bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improving the Techniques for Human Hepatocyte Transplantation: Report from a Consensus Meeting in London
Authors: Puppi Juliana , Strom Stephen C. , Hughes Robin D. , Bansal Sanjay , Castell Jose V. , Dagher Ibrahim , Ellis Ewa C. S. , Nowak Greg , Ericzon Bo-Goran , Fox Ira J. , Gómez-Lechón M. José , Guha Chandan , Gupta Sanjeev , Mitry Ragai R. , Ohashi Kazuo , Ott Michael , Reid Lola M. , Roy-Chowdhury Jayanta , Sokal Etienne , Weber Anne , Dhawan Anil
Published: December 2011

On September 6 and 7, 2009 a meeting was held in London to identify and discuss what are perceived to be current roadblocks to effective hepatocyte transplantation as it is currently practiced in the clinics and, where possible, to offer suggestions to overcome the blocks and improve the outcomes for this cellular therapy. Present were representatives of most of the active clinical hepatocyte transplant programs along with other scientists who have contributed substantial basic research to this field. Over the 2-day sessions based on the experience of the participants, numerous roadblocks or challenges were identified, including the source of cells for the transplants and problems with tracking cells following transplantation. Much of the discussion was focused on methods to improve engraftment and proliferation of donor cells posttransplantation. The group concluded that, for now, parenchymal hepatocytes isolated from donor livers remain the best cell source for transplantation. It was reported that investigations with other cell sources, including stem cells, were at the preclinical and early clinical stages. Numerous methods to modulate the immune reaction and vascular changes that accompany hepatocyte transplantation were proposed. It was agreed that, to obtain sufficient levels of repopulation of liver with donor cells in patients with metabolic liver disease, some form of liver preconditioning would likely be required to enhance the engraftment and/or proliferation of donor cells. It was reported that clinical protocols for preconditioning by hepatic irradiation, portal vein embolization, and surgical resection had been developed and that clinical studies using these protocols would be initiated in the near future. Participants concluded that sharing information between the groups, including standard information concerning the quality and function of the transplanted cells prior to transplantation, clinical information on outcomes, and standard preconditioning protocols, would help move the field forward and was encouraged.
Feeder-Free Derivation of Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells from Human Immature Dental Pulp Stem Cells
Authors: Beltrão-Braga Patrícia C. B. , Pignatari Graciela C. , Maiorka Paulo C. , Oliveira Nélio A. J. , Lizier Nelson F. , Wenceslau Cristiane V. , Miglino Maria A. , Muotri Alysson R. , Kerkis Irina
Published: December 2011

Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) can be created by forcing expression of certain genes in fibroblasts or other somatic cell types, reversing them to a pluripotent state similar to that of embryonic stem cells (ESC). Here, we used human immature dental pulp stem cells (hIDPSCs) as an alternative source for creating iPSC. hIDPSCs can be easily isolated from accessible tissue of young and adult patients. hIDPSCs possess a fibroblast-like morphology, retaining characteristics of adult multipotent stem cells. Reprogramming of hIDPSCs was fast, producing primary hIDPSC-iPSC colonies even under feeder-free conditions. hIDPSCs acquired ESC-like morphology, expressed pluripotent markers, possessed stable, normal karyotypes, and demonstrated the ability to differentiated in vitro and in vivo. Our data demonstrate that hIDPSCs-iPSCs offer an advantageous cell system for future cell therapy and basic studies, particularly as a model for pediatric developmental disorders.
Characterization of Olfactory Stem Cells
Authors: Wetzig Andrew , Mackay-Sim Alan , Murrell Wayne
Published: December 2011

There is worldwide enthusiasm for the prospect of some kind of cellular transplant therapy for repair of failing organs. The olfactory mucosa of a patient's nose is easily biopsied to provide a ready source of multipotent cells. In this article we address practical issues pertinent to using olfactory neural stem cells for tissue repair. These cells are emerging as potentially most significant candidates for human tissue repair strategies. Previously we have shown that stem cells from olfactory mucosa are multipotent. As well, we have recently published three potential clinical applications. Their expression of dopaminergic markers in vitro and in a Parkinson's rat transplant model has been demonstrated. Their conversion to chondrogenic phenotype in vitro and in vivo has also been described, as has their transplant into a rat model of cardiac infarction. Here we examine in detail the biology of the olfactory neural stem cell using the rat as our animal model cell source. We establish its presence by examining self-renewal capacity and for phenotypic acquisition in inductive circumstances. We determine its frequency within the cell population and show that our culture system selects for this putative stem cell. Our studies demonstrate that adult olfactory stem cells, when transplanted into an environmental niche different from that of their origin, are able to demonstrate multipotency by acquiring the phenotype of the resident cells. We investigate how immediate the instruction need be. We test the hypothesis that olfactory neurospheres contain stem cells whose capacity for differentiation is triggered by signals of the immediate environmental niche. Significantly, of importance to any tissue regeneration endeavor, stem cell numbers were shown to be enriched by our culture methods. This was confirmed whether measured by sphere-forming capacity or differentiation response rate.
Fibrin Gel Improves the Survival of Transplanted Myoblasts
Authors: Gerard Catherine , Forest Marie Anne , Beauregard Genevieve , Skuk Daniel , Tremblay Jacques P.
Published: December 2011

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is the most frequent muscular dystrophy in children and young adults. Currently, there is no cure for the disease. The transplantation of healthy myoblasts is an experimental therapeutic strategy, since it could restore the expression of dystrophin in DMD muscles. Nevertheless, this cellular therapy is limited by immune reaction, low migration of the implanted cells, and high early cell death that could be at least partially due to anoikis. To avoid the lack of attachment of the cells to an extracellular matrix after the transplantation, which is the cause of anoikis, we tested the use of a fibrin gel for myoblast transplantation. In vitro, three concentrations of fibrinogen were compared (3, 20, and 50 mg/ml) to form a fibrin gel. A stiffer fibrin gel leads to less degradability and less proliferation of the cells. A concentration of 3 mg/ml fibrin gel enhanced the differentiation of the myoblasts earlier as a culture in monolayer. Human myoblasts were also transplanted in muscles of Rag/mdx mice in a fibrin gel or in a saline solution (control). The use of 3 mg/ml fibrin gel for cell transplantation increased not only the survival of the cells as measured after 5 days but also the number of fibers expressing dystrophin after 21 days, compared to the control. Moreover, the fibrin gel was also compared to a prosurvival cocktail. The survival of the myoblasts at 5 days was increased in both conditions compared to the control but the efficacy of the prosurvival cocktail was not significantly higher than the fibrin gel.
Targeted Intra-arterial Transplantation of Stem Cells to the Injured CNS is more Effective than Intravenous Administration: Engraftment is Dependent on Cell Type and Adhesion Molecule Expression
Authors: Lundberg Johan , Södersten Erik , Sundström Erik , Le Blanc Katarina , Andersson Tommy , Hermanson Ola , Holmin Staffan
Published: December 2011

Stem cell transplantation procedures using intraparenchymal injections cause tissue injury in addition to associated surgical risks. Intravenous cell administration give engraftment in parenchymal lesions although the method has low efficacy and specificity. In pathological conditions with inflammation, such as traumatic brain injury, there is a transient up-regulation of ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 which might provide environmental cues for migration of stem cells from blood to parenchyma. The aim of this study was to i) analyze the effect of intra-arterial administration on cellular engraftment, ii) compare engraftment and side effects between three different stem cell systems, and iii) analyze gene expression in these three systems. We performed specific intra-arterial transplantations with human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs), human neural progenitor cells (hNPCs), and rat neural progenitor cells (rNPCs) in a rat model of traumatic brain injury. These results were compared to the intravenous route for each cell type, respectively. Analysis of engraftment and recipient characterization was performed by immunohistochemistry. We further characterized the different types of cells by microarray and RT-qPCR analysis. Specific intra-arterial transplantations produced significantly higher engraftment compared to intravenous transplantation with hMSCs and rNPCs. No engraftment was detected after intra-arterial or intravenous administration of hNPCs. Characterization of integrin expression indicated that CD49dVCAM-1 and possibly ICAM-1 interactions through CD18 and CD11a, respectively, are important for engraftment after intravascular cell administration. No side effects, such as thromboembolic complications, were detected. When translating stem cell therapies to clinical practice, the route of transplantation and the properties of the cell lines (homing, diapedesis, and migration) become important. This study supports the use of selective intra-arterial transplantation for improving engraftment after traumatic brain injury. In addition, we conclude that careful analysis of cells intended for local, intra-arterial transplantation with respect to integrin expression is important.
Losartan Enhances the Success of Myoblast Transplantation
Authors: Fakhfakh Raouia , Lamarre Yann , Skuk Daniel , Tremblay Jacques P.
Published: December 2011

Duchenne muscular dystrophy is a recessive X-linked genetic disease caused by dystrophin gene mutations. Cell therapy can be a potential approach aiming to introduce a functional dystrophin in the dystrophic patient myofibers. However, this strategy produced so far limited results. Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) is a negative regulator of skeletal muscle development and is responsible for limiting myogenic regeneration. The combination of TGF-β signaling inhibition with myoblast transplantation can be an effective therapeutic approach in dystrophin-deficient patients. Our aim was to verify whether the success of human myoblast transplantation in immunodeficient dystrophic mice is enhanced with losartan, a molecule that downregulates TGF-β expression. In vitro, blocking TGF-β activity with losartan increased proliferation and fusion and decreased apoptosis in human myoblasts. In vivo, human myoblasts were transplanted in mice treated with oral losartan. Immunodetection of human dystrophin in tibialis anterior cross sections 1 month posttransplantation revealed more human dystrophin-positive myofibers in these mice than in nontreated dystrophic mice. Thus, blocking the TGF-β signal with losartan treatment improved the success of myoblast transplantation probably by increasing myoblast proliferation and fusion, decreasing macrophage activation, and changing the expression of myogenic regulator factors.
Establishment, Characterization, and Successful Adaptive Therapy against Human Tumors of NKG Cell, a New Human NK Cell Line
Authors: Cheng Min , Ma Juan , Chen Yongyan , Zhang Jianhua , Zhao Weidong , Zhang Jian , Wei Haiming , Ling Bin , Sun Rui , Tian Zhigang
Published: December 2011

Natural killer (NK) cells play important roles in adoptive cellular immunotherapy against certain human cancers. This study aims to establish a new human NK cell line and to study its role for adoptive cancer immunotherapy. Peripheral blood samples were collected from 54 patients to establish the NK cell line. A new human NK cell line, termed as NKG, was established from a Chinese male patient with rapidly progressive non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. NKG cells showed LGL morphology and were phenotypically identified as CD56brightNK cell with CD16-, CD27-, CD3-, αβTCR-, γδTCR-, CD4-, CD8-, CD19-, CD161-, CD45+, CXCR4+, CCR7+, CXCR1-, and CX3CR1-. NKG cells showed high expression of adhesive molecules (CD2, CD58, CD11a, CD54, CD11b, CD11c), an array of activating receptors (NKp30, NKp44, NKp46, NKG2D, NKG2C), and cytolysis-related receptors and molecules (TRAIL, FasL, granzyme B, perforin, IFN-γ). The cytotoxicity of NKG cells against tumor cells was higher than that of the established NK cell lines NK-92, NKL, and YT. NKG cell cytotoxicity depended on the presence of NKG2D and NKp30. When irradiated with 8 Gy, NKG cells were still with high cytotoxicity and activity in vitro and with safety in vivo, but without proliferation. Further, the irradiated NKG cells exhibited strong cytotoxicity against human primary ovarian cancer cells in vitro, and against human ovarian cancer in a mouse xenograft model. The adoptive transfer of NKG cells significantly inhibited the ovarian tumor growth, decreased the mortality rate and prolonged the survival, even in cases of advanced diseases. A number of NKG cells were detected in the ovarian tumor tissues during cell therapy. In use of the new human NK cell line, NKG would a promising cellular candidate for adoptive immunotherapy of human cancer.
Stem Cells Decreased Neuronal Cell Death after Hypoxic Stress in Primary Fetal Rat Neurons in Vitro
Authors: Sakai Tetsuro , Xu Yan
Published: December 2011

To explore stem cell-mediated neuronal protection through extracellular signaling pathways by transplanted stem cells, we sought to identify potential candidate molecules responsible for neuronal protection using an in vitro coculture system. Primary fetal rat hippocampal neurons underwent hypoxia (≤1% oxygen) for 96 h nad then were returned to a normoxic condition. The study group then received rat umbilical cord matrix-derived stem cells, while the control group received fresh media only. The experimental group showed decreased neuronal apoptosis compared to the control group [44.5 ± 1.6% vs. 71.0 ± 4.2% (mean ± SD, p = 0.0005) on day 5] and higher neuronal survival (4.9 ± 1.2 cells/100× field vs. 2.2 ± 0.3, p = 0.02 on day 5). Among 90 proteins evaluated using a protein array, stem cell coculture media showed increased protein secretion of TIMP-1 (5.61-fold), TIMP-2 (4.88), CNTF-Rα (3.42), activin A (2.20), fractalkine (2.04), CCR4 (2.02), and decreased secretion in MIP-2 (0.30-fold), AMPK α1 (0.43), TROY (0.48), and TIMP-3 (0.50). This study demonstrated that coculturing stem cells with primary neurons in vitro decreased neuronal cell death after hypoxia with significantly altered protein secretion. The results suggest that stem cells may offer neuronal protection through extracellular signaling.
Docosahexaenoic Acid Promotes Dopaminergic Differentiation in Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells and Inhibits Teratoma Formation in Rats with Parkinson-Like Pathology
Authors: Chang Yuh-Lih , Chen Shih-Jen , Kao Chung-Lan , Hung Shih-Chieh , Ding Dah-Ching , Yu Cheng-Chia , Chen Yi-Jen , Ku Hung-Hai , Lin Chin-Po , Lee Kun-Hsiung , Chen Yu-Chih , Wang Jhi-Joung , Hsu Chuan-Chih , Chen Liang-Kung , Li Hsin-Yang , Chiou Shih-Hwa
Published: December 2011

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the degeneration of dopaminergic (DA) neurons in the midbrain. Induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells have shown potential for differentiation and may become a resource of functional neurons for the treatment of PD. However, teratoma formation is a major concern for transplantation-based therapies. This study examined whether functional neurons could be efficiently generated from iPS cells using a five-step induction procedure combined with docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) treatment. We demonstrated that DHA, a ligand for the RXR/Nurr1 heterodimer, significantly activated expression of the Nurr1 gene and the Nurr1-related pathway in iPS cells. DHA treatment facilitated iPS differentiation into tyrosine hydroxylase (TH)-positive neurons in vitro and in vivo and functionally increased dopamine release in transplanted grafts in PD-like animals. Furthermore, DHA dramatically upregulated the endogenous expression levels of neuroprotective genes ( Bcl-2, Bcl-xl, brain-derived neurotrophic factor, and glial cell-derived neurotrophic factor) and protected against 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP)-induced apoptosis in iPS-derived neuronal precursor cells. DHA-treated iPS cells significantly improved the behavior of 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA)-treated PD-like rats compared to control or eicosapentaenoic acid-treated group. Importantly, the in vivo experiment suggests that DHA induces the differentiation of functional dopaminergic precursors and improves the abnormal behavior of 6-OHDA-treated PD-like rats by 4 months after transplantation. Furthermore, we found that DHA treatment in iPS cell-grafted rats significantly downregulated the mRNA expression of embryonic stem cell-specific genes (Oct-4 and c-Myc) in the graft and effectively blocked teratoma formation. Importantly, 3 Tesla-magnetic resonance imaging and ex vivo green fluorescence protein imaging revealed that no teratomas were present in transplanted grafts of DHA-treated iPS-derived DA neurons 4 months after implantation. Therefore, our data suggest that DHA plays a crucial role in iPS differentiation into functional DA neurons and that this approach could provide a novel therapeutic approach for PD treatment.
Is time a problem? The work-life-leisure balance and its impact on physical activities: a case study in Denmark
Authors: Pfister Gertrud
Published: December 2011

Résumé En Occident, le sport et les activités physiques sont des composantes essentielles de la politique de santé publique. Ils servent de mesures préventives, contre les dites « maladies de civilisation », comme symboles d’un style de vie hygiénique et moderne et comme outils importants dans ce contexte de projets d’amélioration du corps. Ainsi, les questions qui surgissent ici sont : jusqu’à quel point les populations des sociétés industrielles sont-elles actives ou inactives et quelles sont les raisons de ne pas participer au sport pour tous ? Cet article observe la situation du Danemark et examine la participation de la population danoise aux activités récréatives. L’accent est mis sur les raisons de participer ou de ne pas participer au sport (pour tous) et particulièrement sur l’importance du temps dans ce contexte. La première partie de l’article présente les données statistiques disponibles sur les types d’activités physiques des Danois, en particulier en regard du temps ou du manque de temps ; la seconde partie s’intéresse à une approche théorique du temps, du poids du temps de loisir et des questions de genre ; la troisième partie, basée sur les résultats d’entretiens de recherche, fournit un aperçu en profondeur de l’utilisation du temps chez les personnes âgées danoises et de son impact sur la pratique d’activités physiques.
L'après-carrière des footballeurs professionnels en Afrique du Sud
Authors: Berthoud Jérôme , Poli Raffaele
Published: December 2011

Résumé Cet article traite de l’après-carrière des footballeurs en Afrique du Sud. Les résultats sont principalement basés sur des entretiens auprès d’anciens joueurs ayant accompli une carrière professionnelle dans leur pays. Ce travail met l’accent sur les dynamiques sociales et culturelles propres au milieu du football sud-africain et sur leur impact au niveau du style de vie adopté par les joueurs pendant leur carrière, ainsi que sur les conséquences morales et matérielles de ces choix une fois la carrière de joueur terminée. Que deviennent les joueurs en fin de carrière ? Quels sont les éléments contextuels qui les joueurs particulièrement vulnérables ? Cette recherche identifie trois éléments « socialisants » susceptibles de mettre en péril la préparation de l’après-carrière : le club, le milieu socioculturel et la famille, dans lesquels les joueurs ont grandi.
Une approche singulière de l'évaluation des niveaux d'intégration sociale des femmes arabo-musulmanes issues de l'immigration maghrébine en France : corps, sport et analyse conative
Authors: Khmailia Mohamed , Mikulovic Jacques , Bui-Xuân Gilles
Published: December 2011

Résumé L’étude porte sur l’évaluation de l’impact du rapport supposé conflictuel et incompatible de l’Islam et de l’Occident sur l’intégration sociale des jeunes femmes issues de l’immigration maghrébine en France. Les Activités Physiques et Sportives sont utilisées comme indicateurs, révélateurs de niveaux de cette intégration. L’analyse des données recueillies à partir d’observations et d’entretiens semi-directifs auprès de ce public repose sur une évaluation socio-conative qui rend compte de la conduite de l’individu selon le sens qu’il attribue à ses actions. Elle conduit à identifier une échelle évaluative de cinq niveaux d’adaptation qui permet, à partir d’indicateurs identifiant différentes valeurs relatives à la perception du corps, aux positions par rapport au sport, et à la pratique effective de l’activité physique et sportive en général, de déterminer le degré d’intégration sociale de chaque actrice selon son curriculum conatif personnel. Les résultats de la recherche montrent que l’intégration sociale des femmes d’immigrés maghrébins est une préoccupation de leur vie quotidienne et rentre dans un processus individuel complexe, dynamique et différencié allant de la fidélité à la rupture avec la tradition des origines.
Corporal technique in the game of capoeira
Authors: Neves de Souza e Nunes Dias João Carlos
Published: December 2011

Résumé Nous ne considérons que les registres des images et des récits propres à l’univers de la capoeira, en ayant comme référence le groupe de Capoeira Cordão de Ouro (Brésil). Notre recherche, qui est à la fois un exercice épistémologique et une recherche qualitative sur la zone de sustentation, se base sur l’examen des images du groupe, ainsi que sur des entrevues quotidiennes visant à reconnaître les symboles inscrits dans le corps et ses relations intersubjectives. L’interprétation que nous proposons du jeu de la capoeira et des techniques corporelles qui lui sont associées rend possible d’élargir la compréhension du système culturel de la capoeira, notamment sur base de la relation que le jeu introduit entre le corps, la technique corporelle et la société et en référence aux relations entre le jeu et le rite, en ayant comme référence les symbolismes des jeux du corps dans les roues de la capoeira.
Des activités athlétiques a l'école entre santé et performance
Authors: Roger Anne , Bavazzano Pierre
Published: December 2011

Résumé L’athlétisme, qui s’est structuré au début du XX e  siècle, a rapidement pénétré le monde des pratiques physiques à l’École comme d’autres activités sportives. L’originalité des liens entre l’EPS scolaire et l’athlétisme réside dans la construction de ce sport comme enseignement de base pour le milieu scolaire pendant de nombreuses décennies. Depuis la méthode naturelle de G. Hébert centrée sur des exercices athlétiques aux formes d’évaluation du baccalauréat, véritables épreuves de compétitions athlétiques, les activités athlétiques ont donc occupé une place importante et originale au sein de l’École. Les évolutions et transformations sociétales et éducatives conduisent à redéfinir la place des activités athlétiques depuis les années 1980 en EPS avec une audience moins forte dans un contexte de multiplication des activités physiques et sportives répondant aux finalités du système scolaire.
Les activités de combat au sein de l'éducation physique en France depuis le XIXe siècle : entre pertinences éducatives et résistances scolaires
Authors: Groenen Haimo , Ottogalli-Mazzacavallo Cécile
Published: December 2011

Résumé La permanence des activités physiques de combat dans l’EP scolaire française depuis la fin du XIX e  siècle témoigne des vertus éducatives attribuées à la maîtrise d’un affrontement corporel interindividuel. Analysés conjointement à l’échelle des textes officiels, des théoriciens et des pratiques d’enseignants, la place et le statut des activités de combat en EP révèlent les sélections et les transformations opérées par l’école parmi les pratiques sociales. Ces choix et mises en forme scolaires depuis la fin du XIX e  siècle se comprennent à l’articulation de quatre facteurs : les enjeux éducatifs poursuivis par l’EP, les caractéristiques et évolutions des pratiques sociales, les modes de rationalisation pédagogique engagés hors de l’école et le rôle des acteurs scolaires. Intégrées initialement dans différentes formes de gymnastique, ces activités ont progressivement acquis une place à part entière en EP en tant que sports de combat, dans la leçon et le sport scolaire associatif, pour les garçons puis aussi pour les filles. Des résistances perdurent cependant et freinent toujours leur diffusion à l’école. Elles tiennent non seulement aux conditions de formation des enseignants mais aussi à des lacunes de propositions pédagogiques dans et hors de l’école afin de démocratiser ces activités auprès de tous les élèves.
Effect of Resveratrol on Bcl-2 and VEGF Expression in Oxygen-Induced Retinopathy of Prematurity
Authors: Li Wenlin , Jiang Deyong
Published: December 2011

Purpose:

To explore the effect of resveratrol on B-cell leukemia/lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression in rats with oxygen-induced retinopathy of prematurity (ROP).

Methods:

Seven-day-old Sprague-Dawley rats (N = 60) were randomly assigned to five groups. Group A received normal partial oxygen pressure and groups B, C, D, and E received 75% ± 2% oxygen for 5 days to induce ROP. The rats in groups C, D, and E were intragastrically treated with resveratrol (10, 30, and 60 mg/kg/d, respectively) once daily for 5 days. Rats were killed at 17 days of age and the retina was collected.

Results:

Western blot analysis revealed increased Bcl-2 protein expression in group B versus group A. Levels of Bcl-2 decreased with the increase of resveratrol concentration in groups C, D, and E. The optical density of Bcl-2 protein expression in group B was four times higher than that in group A (
P
< .01). When compared with group B, expression of Bcl-2 and VEGF in groups C, D, and E decreased in a dose-dependent manner. Significant differences in expression of Bcl-2 and VEGF were also noted among the three treatment groups with resveratrol (
P
< .01). After treatment with resveratrol at 10, 30, and 60 mg/kg/d, the inhibition rate of Bcl-2 expression was 11.1%, 38.1%, and 69.8% and that of VEGF expression was 3.4%, 23.0%, and 43.7%, respectively.

Conclusion:

Resveratrol can significantly inhibit expression of Bcl-2 and VEGF in the retina of neonatal rats with oxygen-induced ROP. It may provide a protective effect on retinal neovascular diseases, including ROP.
Management and Outcomes of Suction Loss During LASIK Flap Creation With a Femtosecond Laser
Authors: Tomita Minoru , Watabe Miyuki , Nakamura Tadayuki , Nakamura Nobuo , Tsuru Tadahiko , Waring George O.
Published: December 2011

PURPOSE:

To evaluate risk factors, management, and outcomes in patients who experienced suction loss during LASIK flap creation with a femtosecond laser (Intra-Lase FS 60, Abbott Medical Optics Inc).

METHODS:

Pre- and postoperative visual outcomes and refractions for 71 eyes of 70 patients after suction loss during flap creation with the IntraLase FS60 femtosecond laser were analyzed and studied.

RESULTS:

In patients requiring a second or third lamellar flap cut immediately after suction loss, 97.2% of eyes achieved uncorrected distance visual acuity of 0.00 logMAR (20/20) or better and 100% of eyes achieved corrected distance visual acuity of 0.00 logMAR (20/20) or better at most recent follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS:

Our study suggests that excellent visual outcomes can be achieved if an immediate lamellar recut is performed after suction loss with a femtosecond laser.
Irido-Lenticular Abscess as the Initial Sign of
Candida Albicans
Endogenous Endophthalmitis
Authors: Braich Puneet S. , Chang Jonathan S. , Albini Thomas A. , Schefler Amy C.
Published: December 2011

A-33-year-old man presented with 9 days of conjunctival erythema, pain, and worsening vision in the left eye. Anterior segment examination was significant for a well-defined, cream-colored iridociliary mass. Ultrasound biomicroscopy demonstrated an iris lesion with ciliary body and lenticular involvement. The authors performed a pars plana vitrectomy and lensectomy with an iris biopsy. Culture of the vitreous cassette and iris mass yielded a diagnosis of
Candida albicans
endophthalmitis. Clinicians encountering an iris nodule with lenticular involvement, even in an immunocompetent adult, are urged to consider a diagnosis of an endogenous endophthalmitis secondary to
C. albicans
.
Atypical Presentation of Salzmann Nodular Degeneration Diagnosed With Ultra-High–Resolution Optical Coherence Tomography
Authors: Hurmeric Volkan , Yoo Sonia H. , Galor Anat , Canto Ana Paula , Wang Jianhua
Published: December 2011

A 59-year-old woman presented with bilateral, peripheral, circular corneal infiltrates. There was a clear zone separating the outer margin of the degeneration from the limbus in both eyes. The inner margins were indistinct. Ultra-high–resolution optical coherence tomography (UHR-OCT) imaging demonstrated subepithelial infiltrations with epithelial thinning and corneal surface elevation. The infiltrate was accompanied by significant stromal scarring, which reached deep layers of the corneal stroma. UHR-OCT findings were consistent with Salzmann nodular degeneration. UHR-OCT can be used as an optical biopsy to diagnose atypical corneal degenerations without tissue sampling.
The Surgical Treatment of Congenital Tarsal Kink Syndrome Associated With Corneal Ulcer
Authors: Yuksel Dilek , Kosker Mustafa
Published: December 2011

The authors present a case of unilateral eyelid congenital tarsal kink associated with corneal ulcer. The tarsal kink was corrected by a horizontal tarsal incision, performed half the thickness of the tarsus along its entire horizontal extent. Terminal levator aponeurosis fibers were reattached to the tarsal incision line to create sufficient everting force for correction of the entropion. The tarsal kink disappeared and eyelid positions remained stable during a follow-up period of 2 years.
Ion Channels and Beating Heart: The Players and the Music
Authors: Crotti Lia , Limongelli Giuseppe , Antzelevitch Charles
Published: December 2011

Soft gentle music accompanies us throughout our lifetime; it is the music of our heart beating. Although at times it is questionable as to who serves as conductor of the orchestra, there is little doubt that our ion channels are the main players. Whenever one of them plays too loudly, too softly or simply off key, disharmony results, sometimes leading to total disruption of the rate and rhythm. Ion channels can disrupt the music of our heart by different mechanisms. Sometimes their function is correct, but their expression is altered by underlying cardiac diseases (i.e. heart failure); sometimes the defect is in their structure, because of an underlying genetic defect, and in this case a channelopathy is present.
Catecholaminergic Polymorphic Ventricular Tachycardia in 2012
Authors: Nederend Ineke , van der Werf Christian , Wilde Arthur A.M.
Published: December 2011

Catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia (CPVT) is a rare, potentially lethal inherited arrhythmia syndrome characterized by stress or emotion-induced ventricular arrhythmias. CPVT was first described in 1960, while the genetic basis underlying this syndrome was discovered in 2001. The past decade has seen substantial advances in understanding the pathophysiology of CPVT. In addition, significant advances have been made in elucidating clinical characteristics of CPVT patients and new treatment options have become available. Here, we review current literature on CPVT to present state-of-the-art knowledge on the subject of the genetic basis, pathophysiology, clinical presentation, diagnosis, treatment and prognosis.
Autosomal recessive hypotrichosis simplex with woolly hair: a report of a new family
Authors: Al Aboud Khalid Mohammad , Al Aboud Daifullah
Published: December 2011

Autosomal recessive hypotrichosis simplex with woolly hair is a rare dermatological disorder, characterized by sparse hair and tightly curled hair. We report on a new family affected with this disorder which has not previously been reported. In this family, 2 siblings were affected. We believe that the disorder is not rare, but is possibly misdiagnosed, and hence underreported.
Zosteriform morphea: Wolf’s isotopic response in an immunocompetent patient
Authors: Ruiz-Villaverde Ricardo , Sánchez-Cano Daniel , Galán-Gutiérrez Manuel
Published: December 2011

We report the case of a 19-year old female who presented to our dermatological clinic with hyperpigmented, indurated and atrophic patches on a zosteriform distribution, extending from her left submammary region through to her back. Our case was consistent with a zosteriform morphea as an expression of an isotopic Wolf response following an episode of herpes zoster. We discuss the pathogenic mechanisms and review the clinical cases previously reported in the literature.
Ulcerated cutaneous epithelioid hemangioendothelioma in an 8-month old infant
Authors: Sachdeva Silonie
Published: December 2011

Epithelioid hemangioendothelioma is an uncommon malignant vascular tumour usually involving soft tissue and rarely only skin. It is considered to be a borderline neoplasm between angiolymphoid hyperplasia with eosinophilia and an epithelioid angiosarcoma and is mostly found in adults with few cases reported in children. We herein report a case of ulcerated cutaneous epithelioid hemangioendothelioma in an infant of 8 months. This tumour has not been reported at such a young age in literature.
Epidemiologic and clinicopathologic aspects of Leprosy in Dakar; evaluation of 73 new cases
Authors: Niang Suzanne Oumou , Diallo Moussa , Ndiaye Maodo , Diop Assane , Diatta Boubacar Ahy , Wadih Mohamed , Kane Assane , Dieng Mame Thierno , Badiane Charles Insa
Published: December 2011

Hundreds of new leprosy cases are still diagnosed in Dakar despite all the efforts in the struggle by the national program for elimination of leprosy by the Institute of Applied Leprosy in Dakar. The aim of our study was to evaluate the epidemiological, clinicopathological and outcome of new cases of leprosy. A prospective study was conducted over a period of one year listing all new cases of leprosy based on clinical diagnosis, bacteriology and histology. 73 new cases were recorded. The sex ratio was 1.5 and the mean age of 39.5 years. Children aged from 0 to 15 years old represented 12%. The clinical forms were rated in order of decreasing frequency Borderline 47.94%, 30.13% lepromatous lepromatous, indeterminate 8.21, borderline lepromatous 6.84, TT: 5.47%, 1.36 and neurological bb%. Neurological signs were enlarged nerve in 50 cases, a neurological deficit in 16 cases and a sensitive deficit in 16 cases. The complications were burns and ulcerations in 10 cases, a claw in 7 cases, a reversal reaction in 7 cases, erythema nodosum in 4 cases and neuritis in 8 cases. The number of new cases mutilated was 24.65%. The smear was positive in 42% and histology contribution in 91.37% of cases. Our study highlights the significant number of patients with multibacillary contagious, affected children, the high proportion of disability grade 2/OMS reflecting the delay in diagnosis. This delay is due to ignorance, to traditional treatments and low socio-economic status and lack of trained diagnostic teams in different areas apart from referral centres.
A new combination of multiple autoimmune syndrome? Coexistence of vitiligo, autoimmune thyroid disease and ulcerative colitis
Authors: Topal Firdevs , Senel Engin , Akbulut Sabiye , Topal Fatih , Dolek Yasemin
Published: December 2011

The occurrence of three or more autoimmune disorders in one patient defines multiple autoimmune syndrome. The pathogenesis of multiple autoimmune syndrome is not known yet and environmental triggers and genetic susceptibility have been suggested to be involved. Herein, we report a 47-year-old woman who had Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, vitiligo and newly diagnosed ulcerative colitis. Diagnosis of ulcerative colitis was confirmed with histopathologic examination. This case presents a new combination of multiple autoimmune syndrome.
The appearance of angiolipomatosis after using laptop computer on the thighs: a relationship?
Authors: Caucanas Marie , Müller Gebhard , Vanhooteghem Olivier
Published: December 2011

A 56-year-old patient developed angiolipomatosis of the anterior part of the thighs after repeated laptop contact localisation. Histological findings exhibit an unusual inflammatory infiltrate. We postulate that the computer could favour lipoma development by a physiopathological mechanism that remains to be clarified.
Papulonecrotic tuberculid: report of a clinical case
Authors: Brinca Ana , Andrade Pedro , Vieira Ricardo , Figueiredo Américo
Published: December 2011

Papulonecrotic tuberculid is a rare, chronic, recurrent and symmetric eruption of necrotizing skin papules arising in crops, involving primarily the limbs. It occurs in less than 5% of active tuberculosis. Typically bacilli are not detected in any of the cutaneous lesions. Extracutaneous tuberculosis primary focus is only detected in 30-40% of the cases, being the lymph nodes the most common location. Anti-tuberculosis treatment is rapidly effective and is often the main confirmation of the diagnosis.
Lichen planus pigmetosus-like ashy dermatosis
Authors: Tripodi Cutrì Francesco , Ruocco Eleonora , Pettinato Guido , Ciancia Giuseppe
Published: December 2011

Ashy dermatosis, also known as erythema dyschromicum perstans, is an idiopathic dermal melanosis of unknown etiology. We here describe an unusual case of 63-year-old Caucasian male with ashy dermatosis and skin lesion of lichen pigmentosus-like. No treatment was tried because the lesions were totally asymptomatic. After a control, three months later, all lesions had cleared up. This case is of interest because it proves the existence of ashy dermatosis with clinical aspect lichen planus pigmentosus-like. This is the first case in the literature of lichen planus pigmentosuslike ashy dermatosis confirming the view that ashy dermatosis is a variant of lichen planus without the typically band-like infiltrate and Max Joseph spaces.
Pseudolymphoma tattoo-induced
Authors: Pasolini Giorgio , Ghidini Patrizia , Arisi Mariachiara , Pedretti Alessandra , Ungari Marco , Calzavara Pinton Piergiacomo
Published: December 2011

Tattooing has become more and more popular in today’s society. The most common dermatological tattoo complications are represented by hypersensitivity reaction to tattoo pigments like irritant and allergical contact dermatitis, development of lichenoid areas and granulomatous responses, such as sarcoid granulomas or foreign body granulomas. Less frequently patients developing discoid lupus erythematous have been reported. Pseudolymphoma is an uncommon reactive lymphocytic proliferation mimicking the histological and clinical features of a malignant skin lymphoma. We herein report a pseuldoymphoma limited to the red area of a multicolour tattoo of the leg.
Generalized mid dermal elastolysis
Authors: Cruz Maria João , Barros Ana Margarida , Azevedo Filomena
Published: December 2011

Mid-dermal elastolysis (MDE) is a rare skin disorder clinically characterized by the appearance of diffuse fine wrinkling, most often of the trunk and arms. This entity is distinguished from other elastolytic disorders by its characteristic selective loss of elastic fibers of the mid dermis. The aetiopathogenesis of the disease is still unclear as well as the effective treatment. Half of the cases described in the literature are associated with ultraviolet radiation exposure. Other reported triggering conditions such as urticaria, eczema and granuloma annulare suggests different eliciting inflammatory pathways. The authors describe the case of a 38-year-old woman who developed an urticarial eruption during months which progressed to generalized and severe fine wrinkling.
Bullous mycosis fungoides associated with an extensive ulcer and a severe leukemoid reaction
Authors: Sato Shuei , Okamoto Osamu , Kawamoto Michifumi , Oishi Masaki , Yada Naomi , Kohno Kazuhiro , Yokoyama Shigeo , Fujiwara Sakuhei
Published: December 2011

This report presents a case of bullous mycosis fungoides associated with an extensive ulcer and a severe leukemoid reaction. The rash began as indurated erythema which was always followed by ulceration. The rashes initially responded to radiation therapy, but multiple recurrences appeared. Several bullae appeared on the trunk during the course of the illness, without any evidence of paraneoplastic pemphigus. Finally, the ulcer covered a large part of the trunk, and the patient died of sepsis with an extreme leukocyte count of 118,000/μL. A bone marrow analysis revealed a leukemoid reaction and an autopsy revealed pseudomembranous colitis.
Quality of Life in Patients on Peritoneal Dialysis: Clinical and Psychological Changes with Age and Duration of Treatment
Authors: Li Cavoli Gioacchino , Tralongo Angelo , Schillaci Onofrio , Zagarrigo Carmela , Carollo Antonio , Rotolo Ugo
Published: December 2011

For nephrologists, the theme of the quality of life (QoL) of patients on dialysis, in relation to physical and psychological parameters, is of great interest. We examine the importance of psychological variable-related factors of age and duration of treatment. We studied the quality of life of 56 subjects on peritoneal dialysis prospectively at time 0 and time 1 (after six months). Patients were divided into four age groups and some clinical parameters were registered. We used three specific tests for psychological assessment. Our study suggests that peritoneal dialysis patients have a significantly worse quality of life, especially according to physical parameters, and this also considerably affects social activities.
Eryhtropoietin-Free Hemodialysis Patients: Is Chronic Hepatitis an Extra Advantage?
Authors: Zumrutdal Aysegul
Published: December 2011

This study aimed to compare the erythropoietin-independent hemodialysis patients who had hepatitis with those who did not. Hemodialysis patients with or without hepatitis who were able to maintain nearly normal hemoglobin levels of 12 g/dL or over, without the administration of recombinant human erythropoietin for at least one year were analyzed retrospectively. Forty-three of the 534 hepatitis-negative hemodialysis patients (8%) and 20 (8 with HbsAg, 12 with HCV) of the 79 hemodialysis patients with hepatitis (25.3%) did not need erythropoietin therapy for one year. Only 9 of the patients were female (male 85.7%). Time on hemodialysis therapy was statistically longer in patients with hepatitis (77.8±42.2 vs. 123.6±51.1 months, P=0.001). There were 30 patients with acquired cystic kidney disease (47.6%) and there was no difference between hepatitis positive and negative patients (P>0.05). Chronic hepatitis infection was significantly associated with EPO independency (P=0.003). In this study, male gender, more years on hemodialysis therapy and chronic hepatitis seem to be possible factors contributing to normal hemoglobin levels.
Atypical Presentation of Influenza A/H1N1 in a Chronic Kidney Disease Patient
Authors: Kute Vivek B. , Trivedi Hargovind L. , Shah Pankaj R. , Vanikar Aruna V. , Gumber Manoj R.
Published: December 2011

There is currently little information about the presentation and clinical course of the 2009 pandemic influenza A (H1N1) virus infection in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients on hemodialysis. CKD patients are at a high risk of H1N1 infection associated complications during this pandemic. H1N1 influenza is an important differential diagnosis in CKD patients on dialysis who are short of breath or febrile. We report an atypical clinical presentation of H1N1 influenza in a CKD patient. Uremia-induced immune dysfunction might lead to this atypical presentation. Hemodialysis patients are positioned close to each other during their dialysis treatment. Delayed diagnosis due to atypical clinical presentation of H1N1 might increase their exposure to transmission of respiratory infection. Physicians should be aware of this atypical clinical presentation of H1N1 influenza in CKD patients, especially during the flu season, for early diagnosis and prompt antiviral treatment.

Delayed diagnosis due to atypical clinical presentation of H1N1 might increase their exposure to transmission of respiratory infection. Physicians should be aware of this atypical clinical presentation of H1N1 influenza in CKD patients, especially during the flu season, for early diagnosis and prompt antiviral treatment.
Omental Infarction in an Obese 10-year-old Boy
Authors: Kambouri Katerina , Gardikis Stefanos , Giatromanolaki Alexandra , Tsalkidis Aggelos , Sivridis Efthimios , Vaos George
Published: December 2011

Primary omental infarction (POI) has a low incidence worldwide, with most cases occurring in adults. This condition is rarely considered in the differential diagnosis of acute abdominal pain in childhood. Herein, we present a case of omental infarction in an obese 10-year-old boy who presented with acute abdominal pain in the right lower abdomen. The ultrasound (US) examination did not reveal the appendix but showed secondary signs suggesting acute appendicitis. The child was thus operated on under the preoperative diagnosis of acute appendicitis but the intraoperative finding was omental infarct. Since the omental infarct as etiology of acute abdominal pain is uncommon, we highlight some of the possible etiologies and emphasize the importance of accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment of omental infarction.
Born at 27 weeks of Gestation with Classical PKU: Challenges of Dietetic Management in a very Preterm Infant
Authors: Ballhausen Diana , Egli Delphine , Bickle-Graz Myriam , Bianchi Nicoletta , Bonafé Luisa
Published: December 2011

Few cases of premature infants with classical phenylketonuria (PKU) have been reported. Treatment of these patients is challenging due to the lack of a phenylalanine (Phe)-free amino acid (AA) solution for parenteral nutrition. A boy born at 27 weeks of gestation with a weight of 1000 g was diagnosed with classical PKU on day 7 because of highly elevated Phe level at newborn screening (2800 μmol/L). Phe intake was suspended for 5 days and during this time intravenous glucose and lipids as well as small amounts of Phe-free formula through nasogastric tube were given. Because of insufficient weight gain attributable to deficiency of essential AA, a Phe-reduced, BCAA-enriched parenteral nutrition was added to satisfy AA requirements without overloading in Phe. Under this regimen, the boy started to gain weight, Phe plasma levels progressively reduced and normalized on day 19. At the age of 40 months, the patient shows normal growth parameters (height 25th percentile, weight 25-50th percentile, head circumference 50th percentile) with a normal result for formally tested psychomotor development (WPPSI-III). The good outcome of the patient in spite of over 2 weeks of extremely high Phe concentrations suggests that the premature brain may still have enough plasticity to recover. Lacking a Phe-free intravenous AA solution, successful management of premature infants with PKU depends on the child’s tolerance of enteral nutrition. Although the coincidence of PKU and prematurity is rare, there is strong need for the development of an appropriate Phe-free amino acid solution for parenteral nutrition especially in case of gastro-intestinal complications of prematurity.