bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
RhoC Expression and Head and Neck Cancer Metastasis
Authors: Islam Mozaffarul , Lin Giant , Brenner John C. , Pan Quintin , Merajver Sofia D. , Hou Yanjun , Kumar Pawan , Teknos Theodoros N.
Published: October 2009

RhoC protein, a known marker of metastases in aggressive breast cancers and melanoma, has also been found to be overexpressed in certain head and neck cancers, thus we investigated the correlation between RhoC expression and the metastatic behavior of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Selective inhibition of RhoC expression was achieved using lentiviral small hairpin RNA (shRNA) transduced and tracked with green fluorescent protein to achieve 70% to 80% RhoC inhibition. Fluorescence microscopy of the RhoC knockdown stable clones showed strong green fluorescence in the majority of cells, signifying a high efficiency of transduction. Importantly, quantitative real-time PCR showed no significant decrease in the mRNA expression levels of other members of the Ras superfamily. Cell motility and invasion were markedly diminished in RhoC-depleted cell lines as compared with control transduced lines. H&E staining of lung tissue obtained from severe combined immunodeficiency mice, which had been implanted with RhoC knockdown cells, showed a marked decrease in lung metastasis and inflammation of the blood vessels. The cultured lung tissue showed a significant decrease in cell growth in mice implanted with RhoC-depleted cell lines as compared with shRNA-scrambled sequence control lines. Microscopic studies of CD31 expression revealed substantial quantitative and qualitative differences in the primary tumor microvessel density as compared with parental and shRNA-scrambled controls. This study is the first of its kind to establish the involvement of RhoC specifically in head and neck metastasis. These findings suggest that RhoC warrants further investigation to delineate its robustness as a novel potentially therapeutic target. (Mol Cancer Res 2009;7(11):1771–80)
Effect of Orally Administered Bovine Lactoferrin on the Growth of Adenomatous Colorectal Polyps in a Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Kozu Takahiro , Iinuma Gen , Ohashi Yasuo , Saito Yutaka , Akasu Takayuki , Saito Daizo , Alexander David B. , Iigo Masaaki , Kakizoe Tadao , Tsuda Hiroyuki
Published: October 2009

Lactoferrin (LF), a secreted, iron binding glycoprotein originally discovered as a component of milk, is found in a variety of exocrine secretions and in the secondary granules of polymorphonuclear leukocytes. Animal experiments have shown that oral administration of bovine lactoferrin (bLF) exerts anticarcinogenesis effects in the colon and other organs of the rat. The aim of this study was to determine whether oral bLF could inhibit the growth of adenomatous colorectal polyps in human patients. A randomized, double-blind, controlled trial was conducted in 104 participants, ages 40 to 75 years, with polyps ≤5 mm in diameter and likely to be adenomas. Participants were assigned to receive placebo, 1.5-g bLF, or 3.0-g bLF daily for 12 months. Target adenomatous polyps were monitored by colonoscopy. Ingestion of 3.0-g bLF significantly retarded adenomatous polyp growth in participants 63 years old or younger. Removal of adenomatous colorectal polyps is done as a preventative measure against colorectal cancer; however, polyps can be overlooked, and when detected, polypectomy is not always 100% effective in eradicating a polyp. Our study suggests that daily intake of 3.0 g of bLF could be a clinically beneficial adjunct to colorectal polyp extraction.
Microdissection and Chromosome Painting of X and B Chromosomes in the Grasshopper Eyprepocnemis plorans
Authors: Teruel M. , Cabrero J. , Perfectti F. , Acosta M.J. , Sánchez A. , Camacho J.P.M.
Published: October 2009

The relative location of 2 repetitive DNAs, i.e. ribosomal (rDNA) and a tandemly repeated satellite DNA (satDNA), with respect to the centromere, suggested that B chromosomes in the grasshopper Eyprepocnemis plorans derived intraspecifically from the X chromosome. To test this hypothesis, we microdissected X and B chromosomes and amplified the obtained DNA by 2 different procedures, the conventional DOP-PCR method and the single-cell whole-genome amplification GenomePlex® method. We then generated DNA probes to perform chromosome painting. Our results have confirmed that X and B chromosomes share many DNA sequences between them and with most of the autosomes, especially at locations where the satDNA and rDNA reside, in consistency with previous information. This supports the hypothesis of an intraspecific origin of B chromosomes in E. plorans. Nevertheless, the present results did not help to clarify whether Bs were derived from the X chromosome or else from 1 or more autosomes.
Superior: A Novel Repetitive DNA Element Dispersed in the Rye Genome
Authors: Tomita M. , Kuramochi M. , Iwata S.
Published: October 2009

A new class of rye-specific repetitive DNA elements designated Superior has been identified. The rye genome library was constructed by cleavage with EcoO109I, the recognition sites of which consisted of 5′-PuGGNCCPy-3′ multi-sequences and were present with high frequency in the rye repetitive families. A novel 495-bp segment enriched in the rye genome was successfully identified. Southern blot hybridization and fluorescence in situ hybridization using the repetitive element showed a dispersed array through all 7 chromosomes of rye. The repetitive DNA element did not share identity with known class I or class II transposable elements or known repetitive elements. Only several DNA segments in BACs and ESTs of barley showed partial similarity to the repetitive DNA element in all DNA databases of living species. The new class of dispersed repetitive elements was designated Superior. The entire structure of Superior was determined by using a rye genomic library of lambda FIXII screened by the 495-bp probe. The Superior family consisted of 1,292-bp, 1,324-bp, and 1,432-bp elements in which the 5′ regions had been destroyed, indicating the presence of considerable structural diversity. Superior might be a useful tool for studying genomic organization and differentiation.
Localization of Rad50, a Single-Copy Gene, on Group 5 Chromosomes of Wheat, Using a FISH Protocol Employing Tyramide for Signal Amplification (Tyr-FISH)
Authors: Pérez R. , de Bustos A. , Jouve N. , Cuadrado Á.
Published: October 2009

An indirect tyramide signal amplification FISH technique (Tyr-FISH) was adapted to detect single-copy genes in plants. In this study, Rad50 loci (responsible for a protein involved in the repair of breaks in double-stranded DNA) were localized on the chromosomes of homologous group 5 in common wheat (Triticum aestivum). Three loci, Rad50A, Rad50B and Rad50D, none of which have been previously mapped using any kind of molecular approach, were localized at similar positions on the short arm of chromosomes 5A, 5B and 5D, respectively. The loci are all proximal to 5S ribosomal gene clusters. The sensitivity and efficiency of the Tyr-FISH technique was tested using 5 differently sized fragments of the gene Rad50D as probes in FISH involving the chromosomes of the diploid wheat Triticum tauschii (the D-genome donor species of the hexaploid wheats). The procedure, which provided specific signal amplification with low level background, detected target DNA sequences as small as 2 kb with a frequency of 37.5%.
Centromeric α-Satellite DNA Break in Reciprocal Translocations
Authors: Wang J.-C. , Hajianpour A. , Habibian R.
Published: October 2009

In the process of selecting fluorescence in situ hybridization probes to be used for preimplantation genetic diagnosis in couples with balanced reciprocal translocations, we found 2 individuals with unexpected breaks in the centromeric α-satellite DNA. Subsequently, centromere breaks were specifically sought in reciprocal translocations in which 1 or both breakpoints appeared cytogenetically near the centromere. In a total of 11 individuals studied, we found 8 centromere breaks in 6 individuals; in 2 individuals, the α-satellite DNA of both chromosomes involved in the translocation split into 2 arrays. These findings suggest that breaks in α-satellite DNA are not rare events. Together with those previously reported in the literature, α-satellite DNA breaks of at least chromosomes X, 1, 4, 5, 10, 11, 16, 17, 18, and 19 have now been documented. The breaks are familial in 2 of the 6 cases in our study, indicating the derivative chromosomes are both mitotically and meiotically stable. These derivative chromosomes that are either cytogenetically dicentric or molecular cytogenetically dicentric, or have altered amounts of α-satellite DNA may prove to be valuable in studying centromere dynamics and biology.
Transrectal Ultrasound-Guided Prostatic Biopsy: Midazolam, the Ideal Analgesic
Authors: Shrimali Pritesh , Bhandari Yogesh , Kharbanda Sushil , Patil Mangesh , Srinivas Vardachary , Gaitonde Satish , Mankeshwar Ranjit
Published: October 2009

Objectives: Patients with raised serum prostate-specific antigen and/or an abnormal-feeling prostate were subjected to transrectal ultrasound-guided prostatic biopsy to rule out any prostatic malignancy. There are many methods for pain relief and to treat discomfort during the procedure but we compared the efficacy of intravenous (IV) midazolam for pain control. Patients and Methods: This was a prospective study of 50 patients. All patients underwent a ten quadrant biopsy. The patients were divided into two groups: group 1 (study group) which included 25 patients who used 1 ml of IV midazolam and group 2 (control group) which included 25 patients who did not use IV midazolam. Results: In group 1, of 25 patients only 1 patient had mild pain (VAS 2) during and after the procedure. In group 2, of 25 patients, 15 patients had pain during the procedure. Conclusion: Midazolam is a benzodiazepine derivative with an anxiolytic, sedative, amnestic and hypnotic action. Our study shows that using midazolam is a very simple technique which gives excellent analgesia and no other analgesia was required. No monitoring was needed, there was a very low incidence of complications and it did not require any technical expertise.
Urological Complications in 1,223 Kidney Transplantations
Authors: Nie Z.L. , Zhang K.Q. , Li Q.S. , Jin F.S. , Zhu F.Q. , Huo W.Q.
Published: October 2009

Introduction: Urological complications after kidney transplantation may lead to graft loss. In this study, we retrospectively reviewed urological complications in 1,223 kidney transplantations that were performed at our institution. Materials and Methods: The occurrence of urological complications such as urine leakage, ureteral obstruction and vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) according to the different way of urinary tract reconstruction, ureteroneocystostomy (U-C) and ureteroureterostomy (U-U), was studied. Results: Urological complications were encountered in 92 (7.5%) cases, including urine leakage (n = 43, 3.5%), ureteral obstruction (n = 35, 2.9%) and VUR (n = 14, 1.1%). 75 cases (7.9%) were in the U-C group and 17 cases (6.2%) in the U-U group. 91 recipients were successfully treated, and 1 patient lost the graft due to kidney pelvis and ureteral necrosis. There was no recipient loss due to these complications. For recipients with urological complications, the 1- and 3-year survival rates were 90 and 88% for recipients and 87 and 82% for grafts, respectively. Conclusions: After U-U, the same number of overall incidences of urological complications is observed as after U-C; however, a decrease in the number of incidences of urine leakage is apparent. Therefore, U-U is a good first option with a greater success rate of resolving ureteral stenosis with endourology and no risk of VUR.
Role of Lipoxygenases and the Lipoxin A4/Annexin 1 Receptor in Ischemia-Reperfusion-Induced Gastric Mucosal Damage in Rats
Authors: Peskar Brigitta M. , Ehrlich Karlheinz , Schuligoi Rufina , Peskar Bernhard A.
Published: October 2009

Rat gastric mucosal damage was induced by ischemia-reperfusion. The 5-lipoxygenase inhibitors MK886 and A63162, the 12-lipoxygenase inhibitor baicalein, the 15-lipoxygenase inhibitor PD146176 and the lipoxin (LX) A4/annexin 1 antagonist Boc1 increased mucosal damage in a dose-dependent manner. Low doses of these compounds, which have no effects on mucosal integrity, cause severe damage when combined with low doses of indomethacin, celecoxib or dexamethasone. 16,16-Dimethylprostaglandin (PG) E2 and LXA4 can replace each other in preventing mucosal injury induced by either cyclooxygenase or lipoxygenase inhibitors. The results suggest that not only cyclooxygenases, but also lipoxygenases have a role in limiting gastric mucosal damage during ischemia-reperfusion.
Erythropoiesis Stimulatory Agent- Resistant Anemia in Dialysis Patients: Review of Causes and Management
Authors: Kanbay Mehmet , Perazella Mark A. , Kasapoglu Benan , Koroglu Mustafa , Covic Adrian
Published: October 2009

Despite new therapeutic options and treatment strategies, anemia still remains one of the major complications of chronic kidney disease (CKD), especially in patients undergoing chronic hemodialysis for end-stage renal disease. Successful management of anemia is a central part of patient care that may improve clinical outcomes. Although the National Kidney Foundation Dialysis Outcomes Quality Initiative (NKF-DOQI) working group reformulated its recommendations by stating that the hemoglobin target in patients receiving erythropoiesis stimulatory agents (ESA) should generally be 11–12 g/dl, this target value can not be achieved in many of them, despite treatment with high doses of ESA. The aim of the present review is to provide an update of the recent literature on causes and possible management of ESA-resistant anemia in CKD patients.
Isolated Cushing’s Syndrome: An Unusual Presentation of McCune-Albright Syndrome in the Neonatal Period
Authors: Paris Françoise , Philibert Pascal , Lumbroso Serge , Servant Nadège , Kalfa Nicolas , Sultan Charles
Published: October 2009

Cushing’s syndrome (CS) may develop at any time in childhood. In the neonatal period, the major cause is the overactivation of adrenal cells within the context of McCune-Albright syndrome (MAS). The hypercorticism usually appears with other clinical signs of MAS. We report here a case of isolated neonatal CS as the initial evidence of MAS. This newborn girl was referred to our pediatric endocrine unit at the age of 3 months for hypotonia and growth retardation. Clinical examination revealed facial plethora, moon face, and swollen limbs. Laboratory data demonstrated ACTH-independent CS. Magnetic resonance imaging showed moderate bilateral adrenal hyperplasia, though more marked in the left adrenal gland, without nodules. This peripheral hypercorticism without well-defined adrenal tumor was suggestive of MAS, although no other signs like precocious puberty or café-au-lait spots were found. An activating Gsα gene mutation was found on DNA extracted from blood. Because MAS is a somatic disease, usually with unilateral effects, we tried to remove only the larger adrenal gland, where the mutation was demonstrated. This female newborn later developed the classical triad of MAS, reinforcing this diagnosis. Cushing’s syndrome in infants, even when isolated, may suggest a diagnosis of MAS.
Doxorubicin Exerts Cytotoxic Effects through Cell Cycle Arrest and Fas-Mediated Cell Death
Authors: Kim Hye-Sun , Lee Yong-Soo , Kim Dong-Ku
Published: October 2009

Doxorubicin (DOX) is involved in the induction of DNA damage, inhibition of cell proliferation, impairment of mitochondria, and cell death. To determine the biological effects of DOX in murine lymphocytes, we analyzed cell proliferation, cell cycle status, and apoptosis in Ba/F3 and EL4 lymphoid cells. DOX treatment resulted in significant cellular morphological alteration with increased intracellular granularity and cell size. DOX inhibited cell proliferation through cell cycle arrest at the G2/M phase as well as by cell death. In addition, DOX treatment dramatically upregulated Fas expression and enhanced caspase activation to promote intracellular apoptotic signaling for cell death. Treatment with an agonistic antibody stimulated Fas and accelerated the cell death effects. In conclusion, we demonstrate that DOX induces cell cycle arrest and apoptosis by increased Fas expression and ultimately results in enhanced cell death.
Serological Profiles as Prognostic Clues for Progressive Systemic Scleroderma: The Italian Experience
Authors: Parodi A. , Puiatti P. , Rebora A.
Published: October 2009

Ninety-one patients with progressive systemic sclerosis have been examined both clinically and serologically in order to have a better prognostic insight. Three main serological profiles have been isolated. The patients with anticentromere antibodies (ACA) represented one third of the cases, developed skin sclerosis rather later and rarely exhibited ankyloses and ulcerations. The esophagus was commonly involved while the lung, heart and kidneys were not. ACA-positive patients were not identified with the CREST syndrome, as the latter disclosed other profiles with the same frequency. Patients with anti-Scl-70 antibody represented one fourth of the cases and had the fastest progression developing sclerosis in less than 5 years after the onset of Raynaud’s phenomenon. Ankyloses and lung fibrosis as well as joint, heart and kidney involvement, were found in most of them. Patients with anti-SSA/Ro antibodies were uncommon, but corresponded to a severe subset, having a fast progression and a constant involvement of the lung. Probably due to the rougher definition of their serology patients with antinucleolar, antispeckle-patterned and anti-Ku antibodies or without any detectable antibody could be defined less easily and corresponded to an intermediate position between ACA- and anti-Scl-70-positive patients. Though it is probably premature to trust it completely, a serological classification may provide the prognostic clues clinical classifications cannot.
Papaverine Hydrochloride in the Treatment of Atopic Dermatitis: A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Crossover Clinical Trial to Reassess Safety and Efficacy
Authors: Shupack J. , Stiller M. , Meola, Jr. T. , Orbuch P.
Published: October 2009

In a double-blind crossover study, oral papaverine hydrochloride in doses of 150–300 mg t.i.d. was compared to placebo as an adjunctive treatment of atopic dermatitis. Twenty patients completed both 2-week phases of the crossover during which time the physician’s weekly evaluation included an estimate of percentage skin involvement with disease, global evaluation and the grading of the erythema, scale and lichenification of a representative plaque. The patients’ evaluation included their assessment of the degree of pruritus, and an estimate of the percentage of the day pruritus was present as well as a global evaluation of disease. Papaverine demonstrated no statistically significant advantage over placebo for any of the parameters measured and was noted to cause transient asymptomatic liver function test abnormalities in 3 of the study patients.
Adjuvant Treatment in Stage I and II Malignant Melanoma: A Randomized Trial between Chemoimmunotherapy and Immunotherapy
Authors: Castel T. , Estapé J. , Viñolas N. , Mascaró J.M. , Castro J. , Vilalta A. , Gratacós R. , Daniels M. , Palou J. , Grau J.J. , Iranzo P.
Published: October 2009

A randomized trial comparing chemoimmunotherapy (bacillus Calmette-Guérin + chemotherapy) and immunotherapy (bacillus Calmette-Guérin alone) was carried out in high-risk stage I and II malignant melanoma patients. Eighty-two evaluable patients were included. The follow-up median duration was 11 years. Recurrent melanoma developed in 28 patients (34%). The overall survival rate was 76% at 5 years and 65% at 10 years. There were no statistical differences in survival probability or disease-free survival (DFS) probability between the two treatment groups. Survival and DFS were also analyzed in relation to various prognostic factors. Statistically significant differences were only seen in a subset of 33 patients with lower limb malignant melanoma, the prognosis being better for the chemoimmunotherapy group in this location. Because of the small number of patients in each group, a week positive effect of either of these two treatments cannot be ruled out. Chemoimmunotherapy only seems to improve the prognosis of stage I or II malignant melanoma of the legs.
Clinical Comparison of Cefuroxime Axetil, Cephalexin and Cefadroxil in the Treatment of Patients with Primary Infections of the Skin or Skin Structures
Authors: Gooch III W.M. , Kaminester L. , Cole G.W. , Binder R. , Morman M.R. , Swinehart J.M. , Wisniewski M. , Yilmaz H.M. , Collins J.J.
Published: October 2009

This study was designed to compare the clinical and bacteriological efficacy of three oral cephalosporins, cefuroxime axetil, cephalexin and cefadroxil, in the treatment of patients with mild to moderate infections of the skin or skin structures. A total of 330 patients were enrolled at 10 centers and were randomly assigned to receive cefuroxime axetil 250 mg (n = 107), cephalexin 500 mg (n = 111) or cefadroxil 500 mg (n = 112), twice daily for 10 days. Patients were assessed for their clinical and bacteriological responses once during treatment (3–5 days) and twice after treatment (1–3 and 10–14 days). A total of 353 bacterial isolates were obtained: Staphylococcus aureus (41%) Staphylococcus epidermidis (33%) and Streptococcus pyogenes (5%). A satisfactory clinical outcome (cure or improvement) was achieved in 97% (89/92) 89% (80/90) and 94% (82/87) of the clinically evaluable patients treated with cefuroxime axetil, cephalexin or cefadroxil, respectively (p = 0.047, cefuroxime axetil vs. cephalexin). With respect to the eradication of the bacterial pathogens, a satisfactory outcome (cure or presumed cure) was obtained in 96% (69/72), 85% (60/71) and 93% (63/68) of bacteriologically evaluable patients treated with cefuroxime axetil, cephalexin and cefadroxil, respectively (p = 0.026, cefuroxime axetil vs. cephalexin). All three study drugs were well tolerated, with adverse events affecting the gastrointestinal system most commonly reported. There were no significant differences between treatment groups in the incidence of drug-related adverse events.
Effects of Topical Calcipotriol on Calcium Metabolism in Psoriatic Patients: Comparison with Oral Calcitriol
Authors: Gumowski-Sunek D. , Rizzoli R. , Saurat J.-H.
Published: October 2009

The analogue of calcitriol calcipotriol (MC 903 Daivonex®) has been proven effective in the treatment of psoriasis, when given topically. However, the possible influence of cutaneously absorbed MC 903 on calcium metabolism is still unclear. We evaluated various parameters of calcium metabolism in 17 psoriatic patients treated for 5.4 ± 2.3 (mean ± SD) weeks with MC 903, on 16 ± 6% of the body surface. The dose administered (100 g of Daivonex corresponding to 5 mg of MC 903) decreased the PASI score by 40.9 ± 20.0% (p < 0.001). Among these patients, 12 were studied before and after MC 903 therapy. In none could be detected any change in protein-adjusted calcium, ionized Ca, plasma levels of creatinine, alkaline phosphatase, osteocalcin, intact parathyroid hormone (PTH), calcidiol and calcitriol, or in daily or fasting urinary excretion of Ca or cAMP. After an MC-903-free period, 9 patients received 1.5 μg/day of calcitriol orally for 7 days. Whereas this treatment did not control the skin relapse in most of the patients, it induced a significant increase in plasma levels of protein-adjusted Ca and calcitriol, and in 24-hour urinary Ca excretion, as well as a significant fall in PTH as compared with pretreatment values. These results indicate that 150 μg/day of MC 903 despite a possible 1% absorption i. e. a systemic dose of 1.5 μg did not produce any detectable alteration of Ca metabolism, whereas an equivalent dose of oral calcitriol was associated with significant changes. The threshold dose of topical calcipotriol that might induce alterations similar to 1.5 μg/day of oral calcitriol remains to be evaluated.
Skin Bioengineering in the Noninvasive Assessment of Cutaneous Aging
Authors: Berardesca E. , Farinelli N. , Rabbiosi G. , Maibach H.I.
Published: October 2009

Cutaneous changes induced by aging can be quantified and monitored noninvasively by means of bioengineering tools. Skin elasticity, hydration, skin blood flow and skin surface pattern show age-related changes reflecting the damage of cutaneous structures involved. Impairment and degeneration of elastic and collagen networks are responsible for the progressive decrease in skin elasticity recorded during aging. Reduction in blood flow and water supply with probably defective stratum corneum binding result in reduced stratum corneum water content and transepidermal water loss. Morphological changes such as increased skin roughness pigmentation and alteration of skin surface pattern appearing from the age of 30 years onwards may be investigated at a subclinical level allowing the detection of early signs of aging.
Sweat-Related Dermatoses: Old Concept and New Scenario
Authors: Hu C.-H.
Published: October 2009

This review focuses on dermatoses that are caused by the presence of sweat – a previously underemphasized subject. A working classification based on ‘internal sweating’ (extravasated sweat in the dermis and epidermis) and ‘external sweating’ (sweat on skin surface) is proposed. Clinical observations suggest that transient acantholytic dermatosis is the consequence of extravasated sweat; we speculate that it is an example of sweat-related, protease-induced epidermal acantholysis. Neutrophilic eccrine hidradenitis may represent a sweat-related drug reaction. We emphasize the well-recognized phenomenon of ‘sweat retention syndrome’ in a new scenario: hospitalized febrile patients, increasing use of chemotherapy, new life style. The concept of ‘sweat-gland-mediated cutaneous inflammation’ is proposed.
Clinically Relevant Differences between Amelanotic Malignant Melanoma and Granuloma pyogenicum
Authors: Bassukas I.D. , Kuhnert A. , Diepgen T.L. , Hornstein O.P.
Published: October 2009

Macroscopic discrimination between amelanotic malignant melanoma (aMM) and the so-called granuloma pyogenicum (GP) is often uncertain since reliable criteria for a clear differentiation of either growth are lacking. In a search of such criteria we analysed the data of 57 consecutive in-patients with cutaneous aMM and of 83 with GP presenting at our Department during the years 1970–1988. The following items were compared with each other: duration from growth onset to definite diagnosis, siteof growth, age and sex of the patients. Significant differences (p < 0.01) between either growth were found for all items evaluated. Our results substantiate the hitherto gained impression of a remarkably shorter median history of GP as compared to aMM (5 vs. 26 weeks). Furthermore aMM prevailed in elder (age > 50 years) particularly female (70%) patients, whereas GP developed about equally in both sexes and at all ages. Site distribution was also found to differ for either growth (GP predominantly in the head and neck region, rarely on lower limbs; aMM in all areas, rarely on the trunk). These data yield additional measures for clinical distinction between aMM and GP.
CD4+ Memory T Cells in Peripheral Blood Are Not Decreased in Patients with Atopic Dermatitis
Authors: Burgard J. , Mielke V. , Leimenstoll G. , Sterry W.
Published: October 2009

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a severe and chronic eczematous skin disease, to which increased IgE levels and imbalances of CD4+ T cells are related. CD4+ T cells, however, are heterogeneous and include at least two subpopulations being designated as CD4+ naive and memory T cells. They represent sequential maturational stages (naive into memory) in CD4+ T cell development differing in function and phenotype. Of these two subpopulations the CD4+ memory T cell compartment is a potent producer of γ-interferon which suppresses IgE synthesis in B cells. Therefore we speculated whether an inborn maturation defect of CD4+ memory T cells causes the increased IgE production in AD. In patients with AD and age- and sex-matched controls (both n = 10) we analyzed the distribution of both subpopulations in peripheral blood by two-color flow cytometry using monoclonal antibodies against the CD4, CD45RA and CD29 antigen. We provide evidence that the numerical values of CD4 + memory T cells and CD4 + naive T cells are equivalent in both groups. This supports the view that functional disturbances of lymphocytes or lymphocyte subsets are responsible for IgE excess and the pathogenesis of AD.
Rhythm of Sebum Excretion during the Menstrual Cycle
Authors: Piérard-Franchimont C. , Piérard G.E. , Kligman A.M.
Published: October 2009

We studied by the Sebutape technique variations in the sebum excretion and in the number of active sebaceous glands during 3 consecutive menstrual cycles. In seborrheic women we found cyclic changes with a maximum sebum excretion during the week before menstruation. In women with a low sebum production, no changes were found.
Dermatological Signs of Nasopharyngeal Linguatulosis (Halzoun, Marrara Syndrome) – The Possible Role of Major Basic Protein
Authors: Buslau M. , Kühne U. , Marsch W.C.
Published: October 2009

Two hours after ingestion of improperly cooked meat a German tourist in Tunisia showed coughing, hoarseness, dysphagia, anosmia, frontal headache and epistaxis. At the same time a papular non-itching exanthema developed. The nasal discharge contained nymphs of Linguatula serrata. Histological examination of the papules revealed tissue eosinophilia and ‘flame figures’. Nasopharyngeal and skin signs subsided spontaneously within 10 days. The possible role of major basic protein in the pathogenesis of nasopharyngeal linguatulosis is discussed.
Tufted Angioma
Authors: Frenk E. , Vion B. , Mérot Y. , Alvero H. , Ruffieux C.
Published: October 2009

The clinical and histological description of 2 cases of tufted angioma is presented.
Disseminated Superficial Actinic Porokeratosis
Authors: Harms M. , Masouyé I. , Chavaz P. , Saurat J.-H.
Published: October 2009

We report a case of a 45-year-old woman who had a 20-year history of disseminated superficial actinic porokeratosis with numerous lesions on sun-exposed areas that were for a long time misdiagnosed as atrophic lichen planus.
Acquired C1 Inhibitor Deficiency: Postmortem Diagnosis
Authors: Fivenson David P. , Dillman Robert O. , Gigli Irma
Published: October 2009

Acquired C1 esterase inhibitor deficiency is a clinical syndrome closely resembling hereditary angioedema in which most patients have an associated malignancy of B cell lineage. Sera from 33 patients with B cell neoplasms were assayed for C1 esterase inhibitor level by rocket immunoelectrophoresis. The clinical summary of a patient who met the biochemical criteria for acquired C1 esterase inhibitor deficiency (low C1 esterase inhibitor, low C4) is presented. We hypothesize that this syndrome represents an autoimmune reaction involving tumor cell rejections and of potential benefit to the patient.
Clinical Significance of Antinuclear Antibodies in Japanese Patients with Systemic Sclerosis
Authors: Igarashi Atsuyuki , Takehara Kazuhiko , Soma Yoshinao , Kikuchi Kanako , Ishibashi Yasumasa
Published: October 2009

Clinical significance of specific antinuclear antibodies (ANA) in Japanese patients with systemic sclerosis was studied. The patients with systemic sclerosis were classified into four groups according to ANA: (1) anticentromere antibody-positive; (2) anti-Scl-70 antibody-positive; (3) anti-nRNP antibody-positive, and (4) others. The mean score (the number of positive signs in six selected specific signs) of the patients with anti-Scl-70 antibody was significantly higher than those of the other three groups. More frequent contracture of phalanges in the patients with anti-Scl-70 antibody less diffuse pigmentation in the patients with anti-nRNP antibody and less pulmonary fibrosis in the patients with anticentromere antibody were revealed. As shown above the detection of specific ANA in systemic sclerosis is clinically important.
Solar Urticaria in the Visible Spectrum Successfully Treated with Astemizole
Authors: Monfrecola G. , Nappa P. , Pini D.
Published: October 2009

Three cases of solar urticaria in the visible spectrum successfully treated with astemizole, a H1 antihistamine, are reported. The administration of 10 mg a day of the drug increased the minimal urticarial dose from 2 to 12 times.
Hamartome fibreux de Enzinger
Authors: Decroix J. , Eggers S. , Bourlond A.
Published: October 2009

This paper presents light- and electron-microscopic findings in a case of ‘fibrous hamartoma of infancy’ localized on both soles of an 18-month-old boy. The examinations show immature fibroblastic proliferation and progressive evolution to mature and dense fibrocol-lagenous trabeculae. Myo-fibroblastic features are frequently found. However, a review of the literature reveals that myo-fibroblasts are indeed found in all cases of fibromatous and scarring processes and even in normal fibrous tissue.
L’érythrokératodermie progressive symétrique de Gottron
Authors: Minet A. , Marcoux C.
Published: October 2009

A case of Gottron’s syndrome or symmetrical progressive erythrokeratoderma is presented. Typical, symmetrical erythematosquamous lesions are limited to the limbs and face; the disease appeared at 4 months and stabilized at 3 years. The histological study discovers only nonspecific granular layer alterations.The ultrastructural investigation reveals an important intercellular edema and a moderate cytoplasmic vacuolization in the basal and prickle cell layer and in the stratum corneum; wandering lymphocytes are also observed. The association with neuropsychological and sensorial troubles as well as facial dysmorphy and kidney abnormalities is underlined.
Dermite généralisée et SIDA
Authors: Bourlond A. , Willocx D. , Pirkl S.
Published: October 2009

Two cases of widespread psoriasiform eruption in HIV-seropositive patients are reported. Histologically closely similar to seborrheic dermatitis and clinically to psoriasis, the eruption escapes any clear-cut classification and its etiopathogeny remains highly speculative. A review of the literature is presented.
Ataxie-télangiectasie
Authors: Rousseau C. , Eggers S. , Pirard C. , Decroix J. , Evrard P. , Lyon G. , Verellen-Dumoulin C.
Published: October 2009

Three children afflicted with ataxia-telangiectasia are briefly presented; the main characteristics and etiopathogenic factors are summarized. Cutaneous signs enumerate: telangiectasias on sun-exposed areas; pigmentary disturbances; atopic dermatitis; microbial, viral and mycotic infections, and progeria-like dystrophy. In these three children, the high number of café-au-lait spots and hypochromic macules appeared at first suggestive of neurofibromatosis or tuberous sclerosis.
Syndrome de Werner avec complications inhabituelles
Authors: Rousseau C. , Pirard C. , Bourlond A. , de Sélys R. , Frankart M. , Minet A. , Lambert A.E. , Vandeleene B. , Brichard S. , Meunier H. , Verellen-Dumoulin C.
Published: October 2009

This case of Werner syndrome proved highly interesting because of severe insulinoresistant diabetes, various complications, myelofibrosis progressing as an acute myeloid leukemia. Recent concepts about the syndrome are commented upon.
Calciphylaxie?
Authors: Bourlond A. , Eggers S. , Willocx D. , Loute G. , Ghysen J.
Published: October 2009

A patient with end-stage renal failure on chronic hemodialysis, with secondary hyperparathyroidism and hyperphosphatemia, developed widespread and painful necrotic lesions involving the skin and the subcutaneous fat of the left leg and the lower portion of the abdomen. On X-ray examination the areas showed severe soft tissue as well as vascular calcification. The literature is reviewed and the pathogenetic factors are analyzed: high product of calcium and phosphate; hyperparathyroidism, calciphylaxis. Subtotal parathyroidectomy is considered the best treatment, because it may result in rapid cure of the cutaneous ulcers.
Atopic Dermatitis Flare Provoked by Inhalant Allergens
Authors: Wüthrich Brunello
Published: October 2009

We report on 2 patients with atopic dermatitis (AD) exacerbated by inhalant allergens: grass pollens in spring (AD as hay fever equivalent) and nonbiting red midges (chironomides) in pet fish food. These clinical observations confirm the existence of an ‘extrinsic’ IgE-mediated type of AD in a minority of patients in which the IgE sensitization against specific allergens plays a causal role for the skin disorder.
Rates of Epidermal Carcinomas in the Mosan Region of Belgium
Authors: Piérard-Franchimont C. , Piérard G.E.
Published: October 2009

The prevalence of nonmelanocytic skin cancers has been evaluated from histologic data related to the population of the Mosan region of Belgium. 2,538 neoplasms were identified over a period of 5 years. The collected data are in opposition with those provided by the national cancer registry of Belgium. Nonmelanocytic skin cancers represent at least 15 % of the total number of cancers. The relative risk to develop a given malignant cutaneous neoplasm rather than another is constant until 80 years of age. The age distribution of the rates of estimated prevalence is different between keratoacanthomas on the one hand and basal and squamous cell carcinomas on the other hand.
Modification of Lymphocyte Subsets in Jessner’s Lymphocytic Infiltration of the Skin during Proquazone Treatment
Authors: Johansson E.A. , Niemi K.-M. , Ranki A.
Published: October 2009

This study deals with 13 patients who volunteered for serial biopsies during proquazone treatment which proved to be effective in the majority of the cases. The immunocompetent cells in the inflammatory cell infiltrates were characterized by a panel of monoclonal antibodies: OKT11, OKT4, OKT8, OKT6, NK-9 and Leu-14. Before proquazone treatment there was only a slight predominance of OKT4-positive cells as compared to OKT8-positive cells but a rather high number of NK-9-positive natural killer or activated cytotoxic T cells. The pattern of inflammatory cell subclasses changed during the treatment and the most striking difference was the reduction in the number of the NK-9-positive cells. It is proposed that Jessner’s lymphocytic infiltration of the skin (LIS) should be viewed as an entity and that proquazone possibly acts by modulating the pattern and activation stage of lymphocyte subclasses in LIS.
Serum Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Activity in Psoriasis
Authors: Ena Pasquale , Madeddu Paolo , Rappelli Alessandro , Cerimele Decio
Published: October 2009

Conflicting data concerning the presence of enhanced serum angiotensin-converting enzyme (SACE) activity in psoriasis are reported in the literature. In order to verify whether this abnormality is a typical pattern of psoriasis, SACE levels were determined in 27 psoriatics as well as in 18 healthy subjects and in 30 patients with essential hypertension. We found that SACE levels were normal in patients affected by psoriasis independently of the presence or the absence of abnormalities in carbohydrate metabolism. Furthermore, SACE levels were not related to the severity of the skin lesions. We conclude that an elevated SACE activity is not a typical pattern of psoriasis, whereas, when present in a psoriatic, it might suggest the possibility of a coexisting unknown systemic sarcoidosis.
Photoonycholysis Induced by the Fluoroquinolones Pefloxacine and Ofloxacine
Authors: Baran Robert , Brun Patrick
Published: October 2009

Pefloxacine and ofloxacine are 2 new synthetic fluoroquinolones which should be added to the list of drugs inducing photoonycholysis. Two cases are reported.
Complement Fixation by Brazilian Pemphigus foliaceus Antibodies in vitro
Authors: Shimizu H. , Nishikawa T.
Published: October 2009

In order to examine the presence of intercellular substance antibodies (ICS Ab) which will fix complement in vitro, in the sera of patients with Brazilian pemphigus foliaceus (BPF), 7 BPF sera were tested using immunofluorescence (IF) and complement IF (CIF). All 7 sera possessed IgG ICS Ab at titers varying from 1/320 to 1/2,560 (normal human skin as substrates). Using CIF, 2 out of 7 sera proved to have a capacity to fix complement (C3) in vitro at a titer of 1/40. Although the titer of complement-fixing ICS Ab detected by CIF was lower than IgG ICS Ab detected by IF, these results with the evidence of frequent C3 deposition in the lesional skin of BPF suggest the necessity of further studies on the role of complement system in BPF.
Lack of Skeletal Radiographic Changes during Short-Term Etretinate Therapy for Psoriasis
Authors: Gilbert M. , Ellis C.N. , Voorhees J.J.
Published: October 2009

We prospectively analyzed radiographic skeletal surveys of eight patients who received etretinate therapy for psoriasis at doses ranging from 0.5 to 1.2 mg/kg/day for 6–18 months. Although subtle skeletal changes could have been obscured by some of our patients’ other radiographic abnormalities, no bony changes that could be attributed to etretinate were detected in any of these patients.
Response of Solitary Psoriatic Plaques to Experimental Application of Podophyllotoxin
Authors: Lassus A. , Rosen B.
Published: October 2009

A 16-week double-blind study of parallel groups was carried out in the treatment of 152 patients suffering from stable psoriasis vulgaris. Podophyllotoxin was applied once daily at three different concentrations in an ointment base, namely 0.1, 0.25 and 0.5%. One stable psoriatic lesion was selected and monitored during the study course. All three concentrations of podophyllotoxin induced a statistically highly significant improvement (p < 0.001) of the selected lesions. There was statistically highly significant difference between the treated and control lesions already after 2 weeks of treatment (p > 0.001), and this difference increased further during the study course. Eleven patients experienced adverse reactions – severe skin rash – spontaneously reported by the patients.
Giant Melanosomes in the Dysplastic Nevus Syndrome
Authors: Hull Meredith T. , Epinette Warren W.
Published: October 2009

Multiple pigmented lesions including benign lentigines, typical nevi, and dysplastic nevi from 3 patients with the dysplastic nevus syndrome contained giant melanosomes (GM). Ultrastructurally the GM were composed of microvesicles, but lacked limiting membrane and filamentous internal structure. As such, they resembled the GM found in 4 other patients with dysplastic nevus syndrome, leopard syndrome and ocular albinism, but differed from those found in the café-au-lait spots of neurofibromatosis, nevus spilus, vitiliginous achromia, and certain animals.
Locally Injected Bleomycin in the Treatment of Warts
Authors: Munkvad M. , Genner J. , Staberg B. , Kongsholm H.
Published: October 2009

To evaluate the clinical effectiveness of intradermally injected bleomycin in saline and oil versus placebo, a double-blind study of 62 patients with 108 warts was made. Although bleomycin has been recommended in previous reports, we found no difference between the group treated with bleomycin and the placebo group.
Dose-Response Relationship in Isotretinoin Therapy for Conglobate Acne
Authors: van der Meeren H.L.M. , van der Schroeff J.G. , Stijnen T. , van Duren J.A. , van der Dries H.A.C. , van Voorst Vader P.C.
Published: October 2009

58 male patients with therapy-resistant conglobate acne were randomly selected for treatment with isotretinoin 1.0 or 0.5 mg/kg bodyweight. 27 patients received the high-dose regimen and 31 patients the lower dosage. The efficacy of the drug was highly satisfactory in both therapy groups and no differences could be observed between them. Side-effects (dry lips, dry nose, scaling of the skin) were generally well tolerated in both groups, they were more serious in the 1.0-mg/kg group. It is concluded that isotretinoin therapy is very effective in male patients with conglobate acne and that a dosage of 0.5 mg/kg is preferable to higher dosage regimens.
Solar Urticaria Inhibited by Visible Light
Authors: Torinuki Wakio , Kumai Norio , Miura Takashi
Published: October 2009

A 25-year-old man with solar urticaria is described. The action spectrum ranged from 400 to 500 nm. An inhibition spectrum was found to be in the visible light range above 660 nm. Simultaneous or alternate exposure to ‘blue-violet light’ and ‘red light’ mostly inhibited weal formation. The urticarial reaction was not blocked by local injection of antihistamines and not prevented by histamine depletion with polymyxin B sulfate. These data suggest that histamine may not play a major role in weal production in this case.
HLA System and Therapy of Psoriasis
Authors: Zlatkov N.B. , Minev M. , Dourmishev A.L. , Martinova F.
Published: October 2009

In 192 patients with psoriasis an increased frequency of the antigens HLA-B13 (19.79%, X2 = 32.79, p < 0.001), HLA-B17 (24.47%, X2 = 64,84, p < 0.001), and HLA-B27 (19.27%, X2= 11.07, p < 0.001) in comparison with the control group of 1,085 clinically healthy persons, was established. After 4 weeks of thalassotherapy 3 groups of patients could be distinguished: (1) those with full clinical remission – 50 (26.8%), (2) those with great or moderate improvement – 116 (60.4%), and (3) those with no improvement – 26 patients (13.6%). In the first two groups there is a statistically significant association with the HLA antigens B13 and B17. In the third group (no improvement) there is no such association with HLA-B13 (p < 0.01). Consequently, patients in whom psoriasis is associated with HLA-B13 were better influenced by the thalassotherapy. The variability in the therapeutic efficiency means that perhaps there is a genetic heterogenicity in the group of common psoriasis.
La thalidomide dans le traitement du lupus érythémateux chronique
Authors: Scolari F. , Harms M. , Gilardi S.
Published: October 2009

The effect of thalidomide was investigated in 12 patients with chronic lupus erythematosus resistant to classical treatment (antimalarial drugs, topical steroids). 10 patients were improved and 2 were not sensitive to the treatment. The doses were 100 mg/day for a minimum period of 2 months. With the exception of 1 case, the treatment was well tolerated. The indications of thalidomide in dermatology and the mechanism of action of the drug are briefly discussed.
Epidermolysis Bullosa Herpetiformis Dowling-Meara
Authors: Anton-Lamprecht I. , Schnyder U.W.
Published: October 2009

Report of a 2-year-old girl of Turkish origin with congenital generalized blister formation in herpetiform arrangement. Direct immunofluorescence ruled out juvenile dermatitits herpetiformis Duhring. Ultrastructural investigation of a fresh blister and clinically intact preblistering skin revealed intraepidermal blister formation via cytolysis of basal cells preceded by clumping of tonofilaments and partial attachment to the hemidesmosomes at the dermo-epidermal junction. This type of blister formation is significantly different from all other epidermolysis bullosa types and is a characteristic feature of all further cases studied so far by electron microscopy (n = 20) which correspond to the original cases of Dowling and Meara. Clinical features characteristic of this epidermolysis type are outlined and classification of epidermolysis bullosa herpetiformis Dowling-Meara into the non-scarring epidermolyses with dominant inheritance is discussed.
The ‘Half and Half Nail’ Phenomenon in Chronic Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Lubach D. , Strübbe J. , Schmidt J.
Published: October 2009

164 chronic hemodialysis patients were examined for reddish-brown distal nail bands (so-called brown arcs or ‘half and half nails’). These discolorations were found in 50.6% of the patients examined. No difference was made between the sexes and no age group was given any preference. The fingernails were affected more often than the toenails. The distal nail bands were classified according to size. 11% of the dialysis patients had half and half nails on their fingers, and the expansion of the other pigmented transverse bands was smaller. After 23 weeks the expansion of the distal nail bands had only changed slightly. In this period there was no change in the frequency of the nail symptoms.