bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Georg Haas: A forgotten pioneer of haemodialysis
Authors: WIZEMANN Volker , RITZ Eberhard
Published: March 2007

SUMMARY: Georg Haas (1886–1971) is a forgotten pioneer who had made seminal contributions to the development of the concept of haemodialysis. He was the first to carry out clinically successful haemodialyses. After a period of thorough physicochemical training he lucidly formulated the physical principles underlying haemodialysis, but faced enormous practical difficulties because of the insufficient state of bioengineering. This prevented a more widespread introduction of the technique which was clinically successful despite limited dialytic efficacy.
Peritoneal access devices
Authors: ROBERTS Martin
Published: March 2007

SUMMARY: At first, both hard and soft catheters were used to obtain access to the peritoneal cavity. In 1959, Dr Maxwell standardized the use of a rigid nylon catheter and this became the catheter of choice. A modification by Weston and Roberts simplified the insertion of the catheter. Unfortunately, the rigid catheter could not be used for chronic renal failure patients because it moved to and fro in the sinus tract, resulting in infection of the exit site. Many attempts were made to solve this problem by using a conduit through which the catheter could be passed but these failed due to infection. Meanwhile, the development of a relatively biocompatible plastic, silicone rubber, provided a new opportunity for soft catheters. Progress with these catheters lead to the Tenckhoff catheter, which together with a standardized procedure for insertion and care, resulted in its acceptance as the primary type of catheter used today. Peritonitis and exit site infections are less common but there is still a need for a catheter which is user friendly.
The development of concepts of volume control
Authors: CHARRA B
Published: March 2007

SUMMARY: The history of hemodialysis includes some aspects concerning specifically the extracellular volume and blood pressure control issue. the goal of this historical paper is to review what appears today as the main steps in the analysis of blood pressure normalization using the extracellular volume (and sodium content of the body) control. Clinical observations have more often preceded the formal expression of concepts. the ‘dry weight’ concept was formulated seven years after the first maintenance dialysis patient's malignant hypertension was cured by a combination of low salt diet and strong ultrafiltration leading to a decreased extracellular volume. Fifteen years later, the development of shortened hemodialysis sessions—with restricted possibilities of volume control—has led to a resurgence of hypertension in dialysis patients. This late increasing prevalence of hypertension was reported in the literature only several years after shortened dialysis had become almost universal. Some concepts not yet formalized, such as the ‘lag time’between volume and blood pressure variation in dialysis may be needed to analyze and understand what may presently appear as a failure of volume control of blood pressure in hemodialysis patients.
The regenerative dialysis (REDY) sorbent system
Authors: ROBERTS M.
Published: March 2007

SUMMARY: The concept of regenerating the spent hemodialysate instead of discarding it was first suggested by A. Johnson in 1966. Drs M. Maxwell and A. Gordon felt that development of the concept could provide information on uremic toxins and lead to a wearable artificial kidney. Suitable sorbents consisting of zirconium phosphate, hydrated zirconium oxide and carbon combined with urease were placed in a cartridge by Dr. L. Marantz. Uremic dogs were successfully maintained using this cartridge to regenerate the hemodialysate. After completion of human studies the system was placed on the market in 1973. Three major problems occurred in the first year of marketing: 1. Displacement of the urease by the liquid in the Cordis‐Dow dialysers. 2. Deafness after use with an unrinsed dialyser. 3. Inactivation of the urease by copper in the water supply. They were resolved by emptying the Cordis‐Dow dialyser, rinsing all dialyser before use and adding a scavenger layer to the cartridge. At first the major market for the REDY System was the home market. However, as this market shrank the major market became dialysis of the acute renal failure patient. After it was found that the eluant from the cartridge sometimes contained aluminium, the alumina in the zirconium layers was removed and the present cartridge no longed contributes aluminium to the dialysate but also can be used to remove aluminium from hemodialysate. Attempts have been made to use the system to develop a wearable kidney.
Endstage renal failure in diabetes type II ‐ a silent epidemic
Authors: RITZ Eberhard , MILTENBERGER‐MILTENGER‐MILTENYI Gabriel , RYCHLIK Ivan , FLISER Danilo
Published: March 2007

SUMMARY: Endstage renal failure in patients with type II diabetes has become, or will become, the leading cause of endstage renal failure in different countries with Western life style. the incidence of the proportion of patients with diabetes mellitus, mostly type II, amongst patients admitted for renal replacement therapy, is continuously on the rise, and somewhat less so the prevalence of diabetic patients on renal replacement therapy. the discrepancy is due to the higher mortality in diabetic patients as compared to non‐diabetic patients. the causes for the increase comprises of increasing prevalence of type II diabetes in the population, better survival in diabetic patients with nephropathy, and other factors. Efforts to stem this medical catastrophy will necessitate (i) information of the medical community: about the renal risk of type II diabetes and the striking effectiveness of preventive measures, (ii) implementation of better care of the diabetic patient, and (iii) efforts to reduce the high prevalence of diabetes in the population.
Catheter‐related infections in peritoneal dialysis patients: New aspects
Authors: VYCHYTIL Andreas , HÖRL Walter H
Published: March 2007

SUMMARY: Catheter‐related infections remain a major cause of technical dropout in peritoneal dialysis patients. Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) is the most important causative organism of these infections. the objective of this paper is to give an overview of recent developments in the prophylaxis and therapy of infectious catheter complications. It has been shown that prophylactic therapy, with mupirocin or rifampin, results in a decrease of catheter‐related infections. However, due to clinical problems associated with long‐term antibiotic therapy, prophylactic treatment should be restricted to patients at high risk of developing these infections, such as diabetic exit‐site carriers, immunosuppressed patients and non‐diabetic, non‐immunosuppressed patients with two or more S. aureus positive nasal cultures. the prognosis of catheter‐related infections depends on the respective organism and the extent of inflammation. Tunnel sonography is of major importance for early diagnosis of tunnel involvement and for estimating the outcome of tunnel infections. In patients with deep tunnel infection showing marked sonographic improvement two weeks after starting therapy, antibiotic treatment should be prolonged, whereas lack of sonographic improvement is associated with a high risk of catheter loss. In patients with tunnel infection and simultaneous peritonitis, catheter removal is recommended.
Inhibitory effects of the herbal medicine Saiboku‐to on the proliferation of cultured murine mesangial cells
Authors: ONO Takahiko , YASHIRO Masatomo , OYAMA Atsushi , YOSHIDA Haruyoshi , MUSO Eri , SASAYAMA Shigetake
Published: March 2007

SUMMARY: Patients with certain types of glomerulonephritis often present with upper respiratory tract infection (URTI). In this in vitro study, we have examined several Japanese herbal medicines, Shosaiko‐to (TJ‐9), Saiboku‐to (TJ‐96), Sairei‐to (TJ‐114) and Ryokankyomi‐singenin‐to (TJ‐119), which are occasionally used for collagen diseases, chronic inflammatory diseases or renal diseases. In these drugs, TJ‐96 is used to treat bronchial asthma or URTI, which has anti‐inflammatory effects. In this study, we demonstrate that TJ‐9, TJ‐96 or TJ‐114 inhibits the proliferation of murine mesangial cells induced by platelet derived growth factor (PDGF) or tumour necrosis factor (TNF)‐α. Quiescent mesangial cells were stimulated with 10 ng/mL of PDGF or 100 U/mL of TNF‐α together with various concentrations of the medicines for 20 h. After incubation with 50μ/mL of TJ‐9, TJ‐96 or TJ‐114, 3H‐thymidine incorporation induced by PDGF was reduced to 26, 19 and 29% of the control; and 66, 56 and 75% on TNF‐α stimulation, respectively. TJ‐96 had a more intense inhibitory effect than TJ‐9 or TJ‐114. TJ‐119 had no significant inhibitory effect at the same dose. Northern blot analysis for PDGF‐B transcript after addition of TJ‐96 revealed a 24% reduction in PDGF‐B mRNA levels stimulated by recombinant PDGF‐BB, suggesting inhibitory mechanisms of autocrine production of PDGF. No cytotoxic effect against mesangial cells in culture was observed up to a concentration of 100 μg/mL of TJ‐9, TJ‐96 or TJ‐114 by lactic dehydrogenase release assay. By another cell viability assay, after medium with 50 μg/mL of TJ‐96 was replaced with only PDGF‐BB‐containing medium, 3H‐thymidine incorporation was found to exceed the control, suggesting rebound proliferation. the present findings suggest that administration of TJ‐96 is beneficial for patients with mesangioproliferative glomerulonephritis accompanied by URTI, serving to regulate the effect on mesangial cell proliferation.
The molecular basis of Chinese herbs (Astragali and Angelica) on increasing serum albumin synthesis in nephrotic rats
Authors: LI Liying , CHEN Menghua , TONG Tanjun , WANG Haiyan
Published: March 2007

SUMMARY: Our previous studies have shown that two Chinese herbs, Astragali and Angelica, combined with an adequate protein intake can ameliorate the reduction in serum albumin, and improve the ratio of protein synthesis to catabolic rate without significant influence on urinary protein in both nephrotic patients and rats. This study was designed to investigate mechanisms by studying the effect of Astragali and Angelica on albumin synthesis in experimental nephrotic syndrome (NS), measuring the effect on hepatic albumin mRNA expression and gene transcription. Male Sprague‐Dawley (SD) rats were divided into eight groups: (1) normal control, C; (2) nephrotic control, NC; (3) treated with Astragali and Angelica, Ast & Ang; (4) treated with Astragali alone, Ast; (5) treated with Angelica alone, Ang; (6) treated with Astragali polysaccharide I, Ast I (MW. 36 000); (7) treated with Astragali polysaccharide II, Ast II (MW. 12 500); (8) treated with Astragali glucoside, Ast G. Nephrotic syndrome in rats was induced by accelerated nephrotoxic nephritis. the herb extracts were force‐fed daily for 14 days, the animals were then sacrificed, and the serum and liver collected. the level of serum albumin, albumin mRNA and its gene transcription activity were measured using biochemistry, Northern blot analysis, run‐on assay and quantity in laser density screening. In the NC group, the level of serum albumin was significantly lower, the level of albumin mRNA in the liver was significantly higher and the activity of albumin gene transcription was increased compared with normal controls. In the Ast & Ang group, the urinary protein was not different to that in the NC group, while the level of serum albumin was significantly higher and both the level of albumin mRNA and the activity of albumin gene transcription were significantly higher. In each component therapy group, the effect of increasing the level of serum albumin, the levels of albumin mRNA and activities of albumin gene transcription were no different compared with the NC group. Our results suggest that Astragali and Angelica increase albumin synthesis in the nephrotic rat by increasing liver albumin mRNA expression, at least in part by improving the activity of gene transcription. the extract of Astragali and Angelica was better effect than any components tested.
Attenuated up‐regulation of vitamin D‐dependent calcium‐binding proteins by 22‐oxa‐1,25‐dihydroxyvitamin D3 in uremic rats: A possible mechanism for less‐calcemic action
Authors: ICHIKAWA Fumihiko , HIRATA Michinori , ENDO Koichi , KATSUMATA Kyoko , OHKAWA Hiroyuki , KUBODERA Noboru , FUKAGAWA Masafumi , KUROKAWA Kiyoshi
Published: March 2007

SUMMARY: 22‐Oxa‐1,25‐dihydroxyvitamin D3 (OCT) is an analogue of vitamin D with less calcemic action than 1,25‐dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25D3), and thus may be advantageous in the treatment of secondary hyperparathyroidism in dialysis patients. to further elucidate the mechanisms of less‐calcemic action of OCT in chronic renal failure, we examined the effects of OCT and 1,25D3 on mRNA levels for vitamin D‐dependent 9‐KDa calcium binding protein (CaBP‐D9K) in the intestinal mucosa and 28‐KDa (CaBP‐D28K) in the kidney. In Sprague‐Dawley rats made uremic by 5/6 nephrectomy for three months, OCT at doses of 0.25, 1.25 and 6.25 μg/kg, or 1,25D3 at 0.025,0.125 and 0.625 μg/kg were administered intravenously three times per week for two weeks. At 24 h after the final injection, enhanced serum PTH and PTH mRNA levels were successfully suppressed both by OCT and 1,25D3 in a dose dependent manner. However, OCT induced less hypercalcemia than 1,25D3. 1,25D3 markedly upregulated the expression of CaBP‐D9K and CaBP‐D28K genes, while they were not affected by OCT at all. In conclusion, such attenuated effects of OCT on calcium‐binding proteins may play a role in the noncalcemic action, because number of CaBP‐D9K has been suggested to correlate with calcium absorption in the intestine.
Post renal transplant thrombotic microangiopathy: A single centre experience
Authors: PARRY RG , AXELSEN RA , HAWLEY CM , FALK MC
Published: March 2007

SUMMARY:Thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) is a rare complication of renal transplantation. This study is a review of our experience of seven cases of TMA occurring between 1986 and 1995, an incidence of 0.8%. One patient had a recurrence of TMA in her graft having an episode of haemolytic uraemic syndrome as the cause of her original kidney failure. the other six patients had a rejection episode either at the time of diagnosis of TMA or a mean of 12 days prior to the diagnosis of TMA. All patients were treated with plasma exchange and those on cyclosporin had their dose reduced. Two patients had graft loss while the remainder had successful outcomes with stable graft function 3–11 years post diagnosis of TMA. We conclude that, in our experience rejection played a prominent role in the disease pathogenesis and that cyclosporin could be continued successfully albeit at a reduced dosage.
Patterns of end‐stage renal disease in US African‐Americans
Authors: AGODOA Lawrence
Published: March 2007

Summary:Although African‐Americans constitute only about 12.4% of the population of the United States of America (USA), they comprise over 30% of the end‐stage renal disease (ESRD) patient population. Diabetes mellitus (predominantly type 2) is the most frequently reported cause of ESRD in all racial and ethnic groups in the USA. However, hypertensive renal disease is reported as the dominant cause of ESRD in African‐Americans. In general, all racial and ethnic minority groups in the USA have greater incidence and prevalence rates of ESRD than Caucasians. However, survival probabilities in all ESRD patients, dialysis patients, and cadaveric renal allograft recipients are greater in African‐Americans than in Caucasians. the suggested reasons for these racial and ethnic disparities are discussed.
Renal histopathology in US African‐Americans with presumed hypertensive nephrosclerosis
Authors: FOGO Agnes , BREYER Julia A , SMITH Michael C , CLEVELAND William H , AGODOA Lawrence , KIRK Katharine A , GLASSOCK Richard ,   THE AASK PILOT STUDY INVESTIGATORS
Published: March 2007

Summary: African‐Americans have, in comparison with Caucasians, excess hypertension and end‐stage renal disease, which has been presumed to be due to hypertension. However, systematic renal biopsy assessment of lesions in this population and verification of this clinical impression have not been done. During the pilot phase of the AASK trial, 46 hypertensive (diastolic BP > 95 mmHg) non‐diabetic African‐American patients between the ages of 18–70 years, with glomerular filtration rate (GFR) between 25 and 70 mL/min per 1.73m2 and without marked proteinuria were therefore biopsied to assess underlying lesions. Adequate biopsy material was obtained in 39 (29 men and 10 women), on average 53.0 ± 11.0 years old, with MAP of 109 ± 15 mmHg and GFR 51.7 ± 13.6 mL/min per 1.73 m2. of these 39 biopsies, 38 showed arteriosclerosis and/or arteriolosclerosis, severity on average 1.5 ± 0.9 and 1.5 ± 0.8, respectively, on a 0–3+ scale. Interstitial fibrosis was moderate, 1.3 ± 0.9 (0–3+ scale). Segmental glomerulosclerosis was present in five biopsies, and in one patient, biopsy and clinical findings were consistent with idiopathic focal segmental glomerulosclerosis. Additional lesions included mesangiopathic glomerulonephritis in one patient, basement membrane thickening suggestive of diabetic nephropathy in one, and cholesterol emboli in two cases. Arteriolar and arterial sclerosis were tightly linked, and correlated with interstitial fibrosis and the reciprocal of serum creatinine. Global glomerulosclerosis was extensive, involving on average 43 ± 26% of glomeruli. the extent of this lesion did not correlate with degree of arteriolar or arterial thickening, but did correlate with systolic blood pressure (P 0.0174), the reciprocal of serum creatinine (P= 0.0009), serum cholesterol (P= 0.0129) and interstitial fibrosis (P < 0.0001). These data underscore that the clinical diagnosis of hypertensive nephrosclerosis based on strict clinical criteria in non‐diabetic African‐Americans with mild to moderate renal insufficiency without marked proteinuria is strongly correlated with renal biopsy vascular lesions consistent with this clinical diagnosis. However, the mechanism(s) for this clinicopathologic constellation remains undetermined. Current studies are focused on possible genetic contributions to the development of hypertension and renal lesions in this population.
Screening and prevention of renal disease: Large population study in Okinawa, Japan
Authors: ISEKI Kunitoshi
Published: March 2007

Summary: Epidemiological studies in Okinawa showed that the incidence and prevalence of ESRD were increasing. the significant predictors of ESRD were proteinuria, haematuria, diastolic blood pressure and serum creatinine. However, most people who showed these predictors were not referred and treated appropriately. Future studies should be focused on the role of early referral and intervention such as dietary change or life‐style modification, which may reduce the incidence of ESRD.
Practical experience with the Renal Anaemia Management Database
Authors: SURANYI M , BANNISTER KM
Published: March 2007

SUMMARY: To optimize the management of renal anaemia, a number of Australian renal units have recently appointed renal anaemia coordinators. In conjunction with these appointments, a novel computer software package, the Renal Anaemia Management Database has been implemented. the database is a patient‐centred clinical database featuring point‐of‐care data collection, display and analysis. the Renal Anaemia Management Database collects and collates data such as erythropoietin dose, frequency and route, as well as iron parameters and resulting haemoglobin levels. It also has the capacity to store, retrieve and analyse a number of patient demographics, comorbidities, treatments, results and outcomes. Patients can be reviewed in cohorts or a whole‐of‐unit review can be generated. Data may also be exported and aggregated with that from other renal units for global analysis.
Oxygen mediated gene regulation
Authors: PUGH CW , MAXWELL PH , RATCLIFFE PJ
Published: March 2007

SUMMARY: Studies of hypoxia‐inducible cis‐acting sequences from the erythropoietin gene have led to the recognition of a widespread transcriptional response to hypoxia based on the activation of a DNA‐binding complex, hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1 (HIF). Genes with functions in cellular energy metabolism, iron metabolism, catecholamine metabolism, vasomotor control and angiogenesis have subsequently been shown to be responsive to HIF, indicating a role in the coordination of oxygen supply and cellular metabolism. Hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1 is a heterodimer of two basic helix‐loop‐helix proteins of the PAS family, HIF‐1 alpha and HIF‐1 beta, although different isoforms of each subunit are now known to exist. When oxygen tension is lowered, HIF‐alpha subunits dimerize with HIF‐beta and activate gene transcription. Hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1‐mediated gene transcription is regulated predominantly by oxygen‐dependent destruction of HIF‐alpha via the ubiquitin‐proteasome pathway. This destruction is mediated by a ubiquitin E3 ligase complex, in which the von Hippel‐Lindau (VHL) protein (pVHL) recognizes and binds oxygen‐dependent destruction domain(s) in HIF‐alpha subunits. In VHL disease, the destruction of HIF‐alpha is blocked, at least partly explaining the phenotype. the recognition of HIF‐alpha by pVHL in normoxia has recently been shown to be conditional on enzymatic post‐translational hydroxylation of critical prolyl residues. It is hoped that a detailed understanding of these gene regulatory mechanisms may lead to therapeutically useful interventions in the future, for example by up‐regulating HIF activity in ischaemic disease or down‐regulating it in cancer.
Timing of nephrology referral: a study of its effects on the likelihood of transplantation and impact on mortality
Authors: CASS A , SNELLING P , CUNNINGHAM J , WANG Z , HOY W
Published: March 2007

SUMMARY: Delayed referral of patients with end‐stage renal disease (ESRD) to a nephrologist is associated with considerable early morbidity and increased mortality. the Australia and New Zealand Dialysis and Transplant Registry (ANZDATA) has collected data regarding the timing of referral to a nephrologist for all patients beginning renal replacement therapy (RRT) since 1 April 1995. We examined survival and likelihood of transplantation for patients who started RRT between 1 April 1995 and 31 December 1998, with follow‐up until 31 March 2000 (up to 5 years follow‐up). of 4886 patients starting RRT, 1277 (26.1%) were in the late referral (LR) group and 3609 (73.9%) were not (NLR). In a multivariate analysis, predictors of LR were age 0–44 years and the presence of two or more comorbidities. Ninety days after referral, 60% of patients in the LR group were on haemodialysis compared with 55% of patients in the NLR group; 40% of patients in each group were receiving peritoneal dialysis at this time. Patients in the LR group were significantly less likely to receive a transplant in the first year after referral and throughout the duration of the study compared with the NLR group. Mortality rates were 19 and 13 persons per 100 patient years in the LR and NLR groups, respectively. In conclusion, delayed referral to a nephrologist was associated with increased mortality which continued for up to 5 years, even after adjustment for known predictors of mortality including age, sex, comorbidities and primary renal disease.
Isotope analysis as a natural reaction probe to determine mechanisms of biodegradation of 1,2‐dichloroethane
Authors: Hirschorn Sarah K. , Dinglasan‐Panlilio M. Joyce , Edwards Elizabeth A. , Lacrampe‐Couloume Georges , Sherwood Lollar Barbara
Published: March 2007

1,2‐Dichloroethane (1,2‐DCA), a chlorinated aliphatic hydrocarbon, is a well‐known groundwater contaminant. In this study, fractionation of stable carbon isotope values of 1,2‐DCA during biodegradation was used as a novel reaction probe to provide information about the mechanism of 1,2‐DCA biodegradation under both aerobic (O2‐reducing) and anaerobic (NO3‐reducing) conditions. Under O2‐reducing conditions, an isotopic enrichment value (ε) of −25.8 ± 1.1‰ (±95% confidence intervals) was measured for the enrichment culture. Under NO3‐reducing conditions, an ε‐value of −25.8 ± 3.5‰ was measured. The microbial culture produced isotopic enrichment values (ε) that are not only large and reproducible, but also are the same whether O2 or NO3 was used as an electron acceptor. Combining data measured under both O2‐ and NO3‐reducing conditions, an isotopic enrichment value (ε) of −25.8 ± 1.6‰ is measured for the microbial culture during 1,2‐DCA degradation. The ε‐value can be converted into a kinetic isotope effect (KIE) value to relate the observed isotopic fractionation to the mechanism of degradation. This KIE value (1.05) is consistent with degradation via hydrolytic dehalogenation under both electron‐accepting conditions. This study demonstrates the added value of compound‐specific isotope analysis not only as a technique to verify the occurrence and extent of biodegradation in the field, but also as a natural reaction probe to provide insight into the enzymatic mechanism of contaminant degradation.
Fungal transformations of uranium oxides
Authors: Fomina M. , Charnock J. M. , Hillier S. , Alvarez R. , Gadd G. M.
Published: March 2007

The biogeochemical activities of free‐living and symbiotic fungi must be acknowledged in attempts to understand uranium cycling and dispersal in the environment. Although the near‐surface geochemistry of uranium is very complex and a wide variety of mineral phases is known, uranium trioxide (UO3) and triuranium octaoxide (U3O8) can be used as well characterized models in the study of biotransformations. We have used a complex methodological approach involving advanced solid state speciation and scanning electron microscopy to study the ability of saprotrophic, ericoid and ectomycorrhizal fungi to transform these model oxides. This study has revealed that fungi exhibit a high uranium oxide tolerance, and possess the ability to solubilize UO3 and U3O8 and to accumulate uranium within the mycelium to over 80 mg (g dry weight)−1 biomass. X‐ray absorption spectroscopy of uranium speciation within the biomass showed that in most of the fungi the uranyl ion was coordinated to phosphate ligands, but in ectomycorrhizal fungi mixed phosphate/carboxylate coordination was observed. Abundant uranium precipitates associated with phosphorus were found in the mycelium and encrusted the hyphae. Some of the fungi caused the biomineralization of well‐crystallized uranyl phosphate minerals of the meta‐autunite group. This is the first experimental evidence for fungal transformations of uranium solids and the production of secondary mycogenic uranium minerals.
Report on the IASO Stock Conference 2006: early and lifelong environmental epigenomic programming of metabolic syndrome, obesity and type II diabetes
Authors: Junien C. , Nathanielsz P.
Published: March 2007

Now that analysis of the organization of the human genome sequence is reaching completion, studies of the finely tuned chromatin epigenetic networks, DNA methylation and histone modifications, are required to determine how the same DNA sequence generates different cells, lineages and organs, i.e. the phenotype. Maternal nutrition, behaviour and metabolic disturbances as well as other environmental factors have been shown to have major effects on these epigenetic processes, potentially affecting the predisposition of offspring to obesity and related adult disorders. The March 2006 Stock Conference considered the latest evidence from studies in the field of obesity and other related areas that elucidate mechanisms by which the environment can modify gene expression and the resulting individual phenotype. Presentations included evaluation of the molecular basis of epigenetic memory and the nature of relevant sequence targets, windows of susceptibility, and maternal dietary and behavioural factors that determine epigenetic changes. Imprinted genes, age and tissue‐related exposures, transgenerational and potential interventions were also discussed. In summary, it is clear that epigenetic alterations can no longer be ignored in evaluations of the causes of obesity and its associated disorders. There is a need for systematic large‐scale epigenetic studies of obesity, employing appropriate strategies and techniques and appropriately chosen environmental factors in critical spatio‐temporal windows.
Patient satisfaction after removal of skin lesions
Authors: Rissin Y , Fodor L , Ishach H , Oded R , Ramon Y , Ullmann Y
Published: March 2007

Background  Removal of skin lesions is one of the most common surgical procedures, with the number increasing progressively since the 1980s.

Objective  We tried to evaluate the satisfaction level of patients after removal of skin lesions and to identify the factors influencing it.

Study design  The study group consisted of 138 patients who had skin lesions removed by shaving or primary excision and closure. They were evaluated 1 year after the procedure. Two questionnaires were completed independently by the patient and the surgeon.

Results  The main indication for the procedure was suspicion of malignancy, functional disturbance, or aesthetic reason. The satisfaction level (general and specific areas) for patients who had a malignant tumour removed was similar to those who had a benign tumour removed. Females were less satisfied than males (P = 0.05). Younger people were less satisfied with the aesthetic results (P = 0.007). Patients who had at least one significant side‐effect were less satisfied than those who did not mention any side‐effects (P = 0.038). The higher the level of patient satisfaction, the higher the level of surgeon satisfaction (P = 0.012).

Conclusion  Skin lesions removal, although considered to be a minor procedure, leaves scars that sometimes disturb the patient. According to our study, the most prevalent population for dissatisfaction is females and young males.
Langerhans cell sarcoma in a patient who underwent transplantation
Authors: Diaz‐Sarrio C , Salvatella‐Danés N , Castro‐Forns M , Nadal A
Published: March 2007

Langerhans cell sarcoma is a rare, aggressive tumour that may metastasize to many organs, likely leading to death of the patient within 1 year. We present the first case described in the literature in a patient who underwent transplantation.
Striae gravidarum: associated factors
Authors: Ghasemi A , Gorouhi F , Rashighi‐Firoozabadi M , Jafarian S , Firooz A
Published: March 2007

Background  Striae gravidarum (SG) is the most common change in connective tissue of pregnant women and may cause cosmetic concerns.

Objectives  To determine the frequency of SG in Iranian pregnant women and its possible associations with the characteristics of themselves and their newborns.

Methods  One hundred and eighteen primigravid pregnant women were included in this prospective observational study at their first prenatal visit, among them 114 completed the study and gave birth.

Results  One hundred (87.7%) of 114 women developed SG with a mean Davey's score of 4.04 ± 2.47. The mean gestational age at which SG first appeared was 27.57 ± 5.38 weeks. Family history of SG in mother, baseline and delivery body mass index, greatest abdominal and hip girths, newborn weight, height and head circumference were significantly associated with the presence of SG. All of these factors were also correlated with Davey's score.

Conclusion  Genetic and physical risk factors may be involved in the development of SG in primigravid women.
Mammary and extramammary Paget's disease
Authors: Kanitakis J
Published: March 2007

Paget's disease is an intra‐epidermal adenocarcinoma seen over the nipple/areola (mammary Paget's disease) or in extramammary body zones, such as the anogenital and perineal skin and the axilla. Mammary and extramammary Paget's disease share many common clinicopathological features but also show several differences, namely, with regard to pathogenesis and association with underlying malignancies. Indeed, mammary Paget's disease is as a rule associated with an underlying breast carcinoma whereas association of extramammary Paget's disease with underlying (skin or visceral) malignancies occurs much less frequently. We review here the main clinicopathological and therapeutic features of mammary and extramammary Paget's disease.
Oral R115866 in the treatment of moderate to severe plaque‐type psoriasis
Authors: Verfaille CJ , Thissen CACB , Bovenschen HJ , Mertens J , Steijlen PM , Van De Kerkhof PCM
Published: March 2007

Background R115866 (RambazoleTM) is a new generation all‐transretinoic acid metabolism blocking agent, highly specific against the retinoic acid 4‐hydroxylase. The drug alleviates hyperproliferation and normalizes differentiation of the epidermis in animal models of psoriasis.

Objective To explore the efficacy, safety and tolerability of systemic R115866 in patients with moderate to severe plaque‐type psoriasis.

Patients and methods  In this open label, single‐arm trial, patients were treated with R115866, 1 mg/day for 8 weeks, followed by a 2‐week treatment‐free follow‐up period. Patients were monitored for efficacy and safety.

Results Nineteen patients (intent‐to‐treat population) were treated and 14 completed the entire study. Two patients discontinued due to lack of efficacy and three due to adverse events. At the end of the treatment, 26% of the patients showed at least 50% reduction in Psoriasis Area Severity Index (PASI) compared to baseline. Further improvement was observed at the end of the 2‐week follow‐up period where 47% of the patients showed a 50% or greater reduction in PASI. Kinetic data showed no evidence of accumulation of either R115866 or retinoic acid in plasma. The most common adverse events were pruritus, xerosis, cheilitis and an increase in blood triglycerides. The majority of adverse events were mild to moderate. No deaths or serious adverse events were reported.

Conclusion Eight‐week daily treatment with 1 mg R115866 resulted in a significant reduction in PASI from baseline to end of therapy. Additional improvement was seen after the 2‐week follow‐up period. The drug was well tolerated. R115866 merits further evaluation to optimize its clinical efficacy and safety profile in moderate to severe plaque‐type psoriasis.
Human papillomavirus (HPV) viral load and HPV type in the clinical outcome of HIV‐positive patients treated with imiquimod for anogenital warts and anal intraepithelial neoplasia
Authors: Sanclemente G , Herrera S , Tyring SK , Rady PL , Zuleta J‐J , Correa L‐A , He Q , Wolff J‐C
Published: March 2007

Objective  To evaluate the efficacy of 5% imiquimod in HIV‐positive male patients with anogenital warts or anal intraepithelial neoplasia (AIN), and to elucidate whether human papillomavirus (HPV) type and viral load were important for clinical outcome and recurrences.

Methods  Thirty‐seven patients with histologically proven anogenital warts or AIN were enrolled. Topical 5% imiquimod was applied three times per week for more than 8 h overnight for 16 weeks, although patients were allowed to continue therapy for 4 more weeks if they did not have complete clearance of lesions.

Results  Mean age was 34 years. The perianal area was the main lesion location. Thirty‐three patients had CD4 counts of < 500 cells/mm3. Eighteen patients had a histopathological diagnosis of AIN‐1. Main HPV types detected corresponded to low‐risk HPV types. At 20 weeks of therapy, 46% patients achieved total clearance whereas 14 patients had > 50% clearance. Recurrence was observed in 5 of 17 patients who cleared. Clearance was not influenced by patients’ CD4 counts, wart location, HIV viral load or HPV viral load.

Conclusions  The assumption that visible perianal warts are benign lesions in HIV‐positive patients has to be reevaluated since an important number of such lesions could correspond to low‐grade anal disease, which in turn could progress to high‐grade anal disease or cancer. In addition, our results in this preliminary study indicate that imiquimod appears to be effective in treating AIN in HIV‐positive patients. Further studies are needed to document its utility to prevent high‐grade dysplasia and/or anal cancer.
Screening for asymptomatic carriage of Trichophyton tonsurans in household contacts of patients with tinea capitis: results of 209 patients from South London
Authors: White JML , Higgins EM , Fuller LC
Published: March 2007

Background  There is currently an epidemic of tinea capitis in urban areas of developed countries caused by Trichophyton tonsurans. Recurrence or re‐infection with dermatophyte is not uncommon after adequate oral treatment. Asymptomatic carriers who are household contacts may partly explain this observation by forming a reservoir for infection.

Patients/methods  Two‐hundred and nine household contacts of patients with tinea capitis were examined and screened for asymptomatic carriage of dermatophyte.

Results  Only 7.2% had clinically evident disease yet 44.5% had silent fungal carriage on the scalp. Children under 16 years were much more likely to be carriers than adults (P < 0.001) and males were less likely than females to be affected (P < 0.01).

Conclusion  This evidence poses questions about factors relevant in transmission of dermatophytes. The authors propose that all household contacts of patients with tinea capitis should be offered screening to eradicate a potential reservoir of infection.
A confusing world: what to call histology of three‐dimensional tumour margins?
Authors: Moehrle M , Breuninger H , Röcken M
Published: March 2007

Complete three‐dimensional histology of excised skin tumour margins has a long tradition and, unfortunately, a multitude of names as well. Mohs, who introduced it, called it ‘microscopically controlled surgery’. Others have described it as ‘micrographic surgery’, ‘Mohs’ micrographic surgery’, or simply ‘Mohs’ surgery’. Semantic confusion became truly rampant when variant forms, each useful in its own way for detecting subclinical outgrowths of malignant skin tumours, were later introduced under such names as histographic surgery, systematic histologic control of the tumour bed, histological control of excised tissue margins, the square procedure, the perimeter technique, etc.

All of these methods are basically identical in concept. All involve complete, three‐dimensional histological visualization and evaluation of excision margins. Their common goal is to detect unseen tumour outgrowths.

For greater clarity, the authors of this paper recommend general adoption of ‘3D histology’ as a collective designation for all the above methods. As an added advantage, 3D histology can also be used in other medical disciplines to confirm true R0 resection of, for example, breast cancer or intestinal cancer.
Isolation and characterization of microsatellite loci in Pseudoplatystoma corruscans (Siluriformes: Pimelodidae) and cross‐species amplification
Authors: REVALDAVES ELOISA , PEREIRA LUIZ H. G. , FORESTI FAUSTO , OLIVEIRA CLAUDIO
Published: March 2007

A total of five polymorphic microsatellites loci from Pseudoplatystoma corruscans were isolated and characterized. A population survey involving 43 specimens resolved a large number of alleles (range seven to eight among loci) and high observed heterozygosity (0.500–0.615), indicating its usefulness in population genetics studies. Cross‐species amplification was successful in four other Pimelodidae species.
Polymorphic microsatellite loci in the parasitic wasp Cotesia glomerata (Hymenoptera: Braconidae)
Authors: ZHOU Y. , GU H. , DORN S.
Published: March 2007

Five polymorphic microsatellite loci were isolated in a gregarious endoparasitoid, Cotesia glomerata, using an enrichment protocol. We detected two to 15 alleles per locus in a sample of 50 female wasps collected from a field population near Zürich, Switzerland. The observed heterozygosities ranged from 0.21 to 0.92. These markers are currently being used in our studies of sex determination in this species.
Isolation of polymorphic tetranucleotide microsatellite markers for the pygmy kingfisher Ceyx picta
Authors: BARDELEBEN CAROLYNE , GRAY MELISSA M.
Published: March 2007

We have isolated 13 polymorphic microsatellite markers for the pygmy kingfisher, Ceyx picta, from genomic libraries enriched for either (AAGG)n or (AACC)n repetitive elements. The number of alleles range from three to 15 per locus with an observed heterozygosity ranging from 0.46 to 1.00. These markers will be useful for analysis of questions concerning population genetic structure and models of speciation.
Large scale development of selectively amplified microsatellite polymorphic loci (SAMPL) markers in spruce (Picea)
Authors: GUPTA A. K. , KANG B. Y. , ROY J. K. , RAJORA O. P.
Published: March 2007

The spruce (Picea) species are ecologically and economically important in Canada. Highly informative markers with high multiplex ratios are needed to assist spruce genomics, genetics, and breeding programs. Selectively amplified microsatellite polymorphic loci (SAMPL) markers are highly suitable for these programs. We have developed, optimized, and characterized a set of 10 new SAMPL primers in combination with 16 MseI primers and resolved a large number of polymorphic SAMPL markers in spruce. The SAMPL primers were designed from the compound microsatellite repeats found in Norway spruce (Picea abies) and white spruce (Picea glauca). A total of 6313 polymorphic SAMPL makers were produced by 160 SAMPL–MseI primers combinations in eight progeny of a spruce mapping population.
Development and characterization of microsatellite markers for the poplar rust fungi Melampsora medusae and Melampsora larici‐populina
Authors: STEIMEL J. , CHEN W. , HARRINGTON T. C.
Published: March 2007

Melampsora species and their hybrids are obligate parasites of Populus and Salix species worldwide. The increasing interest in Populus and Salix for biomass and fibre production necessitates genetic markers for population studies of Melampsora spp. Libraries enriched for simple sequence repeats were used to develop five microsatellite markers for Melampsora medusae and Melampsora larici‐populina. The variation detected by these markers will be valuable for phylogenetic and population genetic studies, substantiate putative hybrids, and deployment of resistant poplar clones.
Development and characterization of microsatellite markers for Prosopis chilensis and Prosopis flexuosa and cross‐species amplification
Authors: MOTTURA M. C. , FINKELDEY R. , VERGA A. R. , GAILING O.
Published: March 2007

Prosopis chilensis and Prosopis flexuosa (Fabaceae) are closely related hardwood arboreal species that are widely distributed in the arid regions of Argentina. The development of highly polymorphic markers, such as microsatellites, is desirable for genetic studies of these species. Here, we present the development and characterization of six polymorphic microsatellite markers in P. chilensis and P. flexuosa. These markers showed a polymorphism information content between 0.14 and 0.85 and the number of alleles varied from two to 13 considering both species. All markers revealed a broad cross‐species affinity when tested in seven other Prosopis species. All primers amplified in at least five species.
Characterization of polymorphic microsatellite loci in the aphid species Macrosiphum euphorbiae (Hemiptera: Aphididae)
Authors: RABOUDI F. , CHAVIGNY P. , MARRAKCHI M. , MAKNI H. , MAKNI M. , VANLERBERGHE‐MASUTTI F.
Published: March 2007

Fourteen microsatellite loci were isolated and characterized in the potato aphid, Macrosiphum euphorbiae Thomas, by screening a genomic library with the oligonucleotide probes (GA)10 (GT)10 and (GATA)4. Allelic diversity was estimated in samples collected from potato fields in Tunisia. Ten loci displayed polymorphism that ranged from two to four alleles per locus and the observed heterozygosity ranged from zero to one. These markers could be used to study the population genetic structure of this polyphagous aphid species.
Isolation and characterization of microsatellite markers in Bonelli's eagle (Hieraaetus fasciatus)
Authors: MIRA S. , WOLFF K. , CANCELA M. L.
Published: March 2007

To obtain polymorphic molecular markers for population genetics and conservation studies in Bonelli's eagle populations, we screened a partial genomic library enriched for microsatellites with di‐ and tri‐nucleotide motifs [(GT) (CT) (AAC) and (GCC)]. A total of 15 polymorphic markers were obtained. The number of alleles ranged from two to eight. These markers will be very useful for paternity tests and population structure studies as well as for evaluating the outcome of conservation programs.
Isolation and characterization of microsatellite loci from the entomopathogenic hyphomycete, Paecilomyces fumosoroseus
Authors: DALLEAU‐CLOUET C. , GAUTHIER N. , RISTERUCCI A.‐M. , BON M.‐C. , FARGUES J.
Published: March 2007

Nine microsatellite markers were isolated from the entomopathogenic haploid fungus Paecilomyces fumosoroseus. Genetic diversity was assessed in 26 P. fumosoroseus isolates originated from the whitefly Bemisia tabaci collected in various geoclimatic areas. Eight loci were polymorphic with an observed number of alleles ranging from two to six. The loci differentiated some isolates and group of isolates according to their geographical location, showing promise for the study of gene flow. All loci failed to give clear amplifications in P. fumosoroseus isolates from hosts other than B. tabaci. These microsatellite markers provide powerful tools for ecological, epidemiological, and population genetic studies.
Di‐ and tri‐nucleotide repeat microsatellites for the mealy plum aphid, Hyalopterus pruni
Authors: LOZIER J. D. , MILLS N. J. , PALSBØLL P. J. , RODERICK G. K.
Published: March 2007

Hyalopterus pruni is an invasive aphid pest in California. To study the population biology of this pest both in California and its native Mediterranean region, we have developed 11 di‐ and tri‐nucleotide repeat microsatellite markers. Each locus amplified in individuals representing the full range of geographical regions and host plants where Hyalopterus is found. Polymorphism was high, ranging from six to 22 alleles per locus in the individuals screened. These loci represent the first microsatellites developed for Hyalopterus and they should be of great value in studying the invasion biology and population structure of this insect pest.
Polymorphic microsatellite loci in the bush‐cricket Metrioptera roeseli
Authors: HOLZHAUER STEPHANIE I. J. , WOLFF KIRSTEN
Published: March 2007

Metrioptera roeseli is a common bush‐cricket in Europe which prefers grassland as habitat. We developed microsatellite loci in order to study the population genetic structure and the effects of different habitat types on the genetic structure of the bush‐cricket in a rural landscape. In this paper, we report on six polymorphic microsatellite loci with seven to 16 alleles per locus in 20 individuals from the Lahn‐Dill‐Bergland in Hesse, Germany.
Characterization of polymorphic microsatellite loci in the terrestrial isopod Porcellionides pruinosus
Authors: FRÉDÉRIC GRANDJEAN , NICOLAS GOUIN , SÉBASTIEN VERNE , CARINE DELAUNAY , SYLVIE PATRI
Published: March 2007

We developed a set of six polymorphic microsatellite loci for the woodlouse, Porcellionides pruinosus. We screened 43 individuals from three French populations and found that locus‐specific allelic diversity ranges from 3 to 17 alleles (mean = 9.8) and observed heterozygosity ranges from 0.51 to 0.89 (mean = 0.77). These are the first microsatellites loci reported from the woodlouse.