bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Normal DXA bone mineral density but frail cortical bone in Turner's syndrome
Authors: Zuckerman‐Levin Nehama , Yaniv Irit , Schwartz Tseela , Guttmann Hadassah , Hochberg Ze’ev
Published: May 2007

Context  Patients with Turner's syndrome have normal bone mineral density by dual energy X‐ray absorptiometry (DXA), but a predisposition for fractures. Quantitative ultrasonography (QUS) measures cortical bone strength.

Objective  To compare QUS with DXA in patients with Turner's syndrome.

Patients and methods  Twenty‐seven Turner's syndrome patients, aged 21·1 ± 6·3 years (mean ± SD), were evaluated by DXA, measuring two‐dimensional bone mineral density (BMD), and QUS, measuring speed of sound (SOS) of the radius and tibia. The results were compared to sex‐ and age‐matched (Ctr A, n = 53) and height‐matched (Ctr B, n = 34) control groups.

Results  Fracture incidence per 1000 women years was 4·76 in Ctr A, 5 in Ctr B and 7·69 in Turner's patients. In Turner's syndrome patients, QUS results were significantly lower than in controls, whereas DXA Z‐scores were not different from reference values. Correlation between tibia and radius SOS and height and age in controls (P < 0·0001) was not evident in Turner's syndrome. Oestrogen or growth hormone therapy had no effect on either QUS or DXA parameters.

Conclusions  Bone fragility in Turner's syndrome is reflected by low SOS but not by DXA BMD. Low QUS, which assesses the cortical bone only, supports a defect in cortical bone in Turner's syndrome. Lack of SOS correlation with age, height and hormonal therapy in Turner's syndrome suggests a primary bone defect, rather than enhanced resorption of endocrine origin.
Responses of hyporheic invertebrate assemblages to large‐scale variation in flow permanence and surface–subsurface exchange
Authors: DATRY THIBAULT , LARNED SCOTT T. , SCARSBROOK MIKE R.
Published: April 2007

1. Flow permanence (the proportion of time that flowing water is present) strongly influences benthic invertebrate assemblages in ephemeral and intermittent river reaches. Effects of varying flow permanence on hyporheic invertebrate assemblages are not well understood, and have not previously been studied at large spatial scales.

2. We used a 52‐km long flow‐permanence gradient in the alluvial Selwyn River, New Zealand to assess hyporheic assemblage responses to variation in flow permanence and surface–subsurface exchange. The Selwyn mainstem consists of perennial and temporary reaches embedded in longer downwelling (losing) and upwelling (gaining) sections.

3. We predicted that hyporheic invertebrate diversity, density and assemblage stability would increase with increasing flow permanence. We further predicted that assemblage structure would be influenced by the relative contribution of downwelling and upwelling water at the reach‐scale.

4. Hyporheic invertebrates were collected at 15 river cross‐sections over a 13‐month period. As predicted, hyporheic taxon richness, density and assemblage stability varied directly with flow permanence. The distribution of taxa along the flow permanence gradient appeared to be related to desiccation resistance. However, it is possible that proximity to colonist sources also contributed to distribution patterns.

5. Taxon richness was significantly higher at sites in the gaining section compared with the losing section. Sites with high flow permanence in the gaining and losing sections supported distinct hyporheic assemblages, characterised by amphipods and isopods in the gaining section, and ostracods, Hydra sp. and the mayfly Deleatidium spp. in the losing section.

6. Results of the study suggest an expansion of the scope of the Hyporheic Corridor Concept to include large hyporheic flowpaths associated with unbounded alluvial plains rivers. Hyporheic assemblages in alluvial rivers are strongly influenced by large‐scale flow permanence gradients, large‐scale surface water–groundwater exchange, and their interactions.
Strangler fig‐host associations in roadside and deciduous forest sites, South India
Authors: Patel Aviva
Published: May 2007

Abstract. Understanding the regeneration niche of animal‐dispersed epiphytes is important in understanding forest community structure, maintenance of species richness in plant communities, animal movements and distributions, and in managing plant and animal communities for conservation. Strangler figs are particularly interesting for studying epiphyte‐host relations because they are hemiepiphytes, implying that strangler and host can potentially belong to the same species and either fuse together or strangle each other, and because all stranglers have many‐seeded, animal‐dispersed fruit, providing many opportunities for seed dispersal to other stranglers. A study was conducted at a roadside and at a forest site in Karnataka State, south India, to determine factors influencing host choice of strangler figs. Stranglers were found more frequently at the roadside site than at the forest site. At the roadside site, stranglers were found much more abundantly on Ficus hosts than on non‐Ficus hosts, whereas at the forest site, stranglers were found more abundantly on non‐Ficus hosts. Host tree species with animal‐dispersed fruit bore significantly more stranglers than those with mechanically dispersed fruit. More stranglers were found on hosts in large d.b.h. size classes (>80 cm d.b.h.) than on those in small d.b.h. classes. Prior studies of strangler‐host relations have never found stranglers growing on other stranglers. The results of this study suggest that stranglers are fully capable of regenerating on other stranglers, including conspecifics, but these regeneration events are not observed in forests because of relatively low strangler seed rain, due to lack of clumping of strangler hosts, and low insolation in these habitats.
Convergent evolution of agaonine and sycoecine (Agaonidae, Chalcidoidea) head shape in response to the constraints of host fig morphology
Authors: Noort S. van , Compton S. G.
Published: May 2007

Abstract. Similar morphological adaptations have arisen independently across separate lineages within the fig wasps (Agaonidae, Chalcidoidea, Hymenoptera) in response to the extreme selective pressure provided by the morphological constraints of their host fig trees (Ficus, Moraceae). Evidence is forwarded that supports the convergence of female head shape between two distinct fig wasp lineages, the Agaoninae (pollinators) and Sycoecinae (non‐pollinators), utilizing the same host Ficus species (section Gagolychia). In contrast to the vast majority of the non‐pollinating fig wasps, that oviposit from the outside of the fig, the Agaoninae and Sycoecinae must negotiate the fig ostiole for internal oviposition, with the result that these independent lineages are simultaneously exposed to the selective pressure imposed by ostiolar morphology. Selection will favour a head shape that facilitates successful penetration of the fig cavity and this has resulted in the evolution of similar head shapes in the two lineages. Female head shape in both subfamilies was found to correlate with fig size, with elongate heads associated with large fig size. Given that ostiole bract arrangement is uniform within section Galoglychia, it appears that ostiole length may be the main factor contributing to head shape determination. The high degree of co‐adaptation of head shape suggests that both the Sycoecinae and Agaoninae have coevolved with their host Ficus species.
Molecular phylogenies of fig pollinating and non‐pollinating wasps and the implications for the origin and evolution of the fig‐fig wasp mutualism
Authors: Machado Carlos A. , Herre Edward Allen , McCafferty Shawn , Bermingham Eldredge
Published: May 2007

Abstract. Figs host three ecologically distinct groups of wasps: pollinators, non‐pollinators (parasitic wasps) and parasitoids. Both pollinators and non‐pollinators complete their life cycles using fig tissue, while parasitoids appear to attack some groups of non‐pollinators. We used nucleotide sequence data to address a series of questions concerning genealogical associations, host specificities and degree of strict‐sense co‐evolution exhibited by members of these groups. We used the relatively conserved 12S rRNA gene of the mitochondria to estimate high level relationships among pollinator, parasitic and parasitoid taxa by sampling species collected from host figs representing five sections (three subgenera) from Asia, Africa, Europe and Central America. We found that all pollinators formed a clear monophyletic group. However, we could not resolve whether or not all of the non‐parasitoid wasps associated with figs (Agaonidae, sensu Bouček) formed a single monophyletic group. Further, we used the more variable COII mitochondrial gene to attempt to determine relationships among closely related species of pollinators within two New World genera. Using sequences from the same gene we estimated the phylogenetic relationships among the parasites collected from the same New World host fig species and compared them with those of the pollinators. At fine taxonomic scale, we found that for both pollinator and parasites, species were generally specific to a given fig host. Moreover, the phylogenies of the non‐pollinators are largely congruent with those of the pollinators, suggesting the predominance of strict‐sense co‐evolution on shared host fig species. The implications of these findings and opportunities for future research are discussed.
A palaeogeographic link between Australia and eastern North America: a New England connection?
Authors: Dobson Jerome E.
Published: May 2007

Abstract. This research tests the hypothesis that Australia and eastern North America met in rotational collision during the Palaeozoic with the corollary that the New England fold belt of Australia, rather than the Reguibat promontory of Africa, collided with the Alleghanian orogen in the central Appalachians. Identical Lancefieldian‐stage, zone 1 (Early Ordovician) graptolites of the Anisograptid family are found in identical environments in Newfoundland, Norway, and the Lachlan fold belt of Australia. Palaeozoic granites are consistent with a tectonic model in which the Lachlan fold belt caused mechanical deformation of the Canadian Appalachians. The Lachlan and New England fold belts of Australia and the Alleghanian orogen of North America are tectonically consistent with the east coast hypothesis. Major deformations and magmatic episodes are coeval from Silurian to Permian. The tectonic, palaeontologic, lithologic, and geometric evidence for this position is more abundant and precise than the stratigraphic evidence for a west coast location of Australia relative to North America.
Predicting badger sett numbers: evaluating methods in East Sussex
Authors: Macdonald D. W. , Mitchelmore F. , Bacon P. J.
Published: May 2007

Abstract. One way in which a species' numbers may be estimated without direct counting is to predict their dispersion and density from more readily available habitat measures, such as landscape variables measured from maps or vegetation variables measured in the field. We compare the power of ordination and regression techniques for predicting badger (Meles meles L.) numbers at a local scale, using a land class system, map‐read landscape variables and field‐derived vegetation variables. Sett density was used as a surrogate of badger density. Multiple linear regression using vegetation and landscape variables together gave the most accurate prediction of sett density, while ordination techniques were of lesser value. The addition of vegetation variables to landscape variables did not substantially improve the power of ordination. Outlier Sett Density was predicted more accurately, and by different variables, to Main Sett Density. The relationship between badger ecology and habitat variables that were useful in predicting sett density is discussed.
Species turnover between Afromontane and eastern African lowland faunas: patterns shown by amphibians
Authors: Poynton J. C. , Boycott R. C.
Published: May 2007

Abstract. Following the recognition of a discrete East African lowland amphibian fauna (Poynton, 1990), this paper investigates the possible recognition of an Afromontane amphibian fauna in southern Africa. Species turnover in a transect from the Mozambique/KwaZulu‐Natal border area through Swaziland to the Eastern Transvaal highveld is described, and compared with previously described transects through Mozambique to Zimbabwe, and KwaZulu‐Natal to the central Free State. Turnover in the Swaziland transect shows two peaks. Marked turnover at the edge of the interior plateau is taken to indicate an eastern border of an Afromontane fauna; the other peak, at the western edge of the coastal lowland, is taken to mark the border of an East African lowland fauna. A transition zone with a transitional assemblage occurs on the plateau slopes between the two borders. The Zimbabwean transect shows a similar pattern. The KwaZulu‐Natal to Free State transect shows a broad transition from upland to lowland assemblages, which parallels the extensive intermingling of upland and lowland floristic elements in that area. A north‐south turnover across the three transects shows northern species becoming progressively excluded from highland areas as they extend southwards, while southern species become limited to the highlands as they extend northwards. The cohesive north‐south turnover pattern is consistent with the idea of a single Afromontane biogeographical unit, which can be related to a tropical East African lowland unit through a complex pattern of species turnover.
The roles of coastlines, people and fire in the development of heathlands in northeast Tasmania
Authors: Thomas Ian , Kirkpatrick J. B.
Published: May 2007

Abstract. Pollen analysis of a core taken from a reed marsh in northeastern Tasmania near Bass Strait highlights the interplay between climatic changes, sea level rises and the effects of Aborigines during the Holocene. Prior to 10,000 bp the region formed part of the Bassian landbridge which connected Tasmania to the Australian mainland. Vegetation at that time was characterized by shrubby grasslands with a very sparse tree cover. After 9000 bp, Eucalyptus forests prospered until about 6000 bp. A combination of salt spray from a stabilizing mid‐Holocene coast, the progressive effects of soil podsolization and burning by Aborigines, eventually favoured the replacement of grassy Eucalyptus forests by Allocasuarina with an increasingly heathy understorey. The treeless heaths dominated by dwarfed Allocasuarina which presently dominate the area are regarded as part of a degradation sequence in which the above factors are implicated.
The distribution and status of the montane juniper woodlands of Oman
Authors: Gardner Andrew S. , Fisher Martin
Published: May 2007

Abstract. The distribution, condition and reproductive status of Juniperus excelsa M. ‐Bieb. subsp. polycarpos (K.Koch) Takhtajan were determined and assessed in the Hajar mountains of northern Oman, Arabia. Juniper is restricted to the highest areas, viz the central massif of Jebel Akhdar and the outlying mountains of Jebel Qubal and Jebel Kawr, where it generally forms open woodlands.

On exposed slopes juniper is distributed from an altitude of 2100 m to the highest summit at 3009 m, with no upper tree line, while on well‐shaded north‐facing slopes juniper trees grow as low as 1375 m. Above 2300 m, juniper is the dominant woody species, while below this altitude it is often co‐dominant with Olea europea L. The woodlands are generally in poor condition on exposed slopes below 2400 m, with high proportions of dead or dying trees and low proportions of reproductively active trees. Above 2400 m and in shaded sites, woodland condition is better, with markedly higher proportions of reproductively active trees on exposed slopes at these altitudes. A predictive model of woodland condition based on topographic variables is presented. Altitude, shade and habitat account for 30.8% of the variation in a tree condition index, with slope being unimportant.

The absence of juniper from lower and more outlying mountains is likely to have resulted from the alternation of pluvial and arid periods over the last 40,000 years. We speculate that the current dieback of juniper at lower altitudes is due to continuing climatic change. Anthropogenic factors do not appear to be seriously affecting the juniper woodlands at present.
Meta‐analysis of treatment of cattle with bovine respiratory disease with tulathromycin
Authors: WELLMAN N. G. , O'CONNOR A. M.
Published: April 2007

The objective of this study was to evaluate the comparative efficacy of tulathromycin at resolving bovine respiratory disease in North American feedlot cattle. This study was a systematic review of published literature. A search was conducted to identify all manuscripts relating to antibiotic treatment of cattle with respiratory disease. Relevant studies reported treatment with tulathromycin of naturally occurring respiratory disease in beef cattle in North America. Studies which failed to use randomization to minimize bias were excluded from the review. The relative risk of retreatment for bovine respiratory disease was calculated for each study included in the final review. Initially, 782 potential manuscripts were identified. After relevance screening and quality assessment, 21 high quality manuscripts were available for analysis. Two peer reviewed publications and two technical reports describing 14 trials compared tulathramycin with tilmicosin or florfenicol. In the meta‐analysis of studies comparing tilmicosin with tulathromycin, the summary Mantel–Haenszel relative risk was 0.51 (95% confidence interval 0.45–0.57). It was not possible to calculate a summary Mantel–Haenszel relative risk comparing florfenicol with tulathromycin as the only three studies reported this comparison. When using a meta‐analysis to combined data from randomized clinical trials reporting treatment with tulathromycin or either florfenicol or tilmicosin, tulathromycin was associated with an approximately 50% reduction in the risk of re‐treatment for bovine respiratory disease compared with treatment with tilmicosin.
Turkish version of Skindex‐29
Authors: Aksu Ayse Esra Koku , Urer Murat Selim , Sabuncu İlham , Saracoglu Zeynep Nurhan , Chren Mary‐Margaret
Published: April 2007

Background  There is a clear need for a useable measure of health‐related quality‐of‐life (HRQoL) for dermatology patients. Most of the existing dermatology‐specific measures were developed for the English language, and these measures should be adapted for use in other cultures.

Objective  To adapt Skindex‐29 (one of the most widely recognized dermatology‐specific quality‐of‐life indices) for the Turkish cultural setting.

Patients and methods  Forward and backward translations were carried out, and for doubtful items the process was repeated until a satisfactory agreement with the original version of Skindex‐29 was achieved. The intermediate Turkish version was administered to a group of 20 randomly selected Turkish adults with and without skin conditions. The final Turkish version of the Skindex‐29 was administered to 456 patients attending Osmangazi University Dermatology outpatient clinics. Reliability, construct and content validity were assessed.

Results  The instrument was internally consistent, with Cronbach's α‐coefficients of 0.94, 0.76, 0.88, and 0.92 for entire questionnaire, symptom, emotional, and functional scales, respectively. The Turkish Skindex‐29 demonstrated construct and content validity.

Conclusion  Our evaluation of the Skindex‐29 indicates that the instrument is a comprehensible, useable, reliable and valid measure of quality‐of‐life for Turkish dermatologic patients.
Generalized pruritus treated with narrowband UVB
Authors: Seckin Dilek , Demircay Zeynep , Akin Ozlem
Published: April 2007

Background  Narrowband UVB phototherapy has been increasingly used in a variety of dermatological diseases. We planned to evaluate its efficacy in generalized pruritus in this prospective study.

Methods  Forty‐six patients were included and then divided into two groups: group 1 and group 2 consisted of patients with uremic pruritus and “idiopathic pruritus”, respectively. Phototherapy was given three times a week. Efficacy assessments were made by means of visual analog scale (VAS) and pruritus grading score.

Results  Thirty‐five patients completed the treatment. Mean VAS decreased from 8.2 ± 1.5 to 3.6 ± 3 in group 1 and from 7.1 ± 2.3 to 2.3 ± 2.8 in group 2 (P < 0.0001). Mean percentage of change in VAS was 54.2% (95% CI 32.6–75.9) and 67.9% (95% CI 53.8–81.9) in group 1 and group 2, respectively. Mean number of treatments was 22 in both groups. Mean cumulative UVB dose was 24,540 mJ/cm2 and 20,801 mJ/cm2 in group 1 and group 2, respectively.

Conclusion  Narrowband UVB is an effective and well‐tolerated treatment option for patients with generalized pruritus.
The emergence of mucormycosis as an important opportunistic fungal infection: five cases presenting to a tertiary referral center for mycology
Authors: Ameen Mahreen , Arenas Roberto , Martinez‐Luna Eduwiges , Reyes Miguel , Zacarias Rogelio
Published: April 2007

Background  Mucormycosis, a rare opportunistic fungal infection, is re‐emerging in importance with the increase in prevalence of immunosuppressive states, both as a result of therapy and disease.

Methods  We report five cases of mucormycosis diagnosed by the Dermatology Department and managed jointly with the Medical and Surgical Services of “Dr Manuel Gea Gonzalez” General Hospital in Mexico City, a tertiary referral center for mycology. We also review the current literature including recent advances in medical therapy.

Results  Four of the five cases were of the rhino‐orbital‐cerebral variant, commonly associated with significant mortality, and one of these patients died despite early diagnosis and aggressive management. The fifth case was primary cutaneous mucormycosis and this patient survived infection without relapse. Diabetic ketoacidosis predisposed to infection in four cases and the other was associated with advanced human immunodeficiency virus infection. Radiologic imaging was important in cases of facial involvement in order to evaluate the extent of disease and possible intracranial involvement. All cases were managed with systemic antifungals and surgical debridement, together with the treatment of predisposing factors.

Conclusions  These cases illustrate the need for early clinical recognition and prompt therapy, as well as the requirement for tissue biopsy in order to demonstrate the characteristic morphologic features of this fungal agent in the absence of positive mycology culture results. This report also highlights that, although rhino‐orbital‐cerebral mucormycosis requires effective multidisciplinary management, the disease not uncommonly presents to dermatologists for diagnosis.
Odontogenic focal infection could be partly involved in the pathogenesis of atopic dermatitis as exacerbating factor
Authors: Igawa Ken , Nishioka Kiyoshi , Yokozeki Hiroo
Published: April 2007

Background  A focal infection has been reported to be associated with the pathogenesis of various skin diseases, but, to date, not atopic dermatitis (AD). The objective of the study was to clarify whether the odontogenic focal infection (OFI) could be recognized as one of the exacerbating factors in AD.

Methods  Forty‐three patients with AD whose skin conditions were resistant to conventional therapy were examined. An OFI was evaluated by using radiographs. Serum IgE/sCD30 levels were also examined. Skin condition was evaluated by the eczema area and severity index (EASI).

Results  Odontogenic focal infection was detected in 13 patients (30%) and this incidence was higher than in the normal population. Moreover, a 3‐month therapy including dental care improved the skin conditions of patients with OFI better than those without OFI.

Conclusion  The study concluded that OFI could be involved in the pathogenesis of some types of AD as exacerbating factors.
A comparison of botanical and synthetic substances commonly used to prevent head lice (Pediculus humanus var. capitis) infestation
Authors: Canyon Deon V. , Speare Rick
Published: April 2007

Background  Pediculosis, caused by head lice (Pediculidae: Pediculus humanus var. capitis), is experiencing a global resurgence, with the prevalence in primary schools averaging as high as 40% in some areas regardless of socioeconomic factors. Control efforts using chemical treatments are becoming increasingly ineffective, with insecticide resistance recorded in several countries. Prevention using repellents and oils would be useful if they limited transmission. Many commercially available substances reputedly have effective repellent qualities, but remain untested.

Methods  This study tested the preventative efficacy of N,N‐diethyl‐3‐methylbenzamide (DEET) against several commercially available botanicals to clarify their value as transmission inhibitors, irritants, repellents, and antifeedants.

Results  The transfer of head lice to treated hairs was limited by the slippery nature of the oils rather than their repellent qualities. Irritancy was not important because lice proceeded despite being highly irritated, except in the case of coconut. Tea tree and peppermint caused the most repellence, and tea tree and lavender prevented some blood feeding on treated skin. Comparatively, tea tree oil was most efficacious, with DEET ranking equal second overall with coconut, peppermint, and a botanical mixture.

Conclusions  Neither DEET nor any of the botanicals tested showed sufficient preventative efficacy to be endorsed.
Granulosis rubra nasi
Authors: Akhdari Nadia
Published: April 2007

An 18‐year‐old man presented with erythematous lesions over the nose of 1 year's duration without sensitivity to sunlight. He was otherwise well and there was no relevant family history. Physical examination showed excessive sweating of the nose, cheeks, and upper lip, and erythema of the nose covered by beads of sweat and vesicles (Fig. 1). The rest of the physical examination was normal. The skin biopsy showed a discrete mononuclear cell perivascular infiltrate.

Hyperhidrosis and erythema of the nose covered by beads of sweat

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First case of typical Old World cutaneous leishmaniasis treated with miltefosine
Authors: Stojkovic Marija , Junghanss Thomas , Krause Eric , Davidson Robert N.
Published: April 2007

A 26‐year‐old man presented to our clinic for advice on treatment options regarding cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) with multiple lesions. The biopsy revealed Leishmania amastigotes; Leishmania major was identified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR).11 Leishmania serology (indirect immunofluorescence test) was positive at 1 : 160 (normal, ≤ 1 : 40).

Ten weeks earlier, the patient had spent a 1‐week biking holiday in central Tunisia. Two weeks after returning to Germany, he noticed the flaring up of multiple insect bites (> 40) contracted in Tunisia on both arms. The lesions increased in size and axillary lymph node enlargement occurred. Some of the nodular lesions disappeared spontaneously and some increased in size and showed central ulceration. When we first saw the patient, he had six lesions on his right arm and one on his left arm. The largest lesion was on the dorsum of the right hand (Fig. 1) and showed an indurated edge and central ulceration. Before starting systemic treatment, the patient decided to wait a few weeks in case spontaneous improvement occurred. However, 8 weeks later, the ulceration had further increased in size (Fig. 2) from a diameter of 2 cm initially to a diameter of 5 cm. Regional lymphatic spread with palpable nodules along the adjacent lymphatic vessel had occurred. With the patient's informed consent, treatment with oral miltefosine, according to his body weight of 96 kg, was started at 50 mg three times daily for 28 days. The treatment was well tolerated without any subjective side‐effects reported. Liver enzymes, serum creatinine, and urea were monitored during treatment. There was a mild increase in liver enzymes during the third week of treatment: aspartate aminotransferase (AST), 49 U/L (normal, < 35 U/L); alanine aminotransferase (ALT), 107 U/L (normal, < 45 U/L); this resolved spontaneously.

Eight weeks before the start of treatment

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At the beginning of treatment with regional lymphatic spread

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Ten days after completion of treatment, the rolled edge had disappeared and the central ulcer had almost healed (Fig. 3). Figure 4 shows the lesion 5 months after completion of treatment.

Ten days after completion of treatment

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Five months after completion of treatment

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A case of keratitis–ichthyosis–deafness (KID) syndrome
Authors: Watanabe Daisuke , Zako Mcasahiro , Tamada Yasuhiko , Matsumoto Yoshinari
Published: April 2007

A 26‐year‐old Japanese woman was referred to our hospital with generalized hyperkeratosis associated with keratitis and a hearing defect. The patient was born from nonconsanguineous parents. Her skin was moderately hyperkeratotic at birth. During childhood, the thickness of the skin increased progressively. Bilateral sensorineural deafness was recognized at the age of 3 years. Visual disturbance was noted in later childhood, and corneal transplantations to the right eye were performed twice at the age of 16 and 25 years, but did not improve her visual acuity. There was no family history of similar disease.

On physical examination, the patient showed erythematous, keratotic, scaly plaques on the cheeks, auricles, and perioral area (Fig. 1a). A grainy, spiculated, hyperkeratotic papillomatosis was particularly marked on the palms and the edge of the feet (Fig. 1b,c). The nails were slight hypertrophic, but not dystrophic. Ophthalmologic examination revealed the loss of eyebrows and eyelashes and hyperkeratotic lesions of the eyelids (Fig. 1d). Corneal opacification was observed in the right eye. Conjunctivitis and blepharitis with photophobia were also observed in both eyes (Fig. 1d,e). A skin biopsy specimen from the right lower thigh showed basket‐wave hyperkeratosis and papillomatosis of the epidermis. Hyperkeratotic plugs were not observed (Fig. 1f). Laboratory data, including complete blood cell count, sedimentation rate, immunoglobulins and transaminases, urea, cholesterol, and triglycerides were normal.

Clinical appearance of the patient. (a) Erythematous, keratotic, scaly plaques on the cheeks, auricles, and perioral area. (b) Grainy, spiculated, hyperkeratotic papillomatosis on the palm. (c) Diffuse keratoderma of the foot. (d) Right eye. Loss of eyebrows and eyelashes; hyperkeratotic lesions of the eyelids and corneal opacification. (e) Left eye. Conjunctivitis of the corneal surface. (f) A skin biopsy specimen from the right lower thigh. Basket‐wave hyperkeratosis and papillomatosis of the epidermis (hematoxylin and eosin stain, ×100)

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With informed consent, genomic DNA was extracted from blood samples. The complete open reading frame of the GJB2 gene was polymerase chain reaction amplified and sequenced. A transition mutation (148G → A) was detected, resulting in a putative amino acid change from aspartic acid to asparagine at codon 50 (Fig. 2). The mutation was not present in her parents or two siblings. These clinical, pathologic, and genetic data supported the diagnosis of keratitis–ichthyosis–deafness syndrome.

Mutation analysis of GJB2 in the patient. A transition mutation (148G → A) in the GJB2 sequence resulting in a putative amino acid change from aspartic acid to asparagine at codon 50

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“Composite graft”: a simple option for nasal lining
Authors: Cordova Adriana , Di Lorenzo Sara , Moschella Francesco
Published: April 2007

Background  We present our experience in the reconstruction of full‐thickness losses of the substance of the nose using a forehead flap and a composite graft (taken from the anterior surface of the concha and adequately shaped) as both support and endonasal lining. This technique has never been described for the reconstruction of large full‐thickness losses of the substance of the nose. The donor site of the composite graft in the concha is repaired by a Masson retroauricular flap.

Methods  This technique was used on 14 patients (age range, 52–92 years) after full‐thickness excision of tumors of the distal third of the nose. Follow‐up was from 1 to 4 years. All the composite grafts were revascularized.

Results  The results obtained were stable over time, and rhinoscopy, carried out 6 months after the operation, confirmed a homogeneous aspect and a perfect integration of the graft in the residual mucosa.

Conclusions  The use of a composite graft for internal lining and a forehead flap for external skin allowed is to obtain good results with minimal retraction. This technique is simple, fast and almost free of side effects.
Mycotic cysts: report of 21 cases including eight pheomycotic cysts from Saudi Arabia*
Authors: Sheikh Salwa S. , Amr Samir S.
Published: April 2007

Background  Mycotic cysts are subcutaneous cystic granulomas caused by either dematiaceous (pigmented) fungi (pheomycotic cysts) or eumycotic (nonpigmented fungi) present in soil, wood, and decaying plant material. These fungi gain access to the tissues via a wooden splinter or thorn. No deep tissue involvement or extension to bone is known to occur.

Methods  We reviewed our surgical pathology files for the last 32 years. All cases with the diagnosis of cysts with fungi, thorns, or splinters and associated granulomatous and acute inflammation were reviewed. Gomori's silver and periodic acid–Schiff stains were performed in all cases.

Results  Twenty‐one cases of mycotic cyst were found, including eight pheomycotic cysts (one with a recurrent lesion seen 11 months after the initial excision of the cyst). Thirteen cysts had nonpigmented fungal hyphae. There were 14 males and seven females, with an age range of 5–76 years. The dorsum of the foot was the most frequently affected site (12 cases). Four cases involved the fingers, two involved the knee area, two involved the big toe, and one each involved the leg, ankle, and forearm. The cysts measured 0.6–4.5 cm in diameter. Histologically, there was granulomatous inflammation with a variable degree of neutrophilic infiltrate giving central abscess formation. Twelve cases showed a wooden splinter. All cases were positive for fungal organisms, mostly septate hyphae and spores that were highlighted by special stains. Fungal pigment, ranging from yellow–brown to light brown to black, was observed in eight cases. No extension to deep tissues was noted. The clinical impression varied widely including ganglion, sebaceous cyst, giant cell tumor of the tendon sheath, and lipoma. One patient was immunosuppressed following renal transplantation. All patients were treated by simple excision. No antifungal chemotherapy was needed or administered in any of the patients. One patient had a recurrence of his lesion within 1 year as a result of inadequate initial excision. A second re‐excision was curative.

Conclusion  Mycotic cysts are uncommonly encountered lesions that can be easily missed, especially in cases with scant fungal elements, thus requiring special stains to detect the organisms. We reported 21 cases of mycotic cyst, including eight pheomycotic cysts, with emphasis on the histopathologic recognition of this unusual entity.
The purse‐string suture revisited: a useful technique for the closure of cutaneous surgical wounds
Authors: Cohen Philip R. , Martinelli Paul T. , Schulze Keith E. , Nelson Bruce R.
Published: April 2007

The purse‐string suture provides complete or partial closure of round postoperative skin defects. It is a rapid and simple procedure to perform. Tension placed on the suture uniformly advances the skin from the entire periphery of the wound, resulting in a significant reduction of the defect size and enhancement of hemostasis at the wound edge. The history, modifications of the technique, advantages, and potential complications of the purse‐string suture are reviewed. It is not only useful following the removal of nonmelanoma skin cancer but also after the local excision of melanoma. In addition, this technique is especially suitable for the repair of round surgical wounds for patients who are unable to modify their active lifestyles during the week following surgery, individuals concurrently being treated with anticoagulants, antiplatelet agents or both, and people with extensive postoperative defects that would otherwise require either a skin graft or a large cutaneous flap. Typically, the site of the surgical wound following partial or complete closure with the purse‐string suture demonstrates excellent long‐term cosmetic and functional results.
Interferon‐α is effective for CD4+, CCR4– mycosis fungoides
Authors: Fujimura Taku , Okuyama Ryuhei , Watabe Akiko , Hashimoto Akira , Tagami Hachiro , Aiba Setsuya
Published: April 2007

Mycosis fungoides (MF), a cutaneous T‐cell lymphoma, is usually characterized by cell features of T‐helper‐2 (Th2) lymphocytes. MF has recently been reported to show increased CCR4 expression, a chemokine receptor specifically expressed in Th2. Previously, we have reported the effectiveness of interferon‐γ (IFN‐γ) for the treatment of CCR4+ MF. In this report, we describe two cases of CD4+, CCR4– MF successfully treated with IFN‐α, but not IFN‐γ. Although MF usually displays a Th2 profile, the tumor cells in our two cases did not express CCR4. Our cases suggest the effectiveness of IFN‐α, but not IFN‐γ, for CCR4– MF.
Livedoid vasculopathy and hypercoagulability in a patient with primary Sjögren's syndrome
Authors: Cardoso Raquel , Gonçalo Margarida , Tellechea Oscar , Maia Rosa , Borges Catarina , Silva J. A. Pereira , Figueiredo Américo
Published: April 2007

Background  A 31‐year‐old woman presented with a 5‐year history of painful ulcerations, palpable purpura, porcelain‐white atrophic scars of the malleolar region and dorsal aspect of the feet, livedo reticularis on the limbs, arthralgia, xerophthalmia, and xerostomia.

Methods  Skin biopsy revealed vessel wall hyalinization and thrombosis of the microvasculature with a very scarce dermal inflammatory infiltrate. Biopsy of the oral mucosa showed mononuclear infiltration of an intralobular duct of a salivary gland.

Results  Laboratory studies, including autoantibodies and inflammation markers, were normal, except for a positive rheumatoid factor. Coagulation screening revealed C677T methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) mutation, with a normal serum homocysteine. The patient was treated with oral methylprednisolone (32 mg/day with progressive reduction) and enoxaparin (20 mg/day subcutaneously), with complete ulcer healing within 4 months.

Conclusion  Livedoid vasculitis or vasculopathy has not been referred to previously in association with Sjögren's syndrome, but may be associated with other autoimmune disorders and anomalies of coagulation, namely factor V Leiden mutation, protein C deficiency, and MTHFR mutation, associated or not with hyperhomocysteinemia, a condition that seems to confer an increased risk of recurrent arterial and venous thrombosis. We stress the importance of anticoagulant therapy for ulcer healing and for the prevention of other thrombotic events.
Determination of lead, arsenic and mercury in cosmetic formulations at modified electrodes
Authors: WANG LAI‐HAO , TIEN HSIEN‐JU
Published: May 2007

Synopsis

Lead, arsenic and mercury in cosmetic formulations digested with HNO3+ HF (10:3) or HNO3+ H2SO4 (5:1) in a microwave oven were determined, respectively, by the thin mercury film electrode, gold electrode and thin gold film electrode in sodium acetate buffer, in 6 m HNO3 and 0.1 m HCIO4 solution. Comparison with results obtained from atomic absorption spectrophotometric analysis (AAS) showed good agreement. The detection limits were 0.38 ppb (μgl‐1), 0.66ppb and 0.04ppb for lead, arsenic and mercury, respectively, using square wave anodic stripping voltammetry. The detection limits for lead, arsenic and mercury were 0.53 ppb, 1.24ppb and 0.40ppb, respectively, using AAS. The two methods proposed were applicable to the determination of concentrations at ppb levels of commercial cosmetic formulations.
Comparison of different separative techniques in the quantitative determination of active compound enclosed in liposomal systems
Authors: BONINA F. , MONTENEGRO L. , ROSA C. LA , GASPARRI F. , LEONARDI R.
Published: May 2007

Synopsis

The suitability of three different separative techniques, dialysis, gel filtration and centrifugation, for determining the percentage of active compound included (PAI) in liposomal systems was assessed. Two model compounds, glucose and vitamin E acetate were encapsulated in dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine (DPPC), soybean lecithin (SL) and hydrogenated soybean lecithin (HSL) multilamellar vesicles (MLV). Vitamin E acetate PAI values from DPPC MLV liposomes obtained by dialysis, gel filtration and centrifugation, were compared with those determined by differential scanning calorimetry. Glucose PAI values from DPPC MLV liposomes, obtained using the same separative techniques, were compared with that calculated by taking into account the glucose content of the liposome internal aqueous phase on the basis of liposome mean size determined by light scattering.

Vitamin E acetate and glucose PAI values from SL and HSL liposomes were compared with those obtained for DPPC liposomes. Dialysis proved suitable for PAI determination for both lipophilic and hydrophilic compounds, centrifugation was found to be suitable only for the determination of lipophilic compound PAI values while gel filtration using Sephadex G‐25M proved inadequate for the determination of PAI values for both lipophilic and hydrophilic compounds in the experimental conditions used in this study.
The galenic behaviour of a dermopharmaceutical excipient containing honey
Authors: JIMÉNEZ M.M. , FRESNO M.J. , SELLÉS E.
Published: May 2007

Synopsis

This paper describes the design of an emulsion cream, obtained from a self‐emulsifying base, to which lavender honey has been added. Physical, galenic and stability studies and assays, and rheological analyses, are used to describe the qualities and properties of the honeyed cream under study. The formula is presented as an ivory‐coloured cream with a light lavender scent and agreeable organoleptic characteristics. From a rheological viewpoint this is very adequate for spreading and applying onto the skin because of its thixotropic behaviour. The emulsion is stable and perfectly adaptable to the requirements of this type of skin application.
Use of infrared spectroscopy for in vivo measurement of the stratum corneum moisturization after application of costmetic preparations
Authors: WICHROWSKI K. , SORE G. , KHAÏAT A.
Published: May 2007

In this study the moisturization of the stratum corneum was assessed using a non‐invasive and non‐destructive in vivo method, i.e., Fourier Transform Infra Red spectroscopy. First, the values of absorption band integrations were recorded for the non‐treated skin. Next, the results after application of various cosmetic preparations were reported and correlated with corneometric findings.
Use of polymeric and non‐polymeric surfactants in o/w emulsion formulation
Authors: CARLOTTI M.E. , PATTARINO F. , GASCO M.R. , CAVALLI R.
Published: May 2007

An acrylic/alkyl acrylate co‐polymer and a mixture of non‐ionic surfactants (sorbitan monostearate and sorbitan monostearate(20)OE) were used to prepare o/w emulsions for cosmetic use. Formulations with optimal performances were obtained by selecting appropriate percentages of components through statistical procedures. The non‐polymeric surfactants were seen to affect the stability and appearance of the emulsion, although they were used at low percentages (0.3–0.6%), and were seen to interact with the polymer in different ways. The influence of twelve w/o emulsifiers (alcohol‐, glyceryl‐ and sorbitan‐derivatives) on the emulsion was examined and models of stability and thixotropic module were calculated: the thixotropic behaviour of the emulsion depended on the structural characteristics of hydrophilic and hydrophobic moieties of the w/o surfactant molecule.
Odour properties of some 5‐alkoxy and 5‐aryloxymethylene‐1,3,3‐trimethyl‐2‐oxabicyclo[2.2.2]octan‐6‐ones
Authors: MARIANI E. , SCHENONE P. , BARGAGNA A. , LONGOBARDI M.
Published: May 2007

Synopsis

The synthesis of 5‐alkoxy and 5‐aryloxymethylene‐1,3,3‐trimethyl‐2‐oxabicyclo[2.2.2]octan‐6‐ones by reaction of (+)‐5‐hydroxymethylene‐1,3,3‐trimethyl‐2‐oxabicyclo[2.2.2]octan‐6‐one with a number of saturated or unsaturated alcohols and phenols in order to check how substituents affected the fragrance, is described. Materials and methods for the synthesis of fifteen terpenyl ethers are illustrated. The terpenyl ethers have been tested for their olfactive character and the preliminary findings seem to indicate that some aliphatic ethers showed interesting notes such as floral aroma, honey like aroma, green floral note.

Yields, bps or mp, IR and 1H‐NMR spectral data of all compounds are reported.
Isolation and identification of human hair ceramides
Authors: HUSSLER G. , KABA G. , FRANCOIS A.M. , SAINT‐LEGER D.
Published: May 2007

Synopsis

The analysis of the lipids extracted from human hair by silica‐gel‐column liquid chromatography permitted an isolation of the fraction enriched in free ceramides. These were identified by GC/MS and are related to ceramide classes 2 and 5 in which the long‐chain base was predominantly sphinganine. This differs from that observed in the free ceramides found within the stratum corenum.
New ex‐vivo method for evaluating the photoprotective efficacy of sunscreens
Authors: MARGINEAN G. , FRUCTUS A. E. , MARTY J.P. , ARNAUD‐BATTANDIER J.
Published: May 2007

Synopsis

The photoprotective efficacy of some topical sunscreens was determined ex‐vivo by spectrophotometric assay using an irradiation monochromator and a diffuse reflectance sphere. Transmission scans were run from 400 to 290 nm through human epidermis samples before and after application of products and protection factors (PF) were calculated. The results are also expressed as the percentage of the radiation stopped by the products in each spectral range (UVB, short UVA and long UVA). All the formulations contained two chemical filters: butyl methoxy dibenzoyl methane and octyl methoxycinnamate in a range of concentrations. Estimates of the effectiveness of all products were higher than results in humans when calculated by this ex‐vivo technique. Due to its high discriminant power, this method constitutes a useful tool in the formulation of sunscreens.