bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thymic carcinoid in multiple endocrine neoplasia 1: genotype–phenotype correlation and prevention
Authors: LIM L. C. , TAN M. H. , ENG C. , TEH B. T. , RAJASOORYA R. C.
Published: February 2006

Thymic carcinoid is a rare multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN1)‐associated tumour that is a major cause of death in MEN1 patients. Here, we describe a previously unreported MEN1 family in which two siblings presented with malignant thymic carcinoids. All six siblings share a novel nonsense mutation Q395X on exon 8 of the MEN1 gene. The index patient developed a thymic carcinoid despite an earlier prophylactic transcervical thymectomy, and one other sibling had an incidental malignant thymic carcinoid discovered following prophylactic thymectomy, both cases demonstrating the weakness and strength of this surgical approach. We then review the spectrum of germline MEN1 mutations associated with thymic carcinoids to evaluate the possibility of a genotype–phenotype correlation. In the 22 separate MEN1 families with thymic carcinoids, all but two (91%) have mutations coding for a truncated protein. There is clearly a high prevalence of truncating mutations in MEN1‐related thymic carcinoids although when compared with the prevalence of truncating mutations in all reported MEN1 mutations, it is not statistically significant (P = 0.39). Further studies are warranted to evaluate pathways of tumorigenesis of thymic carcinoids with regard to loss of function of menin.
Platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule‐1 and mechanotransduction in vascular endothelial cells
Authors: FUJIWARA K.
Published: February 2006

Endothelial cells are known to respond to mechanical forces such as fluid shear stress and cyclic stretch, but elucidating the mechanism for mechanosensing has been difficult. Experimental data indicate that there are probably several sensing mechanisms. We have recently proposed a novel mechanoresponse mechanism that involves platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule‐1 (PECAM‐1). When endothelial cells are stimulated by fluid shear stress, PECAM‐1 is tyrosine phosphorylated and activates the extracellular signal‐regulated kinase 1 and 2 (ERK1/2) signalling cascade. The same signalling events occurred when we applied pulling force directly on PECAM‐1 on the endothelial cell surface using magnetic beads coated with antibodies against the external domain of PECAM‐1. These results appear to indicate that PECAM‐1 is a mechanotransduction molecule. To our knowledge, this is the first mammalian molecule that is shown to respond to mechanical force directly exerted to it.
Secretins take shape
Authors: Bayan Nicolas , Guilvout Ingrid , Pugsley Anthony P.
Published: February 2006

Secretins are a unique class of bacterial multimeric outer membrane proteins that probably differ considerably from other, less complex outer membrane proteins in their overall structure and organization, and in their requirements for outer membrane targeting and assembly factors. In this MicroCommentary, we discuss these differences with respect to the role of a specific class of lipoproteins, often referred to as pilotins, in secretin complex assembly. We compare them with other lipoproteins that play a role in Omp85/YaeT‐mediated assembly of more classical outer membrane proteins. One of the examples we have chosen is the Myxococcus Xanthus lipoprotein Tgl. Coculture of cells with and without Tgl allows secretin assembly (and, hence, type IV pilus assembly) in the cells without Tgl, indicating that it can act by cell‐to‐cell contact or can transfer between cells.
Cholera stool bacteria repress chemotaxis to increase infectivity
Authors: Butler Susan M. , Nelson Eric J. , Chowdhury Nityananda , Faruque Shah M. , Calderwood Stephen B. , Camilli Andrew
Published: February 2006

Factors that enhance the transmission of pathogens are poorly understood. We show that Vibrio cholerae shed in human ‘rice‐water’ stools have a 10‐fold lower oral infectious dose in an animal model than in vitro grown V. cholerae, which may aid in transmission during outbreaks. Furthermore, we identify a bacterial factor contributing to this enhanced infectivity: The achievement of a transient motile but chemotaxis‐defective state upon shedding from humans. Rice‐water stool V. cholerae have reduced levels of CheW‐1, which is essential for chemotaxis, and were consequently shown to have a chemotaxis defect when tested in capillary assays. Through mutational analyses, such a state is known to enhance the infectivity of V. cholerae. This is the first report of a pathogen altering its chemotactic state in response to human infection in order to enhance its transmission.
The Mycobacterium tuberculosis PhoPR two‐component system regulates genes essential for virulence and complex lipid biosynthesis
Authors: Walters Shaun B. , Dubnau Eugenie , Kolesnikova Irina , Laval Francoise , Daffe Mamadou , Smith Issar
Published: February 2006

Two‐component signal transduction systems (2‐CS) play an important role in bacterial pathogenesis. In the work presented here, we have studied the effects of a mutation in the Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) PhoPR 2‐CS on the pathogenicity, physiology and global gene expression of this bacterial pathogen. Disruption of PhoPR causes a marked attenuation of growth in macrophages and mice and prevents growth in low‐Mg2+ media. The inability to grow in THP‐1 macrophages can be partially overcome by the addition of excess Mg2+ during infection. Global transcription assays demonstrate PhoP is a positive transcriptional regulator of several genes, but do not support the hypothesis that the Mtb PhoPR system is sensing Mg2+ starvation, as is the case with the Salmonella typhimurium PhoPQ 2‐CS. The genes that were positively regulated include those found in the pks2 and the msl3 gene clusters that encode enzymes for the biosynthesis of sulphatides and diacyltrehalose and polyacyltrehalose respectively. Complementary biochemical studies, in agreement with recent results from another group, indicate that these complex lipids are also absent from the phoP mutant, and the lack of these components in its cell envelope may indirectly cause the mutant's high‐Mg2+ growth requirement. The experiments reported here provide functional evidence for the PhoPR 2‐CS involvement in Mtb pathogenesis, and they suggest that a major reason for the attenuation observed in the phoP mutant is the absence of certain complex lipids that are known to be important for virulence.
Relationship between gastro‐oesophageal reflux and gastric activity in newborns assessed by combined intraluminal impedance, pH metry and epigastric impedance
Authors: Cresi F. , de Sanctis L. , Savino F. , Bretto R. , Testa A. , Silvestro L.
Published: February 2006

Abstract  The pathogenesis of gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) is complex and multifactorial. A motility disorder resulting from immaturity of the gastro‐oesophageal tract may be involved. We have combined multichannel intraluminal impedance (MII) and pH monitoring with epigastric impedance (EGI) to evaluate the activity of this tract in neonates with suspected GORD. Multichannel intraluminal impedance, pH and EGI were followed for 3 h in 30 newborns displaying apparent life‐threatening events and signs of GORD. Simultaneous application of MII and pH monitoring identifies reflux episodes and illustrates their duration, height and pH. Episodes detected by MII were placed on the EGI curve and the contemporaneous gastric filling state and emptying velocity were calculated. During the total measuring time, 248 reflux episodes were revealed. An inverse correlation was evident for reflux frequency and gastric emptying velocity (r2 = 0.94; P < 0.001), and between acid refluxes and the gastric filling state (r2 = 0.95; P < 0.001), whereas a positive correlation was found between the reflux level and the gastric filling state (r2 = 0.52; P < 0.05). Simultaneous MII, pH and EGI monitoring provided new information on the relationship between refluxes and gastric activity. Data suggest that gastric emptying patterns influence the frequency, level and pH of reflux episodes.
The effect of drought on C and N stable isotopes in different fractions of leaves, stems and roots of sensitive and tolerant beech ecotypes
Authors: PEUKE A. D. , GESSLER A. , RENNENBERG H.
Published: February 2006

Beech seedlings from 11 German climatic provenances were exposed to a realistically timed drought treatment in a greenhouse experiment. The stable isotope composition of carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) was analysed in pooled bulk material of roots, stems and leaves, as well as in the aqueous extracts and starch fractions. The δ13C values increased in bulk samples (BS) of roots, stems and leaves by drought, although no leaf growth occurred during the experimental period. A clear drought effect on δ13C in aqueous extracts was detected in leaves. In aqueous extracts of stems and roots as well as in starch fractions of all organs, abundance of δ13C also tended to be increased by drought, but this effect was not statistically significant. For both δ13C and δ15N, enrichment was observed from the site of uptake/source to the site of use/sink. A gradient for δ13C in all fractions from leaves (−29.49, −28.89 and −27.85‰) to stems (−28.81, −27.48 and −26.98‰) and to roots (−27.60, −26.37 and −26.48‰) was detected in BS, aqueous extracts and starch, respectively. An opposite gradient for δ15N was found in BS: 1.59‰, 1.84‰ and 3.05‰ in roots, stems and leaves, respectively. δ15N was neither affected by drought in the BS nor in aqueous extracts, but an effect of provenance was observed. Particularly in roots and stems, drought‐sensitive provenances showed the strongest shifts in δ13C induced by drought and the lowest δ15N values. In the present experiment, δ13C values were more affected by the environmental factor drought, while δ15N values were more affected by the genetic factor provenance.
Sugar and ABA response pathways and the control of gene expression
Authors: ROOK FRED , HADINGHAM SOPHIE A. , LI YUNHAI , BEVAN MICHAEL W.
Published: February 2006

Sugars are essential to plant growth and metabolism, both as energy source and as structural components. Sugar production and use are in part controlled at the level of gene expression by the sugars themselves. Responses to sugar are closely integrated with response pathways that indicate environmental conditions such as light and water availability. High sugar levels inhibit seedling development, repress photosynthetic gene expression and induce genes of storage metabolism such as those of starch biosynthesis. Genetic approaches have demonstrated the importance of abscisic acid (ABA) and the transcriptional regulator ABA‐insensitive4 (ABI4) in sugar response pathways. Recent analysis of both photosynthetic and starch biosynthetic gene promoters suggest a direct role for ABI4 in their control. The increased understanding of the regulatory promoter elements controlling gene expression, in response to sugar and ABA, allows transcriptional networks to be understood at a molecular level.
The hydraulic limitation hypothesis revisited
Authors: RYAN MICHAEL G. , PHILLIPS NATHAN , BOND BARBARA J.
Published: February 2006

We proposed the hydraulic limitation hypothesis (HLH) as a mechanism to explain universal patterns in tree height, and tree and stand biomass growth: height growth slows down as trees grow taller, maximum height is lower for trees of the same species on resource‐poor sites and annual wood production declines after canopy closure for even‐aged forests. Our review of 51 studies that measured one or more of the components necessary for testing the hypothesis showed that taller trees differ physiologically from shorter, younger trees. Stomatal conductance to water vapour (gs), photosynthesis (A) and leaf‐specific hydraulic conductance (KL) are often, but not always, lower in taller trees. Additionally, leaf mass per area is often greater in taller trees, and leaf area:sapwood area ratio changes with tree height. We conclude that hydraulic limitation of gas exchange with increasing tree size is common, but not universal. Where hydraulic limitations toAdo occur, no evidence supports the original expectation that hydraulic limitation of carbon assimilation is sufficient to explain observed declines in wood production. Any limit to height or height growth does not appear to be related to the so‐called age‐related decline in wood production of forests after canopy closure. Future work on this problem should explicitly link leaf or canopy gas exchange with tree and stand growth, and consider a more fundamental assumption: whether tree biomass growth is limited by carbon availability.
Comparative transcriptome analysis of toxic metal responses inArabidopsis thalianaand the Cd2+‐hypertolerant facultative metallophyteArabidopsis halleri
Authors: WEBER MICHAEL , TRAMPCZYNSKA ALEKSANDRA , CLEMENS STEPHAN
Published: February 2006

Toxic effects of both essential and non‐essential heavy metals are well documented in plants. Very little is known, however, about their modes of toxicity, about tolerance mechanisms and the signalling cascades involved in mediating transcriptional responses to toxic metal excess. We analysed transcriptome changes upon Cd2+and Cu2+exposure in roots ofArabidopsis thalianaand the Cd2+‐hypertolerant metallophyteArabidopsis halleri. Particularly, three categories of genes were identified with the help of this comparative approach: (1) common responses, which might indicate stable and functionally relevant changes conserved across plant species; (2) metallophyte‐specific responses as well as transcripts differentially regulated between the two species, representing candidate genes for Cd2+hypertolerance; and (3) those specifically responsive to Cd2+and therefore indicative of toxicity mechanisms or potentially involved in signalling cascades. Our data define, for instance,Arabidopsiscore responses to Cd2+and Cu2+. In addition, they suggest that Cd2+exposure very rapidly results in apparent Zn deficiency, and they show the existence of highly specific Cd2+responses and distinct signalling cascades. Array results were independently confirmed by real‐time quantitative PCR, thereby further validating cross‐species transcriptome analysis with oligonucleotide microarrays.
Biosuppression of Botrytis cinerea in grapes
Authors: Elmer P. A. G. , Reglinski T.
Published: February 2006

There is increasing interest in the use of biological control agents (BCAs) and plant resistance stimulants to suppress botrytis bunch rot in grapes, caused by Botrytis cinerea. Numerous different filamentous fungi, bacteria and yeasts have been selected as potential BCAs for control of grey mould based upon demonstrated antagonism towards B. cinerea. Biological suppression of the pathogen arises via competition for nutrients and space, the production of inhibitory metabolites and/or parasitism. Preformed and inducible grapevine defence mechanisms also contribute to disease suppression by preventing or delaying pathogenic infection. Furthermore, various biotic and abiotic agents can stimulate grapevine defence mechanisms and so elevate resistance to B. cinerea infection. Biosuppression of B. cinerea in vineyards, using BCAs and resistance stimulants, has been inconsistent when compared with that observed in controlled glasshouse or laboratory conditions. This may be attributable, in part, to the innate variability of the field environment. Research to improve field efficacy has focused on formulation improvement, the use of BCA mixtures and combinational approaches involving BCAs and plant resistance stimulants with complementary modes of action.
Autocrine Type I Interferon Amplifies Dendritic Cell Responses to Lipopolysaccharide via the Nuclear Factor‐κB/p38 Pathways
Authors: Pollara G. , Handley M. E. , Kwan A. , Chain B. M. , Katz D. R.
Published: February 2006

The central role of dendritic cells (DC) in the initiation of immune responses requires these cells to be able to determine the degree of danger in their microenvironment. Abrogating the activity of type I interferon (IFN) secreted after lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulation of DC inhibits CD86 and human leucocyte antigen‐DR (HLA‐DR) upregulation at a low LPS concentration. At a higher concentration of LPS, while changes in surface phenotype are not dependent on type I IFN, this cytokine is required for maximal secretion of interleukin‐12 (IL‐12) and tumour necrosis factor‐α (TNFα) by DC. Thus, the secretion and autocrine activity of type I IFN after Toll‐like receptor stimulation enables DC to orchestrate a hierarchical maturation response with regard to changes in surface phenotype and secretion of cytokines. In addition, the activation of nuclear factor‐κB and p38 pathways in DC can occur either in an additive fashion when DC are exposed to dual stimulation or can be activated in discrete phases over time when DC are exposed to LPS alone. The differential activation of these pathways provides a mechanism for DC to integrate the activation by multiple stimuli and thus amplify responses to pathogen infection.
Oral Spray Immunization May Be an Alternative to Intranasal Vaccine Delivery to Induce Systemic Antibodies but not Nasal Mucosal or Cellular Immunity
Authors: Bakke H. , Samdal H. H. , Holst J. , Oftung F. , Haugen I. L. , Kristoffersen A.‐C. , Haugan A. , Janakova L. , Korsvold G. E. , Krogh G. , Andersen E. A. S. , Djupesland P. , Holand T. , Rappuoli R. , Haneberg B.
Published: February 2006

Sixty‐five healthy adult volunteers were immunized four times at 1‐week intervals with an inactivated whole‐virus influenza vaccine based on the strain A/New Caledonia/20/99 (H1N1) without adjuvant. The vaccine was administered as nasal spray with a newly developed device to secure intranasal delivery (OptiMist™, OptiNose AS, Oslo, Norway), as regular nasal spray, nasal drops or as an oral spray. Significant IgA‐antibody responses in nasal secretions were induced in volunteers immunized intranasally but not after oral spray immunization. In saliva, IgA antibodies were only marginally amplified even after oral spray immunizations. At least 73% of the volunteers belonging to any group of vaccine delivery reached serum haemagglutination inhibition titres of 40 or higher, considered protective against influenza, after only two vaccine doses. Those who had the vaccine delivered intranasally also showed evidence from in vitro secretion of granzyme B that cytotoxic T cells had been stimulated. Although immunization with the breath‐actuated OptiMist™ device and nasal drops were superior with respect to both mucosal and systemic immune responses, oral spray immunization might still be considered for studies of mucosal adjuvants that are not yet acceptable for intranasal use.
Sustained Interleukin‐6 and Interleukin‐8 Expression Following Infection with Chlamydia trachomatis Serovar L2 in a HeLa/THP‐1 Cell Co‐culture Model
Authors: Mpiga P. , Mansour S. , Morisset R. , Beaulieu R. , Ravaoarinoro M.
Published: February 2006

Chlamydia trachomatis, an intracellular obligate bacterium, remains responsible for a large spectrum of disorders that can progress to chronic diseases, resulting in severe sequelae, such as tubal infertility and blindness. These sequelae may be due to deleterious immune responses induced by repeated or persistent infections. By initiating and regulating inflammation as well as immune responses, pro‐inflammatory cytokines secreted by local infected epithelial and immune cells, such as monocytes, may play an essential role in immunity and in the immunopathogenesis of chlamydial diseases. In this study, we mimicked the in vivo interaction between epithelial cells and monocytes by co‐culturing epithelial‐like HeLa cells with monocyte‐like THP‐1 cells. Pro‐inflammatory cytokines [interleukin‐β (IL‐1β), IL‐6, IL‐8, IL‐10, IL‐12p70 and tumour necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α)] were measured by multiplexed cytometric bead array assay over a period of 18 days. We observed that pro‐inflammatory cytokine secretion was augmented after C. trachomatis infection in HeLa and THP‐1 cells. However, this heightened secretion was subsequently reduced. When infected HeLa cells were co‐cultured with THP‐1 cells, IL‐6 and IL‐8 secretion was sustained, IL‐1β expression followed a bell‐shaped curve and IL‐10, IL‐12p70 and TNF‐α synthesis was downregulated. IL‐6 and IL‐8 may be involved in the immunopathogenesis of chronic chlamydial infections. We also observed that throughout C. trachomatis persistence induced by doxycycline (Dox) treatment, IL‐1β, IL‐6, IL‐8 and TNF‐α expression was reduced, whereas the synthesis of IL‐10 and IL‐12p70 remained unchanged but not sustained. Thus, during chlamydial persistence infection evoked by treatment with Dox, none of the tested cytokines showed sustained expression.
Micromorphology and geochemistry of groundwater silcretes in the eastern South Downs, UK
Authors: ULLYOTT J. STEWART , NASH DAVID J.
Published: February 2006

Groundwater silcretes have been recognized recently as major terrestrial silicon sinks and yet their origins are poorly understood. This paper aims to further the understanding of the micro‐fabric, geochemistry and formation of groundwater silcretes, through detailed analyses of silcrete boulders from the South Downs, Sussex, UK. In‐depth petrological investigations of silcrete blocks identified three varieties of silcrete across the study area (saccharoid, hard and pebbly conglomeratic or silcrete breccia), similar to those elsewhere in England. Silcrete fabrics were universally simple and preserved host material structures. Optically continuous quartz overgrowths were the dominant cement and developed on framework grains in the absence of silt‐ and clay‐sized particles. Finer‐grained silica cements occurred in isolated patches and as vein‐ or cap‐like geopetal features. These caps and veins formed through the silicification of illuviated clay‐rich material that entered the host sediment prior to, or in the early stages of, overgrowth formation. Titanium contents were related to the amount of fine‐grained silica and appear to reflect variations in host material chemistry. Subsequent to silicification, the silcretes were altered by at least two phases of ferruginization, characterized by the ingress of iron minerals and partial fabric dissolution or replacement. The study reveals strong similarities in the micromorphology and geochemistry of groundwater silcretes in the study area and those developed in sandy host sediments in neighbouring parts of northwest Europe. Variations that do occur could be explained by differences in the host sediment, geological setting or tectonic history of the respective basins (or sub‐basins), suggesting that there may be a common mechanism for silcrete formation across north‐west Europe. Silcrete development appears to be related to the release of silica accompanying acid leaching of the host material or adjacent strata. In the South Downs, this probably resulted from oxidation of pyrite in the argillaceous and lignitic sediments overlying the host sands. It is envisaged that palaeoenvironmental conditions were of limited importance for silcrete development and that there was no specific ‘era’ of formation, with phased development accompanying landscape evolution through the Neogene into the Pleistocene.
The influence of vegetation on turbulence and flow velocities in European salt‐marshes
Authors: NEUMEIER URS , AMOS CARL L.
Published: February 2006

Flow hindrance by salt‐marsh vegetation is manifested in the structure of the tidal current; it has a significant impact on sediment transport and it has been related to increased sediment accretion. The flow characteristics in three different vegetation types (Spartina maritima, Sp. anglica and Salicornia sp./Suaeda maritima) were measured on three salt‐marshes in Portugal and England. These in situ measurements differ from laboratory flume experiments with ‘clean’ vegetation by the complexity of natural canopies. Skimming flow develops above the Spartina canopy when the vegetation is fully submerged. In this situation, a low turbulence zone with nearly constant velocity in the denser canopy is separated from the skimming flow above by an interface characterized by high Reynolds stresses. In the low turbulence zone, a positive relationship exists between turbulence intensity and shoot density, which is due to wake turbulence generated locally in the canopy. The rate of particle settling should be increased in that zone. The lower limit of skimming flow is best predicted by the height within the canopy that includes 85% of the biomass. For emergent Spartina canopies and the short Salicornia/Suaeda marsh, the maximal velocity‐gradient is shifted upwards compared to a standard boundary layer over bare sediment and the turbulence is attenuated near the bed, but to a lesser extent than for fully submerged Spartina canopies. A turbulence reduction near the bed was observed in all measured profiles; that should enhance sediment deposition and protects the bed against subsequent erosion.
Kerion and dermatophytic granuloma. Mycological and histopathological findings in 19 children with inflammatory tinea capitis of the scalp
Authors: Arenas Roberto , Toussaint Sonia , Isa‐Isa Rafael
Published: February 2006

Background  Inflammatory tinea capitis or kerion is the result of a hypersensitivity reaction to a dermatophytic infection. Majocchi's granuloma, in contrast, usually begins as a suppurative folliculitis and culminates in a granulomatous reaction.

Objectives  To present clinical, mycological and histopathological findings for 19 cases of kerion of the scalp in children.

Methods  Nineteen children were investigated (14 boys and five girls) with a mean age of 6.5 years. A potassium hydroxide (KOH) exam and culture in Sabouraud dextrose agar were performed, followed by a biopsy with hematoxylin and eosin, periodic acid‐schiff (PAS) and Gomori‐Grocott stains. The same investigations were carried out in four control cases of noninflammatory tinea capitis.

Results  Clinical history varied from 2 to 16 weeks (mean 6.6 weeks). Diagnosis was confirmed by a positive KOH exam: all cases except one had a positive culture. The following dermatophytes were isolated: Microsporum canis (32%), Trichophyton mentagrophytes (27%), Trichophyton tonsurans (21%), Trichophyton rubrum (10%) and Microsporum gypseum (5%). The histopathological findings were: suppurative folliculitis (SF) 11%, SF plus suppurative dermatitis 37%, suppurative and granulomatous dermatitis (SGD) 26% and SGD plus fibrosing dermatitis 26%. Fungi were observed in 63% of the histopathological sections. Perifollicular infiltrates (PF) around the parasitized hair follicles were identified in the four noninflammatory control cases due to M. canis.

Conclusions  Kerion Celsi is an inflammatory or suppurative type of tinea capitis caused by zoophylic dermatophytes (M. canis and T. mentagrophytes), but also by antrophophylic (T. tonsurans and T. rubrum) and geophylic (M. gypseum) dermatophytes. Histopathological findings showed a spectrum from mild suppurative folliculitis to dense granulomatous infiltrates without a clear relationship with the clinical features.
Prodromal bullous pemphigoid
Authors: Lamb Philina M. , Abell Edward , Tharp Michael , Frye Roy , Deng Jau‐Shyong
Published: February 2006

Background  Prodromal bullous pemphigoid (PBP) can be difficult to diagnose. Early recognition in its early stages may decrease the morbidity and progression of the disease. Clinical presentations and current treatments available for PBP will be described.

Methods  A retrospective review was performed on 53 patients diagnosed with PBP.

Results  Overall, the average disease duration of PBP was 11.8 months. The average age of presentation of PBP was 70.8 years. The most common presentations were urticaria‐like plaques (67.9%), eczema‐like lesions (11.3%), and dermatitis herpetiformis‐like lesions (9.4%). The majority of patients responded well to low doses of systemic corticosteroids, tetracycline, and/or high potency topical corticosteroids.

Conclusions  Patients with PBP tend to be in their sixth or early seventh decade of life and, on average, the duration of disease is 1 year. The most common presentation of disease is urticaria‐like plaques.
Human arylamineN‐acetyltransferase 2 polymorphism and susceptibility to allergic contact dermatitis
Authors: Nacak Muradiye , Erbagci Zulal , Aynacioglu A. Sukru
Published: February 2006

Background N‐acetyltransferase 2 (NAT2) polymorphism may be involved in the pathogenesis of allergic contact dermatitis.

Objective The present study was designed to evaluate whether acetylation polymorphism plays a role in the susceptibility top‐Phenylenediamine (PPD) sensitization.

Methods The frequencies of sevenNAT2point mutations, namely G191A, C282T, T341C, C481T, G590A, A803G, and G857A, and genotypes were determined by PCR/RFLP in a total of 70 patients with allergic contact dermatitis to PPD and 100 control subjects with no history of allergy, atopy, lung disease, diabetes mellitus and cancer.

Results Genotypes coding rapid acetylation were detected in 52.9% and 37.0% of patients with contact dermatitis and control subjects, respectively (P = 0.04). The frequency of theNAT2*4 allele andNAT2*4/*4 genotype, coding for rapid acetylation, were also significantly higher in the contact dermatitis patients than in the control subjects (P = 0.003).

Conclusion Our results suggest an association between rapid acetylation polymorphism and susceptibility to PPD sensitization.
Prevalence and awareness of melasma during pregnancy
Authors: Moin Athar , Jabery Zahra , Fallah Nader
Published: February 2006

Background  Melasma is an acquired hypermelanosis of the face. There is little information on its prevalence during pregnancy in Iran.

Objective  To determine the prevalence and awareness of melasma during pregnancy at the Shahed University Hospitals of Tehran, Iran.

Methods  A cross‐sectional study was carried out by clinical examination and questionnaire on 400 pregnant women.

Results  The prevalence of melasma was 15.8%[95% confidence interval (CI) 12.3–19.4]. Malar pattern was seen in 65.9% of cases, whereas 33.8% of the patients had a centrofacial pattern. No case with a mandibular pattern was found. Positive family history of melasma was present in 54.7% of the cases. There was a statistically significant relation between melasma and ethnicity, phototype and grade of parity. However, no significant relation was observed between melasma and use of sunscreens, history of thyroid or liver disorders, trimester of pregnancy or phenotype (eye and hair color). 11.3% of the patients declared that they have developed melasma after using OCP Oral Contraception. Patients had little awareness of the etiology of melasma. In fact, 68.8% of the patients had no knowledge of its etiology. The effective factors or etiologies for melasma were stated as: 14.5% pregnancy, 9.8% sun exposure, 4.9% liver disorders, 4.9% nutrition and 1.6% sex of newborn.

Conclusions  Our study confirms that melasma is common among pregnant women in Tehran, Iran. They had a low level of awareness of the etiology of melasma. There is a need for educational programs on the etiology and prevention of melasma in Iranian women.
How are solar keratoses treated by general practitioners in Australia?
Authors: Streeton Catherine L. , Gospodarevskaya Elena , Harris Anthony H.
Published: February 2006

Background  This study aimed to obtain clinical and economic information about patterns of treatment of solar keratoses (SKs) by general practitioners in Australia. The study design was a retrospective survey relating to the treatment of patients presenting to their doctor with previously untreated SKs.

Methods  Data were collected between May and June 2000, from a sample of doctors who were asked to randomly select two SK patients from their medical records and complete a self‐administered postal questionnaire. Information about treatment types, number of visits, treatment complications, and specialist referrals were directly extracted from the patient records.

Results  A total of 156 patients were recruited to the study (61% male) who had been treated for a total of 251 SKs (average 1.6 lesions/patient). The most common treatment employed was cryotherapy (63%). Excision was also commonly used (18%). Five per cent of patients were treated with a mixture of excision and cryotherapy. Topical agents were not commonly employed. Of those patients who consulted a doctor, 9% were referred to a specialist for diagnosis or treatment, of which 57% were referred to a dermatologist.

Conclusion  The typical number of doctor visits varied from 1.9 to 4.6 with a range of cost per patient of AUD$55.13–249.70 depending on complexity of the case and the need for referral.
Patterns of skin manifestations and their relationships with CD4 counts among HIV/AIDS patients in Cameroon
Authors: Josephine Mbuagbaw , Issac Eyong , George Alemnji , Ngole Mpoudi , Albert Same‐Ekobo
Published: February 2006

Background  Skin manifestations are common clinical features among HIV/AIDS‐positive patients. Their frequencies, patterns and associated factors have been shown to vary from region to region. The present study is aimed at documenting skin manifestations and their relationships with CD4 cell counts among HIV/AIDS patients in Cameroon.

Methods  This study lasted for 16 months (from September 2001 to December 2002).

After informed consent, data on skin disorders, HIV status, CD4 and viral load were obtained by physical examination and laboratory methods.

Results  Of the 384 subjects studied, 236 (61.5%) were females and 148 (38.5%) were males. Up to 264 (68.8%) patients presented with at least one type of skin problem. Generalized prurigo, oral candidiasis, herpes zoster, and vaginal candidiasis were the most common skin problems. Mean CD4 cell count (128 ± 85 cells/mm3) and mean viral load (79,433 copies/mL) in patients with herpes zoster were higher (P < 0.001). Patients with oral candidiasis and vaginal candidiasis had significantly lower (109 ± 127 cells/mm3, P < 0.02) and higher (131 ± 85 cells/mm3, P < 0.05) mean CD4 cell counts, respectively. Prurigo was associated with higher mean viral load (31,623 ± 20 copies/mL, P < 0.04). Viral lesions were associated with high mean CD4 cell count (123 ± 83 cells/mm3, P < 0.001). Kaposi's sarcoma and parasitic lesions (crusted scabies) were both, respectively, associated with lower mean CD4 cell counts [(78 ± 66 cells/mm3, P < 0.001) (6 ± 0 cells/mm3, P < 0.04)].

Conclusion  We conclude, first that skin problems are common in HIV‐infected individuals in Cameroon and that patients with advanced stages of these problems have relatively very low mean CD4 cell counts. Second, that mucocutaneous disorders like vaginal candidiasis and herpes zoster occur early in HIV infection while Kaposi's sarcoma is common in advanced HIV infection.
Development and evaluation of sesamol as an antiaging agent
Authors: Sharma Shringi , Kaur Indu Pal
Published: February 2006

Aging comprises various changes that occur in living organisms with the passage of time, leading to increased system entropy, loss of homeostasis and eventually death. Of the various theories proposed, the free radical theory of aging states that it is the shift in antioxidant/pro‐oxidant balance that leads to increased oxidative stress, dysregulation of cellular function and aging. It has been proved that accumulated damage by free radicals produced by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation results in extensive damage to the soft skin tissues, which is commonly known as “photoaging”. Although the human body has built‐in antioxidant mechanisms to suppress uncontrolled free radicals, these mechanisms may at times fail due to overwhelming production of toxic radicals. This is where supplemental antioxidants can play a vital role in restoring the balance, lack of which produces visible wrinkling and premature aging. Sesamol, a highly acclaimed antioxidant, was selected as a suitable antioxidant to investigate in this study, and is for the first time shown to counter UV‐induced oxidative stress (in terms of both biochemical and histopathological changes) in mouse skin. The source of radiation was a 300‐W UV lamp, and mice of the lacca strain were chosen as an animal model for this study. Free radical levels generated were estimated using the Ohkawa method for estimation of lipid peroxidation in animal tissues. The results from biochemical and histopathological investigations clearly confirm that the sesamol formulation is effective in preventing photodamage (lesions, ulcers and changes in skin integrity) due to chronic UV exposure.
Isolated eyebrow and eyelash trichotillomania mimicking alopecia areata
Authors: Radmanesh Mohammad , Shafiei Sedigheh , Naderi Amir H.
Published: February 2006

Background  Isolated Trichotillomania (TM) of the eyebrows and eyelashes is occasionally seen and may be mistaken for alopecia areata (AA).

Objective  The clinical study of the patients with isolated eyebrows and eyelashes alopecia suggesting of TM.

Patients and method  Seven children and young adult patients who referred with recalcitrant eyebrows and eyelashes alopecia were diagnosed as TM based on the clinical criteria for TM. The hair specifications for TM were include: hairs are broken at different levels, they may be tufted, tortuous and some hair fibers may be abnormally longer than others. The hair follicles may be prominent. The patients and their parents studied for psychopathology using a semistructured interview based on the Diagnostic Statistical manual of Psychiatric disorders (DSM‐1V) and maudsley inventory.

Results  Our clinical study, interview with the patients and their parents and the clinical criteria used to differentiate TM from AA all support the clinical diagnosis of TM. The patients and their parents mainly suffered from obsessive‐compulsive disorders (OCD) and obsessive‐compulsive spectrum disorders (OCSDs).

Conclusion  TM as a hair pulling habit in patients with underlying psychopathology can be considered in cases with isolated eyebrows and eyelashes alopecia when the hair are broken at different levels. And they may be malaligned, nonuniform, tortuous, and tufted.
Nicolau Syndrome: three cases and review
Authors: Luton Kelli , Garcia Carlos , Poletti Eduardo , Koester Glen
Published: February 2006

Nicolau Syndrome, also known as livedo‐like dermatitis (LLD) or embolia cutis medicamentosa (ECM), is an infrequent complication following intramuscular and intra‐articular injection of various drugs. This rare entity is characterized by severe pain and erythematous‐ecchymotic reticular lesions at the injection site, which in many cases lead to necrotic ulcers and scarring. We report three cases of Nicolau Syndrome following injection of diclofenac, penicillin G, and cyanocobalamin.
Leprosy: Two case reports from Dresden, Germany
Authors: Koch Andre , Köstler Erich , Zieger Bernd , Schönlebe Jaqueline , Haroske Gunter , Wollina Uwe
Published: February 2006

Leprosy is very rare in Germany. In 2003, only three cases were reported. In the Department of Dermatology, Dresden‐Friedrichstadt, two cases from Asia had been diagnosed during the last 5 years, a paucibacillary tuberculoid leprosy and a multibacillary lepromatous leprosy. In both, there was a diagnostic delay of several months (3–7 months). The need for early detection of this mycobacteriosis also in nonepidemic areas of the world and the importance of a correct diagnosis by the dermatologist is hereby emphasized.
Effect of a single overnight topical application of miconazole nitrate paste on acne papules
Authors: Flagothier Caroline , Vroome Valérie , Borgers Marcel , Wang Xuemin , Cauwenbergh Geert , Piérard Gérald E.
Published: February 2006

Background  The classical management of acne calls for prolonged oral and/or topical treatments; however, some patients request a rapid effect to make the papules disappear within a few hours or days.

Objective  To test the effect of a single overnight application of a paste containing 0.25% miconazole nitrate on acne papules, and comparison with the effect of the same but unmedicated paste.

Method  Narrow‐band reflectance spectroscopy was used to assess the changes in E index (erythema) after overnight application of the pastes. In the first study, a total of 117 acne papules were assessed in 15 adolescents. Measurements of the E index were performed at 24‐h intervals for 4 days on acne papules and the surrounding normal‐looking skin. The last two assessments were performed the mornings preceding and following, respectively, a single application of the medicated paste. The second part of the study consisted of a double‐blind, split‐face study on 25 adolescents with acne. They applied each of the two formulations on a randomized part of the forehead. A total of 161 acne papules received the medicated paste and 160 received the same but unmedicated paste. Measurements were performed the mornings before and after the overnight treatment.

Results  In the first part of the study, no significant daily difference was observed between the three series of pretreatment E indices, on both acne papules and normal skin. The treatment did not affect the E index of normal skin. By contrast, it decreased significantly the E index of the acne papules. The second part of the study also showed that the medicated paste significantly decreased the E index of acne papules. This effect was significantly (P < 0.05) superior to that of the unmedicated paste.

Conclusion  A single overnight application of miconazole nitrate paste appears to reduce the erythematous aspect of acne papules.
Quality of life in patients with atopic dermatitis: Impact of tacrolimus ointment
Authors: Kawashima Makoto
Published: February 2006

Background  Atopic dermatitis (AD), a significant problem in Japan, has a major impact on health‐related quality of life (QOL). The development of steroid phobia in patients with AD may restrict the therapeutic options available to these patients. Tacrolimus ointment is a safe and effective nonsteroid treatment for AD. It may be an appropriate alternative for patients with AD and steroid phobia. The aim of this study was to determine the impact of AD on QOL and to investigate the effect of tacrolimus ointment on QOL in patients with steroid phobia.

Methods  Firstly, QOL scores were investigated in patients with AD and steroid phobia using the World Health Organization Quality of Life instrument, WHOQOL‐26, and were compared with QOL scores from a previous study in volunteers from Tokyo, Japan. Secondly, patients with steroid phobia received tacrolimus ointment treatment for 12 weeks. Quality of life scores were assessed using WHOQOL‐26 at baseline and study end.

Results  The overall mean QOL score of 106 patients with AD was significantly lower than that of 708 volunteers (3.1 ± 0.5 vs. 3.3 ± 0.5, P < 0.001). The overall QOL score improved from 2.9 ± 0.4 at baseline to 3.3 ± 0.4 following 12 weeks’ tacrolimus ointment treatment in 35 patients with AD and steroid phobia (P < 0.001).

Conclusions  Atopic dermatitis significantly lowers QOL. Tacrolimus ointment is associated with a significant improvement in QOL in patients with steroid phobia, indicating that it is an effective alternative to topical corticosteroids in these patients.
Pseudo‐delusory syndrome caused by Limothrips cerealium
Authors: Guarneri Fabrizio , Guarneri Claudio , Mento Graziella , Ioli Antonino
Published: February 2006

Background  Limothrips cerealium (or “grain thrips”) is an insect of the phylum Arthropoda, known as parasite of plants of the family Gramineae; human infestation is not frequently described in literature.

Materials and methods  We report the case of a 59‐year‐old female farmer, come to observation because of intense itching and sensation of “walking insects” on her head, with no objective cutaneous signs except lesions due to scratching. After repeated visits, in which negative results of clinical and laboratory tests suggested the diagnosis of “delusory syndrome” (Ekbom's syndrome), we finally isolated on her head some insects, identified by stereomicroscopy as L. cerealium. Careful inspection of the house of our patient allowed us to identify, as possible source of parasites, a wheat field and a deposit of grains used for animal feeding. Temporarily removing the patient from her usual environment resulted in complete clinical resolution.

Results  Peculiarity of symptoms caused by this parasite and consequent problems for a correct diagnosis are discussed, as well as possible solutions.
An enigmatic disease: childhood Langerhans cell histiocytosis in 2005
Authors: Savaşan Süreyya
Published: February 2006

Histiocytic proliferative diseases, although rare, constitute a challenge for pediatric pathologists and hematologists/oncologists because of difficulties in the identification of subtypes and the lack of established standard therapies, resulting in treatment failures, recurrences, or complications. Amongst the different types of such disorders, Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) has been enigmatic to all involved, secondary to a long list of unresolved issues in pathogenesis and treatment. The fundamental dispute over its neoplastic vs. reactive nature remains unsettled. Unique features of LCH, including clonality, cases with spontaneous regression, frequent recurrences, and target tissue/organ tropism, have attracted significant interest. This article reviews the current understanding of LCH in the light of discoveries over the last few decades.
Incorporating multiple criteria into the design of conservation area networks: a minireview with recommendations
Authors: Moffett Alexander , Sarkar Sahotra
Published: February 2006

We provide a review of multicriteria decision‐making (MCDM) methods that may potentially be used during systematic conservation planning for the design of conservation area networks (CANs). We review 26 methods and present the core ideas of 19 of them. We suggest that the computation of the non‐dominated set (NDS) be the first stage of any such analysis. This process requires only that alternatives be qualitatively ordered by each criterion. If the criteria can also be similarly ordered, at the next stage, Regime is the most appropriate method to refine the NDS. If the alternatives can also be given quantitative values by the criteria, Goal Programming will prove useful in many contexts. If both the alternatives and the criteria can be quantitatively evaluated, and the criteria are independent of each other but may be compounded, then multi‐attribute value theory (MAVT) should be used (with preferences conveniently elicited by a modified Analytic Hierarchy Process (mAHP) provided that the number of criteria is not large).