bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Genome‐wide patterns of latitudinal differentiation among populations of Drosophila melanogaster from North America
Authors: Fabian Daniel K. , Kapun Martin , Nolte Viola , Kofler Robert , Schmidt Paul S. , Schlötterer Christian , Flatt Thomas 
Published: August 2012

AbstractUnderstanding the genetic underpinnings of adaptive change is a fundamental but largely unresolved problem in evolutionary biology. Drosophila melanogaster, an ancestrally tropical insect that has spread to temperate regions and become cosmopolitan, offers a powerful opportunity for identifying the molecular polymorphisms underlying clinal adaptation. Here, we use genome‐wide next‐generation sequencing of DNA pools (‘pool‐seq’) from three populations collected along the North American east coast to examine patterns of latitudinal differentiation. Comparing the genomes of these populations is particularly interesting since they exhibit clinal variation in a number of important life history traits. We find extensive latitudinal differentiation, with many of the most strongly differentiated genes involved in major functional pathways such as the insulin/TOR, ecdysone, torso, EGFR, TGFβ/BMP, JAK/STAT, immunity and circadian rhythm pathways. We observe particularly strong differentiation on chromosome 3R, especially within the cosmopolitan inversion In(3R)Payne, which contains a large number of clinally varying genes. While much of the differentiation might be driven by clinal differences in the frequency of In(3R)P, we also identify genes that are likely independent of this inversion. Our results provide genome‐wide evidence consistent with pervasive spatially variable selection acting on numerous loci and pathways along the well‐known North American cline, with many candidates implicated in life history regulation and exhibiting parallel differentiation along the previously investigated Australian cline.
CRS–MIS in Candida glabrata: sphingolipids modulate echinocandin–Fks interaction
Authors: Healey Kelley R. , Katiyar Santosh K. , Raj Shriya , Edlind Thomas D. 
Published: August 2012

SummaryInfections with the azole‐refractory yeast Candida glabrata are now commonly treated with the echinocandins caspofungin (CSF) or micafungin (MCF). True resistance (> 32‐fold decreased susceptibility) to these lipopeptide inhibitors of cell wall synthesis is rare and strictly associated with mutations in integral membrane proteins Fks1 or Fks2. In contrast, mutants exhibiting 4‐ to 32‐fold CSF reduced susceptibility (CRS) were readily selected in vitro, and surprisingly demonstrated 4‐ to 32‐fold MCF increased susceptibility (MIS). Sequencing and gene deletion demonstrated that CRS–MIS is Fks‐independent. To explore alternative mechanisms, we initially employed Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and observed that CRS was conferred by multiple mutations (fen1Δ, sur4Δ, cka2Δ and tsc10‐ts) disrupting sphingolipid biosynthesis. Following this lead, C. glabrata fen1Δ and cka2Δ deletants were constructed, and shown to exhibit CRS–MIS. Sphingolipid analysis of CRS–MIS laboratory mutants and clinical isolates demonstrated elevated dihydrosphingosine (DHS) and phytosphingosine (PHS) levels, and consistent with this sequencing revealed fen1, sur4, ifa38 and sur2 mutations. Moreover, exogenous DHS or PHS conferred a CRS–MIS phenotype on wild‐type C. glabrata. Exogenous PHS failed, however, to suppress CRS–MIS in a sur2 mutant blocked in conversion of DHS to PHS, implying that accumulation of these intermediates confers CRS–MIS. We conclude that membrane sphingolipids modulate echinocandin–Fks interaction.
Cutaneous T cell lymphoma: update on treatment
Authors: Wollina Uwe 
Published: August 2012

AbstractBackground  Cutaneous T‐cell lymphoma (CTCL) is a myeloproliferative disease with pronounced epidermotropism. The major subtypes of CTCL are mycosis fungoides and Sézary syndrome. Survival is dependent on the histological subtype and clinical stage. Early CTCL has a normal life expectancy, therefore early disease recognition and stage adapted treatment might help to ensure a good prognosis.Methods  This is a review of recent advances in CTCL treatment based on literature review.Results  Skin targeted therapies are useful for patch and limited plaque disease with phototherapy as the cornerstone of such treatments. More advanced disease will benefit from systemic mono‐ or combined treatments including drug therapy, extracorporeal photopheresis, and radiotherapy. In practice combined treatments may reduce adverse events and improve response rates. For selected younger patients, stem cell transplantation seems a third‐line option.Conclusions  The therapeutic spectrum for CTCL has been advanced during the last years, providing the opportunity of tailored treatment for patients.
Basal cell carcinoma on the dorsum of the foot with inguinal and pelvic lymph nodes metastases
Authors: Nakamura Yoshiyuki , Ishitsuka Yosuke , Ohara Kuniaki , Otsuka Fujio 
Published: August 2012

AbstractBackground  Although basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common type of skin cancer, the incidence of metastasis is exceedingly low.Objective  Case presentation of a basal cell carcinoma arising on the dorsum of the foot with inguinal and pelvic lymph node metastases.Method  Case presentation with literature review.Result  On the basis of our review of Japanese literature, the risk factors for BCC metastasis are occurrence on the genitalia, diameter of more than 3 cm, deep invasion of tumor cells into extradermal structures, and infiltrative/morpheic histological type.Conclusion  Although metastasis from BCC is extremely rare, the prognosis of metastatic BCC is often poor. Careful follow‐up is recommended in cases with high risk factors.
Blastomycosis: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Motswaledi Hendrick M. , Monyemangene Francinah M. , Maloba Bonnie R. , Nemutavhanani Dick L. 
Published: August 2012

AbstractBackground  Blastomycosis is a chronic granulomatous and suppurative mycosis caused by the fungus Blastomyces dermatitidis. This is a dimorphic fungus, which exists as a non‐pathogenic mold in mycelial form in nature and converts to pathogenic yeast at body temperature. Infection is acquired by either inhalation or inoculation. We report a case of blastomycosis with severe involvement of the scalp, face, and neck, with no evidence of systemic involvement.Methods  Biopsy specimen was stained with hematoxylin and eosin, periodic acid‐Schiff (PAS), PAS with diastase digestion, and Grocott. Culture was performed on a Sabouraud’s dextrose agar plate using an aseptic technique as per standard operating procedure for processing mycology specimens at our institution. A lactophenol cotton blue preparation from the cultured material was performed.Results  Histopathologic examination showed pseudoepitheliomatous hyperplasia and a granulomatous inflammation with round to oval organisms, with refractile cell walls in the cytoplasm of giant cells. PAS, PAS with diastase digestion, and Grocott stains enhanced the organisms. Cultured material showed growth after 10 days, and the lactophenol cotton blue preparation from the cultured material showed the organism to be Blastomyces dermatitidis. Sensitivity studies favored treatment with itraconazole. Radiological examination of the patient showed no evidence of systemic involvement.Conclusions  Our case may represent the rare primary cutaneous inoculation blastomycosis as lesions started on an area of previous trauma. Treatment with itraconazole was successful.
Mycetomatoid infection of the penis by Candida albicans
Authors: Mastrolorenzo Antonio , Giomi Barbara , Cipollini Emanuele Maria , Tammaro Rosario , Decarli Nicola , Cammelli Daniele , Fabiani Tropeano Francesca , Tiradritti Luana , Difonzo Elisa Margherita , Zuccati Giuliano 
Published: August 2012

AbstractBackground  Mycetoma is generally understood to be a chronic suppurative infection involving the skin and the underlying tissue. Mycetomas may be classified as those produced by true fungi (eumycetoma) versus those due to aerobic bacteria Actinomycetales (actinomycetoma).Methods  We report the atypical case of a mycetomatoid infection of the penile shaft and glans in a 36‐year‐old man, originally from Senegal, affected by Takayasu’s arteritis.Results  Extensive investigations excluded any other causative pathogen other than Candida albicans, and the ailment accordingly healed after fluconazole monotherapy.Conclusion  The authors discuss the unusual site of the disease and the singular clinical features related to the fungal etiology and put forward considerations on the pathogenic role of common microorganisms.
Exfoliative dermatitis: patterns of clinical presentation in a tropical rural and suburban dermatology practice in Nigeria
Authors: Salami Taofik A. T. , Enahoro Oziegbe Odigie , Omeife Henry 
Published: August 2012

AbstractBackground  Exfoliative dermatitis (ED) refers to a skin condition in which the skin is diffusely red and inflamed, with varying degrees and types of scaling. It is a serious medical condition and may require hospitalization.Objectives  This study was conducted to establish the demographics, etiology, and clinical outcomes of patients presenting with ED at the dermatology outpatient clinic at Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital (ISTH), Irrua, Edo State, Nigeria.Methods  The study used a retrospective, cross‐sectional, descriptive design. The records of all dermatology patients attending the ISTH outpatient clinic were scrutinized for patients in whom ED was diagnosed and managed between March 1, 2004, and November 30, 2010. Relevant records were extracted and details subjected to statistical analysis. Main outcome measures were discharge and death.Results  A total of 1422 dermatology patients were seen at the dermatology outpatient clinic during the study period. Of these, 39 were diagnosed with ED (hospital prevalence rate: 2.7%). The mean age of the ED patients was 60.0 ± 19.5 years (range: 21–90 years). Patients included 22 men and 17 women, giving a male : female ratio of 1.3 : 1. Of patients aged <40 years, 70% were HIV‐positive, and antiretroviral medications accounted for 5% of cases of ED, whereas 50% of elderly patients had a suspected underlying malignancy.Conclusions  Erythroderma is an uncommon dermatologic presentation. Its recognized association with various internal malignancies makes it a diagnosis of significant clinical importance, particularly in resource‐poor rural and suburban centers across Africa. Its recognition and prompt treatment can prevent early mortality or reduce morbidity in elderly patients who present with this condition in the early stages, especially if it is the first harbinger of internal malignancy.
High‐dose isotretinoin in acne vulgaris: improved treatment outcomes and quality of life
Authors: Cyrulnik Amanda A. , Viola Kate V. , Gewirtzman Aron J. , Cohen Steven R. 
Published: August 2012

AbstractBackground  Isotretinoin, for acne treatment, is associated with high rates of permanent remission. However, at recommended doses of 0.5‐1.0 mg/kg/day for 5‐6 months [average cumulative dose: 120‐150 mg/kg], more than 20% of patients experience a relapse within two years that requires further medical management.Objective  To examine outcomes of high‐dose isotretinoin in a cohort with cystic acne, as well as measuring its impact on quality of life (QOL).Methods  A single dermatologist, single institution investigation within an academic tertiary care center in Bronx, NY. Eighty patients with nodulocystic acne, maintained on oral isotretinoin at a dose of 1.3 mg/kg/day or greater, were studied from 2006‐2009 while additionally participating in a QOL survey. Main outcome measures included documented events, acne clearance, presence of relapse, and quality of life parameters.Results  The mean daily dose of isotretinoin was 1.6 mg/kg/day for an average time course of 178 days [cumulative dose: 290 mg/kg]. No side effects or laboratory abnormalities led to discontinuation of treatment. There were no psychiatric symptoms. One‐hundred percent (100%) of patients were disease‐free upon completion of treatment. During the three‐year study period, 10 patients (12.5%) developed a relapse that required an additional course of isotretinoin. Analysis of QOL domains (self‐perception, role‐social, symptoms) revealed significant improvement following isotretinoin therapy (p = 0.0124, p = 0.0066, p = 0.0265, respectively).Conclusions  Isotretinoin prescribed at 1.5 mg/kg/day or greater for 5‐6 months [cumulative total dose of 290 mg/kg] is safe and effective compared to current standard dosing practices. We propose the use of high‐dose isotretinoin (>1.3 mg/kg/day) as a treatment option in severe nodulocystic acne and encourage larger, prospective, multicenter studies into this therapeutic approach.
The ATP2A2 gene in patients with Darier’s disease: one novel splicing mutation
Authors: Shi Bing‐Jun , Xue Mei , Zhong Gui‐Shu , Jiang Yang , Chen De‐Yu , Feng Jie , Hao Jing , Diao Qing‐Chun 
Published: August 2012

AbstractBackground  Darier’s disease (DD) is a rare, inherited skin disorder characterized by warty papules and plaques over the seborrheic area, such as central trunk, flexures, scalp, and forehead. Mutations in ATP2A2 gene encoding the enzyme sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ATPase type 2 are responsible for the disease. Here we report two Chinese families affected by DD with two ATP2A2 mutations.Materials and methods  DNA was extracted from the peripheral blood samples and then subjected to polymerase chain reaction amplification and direct automated DNA sequencing.Results  A heterozygous G to T transition in the first nucleotide of intron 7 (c.630 + 1G > T) and G to A transversion at nucleotide 2898 in exon 20 of the ATP2A2 gene were identified in two pedigrees, respectively. The former mutation in the splice site is a novel mutation and is thought to lead to aberrant splicing and premature protein truncation. The latter has already been described, which leads to premature termination codons (PTC) (W966X).Conclusion  The results will contribute to the expanding database of ATP2A2 mutations in patients with DD and be useful for inherited counseling and prenatal examination for affected families.
Alpha‐Gal detectors in xenotransplantation research: a word of caution
Authors: Naso Filippo , Gandaglia Alessandro , Iop Laura , Spina Michele , Gerosa Gino 
Published: August 2012

Naso F, Gandaglia A, Iop L, Spina M, Gerosa G. Alpha‐Gal detectors in xenotransplantation research: a word of caution. Xenotransplantation 2012; 19: 215–220. © 2012 John Wiley & Sons A/S.Abstract:  Xenogeneic tissues are currently employed in clinical practice to create biological substitutes (bioprosthetic heart valves) and in the repair of various damaged tissues (pericardium, gastric‐mucosa, nerves, cartilage). Many studies have shown that xenogeneic tissues express superficial epitopes as alpha‐Gal, capable of triggering hyperacute and acute vascular rejection phenomena. Currently, no tissue treatment has proven able to completely mask or inactivate such epitopes. In fact, neither glutaraldehyde fixation nor decellularisation procedures ensure a definitive solution because of the persistence of reactive xenoantigen residues. The ability to ascertain alpha‐Gal epitope removal from a xenogeneic tissue is closely related to the possibility of its quantitative determination. In the past, detection of the alpha‐Gal epitope relied on the use of alpha‐Gal reactive isolectin molecules and was limited to isolated cells. Recently, the quantitative evaluation of this antigen has been carried out in whole connective tissue through the use of the monoclonal antibody M86. This article provides an overview of the implications of the alpha‐Gal epitope in the current clinical scenario and a definitive comparison between the reliability and specificity of isolectines vs. M86 in alpha‐Gal determination.
Effect of Ascorbic Acid Concentrations, Methods of Cooling and Freezing on Boer Goat Semen Cryopreservation
Authors: Memon AA , Wahid H , Rosnina Y , Goh YM , Ebrahimi M , Nadia FM 
Published: August 2012

ContentsTo improve the Boer goat semen quality during cryopreservation process, three experiments were carried out to investigate the effect of (i) different concentration of ascorbic acid supplementation (ii) rate of cooling with chilled semen characteristics and (iii) method of freezing on post‐thaw Boer goat sperm using Tris‐based extender. Ascorbic acid at 8.5 mg/ml improved the sperm parameters (motility, integrity of membrane and acrosome, morphology and viability), compared to control in cooled samples (p < 0.05). With regard to other concentrations and post‐thawed parameters, ascorbic acid at 2.5–8.5 mg/ml led to higher percentages of sperm motility and integrities of membrane and acrosome when compared to control (p < 0.05). Slow cooling rises to higher percentages of sperm motility, acrosome integrity and viability, in comparison with fast cooling, in terms of cooled and frozen samples (p < 0.05). Programmable freezing method produced the higher percentages of sperm motility, integrities of membrane and acrosome and viability when compared to the freezing method of polystyrene box during goat sperm freezing (p < 0.05). In conclusion, chilled and post‐thawed sperm quality of Boer goat was improved when a Tris‐based extender supplemented with ascorbic acid was used at stages of different cooling rates and freezing methods.
Comparison of pollination characteristics between the insular shrub Clerodendrum izuinsulare and its widespread congener C. trichotomum
Authors: Mizusawa Leiko , Takimoto Gaku , Yamasaki Michimasa , Isagi Yuji , Hasegawa Masami 
Published: August 2012

AbstractImpact of pollinator shift on differentiation of floral morphology has attracted the interest of naturalists for many years. A comparative investigation was conducted for determining the pollination characteristics, including pollinator assemblage, floral morphology, flowering phenology, and self‐compatibility, of two closely related Clerodendrum species—insular C. izuinsulare and widespread C. trichotomum. Japanese black swallowtail butterflies were the predominant flower visitors in mainland Japan, whereas diurnal hawk moths were predominantly found on the Izu Islands, a chain of oceanic islands located off the southeastern coast of the main Japanese island of Honshu in the west Pacific Ocean. The corolla tube of C. izuinsulare was longer than that of C. trichotomum, whereas the filaments and petals of C. izuinsulare were shorter than those of C. trichotomum. The flowering season of C. izuinsulare was later than that of C. trichotomum. The self‐compatibility of C. izuinsulare was higher than that of C. trichotomum. These differences might be associated with the low density of Japanese black swallowtail butterflies and dominance of diurnal hawk moths on the Izu Islands.
Implementation of a clinical prediction tool for pulmonary embolism diagnosis in a tertiary teaching hospital reduces the number of computed tomography pulmonary angiograms performed
Authors: Ong C. W. , Malipatil V. , Lavercombe M. , Teo K. G. W. , Coughlin P. B. , Leach D. , Spanger M. C. , Thien F. 
Published: August 2012

AbstractAimTo evaluate the effect of implementing the Wells score clinical prediction tool (CPT) on rationalising the use of computed tomography pulmonary angiography (CTPA) for diagnosing pulmonary embolism (PE).MethodsWithin a tertiary teaching hospital, a retrospective study was conducted applying Wells score to all CTPA ordered in the first quarter of 2007. Subsequently, an algorithm including Wells score and d‐dimer assay was developed to assist clinicians in rationalising their ordering of CTPA. A prospective study was performed from February to August 2009 to assess the impact of this algorithm. CTPA results, d‐dimer levels, referral sources and dates were recorded. The number of CTPA performed over a 7‐month period following implementation of the algorithm was compared with the same period during the previous year. PE prevalence within each risk category was compared with the published literature.ResultsThree hundred and thirty‐three patients were investigated with CTPA in the prospective study period. Two hundred and sixty‐eight patients (80.4% of cases) had complete data. The prevalence of PE in the present study was 13.8% with 57 (21.2%) patients stratified to low risk, 169 (63.0%) to intermediate risk and 42 (15.6%) to high risk. Subgroup prevalence was 8.8%, 11.8% and 23.8% respectively. Compared with the same period in 2008, 121 (26.6%) less CTPA were performed.ConclusionInstitutional implementation of a clinical prediction tool into the decision‐making process is feasible and significantly reduces the number of CTPA being performed, with substantial cost savings and patient benefits.
Most individuals with treated blood pressures above target receive only one or two antihypertensive drug classes
Authors: Campbell D. J. , McGrady M. , Prior D. L. , Coller J. M. , Boffa U. , Shiel L. , Liew D. , Wolfe R. , Stewart S. , Reid C. M. , Krum H. 
Published: August 2012

AbstractBackgroundA significant proportion of individuals taking antihypertensive therapies fail to achieve blood pressures <140/90 mmHg. In order to develop strategies for improved treatment of blood pressure, we examined the association of blood pressure control with antihypertensive therapies and clinical and lifestyle factors in a cohort of adults at increased cardiovascular risk.MethodsA cross‐sectional study of 3994 adults from Melbourne and Shepparton, Australia enrolled in the SCReening Evaluation of the Evolution of New Heart Failure (SCREEN‐HF) study. Inclusion criteria were age ≥60 years with one or more of self‐reported ischaemic or other heart disease, atrial fibrillation, cerebrovascular disease, renal impairment or treatment for hypertension or diabetes for ≥2 years. Exclusion criteria were known heart failure or cardiac abnormality on echocardiography or other imaging. The main outcome measures were the proportion of participants receiving antihypertensive therapy with blood pressures ≥140/90 mmHg and the association of blood pressure control with antihypertensive therapies and clinical and lifestyle factors.ResultsOf 3623 participants (1975 men and 1648 women) receiving antihypertensive therapy, 1867 (52%) had blood pressures ≥140/90 mmHg. Of these 1867 participants, 1483 (79%) were receiving only one or two antihypertensive drug classes. Blood pressures ≥140/90 mmHg were associated with increased age, male sex, waist circumference and log amino‐terminal‐pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide levels.ConclusionsMost individuals with treated blood pressures above target receive only one or two antihypertensive drug classes. Prescribing additional antihypertensive drug classes and lifestyle modification may improve blood pressure control in this population of individuals at increased cardiovascular risk.