bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Changes in glucose metabolism in people with different glucose metabolism disorders at baseline: follow‐up results of a Finnish national diabetes prevention programme
Authors: Rautio N. , Jokelainen J. , Oksa H. , Saaristo T. , Peltonen M. , Puolijoki H. , Tuomilehto J. , Vanhala M. , Moilanen L. , Uusitupa M. , Keinänen‐Kiukaanniemi S.
Published: April 2015

Aim

To examine changes in glucose metabolism (fasting and 2‐h glucose) during follow‐up in people with impaired fasting glucose in comparison with changes in people with isolated impaired glucose tolerance, people with impaired fasting glucose and impaired glucose tolerance combined and people with screening‐detected Type 2 diabetes at baseline, among those who participated in a diabetes prevention programme conducted in Finland.

Methods

A total of 10 149 people at high risk of Type 2 diabetes took part in baseline examination. Of 5351 individuals with follow‐up ≥ 9 months, 1727 had impaired glucose metabolism at baseline and completed at least one lifestyle intervention visit. Most of them (94.6%) were overweight/ obese.

Results

Fasting glucose decreased during follow‐up among overweight/obese people in the combined impaired fasting glucose and impaired glucose tolerance group (P = 0.044), as did 2‐h glucose in people in the isolated impaired glucose tolerance group (P = 0.0014) after adjustment for age, sex, medication and weight at baseline, follow‐up time and changes in weight, physical activity and diet. When comparing changes in glucose metabolism among people with different degrees of glucose metabolism impairment, fasting glucose concentration was found to have increased in those with isolated impaired glucose tolerance (0.12 mmol/l, 95% Cl 0.05 to 0.19) and it decreased to a greater extent in those with screening‐detected Type 2 diabetes (−0.54 mmol/l, 95% Cl −0.69 to −0.39) compared with those with impaired fasting glucose (−0.21 mmol/l, 95% Cl −0.27 to −0.15). Furthermore, 2‐h glucose concentration decreased in the isolated impaired glucose tolerance group (−0.82 mmol/l, 95% Cl −1.04 to −0.60), in the combined impaired fasting glucose and impaired glucose tolerance group (−0.82 mmol/l, 95% Cl −1.07 to −0.58) and in the screening‐detected Type 2 diabetes group (−1.52, 95% Cl −1.96 to −1.08) compared with those in the impaired fasting glucose group (0.26 mmol/l, 95% Cl 0.10 to 0.43). Results were statistically significant even after adjustment for covariates (P < 0.001 in all models).

Conclusions

Changes in glucose metabolism differ in people with impaired fasting glucose from those in people with isolated impaired glucose tolerance, people with impaired fasting glucose and impaired glucose tolerance combined and people with screening‐detected Type 2 diabetes.
Oral implant placement and restoration by undergraduate students: clinical outcomes and student perceptions
Authors: Temmerman A. , Meeus M. , Dhondt R. , Wierinck E. , Teughels W. , Naert I. , Quirynen M.
Published: April 2015

Introduction

Universities are developing and implementing implant dentistry training to prepare dental professionals for the growing treatment needs. This study describes how implant dentistry is taught at the KU Leuven and focuses on implant‐related clinical outcomes. Perspectives of participating undergraduate students are analysed with a view to improve oral implant dentistry training.

Materials and methods

Implant dentistry training at the KU Leuven consists of theoretical lectures, pre‐clinical hands‐on workshops and clinical (surgical/prosthetic) experience. Questionnaires were used to investigate the perceptions of students on the educational programme. Radiographs were taken at implant insertion, at healing abutment connection, at restoration/prosthesis insertion and after 1 and 2 years of functional loading. The marginal bone level was measured from the implant–abutment connection to the first visible bone‐to‐implant contact.

Results

One hundred and twelve implants were placed by 56 undergraduate students (61.5% of the total students) in 56 patients. After a follow‐up time of 3 years, the cumulative implant survival rate, at implant level, was 97.1%. The mean marginal bone loss after 1 and 2 years in function was 0.35 mm and 0.39 mm, respectively. Eighty percentage of students were satisfied with the training, and they considered this sufficient preparation to perform implant placement under close supervision.

Conclusions

The clinical outcome of implant treatment performed by undergraduate students under close supervision is similar to that reported by experienced clinicians/research teams. Clinical, surgical as well as restorative experience in addition to theoretical and pre‐clinical training seems beneficial when implementing implant dentistry in the undergraduate programmes.
Pigment production and isotopic fractionations in continuous culture: okenone producing purple sulfur bacteria Part II
Authors: Smith D. A. , Steele A. , Fogel M. L.
Published: April 2015

Okenone is a carotenoid pigment unique to certain members of Chromatiaceae, the dominant family of purple sulfur bacteria (PSB) found in euxinic photic zones. Diagenetic alteration of okenone produces okenane, the only recognized molecular fossil unique to PSB. The in vivo concentrations of okenone and bacteriochlorophyll a (Bchl a) on a per cell basis were monitored and quantified as a function of light intensity in continuous cultures of the purple sulfur bacterium Marichromatium purpuratum (Mpurp1591). We show that okenone‐producing PSB have constant bacteriochlorophyll to carotenoid ratios in light‐harvesting antenna complexes. The in vivo concentrations of Bchl a, 0.151 ± 0.012 fmol cell−1, and okenone, 0.103 ± 0.012 fmol cell−1, were not dependent on average light intensity (10–225 Lux) at both steady and non‐steady states. This observation revealed that in autotrophic continuous cultures of Mpurp1591, there was a constant ratio for okenone to Bchl a of 1:1.5. Okenone was therefore constitutively produced in planktonic cultures of PSB, regardless of light intensity. This confirms the legitimacy of okenone as a signature for autotrophic planktonic PSB and by extrapolation water column euxinia. We measured the δ13C, δ15N, and δ34S bulk biomass values from cells collected daily and determined the isotopic fractionations of Mpurp1591. There was no statistical relationship in the bulk isotope measurements or stable isotope fractionations to light intensity or cell density under steady and non‐steady‐state conditions. The carbon isotope fractionation between okenone and Bchl a with respect to overall bulk biomass (13εpigment – biomass) was 2.2 ± 0.4‰ and −4.1 ± 0.9‰, respectively. The carbon isotopic fractionation () for the production of pigments in PSB is more variable than previously thought with our reported values for okenone at −15.5 ± 1.2‰ and −21.8 ± 1.7‰ for Bchl a.
Unravelling adherence to prophylaxis in haemophilia: a patients’ perspective
Authors: Schrijvers L. H. , Kars M. C. , Beijlevelt‐van der Zande M. , Peters M. , Schuurmans M. J. , Fischer K.
Published: April 2015

Given the lifelong therapy in haemophilia patients, insight in non‐adherence behaviour from a patient perspective is important to understand patients’ difficulties with the following treatment recommendations. The aim of this study was to clarify the process underlying adherence (behaviour) to prophylactic treatment, from a patients’ perspective. To develop a grounded theory, a qualitative study using individual in‐depth interviews was performed to understand experiences, perceptions and beliefs concerning adherence to prophylaxis. From two Dutch treatment centres, 21 adults with haemophilia using prophylaxis were interviewed. Patients were asked how they experience their task to administer prophylaxis and how they adhere to this. The interviews were transcribed, coded and analysed in an iterative process, leading to the development of the grounded theory. Adherence was determined by the position of prophylaxis in life. The position of prophylaxis was determined by the perception of prophylaxis and the ability to exert prophylaxis. Patients’ perception was influenced by two main factors: acceptance of haemophilia and feeling/fearing symptoms. The ability to exert prophylaxis was influenced by understanding haemophilia and prophylaxis and planning/infusion skills. The combination of different perceptions and skills led to four main positions of prophylaxis in life: (i) prophylaxis integrated in life, (ii) prophylaxis according to doctors’ advice, struggling with irregular situations, (iii) prophylaxis is too much to handle, (iv) prophylaxis is a confrontation with illness. The adherence level gradually decreased from position 1 to 4. This information can be used to design tailored interventions to promote adherence.
Analysis of the Relative Contribution of Phagocytosis, LC3‐Associated Phagocytosis, and Canonical Autophagy During Helicobacter pylori Infection of Macrophages
Authors: Deen Nadia S. , Gong Lan , Naderer Thomas , Devenish Rodney J. , Kwok Terry
Published: April 2015

Background

Previous findings have suggested that Helicobacter pylori induces autophagic processes and subsequently takes refuge in autophagosomes, thereby contributing to persistent infection. Recently, a noncanonical form of autophagy, LC3 (microtubule‐associated protein 1 light chain 3)‐associated phagocytosis (LAP), has been shown to be required for efficient clearance of some intracellular bacteria. Whether H. pylori infection induces LAP had not been examined previously. In this study, we determined the extent to which H. pylori infection induces canonical autophagy or LAP in macrophages, and the involvement of the H. pylori cag pathogenicity island (cagPAI) with these processes.

Methods

Immunofluorescence confocal microscopy was used to analyze the formation of GFP‐LC3 puncta and their colocalization with H. pylori. Transmission electron microscopy was used to detect the ultrastructure of H. pylori‐containing compartments.

Results

The majority of intracellular bacteria (85–95%) were found in phagosomes that were LC3‐negative, with a small proportion (4–14%) appearing “free” in the cytosol. Only a very small percentage (0.5–6%) of intracellular H. pylori was sequestered in autophagosomes. Furthermore, no statistically significant difference in the relative distribution of H. pylori in the various compartments was observed between wild‐type and cagPAI‐mutant bacteria.

Conclusions

In macrophages, H. pylori infection does not induce LAP, but can induce canonical autophagy, which entraps a very small fraction of intracellular bacteria. We propose that this subpopulation of intracellular H. pylori might have escaped from phagosomes into the cytosol before being sequestered by autophagosomes. The cagPAI of H. pylori has only minor influence, if any, on the extent of these processes.
Dietary Intervention of Artemisia and Green Tea Extracts to Rejuvenate Helicobacter pylori‐Associated Chronic Atrophic Gastritis and to Prevent Tumorigenesis
Authors: Jeong Migyeong , Park Jong‐Min , Han Young‐Min , Kangwan Napapan , Kwon Sang‐Oh , Kim Bok‐Nam , Kim Won‐Hee , Hahm Ki‐Baik
Published: April 2015

Object

As nonmicrobial dietary approach is capable of controlling Helicobacter pylori infection, we evaluated the efficacy of long‐term dietary administration of Artemisia and/or green tea extracts on H. pylori‐initiated, high‐salt‐promoted chronic atrophic gastritis and gastric tumorigenesis mouse model.

Methods

Helicobacter pylori‐infected and high‐salt‐diet‐administered C57BL/6 mice were administered with Artemisia extracts (MP group) and/or green tea extracts (GT group) for 36 weeks in addition to the control group (ES group, gastroprotective drug, ecabet sodium 30 mg/kg, diet pellet). Gross and pathological gastric lesions were evaluated after 24 and 36 weeks, respectively, and their underlying molecular changes were measured in gastric homogenates. Detailed mechanisms were further evaluated in in vitro cell models.

Results

The erythematous and nodular changes and mucosal ulcerative and erosive lesions were noted in the control group at 24 weeks. MP, GT, MPGT, and ES groups all showed significantly ameliorated pathologic lesion compared to the control group (p < .05). After the 36 weeks, scattered nodular masses with some central ulcers and thin gastric surface were noted in the control stomach, whereas no tumorous lesion and milder atrophic changes were observed in all MP, GT, and MPGT groups except ES group (p < .05). On molecular analysis, increased expressions of COX‐2, TNF‐α, IL‐6, lipid peroxide, and activated STAT3 relevant to H. pylori infection were significantly decreased with MPGT administration (p < .01), whereas HSP70 was significantly increased. PGDH expressions, core tumor suppressor involved in carcinogenesis, were significantly decreased with H. pylori infection (p < .05), but significantly increased in MPGT group (p < .05). Increased mucosal apoptotic index noted in the control group was significantly decreased with MP and/or GT along with significantly preserved gastric gastroprotective mediators (p < .01) such as mucins, HSP27, and HSP70. H. pylori‐induced serum TNF‐α and NF‐κB activations were significantly decreased with MPGT administration (p < .05).

Conclusion

Long‐term dietary intake of MP and/or GT can be an effective strategy either to rejuvenate H. pylori atrophic gastritis or to suppress tumorigenesis.
Immunomodulator ‘mushroom beta glucan’ induces Wnt/β catenin signalling and improves wound recovery in tilapia and rat skin: a histopathological study
Authors: Hsiao Chien‐Mei , Wu Yu‐Sheng , Nan Fan‐Hua , Huang Shih‐Ling , Chen Lynette , Chen Shiu‐Nan
Published: April 2015

The present study aims to investigate the effects of mushroom beta glucan (MBG) on wound recovery in partial hepatectomy (PH) in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) and in rat skin wound healing examination. Following PH, we focussed on the effects on liver repair ability using in vitro and in vivo tests. In vitro, we examined whether the MBG has an impact on liver cell proliferation, mainly through 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazolyl‐2)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assays and bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) cell proliferation assay detection method. Results showed that MBG treatment was remarkable in enhancing cell proliferation of hepatocytes and in maintaining the cellular viability. Immunohistochemical staining to analyse Wnt/β‐catenin signalling also showed that MBG has the effect of promoting cell proliferation of liver tissues after PH surgery.
EPIDERMAL CELLS BEARING BOTH I‐A AND I‐E SUBREGION ANTIGENS CAN INDUCE HEN EGG WHITE LYSOZYME‐SPECIFIC T LYMPHOCYTE PROLIFERATION*
Authors: Katoh Kiyoshi , Matsunaga Keiichiro , Ishii Norihisa , Okubo Takao , Okuda Kenji
Published: April 2015

Antigen‐primed T lymphocytes require accessory cells to initiate a proliferative response. These cells have been designated antigen presenting cells. In the present investigation, we found that immune associated antigen (Ia) bearing, mouse epidermal cells possess antigen presenting activity. These epidermal cells also display substantial levels of mixed lymphocyte reaction (MLR) activity. However, this MLR of itself did not suppress nor enhance antigen presenting activity. Genetic mapping studies demonstrated that compatibility at the I‐A and I‐E subregions of the MHC is important for effective presentation of either lysozyme or ovalbumin. In vitro inhibition and blocking studies using alloantisera confirmed that I‐A and I‐E gene products of these epidermal cells may play an important role in the interaction of primed T lymphocytes and antigen‐pulsed epidermal cells. In addition, epidermal cells bearing Fc and C3 receptors on the cell surfaces were more efficient at inducing the lymphocyte proliferation than were epidermal cells depleted of these cells. These results suggest that Ia positive epidermal cells may be involved in the initiation of delayed type hypersensitivity reactions through antigen recognition followed by antigen presentation and T lymphocyte proliferation.
THE POSSIBLE PROCESSING OF TYROSINASE IN THE GOLGI COMPLEXES OF THE MELANOCYTE***
Authors: Tomita Yasushi , Hariu Akiko , Kato Chikako , Seiji Makoto
Published: April 2015

In mammals, melanin formation occurs only in melanosomes within the melanocyte, where tyrosinases are most highly accumulated; however tyrosinases exist as precursors of melanosomal enzymes in microsomes, where the enzymes are inactivated by unknown mechanism(s). The Km value of melanosomal tyrosinase for tyrosine was 0.6 mM, but that of the microsomal enzyme was 1.3 mM. The Km for tyrosine of microsomal tyrosinase was lowered to that of melanosomal tyrosinase after incubation of the microsomal enzymes with a Golgi fraction isolated from mouse melanoma. Further, the molecular weight of microsomal tyrosinase appeared to increase after incubation with the Golgi fraction; microsomal tyrosinase showed a slower mobility in SDS Polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis after incubation with the Golgi fraction than before incubation. These data suggest the possibility that microsomal tyrosinase is processed in the Golgi area during transfer to the melanosome in the melanocyte.
CONCENTRIC LAMELLAR SPHERES IN URINE FROM A FEMALE CARRIER OF AND PATIENTS WITH FABRY'S DISEASE
Authors: Nagao Sadanori , Satoh Norio , Inaba Shogo , Iijima Susumu
Published: April 2015

In urine samples of patients with Fabry's disease (angiokeratoma corporis diffusum, ACD) mulberry cells appear, exhibiting the ‘Maltese cross’ with polarized light; they are said to be characteristic of this disease. However, their diagnostic significance has never been clearly defined. It is also well known that patients with this disease have electron‐dense periodical lamellar bodies in the cells of various organs. Several electron microscopic investigations have demonstrated such lamellar bodies in urine samples from hemizygous male patients, but it remains unclarified whether heterozygous female carriers excrete similar bodies in urine. We examined urine samples from a female carrier of ACD and two hemizygotes with the disease, as well as from three patients with nephrotic syndrome. With the light microscope, mulberry cells with ‘Maltese cross’ were detected in all six patients, suggesting that these cells are not diagnostic for ACD. With the electron microscope, concentric lamellar spheres were found in the heterozygous female carrier and two hemizygous males, but not in patients with nephrotic syndrome. This is the first report describing urinary laminated bodies in a female carrier of ACD. It is concluded that the demonstration of mulberry cells with ‘Maltese cross’ as well as concentric lamellar bodies in urine is helpful in detecting female carriers of ACD and hemizygotes as young as 7 years of age, before they exhibit definite clinical manifestations.
CUTANEOUS MALIGNANT LYMPHOMA AND HLA IN THE SOUTHWESTERN AREA OF JAPAN
Authors: Yotsumoto Hideaki , Tashiro Masaaki , Shimokawa Yuko , Asai Hitomi , Nomoto Shigeru
Published: April 2015

Recently, classification of malignant lymphoreticular tumors have been reevaluated and various new disease entities have been proposed. Patients with T cell lymphoma, including adult T cell leukemia/lymphoma (ATLL), are very frequent in the southwestern area of Japan. To investigate the role of genetic factors in patients with cutaneous malignant lymphoma (CML), which has a T cell nature, from an endemic area of ATLL, we studied the association between HLA and CML within this area. The frequency of AW24 in CML patients was reduced. AW33 and BW61 were increased in frequency in these patients. However, none of the P values mentioned remained significant after correction for the number of antigens tested. Haplotypes of AW24‐BW61, AW26‐BW61 and AW33‐BW61 were increased in frequency in CML patients.
HUMORAL IMMUNITY IN PATIENTS WITH TINEA VERSICOLOR
Authors: Wu Ying‐Chin , Chen Kung‐Tung
Published: April 2015

Thirty patients with tinea versicolor (TV) and 30 age/sex‐matched healthy individuals were used to evaluate the anti‐Pityrosporum orbiculare antibodies (anti‐PO) using indirect immunofluorescence. Both serum IgG and IgM type anti‐P. orbiculare existed in both patients and controls. The antibody titers were significantly higher in patients, especially in those with erythematous lesions. Further analysis was performed and discussed in 120 controls at various ages. This investigation supports again that P. orbiculare, either as a pathogen or as a saprophyte, has enough antigenicity to produce specific humoral response in humans. The anti‐P. orbiculare antibodies may perhaps help explain the nonexistence of dermal invasion of this organism in the immunity‐intact host.
TRICHILEMMAL NEOPLASM DEVELOPING IN SEBORRHEIC KERATOSIS
Authors: Horiguchi Yuji , Toda Ken‐Ichi , Kanauchi Hideo , Ozaki Motoaki , Imamura Sadao
Published: April 2015

Granulation‐like, flesh colored tumors developed in the verrucous plaques of a 70‐year‐old man and a 86‐year‐old man. The verrucous plaques, which had appeared more than 15 or 20 years earlier, were found to be a common type of seborrheic keratosis. The newly appearing tumors histologically consisted of large, glycogen‐rich, clear epidermal cells and surrounding basaloid cells, resulting in multilobular architecture. Dyskeratotic cells and parakeratotic plugs showing trichilemmal keratinization were present in both cases. Bowenoid changes were seen in a part of the plaque from one case, and many mitotic cells and an invading figure in the tumorous cells of the other. These cases demonstrate the rare possibility of trichilemmal neoplasms developing in a common type of seborrheic keratosis.
DISCOID LUPUS ERYTHEMATOSUS OF THE PALMS
Authors: Rebora Alfredo , Bardelli Alda , Parodi Aurora
Published: April 2015

Discoid lupus erythematosus of palms and soles is a distinct rarity. A patient is described who had such manifestations along with signs of minor systemic involvement.
LOCALIZED PEMPHIGUS VULGARIS*
Authors: Yagi Ayako , Shiraishi Satoshi , Miki Yoshiharu
Published: April 2015

A 32‐year‐old Japanese man was seen because of a crusted and oozing plaque on his scalp of 3 years' duration. Histologically, suprabasal clefts and bullae containing acantholytic cells as well as intercellular IgG and C3 deposits were found by the direct immunofluorescent technique. There were no circulating pemphigus antibodies. The lesion was controlled by the topical application of 0.05% clobetasol propionate ointment and remained localized for the following 2 years.
DEFECTIVE UNSCHEDULED DNA SYNTHESIS IN PRIMARY‐CULTURED KERATINOCYTES IN A CASE OF XERODERMA PIGMENTOSUM
Authors: Eguchi Kiyomi , Inada Tetsuo , Kondo Ikuko , Ohno Tadao , Yaoita Hideo
Published: April 2015

To confirm whether cultured human keratinocytes derived from a normal subject and a xeroderma pigmentosum (XP) patient (genetic complementation group A) show differences in their DNA repair systems, as has been shown in normal and XP‐fibroblasts, unscheduled DNA syntheses (UDS) were compared between the primary‐cultured keratinocytes and fibroblasts after UV irradiation. The levels of UDS were low in XP‐fibroblasts but high in normal‐fibroblasts. However, only a slight difference in UDS levels between normal‐keratinocytes and XP‐keratinocytes was found. The levels of UDS were low in both normal‐ and XP‐keratinocytes as compared with normal‐fibroblasts.
EPIDERMAL LANGERHANS' CELLS IN GRANULOMA ANNULARE
Authors: Kohn Sarah , Gilhar Amos , Friedman‐Birnbaum Rahel , Nir Izhak
Published: April 2015

Langerhans' cells were studied in the epidermis of two patients with Granuloma Annulare (GA) of the generalized type and compared with those in two normal controls. The percentage of Langerhans' cells in the GA epidermis population was 3.4% and in the control, 1.8%. The density of Langerhans' cells in different adjacent sites of the same epidermis was not uniform, being in the range of 0.9–5% in GA and 0.6–4% in controls. In the GA epidermis, the Langerhans' cell section area was increased by about 40% and the number of Langerhans' cell granules found per cell section by about 41%. The findings may indicate that, in granuloma annulare epidermis, the Langerhans' cells are in a more active state.
STABILITY OF RETINOIDS IN CULTURE
Authors: Kitano Yukio
Published: April 2015

The stability of all‐trans‐retinoic acid, 13‐cis‐retinoic acid and Ro10‐9359 (etretinate) in culture was analyzed by measuring the amount of each retinoid in culture medium with HPLC. In cultures of human keratinocytes and B16 mouse melanoma cells (K440B), all‐trans‐retinoic acid was fairly stable, but it disappeared rapidly in cultures of HeLa cells. In general, 13‐cis‐retinoic acid was more unstable. When all‐trans‐ or 13‐cis‐retinoic acid was used, the 13‐cis or all‐trans forms also appeared in the culture medium as a result of cis‐trans isomerization. Human epidermal keratinocytes were able to de‐esterify Ro10‐9359, and Ro10‐1670 was also detected in the culture medium. K440B cells had a strong capacity for de‐esterifying Ro10‐9359. When 10 nmole/ml Ro10‐9359 was added to the culture, about 1 nmole/ml of Ro10‐1670 was maintained from 24 to 96 h later. In the HeLa cells culture, no Ro10‐1670 was detected after the addition of 1 nmole/ml Ro10‐9359. These results indicate that, in the tissue culture system, the pharmacokinetics of each retinoid depended upon its concentration, the cell type and the cellular density.
CONGENITAL ONYCHODYSPLASIA OF THE INDEX FINGERS
Authors: Kikuchi Ichiro , Inoue Shouhei , Kawana Naganori
Published: April 2015

Congenital onychodysplasia of the index fingers, a condition characterized by hypoplasias and dysplasias of the nails peculiarly restricted to the index fingers, is assumed to be related to a peculiar grip of the thumbs leading to ischemia of the index fingers while the baby is in utero. This is based on our observation of a case two days after birth. Major characteristics of this condition, including index finger involvement and radial‐prone involvement of the nails, can be well explained by this hypothesis, as can exceptional cases of middle finger involvement. A case of acquired polyonychia is presented which also appears to favor the ischemia theory for this condition.
PIGMENTARY DEMARCATION LINES ASSOCIATED WITH PREGNANCY IN JAPANESE
Authors: Hashimoto Koji , Nishioka Kiyoshi , Katayama Ichiro , Kobayashi Yoichi , Takijiri Chincho
Published: April 2015

Pigmentary demarcation lines were observed in a 27‐year‐old Japanese woman during her ninth month of pregnancy. She stated that they were not present before pregnancy. The lines became marked during pregnancy and subsided after delivery. Pigmentary demarcation lines associated with pregnancy have never been reported before in Japanese.
IMPAIRED HISTAMINE METABOLISM IN HUMAN ERYTHEMATOUS DERMATOSES
Authors: Imamura Sadao , Tachibana Takao , Taniguchi Shinkichi
Published: April 2015

The specific activities of histamine‐N‐methyltransferase, the only enzyme to degrade histamine in human skin, were examined in 7 specimens from normal skin, 42 from erythema multiforme, erythema nodosum, erythema annulare or drug‐induced erythema and 12 from psoriasis or eczema. The enzyme activity was 3.45 ± 0.17 pmol/min/mg protein (mean ± S.E., n=7) in normal skin. The activities were significantly lower in 24 out of 30 freshly active lesional sites of erythematous dermatoses (lower than 2 S.D. from the mean in normal skin), while the activities in the central clearing areas were rather higher than those in the freshly active lesions. No significant changes were seen in the lesional skin of psoriasis or eczema. Decreased histamine‐degrading enzyme activity in the freshly active lesions of erythematous dermatoses may suggest the long lasting effect of the amine that was released in the lesions. In spite of the different clinical figures and multiplicity of etiologies, decreased histamine‐N‐methyltransferase activity was quite commonly observed, suggesting a similarity in the pathomechanisms of these dermatoses.
STUDIES ON THE PARASITIC FORMS OF TRICHOPHYTON RUBRUM ISOLATED FROM PATIENTS WITH GRANULOMA TRICHOPHYTICUM USING THE “AGAR‐IMPLANTATION METHOD”
Authors: Nishiyama Chiaki , Miyaji Makoto , Saheki Mariko , Morioka Sadao
Published: April 2015

We studied the conversion of T. rubrum from hyphae to spherical cells using the agar‐implantation method. Thirteen cultures of T. rubrum were isolated from tinea superficialis and granuloma trichophyticum and they were implanted into the peritoneal cavities of ddY male mice. The cultures were divided into three groups according to their parasitic forms. The first group consisting of two cultures were isolated from tinea unguium and tinea pedis (hyperkeratotic type); they were destroyed in the peritoneal cavities of mice by the sixth week. The eight cultures in the second group were isolated from tinea cruris, tinea circinata and tinea pedis (vesicular type); they converted to spherical cells and survived for 16 weeks. The three cultures of the third group were isolated from granuloma trichophyticum; they survived and grew as hyphal forms in the peritoneal cavities of mice for over 26 weeks without spherical cell conversion. In conclusion, the parasitic forms of the three cultures isolated from granuloma trichophyticum differed from the cultures isolated from tinea superficialis.
ACQUIRED PERIUNGUAL FIBROKERATOMA
Authors: Yasuki Yoshihiro
Published: April 2015

Acquired periungual fibrokeratoma is essentially a topographical variant of acquired fibrokeratoma and shows a full variety of clinical features according to the specific location of each neoplasm in its relation to the nail. The protean clinical manifestations of this condition are difficult to fit together into an entity. A new classification into two groups with five subtypes, based on the anatomical and histological architecture of the nail is proposed. According to this classification, the obscure relationships among previously described cases are discussed.
NADPH OXIDASE AND MYELOPEROXIDASE ACTIVITY IN PSORIASIS LEUKOCYTES
Authors: Jain Vijay K. , Gupta Vipin , Verma K.C. , Saini A.S.
Published: April 2015

The levels of NADPH oxidase and myeloperoxidase activities in leukocytes of twenty psoriatics were significantly raised over those of controls. Psoriatics were divided into three grades by the rule of nine: Grade I—less than 33% skin involvement, Grade II—33–66% and Grade III—over 66% involvement. A definite relationship between the percentage of surface area involved and level of the two activities was noted. They were elevated over control levels in all grades except for NADPH oxidase in grade I. There were significant increases in the activities of both enzymes in grade II as compared with grade I.
VERRUCIFORM XANTHOMA OF THE SCROTUM
Authors: Shindo Yasuko , Mikoshiba Hajime , Okamoto Kikuhiko , Morohashi Masaaki
Published: April 2015

We report two cases of verruciform xanthoma of the scrotal skin. In each case, the tumor was a single pink lesion with firm consistency and a granular surface. Each lesion was characterized histopathologically by papillomatous proliferation of the epidermis and dermis and dense foam‐cell infiltration of the region corresponding to the dermal papillary layer. These cells proved to be xanthoma cells that stained negatively or weakly positively with PAS, colloidal iron, and Alcian blue and strongly positively with Sudan III. No medical problems were found in either patient, and serum lipid levels were normal. This report also presents electron microscopic findings from scrotal verruciform xanthoma in one case and the results of lipid analysis of tumor tissue from both cases.
SUCCESSFUL TREATMENT OF ULCERATED NECROBIOSIS
Authors: Sawada Yukimasa
Published: April 2015

A case of a 58‐year‐old man with ulcerated necrobiosis lipoidica diabeticorum on the lateral aspect of the left foot was described. The ulcer showed no tendency toward healing despite conservative treatment and simple closure. However, a stable covering was achieved by skin flap transfer after radical debridement following intravenous prostaglandin E1 infusion.
PSEUDOANEURYSM AS A COMPLICATION OF ANGIOGRAPHY
Authors: Kikuchi Ichiro , Inoue Shouhei , Sakaguchi Ei
Published: April 2015

A 10 times 20mm nonpulsating cyst‐like swelling appeared at the angiography site on the right inguinal region of a 60‐year‐old man; the swelling was biopsized 89 days after angiography. Infrared thermography performed prior to biospy revealed a hypothermic area within a larger hyperthermic area, suggesting that this was a pseudoaneurysm. Histological examination suggested pseudo‐pyogenic granuloma.
Hyperlipoproteinaemia and Xanthomatosis as a Model of Cholesterol Ester Accumulation
Authors: Vermeer Bert Jan
Published: April 2015

A local event which occurs after damage of a blood vessel can be the start of cellular cholesterol ester accumulation. Thrombocytes and macrophages will adhere to the endothelial wall. Subsequently lipoproteins and macrophages permeate this endothelial wall. The perivascularly arranged macrophages will internalize the “modified lipoproteins” and eventually cholesterol ester accumulation will take place. This cholesterol ester accumulation can also occur in smooth muscle cells. The reversibility of the accumulation depends on the lipoprotein levels and on the physico‐chemical characteristics of the accumulated cholesterol (esters). This phenomenon takes place in the formation of xanthomas as well as in atherogenesis.
Comparative Reactivity of a Panel of Monoclonal Antibodies on Yucatan Mini‐Pig and Human Skin
Authors: Schmitt Daniel , Gracia Anne‐Marie , Viac Jocqueline , Ohrt Christiane , Thivolet Jean
Published: April 2015

Yucatan mini‐pig skin (Mexican hairless pig) is described as a good animal model for comparative investigations with human skin. We report the reactivity patterns of monoclonal antibodies (MCA) on both mini‐pig and human skin. Of 21 MCA reacting with various human skin antigens, only six were negative with mini‐pig skin.

Using indirect immunofluorescence test, MCA specific for cytoplasmic or membrane antigens of human keratinocytes (glycoproteins, cytokeratins, desmosomes) gave the same reactivity patterns on mini‐pig skin in the epidermis.

In the dermis and at the dermal‐epidermal junction, most MCA decorated the same structures on both substrates (laminin, oxytalan fibers, neurofilaments, fibroblasts). However, some of them did not stain the same cellular structures.

As expected, MCA specific for HLA antigens did not show any reactivity with mini‐pig skin.

These MCA offer new tools for comparative investigations in various fields of experimental dermatology.
Combination Therapy of Oral Methoxypsoralen: Photochemotherapy (PUVA) and an Aromatic Retinoid (Etretinate, Tigason) in the Treatment of Psoriasis
Authors: Thirumoorthy Thamotharampillai , Tham Siew Nee , Tan Yoke Choo
Published: April 2015

RePUVA is the combination of an oral aromatic retinoid, etretinate, with oral photochemotherapy, PUVA. This combination therapy has the advantage of faster clearance with fewer side effects.

In Middle Road Hospital, we treated 29 patients with extensive psoriasis (more than 30% involvement) with a total 32 RePUVA treatments. There was complete clearance in 69% of patients with an average of 19 irradiations and an average total ultraviolet A (UVA) dose of 183 J/cm2. This compared well with standard PUVA which needed 25 radiations and a total UVA dose of 346 J/cm2.

The main side effects were cheilitis, exfoliation of skin and pruritus. Biochemically, 41% of the patients showed elevations of serum triglyceride.
A Tumor with Sebaceous Differentiation Showing Intraepidermal Epithelioma
Authors: Aso Miki , Shimao Shuhei
Published: April 2015

A sixty‐year‐old woman had a small papule within a plaque on the left arm. Histologically, the papule was similar to irritated seborrheic keratosis or inverted follicular keratosis and the plaque was intraepidermal epithelioma. However, both lesions included mature sebaceous cells showing sebaceous differentiation. This tumor may be closely related to the pilo‐sebaceous unit or sebaceous gland. To our knowledge, no similar tumor has been reported in the literature.
Cutaneous Melanoma
Authors: Shibata Henry Ryusuke
Published: April 2015

Cutaneous melanoma is an enigmatic cancer with good survival rates with management at an early stage, i.e. thin superficial lesions localized to the primary site. However, once it becomes deeply invasive with evidence of metastasis, it is one of the most aggressive and lethal cancers. Many investigations have been done and are being conducted in the areas of prevention, (identification and removal of precursor lesions, sun avoidance and use of sun screen preparations), diagnosis (monoclonal antibodies, tumour markers) and therapy (immunotherapy, hyperthermic perfusion and randomized clinical trials. From the Royal Victoria Hospital, Montreal, Quebec, personal experiences with the use of a Levamisole/Placebo — double blind randomized clinical trial for Stage I Melanoma patients is presented. The results of another trial of combination chemoimmunotherapy utilizing BCG/DTIC and/or CCNU for Stage II patients is discussed. Experimental studies into the lymphocytic reaction of lymph nodes draining a primary melanoma site have been initiated and changes in the number of T cells and B cells in the lymph nodes have been noted, reflecting some systemic changes in the host. A prospective randomized surgical protocal on cutaneous melanoma of intermediate thickness (1 to 4 mm) is underway to determine whether a conservative local excision is sufficient and whether involved regional nodes are an indicator and not an instigator of further disease (Intergroup Melanoma Study). Hyperthermic limb perfusion as a therapeutic modality has still to be proven as a useful procedure in the management of melanoma. A clinical trial is urgently required. Increasing public and professional awareness coupled with pertinent clinical and basic research into various aspects of this disease make the future of the patient with melanoma not as black as it seems!
Immunohistochemical Study of HLA Antigens and Lymphocyte Infiltration in Melanocytic Tumors
Authors: Kageshita Toshiro , Nagano Hiroaki , Johno Masayoshi , Ono Tomomichi , Arao Tatsuyoshi , Imai Kohzoh
Published: April 2015

Using monoclonal antibodies, we have examined immunohistochemically the expression of HLA‐heavy chain, beta‐2 microglobulin and HLA‐DR antigen in benign and malignant melanocytic tumors. In malignant melanoma, these antigens were expressed on the cell membrane, but, in pigmented and blue nevi, these antigens were decreased or absent. In particular, the expression of HLA‐DR was restricted to the cell membrane of some malignant melanomas, so its expression on a melanocytic cell lineage might be a useful diagnostic marker. Furthermore, we studied the degree of lymphocytic infiltration into melanotic tumors, using the expression of HLA antigens as the marker. Our results did not indicate any significant relationship between HLA‐DR positive melanoma and lymphocyte infiltration.
Supplement of Exogenous IL2 Abrogates Induction of Tolerance in Drug‐Induced T Cell Proliferation
Authors: Ikezawa Zenro , Kawaguchi Hiroshi
Published: April 2015

An intravenous injection of large doses of semi‐synthetic penicillin, sulbenicillin (SBPC) 7 days before immunization induced immunological tolerance of lymphocyte proliferative response to SBPC. This nonresponsiveness of the tolerant lymph node cells to SBPC was not changed into responsiveness by removing the Lyt‐2+ suppressor type T (Ts) subset. However, an in vivo interleukin 2 (IL2) treatment changed the nonresponsiveness of the tolerant Lyt‐1+2– helper type T (Th) cells into responsiveness. These results suggest that the nonresponsiveness of the tolerant lymph node cells is due to clonal anergy or deletion of the Lyt‐1+2– Th cells rather than to involvement of Lyt‐2+ Ts cells, and support the hypothesis that tolerance is a consequence of IL2 deficit during the T cell recognition of antigen.
Kimura's Disease: Immunohistochemistry of Infiltrating Cells Using Monoclonal and Polyclonal Antibodies
Authors: Maeda Kazuo , Jimbow Kowichi
Published: April 2015

This study reports immunohistochemical findings with polyclonal and monoclonal antibodies in a case of Kimura's disease, angiolymphoid hyperplasia with eosinophilia, which showed a histopathology similar to that of follicular lymphoma in the initial biopsy. Major findings in our case were the variations in distribution of eosinophils, mast cells and IgE producing plasma cells between the biopsies. No proliferation of eosinophils was noted in the initial biopsy. The follicular structures in Kimura's disease appeared immunohistochemically to have derived from a reactive inflammatory process. It is suggested that the frequency of eosinophils in Kimura's disease varies with the course of the disease and that there is no direct relationship between the distributions of mast cells and eosinophils.
Five Cases of Porphyria Cutanea Tarda with Mild Cutaneous Changes: Evaluation of the Efficacy of Phlebotomy by the Pattern Analysis of Urinary Porphyrins
Authors: Nonaka Shigeo , Ohgami Taro , Murayama Fumio , Yamashita Kazunori , Yoshida Hikotaro
Published: April 2015

Five cases of porphyria cutanea tarda (PCT) with mild cutaneous changes are reported. Acute episodes of photosensitivity were not seen in all patients. Laboratory examinations showed a predominance of uroporphyrin (UP) excretion in the urine in 4 out of 5 cases. One case showed a relatively low urinary porphyrin level even though abnormality of the porphyrin pattern was present. Four cases showing a predominance of UP excretion in the urine revealed a high level of serum coproporphyrin (CP) as well. Histopathologically, all cases showed a deposition of PAS positive materials surrounding the small blood vessels in the upper dermis, in addition to the deposition of IgG materials visualized by the immunofluorescent technique.

Phlebotomy was performed fifteen times in one case. The urinary porphyrin level was gradually reduced to normal levels and the urinary porphyrin pattern shifted from a predominance of UP and hepta‐carboxyl porphyrin to a predominance of CP excretion. Analysis of the urinary porphyrin profile is useful as a laboratory tool for diagnosis or observation of the course of PCT, as well as for the quantitative analysis of urinary porphyrins.
Bullous Lichen Planus Developed on Erythema Ab Igne
Authors: Horio Takeshi , Imamura Sadao
Published: April 2015

Lichen planus developed on erythema ab igne which was induced by repeated exposures to a stove. The clinical and histopathological features of the eruption were an admixture of typical lichen planus and erythema ab igne. Subepidermal bullae were also found on the lichen planus. Direct immunofluorescence tests revealed deposits of fibrin in the basement membrane zone and IgM in the colloid bodies. Indirect immunofluorescence studies detected no circulating antibodies against cutaneous structures in the patient's serum. This study indicates that repeated thermal exposure over a prolonged period may produce lichen planus lesions.
A Case of Extensive Subcutaneous Sarcoidosis
Authors: Yamada Saori , Yagi Ayako , Shiraishi Satoshi , Miki Yoshiharu
Published: April 2015

A 61‐year‐old female with extensive subcutaneous epithelioid cell granuloma in the back and extremities had negative tuberculin reaction, positive anti‐nuclear factor (ANF) and elevated serum angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE) level while on oral clofibrate for one‐and‐a‐half years because of hyperlipemia. She also suffered from ischemic heart disease with pericardial effusion and dependent edema. The skin surface temperatures over the lesions were about 2°C higher than those of the surrounding normal skin. The subcutaneous lesions cleared spontaneously within 4 months after clofibrate was discontinued. Tuberculin reaction became positive and serum ACE returned to the normal level.
An Acantholytic Variant of Seborrheic Keratosis
Authors: Uchiyama Noriko , Shindo Yasuko
Published: April 2015

A case of an acantholytic seborrheic keratosis, first reported by Tagami and Yamada, was seen in a 63‐year‐old woman. It appeared to belong to the irritated type of Lever's classification.
Induction of Pemphigoid Lesions in Neonatal Mice
Authors: Mitsuhashi Yoshihiko , Takahashi Masa‐aki , Kiuchi Hiyoshi , Mikami Hideki , Hashimoto Isao , Katabira Yasuo
Published: April 2015

In order to study the pathogenetic role of anti‐basement membrane zone antibodies (BMZ‐Ab) in bullous pemphigoid (BP), parenteral transfer of serum, heat inactivated serum, blister fluid, or IgG from three patients with BP into neonatal mice was carried out. BP‐like lesions developed in 6 of 8 mice receiving the serum from one of the patients. However, no lesions were observed in 100 other mice that were given serum, blister fluid or IgG from the other two patients or three healthy controls. Analysis of the characteristics of these injected materials revealed that, for induction of the BP‐like lesions in neonatal mice, it is necessary that both complement‐fixing BMZ‐Ab and components of complement are present. The role of inflammatory cells in the pathogenesis of BP could not be determined by the present experiments.
Increased C5a Anaphylatoxin in the Sera of Psoriatic Patients and Patients with Inflammatory Dermatoses
Authors: Ohkohchi Kyoko , Takematsu Hideaki , Tagami Hachiro
Published: April 2015

We measured C5a and C5a des arg (collectively called C5a) by radioimmunoassay in the sera of psoriasis and other widespread inflammatory dermatoses. Larger amounts of serum C5a were detected in patients with psoriasis and other inflammatory dermatoses than in normal healthy controls. In the psoriatic patients, the serum C5a concentrations did not correlate with extent or with activity of the skin lesions. However, when followed in 6 psoriatic patients, the C5a levels showed changes in parallel with the skin lesions. Our results suggest that complement activation with resultant release of C5a anaphylatoxin takes place in psoriasis as well as in other widespread inflammatory skin disorders.
Case of Epidermodysplasia Verruciformis with a 12‐Year‐Follow‐Up
Authors: Sait Mohammed Ameen , Garg Bhagat Ram
Published: April 2015

An interesting case of epidermodysplasia verruciformis with a 12‐year‐follow‐up is reported. During the period of observation, the patient developed leprosy (TT), skin tuberculosis, molluscum contagiosum, tinea corporis and condylomata acuminata lesions. Mantoux, lepromin and DNCB sensitization tests for cell mediated immunity (CMI) were negative. The significance of these findings is briefly discussed.