Terbinafin-induzierter subakut-kutaner Lupus erythematodes

We report on a patient with terbinafine-induced SCLE covering clinical, histopathological and serological findings. Positive serological results included ANA, SS-A (Ro)-antibodies and anti-histone-antibodies with specificity for H1 and H3. The literature on terbinafine-induced SCLE is reviewed. We discuss H1- and H3-specific anti-histone antibodies as a possible diagnostic criterion of drug-induced SCLE.

VEGF coordinates interaction of pericytes and endothelial cells during vasculogenesis and experimental angiogenesis

Biological activities of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) have been studied extensively in endothelial cells (ECs), but few data are available regarding its effects on pericytes. In murine embryoid body cultures, VEGF-induced expression of desmin and alpha-smooth muscle actin (alpha-SMA) in CD-31+ cells. The number of CD-31+/desmin+ vascular chords increased with VEGF treatment time and peaked during a differentiation window between 6 and 9 days after plating. In vivo, VEGF-induced elongation and migration of desmin-positive pericytes and coverage of angiogenic capillaries, as revealed by analysis of Sambucus nigra lectin-stained vascular beds of the chick chorioallantoic membrane. VEGF also caused significant decrease of intercapillary spaces, an indicator for intussusceptive vascular growth. These VEGF-mediated effects point at a more intricate interaction between ECs and pericytes cells than previously demonstrated and suggest that pericytes may be derived from EC progenitors in vitro and not only stabilize capillaries but also participate in vascular remodeling in vivo.

Structure and inhibitory effects on angiogenesis and tumor development of a new vascular endothelial growth inhibitor

Blocking angiogenesis is an attractive strategy to inhibit tumor growth, invasion, and metastasis. We describe here the structure and the biological action of a new cyclic peptide derived from vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). This 17-amino acid molecule designated cyclopeptidic vascular endothelial growth inhibitor (cyclo-VEGI, CBO-P11) encompasses residues 79-93 of VEGF which are involved in the interaction with VEGF receptor-2. In aqueous solution, cyclo-VEGI presents a propensity to adopt a helix conformation that was largely unexpected because only beta-sheet structures or random coil conformations have been observed for macrocyclic peptides. Cyclo-VEGI inhibits binding of iodinated VEGF165 to endothelial cells, endothelial cells proliferation, migration, and signaling induced by VEGF165. This peptide also exhibits anti-angiogenic activity in vivo on the differentiated chicken chorioallantoic membrane. Furthermore, cyclo-VEGI significantly blocks the growth of established intracranial glioma in nude and syngeneic mice and improves survival without side effects. Taken together, these results suggest that cyclo-VEGI is an attractive candidate for the development of novel angiogenesis inhibitor molecules useful for the treatment of cancer and other angiogenesis-related diseases.

[Long term results of total skin electron beam therapy (TSEBT) in the treatment of mycosis fungoides]

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Total skin electron beam therapy (TSEBT) is an important therapeutic option for the treatment of mycosis fungoides. The aim of this study was to find out long term results in 10 patients with the clinical and histological diagnosis of mycosis fungoides.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Between 1982 and 1997 we performed a total skin electron beam therapy in 10 patients. One patient was in stage I A; 5, in stage I B; 3, in stage II B; and one, in stage IV A. The indication for TSEBT was disease progression in spite of PUVA therapy. The doses of electron beam therapy were 30- 36 Gy at 5-6 MeV. In 7 of 10 cases additional local electron beam therapy was given, because individual lesions persisted or recurred after a short time.

RESULTS

Complete remission was achieved in 5 patients. The follow- up has been up to 10 years. One patient died of systemic lymphoma 10 years after electron beam therapy. Three patients died of illnesses unrelated to mycosis fungoides. One patient developed a high grade T-cell lymphoma.

CONCLUSIONS

Total skin electron beam therapy is a very effective, but technically difficult therapy for mycosis fungoides, especially in stage I B and II B. Particularly interesting has been the long duration of complete response of three patients, who had follicular mucinosis preceding their mycosis fungoides.

Domain swapping in a COOH-terminal fragment of platelet factor 4 generates potent angiogenesis inhibitors

A few peptide residues in structurally important locations often determine biological functions of proteins implicated in the regulation of angiogenesis. We have shown recently that the short COOH-terminal segment PF-4(47-70) derived from platelet factor 4 (PF-4) is the smallest sequence that conserves potent antiangiogenic activity in vitro and in vivo. Here we show that modified COOH-terminal PF-4 peptides containing the sequence ELR (or related DLR), a critical domain present in proangiogenic chemokines, surprisingly elicit several times greater antiangiogenic potential than the original peptide. The modified peptides inhibit binding of iodinated vascular endothelial growth factor and fibroblast growth factor 2 to endothelial cell receptors, endothelial cell proliferation, migration, and microvessel assembly in the rat aortic ring model at lower doses than PF-4(47-70). On the differentiated chick chorioallantoic membrane, topical application of 40 micro g of modified peptides potently reduces capillary angiogenesis induced by vascular endothelial growth factor(165), a dose where peptide PF-4(47-70) was inactive. Established intracranial glioma in nude mice decreased significantly in size when treated locally with a total dose of 250 micro g of peptide PF-4(47-70)DLR (n = 10) compared with the same dose of the original PF-4(47-70) peptide (n = 10) or controls (n = 30). Tailored PF-4 peptides represent a new class of antiangiogenic agents with a defined mode of action and a strong in vivo activity.

Altering fish embryos with aquaporin-3: an essential step toward successful cryopreservation

Fish populations are globally threatened by overharvesting and habitat degradation. The ability to bank fish embryos by cryopreservation could be crucial for preserving species diversity, for aquaculture (allowing circannual fish farming), and for managing fish models used in human biomedical research. However, no nonmammalian embryo has ever been successfully cryopreserved. For fish, low membrane permeability prevents cryoprotectants from entering the yolk to prevent cryodamage. Here, we present evidence of a membrane mechanism hindering cryopreservation of fish and propose a novel solution to this obstacle. Zebrafish (Danio rerio) embryos have rectifying membranes that allow water to leave but not to reenter readily. This feature may be an evolutionary trait that allows freshwater embryos to grow in hypoosmotic environments without osmoregulatory organs. However, this trait may also prevent successful fish embryo cryopreservation because both water and cryoprotectants must move into and out of cells. As a solution, we injected zebrafish embryos with mRNA for the aquaporin-3 water channel protein and demonstrated increased membrane permeability to water and to a cryoprotectant. Modeling indicates that sufficient cryoprotectant enters aquaporin-3-expressing zebrafish embryos to allow cryopreservation.

Expression of Ca2+-ATPase and Na+/Ca2+-exchanger is upregulated during epithelial Ca2+ transport in hypodermal cells of the isopod Porcellio scaber

It is thought that a plasma membrane Ca(2+)-transport ATPase (PMCA) and a Na(+)/Ca(2+)-exchange (NCE) mechanism are involved in epithelial Ca(2+) transport (ECT) in a variety of crustacean epithelia. The sternal epithelium of the terrestrial isopod Porcellio scaber was used as a model for the analysis of Ca(2+)-extrusion mechanisms in the hypodermal epithelium. Using RT-PCR, we amplified a cDNA fragment of 1173 bp that encodes a protein sequence possessing 72% identity to the PMCA from Drosophila melanogaster and a cDNA fragment of 791 bp encoding a protein sequence with 50% identity to the NCE from Loligo opalescens. Semiquantitative RT-PCR revealed that the expression of both mRNAs increases from the non-Ca(2+)-transporting condition to the stages of CaCO(3) deposit formation and degradation. During Ca(2+)-transporting stages, the expression of PMCA and NCE was larger in the anterior sternal epithelium (ASE) than in the posterior sternal epithelium (PSE). The results demonstrate for the first time the expression of a PMCA and a NCE in the hypodermal epithelium of a crustacean and indicate a contribution of these transport mechanisms in ECT.

Survey of genital lichen sclerosus in women and men

We present the clinical and laboratory findings in 60 women and 42 men with lichen sclerosus.

Effect of adjuvant imiquimod 5% cream on sustained clearance of anogenital warts following laser treatment

OBJECTIVES

Imiquimod is an immune response modifier that has demonstrated a good efficacy and relatively low recurrence rates in comparison to other genital wart treatment modalities. The primary objective of this open-label study was to evaluate the effect on sustained clearance of treated lesions and the safety of patient-applied topical imiquimod after laser therapy of external anogenital warts.

METHODS

After laser treatment of visible external anogenital warts the ablated region(s) were treated with imiquimod 5% cream three times/week over 12 weeks beginning when the wound healing process was completed, followed by a six-month treatment-free observation period for the assessment of sustained clearance of treated lesions.

RESULTS

A total of 211 male and female patients was enrolled in the study. After 12 weeks of treatment, 65.4% of all patients showed sustained clearance. During the treatment period, 15 patients (7.1% of 211 patients) presented with recurrent warts in the treated areas, and 58 (27.5%) patients were excluded for other reasons. During the six-month follow-up period, ten additional patients (7.3% of 138 patients) developed wart recurrences. The application of imiquimod 5% cream was well tolerated. The number of patients with adverse events related to study medication declined from the first month of treatment until the end of the third month. Most frequently, mild to moderate itching, burning, pain and erythema were reported.

CONCLUSIONS

After laser therapy and sufficient wound healing, administration of imiquimod 5% cream three times/week appears to be safe and to reduce the incidence of wart recurrences.

Efficacy of Prinomastat) (AG3340), a matrix metalloprotease inhibitor, in treatment of retinal neovascularization

PURPOSE

To study the activity of the novel anti-angiogenic compound AG3340 (Prinomastat), a selective inhibitor of matrix metalloproteases, in an animal model of retinal neovascularization.

METHODS

C57BL/6J mice were used to produce oxygen-induced retinal neovascularization. Mice were exposed to room air from birth (P0) to postnatal 7 days (P7) and to hyperoxia (75% oxygen) for the next 5 days. On postnatal day 12 (P12) the animals were returned to the room air and were treated until postnatal day 16 (P16) with intraperitoneal injections of AG 3340. Four groups were assigned: no drug, 1.6 mg/kg/day, 16 mg/kg/day and 48 mg/kg/day. On day 17 (P17) the animals were sacrificed and the eyes prepared for histological sectioning. Preretinal neovascularization was assessed by counting neovascular nuclei of endothelial cells in the preretinal side of the internal limiting membrane (ILM). The use of animals for this study complies with the ARVO guidelines for animal research.

RESULTS

AG3340 administered systemically by intraperitoneal injections inhibited hypoxia-induced retinal neovascularization. The inhibition was dose dependent with highly significant decrease of neovascular nuclei counts among eyes treated with 0, 1.6 mg/kg, 16 mg/kg and 48 mg/kg doses. There appears to be a saturation effect of inhibition at the level of 70% at the two highest doses of 16 mg/kg and 48 mg/kg.

CONCLUSIONS

AG3340 administered systemically significantly inhibits oxygen-induced retinal neovascularization in an animal model and appears to be a promising candidate for the treatment of neovascular retinal diseases.

An anti-angiogenic state in mice and humans with retinal photoreceptor cell degeneration

Abnormal angiogenesis accompanies many pathological conditions including cancer, inflammation, and eye diseases. Proliferative retinopathy because of retinal neovascularization is a leading cause of blindness in developed countries. Another major cause of irreversible vision loss is retinitis pigmentosa, a group of diseases characterized by progressive photoreceptor cell degeneration. Interestingly, anecdotal evidence has long suggested that proliferative diabetic retinopathy is rarely associated clinically with retinitis pigmentosa. Here we show that neonatal mice with classic inherited retinal degeneration (Pdeb(rd1)/Pdeb(rd1)) fail to mount reactive retinal neovascularization in a mouse model of oxygen-induced proliferative retinopathy. We also present a comparable human paradigm: spontaneous regression of retinal neovascularization associated with long-standing diabetes mellitus occurs when retinitis pigmentosa becomes clinically evident. Both mouse and human data indicate that reactive retinal neovascularization either fails to develop or regresses when the number of photoreceptor cells is markedly reduced. Our findings support the hypothesis that a functional mechanism underlying this anti-angiogenic state is failure of the predicted up-regulation of vascular endothelial growth factor, although other growth factors may also be involved. Preventive and therapeutic strategies against both proliferative and degenerative retinopathies may emerge from this work.

A short peptide domain of platelet factor 4 blocks angiogenic key events induced by FGF-2

Platelet factor 4 (PF-4) is a CXC-chemokine with strong anti-angiogenic properties. We have shown previously that PF-4 inhibits angiogenesis by associating directly with fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF-2), inhibiting its dimerization, and blocking FGF-2 binding to endothelial cells. We now have characterized a small peptide domain (PF-447-70) derived from the C-terminus of PF-4, which conserves anti-angiogenic effects of the parent protein. PF-447-70 inhibited internalization of 125I-FGF-2 by endothelial cells in a time-dependent manner. The peptide reduced FGF-2-stimulated cell migration to control levels in wounded monolayers of bovine capillary endothelial cells. PF-447-70 also reduced FGF-2 induced phosphorylation of MAP kinases ERK-1 and ERK-2, which are essential for migration and survival of endothelial cells. In a serum-free ex vivo angiogenesis assay, the peptide blocked microvessel outgrowth by 89%. A single amino acid substitution within PF-447-70 abolished all inhibitory activities. To simulate a real anti-angiogenic treatment situation, we administered PF-447-70 systemically to mice implanted subcutaneously with FGF-2 containing gelatin sponges with the result of sparse, scattered, and immature vessel growth. The small peptide fragment derived from the angio-inhibitory CXC-chemokine PF-4 might be used as a starting point to develop anti-angiogenic designer drugs for angiogenesis-dependent pathologies such as cancer, diabetic retinopathy, and rheumatoid arthritis.

Overcoming a permeability barrier by microinjecting cryoprotectants into zebrafish embryos (Brachydanio rerio)

The goal of this research was to examine the developmental effects on zebrafish embryos (Brachydanio rerio) when cryoprotectants were directly microinjected into the yolk. Our objectives were to: (i) determine the final concentration of propylene glycol (PG) and dimethyl sulfoxide (Me(2)SO) that the embryos could tolerate without causing teratogenic effects; (ii) determine if the toxicity of Me(2)SO could be reduced by the simultaneous presence of various proportions of amides; and (iii) examine whether this intracellular cryoprotectant incorporation could reduce the cryodamage to the yolk syncytial layer (YSL) after vitrification trials. The rationale for conducting these microinjection experiments was to overcome the permeability barrier of the YSL. Intracellular PG produced better survival than Me(2)SO (P < 0.05). Embryos tolerated both 10- and 30-nl microinjections of PG, yielding final concentrations of 2.3 and 5.0 M within the yolk, resulting in 70 +/- 3 and 35 +/- 4% survival at day 5, respectively. In similar experiments with Me(2)SO, survival was lower than PG at 60 +/- 4 and 14 +/- 4% at 2.4 and 5.2 M. Unlike other cellular systems, the presence of amides, specifically acetamide or formamide, did not reduce the toxicity of Me(2)SO in zebrafish embryos (P > 0.05). During vitrification trials, we estimated a 25% dehydration of the yolk, yielding an effective PG concentration of 5.9 M. However, the incorporation of this vitrifiable concentration of PG was not sufficient to improve the postthaw morphology of the YSL (P > 0.05). Clearly, other factors need to be examined in establishing a successful vitrification protocol for zebrafish embryos.

Target molecules for anti-angiogenic therapy: from basic research to clinical trials

There is growing evidence that anti-angiogenic drugs will improve future therapies of diseases like cancer, rheumatoid arthritis and ocular neovascularisation. However, it is still uncertain which kind of substance, out of the large number of angiogenesis inhibitors, will prove to be a suitable agent to treat these human diseases. There are currently more than 30 angiogenesis inhibitors in clinical trials and a multitude of promising new candidates are under investigation in vitro and in animal models. Important therapeutic strategies are: suppression of activity of the major angiogenic regulators like vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and fibroblast growth factor (FGF); inhibition of function of alphav-integrins and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs); the exploitation of endogenous anti-angiogenic molecules like angiostatin, endostatin or thrombospondin. Given the wide spectrum of diseases which could be treated by anti-angiogenic compounds, it is important for today's clinicians to understand their essential mode of action at a cellular and molecular level. Here we give an in-depth overview of the basic pathophysiological mechanisms underlying the different anti-angiogenic approaches used to date based on the most recent fundamental and clinical research data. The angiogenesis inhibitors in clinical trials are presented and promising future drug candidates are discussed.

Characterization of a major permeability barrier in the zebrafish embryo

Fish embryos represent a class of multicompartmental biological systems that have not been successfully cryopreserved, primarily because of the lack of understanding of how water and cryoprotectants permeate the compartments. We are using the zebrafish embryo as a model to understand these kinetics. Zebrafish embryos have two major compartments, the blastoderm and the yolk, which is surrounded by the multinucleated yolk syncytial layer (YSL). We determined the water and cryoprotectant permeability in these compartments using two methods. First, we measured shrink/swell dynamics in optical volumetric experiments. Zebrafish embryos shrank over time and did not re-expand while immersed in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) or propylene glycol. Second, we measured DMSO uptake with diffusion-weighted nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. DMSO uptake was rapid during the first few minutes, then gradual thereafter. We used one- and two-compartment models to analyze the data and to determine the permeability parameters. We found that the two-compartment model provided a better fit to the data. On the basis of this model and in the presence of DMSO, the yolk and blastoderm had very similar water permeabilities (i.e., 0.01 and 0. 005 micron x min-1atm-1, respectively), but they had different DMSO permeabilities separated by three orders of magnitude (i.e., </= 5 x 10(-6) and 1.5 x 10(-3) cm/min, respectively). The low solute permeability of the yolk predicted that the yolk/YSL compartment should be more susceptible to cryodamage. To test this, the yolk, blastoderm, and YSL were examined at the ultrastructural level after vitrification. Only the YSL incurred significant damage after freezing and thawing (p </= 0.05).

Molecular heterogeneity of the vascular endothelium revealed by in vivo phage display

Vascular beds are known to differ in structure and metabolic function, but less is known about their molecular diversity. We have studied organ-specific molecular differences of the endothelium in various tissues by using in vivo screening of peptide libraries expressed on the surface of a bacteriophage. We report here that targeting of a large number of tissues with this method yielded, in each case, phage that homed selectively to the targeted organ. Different peptide motifs were recovered from each of these tissues. The enrichment in homing to the target organs relative to an unselected phage was 3-35-fold. Peptide sequences that conferred selective phage homing to the vasculature of lung, skin, and pancreas were characterized in detail. Immunohistochemistry showed that the phage localized in the blood vessels of their target organ. When tested, the phage homing was blocked in the presence of the cognate peptide. By targeting several tissues and by showing that specific homing could be achieved in each case, we provide evidence that organ- and tissue-specific molecular heterogeneity of the vasculature is a general, perhaps even universal, phenomenon. Our results also show that these molecular differences can serve as molecular addresses.

The embryogenesis of rod photoreceptors in the teleost fish retina, Haplochromis burtoni

Development of the retina, like that of other tissues, occurs via an orderly sequence of cell division and differentiation, producing the functional retina. In teleost fish, however, cell division and differentiation in the retina continue throughout the life of the animal in two distinct ways. Stem cells in a circumferential germinal zone at the periphery of the retina give rise to all retinal cell types and progenitor cells located throughout the retina in the outer nuclear layer (ONL) produce new rod photoreceptors. These processes in adult retina recapitulate in space the embryonic events responsible for forming the retina. Analysis of these events in an African cichlid fish, Haplochromis burtoni, confirmed that cone photoreceptors differentiate first, followed by rod photoreceptors. Correspondingly, at the margin of the eye, cone photoreceptors differentiate nearer to the margin than do rods. Control of photoreceptor production is not understood. Here we present the time of appearance and distribution pattern of GABA and vimentin which are candidates for the control of retinal cell division and differentiation. Antibody staining reveals that both GABA and vimentin exhibit unique patterns of expression during embryonic retinal development. Vimentin immunoreactivity is evident throughout the retina in a spoke-like pattern between developmental Days 4 and 7, as both cone and rod photoreceptors are being formed. GABA is expressed in horizontal cells between Days 5 and 7, corresponding to the onset of rod differentiation in time and in position within the retina. Moreover, the wave of GABAergic staining in the horizontal cells parallels the wave of rod differentiation across the embryonic retina of H. burtoni. Thus, GABA may play a role in the development of rod photoreceptors.

Eccrine squamous syringometaplasia in the skin of children after burns

We report 3 cases of severe burns in children in which eccrine squamous syringometaplasia (ESS) was found in skin biopsies taken 10 days after the trauma occurred. Microscopic examination showed partial or total necrosis of the epidermis, focal dermal necrosis and squamous metaplasia in eccrine ducts. These cases appear to be the first reported instances of ESS as an early consequence of severe burns.

[Subcutaneous sweat gland suction curettage in tumescent local anesthesia in hyperhidrosis axillaris]

We surgically treated twenty patients with axillary hyperhidrosis by liposuction using tumescent regional anesthesia. After a description of the surgical technique results are presented. Except for trivial hematomas, no complications were seen. Every patient noted a significant reduction of sweat gland activity in the follow up period. Long-term results remain to be seen.

[The Clark-Howel-Evans-McConnell syndrome. Observations in one family over 5 generations]

The Clarke-Howel-Evans-McConnell syndrome is a rare hereditary disease characterized by palmoplantar keratoses, squamous cell carcinoma of the esophagus and oral leukoplakia. According to a new classification recently proposed by Stevens and colleagues, the syndrome can also be classified as palmoplantar ectodermal dysplasia type III. We report a family from the Black Forest region of Germany afflicted with the syndrome. The family was traced through five generation. 27 of 46 family members showed tylotic skin changes. In addition, 8 patients showed oral leukoplakia and 5 died from squamous cell carcinoma of the esophagus. Using screening examinations, early changes of the esophageal mucosa could be detected. The responsible gene has been mapped in the family. It is located at 17q23-qter, telomeric to the keratin II gene cluster. Therefore a defect in one of the well known keratin genes can be excluded as a cause of the syndrome.

Water distribution and permeability of zebrafish embryos, Brachydanio rerio

Teleost embryos have not been successfully cryopreserved. To formulate successful cryopreservation protocols, the distribution and cellular permeability to water must be understood. In this paper, the zebrafish (Brachydanio rerio) was used as a model for basic studies of the distribution to permeability to water. These embryos are a complex multi-compartmental system composed of two membrane-limited compartments, a large yolk (surrounded by the yolk syncytial layer) and differentiating blastoderm cells (each surrounded by a plasma membrane). Due to the complexity of this system, a variety of techniques, including magnetic resonance microscopy and electron spin resonance, was used to measure the water in these compartments. Cellular water was distributed unequally in each compartment. At the 6-somite stage, the percent water (V/V) was distributed as follows: total in embryo = 74%, total in yolk = 42%, and total in blastoderm = 82%. A one-compartment model was used to analyze kinetic, osmotic shrinkage data and determine a phenomenological water permeability parameter, Lp, assuming intracellular isosmotic compartments of either 40 or 300 mosm. This analysis revealed that the membrane permeability changed (P < 0.05) during development. During the 75% epiboly to 3-somite stage, the mean membrane permeability remained constant (Lp = 0.022 +/- 0.002 micron x min-1atm-1 [mean +/- S.E.M.] assuming isosmotic is 40 mosm or Lp = 0.049 +/- 0.008 micron x min-1atm-1 assuming isosmotic is 300 mosm). However, at the 6-somite stage, Lp increased twofold (Lp = 0.040 +/- 0.004 micron x min-1atm-1 assuming isosmotic is 40 mosm or Lp = 0.100 +/- 0.017 micron x min-1atm-1 assuming isosmotic is 300 mosm). Therefore, the low permeability of the zebrafish embryo coupled with its large size (and consequent low area to volume ratio) led to a very slow osmotic response that should be considered before formulating cryopreservation protocols.

New approaches for studying the permeability of fish embryos: toward successful cryopreservation

This paper describes some new approaches for understanding the permeability of teleost embryos. The dechorionated zebrafish (Brachydanio rerio) was used as a model for basic studies of water and cryoprotectant permeability. These embryos are composed of two compartments, a large yolk (surrounded by the yolk syncytial layer) and differentiating blastoderm cells. Cellular water was distributed unequally in each compartment. Measurements indicated that the total water in the embryo was 74%, while the total water in the yolk was 42%, and total water in the blastoderm was 82%. The internal isosmotic value for the zebrafish embryo is unknown. However, for one-compartment modeling studies of membrane permeability, the mean Lp (+/- SEM) values were 0.022 +/- 0.002 to 0.049 +/- 0.008 microns x min-1 atm-1 at 40 mOsm (assuming this was one possible internal isosmotic value for the entire embryo) and 0.040 +/- 0.004 to 0.1 +/- 0.017 microns x min-1 atm-1 at 300 mOsm (assuming this was another possible internal isosmotic value for the entire embryo). When three- and six-somite embryos were placed in 1.5 and 2.0 M cryoprotectants (dimethyl sulfoxide and propylene glycol), osmometric measurements of volume changes indicated no cryoprotectant permeation. However, similar measurements with methanol revealed a small volume decrease (ca. 8%) and recovery (ca. 5%) for six-somite embryos in a 2.0 M solution. Magnetic resonance (MR) images of the spatial distribution of three cryoprotectants (dimethyl sulfoxide, propylene glycol, and methanol) demonstrated that only methanol permeated the entire embryo within 15 min. The other cryoprotectants exhibited little or no permeation into the yolk over 2.5 h. The results from MR spectroscopy and cryoprotectant microinjections into the yolk suggested that the yolk syncytial layer plays the critical limiting role for cryoprotectant permeation throughout the embryo.

Chill sensitivity and cryoprotectant permeability of dechorionated zebrafish embryos, Brachydanio rerio

The zebrafish (Brachydanio rerio) was used as a model for basic studies of the chilling sensitivity, permeability and toxicity of cryoprotectants. In both intact and dechorionated embryos, early-stage embryos (1.25, 1.5, 1.75, and 2 h) were more susceptible (P < 0.05) to chilling injury at 0 degrees C than late-stage embryos (50, 75, and 100% epiboly and three-somite stage). Moreover, enzymatic removal of the chorion did not alter (P > 0.05) this pattern of sensitivity to chilling. Eight-hour zebrafish embryos tolerated short-term exposures to temperatures ranging from 4 to 23 degrees C for 3.5 h with no detrimental developmental effects. The permeability of dechorionated embryos to cryoprotectants was examined by measuring the kinetics of volumetric change at various developmental stages (16 cells to six somites or ca. 1.25 to 14 h postfertilization) at 28.5 degrees C. The dechorionated zebrafish embryo is composed of two complex cellular compartments (i.e., a large yolk and the developing blastoderm). From 40 to 100% epiboly, the volumes of yolk and blastoderm remained constant, ca. 82 and 18%, respectively. However, these volumes changed rapidly after epiboly. For example, at the six-somite stage, the yolk composed 61% of the total volume, whereas the blastoderm composed 39%. When three- and six-somite embryos were placed in 1.5 and 2.0 M cryoprotectants (dimethyl sulfoxide and propylene glycol), osmometric measurement of volume changes indicated no permeation of the cryoprotectants. However, some permeation was observed for six-somite embryos immersed in a 2.0 M methanol solution, but not for 3-somite embryos. For up to 30 min at room temperature, these cryoprotectant solutions were toxic to zebrafish embryos; however, 1.5 M glycerol and ethylene glycol solutions were. We conclude that the complex nature of the zebrafish embryo reduces the effectiveness and predictive value of light microscopical measurements for cryoprotectant permeability studies.

Cytolytic T cell reactivity against melanoma-associated differentiation antigens in peripheral blood of melanoma patients and healthy individuals

Antigenic peptides derived from several differentiation antigens of the melanocyte lineage were recently identified in human melanomas as targets for HLA-A2.1-restricted cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs). To examine their potential role in tumour-directed immune responses in vivo, we determined CTL reactivity against seven antigenic peptides derived from the Melan A/MART-1, tyrosinase and gp100/Pmel17 antigens in the peripheral blood of 10 HLA-A2+ healthy controls and 26 HLA-A2+ melanoma patients. The influenza matrix peptide (GILGFVFTL) presented by HLA-A2.1 was used as a control peptide. CTL reactivity was assessed in a mixed lymphocyte 'peptide' culture assay. Reactivity against Melan A/MART-1-derived peptide antigens was readily detectable in both melanoma patients and controls. Reactivity directed against tyrosinase-derived peptide antigens was also detected in both melanoma patients and healthy individuals, but less frequently. A measurable response against gp100/Pmel17-derived antigens was found in 1/10 controls and in 1/26 of the melanoma patients. Reactivity against the influenza matrix peptide was common in both melanoma patients and controls. Our findings show that precursor CTLs against melanocyte differentiation antigens can be detected in peripheral blood of melanoma patients and healthy individuals. The pattern of CTL reactivity directed against melanoma-associated antigens does not seem to be altered in melanoma patients. Despite antigen-specific CTL reactivity, tumour growth was not prevented in melanoma patients and autoimmune phenomena were not detected in healthy individuals. It remains to be determined whether precursor CTLs recognizing melanocyte differentiation antigens can be activated by immunization and lead to effective tumour rejection in vivo.

[Development of squamous cell carcinoma in chronic anal eczema and therapeutic consequences]

We report two cases of chronic anal eczema. In one case a squamous cell carcinoma developed at the site of inflammation. This carcinoma was treated by wide local excision. The second case was treated in the same way for prophylactic reasons. These two cases demonstrate the importance of biopsies and surgical intervention when dealing with a therapy-resistant chronic anal eczema.

Granulocyte-macrophage-colony-stimulating factor enhances immune responses to melanoma-associated peptides in vivo

Peptide epitopes derived from differentiation antigens of the melanocyte lineage were recently identified in human melanomas as targets for MHC-restricted cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL). The characterization of multiple CTL-defined antigenic determinants has opened possibilities of development of antigen-targeted vaccines. In the present study, we determined CTL reactivity against melanoma-associated peptides derived from Melan A/MART-1, tyrosinase, and gp100/Pmel17 in 3 HLA-A2+ melanoma patients. Then, we assessed the immune responses to synthetic melanoma-associated peptides injected intradermally. After 3 cycles of immunization with peptide alone, we used systemic GM-CSF as an adjuvant during the fourth cycle of immunization. Enhanced DTH reactions and CD8+ CTL responses were observed after treatment with systemic GM-CSF. Immunohistochemical characterization of DTH-constituting elements revealed infiltrates of CD4+ and CD8+ T lymphocytes and strong expression of IL-2 and gammaIFN, suggesting the activation of CD4+ ThI and CD8+ CTL by peptides presented by MHC-class-I molecules of dermal APC. Objective tumor regression was documented in all patients. We conclude that systemic GM-CSF enhances immune responses to melanoma-associated peptides and supports CTL-mediated tumor rejection in vivo.

Magnetic resonance microscopy and spectroscopy reveal kinetics of cryoprotectant permeation in a multicompartmental biological system

Successful cryopreservation of most multicompartmental biological systems has not been achieved. One prerequisite for success is quantitative information on cryoprotectant permeation into and amongst the compartments. This report describes direct measurements of cryoprotectant permeation into a multicompartmental system using chemical shift selective magnetic resonance (MR) microscopy and MR spectroscopy. We used the developing zebrafish embryo as a model for studying these complex systems because these embryos are composed of two membrane-limited compartments: (i) a large yolk (surrounded by the yolk syncytial layer) and (ii) differentiating blastoderm cells (each surrounded by a plasma membrane). MR images of the spatial distribution of three cryoprotectants (dimethyl sulfoxide, propylene glycol, and methanol) demonstrated that methanol permeated the entire embryo within 15 min. In contrast, the other cryoprotectants exhibited little or no permeation over 2.5 h. MR spectroscopy and microinjections of cryoprotectants into the yolk inferred that the yolk syncytial layer plays a critical role in limiting the permeation of some cryoprotectants throughout the embryo. This study demonstrates the power of MR technology combined with micromanipulation for elucidating key physiological factors in cryobiology.

Granulocyte-macrophage-colony-stimulating factor enhances immune responses to melanoma-associated peptides in vivo

Peptide epitopes derived from differentiation antigens of the melanocyte lineage were recently identified in human melanomas as targets for MHC-restricted cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL). The characterization of multiple CTL-defined antigenic determinants has opened possibilities of development of antigen-targeted vaccines. In the present study, we determined CTL reactivity against melanoma-associated peptides derived from Melan A/MART-1, tyrosinase, and gp100/Pmel17 in 3 HLA-A2+ melanoma patients. Then, we assessed the immune responses to synthetic melanoma-associated peptides injected intradermally. After 3 cycles of immunization with peptide alone, we used systemic GM-CSF as an adjuvant during the fourth cycle of immunization. Enhanced DTH reactions and CD8+ CTL responses were observed after treatment with systemic GM-CSF. Immunohistochemical characterization of DTH-constituting elements revealed infiltrates of CD4+ and CD8+ T lymphocytes and strong expression of IL-2 and gammaIFN, suggesting the activation of CD4+ ThI and CD8+ CTL by peptides presented by MHC-class-I molecules of dermal APC. Objective tumor regression was documented in all patients. We conclude that systemic GM-CSF enhances immune responses to melanoma-associated peptides and supports CTL-mediated tumor rejection in vivo.

Generation of cytotoxic T-cell responses with synthetic melanoma-associated peptides in vivo: implications for tumor vaccines with melanoma-associated antigens

Peptide epitopes derived from differentiation antigens of the melanocyte lineage have been identified in human melanomas and normal cultured melanocytes as targets for MHC-restricted cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL). Characterization of multiple CTL-defined antigenic determinants and the presence of corresponding precursor CTL open perspectives for the development of antigen-based vaccines. In the present study, we determined the CTL reactivity against melanoma-associated peptides derived from Melan A/MART-1, tyrosinase and gp100/Pmel17 in 10 HLA-A2+ melanoma patients and 10 healthy individuals. Then, we examined the immunological effects and toxicity of intradermal inoculation of synthetic melanoma-associated peptides. Six patients with advanced melanoma received weekly intradermal injections of 6 melanoma-associated peptides and the influenza matrix peptide as a control for 4 consecutive weeks. DTH reactions were observed in 5/6 patients at the injections sites of the tyrosinase signal peptide and of the influenza matrix peptide. No toxic side effects were observed. Changes in CTL reactivity after peptide vaccination were assessed by an MLPC assay for each peptide. Generation of peptide-specific CTL was documented against Melan A/MART-1-derived peptide epitopes, the tyrosinase signal peptide and the influenza matrix peptide after vaccination. A decreasing CTL response against the internal tyrosinase peptide was documented in 1 patient through the course of vaccination and a decrease in DTH reactions. No major tumor regressions were observed. Two patients with rapidly progressive disease before vaccination have shown disease stabilization since vaccinations started. In conclusion, our results demonstrate that peptide alone injected intradermally may generate antigen-specific DTH reactions and an increase of antigen-specific CTL reactivity.

[Histogenesis of nevus cell nevi. Implications of a case report]

A case of multiple lesions of junctional melanocytic hyperplasia arising in a skin graft after excision of a congenital melanocytic naevus is reported. This observation is shown to support the concept of the histogenesis of acquired melanocytic naevi proposed by Cramer [2], i.e. that acquired melanocytic naevi are derived from melanocyte precursors located in nerve sheaths, whereas it is inconsistent with notions of the origin of naevogenesis in the epidermal melanocyte.

Palmoplantar keratoderma in association with carcinoma of the esophagus maps to chromosome 17q distal to the keratin gene cluster

Palmoplantar keratoderma is a group of hereditary disorders of keratinization involving hyperkeratosis of palms and soles. Two different forms of palmoplantar keratoderma have recently been shown to be caused by mutations in the body site-specific keratin 9 gene and in the keratin 1 gene, respectively. Now we have analyzed a large German family with autosomal dominantly inherited palmoplantar keratoderma in association with carcinoma of the esophagus. Linkage to both the type I keratin gene cluster on chromosome 17q distal to the type I keratin genes. Two-point linkage data at D17S801 gave a lod score Zmax - 5.1 at theta = 0.00. Therefore, palmoplantar keratoderma is shown to be heterogeneous clinically as well as genetically and may be caused by mutations in keratins as well as in nonkeratins.

[In vitro and in vivo studies of local disinfection and wound healing]

Wound healing represents a dynamic process of increasing scientific interest, especially with the detection of the different growth factors. Economic aspects are also of importance in the investigation of substances used for wound healing. In Germany 25% of all patients (ca. 1 million) with severe chronic venous insufficiency have crural ulcers. The influence of bacterial infection of crural ulcers is controversial. There is no doubt that the quantity of bacteria is of importance. Local antibiotic treatment is difficult, as most of the substances used are known to inhibit wound healing. In vivo and in vitro investigations showed, that chiniofon-containing antiseptic has a bacteriostatic function. Additionally it was shown, using cultures of fibroblasts, that chiniofon-containing antiseptic does not inhibit the growth of fibroblasts, whereas PVP-iodine solution, a widely used antiseptic, clearly reduces the growth of fibroblasts. The good clinical results in the treatment of acute and chronic radiation damage indicate that chiniofon-containing antiseptic may have antiflammatory activity.

Hermeneutic photography: an innovative esthetic technique for generating data in nursing research

In this article, the use of hermeneutic photography as an esthetic technique to enhance data generation is discussed. When photographs are used as an entrée for interviewing participants, they often elicit participants' stories and illustrate themes of experience. A discussion of the uses of hermeneutic photography as a method and suggestions for the use of photographs within nursing research are presented.

[Pachydermodactyly. Sequela of obsessive-compulsive neurosis]

Pachydermodactyly is an acquired, asymptomatic swelling of the lateral sides of the fingers and is seen mainly in young men. The formal pathogenesis is a benign fibromatosis. The casual pathogenesis was until now unclear, although we believe, that exogenic factors are the main reason. Consequently Pachydermodactyly has to be considered as a result of compulsion neurosis.

Comparative efficacy and safety of bifonazole 1% cream and the corresponding base preparation in the treatment of seborrhoeic dermatitis

Seborrhoeic dermatitis is a common entity that conventionally is difficult to treat. Recently, topical ketoconazole has been proven successful. To determine if other azoles, and in particular the more modern ones, are also helpful in this condition, a double-blind multicentre randomized controlled trial was performed in patients suffering from seborrhoeic dermatitis involving individuals 16 years and older without human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. One hundred patients were enrolled and treated according to a random plan with either bifonazole 1% cream or the corresponding vehicle once daily for 4 weeks. All patients were evaluated at the beginning of the study, as well as after 2 and 4 weeks, i.e. the treatment period proper, and after 6 weeks of follow-up. Clinical evaluation was based on scores of 0-3 for the following parameters: erythema, papules, infiltration, scaling, itch. In addition, mycological evaluation was performed using adequate contact plates for quantitative determination of Malassezia furfur. In the end, 92 patients were at least partially evaluable. In general, the verum preparation tended to be more efficacious, e.g. the score for erythema amounted to 0.75 after 4 weeks as compared with 0.88 in the control group, the baseline values being 2.18 and 2.04 respectively. With itch, the corresponding figures were 0.17 and 0.33 as compared with 1.42 and 1.38 before treatment. While in statistical terms there was significant difference in these parameters, such a difference was demonstrated by clinical judgement at follow-up.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Tenascin and decorin in epiretinal membranes of proliferative vitreoretinopathy and proliferative diabetic retinopathy

Extracellular matrix (ECM) synthesis plays an important part in the pathogenesis of the intravitreal membranes and is thus characteristic of both proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) and the involutive stages of proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR). Using a polyclonal antiserum against human decorin and a monoclonal antibody against human tenascin, we detected these molecules in membranes from patients with raumatic PVR (n = 10), idiopathic PVR (n = 8), and proliferative diabetic retinopathy (n = 8). We conclude that both tenascin and decorin play a role in the development of epiretinal PVR and PDR membranes by controlling cell adhesion and regulating ECM formation.

Development of the jamming avoidance response and its morphological correlates in the gymnotiform electric fish, Eigenmannia

The electric fish, Eigenmannia, will smoothly shift the frequency of its electric organ discharge away from an interfering electric signal. This shift in frequency is called the jamming avoidance response (JAR). In this article, we analyze the behavioral development of the JAR and the anatomical development of structures critical for the performance of the JAR. The JAR first appears when juvenile Eigenmannia are approximately 1 month old, at a total length of 13-18 mm. We have found that the establishment of much of the sensory periphery and of central connections precedes the onset of the JAR. We describe three aspects of the behavioral development of the JAR: (a) the onset and development of the behavior is closely correlated with size, not age; (b) the magnitude (in Hz) of the JAR increases with size until the juveniles display values within the adult range (10-20 Hz) at a total length of 25-30 mm; and (3) the JAR does not require prior experience or exposure to electrical signals. Raised in total electrical isolation from the egg stage, animals tested at a total length of 25 mm performed a correct JAR when first exposed to the stimulus. We examine the development of anatomical areas important for the performance of the JAR: the peripheral electrosensory system (mechano- and electroreceptors and peripheral nerves); and central electrosensory pathways and nuclei [the electrosensory lateral line lobe (ELL), the lateral lemniscus, the torus semicircularis, and the pace-maker nucleus]. The first recognizable structures in the developing electrosensory system are the peripheral neurites of the anterior lateral line nerve. The afferent nerves are established by day 2, which is prior to the formation of receptors in the epidermis. Thus, the neurites wait for their targets. This sequence of events suggests that receptor formation may be induced by innervation of primordial cells within the epidermis. Mechanoreceptors are first formed between day 3 and 4, while electroreceptors are first formed on day 7. Electroreceptor multiplication is observed for the first time at an age of 25 days and correlates with the onset of the JAR. The somata of the anterior lateral line nerve ganglion project afferents out to peripheral electroreceptors and also send axons centrally into the ELL. The first electroreceptive axons invade the ELL by day 6, and presumably a rough somatotopic organization and segmentation within the ELL may arise as early as day 7. Axonal projections from the ELL to the torus develop after day 18.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)

Retinal growth and cell addition during embryogenesis in the teleost, Haplochromis burtoni

Neurogenesis of the developing embryonic retina is described for the African cichlid fish, Haplochromis burtoni, from 4 days post fertilization until all cell phenotypes are generated (day 7). Cell addition and differentiation both begin at the same absolute location which later becomes the central retina. As observed in most other vertebrates, cones and ganglion cells differentiate first, followed by amacrine and bipolar cells. Rod photoreceptors, which are added late, differentiate last. Changes in retinal thickness, retinal stretching, cell size, and cell density were measured during development. From day 4 through 7, there is an increase in retinal thickness largely due to the expansion of the inner plexiform layer (IPL) and outer nuclear layer (ONL). The inner nuclear layer (INL) decreases in thickness and there is a transient decrease in the density of cells in the scleral portion of the INL. Cells increase in size in the ganglion cell layer (GCL) and the vitread INL, decrease in size in the sclerad INL, and remain the same in the ONL. Changes in the density of the cell layers were observed: the density of ONL cells increased, the density of GCL cells decreased, and INL cells increased then decreased. From day 4 to day 6, eye growth is entirely due to cell addition because no retinal stretching was observed in the ONL or the horizontal layer. During this same developmental period, the pattern and rate of neurogenesis were measured in the differentiated portion of the retina by means of 3H-thymidine labeling. A small number of cell divisions within the differentiated INL precede the onset of cell divisions in the ONL. The number of 3H-thymidine labeled cells within the INL increases at a low rate consistent with an asymmetric pattern of cell division characteristic of stem cells. In contrast, cell divisions in the ONL increase exponentially, consistent with a symmetric pattern of cell division characteristic of progenitor cells. Double-label experiments (3H-thymidine and a rod specific opsin antibody) show that some of the symmetrically dividing cells in the ONL express the rod specific opsin within 2 days, suggesting that these dividing cells are rod progenitors. Although we do not hae conclusive evidence, these developmental processes support the hypothesis that stem cells within the INL could be the source of rod precursors in the embryonic teleost retina.

[Detection of epidermal growth factor-like factors in various skin tumors]

EGF-like factors (EGF-F) in tissue extracts make use of the EGF receptor system (EGF-R) in order to transmit biological signals. EGF-F, which partly show transforming activities, can be detected with the help of an EGF receptor assay. We measured the EGF concentrations in extracts of 25 benign, 5 semi-malignant, and 13 malignant skin tumors, as well as in 5 biopsies of normal skin. The highest amounts of EGF-F were found in malignant melanoma (10 ng/mg) and in squamous cell carcinoma (7 ng/mg). The EGF-F concentrations in benign and semi-malignant tumors, in contrast, were similar to those found in normal skin (up to 4 ng/mg). Isoelectric focusing (IEF) revealed that the activity of EGF-F malignant tumors consists of various components.

[Determination of epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptors in basal cell carcinomas, squamous cell carcinomas and melanomas]

We studied the binding of EGF receptors (EGF-R) in 19 basal cell carcinomas, 8 squamous cell carcinomas, and 9 malignant melanomas. Specific binding of EGF-R was detected in 10 of the basal cell carcinomas, and in all the 8 squamous cell carcinomas. None of the malignant melanomas showed EGF-R binding. A comparative study of the receptor status vs. clinical prognostic data, such as grading and clinical course, did not reveal any significant differences, whereas in ovarian carcinomas, the EGF receptor correlated with the prognosis.

[Wound management with split skin flaps--donor sites. Covering with the moist gel Geliperm]

In 23 patients, donor sites of split-thickness skin grafts were treated with Geliperm Hydrogel, a swellable polyacrylamide agar. Healing duration, toleration, exudation and pain were all noted during the daily change of dressing. In 22 of the 23 cases, good healing was obtained after an average of 12.3 days. We feel that Geliperm is excellently suitable for covering the donor sites of split-thickness skin grafts.

[Covering circular skin defects using 4 rhombic transposition flaps]

Based on Limberg's principles concerning the design of local flaps, S. B. Jugo developed a new technique for the closure of circular skin defects: The defect is divided into 4 quadrants; then 4 symmetrical rhombic flaps are raised from the surrounding skin, all pointing in the same direction of rotation. The sides of each flap correspond to the radius of the skin defect and form an angle of 68 degrees. Finally, the flaps are rotated into the defect and sutured to each other. This technique is especially useful with large lesions of the trunk.

Synodontid catfish: a new group of weakly electric fish. Behavior and anatomy

Three species of synodontid catfish can produce weak biphasic electric discharges in either continuous or burst-like fashion. The peak-power frequency of these electric organ discharges is around 100 Hz. The electric organ appears to have originated from a sonic muscle: the organ lies dorsal to the swim bladder, contains modified muscle tissue, and is innervated from a motor nucleus located in the caudal medulla. It is possible that synodontid catfish use electric signals in communication and/or object detection.

[Epidemiology of dysplastic nevus]

The dysplastic naevus is regarded as a precursor of malignant melanoma of the skin and has distinctive features that are apparent on clinical and particularly histological examination. Epidemiological studies on the incidence of dysplastic naevi in Europe have not yet been reported. A total number of 500 white males (median age: 19 years) have been examined. Macroscopically dysplastic naevi were detected in 2.2%. This result corresponds to reports from the United States of America and Australia.