bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Growth of reindeer lichens and effects of reindeer grazing on ground cover vegetation in a Scots pine forest and a subarctic heathland in Finnish Lapland
Authors: Den Herder Michael , Kytöviita Minna‐Maarit , Niemelä Pekka
Published: December 2004

Reindeer lichens are an important component of northern ecosystems. The aim of this study was to measure the growth rate of terricolous lichens as it is a key parameter involved in productivity of these ecosystems and an important part of lichen tolerance to reindeer grazing. Furthermore, the natural succession and the long‐term effects of reindeer grazing on lichen community characteristics in two contrasting habitats were investigated as well as the interactions between lichen cover and mosses and vascular plants. Biomass and coverage measurements were conducted in a lichen woodland and in a subarctic heath with grazed and ungrazed areas in northern Finland. Measurements spanning over 13 yr of undisturbed development show that the growth rate of Cladina stellaris can be as high as >0.17 g g−1 produced annually, although in average growth rates were much lower. During the succession of ground vegetation, C. stellaris, C. rangiferina, C. mitis and Cetraria nivalis increased in biomass in fenced areas and were reduced most in biomass by reindeer in unprotected areas. Reindeer grazing and trampling seem to change the vegetation towards a type that is dominated by small dwarf shrubs, bare soil and minute‐cup lichens (Cladonia spp.). Removing the lichen layer by reindeer may reduce natural regeneration of pine trees as implied by increasing numbers of pine seedlings with increasing lichen cover.
Patch occupancy, population density and dynamics in a fragmented red squirrelSciurusvulgarispopulation
Authors: Verbeylen Goedele , De Bruyn Luc , Matthysen Erik
Published: December 2004

We studied population dynamics of red squirrels in a group of small forest fragments, that cover only 6.5% of the total study area (4664 ha) and where distances to the nearest source population were up to 2.2 km. We tested effects of patch size, quality and isolation and supplementary feeding on patch occupation during 1995–99. Larger patches and patches with supplementary feeding had a higher probability of being occupied. No patch <3.5 ha was ever occupied. No effects of isolation were found, suggesting that the forest habitat in the study area is not sufficiently fragmented to influence red squirrel distribution across patches. For medium sized patches (3.7–21 ha), that were occupied some years, there was an increase in patch occupation over the years, even though overall population size tended to decrease. These patches had a high turnover, especially of males. Patches in which the squirrel population went extinct were recolonized within a year. For patches that were at least some years occupied, squirrel density depended on patch quality only. No effects of patch size, isolation and winter temperature on population density were found. These data suggest that in our study area habitat fragmentation has no effect on local squirrel density and that the random sample hypothesis explains the distribution pattern across patches.
Gap felling as a forest harvesting method in boreal forests: responses of carabid beetles (Coleoptera, Carabidae)
Authors: Koivula Matti , Niemelä Jari
Published: December 2004

In order to study the ecological effects of logging combined with mechanical soil preparation, we sampled carabid beetles with pitfall trapping in nine spruce‐dominated stands in central Finland in 1995–1998. Three of the stands were left intact as controls. Three 1600‐m2openings per stand were logged in the winter 1995–1996 into six stands. In three of these stands, light soil preparation was applied. Logging affected the species assemblages, but soil preparation per se had no clear effects. Open‐habitat species increased in abundance in the openings one year after logging, but catches of generalist species in the different treatments did not differ from each other. A forest species,Calathus micropterus, was least abundant in the prepared openings. The amounts of logging residue, exposed mineral soil and aggregated humus, as well as the abundance of red wood ants, significantly explained variation in carabid assemblages.
Kidney involvement and renal manifestations in non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma and lymphocytic leukemia: a retrospective study in 700 patients
Authors: Da'as Nael , Polliack Aaron , Cohen Yossi , Amir Gail , Darmon David , Kleinman Yosef , Goldfarb Ada W. , Ben‐Yehuda Dina
Published: December 2004

Abstract:Renal involvement as part of systemic lymphoma (LY) is quite frequent, however, primary extranodal renal non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) is extremely rare, and only about 65 cases have been reported in the world literature. In a retrospective study of renal manifestations in 700 patients with documented LY and chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) seen at our hospital during 1986–95, 83 patients had signs of acute renal failure. Only five of these had proven renal infiltration, but none of them satisfied the criteria for primary renal LY. Glomerulonephritis (GN) has also rarely been reported in association with LY and CLL, and only 37 glomerular lesions in NHL and 42 in CLL have been documented, respectively. GN may precede, coexist, or follow the diagnosis of LY by several years. Of the 42 cases of CLL reported worldwide, 36 had nephrotic syndrome. Renal failure was seen in about one third. The most common glomerular lesion reported is membranoproliferative GN, followed by membranous GN. In our study, we found only five biopsy‐proven cases with GN amongst the 700 patients seen. In this report we also briefly describe some rare interesting associated renal syndromes in CLL and NHL.
Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is rare, but the proportion of T‐CLL is high in Japan
Authors: Tamura K. , Sawada H. , Izumi Y. , Fukuda T. , Utsunomiya A. , Ikeda S. , Uike N. , Tsukada J. , Kawano F. , Shibuya T. , Gondo H. , Okamura S. , Suzumiya J ,   the Kyushu Hematology Organization for Treatment (K‐HOT) Study Group
Published: December 2004

Abstract: Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is a rare disease in Japan. Recent advances in molecular biology, diagnostic criteria and classification of CLL have reinforced the concept of each category of CLL as a distinct entity. Since there have been no recent studies on the incidence and prevalence of CLL in Japan, the Kyushu Hematology Organization for Treatment (K‐HOT) Study Group conducted two studies of CLL. One study is a prospective registration of newly diagnosed hematological disorders, which gave us some idea of the incidence of CLL in our region (Kyushu island) where adult T‐cell leukemia is endemic. A total of 677 patients with hematological disorders were registered over a 6‐month period and 11 patients were diagnosed as having CLL among 182 leukemia patients. This amounts to 6% of all leukemias, which is twice as frequent as previously reported in Japan. The other study is a retrospective analysis of CLL. Eleven institutions of the K‐HOT Group analysed their diagnostic records of chronic lymphoid leukemia, and 145 patients with CLL were found over a period of 3–12 yr. After the data were reviewed 11 patients were excluded through having a different type of leukemia. The proportion of chronic B‐cell lymphoid leukemia was 73% (98/134), while that of T‐cell leukemia was 18% (24/134). The proportion of T‐cell chronic leukemia was 5–6 times higher than that in Western countries. Two institutions had a complete database on hematological disorders. From this database, the annual incidence of CLL was estimated to be 0.48 per 100 000. Thus, the incidence of CLL in Japan is at least 4–5 times lower than that in Western countries, suggesting that chronic B‐cell leukemia is really rare, but chronic leukemia of T‐cell lineage develops in Japan as frequently as in Western societies. Further investigation is required to delineate why the incidence of B‐CLL is so low in Japan.
Double minutes containing amplified bcr‐abl fusion gene in a case of chronic myeloid leukemia treated by imatinib
Authors: Morel Frédéric , Bris Marie‐Josée Le , Herry Angèle , Calvez Geneviève Le , Marion Véronique , Abgrall Jean‐François , Berthou Christian , Braekeleer Marc De
Published: December 2004

Abstract: Amplification of the bcr‐abl fusion gene has recently been associated with resistance to imatinib therapy in chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). A 55‐yr‐old man was diagnosed with Philadelphia (Ph) chromosome‐positive CML. Resistance to interferon treatment and occurrence of blastic phase lead to the decision of imatinib therapy. After two autologous stem cell transplantation, the patient reverted to chronic phase with a decrease in the proportion of Ph chromosome‐positive cells under imatinib. A second blastic phase occurred 4 months after transplantation, of which the patient died. Cytogenetic studies, including fluorescent in situ hybridization, showed a (9;22)(q34;q11) translocation and one bcr‐abl fusion gene during the whole evolution, but for the last 2 months. Bcr‐abl gene amplification (over 25 copies) was noted while banding cytogenetics showed a karyotype of 55–62 chromosomes with multiple double minutes (dmin). To the best of our knowledge, dmin containing amplified bcr‐abl gene has never been reported in patients with CML. Therefore, although we cannot exclude that the gene amplification was strictly associated with disease progression, our data may suggest that the amplification resulted in resistance to imatinib.
Acute myeloid leukemia mimicking primary testicular neoplasm. Presentation of a case with review of literature
Authors: McIlwain Laura , Sokol Lubomir , Moscinski Lynn C. , Saba Hussain I.
Published: December 2004

Abstract: We describe a new unique case of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) in a 21‐yr‐old male presenting with abdominal pain, bilateral testicular masses and gynecomastia. Further work‐up with computed tomography of the chest, abdomen and pelvis revealed massive retroperitoneal, peripancreatic and mediastinal lymphadenopathy, suggesting primary testicular neoplasm. The patient was subjected to right orchiectomy that showed infiltration of testicular tissue with malignant cells, originally misinterpreted as undifferentiated carcinoma. Immunohistochemistry studies, however, showed these cells to be strongly positive for myeloperoxidase and CD45, indicating a myeloid cell origin. Bone marrow (BM) aspirate and biopsy demonstrated replacement of marrow with immature myeloid cells. Both the morphology and immunophenotype of the blast cells were consistent with AML type M4 (acute myelo‐monocytic leukemia), using French‐American‐British (FAB) classification. The patient received standard induction chemotherapy with cytosine arabinoside (ARA‐C) and daunorubicin followed with two cycles of consolidation therapy with high dose ARA‐C, which resulted in remission of BM disease and resolution of lymphadenopathy and left testicular masses. After the second cycle of consolidation therapy, the patient developed sepsis that was complicated by refractory disseminated intravascular coagulopathy. He expired with a clinical picture of multiple organ failure. The unique features of this case are presented and the related literature is reviewed.
Acute myelogenous leukemia in an adult with thrombocytopenia with absent radii syndrome
Authors: Go Ronald S. , Johnston Kaye L.
Published: December 2004

Abstract: Acute myelogenous leukemia with t(8;21)(q22;q22) developed in a 42‐yr‐old woman having thrombocytopenia with absent radii syndrome (TARS). Standard induction and postremission therapies were safely administered. With each successive chemotherapy, the onset of platelet recovery was not delayed, but peak platelet counts were persistently suppressed. Nine months after achieving complete hematologic and cytogenetic remission, she remains severely thrombocytopenic (platelet count 6–12 × 109/L). She is, however, asymptomatic and transfusion independent. Of interest is the transient normalization of platelet count (rebound relative thrombocytosis). Our report and review of the literature suggests that TARS, contrary to previous belief, may be associated with increased risk of acute leukemia.
Markers of platelet activation, thrombin generation and fibrinolysis in women with sickle cell disease: effects of differing forms of hormonal contraception
Authors: Yoong W.C. , Tuck S.M. , Pasi K.J. , Owens D. , Perry D.J.
Published: December 2004

Abstract: Objective: To examine laboratory markers of platelet activation, thrombin generation and fibrinolysis in women with sickle cell disease (SCD) using the combined oral contraceptive pill (COCP), progestogen only (PO) contraception and non‐hormonal contraception.

Design: A prospective observational study set in two teaching hospitals in the London region.

Method: Forty‐four women with SCD in steady haematological state using differing hormonal contraception were recruited and venesection was performed at standardised times for the measurements of markers of platelet activation, thrombin generation and fibrinolysis.

Outcome measures: Prothrombin fragment1+2, plasmin α2 antiplasmin complexes, platelet factor 4 (PF‐4), β‐thromboglobulin and free protein S antigen (PS‐Ag).

Results: PS‐Ag was decreased and PF‐4 increased in all women while the other haemostatic variables were within normal reference ranges. However, there was no statistically significant differences in the measurements of all the haemostatic variables between the three groups of sickle cell women (Kruskal–Wallis, P > 0.05).

Conclusion: There is anxiety about prescribing the COCP in women with SCD based on the assumption that risk of venous thromboembolism may be compounded by the underlying disease process that occurs with these women. The observed data suggest that SCD women who use the COCP have haemostatic markers which are not statistically different compared with similar women who use PO contraception or non‐hormonal contraception. However, a randomized interventional trial would be necessary to evaluate further the safety aspect of COCP use in this group of women.
Limitations of the immunocytochemical detection of isolated tumor cells in frozen samples of bone marrow obtained from melanoma patients
Authors: Schadendorf Dirk , Dorn‐Beineke Alexandra , Borelli Siegfried , Riethmuller Gert , Pantel Klaus
Published: December 2004

Abstract: We report on a case of a 70‐year‐old woman with an ocular melanoma, which was diagnosed and treated 14 years ago. The patient was referred to the hospital with a suspected lymphoma. Cytological examination of bone marrow proved a marked infiltration with melanoma cells. Because detection of isolated tumor cells in the bone marrow of patients with various types of tumors was shown to be of prognostic significance and since current tumor‐staging techniques are unable to detect single disseminated tumor cells or small aggregates of tumor cells, which might be the seed for subsequent metastatic relapse, we therefore evaluated the feasibility of immunocytochemical screening of bone marrow aspirates of 36 melanoma patients in different clinical stages using three monoclonal antibodies against melanoma‐associated antigens in comparison with 43 non‐melanoma control patients. Two of these antibodies (HMB45 and NKI‐beteb) are directed against the melanoma antigen gp100/pmel17, whereas the third one (TA99) recognizes gp75/Tyrosinase‐related protein 1 (TRP‐1). None of the patients demonstrated a makroskopic bone marrow infiltration as was present in our patient with metastatic ocular melanoma. Seven (20.6%) of the 34 eligible melanoma patients presented with cells in the bone marrow positive for one or more of the above‐mentioned melanosomal markers. Four of the positive patients were clinically free of tumors by the time of puncture, whereas the remaining 3 patients showed overt metastases in the subcutaneous fat (2 patients) and the brain (1 patient). On the other hand, 20 (66%) of the 29 patients with negative bone marrow findings also presented with clinical advanced disease with overt metastasis in the skin, lymph node, spleen, liver, lung, bone and brain. In conclusion, immunocytochemical screening of bone marrow samples is a feasible procedure that allows the detection of micrometastatic tumor cells in a subset of melanoma patients. Massive invasion of bone marrow with melanoma cells is a rare event even in far‐advanced metastatic stages and no clear correlation between tumor load and bone marrow infiltration could be established.
Abfraction lesion formation in maxillary incisors, canines and premolars: A finite element study
Authors: Rees J. S. , Hammadeh M. , Jagger D. C.
Published: December 2004

Abfraction lesions are angular, wedge‐shaped defects found at the cervical region of teeth and are caused by mechanical overloading initiated by cuspal flexure. Clinically, these lesions are more prevalent on the labial aspect of maxillary incisors. The aim of this study was to provide a biomechanical explanation for this clinical variation. Two‐dimensional plane strain finite element models of an maxillary incisor, canine and first premolar were developed and the cervical stress profiles were examined along a horizontal plane 1.1 mm above the amelo‐cemental junction. The local X (horizontal) stress on the labial/buccal side was 176.4 MPa for the incisor, 57.8 MPa for the premolar, and 3.4 MPa for the canine. Similarly, the maximum labial/buccal principal stress was 181.4 MPa for the incisor, 25.2 MPa for the premolar, and 66.8 MPa for the canine. The labial/buccal stress profile in the cervical region of an maxillary incisor was always greater than that found in an maxillary canine or premolar tooth. These findings provide a biomechanical explanation for the clinical variation seen in the prevalence of cervical abfraction lesions.
Dental trauma in Turkish children, İstanbul
Authors: Kargul Betul , Çağlar Esber , Tanboga Ilknur
Published: December 2004

Abstract –  Numerous studies focus on visits to dental clinics for emergent dental problems. Many are all‐inclusive, studying traumatic injuries as well as visits for infection and other causes. Epidemiologic studies have focused on the investigation of the prevalence or incidence of dental injury. The patients were evaluated at Pediatric Dentistry, Marmara University Dental School, İstanbul over a 2‐year period. For these 300 patients (446 teeth), specific diagnoses were evaluated. Dental injuries that presented most frequently in permanent dentition were crown fractures of enamel only and crown fractures of enamel and dentin. The most frequently presented dental injury in primary dentition were avulsions and crown fractures of enamel. The more frequent treatments for primary teeth were examination only. Bandage restoration, space maintainer were common procedures for permanent teeth.
Evaluation of the knowledge of the treatment of avulsions in elementary school teachers in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Authors: Pacheco Luciana Fernandes , Filho Paulo Ferreira Garcia , Letra Ariadne , Menezes Renato , Villoria German Eduardo Miguel , Ferreira Sonia Maria
Published: December 2004

Abstract  – Avulsions are very common in a school setting. Teachers are often requested to help in such emergency situations. A survey consisting of seven simple questions regarding dental avulsion was answered by 60 teachers from five different elementary schools in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, in order to evaluate their knowledge on the subject and establish a guideline to be followed when an accident of this type happens. A lack of technical information was observed among the teachers; most of them answered intuitively rather than on an informative basis. This study showed the need of a more effective communication between dental professionals and school teachers in order to better handle dental emergencies.
Effect of minocycline on healing of replanted dog teeth after extended dry times
Authors: Bryson E. C. , Levin L. , Banchs F. , Trope M.
Published: December 2004

Abstract  – Minocycline is available as a locally administered tetracycline derivative antibiotic (Arestin™, OraPharma, Inc., Warminster, PA, USA) which demonstrated antibacterial activity and anti‐inflammatory action that may slow down resorptive processes after severe traumatic injuries to the dentition. A total of 48 premolar roots of six mongrel dogs were instrumented in an aseptic fashion with rotary nickel‐titanium files and obturated with vertically condensed warm gutta percha. All accesses were sealed with glass ionomer, the roots extracted and then allowed to bench dry for 60 min. Group 1 consisted of 15 roots that were coated with minocycline and replanted and nine roots that were replanted without minocycline. Group 2 consisted of 24 roots, all of which were prepared with a uniform cemental defect down to sound dentin along the lateral aspect of the root, with a high‐speed bur following the 60‐min dry time. Half of the roots (12) were then coated with minocycline and replanted, and the other 12 roots were replanted without minocycline. After 4 months, the dogs were killed and the roots prepared for histological evaluation. About 5‐µm thick cross‐sections of the root and surrounding tissue taken every 90 µm were evaluated for healing. In addition, residual root mass was also measured in the roots of group 1 to determine the extent of root structure loss for each treatment method. The roots with and without minocycline treatment showed no significant differences between the remaining root mass or the percentage of favorably healed root surfaces. The use of minocycline is not currently recommended for prevention or attenuation of external root resorption following avulsion in a dog trauma model.
Aortic root diameter and nasal intermittent positive airway pressure treatment in Marfan's syndrome
Authors: Verbraecken J , Paelinck BP , Willemen M , Van de Heyning P , De Backer W
Published: December 2004

We report on a patient with Marfan's syndrome, with coexistent obstructive sleep hypopnea (OSH) and restrictive lung disease, complicated by respiratory insufficiency, who was successfully treated with nasal intermittent positive airway pressure (NIPPV) and oxygen. NIPPV therapy turned out to be effective on arterial gas exchange and well tolerated. Moreover, progressive dilatation of the aortic root was attenuated during NIPPV, but could, however, not be reversed. We hypothetized that (at least partially) a decrease of nocturnal intrathoracic pressures could explain this.
Spatial dynamics of mutualistic interactions
Authors: Amarasekare Priyanga
Published: December 2004

I present a model of mutualistic interactions in a patchy landscape. The interaction is between two species that differ in their mobility. The landscape is spatially structured, with several localities interconnected by dispersal of the mobile mutualist.

Within a given locality, an Allee effect can occur such that the per capita growth rate of the non‐mobile mutualist declines with its own abundance. The Allee effect arises in response to low abundances of the mobile mutualist, and causes extinction of both species once their numbers fall below a critical threshold.

Dispersal of the mobile mutualist can rescue such sink communities from extinction, provided there is at least one source community in which both species have abundances above the extinction threshold. Dispersal itself is density‐independent, but induces negative density‐dependence that counteracts the positive density‐dependence due to the Allee effect. This negative feedback effect of dispersal has not previously been demonstrated in mutualism models.

Rescue of sink communities, however, depends on how dispersal influences the local dynamics of source communities. If dispersal involves surplus individuals the loss of whom does not affect the reproductive output of the source community, persistence of sink communities is guaranteed as long as the survivorship of long‐distance dispersers exceeds a lower threshold. In contrast, if dispersal involves emigrants that constitute a fraction of the source community's reproductive output, persistence of sink communities additionally requires that emigration does not exceed an upper threshold. Too much emigration can cause a net loss of the mobile mutualist from the source community, resulting in landscape‐wide extinction of the mutualistic interaction.

The effect of dispersal mode on the dynamics of mutualistic interactions has not been appreciated previously. If the benefit of the rescue effect to sinks is outweighed by the cost of dispersal to sources, mutualistic communities linked by dispersal may experience a greater loss of diversity than communities that are isolated.
Timing of locomotor impairment and shift in thermal preferences during gravidity in a viviparous lizard
Authors: Le Galliard J.‐F. , Le Bris M. , Clobert J.
Published: December 2004

Locomotor impairment and shift in thermal preferences during gestation have been documented in some lizards, but few studies have investigated their timing. Here, endurance capacity, sprint speed and selected body temperature of gravid females of the viviparous lizard Lacerta vivipara (Jacquin) were measured weekly before and after parturition.

Significant temporal variation of endurance and sprint speed was detected. A marked decrease in locomotor abilities occurred 2 weeks before parturition (c. 35% for endurance and 25% for sprint speed). A rapid recovery was observed a few days after parturition for endurance, while sprint speed recovered more slowly.

A physical impairment due to body mass was detected for endurance capacity, but not for sprint speed. The recovery of locomotor abilities after parturition was independent of the intensity of reproductive investment. Mass‐independent variation in locomotor performances might be explained by physiological consequences of reproduction independent of the physical burden.

Females basking under laboratory conditions selected low body temperatures during the final month of gestation (29·8 °C ± 0·12 SE) and a drastic increase occurred in the few days following parturition (33·4 °C ± 0·13 SE).

These results call for a more detailed investigation of the mechanisms underlying trade‐offs between reproduction, locomotion and thermoregulation in lizards.
Periodic fever (TRAPS) caused by mutations in the TNFα receptor 1 (TNFRSF1A) gene of three German patients
Authors: Rösen‐Wolff Angela , Kreth Hans‐Wolfgang , Hofmann Sigrun , Höhne Katrin , Heubner Georg , Möbius Dagmar , Zintl Fritz , Gahr Manfred , Roesler Joachim
Published: December 2004

Abstract: TNF‐receptor‐associated periodic syndrome (TRAPS) is a recently recognized disorder characterized by prolonged attacks of high fever and severe localized inflammation. TRAPS is caused by dominant mutations in the 55 kDa TNF receptor gene (TNFRSF1A). We here describe three German TRAPS patients of two families with Cys30→Arg and Thr50→Met mutations, respectively. Both mutations have already been observed before in other nonrelated families. The Thr50→Met amino acid exchange, caused by an ACG→ATG transition, has been reported in two other families of different ethnic background. The possibility that the ACG→ATG sequence alteration is a mutational hot spot causing TRAPS is discussed. Furthermore, we describe and discuss the symptoms of our patients, possible inducers of febrile attacks, and treatments which the patients had received when their diagnoses were still unknown.
Treatment of primary orbital lymphomas
Authors: Schick Uta , Lermen Oliver , Unsöld Renate , Hassler Werner
Published: December 2004

We present an overview of the treatment and clinical outcome of 15 orbital lymphomas, carried out in our center from 1993 to 2002. The surgical approach was determined by the location, and type of the lesion. Lateral orbitotomy was performed in five laterally located lesions, a transconjunctival approach in five medial, basal, extra‐, intraconal lesions. Pterional intradural and extradural and intradural approaches (three) were used in case of intracranial involvement or location in the apex and optic canal. Two lesions of the lid or extraconal space were operated via eyebrow incision. Ten patients were diagnosed as extranodal marginal zone lymphoma. Diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLCL) was encountered in two patients, follicular lymphoma (FCL) in two patients, and diffuse lymphoplasmacytic/lymphoplasmacytoid lymphoma in one patient. All patients except one failed to reveal systemic disease and had a localized orbital lymphoma. Twelve of the patients responded to radiation therapy with usually 40 Gy. Cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, prednisone chemotherapy was applied in two patients, once in combination with radiotherapy. Local recurrence was seen in one patient with FCL. Systemic manifestation occurred in one patient with DLCL, undergoing ifosfamide, carboplatin, etoposide chemotherapy with complete remission. The course of orbital non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma is variable and requires a multidisciplinary treatment. Therapeutic options include surgical biopsy, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.
Interpretation of quality of life scores in multiple myeloma by comparison with a reference population and assessment of the clinical importance of score differences
Authors: Gulbrandsen Nina , Hjermstad Marianne J. , Wisløff Finn ,   for the Nordic Myeloma Study Group
Published: December 2004

Objectives:  Without clear guidelines, clinicians and health care providers are often uncertain how to interpret (quality of life) QOL scores. To facilitate the interpretation, QOL scores of multiple myeloma patients at diagnosis were compared with the scores of a reference population, and the clinical significance of QOL score differences and of changes in scores over time was assessed.

Methods:  Data from two prospective Nordic Myeloma Study Group trials (221 patients <60 yr treated with high dose chemotherapy, and 203 patients >60 yr treated with melphalan and prednisone) were analysed. The EORTC QLQ‐C30 questionnaire was used. The results were compared with the scores of an age‐ and gender‐adjusted Norwegian reference population (n = 3000), using a regressional approach. The magnitude of the observed differences and of score changes during follow‐up was estimated as effect size [score difference (SD)] and according to a subjective rating system as small, moderate or large.

Results:  At diagnosis, the most distressing problems were pain and fatigue, reduced physical functioning, limitations in role functioning and reduced overall QOL. These differences from the reference population were statistically significant (P < 0.001), and large or moderate according to the rating systems. After the start of treatment, small to moderate improvement in mean QOL scores were observed for most domains.

Conclusion:  Comparison with a reference population eases the interpretation of QOL scores and prevents overestimation of symptoms and underestimation of subjective treatment response. The agreement between the two methods to evaluate the meaning of differences and changes in QOL scores was good.
Secondary follicular lymphoma of the bone, transformed into large cell lymphoma, in a patient with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia: an uncommon manifestation of Richter's syndrome
Authors: Hensel Manfred , Buss Eike C. , Tiemann Markus , Parwaresch Reza , Libicher Martin , Fruehauf Stefan , Ho Anthony D.
Published: December 2004

Patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) are at a significantly increased risk of developing a second malignant neoplasm in the course of their disease. The occurrence of large cell lymphoma [Richter's syndrome (RS)] has been described in approximately 3–5% of CLL patients. Other types of secondary lymphoid malignancies are extremely rare. Here we describe a patient, heavily pretreated, with long history of CLL who developed a secondary follicular lymphoma, transformed into a diffuse large cell lymphoma (LCL), with isolated manifestation in the bone, a very rare manifestation of RS. CLL and LCL cells were of distinct clonal origin, as documented by DNA sequencing of the CDR3 regions. Twelve months after the completion of chemo‐ and local radiotherapy, the patient is still in remission.
Association of non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) with chronic neutrophilic leukemia
Authors: Yoshida Chikashi , Kojima Hiroshi , Iijima Tatsuo , Katsura Yukitaka , Shimizu Seiichi , Suzukawa Kazumi , Mukai Harumi Y. , Hasegawa Yuichi , Abei Masato , Nagasawa Toshiro
Published: December 2004

A 54‐yr‐old female having chronic neutrophilic leukemia (CNL) associated with severe liver injury is presented. Physical examination on admission showed severe jaundice, hepatosplenomegaly, massive ascites, and pretibial edema. Complete blood count showed a hemoglobin level of 9.1 g/dL, platelet count of 25.8 × 104/μL, and white blood cell count of 36.6 × 103/μL with 89.7% neutrophils. Blood chemistry showed hyperbilirubinemia (21.9 mg/dL) with normal transaminase levels. There was no abnormality in serum cholesterol, triglyceride, or glucose levels. Neutrophil alkaline phosphatase activity was significantly elevated. Bone marrow aspiration showed myeloid hyperplasia with normal karyotype. Rearrangement of thebcr/ablwas not detected by either polymerase chain reaction or fluorescencein situhybridization. Human androgen receptor gene assay (HUMARA) of the bone marrow cells showed clonal proliferation of neutrophils. The patient was diagnosed as having CNL. To evaluate the pathogenesis of the liver injury, a needle biopsy was performed, which showed steatohepatitis with infiltration of neutrophils. As the patient had no history of alcohol abuse, a diagnosis of non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) was made. Assuming that the infiltration of abnormal neutrophils into the liver contributed to the development of NASH, she was treated with cytoreductive chemotherapy (cytosine arabinoside: 100 mg/d, 1–3 doses/wk). With decreases in white blood cell counts, serum bilirubin levels decreased gradually to 1.5 mg/mL. A postchemotherapy liver biopsy specimen showed marked improvement of the fatty degenerative change. To our knowledge, this is the first report describing the development of NASH in a myeloproliferative disorder. We believe that the infiltration of leukemic cells contributed to the development of NASH in this patient.
Serum syndecan‐1, basic fibroblast growth factor and osteoprotegerin in myeloma patients at diagnosis and during the course of the disease
Authors: Kyrtsonis Maria‐Christina , Vassilakopoulos Theodoros P. , Siakantaris Marina P. , Kokoris Styliani I. , Gribabis Despina A. , Dimopoulou Maria N. , Angelopoulou Maria K. , Pangalis Gerassimos A.
Published: December 2004

Neovascularisation and bone resorption are related to myeloma disease activity.

Objectives:  To investigate the possible prognostic importance of serum syndecan‐1, basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) and osteoprotegerin (OPG) levels, the relationship between them, with parameters of disease activity and the effect of treatment on their levels.

Patients and Methods:  Twenty‐seven patients were studied from diagnosis and an additional five from remission, for a median follow‐up of 40 months. Twenty‐three patients received chemotherapy plus bisphosphonates and nine only bisphosphonates. Sera from 11 healthy individuals (HI) were used as controls. Cytokines were determined by commercially available enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) kits.

Results:  In HI, median syndecan‐1 was 40 ng/mL (28–75), bFGF 8 pg/mL (7–30), OPG 35 pg/mL (4–100). Pretreatment median serum syndecan‐1 was 177.5 ng/mL (34–3500), bFGF 11.5 pg/mL (8–65) and OPG 100 pg/mL (4–1000). Pretreatment syndecan‐1, bFGF and OPG serum levels were increased in patients compared with HI (P = 0.001, 0.03 and 0.01, respectively). Syndecan‐1 and bFGF levels were correlated with stage (P = 0.004 and 0.03, respectively). Both syndecan‐1 and OPG levels were correlated with β2M (P = 0.04 and 0.01, respectively). Patients with elevated syndecan‐1 and bFGF serum levels had shorter survival than patients with normal levels (P = 0.01 and 0.05, respectively). After chemotherapy syndecan‐1 and OPG levels were found to be decreased in responders and syndecan‐1 level was reduced in patients receiving bisphosphonates alone.

Conclusions:  Pretreatment syndecan‐1, bFGF and OPG levels were found to be increased at diagnosis. Syndecan‐1 and OPG fluctuated according to MM activity. Elevated serum syndecan‐1 and bFGF levels predicted short survival.
Expression of p120, Ki‐67 and PCNA as proliferation biomarkers in imprint smears of prostate carcinoma and their prognostic value
Authors: Bantis A. , Giannopoulos A. , Gonidi M. , Liossi A. , Aggelonidou E. , Petrakakou E. , Athanassiades P. , Athanassiadou P.
Published: December 2004

The cell proliferation markers p120, Ki‐67 and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) recognize nuclear antigens. The expression of these proteins by immunostaining methods was reported to be of value in determining the prognosis of patients with malignant diseases.

In this study, we evaluated the prognostic significance of the expression of nuclear antigens p120, PCNA and Ki‐67 in prostate cancer and compared the results with other prognostic factors.

Imprint smear samples obtained from 70 patients immediately after radical prostatectomy for prostatic carcinoma were immunostained with monoclonal antibodies against p120, Ki‐67 and PCNA. The immunostaining results were correlated with Gleason score, tumour differentiation, stage and prostatic specific antigen (PSA) levels.

Our findings demonstrate that p120, Ki‐67 and PCNA expression in prostatic carcinoma smears, correlated significantly with the degree of Gleason score (P < 0.001). When combining p120, Ki‐67 and PCNA positivity with tumour differentiation there was a significant association among these parameters (P < 0.001). Overexpression of p120, Ki‐67 and PCNA, was also associated with increased PSA serum levels (>4 ng/ml) (P < 0.001). The distribution of p120, Ki‐67 and PCNA expression in prostate carcinomas was not statistically significant for Ki‐67 (P = 0.69) and p120 (P = 0.22) but was significant for PCNA (P < 0.001) as far as the histological stage (T2a, T2b, T2c, T3a). P120, Ki‐67 and PCNA expression had significant prognostic value for disease‐free survival.

Our results conclude that nuclear antigens p120, Ki‐67 and PCNA appear to be additional markers in the field of prognosis of prostatic carcinoma.
Mitochondriopathies
Authors: Finsterer J.
Published: December 2004

Mitochondriopathies (MCPs) are either due to sporadic or inherited mutations in nuclear or mitochondrial DNA located genes (primary MCPs), or due to exogenous factors (secondary MCPs). MCPs usually show a chronic, slowly progressive course and present with multiorgan involvement with varying onset between birth and late adulthood. Although several proteins with signalling, assembling, transport, enzymatic function can be impaired in MCP, most frequently the activity of the respiratory chain (RC) protein complexes is primarily or secondarily affected, leading to impaired oxygen utilization and reduced energy production. MCPs represent a diagnostic challenge because of their wide variation in presentation and course. Systems frequently affected in MCP are the peripheral nervous system (myopathy, polyneuropathy, lactacidosis), brain (leucencephalopathy, calcifications, stroke‐like episodes, atrophy with dementia, epilepsy, upper motor neuron signs, ataxia, extrapyramidal manifestations, fatigue), endocrinium (short stature, hyperhidrosis, diabetes, hyperlipidaemia, hypogonadism, amenorrhoea, delayed puberty), heart (impulse generation or conduction defects, cardiomyopathy, left ventricular non‐compaction heart failure), eyes (cataract, glaucoma, pigmentary retinopathy, optic atrophy), ears (deafness, tinnitus, peripheral vertigo), guts (dysphagia, vomiting, diarrhoea, hepatopathy, pseudo‐obstruction, pancreatitis, pancreas insufficiency), kidney (renal failure, cysts) and bone marrow (sideroblastic anaemia). Apart from well‐recognized syndromes, MCP should be considered in any patient with unexplained progressive multisystem disorder. Although there is actually no specific therapy and cure for MCP, many secondary problems require specific treatment. The rapidly increasing understanding of the pathophysiological background of MCPs may further facilitate the diagnostic approach and open perspectives to future, possibly causative therapies.
Oscillating growth patterns of multicellular tumour spheroids
Authors: Chignola R. , Schenetti A. , Chiesa E. , Foroni R. , Sartpris S. , Brendolan A. , Tridente G. , Andrighetto G. , Liberati D.
Published: December 2004

Abstract. The growth kinetics of 9L (rat glioblastoma cell line) and U118 (human glioblastoma cell line) multicellular tumour spheroids (MTS) have been investigated by non‐linear least square fitting of individual growth curves with the Gompertz growth equation and power spectrum analysis of residuals. Residuals were not randomly distributed around calculated growth trajectories. At least one main frequency was found for all analysed MTS growth curves, demonstrating the existence of time‐dependent periodic fluctuations of MTS volume dimensions. Similar periodic oscillations of MTS volume dimensions were also observed for MTS generated using cloned 9L cells. However, we found significant differences in the growth kinetics of MTS obtained with polyclonal cells. Our findings demonstrate that the growth patterns of three‐dimensional tumour cell cultures are more complex than has been previously predicted using traditional continuous growth models.
Developmental changes in the inhibition of cultured rat uterine cell proliferation by opioid peptides
Authors: Környei J. L. , Vértes Z. , Kovács K. A. , Göcze P. M. , Vértes M.
Published: December 2004

Abstract.  Opioid peptides are negative regulators of cell proliferation in several organs including the uterus. In the present study, the ontogeny of the direct inhibitory action of opioid peptides on the proliferation of cultured rat uterine cells was investigated. Uteri of 7, 14, 21, 28, 35 and 60‐day‐old rats were removed in a sterile way. Tissue blocks were dispersed by limited digestions with trypsin and collagenase. Cells were cultured in enriched Dulbecco's modified Eagle's medium (DMEM). Treatments were present during the entire culture period. Cell densities of the monolayers were determined by counting the cells following trypsinization and trypan blue exclusion. Rat uterine mixed cell cultures grew to confluence within 10 days. The average population doubling time gradually increased with the age of animals. Epidermal growth factor (EGF) increased cell densities of cultures from all age groups. The oestradiol (E2)‐responsiveness appeared at 21 days of age. The effect of [D‐Met2‐Pro5]‐enkephalinamide (ENK) was biphasic. ENK and [Met5]‐enkephalin (OGF) decreased cell densities of both unstimulated and EGF‐stimulated cultures from 7‐day‐old rats to the same extent. ENK failed to act in 14‐day‐old animals. From 21 days of age on, the E2‐ or EGF‐stimulated proliferation was inhibited only by ENK and DAMGO, while 30 nm DPDPE, Dynorhin‐A, OGF, [Leu5]‐enkephalin, beta‐endorphin, and morphiceptin were ineffective. The half‐inhibitory concentration of ENK was 0.3 nm. The effects of ENK were prevented by concomitant treatment with naloxone. Our novel data demonstrate two different phases of the inhibitory action of opioid peptides on rat uterine cell proliferation during ontogeny with an insensitive interval in between.
The small intestine as a model for evaluating adult tissue stem cell drug targets1
Authors: Potten Christopher S. , Booth Catherine , Hargreaves Danielle
Published: December 2004

Abstract.  Adult tissue stem cells are defined and some current controversies are discussed. These crucial cells are responsible for all cell production in renewing tissues, and play a vital role in tissue regeneration. Although reliable stem cell markers are generally unavailable for adult epithelial tissues, the small intestinal crypts are an excellent in vivo model system to study stem cells. Within this tissue, the stem cells have a very well‐defined cell position, allowing accurate definition of stem cell specific events. Clonal regeneration assays for the small intestine allow stem cell survival and functional competence to be studied. The ultimate lineage ancestor stem cells are extremely efficiently protected from genetic damage, which accounts for the low cancer incidence in this tissue. Some of the regulatory networks governing stem and transit cell behaviour are beginning to be understood and it is postulated that p53 plays a crucial role in these processes.
Success in territorial defence by male tarantula hawk wasps Hemipepsis ustulata: the role of residency
Authors: ALCOCK JOHN , BAILEY WINSTON
Published: December 2004

1. Some male tarantula hawk wasps Hemipepsis ustulata defend landmark shrubs growing on mountain tops, while others only visit a succession of territory sites, generally fleeing from territorial males. To determine whether residency asymmetries contribute to the short duration of most interactions between territorial males and visiting intruders, established residents were held captive for varying periods while other males replaced them at their territories.

2. Replacement males immediately assumed resident status and began to defend the shrubs and trees with success against non‐resident intruders, many of which were larger. Interactions between replacements and non‐resident intruders rarely escalated into pursuits leading to ascending flights.

3. In contrast, when the original resident was released, its subsequent encounter with the replacement male almost always resulted in one or more ascending flights, even when the replacement had been on territory for less than 10 min. The longer the period of territory occupation by replacements, the longer on average the interaction and the more ascending flights, showing that the duration of time on a territory affects male motivation to defend the site. Despite strong resistance from long‐term replacements, however, returning residents almost always regained their territories.

4. The strong residency effect in H. ustulata may be an adaptive proximate control mechanism for male behaviour that arises because established residents typically have high resource holding power, which makes them difficult to displace.
Nettle‐feeding nymphalid butterflies: temperature, development and distribution
Authors: BRYANT SIMON , THOMAS CHRIS , BALE JEFFREY
Published: December 2004

1. Four nymphalid butterflies, Aglais urticae L., Inachis io L., Polygonia c‐album L. and Vanessa atalanta L., share the same primary host plant, Urtica dioica L., but have different margins to their U.K. and European ranges. Their developmental responses to a series of constant temperatures were measured.

2. Degree‐day requirements were found broadly to explain the relative distributions and differences in voltinism of A. urticae, P. c‐album and I. io. The migrant V. atalanta did not fit into the predicted pattern, and this species may be more limited by its ability to overwinter.

3. Although the most northerly distributed species, A. urticae, had the lowest degree‐day requirement, it had the highest developmental threshold and performed best (for mortality, pupal weight and relative growth rate) at high experimental temperatures. It is suggested that this may be due to the gregarious nature of its larvae and their possible ability to thermoregulate.

4. At southern margins, different distributional limits may be explained partly by larval gregariousness (a more northern trait) and maximum temperatures at which development is possible.

5. Limits to the distributions of these mobile species are at least partially explicable by the interaction of climatic patterns and thermal biology. A rapid response to climate change is predicted, and has already been observed in two of the species.