bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Behind the Veil of Budgetary Discipline: The Political Logic of the Budgetary Rules in EMU and the SGP*
Authors: SEGERS MATHIEU , VAN ESCH FEMKE
Published: November 2007

The outcome of the 2003 compliance crisis showed once and for all that the nature of the stability and growth pact (SGP) is highly political. While the existing literature often presents the content of EMU and SGP as an unqualified triumph for the German financial elite, the available primary sources point in quite another direction.
Differential interaction of NMDA receptor subtypes with the post‐synaptic density‐95 family of membrane associated guanylate kinase proteins
Authors: Cousins Sarah L. , Papadakis Michalis , Rutter A. Richard , Stephenson F. Anne
Published: November 2007

NMDA receptors are a subclass of ionotropic glutamate receptors. They are trafficked and/or clustered at synapses by the post‐synaptic density (PSD)‐95 membrane associated guanylate kinase (MAGUK) family of scaffolding proteins that associate with NMDA receptor NR2 subunits via their C‐terminal glutamate serine (aspartate/glutamate) valine motifs. We have carried out a systematic study investigating in a heterologous expression system, the association of the four major NMDA receptor subtypes with the PSD‐95 family of MAGUK proteins, chapsyn‐110, PSD‐95, synapse associated protein (SAP) 97 and SAP102. We report that although each PSD‐95 MAGUK was shown to co‐immunoprecipitate with NR1/NR2A, NR1/NR2B, NR1/NR2C and NR1/NR2D receptor subtypes, they elicited differential effects with regard to the enhancement of total NR2 subunit expression which then results in an increased cell surface expression of NMDA receptor subtypes. PSD‐95 and chapsyn‐110 enhanced NR2A and NR2B total expression which resulted in increased NR1/NR2A and NR1/NR2B receptor cell surface expression whereas SAP97 and SAP102 had no effect on total or cell surface expression of these subtypes. PSD‐95, chapsyn‐110, SAP97 and SAP102 had no effect on either total NR2C and NR2D subunit expression or cell surface NR1/NR2C and NR1/NR2D expression. A comparison of PSD‐95α, PSD‐95β and PSD‐95αC3S,C5S showed that PSD‐95‐enhanced cell surface expression of NR1/NR2A receptors was dependent upon the PSD‐95 N‐terminal C3,C5 cysteines. These observations support differential interaction of NMDA receptor subtypes with different PSD‐95 MAGUK scaffolding proteins. This has implications for the stabilisation, turnover and compartmentalisation of NMDA receptor subtypes in neurones during development and in the mature brain.
Chronic repeated restraint stress increases prolactin‐releasing peptide/tyrosine‐hydroxylase ratio with gender‐related differences in the rat brain
Authors: Tóth Zsuzsanna E. , Zelena Dóra , Mergl Zsuzsa , Kirilly Eszter , Várnai Péter , Mezey Éva , Makara Gábor B. , Palkovits Miklós
Published: November 2007

In this study, we investigated the effect of chronic repeated restraint (RR) on prolactin‐releasing peptide (PrRP) expression. In the brainstem, where PrRP colocalize with norepinephrine in neurons of the A1 and A2 catecholaminergic cell groups, the expression of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) has also been examined. In the brainstem, but not in the hypothalamus, the basal PrRP expression in female rats was higher than that in the males that was abolished by ovariectomy. RR evoked an elevation of PrRP expression in all areas investigated, with smaller reaction in the brainstems of females. There was no gender‐related difference in the RR‐evoked TH expression. Elevation of PrRP was relatively higher than elevation of TH, causing a shift in PrRP/TH ratio in the brainstem after RR. Estrogen α receptors were found in the PrRP neurons of the A1 and A2 cell groups, but not in the hypothalamus. Bilateral lesions of the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus did not prevent RR‐evoked changes. Elevated PrRP production parallel with increased PrRP/TH ratio in A1/A2 neurons indicate that: (i) there is a clear difference in the regulation of TH and PrRP expression after RR, and (ii) among other factors this may also contribute to the changed sensitivity of the hypothalamo‐pituitary–adrenal axis during chronic stress.
Fibroblast growth factor‐derived peptides: functional agonists of the fibroblast growth factor receptor
Authors: Li Shizhong , Christensen Claus , Kiselyov Vladislav V. , Køhler Lene B. , Bock Elisabeth , Berezin Vladimir
Published: November 2007

A series of peptides, termed dekafins, were derived from the β10–β11 loop regions of fibroblast growth factors (FGFs) 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, and 17. The dekafins share a homologous amino acid sequence similar to a sequence in the first fibronectin type III module of the neural cell adhesion molecule. All dekafins were shown by surface plasmon resonance analysis to bind fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR)1‐IIIc‐Ig2–3 and FGFR2‐IIIb‐Ig2–3, respectively, with Kd values of approximately 10−7 to 10−8 mol/L. Binding of dekafin1 to FGFR1‐IIIc‐Ig2–3 was inhibited by a heparin analog, sucrose octasulfate, indicating that heparin sulfate moiety can modulate dekafin binding to FGFRs. Treatment of transcription and mRNA export (TREX) cells permanently expressing Strep‐tag‐labeled FGFR1‐IIIc with dekafins resulted in receptor phosphorylation. FGF1‐induced FGFR1‐IIIc phosphorylation was inhibited by dekafin1 and 10 in high concentrations, indicating that dekafins are FGFR partial agonists. The dekafins induced neuronal differentiation as reflected by neurite outgrowth from cerebellar granule neurons, an effect that was abolished by SU5402, a specific inhibitor of the FGFR tyrosine kinase, and by inositolhexaphosphate, an extracellularly acting FGFR antagonist. Some, but not all, dekafins were capable of promoting survival of cerebellar granule neurons induced to undergo apoptosis. Thus, the dekafins are functional FGFR agonists with apparent therapeutic potential.
Isolation of 15 single nucleotide polymorphisms from coastal steelhead, Oncorhynchus mykiss (Salmonidae)
Authors: AGUILAR ANDRES , GARZA JOHN CARLOS
Published: November 2007

We describe 15 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) isolated in coastal California populations of steelhead (Oncorhynchus mykiss). SNP loci were developed using a ‘gene‐targeted’ approach, which involved the development of primers from functional genes in O. mykiss that were deposited in GenBank or in the published literature. These markers show a wide range of variability in three coastal steelhead populations, and will be useful in population genetic studies and in pedigree reconstruction. Potential applications include evaluation of population structure, introgression between native and hatchery trout, and evaluating reproductive success.
Effect of weather on the reproductive rate of Rock Ptarmigan Lagopus muta in the eastern Pyrenees
Authors: NOVOA CLAUDE , BESNARD AURÉLIEN , BRENOT JEAN FRANÇOIS , ELLISON LAURENCE N.
Published: November 2007

Understanding the effects of climate on avian life history traits is essential if we wish to predict the demographic consequences of expected climatic changes. We investigated the influence of weather conditions on the reproductive success of Rock Ptarmigan Lagopus muta in the eastern French Pyrenees, one of the southernmost areas inhabited by the species. Reproductive success was estimated in early August between 1997 and 2006 by counting adults and well‐grown chicks with pointing dogs. The number of young per adult varied from 0.08 to 0.72. Using Poisson regression and Akaike's information criterion, we selected the best model explaining the effect of weather (date of snowmelt and, for both laying/incubation and post‐hatching periods, mean minimum and maximum temperatures, monthly rainfall and number of days with rain) on the proportion of young in August. Reproductive success was positively associated with early appearance of snow‐free ground, and date of snowmelt alone was the model that best explained annual variation in reproductive success. Other models, which included a negative effect of rainfall, particularly after hatching, also had some support. Hence, both pre‐laying and post‐hatching weather conditions influenced reproductive success of Rock Ptarmigan in the eastern French Pyrenees. On a continental scale, reproductive success of alpine populations of Rock Ptarmigan is consistently lower than that of northern populations. This difference in productivity may be partly correlated with climatic conditions observed along an arctic–alpine gradient, the amount and variation of rainfall being greater in southern alpine areas than elsewhere in the species’ range.
Plant‐Feeding Hemiptera and Orthoptera Communities in Native and Restored Mesic Tallgrass Prairies
Authors: Nemec Kristine T , Bragg Thomas B
Published: November 2007

Aboveground Hemiptera and Orthoptera communities were compared among three native and three restored mesic tallgrass prairies along the Platte River in central Nebraska to assess both the relative success of restored sites and the relationship between insect and plant communities. Hemiptera and Orthoptera were sampled using sweep nets in early June, mid‐July, and mid‐August 2000. Plant species composition was assessed in early June and mid‐August. A total of 89 Auchenorrhyncha (71 Cicadellidae, 15 Fulgoroidea, and 3 Membracidae) and 23 orthopterans (15 Acrididae and 8 Tettigoniidae) were collected. Eighty‐five plant species were observed in combined study sites. Shannon diversity was significantly higher at restored prairie for Cicadellidae (H′= 1.38), Fulgoroidea (H′= 0.796), and Membracidae (H′= 0.290), which comprised the majority of individual insects collected, but significantly higher at native prairie for Acrididae (H′= 0.560) and Tettigoniidae (H′= 0.480) (p≤ 0.05). Species richness was comparable except for Acrididae which were significantly higher in restored prairie. Density of insects generally followed species diversity but was only significantly higher in restored areas for Membracidae. The number of remnant‐dependent species collected was comparable for both native prairie (n= 15) and restored prairie (n= 15). These results suggest that, at least for Hemiptera, differences in insect communities between native and restored prairie may best be explained by the presence of insect host plants rather than by whether a site is native or restored.
Vegetation Dynamics and Forest Landscape Restoration in the Upper Min River Watershed, Sichuan, China
Authors: Zhou Ping , Luukkanen Olavi , Tokola Timo , Nieminen Juhana
Published: November 2007

The Upper Min River (UMR) watershed, with an area of 23,000 km2 in the Upper Yangtze basin in Sichuan province, is ecologically and environmentally fragile. This situation is due to natural catastrophes and increasing anthropogenic disturbance. Forest cover has decreased dramatically, especially along the main Min River. Restoration of the vegetation in a watershed needs to consider the natural vegetation distribution and dynamics. In the UMR watershed, 625 sample plots were randomly placed to study the soil types, current vegetation distribution, vegetation dynamics, afforestation, and potential tree species for restoration. We investigated the relationship between vegetation types and soil orders, predicted the percentages of potential tree species for forest landscape restoration using logistic regression, identified priority areas for rapid restoration, and pinpointed areas for forest restoration where low precipitation is a constraint. The results showed that the vegetation types were well correlated with soil orders, and the latter could be used to deduce the potential vegetation for areas of degraded secondary forest. Priority areas for rapid restoration were demonstrated, and the difficult areas with precipitation as a limiting factor for vegetation restoration were specified. Suitable tree species were suggested for restoration on different soil orders at different elevations.
Evaluation of Seagrass Planting and Monitoring Techniques: Implications for Assessing Restoration Success and Habitat Equivalency
Authors: Bell Susan S. , Tewfik Alexander , Hall Margaret O. , Fonseca Mark S.
Published: November 2007

Restoration has become an integral part of coastal management as a result of seagrass habitat loss. We studied restoration of the seagrass (Halodule wrightii) near Tampa Bay, Florida. Experimental plots were established in June 2002 using four planting methods: three manually planted and one mechanically transplanted by boat. Seagrass cover was recorded at high resolution (meter scale) annually through July 2005. Natural seagrass beds were concurrently examined as reference sites. We also evaluated the suitability of a commonly used protocol (Braun‐Blanquet scores, BB) for comparing the development of seagrass cover using the planting methods and quantifying spatial patterns of cover over time. Results show that BB scores mirrored conventional measures of seagrass characteristics (i.e., shoot counts and above‐ and belowground biomass) well when BB scores were either low or very high. However, more caution may be required at intermediate cover scores as judged by comparison of BB scores with direct measurement of seagrass abundance. Significant differences in seagrass cover were detected among planting methods and over time (2002–2005), with manual planting of rubber band units resulting in the highest cover. In contrast, the peat pot and mechanical planting methods developed very low cover. Recovery rates calculated from development of seagrass spatial cover were less than those reported for natural expansion. Importantly, time to baseline recovery may be substantially greater than 3 years and beyond standard monitoring timelines. Prolonged recovery suggests that the rate of service returns, critical for estimating compensatory restoration goals under habitat equivalency analysis, may be severely underestimated.
Facilitative Effects of Aloe Shrubs on Grass Establishment, Growth, and Reproduction in Degraded Kenyan Rangelands: Implications for Restoration
Authors: King Elizabeth G. , Stanton Maureen L.
Published: November 2007

Under the harsh environmental conditions present in severely overgrazed, semiarid rangelands, facilitator plants offer a promising tool for ecological restoration. This study investigated facilitative effects of Aloe secundiflora—a native drought‐tolerant, unpalatable, thorny shrub—on grass establishment in degraded rangelands in Kenya. We planted native perennial grass seeds adjacent to three neighbor treatments: transplanted mature aloe shrubs, piles of thorn branches that provided similar physical protection to aloes, and control treatments with no facilitator. We monitored grass performance for three growing seasons. During the first growing season, association with aloe shrubs significantly improved seedling survival and plant size of individual grasses, whereas grass survival in thorn treatments was intermediate between aloe and control treatments. At the population level, aloe neighbor treatments were associated with the greatest grass abundance and cover in all three seasons and reproductive output in the second season. Control treatments were associated with the poorest grass performance for all three variables. The findings indicate that planting aloes can improve the effectiveness of grass reseeding for rangeland restoration, exceeding the benefits gained from the more common strategy of using thorn branch piles. The utility of aloes in particular is further enhanced by the economic value of these plants; medicinal sap can be sustainably harvested from aloes planted for restoration.
Assessing Ecosystem Restoration Alternatives in Eastern Deciduous Forests: The View from Belowground
Authors: Boerner Ralph E. J. , Coates Adam T. , Yaussy Daniel A. , Waldrop Thomas A.
Published: November 2007

Both structural and functional approaches to restoration of eastern deciduous forests are becoming more common as recognition of the altered state of these ecosystems grows. In our study, structural restoration involves mechanically modifying the woody plant assemblage to a species composition, density, and community structure specified by the restoration goals. Functional restoration involves reintroducing dormant‐season, low‐severity fire at intervals consistent with the historical condition. Our approach was to quantify the effects of such restoration treatments on soil organic carbon and soil microbial activity, as these are both conservative ecosystem attributes and not ones explicitly targeted by the restoration treatments, themselves. Fire, mechanical thinning, and their combination all initially resulted in reduced soil organic C content, C:N ratio, and overall microbial activity (measured as acid phosphatase activity) in a study site in the southern Appalachian Mountains of North Carolina, but only the effect on microbial activity persisted into the fourth post‐treatment growing season. In contrast, in a similar forest in the central Appalachian Plateau of Ohio, mechanical thinning resulted in increased soil organic C, decreased C:N ratio, and decreased microbial activity, whereas fire and the combination of fire and thinning did not have such effects. In addition, the effects in Ohio had dissipated prior to the fourth post‐treatment growing season. Mechanical treatments are attractive in that they require only single entries; however, we see no indication that mechanical–structural restoration actually produced desired belowground changes. A single fire‐based/functional treatment also offered little restoration progress, but comparisons with long‐term experimental fire studies suggest that repeated entries with prescribed fire at intervals of 3–8 years offer potential for sustainable restoration.
Procedure for Predicting the Trajectory of Species Recovery Based on the Nested Species Pool Information: Dragonflies in a Wetland Restoration Site as a Case Study
Authors: Kadoya Taku , Suda Shin‐ichi , Nishihiro Jun , Washitani Izumi
Published: November 2007

Restoration of seminatural habitats in the rural agricultural landscape has become an urgent matter in environmental conservation. We propose here a procedure for predicting the trajectory of species recovery and for specifying the priority of habitat types for restoration of a rural agricultural landscape. We then apply it as a case study to the recovery of dragonfly species in the Azame restoration project that began in 2003 in northern Kyushu, Japan. We examined the nestedness of the regional distribution of dragonflies using a national database on wildlife distribution and listed the recorded species in order of their prevalence in the region. We also conducted a census of adult dragonflies currently found at the restoration site to assess species richness. By comparing these data, we identified species potentially capable of inhabiting the restoration site and, based on their habitat requirements, suggest what type of habitat (e.g., bogs and marshes, ponds, and bodies of slow‐moving water) should be restored preferentially. We observed significant nestedness in the presence–absence matrix for dragonfly species and thus predict that species recovery at the restoration site will follow the regional order of prevalence of the species. The required habitat types did not differ significantly between the currently observed species and the potential species, which indicates that all these habitat types should be restored in the project.
Effect of Hydrologic Restoration and Lonicera maackii Removal on Herbaceous Understory Vegetation in a Bottomland Hardwood Forest
Authors: Swab Rebecca M. , Zhang Li , Mitsch William J.
Published: November 2007

Amur honeysuckle (Lonicera maackii (Rupr.) Herder), a large deciduous shrub from China, has invaded many forests in eastern/central United States. The species was removed by cutting and herbicide application from a recently hydrologically restored section of a bottomland hardwood forest in central Ohio, and the response of understory plants, especially herbaceous species, was measured. Plots were established in uncleared and cleared sections, and percent cover of each herbaceous understory species was estimated monthly. One season after several years of Lonicera removal efforts, no significant association was discovered between percentage of Lonicera cover and total understory species abundance. There was, however, a direct correlation between elevation and honeysuckle abundance; L. maackii abundance was negatively associated with low elevations, likely due to hydrologic factors. Plant species diversity (H) and richness (s) increased with elevation but were not significantly different on plots with honeysuckle removal (H = 0.86 ± 0.08 vs. 0.78 ± 0.09 and s = 4.4 ± 0.19 vs. 4.2 ± 0.2 species/m2, respectively) despite the fact that understory light levels measured by densiometer were significantly higher (α= 0.003) in cleared versus uncleared sections. Native and invasive species were found in similar proportions in the two sections, and significant sprouting and regrowth of L. maackii were observed throughout the cleared section. Although the removal of L. maackii altered the characteristics of the plant species assemblage, the value of this management remains questionable in the years immediately following treatment.
Spontaneous Vegetation Succession in Gravel–Sand Pits: A Potential for Restoration
Authors: Řehounková Klára , Prach Karel
Published: November 2007

Vegetation variability, the participation of target and undesirable species, and the role of local species pool were studied in the course of spontaneous succession in disused gravel–sand pits. The study was conducted in various regions of the Czech Republic, Central Europe. The regions represented either agrarian lowlands with a relatively warm and dry climate or mostly woodland uplands with a relatively cold and wet climate. The gravel–sand pits (36) comprised stages of different age from 1 to 75 years since abandonment. Altogether, 224 vegetation samples were recorded with species cover (%) visually estimated. Species affinity to different vegetation types was assessed in each sample based on the species cover. Local site factors, such as water table and soil characteristics, and landscape characteristics, namely climatic parameters, presence of nearby (semi)natural plant communities and main land cover categories in the broader surroundings, were evaluated as well as the participation of target (grassland, woodland, and wetland) and undesirable (ruderal, alien) species. Ordination analyses showed that vegetation succession led to target grassland, wetland, or woodland vegetation depending on local site factors, especially moisture and the presence of (semi)natural vegetation in the surroundings (local species pool). Restoration of target vegetation in disused gravel–sand pits by processes of spontaneous succession can be possible and successful in about 25 years, especially if (semi)natural vegetation exists in the surroundings. The invasion of the alien tree Robinia pseudacacia must be taken into consideration within the dry sites in lowlands.
Initial Experience with Live/Real Time Three‐Dimensional Transesophageal Echocardiography
Authors: Pothineni Koteswara R. , Inamdar Vatsal , Miller Andrew P. , Nanda Navin C. , Bandarupalli Naveen , Chaurasia Preeti , Kirklin James K. , McGiffin David C. , Pajaro Octavio E.
Published: November 2007

A new tool has been recently introduced to the echocardiography armamentarium, live/real time three‐dimensional (3D) transesophageal echocardiography (TEE). In these cases, we describe our initial experience in 13 patients studied intraoperatively and in the echocardiography suite. This important technology promises improved anatomic definition, diagnostic confidence, and novel views of the complicated cardiovascular pathology encountered in common clinical practice.
The predictive value of optical coherence tomography after grid laser photocoagulation for diffuse diabetic macular oedema
Authors: Soliman Wael , Sander Birgit , Soliman Kamell Abd El‐Naser , Yehya Sameer , Rahamn Mohamed Saad Abdel , Larsen Michael
Published: November 2007

Purpose:  To assess the predictive value of optical coherence tomography (OCT) mapping of retinal thickness and intraretinal morphological changes after macular grid for diffuse diabetic macular oedema (DMO).

Methods:  We carried out a prospective, non‐controlled, case series study, in which 28 consecutive eyes with previously untreated diffuse DMO underwent fundus photography and OCT at baseline and at 1, 3 and 6 months after treatment.

Results:  Macular photocoagulation was followed by a significant reduction in retinal thickness in the foveal centre (− 80 μm) and in the foveal subfield (− 65 μm) from baseline to 6 months (p < 0.01). The bulk of the reduction in retinal thickness and macular volume was manifest after 1 month. No significant change in retinal thickness occurred from 1 to 3 months or from 1 to 6 months in any macular subfield (p > 0.05). The relative decrease in retinal thickness at 6 months was highest in the foveal centre (− 22%), followed by the foveal region (− 18%), the inner parafoveal region (− 8%), and the outer parafoveal region (− 2%). Thus, the effect of photocoagulation on retinal thickness decreased with increasing eccentricity (p < 0.025). Overall, there was no statistically significant change in best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) between baseline and follow‐up (p < 0.05), but changes in foveal subfield thickness and changes in VA were highly correlated (r = 0.66, p < 0.0001). Visual outcome (final BCVA) and final foveal subfield thickness at 6 months were correlated with the pattern of intraretinal morphological changes at baseline (Spearman’s correlation coefficient r = − 0.41, p = 0.03 and r = 0.45, p = 0.02, respectively). In addition, visual outcome (final BCVA) and final foveal subfield thickness at 6 months were correlated with baseline foveal thickness (Spearman’s correlation coefficient (r = − 0.37, p = 0.05 and r = 0.5, p = 0.01, respectively).

Conclusions:  It seems that the 1‐month time‐point after macular laser treatment is a critical point for establishing the outcome of this modality of management of DMO. Baseline OCT mapping of intraretinal fluid accumulation patterns and foveal thickness can help to predict the final visual outcome and final foveal thickness, but not the absolute change in either of these parameters after macular laser therapy.
Lupus vulgaris with squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Motswaledi Mojakgomo Hendrick , Doman Chantal
Published: November 2007

Tuberculosis is still a significant problem in developing countries. Cutaneous forms of tuberculosis account for approximately 10% of all cases of extrapulmonary tuberculosis. Cutaneous tuberculosis may be because of true infection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis or because of tuberculids. Tuberculids are immunological reactions to haematogenously spread antigenic components of M. tuberculosis. True cutaneous tuberculosis may be because of inoculation or haematogenous spread of M. tuberculosis to the skin. Lupus vulgaris is the commonest form of true cutaneous tuberculosis. Other forms of true cutaneous tuberculosis are tuberculous chancre, tuberculosis verrucosa cutis, scrofuloderma, periorificial tuberculosis and miliary tuberculosis of the skin. Lupus vulgaris is usually chronic and progressive. It occurs in patients with moderate to high immunity against M. tuberculosis as evidenced by strongly positive tuberculin test. Long‐standing cases of lupus vulgaris may be complicated by squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). We describe a patient who had undiagnosed lupus vulgaris for 35 years until she developed SCC on the lesion of lupus vulgaris.
Pilonidal sinus associated with cellular blue nevus. A previously unrecognized association
Authors: Val‐Bernal José Fernando , González‐Vela María Carmen , Hermana Sandra , Garijo María Francisca , González‐López Marcos A.
Published: November 2007

A neoplasm associated with a pilonidal sinus (PS) is a rare occurrence in the course of a common disease. Early detection is imperative. To our knowledge, pilonidal disease associated with a cellular blue nevus (CBN) has not been reported. There is a 10% diagnostic error rate with this last lesion. Here we report the case of a 19‐year‐old man with recurrent sacrococcygeal PS infection associated with an indurated dome‐shaped blue‐black nodule 1.7 cm in diameter. Clinical diagnosis of the nodule was uncertain suggesting a pigmentary or a vascular tumor. A complete resection of the two lesions was achieved. Pathological study showed a CBN showing a predominantly alveolar pattern associated with a chronic pilonidal disease. The tumor cells showed diffuse strong reactivity for melan‐A and HMB‐45, and focal reactivity for S‐100 protein. Staining for Ki‐67 (MIB1) was virtually negative. Differential diagnoses included atypical CBN, borderline melanocytic tumor and malignant melanoma. Radical excision provides a good prognosis for the rare association consisting of a common disease such as PS with the uncommon CBN.
Male genital leiomyomas showing androgen receptor expression
Authors: Suárez‐Peñaranda José Manuel , Vieites Begoña , Evgenyeva Elena , Vázquez‐Veiga Hugo , Forteza Jeronimo
Published: November 2007

Genital leiomyoma in men include those superficial leiomyomas arising in the scrotum and the areola. They are unusual neoplasms: few cases have been reported in the literature and they usually escape clinical diagnosis. Three cases of male genital leiomyomas are reported: two in the scrotum and one in the areola. They were all conservatively excised and the behaviour was completely benign in all cases. Histopathological examination showed the typical findings of superficial leiomyomas, with some minor differences between cases arising in the scrotum and those from the areola. Immunohistochemical findings not only confirmed the smooth muscle nature of all cases but also showed unequivocal immunostaining for androgen receptors in the leiomyomas from the scrotum. Immunostaining for androgen receptors in scrotal leiomyomas is, as far as we are aware, a previously unknown characteristic of male genital leiomyomas. This finding supports the role of steroid hormones in the growth of genital leiomyomas, similar to leiomyomas found in other locations.
Comparison of expression of heat‐shock protein 60, Toll‐like receptors 2 and 4, and T‐cell receptor γδ in plaque and guttate psoriasis
Authors: Seung Na Reu , Park Eun Joo , Kim Chul Woo , Kim Kwang Ho , Kim Kwang Joong , Cho Hee Jin , Park Hye Rim
Published: November 2007

Background:  Psoriasis is a chronic skin disease that appears to be autoimmune in nature. Recently, it is thought that microbial pathogens of skin can affect the pathogenesis of psoriasis by inducing autoimmunity. Heat‐shock proteins (HSPs) are known to play an important role in immune and inflammatory responses of the skin including psoriasis. Recent studies have suggested that Toll‐like receptors (TLR) 2, 4 and γδ T‐cell receptors (TCR‐γδ) may recognize HSP60 as a ligand and consequently activate the immune system.

Methods:  The biopsy specimens of 12 of guttate psoriasis, 12 of plaque psoriasis and five of normal skin were studied using immunohistochemical staining. The expressions of HSP60, TLR2 and TLR4 were evaluated using an immunostaining‐intensity‐distribution (IID) index and TCR‐γδ positive cells were counted.

Results:  The expression of HSP60 was significantly higher in guttate and plaque psoriasis than in normal skin. The expression of TLR4 was higher in guttate psoriasis than in plaque psoriasis and normal skin. The expression of TCR‐γδ was higher in guttate and plaque psoriasis than in normal skin, but there was no correlation found between the expression of HSP60 and TLRs 2 and 4, or between that of HSP60 and TCR‐γδ.

Conclusions:  HSP60 may be related to the pathogenesis of both guttate and plaque psoriasis and TLR4 may be related to the pathogenesis of guttate psoriasis.
Apocrine cystadenoma and apocrine hidrocystoma: examination of 21 cases with emphasis on nomenclature according to proliferative features
Authors: Sugiyama Akiko , Sugiura Mitsuhiro , Piris Adriano , Tomita Yasushi , Mihm Martin C.
Published: November 2007

Background:  Apocrine cystadenoma (AC) and apocrine hidrocystoma (AH) have been used interchangeably in the literature to designate cystic lesions of apocrine glands.

Methods:  We reviewed 21 cases with biopsies of apocrine cystic lesions diagnosed as AH or AC stained by hematoxylin and eosin. The following histological characteristics were recorded: (a) number of cysts, (b) predominant architectural growth pattern of cyst wall, (c) tumor circumscription, (d) nuclear atypia, (e) mitotic activity, counted per 1 mm2 and (f) Ki‐67 staining pattern.

Results:  Our findings clearly show that there is a non‐proliferative group and a proliferative group among the lesions. In the non‐proliferative group, one may see some structures that resemble papillary projections but lack a fibrous core. In the proliferative group, we found true papillae, and this change was associated with atypia, mitotic activity and increased Ki‐67 staining.

Conclusions:  Apocrine cystic lesions with true papillary projections should be referred to as AC rather than AH, to emphasize the proliferative adenomatous growth and depicted by their frequency of cytological atypia and high mitotic activity. Furthermore, we suggest complete excision of AC that are proliferative tumors.
Cutaneous mononuclear cells and eosinophils are significantly increased after warm water challenge in pruritic areas of polycythemia vera
Authors: Abdel‐Naser Mohamed Badawy , Zaki Marwa S. , Mousa Manal H. , Hamed Hanan , Rizk Mohamed S. , Mohamed Hossam E. , Habib Mohamed A.
Published: November 2007

Background:  Increased cutaneous cells following warm water challenge in pruritus‐related polycythemia vera (PV) have been reported, but their nature and magnitude are not known.

Methods:  Qualitative and quantitative assessments (digital image analysis) of the cutaneous mononuclear cells, eosinophils and mast cells were carried out in PV patients and healthy controls (n = 10 each) following exposures to water at room temperature and warm water.

Results:  Infiltration of the spongiotic epidermis and dermis by mononuclear cells and eosinophils together with edema and vasodilatation of upper dermis following warm water contact was clearly observed only in PV patients. In contrast to controls, significant increase in numbers of mononuclear cells and eosinophils in comparison with exposure to water at room temperature at the dermal‐epidermal junction (p < 0.01), papillary dermis (p < 0.01) and perivascular area (p < 0.05) was found. Obvious mast cell degranulation was seen in PV sections after warm water contact, but no significant increase of their numbers was observed whether among PV patients or healthy controls (p > 0.05). However, the numbers of papillary dermal mast cells in specimens obtained from PV patients following room temperature water exposure were significantly more than those of healthy controls (p < 0.05).

Conclusions:  PV represents an invisible dermatosis in which the infiltrating mononuclear cells and eosinophils may have a role in warm water‐induced pruritus.
Effects of exogenous melatonin and circadian synchronization on tumor progression in melanoma‐bearing C57BL6 mice
Authors: Otálora B. B. , Madrid J. A. , Alvarez N. , Vicente V. , Rol M. A.
Published: November 2007

Abstract:  Circadian rhythmicity impairment reportedly becomes significant as a tumor progresses, while the incidence of cancer can be affected by disruption of the circadian system. Melatonin has oncostatic effects on several types of cancer (breast, prostate, and colorectal cancers), while it can be self‐defeating in others, such as lymphoma. Melanoma is one of the most aggressive cancers in humans; however, it seems to respond positively to melatonin in vitro. The present work tested whether body temperature (BT) rhythms are impaired by tumor progression, and whether exogenous melatonin restricts tumor growth and restores circadian rhythmicity; therefore, enhancing survival. To this end, C57 mice were intraperitoneal implanted with a temperature data logger and subcutaneously inoculated with melanoma cells. Animals were then submitted to light–dark (LD) 12:12 cycles or continuous light (LL), with or without melatonin administration. Under LD light conditions, the BT rhythm exhibited a marked reduction in the first circadian harmonic amplitude, and increased phase instability (Rayleigh vector) as the tumor progressed. Melatonin administration (2 mg/kg BW/day), on the other hand, increased the BT rhythm amplitude and phase stability, reduced tumor weight and prevented intraperitoneal dissemination. Exposure to LL induced a free‐running rhythm (1500 min), significantly increasing tumor malignity, and therefore reducing survival. Surprisingly, the highest tumor weights and morbidity by metastasis were seen in the LL group treated with melatonin probably because this indoleamine was being administered at different subjective hours to free‐running animals. Circadian rhythmicity can thus be used as a marker rhythm for tumor progression, as rhythm impairment increases along with tumor malignancy. While melatonin administration improves rhythmicity and enhances survival under LD conditions, the results are self‐defeating when they coexist with circadian disruption as it occurs under LL. This emphasizes the importance of taking into account endogenous rhythmicity and limiting melatonin administration to the subjective night in order to restrict melanoma progression.
Expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen in pulp cells of extracted immature teeth preserved in two different storage media
Authors: Tekin Uğur , Filippi Andreas , Pohl Yango , Kirschner Horst
Published: November 2007

Abstract –  A specially composed medium for storing avulsed teeth has been developed. In experimental and clinical studies it could be shown that PDL cells could be kept viable during storage in the medium for up to 53 h. In the present study the medium was tested on pulp cells. A total of 40 immature unerupted third molars with open apices were removed surgically and the teeth were stored in a special cell culture medium (SCCM) or in Hank's balanced salt solution (HBSS) at room temperature for 6, 12, 18 or 24 h. Five teeth were assigned to each group. A total of seven consecutive pulp cross‐sections per tooth were examined, resulting in a total of 280 specimens. Viable cells were marked using proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA). The pulp was divided in three regions: apical region (0–0.5 mm), middle region (>0.5–1.5 mm) and coronal region (>1.5 mm). The labelling index (LI) was calculated for the whole cut (regions 1, 2 and 3) and for each region separately. The statistical evaluation was made using the One‐way anova and Mann–Whitney Test. Pulp cells of all teeth expressed PCNA. About 110 of 140 specimens in the SCCM and 101 of 140 specimens in the HBSS group showed PCNA‐positive cells. The highest LI was observed within the apical region and decreased with increased distance from the medium. No marked cells were observed at a distance of more than 1.5 mm. The LI for both media showed a significant increase with storage intervals (P < 0.05). The pulp cells of teeth stored in SCCM showed a LI nearly twice as high compared to pulp cells of teeth stored in HBSS for the apical and middle region (time interval 6, 18 and 24 h: P < 0.05). The LI for the apical region was found to be 8.43% for the SCCM and 4.50% for the HBSS after 24 h. For the middle region the LI was found to be 2.02% for the SCCM and 0.81% for the HBSS after 24 h. Within the parameters of this study, it appears that the SCCM is able to maintain pulp cell viability better than HBSS. The use of special cell culture media in case of tooth avulsion may be beneficial.
Provisional use of a natural tooth crown following failure of replantation: a case report
Authors: Ulusoy Ayca T. , Cehreli Zafer C.
Published: November 2007

Abstract –  Despite a wide range of treatment options available, traumatized teeth may be inevitably lost on certain occasions. This case report presents an alternative treatment option for the premature loss of a traumatized maxillary central incisor because of extensive root resorption and mobility. A fixed appliance‐type provisional prosthesis was fabricated by using the patient's natural clinical crown from the extracted tooth. This measure proved to be a very adequate, esthetic treatment solution before a permanent restorative plan could be developed in the future.
Diagnosis of Deep‐Vein Thrombosis and Pulmonary Embolism: The New Guideline of the Dutch Institute for Health Care Improvement
Authors: Kamphuisen P. W. , Oudkerk M.
Published: November 2007

Reliable diagnosis of venous thrombosis or pulmonary embolism is crucial, as especially pulmonary embolism is a potentially fatal disorder. Recently the guideline of the Dutch institute for health care improvement (CBO), ‘diagnosis, prevention and treatment of venous thromboembolism (VTE) and secondary prevention of arterial thrombosis’ was published. The diagnostic algorithm in case of suspected VTE starts with a clinical decision rule according to Wells followed by a d‐dimer test. These simple, non‐invasive and cheap tests, exclude VTE in 25–30% of the patients with a suspected episode of VTE. With a dichotomized clinical decision rule, a ‘likely’ Wells score or an abnormal d‐dimer concentration necessitates additional testing, like ultrasonography of the leg veins when deep‐vein thrombosis is suspected, or multidetector computerized tomographic scanning in the case of suspected pulmonary embolism. These diagnostic algorithms considerably simplify the diagnosis of VTE.
Diagnosis of Deep Vein Thrombosis and Pulmonary Embolism in Pregnancy and Postpartum: Should we Modify the Usual Diagnostic Strategy?
Authors: Van Loon A. J. , Stekkinger E.
Published: November 2007

In pregnant and postpartum patients, the incidence of venous thromboembolism (VTE) is increased three to fivefold compared with non‐pregnant women of the same age, and deep venous thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE) are leading causes of maternal mortality during pregnancy and postpartum. Early and accurate diagnosis is essential as unnecessary anticoagulation is not without risk. However, the diagnosis of VTE among these women is complicated by difficulties in clinical diagnosis and the concerns regarding radiation exposure of the fetus. Many of the common diagnostic tests, including D‐dimer, compression ultrasonography, ventilation‐perfusion scintigraphy and helical computed tomography that have been extensively investigated in non‐pregnant patients, have not been appropriately validated in pregnancy. This article will review the role of various diagnostic tests in case of suspected VTE in pregnancy and puerperium, and issues such as radiation risk are discussed. Recommendations for the use of D‐dimer and imaging techniques in pregnant and postpartum patients with a clinically suspected DVT or PE are provided.
Integrated Diagnostic Approach of Patients with Suspected Pulmonary Embolism
Authors: Karami Djurabi R. , Klok F. A. , Nijkeuter M. , Huisman M. V.
Published: November 2007

In patients with clinically suspected pulmonary embolism (PE) many diagnostic tests are available and have been widely evaluated. An integrated diagnostic approach is the most efficient way to make management decisions. This is best accomplished by the use of a diagnostic algorithm consisting of a dichotomous decision rule, D‐dimer testing and computed tomographic pulmonary angiography (CTPA), or as alternative V‐Q lung scanning. Such an algorithm can guide treatment decisions with a low risk for false negative outcome in patients in whom tests indicate that PE is ruled out. No further diagnostic testing is necessary in patients with unlikely clinical probability in combination with a normal D‐dimer test result. CTPA or V/Q scans can safely rule out PE in patients with a likely pre‐test probability or elevated D‐dimer test result.
Increased mortality in the year following discharge from a paediatric ward in Bissau, Guinea‐Bissau
Authors: Veirum Jens Erik , Sodeman Morten , Biai Sidu , Hedegård Kathryn , Aaby Peter
Published: November 2007

Background: Few studies in developing countries have examined posthospital mortality and little is known about the magnitude of posthospital mortality and risk factors for long‐term survival. A better understanding of the determinants of posthospital mortality could help improve discharge policies and interventions with implications for overall childhood mortality.

Study population: In the period from 1991 to 1996 all paediatric admissions coming from the Bandim Health Project's area were registered at the National Hospital in Bissau, Guinea‐Bissau. Posthospitalization information from a population‐based surveillance system was available for 4153 admissions contributed by 3373 individuals having between 1 and 8 admissions during the period. Three thousand six hundred forty seven (3647) admissions by 2950 children resulted in live discharges. Postdischarge mortality included all deaths during 1 year following live discharge.

Results: Among the 221 children who died during the first year after discharge, 170 died in the community and 51 children died during a subsequent hospitalization; thirty‐eight died on the day of discharge and almost one third had died within the first 2 weeks. The overall in‐hospital and 12‐month posthospital mortality was 20%. Compared to the mortality level in the community and controlled for other determinants of childhood mortality, children discharged from hospital had 12 times higher risk of dying during the first 2 weeks after discharge. The mortality rate ratio (MR) was 6.2 (95% confidence interval 3.8–10.2) times higher when we excluded those who died at the day of discharge. For the period 30–91 days after discharge the MR ratio was 3.7 (2.5–5.5), and in the period 3–6 months after discharge, the risk estimate was still 2.5 (1.6–3.9) times higher than community mortality. In a multivariate analysis, the all‐dominating risk factor was discharge status as ‘fled’ in the sense of nonmedical discharge, the MRs being 18.6 (9.5–36.6) in the first 2 weeks after discharge and 4.0 (2.0–8.3) in the remaining part of the first year. Other significant risk factors for postdischarge mortality included ethnic group, housing quality and maternal education, and were similar to risk factors for community mortality. The same diagnoses that had high acute mortality, including anaemia, diarrhoea and ‘other’, were also associated with high postdischarge mortality.

Conclusion: There was a marked increase in mortality after hospitalization, the effect being particularly strong for children who fled the hospital. Improved discharge and follow‐up policies might have an important impact on survival after paediatric hospitalization. Studies on the effect of focused intervention at discharge are needed.
Ferritin levels in children with severe sepsis and septic shock
Authors: Garcia Pedro Celiny Ramos , Longhi Fernanda , Branco Ricardo Garcia , Piva Jefferson Pedro , Lacks Dani , Tasker Robert Charles
Published: November 2007

Aim: To evaluate serum ferritin level in children with severe sepsis and septic shock and its association with mortality.

Method: A cohort study of 36 children aged 1 month–16 years with severe sepsis or septic shock requiring intensive care was conducted. Serum ferritin levels were measured at the time of diagnosis of sepsis and a ferritin index (FI = observed serum ferritin divided by the upper limit of normal ferritin for age and gender) was calculated.

Results: The median age (range) of the children was 6 (2–100) months. Ferritin was <200 ng/mL in 13 children, 200–500 ng/mL in 11 children and >500 ng/mL in 12 children. The mortality associated with these groups was 23%, 9% and 58%, respectively. A ferritin >500 ng/mL was associated with a 3.2 (1.3–7.9) relative risk of death (p = 0.01). FI of 1.7 was the best cutoff value for identifying those who died. In a logistic regression analysis, ferritin level and PRISM were independently associated with mortality.

Conclusions: Ferritin is raised in children with septic shock and high ferritin level is associated with poorer outcome.