bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Significance of phospho‐vascular endothelial growth factor receptor‐2 expression in pancreatic cancer
Authors: Doi Yosuke , Yashiro Masakazu , Yamada Nobuya , Amano Ryosuke , Ohira Go , Komoto Masahiro , Noda Satoru , Kashiwagi Shinichiro , Kato Yukihiro , Fuyuhiro Yuhiko , Hirakawa Kosei
Published: March 2010

Vascular endothelial growth factor receptors (VEGFRs) are mainly expressed by endothelial cells, but they are also expressed by some cancer cells, including pancreatic cancer. The objective of this study was to evaluate the significance of VEGFRs expression in pancreatic cancer cells. A total of 107 primary pancreatic tumors were stained with antibodies against VEGFR‐1, VEGFR‐2, phospho‐VEGFR‐2 (pVEGFR‐2), VEGFR‐3, VEGF‐A, VEGF‐C, and VEGF‐D. VEGFR‐2 and pVEGFR‐2 expression were positive in 74 (69%) and 54 (50%) of 107 pancreatic cancers. There was a significant correlation (P < 0.001) between VEGFR‐2 expression and pVEGFR‐2 expression. pVEGFR‐2 was significantly associated with invasion to the anterior capsule of pancreas (P = 0.032) and arterial invasion (P = 0.012). In contrast, VEGFR‐1 and VEGFR‐3 expression was only observed in 13 (12%) and 15 (14%) of 107 pancreatic cancers, and was not associated with any clinicopathological features. The prognosis of pVEGFR‐2 positive patients with stage IIA tumors was significantly (P = 0.0441) poorer than that of pVEGFR‐2‐negative patients. VEGF‐A, VEGF‐C, and VEGF‐D expression was positive in 42 (39%), 82 (77%), and 39 (36%) of 107 pancreatic cancers, respectively. The prognosis for VEGF‐A‐positive patients was significantly (P = 0.0425) poor, but not for VEGF‐C‐positive and VEGF‐D‐positive patients. A multivariate analysis indicated pVEGFR‐2 expression to be an independent prognostic factor, but not VEGF‐A. These findings suggested that VEGFR‐2 signaling might therefore be associated with the prognosis of patients with pancreatic cancer. The expression of pVEGFR‐2 might be a novel predictive prognostic marker for patients with pancreatic cancers, especially at clinical stage IIA. (Cancer Sci 2010)
Decreased infiltration of macrophage scavenger receptor‐positive cells in initial negative biopsy specimens is correlated with positive repeat biopsies of the prostate
Authors: Nonomura Norio , Takayama Hitoshi , Kawashima Atsunari , Mukai Masatoshi , Nagahara Akira , Nakai Yasutomo , Nakayama Masashi , Tsujimura Akira , Nishimura Kazuo , Aozasa Katsuyuki , Okuyama Akihiko
Published: March 2010

Macrophage scavenger receptor (MSR)‐positive inflammatory cells and tumor‐associated macrophages (TAMs) have been reported to regulate the growth of various cancers. In this study, the infiltration of MSR‐positive cells and TAMs was analyzed to predict the outcome of repeat biopsy in men diagnosed as having no malignancy at the first prostate biopsy. Repeat biopsy of the prostate was carried out in 92 patients who were diagnosed as having no malignancy at the first biopsy. Of these, 30 patients (32.6%) were positive for prostate cancer at the repeat biopsy. Tumor‐associated macrophages and MSR‐positive cells were immunohistochemically stained with mAbs CD68 and CD204, respectively. Six ocular measuring fields were chosen randomly under a microscope at ×400 power in the initial negative biopsy specimens, and the mean TAM and MSR counts for each case were determined. No difference in TAM count was found between the cases with or without prostate cancer. By contrast, the MSR count in patients with cancer was significantly lower than that in patients without cancer at the repeat biopsy (P < 0.001). Logistic regression analysis indicated that the MSR count at first biopsy is a significantly better predictive factor for positive repeat biopsy than PSA velocity, interval between first and repeat biopsies, or TAM count. Decreased infiltration of MSR‐positive cells in negative first biopsy specimens was correlated with positive findings in the repeat biopsy. The MSR count might be a good indicator for avoiding unnecessary repeat biopsies. (Cancer Sci 2010)
Caffeine enhances radiosensitization to orthotopic transplant LM3 hepatocellular carcinoma in vivo
Authors: Wang Tie‐Jun , Liu Zhong‐Shan , Zeng Zhao‐Chong , Du Shi‐Suo , Qiang Ming , Zhang Shu‐Min , Zhang Zheng‐Yu , Tang Zhao‐You , Wu Wei‐Zhong , Zeng Hai‐Ying
Published: March 2010

The aim of this study was to determine whether caffeine enhanced radiosensitization in an orthotopic transplant of LM3 human hepatocellular cancer in nude mice. LM3 hepatocellular carcinoma cells were infected with red fluorescent protein and irradiated, and cell cycle distribution and survival fraction were detected. A nude mouse model of orthotopic transplant of red fluorescent protein‐expressing LM3 hepatocellular cancer was established. Nude mice were divided into four groups: control (NS); caffeine (Caff) alone; irradiation (IR) alone; and caffeine + IR (Caff + IR). Tumor growth curves were described. Expression of cyclin and apoptosis were evaluated by analysis of phosphorylated cyclin dependent kinase 1 (CDC2) Tyr15 (CDC2‐Tyr15‐P), cyclinB1, TUNEL staining, and caspase‐3. Caffeine abrogated IR‐induced G2 phase arrest and decreased survival of irradiated LM3 cells. Caffeine enhanced radiosensitivity of LM3 hepatocellular cancer in vivo. Tumor growth delay time in the Caff + IR group was 14.3 days compared with the NS group, 14.1 days compared with the Caff alone group, and 7.2 days compared with the IR alone group. At 15 Gy, expression of CDC2‐Tyr15‐P in the Caff + IR group (26.0 ± 8.9%) was significantly lower than in the IR alone group (68.4 ± 10.6%), expression of cyclinB1 and proportion of TUNEL‐positive cells in the Caff + IR group (30.4 ± 8.7% and 59.2 ± 9.5%, respectively) was significantly higher than in the IR alone group (7.0 ± 3.7% and 24.2 ± 7.2%, respectively), expression of caspase‐3 was consistent with the TUNEL staining results. This study suggested that caffeine might enhance the radiosensitivity of LM3 hepatocellular cancer in vivo, and may be feasible for further clinical applications. (Cancer Sci 2010)
Organic matter quality of a forest soil subjected to repeated drying and different re‐wetting intensities
Authors: Schmitt A. , Glaser B. , Borken W. , Matzner E.
Published: March 2010

Extended drought periods followed by heavy rainfall may increase in many regions of the Earth, but the consequences for the quality of soil organic matter and soil microbial communities are poorly understood. Here, we investigated the effect of repeated drying and re‐wetting on microbial communities and the quality of particulate and dissolved organic matter in a Haplic Podzol from a Norway spruce stand. After air‐drying, undisturbed soil columns were re‐wetted at different intensities (8, 20 and 50 mm per day) and time intervals, so that all treatments received the same amount of water per cycle (100 mm). After the third cycle, SOM pools of the treatments were compared with those of non‐dried control columns. Lignin phenols were not systematically affected in the O horizons by the treatments whereas fewer lignin phenols were found in the A horizon of the 20‐ and 50‐mm treatments. Microbial biomass and the ratio of fungi to bacteria were generally not altered, suggesting that most soil microorganisms were well adapted to drying and re‐wetting in this soil. However, gram‐positive bacteria and actinomycetes were reduced whereas gram‐negative bacteria and protozoa were stimulated by the treatments. The increase in the (cy 17: 0 + cy 19: 0)/(16:1ω7c + 18:1ω7c) ratio indicates physiological or nutritional stress for the bacterial communities in the O, A and B horizons with increasing re‐wetting intensity. Drying and re‐wetting reduced the amount of hydrolysable plant and microbial sugars in all soil horizons. However, CO2 and dissolved organic carbon fluxes could not explain these losses. We postulate that drying and re‐wetting triggered chemical alterations of hydrolysable sugar molecules in organic and mineral soil horizons.
Combined exposures to anti‐androgenic chemicals: steps towards cumulative risk assessment
Authors: Kortenkamp A. , Faust M.
Published: March 2010

There is widespread exposure to anti‐androgens, a group of chemicals able to disrupt androgen action in foetal life, with irreversible de‐masculinizing consequences. Substances of concern include certain phthalates, pesticides and chemicals used in cosmetics and personal care products. Although people come into contact with several anti‐androgens, chemicals risk assessment normally does not take account of the effects of combined exposures. However, a disregard for combination effects may lead to underestimations of risks and for this reason, we have assessed the feasibility of conducting cumulative risk assessment, where the focus is on considering the effects of exposure to multiple chemicals, via multiple routes and pathways. Following recent recommendations by the US National Research Council, we have, for the first time, included phthalates and other anti‐androgenic chemicals, a total of 15 substances. On the basis of exposure estimates for the individual chemicals and reference doses for anti‐androgenicity, we have used the hazard index approach. We show that the cumulative risks from anti‐androgen exposures exceed acceptable levels for people on the upper end of exposure levels. The value obtained for median exposures to the 15 substances can be judged tolerable. However, significant knowledge gaps exist that prevent us from arriving at definitive conclusions. Of greatest concern is an absence of appropriate in vivo toxicity data about large numbers of in vitro androgen receptor antagonists. Knowledge about the effect profiles of these chemicals will lead to higher risk estimates. Our analysis suggests that risk reductions can be achieved by limiting exposures to the plasticizer diethyl hexyl phthalate, the cosmetic ingredients butyl‐ and propyl paraben, the pesticides vinclozolin, prochloraz and procymidone and bisphenol A.
Cumulative effects of in utero administration of mixtures of reproductive toxicants that disrupt common target tissues via diverse mechanisms of toxicity
Authors: Rider C. V. , Furr J. R. , Wilson V. S. , Gray Jr L. E.
Published: March 2010

Although risk assessments are typically conducted on a chemical‐by‐chemical basis, the 1996 Food Quality Protection Act required the US Environmental Protection Agency to consider cumulative risk of chemicals that act via a common mechanism of toxicity. To this end, we are conducting studies with mixtures of chemicals to elucidate mechanisms of joint action at the systemic level with the goal of providing a framework for assessing the cumulative effects of reproductive toxicants. Previous mixture studies conducted with antiandrogenic chemicals are reviewed briefly and two new studies are described. In all binary mixture studies, rats were dosed during pregnancy with chemicals, singly or in pairs, at dosage levels equivalent to approximately one‐half of the ED50 for hypospadias or epididymal agenesis. The binary mixtures included androgen receptor (AR) antagonists (vinclozolin plus procymidone), phthalate esters [di(n‐butyl) phthalate (DBP) plus benzyl n‐butyl phthalate (BBP) and diethyl hexyl phthalate (DEHP) plus DBP], a phthalate ester plus an AR antagonist (DBP plus procymidone), a mixed mechanism androgen signalling disruptor (linuron) plus BBP, and two chemicals which disrupt epididymal differentiation through entirely different toxicity pathways: DBP (AR pathway) plus 2,3,7,8 TCDD (AhR pathway). We also conducted multi‐component mixture studies combining several ‘antiandrogens’. In the first study, seven chemicals (four pesticides and three phthalates) that elicit antiandrogenic effects at two different sites in the androgen signalling pathway (i.e. AR antagonist or inhibition of androgen synthesis) were combined. In the second study, three additional phthalates were added to make a 10 chemical mixture. In both the binary mixture studies and the multi‐component mixture studies, chemicals that targeted male reproductive tract development displayed cumulative effects that exceeded predictions based on a response‐addition model and most often were in accordance with predictions based on dose‐addition models. In summary, our results indicate that compounds that act by disparate mechanisms of toxicity to disrupt the dynamic interactions among the interconnected signalling pathways in differentiating tissues produce cumulative dose‐additive effects, regardless of the mechanism or mode of action of the individual mixture component.
Hypothesis: exposure to endocrine‐disrupting chemicals may interfere with timing of puberty
Authors: Mouritsen A. , Aksglaede L. , Sørensen K. , Mogensen S. Sloth , Leffers H. , Main K. M. , Frederiksen H. , Andersson A.‐M. , Skakkebaek N. E. , Juul A.
Published: March 2010

A recent decline in onset of puberty – especially among girls – has been observed, first in the US in the mid‐1990s and now also in Europe. The development of breast tissue in girls occurs at a much younger age and the incidence of precocious puberty (PP) is increasing. Genetic factors and increasing prevalence of adiposity may contribute, but environmental factors are also likely to be involved. In particular, the widespread presence of endocrine‐disrupting chemicals (EDCs) is suspected to contribute to the trend of earlier pubertal onset. The factors regulating the physiological onset of normal puberty are poorly understood. This hampers investigation of the possible role of environmental influences. There are many types of EDCs. One chemical may have more than one mode of action and the effects may depend on dose and duration of the exposure, as well as the developmental stage of the exposed individual. There may also be a wide range of genetic susceptibility to EDCs. Human exposure scenarios are complex and our knowledge about effects of mixtures of EDCs is limited. Importantly, the consequences of an exposure may not be apparent at the actual time of exposure, but may manifest later in life. Most known EDCs have oestrogenic and/or anti‐androgenic actions and only few have androgenic or anti‐oestrogenic effects. Thus, it appears plausible that they interfere with normal onset of puberty. The age at menarche has only declined by a few months whereas the age at breast development has declined by 1 year; thus, the time span from initiation of breast development to menarche has increased. This may indicate an oestrogen‐like effect without concomitant central activation of the hypothalamic–pituitary axis. The effects may differ between boys and girls, as there are sex differences in age at onset of puberty, hormonal profiles and prevalence of precocius puberty.
Relationship between Bunina bodies and TDP‐43 inclusions in spinal anterior horn in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Mori F. , Tanji K. , Miki Y. , Kakita A. , Takahashi H. , Wakabayashi K.
Published: March 2010

F. Mori, K. Tanji, Y. Miki, A. Kakita, H. Takahashi and K. Wakabayashi (2010) Neuropathology and Applied Neurobiology36, 345–352 Relationship between Bunina bodies and TDP‐43 inclusions in spinal anterior horn in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

Aims: Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is characterized by upper and lower motor neurone involvement with Bunina bodies (BBs) and TDP‐43 inclusions. To elucidate the relationship between BBs and TDP‐43 inclusions, we examined the spinal cord from 18 patients with ALS. Methods: Five serial sections from lumbar cord were first stained with haematoxylin and eosin to detect BBs and subsequently immunostained with anti‐TDP‐43 antibody. Immunoelectron microscopy was performed on vibratome sections from two cases of ALS. Results: BBs were found in 15 out of 18 cases. TDP‐43 inclusions were found in all the cases. The average incidence of anterior horn cells with BBs and TDP‐43 inclusions relative to the total number of neurones was 17.1% and 46.4%, respectively. The concurrence of both inclusions in the same neurones was found in 15 cases. The incidence of co‐localization of BBs and TDP‐43 inclusions was 15.7% of total neurones. The frequency of TDP‐43 inclusions was significantly higher in neurones with BBs than in those without. Ultrastructurally, TDP‐43‐immunoreactive filamentous structures were intermingled with early‐stage BBs, but not associated with advanced‐stage BBs. Conclusion: These findings suggest that there is a close relationship in the occurrence between BBs and TDP‐43 inclusions.
Weed‐poplar competition dynamics and yield loss in Italian short‐rotation forestry
Authors: OTTO S , LODDO D , ZANIN G
Published: March 2010

Otto S, Loddo D & Zanin G (2010). Weed‐poplar competition dynamics and yield loss in Italian short‐rotation forestry. Weed Research50, 153–162.

In recent years there has been increasing interest in short‐rotation poplar plantations for biomass production and cropping techniques and weed control strategies are being developed. Slow initial poplar growth can favour weed infestation and so there is a need for appropriate timing of weed control, based on an understanding of the competitive relationship and dynamics between poplar and weeds. A field experiment with annual and biennial crop cycles was conducted over two years. A 35 cm wide within‐row weedy strip was allowed to develop as the basis for competition. Yield data were fitted with sigmoidal equations, in order to find the critical point (CP) and critical period of weed control (CPWC), using thermal time as the independent variable. Results showed that poplar is very sensitive to weed competition, especially in the first growing season after planting or cutting, and that competition can cause important yield losses. In the annual cycle, the CP corresponds to a yield loss of 26% and 8% in the first and second growing season respectively; in the biennial cycle the CP corresponds to a yield loss of 29%. Furthermore, the CPWC is long. For example, in the first year, based on a 5% yield loss, it lasts from 30 to 84 days after planting. This makes effective weed control difficult to achieve only using a pre‐emergence herbicide, and thus necessitates a post‐emergence treatment, either with herbicides or inter‐row cultivation. These results, together with the inability of the crop to recover from damage, mean that resources must be invested in weed control soon after the beginning of the cropping cycle.
The current and future potential geographical distribution of Hyparrhenia hirta
Authors: CHEJARA V K , KRITICOS D J , KRISTIANSEN P , SINDEL B M , WHALLEY R D B , NADOLNY C
Published: March 2010

Chejara VK, Kriticos DJ, Kristiansen P, Sindel BM, Whalley RDB & Nadolny C (2010). The current and future potential geographical distribution of Hyparrhenia hirta. Weed Research50, 174–184.

Hyparrhenia hirta is a pasture grass that has become highly invasive in several parts of the world, including Australia where it has become a serious environmental weed in recent decades. Knowledge of the likely potential distribution and relative abundance of this invasive species, under current and future climate scenarios, will help biosecurity and weed control authorities to plan better strategies to manage the invasion. The CLIMEX modelling package was used to investigate the impacts of climate change on the potential global distribution of H. hirta, based on eco‐physiological data. The worldwide potential distribution of H. hirta under current climatic conditions is vast and far greater than the current distribution, with suitable climate conditions extending over much of the tropics and subtropics. Under future climate scenarios, the range of H. hirta is likely to expand into areas currently too cold for its survival and contract from areas that are projected to become hotter and drier under climate change. The effects of likely climatic scenarios on the global potential distribution of H. hirta are sufficiently great that they should be considered routinely in strategic control plans for biotic invasions. Changes in the potential range of an invasive species such as H. hirta, under global warming scenarios, will mean that it could invade new jurisdictions. Knowledge of this emerging threat could help to formulate effective prevention, surveillance and response measures in these presently marginally unsuitable regions.
Weed community dynamics in two pastures grown after clearing Brazilian Amazonian rainforest
Authors: MITJA D , MIRANDA I S
Published: March 2010

Mitja D & Miranda IS (2010). Weed community dynamics in two pastures grown after clearing Brazilian Amazonian rainforest. Weed Research50, 163–173.

To explain the dynamics of the weed vegetation in the Amazonian pastures after clearing of the rainforest, the diversity and floristic composition of 15 Brachiaria brizantha pastures and seven Panicum maximum pastures of various ages were studied. These pastures reflect the original forest, from which they retain a high species richness (from 20 to 73 species on average per 50 m2), a high proportion of forest woody species (from 26% to 65%) and rare species (>50%). The four ecological groups of plants, namely forest woody species, pioneer/secondary woody species, forest herbaceous species and secondary herbaceous species, are present in all pastures immediately after the clearing and burning of the forest and have to compete with the two sown forage species, B. brizantha and P. maximum. Because of its erect habit, P. maximum is rapidly invaded by secondary herbaceous weeds, whereas B. brizantha with its spreading habit slows down their proliferation, which therefore takes about 10 years to complete. The study showed the importance of factors such as the initial vegetation, manual‐clearing practices, duration of cropping and species grown in influencing the floristic composition of the pastures and on the diversity of weeds. These results show the response of weeds faced with human disturbance. The results also demonstrate that farmers can manage pastures in a spirit of conservation of diversity or for weed control.
X‐Linked reticulate pigmentary disorder in a female patient
Authors: Kim Byung Soo , Seo Sang‐Hee , Jung Hong Dae , Kwon Kyung‐Sool , Kim Moon‐Bum
Published: March 2010

Background  X‐Linked reticulate pigmentary disorder is a very rare cutaneous condition characterized by different clinical manifestations according to sex.

Methods  We report a 31‐year‐old woman with X‐linked reticulate pigmentary disorder.

Results  On examination, there were multiple, asymptomatic, brownish macules in linear and whorled patterns over the trunk, axillae, groin, and extremities. The woman had not experienced any systemic manifestations involving the gastrointestinal, pulmonary, or ocular systems. Her hair, teeth, and nails were normal on close observation. All laboratory data were within the normal range. A genetic study was not performed.

Conclusions  Although a genetic study was not performed, we believe that our patient can be diagnosed with X‐linked reticulate pigmentary disorder according to the clinical and histopathologic findings.
Gouty panniculitis in a 68‐year‐old man: case report and review of the literature
Authors: Weberschock T. , Gholam P. , Hartschuh W. , Hartmann M.
Published: March 2010

Background  Gouty panniculitis is a very rare disease. To date, only eight patients have been reported. In each case, time to diagnosis was lengthy. We describe a 68‐year‐old man with a 6‐month history of tender, erythematous plaques and nodules involving the anterior aspects of the legs

Methods and results  Histologic examination led to the diagnosis of gouty panniculitis.

Conclusion  Review of the literature and the present case suggests that hyperuricemia is a necessary but probably not sufficient condition for gouty panniculitis. Why gouty panniculitis very seldom arises as a manifestation of gout is puzzling. In almost all reported patients, uricostatic or uricosuric therapy leads to clinical improvement of the disease.
Prenatal diagnosis of genodermatoses: current scope and future capabilities
Authors: Luu Minnelly , Cantatore‐Francis Julie L. , Glick Sharon A.
Published: March 2010

The genodermatoses encompass a range of inheritable skin diseases that may be associated with significant mortality and long‐term morbidity. In the past, options for prenatal diagnosis of these diseases were limited to fetal skin biopsy. As a result of recent leaps made in genetics and molecular biology, DNA‐based prenatal diagnosis is now available for an increasing number of genodermatoses, and newer non‐invasive methods are being developed that have the potential for tremendous future impact in dermatology. Dermatologists caring for patients with genodermatoses should be aware of the options for screening and prenatal testing and partake in a multi‐disciplinary approach to patient care.
Basal cell carcinoma in a series of renal transplant recipients: epidemiology and clinicopathologic features
Authors: Mertz Kirsten D. , Proske Dörthe , Kettelhack Natascha , Kegel Christian , Keusch Gérald , Schwarz Albin , Ambühl Patrice M. , Pfaltz Madeleine , Kempf Werner
Published: March 2010

Background  Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common malignancy among Caucasians worldwide. The risk of BCC is 10–16 times higher among immunosuppressed transplant recipients compared with the general population.

Objective  To analyze the incidence, clinical presentation, histologic features, treatment and recurrence rate of BCC in a cohort of 69 renal transplant recipients (RTRs; 53 male).

Methods  Retrospective population‐based cohort study of immunosuppressed RTRs.

Results  Ten of 69 patients (14.5%, five male) developed a total of 17 BCCs, mostly on the head. Mean age at first diagnosis of BCC was 65.5 ± 8.5 years, and latency between kidney transplantation and diagnosis of the first BCC was 11.1 ± 6.3 years (mean ± SD). The risk of female RTRs to develop BCCs appeared to be three times higher than the risk of male RTRs, and female RTRs developed BCCs earlier after transplantation. Nodular BCC was the most common histologic subtype. Most BCCs in these RTRs were treated by complete surgical excision. Recurrence after surgical excision was observed in one of the 10 patients (10%).

Conclusion  Our results suggest female RTRs to be at higher risk to develop cutaneous BCCs than male RTRs. There are no differences in localization and clinicopathologic presentation of BCCs developing in RTRs compared with immunocompetent patients. Therefore, BCCs in RTRs do not require different treatment than in other patient groups. As patients tend to develop a second BCC, close follow‐up is mandatory.
Hailey‐Hailey disease in Tunisia
Authors: Benmously‐Mlika R. , Bchetnia M. , Deghais S. , Ben Brick S.A. , Charfeddine C. , Debbiche A. , Haouet S. , Mokni M. , Abdelhak S. , Kamoun M.R. , Ben Osman A. , Fenniche S. , Mokhtar I.
Published: March 2010

Background  Most of the published reports on Hailey‐Hailey disease (HHD) come from European and Asian countries. We report here the clinical and genetic investigation of 20 patients affected with HHD in Tunisia.

Methods  Affected individuals from three large teaching hospitals in Tunis were recruited for the study over a 25‐year period. Nine patients were identified through the active files and examined together with their family members that were visited in their respective regions. We have clinically examined in total 65 individuals and then identified 11 new cases. Patients were included on the basis of evocative skin lesions, biopsy proven HHD and negative immunofluorescence. Investigations to rule out fungal, bacterial and viral infections were done according to clinical symptoms.

Results  Twenty patients (12 males and 8 females) from 8 families were included in the present study with more than 55% that were undiagnosed before this investigation. Four patients had mild disease, eight had moderate disease and another eight had severe disease, among whom seven were females. Parental consanguinity was found in 7 cases out of 20 cases (35%). The neck region was first affected in half (4/8) of the male patients. Groins were first affected in 42% (5/12) of the female patients. Depression complicated the course of the disease in two female patients with severe HHD. We report an original association of supernumerary nipples with HHD in two sisters from the north of Tunisia. In 10 patients, the disease has become less troublesome with aging.

Conclusion  HHD is underestimated. Physicians must be aware of this disease in case of resistant intertriginous dermatosis especially with a positive family history as nine out of 20 patients were misdiagnosed.
THIS ARTICLE HAS BEEN RETRACTED: Acalculous candidal cholecystitis after pediatric renal transplant
Authors: Grosser Jennifer , Solomon Harvey , Sotelo‐Avila Cirilo
Published: March 2010

Grosser J, Solomon H, Sotelo‐Avila C. Acalculous candidal cholecystitis after pediatric renal transplant. Pediatr Transplantation 2011: 15: E71–E75. © 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract:  AAC caused by Candida is an uncommon entity usually seen in the critically ill. Here, we present the case of an 18‐month‐old renal transplant patient who developed candidal AAC during the post‐operative period. Previous articles have addressed acalculous cholecystitis secondary to a variety of causes, or addressed a wide variety of Candida infections in the biliary tract, but this is the first discussion of cholecystitis caused by Candida without confounding factors such as biliary calculi or multiple pathogens. After the discussion of our patient’s case, we also reviewed the English‐language literature regarding candidal AAC and discussed diagnosis, treatment, and mortality.
Ondansetron is as effective as diphenhydramine for treatment of morphine‐induced pruritus after cesarean delivery
Authors: SIDDIK‐SAYYID S. M. , YAZBECK‐KARAM V. G. , ZAHREDDINE B. W. , ADHAM A. M. B. F. , DAGHER C. M. , SAASOUH W. A. , AOUAD M. T.
Published: March 2010

Background: Subarachnoid (SA) morphine, highly effective for the management of pain after a cesarean delivery, is associated with a significant incidence of pruritus in up to 80% of patients. No previous study has compared the effectiveness of ondansetron (5‐HT3 antagonist) vs. diphenhydramine (H1 receptor blocker) for the treatment of this side effect.

Methods: In this randomized, double‐blind study, 113 patients with a pruritus score 3 or 4 (1=absent; 2=mild, no treatment required; 3=moderate pruritus, treatment required; and 4=severe pruritus) after SA morphine 0.2 mg were assigned to group ondansetron, which received 4 mg intravenously (i.v.) ondansetron, and group diphenhydramine, which received 25 mg i.v. diphenhydramine. Patients who continued to have pruritus ≥3 30 min after the study drug were considered treatment failures and were treated with naloxone 0.04 mg i.v. repeatedly, as well as patients who relapsed. Pain scores, nausea, vomiting, and sedation were determined before and 30 min after the study drugs were administered. Patients were followed up for 24 h.

Results: The success rate was comparable between the two groups [40/57 (70%) and 38/56 (70%), P=0.79, in group ondansetron and group diphenhydramine, respectively]. Among the successfully treated patients, the recurrence rates of moderate to severe pruritus were 11/40 (28%) in group ondansetron and 13/38 (35%) in group diphenhydramine, P=0.52. The side effect profile was similar between the two groups.

Conclusion: Ondansetron is as effective as diphenhydramine in relieving pruritus caused by SA morphine in patients undergoing a cesarean delivery. However, up to 50% of patients required naloxone either for primary failure or for recurrence.
Vitrification with Glutamine Improves Maturation Rate of Vitrified / Warmed Immature Bovine Oocytes
Authors: Yamada C , Feitosa WB , Simões R , Nicacio AC , Mendes CM , Assumpção MEOA , Visintin JA
Published: March 2010

Contents

The current study examined the protective effects of l‐glutamine and cytochalasin B during vitrification of immature bovine oocytes. Oocyte vitrification solution (PBS supplemented with 10% FCS, 25% EG, 25% DMSO and 0.5 m trehalose) was the vitrification control. Treatments were the addition of 7 μg/ml cytochalasin B, 80 mm glutamine or both cytochalasin and glutaminine for 30 s. After warming, oocytes were matured in vitro for 24 h, fixed and stained with Hoechst (33342) for nuclear maturation evaluation. l‐glutamine improved the vitrified/warmed immature bovine oocytes viability (32.8%), increasing the nuclear maturation rates compared to other treatments and the no treatment vitrified control (17.4%). There was, however, no effect of cytochalasin B on in vitro maturation (14.4%).
Fertility in Single‐ovulating and Superovulated Dairy Heifers after Insemination with Low Dose Sex‐sorted Sperm
Authors: An L , Wu Z‐H , Wu Y‐F , Zhang X‐L , Liu X , Zhu Y‐B , Cheng W‐M , Gao H‐M , Guo M , Tian J‐H
Published: March 2010

Contents

The present study was performed to test fertility in single‐ovulating and superovulated dairy heifers after insemination with low dose sex‐sorted sperm under field conditions. Some parameters, including the dosage, deposition site and timing, were assessed with the pregnancy rates after artificial insemination (AI). Moreover, the use of oestrus synchronization in combination with sorted sperm was evaluated. Besides that, we also improved the embryo production efficiency in superovulated dairy heifers by optimizing the timing of inseminations and repartitioning the sexed sperm dosage among multiple inseminations. The conception rate (52.8%) in heifers after low dose (2 × 106) insemination with sorted sperm deep into the uterine horn did not differ (p > 0.05) from that (59.6%) of conventional AI (1 × 107 non‐sorted sperm) and that of deep insemination with low dose non‐sorted sperm (57.7%). There was also no difference (p > 0.05) between conception rates after single (51.7%) and double (53.8%) deep insemination with sorted semen. Heifers inseminated with sorted sperm at synchronous oestrus had a lower pregnancy rate (48.1%) than heifers at spontaneous oestrus (53.6%), but this did not reach statistical difference (p > 0.05). The average number of transferable embryos collected in vivo from heifers inseminated with sorted sperm (4.81 ± 2.04) did not differ (p > 0.05) from that obtained from heifers after insemination with non‐sorted sperm (5.36 ± 2.74). Thus, we concluded that the pregnancy rate after deep intra‐uterine insemination with low dose sorted sperm was similar to that of non‐sorted sperm, which was either also deposited at a low dose deep intra‐uterine or into the uterine body. Sychronization of oestrus can be beneficial in combination with sorted sperm to optimize the organization and management of dairy herds. The results from superovulated heifers demonstrated that our insemination regime can be used to obtain a comparable embryo production efficiency with sorted sperm than with non‐sorted sperm.
Does the Amount of Progesterone in Intravaginal Implants Used to Synchronise Oestrus Affect the Reproductive Performance of Brahman Heifers Artificially Inseminated at a Fixed Time
Authors: Phillips NJ , Fordyce G , Burns B , Williams P , Mayer D , Bo GA , McGowan MR
Published: March 2010

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The study tested the hypothesis that reduced intravaginal implant progesterone (P4) concentration to synchronise oestrus would increase pregnancy rates to fixed‐time artificial insemination (FTAI) in Bos indicus heifers. Brahman heifers (n = 294; 2 year) were body condition scored (BCS), weighed and scanned for presence of a corpus luteum (CL). Only cyclic heifers were selected and allocated randomly within BCS and 25 kg bodyweight category to one of three P4 treatment groups. On day 10, heifers received a P4 implant (CueMate‐1‐pod, 0.78g P4; CueMate‐2‐pod, 1.56g P4; or CIDR‐B, 1.9g P4), 2 mg oestradiol benzoate (ODB) intramuscularly (IM) and 250 ug cloprostenol IM. At day 2, the implant was removed, 250 ug cloprostenol was injected IM and tail paint applied. The heifers received 1 mg ODB 24 h later and were FTAI 48–54 h after implant removal (day 0). Ten randomly selected heifers per group were blood sampled and scanned at days 10, 2, 0 and 6 to define the P4 profiles pre‐ and post‐FTAI. Heifers were heat‐detected 18–20 days post‐FTAI and oestrous heifers AI’d by the AM/PM rule. Bulls joined the heifers on day 27 post‐FTAI. Transrectal ultrasonography estimated conception date on day 72. Statistical analysis examined the effects of treatment, technician, semen, ovarian status, BCS and liveweight, on pregnancy rate (PR) to FTAI. There was no significant difference (p = 0.362) in PR between treatment groups (CueMate 1‐pod, 36.4%; CueMate 2‐pod, 39.6%: CIDR‐B, 28.3%), but PR was higher in those heifers with increased BCS between FTAI and pregnancy diagnosis (p = 0.005). Thirty‐three per cent of monitor heifers had plasma P4 concentrations of <1 ng/ml on day 6 after FTAI; only 20% of these conceived vs 60% of heifers with P4 ≥ 1 ng/ml. In summary, no significant difference in PR was identified between treatments but good BCS and a rising plane of nutrition were critical to PR of these pure grade Brahman heifers in northern Australia.
Expression of Interleukin (IL)‐1β and IL‐1 Receptors Genes in the Hypothalamus of Anoestrous Ewes after Lipopolysaccharide Treatment
Authors: Herman AP , Misztal T , Herman A ,   Dorota Tomaszewska – Zaremba
Published: March 2010

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This study was designed to determine the effect of intravenous lipopolysaccharide (LPS) administration on the secretion of interleukin (IL)‐1β and IL‐1 receptors (IL‐1Rs) gene expression in the hypothalamus of anoestrous ewes. Gene expression of IL‐1β and its receptors was assayed by the real‐time polymerase chain reaction. The expression of IL‐1β in the hypothalamus was detected using Western blot. Our results showed that IL‐1β mRNA is transcribed in the ovine hypothalamus. Lipopolysaccharide increased (p ≤ 0.01) the IL‐1β gene expression in the pre‐optic area 2.4‐fold, the anterior hypothalamus (AHA) 3.4‐fold, the medial basal hypothalamus 3.7‐fold and the medial eminence 3.9‐fold. The pro‐form and mature form of IL‐1β protein were found in the hypothalamus after endotoxin injection. In general, the endotoxin also increased more than two times (p ≤ 0.01) the expression of IL‐1 receptor type I (IL‐1R1) and type II (IL‐1R2) genes in the hypothalamus, except the AHA, where the number of IL‐1R2 mRNA was extremely low and not sufficient to the quantitative analysis. These results demonstrate that the peripheral immune/inflammatory challenge increases the IL‐1β expression in the hypothalamus. This endogenous IL‐1β seems to be involved in the modulation of processes which are regulated at the hypothalamic level. One of these processes could be a reproduction.
Effects of Cholesterol on Progesterone Production by Goat Luteal Cell Subpopulations at Two Different Stages of the Luteal Phase
Authors: Arikan Ş , Kalender H , Simsek O
Published: March 2010

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The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of cholesterol on progesterone production during long‐term culturing of luteal cell subpopulations at early and late luteal stages of the goat corpora lutea. Corpora lutea were collected from Angora goats on days 5 and 15 of the oestrous cycle. Luteal cells were isolated by collagenase digestion. The cells were separated into two distinct subpopulations by Percoll density‐gradient centrifugation. Both subpopulations of luteal cells staining positively for 3β‐HSD activities (5 × 104 cell/well) were cultured with or without 22(R)‐hydroxycholesterol (22R‐HC) in serum‐free culture medium for periods of up to 7 days. Cells were incubated with serum (10%) for the first 18 h of incubation followed by serum‐free medium. Cell treatment (10 and 20 μg/ml) was performed on days 1, 3 and 5. Treatment of cells with both concentrations of 22R‐HC resulted in significant (p < 0.01) and dose‐dependent stimulation (p > 0.05) on progesterone production in both fractions of cells throughout 7 days of incubation. Treatment of the cells with cholesterol resulted in 2.5‐ and 9.0‐fold increases in progesterone accumulation on day 3 of incubation. Steroid production was maintained throughout the incubations when cells are incubated in serum‐free media treated with cholesterol and ITS premix. Cells collected from higher density of percoll layers produced 2.82 and 2.32 times more progesterone, in comparison to the lover density percoll layer, on days 5 and 15 of the oestrous cycle in untreated cell groups, respectively. Progesterone accumulation was decreased as incubation time advanced in all groups of untreated cells. These results demonstrated that goat luteal cell subpopulations secrete substantial amounts of progesterone in response to cholesterol treatment at least for 7 days, and cholesterol is required as progesterone precursor for maintaining a high‐level steroidogenesis during long‐life culturing of both cell subpopulations.
Summer Anoestrus in Buffalo – A Review
Authors: Das GK , Khan FA
Published: March 2010

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The present review addresses summer anoestrus in buffaloes. The condition is a major impediment in the improvement of reproductive as well as productive efficiency in buffalo. Factors affecting summer anoestrus include environment, nutrition and management. The environmental factors especially longer day length and increased temperature with high humidity pre‐dispose to the condition when the nutritive status of buffaloes is poor. Buffaloes with summer anoestrus fail to exhibit oestrus as a result of aberration in the endocrine profile leading to ovarian inactivity. Increased day length with high environmental temperature causes hyper‐prolactinaemia, suppressing the secretion of gonadotrophins, which leads to an alteration in ovarian steroidogenesis. Heat stress produced during summer also affects folliculogenesis, follicular fluid microenvironment and oocyte quality. A large number of hormonal regimens have been used with varying degree of efficacy in terms of oestrus induction and conception rate. A combined strategy of improvement in environment, nutrition and management is pre‐requisite for hormonal manipulation in order to improve productivity in summer anoestrus buffaloes. A brief description of summer anoestrus with special reference to factors responsible, endocrinology, deleterious effects on reproductive system and possible remedial measures is presented in this review.
Heterogeneous expression of nestin in myofibroblasts of various human tissues
Authors: Kishaba Yuka , Matsubara Daisuke , Niki Toshiro
Published: March 2010

In this study we explored the distribution of nestin‐positive cells in extraneural human tissues with special reference to stromal myofibroblasts. Tissue microarrays were constructed from various tissues with normal histology and tissues with fibrosing disorders. Sections were immunostained for nestin, alpha‐smooth muscle actin (alpha‐SMA), desmin, vimentin, CD34, and other stromal markers. Nestin was expressed in the myoepithelium of the breast, podocytes of the renal glomerulus, and endothelial cells of most organs. Nestin was also expressed in the stroma of several organs, including the intestine, uterine cervix, and endometrium. Nestin‐positive fibroblast‐like cells appeared in the stroma of the kidney, pancreas, lung, and skin in fibrosing conditions. With the notable exception of endometrial stromal cells, most of these nestin‐positive stromal cells were alpha‐SMA‐positive. Interestingly, we observed a concomitant appearance of nestin‐ and CD34‐positive myofibroblasts under fibrosing conditions. Further investigation showed that nestin was expressed by stromal fibroblasts in cervical squamous cell carcinoma, but not in lung adenocarcinoma, pointing to heterogeneity of cancer stroma. In conclusion, nestin was expressed in variable proportions of stromal myofibroblasts in human tissues. The differential expression of nestin may indicate phenotypic and functional heterogeneity. Nestin‐positive myofibroblast may represent a relatively immature subpopulation of cells with multipotentiality.
Pseudomeningocele induced transient loss of consciousness in Marfan syndrome
Authors: Kohler E. , Prentice D.
Published: March 2010

Anterior and posterior meningoceles are the severest clinical expression of dural ectasia in patients with Marfan syndrome. Meningoceles and pseudomeningoceles have been reported from either asymptomatic, to causing headache, back pain, leg pain, radiculopathy, constipation and/or urinary symptoms. This article includes a case report of a 31‐year‐old woman, who presented with recurrent transient loss of consciousness thought to be secondary to acute changes in intracranial pressure transmitted from a pseudomeningocele.
Direct‐to‐consumer personal genome testing: ethical and regulatory issues that arise from wanting to ‘know’ your DNA
Authors: Samuel G. N. , Jordens C. F. C. , Kerridge I.
Published: March 2010

Direct‐to‐consumer personal genome testing (DTC‐PGT) screens a customer's genome for the presence of single nucleotide polymorphisms that are reported to be associated with various diseases, disease risk factors and personal characteristics. The range of health risks covered by personal genome testing (PGT) includes cancer, heart disease, obesity, diabetes mellitus and osteoporosis. PGT also detects a range of other characteristics, such as alcohol ‘flush reaction’, eye colour, ear wax type and bitter taste perception. Information about ancestry and family history is also available. Although DTC‐PGT is still a relatively new enterprise, the technology has the potential for rapid expansion as it becomes more accessible to consumers who wish to obtain information about their genetic profile. This review provides an overview of the broader ethical and regulatory issues raised by personal genome tests that are marketed directly to the public, and that purport to provide information about health risks. We discuss the emergence of DTC‐PGT in Australia, and the possible regulatory responses that may be taken to manage it.