bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Theire-1ER Stress-Response Pathway is Required for Normal Secretory- Protein Metabolism inC. elegans
Authors: Safra Modi , Ben-Hamo Shani , Kenyon Cynthia , Henis-Korenblit Sivan
Published: July 2013

The unfolded protein response (UPR) allows cells to cope with endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress by adjusting the capacity of the ER to the load of ER-associated tasks. The UPR is important for maintaining ER homeostasis under extreme ER stress. UPR genes are important under normal growth conditions as well, but what they are required for under these conditions is less clear. Using C. elegans, we show that the ire-1/xbp-1 arm of the UPR plays a crucial role in maintaining ER plasticity and function also in the absence of external ER stress. We find that during unstressed growth conditions, loss of ire-1 or xbp-1 compromises basic ER functions required for the metabolism of secreted proteins, including translation, folding and secretion. Notably, by compromising ER-associated degradation (ERAD) and phagocytosis, loss of ire-1 abrogates the clearance of misfolded proteins from the ER as well as the clearance of proteins that were secreted into the pseudocoleom. Whereas the basal activity of the UPR is beneficial under normal conditions, it accelerates the pathology caused by toxic Aß protein in a C. elegans model of Alzheimer's disease. Taken together, our findings indicate that UPR genes are critical for maintaining secretory protein metabolism under normal growth conditions.
TSC1/2 regulates intestinal stem cell maintenance and lineage differentiation via Rheb-TORC1-S6K but independent of nutrition status or Notch regulation
Authors: Quan Zhenghui , Sun Pei , Lin Guonan , Xi Rongwen
Published: July 2013

Tubular sclerosis complex gene products TSC1 and TSC2 have evolutionarily conserved roles in cell growth from Drosophila to mammals. Here we have revealed important roles of TSC1/2 in regulating intestinal stem cell (ISC) maintenance and multiple lineage differentiation in the Drosophila midgut. Loss of either Tsc1 or Tsc2 gene in ISCs causes rapid ISC loss via TORC1 hyperactivation, as ISCs can be efficiently rescued by S6k mutation or by rapamycin treatment, and overexpression of Rheb, which triggers TORC1 activation, recapitulates the phenotype caused by TSC1/2 disruption. Genetic studies suggest that TSC1/2 maintains ISCs independent of nutrition status or Notch regulation, but probably through inhibiting cell delamination. We show that Tsc1/Tsc2 mutant ISCs can efficiently produce enterocytes but not enteroendocrine cells, and this altered differentiation potential is also caused by hyperactivation of TORC1. Reduced TORC1-S6K signaling by mutation on S6k, however, has no effect on ISC maintenance and multiple lineage differentiation. Our studies demonstrate that hyperactivation of TORC1 following the loss of TSC1/2 is detrimental to stem cell maintenance and multiple lineage differentiation in the Drosophila ISC lineage, a mechanism that could be conserved in other stem cell lineages, including that in humans.
The cytosolic chaperone α-Crystallin B rescues appropriate folding and compartmentalization of misfolded multispan transmembrane proteins
Authors: D'Agostino Massimo , Lemma Valentina , Chesi Giancarlo , Stornaiuolo Mariano , Cannata-Serio Magda , D'Ambrosio Chiara , Scaloni Andrea , Polishchuk Roman , Bonatti Stefano
Published: July 2013

α–Crystallin B chain (CRYAB or also HspB5) is a cytosolic chaperone belonging to the small heat shock protein family and is known to help the folding of different cytosolic proteins. Here we show that CRYAB binds the mutant form of at least two multispan transmembrane proteins (TMPs), exerting on them an anti-aggregation activity. It rescues the folding of the mutant Frizzled4 that is responsible for a rare autosomal dominant form of Familial exudative vitreoretinopathy (Fz4-FEVR); and of the mutant ATP7B Cu transporter (ATP7B-H1069Q) associated with a common form of Wilson's Disease. In the case of Fz4-FEVR, CRYAB prevents the formation of inter-chain disulfide bridges between the lumenal ectodomains of the aggregated mutant chains, which enables correct folding and promotes appropriate compartmentalization on the plasma membrane. ATP7B-H1069Q, with help from CRYAB, reaches a proper conformation, moves to the Golgi complex, and responds to Cu overload as wt ATP7B. These findings strongly suggest that CRYAB plays a pivotal role, previously undetected, in the folding of multispan TMPs and is able to orchestrate from the cytosol folding events that take place in the lumen of the ER. Our results contribute to the explanation of the complex scenario behind multispan TMPs folding; additionally, they serve to expose interesting avenues for novel therapeutic approaches.
14-3-3 targets chaperone-associated misfolded proteins to aggresomes
Authors: Xu Zhe , Graham Kourtney , Foote Molly , Liang Fengshan , Rizkallah Raed , Hurt Myra , Wang Yanchang , Wu Yuying , Zhou Yi
Published: July 2013

The aggresome is a key cytoplasmic organelle for sequestration and clearance of toxic protein aggregates. While loading misfolded proteins cargos to dynein motors has been recognized as an important step in the aggresome formation process, the molecular machinery mediating the association of cargos with the dynein motor is poorly understood. Here, we report a new aggresomal targeting pathway involving 14-3-3, a family of conserved regulatory proteins. 14-3-3 interacts with both the dynein intermediate chain (DIC) and an Hsp70 co-chaperone Bcl-2-associated athanogene 3 (BAG3), thereby recruiting chaperone-associated protein cargos to dynein motors for their transport to aggresomes. This molecular cascade entails functional dimerization of 14-3-3, which we show to be crucial for aggresome formation in both yeast and mammalian cells. These results suggest that 14-3-3 functions as a molecular adaptor to promote aggresomal targeting of misfolded protein aggregates and may link such complexes to inclusion bodies observed in various neurodegenerative diseases.
Interleukin-10 regulates progenitor differentiation and modulates neurogenesis on adult brain
Authors: Perez-Asensio Fernando J. , Perpiñá Unai , Planas Anna M. , Pozas Esther
Published: July 2013

The adult subventricular zone (SVZ) is the main neurogenic niche in normal adult brain of mice and rats. The adult SVZ contains neural stem cells (NSCs) that mainly differentiate into committed neuroblasts. The new generated neuroblasts accumulate in dorsal SVZ where they further differentiate and initiate a long migration pathway to their final destination the olfactory bulb (OB).

In here we report a new role for Interleukin 10 (IL-10) different from its well known anti-inflammatory properties. We reveal that IL-10 receptor is expressed in Nestin+ progenitors restricted to the dorsal SVZ in adult brain. Through IL-10 gain models we observed that IL-10 maintains neural progenitors in an undifferentiated stage by keeping progenitors in active cycle and up-regulating the presence of pro-neural genes markers (Nestin, Sox genes, Musashi, Mash1) in detriment of neuronal gene expression (Numb, DCX, TUBB3). On top, IL-10 reduces neuronal differentiation and finally impairs endogenous neurogenesis. Consistently, in the absence of IL-10 in vivo neuronal differentiation among SVZ progenitors is enhanced and the incorporation of new neurons in the adult OB is increased.

Thus, our results provide the first evidence that IL-10 acts as a growth factor on SVZ progenitors and regulates adult neurogenesis in adult normal brain.
NDRG1 functions in LDL receptor trafficking by regulating endosomal recycling and degradation
Authors: Pietiäinen Vilja , Vassilev Boris , Blom Tomas , Wang Wei , Nelson Jessica , Bittman Robert , Bäck Nils , Zelcer Noam , Ikonen Elina
Published: July 2013

N-myc downstream-regulated gene 1 (NDRG1) mutations cause Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease type 4D (CMT4D). However, the cellular function of NDRG1 and how it causes CMT4D are poorly understood. We report that NDRG1 silencing in epithelial cells results in decreased uptake of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) due to reduced LDL receptor (LDLR) abundance at the plasma membrane (PM). This is accompanied by the accumulation of LDLR in enlarged EEA1-positive endosomes that contain numerous intraluminal vesicles and sequester ceramide. Concomitantly, LDLR ubiquitylation is increased but its degradation is reduced and ESCRT (Endosomal sorting complex required for transport) proteins are downregulated. Co-depletion of IDOL (Inducible degrader of the LDLR), which ubiquitylates the LDLR and promotes its degradation, rescues PM LDLR levels and LDL uptake. In oligodendrocytes, Ndrg1 silencing not only results in reduced LDL uptake but also downregulation of the oligodendrocyte differentiation factor Olig2. Both phenotypes are rescued by co-silencing of Idol, suggesting that ligand uptake via LDLR family members controls oligodendrocyte differentiation. These findings identify NDRG1 as a novel regulator of multivesicular body formation and endosomal LDLR trafficking. The deficiency of functional NDRG1 in CMT4D may impair lipid processing and differentiation of myelinating cells.
Multi-parameter, single-cell, kinetic analysis reveals multiple modes of cell death in primary pancreatic beta-cells
Authors: Yang Yu Hsuan Carol , Johnson James D.
Published: July 2013

Programmed β-cell death plays an important role in both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Most of what is known about the mechanisms of β-cell death comes from single time-point, single parameter measurements of bulk populations of mixed cells. Such approaches are inadequate for determining the true extend of the heterogeneity in death mechanisms. Here, we characterized the timing and order of molecular events associated with cell death in single β-cells under multiple diabetic stress conditions, including hyperglycemia, cytokine exposure, nutrient deprivation and ER stress. We simultaneously measured the kinetics of six distinct cell death mechanisms by using a caspase-3 sensor and three vital dyes, together with bright field imaging. We identified several cell death modes where the order of events that define apoptosis was not observed. This was termed ‘partial apoptosis’. Remarkably, complete classical apoptosis, defined as cells with plasma membrane blebbing, caspase-3 activity, nuclear condensation and membrane annexinV labeling prior to loss of plasma membrane integrity, was found in only half of cytokine-treated primary β-cells and never in cells stressed by serum removal. On the other hand, MIN6 cell death was almost exclusively via complete classical apoptosis. Ambient glucose modulated the cell death mode and kinetics in primary β-cells. Together, our data define the kinetic progression of β-cell death mechanisms under different conditions and illustrate the heterogeneity and plasticity of cell death modes in β-cells. We conclude that apoptosis is not the primary mode of adult primary β-cell death.
Two distinct functions for PI3-kinases in macropinocytosis
Authors: Hoeller Oliver , Bolourani Parvin , Clark Jonathan , Stephens Len R. , Hawkins Phillip T. , Weiner Orion D. , Weeks Gerald , Kay Robert R.
Published: July 2013

Class-1 PI3-kinases are major regulators of the actin cytoskeleton, whose precise contributions to chemotaxis, phagocytosis and macropinocytosis remain unresolved. We use systematic genetic ablation to examine this question in growing Dictyostelium cells. Mass-spectroscopy shows that a quintuple mutant lacking the entire genomic complement of class-1 PI3-kinases retains only 10% of wild-type PIP3 levels. Chemotaxis to folate and phagocytosis of bacteria proceed normally in the quintuple mutant but macropinocytosis is abolished. In this context PI3-kinases show specialized functions, only one of which is directly linked to gross PIP3 levels: Macropinosomes originate in patches of PIP3, with associated F-actin rich ruffles, both of which depend on PI3K1/2 but not PI3K4, whereas conversion of ruffles into vesicles requires PI3K4. A biosensor derived from the Ras-binding domain of PI3K1 suggests that Ras is activated throughout vesicle formation. Binding assays show that RasG and RasS interact most strongly with PI3K1/2 and PI3K4 and single mutants of either Ras have severe macropinocytosis defects. Thus, the fundamental function of PI3-kinases in growing Dictyostelium cells is in macropinocytosis where they have two distinct functions, supported by at least two separate Ras proteins.
Investigation of Pokemon-Regulated Proteins in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Using Mass Spectrometry-Based Multiplex Quantitative Proteomics
Authors: Bi Xin , Jin Yibao , Gao Xiang , Liu Feng , Gao Dan , Jiang Yuyang , Liu Hongxia
Published: July 2013

Pokemon is a transcription regulator involved in embryonic development, cellular differentiation and oncogenesis. It is aberrantly overexpressed in multiple human cancers including Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and is considered as a promising biomarker for HCC. In this work, the isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantitation (iTRAQ)-based quantitative proteomics strategy was used to investigate the proteomic profile associated with Pokemon in human HCC cell line QGY7703 and human hepatocyte line HL7702. Samples were labeled with four-plex iTRAQ reagents followed by two-dimensional liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry analysis. A total of 24 differentially expressed proteins were selected as significant. Nine proteins were potentially up-regulated by Pokemon while 15 proteins were potentially down-regulated and many proteins were previously identified as potential biomarkers for HCC. Gene ontology (GO) term enrichment revealed that the listed proteins were mainly involved in DNA metabolism and biosynthesis process. The changes of glucose-6-phosphate 1-dehydrogenase (G6PD, up-regulated) and ribonucleoside-diphosphate reductase large sub-unit (RIM1, down-regulated) were validated by Western blotting analysis and denoted as Pokemon's function of oncogenesis. We also found that Pokemon potentially repressed the expression of highly clustered proteins (MCM3, MCM5, MCM6, MCM7) which played key roles in promoting DNA replication. Altogether, our results may help better understand the role of Pokemon in HCC and promote the clinical applications.
Comparison of the 99th percentiles of three troponin I assays in a large reference population
Authors: Petersmann Astrid , Ittermann Till , Fries Cornelia , Lubenow Norbert , Kohlmann Thomas , Kallner Anders , Greinacher Andreas , Nauck Matthias
Published: July 2013

Background: The IFCC Task Force on Clinical Applications of Cardiac Biomarkers suggests comparing several contemporary sensitive troponin assays in the same, sufficiently large reference population.

Methods: Three contemporary sensitive assays were used to measure troponin I concentration in samples from a uniquely large healthy population (2404 individuals) and in a sub-group with tighter inclusion criteria of 908 individuals. The 99th percentiles were calculated using quantile regression which takes the entire population into account.

Results: The 99th percentile for the ARCHITECT STAT Troponin I assay was 21 ng/L, 31 ng/L for the ADVIA Centaur Troponin I-Ultra assay and 28 ng/L for the Dimension Vista cTnI assay. Significantly higher values were found in males than in women only in the Dimension Vista cTnI assay and in the subgroup for the ARCHITECT STAT Troponin I assay.

Conclusions: Quantile regression provides a tool to accurately estimate the 99th percentile and establish a continuous function of the relation between the 99th percentile and the age and gender. There was no age dependency demonstrated. A gender difference was found in one assay but inconclusive in another and not demonstrated in a third.
The order of draw: myth or science?
Authors: Salvagno Gianluca , Lima-Oliveira Gabriel , Brocco Giorgio , Danese Elisa , Guidi Gian Cesare , Lippi Giuseppe
Published: July 2013

Background: The potential for cross-contamination of additives among evacuated blood tubes has led to the development of the order of draw. This practice, however, is mainly based on scarce, anecdotal, and mostly outdated literature data. Therefore, the goal of this investigation was to definitely establish whether or not the indication of a specific order of draw is still justified.

Methods: The study population consisted of 57 outpatients referred to the outpatient oral anticoagulant (OA) clinic of the Academic Hospital of Verona and 58 healthy volunteers enrolled from the laboratory personnel. In OA outpatients, one serum tube was collected immediately after needle insertion, followed by a buffered sodium citrate tube and another serum tube. In the healthy volunteers, one serum tube was collected immediately after needle insertion, followed by a potassium-ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (K2-EDTA) tube and another serum tube. After separation, the serum was tested for potassium, sodium, calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus in the first and second serum tubes.

Results: No significant difference could be observed between the first and the second serum tubes for any of the parameters. The bias calculated with Bland-Altman plots did not achieve statistical significance when the serum tube was collected after either a K2-EDTA or a sodium citrate tube.

Conclusions: According to our data, revision of national and supranational recommendations on blood collection by venipuncture should consider that the order of draw exerts a negligible effect on sample quality, and this aspect should no longer be considered a quality criterion when evaluating the performance of phlebotomists.
Synthesis and antimicrobial activities of some novel thiophene containing azo compounds
Authors: Fondjo Emmanuel Sopbué , Tsemeugne Joseph , De Dieu Tamokou Jean , Djintchui Arnaud Ngongang , Kuiate Jules Roger , Sondengam Beibam Luc
Published: July 2013

A series of new thienylazothiophenes were prepared by coupling reactions of diazotized thienocoumarins with their corresponding free amines. The structures of the products 3–7 were assigned on the basis of their elemental and spectroscopic data. The HMBC and HSQC techniques were used in some cases to ascertain the structural assignments. The antimicrobial screenings of compounds 3–7 along with substituted 2-aminothiophenes 1a,b were performed against three bacteria and three fungal species and their activities compared to those of nystatin, gentamycin and ciprofloxacin used as reference drugs. It was found that the antimicrobial activities of the tested new hybrid compounds were in some cases equal or better than those of the reference drugs.
Preeclampsia is caused by continuous sympathetic center excitation due to an enlarged pregnant uterus
Authors: Maeda Kazuo
Published: July 2013

Aims: To deduce the origin of preeclampsia characterized by hypertension and proteinuraia on the basis of results from animal studies and its therapeutic strategies.

Methods: Sympathetic and parasympathetic zones of female non-pregnant rabbit brain were stimulated electrically with Kurotu’s electrodes. Systolic blood pressure, urine volume, and proteinuria were evaluated before and after the stimulation of autonomic zones.

Results: Excitation, hypertension, urine reduction, cloudy urine, and proteinuria were observed following stimulation of the sympathetic zone. A stable state, low blood pressure, increased urine volume, and no proteinuria were observed following stimulation of the parasympathetic zone.

Conclusion: Hypertension and proteinuria in preeclampsia are caused by continuous stimulation of the sympathetic nervous center in the hypothalamus through the innervation between the enlarged uterus and hypothalamus in the latter stages of pregnancy or in a complete hydatidiform mole. Future studies are needed to address the potential of pharmacological suppression of an overactive sympathetic nerve system.
Is There a Linkage Between Sustainable Development and Market Access of LDCs?
Authors: Tania Sharmin Jahan
Published: July 2013

This article revisits the decades-long trade–sustainable development debate in the context of Rio+20 and its endorsement of green economy policy. It aims to grapple with the possible linkages between LDCs’ market access regime and the concept of sustainable development itself. Conflicting perceptions of developed and least developed country (LDC) members of the WTO as to the conceptual basis of sustainable development, this article argues, explain the challenges LDCs face in the form of impediments to their market access. By examining the specific market access issues, this article reveals how developed countries’ concerns for sustainable development turn out to be market access barriers for LDCs. As the call for transition to green economy could exacerbate some of these concerns of LDCs, the article suggests a common ground, where a balanced trading regime can be most productively envisioned through a reasoned discourse of market access for LDCs linked with a conceptual route of sustainable development.
Case for diagnosis
Authors: Dell'Horto Amanda Gomes , Pinto Jackson Machado , Diniz Michelle dos Santos
Published: July 2013

Granular cell tumor (Abrikossoff's tumor) is a rare benign disease that preferentially affects the cervicofacial segment. It is usually a solitary nodule that may ulcerate and present pearly infiltration on the borders, while keeping a clean background and a hyperchromic halo. This paper describes the case of an ulcerated granular cell tumor on an unusual location, which reinforces the necessity of including this tumor in the differential diagnosis of nodular-ulcerative skin lesions.
Case for diagnosis
Authors: Klein Fernanda Homem de Mello de Souza , Alves Renata Homem de Mello de Souza , Souza Andre Homem de Mello de
Published: July 2013

Pigmentary demarcation lines are physiologically abrupt transition lines from areas of deeper pigmentation to less pigmented areas. They are most often seen in African and Japanese individuals and rarely observed in Caucasians. There are eight types of pigmentary demarcation lines. The one described here, type B, is restricted to women and is associated with pregnancy in non-black patients. This type of pigmentary demarcation line occurs in the posterior aspect of the legs, extending from the perineum to the ankle. Its distribution follows the Voigt's lines, which define the distribution of peripheral nerves. Its pathogenesis remains unknown. Expectant treatment is used, and good results have been reported with the use of Q-switched Alexandrite laser.
Vibrio vulnificus infection in Southern Brazil - Case report
Authors: Franca Joao Cesar Beenke , Raboni Sonia Mara , Sanfelice Elise , Polido Diego , Gentili Arthur , Marques Fabricio
Published: July 2013

The genus Vibrio is a member of the family Vibrionaceae, and among their disease-causing species, Vibrio vulnificus, a lactose-positive gram-negative bacillus, is one of the most virulent pathogen of the noncholerae vibrios. We describe the case of a 39-year-old male patient, who was using immunosuppressive therapy, admitted to the hospital for liver transplantation. Twelve hours later, the patient presented high fever, myalgia, anuria and erythematous plaques on lower limbs, of rapid growth and proximal progression. The patient was treated with ceftriaxone, meropenem and oxacillin, however he expired within 30 hours. Blood cultures showed growth of a gram-negative bacillus, which was later identified as Vibrio vulnificus.
Cutaneous neonatal lupus with cutis marmorata telangiectatica congenita-like lesions
Authors: Trevisan Flavia , Cunha Paulo Rowilson , Pinto Clovis Antonio Lopes , Cattete Fernanda Gomes
Published: July 2013

Neonatal lupus is a rare disease caused by the transplacental transfer of maternal autoantibodies to the foetus, characterized by transient clinical manifestations such as cutaneous, haematological, and hepatobiliary events or permanent such as congenital heart block. The typical cutaneous manifestations include erythematous, scaly, annular or arched lesions on the face, with slight central atrophy and photosensitivy, clinically and histologically similar to subacute cutaneous lupus. However, in some cases, the lesions may resemble those in cutis marmorata telangiectatica congenita, although this phenomenon is rare and only eight such cases have been reported to date. We report a case of cutaneous neonatal lupus with atypical lesions on the limbs, which had a reddish-purple marbled appearance, resembling the lesions in cutis marmorata telangiectatica congenita.
Epidemiological aspects of melanoma at a university hospital dermatology center over a period of 20 years
Authors: Brandao Flavia Vieira , Pereira Ana Francisca Junqueira Ribeiro , Gontijo Bernardo , Bittencourt Flavia Vasques
Published: July 2013

BACKGROUND: The incidence of melanoma has been steadily rising in past decades. Although it accounts for only 3% of all skin cancers, it is responsible for 75% of deaths. OBJECTIVE: to describe the epidemiological aspects of melanoma in a university hospital setting over a period of 20 years. METHODS: A total of 166 patients were analyzed between January 1990 and January 2010 for clinical and histological variables and correlations between them. A 5% level of significance was adopted. RESULTS: The majority of patients were Caucasians (74%), females (61%), with a mean age at diagnosis of 55. The predominant histological type was lentigo maligna/lentigo maligna melanoma (35.7%) and the head and neck was the most affected site (30.7%). Among non-Caucasians, the acral region was the most affected. Most tumors were in situ (41.1%). Growth of the lesion was the most frequent complaint (58.1%) and bleeding was most frequently associated with melanomas with a depth > 4mm. There were seven deaths (4.2%), with a high risk among men, non-Caucasians and those under 20 years of age, with a Breslow's depth > 2mm, with lentiginous acral melanoma and with a history of growth and bleeding. CONCLUSIONS: Our sample differs from most of the studies in the predominant location (head and neck), histological type (lentigo maligna/ lentigo maligna melanoma) and a major risk of death under the age of 20, which could be with a reflex of regional variation. Broader studies are necessary for validation of the results.
Study of dermatoses in kidney transplant patients
Authors: Lima Alexandre Moretti de , Rocha Sheila Pereira da , Reis Filho Eugenio Galdino de Mendonca , Eid Danglades Resende Macedo , Reis Carmelia Matos Santiago
Published: July 2013

BACKGROUND: The increasing in the number of kidney transplant recipients has favored, more frequently than before, the emergence of dermatoses and warranted their study through subsequent publications. OBJECTIVES: to evaluate the frequency of dermatoses in kidney transplant recipients. METHODS: kidney transplant recipients with suspected dermatoses between March 1st 2009 and June 30th 2010. RESULTS: 53 patients (28 males and 25 females), aged between 22 and 69 (mean age = 45 years) were evaluated. Most of them came from the cities of Ceilândia, Samambaia and São Sebastião/DF, and had already been transplanted for 5 to 10 years before (37.7%); 62.3% were recipients of living donors and 83% were prednisone-treated. The most prevalent dermatoses were of fungal (45.3%) and viral (39.6%) etiologies. Among the non-melanoma malignant neoplasms, the basal cell carcinoma prevailed (six cases), in spite of the low incidence. Concerning fungal dermatoses, 12 cases of onychomycosis, five of pityriasis versicolor and four of pityrosporum folliculitis were reported. For diagnosis, in most cases (64.2%), laboratory examinations (mycological and histopathological) were performed. CONCLUSION: cutaneous manifestations in kidney transplant recipients are generally secondary to immunosuppression. The infectious dermatoses, especially those of fungal origin, are frequently found in kidney transplant recipients and their occurrence increases progressively according to the time elapsed from the transplantation, which makes follow-up important.
Argyria - Case report
Authors: Lencastre Andre , Lobo Maria , Joao Alexandre
Published: July 2013

A 70-year-old male rural worker was referred to our clinic with widespread grey pigmentation of the skin and nails. The condition had been asymptomatic for its entire duration (5 years). He reported past intranasal application of 10% Silver Vitellinate. A skin biopsy was performed and histology corroborated the clinical diagnosis of Argyria. This case represents a currently rare dermatological curiosity. Although silver colloids and salts have been withdrawn and/or banned by some drug surveillance agencies, they continue to be freely sold and unregulated as food supplements and as ingredients in alternative medicines, thereby risking the emergence of new cases of silver poisoning.
Identification of fungi species in the onychomycosis of institutionalized elderly
Authors: Vasconcellos Cidia , Pereira Carolina Queiroz Moreira , Souza Marta Cristina , Pelegrini Andrea , Freitas Roseli Santos , Takahashi Juliana Possato
Published: July 2013

BACKGROUND: Superficial fungal infections are caused by dermatophytes, yeasts or filamentous fungi. They are correlated to the etiologic agent, the level of integrity of the host immune response, the site of the lesion and also the injured tissue. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study is to isolate and to identify onychomycosis agents in institutionalized elderly (60 years old +). METHODS: The identification of the fungi relied upon the combined results of mycological examination, culture isolation and micro cultures observation under light microscopy from nail and interdigital scales, which were collected from 35 elderly with a clinical suspicion of onychomycosis and a control group (9 elderly with healthy interdigital space and nails). Both groups were institutionalized in two nursing homes in Sao Bernardo do Campo, SP, Brazil. RESULTS: The nail scrapings showed 51.40% positivity. Of these, dermatophytes were found in 44.40% isolates, 27.78% identified as Trichophyton rubrum and 5.56% each as Trichophyton tonsurans, Trichophyton mentagrophytes and Microsporum gypseum. The second more conspicuous group showed 38.89% yeasts: 16.67% Candida guilliermondii, 11.11% Candida parapsilosis, 5.56% Candida glabrata, and 5.56% Trichosporon asahii. A third group displayed 16.70% filamentous fungi, like Fusarium sp, Aspergillus sp and Neoscytalidium sp (5.56% each). The interdigital scrapings presented a positivity rate of 14.29%. The agents were coincident with the fungi that caused the onychomycosis. In the control group, Candida guilliermondii was found at interdigital space in one person. CONCLUSION: Employing a combination of those identification methods, we found no difference between the etiology of the institutionalized elderly onychomycosis from that reported in the literature for the general population.
Recurrent cutaneous leishmaniasis
Authors: Gomes Ciro Martins , Damasco Fabiana dos Santos , Morais Orlando Oliveira de , Paula Carmen Dea Ribeiro de , Sampaio Raimunda Nonata Ribeiro
Published: July 2013

We present a case of an 18-year-old male patient who, after two years of inappropriate treatment for cutaneous leishmaniasis, began to show nodules arising at the edges of the former healing scar. He was immune competent and denied any trauma. The diagnosis of recurrent cutaneous leishmaniasis was made following positive culture of aspirate samples. The patient was treated with N-methylglucamine associated with pentoxifylline for 30 days. Similar cases require special attention mainly because of the challenges imposed by treatment.
Translation into Brazilian portuguese and validation of the psoriasis family index
Authors: Boza Juliana Catucci , Basra Mohammad K. A. , Vanin Rafaela Caminha , Carvalho Renata Rosa , Weber Magda Blessmann , Cestari Tania Ferreira
Published: July 2013

Psoriasis Family Index is a quality of life instrument for family members of patients with psoriasis developed in English. The aims of this study were to translate the Psoriasis Family Index into Brazilian Portuguese, culturally adapt it and verify its reliability and validity. The study followed these two steps: 1) Translation, linguistic and cultural adaptation, 2) Validation. The translated Psoriasis Family Index showed high internal consistency and high test-retest reliability, confirming its reproducibility. The Portuguese version of the Psoriasis Family Index was validated for our population and can be recommended as a reliable instrument to assess the QoL of family members and partners of patients with psoriasis.
Behçet disease in association with Budd-Chiari syndrome and multiple thrombosis - Case report
Authors: Bittencourt Maraya de Jesus Semblano , Dias Carolina Moraes , Lage Thaiane Lima , Barros Renata Silva , Paz Otavio Augusto Gomes , Vieira Waldonio de Brito
Published: July 2013

Behçet's disease is a chronic inflammatory disease of unknown aetiology, characterized by recurrent oral and genital aphthous ulcerations, uveitis, skin lesions and other multisystem affections associated with vasculitis. Different types of vessels, predominantly veins, can be affected in Behçet's disease. The frequency of vascular lesions in Behçet's disease, such as superficial and deep venous thromboses, arterial aneurysms and occlusions, ranges between 7-29%. Budd-Chiari syndrome is a rare and serious complication of Behçet's disease and implies thrombosis of the hepatic veins and/or the intrahepatic or suprahepatic inferior vena cava. We report a case of a 25-year-old man with Behçet's disease that developed Budd-Chiari syndrome. The correlation of dermatological, pathological and imaging studies confirmed the diagnosis.
Use of potassium iodide in Dermatology: updates on an old drug
Authors: Costa Rosane Orofino , Macedo Priscila Marques de , Carvalhal Aline , Bernardes-Engemann Andrea Reis
Published: July 2013

Potassium iodide, as a saturated solution, is a valuable drug in the dermatologist's therapeutic arsenal and is useful for the treatment of different diseases due to its immunomodulatory features. However, its prescription has become increasingly less frequent in dermatology practice. Little knowledge about its exact mechanism of action, lack of interest from the pharmaceutical industry, the advent of new drugs, and the toxicity caused by the use of high doses of the drug are some possible explanations for that. Consequently, there are few scientific studies on the pharmacological aspects, dosage and efficacy of this drug. Also, there is no conventional standard on how to manipulate and prescribe the saturated solution of potassium iodide, which leads to unawareness of the exact amount of the salt being delivered in grams to patients. Considering that dosage is directly related to toxicity and the immunomodulatory features of this drug, it is essential to define the amount to be prescribed and to reduce it to a minimum effective dose in order to minimize the risks of intolerance and thus improve treatment adherence. This review is relevant due to the fact that the saturated solution of potassium iodide is often the only therapeutic choice available for the treatment of some infectious, inflammatory and immune-mediated dermatoses, no matter whether the reason is specific indication, failure of a previous therapy or cost-effectiveness.
Correlation between dermoscopic and histopathological diagnoses of atypical nevi in a dermatology outpatient clinic of the Medical School of São José do Rio Preto, SP, Brazil
Authors: Antonio João Roberto , Soubhia Rosa Maria Cordeiro , D'Avila Solange Corrêa Garcia Pires , Caldas Adriana Cristina , Trídico Lívia Arroyo , Alves Fernanda Tomé
Published: July 2013

BACKGROUND: The incidence of cutaneous melanoma is increasing worldwide. Since it is an aggressive neoplasm, it is difficult to treat in advanced stages; early diagnosis is important to heal the patient. Melanocytic nevi are benign pigmented skin lesions while atypical nevi are associated with the risk of developing melanoma because they have a different histological pattern than common nevi. Thus, the clinical diagnosis of pigmented lesions is of great importance to differentiate benign, atypical and malignant lesions. Dermoscopy appeared as an auxiliary test in vivo, playing an important role in the diagnosis of pigmented lesions, because it allows the visualization of structures located below the stratum corneum. It shows a new morphological dimension of these lesions to the dermatologist and allows greater diagnostic accuracy. However, histopathology is considered the gold standard for the diagnosis. OBJECTIVES: To establish the sensitivity and specificity of dermoscopy in the diagnosis of pigmented lesions suspected of malignancy (atypical nevi), comparing both the dermatoscopic with the histopathological diagnosis, at the Dermatology Service of the outpatient clinic of Hospital de Base, São José do Rio Preto, SP. METHODS: Analysis of melanocytic nevi by dermoscopy and subsequent biopsy on suspicion of atypia or if the patient so desires, for subsequent histopathological diagnosis. RESULTS: Sensitivity: 93%. Specificity: 42%. CONCLUSIONS: Dermoscopy is a highly sensitive method for the diagnosis of atypical melanocytic nevi. Despite the low specificity with many false positive diagnoses, the method is effective for scanning lesions with suspected features of malignancy.
Oral Candida spp carriers: its prevalence in patients with type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Martinez Ramon Felipe Fernandez , Jaimes-Aveldañez Alejandra , Hernández-Pérez Francisco , Arenas Roberto , Miguel Guadalupe Fabián-San
Published: July 2013

BACKGROUND: Prevalence of oral candidiasis in diabetic patients is 13.7-64%. Candida albicans was the most frequently isolated species (75-86.5%). OBJECTIVE: To obtain the prevalence of Candida carriers among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus to identify the species of the yeast. Study design: It is an open, observational, descriptive, cross-sectional, and prospective study. METHODS: We included voluntary patients from the National Diabetes Marathon and performed a blood glucose measurement, sialometry test, Gram-stained exfoliative cytology, and culture on Sabouraud dextrose agar and CHROMagar Candida TM. Results were analyzed using descriptive statistics. RESULTS: We examined 141 patients (mean age 57 years): 103 women (73%) and 38 men (26.9%). Exfoliative cytology was positive in 32 cases (23 with oral lesions); 78 had oral lesions but no Candida (93.9%). Candida was isolated in 58 patients (41.1%), 21 (45.6 %) had blood glucose greater than 126 mg/dl, and 37 (38.9%) had less than 126 mg/dl. The most frequent species was C. albicans (82.7%). Forty-two Candida carriers had salivary flow greater than 20 mm (72.4%), and 16 (27.5%) had hyposalivation. Candida was isolated in 25 of 79 patients with dental prosthesis (31.6%), 9 of 15 were smokers (60%), and 22 of 71 had symptoms (30.9%). CONCLUSIONS: Prevalence of oral Candida carriers in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus in Mexico was similar to that found in other countries; exfoliative cytology was effective in finding Candida; salivary flow rate, use of prosthesis, and presence of oral lesions and symptoms were similar in oral Candida carriers and negative patients. Most smokers were Candida carriers.
A melanoma risk score in a Brazilian population
Authors: Bakos Lucio , Mastroeni Simeona , Bonamigo Renan Rangel , Melchi Franco , Pasquini Paolo , Fortes Cristina
Published: July 2013

BACKGROUND: Important risk factors for cutaneous melanoma (CM) are recognized, but standardized scores for individual assessment must still be developed. OBJECTIVES: The objective of this study was to develop a risk score of CM for a Brazilian sample. METHODS: To verify the estimates of the main risk factors for melanoma, derived from a meta-analysis (Italian-based study), and externally validate them in a population in southern Brazil by means of a case-control study. A total of 117 individuals were evaluated. Different models were constructed combining the summary coefficients of different risk factors, derived from the meta-analysis, multiplied by the corresponding category of each variable for each participant according to a mathematical expression. RESULTS: the variable that best predicted the risk of CM in the studied population was hair color (AUC: 0.71; 95% CI: 0.62-0.79). Other important factors were freckles, sunburn episodes, and skin and eye color. Consideration of other variables such as common nevi, elastosis, family history, and premalignant lesions did not improve the predictive ability of the models. CONCLUSION: The discriminating capacity of the proposed model proved to be superior or comparable to that of previous risk models proposed for CM.
Risk factors and predictors of psoriatic arthritis in patients with psoriasis
Authors: Azevedo Valderilio Feijó , Buiar Pedro Grachinski
Published: July 2013

Given the potential consequences of joint damage for patients with psoriatic arthritis, we believe that the optimization of screening methods and the investigation of arthritis in patients with psoriasis are a medical priority. It is very useful to identify predictors of arthritis in patients with psoriasis. In fact, there is a consensus among doctors that the large gap between the diagnosis of psoriasis and that of psoriatic arthritis should be narrowed. In order to better manage patients with psoriasis, the authors review and discuss recent publications on the evidence of current predictors of arthritis in patients with psoriasis.
Scanning electron microscopy of lichen sclerosus
Authors: Almeida Jr Hiram Larangeira de , Bicca Eduardo de Barros Coelho , Breunig Juliano de Avelar , Rocha Nara Moreira , Silva Ricardo Marques e
Published: July 2013

Lichen sclerosus is an acquired inflammatory condition characterized by whitish fibrotic plaques, with a predilection for the genital skin. We performed scanning electron microscopy of the dermis from a lesion of lichen sclerosus. Normal collagen fibers could be easily found in deeper layers of the specimen, as well as the transition to pathologic area, which seems homogenized. With higher magnifications in this transitional area collagen fibers are adherent to each other, and with very high magnifications a pearl chain aspect became evident along the collagen fibers. In the superficial dermis this homogenization is even more evident, collagen fibers are packed together and round structures are also observed. Rupture of collagen fibers and inflammatory cells were not found. These autoimmune changes of the extracellular matrix lead to the aggregation of immune complexes and/or changed matrix proteins along the collagen fibers, the reason why they seem hyalinized when examined by light microscopy.
Epidermoid carcinoma of the skin mimicking breast cancer
Authors: Melo Neto Baltasar , Oliveira Giuliano da Paz , Vieira Sabas Carlos , Leal Livio Rodrigues , Melo Junior José Andrade de Carvalho , Vieira Cyro Franklin
Published: July 2013

Nonmelanoma skin cancer is the most frequent cancer in the world. Squamous cell cancer often occurs in sun-exposed areas, such as the head and neck. When it involves the breast and ulce-rates, invading the glandular parenchyma, it may mimic breast cancer. Confirmation by means of histopathological examination, combined with clinical examination, is a critical instrument for the accuracy of the diagnosis. We report a case of an epidermoid carcinoma located on the breast skin, initially diagnosed as breast cancer.
Earlobe reconstruction by the Gavello technique and bilobed flap
Authors: Cabral Ana Rita , Alonso Neide , Brinca Ana , Vieira Ricardo , Figueiredo Américo
Published: July 2013

The earlobe is an anatomical structure that has a significant aesthetic role. Its surgical repair places a challenge due to the difficulty of obtaining a natural appearing and durable outcome. The authors present two options: the Gavello technique and the bilobed flap, after the excision of malign neoplasms of the earlobe. The Gavello technique makes use of a bilobed flap with an anterior base to mold the new earlobe. D'Hooghe's bilobed flap with a pre and post-auricular lobe allows the reconstruction of small earlobes. Both techniques, although old, acquire an important and current interest in earlobe reconstruction, by reason of the moderate degree of difficulty, the use of a single time surgical act and under local anesthesia, with a proper aesthetic result.
Cutaneous leukocytoclastic vasculitis in the presence of methimazole therapy
Authors: Ribeiro Carla de Oliveira , Magrin Paula Ferrazzi , Vilar Enoí Aparecida Guedes , Durães Sandra Maria Barbosa , Estrella Rogério Ribeiro
Published: July 2013

Treatment with antithyroid drugs may be accompanied by side effects. We present a patient diagnosed with Grave's Disease who developed extensive vasculitis in the lower limbs during methimazole use. After suspension of the methimazole and the introduction of prednisone in immunesupressor doses the cutaneous lesions started to involute.
Lobomycosis and squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Nogueira Lisiane , Mendes Luciana , Rodrigues Carlos Alberto Chirano , Santos Mônica , Talhari Sinésio , Talhari Carolina
Published: July 2013

The occurence of squamous cell carcinoma on long-lasting ulcers is classic. Malignant transformation may occur on burn scars and chronic ulcers of varying etiology, including infectious agents. Transformation of old lobomycosis lesion scars into squamous cell carcinoma has been rarely reported. Careful and long-term follow-up of such patients is important to avoid carcinomatous transformation.
Case for diagnosis
Authors: Lavorato Fernanda Guedes , Nery Natália Solon , Bomm Lislaine , Mann Danielle , Gripp Alexandre Carlos , Alves Maria de Fátima Guimarães Scotelaro
Published: July 2013

Lichen sclerosus is a chronic inflammatory mucocutaneous disorder of unknown etiology that most commonly affects the female genitalia. Cutaneous involvement with nonhaemorrhagic bullous is very unusual. We describe a case of bullous lichen sclerosus.
Case for diagnosis
Authors: Lencastre André , Lopes Maria João Paiva
Published: July 2013

A 27 year-old-man, with no known personal or familial history of disease, mentioned a 10-year history of asymptomatic groups of telangiectasias, with a Blaschko lines distribution on the right lateral aspect of the neck and asymptomatic. He denied any episodes of disease or drug intake that could be associated with the disease. Blood work had no changes, namely of liver enzymes or infectious serologies. The clinical diagnosis of Idiopathic Acquired Unilateral Nevoid Telangiectasia was made, an uncommon, benign vascular malformation. The patient declined doing a cutaneous biopsy or treatment with a cosmetic intent.
The risk of cutaneous melanoma in melanocytic nevi
Authors: Fernandes Nurimar Conceição
Published: July 2013

The data on melanoma associaed with melanocytic nevus are controversial. A longitudinal prospective study of 107 cases of cutaneous melanoma revealed that 9 (8.4%) cases were presumed to be linked to a precursor lesion, but only in 1 (0.9%) out of these cases the histopathological examination showed an associated melanocytic nevus. The vague information of a preexisting lesion of cutaneous melanoma is not sufficient to consider it a tumour precursor and it requires histopathological evidence to confirm the diagnosis.