s findings and provide guidelines for decision‐making during the long‐term treatment planning of infraoccluded primary molars. This paper presents a synopsis of findings concerning prevalence, aetiology, diagnostic methods, diagnostic criteria and treatment options. Treatment decisions are mainly guided by the clinical assessment of the presence or absence of succedaneous tooth, evaluation of onset, time of diagnosis, resorption rate, rate of progression of infraocclusion, risk of adverse effects over time, and predictive clinical patterns of infraoccluded primary molars. These models are a result of a comprehensive review of the literature and presents a compilation of findings in a format that is of practical use to the clinician.
Oral health in liver transplant children administered cyclosporin A or tacrolimus
Authors: Wondimu B. , Németh A. , Modéer T. 
Published: March 2003

Summary.Background.Immunosuppression by cyclosporin A (CsA) is associated with adverse side‐effects, including nephrotoxicity, neurotoxicity and gingival overgrowth. Tacrolimus (TAC/FK506) is a new immunosuppressive agent, recently approved for use in solid‐organ transplants. The mode of action of TAC is similar to that of CsA and the toxicity profile of CsA is duplicated by TAC. The effect of TAC on the gingival tissue is not yet conclusive.Sample.Gingival overgrowth was assessed in 30 liver transplant children, 20 boys and 10 girls, aged 2–19 years. Seventeen children (10 boys, seven girls) were on a CsA‐based immunosuppressive regimen whereas 13 children (10 boys, three girls) were on TAC for at least 1 year (mean 4·3 ± 2·7).Results.In the CsA group, 35% of children exhibited gingival overgrowth characterized by one or more units with increased sulcus probing depth (≥ 4 mm), i.e. pseudopockets. In contrast to the CsA group, none of the children in the TAC group exhibited gingival overgrowth. The occurrence of enamel hypoplasia was observed in 11 children (36%) and enamel opacities were found in 23 children (76%). Six of the 12 children (50%) with hyperbilirubinaemia biliary atresia exhibited a marked greenish discoloration of the teeth. Caries experience (dmft/DMFT) among these children was 2·0 ± 2·8.Conclusion.No difference in caries experience or enamel defect was observed between the CsA and TAC group.
A new and simple Doppler method for measurement of fetal cardiac isovolumetric contraction time
Authors: Koga T. , Athayde N. , Trudinger B. , Nakano H. 
Published: March 2003

AbstractObjectivesThe fetal cardiac isovolumetric contraction time is defined as the interval between mitral valve closure and aortic valve opening. The objective of this study was to develop a simple and reliable Doppler method for measuring fetal isovolumetric contraction time using a digital filtering and processing system.MethodsCardiac Doppler signals were recorded from 40 fetuses at 18–40 weeks' gestation using a continuous‐wave ultrasound transducer. The raw signal was digitized, filtered and divided into five different frequency ranges: 250–375, 375–500, 500–750, 750–1000 and 1000–1500 Hz. To determine the most suitable filter setting for detecting mitral valve closure and aortic valve opening signals, we examined whether they were detected clearly in each filter range.ResultsBoth mitral valve closure and aortic valve opening signals were detected clearly in the 500–1000 Hz range. The atrioventricular flow and outflow noises in the 250–500 and 1000–1500 Hz ranges helped us to identify the signals. It was found that dividing the raw signals into three ranges of 250–500, 500–1000 and 1000–1500 Hz was the most suitable digital‐filter setting for measuring isovolumetric contraction time.ConclusionsWe have developed a simple Doppler method for measuring fetal isovolumetric contraction time. The advent of digital processing has simplified the equipment and the simultaneous multidisplay of three different filtered signals enables easy and accurate measurement. Copyright © 2001 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology
Serial sonographic findings of four fetuses with homozygous alpha‐thalassemia‐1 from 21 weeks onwards
Authors: Leung W. C. , Oepkes D. , Seaward G. , Ryan G. 
Published: March 2003

AbstractObjectivesTo evaluate the potential usefulness of noninvasive ultrasound assessment of fetal anemia in the diagnosis and management of fetuses with homozygous alpha‐thalassemia‐1.MethodsWe describe four pregnancies complicated by fetal homozygous alpha‐thalassemia‐1. They presented with ultrasound abnormalities before the development of hydrops. As part of evaluating the fetal condition, we performed ultrasound and Doppler studies aimed at identifying fetal anemia. These studies included evaluation of intrahepatic umbilical venous maximum flow velocity, middle cerebral artery peak flow velocity, fetal liver length and spleen perimeter.ResultsIn all four fetuses, ultrasound and Doppler studies suggested the presence of fetal anemia. Homozygous alpha‐thalassemia‐1 was diagnosed in all cases, with fetal blood sampling confirming anemia in three fetuses. The majority of the intrahepatic umbilical venous maximum flow velocity and middle cerebral artery peak flow velocity measurements were above the 95th centile. Two fetuses underwent intrauterine transfusion and fetal blood flow velocities returned to normal after correction of the fetal anemia. The fetal liver length and spleen perimeter measurements showed a similar trend, although they were less consistent before 28 weeks.ConclusionNon‐invasive ultrasound parameters, in particular quantification of intrahepatic umbilical venous maximum flow velocity and middle cerebral artery peak flow velocity, were found to be useful in the diagnosis and management of fetal anemia in pregnancies with fetal homozygous alpha‐thalassemia‐1. Copyright © 2002 ISUOG
A case of prenatally diagnosed fetal neurenteric cyst
Authors: Uludağ S. , Madazli R. , Erdoğan E. , Dervişoğlu S. , Çelik E. , Ocak V. 
Published: March 2003

AbstractThe combination of a thoracic cystic mass with vertebral anomalies on prenatal ultrasound suggests a neurenteric cyst. The outcome of such cysts mostly depends on the extent of the displacement and functional impairment of the adjacent organs and of the associated central nervous system defects. We present a case of a neurenteric cyst diagnosed on prenatal ultrasound at 34 weeks of gestation which was treated successfully in the early neonatal period. Copyright © 2001 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology
First‐trimester sonographic umbilical cord diameter and the growth of the human embryo
Authors: Ghezzi F. , Raio L. , Di Naro E. , Franchi M. , Brühwiler H. , D'Addario V. , Schneider H. 
Published: March 2003

AbstractObjectivesExperimental and clinical evidence have shown that the morphometry of the umbilical cord in the second half of gestation might be useful in predicting adverse perinatal outcome. The purposes of this study were to generate a nomogram for the umbilical cord diameter in the first trimester and, in an observational study, to investigate whether the sonographic measurement of the umbilical cord diameter early in gestation has the same clinical value as that late in gestation.MethodsThe sonographic umbilical cord diameter, crown–rump length and biparietal diameter were measured in 439 fetuses at between 8 and 15 weeks of gestation. The perinatal outcome was recorded for all patients.ResultsThe umbilical cord diameter increased steadily from 8 to 15 weeks of gestation. A significant correlation was found between umbilical cord diameter and gestational age (r = 0.78; P < 0.001), umbilical cord diameter and crown–rump length (r = 0.75; P < 0.001) and umbilical cord diameter and biparietal diameter (r = 0.81; P < 0.001). No correlation was found between umbilical cord diameter values and either birth weight or placental weight. Among patients who had a miscarriage (n = 7) and pre‐eclampsia (n = 8) the umbilical cord diameter was below 2 standard deviations from the mean in three cases (42.9%) and three cases (37.5%), respectively.ConclusionThe measurement of the umbilical cord diameter in the first trimester is correlated with the growth of the embryo and may be a marker for identifying a subset of fetuses at risk of spontaneous miscarriage and pre‐eclampsia. Copyright © 2001 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology
The accuracy of antenatal ultrasound in the detection of facial clefts in a low‐risk screening population
Authors: Cash C. , Set P. , Coleman N. 
Published: March 2003

AbstractObjectivesTo evaluate the accuracy of prenatal ultrasound in the detection of facial clefts in a low‐risk screening population and to report on the outcome of these pregnancies.DesignWe retrospectively reviewed antenatal ultrasound records from the obstetric ultrasound department, postnatal records from the regional craniofacial unit and autopsy reports of fetuses over 16 weeks' gestational age from the regional pathology department over a 5‐year period (1993–97). Cross‐referencing between the three data sets identified all cases of facial clefts.ResultsOut of 23 577 live and still births, 30 had facial clefts; four were excluded from the study. Of the remaining 26 cases, 10 had associated major anomalies. There were 19 live births and seven terminations. Six of the seven terminations had other major abnormalities. Our detection rate for cleft lip and palate was 93% and the detection rate for isolated cleft palate was 22%. Isolated cleft lip was detected in 67% of cases. The overall detection rate for facial clefts was 65%.ConclusionFrom our results and a review of the literature it is clear that before standards can be set we need to define which facial clefts are sonographically demonstrable. Our data provide information for effective counseling and setting of standards for clinical practice. Copyright © 2001 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology
Prenatal diagnosis of fetal tail and postabortum anatomical description
Authors: Grangé G. , Tantau J. , Pannier E. , Aubry M.‐C. , Viot G. , Fallet‐Bianco C. , Terrasse G. , Cabrol D. 
Published: March 2003

AbstractFetal ultrasound examination at 13 weeks of gestation demonstrated a homogeneously echogenic protrusion, or tail, 7 mm in length, in the sacral region. At 15 weeks, the ultrasound appearance was consistent with a regression of the tail and by 21 weeks it had completely disappeared. Severe intrauterine growth restriction with reduced uterine blood flow was diagnosed at 21 weeks and intrauterine death occurred at 24 weeks of gestation. Postmortem examination revealed a 4‐mm caudal appendage which contained no vertebrae on radiography. The appendage was located under and behind the last sacral vertebra suggesting a true vestigial tail with a delayed process of regression. Copyright © 2001 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology