bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The role of melatonin in immuno‐enhancement: potential application in cancer
Authors: Miller Sandra C. , Pandi Perumal S. R. , Esquifino Ana I. , Cardinali Daniel P. , Maestroni Georges J. M.
Published: March 2006

Melatonin, a neurohormone produced mainly by the pineal gland, is a modulator of haemopoiesis and of immune cell production and function, both in vivo and in vitro. Physiologically, melatonin is associated with T‐helper 1 (Th1) cytokines, and its administration favours Th1 priming. In both normal and leukaemic mice, melatonin administration results in quantitative and functional enhancement of natural killer (NK) cells, whose role is to mediate defenses against virus‐infected and cancer cells. Melatonin appears to regulate cell dynamics, including the proliferative and maturational stages of virtually all haemopoietic and immune cells lineages involved in host defense – not only NK cells but also T and B lymphocytes, granulocytes and monocytes – in both bone marrow and tissues. In particular, melatonin is a powerful antiapoptotic signal promoting the survival of normal granulocytes and B lymphocytes. In mice bearing mid‐stage leukaemia, daily administration of melatonin results in a survival index of 30–40% vs. 0% in untreated mice. Thus, melatonin seems to have a fundamental role as a system regulator in haemopoiesis and immuno‐enhancement, appears to be closely involved in several fundamental aspects of host defense and has the potential to be useful as an adjuvant tumour immunotherapeutic agent.
The mechanisms of carbon monoxide production by inhalational agents
Authors: Coppens M. J. , Versichelen L. F. M. , Rolly G. , Mortier E. P. , Struys M. M. R. F.
Published: March 2006

Carbon monoxide can be formed when volatile anaesthetic agents such as desflurane and sevoflurane are used with anaesthetic breathing systems containing carbon dioxide absorbents. This review describes the possible chemical processes involved and summarises the experimental and clinical evidence for the generation of carbon monoxide. We emphasise the different conditions that were used in the experimental work, and explain some of the features of the clinical reports. Finally, we provide guidelines for the prevention and detection of this complication.
Protein cross‐contamination during batch cleaning and autoclaving of the ProSeal™ laryngeal mask airway
Authors: Richards E. , Brimacombe J. , Laupau W. , Keller C.
Published: March 2006

We tested the hypothesis that protein cross‐contamination occurs during batch cleaning and autoclaving of a reusable extraglottic airway device, the ProSeal™ laryngeal mask airway. At the end of each day for 10 days, nine laryngeal mask airways that had been used for non‐intra‐oral surgery were cleaned and autoclaved alongside a new unused laryngeal mask airway. In addition, a new unused laryngeal mask airway underwent the same cleaning and autoclaving procedures in isolation. Protein staining was more frequently detected on the unused laryngeal mask airways that were processed by batch rather than in isolation (p < 0.01). Protein staining was detected on all unused laryngeal mask airways that were processed by batch, but none on those processed in isolation. Protein staining was more severe with the used compared with the unused laryngeal mask airways (p < 0.001). We conclude that protein cross‐contamination of the laryngeal mask airway occurs during batch cleaning and autoclaving and recommend that reusable airway devices are cleaned in isolation.
Diverse niches within multiple myeloma bone marrow aspirates affect plasma cell enumeration
Authors: Nadav Liat , Katz Ben‐Zion , Baron Shoshana , Yossipov Lydia , Polliack Aaron , Deutsch Varda , Geiger Benjamin , Naparstek Ellizabeth
Published: March 2006

A basic criterion for the diagnosis of multiple myeloma is plasma cell enumeration within the bone marrow (BM). This report showed that flow cytometry under‐estimated the number of plasma cells in BM aspirates by an average of 60%, compared with morphological evaluation. The discrepancy was partially because BM smears contain cells associated with the lipid‐enriched spicules. In contrast, flow cytometry is performed on the BM fluid, which is depleted of the lipid‐adhesive plasma cells. This discrepancy may point to different plasma cell subpopulations associated with diverse niches within the BM.
Sickle cell leg ulcers: associations with haemolysis and SNPs in Klotho, TEK and genes of the TGF‐β/BMP pathway
Authors: Nolan Vikki G. , Adewoye Adeboye , Baldwin Clinton , Wang Ling , Ma Qianli , Wyszynski Diego F. , Farrell John J. , Sebastiani Paola , Farrer Lindsay A. , Steinberg Martin H.
Published: March 2006

Cutaneous leg ulcers are common in sickle cell anaemia and their risk might be genetically determined. Sickle cell anaemia patients were studied to examine the relationship of leg ulcers with haemolysis and with single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in candidate genes that could affect sickle vasoocclusion. Leg ulcer patients had lower haemoglobin levels and higher levels of lactate dehydrogenase, bilirubin, aspartate transaminase and reticulocytes than did control patients with sickle cell anaemia but without leg ulcers. Age‐adjusted comparisons showed that sickle cell anaemia‐α thalassaemia was more frequent among controls than cases. These results strongly suggested that the likelihood of having leg ulcers was related to the intensity of haemolysis. 215 SNPs in more than 100 candidate genes were studied. Associations were found with SNPs in Klotho, TEK and several genes in the TGF‐β/BMP signalling pathway by genotypic association analyses. KL directly or indirectly promotes endothelial nitric oxide (NO) production and the TEK receptor tyrosine kinase is involved in angiogenesis. The TGF‐β/BMP signalling pathway modulates wound healing and angiogenesis, among its other functions. Haemolysis‐driven phenotypes, such as leg ulcers, could be improved by agents that reduce sickle erythrocyte density or increase NO bioavailability.
A review of the scientific and literary accomplishments of Professor R.G. Macfarlane CBE, FRS
Authors: Hougie Cecil
Published: March 2006

This article gives an account of some of the pioneer work of Professor R.G. Macfarlane CBE, FRS in haemostasis and fibrinolysis. His Cascade hypothesis, which together with the Waterfall, became the most cited of all papers on blood coagulation in the latter part of the 20th century, is described, together with its rebuttal and defence. Macfarlane had the gift of writing in elegant prose and his papers on the philosophy of science and his biographies of Lord Florey and Fleming are reviewed. The biography of Sir Alexander Fleming is a great work that deserves to be on the shelves of every library.
Haematopoietic stem cell transplantation as primary therapy of sporadic adult Burkitt lymphoma*
Authors: Song Kevin W. , Barnett Michael J. , Gascoyne Randy D. , Horsman Douglas E. , Forrest Donna L. , Hogge Donna E. , Lavoie Julyle C. , Nantel Stephen H. , Nevill Thomas J. , Shepherd John D. , Smith Clayton A. , Sutherland Heather J. , Voss Nicholas J. , Toze Cynthia L. , Connors Joseph M.
Published: March 2006

High dose chemoradiotherapy and haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (SCT) is used as primary therapy for patients diagnosed with Burkitt lymphoma (BL). Forty‐three adults presented with sporadic BL in British Columbia between 1987 and 2003. Twenty patients had bone marrow involvement. Sixteen patients did not proceed to SCT because of chemorefractory disease (n = 9) or other reasons (n = 7). Twenty‐seven patients proceeded to SCT and had a 3‐year event‐free survival of 51%. In conclusion, approximately 50% of patients with chemosensitive BL who undergo SCT can be cured; however, a significant number of patients will not proceed to SCT because of early resistance or recurrence.
Volunteers, families and children in need: an evaluation of Family Friends
Authors: Parrott Lester , Buchanan Julian , Williams Debbie
Published: March 2006

This paper explores the findings from a small‐scale research project that analysed the impact of Family Friends – a voluntary agency that provides support to families under stress who have children aged between 5 and 11 years. The study, funded by Family Friends, evaluated service users’ perceptions of the support they received, specifically in relation to the significance and impact of the volunteer befrienders. The research identified that there are a proportion of families in need who fail to attract services from mainstream statutory agencies. It also identified that the Family Friends voluntary agency makes a particular contribution to service provision by offering a friendly, non‐stigmatizing, caring and responsive service.
Community in a children's home
Authors: Törrönen Maritta
Published: March 2006

In this paper the focus is on ‘the community’ of a children's home and what it looks like from the children's point of view. The research data consist of ethnographic research material produced in conjunction with a doctoral thesis in 1996.

The community was analysed in respect to four features: periodic adult relationships, alliance creation, importance of peers relationships and continuous negotiations, where children take active roles. In addition to periodic employees, the community of a children's home includes different relationships between peers and adults. The significance of the community is individually experienced. According to the field research, a children's home can offer home‐like experiences for some children and give a feeling of belonging, while there are also children for whom a sense of belonging is more complex.

There is a need for a community approach in child protection and child welfare research. The studies of children's friendship and other human relationships provide adults and professionals with an understanding of the role of these relationships in the children's life and future. The studies also yield information on how these personal relationships are interpreted by young people.
Disabled children, parent–child interaction and attachment
Authors: Howe David
Published: March 2006

Although caregiver factors are generally considered the more potent in determining children's attachment organization, a number of child factors have also been considered. Among these have been temperament and disabilities. The present paper examines the effect of various types of children's disability on parent–child interactions, including how disabilities affect parental sensitivity and communications. A brief outline of attachment theory and patterns of organization is followed by a review of the research evidence that has looked at children with disabilities and insecure attachments. A complex picture emerges in which it is not a child's disability per se that is associated with insecure attachments but rather an interaction between children with disabilities and the caregiver's state of mind with respect to attachment. Transactions between both child and caregiver vulnerability factors affect sensitivity, communications and security of attachment. Practice implications for prevention, advice and support are considered.
A family support service for homeless children and parents: user and staff perspectives
Authors: Anderson Lisa , Stuttaford Maria , Vostanis Panos
Published: March 2006

Children and their parents who become homeless constitute a group of families with a complex range of social care and health needs, including mental health difficulties. In response to this, a local authority housing department established a family support team (FST) that provides assessment and detection of a range of problems, support to parents and children, parenting interventions for child behavioural problems, liaison with other agencies, and referral to specialist services when appropriate. The aim of this study was to establish the perceptions of parents and staff on their experience of the service, and ways of improving it in the future. The study adopted a developmental evaluation approach and used multiple methods, including in‐depth interviews with families; diaries; reflective activities; participatory learning and action; and observation of the FST. The study mapped the innovative service and captured the range of skills in the team and the complexity of agencies the team interacted with. It also identified areas for further development in terms of the mental health needs of children and parents who have become homeless.
Adoption by foster carers: a profile of interest and outcomes
Authors: Kirton Derek , Beecham Jennifer , Ogilvie Kate
Published: March 2006

This paper looks at the issue of adoption by foster carers and in particular its financial aspects. The findings stem from a wider study of remuneration and performance in foster care. Drawing on a survey of 1181 foster carers, this paper examines the characteristics of those who have considered adoption. The outcomes of such consideration, including the part played by financial concerns and anticipated loss of support in decisions to proceed with adoption or not, are also examined. The findings reveal a significant level of interest in adoption on the part of foster carers, to which three particular sets of characteristics are found to be associated. First, interest is greater among those more extensively involved in foster care in terms of experience, specialisms and range of placements offered. Second, it is associated with relatively less concern with payment and less ‘professional’ views of foster care. Third, there is evidence that adoption is more commonly pursued by those who feel less valued by social workers. Fears of losing financial help and support were cited as reasons by more than half of all foster carers who had considered but not pursued adoption.
Factors influencing the acceptance of volunteer home‐visiting support offered to families with new babies
Authors: Barnes Jacqueline , MacPherson Kristen , Senior Rob
Published: March 2006

This study investigated the characteristics of families with a new baby, screened to identify families with vulnerability, who did not take up the offer of home‐visiting support from a community volunteer. Using logistic regression, background factors were compared with those families receiving support. Those not receiving support, 59.1% of those referred, were more socially, educationally and economically disadvantaged, living in more disadvantaged neighbourhoods. Those who received support were more likely to have larger families, no local support network, or had family members with health or mental health problems. One in nine families referred had not been reached by the support service. In brief qualitative telephone interviews, mothers who did not take up the offer of support reported changing their mind, wanting to cope without help and in some cases feeling that the support offered did not meet their specific needs. Policy implications are suggested, in particular offering support to new parents thought to be vulnerable within a statutory framework, with sufficient infrastructure and resources to conduct outreach work. Research implications include making a concerted effort to find out about families who decide not to take part in service evaluation studies, or who drop out after initial agreement.
Professionals’ decision‐making in cases of physical punishment reported to child welfare authorities: does family poverty matter?
Authors: Moraes Sabrina , Durrant Joan E. , Brownridge Douglas , Reid Grant
Published: March 2006

The influence of family poverty on professionals’ decision‐making in cases of physical punishment reported to child welfare agencies was examined. The sample was drawn from the Canadian Incidence Study of Reported Child Abuse and Neglect. The influence of five indicators of poverty on six investigation outcomes was assessed. In addition, a Poverty Index was constructed from these five variables to assess whether the family's overall poverty status influenced investigation outcomes. The outcome variables examined were case substantiation, provision of ongoing child welfare services, referrals to child and family support programmes, out‐of‐home placement, applications to child welfare court and police involvement. Together, the poverty indicators did not account for more than 6% of the explained variation in any of the outcome variables, nor did the magnitude of the Poverty Index affect the likelihood of any of the investigation outcomes. These findings suggest that family poverty does not influence professionals’ decision‐making in cases of physical punishment reported to child welfare agencies in Canada. The findings have implications for the ongoing development of policy aimed at reducing parental use of physical punishment.
Vimentin‐Ser82 as a memory phosphorylation site in astrocytes
Authors: Oguri Takashi , Inoko Akihito , Shima Hiroshi , Izawa Ichiro , Arimura Nariko , Yamaguchi Tomoya , Inagaki Naoyuki , Kaibuchi Kozo , Kikuchi Kunimi , Inagaki Masaki
Published: March 2006

In astrocytes, the PGF2α or ionomycin treatment induces the phosphorylation at Ser38 and Ser82 of vimentin, a type III intermediate filament, by Ca2+/calmodulin‐dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII). We found here that vimentin phospho‐Ser82 was dephosphorylated much slower than phospho‐Ser38. Vimentin phospho‐Ser38 was dephosphorylated quickly by purified PP1 catalytic subunit (PP1c) in vitro, whereas phospho‐Ser82 was insensitive to PP1c. Because PP1c directly bound to vimentin through a VxF motif (Val83‐Asp84‐Phe85), the PP1c active site appeared to be unable to approach phospho‐Ser82, leading to the prolongation of the phosphorylation at Ser‐82. In astrocytes, PP1cα was in vivo associated with vimentin filaments. The repetitive treatment by ionomycin at a short interval resulted in the sustained elevation of Ser82 phosphorylation, leading to the marked disassembly of vimentin filaments. Taken together, these results suggest that vimentin is a novel member of binding partner of PP1c in astrocytes, and vimentin‐Ser82 may act as a memory phosphorylation site.
Uterine leiomyoma versus leiomyosarcoma: a new attempt at differential diagnosis based on their cellular characteristics
Authors: Watanabe K , Suzuki T
Published: March 2006

Aim : To differentiate uterine leiomyoma (LM) with ‘pseudosarcomatous’ features from leiomyosarcoma (LMS). We hypothesized that because pseudosarcomatous LM is only a benign variant of conventional LM, it may have some characteristics different from LMS.

Methods and results : Fourteen uterine smooth muscle tumours, which had been diagnosed as LMS previously, were reviewed and divided into adverse outcome (true LMS; seven cases) and excellent outcome groups (presumed pseudosarcomatous LM; seven cases) based on their clinical course. The tumours of the adverse outcome group were composed of rather uniform long spindle cells similar to those of leiomyosarcoma arising from the soft tissue. All tumours in this group had coagulative necrosis and all but one case were diagnosed preoperatively as malignant. In contrast, the tumours of the excellent outcome group showed significant histological diversity both between tumours and also in the same tumour and areas indistinguishable from conventional LM were often seen. All the tumours of this group were diagnosed preoperatively as benign. Immunohistochemically, all tumours of the excellent outcome group expressed progesterone receptor, often intensely, and also frequently expressed oestrogen receptor. In contrast, all the tumours of the adverse outcome group lacked them completely.

Conclusion : Pseudosarcomatous LM has characteristics useful for differentiating it from LMS, which are common in conventional LM.
Update on extranodal lymphomas. Conclusions of the Workshop held by the EAHP and the SH in Thessaloniki, Greece
Authors: Campo E , Chott A , Kinney M C , Leoncini L , Meijer C J L M , Papadimitriou C S , Piris M A , Stein H , Swerdlow S H
Published: March 2006

Classification and proper treatment of extranodal lymphoma is hindered by the diversity of lymphoma types and the relative rarity of many of these tumour types. In order to review controversial issues in extranodal lymphoma diagnosis, a joint Workshop of the European Haematopathology Association (EAHP) and the Society for Hematopathology (SH) was held, where 99 selected cases were reviewed and discussed. This Workshop summary is focused on the most controversial aspect of cutaneous B‐cell lymphoma, other extranodal B‐cell lymphomas, plasmablastic lymphoma and anaplastic large‐cell lymphoma in extranodal sites, and makes practical recommendations about diagnosis and therapeutic approaches.
Oval cells in hepatitis B virus‐positive and hepatitis C virus‐positive liver cirrhosis: histological and ultrastructural study
Authors: Sun C , Jin X‐L , Xiao J‐C
Published: March 2006

Aims : It is still not clear whether oval cells demonstrate diverse morphology, immunophenotype or quantity in different human liver diseases. The aim of this study was to investigate these differences in hepatitis B virus (HBV)‐positive and hepatitis C virus (HCV)‐positive human liver cirrhosis (HLC).

Methods and results : Thirty‐eight cases of HBV+ HLC and 32 cases of HCV+ HLC were investigated by light microscopy and immunohistochemistry for Hepatocyte, CK19, stem cell factor (SCF) and CD34. Five cases were also examined by transmission electron microscopy. Oval cells of similar morphology could be found in proliferating bile ductules in both groups. These cells coexpressed CK19 and Hepatocyte, but did not express SCF or CD34. Some of these cells exhibited a trend towards differentiation. There was no difference in the amount of oval cells between the two groups. The oval cell number was found to increase significantly with the progression of inflammation. A similar stem‐like cell was not seen in the normal liver.

Conclusions : There are bipotential oval cells in both HBV+ and HCV+ HLC. The lack of difference in oval cells between the two groups suggests that they might play a similar biological role in the histogenesis of different liver diseases.
High promoter hypermethylation frequency of p14/ARF in supratentorial PNET but not in medulloblastoma
Authors: Inda M M , Muñoz J , Coullin P , Fauvet D , Danglot G , Tuñón T , Bernheim A , Castresana J S
Published: March 2006

Aims : Medulloblastoma (MB) is the most common primitive neuroectodermal tumour (PNET) of the central nervous system. Although supratentorial PNET (sPNET) and MB are histologically similar, their clinical behaviour differs, sPNET being more aggressive than MB. The aim of this study was to determine whether sPNET and MB are genetically different entities.

Methods and results : We investigated 32 PNET primary tumour samples (23 MB and nine sPNET) and four PNET cell lines, for the presence of CDKN2A homozygous deletions at exon 1‐α of p16/INK4 and exon 1‐β of p14/ARF, and promoter hypermethylation of both genes. No homozygous deletion of either p16/INK4 or p14/ARF was demonstrated in any of the PNET primary tumour samples. Methylation of p16/INK4 was found in one of six sPNET and in one of 23 MB, while p14/ARF methylation was observed in three of six sPNET and in three of 21 MB. No methylation of p16/INK4 or p14/ARF was found in any of the PNET cell lines analysed. The three MB cell lines did not show p16/INK4 expression, and only the MB Daoy cell line (homozygously deleted at CDKN2A) presented loss of p14/ARF expression.

Conclusions : Our results in this limited series of central PNET show that p14/ARF is frequently involved in PNET carcinogenesis, with a higher frequency, but not statistically significant, for sPNET than for MB.
The prevalence and clinical implications of c‐kit expression in plasma cell myeloma
Authors: Pruneri G , Ponzoni M , Ferreri A J M , Freschi M , Tresoldi M , Baldini L , Mattioli M , Agnelli L , Govi S , Mancuso P , Agazzi A , Bertolini F , Peccatori J , Bosari S , Gianelli U , Viale G , Neri A
Published: March 2006

Aim:  To evaluate the clinical implications of c‐kit (CD117) expression in plasma cell myeloma (PCM).

Methods and results:  We first evaluated the reliability of immunohistochemistry in assessing c‐kit expression by comparing the results with those obtained by flow cytometry and gene expression arrays in 22 PCM and in 10 PCM cell lines. Immunohistochemical results showed a perfect concordance with those of flow cytometry; likewise, immunohistochemical and gene expression data were also concordant in all but one PCM and cell lines analysed. Then, we investigated the clinical implications of c‐kit immunoreactivity in bone marrow biopsies of 85 PCM patients with a mean follow‐up of 41 months. C‐kit immunoreactivity was detected in 24 (28.2%) of the 85 cases and it was significantly associated with a high microvessel density, but not with traditional clinicopathological characteristics or with survival.

Conclusions:  Our findings suggest that immunohistochemistry is a reliable indicator of c‐kit gene expression and reinforce the notion that approximately one‐third of PCM express high levels of c‐kit. The lack of association with traditional clinicopathological parameters and patient survival suggests that c‐kit expression may not be an adjunct in predicting the clinical course of the disease.
ALK expression in pseudosarcomatous myofibroblastic proliferations of the genitourinary tract
Authors: Hirsch M S , Cin P Dal , Fletcher C D M
Published: March 2006

Aims : Pseudosarcomatous myofibroblastic proliferation of the genitourinary tract is rare and may develop after trauma or spontaneously. The aim of this study was to characterize further the clinicopathological features of these lesions and to examine their relationship to inflammatory myofibroblastic tumour (IMT).

Methods and results : Twenty‐seven cases of pseudosarcomatous myofibroblastic proliferation were analysed. There were seven males and 20 females; median age was 37 years (range 16–88). Most lesions were from the bladder (n = 21), while others were in the urethra, vulva, vagina, rectum and retrovesical space. Median tumour size was 30 mm (range 6–120 mm). Seven cases (25%) had a history of prior trauma or surgery. Three cases recurred locally but not destructively. The tumours had fasciitis‐like features including bland spindle cells with evenly distributed chromatin, admixed inflammatory cells (mainly lymphocytes) and often a myxoid stroma. Immunohistochemistry showed positivity for smooth muscle actin in 14/20 cases, keratin in 8/19, desmin in 7/20 and anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) in 10/21 cases. Fluorescent in situ hybridization was performed in six ALK+ cases; all were negative for ALK gene rearrangement.

Conclusions : Pseudosarcomatous myofibroblastic proliferations of the genitourinary tract may show ALK immunopositivity but do not show consistent ALK rearrangement. Given subtle morphological differences and more consistently benign behaviour, their relationship to inflammatory myofibroblastic tumour at other sites remains uncertain.
Epstein–Barr viral infection in extranodal lymphoma of the head and neck: correlation with prognosis and response to treatment
Authors: Bahnassy A A , Zekri A‐R N , Asaad N , El‐Houssini S , Khalid H M , Sedky L M , Mokhtar N M
Published: March 2006

Aims : To determine the prevalence of Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) infection in primary extranodal lymphoma of the head and neck (PELHN) in immunocompetent patients. PELHN represents 16.18% of all lymphoma diagnosed at the National Cancer Institute, Cairo. Although EBV infection is highly associated with lymphoma in immunocompromised patients, the situation in immunocompetent patients is still unclear.

Material and methods : The study included 50 PELHN (11 cases in the nose and paranasal sinuses, 11 in the nasopharynx, 13 in the tonsils, seven in the oropharynx and eight in the oral cavity), five reactive lymph nodes, 15 normal nasopharyngeal tissue and 25 throat washes of healthy subjects from Egypt. Cases and controls were assessed for the presence of EBV by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and in situ hybridization techniques, the presence of 30 base pair deletion of the LMP‐1 (del‐LMP1) gene and for the expression of p53, Ki67, bcl‐2 and Bax by immunohistochemistry. This was also correlated with the clinical outcome of patients.

Results : EBV was detected in 90% and 70% of the cases using EBER in situ hybridization and PCR, respectively. All cases of nasal type lymphoma were positive for EBV. del‐LMP1 gene was detected in 24/35 of EBV+ cases (68.6%), whereas 11 cases had wild‐type variant either alone or mixed with del‐LMP1. There was a significant difference in the frequency of del‐LMP1 between lymphoma and normal tissues. Overexpression of Ki67, p53 and bcl‐2 was detected in 78.1%, 62.5% and 20% of cases, whereas loss of Bax was detected in 18% of the cases. Multivariate analysis showed that only p53 overexpression, del‐LMP1 variant and advanced disease stage are independent prognostic factors.

Conclusion : EBV infection is frequent in PELHN in Egypt. Possible pathogenic mechanisms involve deregulation of p53 and enhanced proliferation (as detected by high Ki67 index). The presence of del‐LMP1 variants, p53 overexpression and advanced disease stage are poor prognostic factors associated with reduced survival and poor response to therapy.
Ki67 staining pattern as a diagnostic tool in the evaluation of lymphoproliferative disorders
Authors: Bryant R J , Banks P M , O'Malley D P
Published: March 2006

Aims : To evaluate a group of lymphoid proliferations using only Ki67‐stained slides to determine the value of the pattern of proliferating cells in diagnosis. Ki67 immunohistochemistry allows evaluation of the distribution of proliferating cells in addition to simply determining the proliferation rate of cells.

Methods and results : Three observers, using a Ki67‐stained slide only, studied 149 cases from five diagnostic groupings: follicular hyperplasia, mixed pattern hyperplasia, localized Castleman's disease, follicular lymphoma and marginal zone lymphoma. The sensitivity for benign lesions varied from 94% to 97% among the three observers. Follicular lymphomas were recognized as neoplastic with a sensitivity of 96% and 100% by two of the observers. Marginal zone lymphoma was recognized as neoplastic in 67–73% of cases.

Conclusions : The Ki67 stain alone is a powerful tool for distinguishing benign from malignant proliferations within the selected groups. Nuances and pitfalls in the interpretation of Ki67 staining pattern are discussed.
The distribution of matrix metalloproteinases and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases in the lungs of congenital diaphragmatic hernia patients and age‐matched controls
Authors: Masumoto K , De Rooij J D , Suita S , Rottier R , Tibboel D , De Krijger R R
Published: March 2006

Aims : In congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH), the pathogenesis of abnormal pulmonary morphology is still incompletely understood. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) are known to play an important role in the turnover of the extracellular matrix (ECM) during development and in remodelling of tissue. The aim of this study was to investigate differences in the expression of MMPs and TIMPs between CDH lungs and controls, against the background of the abnormal pulmonary vasculature in CDH.

Methods : We studied 12 lungs of term CDH patients who died < 24 h after birth and 11 normal age‐matched control lungs, by immunohistochemistry with antibodies against human MMP‐1, ‐2, ‐9, TIMP‐1 and ‐2.

Results : There was a clear increase in the number of MMP‐1‐reactive capillaries and fibroblasts in CDH lungs compared with controls. In contrast, TIMP‐2 reactivity in these structures was decreased in CDH lungs. The arterial endothelium and medial smooth muscle expressed MMP‐2, ‐9 and TIMP‐2 in both CDH and control lungs. In small arteries (< 100 µm in diameter), the positive surface area of MMP‐2, ‐9 and TIMP‐2 was significantly larger in CDH lungs than in controls. There was no difference in the distribution and expression of TIMP‐1 between CDH lungs and normal controls.

Conclusion : The differences in staining pattern of MMPs and TIMPs between normal and CDH lungs suggest that these enzymes might play a role in the abnormal remodelling of the interstitium and the pulmonary arteries in CDH lungs. This could contribute to our understanding of the abnormal lung morphology and the occurrence of pulmonary hypertension, which forms one of the major obstacles to the successful treatment of these patients.
The tripartite biogeographical index: a new tool for quantifying spatio‐temporal differences in distribution patterns
Authors: Schils Tom
Published: March 2006

Aims  First, to develop an index that quantifies biogeographical patterns based on the basic descriptors of presence/absence distribution patterns (F, frequency; C, connectivity; G, grouping). Second, to test the proposed biogeographical index on a data set of macrophyte communities in the Arabian Sea using distribution data of macro‐algae and seagrasses throughout the Indian Ocean.

Location  Arabian Sea (regional macrophyte community data) and the larger Indian Ocean (oceanic distribution data).

Methods  The proposed index is derived from the Tulloss tripartite similarity index. The tripartite biogeographical index (TBI = √F × C × G) is calculated for a specific taxon and incorporates several fundamental parameters of presence/absence data in grid cell (block) patterns. TBI accounts for the relative abundance of a taxon, the average grouping of its occurrences, the average of minimal absence intervals between taxon presences and the largest coherent cluster of taxon occurrences, and also incorporates dispersal aspects. The macrophytes from the case study are among the best documented marine organisms in the Indian Ocean. The regional distribution data from the Arabian Sea result from exhaustive species lists from Masirah Island (Oman) and the Socotra Archipelago (Yemen).

Results  TBI values fit a linear scale corresponding to the proportional presence and the distributional spread of taxa within a given geographical area. The three functions that constitute TBI can be evaluated separately or in association with TBI, to give detailed information on the important factors that characterize the biogeographical distribution of a taxon (or larger entities consisting of multiple taxa such as communities). The case study on Arabian macrophytes clarifies the use and explanatory power of the index.

Main conclusions  The biogeographical descriptors can be combined into an index which accurately quantifies taxon occurrences and distribution types on a single linear scale from rare/scattered to abundant/grouped. Together with its three functions, the index allows for a non‐arbitrary selection of taxa and taxon groupings based on their distribution pattern. The analysis of TBI values for the Arabian macrophyte communities confirms previous biogeographical findings and enables more detailed statistical analyses of the distribution data.
Determinants of regional species richness: an empirical analysis of the number of hawkmoth species (Lepidoptera: Sphingidae) on the Malesian archipelago
Authors: Beck Jan , Kitching Ian J. , Eduard Linsenmair K.
Published: March 2006

Aims Major patterns and determinants of the species richness of Sphingidae in the Malesian archipelago were investigated, including a distinction of richness patterns between subfamilies and range‐size classes.

Location Southeast Asia, Malesia.

Methods Using a compilation of specimen‐label data bases, geographic information system (GIS)‐supported estimates of distributional ranges for all Sphingidae species of Southeast Asia were used to assess the species richness of islands. Range maps for all species and checklists for 114 islands can be found athttp://www.sphingidae‐sea.biozentrum.uni‐wuerzburg.de. Potential determinants of the species richness of islands were tested with general linear models.

Results The estimated species richness of islands in the region is determined by biogeographical association, seasonality, availability of rain forest and island size. Species–area relationships are linear on a semi‐logarithmic representation, but not on a double‐logarithmic scale. Species richness of all sphingid subfamilies is influenced by biogeography. The presence of large rain‐forest areas affects mainly Smerinthinae, whereas distance from continental Asia is conspicuously irrelevant for this group. Widespread rather than geographically restricted species shape the overall distribution patterns of species richness. The altitudinal range of islands does not significantly affect species‐richness patterns, but its potential effects on geographically restricted species are discussed.

Main conclusions As well as being affected by climatic and vegetation parameters, sphingid species richness is strongly influenced by a historical, directional dispersal process from continental Southeast Asia to the Pacific islands. This process did not apply equally to species of different taxonomic groups or range sizes. Widespread species decline in species richness towards the south‐east, whereas geographically restricted species exhibit an inverse pattern of species richness, probably because speciation becomes more important in this group within the more isolated island groups.
Determinants of local abundance in a major radiation of Australian passerines (Aves: Meliphagoidea)
Authors: Symonds Matthew R.E. , Johnson Christopher N.
Published: March 2006

Aim To identify the factors that contribute to variation in abundance (population density), and to investigate whether habitat breadth and diet breadth predict macroecological patterns in a suborder of passerine birds (Meliphagoidea).

Location Australia (including Tasmania).

Methods Mean abundance data were collated from site surveys of bird abundance (the Australian Bird Count); range size and latitudinal position data from published distribution maps; and body mass and diet breadth information from published accounts. A diversity index of habitats used (habitat breadth) was calculated from the bird census data. We used bivariate correlation and multiple regression techniques, employing two phylogenetic comparative methods: phylogenetic generalized least squares and independent contrasts.

Results Body mass and latitude were the only strong predictors of abundance, with larger‐bodied and lower‐latitude species existing at lower densities. Together, however, body mass and latitude explained only 11.1% of the variation in mean abundance. Range size and habitat breadth were positively correlated, as were diet breadth and body mass. However, neither range size, nor habitat breadth and diet breadth, explained patterns in abundance either directly or indirectly.

Main conclusions Levels of abundance (population density) in meliphagoid birds are most closely linked to body mass and latitudinal position, but not range size. As with many other macroecological analyses, we find little evidence for aspects of niche breadth having an effect on patterns of abundance. We hypothesize that evolutionary age may also have a determining effect on why species tend to be rarer (less abundant) in the tropics.
Fire disturbance disrupts co‐occurrence patterns of terrestrial vertebrates in Mediterranean woodlands
Authors: Sarà Maurizio , Bellia Enrico , Milazzo Andrea
Published: March 2006

Aim This paper uses null model analysis to explore the pattern of species co‐occurrence of terrestrial vertebrate fauna in fire‐prone, mixed evergreen oak woodlands.

Location TheErico–Quercion ilicisof the Mediterranean belt (50–800 m a.s.l.) in the Madonie mountain range, a regional park in northern Sicily (37°50′ N, 14°05′ E), Italy.

Methods The stratified sampling of vertebrates in a secondary succession of recent burned areas (BA, 1–2 years old), intermediate burned areas (INT, 4–10 years old) and ancient burned areas (CNB, > 50 years old), plus forest fragments left within burned areas (FF, 1–2 years old) permitted the comparison of patterns of species co‐occurrence using a set of separate presence/absence matrices. First, the breeding avifauna derived from standardized point counts was analysed using Stone & Roberts’C‐score, and by a null model algorithm (fixed/equiprobable). Secondly, the analysis was repeated using all vertebrate species recorded in the succession.

Results Sixty‐five species were recorded in the 2‐year study period in the four sample treatments. Birds were found to make up the largest component (63%) of the recorded assemblage. The BA treatment had the lowest species richness, followed in order by the small, medium and large FFs, and then by the CNBs. For both analyses (birds and total vertebrates), theC‐scores were quite small and not significantly different from those that could be expected by chance in the BA and INT burned areas; this indicates a random co‐occurrence among vertebrates of those assemblages. Contrariwise, for both analyses in the CNBs, theC‐scores were large and significantly different from the simulated indices, thereby indicating a non‐random co‐occurrence pattern (segregation) of vertebrates in the undisturbed woodlands. In addition,C‐score values for the surviving FFs show a significant aggregation of species.

Main conclusions The null model analyses highlighted a new aspect of fire disturbance in Mediterranean woodland ecosystems: the disruption in patterns of co‐occurrence in the terrestrial vertebrate community. Wildfire alters community organization, inducing, for at least 10 years, a random aggregate of species. Communities re‐assemble themselves, showing the occurrence of species segregation at least 50 years after fire.
Biogeographical analysis of the flea beetle genus Chaetocnema in the Afrotropical Region: distribution patterns and areas of endemism
Authors: Biondi Maurizio , D'Alessandro Paola
Published: March 2006

Aim  The areal distributions of Chaetocnema species in the Afrotropical Region have been analysed with the aims of determining the distribution patterns (chorotypes) and identifying the most important areas of endemism for this flea beetle genus in sub‐Saharan Africa.

Location  Data were collected in sub‐Saharan Africa, including Madagascar.

Methods  The Afrotropical Region was divided into 103 5° quadrats (operative geographical units, or OGUs). A presence–absence matrix of the Afrotropical Chaetocnema species in the OGUs was analysed by cluster analysis (Baroni Urbani & Buser index and the WPGMA clustering method) to generate distribution pattern data based on similarity of distribution. The most important areas of endemism were identified by parsimony analysis of endemicity.

Results  The general distribution of Chaetocnema in the Afrotropical Region was found to be associated with moist environments and montane grasslands. Most species exhibit restricted geographical ranges. Cluster analysis revealed 120 spatial distributions that can be grouped into 13 distinct distribution patterns (chorotypes). The most important areas of endemism for Chaetocnema in sub‐Saharan Africa according to the present parsimony analysis of endemicity are: (1) central and eastern Madagascar [endemicity rate (ER) = 61.1%], (2) Western Cape Province (ER = 36.4%), (3) southern Drakensberg (ER = 26.7%), (4) the Shaba Region (ER = 16.7%), and (5) the North‐Kivu Region (ER = 5.0%).

Main conclusions  There are 123 known species of Chaetocnema in the Afrotropical Region, more than in any other zoogeographical region. About 91% of the species are endemic and they generally exhibit a restricted and often very localized geographical range. The remaining 9% of the species are represented by seven species that also inhabit northern Africa and/or the Arabian peninsula (C. bilunulata Demaison, C. ganganensis Bechyné, C. ljuba Bechyné, C. pulla Chapuis, C. tarsalis Wollaston, and C. wollastoni Baly), three species that widely inhabit the Palaearctic Region (C. conducta (Motschulsky), C. schlaeflini (Stierlin), and C. tibialis (Illiger)), and two species that were introduced (C. confinis Crotch, and C. picipes Stephens).
Recent changes in the distribution of a marine gastropod, Patella rustica Linnaeus, 1758, and their relationship to unusual climatic events
Authors: Lima Fernando P. , Queiroz Nuno , Ribeiro Pedro A. , Hawkins Stephen J. , Santos António M.
Published: March 2006

Aim  Recent colonization of northern Portuguese shores by Patella rustica Linnaeus, 1758, led to the bridging of a historical gap in the distribution known since the 1900s. Long‐term oceanographic data collected over the last half‐century were examined in order to detect possible mechanisms for the observed change in its distribution.

Location  This study was carried out along the entire Portuguese coastline, from 41°50′ to 37°06′ N. Time‐series of hydrographical variables (sea surface temperature and salinity) were derived for the Atlantic coast of the Iberian Peninsula.

Methods  Abundance and size‐frequency distributions of the newly observed limpet populations were compared with those from well‐established populations in southern Portugal. Anomalies were computed for sea surface temperature (1950–2000) and sea surface salinity (1958–2001) data, covering the whole Atlantic coast of the Iberian Peninsula. An upwelling index (1967–2005) was derived for a single location within the distributional gap of P. rustica. Split moving window analysis was performed to detect significant discontinuities in hydrographical data sets.

Results  Patella rustica has gradually been expanding in northern Iberia, and in the late 1990s the historical gap in distribution in northern Portugal was bridged. Size‐frequency distribution differed between historical and recent populations, the latter lacking small‐sized individuals. At the same time, several anomalous oceanographic events occurred off the Portuguese coast and were probably related to this expansion.

Main conclusions  Although sea surface temperature might be a major determinant of the reproductive success of P. rustica and hence its dispersal potential, it is more likely that a coincidence of several factors occurring in the late 1990s provided exceptional conditions that allowed the geographical expansion of this species.