bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evolution of exon–intron structure and alternative splicing in fruit flies and malarial mosquito genomes
Authors: Malko Dmitry B. , Makeev Vsevolod J. , Mironov Andrey A. , Gelfand Mikhail S.
Published: March 2006

Comparative analysis of alternative splicing of orthologous genes from fruit flies (Drosophila melanogaster and Drosophila pseudoobscura) and mosquito (Anopheles gambiae) demonstrated that both in the fruit fly genes and in fruit fly–mosquito comparisons, constitutive exons and splicing sites are more conserved than alternative ones. While >97% of constitutive D. melanogaster exons are conserved in D. pseudoobscura, only ∼80% of alternative exons are conserved. Similarly, 77% of constitutive fruit fly exons are conserved in the mosquito genes, compared with <50% of alternative exons. Internal alternatives are more conserved than terminal ones. Retained introns are the least conserved, alternative acceptor sites are slightly more conserved than donor sites, and mutually exclusive exons are almost as conserved as constitutive exons. Cassette and mutually exclusive exons experience almost no intron insertions. We also observed cases of interconversion of various elementary alternatives, e.g., transformation of cassette exons into alternative sites. These results agree with the observations made earlier in human–mouse comparisons and demonstrate that the phenomenon of relatively low conservation of alternatively spliced regions may be universal, as it has been observed in different taxonomic groups (mammals and insects) and at various evolutionary distances.
X chromosomes and autosomes evolve at similar rates in Drosophila: No evidence for faster-X protein evolution
Authors: Thornton Kevin , Bachtrog Doris , Andolfatto Peter
Published: March 2006

Recent data from Drosophila suggest that a substantial fraction of amino acid substitutions observed between species are beneficial. If these beneficial mutations are on average partially recessive, then the rate of protein evolution is predicted to be faster for X-linked genes compared to autosomal genes (the “faster-X” hypothesis). We test this prediction by comparing rates of protein substitutions between orthologous genes, taking advantage of variations in chromosome fusions within the genus Drosophila. In members of the Drosophila melanogaster species group, the chromosomal arm 3L segregates as an ordinary autosome (i.e., two homologous copies in both males and females). However, in the Drosophila pseudoobscura species group, this chromosomal arm has become fused to the ancestral X chromosome and is hemizygous in males. The faster-X hypothesis predicts that protein evolution should be faster for genes on this chromosomal arm in the D. pseudoobscura lineage, relative to the D. melanogaster lineage. Here we combine new sequence data for 202 gene fragments in Drosophila miranda (in the pseudoobscura species group) with the completed genomes of D. melanogaster,D. pseudoobscura, and Drosophila yakuba to show that there are no detectable differences in rates of amino acid evolution for orthologous X-linked and autosomal genes. Our results imply that the contribution of the faster-X (if any) to the large-X effect on reproductive isolation in Drosophila is not due to a generally faster rate of protein evolution. The lack of a detectable faster-X effect in these species suggests either that beneficial amino acids are not partially recessive on average, or that adaptive evolution does not often use newly arising amino acid mutations.
Evolution of Arabidopsis microRNA families through duplication events
Authors: Maher Christopher , Stein Lincoln , Ware Doreen
Published: March 2006

Recently there has been a great interest in the identification of microRNAs and their targets as well as understanding the spatial and temporal regulation of microRNA genes. To understand how microRNA genes evolve, we looked at several rapidly evolving families in Arabidopsis thaliana, and found that they arose from a process of genome-wide duplication, tandem duplication, and segmental duplication followed by dispersal and diversification, similar to the processes that drive the evolution of protein gene families. Using multiple expression data sets to examine the transcription patterns of different members of the microRNA families, we find the sequence diversification of duplicated microRNA genes to be accompanied by a change in spatial and temporal expression patterns, suggesting that duplicated copies acquire new functionality as they evolve.
Cr(III) reactivity and foot dermatitis in Cr(VI) positive patients
Authors: Hansen Malene Barré , Menné Torkil , Johansen Jeanne Duus
Published: March 2006

Chromium allergy has become synonymous with Cr(VI) allergy. However, real exposure to chromium from leather products may include both Cr(III) and Cr(VI). In this study, we investigate the reactivity to both Cr(VI) and Cr(III) in consecutive patients to analyse the relation between foot eczema/leather exposure and reactivity to Cr(III). From March 2002 to December 2004, 2211 consecutive patients with suspected allergic contact dermatitis were patch tested with 0.5% potassium dichromate (Cr(VI)) and 13% chromium trichloride (Cr(III)). A total of 71 (3.2%) patients had a positive reaction to Cr(VI), of which 31 also had a positive Cr(III) reaction. No Cr(VI) negative patients had a positive reaction to Cr(III). An increased risk of foot dermatitis was found in Cr(VI) positive patients with a concomitant positive or doubtful reaction to Cr(III) compared with Cr(VI) positive patients with no reactions to Cr(III). The increased risk was not due to a higher degree of sensitivity to Cr(VI). Leather was reported most frequently as the suspected cause of chromium dermatitis (54%). However, Cr(VI) allergics having foot eczema and positive or doubtful Cr(III) reactions often had positive reactions to other shoe allergens. Thus, Cr(III) allergy is part of a multiple shoe allergy pattern.
Patch test dose–response study of p‐phenylenediamine: thresholds and anatomical regional differences
Authors: Sosted Heidi , Menné Torkil , Johansen Jeanne Duus
Published: March 2006

The elicitation response in allergic contact dermatitis for the hair dye substance p‐phenylenediamine (PPD) is dose dependent, but threshold concentrations have not previously been investigated. 15 PPD‐sensitive patients participated in a serial dilution 48‐hr patch test with PPD using 8 concentrations of PPD ranging from 1 to 10 000 on the upper back. Petrolatum was applied as control. Three concentrations (50, 100 and 500 p.p.m. PPD) were also applied to the retroauricular area and on the lateral aspects of the upper arms. 14 of the 15 participants reacted to one or more of the test samples. The threshold value for 10% of the tested persons (ED10) based on + or stronger reactions for PPD on the back was 38 p.p.m. (CI: 4.3–100). There were no statistically significant differences in the sensitivity of the three anatomical regions. The upper back is a suitable region for patch testing patients with hair dye dermatitis.
Concomitant contact allergy to the resins, reactive diluents and hardener of a bisphenol A/F‐based epoxy resin in subway construction workers
Authors: Chu Chia‐Yu , Pontén Ann , Sun Chee‐Ching , Jee Shiou‐Hwa
Published: March 2006

An outbreak of suspected contact dermatitis among subway construction workers was suspected to be due to a new bisphenol A/F‐based epoxy resin system (ERS). The construction workers used ERSs during the insertion of iron bars into concrete walls. The objective of the study was to determine the components (if any) of the ERS responsible for the contact allergy. Patch testing was performed on 20 of the 22 construction workers who had had contact with the ERS, and to the various subcomponents of component A on 5 of the 7 who reacted to this component. 9 patients (9/22, 40.9%) had clinical symptoms and signs of suspected contact dermatitis at presentation. 7 of these 9, but none of the 11 asymptomatic individuals, were positive to component A, while all were negative to component B. Of the 5 cases receiving further patch testing, all reacted to m‐xylylene diamine, 4 to 1,6‐hexanediol diglycidyl ether, 3 to epoxy resins of the bisphenol F‐type and trimethylolpropane triglycidyl ether 0.25% petrolatum, and only 1 to epoxy resins of the bisphenol A‐type. Contact allergy to ERSs may involve hardeners and diluents as well as resins, and patch testing for reaction to all components should be performed.
Burying beetleNicrophorus investigatorreproduction on Pacific salmon carcasses
Authors: Hocking M. D. , Ring R. A. , Reimchen T. E.
Published: March 2006

Abstract. 1. In many undisturbed watersheds along the Pacific Rim, anadromous salmon (Oncorhynchusspp.) provide a predictable source of carrion to the riparian zone, largely due to horizontal transfer of salmon carcasses by bears (Ursusspp.) and other vertebrates.

2. Burying beetles are important members of the north‐temperate carrion fauna, and may utilise salmon carcasses and remnants for breeding. In this study, isotopic and observational data are reported that demonstrate previously unrecognisedNicrophorus investigator(Zetterstedt) reproduction on large salmon carcasses from five watersheds in coastal British Columbia.

3. Stable isotope signatures (δ15N and δ13C) of adult beetles collected in autumn indicate a diet of salmon origin in all but one individual from all watersheds, suggesting that this beetle–salmon association is widespread. Comparison of autumn isotope signatures to individuals collected randomly in summer suggests that isotope signatures represent the larval carrion source from the previous autumn rather than immediate adult diet.

4. In a survey ofN. investigatoruse of salmon carcasses from two watersheds, 35 broods were observed on chum and pink salmon carcasses, including 16 natural brood complexes containing over 100 larvae, and five ranging from 250 to 750 larvae.

5. Overall, north‐coastal populations ofN. investigatorbreed on the rich and reliable salmon resource and may exhibit a system of communal breeding on these carcasses. This is most relevant when the dramatic reduction in salmon spawning biomass over the last century is considered.
Effects of human presence on two social wasp species
Authors: Curtis Tracy R. , Stamp Nancy E.
Published: March 2006

Abstract.  1. The effects of human presence on the behavioural response and productivity of a native wasp species of North America (Polistes fuscatus) and an invasive wasp species (Polistes dominulus) were examined in a field experiment. Over a 3‐month period, colonies of each species were exposed to human presence at either low (biweekly) or high (daily) levels. At 2‐week intervals, wasp response to human presence was recorded for all colonies via an index, ranging from no response (0) to an attack (4).

2. The levels of human presence had no effect on wasp response or colony productivity but foundresses of both species increased their response level the closer a human was to the nest. In addition, foundresses of P. fuscatus became more aggressive over time, corresponding to after adult offspring emerged, whereas foundresses of P. dominulus did not change their response level after the emergence of offspring.

3. The adult offspring of P. dominulus responded to human presence at a level similar to that of the foundress, whereas adult offspring of P. fuscatus exhibited a lower response to human presence than that of the foundress. The more distinctive aposematic coloration of P. dominulus may play a role in the behavioural differences between species; it may be more effective in deterring predators, and with the result that leaving the nest to defend it is less often necessary. Accordingly, the less aggressive response to human presence by P. dominulus may contribute to its success as an introduced species in North America.
Optimal number of matings in two aphidophagous ladybirds
Authors: Omkar  , Mishra Geetanjali , Singh Satyendra K.
Published: March 2006

Abstract.  1. The present study was designed to identify the optimal number of matings required for maximum fecundity and egg viability in two aphidophagous ladybirds, Cheilomenes sexmaculata and Propylea dissecta.

2. For this purpose, ladybirds were subjected to different numbers of matings and the reproductive responses were recorded thereafter.

3. The Gompertz model was used to draw asymptotic graphs for fecundity and per cent egg viability in both ladybird species. Ninety‐five per cent and 50% of maximum theoretical fecundity and per cent egg viability were predicted from the model.

4. Ninety‐five per cent maximum theoretical fecundity was obtained after 13.25 and 12.95 matings in C. sexmaculata and P. dissecta, respectively; and 8.95 and 11.25 matings were required for 95% maximum theoretical per cent egg viability in C. sexmaculata and P. dissecta, respectively.

5. The results of these experiments clearly support the existence of an optimal number of matings in these two ladybird species leading to maximum adult fitness.
Does low nutritional quality act as a plant defence? An experimental test of the slow‐growth, high‐mortality hypothesis
Authors: Cornelissen Tatiana , Stiling Peter
Published: March 2006

Abstract.  1. The slow‐growth, high‐mortality hypothesis was experimentally tested in this study by investigating the effects of plant quality and natural enemies on leaf‐miner growth, performance, and survivorship. Two leaf miners (Acrocercops albinatella and Brachys tesselatus) occurring on the turkey oak Quercus laevis were studied using a factorial design that manipulated predation/parasitism pressure and plant nutritional quality.

2. Forty trees were randomly divided into four treatments: (1) control plants (nutrients and natural enemies unaltered); (2) nutrients added, natural enemies unaltered; (3) nutrients unaltered, natural enemies reduced; and (4) nutrients added and natural enemies reduced. Water content, leaf toughness, tannin concentration, and foliar nitrogen were quantified monthly for each plant, and mine growth and survivorship were assessed by tracing mines on a 2–3‐day interval and by following the fates of 50 mines per species per treatment combination.

3. Fertilised plants exhibited significantly higher amounts of nitrogen, but no significant differences among treatments were observed for water content, leaf toughness, and tannin concentration. These results only partially support the slow‐growth, high‐mortality hypothesis, as mines were significantly smaller and developed faster on fertilised plants, but neither fertilisation nor natural enemy exclusion significantly affected mine survivorship or mortality caused by natural enemies.
Interactions between introduced and native predatory ladybirds (Coleoptera, Coccinellidae): factors influencing the success of species introductions
Authors: Kajita Yukie , Takano Fumiyo , Yasuda Hironori , Evans Edward W.
Published: March 2006

Abstract.  1. Why some exotic species invade successfully while others do not is poorly understood. This study focuses on the inability of the exotic predatory ladybird Adalia bipunctata (L.) (Coleoptera, Coccinellidae) to establish and spread in Japan. In particular, this study considers the interactions between A. bipunctata and three native Japanese ladybird species, Harmonia axyridis Pallas, Coccinella septempunctata Linn., and Propylea japonica Mulsant.

2. The number of aphids occurring on the host plants declined dramatically over the course of larval development in the presence of H. axyridis or C. septempunctata. In contrast, many aphids remained at the end of the experiment when only A. bipunctata or P. japonica was present.

3. The survivorship of A. bipunctata from second instar to adult was significantly reduced in the presence of H. axyridis, but not in the presence of C. septempunctata or P. japonica. Most deaths were the result of intra‐guild predation when H. axyridis or C. septempunctata larvae were present. Larvae of H. axyridis and C. septempunctata suffered very high mortality in this experiment, but survived better when co‐occurring with A. bipunctata than when occurring only with conspecifics. In contrast, P. japonica survived better when occurring with conspecifics than with A. bipunctata.

4. The finding that larvae of the exotic species A. bipunctata died at high rates from intra‐guild predation by the native Japanese ladybirds H. axyridis and C. septempunctata may bear on the question of why A. bipunctata has not established more successfully in Japan whereas H. axyridis and C. septempunctata have been very successful in establishing themselves in North America.
The role of silk threads as lifelines for caterpillars: pattern and significance of lifeline‐climbing behaviour
Authors: Sugiura Shinji , Yamazaki Kazuo
Published: March 2006

Abstract.  1. Most lepidopteran larvae use all of their legs (thoracic legs and abdominal prolegs) when walking on solid substrates. When caterpillars involuntarily or intentionally drop from the tree canopy, they can regain their original position by climbing silk lifelines spun out from the head spinnerets. However, the taxonomic distribution of this climbing behaviour in the Lepidoptera is unknown.

2. Here, lifeline‐climbing behaviour is reported in 13 lepidopteran species belonging to different taxa (five superfamilies and six families: Zygaenidae, Drepanidae, Geometridae, Lymantriidae, Noctuidae, and Nymphalidae). Caterpillars usually used only the three pairs of thoracic legs to climb lifelines, although they use different methods to walk on solid substrates, according to their taxonomic grouping and number of prolegs.

3. Results suggest that lifeline‐climbing behaviour using only the thoracic legs is common among various lepidopteran taxa. The majority of species (12 of 13) climbed lifelines by alternating movement of the left and right set of thoracic legs, aided by side‐to‐side body movements. Only one of the 13 species, the geometrid Naxa seriaria (Motschulsky), climbed lifelines by drawing them down with its thoracic legs, aided by abdominal looping movements. While side‐to‐side movement of the abdomen was previously reported in lifeline climbing, this is the first report of the use of looping movements.
Changes in needle quality and larch bud moth performance in response to CO2 enrichment and defoliation of treeline larches
Authors: Asshoff Roman , Hättenschwiler Stephan
Published: March 2006

Abstract.  1. It is hypothesised that the larch bud moth cycle is controlled by host‐tree foliage quality. In a Free Air CO2 Enrichment (FACE) experiment at the Swiss alpine treeline (2180 m a.s.l.), the effects of elevated CO2 and previous year defoliation on needle quality of larch and the performance of the larch bud moth were investigated.

2. Starch and lignin concentrations increased and water content decreased in elevated CO2‐grown needles compared with ambient CO2 concentration. Defoliation resulted in reduced N, water, starch, and sugar concentrations in needles of the next year generation. No interactions between elevated CO2 and defoliation on needle quality were observed.

3. Needle quality changes due to needle maturation over the course of the experiment, however, were much larger than the effects of elevated CO2 and defoliation. For example, N concentration was on average 38% lower and lignin concentration 55% higher at the end of the experiment (early July 2003) than at the beginning (mid June 2003).

4. On non‐defoliated trees, larch bud moth larvae grew somewhat more slowly under elevated CO2 compared with ambient CO2 concentration. If, however, trees had been defoliated, this response was reversed, with a faster growth of larch bud moth on high CO2‐exposed trees than on control trees. Pupal weight was not affected by either CO2 treatment or defoliation.

5. These results suggest that the larch bud moth has to cope with large changes in food quality due to needle maturation during its development, and that additional CO2‐ and defoliation‐induced alterations in needle chemistry have comparatively minor influences on larch bud moth performance at the treeline.
Convergence of chemical mimicry in a guild of aphid predators
Authors: Lohman David J. , Liao Qing , Pierce Naomi E.
Published: March 2006

Abstract.  1. A variety of insects prey on honeydew‐producing Homoptera and many do so even in the presence of ants that tend, and endeavour to protect, these trophobionts from natural enemies. Few studies have explored the semiochemical mechanisms by which these predators circumvent attack by otherwise aggressive ants.

2. Ants use specific mixtures of cuticular hydrocarbons (CHCs) as recognition labels, but this simple mechanism is frequently circumvented by nest parasites that engage in ‘chemical mimicry’ of their host ants by producing or acquiring a critical suite of these CHCs.

3. Analysis of the CHCs from the North American woolly alder aphid, Prociphilus tessellatus (Homoptera: Aphididae), their tending ants, and aphid predators from three insect orders, Feniseca tarquinius (Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae), Chrysopa slossonae (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae), and Syrphus ribesii (Diptera: Syrphidae), showed that while the CHC profile of each predatory species was distinct, each was chemically more similar to the aphids than to either tending ant species. Further, the CHCs of each predator species were a subset of the compounds found in the aphids' profile.

4. These results implicate CHCs as a recognition cue used by ants to discriminate trophobionts from potential prey and a probable mechanism by which trophobiont predators circumvent detection by aphids and their tending ants.

5. Although several features of the aphids' CHC profile are shared among the chemically mimetic taxa, variation in the precision of mimicry among the members of this predatory guild demonstrates that a chemical mimic need not replicate every feature of its model.
Between‐clutch interactions affect a benefit of group feeding for pipevine swallowtail larvae
Authors: Fordyce J. A.
Published: March 2006

Abstract.  1. In California, early instar larvae of the pipevine swallowtail (Battus philenor) develop at an accelerated rate when feeding in large groups compared with small groups due to a plant‐mediated response to feeding group size. Larvae benefit from accelerated growth because the time larvae remain in early stages, where mortality is highest, is reduced. Occasionally, multiple clutches are laid on the same plant stem. Clutch size modification by females ovipositing on plant with previously laid clutches and the effect of kinship and group size on larval behaviour was examined. The direct and indirect interactions between clutches were investigated to determine if group size and time between clutch establishment affects the performance of early instar larvae.

2. Larger groups consume the young foliage more quickly and develop at an accelerated rate compared with smaller groups. Older foliage available to later clutches is an inferior food resource compared with younger foliage.

3. There was no evidence that females adjust clutch size in response to the presence of conspecific clutches.

4. Second groups of larvae readily joined previously established feeding groups. There were no observed behavioural differences between sibling and mixed‐family groups.

5. The effect of a second group on the growth of the initial group was dependent on the size of both groups and the time interval between the arrival of the two groups.

6. Accelerated growth associated with larger feeding aggregations was absent when these groups were introduced to plants with previously established groups.

7. It is beneficial for ovipositing females to avoid plants with previously laid clutches because direct and indirect interactions with established clutches compromises larval performance.
Trade‐off between mobility and fitness inCydia pomonellaL. (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae)
Authors: Gu Hainan , Hughes Jacqueline , Dorn Silvia
Published: March 2006

Abstract. 1. The codling mothCydia pomonella, one of the most important pest insects of apple fruit orchards worldwide, is regarded as a ‘sedentary’ insect, but the natural populations consist of both mobile and sedentary genotypes that display different dispersal capacity in the field. The current study investigated whether there is a fitness consequence of being mobile in this species by comparing two strains with contrasting levels of mobility obtained through bi‐directional selection.

2. Female moths of the sedentary strain were significantly larger, laid more eggs during their lifespan, and both male and female moths of this strain lived longer, when compared with the mobile strain.

3. The age‐specific fecundity of female moths from the sedentary strain was significantly greater, in particular between 3 and 5 days after emergence when the peaks of both oviposition and flight capacity occur, relative to the mobile moths, thereby leading to a greater reproductive function.

4. These differences resulted in different demographic parameters between the two strains. The sedentary strain had a significantly greater net reproductive rate (Ro) and a higher intrinsic rate of natural increase (rm), although the generation time (T) was similar, hence requiring a shorter time to double the population size, in comparison to the mobile strain.

5. This study provides empirical evidence for the cost of being mobile inC. pomonella. Trade‐offs between mobility and fitness might have contributed to the existence of genetic variance for dispersal behaviour in the natural populations and the maintenance of relative sedentariness in the species.
Is natural selection a plausible explanation for the distribution of Idh‐1 alleles in the cricket Allonemobius socius?
Authors: Huestis Diana L. , Marshall Jeremy L.
Published: March 2006

Abstract.  1. Allozyme alleles in natural populations have been proposed as either neutral markers of genetic diversity or the product of natural selection on enzyme function, as amino acid substitutions that change electrophoretic mobility may also alter enzyme performance. To address these possibilities, researchers have used both correlative analyses and empirical studies.

2. Here, geographically structured variation of the enzyme isocitrate dehydrogenase (Idh‐1) in the striped ground cricket Allonemobius socius Scudder (Orthoptera: Gryllidae) is examined. The distributions of Idh‐1 alleles appear to be related to environmental gradients, as allele frequencies showed significant relationships with mean annual temperature and precipitation. Specifically, the slowest mobility allele was more frequent at colder temperatures, while the converse occurred for the fastest mobility allele.

3. An exploratory experiment was performed to examine fitness effects of possessing different Idh‐1 alleles at two temperatures to test the hypothesis that the geographic structure of this locus may reflect environmental adaptation. Results showed that a significant interaction between temperature and Idh‐1 genotype affected the number of eggs laid, with success of homozygous individuals matching environmental expectations.

4. The above results show that (1) variation in the frequency of Idh‐1 alleles is significantly related to environmental gradients in the eastern U.S.A. and (2) alternative alleles of Idh‐1 appear to influence the egg‐laying ability of individuals differently depending on environmental temperature. Together, these results suggest that natural selection is a plausible mechanism underlying the distribution of Idh‐1 alleles in this species, although more detailed studies are needed.
European Federation of Neurological Societies/Peripheral Nerve Society Guideline* on management of multifocal motor neuropathy. Report of a joint task force of the European Federation of Neurological Societies and the Peripheral Nerve Society
Authors:   Joint Task Force of the EFNS and the PNS
Published: March 2006

Abstract  Background: Several diagnostic criteria for multifocal motor neuropathy (MMN) have been proposed in recent years, and a beneficial effect of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) and various other immunomodulatory drugs has been suggested in several trials and uncontrolled studies. Objectives: The aim of this guideline was to prepare consensus guidelines on the definition, investigation, and treatment of MMN. Methods: Disease experts and a representative of patients considered references retrieved from MEDLINE and the Cochrane Library in July 2004 and prepared statements that were agreed in an iterative fashion. Recommendations: The Task Force agreed on good practice points to define clinical and electrophysiological diagnostic criteria for MMN and investigations to be considered. The principal recommendations and good practice points were as follows: (1) IVIg (2 g/kg given over 2–5 days) should be considered as the first line of treatment (level A recommendation) when disability is sufficiently severe to warrant treatment; (2) corticosteroids are not recommended (good practice point); (3) if initial treatment with IVIg is effective, repeated IVIg treatment should be considered (level C recommendation). The frequency of IVIg maintenance therapy should be guided by the individual response (good practice point). Typical treatment regimens are 1 g/kg every 2–4 weeks or 2 g/kg every 4–8 weeks (good practice point); (4) if IVIg is not (or not sufficiently) effective, then immunosuppressive treatment may be considered. Cyclophosphamide, cyclosporine, azathioprine, interferon‐β1a, or rituximab are possible agents (good practice point); and (5) toxicity makes cyclophosphamide a less desirable option (good practice point).
European Federation of Neurological Societies/Peripheral Nerve Society Guideline* on management of paraproteinemic demyelinating neuropathies. Report of a joint task force of the European Federation of Neurological Societies and the Peripheral Nerve Society
Authors:   Joint Task Force of the EFNS and the PNS
Published: March 2006

Abstract  Background: Paraprotein‐associated neuropathies have heterogeneous clinical, neurophysiological, neuropathological, and hematological features. Objectives: The aim of this guideline was to prepare evidence‐based and consensus guidelines on the clinical management of patients with both a demyelinating neuropathy and a paraprotein [paraproteinemic demyelinating neuropathy (PDN)]. Methods: Disease experts and a representative of patients considered references retrieved from MEDLINE and the Cochrane Library and prepared statements that were agreed in an iterative fashion. Recommendations: In the absence of adequate data, evidence‐based recommendations were not possible, but the Task Force agreed on the following good practice points: (1) patients with PDN should be investigated for a malignant plasma cell dyscrasia; (2) the paraprotein is more likely to be causing the neuropathy if the paraprotein is immunoglobulin M (IgM), antibodies are present in serum or on biopsy, or the clinical phenotype is chronic distal sensory neuropathy; (3) patients with IgM PDN usually have predominantly distal and sensory impairment, with prolonged distal motor latencies, and often anti‐myelin‐associated glycoprotein antibodies; (4) IgM PDN sometimes responds to immunotherapies. Their potential benefit should be balanced against their possible side effects and the usually slow disease progression; (5) IgG and IgA PDN may be indistinguishable from chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy clinically, electrophysiologically, and in response to treatment; and (6) for POEMS syndrome, local irradiation or resection of an isolated plasmacytoma, or melphalan with or without corticosteroids, should be considered, with hemato‐oncology advice.
Combined nerve and muscle biopsy in the diagnosis of vasculitic neuropathy. A 16‐year retrospective study of 202 cases
Authors: Vital Claude , Vital Anne , Canron Marie‐Hélène , Jaffré Anne , Viallard Jean‐Franois , Ragnaud Jean‐Marie , Brechenmacher Christiane , Lagueny Alain
Published: March 2006

Abstract  We reviewed 202 biopsies performed on patients with suspected vasculitic neuropathy, of which 24 Churg‐Strauss cases are studied separately. Specimens from the superficial peroneal nerve and peroneus brevis muscle were taken simultaneously by one incision. Without taking into account constitutional signs, systemic involvement was present in 131 patients, whereas the remaining 47 corresponded to non‐systemic patients with lesions limited to peripheral nervous system and adjoining muscles. Diagnosis of panarteritis nodosa or microscopic polyangiitis, according to the size of involved vessels, was attested by an infiltration of vessel walls by inflammatory cells associated with fibrinoid necrosis or sclerosis. Microvasculitis was diagnosed when inflammatory infiltration concerned small vessels with few or no smooth‐muscle fibers and without any necrosis. Microvasculitis was present in 11 of 46 non‐systemic cases, and this predominance is statistically significant. Isolated perivascular cell infiltrates in the epineurium were considered not significant but allowed the diagnosis of ‘probable vasculitis’ if associated with at least one of the following features: regenerating small vessels, endoneurial purpura, asymmetric nerve fiber loss, and/or asymmetric acute axonal degeneration. Necrotizing vasculitis was visible in 60 cases: in nerve (16 cases), in muscle (19 cases), and both (25 cases). Microvasculitis was present in 25 cases: in nerve (19 cases), muscle (four cases), or both (two cases). Moreover, granulomatous vasculitis was found in the nerve of one non‐systemic patient presenting also sarcoid granulomas in muscle. There were 24 ‘probable vasculitis’ and 68 negative cases. Muscle biopsy improved the yield of definite vasculitis by 27%.
Pathogenesis of chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy
Authors: Hughes Richard A. C. , Allen David , Makowska Anna , Gregson Norman A.
Published: March 2006

Abstract  The acute lesions of chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy (CIDP) consist of endoneurial foci of chemokine and chemokine receptor expression and T cell and macrophage activation. The myelin protein antigens, P2, P0, and PMP22, each induce experimental autoimmune neuritis in rodent models and might be autoantigens in CIDP. The strongest evidence incriminates P0, to which antibodies have been found in 20% of cases. Failure of regulatory T‐cell mechanism is thought to underlie persistent or recurrent disease, differentiating CIDP from the acute inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy form of Guillain‐Barré syndrome. Corticosteroids, intravenous immunoglobulin and plasma exchange each provide short term benefit but the possible long‐term benefits of immunosuppressive drugs have yet to be confirmed in randomised, controlled trials.
Acute steroid responsive small‐fiber sensory neuropathy: a new entity?
Authors: Dabby Ron , Gilad Ronit , Sadeh Menachem , Lampl Yair , Watemberg Nathan
Published: March 2006

Abstract  Small‐fiber neuropathy is often idiopathic and commonly follows a chronic course. Treatment is often effective in treating the core symptom of pain, but it has no effect on the pathologic process. We describe four patients with acute small‐fiber neuropathy who responded dramatically to steroid therapy. All patients had acute onset neuropathic pain, normal nerve conduction studies, and evidence of small‐fiber dysfunction in quantitative sensory testing and skin biopsy. Symptoms were distal and symmetrical in three patients and generalized in one patient. In two cases, the neuropathy presented as an erythromelalgia‐like syndrome. Marked clinical improvement occurred 1–2 weeks after oral prednisone therapy was initiated. Three patients remained symptom free, and one patient experienced recurrence of neuropathy after prednisone was tapered.
Fas‐mediated T‐cell apoptosis is impaired in patients with chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy
Authors: Comi Cristoforo , Gaviani Paola , Leone Maurizio , Ferretti Massimo , Castelli Luca , Mesturini Riccardo , Ubezio Gianluca , Chiocchetti Annalisa , Osio Maurizio , Muscia Francesco , Bogliun Graziella , Corso Giovanni , Gavazzi Armando , Mariani Claudio , Cantello Roberto , Monaco Francesco , Dianzani Umberto
Published: March 2006

Abstract  The Fas death receptor is expressed by activated lymphocytes and is involved in switching‐off the immune response. Its inherited defects cause auto‐immune lymphoproliferative syndrome. Impaired Fas function may also play a role in other auto‐immune diseases, such as multiple sclerosis and type 1 diabetes mellitus. The aim of this work was to evaluate Fas function in T cells from patients with chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP). We evaluated Fas‐induced apoptosis in T‐cell lines from 27 patients with CIDP, 12 patients with acute inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (AIDP), and 110 controls. CIDP patients displayed lower Fas function than both AIDP patients and controls, whereas no statistically significant difference was found between AIDP patients and controls. Moreover, Fas function was lower in CIDP patients with progressive course than in those with relapsing–remitting course and lower in CIDP patients with axonal damage than in those with pure demyelination. These data suggest that defective Fas function favours CIDP development and aggressive evolution.
Circulating levels of cytokines and their modulation by intravenous immunoglobulin in multifocal motor neuropathy
Authors: Terenghi Fabrizia , Allaria Silvia , Nobile‐Orazio Eduardo
Published: March 2006

Abstract  We found comparable levels of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α, interferon‐γ, interleukin (IL)‐2, IL‐4, IL‐10, and IL‐12 in the sera of 22 patients with multifocal motor neuropathy (MMN), 12 with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), 12 multiple sclerosis, seven chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy, five myasthenia gravis, and 13 healthy controls (NS). TNF‐α levels, however, were higher in 15 (68%) MMN patients than in any NS. In all but one MMN patient tested, TNF‐α levels repeatedly, albeit slightly, increased after each intravenous immunoglobulin infusion in parallel with clinical improvement and decreased 3–4 weeks after therapy, while in both ALS patients tested, they decreased or remained unchanged. The possible pathogenetic relevance of serum TNF‐α modification in MMN remains to be clarified.
Acetyl‐l‐carnitine in the treatment of painful antiretroviral toxic neuropathy in human immunodeficiency virus patients: an open label study
Authors: Osio Maurizio , Muscia Francesco , Zampini Luisa , Nascimbene Caterina , Mailland Enrico , Cargnel Antonietta , Mariani Claudio
Published: March 2006

Abstract  Antiretroviral toxic neuropathy causes morbidity in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) patients under dideoxynucleoside therapy, benefits only partially from medical therapy, and often leads to drug discontinuation. Proposed pathogeneses include a disorder of mitochondrial oxidative metabolism, eventually related to a reduction of mitochondrial DNA content, and interference with nerve growth factor activity. Carnitine is a substrate of energy production reactions in mitochondria and is involved in many anabolic reactions. Acetyl carnitine treatment promotes peripheral nerve regeneration and has neuroprotective properties and a direct analgesic role related to glutamatergic and cholinergic modulation. The aim of this study was to evaluate acetyl‐l‐carnitine in the treatment of painful antiretroviral toxic neuropathy in HIV patients. Twenty subjects affected by painful antiretroviral toxic neuropathy were treated with oral acetyl‐l‐carnitine at a dose of 2,000 mg/day for a 4‐week period. Efficacy was evaluated by means of the modified Short Form McGill Pain Questionnaire with each item rated on an 11‐point intensity scale at weekly intervals and by electromyography at baseline and final visit. Mean pain intensity score was significantly reduced during the study, changing from 7.35 ± 1.98 (mean ± SD) at baseline to 5.80 ± 2.63 at week 4 (p = 0.0001). Electrophysiological parameters did not significantly change between baseline and week 4. In this study, acetyl‐l‐carnitine was effective and well tolerated in symptomatic treatment of painful neuropathy associated with antiretroviral toxicity. On the contrary, no effect was noted on neurophysiological parameters.
Fexofenadine, an H1‐receptor antagonist, partially but rapidly inhibits the itch of contact dermatitis induced by diphenylcyclopropenone in patients with alopecia areata
Authors: KATAGIRI Kazumoto , ARAKAWA Shoko , HATANO Yutaka , FUJIWARA Sakuhei
Published: March 2006

Antihistamines have been used for the treatment of not only allergic diseases such as allergic urticaria and rhinitis, but also of eczematous skin diseases because of their anti‐pruritic effects. Moreover, the pruritus associated with eczematous diseases is considered to be induced, in part, by histamine. However, it is unclear whether antihistamines inhibit the itch of eczematous diseases in the absence of topical corticosteroids. In this study, we investigated the anti‐pruritic effect of the antihistamine, fexofenadine, on the itch of contact dermatitis that was induced by topical application of diphenylcyclopropenone for the treatment for alopecia areata. Thirteen patients with alopecia areata, who had been treated weekly with topical immunotherapy with diphenylcyclopropenone for 3 months to 2 years, recorded the severity of their itching on a visual analog scale before and 3, 6, 12, 24, 48 and 72 h after application of diphenylcyclopropenone for 4 consecutive weeks. Seven patients took fexofenadine during the first and third weeks, and six patients took fexofenadine during the second and fourth weeks. The severity of itching reached a maximum 6–12 h after the induction of the contact dermatitis in most of the patients. However, fexofenadine partially but rapidly reduced the severity of itching for 72 h during the entire period of treatment in the absence of topical corticosteroids. Our results suggest that fexofenadine can be beneficial in the daily management of patients with itching due to eczematous disease.
Effects of a multilamellar emulsion on glucocorticoid‐induced epidermal atrophy and barrier impairment
Authors: AHN Sung K. , BAK Hana N. , PARK Byeong D. , KIM Yang H. , YOUM Jong K. , CHOI Eung H. , HONG Seung P. , LEE Seung H.
Published: March 2006

Skin atrophy is one of the most frequent side‐effects of the topical glucocorticoid. Skin barrier impairment has also been reported as a steroid‐induced side effect. Although there have been various studies on preventing or minimizing this atrophogenic effect, little has been reported about preventing barrier impairment. This study was performed to determine the effects of a multilamellar emulsion (MLE) that had a well‐ordered lamellar structure on the steroid‐induced barrier impairment and epidermal atrophy. To confirm these effects of MLE, 0.05% clobetasol‐17‐propionate (CP) and 0.05% clobetasol‐17‐propionate in MLE (MLE/CP) were topically applied to both flanks of hairless mice for 9 days. The topically applied CP induced a significant impairment of the epidermal permeability barrier, and MLE/CP also did not have a preventive effect on this change. However, skinfold thickness studies and histological studies showed that MLE/CP significantly reduced the steroid‐induced atrophy. The topical application of MLE/CP was also shown to have a preventive effect on the steroid‐induced increase of the stratum corneum (SC) surface pH. In addition, the electron microscopic findings showed relatively well‐conserved lamellar bilayers in the skin treated with MLE, as compared to CP only. The results showed that the topical application of MLE immediately after CP treatment prevented the glucocorticoid‐induced transepidermal water loss values increase. Light microscopy measurements showed that the skin treated with MLE immediately after CP treatment for 1 week had a slightly lower decline of skin thickness than did the CP‐treated skin. These results suggest that MLE should be effective for preventing glucocorticoid‐induced epidermal atrophy and for repairing the barrier impairment.
Basal cell carcinoma in Turkey
Authors: TIFTIKCIOĞLU Yiğit Özer , KARAASLAN Önder , AKSOY Hasan Mete , AKSOY Berna , KOÇER Uğur
Published: March 2006

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common form of cancer in Caucasians. This study was undertaken to define clinical features of BCC treated by surgical excision in Turkish patients. One‐hundred and ninety‐eight patients with 216 BCC, all treated by surgical excision, were studied prospectively. Age and sex distribution, personal and family history, skin type, site and size of the lesions, clinical type of the lesions, status of surgical margins and incidence of recurrence were analyzed. The male to female ratio was 9:10, and the average age of the patients was 64.5 years. Of the tumors, 91.5% occurred on the head and neck. There was also personal and/or family history of cancer in 24.8% of our cases. Of all BCC treated, 83.8% had a noduloulcerative clinical appearance. The vast majority of our patients were Fitzpatrick type 3 (53.0%) and type 2 (41.5%). There were seven recurrences after follow‐up periods varying between 3 months and 2 years. In conclusion, clinical characteristics of BCC in Turkish patients have both similarities and differences compared with other countries.
Dermoscopic patterns of the filiform papillae of the tongue in patients with Sjögren's syndrome
Authors: MAEDA Manabu
Published: March 2006

The purpose of this study was to determine whether there are any differences in the appearance of tongue‐surface structure in different kinds of collagen diseases, because red tongue is well known to be a very important feature of suspected Sjögren's syndrome (Sjs). To clarify some features of the filiform papillae on the dorsal surfaces of the tongues of patients with speculated Sjs, we observed a total of 565 individuals with primary Sjs (n = 24, M/F = 0/24), secondary Sjs (n = 16, M/F = 1/15), possible Sjs (n = 96, M/F = 21/75), collagen diseases (CD) (n = 55, M/F = 15/40; 15 SSc, 10 SLE 10, two MCTD, six dermatomyositis, and 22 others), various cutaneous disorders (n = 324, M/F = 118/206), and healthy controls (HC) (n = 50, M/F = 32/18) by using a dermopscope. The average ages of the patients with Sjs, CD (non‐Sjs), cutaneous disorders (non‐Sjs/CD), and HC were 56.4 14.8, 55.1 116.4, 51.1 121.2, and 37.1 110.6 years of age, respectively. The filiform papillae were classified into four patterns by their structural characteristics: normal papillae (no abnormality with clear cornified tips) (pattern I, n = 162), slightly rounded papillae with unclear cornified tips (pattern II, n = 239), rounded papillae without cornified tips (pattern III, n = 86), and completely flattened papillae (pattern IV, n = 28). Their patterns were reversely related to the volume of salivary fluid (gum test) (P = 0.046) and the degree of furor coating of the tongue (P = 0.051). Pattern IV is predominant in definitive Sjs (primary and secondary Sjs) (n = 15; 53.6%) with positive anti‐SS‐A or ‐B antibody (n = 8) with a specificity of 53.6% and a sensitivity of 36.6%. The present dermoscopic finding that the completely flattened pattern (IV) is predominant in definite Sjs patients may indicate a useful marker for suspicion of Sjs.