bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transfer of Plasmid-Mediated CTX-M-9 from
Salmonella enterica
Serotype Virchow to
Enterobacteriaceae
in Human Flora-Associated Rats Treated with Cefixime
Authors: Faure S. , Perrin-Guyomard A. , Delmas J. M. , Chatre P. , Laurentie M.
Published: November 2009

Food animals are a potential source of CTX-M resistance genes for humans. We evaluated the transfer of the
bla
CTX-M-9
gene from an animal strain of
Salmonella enterica
serotype Virchow to
Enterobacteriaceae
of the human intestinal flora by using human flora-associated (HFA) rats with and without cefixime treatment. In the absence of antibiotic, no transconjugant enterobacteria were found in the feces of HFA rats. However, the transfer rate was high if
Escherichia coli
J5 recipient strains were coinoculated orally with
Salmonella. S. enterica
serotype Virchow persisted in the rat fecal flora both during and after treatment with therapeutic doses of cefixime. The drug did not increase the transfer rate, and
E. coli
J5 transconjugants were eliminated from the flora before the end of cefixime treatment. No cefixime was recovered in the rat feces. In the presence of recipient strains, the
bla
CTX-M-9
resistance gene was transferred from a strain of animal origin to the human intestinal flora, although transconjugant colonization was transient. Antibiotic use enhanced the persistence of donor strains, increasing the resistance gene pool and the risk of its spread.
Impact of Y143 HIV-1 Integrase Mutations on Resistance to Raltegravir
In Vitro
and
In Vivo
Authors: Delelis Olivier , Thierry Sylvain , Subra Frédéric , Simon Françoise , Malet Isabelle , Alloui Chakib , Sayon Sophie , Calvez Vincent , Deprez Eric , Marcelin Anne-Geneviève , Tchertanov Luba , Mouscadet Jean-François
Published: November 2009

Integrase (IN), the HIV-1 enzyme responsible for the integration of the viral genome into the chromosomes of infected cells, is the target of the recently approved antiviral raltegravir (RAL). Despite this drug's activity against viruses resistant to other antiretrovirals, failures of raltegravir therapy were observed, in association with the emergence of resistance due to mutations in the integrase coding region. Two pathways involving primary mutations on residues N155 and Q148 have been characterized. It was suggested that mutations at residue Y143 might constitute a third primary pathway for resistance. The aims of this study were to investigate the susceptibility of HIV-1 Y143R/C mutants to raltegravir and to determine the effects of these mutations on the IN-mediated reactions. Our observations demonstrate that Y143R/C mutants are strongly impaired for both of these activities
in vitro
. However, Y143R/C activity can be kinetically restored, thereby reproducing the effect of the secondary G140S mutation that rescues the defect associated with the Q148R/H mutants. A molecular modeling study confirmed that Y143R/C mutations play a role similar to that determined for Q148R/H mutations. In the viral replicative context, this defect leads to a partial block of integration responsible for a weak replicative capacity. Nevertheless, the Y143 mutant presented a high level of resistance to raltegravir. Furthermore, the 50% effective concentration (EC
50
) determined for Y143R/C mutants was significantly higher than that obtained with G140S/Q148R mutants. Altogether our results not only show that the mutation at position Y143 is one of the mechanisms conferring resistance to RAL but also explain the delayed emergence of this mutation.
Localization of Phosphatidylinositol (3,4,5)-Trisphosphate to Phagosomes in
Entamoeba histolytica
Achieved Using Glutathione
S
-Transferase- and Green Fluorescent Protein-Tagged Lipid Biosensors
Authors: Byekova Yevgeniya A. , Powell Rhonda R. , Welter Brenda H. , Temesvari Lesly A.
Published: November 2009

Entamoeba histolytica
is an intestinal protozoan parasite that causes amoebic dysentery and liver abscess. Phagocytosis by the parasite is a critical virulence process, since it is a prerequisite for tissue invasion and establishment of chronic infection. While the roles of many of the proteins that regulate phagocytosis-related signaling events in
E. histolytica
have been characterized, the functions of lipids in this cellular process remain largely unknown in this parasite. In other systems, phosphatidylinositol (3,4,5)-trisphosphate (PIP
3
), a major product of phosphoinositide 3 kinase (PI3-kinase) activity, is essential for phagocytosis. Pleckstrin homology (PH) domains are protein domains that specifically bind to PIP
3
. In this study, we utilized glutathione
S
-transferase (GST)- and green fluorescent protein (GFP)-labeled PH domains as lipid biosensors to characterize the spatiotemporal aspects of PIP
3
distribution during various endocytic processes in
E. histolytica
. PIP
3
-specific biosensors accumulated at extending pseudopodia and in phagosomal cups in trophozoites exposed to erythrocytes but did not localize to pinocytic compartments during the uptake of a fluid-phase marker, dextran. Our results suggest that PIP
3
is involved in the early stages of phagosome formation in
E. histolytica
. In addition, we demonstrated that PIP
3
exists at high steady-state levels in the plasma membrane of
E. histolytica
and that these levels, unlike those in mammalian cells, are not abolished by serum withdrawal. Finally, expression of a PH domain in trophozoites inhibited erythrophagocytosis and enhanced motility, providing genetic evidence supporting the role of PI3-kinase signaling in these processes in
E. histolytica
.
Precarious Balance: Th17 Cells in Host Defense
Authors: Peck Ariana , Mellins Elizabeth D.
Published: November 2009

Lineage-specific responses from the effector T-cell repertoire form a critical component of adaptive immunity. The recent identification of Th17 cells—a third, distinct lineage of helper T cells—collapses the long-accepted paradigm in which Th1 and Th2 cells distinctly mediate cellular and humoral immunity, respectively. In this minireview, we discuss the involvement of the Th17 lineage during infection by extracellular bacteria, intracellular bacteria, and fungi. Emerging trends suggest that the Th17 population bridges innate and adaptive immunity to produce a robust antimicrobial inflammatory response. However, because Th17 cells mediate both host defense and pathological inflammation, elucidation of mechanisms that attenuate but do not completely abolish the Th17 response may have powerful implications for therapy.
Soil–pipeline interaction along unstable slopes: a coupled three-dimensional approach. Part 1: Theoretical formulation
Authors: Cocchetti Giuseppe , di Prisco Claudio , Galli Andrea , Nova Roberto
Published: November 2009

Pipelines buried along potentially unstable slopes are often monitored because soil movements can induce an evolution of the state of stress within the pipe that can eventually result in the loss of the serviceability of the system or even in its failure. In the present paper, the pipeline is discretised by means of a series of three-dimensional beam finite elements and the soil–pipeline interaction is reproduced by means of macroelements independent from each other, but characterized by a failure condition in which coupling among the different loading components is taken into account. The soil–pipeline interaction problem is formulated by accounting for the geometry of the slope, the soil and pipe mechanical properties, and the imposed soil displacement profile. A convenient piecewise linear formulation for the macroelement constitutive relationship is adopted and a large displacements scheme is also formulated.
Simple shear testing of sensitive, very soft offshore clay for wide strain range
Authors: Lanzo G. , Pagliaroli A. , Tommasi P. , Chiocci F. L.
Published: November 2009

Stiffness and damping properties of sensitive, very soft clay sediments of the Italian Adriatic continental shelf are determined by means of two series of cyclic simple shear tests (one with 12 stages and one with two stages). The apparatus used in this research is capable of investigating the stress–strain behaviour of the soil in a wide range of shear strains from about 0.0004% to 1%. Test results were expressed in terms of small-strain shear modulus (G0), normalized equivalent shear modulus (Geq/G0), and damping ratio (D) versus cyclic shear-strain amplitude (γc). These parameters were analyzed in the framework of existing literature by comparison with empirical correlations developed for onshore materials of different plasticity and, limited to G0, also for soft soils. The dependence of G0, Geq/G0–γc, and D–γcon factors such as void ratio, stress history, and loading cycles is analyzed and discussed.
Soil–pipeline interaction along unstable slopes: a coupled three-dimensional approach. Part 2: Numerical analyses
Authors: Cocchetti Giuseppe , di Prisco Claudio , Galli Andrea
Published: November 2009

The soil–pipe interaction constitutive model, based on the concept of the “macroelement” described in a companion paper, has been implemented according to a piecewise linear (PWL) formulation in a three-dimensional finite element code in which the pipe is discretised by means of beam elements. To draw an interpretative theoretical framework for the structural response of the system, some ideal problems in which the pipeline is assumed to be straight and the displacement profile simple are discussed. Both large and small displacement approaches are employed, and the problem of axial instability of pipelines is also analysed. Monitoring data from three real case studies have also been numerically simulated: the first two concern pipelines subject to transversal slow soil movements and the third one refers to a small diameter pipeline subject to failure due to axial instability.
QUASI-ISOMORPHISMS AND GROUPS OF QUASI-HOMOMORPHISMS
Authors: ALBRECHT ULRICH , BREAZ SIMION
Published: November 2009

This paper investigates to which extent a self-small mixed Abelian group G of finite torsion-free rank is determined by the groups Hom (G,C) where C is chosen from a suitable class [Formula: see text] of Abelian groups. We show that G is determined up to quasi-isomorphism if [Formula: see text] is the class of all self-small mixed groups C with r0(C) ≤ r0(G). Several related results are given, and the dual problem of orthogonal classes is investigated.
REVERSIBLE SKEW LAURENT POLYNOMIAL RINGS AND DEFORMATIONS OF POISSON AUTOMORPHISMS
Authors: JORDAN DAVID A. , SASOM NONGKHRAN
Published: November 2009

A skew Laurent polynomial ring S = R[x±1;α] is reversible if it has a reversing automorphism, that is, an automorphism θ of period 2 that transposes x and x-1 and restricts to an automorphism γ of R with γ = γ-1. We study invariants for reversing automorphisms and apply our methods to determine the rings of invariants of reversing automorphisms of the two most familiar examples of simple skew Laurent polynomial rings, namely a localization of the enveloping algebra of the two-dimensional non-abelian solvable Lie algebra and the coordinate ring of the quantum torus, both of which are deformations of Poisson algebras over the base field 𝔽. Their reversing automorphisms are deformations of Poisson automorphisms of those Poisson algebras. In each case, the ring of invariants of the Poisson automorphism is the coordinate ring B of a surface in 𝔽3 and the ring of invariants Sθ of the reversing automorphism is a deformation of B and is a factor of a deformation of 𝔽[x1, x2, x3] for a Poisson bracket determined by the appropriate surface.
ON POINTED HOPF ALGEBRAS ASSOCIATED WITH THE MATHIEU SIMPLE GROUPS
Authors: FANTINO FERNANDO
Published: November 2009

Let G be a Mathieu simple group, s ∈ G, [Formula: see text] the conjugacy class of s and ρ an irreducible representation of the centralizer of s. We prove that either the Nichols algebra [Formula: see text] is infinite-dimensional or the braiding of the Yetter–Drinfeld module [Formula: see text] is negative. We also show that if G = M22 or M24, then the group algebra of G is the only (up to isomorphisms) finite-dimensional complex pointed Hopf algebra with group-likes isomorphic to G.
INVERSE SEMIGROUPS AND SEMINEAR-RINGS
Authors: SAMMAN MOHAMMAD
Published: November 2009

We investigate the relationship between inverse semigroups and a special class of seminear-rings. We show that when an inverse semigroup T generates a d.g. seminear-ring (S,T) then the representation of the seminear-ring (S,T) is faithful. Some other aspects of representation theory of seminear-rings are discussed in connection with the structure of the underlying semigroups.
What DNS Is Not
Authors: Vixie Paul
Published: November 2009

DNS (Domain Name System) is a hierarchical, distributed, autonomous, reliable database. The first and only of its kind, it offers realtime performance levels to a global audience with global contributors. Every TCP/IP traffic flow including every World Wide Web page view begins with at least one DNS transaction. DNS is, in a word, glorious.
New Insights into Whipple’s Disease – A Rare Intestinal Inflammatory Disorder
Authors: Marth Thomas
Published: November 2009

Whipple’s disease (WD) is a rare systemic infectious disor- der caused by the actinomycete Tropheryma whipplei. This chronic disease, first described by Whipple as ‘intestinal lipodystrophy’, affects preferentially middle-aged white men who may present with weight loss, diarrhea, abdominal pain and arthralgia. Thus, it represents an important differential diagnosis of chronic diarrhea. A variety of other clinical patterns, such as involvement of the heart, lung, or central nervous system (CNS), are frequent. In addition, individuals with isolated heart valve involvement or asymptomatic carriers may be observed. The diagnosis often is established by small bowel biopsy, which is characterized by periodic acid-Schiff-positive inclusions representing the causative bacteria. T. whipplei can be detected by specific polymerase chain reaction, immunohistochemistry or electron microscopy and was cultured a few years ago. Several studies show that subtle defects of the cell-mediated immunity exist in active and inactive WD which may predispose individuals with a certain HLA type to a clinical manifestation of T. whipplei infection. As confirmed in a recent controlled trial, most patients respond well to a prolonged antibiotic treatment, but some patients with relapsing disease or CNS manifestation may have a poor prognosis. In the presentation, the relevance of WD in the differential diagnosis of chronic diarrhea and the new findings of this enigmatic rare disorder will be discussed.
Vitiligo and the HLA System
Authors: Metzker A. , Zamir R. , Gazit E. , David M. , Feuerman E.J.
Published: November 2009

77 Vitiligo patients were investigated for their HLA phenotype. Analysis of this material according to age of onset and ethnic origin revealed some significant characteristics. Young Jewish Moroccan patients showed a high frequency of B13 when compared to matching controls. Young patients of Yemenite origin had a strikingly high frequency of BW35. Jewish Yemenites showed a lack of B13 both in patients and in controls. It is suggested that studies be undertaken to clarify this problem further.
Levamisole plus Indomethacin in the Treatment of Herpes simplex
Authors: Hernández-Pérez Enrique
Published: November 2009

In 20 patients with severe herpes simplex, the combined use of levamisole 150 mg/day for 3 days every 2 weeks, plus indomethacin 25 mg daily for a maximum period of 6 months, gave some 75% favourable results.
Disseminated Porokeratosis Mibelli Treated with RO 10-9359
Authors: Bundino Silvana , Zina Alberto Maria
Published: November 2009

2 patients with widespread porokeratosis Mibelli (PM) were treated orally with RO 10-9359. The dose was 75 mg/day for 10 days, then 50 mg/day for 3 weeks. The drug produced a good improvement of condition with no serious side effect. Ultrastructural examination of a healed lesion showed the presence of a fine granular substance in the intercellular space of the spinous layer, most likely produced by keratinocytes; ultrastructural cellular alterations of PM were still evident and the lesion recurred after suspension of treatment.
Treatment of Hyperkeratosis lenticularis perstans (Flegel) with Topical Fluorouracil
Authors: Wilson P.D. , Ive F.A.
Published: November 2009

We report the first successful treatment of hyperkeratosis lenticularis perstans with topical fluorouracil.
Treatment of Acute Febrile Neutrophilic Dermatosis (Sweet’s Syndrome) with Potassium Iodide
Authors: Horio Takeshi , Imamura Sadao , Danno Kiichiro , Furukawa Fukumi , Ofuji Shigeo
Published: November 2009

6 cases with acute febrile neutrophilic dermatosis (Sweet’s syndrome) responded rapidly and dramatically to treatment with potassium iodide. All patients became afebrile and symptom-free within 24–48 h after therapy. The cutaneous eruptions subsided completely in 3–5 days. 5 of the patients received the drug only for 2 weeks, but they have had no recurrences. Although the remaining 1 patient had shown minor recurrences after cessation of the medication, he was free of all symptoms during the therapy. The mode of the action of potassium iodide is also discussed.
Der Einfluss von Harnstoff auf perkutane Permeationsmechanismen
Authors: Wohlrab W.
Published: November 2009

The influence of urea on the percutaneous permeation under different conditions of application and on the epidermal effectiveness of 5-fluorouracil (FU) as an example for water-soluble agents is reported. The proceedings of permeation of FU are accelerated by admixture of, or pretreatment with, urea and by increasing the hydration of the horny layer by pretreatment with NaCl. The effectiveness of FU on the epidermis is increased simultaneously. However, the permeation rate of FU is decreased by pretreatment with HTH® as an example of a stabilized urea emulsion; on the other hand, the most favourable therapeutic effect is demonstrable. Therefore, the permeation of an agent may be both enhanced and inhibited by different modes of urea application. These findings appear to be important for both the optimization of topical treatment and the industrial medicine’s point of view.
Pityriasis lichenoides chronica – eine neue Indikation zur PUVA-Therapie?
Authors: Hofmann Cornelia , Weissmann Irving , Plewig Gerd
Published: November 2009

2 patients with long-standing and wide-spread pityriasis lichenoides chronica were treated with orally administered 8-methoxypsoralen and UVA irradiation (PUVA therapy). After 15–21 PUVA treatments the patients were completely cleared. 3 and 4 weeks after the initial PUVA treatment, phase recurrences occurred in both patients. In 1 patient the lesions appeared clinically and histologically as pityriasis lichenoides et varioliformis acuta.
Effects of Levamisole in Sézary Syndrome
Authors: Hazen Paul G. , Kallor Allen , Michel Beno
Published: November 2009

2 patients with Sézary syndrome were treated with levamisole. Both patients had clinical and hematological evidence of acceleration of their disease and ultimately died, although 1 patient had improvement in skin test reactivity. We suggest that levamisole be used with caution, if at all, in patients with T-lymphocyte malignancies.
Communications. Le granulome malin centro-facial
Authors: Simonis-Blumenfrucht A. , Mestdagh Ch. , Lustman F. , Wanet-Rouard J. , Balikdjian D.
Published: November 2009

In their study of a case of lethal midline-granuloma, the authors describe the relations between this affection, Wegener’s granulomatosis and lymphoma. The case under review illustrates the difficulty in accurately defining the nosologic picture of the disease. Anatomo-pathological examinations present two possibilities: one being malignant granuloma of the Stewart type, the other that of lymphoma. From its subsequent evolution, we may eventually learn whether this is purely a local illness or represents the onset of a systemic disease.
Dystrophia unguium mediana canaliformis
Authors: Dijk E.
Published: November 2009

An attempt is made to give a sort of classification of the median nail dystrophies. 6 own cases are reported. As there are many morphological transitional forms, it is for the present recommended to call all those forms dystrophia unguium mediana canaliformis.
A Peripheral Vascular Syndrome Overlapping with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Johansson E.A. , Niemi K.M. , Mustakallio K.K.
Published: November 2009

Three women and five men with chronic biological false-positive seroreactions for syphilis and circulating anticoagulants exhibited a vascular syndrome consisting of recurrent deep venous thrombosis of the extremities and necrotizing purpura with painful superficial starlike ulcers around the ankles. The skin biopsies revealed a unique picture of massive proliferation of hemorrhagic dermal capillaries without a significant inflammatory reaction. Some virus infection may function as a trigger of this peripheral vascular syndrome, because 6 of the 8 patients had a preceding pneumonia with pleural effusion. Considering that the three women had clinical and laboratory evidence of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) this syndrome may be related to SLE.
Mycosis fongoïde et mucinose folliculaire avec très importantes lésions papillomateuses et verruqueuses
Authors: Kanitakis C. , Tsoïtis G.
Published: November 2009

An exceptional case of mycosis fungoides and follicular mucinosis with very prominent papillomatous and verrucous lesions in a 20-year-old woman is reported. Papillomatous and verrucous lesions have not been described, so far as we know, in lymphomas.
Distribution of HLA Antigens in Patients with Mycosis fungoides
Authors: Dick Heather M. , Mackie Rona
Published: November 2009

19 patients with plaque-style mycosis fungoides have undergone determination of HLA antigen distribution. Deviations from the expected distribution frequency occurred with the antigens of the W19 group comprising A29, W30, W31 and W32 and of B8 and Al. The W19 group deviation was statistically significant (χ2 = 9.7 p value < 0.005). The significance of this observation in relation to reported immunological abnormalities in mycosis fungoides is discussed.
Porokeratosis of Mibelli with Unusual Features
Authors: Bhutani L.K. , Kanwar A.J. , Singh O.P.
Published: November 2009

A 35-year-old male patient having combination of porokeratosis of Mibelli and porokeratosis plantaris palmaris et disseminata is being reported. In addition, the patient had unusual features of resorption of tips of the fingers and toes along with flexion deformities at the interphalangeal joints and chronic indolent ulcers over the hands and feet.
Nickel Content of Plasma, Urine and Hair in Contact Dermatitis
Authors: Spruit D. , Bongaarts P.J.M.
Published: November 2009

The nickel (Ni) concentrations of blood plasma, urine and scalp hair do not differ between hypersensitive and non-hypersensitive subjects. Those who are occupationally exposed have about ten times the control content of nickel in the plasma, urine and hair, whether hypersensitive or not. During vacations the Ni contents of their plasmas and urines decrease sharply. Oral administration of only 5 mg Ni (as the sulphate) increases the Ni concentration of plasma and urine to ten times the normal for more than the subsequent 24 h.
Retinoic Acid-Induced Psoriasiform Lesions in Guinea Pigs: Antagonism by Anti-Psoriasis Agents
Authors: Birnbaum J.E.
Published: November 2009

Application of retinoic acid (vitamin A acid) to animal and human skin has been reported to produce cutaneous, proliferative lesions which microscopically and histochemically resemble those of psoriasis. In the present studies, the daily application of a 0.1 % solution of retinoic acid to the dorsal ear surface of guinea pigs produced a progressive psoriasiform scaling which was apparent grossly and which could be quantitated. Triamcinolone acetonide, hydrocortisone and methotrexate, all known to be useful clinically in the treatment of psoriasis, were examined for their ability to antagonize the development of retinoic-acid-induced scaling. Systemic activity was observed with all three agents; topical activity was obtained with triamcinolone acetonide but not with methotrexate or several of its analogs. On the basis of activity profiles obtained with standard anti-psoriatic compounds, it is suggested that retinoic acid lesions may have utility in identifying the anti-psoriatic potential of new compounds.
Diseases Sometimes Associated with Psoriasis
Authors: Ganor Salomon
Published: November 2009

Of 5,033 patients examined between 1968 and 1975, 407 were diagnosed as having psoriasis (Ps) and 23 alopecia areata (Aa). Five of the 23 patients with Aa had also Ps. One Aa patient having pitting of the nail only was not included in the Ps group. One further patient with Aa himself not affected with Ps had a sibling with Ps. It is suggested that there is an association between Ps and Aa and that the pitting of the nails described in Aa may be in reality an expression of Ps.
Active Rosette Test in Cutaneous Lymphoproliferative Disorders
Authors: Bernengo M.G. , Capella G. , Mascoli I. , Zina G.
Published: November 2009

T and B peripheral blood lymphocytes were evaluated in 17 patients with clinical and histological evidence of mycosis fungoides and in ten patients with benign lymphoplasias of the skin. The T subpopulation (T-Ea) characterized by a rapid rosette formation with sheep erythrocytes was also measured in these patients. While both T-total population (T-Et) and T-Ea subpopulation were within the normal range in pseudolymphoma group, a statistically significant decrease was observed in T-Ea and T-Et populations in the mycosis fungoides group. Moreover, the decrease in T-Ea subpopulation was found in all cases under investigation, even when T-Et population was still at the normal levels. A close relation between T-Ea values and clinical status was observed. B and null cells were substantially unchanged in all patients.
Nail Changes as the First Manifestation of the HLA-B27 Inheritance
Authors: Pajarre Reino , Kero Matti
Published: November 2009

A 6-year-old boy with nail changes compatible with those seen in Reiter’s disease, and his father with chronic arthritis, recurrent anterior uveitis and amyloidosis, and a transplanted kidney are described. Both of them had HLA combination A2, B27 and neither had any of the antigens associated with psoriasis.
Interactions between Econazole, a Broad-Spectrum Antimicrobic Substance, and Topically Active Glucocorticoids
Authors: Raab W. , Gmeiner B.
Published: November 2009

Econazole is a broad-spectrum antimicrobic substance which acts by permeabilizing the cell membranes. Glucocorticoids by their surface activity may counteract this effect by protecting the cell membranes. In fact, a protective action of glucocorticoids in high concentrations against econazole nitrate could be demonstrated in yeasts, not in staphylococci. The techniques applied were the Warburg assays (resting yeasts, resting and proliferating bacteria). The elicitation of a blanching reaction on human skin by triamcinolone acetonide was not altered in the presence of econazole nitrate. The data collected in this study were discussed in regard to the combined use of antimicrobic drugs and glucocorticoids in topical therapy.
Hyperplasies sébacées, kérato-acanthomes, épithéliomas du visage et cancer du colon
Authors: Reiffers J. , Laugier P. , Hunziker N.
Published: November 2009

Numerous skin lesions: sebaceous hyperplasias, benign acanthoma, keratoacanthomas and squamous cell epitheliomas appeared on the face, especially on the nose, on the cheeks and around the lips of a 45-year-old obese man with mild diabetes. In 1969, an adenocarcinoma had been found in the rectosigmoid and another one in the colon. In 1974, an excision of a well-differenciated epidermoid carcinoma was performed in the right external auditory meatus. A rectoscopy showed a micropolyp at the rectosigmoid junction. In 1975, an abdominal exploration was performed following a sudden relapse of about 50 skin lesions in the face, partly sebaceous adenomas, partly sebaceous gland épithéliomas, and about 10 precancerous lesions on the dorsum of the hands. A villous adenoma of the colon was removed. Inheritance appears to the autosomal dominant with variability in the expressiveness of the cutaneo-intestinal symptoms.
Aplasia Cutis Congenita with Dystrophic Nail Changes
Authors: Harari Z. , Pasmanik A. , Dvoretzky I. , Schewach-Millet M. , Fisher B.K.
Published: November 2009

Two cases of aplasia cutis congenita are presented. The first case was in a child with a localized defect on her scalp. The second case was in an adult male who had extensive symmetrical involvement of his trunk and thighs, two lesions on the scalp and dystrophic changes in his nails. Nail dystrophy associated with aplasia cutis congenita has been described only once previously.
Condyloma-Like Penis Carcinoma
Authors: Oranje A.P. , Brouwer J. , Vuzevski V.D.
Published: November 2009

A squamous cell carcinoma is described which showed clinical and histological features of condyloma acuminatum on the glans penis of a 43-year-old man.
In-vitro- und In-vivo-Untersuchungen zur immunsuppressiven Wirkung zytostatischer Substanzen
Authors: Schuppli R.
Published: November 2009

Various cystostatic substances are tested with the lymphocyte transformation test and compared with the effect on the experimental contact eczema of the guinea pig. Only methotrexate influences the eczematous reaction. The in vitro and in vivo effects are not identical.
Photosensibilisation de la peau et spectre de fluorescence
Authors: Brun Robert
Published: November 2009

We have carried out spectrofluorometric determinations of numerous substances such as drugs, chemicals and plants in order to find out whether there is a correlation between fluorescence data and photosensitization of the skin. A hypothesis on the mechanism of photosensitization is discussed and the data on the fluorescent properties of some 50 products is given.
Topical Treatment with Urea-Hydrocortisone in Atopic Dermatitis
Authors: Laurberg G.
Published: November 2009

When comparing 1% hydrocortisone in a stabilized 10% urea cream with 0.1% betamethasone 17-valerate cream in a double-blind study on 49 patients with atopic dermatitis or atopic winter feet, betamethasone cream was found to be the most potent. The study also showed that in approximately 60% of the patients the clinical response was equal. It is suggested that the urea-hydrocortisone combination may have its place in the long-term topical treatment of atopic dermatitis on account of its water-binding effect.
Akroangiodermatitis und akrale Hyperstomie
Authors: Partsch H.
Published: November 2009

Acroangiodermatitis is a special form of the ‘angiodermite’ of Favre and Chaix in patients presenting with chronic venous insufficiency localized on the dorsal areas of the feet and toes. Different stages including exulceration may occur. 60% of our male and 38% of our female patients with postthrombotic syndrome showed signs of acroangiodermatitis. Developmental arteriovenous malformations in the feet (acral hyperstomia, Malan’s syndrome; 1 patient) which may present similar clinical and histological pictures are rare and should be differentiated from acroangiodermatitis because their prognosis is more severe, necessitating amputation in some instances. The determination of shunt volume by means of radioactive-labelled macroalbumin or microspheres helps to differentiate these two conditions. Because both conditions may present similarities with Kaposi sarcoma, the term ‘pseudo-Kaposi’ was chosen by some authors. One factor of pathogenetic importance for the terminal vascular changes underlying both conditions is the insufficiency of the calf muscle pump resulting in an elevated capillary pressure (anatomical insufficiency in acroangiodermatitis, functional insufficiency in acral hyperstomia).
Epidermisreaktion nach Langzeiteinwirkung von Harnstoff
Authors: Wohlrab W. , Böhm W.
Published: November 2009

The epidermis thins in response to short-term contact with urea, and the results of extensive enzymological and autoradiographical studies suggest that urea acts on processes involved in epidermal proliferation. After long-term exposure of skin to urea, lasting more than 2, 4, or 6 weeks, no further thinning occurs, and there is no tendency for atrophy to develop during this period. This assertion is made on the basis of biometrical, autoradiographical, and cytophotometrical data. It is likely, however, that a reduced number of cells synthesizing DNA is not the only change in normal epidermal proliferation leading to the epidermal thinning that was measured. The urea could also alter factors regulating either cell entry into DNA synthesis or the synthetic process itself, or both. These findings clearly are of significance not only in industrial medicine but also in the use of urea in topical dermatological therapy.
Improvement of Refractory Psoriasis vulgaris after Tonsillectomy
Authors: Nyfors Allan , Rasmussen Per Attrup , Lemholt Klavs , Eriksen Birgit
Published: November 2009

In order to ascertain what effect tonsillectomy may have in the treatment of children and adolescents with recurring psoriasis vulgaris, refractory to topical therapy and courses of penicillin, and triggered by infection, and also to test a possible correlation between tonsillitis and exacerbations of psoriasis, a retrospective study of the course of psoriasis after tonsillectomy, using charts and questionnaires, was undertaken in 74 psoriatic patients. Each patient served as his own control. The average age of the patients at tonsillectomy and the duration of psoriasis were 14.2 years and 4.5 years, respectively, while the average follow-up period was 4.5 years. The clearing of the psoriasis was statistically significant (p < 0.01) as it occurred throughout the entire follow-up period in one-third of the patients, while an additional third noticed considerable improvement of their psoriasis. After trying topical therapies of various sorts as well as courses of penicillin, tonsillectomy might be considered for recurring, refractory psoriasis vulgaris in children and adolescents.
Ultrastructural Abnormalities in the Skin Nerves of a Patient with Scleredema adultorum (Buschke) and Diabetes mellitus
Authors: van de Staak W.J.B.M. , Bergers A.M.G.
Published: November 2009

In an electron-microscopic study of the skin of a patient with scleredema adultorum (Buschke) and diabetes mellitus, the unmyelinated nerve fibres showed accumulations of glycogen. On morphological grounds, these accumulations appeared to be located in the axons.
On 8-Hydroxyquinoline-Zinc Oxide Incompatibility
Authors: Fischer Torkel
Published: November 2009

Although it is well known that zinc ions and the oxines form practically insoluble chelates, oxines are commonly used in combination with zinc oxide in ointment form. 13 patients who had shown allergic responses after epicutaneous testing with oxines were tested with iodochloroxine and certain combinations of it with starch, titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. The allergic reaction to iodochloroxine was suppressed when zinc oxide was present but was uninhibited in the other tests. Certain metal ions lower the fungicidal and bactericidal effects of oxines. Zinc oxide alone showed some inhibitory effect upon Trichophyton and Epidermophyton but stimulated the growth of Candida strains. The propagation of dermatophytes was greater with a combination of iodochloroxine and zinc oxide than with either substance alone. If the concentration of iodochloroxine was considerably higher, Candida grew when zinc oxide was also present.
Renal Protection by Ischemic Preconditioning Is Associated with p50/p50 Homodimers
Authors: Cao Changchun , Wang Sumin , Fan Li , Wan Xin , Liu Xiaodong , Chen Xin
Published: November 2009

Background: Although recent studies indicate that renal ischemia preconditioning (IPC) protects the kidney from ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury, the precise protection mechanism is still unknown. It has been widely recognized that the activity of nuclear factor-ĸB (NF-ĸB) is altered upon I/R injury. However, few studies have focused on the compositional change of NF-ĸB complexes. In the current study, we observed different NF-ĸB dimers in I/R and IPC, and postulated that p50 homodimers might represent the predominant NF-ĸB activation in renal IPC. Methods: 24 male SD rats were treated with a sham operation, I/R or IPC. While the right kidney was removed in all animals, I/R was induced by left renal artery clamping for 45 min, and IPC was induced by left renal artery clamping for 2 min, reperfused for 5 min, and repeated for 3 cycles before 45 min occlusion. After 24 h of reperfusion, we assessed NF-ĸB activities, composition of NF-ĸB, and expression of IL-18. Results: Compared to the I/R group, NF-ĸB activity decreased significantly in the IPC group. Supershift assays were then performed to examine the NF-ĸB subunits in the binding complexes. In both the I/R and IPC groups, the composition of NF-ĸB contained p65 and p50. The densities of these two supershift bands were almost equivalent in the I/R group, suggesting the NF-ĸB composition was p50/p65 dimers. However, the densities of p50 bands were more than twice that of p65 in the IPC group and the levels of Bcl-3 increased in parallel in these rats, suggesting that p50/p50 homodimers might dominate the NF-ĸB activities in renal IPC. Finally, the expression of IL-18, a marker of acute kidney injury, was significantly increased in the area of tubulointerstitium in the I/R group and attenuated in the IPC group. Conclusion: In conclusion, our investigation suggests that: (1) the general activity of NF-ĸB is attenuated in IPC kidneys, and (2) the remaining activation of NF-ĸB is dominated with p50/p50 homodimer. Both of these effects might subsequently downregulate IL-18 expression, as well as provide renal protective effects of IPC. Though we focused on the phenomenological observations in this study, the detailed mechanism is still to be determined.
Reflectance Confocal Microscopy for Noninvasive Monitoring of Therapy and Detection of Subclinical Actinic Keratoses
Authors: Ulrich M. , Krueger-Corcoran D. , Roewert-Huber J. , Sterry W. , Stockfleth E. , Astner S.
Published: November 2009

Background: Actinic keratoses (AK) represent cutaneous carcinoma in situ and have previously been evaluated by reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM). Treatment of AK with imiquimod (IMIQ) 5% cream has been shown to ‘highlight’ subclinical lesions. Objective: The aim of this study was to test the applicability of RCM for noninvasive monitoring of actinic field cancerization and detection of subclinical AK. Subjects and Methods: AK and surrounding skin sites with no apparent AK of 11 volunteers were selected for imaging and subsequently classified as ‘clinical’ and ‘subclinical’ AK. IMIQ was used 3 times weekly for 4 weeks. Results: RCM was able to detect morphologic features of AK in both clinical and subclinical AK; features were more pronounced in clinical lesions. The immunomodulatory response induced by IMIQ was visualized by RCM. Conclusion: Our findings indicate that RCM allows noninvasive monitoring of treatment response in vivo and permits early detection of subclinical AK, thus substantiating the incentive for therapy.
Low-Dose Darbepoetin α Attenuates Progression of a Mouse Model of Aristolochic Acid Nephropathy through Early Tubular Protection
Authors: Hamano Yuki , Aoki Takahiro , Shirai Ryota , Hatano Megumi , Kimura Ryota , Ogawa Makoto , Yokosuka Osamu , Ueda Shiro
Published: November 2009

Background/Aim: Aristolochic acid (AA) nephropathy, first reported as Chinese herbs nephropathy, is a rapidly progressive tubulointerstitial nephropathy that results in severe anemia, interstitial fibrosis and end-stage renal disease. Tubulointerstitial injury was studied in a mouse model of AA nephropathy to determine whether low-dose darbepoetin α (DPO) treatment prevents acute tubular necrosis and interstitial fibrosis. Methods: AA was administered to C3H/He mice intraperitoneally and some mice were also treated with 0.1 µg/kg of DPO weekly starting on the day of AA administration or on day 28. At 28, 56 or 84 days, blood and urine samples were collected and mice were sacrificed for histological assessment of the kidneys. Results: AA-treated mice developed anemia, elevation of serum creatinine, severe tubular injury similar to acute tubular necrosis and progressive interstitial fibrosis. Although early treatment with low-dose DPO had minimal effects on the hematocrit, it significantly ameliorated acute tubular injury and interstitial inflammation through increasing the survival of tubular cells. As a result, it contributed to preservation of peritubular capillaries and reduction of interstitial fibrosis. Conclusion: Low-dose DPO treatment conferred protection against acute tubular damage and attenuated interstitial fibrosis in a mouse model of AA nephropathy. Early administration of low-dose DPO may prevent the progression of acute tubular necrosis and the subsequent renal fibrosis in human AA nephropathy.
Antiplatelet Therapy in Combination with rt-PA Thrombolysis in Ischemic Stroke (ARTIS): Rationale and Design of a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Zinkstok S.M. , Vermeulen M. , Stam J. , de Haan R.J. , Roos Y.B.
Published: November 2009

Background: Thrombolysis with recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (rt-PA) is currently the only approved acute therapy for ischemic stroke. After rt-PA-induced recanalization, reocclusion is observed in 20–34%, probably caused by platelet activation. In acute myocardial infarction, the combination of thrombolytic and antiplatelet therapy leads to a better outcome compared to thrombolytic treatment alone. In patients with acute ischemic stroke, several studies showed that those on antiplatelet treatment prior to rt-PA had an equal or even better outcome compared to patients without prior use of antiplatelet therapy, despite an increased risk of bleeding. Methods: We present the protocol of a multicenter randomized clinical trial (n = 800) investigating the effects of immediate addition of aspirin to rt-PA on poor outcome (modified Rankin score >2) in ischemic stroke patients. Conclusion: This study will answer the question whether the combination of rt-PA and antiplatelet therapy improves the functional outcome in ischemic stroke patients.
Treatment and Prevention of Experimental Autoimmune Myocarditis with CD28 Superagonists
Authors: Wang Shu , Liu Jing , Wang Min , Zhang Jinghui , Wang Zhaohui
Published: November 2009

Objectives: Experimental autoimmune myocarditis (EAM), a rodent model of human dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), is mediated by an autoimmune mechanism. We investigated whether a CD28 superagonistic antibody selectively targeting CD4+CD25+ regulatory T cells (Tregs) provides effective therapy for EAM. Methods: Four groups of 5 rats were used. The normal control group was immunized with PBS. The EAM group was immunized with porcine myosin. The experimental group was immunized with myosin and superagonistic CD28 antibody JJ316. The final group was immunized with myosin and an unrelated rat IgG. Autoantibody and IL-10 production, CD4+CD25+ cell levels, Foxp3 expression and cardiac histology were analyzed. Results: Anti-myosin autoantibody levels were higher in the EAM and isotype control groups than the normal control group (p < 0.05), and reduced in the CD28-JJ316 group (p < 0.05). The levels of CD25+CD4+ cells, IL-10 and splenocyte Foxp3 expression were significantly lower in the EAM and isotype control groups versus the CD28-JJ316 group (p < 0.05). Infiltration of inflammatory cells was observed in the EAM and isotype control groups, whereas CD28-JJ316 ameliorated myocarditis. Conclusion: CD28 superagonists could be effective in EAM treatment by up-regulating Foxp3 expression and contributing to CD4+CD25+ Treg activation and expansion. The enhancement in IL-10 by CD28 superagonists also ameliorated the disease.
Role of Ventral Hippocampal GABAA and NMDA Receptors in the Anxiolytic Effect of Carbamazepine in Rats Using the Elevated Plus Maze Test
Authors: Rezvanfard Mehrnaz , Zarrindast Mohammad-Reza , Bina Payvand
Published: November 2009

Background: The successful use of antiepileptic drugs to treat a wide range of nonepileptic disorders led us to evaluate the potential efficacy of carbamazepine (CBZ) in anxiety disorders. Anxiety may be related to the imbalance between γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and glutamate neurotransmitters, systems that are also involved in the CBZ effects. We investigated the role of these systems in the ventral hippocampus (VH) and their interactions with the CBZ effect on anxiety-like behavior in rats using the elevated plus maze. Methods: Animals received GABAergic and NMDA agents in a volume of 1 μl/rat, which was injected into the VH (0.5 μl for each side) 60 min after receiving systemic administration of CBZ. The test sessions took place 10 min later. Results: The systemic administration of CBZ increased the percentage of open arm time (%OAT) at the dose of 40 mg/kg, which is representative of an anxiolytic response. Intra-VH injection of the GABAA receptor agonist muscimol (0.25–1 μg/rat) in the absence or presence of an ineffective dose of CBZ (30 mg/kg) did not show any significant changes in the parameters of anxiety-like behavior. The administration of GABAA receptor antagonist bicuculline by itself decreased %OAT at a dose of 1 μg/rat, indicating possible anxiogenic effect. The antagonist (0.75 and 1 μg/rat) also decreased CBZ response. A microinjection of NMDA (0.125 and 0.25 μg/rat) decreased %OAT, which was reversed by the administration of CBZ (40 mg/kg). This indicates interaction between the two drugs. However, the NMDA receptor antagonist DAP-5 (1 μg/rat) significantly increased %OAT, but combined with the lower dose of CBZ (30 mg/kg), it did not trigger any response on anxiety-like parameters. Conclusion: Both GABAergic and NMDA systems in the VH play a role in modulation of anxiety-like behavior of rats. The anxiolytic-like effects of CBZ seem to be mediated, at least in part, through an interaction with GABAA and NMDA systems in the VH.
Human Full-Length Osteoprotegerin Induces the Proliferation of Rodent Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells both in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Candido Riccardo , Toffoli Barbara , Corallini Federica , Bernardi Stella , Zella Davide , Voltan Rebecca , Grill Vittorio , Celeghini Claudio , Fabris Bruno
Published: November 2009

Background/Aims: Since elevated plasma levels of osteoprotegerin (OPG) represent a risk factor for death and heart failure in patients affected by diabetes mellitus and coronary artery disease, this study aimed to elucidate potential roles of OPG in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. Methods and Results: Recombinant human full-length OPG, used at concentrations comparable to the elevated levels found in the serum of diabetic patients, significantly increased the proliferation rate of rodent vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC). To mimic the moderate chronic elevation of OPG observed in diabetic patients, low doses (1 µg/mouse) of full-length human OPG were injected intraperitoneally every 3 weeks in diabetic apolipoprotein E (apoE)-null mice. The group of animals treated for 12 weeks with recombinant OPG showed a small increase in the total aortic plaque area at necropsy in comparison to vehicle-treated animals. Importantly, while no differences in the amount of interstitial collagen or the degree of macrophage infiltration were observed between OPG-treated and vehicle-treated apoE-null diabetic animals, a significant increase in the number of α-actin-positive smooth muscle cells was observed in the plaques of OPG-treated mice. Conclusions: Our data suggest that OPG promotes VSMC proliferation and might be directly involved in pathogenetic aspects of atherosclerosis.