bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Postoperative pressure‐induced alopecia: report of a case and discussion of the role of apoptosis in non‐scarring alopecia
Authors: Hanly Andrew J. , Jorda Merce , Badiavas Evangelos , Valencia Isabel , Elgart George W.
Published: August 2006

We report a case of postoperative pressure induced alopecia in a 21‐year‐old black female after multiple intraoperative procedures. The histopathology is distinctive and demonstrated features in common with trichotillomania and alopecia areata, including the presence of pigment casts, catagen follicles, melanophages and apoptotic bodies. External hair manipulation is considered the primary event in the etiology of pigment casts, however, our present case demonstrated numerous pigment casts despite a complete lack of evidence of external hair manipulation. We performed pattern analysis and in situ end‐labeling in 19 cases of non‐scarring alopecia. Pigment casts were seen in postoperative alopecia (1 case), alopecia areata (1 case) and trichotillomania (5 cases). These forms of alopecia have in common the sudden termination of the anagen phase of the hair cycle. When the anagen portion of the hair cycle is prematurely disrupted hairs enter into catagen. Pigment casts may represent a non‐specific reaction pattern of follicles that are suddenly transformed from anagen to catagen. We therefore propose that hair manipulation is not uniquely responsible for the formation of pigment casts. The primary pathophysiology resulting in the formation of pigment casts more correctly reflects the sudden termination of the anagen phase of the hair cycle.
p53 tumor suppressor gene mutations in transformed cutaneous T‐cell lymphoma: A study of 12 cases
Authors: Marrogi A. J. , Khan M. A. , Vonderheid E. C. , Wood G. S. , McBurney E.
Published: August 2006

The transformation of cutaneous T‐cell lymphoma (t‐CTCL) is an uncommon phenomenon that is associated with histopathologic changes and follows an aggressive course. The factors contributing to this transformation are poorly understood. The aim of this study was to analyze the p53 status in t‐CTCL and to correlate il with disease outcome. The p53 status was investigated by immunohistochemistry, single‐strand conformation polymorphism (SSCP) and DNA sequencing in 12 patients with t‐CTCL. Eight mutations were detected; including four in exon 5, one in exon 6 and three in exon 7. Five were point mutations and three were deletions. Paired samples from nontransformed patch and plaque lesions showed no p53 over‐expression. Eight disease‐related deaths were reported, six to 23 months after transformation, all of which had p53 mutations. Three other patients with wild phenotype (WT‐p53) were last reported alive with the disease 19‐33 months after transformation (p<0.0002). One other case had a p53 mutation but a short period of follow‐up. Our results suggest that phenotypic changes of t‐CTCL are frequently associated with genotype alterations in the p53 gene. Because 70% of the mutations detected were either G to C transversions or deletions, nucleoidepairing mismatch and not DNA damage by UVB represents a likely mechanism for mutagenesis. Furthermore, the data may help in the design of gene transfer therapies that target the p53 molecule.
Cutaneous involvement in lymphoblastic lymphoma
Authors: Chimenti Sergio , Fink‐Puches Regina , Peris Ketty , Pescarmona Edoardo , Pütz Barbara , Kerl Helmut , Cerroni Lorenzo
Published: August 2006

Lymphoblastic leukemia/lymphoma (LBL) is a malignant neoplasm of precursor lymphocytes of B‐ or T‐cell phenotype. Involvement of the skin is relatively uncommon. We examined retrospectively the clinicopathologic, immunophenotypic, and molecular genetic features of six patients with cutaneous involvement of LBL (B‐LBL=5; T‐LBL=1). Patients presented clinically with solitary, large tumors located on the head (3 cases) or the back (1 case), or with generalized tumors (2 cases). Ulceration was uncommon. In two patients the onset of skin lesions was concomitant to the diagnosis of lymphoblastic leukemia. Histopathologic examination showed in all cases a dense, diffuse, monomorphous infiltrate located in the entire dermis and subcutaneous fat. A typical “starry sky” pattern was observed in the majority of the lesions. In some areas neoplastic cells were aligned in a “mosaic‐like” fashion. Cytomorphologically, medium sized lymphoid cells with round or convoluted nuclei, inconspicuous nucleoli and scant cytoplasm predominated. There were no significant differences in the histopathologic features of skin lesions in T‐ and B‐LBL. In B‐LBL, CD79a was more useful than CD20 in determining the phenotypc of neoplastic cells (4/5 cases positive for CD79a as compared to 2/5 cases positive For CD20). TdT, CD10 and CD43 were positive in 4 cases, CD34 in 2. The case of T‐LBL revealed positivity for CD 1a, CD3, CD43 and TdT, and negativity for CD34 and for B‐cell markers. All neoplasms were positive for CD99 and bcl‐2, and showed a high proliferation rate. Molecular genetic analysis of JH and T‐cell receptor (TCR) genes performed using a polymerase chain reaction technique revealed a monoclonal rearrangement of JH genes in all five B‐LBLs. One of these cases showed also a concomitant TCR‐γ gene rearrangement. A monoclonal rearrangement of the TCR‐γ gene was detected in the case of T‐LBL. Our study shows that skin lesions of LBL present characteristic clinicopathologic and molecular features allowing the differentiation from other cutaneous lymphomas, even in cases without clinical history of previous precursor lymphoblastic leukemia/lymphoma.
Syndecan‐1 expression is diminished in acantholytic cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Bayer‐Garner Ilene B. , Sanderson Ralph D. , Smoller Bruce R.
Published: August 2006

Syndecan‐1 is a cell surface proteoglycan predominantly expressed on the surface of adult epithelial cells, and is normally present in all epidermal layers except for the most superficial terminally differentiated cells. Syndecan‐1 mediates cell‐cell and cell‐extracellular matrix adhesion, thereby influencing cell morphology and growth characteristics. In addition, in vitro studies have shown that expression of syndecan‐1 on tumor cells inhibits their invasion into the extracellular matrix. A total of 23 cutaneous biopsies of squamous cell carcinoma, including acantholytic squamous cell carcinoma, invasive squamous fell carcinoma which was not acantholytic, and squamous cell carcinoma in situ were examined for syndecan‐1 immunoreactivity. The level of syndecan‐1 expression was related to the degree of squamous cell dyshesion, with expression being greatest in the in situ lesions and least in the acantholytic lesions. The loss of syndecan‐1 expression with increasing dyshesion of squamous cell carcinoma may be a mechanism for loosening of intercellular and cell‐extracellular matrix attachments, thereby promoting the invasion of neoplastic cells inio the dermis.
Comparison of mitotic cyclins and cyclin‐dependent kinase expression in keratoacanthoma and squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Tran Tien‐Anh , Ross Jeffrey S. , Boehm Jeffrey R. , Carlson J. Andrew
Published: August 2006

Disruption of the cell‐cycle regulation through over‐expression or mutation of cyclins and cyclin‐dependent kinases has been implicated in carcinogenesis. In order to determine whether keratoacanthoma (KA) is unique or a variant of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and whether expression of mitosis‐related antigens are associated with KAs’tendency to regress, we compared the immunohistochemiral expression of mitotic cyclins (cyclins A and B) and their cyclin‐dependent kinase p34cde2 in 21 KAs, 8 regressing KAs, and 28 conventional squamous cell carcinomas. KAs showed both overlap and significant differences in expression of these mitosis‐related antigens compared to SCCs. Basal and parabasal pattern of expression of cyclins A and B significantly predominated in KAs in contrast to SCCs which exhibited diffuse pattern (cyclin A 86%/cyclin B 64% vs. 25%/36%, p<0.01). However, no differences in the highest mean level of expression in‘hot spot’loci of cyclins A and B were identified comparing KAs to SCCs (19%/12% vs. 25%/13%, p>0.05). For the cyclin‐dependent kinase p34cde2, no differences in pattern, distribution or mean levels of expression were found. For cyclins A and B, regressing KA showed significantly more regional tumor labeling (88%/88% vs. 57%/33%, p=0.03) and a lower mean level of immunoreactivity (5%/4% vs. 19%/12%, p=0.001) compared to mature KAs. These findings indicate a role for mitotic cyclins in the evolution of both SCC and KA. The overlapping patterns of expression for these mitosis‐related antigens suggest that KAs represent a variant of SCC that exhibit an overwhelming but not absolute tendency to involute.
Absence of Fas (CD95) and FasL (CD95L) immunohistochemical expression suggests Fas/FasL‐mediated apoptotic signal is not relevant in cutaneous Kaposi's sarcoma lesions
Authors: Fernández‐Figueras María‐Teresa , Armengol Pilar , Puig Lluís , Molinero José Luis , Esquius Mireia , Sirera Guillem , Ariza Aurelio
Published: August 2006

It has been suggested that Fas ligand (FasL), expressed by several neoplastic cell lines and some tumors in vivo, is able to trigger the apoptotic process in activated T‐lymphocytes and may constitute a key element of the immunological escape mechanisms used by many types of neoplasia. In order to evaluate the possible role of Fas‐mediated apoptosis in Kaposi's sarcoma (KS), we have studied the immunocytochemical expression of Fas and FasL in biopsy specimens showing different histopathological stages of classic KS (C‐KS) and AIDS‐associated KS (AIDS‐KS), as well as in cultured cells derived from C‐KS lesions. KS biopsy tissue failed to show Fas expression in all epidemiologic forms and histopathologic stages Studied, while FasL positivity was present in a small number of cells in just a few cases. Double immunostaining ruled out the lymphocytic nature of these cells, whose morphology in adjacent sections stained with hematoxylin and eosin was consistent with KS cells. In contrast, cultured KS cells exhibited strong immunocytochemical cytoplasmic expression of both Fas and FasL. These findings indicate that the Fas‐FasL system does not play a major role as a trigger of apoptosis in KS cells in vivo and that the upregulation of these molecules observed in KS cells in vitro probably is the result of cell stress induced by growth in culture.
Two unusual tumors in a patient with xeroderma pigmentosum: atypical fibroxanthoma and basosquamous carcinoma
Authors: Youssef N. , Vabres P. , Buisson T. , Brousse N. , Fraitag S.
Published: August 2006

Xeroderma pigmentosum (XP) is a rare autosomal recessive disease, characterized by a genetic defect in DNA repair. The consequence is a high incidence of skin cancers on sun‐exposed cutaneous surfaces of affected children. First lesions appear in the first years of life: telangiectasia, actinic keratosis and keratoacanthomas. Squamous cell and basal cell carcinomas are the most frequent neoplasms. We report the case of a 6‐year‐old girl affected with XP, who developed two unusual tumors: an atypical fibroxanthoma and a basosquamous carcinoma. In both tumors, immunohistochemical study showed abnormal accumulation of the p53 protein, suggesting the presence of mutation of the p53 tumor suppressor gene. Such p53 mutations may be ultraviolet (UV)‐induced, as they are frequently observed in tumors occuring in XP.
Effect of topical melatonin on ultraviolet radiation‐induced suppression of Mantoux reactions in humans
Authors: Howes Renae A. , Halliday Gary M. , Damian Diona L.
Published: August 2006

Background: Melatonin, the central neurohormone in circadian rhythm pathways, is recognized to have a variety of immune‐enhancing effects. It has previously been shown to reduce ultraviolet (UV) radiation‐induced erythema in mice and in humans, but there are as yet no published studies on the effects of melatonin on UV‐induced immunosuppression in humans.

Methods: We investigated the effects of topical melatonin on solar‐simulated (ss) UV‐induced suppression of Mantoux reactions in 16 healthy, Mantoux‐positive volunteers. Melatonin (5%) and its vehicle were applied in a double‐blinded manner to separate areas on the lower back, immediately after each of three consecutive daily ssUV exposures. Various sites on the back received either no irradiation or one of three‐graded ssUV doses. Mantoux testing was performed at each site 24 h after the final irradiation, and assessed 72 h later using a reflectance erythema meter. In a separate group of 19 volunteers, the effect of melatonin on minimal erythema dose was assessed both visually and with an erythema meter.

Results: We found dose‐responsive UV‐induced suppression of the Mantoux response in the presence of both vehicle and melatonin; melatonin did not prevent UV‐induced immunosuppression in this model. Melatonin was also found to have no effect on the minimal erythema dose.

Conclusions: Melatonin conferred no protection against immune suppression or sunburn when applied topically to human skin immediately after irradiation.
Broad‐band ultraviolet B phototherapy in zoster patients may reduce the incidence and severity of postherpetic neuralgia
Authors: Hadi Aziz Jalali Mir , Ansarin Habib , Soltani‐Arabshahi Razieh
Published: August 2006

Background:
Postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) is one of the common complications of herpes zoster infection, particularly in the elderly. Current therapeutic measures are only partially effective in the affected patients. As inflammatory mediators released by different cells play an important role in the pathogenesis of this neuropathic pain and with regard to the immunomodulatory effects of ultraviolet B (UVB) spectrum, we presumed that UVB phototherapy might be effective in the prevention of PHN.

Method: This study was performed in two phases. Phase I was a prospective open controlled trial. Twenty‐five patients with severe pain in the first 7 days of zoster rash were divided into two groups: the prevention group (n=12) received oral acyclovir (800 mg five times a day for 10 days) plus broad‐band UVB to the affected dermatomes, starting with 20 mJ/cm2 and gradually increasing the dose by 10 mJ/cm2 each session to a maximum dose of 100 mJ/cm2. Treatment sessions were repeated three times a week until pain relief or to a maximum of 15 sessions. The control group (n=13), who had disease characteristics similar to the prevention group, received only oral acyclovir with the same dose. All patients reported their severity of pain on a verbal rating scale (VRS, score 0–4) before treatment and at 1 and 3 months' follow‐up. In phase II of the study, five patients with established PHN (more than 3 months after rash onset) received UVB with the above‐mentioned protocol.

Results: A total of 17 patients older than 40 (10 females, seven males; mean age, 65.5 years; range: 47–82 years) who had intractable pain due to zoster infection received UVB in two phases of the study. In patients who received phototherapy in the first 7 days of rash, 58.33% and 83.33% were completely pain free at 1‐and 3‐month follow‐up, respectively. The corresponding figure in the control group was significantly lower (38.46% at 1 month and 53.85% at 3 months). The severity of pain was also lower in the phototherapy group than the control group (mean VRS 2.50 vs. 3.28 at 3 months). None of the patients who were treated more than 3 months after rash onset (established PHN) experienced significant (more than 50%) pain relief.

Conclusion: UVB phototherapy in the acute stage of zoster rash might reduce the incidence and severity of PHN. Treatment after 3 months does not seem to have a significant beneficial effect.
Parry–Romberg syndrome associated with borreliosis: could photochemotherapy halt the progression of the disease?
Authors: Baskan Emel Bulbul , Kaçar Seval Doğruk , Turan Ayşegül , Saricaoglu Hayriye , Tunali Sukran , Adim Saduman Balaban
Published: August 2006

Parry–Romberg syndrome (PRS) or progressive hemifacial atrophy is a rare entity characterized by unilateral atrophy of the skin, subcutaneous tissue and sometimes bone and cartilage. Although this syndrome has overlapping features of scleroderma ‘en coup de sabre’, it shows little or no sclerosis and may affect the entire distribution of the trigeminal nerve including the eye and tongue. As the pathogenesis is unknown, no effective therapy exists. We present here the third case of PRS associated with borreliosis and more interestingly two cases whose progressive course have been stabilized with gel PUVA therapy.
The utility of a data‐logging device for measuring adherence to home phototherapy
Authors: Yelverton Christopher B. , Balkrishnan Rajesh , Feldman Steven R.
Published: August 2006

Background: Treatment adherence to home phototherapy is not well characterized.

Purpose: To develop an accurate measure of home phototherapy unit usage.

Methods: We tested a commercially available data logger containing a photo‐sensor on two home phototherapy units.

Results: The data logger accurately recorded actual usage and did not record stray light sources over the study period.

Conclusion: A data logger can accurately capture usage patterns for a home phototherapy unit. These devices could potentially be used in clinical trials to measure adherence to home phototherapy treatment regimens.
UVA1 phototherapy for cutaneous diseases: an experience of 92 cases in the United States
Authors: Tuchinda Chanisada , Kerr Holly A. , Taylor Charles R. , Jacobe Heidi , Bergamo Bettany M. , Elmets Craig , Rivard Jennifer , Lim Henry W.
Published: August 2006

Background: The efficacy and safety of UVA1 (340–400 nm) phototherapy were established by studies from European countries.

Purpose: Evaluate experience with UVA1 phototherapy for patients with cutaneous diseases in the United States.

Methods: A retrospective analysis of 92 cases of UVA1‐treated cutaneous conditions from four medical centers in the United States was performed.

Results: Two‐third of the patients showed a fair to good response (26–100% improvement) and one‐third of the patients showed a poor response (0–25% improvement). Diseases with a moderate to good response (51–100% improvement) included scleredema adultorum, hand or foot dermatitis, atopic dermatitis, morphea (medium or medium‐ to high‐dose UVA1), systemic sclerosis, and urticaria pigmentosa. Besides tanning, other adverse effects were found in 15% of patients, which include pruritus, erythema, tenderness, and burning sensation. Patients with skin types I–III responded better that those with a darker skin type.

Conclusion: UVA1 phototherapy is a useful and well‐tolerated treatment option for a variety of skin conditions.
Photodynamic therapy with methylaminolevulinate as a valuable treatment option for unilesional cutaneous T‐cell lymphoma
Authors: Zane Cristina , Venturini Maria , Sala Raffaella , Calzavara‐Pinton Piergiacomo
Published: August 2006

Background: Mycosis fungoides (MF) is the most common primary cutaneous T‐cell lymphoma (CTCL). Unilesional MF is characterized by a limited involvement of the skin and a chronical, though indolent course. If lesions are refractory to topical steroids, therapies such as localized chemotherapy, photochemotherapy and radiotherapy are available. However, they have several acute and chronic side‐effects and toxicity may accumulate if repeated and protracted treatment cycles are delivered to refractory or relapsing lesions. The present study aims to assess the efficacy of photodynamic therapy (PDT) with topical methylaminolevulinate (MAL) in the treatment of unilesional MF.

Methods: Five patients were enrolled who had unilesional MF that did not respond to treatment with topical steroids, localized psoralen and UVA therapy or UVA1 phototherapies. A 20% MAL (Metvix cream®) cream was applied under occlusive dressing for 3 h. Soon afterwards, skin was irradiated with 37.5 J/cm2 of red light (635±18 nm) delivered by an Aktilite CL128 lamp (PhotoCure ASA) with an irradiance of 86 W/cm2 at skin level. PDT was repeated once weekly until complete clearing of the lesions was obtained, or, in the case of partial clearing, the therapy was interupted when three successive treatments provided no further improvement. All patients underwent a skin biopsy before and after PDT.

Results: A complete remission was observed in four patients and a partial improvement in one. The median number of treatments was six (range 1–9). In no cases was recurrence seen at follow‐up (ranging from 12 to 34 months). Treatments were well tolerated and local anesthesia was never requested.

Conclusion: In conclusion, here, PDT was seen to be an effective and well‐tolerated treatment option for unilesional MF.
Comparison of the efficacy of calcipotriol and maxacalcitol in combination with narrow‐band ultraviolet B therapy for the treatment of psoriasis vulgaris
Authors: Noborio Reiko , Kobayashi Keiko , Shintani Yoichi , Morita Akimichi
Published: August 2006

Background: Combination treatment with topical vitamin D3 and narrow‐band ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation is effective against psoriasis vulgaris. We compared the efficacy of the topical vitamin D3 derivatives calcipotriol and maxacalcitol in combination therapy.

Materials and methods: In this retrospective observational study, 21 patients admitted to Nagoya City University Hospital between April 2001 and September 2004 were enrolled.

Results: Combination treatment with calcipotriol or maxacalcitol and narrow‐band UVB was effective against psoriasis vulgaris. Calcipotriol induced a more rapid improvement and required lower levels of narrow‐band UVB irradiation to be effective. Serum calcium levels were slightly increased after 4 weeks of treatment, but there was no significant difference between the two groups. No other adverse effects were observed in either of the two groups.

Conclusion: The findings of this retrospective observational study indicated that combination treatment with topical vitamin D3 derivatives and narrow‐band UVB is effective against psoriasis without any obvious side‐effects. These findings provide further evidence that calcipotriol has advantages over maxacalcitol regarding the narrow‐band UVB‐accumulated treatment dose and improvement rate of psoriasis area and severity index (PASI) scores.
Treatment of multiple warts in a renal transplant recipient with decreased laser doses after application of a light absorbing dye
Authors: Faurschou Annesofie , Wulf Hans Christian
Published: August 2006

Background/Purpose: Multiple warts are a tremendous problem in immunosuppressed patients. Standard treatment has low efficacy and is often painful. We examined a new treatment combination of gentian violet and dye‐laser.

Methods: A 55‐year‐old male renal transplant recipient was treated with dye‐laser at 585 nm after application of gentian violet 0.5%.

Results: One laser pulse made the stain explode and evaporate and resulted in a considerable reduction in warts size with minimal pain and tissue damage.

Conclusion: Application of gentian violet before dye‐laser treatment may be effective in the battle against warts in immunocompromised patients.
Melatonin inhibits endothelial nitric oxide production in vitro
Authors: Tamura Eduardo K. , Silva Claudia L. M. , Markus Regina P.
Published: August 2006

Abstract: Endothelial cell function is a major player on the regulation of both vascular tonus and permeability. Activation of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) by bradykinin is one physiological pathway for the well‐known vascular relaxation mediated by endothelial‐derived nitric oxide (NO). In this study we investigated if melatonin, which is known to modulate endothelial cell function and NO production in other tissues, is able to impair bradykinin‐induced NO production in vitro. Rat microvascular endothelial cells were incubated with fluorescent dyes to detect either NO or Ca2+. In addition, cGMP levels were measured by enzyme immunoassay. We found that while bradykinin (1–100 nm) increased both cytosolic Ca2+and NO production, melatonin (1 nm) abolished this NO production but not cytosolic Ca2+elevation.N‐acetylserotonin (0.1 and 1 nm) had the same effect, while the selective agonist forMT3receptors (5‐MCA‐NAT, 1 nm) had no effect. Moreover, nonselective and MT2‐selective antagonists did not alter the effect of melatonin, suggesting that it is not mediated by MT melatonin receptors. A possible direct inhibition of calmodulin was also discarded as melatonin did not mimic the effect of calmidazolium on cytosolic Ca2+. Melatonin also abolished cGMP production induced by 1 μmbradykinin, indicating that the NO downstream effect is impaired. Thus, here we show that melatonin reduces NO production induced by bradykinin by a mechanism upstream to the interaction of Ca2+–calmodulin with NOS. Moreover, this effect might be the basis of the diurnal variation in endothelial cell function.
Cargo Selectivity of the ERGIC‐53/MCFD2 Transport Receptor Complex
Authors: Nyfeler Beat , Zhang Bin , Ginsburg David , Kaufman Randal J. , Hauri Hans‐Peter
Published: August 2006

Exit of soluble secretory proteins from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) can occur by receptor‐mediated export as exemplified by blood coagulation factors V and VIII. Their efficient secretion requires the membrane lectin ER Golgi intermediate compartment protein‐53 (ERGIC‐53) and its soluble luminal interaction partner multiple coagulation factor deficiency protein 2 (MCFD2), which form a cargo receptor complex in the early secretory pathway. ERGIC‐53 also interacts with the two lysosomal glycoproteins cathepsin Z and cathepsin C. Here, we tested the subunit interdependence and cargo selectivity of ERGIC‐53 and MCFD2 by short interference RNA‐based knockdown. In the absence of ERGIC‐53, MCFD2 was secreted, whereas knocking down MCFD2 had no effect on the localization of ERGIC‐53. Cargo binding properties of the ERGIC‐53/MCFD2 complex were analyzed in vivo using yellow fluorescent protein fragment complementation. We found that MCFD2 is dispensable for the binding of cathepsin Z and cathepsin C to ERGIC‐53. The results indicate that ERGIC‐53 can bind cargo glycoproteins in an MCFD2‐independent fashion and suggest that MCFD2 is a recruitment factor for blood coagulation factors V and VIII.
Regulation of Apicomplexan Microfilament Dynamics by a Minimal Set of Actin‐Binding Proteins
Authors: Schüler Herwig , Matuschewski Kai
Published: August 2006

Efficient and rapid host cell invasion is a prerequisite for an intracellular parasitic life style. Pathogens typically induce receptor‐mediated endocytosis and hijack the force‐transducing system of a host cell to gain access to a replication‐competent niche. In striking contrast, apicomplexan parasites such as Plasmodium, the causative agent of malaria, and the human and animal pathogens Toxoplasma and Cryptosporidium employ their own actomyosin motor machinery to propel themselves into prospective host cells. Understanding the regulation and dynamics of actin‐based motility of these parasites is therefore central to understanding their pathogenesis. The parasite genomes harbour surprisingly few potential actin‐regulatory proteins indicating that a basic repertoire meets the requirements to regulate actin dynamics. In this article, we summarize our current knowledge of Plasmodium microfilament dynamics and describe its potential players.
Pulp ablation therapy by inductive heating: heat generation characteristics in the pulp cavity
Authors: Wada S , Tazawa K , Suzuki N , Furuta I , Nagano I
Published: August 2006

Objective and methods:  This study was performed to clarify the usefulness of inductive heating system for the new endodontic therapy. Dextran magnetite complex (DM) suspensions were injected into the root canal of a permanent tooth, and the tooth was heated up to about 55.0°C by alternating‐current magnetic field.

Results and conclusion:  The time until the temperature in the pulp cavity reached 55.0°C was 328 ± 26 s (mean ± s.d., n = 8) in the 56 mg as Fe ml−1 of DM concentration. The temperature in the pulp cavity could be maintained at 53.5–59.0°C for 1200 s by changing the magnetic field intensity safely, while temperature elevations of the dental surface on the coronal and apical sides were 4.9° and 3.7°C, respectively. Thus, this inductive heating system, which has the possibility of selective heating, might be useful for eliminating residues of pulp as a new ablation therapy.
Electrostimulating device in the management of xerostomia
Authors: Strietzel FP , Martín‐Granizo R , Fedele S , Lo Russo L , Mignogna M , Reichart PA , Wolff A
Published: August 2006

Introduction:  The present study was undertaken to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of a recently developed electrostimulating device mounted on an individualized intra‐oral removable appliance.

Materials and methods:  The device, containing electrodes, a wetness sensor, an electronic circuit and a power source, was tested on patients with xerostomia in a crossover, randomized, sham‐controlled, double‐blinded, multicenter study. Electrical stimulation and also sham were delivered during 10 min to the oral mucosa, in the mandibular third molar region. Oral dryness was measured by the sensor. As the primary outcome, sensor dryness and xerostomia symptom changes as a result of device wearing were assessed, and compared between active and sham modes. In addition, side‐effects were recorded.

Results:  Electrostimulation resulted in a significant decrease in sensor dryness, leading to a beneficial effect on patients’ subjective condition. No significant side‐effects were observed.
Alteration of BMP‐4 and Runx2 expression patterns in mouse temporomandibular joint after ovariectomy
Authors: Min H‐J , Lee M‐J , Kim J‐Y , Cho S‐W , Park H‐D , Lee S‐I , Kim H‐J , Jung H‐S
Published: August 2006

Objective:  Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) includes a number of clinical conditions involving the masticatory musculature or the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and associated structures. Previous studies have shown the presence of high‐affinity estrogen receptors in the TMJ articular cartilage. The aim of this study was to evaluate the developmental changes in mouse TMJ under estrogen deficiency.

Materials and methods:  Four‐month‐old ovariectomized mice were killed after certain weeks. We examined the significant alterations of the expression patterns of bone morphogenetic protein (BMP)‐4, Runx2, and bone sialoprotein (BSP) after ovariectomy.

Results:  In the control group, BMP‐4, Runx2, and BSP expressions showed no definite difference at any stage. In the ovariectomy group, the intensity of BMP‐4 and Runx2 expression increased after ovariectomy. BSP immunoreactivity, however, increased slightly at 2 weeks but then decreased gradually.

Conclusions:  Estrogen plays important roles in the metabolism and maintenance of TMJ via regulations of signaling molecules such as BMP‐4, Runx2, and BSP. Our results suggest that estrogen deficiency is a candidate cause of TMD. This study revealed further osteogenetic properties of estrogen that may be useful in the clinical treatment and prevention of TMD.
Pharmacodiagnostic evaluation of EGFR expression in oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Diniz‐Freitas M , García‐Caballero T , Antúnez‐López J , Gándara‐Rey JM , García‐García A
Published: August 2006

Objective:  To determine epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) expression in oral squamous cell carcinomas (OSCC), and its possible relationships with clinical findings, histological findings, disease course and prognosis.

Materials and Methods:  Surgical specimens of 47 OSCCs were studied immunohistochemically for detection of EGFR using a standardized immunohistochemical detection system (EGFR PharmaDxTM kit). Statistical analysis was used to investigate possible relationships between EGFR expression and clinical findings, histological findings, cell proliferation (MIB1 labelling index), disease course and patient survival.

Results:  Epidermal growth factor receptor expression was absent or weak in 12 cases (25.5%) and moderate or intense in 35 cases (74.5%). However, EGFR expression did not show statistically significant associations with any of the clinical, histological, biological or prognostic variables considered.

Conclusion:  First, despite previous suggestions that EGFR is a useful indicator of biological tumour behaviour, the present results suggest that EGFR is not a useful indicator of prognosis in OSCC. Secondly, the high prevalence of EGFR overexpression suggests that the possibility of anti‐EGFR therapy in OSCC merits further investigation.
Fanconi's anemia: clinical and radiographic oral manifestations
Authors: De Araujo MR , De Oliveira Ribas M , Koubik ACGA , Mattioli T , De Lima AAS , França BHS
Published: August 2006

Background:  Fanconi's anemia (FA) is a rare autosomal recessive disorder characterized by progressive bone marrow failure, congenital abnormalities, and predisposition to malignancies. There are 11 genetic subtypes characterized by complementation groups – FA‐ A, B, C, D1, D2, E, F, G, I, J, and L.

Objective:  To evaluate and describe clinical, oral and radiographic manifestations of patients with FA.

Methods:  A quantitative analysis of clinical manifestations, oral lesions and panoramic radiographs was performed in 33 patients.

Results:  Clinical manifestations included melanin skin pigmentation, skin vascular and ocular anomalies. Melanin pigmentation on oral mucosa, traumatic lesions, gingival bleeding, dental biofilm and gingival alterations were the main oral manifestations that were found. Oral and clinical manifestations were not dependent on patient's sex. No significant statistical difference between females and males was detected. Dental anomalies were not remarkable either at clinical or at radiographic examinations. Although several dental anomalies were observed in patients with FA, the correlation between this disease was not established from this study. Panoramic radiographs showed agenesis, taurodontism, radicular anomalies such as dilaceration, tapering, and foreshortening.

Conclusion:  This study suggests that gingival alterations are associated with defective oral hygiene but not with hematologic conditions. It also helps elucidate oral manifestations of FA. These patients are living longer and need special dental care.
An in vitro study of the effect of some dietary components on calculus formation: regulation of calcium phosphate precipitation
Authors: Hidaka S , Oishi A
Published: August 2006

Objective:  We studied the effects of food components on the in vitro formation of calcium phosphate precipitates.

Materials and methods:  The effects of food components, such as starch, soybean flour, fish meal, rapeseed oil, and coconut oil, on calcium phosphate precipitation were studied using a pH drop method.

Results:  Although the addition of starch had no effect on the rate of precipitation of amorphous calcium phosphate (ACP), it increased both the rate of transformation of ACP to hydroxyapatite (HAP) and the induction time (i.e. time for the initiation of transformation of ACP to HAP to occur); this was irrespective of the heat treatment of the starch. Amylopectin (insoluble constituent of starch) was effective in increasing the rate of HAP transformation, but amylose (soluble constituent of starch) was not. Oil specimen obtained from rapeseed (400 μl ml−1) increased the entire reaction of calcium phosphate precipitation, but that from coconut did not. Protein food, such as soybean flour and fish meal, decreased the rate of transformation of ACP to HAP and increased the induction time, while they had no effect on the rate of ACP precipitation.

Conclusion:  These results suggest that carbohydrate and oil (both are staple diets for the humans) enhance oral calcification (dental calculus formation or re‐mineralization of tooth enamel), while side dishes of protein food would decrease it.
Metalloproteinase 9 is the outer executioner of desmoglein 3 in apoptotic keratinocytes
Authors: Cirillo N , Femiano F , Gombos F , Lanza A
Published: August 2006

Objective:  To investigate the specific matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) targeting desmoglein 3 (Dsg3) in apoptotic keratinocytes.

Method:  Inhibitor studies on cultured keratinocytes and Western blot analysis.

Results:  Blocking of MMP‐9 activity strongly reduces shedding of Dsg3 from cell surface. MMP‐2 has a less relevant role in the cleavage of Dsg3 while other MMPs, such as MMP‐1, ‐3, and ‐8, do not target Dsg3.

Conclusion:  Apoptic keratinocytes impair the extracellular domain of cell surface Dsg3 by MMP‐9 activity. The discovery of a specific targeting of Dsg3 could be useful to understand the pathophysiology of diseases in which Dsg3 is affected.
Assessing military veterans for posttraumatic stress disorder: A guide for primary care clinicians
Authors: Romanoff Maria R.
Published: August 2006

Purpose: To educate primary care providers on the physical effects of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), explain why military veterans are at great risk, and describe how to identify PTSD in primary care clients.

Data sources: Current scientific and psychiatric literature on PTSD.

Conclusions: PTSD is prevalent in the military community because of the frequency and type of trauma seen in the combat zone. With the ongoing military deployments, assessment for the presence of PTSD is increasingly important for comprehensive and high‐quality primary care. Clients with trauma histories, such as veterans, are at increased risk for physical disorders such as heart disease and psychological disorders such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD.

Implications for practice: Primary care clinicians, including those outside the military health system, are essential in identifying trauma histories and directing clients to appropriate care.
Office‐based spirometry for early detection of obstructive lung disease
Authors: Wallace Laura D , Troy Kenneth E
Published: August 2006

Purpose: To review the research‐based evidence supporting smoking cessation as the only proven method to reduce chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) progression and to show that early detection of disease with office‐based spirometry can lead to therapeutic intervention before physiologic symptoms arise.

Data sources: Extensive review of national and international scientific literature supplemented with drawings and algorithms.

Conclusions: Early detection of COPD with spirometry, along with smoking cessation, and aggressive intervention can alter the insidious course of this highly preventable disease. It is imperative that nurse practitioners utilize this simple and inexpensive procedure to identify COPD in its earliest stages, so treatment can reduce individual and community disease burden, reduce morbidity and mortality, and help reduce healthcare costs.

Implications for practice: Determination of early airflow obstruction supports smoking cessation education, provides objective data for patient motivation, thereby doubling patient compliance and reducing further disease burden.
Homecare issues in rotavirus gastroenteritis
Authors: Koslap‐Petraco Mary Beth
Published: August 2006

Purpose: This article will describe the burden of rotavirus gastroenteritis (RGE) and its management, highlighting educational issues that nurse practitioners can assist caregivers to enhance at‐home management.

Data source: A Medline search of the medical literature was used to identify articles that describe the burden, clinical presentation, and management of RGE.

Conclusions: RGE is a serious medical condition characterized by diarrhea and vomiting and is a major cause of morbidity and hospitalization among children aged 5 years or younger. Proper at‐home treatment can be challenging; however, improved home care may limit emergency department visits and hospitalizations.

Implications for practice: Mild to moderate RGE may be successfully managed at home if caregivers are adequately educated in deciding when a child needs to be evaluated in a physician’s office and in managing dehydration at home.
Cost‐effectiveness of nurse practitioner management of hypercholesterolemia following coronary revascularization
Authors: Paez Kathryn A. , Allen Jerilyn K.
Published: August 2006

Purpose: To evaluate the cost‐effectiveness of case management by a nurse practitioner (NP) to lower blood lipids in patients with coronary heart disease (CHD) from a managed care perspective.

Data sources: A total of 228 consecutive, eligible adults with hypercholesterolemia and CHD were recruited during hospitalization after coronary revascularization. Patients were randomized to receive lipid management, including individualized lifestyle modification and pharmacologic intervention from an NP for 1 year after discharge in addition to their usual care (NURS) or to receive usual care (EUC) enhanced with feedback on lipids to their primary provider and/or cardiologist. A cost‐effectiveness ratio was calculated using incremental costs of the NURS group per unit change and percent change in low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C) for 1 year at 2004 values.

Conclusions: The annual incremental cost‐effectiveness of NP case management was $26.03 per mg/dL and $39.05 per percent reduction in LDL‐C. When costs of NURS care for the second 6 months of management were compared to the first 6 months of management, nursing salary costs were lower as patients were established on cholesterol management regimens, but the reduction in costs was offset by the increase in incremental costs of drug treatment as the NP titrated the patient to higher drug dosages that were more costly.

Implications for practice: The findings suggest that case management by an NP is a cost‐effective approach for a managed care organization to consider in improving the care of patients with cardiovascular disease.
Subtotal intracapsular prostatectomy as a useful treatment for advanced‐stage prostatic malignancies
Authors: Vlasin M. , Rauser P. , Fichtel T. , Necas A.
Published: August 2006

Objectives:Palliative surgery for advanced‐stage prostatic cancers was tested with regard to survival rate and complications in a prospective randomised clinical study of dogs. Currently, therapeutic approaches have a grave long‐term prognosis in clinically significant prostatic cancer.

Methods:Of 167 dogs with prostatic disorders, 24 were diagnosed with prostatic cancer. Eleven dogs underwent subtotal intracapsular prostatectomy, while in 10 dogs total prostatectomy was performed. The remaining three dogs were euthanased at their owner’s request. Dogs treated by subtotal intracapsular prostatectomy and those treated by total prostatectomy were followed until their death.

Results:It was found that dogs treated by subtotal intracapsular prostatectomy survived 5·63 times longer (mean [sd] 112·0 [63·03] days) than those treated by total prostatectomy (19·9 [10·67] days) (P<0·01). Moreover, a significant decrease in postoperative complications after subtotal intracapsular prostatectomy was recorded, especially with regard to urinary incontinence.

ClinicalSignificance:It was concluded that, in the authors’ facility, treatment of prostatic cancer by subtotal intracapsular prostatectomy was superior to that by total prostatectomy, with respect to both postoperative survival and serious complications.
Intermandibular malignant mesenchymoma in a crossbreed dog
Authors: Murphy S. , Blunden A. S. , Dennis R. , Neath P. , Smith K. C.
Published: August 2006

A 12‐year‐old German shepherd crossbreed dog was presented with a submandibular mass that was initially diagnosed as myxosarcoma on incisional biopsy. Chest radiographs were taken for staging, and magnetic resonance imaging was performed to assess the feasibility of cytoreductive surgery before adjuvant radiotherapy. The dog underwent debulking surgery, and histology permitted reclassification of the tumour as a malignant mesenchymoma (with myxosarcomatous and osteosarcomatous differentiation). The dog was subsequently treated with four fractions of radiotherapy given at seven‐day intervals and three doses of carboplatin. The dog remained stable following therapy until its condition acutely deteriorated, and it was euthanased 153 days after surgery. On postmortem examination, there were no signs of local tumour recurrence, but metastases were observed both in the thorax and in the abdomen.
Reducing the Racial Achievement Gap: A Social-Psychological Intervention
Authors: Cohen Geoffrey L. , Garcia Julio , Apfel Nancy , Master Allison
Published: August 2006

Two randomized field experiments tested a social-psychological intervention designed to improve minority student performance and increase our understanding of how psychological threat mediates performance in chronically evaluative real-world environments. We expected that the risk of confirming a negative stereotype aimed at one's group could undermine academic performance in minority students by elevating their level of psychological threat. We tested whether such psychological threat could be lessened by having students reaffirm their sense of personal adequacy or “self-integrity.” The intervention, a brief in-class writing assignment, significantly improved the grades of African American students and reduced the racial achievement gap by 40%. These results suggest that the racial achievement gap, a major social concern in the United States, could be ameliorated by the use of timely and targeted social-psychological interventions.
Microarthropods Mediate Sperm Transfer in Mosses
Authors: Cronberg Nils , Natcheva Rayna , Hedlund Katarina
Published: August 2006

Among flowering plants, animals commonly act as pollinators. We showed that fertile moss shoots attract springtails and mites, which in turn carry moss sperm, thereby enhancing the fertilization process. Previously, fertilization of mosses was thought to depend on the capacity of individual sperm to swim through a continuous water layer. The role of microarthropods in moss fertilization resembles the role of animals as pollinators of flowering plants but may be evolutionarily much older because of the antiquity of the organism groups involved.
Phytophthora
Genome Sequences Uncover Evolutionary Origins and Mechanisms of Pathogenesis
Authors: Tyler Brett M. , Tripathy Sucheta , Zhang Xuemin , Dehal Paramvir , Jiang Rays H. Y. , Aerts Andrea , Arredondo Felipe D. , Baxter Laura , Bensasson Douda , Beynon Jim L. , Chapman Jarrod , Damasceno Cynthia M. B. , Dorrance Anne E. , Dou Daolong , Dickerman Allan W. , Dubchak Inna L. , Garbelotto Matteo , Gijzen Mark , Gordon Stuart G. , Govers Francine , Grunwald Niklaus J. , Huang Wayne , Ivors Kelly L. , Jones Richard W. , Kamoun Sophien , Krampis Konstantinos , Lamour Kurt H. , Lee Mi-Kyung , McDonald W. Hayes , Medina MoÌnica , Meijer Harold J. G. , Nordberg Eric K. , Maclean Donald J. , Ospina-Giraldo Manuel D. , Morris Paul F. , Phuntumart Vipaporn , Putnam Nicholas H. , Rash Sam , Rose Jocelyn K. C. , Sakihama Yasuko , Salamov Asaf A. , Savidor Alon , Scheuring Chantel F. , Smith Brian M. , Sobral Bruno W. S. , Terry Astrid , Torto-Alalibo Trudy A. , Win Joe , Xu Zhanyou , Zhang Hongbin , Grigoriev Igor V. , Rokhsar Daniel S. , Boore Jeffrey L.
Published: August 2006

Draft genome sequences have been determined for the soybean pathogen
Phytophthora sojae
and the sudden oak death pathogen
Phytophthora ramorum
. OoÌmycetes such as these
Phytophthora
species share the kingdom Stramenopila with photosynthetic algae such as diatoms, and the presence of many
Phytophthora
genes of probable phototroph origin supports a photosynthetic ancestry for the stramenopiles. Comparison of the two species' genomes reveals a rapid expansion and diversification of many protein families associated with plant infection such as hydrolases, ABC transporters, protein toxins, proteinase inhibitors, and, in particular, a superfamily of 700 proteins with similarity to known ooÌmycete avirulence genes.