bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Apoptosis and proliferation in lungs of human fetuses exposed to chorioamnionitis
Authors: May M , Marx A , Seidenspinner S , Speer C P
Published: December 2004

Aims : To determine whether chorioamnionitis has an impact on the extent of apoptosis and proliferation in fetal lungs. Fetuses exposed to chorioamnionitis have an increased risk of aquiring lung tissue damage in utero.

Methods and results : Lung tissue sections from 35 stillborn fetuses were used in this study. Chorioamnionitis‐exposed fetuses were subdivided depending on whether pneumonia was diagnosed (n = 13) or not (n = 10); 12 unaffected fetuses served as controls. Apoptotic and proliferating cells were determined by in‐situ terminal deoxytransferase‐mediated dUTP nick end labelling (TUNEL) assay and by anti‐Ki67 immunohistochemistry, and quantified. The median apoptotic index in lungs of chorioamnionitis‐exposed fetuses increased 2.4‐fold compared with chorioamnionitis‐negative stillborn controls (P = 0.043) and rose 21.6‐fold when chorioamnionitis‐exposed fetuses additionally developed pneumonia (P < 0.001). Compared with the proliferation index of the control group (PI =2.3), the median percentage of proliferating cells in the lungs of chorioamnionitis‐exposed fetuses decreased (PI = 1.4) (P = 0.036), but increased 1.8‐fold (P = 0.036) in fetal lungs of the chorioamnionitis/pneumonia group. By double labellings combining the TUNEL assay or the Ki67 antigen with cell marker proteins, we identified distal airway epithelial cells as the cell type undergoing apoptosis in chorioamnionitis‐exposed fetal lungs, while epithelial, endothelial and smooth muscle cells proliferated. Immunolabellings of cleaved caspases ‐8 and ‐9 revealed that apoptosis is mediated via initiator caspase‐8.

Conclusion : Chorioamnionitis induces apoptosis of distal airway epithelial cells via the caspase‐8 pathway and interferes with the normal proliferative activity of epithelial, endothelial, and smooth muscle cells in fetal lungs. Thus, apoptosis and proliferation are an important feature of chorioamnionitis‐associated lung injury in utero.
British division of the international academy of pathology
Authors: Van Den Tweel J , Howat A J , Shepherd N A , Francis N , Harris C
Published: December 2004

Forthcoming meetings

10‐‐15 October 2004 XXVth International Congress. Brisbane, Australia

26‐‐27 November 2004 Symposium on Pulmonary Pathology. London, UK
Adenocarcinomas of the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses: a clinicopathological and immunohistochemical study of 14 cases
Authors: Abecasis J , Viana G , Pissarra C , Pereira T , Fonseca I , Soares J
Published: December 2004

Aims : To evaluate the clinicopathological profile of 14 cases of nasal and paranasal sinusal adenocarcinoma, and to assess the usefulness of immunohistochemistry in the differential diagnosis of primary and metastatic intestinal‐type adenocarcinoma.

Methods and results : Fourteen cases of nasal and paranasal adenocarcinoma, treated at IPOFG, Lisbon, between 1976 and 2002, were studied. Clinical records were reviewed and expression of cytokeratin (CK)7 and CK20 and of neuroendocrine markers was evaluated. The male : female ratio was 3 : 1, and the mean age of the patients was 65.3 years. Ten cases occurred in the paranasal sinuses. There was a history of professional exposure to dust in three patients. Twelve cases were high‐grade intestinal type adenocarcinomas (ITAC) and two were low‐grade. CK7 was present in 2/9 ITAC cases and CK20 in 8/9 ITAC and in cases of mixed and mucinous histology. All high‐grade cases showed neuroendocrine differentiation. Seven of the 12 patients with high‐grade adenocarcinoma died of the disease, with a mean follow‐up of 47.4 months.

Conclusions : Nasal and paranasal adenocarcinoma mostly occurs in men in the 7th decade. ITAC is the most frequent histological type. The pattern of CK7/CK20 was not useful in the distinction between primary and metastatic intestinal adenocarcinoma. However, in the former, neuroendocrine differentiation proved to be a valuable tool in that distinction.
Intra‐abdominal synovial sarcoma: a clinicopathological study
Authors: Fisher C , Folpe A L , Hashimoto H , Weiss S W
Published: December 2004

Aims : To evaluate a series of synovial sarcomas arising in the abdomen, pelvic cavity, or retroperitoneum. Synovial sarcoma is rare within the abdomen. In this location, it can be confused with other biphasic tumours and with other spindle and round cell sarcomas.

Methods and results : Cases were retrieved from archives. There were 11 intra‐abdominal tumours among 300 synovial sarcomas in two referral practices (3.7%). Three were pelvic (two midline, one sidewall) and eight were retroperitoneal. They occurred in six males and five females aged from 25 to 75 years (mean 49 years, median 46 years), and ranged in diameter from 65 to 470 mm (mean 210 mm, median 150 mm). Six examples were biphasic, five were monophasic and seven had poorly differentiated areas. Monophasic tumours displayed at least one epithelial marker. One biphasic tumour had a SYT‐SSX2 fusion gene. Seven sarcomas were high‐grade and four of intermediate grade malignancy. Follow‐up data were available in 10 patients. In all but one case, tumour recurred or metastasized within the abdomen. The pelvic sarcomas also metastasized outside the abdomen. Eight of 10 patients (80%) died of disease with survival from 4 to 36 months (mean 17 months, median 18 months). Two patients were alive with disease at 43 and 48 months.

Conclusions : Synovial sarcomas rarely arise within the abdomen and pelvis. They occur mainly in middle age, attain a large size, are difficult to excise and recur locally. Pelvic tumours metastasize distantly. Retroperitoneal tumours remain confined to the abdomen and, unlike synovial sarcomas elsewhere, do not metastasize remotely, although mortality is high.
Extramedullary haematopoiesis in massive hepatic necrosis
Authors: Craig C E H , Quaglia A , Dhillon A P
Published: December 2004

Aims:  To determine the frequency of extramedullary haematopoiesis (EMH) in massive hepatic necrosis (MHN).

Methods and results:  Explanted livers of 11 adult patients transplanted consecutively for MHN were examined histologically and immunohistochemically for the presence of EMH. The aetiology of the liver damage was unknown in seven cases and drug induced in four. The presence of stem cell markers (CD34, c‐kit), erythroid precursors (glycophorin A), myeloid precursors (myeloperoxidase) and megakaryocyte precursors (CD31) was investigated by immunohistochemistry. Erythroid, myeloid and megakaryocyte precursors were observed in all cases. Morphologically, haematopoietic blast cells were clustered in areas of collapse, separating islands of regenerating ductules and scattered between ductules, in a similar distribution to immunohistochemically identified c‐kit‐positive putative stem cells. No CD34+ cells other than endothelial cells were seen. All 11 patients were anaemic at the time of transplantation.

Conclusions:  EMH is a frequent finding in patients undergoing liver transplantation for MHN. This may be a consequence of the anaemia associated with this condition. Alternatively, the possibility that intrahepatic haematopoiesis is linked with hepatopoiesis is an additional, intriguing possibility that deserves further study.
Ultrasonic condensation of gutta‐percha: the effect of power setting and activation time on temperature rise at the root surface – an in vitro study
Authors: Bailey G. C. , Cunnington S. A. , Ng Y.‐L. , Gulabivala K. , Setchell D. J.
Published: December 2004

Aim  To determine the effect of power setting and duration of activation on the temperature rise at the root surface during root canal obturation by ultrasonic condensation of gutta‐percha.

Methodology  A human maxillary canine was used in an in vitro split tooth model to allow repeated obturation of the root canal system using an ultrasonic device to thermocompact gutta‐percha. Combinations of power settings (1, 3 and 5) and durations of activation (4, 10 and 15 s) were used to test their effect on temperature rise at the root surface using eight K‐type thermocouples at the mid‐root and apical levels. At the end of each obturation, the tooth was disassembled to remove the gutta‐percha in preparation for the next obturation (n = 10 for each combination). Multiple linear regression models were used to investigate the effects of power setting, duration of activation and thermocouple location on the maximum temperature rise recorded.

Results  Only one combination of power setting (5) and duration of activation (15 s) resulted in temperature rise in excess of 10 °C. The maximum temperature rise at the mid‐root level was significantly (P < 0.001) greater than that recorded apically. It is also significantly affected by the combination of power setting and duration of activation.

Conclusions  Temperature rises at the root surface during ultrasonic condensation of gutta‐percha in excess of 10 °C were evident in only one combination of power (5) and time (15 s) settings at the mid‐root level.
Laser Doppler flow measurements of pulpal blood flow and severity of dental injury
Authors: Emshoff R. , Emshoff I. , Moschen I. , Strobl H.
Published: December 2004

Aim  To evaluate laser Doppler flowmetry (LDF) measurements of pulpal blood flow (PBF) and severity of dental injury.

Methodology  The relationship between adverse outcomes and PBF measurements was analysed in 94 permanent maxillary incisors of 71 consecutive dental trauma patients. The diagnostic adverse outcome group was comprised of 72 incisors in 52 patients with a type I (loss of sensitivity), type II (loss of sensitivity and periapical radiolucency), or type III (loss of sensitivity, periapical radiolucency and grey discoloration of crown) diagnosis. The nonadverse outcome group consisted of 22 incisors in 19 patients with the finding of an absence of an adverse outcome. At each session, when an injured permanent maxillary incisor was recorded, a contralateral homologous tooth was used as a control. An ordinal stepwise regression was completed to assess the degree of association between PBF measurements and adverse outcomes

Results  Using chi‐square analysis for pairwise comparison, a significant relationship between PBF measurements and types of adverse outcomes (χ2 =119.635, d.f. = 12, P = 0.000) was observed. PBF measurements that were significantly associated with more severe outcome were PBF levels of ≤3 perfusion units (PU) (119.1 odds ratio) (P = 0.000), and those of >3 PU and ≤6 PU (12.7 odds ratio) (P = 0.000).

Conclusions  PBF measurements were related to the severity of adverse outcomes. Further studies are required to evaluate whether PBF measurements can predict dental injuries that progress to adverse treatment outcomes.
Neuronal antigens modulate the immune response associated with experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis
Authors: Degano Alicia L , Ditamo Yanina , Roth German A
Published: December 2004

Rats primed with bovine myelin (BM) in complete Freunds adjuvant, develop acute experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). We have previously described that intraperitoneal administration prior to the active induction of the disease of a bovine synaptosomal fraction (BSF) and BM were effective ways of suppressing EAE. We found that both treatments diminish the incidence of the disease and reduced biochemical and histological alterations of the central nervous system (CNS). To characterize this suppression process, in this study we examined the antigen‐specific immune response in animals protected from EAE. Lymph node mononuclear cells derived from sick EAE rats, as well as from those protected by BM and BSF, showed strong myelin basic protein (MBP) proliferation. Analysis of the humoral response against MBP showed a significant diminution of IgG2b anti‐MBP titres in protected BM and BSF rats in contrast to sick EAE rats whose condition could be related to a diminished anti‐MBP Th1 response. Finally, cells from rats protected by BSF and BM reduced the incidence of EAE when they were adoptively transferred into animals prior to active induction of the disease. These results suggest that a mechanism based on the generation of regulatory cells and immune deviation could account for the EAE suppression mediated by myelin as well as synaptosomal antigens.
Decreased apoptosis of β2‐ integrin‐deficient bovine neutrophils
Authors: Nagahata Hajime , Higuchi Hidetoshi , Teraoka Hiroki , Takahashi K , Inanami Osamu , Kuwabara Mikwori
Published: December 2004

Stimulant‐induced viability of neutrophils, nuclear‐fragmentation, increase in intracellular calcium ([Ca2+]i), expression of annexin V on neutrophils and proteolysis of a fluorogenic peptide substrate Ac‐DEVD‐MCA (acetyl Asp‐Glu‐Val‐Asp α‐[4‐methyl‐coumaryl‐7‐amide]) by neutrophil lysates from five normal calves and three calves with leucocyte adhesion deficiency were determined to evaluate the apoptosis of normal and CD18‐deficient neutrophils. Viability was markedly decreased in control neutrophils stimulated with opsonized zymosan (OPZ), compared to CD18‐deficient neutrophils at 37°C after incubation periods of 6 and 24 hours. The rate of apoptosis of control neutrophils stimulated with OPZ increased significantly depending on the incubation time, whereas no apparent increase in apoptosis was found in CD18‐deficient neutrophils under the same conditions. Aggregated bovine (Agg) IgG‐induced apoptosis of control neutrophils was not significantly different from that of CD18‐deficient neutrophils. The expression of annexin V on OPZ‐stimulated control neutrophils was greater than that of unstimulated ones 6 h after stimulation. No apparent increase in annexin V expression on CD18‐deficient neutrophils was found with OPZ stimulation. A delay in apoptosis was demonstrated in CD18‐deficient bovine neutrophils and this appeared to be closely associated with lowered signalling via [Ca2+]i, diminished annexin V expression on the cell surface, and decreased caspase 3 activity in lysates.
Lymphoid organ dendritic cells: beyond the Langerhans cells paradigm
Authors: Wilson Nicholas S , Villadangos Jose A
Published: December 2004

The immune system has developed mechanisms to detect and initiate responses to a continual barrage of immunological challenges. Dendritic cells (DC), a heterogeneous population of leucocytes, play a major role as immunosurveillance agents. To accomplish this function, DC are equipped with highly efficient mechanisms to detect pathogens, to capture, process and present antigens, and to initiate T‐cell responses. These mechanisms are developmentally regulated during the DC life cycle in a process termed ‘maturation’, which was originally defined using Langerhans cells (LC), a DC type of the epidermis. LC exist in the skin in an immature state dedicated to capturing antigens, and in the subcutaneous lymph nodes in a mature state dedicated to presenting those antigens to T cells. The phenotypic changes undergone by LC during maturation, and the correlation of these changes with tissue localization, have been generally considered a paradigm for all DC. However, studies of the multiple DC types found in the lymphoid organs of mice and humans have revealed that most DC subsets do not follow the life cycle typified by LC. In this review we discuss the limitations of the ‘LC paradigm’ and suggest that this model should be revised to accommodate the heterogeneity of the DC system. We also discuss the implications of the maturational status of the DC subsets contained in the lymphoid organs for their putative roles in the induction of immune responses and the maintenance of peripheral tolerance.
The role of parental influence and additional factors in the determination of food choices for pre‐school children
Authors: Taylor Lindsay J. , Gallagher Marie , McCullough Fiona S.W.
Published: December 2004

Every pre‐school child requires an adult to purchase and provide a variety of foods, to help ensure a balanced selection is included in the diet to avoid any nutritional deficiencies. Children under 5 years have a greater demand for nutrients and energy to support the body's requirements for growth and development than at any other time throughout their life cycle. The paper critically reviews the main factors that influence food choices made by parents on behalf of their pre‐school child. Dietary deficiencies in inner city areas remain a challenge for the government, educators and health professionals. A particular concern is iron deficiency as the prevalence of anaemia is common especially in British pre‐school children from various family backgrounds. Poor parenting skills often exacerbate the problem, especially the early introduction of pasteurized cow's milk, poor weaning practices and lack of dietary knowledge. Therefore, improving education and understanding about the importance of iron could potentially improve dietary iron intake. Phase 1 of the study was completed in West Bridgford area of Nottingham in the UK. This part of the study aimed to determine parental knowledge with regards to the feeding of their pre‐school child. A questionnaire and a 3‐day diet history method were employed. These methods enabled the diet adequacy of the pre‐schoolers to be analysed by NetWISP software. This study highlighted that iron deficiency remains a cause for concern and should be further addressed. The Sure Start programme is a possible means of education as it has the potential to access parents from all socio‐economic classes. The programme can support and empower parents to become healthier consumers. Good dietary habits, established early in life, contributes to a positive start, and can be advantageous to individuals throughout their lifetime. Such long‐term changes will help contribute to a healthier nation that the government envisages for the future.
Dieting among adolescent females – some emerging trends
Authors: Mooney Elaine , Farley Heather , Strugnell Chris
Published: December 2004

Young people, particularly adolescent females, are very conscious of their body image, hence dieting to lose weight is not uncommon. The study, part of a much larger ongoing project, aims to determine the level of body image satisfaction and dieting practices among adolescent females in the Republic of Ireland, with a view to investigating whether these factors ultimately influence food choices and eating patterns. Data collection for this research is at an early stage with preliminary investigations of a qualitative nature having taken place. Sixteen interviews with home economics teachers and 16 focus groups comprising females (n = 124) aged 15–16 years were executed. The results, which are a summation of the emerging trends to date, indicate that female adolescents are very conscious of their body image and are strongly influenced by the appearance of many high profile celebrities. It would appear that gaining the attention of boys, approval from girlfriends and self‐confidence are the main motivations for wanting to be slim. Hence short‐term dieting was an observed behaviour. These initial findings imply a need for more effective health promotion interventions to educate young people on the importance of healthy eating during adolescence. Furthermore, strategies for the development of a healthy body image and positive self‐esteem also need to be implemented as a matter of urgency among this age group. Home economics would be a suitable subject area to deliver this within the school curriculum.
Clinical librarianship in the UK: temporary trend or permanent profession? Part II: present challenges and future opportunities
Authors: Harrison Janet , Sargeant Sally J. E.
Published: December 2004

Background:  This article is the second part of a two‐part series reporting a study of the role of the Clinical Librarian (CL) in the UK.

Methods:  A qualitative method of semi‐structured interviews was used to explore in‐depth the role of the CL. The interviews provided a rich source of data and give insight into this new and emerging role as practised in the National Health Service (NHS). Similarities and differences are examined between the CL population and reported within themes, specifically: personal qualities and skills required, training for the CLs, marketing the CL service, working in the clinical environment, monitoring and evaluation and the acceptance of the CL in the NHS.

Results:  A common understanding of the skills and knowledge required to undertake the CL role was shared by the respondents. However, practice differed as this was often dictated by local circumstances. The study confirmed the need for the CLs to work with clinical colleagues in the clinical setting to enhance patient care.

Conclusion:  The importance of using best evidence to support patient care is a message that is slowly becoming the norm in the NHS and the CL role in this practice is demonstrated by this study.
Facultative sex ratio adjustment in response to male tarsus length in the Varied Tit Parus varius
Authors: Yamaguchi Noriyuki , Kawano Katsura K. , Eguchi Kazuhiro , Yahara Tetsukazu
Published: December 2004

During the last decade, evidence from a number of studies has suggested systematic deviations from a 1 : 1 primary sex ratio in birds, in spite of the fact that birds have chromosomal sex determination systems; the mechanism of sex allocation is not fully understood. However, it still remains uncertain whether adaptive manipulations of primary sex ratio occur, especially in Parus species. We studied sex ratio variation in the Varied Tit Parus varius, which is a socially monogamous species similar to the Great Tit P. major and the Blue Tit P. caeruleus. In total, 362 chicks that hatched from 72 broods over 3 years were sexed. Of all nestlings, 51.9% (188/362) were male. The nestling sex ratio did not differ significantly from unity. However, the proportion of sons in each brood was significantly and positively related to the father's tarsus length. This corresponds with our predictions, given that larger males have higher resource holding potential if tarsus length is a heritable character between fathers and sons.
Growth and energy expenditure of Wandering AlbatrossDiomedea exulanschicks
Authors: Mabille Geraldine , Boutard Olivier , Shaffer Scott A. , Costa Daniel P. , Weimerskirch Henri
Published: December 2004

Wandering AlbatrossDiomedea exulanschicks require 9–10 months to achieve adult body size at fledging, at which time they are also sexually size dimorphic. Because the developmental period spans the winter season, chicks must endure severe winter conditions and variability in provisioning effort by their parents. Thus chicks may adjust their rate of energy utilization to accommodate variations in provisioning, but this has not previously been studied. We followed longitudinally the changes in growth, body composition and oxygen consumption of 10 chicks from the end of the brooding period until fledging on the Crozet Islands. Body mass, culmen length and wing length were measured every 10 days and total body water (TBW) and resting metabolic rate (RMR) were measured monthly. Overall growth followed a logistic curve for all chicks, and sexual dimorphism in body mass appeared as early as the second month of measurements (males being heavier than females). Absolute TBW followed a logistic increase like that of body mass and was significantly higher in males owing to the difference in body mass. Conversely, mass‐specific TBW (i.e. the proportion of body mass made up of water) did not differ significantly between male and female chicks. Absolute RMR peaked at 1.5 × adult basal metabolism in midwinter when chicks achieved maximum body mass, but decreased to adult levels by the time chicks fledged. The decrease in absolute RMR following attainment of peak mass is atypical of most seabird chicks (Procellariiformes) and may be explained partly by a reduction in size of the gut when parents reduce provisioning effort. The changes in mass‐specific RMR did not differ between sexes but male chicks, being heavier, had higher absolute oxygen consumption and therefore greater energy requirements.
Roosting in tree foliage by Common Swifts Apus apus
Authors: Holmgren Jan
Published: December 2004

Common Swifts Apus apus have occasionally been reported roosting overnight by hanging in the foliage of trees. However, roosting in foliage, which is often associated with food shortage as a result of adverse weather, appears to be an important alternative to aerial roosting. Thirty‐nine observations of the behaviour have been recorded previously in Europe, some of them concerning two or more birds. Furthermore, each August from 1982 to 2000, within a restricted area of c. 300 × 300 m in southern Sweden, Swifts (118 total) were observed to roost in the foliage of trees or on a latticework mast, whereas others (230 total) were observed making ‘fly‐ins’ typical of the behaviour preliminary to roosting. Of those roosting, 39 Swifts could be aged, and all but one of these were newly fledged juveniles. The Swifts perched late at dusk with maximum frequency about 30 min after sunset, but tended to perch earlier in cloudy weather and later in clear weather. Numbers of roosting Swifts were correlated with low mean temperatures in August, and appearances of roosting Swifts were correlated with low local evening temperatures. During May–July 1982–2000, within the same small area, 18 Swifts were observed to roost in this manner and 29 other Swifts made preroost fly‐ins. It is concluded that the behaviour is used more frequently and is more widespread geographically than thus far published observations indicate. This applies especially to newly fledged young on their first migration. Adaptive explanations for this are suggested, with the implication that the behaviour may be widespread in swifts of the tribe Apodini.
The effects of delaying the start of moult on the duration of moult, primary feather growth rates and feather mass in Common Starlings Sturnus vulgaris
Authors: Dawson Alistair
Published: December 2004

In many species of birds there is a close relationship between the end of breeding and the start of moult. Late‐breeding birds therefore often start to moult late, but then moult more rapidly. This is an adaptive mechanism mediated by decreasing day lengths that allows late‐breeding birds to complete moult in time. This study asked how these birds complete moult of the primary feathers more rapidly, and the consequences of this on the mass of primary feathers. Common Starlings Sturnus vulgaris were induced to moult rapidly in one of two ways. In the first experiment, one group was exposed to artificially decreasing photoperiods from the start of moult, whereas the control group remained on a constant long photoperiod. The second experiment was a more realistic simulation. Two groups were allowed to moult in an outdoor aviary. One group started to moult at the normal time. In the other, the start of moult was delayed by 3 weeks with an implant of testosterone. The duration of moult was significantly reduced in both the group experiencing artificially decreasing photoperiods and the group in which the start of moult was delayed. The faster moult rate was achieved by moulting more feathers concurrently. The rate of increase in length of each of the primary feathers, and their final length, did not differ between groups. The rate at which total new primary feather mass was accumulated was greater in more rapidly moulting birds, but this was insufficient to compensate for the greater numbers of feathers being grown concurrently. Consequently, the rate of increase in mass of individual feathers, and the final feather mass, were less in the rapidly moulting birds. A 3‐week delay in the start of moult is not an unrealistic scenario. That this caused a measurable decrease in feather mass suggests that late‐breeding birds are indeed likely to suffer a real decrease in the quality of plumage grown during the subsequent moult.
Covariation between plumage colour polymorphism and diet in the Barn OwlTyto alba
Authors: Roulin Alexandre
Published: December 2004

Several hypotheses might explain the evolution and maintenance of colour morphs within animal populations. The ‘alternative foraging strategy’ hypothesis states that alternative colour morphs exploit different ecological niches. This hypothesis predicts that morphs differ in diet, either because foraging success on alternative prey species is morph‐dependent or because differently coloured individuals exploit alternative habitats. I examined this prediction in the Barn OwlTyto alba, a bird that varies in plumage coloration continuously from dark reddish‐brown to white. On the European continent, Owls are light‐coloured (subspeciesT. a. alba) in the south and reddish‐brown (T. a. guttata) in the north; in central Europe the two subspecies interbreed, generating many colour variants. If plumage coloration indicates alternative foraging strategies, in sympatry dark‐ and light‐coloured owls should consume prey species that are typical of the diets ofT. a. guttataandT. a. albain allopatry, respectively. In line with this prediction, both in allopatry and in sympatry in SwitzerlandT. a. guttatafed primarily upon Common VolesMicrotus arvalisandT. a. albaupon Wood MiceApodemusspp. Statistical analyses suggest that morph‐dependent diet did not arise from a non‐random habitat distribution of owls with respect to plumage coloration. This suggests that foraging success upon alternative prey is morph‐dependent.
Susceptibility gene for non‐obstructive azoospermia in the HLA class II region: correlations with Y chromosome microdeletion and spermatogenesis
Authors: Takao Tetsuya , Tsujimura Akira , Sada Masaharu , Goto Rieko , Koga Minoru , Miyagawa Yasushi , Matsumiya Kiyomi , Yamada Kazuhiko , Takahara Shiro , Okuyama Akihiko
Published: December 2004

We previously reported an association between the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) haplotype DRB1*1302‐DQB1*0604 in the HLA class II region and non‐obstructive azoospermia in Japanese men. To identify possible associations between the HLA‐DRB1*1302‐DQB1*0604 allele in the HLA class II region and azoospermia factor (AZF) deletion in the Y chromosome, we performed genomic polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis of the AZF region. We then determined spermatogenic impairment (Johnsen score) in testicular biopsy specimens from patients with or without the DRB1*1302‐DQB1*0604 haplotype. The AZF microdeletion rate in patients with this haplotype was 3.85%, compared with 11.8% in others (no correlation). However, Johnsen scores in patients with the DRB1*1302‐DQB1*0604 haplotype were 3.13 ± 1.34 (mean ± SD), compared with 3.70 ± 1.51 in others (p < 0.05). While the DRB1*1302‐DQB1*0604 haplotype acts independently from Y chromosome deletion, the haplotype might either act directly, or be functionally related to an unknown autosomal gene. In either case, this haplotype showed association with severe spermatogenic impairment.
Androgen‐dependent blood flow control and morphological changes of the capillaries in rat prostate
Authors: Ono Yoshihiro , Suzuki Kazuhiro , Kashiwagi Bunzo , Shibata Yasuhiro , Ito Kazuto , Fukabori Yoshitatsu , Yamanaka Hidetoshi
Published: December 2004

To clarify the effect of androgens on the microcirculation of the prostate, organ blood flow and ultrastructural features of the capillaries were investigated. In the ventral prostate (VP) of adult Wistar rats, organ blood flow was measured using a laser Doppler flowmetry, and the morphological features of the subepithelial capillaries were investigated and their luminal area was measured using transmission electron microscopy and a computed image analyzer at 1, 2, 3, and 7 days after castration, and 2 days after castration and gradational testosterone supplementation. The capillaries of the VP were classified into three types; oval opened (type 1), intermediate (type 2) and collapsed (type 3). Organ blood flow reduced from 40.5 to 27.7 mL/min/100 g (p < 0.0001) and the luminal area of the capillaries reduced from 13.5 to 4.5 μm2 (p < 0.0001) 2 days after castration. These reductions of the blood flow and the luminal area were gradationally prevented by testosterone supplementation. In the morphological features of the capillary, type 1 had rapidly shifted to types 2 and 3 after castration, and the shift of the capillary type was significantly prevented by the testosterone supplementation. These results clearly demonstrated that the androgen‐dependent ultrastructural and morphological features in subepithelial capillaries revealed local microcirculatory conditions correlating the organ blood flow changes in VP.
Expression of cavernous transforming growth factor‐β1 and its Type II Receptor in patients with erectile dysfunction
Authors: Ryu Ji‐Kan , Han Jee‐Young , Chu Young‐Chae , Song Sun U. , Lee Kwan‐Hee , Yoon Sang‐Min , Suh Jun‐Kyu , Kim Seong‐Jin
Published: December 2004

It has been hypothesized that transforming growth factor‐β1 (TGF‐β1) signalling is involved in erectile dysfunction (ED). This study was undertaken to elucidate in detail whether expression of TGF‐β1 and its type II receptor is clinically related to various causes of ED. Fifty‐four patients with ED and 24 potent men were the subjects of this study. After multidisciplinary work‐up, the ED was classified as psychogenic (n = 6), neurogenic (n = 15), or vasculogenic (n = 33). In every subject, percutaneous cavernous biopsy was performed using a Biopty gun. Masson's trichrome staining was used to quantitate collagen fibres and immunohistochemical staining to evaluate both TGF‐β1 and its type II receptor by scoring the intensity of immunoreactivity (score 0–6). Collagen fibres were significantly more abundant in men with vasculogenic ED (72.7 ± 17.7%) than in control subjects (43.3 ± 11.2%) or those with psychogenic (45.0 ± 12.2%) or neurogenic (51.3 ± 20.3%) ED (p < 0.01). Expression of TGF‐β1 was significantly greater in vasculogenic ED (4.3 ± 1.3) than in the control subjects (2.4 ± 0.9) or psychogenic ED (2.0 ± 0.6) groups (p < 0.01). Type II receptor expression was also significantly increased in vasculogenic ED (3.9 ± 1.3) compared with control (2.2 ± 0.7) and psychogenic (2.2 ± 0.8) or neurogenic (2.6 ± 1.3) ED (p < 0.01). Of the ED groups, both the hyperlipidaemia and the atherosclerosis patients showed significantly more fibrosis than those without the condition (p < 0.05). The abundance of collagen fibres correlated well with both TGF‐β1 expression (γ = 0.81; p < 0.001) and receptor II expression (γ = 0.83; p < 0.001). These results suggest that TGF‐β1 and its receptor II pathway are involved in cavernous fibrosis and ED in man. Patients with vascular risk factors such as hyperlipidaemia and atherosclerosis are liable to ED by activation of this pathway.
A diet containing yam reduces the cognitive deterioration and brain lipid peroxidation in mice with senescence accelerated
Authors: Chan Yin‐Ching , Hsu Cheng‐Kuang , Wang Ming‐Fu , Su Ting‐Ya
Published: December 2004

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of a diet rich in yam tuber material [Dioscorea alata L. Var. purpurea (M.) Pouch.] on the learning and memory ability of 2‐month‐old male senescence accelerated mice (SAMP8). The mice were fed with three different diets for 12 weeks; a casein diet (control group) and either a casein diet supplemented with 10% lyophilized or with hot‐air dried yam. Results of passive and active shuttle avoidance tests showed the mice fed with the diet containing yam had significantly better learning and memory ability than the control group. The thiobarbituric acid‐reactive substances (TBARS) in the hippocampus of the group fed lyophilized yam were significantly lower than the control and also the group fed a diet containing hot‐air dried yam, whereas the spongy degeneration and the lipofuscin percentage tended to be lower but not significantly different. It was suggested that lyophilized yam was more effective than hot‐air dried yam in reducing the lipid peroxidation, brain pathological changes and the deterioration in the learning and memory ability in mice possibly because lyophilized yam contains more antioxidant compounds.
Effects of seven yeast strains on the volatile composition of Palomino wines
Authors: Estévez Pablo , Gil Mª Luisa , Falqué Elena
Published: December 2004

The must obtained from Palomino grapes was inoculated with seven different commercial yeast strains (three Saccharomyces cerevisiae cerevisiae– MO5, CEG and IOC BR 8000 and four Saccharomyces cerevisiae bayanus– ALB, KD, REIMS and IOC 2007) and fermented under identical conditions. Standard chemical analyses were done on the final industrial wines and the major volatile compounds extracted and analysed by gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry. No differences were found in gross chemical composition, but the wines had significantly different volatile characteristics and the results demonstrated that large sensory differences were generated by the different yeast strain that had been used in the vinification. The major constituents that contributed to the volatile composition in this wine were the higher alcohols, ethyl esters, acetates, fatty acids and volatile phenols. In terms of floral and fruity odours, the best results were obtained for the wines inoculated with IOC 2007, ALB and REIMS S. cer. bayanus strain.
Proliferative activity (MIB‐1 index) is an independent prognostic parameter in patients with high‐grade soft tissue sarcomas of subtypes other than malignant fibrous histiocytomas: a retrospective immunohistological study including 216 soft tissue sarcomas
Authors: Jensen V. , Brandt Sørensen F. , Bentzen S.M. , Ladekarl M. , Steen Nielsen O. , Keller J. , Jensen O.M.
Published: December 2004

Aims

To evaluate the prognostic value of tumour proliferative activity, p53 accumulation and bcl‐2 expression in a retrospective series of 216 patients with soft tissue sarcomas (STS).

Methods and results

The immunohistochemical analyses were performed on formalin‐fixed, paraffin‐embedded tissue. The proliferative activity was assessed by use of the monoclonal antibody MIB‐1 and evaluated in multiple, random systematic sampled fields of vision. The percentage of proliferating cells (the MIB‐1 index) ranged between 1% and 85% (median 12%). A significant increase in mean MIB‐1 index was seen with increasing histological malignancy grade. Variation in the incidence of p53 accumulation and bcl‐2 positivity among different histological subtypes was observed. p53 accumulation was frequent in synovial sarcomas and leiomyo‐ and rhabdomyosarcomas, whereas bcl‐2 preferentially was expressed in synovial sarcomas. Univariate analysis identified patient age, tumour size, histological grade of malignancy, MIB‐1 index and p53 accumulation as significant prognostic parameters. Multivariate Cox analysis, including tests for interaction terms between histological subtypes and MIB‐1 index, showed independent prognostic effect of MIB‐1 index and tumour size in patients with high‐grade tumours of other subtypes than malignant fibrous histiocytoma (MFH).

Conclusions

Histopathological malignancy grading is the most important single prognostic factor for overall survival in STS, but estimation of MIB‐1 index is useful for identifying the least favourable subgroup of high grade STS of other subtypes than MFH, for whom adjuvant therapy may be indicated.
Apoptotic hepatocytes in rejection and vascular occlusion in liver allograft specimens
Authors: Sedivy R. , Gollackner B. , Casati B. , Mittlböck M. , Kaserer K. , Steininger R. , Wrba F.
Published: December 2004

Aims

Programmed cell death (apoptosis) has been described in different hepatobiliary diseases and in immune‐mediated cytotoxicity. Apoptosis of hepatocytes and bile duct epithelial cells was detected in chronic liver allograft rejection. In severe acute rejection a DNA fragmentation in‐situ assay showed positivity of apoptotic cells and centrilobular necrosis. Although apoptosis is triggered by ischaemia, the potential role of apoptosis in tissue damage caused by hepatic vascular occlusion after orthotopic liver transplantation has not yet been investigated.

Methods and results

We examined biopsies for apoptotic cell death in 50 liver allografts: 29 with acute liver rejection, six without rejection, five time‐zero biopsies, and 10 cases with hepatic artery thrombosis. In addition to a semiquantitative assessment of apoptotic bodies in haematoxylin and eosin stains, an in‐situ end nick‐labelling technique (TUNEL) was used to detect DNA fragmentation. In all cases with hepatic artery thrombosis the incidence of apoptosis was found significantly increased in comparison to acute rejection.

Conclusions

As apoptosis is a mechanism in the early stages of tissue damage prior to necrosis, increased apoptosis in liver allograft biopsies might be regarded as a signal of early ischaemia indicating initial vascular occlusion.
Fibroid polyps of intestinal tract are inflammatory‐reactive proliferations of CD34‐positive perivascular cells
Authors: Wille P. , Borchard F.
Published: December 2004

Aims

Our aim was to determine the histogenesis of fibroid polyps (FP). These polyps are rare inflammatory‐reactive, tumour‐like lesions of unknown aetiology, arising in the submucosa or mucosa of the gastrointestinal tract. They are mainly due to a proliferation of characteristic spindle cells.

Methods and results

Nine FP were investigated by light microscopy and immunohistochemistry with endothelial markers (Factor VIII, CD34, CD31), a neuronal marker (S100), muscular markers (desmin, alpha‐smooth muscle actin) and histiocytic markers (PGMI, KP1, MAC387) using the highly sensitive avidin–biotin–peroxidase technique. We demonstrate, for the first time, a consistent positivity of the characteristic spindle cells of FP for CD34. The proposed endothelial, histiocytic or neuronal origin of FP could be completely ruled out.

Conclusions

Because of the consistent positivity of the spindle cells of FP for CD34 we suggest an origin of these lesions from primitive perivascular or vascular cells. This origin and a probable relationship to gastrointestinal stromal tumours (GIST) is discussed.
Ki67 antigen and PCNA proliferation markers predict survival in anorectal malignant melanoma
Authors: Ben‐Izhak O , Bar‐Chana M , Sussman L , Dobiner V , Sandbank J , Cagnano M , Cohen H , Sabo E
Published: December 2004

Aims:  To find a possible correlation of Ki67 antigen and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) with prognosis in anorectal malignant melanoma.

Methods and results:  Thirty patients with anorectal malignant melanoma were studied. The percentage of tumour cells stained for Ki67 and PCNA in paraffin sections was assessed. Mode of treatment (local excision or abdominoperineal resection), depth of tumour invasion, attempt at cure as defined by complete tumour excision and absence of distant metastases at presentation, tumour blood vessel invasion, and tumour necrosis, as well as Ki67 and PCNA, were all correlated with survival. By univariate analysis, PCNA, Ki67, attempt at cure, local excision (and not abdominoperineal resection), and depth of invasion were all significantly associated with longer survival. By multivariate analysis, only PCNA was significantly associated with survival, while Ki67 showed a significant positive correlation with PCNA. With a cut‐off point of 40%, patients with lower Ki67 scores showed survival advantage over those with higher Ki67 scores (P=0.0004). With a cut‐off point of 80%, patients with lower PCNA scores showed survival advantage over those with higher PCNA scores (P=0.0001). The staining for proliferation markers was also associated with depth of tumour invasion.

Conclusions:  Ki67 and PCNA immunostaining in paraffin sections may be useful for the prediction of survival in patients with anorectal malignant melanoma. Larger studies are needed to confirm our results.
Specificity of tyrosinase and HMB45 PCR in the detection of melanoma metastases in sentinel lymph node biopsies
Authors: Gutzmer R , Kaspari M , Brodersen J P , Mommert S , Völker B , Kapp A , Werfel T , Kiehl P
Published: December 2004

Aims:  Sentinel lymph node biopsy is an increasingly established procedure in the primary staging of high‐risk melanoma patients. However, the laboratory evaluation of sentinel lymph node biopsies is a matter of controversy. The aim of this study was to determine the specificity of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) techniques for the evaluation of lymph nodes with regard to melanoma metastases in comparison with histology and immunohistology.

Methods and results:  Sentinel lymph nodes (n = 41) from 29 melanoma patients and 29 lymph nodes from 27 patients without melanoma were analysed by histology (H&E) and immunohistology (Melan A, HMB45). cDNA of these lymph nodes was subjected to LightCycler PCR amplification using primers specific for tyrosinase and HMB45. Two melanoma sentinel lymph nodes contained naevus cells by histology and immunohistology and were therefore excluded from further evaluation. Eight (20.5%) of the remaining 39 melanoma sentinel lymph nodes were positive by histology and immunohistology and tyrosinase PCR, 15.4% (6/39) were positive only by tyrosinase PCR, 2.6% (1/39) were positive only by histology and immunohistology. HMB45 PCR revealed positive results in 7.7% (3/39) sentinel lymph nodes, which were also positive by tyrosinase PCR and histology and immunohistology. Of non‐melanoma lymph nodes 13.8% (4/29) and 14.8% (4/27) of non‐melanoma patients were positive by tyrosinase PCR but negative by histology and immunohistology and HMB45 PCR. Thus, tyrosinase PCR had a specificity of only 85.2%.

Conclusions:  The specificity of tyrosinase PCR and the sensitivity of HMB45 PCR are too low to recommend these PCR examinations for the guidance of therapy, in particular complete regional lymph node dissection.
Diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma: one or more entities? Present controversies and possible tools for its subclassification
Authors: Pileri S A , Dirnhofer S , Went Ph , Ascani S , Sabattini E , Marafioti T , Tzankov A , Leoncini L , Falini B , Zinzani P L
Published: December 2004

Diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is the commonest type of lymphoid tumour world‐wide. This category was included both in the REAL and WHO Classification aiming to lump together all malignant lymphomas characterized by the large size of the neoplastic cells, B‐cell derivation, aggressive clinical presentation, and the need for highly effective chemotherapy regimens. These tumours are detected as primary or secondary forms both at the nodal and extranodal levels, in immunocompetent hosts as well as in patients with different types of immunosuppression. They display a significant variability in terms of cell morphology and clinical findings, which justifies the identification of variants and subtypes. Among the latter, the primary mediastinal one does actually correspond to a distinct clinicopathological entity. Immunophenotypic, tissue microarray and molecular studies underline the extreme heterogeneity of DLBCLs and suggest a subclassification of the tumour, based on the identification of different pathogenic pathways, which might have much greater relevance than pure morphology for precise prognostic previsions and adoption of ad hoc therapies. The more recent acquisitions on the pathobiology of DLBCLs are reviewed in the light of the authors' experience, aiming to contribute to the existing debate on the topic.
British Division of the International Academy of Pathology
Authors: Van Den Tweel J , Howat A J , Shepherd N A , Francis N , Harris C
Published: December 2004

Forthcoming meetings

1–4 July 2003 2nd Joint Meeting with the Pathological Society of GB & Ireland. Bristol, UK

28‐‐29 November 2003 Symposium on Lymphoreticular Disease. London, UK

Spring 2004 Symposium on Dermatopathology. Brussels, Belgium

10‐‐15 October 2004 XXVth International Congress. Brisbane, Australia

26‐‐27 November 2004 Symposium on Pulmonary Pathology. London, UK