bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Short communication: Use of a recombinant antigen‐based ELISA to determine prevalence of brugian filariasis among Malaysian schoolchildren near Pasir Mas, Kelantan – Thailand border
Authors: Rahmah N. , Lim B. H. , Azian H. , Ramelah T. S. Tengku , Rohana A. R.
Published: March 2003

Brugian filariasis infects 13 million people in Asia. The routine prevalence survey method using night thick blood smear is not sensitive enough to reflect the actual infection prevalence. In 1997–2001, only three microfilaraemic cases (of 5601 individuals screened; 0.05%) were reported in Pasir Mas, a district in Kelantan (Malaysia), which shares a border with Thailand. We therefore investigated the infection prevalence in this district by employing a sensitive and specific serological assay (Brugia‐Elisa). This test is based on detection of specific IgG4 antibody against a Brugia malayi recombinant antigen. A total of 5138 children, aged 7–12 years, from 16 primary schools, were tested. Eighteen pupils in eight schools, located in five subdistricts, tested positive, giving an overall prevalence rate of 0.35%. Infection in these children is significant as they represent more recent cases. These subdistricts should be included in the national filariasis elimination programme.
Vaccine‐induced ischemic dermatopathy in the dog
Authors: Vitale  , Gross  , Magro
Published: March 2003

Post‐rabies vaccination alopecia associated with concurrent multifocal ischemic dermatopathy was identified in three unrelated dogs. All dogs received subcutaneous rabies vaccine dorsally between the scapulae several months prior to observation of the initial area of alopecia at the vaccination site. All three dogs developed multifocal cutaneous disease within 1–5 months after the appearance of the initial skin lesion. Cutaneous lesions were characterized clinically by variable alopecia, crusting, hyperpigmentation, erosions, and ulcers on the pinnal margins, periocular areas, skin overlying boney prominences, tip of the tail, and paw pads. Lingual erosions and ulcers were observed in two dogs. Histopathologic examination of the skin revealed moderate to severe follicular atrophy, hyalinization of collagen, vasculopathy, and cell‐poor interface dermatitis and mural folliculitis. Hypovascularity was demonstrated by diminished Factor VIII staining of blood vessels. Nodular accumulations of lymphocytes, plasma cells, and histiocytes in the deep dermis and panniculus also were noted at the rabies vaccination site. An atrophic, ischemic myopathy paralleling the onset of skin disease was identified in two dogs. Histological examination of muscle biopsy specimens demonstrated perifascicular atrophy, perimysial fibrosis, and complement (C) 5b‐9 (membrane attack complex) deposition in the microvasculature of both dogs with myopathy. Marked improvement of the skin disease was obtained with oral pentoxifylline and vitamin E.
Experimental induction of contact allergy in dogs by means of certain sensitization procedures
Authors: Hayasaki M. , Hattori C.
Published: March 2003

Three contact allergens; dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB), nickel and formalin, were determined allergenicities. Contact allergies were induced in 24 dogs and 15 guinea pigs (used as a comparative animal species) by means of Draize test, Maximization test, Open Epicutaneous test and Buehler test, and evaluated by means of closed patch testing. Results showed that, in dogs, nickel produced allergic responses of the skin in the Open Epicutaneous test, but formalin did not produced it. In the Maximization test, however, both nickel and formalin failed to induce a contact allergy, although DNCB showed a high allergenicity. The appropriate concentration of test solutions for the closed patch test in dogs were 1.0% for DNCB, 0.1% for nickel and 1:10 dilution for formalin, respectively.
Ultrastructural findings of feline eosinophilic dermatoses
Authors: Bardagí M. , Fondati A. , Ferrer L.
Published: March 2003

Despite the increasing evidence that degeneration of collagen is not involved in the histogenesis of the eosinophilic debris observed with light microscopy in feline eosinophilic dermatoses (FED), flame figures and foci of ‘collagen degeneration’ are still reported as degenerated collagen mixed with degranulated eosinophils. The purpose of this study was to investigate ultrastructurally eosinophil degranulation pathways and dermal collagen morphology in FED. Four patients with histopathological diagnosis of FED, three clinically diagnosed with eosinophilic granulomas and one with an eosinophilic plaque, and one healthy control were studied. Areas that contained eosinophils, collagen, flame figures and ‘collagen degeneration’ were ultrasectioned and examined with transmission electron microscope. Eosinophils (48 to 123 per cat) were classified into resting (intact cells), undergoing piecemeal degranulation (PMD) (viable cells with partially empty granules) and cytolytic [disrupted cells with clusters of free eosinphil granules (Cfegs)]. Longitudinal and transverse sections of collagen fibrils were also evaluated. 9.01% of eosinophils examined were resting, whereas 90.98% had released their content, 70.14% by cytolysis and 20.84% by PMD. Collagen fibrils showed no ultrastructural abnormalities and appeared identical to those observed in the control. Flame figures and foci of ‘collagen degeneration’ appeared constituted by collagen fibrils–fibers interspersed with cytolytic eosinophils. Based on these findings we conclude that eosinophils play an active role in the pathogenesis of FED through their granule content release, by cytolysis and PMD. Moreover, based on the normal collagen ultrastructure, the use of the term ‘collagen degeneration’ to describe the eosinophilic debris observed with light microscopy in FED should be definitely avoided.

 The study was funded by a grant of the European Society of Veterinary Dermatology.
Incorporation of weed spatial variability into the weed control decision‐making process
Authors: ZANIN  , BERTI  , RIELLO
Published: March 2003

Floral surveys were carried out on a field of 28 m × 100 m on the nodes of a regular 2 m × 2 m grid, using a rectangular sampling area of 25 cm × 30 cm. In total, 765 units were sampled, each one characterized by the spatial co‐ordinates and the number of seedlings of different weed species. The spatial representation of the weeds was obtained with kriging. Simulations were carried out for Amaranthus spp., which had the highest frequency and density (221 plants m−2), and Portulaca oleracea L., a species that combined a more aggregated distribution with a medium–high density (27 plants m−2). The results obtained clearly indicated that the usefulness of geostatistical procedures depends on the type of question posed by the user. If the goal is to estimate weed density and, consequently, crop yield loss, kriging appears to overburden the decision‐making process, without improving the estimates obtained. This procedure becomes useful for obtaining weed infestation maps to be used for intermittent spraying applications. The reliability of these maps increases with the number of samples used for kriging. With the more aggregated species, at least 50 samples are required to obtain an infestation map. The reduction in the area to be treated depends on the threshold level adopted and on the number of samples used for kriging. With a threshold around the break‐even point for most post‐emergence treatments, this reduction varies from 10% to 40% with maps obtained from 50 and 175 samples respectively. The usefulness of infestation maps obtained with kriging for improving the decision‐making process is strictly dependent on the weed patch dynamics: if these patches remain relatively stable over time, kriging can be carried out periodically without overburdening the decision‐making process, whereas, if they are not stable, maps need to be drawn up each year, with a significant increase in costs.
Resistance against uprooting in carrots (	Daucus carota) and annual weeds: a basis for selective mechanical weed control
Authors: FOGELBERG  , GUSTAVSSON
Published: March 2003

Trials were carried out in order to investigate ways in which to achieve selectivity in mechanical weed control. The influence of soil type, uprooting angle and development stage on the uprooting force of some annual weeds and carrot was studied. Spergula arvensis L., Urtica urens L., Chenopodium album L. and carrot (Daucus carota L.) were sown in soil bins filled with four different soil types. The plants were uprooted when they had two true leaves. Soil type significantly influenced the uprooting force needed by all four species. The forces required to uproot U. urens and C. album differed significantly between peat and loamy sand. In loamy sand, Capsella bursa‐pastoris (L.) Med., Stellaria media (L.) Vill, Chamomilla suaveolens (L.) Pursh Buch. and Viola arvensis Murr. could all be uprooted by less force than it took to uproot carrot. The uprooting angle (0°, 45° and 90°) had no significant influence on the uprooting force for carrot at the studied developmental stage. C. album, S. arvensis, U. urens, Matricaria inodora, Thlaspi arvense L. and carrot could all be uprooted by less than 1 N when they had two true leaves. Carrots required a greater uprooting force than the weeds at the three early developmental stages studied. This indicates that it should be possible to develop selective mechanical weed control methods.
The role of dimorphic achenes in the biology of the annual weed Leontodon longirrostris
Authors: De Clavijo E Ruiz
Published: March 2003

Various aspects of the reproductive biology and dimorphism of achenes from the annual heterocarpic weed Leontodon longirrostris (Finch & PD Sell) Talavera were studied in the laboratory and field. The species is self‐incompatible, pollinated by generalist insects and produces two different types of achene in the capitula: peripheral and central achenes. Peripheral achenes are heavier (1.63 mg) and exhibit virtually no pappus and short‐range dispersal, whereas central achenes are lighter (0.45 mg), possess a well‐developed pappus and are produced in greater numbers. The morphological differences between the two types of achene result in differences not only in dispersal, but also in germination, seedling vigour and the ability of seedlings to emerge from different achene burial depths. Central achenes germinate more rapidly and in higher proportions under a broad spectrum of conditions. On the other hand, germination in peripheral achenes is much more restricted, partly as a result of their thick pericarp; a high proportion of this type of achene does not germinate and remains in a dormant state on the ground, forming a temporary seedbank. Because of the increased size of the embryo, seedlings from peripheral achenes can emerge from greater depths and are initially more vigorous than those from central achenes. Central achenes represent a strategy that facilitates settling in new areas; peripheral achenes represent a strategy that ensures in situ persistence. These biological characteristics are advantageous for colonizing species.
Isozyme variation of Hordeum murinum in Switzerland and test of hybridization with cultivated barley
Authors: Savova Bianchi D , Keller Senften J , Felber F
Published: March 2003

Summary Variability between and within spontaneous populations of Hordeum murinum in Switzerland was studied by enzyme electrophoresis. Most of the variation (61.5%) occurred within populations, while 38.5% occurred between populations. Absence of cleistogamy was observed. The results suggest evidence for a mixed mating system in H. murinum. Isozyme diagnostic bands for H. murinum and cultivated barley were established, allowing the detection of putative hybrids between them. No hybrids were obtained after performing experimental hybridization in the field and in the greenhouse. None was detected in the progeny of H. murinum growing in spontaneous contact zones either, confirming the existence of strong genetic barriers against hybridization. Our results are discussed in the context of the risk of transgene escape, associated with the cultivation of transgenic crops.
Epidermodysplasia verruciformis with neurological manifestations
Authors: Rubaie Salah Al , Breuer Judith , Inshasi Jihad , Saady Samira Al , Fathi Iman
Published: March 2003

Background Epidermodysplasia verruciformis (EV) is a rare, inherited disorder in which there is widespread and persistent infection by multiple subtypes of human papilloma virus, tinea versicolor‐like lesions and plaques, and frequently malignant manifestations.

Materials and methods We report two cases of EV—a sister and brother aged 14 and 18 years respectively. Both had classical skin lesions together with neurological manifestations and deafness. In addition the man had plantar hyperkeratosis. They were treated with etretinate.

Conclusions PCR and DNA hybridization of skin lesions from the man contained HPV‐20 and HPV‐57. He was treated with long‐term oral acitretin; the warty lesions became partly or wholly flattened and the plantar hyperkeratosis showed a remarkable improvement. The woman died 10 years later as a result of metastasizing breast cancer.
A new model of epidermal culture for the surgical treatment of vitiligo
Authors: Andreassi Lucio , Pianigiani Elisa , Andreassi Andrea , Taddeucci Paolo , Biagioli Maurizio
Published: March 2003

Background Vitiligo can be successfully treated with grafts of autologous cultured epidermal cells.

Objective To evaluate the efficacy of autologous grafting of epidermal cells, cultured by an original method, in the treatment of localized vitiligo refractory to other therapies.

Methods Autologous normally pigmented skin was used to culture keratinocytes and melanocytes on a supporting layer of biomaterial (Laserskin), which was grafted directly onto achromatic skin after de‐epithelialization with liquid carbon dioxide. The percentage area of repigmentation was calculated by image analysis.

Results Initial repigmentation of the treated areas was observed 1 month after treatment. Repigmentation continued to increase for 3 months after grafting. Follow‐up at 3, 6, 12, and 18 months showed almost complete repigmentation in six out of 11 cases. In four other patients, 40–71% of the grafted achromatic area was repigmented. In one patient, repigmentation was impeded by sepsis.

Conclusions The method was found to be effective in the treatment of localized vitiligo refractory to other treatments. The therapeutic procedure was simple, reproducible, and easy to use.
Lipid profile in actinic keratosis and basal cell carcinoma
Authors: Vural Pervin , Canbaz Mukaddes , Sekçuki Dilek , Murat Ahmet
Published: March 2003

Background The lipid content of the skin and its changes are important in the pathogenesis of many disorders affecting the skin, particularly actinic keratosis (AK) and basal cell carcinoma (BCC).

Methods Cholesterol, phospholipid, triglyceride, and total lipid levels were studied in paired lesional (AK and BCC) and nonlesional intact skin of 13 patients with AK and 12 patients with BCC. Serum concentrations of the same lipid fractions studied in the skin were investigated in AK and BCC patients and in 11 healthy, age‐matched controls.

Results Levels of all lipid fractions were increased in both AK and BCC skin. When AK and BCC skin were compared with each other, a significant increase in phospholipids (p < 0.02) and total lipids (p < 0.01) was found in BCC. Serum cholesterol (p < 0.001), phospholipid (p < 0.001), triglyceride (p < 0.05), and total lipid (p < 0.001) concentrations of AK patients were significantly higher than those of the control group. When BCC and controls were compared, a significant increase in phospholipids and total lipids (p < 0.001) was seen. Serum cholesterol in BCC patients was significantly lower (p < 0.001) and serum phospholipid levels were significantly higher (p < 0.05) than those in the AK group.

Conclusions An increase in the metabolically active serum phospholipid fraction is reflected in elevated neoplastic tissue phospholipid. This produces altered proportions between lipid fractions in tumorous areas and may result in changes in the intact nature of the cellular membrane, spread, and malignant proliferation.
Skin problems of musicians
Authors: Önder Meltem , Aksakal A. Burhan , Öztaş Murat Orhan , Gürer M. Ali
Published: March 2003

Objective We investigated the skin problems of high level musicians in a professional orchestra. This study was prompted by our observation of violinists with skin changes.

Methods Ninety‐seven musicians were evaluated. Twelve reporting dermatitis associated with the playing of their instruments were patch tested. We also examined 20 singers (nonplayers).

Results Positive patch test reactions to nickel and colophony were found in only three patients. Musicians were subject to a variety of skin problems from playing their instruments, however, such as hyperhidrosis, cheilitis, and calluses of the fingertips. Singers had skin problems including lichen planus, psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis, and urticaria. It was thought that emotional factors exacerbate their problems.

Conclusions The results of this survey suggest a significant incidence of occupational‐ and stress‐related skin problems in musicians.
Mondor's disease
Authors: Mayor M. , Burón I. , De Mora J. Calvo , Lázaro T. E. , Hernández‐Cano N. , Rubio F. A. , Casado Mariano
Published: March 2003

Abstract

Background  Mondor's disease is a rare entity characterized by thrombophlebitis of the subcutaneous veins of the anterolateral thoraco‐abdominal wall. The most common clinical manifestations are a painful subcutaneous cord, sensation of tension, and skin retraction. This condition is usually a benign and self‐limited process, although it has been associated with breast cancer.

Methods  We describe four new cases, two men and two women, and comment on the clinical signs and possible etiopathogenic features. General physical examination, radiologic and ecographic studies, laboratory analysis including tumor markers, and exhaustive coagulation study were carried out on all patients.

Results  No cases were associated with malignant disease and/or hypercoagulability stage. With conservative treatment, the evolution proved favorable in all patients.

Conclusions  Mondor's disease is usually a benign and self‐limited process, but we recommend laboratory studies and physical examination, including mammography in women, in order to rule out the presence of systemic disorders, especially breast cancer.
HLA in alopecia areata
Authors: Kavak Ayşe , Baykal Can , Özarmağan Güzin , Akar Uğur
Published: March 2003

Abstract

Background  The aim of this study was to investigate the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) characteristics of Turkish alopecia areata patients, and the correlation of the HLA profile with age of onset, severity and duration of the disease, presence of ophiasis, and family history.

Methods  A total of 88 patients with alopecia areata, alopecia totalis, or alopecia universalis were compared with 100 healthy controls. HLA typing was performed by the Terasaki microlymphocytotoxicity method.

Results  The frequency of HLA‐A1, HLA‐B62(15), HLA‐DQ1, and HLA‐DQ3 was significantly higher in patients than in controls. HLA‐DR16 was significantly less common in patients than in the control group, and we concluded that this allele might have a protective role for alopecia areata. Juvenile onset and severe involvement were related with HLA‐Cw7 and HLA‐DR1, respectively. The HLA profile was independent of the existence of long‐standing disease, presence of ophiasis, and a positive family history.

Conclusions  In HLA–alopecia areata association, ethnic differences may play a role.
The molecular basis of dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa in Mexico
Authors: Salas‐Alanis Julio C. , Amaya‐Guerra Mario , McGrath John A.
Published: March 2003

Background Type VII collagen gene (COL7A1) mutations are the cause of dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (DEB), but most mutations are specific to individual families, and there are limited data on the nature of COL7A1 mutations in certain ethnic populations.

Objective To determine the molecular basis of DEB in Hispanic Mexican patients.

Methods Patients were recruited through a newly established support group, Fundaçion DEBRA México. Molecular analysis was performed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) of genomic DNA using COL7A1‐specific primers, heteroduplex analysis, and direct nucleotide sequencing.

Results Fifty‐nine of a possible 67 COL7A1 mutations (88%) were identified in 36 affected individuals (31 recessive, five dominant) in 21 families. Recessive mutations included six frameshift mutations, four silent glycine substitutions, and two splice‐site mutations. Dominant mutations comprised a de novo glycine substitution and an internal deletion.

Conclusions This study establishes the molecular basis of DEB in a group of Mexican patients. Only two of the mutations have been identified previously in other ethnic groups; the remainder are specific to this population. These new data are helpful in facilitating the accurate diagnosis of DEB subtype, in improving genetic counseling, and in providing further insight into the pathophysiology of this mechanobullous disease.
Nevus lipomatosus cutaneous superficialis (Hoffmann‐Zurhelle) with localized scleroderma like appearance
Authors: Ioannidou Despina J. , Stefanidou Maria P. , Panayiotides Joannis G. , Tosca Androniki D.
Published: March 2003

An otherwise healthy 56‐year‐old woman presented with three symptomless unilateral plaques extending from the right lower lip to the submandibular region and the posterior lateral cervical area. Initially, one year previously, a solitary 2 × 3 cm plaque appeared with irregular distinctive borders that extended progressively. Two new plaques with the same characteristics developed slowly near the initial one within six months. Their color was ivory‐pale, with a hyperpigmented margin. The lesions were primarily soft but later became firm and indurated with smooth, shiny, mild scaling, and wrinkled surfaces. A unilateral distribution with no contraction of the skin over the affected area was observed ( Fig. 1).

Multiple plaques on the face, ivory‐pale colored with irregular borders, smooth, shiny, mild scaling and with wrinkled surface

image

There was no history of neurologic abnormalities or existence of skin lesions in other members of the family.

X‐Ray of the mandibular area was normal as well as electroencephalogram and magnetic resonance imaging scanning of the brain. Laboratory examinations including blood cell counts, urinalysis, routine blood chemistry, immunoserologic and endocrinic functions tests, were within normal limits or negative. Antibodies against Borrelia burgdorferi were also negative. Histology showed slightly flattened epidermal ridges, and a slight mononuclear inflammatory infiltrate around capillaries of the papillary dermis. The thickness of the dermis was considerably reduced and adipocytes were present extending up to a short distance from the epidermis. The focal presence within the dermis of thickened collagen bundles was ascertained both in hematoxylin and eosin stained sections and in sections stained with Masson's trichrome. These bundles did not encircle cutaneous appendages, but extended instead into the underlying adipose tissue, delimiting clusters of adipocytes. A Verhoeff‐Van Gieson stain showed a marked reduction in the amount and caliber of elastic fibers in the dermis. All adipocytes had a unilocular cytoplasm without any nuclear abnormalities or size variation (
Fig. 2a,b). These histological features were consistent with the diagnosis of nevus lipomatosus cutaneous superficialis (NLCS).

(a)  Clusters of adipocytes in the dermis, a short distance from the epidermis (Hematoxylin and Eosin, × 250). (b)  Marked reduction in the amount and caliber of elastic fibres in the dermis (Verhoeff–Van Gieson stain, × 400)

image

The presumptive clinical diagnosis was that of a connective tissue disorder classified as localized scleroderma (morphea) or a connective tissue nevus. Plastic surgery was not considered in our case mainly because of the extent and particular location of the NLCS.
Investigator‐masked comparison of tazarotene gel q.d. plus mometasone furoate cream q.d. vs. mometasone furoate cream b.i.d. in the treatment of plaque psoriasis
Authors: Koo John Y. M. , Martin Dale
Published: March 2003

Seventy‐three patients with stable plaque psoriasis entered an investigator‐masked trial comparing once‐daily tazarotene 0.1% gel plus once‐daily mometasone furoate 0.1% cream with twice‐daily mometasone furoate 0.1% cream. The aim of the study was to determine whether tazarotene and mometasone furoate act synergistically –‐ a previous study showed that tazarotene plus mometasone furoate offered greater efficacy than tazarotene alone, and this study investigated whether tazarotene plus mometasone furoate also offered greater efficacy than mometasone furoate alone.

The patients had psoriasis affecting up to 20% of their total body surface area, with at least moderate plaque elevation. Washout periods were: 2 weeks for UVB phototherapy or topical antipsoriatic therapies; 4 weeks for psoralen plus UVA (PUVA) therapy or systemic antipsoriatic drugs other than retinoids; and 8 weeks for oral retinoids. All patients gave written informed consent and the study was conducted in compliance with the ethical standards of the governing institutional review boards and the Declaration of Helsinki.

Patients were treated for up to 12 weeks. If they achieved clearance by week 4, or at least 50% global improvement by week 12, they were entered into the 12‐week no‐treatment follow‐up phase.

Patients were evaluated every 4 weeks in terms of percentage global improvement, plaque elevation, scaling, erythema, and pruritus. They also rated the efficacy of their own treatment (as very effective, effective, neutral, ineffective, or less effective) and the duration of improvement in their psoriasis (as much better, better, somewhat better, indifferent, or worse than that achieved with other topical medications they had used in the past).

The two regimens were compared by analysis of variance, with the last recorded score for any patient who discontinued prematurely (due to lack of efficacy, adverse events, or disease flare) being carried forward to all subsequent visits.
Secular trends in the epidemiology of pediculosis capitis and pubis among Israeli soldiers: a 27‐year follow‐up
Authors: Mimouni Daniel , Grotto Itamar , Haviv Jacob , Gdalevich Michael , Huerta Michael , Shpilberg Ofer
Published: March 2003

Abstract

Background  Pediculosis capitis and pubis are not mandatorily reported diseases in most countries. Thus, the reported rates of these diseases in large populations are usually inaccurate and based on estimations.

Objective  To describe the global epidemiology of pediculosis capitis and pubis in the Israeli Defense Force.

Methods  We analyzed the data obtained from the routine and mandatory reporting of every individual case of pediculosis capitis and pubis to the Army Health Branch Epidemiology Department since 1972 and 1973, respectively.

Results  During this period, epidemics of pediculosis capitis and pubis were observed between 1973 and 1985 and 1972 and 1987, with 17.7‐ and 3.9‐fold increases in incidence, respectively. These two epidemics were followed by a sharp decline in morbidity (113.6‐ and 13.6‐fold between 1981 and 1999 and 1984 and 1999, respectively) to the present.

Conclusions  A number of factors could be responsible for the observed decline in morbidity, e.g. socioeconomic, pharmacologic, environmental, or prevention policy modifications. The rates of pediculosis capitis and pubis have continuously declined since the last epidemic of 1972–1987, indicating the influence of these and possibly other factors.
Cutaneous protothecosis
Authors: Cho Baik Kee , Ham Sang Hee , Lee Jun Young , Choi Jee Ho
Published: March 2003

A 63‐year‐old Korean woman presented with erythematous plaques on her right forearm. The lesion had developed 4 months previously as pruritic papules and scaly patches, and grew slowly coalescing to eczematous plaques. Examination showed thick scaly erythematous plaques with multiple erosions and minute pustules over the right forearm (Fig. 1). Her past history included hypertension and chronic arthritis of her knees requiring intermittent corticosteroid therapy over a period of 15 years. Routine laboratory evaluations (complete blood count, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), urinalysis, renal and liver function) and chest X‐ray studies were negative or within normal limits. The biopsy specimens of the plaque revealed mild acanthosis and mixed inflammatory infiltrates with some round spores in the dermis, which showed multiple morula‐like sporangia containing many endospores on periodic acid‐Schiff (PAS) and Gomori's methenamine silver (GMS) staining (Fig. 2). Scraping of the lesion with potassium hydroxyde examination showed no specific findings, but the tissue culture revealed creamy yeast‐like colonies on Sabouraud dextrose agar (SDA) in room temperature within 48 h, and the colonies showed characteristic sporangia with morula‐like appearance on lactophenol cotton blue staining. The biochemical evaluation using a Yeast biochemical card (Vitec®, bioMérieux, France) identified the organisms as Prototheca wickerhamii, which assimilated galactose, trehalose, glycerol and glucose on the kit. Oral itraconazole (200 mg/day) for 8 weeks resulted in complete healing with remaining mild pigmentation, and there was no evidence of recurrence over the following 12 months.

Scaly erythematous and eczematous plaque on the right forearm

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Biopsy specimen showing mixed inflammatory cell infiltrates in the dermis (H&E, × 200) and multiple morula‐like sporangia on Gomori's methenamine silver staining (inset, × 200)

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Can smoking and/or occupational UV exposure have any role in the development of the morpheaform basal cell carcinoma? A critical role for peritumoral mast cells
Authors: Erbagci Zülal , Erkiliç Suna
Published: March 2003

Background The stroma of basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is rich in mast cells. Morpheaform BCC has been reported to contain many more mast cells than the other types of BCC. However, pathogenesis and clinical relevance of this observation are currently unclear. Smoking and ultraviolet (UV) exposure have recently been suggested to be related to the development of morpheaform BCC.

Methods With a retrospective study, we aimed to investigate the possible roles of smoking and occupational UV exposure in the development of morpheaform BCC through the quantification of peritumoral mast cells. Our case population consisted of 34 patients with morpheaform BCC and 50 patients with solid BCC. After identification of mast cells with toluidine blue stain, a mast cell index was determined in each case.

Results Mean mast cell index of morpheaform BCCs was significantly higher than that of solid BCCs (P < 0.02). Increased mast cell indices were associated with smoking (P = 0.003), but not with UV exposure (P > 0.05), irrespective of the tumor type. Morpheaform BCC was significantly more frequent in smokers compared to solid BCC (P < 0.05). In the cases with morpheaform BCC, mean mast cell index of smokers was significantly higher than that of nonsmokers (P = 0.02). Mean mast cell index of smokers with morpheaform BCC was also significantly higher than that of the smokers with solid BCC (P = 0.04). Ultraviolet exposure alone had no significant influence on mast cell indices, nor on the frequency of morpheaform BCC.

Conclusion We suggest that smoking can play a key role in the differentiation of BCC toward its sclerosing form, through the increased peritumoral mast cell numbers.
Correlation between pH and irritant effect of cleansers marketed for dry skin
Authors: Baranda Lourdes , González‐Amaro Roberto , Torres‐Alvarez Bertha , Alvarez Carmen , Ramírez Victoria
Published: March 2003

Background Although it is important that dermatologists and the general population know the irritation potential of products marketed for dry skin used for body cleansing, this information is not usually available.

Objective To assess the irritative effect of different soaps and liquid cleansers recommended for sensitive skin. To study the correlation of the irritation effect of each substance with its pH and with the presence or absence of syndet in the product.

Methods Seventeen products marketed for dry skin and 12 common soaps used by the general population were studied. Fresh soap emulsions (8%) were applied to the volar side of the right forearm of 30 individuals with sensitive skin for 5 consecutive days using aluminum chambers. The appearance of irritation (erythema, scaling and fissures) was recorded, scored, and expressed in an Irritation index (IrIn). The pH of each solution was measured.

Results Products with a low IrIn were White DoveTM (Dove, Lever Pond’s, Toronto, Ontario, Canada), Dove BabyTM, CetaphilTM (bar) (Cetaphil, Gulderma Lab., Forth Worth, TX, USA), Dove liquid cleanser for handsTM, Dove pinkTM, and AdermaTM (Adenma, Pierre Fabre, Dermo‐Cosmetique, Boulagne, France). Most corresponded to syndet products. Among the most used brand‐name soap, Camay ClassicTM (Camay, Procter & Gamble de Mexico, México, U.F.) had the lowest IrIn. Dove BabyTM was the only product with a neutral pH. A significant correlation between pH and the IrIn of cleansers was found (P < 0.006).

Conclusions Most products recommended for sensitive skin have a considerable irritation effect, which is related to the pH of the product. Better regulation of advertisement specifications including the pH level and type of cleanser contained is necessary for the majority of soaps and cleansers.
En coup de sabre
Authors: Sehgal Virendra N. , Srivastava Govind , Bajaj Promila
Published: March 2003

A man born in 1961 was apparently well until his marriage in May 1986. In August of that year, his attention was drawn to the presence of a reddish patch over the right forehead. It was initially asymptomatic. It continued to progress to form an apparent linear furrow extending from the receding hairline to the vertex and temporal part of the scalp. At this juncture, the patient experienced moderate pain when laughing. Five years later the patient experienced a constant boring pain affecting the right eyeball. Consultation with an ophthalmologist led to sacrificial enucleation of the right eye despite the lack of a precise diagnosis. Nevertheless, the initial condition continued to progress causing disfigurement of the right side of the face. Examination of the face was marked by perceptible asymmetry. A linear atrophic plaque in the form of a furrow was identified on the right side of the forehead extending from the eyebrow to the vertex and temporal part of the scalp. The skin over the furrow was taut and bound down (Fig. 1). A hematoxylin and eosin‐stained section prepared from the lesion revealed marked thickening of the dermis. The collagen bundles were hypertrophied and closely packed together. The staining was homogeneously eosinophilic. It was largely devoid of inflammatory infiltrate. The changes in the blood vessels were conspicuous by narrowing of the lumina, thickening of the walls, and a sparse perivascular lymphocytic infiltrate. Pilosebaceous units were completely absent, whereas a few atrophic pulled‐up sweat glands were located in the mid‐dermis. Similar changes were observed in the subcutaneous tissue. The epidermis was largely atrophied, with flattening of the rete ridges.

En coup de sabre: linear scleroderma occupying the frontoparietal part of the scalp and associated with facial hemiatrophy

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HLA‐DQ3 is associated with idiopathic guttate hypomelanosis, whereas HLA‐DR8 is not, in a group of renal transplant patients
Authors: Arrunategui Adriana , Trujillo Rodolfo A. , Marulanda Maria P. , Sandoval Fabian , Wagner Adriana , Alzate Alberto , Falabella Rafael
Published: March 2003

Background  The etiology of idiopathic guttate hypomelanosis (IGH) remains uncertain; however, solar exposure and heredity have been proposed as causative factors.

Objective  To explore the genetic predisposition to the development of IGH.

Methods   A comparative case–control study was performed at a dermatology department at a university hospital. Forty‐seven subjects (22 renal transplant patients and 25 controls) were enrolled. Clinical examination and human leukocyte antigen (HLA) determination were performed.

Results   In the group of subjects with HLA‐DQ3 (10/13, P = 0.025), there was a statistically significant (P < 0.05) positive association for the presence of IGH; in the group of subjects with HLA‐DR8 (6/6, P = 0.023), there was a statistically significant negative association for the presence of IGH.

Conclusions   The presence of HLA‐DQ3 in patients with IGH suggests a genetic basis in a group of renal transplant subjects. HLA‐DR8 was found in patients without IGH, and it could play a role as a “protective factor” preventing subjects from developing IGH.
Necrotizing gangrene of the genitalia and perineum
Authors: Cabrera Hugo , Skoczdopole Luis , Marini Mario , Della Giovanna Patricia , Saponaro Alberto , Echeverría Cristina
Published: March 2003

Background  Necrotizing gangrene of the genitalia and perineum is a fulminant, life‐threatening condition. This infection is usually polymicrobial and may be idiopathic or secondary to local trauma or surgery. Histologically, it is characterized by obliterative endarteritis and thrombosis of the subcutaneous vessels, fascial necrosis, and leukocytic infiltration. Mortality rates of 25–75% have been reported. Most cases of necrotizing gangrene begin insidiously, with scrotal discomfort and malaise. Later, erythema, increasing pain, and swelling, associated with fever and chills, develop. A biopsy is useful to confirm the clinical diagnosis and to obtain culture samples. Ultrasound imaging may reveal gas or testicular involvement and may help to distinguish this infection from other causes of scrotal pathology.

Materials and methods  Fifteen patients with necrotizing gangrene of the genitalia and perineum, seen at the Dermatology and Plastic Surgery Sections of our Institutions between 1994 and 1999, are described.

Results  This series included 11 men (73%) and four women (27%), aged 39–68 years (mean, 51 years). In our series, Clostridium perfingens, Staphylococcus aureus, Proteus mirabilis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Streptococcus viridans, Acinetobacter baumani, Escherichia coli, and Candida albicans were isolated. Hemodynamic stabilization and monitoring were performed in all patients. Intravenous antimicrobial therapy was promptly instituted. In most cases, two or more drugs were used. Concurrent surgical debridement of all necrotic areas was always required. When needed, split‐thickness skin grafts were used to cover the penile shaft. Expanded mesh grafts were used to reconstruct the vulva and other denuded beds. The survival rate in this series was 87%.

Conclusions  Necrotizing gangrene of the genitalia and perineum continues to be a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge. The usual polymicrobial infection with vascular involvement demands hemodynamic stabilization, systemic antimicrobial therapy, and surgical debridement. In some patients, genital, perineal, and abdominal wall reconstruction is also required.
Apocrine carcinoma of the vulva in a band‐like arrangement with inflammatory and telangiectatic metastasis via local lymphatic channels
Authors: Kiyohara Takahiro , Kumakiri Masanobu , Kawami Kenya , Kouraba Sachio , Takeuchi Akiteru , Sawai Takahiro , Lao Lin‐Min , Ansai Shinichi , Hashimoto Ken
Published: March 2003

Background Primary adenocarcinomas of the vulva have been classified as sweat gland carcinomas, extramammary Paget's disease, and primary breast carcinomas of the vulva. They share some common histopathologic features.

Methods We describe a 72‐year‐old Japanese woman with apocrine carcinoma of the vulva and local lymphatic metastasis.

Results The patient presented with a bruise on her inguinal area. Physical examination revealed a 4 cm × 7 cm, dark‐red, irregularly elevated tumor on the left labium majora. Dome‐shaped, flesh‐colored, small papulovesicles were scattered on the abdomen, accompanied by erythema and induration. The lesion showed a band‐like arrangement. General examination revealed multiple bone metastases, particularly in the spine. Microscopic examination revealed a moderately differentiated adenocarcinoma with signet ring cells. A few pagetoid clear cells were present in the hypertrophic epidermis. The peripheral papulovesicles demonstrated the same histopathologic view as in inflammatory and telangiectatic, metastatic breast carcinoma. Tumor cells were positive for various ductal and glandular markers. Estrogen and progesterone receptors were not expressed. Ultrastructural findings suggested differentiation towards apocrine or mammary glands because of the presence of an apocrine process and electron‐dense mucous granules. The patient died in spite of combination chemotherapy and irradiation therapy.

Conclusions We report a rare case of apocrine carcinoma of the vulva in a band‐like arrangement with local lymphatic metastasis which showed the clinical and histopathologic characteristics of inflammatory and telangiectatic carcinoma.
Quantitative Genetics of reaction norms
Authors: De Jong G.
Published: March 2003

A model of the quantitative genetics of phenotypically plastic characters is developed. When genotype‐environment interaction is present, and the allelic effects contributing to any two traits are linear functions of the environment, the additive genetic variances of, and additive genetic covariance between, traits become quadratic functions of the environmental variable. The additive genetic covariance will in general change sign over some range of the environmental variable. The conditions of the mathematically special case, where additive genetic covariance has the same sign in all environments, imply structure in the pleiotropic effects of any alleles, i.e. developmental constraints can prevent additive genetic covariance changing sign. Mathematical independence of polygenic effects between traits represents in this model a lack of developmental constraints and leads to sign change in the additive genetic covariance over environments.
Auditory changes in noctuid moths endemic to a bat‐free habitat
Authors: Fullard James H.
Published: March 2003

If the ears of moths exist primarily to detect the echolocation calls of hunting bats, endemic moths in bat‐free areas (i.e., species that have evolved in the absence of the selection pressure maintaining ears) should exhibit signs of deafness. Noctuid moths from the Pacific islands of French Polynesia, a site that has never possessed bats, were sampled and electrophysiologically analysed to test this hypothesis. The auditory sensitivities of seven endemic and twelve immigrant species, captured from the islands of Tahiti, Moorea, and Hiva Oa, were compared. Both classes possess neurally responsive ears, but endemics are significantly deafer than immigrants at frequencies above 35 kHz. This form of deafness is similar to other moths presumably released from the selection pressure of bat predation. I conclude that endemic moths at this site exhibit preliminary stages of deafness and that, considering their small cellular investment, ears in moths will be lost at a slower rate than more complex sensory organs.
Molecular phylogeny of the Monotropoideae (Ericaceae) with a note on the placement of the Pyroloideae
Authors: Cullings Ken
Published: March 2003

Mycotrophism occurs in two ericaceous subfamilies, the Monotropoideae and the Pyroloideae. However, three aspects of the evolution of these subfamilies remain equivocal; 1) morphological, biochemical, and molecular analyses have failed to establish that the Monotropoideae is monophylectic; 2) the relationships among members of the Monotropoideae remain unresolved; 3) it is unclear whether the Pyroloideae should be included as a subfamily within the Ericaceae or treated as a separate family. To address these topics a phylogeny was constructed using a portion of the 28S ribosomal RNA gene from 22 members of the Ericaceae. Results indicate that the present Monotropoideae is polyphyletic; one species, Monotropsis ordata, is more closely related to members of the Vaccinioideae than to the rest of the Monotropoideae. This arrangement is supported by consideration of mycorrhizal type, consequently multiple origins of mycotrophic parasitism must be assumed. The relationships depicted within the Monotropoideae are nearly congruent with those depicted in Copeland's (1941) phylogeny, and morphological or biochemical characters are identified which support the relationships depicted by the molecular tree which do not agree with the morphological tree. In addition, the data indicate, although not strongly, that the Pyroloideae should be included within the Ericaceae.
Paternal sex in parthenogenetic planarians: a tool to investigate the accumulation of deleterious mutations
Authors: Storhas  , Weinzierl  , Michiels
Published: March 2003

Clonally reproducing organisms are expected to accumulate slightly deleterious mutations, and this has been demonstrated in RNA viruses, bacteria and unicellular algae. In this paper we present evidence for increased embryo mortality in obligate parthenogenetic strains of the freshwater flatworm Schmidtea polychroa, possibly indicating the action of deleterious mutations. The inheritance of this fitness defect was tested by crossing parthenogens with sexuals. This is possible because both forms are simultaneous hermaphrodites that produce fertile sperm. The resulting sexual offspring showed significantly increased embryo mortality in comparison to offspring of a sexual × sexual cross. Alternatives to a mutation explanation of these results, like the degeneration of male traits in parthenogens, are being discussed. In conclusion, these results lend support to the hypothesis that sex is advantageous to a multicellular organism because it prevents the accumulation of deleterious mutations.
Host-specific differentiation in the anther smut fungus Microbotryum violaceum as revealed by microsatellites
Authors: Bucheli  , Gautschi  , Shykoff
Published: March 2003

The anther smut fungus Microbotryum violaceum ( = Ustilago violacea) is a parasite of many species of the Caryophyllaceae. Its host specificity has been debated since early this century, when cross-inoculation experiments indicated the existence of host-specific lineages. Recently, on the basis of spore ultrastructure, all presumed host races were lumped within M. violaceum. To measure gene flow among natural populations of anther smuts from different host species, we used microsatellite variation at 5 loci among samples from 8 Silene, 2 Saponaria, 2 Dianthus and 1 Gypsophila species. Most of the 326 M. violaceum samples investigated originated from the Swiss Alps and close surroundings. Microsatellite variation revealed almost perfect isolation among anther smut fungi from different host species. In addition, differentiation was supported by the nonrandom distribution of null alleles among samples from different host species and host genera. Null alleles were most abundant in anther smut samples from non-Silene hosts. The resolution of genetic differentiation among anther smuts from different host species was highest in those from Silene species. Genetic relationships among samples as indicated by Neighbour-Joining analysis based on genetic distances are discussed with respect to host phylogeny and host ecology. One sample was identified as Ustilago gausseni because it had verrucose instead of reticulate spores and was collected from Silene italica. Neighbour-Joining analysis revealed that this sample was similar to the M. violaceum samples from other Silene host species. Therefore, our data question spore morphology as a reliable character for anther smut systematics.