bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Heterozygous nonsense mutations near the C‐terminal region of IGF1R in two patients with small‐for‐gestational‐age‐related short stature
Authors: Fujimoto Masanobu , Kawashima Sonoyama Yuki , Hamajima Naoki , Hamajima Takashi , Kumura Yumiko , Miyahara Naoki , Nishimura Rei , Adachi Kaori , Nanba Eiji , Hanaki Keiichi , Kanzaki Susumu
Published: April 2015

Objective

The type I insulin‐like growth factor I receptor (IGF1R) plays an important role in growth. We aimed to evaluate the detailed mechanism underlying the effect of IGF1R on human growth.

Patients and Methods

We have performed sequence analysis of IGF1R in 55 patients with SGA short stature in Japan, since 2004, and identified novel heterozygous nonsense mutations in 2 patients: an 8‐year‐old Japanese boy (case 1), with a birthweight of 2228 g (−3·3 SDS) and height of 46 cm (−2·1 SDS), and a 3‐year‐old Japanese girl (case 2), with a birthweight of 2110 g (−3·0 SDS) and height of 44·3 cm (−2·8 SDS). Both patients had a short stature (−3·2 SDS, −3·1 SDS). We determined the protein expression of mutated IGF1R, assessed the effect of the endoplasmic reticulum‐associated degradation (ERAD) pathway on mutated IGF1R, assessed the dominant‐negative effect of IGF1R and performed quantitative RT‐PCR analysis of IGF1R mRNA expression in whole blood cells.

Results

Two novel heterozygous nonsense mutations (case 1: p.Q1250X and case 2: p.W1249X) were identified. Although these mutations did not affect blood IGF1R mRNA levels, they significantly decreased the expression of IGF1R protein in transiently transfected cells. Treatment with the proteasome inhibitor MG132 showed significantly increased IGF1R protein.

Conclusions

Heterozygous nonsense mutations affecting the C‐terminal region (p.Q1250X, p.W1249X) of IGF1R decreased the expression of IGF1R through the ERAD pathway. Our study revealed the importance of the C‐terminal region and the dosage of this receptor for growth.
Governmentality within Children's Technological Play: Findings from a Critical Discourse Analysis
Authors: Silcock Mary , Payne Deborah , Hocking Clare
Published: April 2015

In many countries today, digital technology and instant communication are embedded in children's everyday lives to the extent that their play frequently incorporates smartphones, the Internet and other technologies. In this paper, we explore the recent historical conditions within the New Zealand context that have increased the accessibility of these technologies and imbued them with particular meanings. We suggest that from a Foucauldian perspective, these technologies can be seen as a form of subtle disciplinary power using techniques of governmentality through which children's ways of thinking are shaped to benefit societal requirements of the current historical era.
Soft Tissue Integration of Hydroxyapatite‐Coated Abutments for Bone Conduction Implants
Authors: Larsson Anna , Andersson Marcus , Wigren Stina , Pivodic Aldina , Flynn Mark , Nannmark Ulf
Published: April 2015

Purpose

The protocol for bone conduction hearing implant surgery involves reduction of soft tissues around the abutment to minimize the risk of skin‐related complications. The present investigation was undertaken to demonstrate that hydroxyapatite‐coated abutments provide improved soft tissue integration compared with conventional (pure titanium) abutments and are suitable for use without surgical removal of subepidermal soft tissues.

Materials and Methods

Forty‐eight implants for bone conduction with two different types of abutments (test and control) were inserted in the skull parietal part of eight sheep. Test abutments had a hydroxyapatite‐coated surface and a concave shape. Conventional titanium abutments were used as controls. A follow‐up time of 4 weeks was used. Histomorphometric analyses of test and control samples were analyzed, and morphometric results were compared using mixed model analysis.

Results

Histological assessment showed healthy soft tissues around the abutments with limited or no signs of inflammation. Hydroxyapatite‐coated abutments showed intimate dermal adherence, while less close contact was noted for control abutments. Statistically significant differences in mean pocket depth (0.4 vs 1.6 mm, p = .0013) and epidermal downgrowth (0.6 vs 2.0 mm, p = .0003) between test and control abutments were recorded.

Conclusion

The study confirms that hydroxyapatite‐coated abutments resulted in a significant reduction in pocket depth and improved soft tissue integration compared with conventional titanium abutments, possibly by providing tight adherence at the interface. Statistically significant reduced pocket depth formation and epidermal downgrowth were recorded.
Roles of cofilin in development and its mechanisms of regulation
Authors: Ohashi Kazumasa
Published: April 2015

Reorganization of the actin cytoskeleton is essential for cellular processes during animal development. Cofilin and actin depolymerizing factor (ADF) are potent actin‐binding proteins that sever and depolymerize actin filaments, acting to generate the dynamics of the actin cytoskeleton. The activity of cofilin is spatially and temporally regulated by a variety of intracellular molecular mechanisms. Cofilin is regulated by cofilin binding molecules, is phosphorylated at Ser‐3 (inactivation) by LIM‐kinases (LIMKs) and testicular protein kinases (TESKs), and is dephosphorylated (reactivation) by slingshot protein phosphatases (SSHs). Although studies of the molecular mechanisms of cofilin‐induced reorganization of the actin cytoskeleton have been ongoing for decades, the multicellular functions of cofilin and its regulation in development are just becoming apparent. This review describes the molecular mechanisms of generating actin dynamics by cofilin and the intracellular signaling pathways for regulating cofilin activity. Furthermore, recent findings of the roles of cofilin in the development of several tissues and organs, especially neural tissues and cells, in model animals are described. Recent developmental studies have indicated that cofilin and its regulatory mechanisms are involved in cellular proliferation and migration, the establishment of cellular polarity, and the dynamic regulation of organ morphology.
Effectiveness of a multidisciplinary team approach to the prevention of readmission for acute glycaemic events
Authors: Simmons D. , Hartnell S. , Watts J. , Ward C. , Davenport K. , Gunn E. , Jenaway A.
Published: April 2015

Aims

To describe the effect of a combined diabetes specialist/mental health team approach to prevent readmissions for acute glycaemic events among patients with diabetes.

Methods

Consecutive patients with diabetes, readmitted to a single hospital for an acute glycaemic condition, were offered one or more diabetes (including assessment, education, medication, technology use and intensive support) and mental health (including assessment, training and therapies) interventions. The pilot service took place over 11 months, with the preceding 24 months and subsequent 8 months serving as control periods.

Results

Of the 58 patients admitted, 50 had Type 1 diabetes and were from within the hospital catchment area, and were discharged home. Of these, 32 (64%) had a pre‐existing mental health issue and 14 (28%) had a complex social situation. In all, 96% of patients were met as an inpatient by a team member, and 94% accepted at least one intervention. The mean ±sd number of admissions per patient/month dropped from 0.12 ± 0.10 to 0.05 ± 0.10 (P < 0.001) during the intervention, increasing, once the intervention ended, to 0.16 ± 0.36 (P = 0.002). The mean ± sd length of stay similarly decreased and increased (0.6 ± 0.9 to 0.2 ± 0.7 days; P < 0.001 to 0.006) to 0.6 ± 1.4 days (P = 0.003) per patient/month) across the three periods, as did the mean ±sd tariff paid per patient/month (₤258.0 ± 374.0 vs ₤92.1 ± 245.0 vs ₤287.3 ± 563.8; P < 0.001 and P = 0.018, respectively). The mean ± sd HbA1c level dropped from 99 ± 22 to 92 ± 24 mmol/mol (11.2 ± 4.2% vs 10.6 ± 4.3%; P = 0.014) but did not increase after the intervention [89 ± 26 mmol/mol (10.4 ± 4.5%)].

Conclusions

The cost and long‐term risks of hospitalization among patients with Type 1 diabetes and recurrent admissions can be reduced by a combined specialist diabetes/mental health team approach.
Evaluation of the implant‐related restorative undergraduate programme at ACTA, the Netherlands. Part I: students' satisfaction
Authors: Fijnheer C. , Langhorst F. R. , Wismeijer D.
Published: April 2015

Introduction

Due to the increasing use of dental implants, many future dentists will encounter implant‐related procedures in general practice. Over the past decade, implant dentistry is more and more often included in undergraduate curricula. Very little is known about students' satisfaction regarding implant‐related undergraduate programmes, as minimal analyses are performed. In particular, a lack of information exists regarding programmes where undergraduates restore implants. This study describes an evaluation of the students' satisfaction regarding the implant‐related restorative undergraduate programme at ACTA, the Netherlands.

Material and methods

After clinical examination and establishment of the treatment plan, undergraduates were required to assist postgraduate implantology students during surgery. All patients received Straumann (Basel, Switzerland) implants. The restorative phase of the treatment was subsequently performed by the undergraduates. A students' questionnaire was developed. All questions were exclusively on the restorative part of the implant‐related programme.

Results

In total, 90 patients were treated by 78 undergraduates. 146 Straumann implants were restored with 121 restorations. The most common restoration was a single crown (80.2%), followed by three‐unit fixed partial dentures (12.4%). The questionnaires showed a high rate of students' satisfaction concerning the restorative implant programme. Students replied they think they can manufacture an implant‐supported crown or FDP without supervision after following the programme. In their opinion, the existence of the restorative programme should definitely be continued.

Conclusion

According to positive student perceptions, an implant‐related restorative programme should be recommended for implementation in undergraduate dental curricula. The programme at ACTA could be used as a template for other universities.
Encouraging intrinsic motivation in the clinical setting: teachers' perspectives from the self‐determination theory
Authors: Orsini C. , Evans P. , Binnie V. , Ledezma P. , Fuentes F.
Published: April 2015

Introduction

Self‐determination theory postulates that the three basic psychological needs of autonomy, competence and relatedness have to be satisfied for students to achieve intrinsic motivation and internalisation of autonomous self‐regulation towards academic activities. Consequently, the influence of the clinical teaching environment becomes crucial when satisfying these needs, particularly when promoting or diminishing students' intrinsic motivation. The aim of this study was to describe and understand how clinical teachers encourage intrinsic motivation in undergraduate dental students based on the three basic psychological needs described by the self‐determination theory.

Methods

A qualitative case study approach was adopted, and data were collected through semistructured interviews with nine experienced undergraduate clinical teachers of one dental school in Santiago, Chile. Interview transcripts were analysed by two independent reviewers using a general inductive approach.

Findings

Several themes emerged outlining teaching strategies and behaviours. These themes included the control of external motivators; gradual transference of responsibility; identification and encouragement of personal interests; timely and constructive feedback; delivery of a vicarious learning experience; teamwork, team discussion, and presence of a safe environment, amongst others. Overall, teachers stressed the relevance of empowering, supporting and building a horizontal relationship with students.

Conclusions

Our findings regarding dental education expand on the research outcomes from other health professions about how teachers may support students to internalise behaviours. An autonomy‐supportive environment may lead students to value and engage in academic activities and eventually foster the use of an autonomy‐supportive style to motivate their patients.
Biodiversity in cities needs space: a meta‐analysis of factors determining intra‐urban biodiversity variation
Authors: Beninde Joscha , Veith Michael , Hochkirch Axel
Published: April 2015

Understanding varying levels of biodiversity within cities is pivotal to protect it in the face of global urbanisation. In the early stages of urban ecology studies on intra‐urban biodiversity focused on the urban–rural gradient, representing a broad generalisation of features of the urban landscape. Increasingly, studies classify the urban landscape in more detail, quantifying separately the effects of individual urban features on biodiversity levels. However, while separate factors influencing biodiversity variation among cities worldwide have recently been analysed, a global analysis on the factors influencing biodiversity levels within cities is still lacking. We here present the first meta‐analysis on intra‐urban biodiversity variation across a large variety of taxonomic groups of 75 cities worldwide. Our results show that patch area and corridors have the strongest positive effects on biodiversity, complemented by vegetation structure. Local, biotic and management habitat variables were significantly more important than landscape, abiotic or design variables. Large sites greater than 50 ha are necessary to prevent a rapid loss of area‐sensitive species. This indicates that, despite positive impacts of biodiversity‐friendly management, increasing the area of habitat patches and creating a network of corridors is the most important strategy to maintain high levels of urban biodiversity.
Spatiotemporal dynamics of Puumala hantavirus associated with its rodent host, Myodes glareolus
Authors: Weber de Melo Vanessa , Sheikh Ali Hanan , Freise Jona , Kühnert Denise , Essbauer Sandra , Mertens Marc , Wanka Konrad M. , Drewes Stephan , Ulrich Rainer G. , Heckel Gerald
Published: April 2015

Many viruses significantly impact human and animal health. Understanding the population dynamics of these viruses and their hosts can provide important insights for epidemiology and virus evolution. Puumala virus (PUUV) is a European hantavirus that may cause regional outbreaks of hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome in humans. Here, we analyzed the spatiotemporal dynamics of PUUV circulating in local populations of its rodent reservoir host, the bank vole (Myodes glareolus) during eight years. Phylogenetic and population genetic analyses of all three genome segments of PUUV showed strong geographical structuring at a very local scale. There was a high temporal turnover of virus strains in the local bank vole populations, but several virus strains persisted through multiple years. Phylodynamic analyses showed no significant changes in the local effective population sizes of PUUV, although vole numbers and virus prevalence fluctuated widely. Microsatellite data demonstrated also a temporally persisting subdivision between local vole populations, but these groups did not correspond to the subdivision in the virus strains. We conclude that restricted transmission between vole populations and genetic drift play important roles in shaping the genetic structure and temporal dynamics of PUUV in its natural host which has several implications for zoonotic risks of the human population.
Patient preference for integrating homeopathy (PPIH) and attitude and satisfaction following integration within mainstream healthcare settings in West Bengal, India: the part 2 (PPIH‐2) study
Authors: Saha Subhranil , Koley Munmun , Arya Jogendra S , Choubey Gurudev , Upadhyaya Shailaja , Rasaily Bhupendra N , Datta Somnath , Roy Aparna , Mukherjee Sudeshna , Mundle Malay
Published: April 2015

Background

In India, complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) therapies, namely ayurveda, yoga, unani, siddha, homeopathy and amchi/sowa‐rigpa/Tibetan medicine (AYUSH), are being integrated into mainstream health care; however, public opinion on this integrated model has not been evaluated.

Objectives

To evaluate patients' satisfaction following integration of homeopathy into mainstream health care, attitudes towards integrated services and satisfaction following consultation with homeopaths.

Methods

A cross‐sectional survey was undertaken in November 2014 involving 456 patients visiting five integrated homeopathy clinics across four northern districts in West Bengal, India. A 14‐item self‐administered questionnaire, comprising four‐point Likert scale response sets (i.e. 1 = strongly disagree to 4 = strongly agree) and written in local vernacular Bengali, was used to address the above objective.

Results

Of the patients surveyed, 98.8% were satisfied with the integrated services and disclosed a high level of satisfaction (86.3% of maximum score) following consultation with homeopaths. Although the patients preferred that allopaths to have knowledge of homeopathy, they did not prefer them to prescribe homeopathic medicines. In‐house referrals were found to be compromised. Higher educational status and referrals seemed to influence satisfaction and attitude scores significantly (P<0.05), while satisfaction scores following consultation remained uninfluenced by suspected variables.

Conclusion

When formulating strategies for integrated CAM models in India, patient preferences should be evaluated with reasonable importance.
Time‐lag effects of global vegetation responses to climate change
Authors: Wu Donghai , Zhao Xiang , Liang Shunlin , Zhou Tao , Huang Kaicheng , Tang Bijian , Zhao Wenqian
Published: April 2015

Climate conditions significantly affect vegetation growth in terrestrial ecosystems. Due to the spatial heterogeneity of ecosystems, the vegetation responses to climate vary considerably with the diverse spatial patterns and the time‐lag effects, which are the most important mechanism of climate–vegetation interactive effects. Extensive studies focused on large‐scale vegetation–climate interactions use the simultaneous meteorological and vegetation indicators to develop models; however, the time‐lag effects are less considered, which tends to increase uncertainty. In this study, we aim to quantitatively determine the time‐lag effects of global vegetation responses to different climatic factors using the GIMMS3g NDVI time series and the CRU temperature, precipitation, and solar radiation datasets. First, this study analyzed the time‐lag effects of global vegetation responses to different climatic factors. Then, a multiple linear regression model and partial correlation model were established to statistically analyze the roles of different climatic factors on vegetation responses, from which the primary climate‐driving factors for different vegetation types were determined. The results showed that (i) both the time‐lag effects of the vegetation responses and the major climate‐driving factors that significantly affect vegetation growth varied significantly at the global scale, which was related to the diverse vegetation and climate characteristics; (ii) regarding the time‐lag effects, the climatic factors explained 64% variation of the global vegetation growth, which was 11% relatively higher than the model ignoring the time‐lag effects; (iii) for the area with a significant change trend (for the period 1982–2008) in the global GIMMS3g NDVI (P < 0.05), the primary driving factor was temperature; and (iv) at the regional scale, the variation in vegetation growth was also related to human activities and natural disturbances. Considering the time‐lag effects is quite important for better predicting and evaluating the vegetation dynamics under the background of global climate change.
Simultaneous determination of arbutin and its decomposed product hydroquinone in whitening creams using high‐performance liquid chromatography with photodiode array detection: Effect of temperature and pH on decomposition
Authors: Jeon J. S. , Kim B. H. , Lee S. H. , Kwon H. J. , Bae H. J. , Kim S. K. , Park J. A , Shim J. H. , Abd El‐Aty A. M. , Shin H. C.
Published: April 2015

Synopsis

Objective

Arbutin is an effective agent for the treatment of melanin disorders. Arbutin may be converted to hydroquinone under conditions of high temperature, ultraviolet (UV) radiation and dilute acid. The aim of the current study was to develop an analytical method to determine the levels of arbutin and hydroquinone in whitening cosmetic products using high‐performance liquid chromatography with photodiode array detection (HPLC‐DAD). In addition, we investigated the effects of high temperature and pH on the decomposition of arbutin.

Methods

Samples extracted using two‐step sonications were separated on a C18 column using a gradient mobile phase consisting of water and methanol. A 60‐mm (40 μL) DAD cell was used to enhance the sensitivity of hydroquinone determination. Thermal decomposition of arbutin was evaluated at temperatures ranging from 60 to 120°C for 1–36 h.

Results

The method showed good linearity (R2 ≥ 0.9997), precision (relative standard deviation, RSD < 5%) and acceptable extraction recovery (90–102.6%). The limits of quantitation for arbutin and hydroquinone were 0.0085 and 0.0119 μg mL−1, respectively. One sample of 21 cosmetic products tested contained arbutin at a concentration 1.61 g 100 g−1 cream and 0.12 g 100 g−1 cream of hydroquinone. Arbutin (327.18 ppm) decomposed after 6 h at 120°C and produced 10.73 ppm of hydroquinone.

Conclusion

The developed method is simple to detect both arbutin and hydroquinone simultaneously in cosmetic products, at an adequate level of sensitivity. Notably, temperature and pH did not influence the decomposition of arbutin to hydroquinone in a 2% arbutin cream.
Phytochemical composition and bioactivities of lupin: a review
Authors: Khan Muhammad K. , Karnpanit Weeraya , Nasar‐Abbas Syed M. , Huma Zill‐e‐ , Jayasena Vijay
Published: April 2015

Lupin is a nonstarchy grain legume with high protein, dietary fibre and low fat contents. The industrial shift of lupin seed utilisation from feed to food has recently increased the scientific interest to explore its phytochemical composition and biological activities. Lupin seeds contain significant amounts of polyphenols, carotenoids, phytosterols, tocopherols, alkaloids and peptides with antioxidant, antimicrobial, anticarcinogenic and anti‐inflammatory activities. Among polyphenols, genistein and their derivatives (isoflavones) are of great importance because of their phytoestrogenic potential. This comprehensive review will help out the readers in understanding the phytochemicals present in lupin and their benefits.
A randomised clinical trial on the use of intermediate bonding on the retention of fissure sealants in children
Authors: McCafferty Jennifer , O'Connell Anne C.
Published: April 2015

Objective

To assess whether an adhesive bonding agent increases the retention of resin fissure sealants on first permanent molars (FPMs) and to determine any difference in sealant retention on occlusal, buccal, or palatal surfaces. The effect of the child's behaviour on the retention of the sealants was also assessed.

Methods

One hundred and twelve children were recruited (age range 5–15 years). One operator placed sealants (Helioseal, Ivoclar Vivadent) on 390 FPMs using a split‐mouth design. The study group, (n = 195), had an ethanol‐based adhesive bond (ExciTEF, Ivoclar Vivadent) placed prior to sealant application, and no bond was used in the control group (n = 195). The sealants were reviewed after 12 months and analysed using Fisher's exact test.

Results

The addition of a bonding agent significantly increased sealant retention (P = 0.0005). Retention of bonded sealants on occlusal surfaces was higher (98%) than non‐bonded sealants (93%) (P = 0.08). Bonded sealants placed on buccal/palatal surfaces were retained (92%) more successfully than non‐bonded sealants (82%) (P = 0.0005). The behaviour of the patient significantly affected the retention of fissure sealants (P = 0.0001).

Conclusions

The addition of an ethanol‐based bonding agent significantly increased the retention of sealants at 12 months particularly on palatal fissures of maxillary first permanent molar teeth.
ANTIBIOTIC SUSCEPTIBILITIES OF STAPHYLOCOCCUS AUREUS STRAINS DERIVED FROM FURUNCLE AND BULLOUS IMPETIGO
Authors: Dekio Satoshi , Hirata Tetsuo , Jidoi Joji , Ozasa Shozaburo , Ohno Hiroyuki
Published: April 2015

Susceptibilities of Staphylococcus aureus strains derived from furuncle and bullous impetigo to Ampicillin, Cephalexin, Erythromycin, Tetracycline and Chloramphenicol were studied by examining their minimum inhibitory concentrations. Susceptibilities to every antibiotic studied were lower among the furuncle group than bullous impetigo group. This result is considered to be due to differences in the types of strains causing the two pyodermas. It was also indicated in this study that the susceptibilities to the antibiotics (Ampicillin, Cephalexin, Erythromycin and Tetracycline) which have been used in greater amounts were higher than that to the antibiotic (Chloramphenicol) which has been used in lesser ones.
SKIN ELASTICITY IN LOCALIZED SCLERODERMA (MORPHOEA)
Authors: Serup JØrgen , Northeved Allan
Published: April 2015

A method for measuring skin elasticity in vivo based on repeated applications of suction to a circular skin area with a diameter of 10 mm and measurement of tensile distensibility (TD), hysteresis (H), and resilient distension (RD) by the principle of electrical capacitance calibrated to elevation of the skin surface in mm is introduced. Measurements in 14 patients of 51 lesions of localized scleroderma (morphoea) and regional controls revealed a characteristic rheological pattern in the sclerotic state representing structural alterations with reduced TD and H; H became temporarily increased during remission. Measurements in control regions showed significant correlations between TD and H (r=0.382), and between H and RD (r=0.420). Regional differences between extremities, abdomen, and back were significant and “inversely” correlated to skin thickness as measured by ultrasound (r=0.451). The method was highly reproducible according to studies on silicone rubber membrane (SD of TD different sites, 0.023 mm; SD of H, 0.010 mm; SD of TD same sites repeated, 0.010 mm). The biological, day‐to‐day variation in different regions of a healthy individual was considerably higher (SD of TD, 0.048–0.087 mm), in particular with respect to H (SD, 0.122–0.277 mm). TD was very variable. Experiments on abdominal skin showed that previous mechanical stress resulted in a characteristic pattern with an increase in TD and a decrease in H. Acute edema (histamine weal) resulted in a characteristic pattern with increased TD and H. Both experiments illustrated functional aspects of skin rheology overlying the structure and explaining part of the biological variation.
A CASE OF GRANULOMA ANNULARE AND SARCOIDOSIS
Authors: Kato Hideyuki , Fujieda Yoshihiko , Kitajima Yasuo , Yaoita Hideo
Published: April 2015

Granuloma annulare (GA) and sarcoidosis are two diseases of unknown causes with epithelioid cell granuloma formation. In this paper, we discuss a patient with manifestations of GA and both systemic and cutaneous sarcoidosis. We examined serum MIF and serum MAF to study the relationship between GA and sarcoidosis. Only the serum from a patient in the active stage of sarcoidosis had significant MIF activity. Additional significant MAF activity was found in the active stages of sarcoidosis and GA, especially the stage of developing GA. It may be characteristic that GA has a high potential MAF activity.
CUTANEOUS CRYPTOCOCCOSIS
Authors: Chiang Yuh‐Chiau , Chuan Ming‐Tuo , Chang Chun‐Hsiang , Yeh Hsu‐Po , Lü Yau‐Chin
Published: April 2015

A 45‐year‐old female patient developed 10 verrucous lesions on the face, neck, back and forearms. Diplopia and occasional headaches occurred at the same time. Examination of the skin lesions by histopathology, direct immunofluorescent study and tissue culture showed cutaneous Cryptococcosis. Meningeal cryptococcosis was also found. Complete cure was effected by a two‐month‐course of Amphotericin B and 5‐fluorocytosine as combined therapy.
AN UNUSUAL ASSOCIATION OF ACANTHOSIS NIGRICANS AND CROUZON'S DISEASE—
Authors: Reddy B.S.N. , Garg B.R. , Padiyar N.V. , Krishnaram A.S.
Published: April 2015

A sporadic case of Crouzon's disease associated with benign acanthosis nigricans in a 14 year‐old‐boy is described as an interesting dermatologic rarity. To our knowledge this is the first documented case in the literature to describe such an association. The concurrence of both these disorders is explained by their common genetic background.
CHARACTERIZATION OF CULTURED DERMAL FIBROBLASTS AND ISOLATION OF GLY‐COSAMINOGLYCANS FROM THE MEDIUM OF CELLS OF PATIENTS WITH WERNER'S SYNDROME
Authors: Maekawa Yoshihiro , Kudo Shoichiro , Hayashibara Toshio
Published: April 2015

Dermal fibroblasts of Werner's syndrome were cultured and examined for life span, population doubling time, and isolation of glycosaminoglycans synthesized by cultured fibroblasts. The life span of Werner's fibroblasts did not exceed that of normal subjects and the population doubling time of Werner's fibroblasts was essentially the same as that of fibroblasts from an older age group. Much hyaluronic acid could be isolated from the medium of cultured Werner's fibroblasts. The synthesis of glycosaminoglycans per cell per hour was quantitatively the same for the healthy controls and Werner's fibroblasts.
EFFECT OF CEPHARANTHINE ON CELL‐TYPE CONVERSION IN B16 MOUSE MELANOMA CELLS
Authors: Takeuchi Takuji , Sato Seiji
Published: April 2015

Cells of B16‐conv line isolated from a cultured B16 mouse melanoma cell strain are spindle‐shaped cells (S type) with tyrosinase activity under usual culture conditions. When the cells were seeded for colony formation on plastic substratum in Eagle's MEM containing cepharanthine (0.8–1.0 µM), cell‐type conversion occurred from the spindle‐shaped to DOPA‐negative fibroblast‐like cell (F type) with a significant frequency.
A STUDY OF EXPERIMENTAL CARCINOGENESIS ON MOUSE DORSAL SKIN USING
Authors: Noguchi Nobuko
Published: April 2015

The present research was designed to examine the effects of ultraviolet (UV), PUVA, and retinoid on experimental carcinogenesis and to observe the behavior of sulphydryl groups during the process of carcinogenesis.

Male, four week old, ddy‐strain mice had one of the following treatments applied to their dorsal skin: twice weekly applications of 3‐methylcholanthrene (MC), a carcinogenic initiator; a single application of MC followed by twice‐weekly applications of 12‐o‐tetradecanoylphorbol‐13‐acetate, a carcinogenic promoter; or treatment with or without a single application of MC followed by twice‐weekly treatment with UV, PUVA, retinoid, or retinoid plus UV. The oncogenic and carcinogenic development was studied macroscopically, histologically and histochemically.

UV obviously promoted carcinogenesis, whereas retinoid on its own did not. During MC plus UV carcinogenesis, the action of retinoid differed depending on its type. There was no influence exerted by 0.01% all‐trans retinoid. On the other hand, 0.01% 13‐cis retinoid was able to moderately inhibit cancer development (p<0.01). PUVA produced papillomas accompanied by marked dysplasia by the 28th week; however, no carcinogenesis was observed during the observation period.

As a result of the histochemical time‐course observations of the cancerization process through application of DACM staining, abnormal, strongly fluorescent granules abundant in the—SH group and the S—S bond were observed in the period before any evolution to cancer cells could be seen light‐microscopically. These characteristic granules are suspected to be products resulting from cancerous changes, and therefore it is suggested that DACM staining may be a suitable marker for carcinogenesis.
FACTORS INFLUENCING CONJUGATION OF PHENOLIC COMPOUNDS WITH THE ɛ‐AMINO GROUP
Authors: Takeuchi Yoshio
Published: April 2015

Factors influencing the conjugation potency of eugenol (E), isoeugenol (IE), methyl isoeugenol (MIE), and acetyl isoeugenol (AIE) with [l‐14C]ɛ‐aminocaproic acid are investigated. The conjugation reaction for IE is accelerated in the presence of H2O2‐peroxidase and inhibited under anaerobic conditions by nitrogen gas flow. An oxidation reaction is found to be necessary for the conjugation of IE with ɛ‐aminocaproic acid. Immediately after mixing the phenolic compounds with [1‐14C]ɛ‐aminocaproic acid and H2O2‐peroxidase, the main conjugates are 7.7% for IE, 2.1% for E, 0.7% for AIE, and 0.2% for MIE. IE, which is a potent sensitizer in vivo, produces the greatest amount of conjugates while MIE, which is negative in vivo, produces almost no conjugates. AIE and E, both mild sensitizers in vivo, produce less conjugates than IE.
FUCOSIDOSIS TYPE 3 WITH ANGIOKERATOMA CORPORIS DIFFUSUM
Authors: Honjoh Michio , Yamaguchi Shuichi , Kohda Naoya , Mori Yoshiomi , Nishimura Hiroshi
Published: April 2015

Disseminated angiokeratoma were seen in a 14‐year‐old Japanese boy with an inherited deficiency for alpha‐L‐fucosidase. He had gargoylian features, psychomotor retardation, small stature, vertebral changes, pale nail beds, recurrent infections and hypohidrosis in addition to angiokeratoma.

In the areas of angiokeratoma, we found thin‐walled dilated capillaries in the upper dermis. Several nondistended small blood vessels and eccrine sweat glands of secretory coils and ducts appeared narrowed by swollen epithelial cells with a finely vacuolated cytoplasm. In the pale nail bed, we found thickened dermis without an increased number of blood vessels.

Electron microscopic studies showed endothelial cells of dermal capillaries and eccrine sweat gland epithelium were extensively enlarged: their cytoplasm was occupied by numerous electronlucent, membrane‐limited vacuoles containing scant, finely granular or electronlucent material. In the myoepithelial cells of sweat gland and in the cytoplasm of Schwann cells, lamellar membrane‐bound inclusions were seen.
EPIDERMODYSPLASIA VERRUCIFORMIS
Authors: Yambe Hideko , Oikawa Osamu , Jimbow Kowichi
Published: April 2015

A case of epidermodysplasia verruciformis in which most of the skin lesions gradually decreased during OK 432 therapy is reported.

In correspondence with clinical improvement after this therapy, the T‐cell subpopulation of peripheral blood lymphocytes, which had decreased before OK 432 treatment, returned to the normal range, and the in vitro lymphocyte response to PHA also increased. The clinical regression of skin lesions appeared to be related to the recovery of general cell‐mediated immunity after OK 432 treatment.
CORRELATION OF MORPHOLOGICAL, BACTERIOLOGICAL, HISTOPATHOLOGICAL AND IMMUNOLOGICAL FEATURE OF LEPROSY
Authors: Sehgal Virender Nath , Koranne Ravindra Vishnu , Sehgal Sunil , Beoher Prakash Chand , Sharma Viray Kumar
Published: April 2015

Fifty untreated and uncomplicated leprosy patients comprising three with TT, twenty‐six with BT, ten with BB, four with BL and seven with LL formed the subject material for the study. They were subjected to detailed morphological, bacteriological, histopathological and immunological investigations. Four investigators undertook the study and each one independently investigated one parameter according to a pre‐conceived standard set. The data were pooled and analysed after breaking the code. A good correlation amongst all four parameters was seen only in 44%. A striking variation in three other parameters was found in 56%, primarily in the borderline groups suggesting subclinical bacteriological, histopathological and immunological instability, either in the form of upgrading or downgrading. Similarly, the separation of five indeterminate cases from those of BT group was intriguing.
TOPICAL APPLICATION OF 3‐CARBETHOXYPSORALEN PLUS UVA IN THE TREATMENT OF PSORIASIS
Authors: Kimura Shigeru , Mizuno Nobuyuki , Hirano Shigeru , Yoshikawa Kunihiko
Published: April 2015

Ten psoriatic patients were treated with topically‐applied 3‐carbethoxypsoralen (3CPs) plus UVA‐light (3CPs PUVA). Of the ten patients, five underwent this treatment more than 20 times. Psoriasis was resolved in only two of the five cases, but the effectiveness of 3CPs PUVA was not confirmed, because control sites without treatment showed similar degrees of resolution. In the other three patients, no beneficial effects were observed. One patient dropped out. The remaining four patients discontinued treatment because of severe dermatitis after five to 19 exposures to 3CPs PUVA. Three of the four were proven to be allergic to 3CPs (one, contact and photocontact, and two, photocontact allergy). Surprisingly, the psoriatic lesions in these four patients resolved spontaneously as their dermatitis faded away. UVA induced tight binding of 3CPs with human serum albumin in vitro, indicating that 3CPs can be a potent hapten for photoallergy.
PIGMENTED FRECKLES ON THE SOLE AS ACRAL LENTIGINOUS MELANOMA IN SITU
Authors: Kato Taizo , Tanita Yasuo , Takematsu Hideaki , Tagami Hachiro
Published: April 2015

We report a rare case presenting a very early, non‐invasive stage of acral lentiginous melanoma (ALM). A 67‐year‐old male patient came to our clinic 4 days after he noticed the presence of a pigmented lesion on the sole of his right heel.

The lesion exhibited an irregular, asymmetrical outline and haphazard combination of colors ranging from tan to brown black; it measured 3.2 times 2.1 cm in its greatest dimensions. It was not elevated. It was surgically removed.

Histopathologically, serial sections of the lesion revealed an increase in large atypical melanocytes. These abnormal cells with irregular in shape and relatively hyperchromatic nuclei, were mainly located in the basal layer, resulting in the proliferation of lentiginous type. These findings are clinically and histopathologically identical to those found in ALM in situ.
NEUROCUTANEOUS MELANOSIS
Authors: Yu Hsin‐Su , Tsaur Keh‐Chang , Chien Chung‐Ho , Perng Jyi‐Jiang , Lu Chu‐Chong
Published: April 2015

This is a report of a 28‐day‐old male infant who had concommitant pigmented melanocytic nevi and meningeal melanosis. Pigment cells of the two lesions were observed by electron microscopy and compared with previous reports of nevus cell nevus, meningeal melanosis, meningeal melanocytoma and leptomeningeal malignant melanoma. Based on our findings, we have reached the following three conclusions: (1) Pigment cells in the nevus and meningeal melanosis in our case were similar in their cellular structures and their relationship to blood vessels and consistent with a neural crest origin for pigment cells; (2) Ultrastructural characteristics of the meningeal melanosis in our case were similar to those of the meningeal melanocytoma; (3) Pigment cells in meningeal melanosis have tumorous potential and may tend to cause malignant changes.
MULTIPLE CUTANEOUS PLASMACYTOMAS OBSERVED IN IgD MYELOMA
Authors: Horiuchi Yasuhiro , Ohbu Makoto , Kanzaki Tamotsu
Published: April 2015

A 79‐year‐old Japanese male patient with multiple cutaneous plasmacytomas in IgD‐lambda myeloma is described. Initially, a very small amount of IgM paraprotein could be detected. This case was very aggressive clinically with prominent cutaneous involvement.
SKIN ELASTICITY IN PSORIASIS
Authors: Serup Jørgen , Northeved Allan
Published: April 2015

The skin elasticity of psoriasis plaques was measured in 10 patients suffering from psoriasis vulgaris with a recently introduced in vivo method with high reproducibility. The method is based on repeated applications of suction to a 0.79cm2 circular skin area, and measurement of tensile distensibility (TD), hysteresis (H) and resilient distension (RD) by the principle of electrical capacitance as calibrated with distance. Measurements of 23 plaques showed a decrease in TD and increases in H and RD when compared to regional control measurements. Experiments in 19 control regions with histamine skin‐pricks to evaluate the effects of cutaneous oedema on skin rheology showed that TD as well as H and RD became increased. The skin thickness of the plaques was increased by 68% as a mean, probably resulting from oedema of the outer dermis. The decreased TD, representing a component of stiffness, is probably related to a fixed zone of interdigitation between elongated and club‐shaped rete ridges and oedematous papillae while the increase in H and RD, representing a component of softness, is probably explained by the oedema of the outer dermis. Analyses of the relation between increase in thickness and rheology indicated that, in more advanced plaques, the skin may be in a state of mechanical locking with low hysteresis.
PORPHYRIA CUTANEA TARDA SYMPTOMATICA IN CHILDREN TREATED WITH CHLOROQUINE: REPORT OF FOUR CASES WITH CONTROL LIVER BIOPSIES
Authors: Tamayo Lourdes , Maldonado Ramon Ruiz , Ridaura Cecilia
Published: April 2015

Four children with porphyria cutanea tarda symptomatica were reported. Two of them had a previous history of exposure to pesticides. All four received a daily treatment of 250 mg of chloroquine for seven days. Liver function test results were altered immediately after conclusion of the therapy and porphyrin levels were very high.

A light and electron microscopic examination of eight control liver biopsies revealed fatty changes before treatment, extensive liver damage during treatment, and regeneration of the liver parenchyma after the treatment.

In view of the transient, but severe, liver damage, this therapeutic modality is not recommended for the treatment of children with porphyria cutanea tarda.
GIANT IRRITATED SEBORRHEIC KERATOSIS MIMICKING VERRUCOUS CARCINOMA
Authors: Mochizuki Takashi , Fujigaki Tomomasa , Tanaka Soichi , Hironaga Masaki
Published: April 2015

A case of giant irritated seborrheic keratosis is reported. The tumor showed an unusually gross appearance for seborrheic keratosis; hence, before surgery, it was suspected of being a verrucous carcinoma. However, examination of the whole histologic constitution of the excised tumor warranted the diagnosis of irritated seborrheic keratosis.
BASAL CELL EPITHELIOMA WITH GIANT TUMOR CELLS
Authors: Ono Tomomichi , Egawa Kiyofumi , Higo Junko , Fallas Victor Hugo
Published: April 2015

Two cases of basal cell epithelioma with giant tumor cells are reported. Differentiation into squamoid cells and phagocytosis of melanosomes and remnants of the degenerated tumor cells may be factors in initiating giant cell formation. The localization of these giant tumor cells into specific nests suggests the presence of unknown factors contributing to their formation.
PAPULONECROTIC TUBERCULID WITH INFLAMMATORY NODULAR LESIONS OF THE LOWER LEG
Authors: Yoshikawa Kunihiko , Kimura Shigeru , Mizuno Nobuyuki
Published: April 2015

Two cases of papulonecrotic tuberculid (PNT) with inflammatory nodules of the lower leg are reported. One is a 43‐year‐old woman with lymphadenitis tuberculosa, and the other is a 54‐year‐old man with penis tuberculid and epididymitis of possible tuberculous etiology. In both cases, PPD skin test was strongly positive, and antituberculous therapy was markedly effective. Although the theory of the etiology of PNT is changing due to the recent decrease in active tuberculosis, we think that one cause of so‐called PNT is still tuberculosis, at least in Japan.
IDIOPATHIC CALCINOSIS OF THE SCROTUM
Authors: Nakamura Shinichi , Imai Toshiya , Nakayama Keiji
Published: April 2015

A 38‐year‐old man with idiopathic calcinosis of the scrotum was reported. There was no increase in serum calcium and phosphorus levels. Histologically, the picture was fairly typical with amorphous calcium deposits in the dermis and foreign body reaction, but the epithelial walls observed in such diseases as epidermal cyst or pilar cyst were not seen.
BIOCHEMICAL STUDIES OF EXPERIMENTAL PORPHYRIA
Authors: Shimoyama Tokio , Nonaka Shigeo , Honda Tetsuzo , Ohgami Taro , Murayama Fumio , Yoshida Hikotaro
Published: April 2015

Our previous study showed that a 0.1% concentration of griseofulvin (GF) in feed induced an abnormality of porphyrin metabolism in some dd‐K strain mice. To investigate the kind of changes in porphyrin metabolism that would be produced by other chemicals compared to the administration of 0.1% GF alone, estrogen, ethyl alcohol‐iron mixture and PCB was given to dd‐K strain mice. The numbers of mice with high liver protoporphyrin levels were increased in the group treated with both 0.1% GF and ethyl alcohol‐iron mixture, in comparison to the levels in the 0,1% GF alone and the ethyl alcohol‐iron mixture alone groups. A slight elevation in the liver protoporphyrin level was noted in only one mouse of the ethyl alcohol‐iron mixture group. The remaining mice showed normal levels. From this finding, it was presumed that the administration of ethyl alcohol‐iron mixture has the potential to intensify the activity of 0.1% GF alone. An elevation of the liver coproporphyrin and protoporphyrin levels was seen in the group treated with both 0.1 % GF and estrogen, as compared to the 0.1% GF alone and the estrogen alone groups. In those treated with estrogen alone, liver porphyrin levels were within normal limits except for one mouse, which showed an increase of liver protoporphyrin. An elevation of liver coproporphyrin and protoporphyrin was seen in 8 of 12 mice treated with both PCB and 0.1% GF, while there was no change in the PCB alone group. From these findings, it was inferred that the mechanism of abnormal porphyrin metabolism due to estrogen and PCB combined with 0.1% GF differs from the mechanism of abnormality due to 0.1% GF alone. It appears that the addition of some chemicals to a 0.1% GF feed enhances the action of the 0.1% GF alone.
NEUTROPHIL MIGRATION IN GRANULOMA ANNULARE: COMPARATIVE STUDY BETWEEN LOCALIZED AND GENERALIZED TYPES AND BETWEEN ACTIVE AND REGRESSIVE STATES
Authors: Friedman‐Birnbaum Rachel , Bergman Reuven , Obedeanu Nora , Meshulam Tova , Merzbach David
Published: April 2015

In vitro neutrophilic leukocyte (NL) chemotaxis was studied in patients with granuloma annulare (GA). Chemotaxis of NL from patients with the generalized form of the disease (GGA) was compared to that from patients with the localized form (LGA). A similar comparison was also made between patients in the active state of the disease versus those in regression. No significant differences were observed between any of the GA patients' values and a matched control group, nor were the observed differences statistically significant when NL migration was compared in patients with GGA versus LGA or in patients having the active form of the disease as compared to those in regression. In an attempt to detect eventual effects of control sera on patients' NL or of patients' sera on control NL, the sera and leukocytes were cross‐reacted in chemotactic assays. The results did not show any effect of crossing sera and cells. Taken together, these data fail to indicate any possible role for NL chemotactic activity in GA.