bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Precautions and Suggestions for Pemphigus Patients
Authors: Ruocco Eleonora , Aurilia Anna , Ruocco Vincenzo
Published: April 2003

The onset and course of pemphigus are often the result of an interaction between predisposing genetic factors and environmental triggering agents. The latter are heterogeneous, numerous and increasing, ranging from drug intake (the commonest cause of pemphigus induction) to the exposure to physical agents (heat, UV and ionizing rays, surgical and cosmetic procedures), viral infections (especially by herpesvirus), contact dermatitis, certain diet ingredients and even emotional stress. Alerting physicians and pemphigus patients to the effects that unsuspected precipitating factors may have on the progression of the disease is an important task. In fact, avoiding or limiting deleterious habits (e.g. overindulging in unnecessary drugs) and suggesting alternative ways (e.g. substituting potentially pemphigus-inducing drugs with others considered harmless in this respect) may be a useful precaution in the management of pemphigus patients, since it can improve the efficacy of conventional treatments, reduce the risks of relapses and sometimes result in a cure.
Paradominant Inheritance May Explain Familial Occurrence of Cutis marmorata telangiectatica congenita
Authors: Danarti Retno , Happle Rudolf , König Arne
Published: April 2003

Cutis marmorata telangiectatica congenita (CMTC) is a rare congenital vascular anomaly that virtually always occurs sporadically and in a patchy, quadrant, unilateral or otherwise segmental manifestation. This would suggest mosaicism of a postzygotic mutation. Some authors, however, described CMTC occurring in several members of a family. This paradox may be explained by the concept of paradominant inheritance. Heterozygous individuals carrying a ‘paradominant’ mutation are, as a rule, phenotypically normal. The mutation can therefore be transmitted unperceived through many generations. The trait only becomes manifest when a postzygotic mutation occurring during early embryogenesis gives rise to loss of heterozygosity and forms a mosaic population of cells being either homozygous or hemizygous for the mutation. This concept may explain the occasional familial occurrence of CMTC.
Prognostic Value of Tyrosinase Reverse-Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction in Metastatic Melanoma
Authors: Quereux G. , Denis M. , Khammari A. , Lustenberger P. , Dreno B.
Published: April 2003

Background: Circulating tumor cells can now be identified in subjects with metastatic melanoma by using the reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) to detect the messenger RNA of tyrosinase, a key enzyme of melanogenesis. Aim and Methods: The aim of this study was to determine whether the detection of positive tyrosinase cells in patients at metastatic stage was associated with a worse evolution. 32 patients were included with metastatic melanoma (AJCC IV). Results: 66% had a positive tyrosinase RT-PCR and a shorter survival compared with patients with a negative RT-PCR, but this difference is not statistically significant. However, a positive test could appear indicative of rapid progression and poor prognosis. Conclusion: The prognostic value of this method could be improved by combining it with PCR of other melanoma markers (Melan A, Mage 3) or assays of serum markers (S 100 protein or lactate dehydrogenase).
Dihydroxyacetone in a New Formulation – A Powerful Therapeutic Option in Vitiligo
Authors: Fesq H. , Brockow K. , Strom K. , Mempel M. , Ring J. , Abeck D.
Published: April 2003

Background: Most treatment protocols for vitiligo require a long treatment duration and usually do not result in complete repigmentation. Therefore, cosmetically acceptable and easily to handle alternatives are warranted. Objective: To evaluate the properties of dihydroxyacetone (DHA) in a new formulation for the treatment of vitiligo on exposed areas. Methods: We treated 10 patients suffering from vitiligo affecting the face and/or hands with a newly introduced, commercially available self-bronzing cream containing DHA 5%. DHA was applied every second day. Results: The characteristic pigmentation showed very satisfactory cosmetic results in 8 out of 10 patients after 2 weeks of treatment. Conclusion: The new DHA formulation is a practical and well-accepted treatment modality.
Seborrheic Keratosis with Compound Nevus, Junctional Nevus and Basal Cell Carcinoma in the Same Lesion
Authors: Betti Roberto , Menni Silvano , Cerri Amilcare , Vergani Raffaella , Crosti Carlo
Published: April 2003

Seborrheic keratosis can be associated with different neoplasms such as basal cell carcinomas, squamous cell carcinomas and melanomas. We describe an unusual case of a man who presented with a brown plaque on his back. The clinical diagnosis was melanoma. Histopathologic examination of the lesion revealed four neoplasms: a compound nevus, a junctional nevus, a superficial basal cell carcinoma and a seborrheic keratosis. Although this association most likely represents a chance phenomenon, we discuss the possibility that the seborrheic keratosis developed from the nevus, and that subsequently the junctional nevus and the basal cell carcinoma developed from the seborrheic keratosis.
Diagnosing Pemphigus foliaceus: A Retrospective Analysis of Clinical, Histological and Immunological Criteria
Authors: Delmonte Sergio , Kanitakis Jean , Cozzani Emanuele , Parodi Aurora , Rebora Alfredo
Published: April 2003

Background: Clinical, histological and immunological criteria distinguish pemphigus foliaceus (PF) from pemphigus vulgaris (PV), but whether and how often they are concordant in the same patient is unknown. Methods: Seven clinical records were selected from two hospital settings for having a diagnosis of PF and the initial serum and histopathological specimens still available. Controls were 8 PV records selected in the same way. Histopathological slides were re-evaluated. Stored sera were studied by indirect immunofluorescence (IIF), Western blot and ELISA. Results: Acantholysis was superficial in all PF patients and deep in all PV patients. Mucosal lesions were not exclusive of PV. IIF was positive in 43% of PF patients. Western blot revealed desmoglein 1 in 86% of PF patients and in 25% of PV. ELISA revealed anti-desmoglein-1 antibodies in up to 71% of PF and in 62% of PV patients, in 1 failing to detect anti-desmoglein-3 antibodies. Conclusions: Histopathology remains the most reliable criterion for diagnosing PF. Western blot and ELISA, especially in combination, may be only of confirmatory value.
Treatment of Idiopathic Palmar Hyperhidrosis with Botulinum Toxin
Authors: Vadoud-Seyedi J. , Heenen M. , Simonart T.
Published: April 2003

Background: Botulinum toxin represents a novel therapeutic option for idiopathic palmar hyperhidrosis. However, so far there is no consensus on the way to administer botulinum toxin in this indication. Moreover, its use is limited by severe pain during the injections, especially with subepidermal injections close to ‘free nerve endings’. Objectives: To analyze the effectiveness and tolerability of intracutaneous injections of botulinum toxin after nerve blocks and to review the techniques of injections and the results reported by other groups. Methods: Twenty-three adult patients with refractory palmar hyperhidrosis were treated with intracutaneous injections of botulinum toxin after ulnar and median nerve blocks. Patients were followed up on a monthly basis. Results: In all patients botulinum toxin abolished sweating in the injected areas within 1 week. Anhidrosis lasted for 4–13 months. The intensity of pain was rated as absent (n = 13), mild (n = 8) or moderate (n = 2). Other side effects included hematoma (n = 2) and pain consecutive to nerve block (n = 1). Discussion: Intracutaneous injections of botulinum toxin after median and ulnar nerve block represent an effective and mildly painful technique to treat palmar hyperhidrosis and may be as safe as subepidermal injections.
Eruptive Syringomas with Calcium Deposits in a Young Woman with Down’s Syndrome
Authors: Schepis C. , Torre V. , Siragusa M. , Albiero F. , Cicciarello R. , Gagliardi M.E. , Cavallari V.
Published: April 2003

Eruptive syringomas are uncommon in the general population. We describe here an 18-year-old female, affected by Down’s syndrome, who presented with an abrupt eruption of small skin-colored or reddish papules on the face, neck and limbs. Light microscopy allowed us to diagnose syringomas, whereas the study of the ultrastructural features revealed calcium deposits in many lumina and also in the mitochondria. This observation confirms the hypothesis that the syringeal structure plays a role in the pathogenesis of calcinosis cutis.
Perception of Baldness and Hair Density
Authors: Vecchio F. , Guarrera M. , Rebora A.
Published: April 2003

Background: Androgenetic alopecia needs to be scored precisely. Objective: A possible measure is the ratio between the hair density in the parietal area and that in the occipital area which, being not affected by baldness, supposedly has a ‘normal’ density. Methods: On the vertex and just below the occipital protuberance of 109 men, two 1-cm2 areas were identified. In both areas, hairs were clipped short and photographed by a videomicroscope. Hairs were then counted within a 30-mm2-wide central square section. Results: In the occipital area, the average count was 127/cm2, without differences among the Hamilton/Norwood classes. In the parietal area, the average density significantly diminished from 138 to 47/cm2. A main difference was found between classes 1–3 vertex and classes 4–6. Conclusions: The parietal/occipital ratio decreased significantly only when baldness was clinically manifest. The parietal/occipital ratio cannot be a better measure of baldness severity than the rough Hamilton/Norwood scale. The perception of early baldness does not depend on the diminished hair density, but also on the progressive thinning of the hair shafts.
Diagnostic Features of Pemphigus vulgaris in Patients with Bullous Pemphigoid
Authors: Sami Naveed , Bhol Kailash C. , Beutner Ernst H. , Plunkett Richard W. , Leiferman Kristin M. , Ahmed A. Razzaque
Published: April 2003

Background: The simultaneous presence of features of pemphigus vulgaris (PV) in patients with bullous pemphigoid (BP) has previously been reported in the literature. Objective: The purpose of this retrospective study is to present 13 patients with an initial diagnosis of BP, who subsequently demonstrated coexistent serological features of both BP and PV. Methods: The following information on each patient was documented, at the time of initial diagnosis: clinical profile on presentation, histology, direct immunofluorescence, indirect immunofluorescence (IIF) using monkey esophagus as substrate, salt-split skin (SSS) and an immunoblot assay. Since all 13 patients failed to respond to conventional systemic therapy, intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) was used as an alternative treatment modality. Prior to initiating IVIg therapy, in all 13 patients, serological studies were performed. In addition to IIF using monkey esophagus, an immunoblot assay and SSS, an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was performed to detect antibodies to desmogleins. These different assays were done to identify pathological autoantibodies typical of BP and PV. A control group of 25 healthy normal individuals, 37 patients with BP, 17 patients with PV and 12 patients with pemphigus foliaceus were used for comparison of serological studies. Results: At the time of initial presentation, histological and immunopathological studies confirmed the diagnosis of BP in all 13 patients. Prior to the initiation of IVIg therapy, results of IIF using monkey esophagus as substrate demonstrated high levels of anti-intercellular cement substance (anti-ICS) or antikeratinocyte cell surface antibody. Sera of all 13 patients on SSS bound to the epidermal side of the split. In an immunoblot, using bovine gingival lysate as substrate, sera of 6 patients bound to both a 230-kD (BP Ag1) and 180-kD protein (BP Ag2), while 7 sera bound to only a 230-kD protein. All 13 patients had high levels of antibodies to desmoglein 3 on ELISA. In a pilot experiment, the anti-ICS antibody in sera from 6 random patients was found to be predominantly of the IgG4 subclass. Use of IVIg resulted in an effective clinical response and the maintenance of a prolonged clinical remission. Conclusion: In patients with BP, who are nonresponsive to conventional therapy, the presence of two autoimmune diseases or a dual diagnosis should be considered.
Cutaneous Metastases from a Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor of the Stomach: Review of Literature
Authors: Shabahang Mohsen , Livingstone Alan S.
Published: April 2003

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST) are neoplasms of mesenchymal origin which may or may not be malignant. Malignant GIST rarely metastasize to distal organs. A case of cutaneous metastasis from GIST has been presented. This case is particularly interesting because not only did the patient have multiple metastases from GIST, but eventually developed cutaneous metastasis. This phenomenon has not been reported in the literature. The most current literature on gastrointestinal stromal tumors has been reviewed.
The Early Developmental Stages of Psychopathology Study (EDSP): A Methodological Update
Authors: Lieb Roselind , Isensee Barbara , von Sydow Kirsten , Wittchen Hans-Ulrich
Published: April 2003

The objectives of the community-based Early Developmental Stages of Psychopathology (EDSP) Study are described along with a detailed account of the overall design, special design features, sample characteristics and instruments used. The EDSP employed a prospective-longitudinal design to study substance use and other mental disorders in a representative population sample of 3,021 subjects aged 14–24 years (birth cohorts 1970–1981) at ‘baseline’ – the outset of the study. Two follow-up investigations were conducted after the baseline investigation covering an overall period of 3–4 years. Special design features are the linkage with a family supplement (EDSP-FS) as well as neurobiological laboratory studies of high-risk subjects.
Biological Actions of Nerve Growth Factor in the Peripheral Nervous System
Authors: Rask CynthiaA.
Published: April 2003

Since the discovery of nerve growth factor (NGF), its role in the physiology/pathophysiology of nerve function has been under intense investigation. More recently, the potential of recombinant human NGF (rhNGF) as a putative treatment for peripheral neuropathies, in particular diabetic polyneuropathy and HIV-associated sensory neuropathy, is being explored. In animal models of diabetes, depletion of endogenous NGF levels has been demonstrated in foot skin and skeletal muscle; these levels reduce further with increasing disease duration. Preclinical studies in animal models of diabetes have shown that administration of NGF can reverse or alleviate impairment in nerve function.
Increment of the Platelet Count in Temporal Arteritis: Response to Therapy and Ischemic Complications
Authors: Gonzalez-Alegre Pedro , Ruiz-Lopez Alfredo D. , Abarca-Costalago Manuel , Gonzalez-Santos Pedro
Published: April 2003

Temporal arteritis (TA) is a vasculitis involving mainly cranial branches of the aorta that can lead to ischemic complications such as amaurosis or ischemic stroke. Increment in the platelet count has been described in the acute period of the disease. We studied retrospectively the platelet count in patients with TA, its association with ischemic complications and quantified its response to therapy. We found thrombocytosis in 44% of 34 patients with TA, with a mean reduction in the platelet count of 25.1% after therapy. We were also able to quantify the increment in the platelet count at the onset of the disease and its response to prednisone in a group of 5 patients. We did not find any relation between platelet count and ischemic complications of the disease or the result of the temporal artery biopsy. In conclusion TA is associated with an increase in the platelet count, with a 25% reduction after prednisone therapy. These two determinations are not related to ischemic complications of the disease.
S-100 Protein and Neuron-Specific Enolase as Markers of Subclinical Cerebral Damage after Cardiac Surgery: Preliminary Observation of a 6-Month Follow-Up Study
Authors: Basile Anna Maria , Fusi Costanza , Conti Andrea Alberto , Paniccia Rita , Trefoloni Gloria , Pracucci Giovanni , Di Carlo Antonio , Noferi Daniela , Carbonetto Fiorella , Pretelli Paola , Calamai Giancarlo , Vaccari Marino , Abbate Rosanna , Inzitari Domenico
Published: April 2003

Cerebral damage remains one of the hazards related to cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass. The use of biochemical markers of cerebral injury may be of practical value. We investigated the plasma release patterns of S-100 protein and neuron-specific enolase (NSE) during the intervention and their relationship with the development of neuropsychological deficits assessed 6 months after the intervention in 16 patients undergoing elective cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass. Both S-100 and NSE significantly increased peri- and postoperatively. Significant correlations were found between values measured at several time points and impaired performance in a few tests at the 6-month follow-up. A stratification into two age subgroups led to the hypothesis that age might have a confounding or a modifying effect on the association between S-100 and NSE levels, and cognitive impairment.
Mutation in the Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase Gene Might Be a Risk Factor for Cerebrovascular Disease in Peripartum and Under Oral Contraceptive Use
Authors: Korn-Lubetzki I. , Gillis S. , Steiner I.
Published: April 2003

Nine women (age 22–43 years) with cerebrovascular diseases (CVD) related to pregnancy, puerperium or contraceptive use were studied. Five were pregnant, 2 were post partum and 2 were taking oral contraceptives. All under- went a complete etiological examination including assessment for the thermolabile C677T mutation in the methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) gene mutation. Three of the 9 patients were homozygotic for the C677T MTHFR mutation, and 3 were heterozygotic. In these 6 patients, no other etiology could be found. Mutation in the thermolabile MTHFR gene might be an important cause for CVD related to peripartum or contraceptive use.
Time of Developing Motor Deficits before Radiotherapy as a New and Relevant Prognostic Factor in Metastatic Spinal Cord Compression: Final Results of a Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Rades D. , Heidenreich F. , Bremer M. , Karstens J.H.
Published: April 2003

The aim of this retrospective analysis was to determine the prognostic value of the time of developing motor deficits before radiotherapy (RT) and to confirm our preliminary results by achieving statistical significance. Of 529 patients receiving spinal irradiation (1994–1998) 131 fulfilled the selection criteria. Three groups were formed according to time of developing motor deficits: 1–7 days (n = 51), 8–14 days (40), >14 days (40). Motor function was graded before, 2 weeks and 3 months after RT. After 2 weeks, patients developing motor deficits for >14 days showed improvement more often than patients of the other groups (65 versus 32.5 and 4%, p < 0.001). After 3 months results were comparable (p < 0.001). A slower development of motor deficits predicts a better functional outcome. Time of developing motor deficits before RT is a relevant prognostic factor in metastatic spinal cord compression.
Plasmapheresis in the Treatment of Ataxic Sensory Neuropathy Associated with Sjögren’s Syndrome
Authors: Chen Wei-Hung , Yeh Jiann-Horng , Chiu Hou-Chang
Published: April 2003

Sjögren’s syndrome (SS) is an important but poorly recognized cause of peripheral neuropathy. Several forms of peripheral nerve dysfunction occur, including trigeminal sensory neuropathy, mononeuropathy multiplex, distal sensorimotor polyneuropathy and pure sensory neuronopathy. The pathological findings vary and the definite treatment is not known. Here we present 4 cases of acute ataxic sensory polyneuropathy with SS, and the experience of treatment with plasmapheresis (PP). The 4 patients were all females; ages ranged from 30 to 58 years. All had prominent loss of kinesthetic and proprioceptive sensation. The course ranged from acute to subacute onset. Patients were treated with 5–9 sessions of PP. Two patients with initiation of treatment within 2 weeks of onset showed dramatic and sustained responses after PP, while the other 2 had no detectable effects. Our experience showed that PP should be considered in patients who present with sensory neuropathy associated with SS, and the treatment should be given as early as possible.
Comparison of Genetic Variability in Wild Insular and Mainland Populations of Eulemur macaco: Implications for Conservation Strategy
Authors: Rabarivola C. , Meier B. , Langer C. , Bayart F. , Ludes B. , Rumpler Y.
Published: April 2003

DNA fingerprinting analysis was used to investigate genetic variability within and between three wild populations of Eulemur macaco living on two islands and on the mainland. The analyses revealed that the genetic variability of the population from the smaller island was, as expected, lower than that from the larger island. Surprisingly, on the larger island the genetic variability was greater than on the mainland. These results, in agreement with those previously obtained from blood markers, are discussed in relation to the history of these populations. In addition, the study suggests that settlement of the smallest island was not only by animals originating from the mainland, as previously proposed on the basis of blood marker data, but also by lemurs from the nearby, larger, island. Evidence is presented that reliable information about population structure can be derived only from studies using different genetic markers. This information is important to enable appropriate conservation programmes to be designed.
Field Studies of Population Genetics in Eulemur: A Discussion of Their Potential Importance in Conservation
Authors: Scheffrahn W. , Rabarivola C. , Rumpler Y.
Published: April 2003

Wild populations of Eulemur macaco are substructured into small social groups or subpopulations in which the genetic variability can vary sharply as a consequence of the effects of evolutionary forces. Therefore, population genetic analysis of wild groups should be considered as the first step toward an optimal breeding programme. Examples of population structure and genetics are given for E. macaco populations of Nosy Be, Nosy Komba and Ambato (Yeti, Madagascar). The data show (1) a different degree of genetic variation between populations of the two islands (Nosy Be, Nosy Komba) and the mainland area of Ambato, (2) a closer genetic relatedness between E. macaco populations of Nosy Komba and Ambato (Yeti) and (3) different ecological conditions on Nosy Be in comparison with Nosy Komba and Ambato.
A ‘Checklist’ of Possible Items for Prosimian Husbandry Manuals and Research
Authors: Schulze Helga , Benirschke Kurt , Doyle Gerald A. , Johann Achim , Meier Bernhard , Wirth Roland , Zimmermann Zimmermann
Published: April 2003

Zoo populations of prosimians are usually so small that death or reproductive failure of a few individuals may lead to a considerable loss of genetic diversity. Losses due to inadequate captive conditions must be minimized. This paper provides ideas and literature references for practical improvements of captive conditions and could serve as a checklist for writers of husbandry manuals. Items for inclusion in husbandry manuals containing detailed information about prosimians are provided. The preservation of genetic diversity in captive populations and adaptations of wild populations to their habitats are discussed. A list of items proposed for husbandry research includes an identification key for subpopulations and subspecies, field data and a variety of other factors such as housing, climatic needs, behaviour, relation between animals and keepers, reproduction, health, animal welfare and stress. Care for individuals as well as the metapopulation is recommended. The list includes some items which are not generally regarded as husbandry matters, but which ought to be considered, especially when a species is held for conservation purposes within managed programmes which include both in situ and ex situ components. The paper was based on experience with Loris tardigradus, so the needs of some other species may be less well covered.
Conservation Status of the Spectral Tarsier Tarsier spectrum: Population Density and Home Range Size
Authors: Gursky Sharon
Published: April 2003

As part of a larger study of the behavioral ecology of the spectral tarsier, Tarsius spectrum, a population census was conducted. A modified form of the fixed point count and quadrat census methods was conducted within a 1-km2 area in Tangkoko Dua Saudara Nature Reserve, in northern Sulawesi, Indonesia. In 25 one-hectare plots, 14 groups were located, containing a total of 39 individuals. Therefore, the mean number of groups per ha was 0.56 and the mean number of individuals per ha was 1.56. The number of groups for the entire sampled area (100 ha) was calculated to be 56, while the total population within the sampled area was calculated to be 156 (i.e. 156/km2). Group size, defined as the number of individuals sharing a sleeping site, varied from 2 to 6 individuals. Group composition varied from 1 adult of each sex to 1 adult male and 2 adult females and their offspring. Fourteen percent of groups contained more than 1 adult female. In one of the groups with two adult females, both females gave birth to infants. The home ranges of 13 individuals, obtained using radio telemetry, were between 1.6 and 4.1 ha, with an average size of 2.3 ha for females and 3.1 ha for males. Results from this study indicate that spectral tarsiers are still relatively abundant at Tangkoko Dua Saudara Nature Reserve. Nonetheless, the limited geographic distribution of this species, the lack of information on its relative abundance in other areas of its range, as well as the high rate of habitat disturbance throughout its range, suggests that the conservation status of the spectral tarsier should be changed from indeterminate to vulnerable.
Evolutionary History of Lorisiform Primates
Authors: Rasmussen D. Tab , Nekaris Kimberley A.
Published: April 2003

We integrate information from the fossil record, morphology, behavior and molecular studies to provide a current overview of lorisoid evolution. Several Eocene prosimians of the northern continents, including both omomyids and adapoids, have been suggested as possible lorisoid ancestors, but these cannot be substantiated as true strepsirhines. A small-bodied primate, Anchomomys, of the middle Eocene of Europe may be the best candidate among putative adapoids for status as a true strepsirhine. Recent finds of Eocene primates in Africa have revealed new prosimian taxa that are also viable contenders for strepsirhine status. Plesiopithecus teras is a Nycticebus-sized, nocturnal prosimian from the late Eocene, Fayum, Egypt, that shares cranial specializations with lorisoids, but it also retains primitive features (e.g. four premolars) and has unique specializations of the anterior teeth excluding it from direct lorisiform ancestry. Another unnamed Fayum primate resembles modern cheirogaleids in dental structure and body size. Two genera from Oman, Omanodon and Shizarodon, also reveal a mix of similarities to both cheirogaleids and anchomomyin adapoids. Resolving the phylogenetic position of these Africa primates of the early Tertiary will surely require more and better fossils. By the early to middle Miocene, lorisoids were well established in East Africa, and the debate about whether these represent lorisines or galagines is reviewed. Neontological data are used to address the controversial branching sequences among extant lorisid clades. Data from the skin and scent glands, when integrated with other lines of evidence, suggest that Asian and African lorisines share a common lorisine ancestry. The hypothesis of an African clade containing both pottos and galagos to the exclusion of Asian lorisines is less tenable. True galagines are found in the fossil record of Namibia, while true lorisines are known from the Miocene of Asia. The hypothetical branching sequences can be integrated with behavioral and morphological features to develop an adaptive model of lorisoid divergence. By specializing on two different foraging modes early in their radiation, lorisines and galagines subsequently underwent a chain of integrated evolutionary changes eventually having an impact on many components of locomotor behavior, anatomy, physiology, reproduction, life history, and social behavior. Ongoing evolutionary studies of extant galagines are illuminating population phenomena and processes of speciation in an ecological context.
‘Little Brown Lemurs’ of Northern Madagascar
Authors: Tattersall Ian , Sussman Robert W.
Published: April 2003

The species and subspecies of Eulemur in Madagascar are in some ways equivalent to the nondescript bird species dismissed by ornithologists as ‘little brown jobs’ (LBJs), and have correspondingly attracted relatively little attention from primatologists. Yet they are diverse, widely distributed, and fill a variety of ecological roles. We review what is known of these lemurs, and conclude that small but significant behavioral differences exist among them, particularly in the way in which they partition available resources. Because they exhibit both sympatric and allopatric distributions, these primates provide an ideal model for investigating the influences of ecological role vs. phylogeny in determining patterns of habitat use within local populations.
The Impact of Long-Term Moderate Physical Activity on Functional Performance, Bone Mineral Density and Fracture Incidence in Elderly Women
Authors: Ringsberg Karin A.M. , Gärdsell Per , Johnell Olof , Josefsson Per-Olof , Obrant Karl J.
Published: April 2003

Background: Earlier studies have shown that physical exercise and a higher workload increase muscle strength and improve gait and balance at all ages for both sexes. Published studies have, so far, failed to investigate the functional performance of elderly individuals concerning their long-term physical activity and variables of daily living. Objective: To compare elderly women who participate in long-term, moderate exercise programmes with two age-matched groups of women from an urban and a rural community. Methods: All participants answered a questionnaire about health, social circumstances and fractures. We measured the vibration threshold of the lower extremities, bone mineral density of the distal radius and functional performance such as muscle strength, balance and gait. Results: The elderly, active groups performed significantly better in all functional tests and had sustained fewer fractures than the urban control group. When the comparison was made with the rural control group the differences were less obvious. The active group rated their health as better than both the control groups. Conclusion: Elderly women, who continue with moderate exercise programmes over many years, sustain fewer fractures and have better muscle strength, balance, gait and health ratings than women in general. Whether this is the result of the exercise or inherited characters, remains to be proved.
Short-Term Fluctuations in Elderly People’s Sensorimotor Functioning Predict Text and Spatial Memory Performance: The MacArthur Successful Aging Studies
Authors: Li Shu-Chen , Aggen Steven H. , Nesselroade John R. , Baltes Paul B.
Published: April 2003

Background: While age-related increases of between-person variability in a variety of cognitive measures are commonly reported in cross-sectional studies, the nature of short-term intraindividual fluctuation in elderly people’s performance is relatively unexplored. Objective: The goal of the present study is to examine short-term fluctuations in elderly people’s sensorimotor functioning and their relations to individual differences in verbal and spatial memory. Methods: Fluctuations in old adults’ (mean = 75.71 years, SD = 6.93 years) sensorimotor performance were investigated by biweekly measurements spanning approximately 7 months. Sensorimotor performance was measured by three walking tasks, including the duration and the number of steps taken to walk a 360-degree circle and to walk 10 feet both at normal and fast pace. Performances of verbal and spatial memory were assessed by weekly measurements of digit memory span, memory for short text and spatial recognition. Results: The magnitude of intraindividual fluctuation in most sensorimotor and memory tasks examined was at least half as great as the level of individual differences across persons. In addition, intraindividual fluctuation in sensorimotor performance is a relatively stable individual attribute, which correlates positively with age and negatively with the levels of sensorimotor, text and spatial memory performance. Although a substantial amount of individual differences in intraindividual fluctuation was shared with mean performance level, variance component and hierarchical regression analyses showed that intraindividual fluctuation in walking steps added significant independent contribution over and above that given by level of performance in predicting text and spatial memory. Conclusion: Taking these results together, we suggest that intraindividual fluctuations in elderly people’s performance should not be ignored or simply treated as measurement error; rather, they are potentially important empirical variables for understanding sensory and cognitive aging and the nature of intraindividual response variations in general.
Usefulness of Calf Circumference Measurement in Assessing the Nutritional State of Hospitalized Elderly People
Authors: Bonnefoy M. , Jauffret M. , Kostka T. , Jusot J.F.
Published: April 2003

Background: Malnutrition is a widespread but largely unrecognized problem in aged patients, more so as it is a contributing factor to the increased morbidity and mortality in this age group. Since direct measurements of body composition are not possible in a large number of patients, good anthropometric reference data are fundamental in assessing the nutritional state of elderly people. Objective: To examine the efficacy of calf circumference (CC) measurement for assessing the nutritional state of the elderly. Methods: The nutritional state was assessed by anthropometric and biological measurements in 911 elderly patients consecutively admitted to a geriatric unit. In the first instance, univariate analysis was performed for CC and other nutritional parameters. Linear and multiple stepwise regressions were performed to study the association between anthropometric or biological parameters and CC. At a later stage, the specificity, sensitivity and the optimal cutoff CC were established for 2 groups of patients: malnourished and controls. Finally, patients were classified according to this cutoff in order to verify the efficacy of CC in assessing their nutritional state. Results: The results of univariate analysis showed significant correlations between CC and other nutritional anthropometric markers (r = 0.706, p < 0.0001 with body mass index (BMI) and r = 0.661, p < 0.0001 with fat free mass) and biological markers (r = 0.219, p < 0.0001 with albumin and r = 0.162, p < 0.0001 with transthyretin). Multiple regression confirmed associations between CC and tricipital skinfold thickness (p < 0.0001), fat free mass (p < 0.0001), BMI (p < 0.0001), and serum albumin (p < 0.0001; r2 = 0.561). The optimal cutoff for CC was found to be 30.5 cm for both men (sensitivity 73.2%, specificity 72.8%) and women (sensitivity 78.8%, specificity 61.1%). The classification of patients according to this discriminating factor was confirmed for the optimal cutoff value. Conclusion: Calf circumference is a pertinent marker of nutritional state. The cutoff of 30.5 cm provides a good diagnostic capacity.
Molecular Action of GnRH Analogues on Ectopic Endometrial Cells
Authors: Vignali Mario
Published: April 2003

The mechanisms leading to the occurrence and progression of endometriosis are far from being completely understood. After implantation or differentiation of ectopic endometrium, further proliferation of the endometriosis implants will depend either on the endocrine status or on the local production of endocrine, immunological, growth and angiogenic factors. GnRH receptors as well as GnRH analogues binding to cell membranes have been detected on human breast, ovarian and endometrial cancer cells. Thus, along with an indirect effect due to hypoestrogenism, a direct effect of GnRH analogues on both breast, ovarian and endometrial cancer cells has been suggested as a possible mechanism of action. Likewise, we speculate whether GnRH analogues may also exert a direct modulatory effect on endometriosis cell growth.
Ovarian Carcinoma Metastatic to the Breast
Authors: Cormio Gennaro , di Vagno Giovanni , Melilli Giovanni A. , Loverro Giuseppe , Cramarossa Damiano , Selvaggi Luigi
Published: April 2003

Breast involvement in ovarian cancer is extremely rare. We report a case of solitary breast metastasis from ovarian carcinoma in a 43-year-old white woman, 3 months following diagnosis of ovarian cancer. The diagnostic, therapeutic and prognostic aspects as well as a review of the literature of this uncommon site of metastasis are discussed.
Activated Protein C Resistance in Turkish Women with Severe Preeclampsia
Authors: Cetin Mustafa , Güçer S. , Serin I.S. , Eser Bülent , Tayyar Mehmet , Ünal Ali
Published: April 2003

The purpose of this study was to investigate the occurrence rate of APC resistance (APC-R) with severe preeclampsia in Turkish women. Thirty-two consecutive women having severe preeclampsia were included in the study. Thirty-two healthy pregnant women served as the control group. APC-R assays were performed in the third trimester of pregnancy, and 3 and 9 months after delivery. APC-R was demonstrated in the third trimester, 3 months and 9 months after delivery in 27 (84.4%), 23 (71.9%) and 5 (15.6%) of 32 preeclamptic patients, respectively. APC-R rates were significantly higher in preeclamptic group than in normal pregnant women in the third trimester of pregnancy (p < 0.05). Decreased mean APC activity and also increased APC-R rate was still persisting in preeclamptic group for 3 months after delivery. Nine months after delivery, the mean APC activity and also APC-R rates approached to the normal pregnant women; however, there was a significant difference between both groups (p < 0.05). Our results indicate that acquired APC-R may be a contributory factor in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia.
Correlation between Respiratory Function and Airway Inflammation in Asthma
Authors: Hashimoto Tadanori , Minoguchi Kenji , Kohno Yasurou , Wada Kiyoko , Ueno Kana , Kobayashi Hideko , Miyamoto Masahide , Adachi Mitsuru
Published: April 2003

Background: Eosinophilic airway inflammation is thought to be associated with airflow limitation and airway hyperresponsiveness. Methods: Spirometry, peak expiratory flow (PEF) measurement, histamine challenge test, and sputum induction with hypertonic saline inhalation were performed in 70 asymptomatic patients with asthma who were treated with bronchodilators or an inhaled corticosteroid (beclomethasone dipropionate, 400–800 µg/day) or both for more than 2 months. The relationships between the sputum eosinophils, respiratory function, and airway responsiveness to histamine were investigated. Results: Induced sputum was obtained from 53 patients. Although significant correlations between sputum eosinophils and forced expiratory volume in 1 s/forced vital capacity × 100% (FEV1%) or maximum expiratory flow at 25% of the forced vital capacity (v̇25) divided by height (v̇25/Ht) were observed, no significant correlations were found between sputum eosinophils and percent predicted PEF (%PEF) or airway responsiveness to histamine. Furthermore, airway responsiveness to histamine was not correlated with FEV1%, v̇25/Ht or %PEF. Conclusion: Single-point measurements of FEV1% and v̇25/Ht but not PEF or airway responsiveness to histamine correlate with the degree of airway inflammation evaluated indirectly with induced sputum.
The Multipotential Pseudoantigenicity of X-Ray Contrast Media
Authors: Lasser Elliott C.
Published: April 2003

Background: X-ray contrast media (CM) toxicity resembles IgE-antigen-based anaphylaxis, and CM-related histamine release has been demonstrated in vitro and in vivo. While nobody has succeeded in producing antibodies against injections of neat CM, the ability of CM to compete with a series of antigens against their respective antibodies has recently been demonstrated. However, there is a paradox, since the CM with the strongest antibody binding are nevertheless the least likely to provoke antigen-antibody-related mast cell/basophil release. Methods: Two strains of rats were subjected to (a) passive cutaneous anaphylaxis (PCA) studies in the presence of various concentrations of CM, (b) blood pressure (BP) tracings following bolus administrations of various prototypical CM and (c) BP tracings in ovalbumin (OVA)-sensitized rats, challenged with OVA plus CM, vs. OVA plus CM-equivalent saline. Results: In the PCA studies, and the OVA challenge studies, the CM appear to act in an antigen excess mode, limiting the potential of the OVA to elicit anaphylactic changes, as demonstrated by permeability studies or by BP levels. The bolus CM studies demonstrate that the more potent CM ‘antigens’ actually produce an increase in BP and the less potent CM ‘antigens’, a drop in BP. These changes can be related to the CM acting in an ‘antigen’ excess mode vs. an ‘antigen’ equivalent mode. Conclusions: The CM have the potential to act in an ‘antigen’ excess or ‘antigen’-equivalent mode. The potential to express an ‘antigen’-excess mode in vivo, may be unique to CM because of the high concentrations injected.
Vaccine Strategies against Schistosomiasis: From Concepts to Clinical Trials
Authors: Capron André , Capron Monique , Dombrowicz David , Riveau Gilles
Published: April 2003

Schistosomiasis, the second major parasitic disease in the world after malaria, affects 200 million people. Vaccine strategies represent an essential component of the control of this chronic debilitating disease where the deposition of millions of eggs in the tissues is the main cause of pathology. Research developed in our laboratory over the last 20 years has led to the identification of novel effector mechanisms, pointing for the first time to the protective role of Th2 responses and of IgE antibodies now supported by seven studies in human populations. The identification and molecular cloning of a target antigen, a glutathione S-transferase (GST), has made it possible to demonstrate its vaccine potential in several animal species (rodents, cattle, primates) and to establish consistently the capacity of vaccination to reduce female worm fecundity and egg viability through the production of neutralizing antibodies (IgA and IgG). Following promising preclinical studies, clinical trials (phase I and II) have been undertaken using Schistosoma haematobium GST, Sh28GST. High titers of neutralizing antibodies were produced (IgG3 and IgA) together with Th2 cytokines, consistently with the concepts developed from experimental models. With these results we are on the way towards a feasible approach of vaccine development against a major human parasitic disease.
Mutant Mice: A Useful Tool for Studying the Development of Mast Cells
Authors: Kitamura Yukihiko , Morii Eiichi , Ogihara Hideki , Jippo Tomoko , Ito Akihiko
Published: April 2003

We have used various mouse mutants for studying the development of mast cells. The bone marrow origin of mast cells was shown by using giant granules of beige mice as a marker. Mast cell-deficient W/Wv and Sl/Sld mice are useful for investigation of the developmental processes. The mi locus encodes a member of the basic helix-loop-helix-leucine zipper protein family of transcription factors (MITF), and mast cells of mi/mi mice showed phenotypic abnormalities. Mast cells of mi/mi mice synthesized the mutant mi-MITF in normal amounts, and mi-MITF showed an inhibitory effect on the transcription of various mast cell-specific genes. On the other hand, mice of tg/tg possess the transgene insertional mutation in the 5′ flanking region of the mi gene and do not express any MITFs. Genes whose transcription was suppressed were more numerous in mast cells of mi/mi mice than in those of tg/tg mice. The comparison between phenotypes of mi/mi mast cells and those of tg/tg mast cells gave some insights into the regulation of mast cell phenotypes by transcription factors.
Clinical and Immunological Features of Patients with Interleukin-5-Producing T Cell Clones and Eosinophilia
Authors: Simon Hans-Uwe , Plötz Sabine Gisela , Simon Dagmar , Dummer Reinhard , Blaser Kurt
Published: April 2003

Recent work suggests that in some patients with the hypereosinophilic syndrome, a clone of abnormal T cells produces large amounts of interleukin-5. In this study, we examined 60 patients with idiopathic eosinophilia. Sixteen patients had circulating T cells with an aberrant immunophenotype that, in most cases, were associated with different forms of skin inflammation. The abnormal T cells produced large amounts of interleukin-5, which may have increased eosinophil differentiation in the bone marrow of these patients.
Eosinophil Activation by Prostaglandin D2 and Its Modulation by Seratrodast
Authors: Takafuji Shigeru , Miyakuni Yuji , Hirai Koichi , Izumi Shinyu , Yamamoto Kazuhiko , Nakagawa Takemasa
Published: April 2003

Background: Seratrodast is one of the antiallergic drugs and causes antagonism not only to thromboxane A2 but also to prostaglandin D2 (PGD2). It has been reported that PGD2 increases cytosolic free calcium concentration ([Ca2+]i) in human eosinophils. In this study, we have examined the effect of seratrodast on eosinophil cationic protein (ECP) release and changes of [Ca2+]i in human eosinophils induced by PGD2. Methods: Eosinophils from healthy donors were incubated with or without IL-3 for 10 min after incubation with or without seratrodast for 15 min. Then, they were stimulated with PGD2 for 20 min after incubation with cytochalasin B for 10 min. Results: PGD2 induced significant ECP release in IL-3-primed eosinophils. This ECP release was significantly inhibited by seratrodast. Seratrodast had no effect on ECP release induced by PAF in IL-3-primed eosinophils. Furthermore, pretreatment with seratrodast inhibited cytosolic calcium increase induced by PGD2 in human eosinophils, and it had no effect on that induced by PAF. Conclusions: This study shows that PGD2 induces ECP release in IL-3-primed eosinophils and that seratrodast suppresses its effect. This inhibition by seratrodast may contribute to its clinical efficacy in the treatment of bronchial asthma.
Interleukin-18 Is Elevated in the Sera from Patients with Atopic Dermatitis and from Atopic Dermatitis Model Mice, NC/Nga
Authors: Tanaka Toshio , Tsutsui Hiroko , Yoshimoto Tomohiro , Kotani Mayumi , Matsumoto Motonobu , Fujita Akihito , Wang Way , Higa Shinji , Koshimoto Tadamitsu , Nakanishi Kenji , Suemura Masaki
Published: April 2003

Background: Several lines of in vitro and in vivo studies have demonstrated that interleukin-18 (IL-18) shows both antiallergic and allergy-promoting activities. But its expression in allergic diseases remains unknown. Methods: Serum IL-18 levels from atopic dermatitis (AD) model mice, NC/Nga and control mice and from patients with AD and healthy volunteers were measured by ELISA. The relationship between IL-18 levels and serum IgE levels or clinical severity was also examined. Results: Serum IL-18 levels from NC/Nga mice were significantly increased compared to those from control mice. The elevation of IL-18 in the sera was observed prior to the onset and during the development of dermatitis in NC/Nga mice. In addition, IL-18 levels in the sera from patients with AD were significantly (p < 0.05) elevated compared to those from healthy volunteers. However, serum IL-18 levels tended to correlate negatively with serum IgE levels in patients with AD and NC/Nga mice. Conclusion: IL-18 is overexpressed in AD.