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Scars
Kinds of Scars Terms modified by Scars Selected AbstractsMicrotubule-dependent organization of subcortical microfilaments in the early Drosophila embryoDEVELOPMENTAL DYNAMICS, Issue 3 2007Maria Giovanna Riparbelli Abstract Dynamic alterations in the spatial organization of cytoskeletal elements constitute a prominent morphological feature of the early, syncytial stages of embryogenesis in Drosophila. Here, we describe and characterize the dynamic behavior of cytoplasmic, subcortical microfilaments, which form a series of nucleus-associated structures, at different phases of the simultaneous nuclear division cycles characteristic of early Drosophila embryos. Remodeling of the cytoplasmic microfilament arrays takes place in parallel to the established cyclic reorganization of cortical microfilament structures. We provide evidence that the cortical and subcortical microfilament populations organize independently of each other, and in response to distinct instructive cues. Specifically, formation of subcortical microfilament structures appears to rely on, and spatially mirror, the organization of polarized microtubule arrays, while cortical microfilament restructuring constitutes a centrosome-dependent process. Genetic analysis identifies a requirement for SCAR, a key mediator of Arp2/3-based microfilament dynamics, in organization of subcortical microfilament structures. Developmental Dynamics 236:662,670, 2007. © 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] Genetic Variability Analysis and Molecular Detection of Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. eustomae Isolated from Eustoma grandiflorum in Northern ItalyJOURNAL OF PHYTOPATHOLOGY, Issue 7-8 2010Yuan Li Abstract A total of 35 isolates of Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. eustomae obtained from diseased Eustoma grandiflorum plants in northern Italy, showing typical Fusarium wilt symptoms, were analysed for their genetic variability and molecular identification. Genetic diversity of the isolates was studied by using random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD). This analysis clustered the isolates into three groups at a genetic similarity of 69%. Sequence analysis of RAPD fragments led to the design of a pair of specific primers that amplify a 505-bp SCAR (sequence characterized amplified region) marker (SCAR505) which was used to rapidly detect F. oxysporum f.sp. eustomae on Eustoma grandiflorum plants. In a temperature-controlled chamber, detection of the pathogen by PCR was 100% successful in root and stem samples of infected but still symptomless plants. The diagnostic procedure could be completed in 1 day and allowed rapid and reliable detection of the pathogen in asymptomatic plants in the early stages of disease development. [source] Phenotypic Reaction and Genetic Analysis Using AFLP-derived SCARs for Resistance to Apple ScabJOURNAL OF PHYTOPATHOLOGY, Issue 5 2004E. M. Huaracha Abstract Six sequence-characterized amplified region (SCAR) markers linked to the apple scab resistance gene Vf were evaluated for their utility in marker-assisted selection (MAS) in apple breeding. Of the six SCARs used in this study, ACS-6 was located left of the Vf gene, ACS-7 and ACS-9 co-segregated with Vf, and ACS-8, ACS-4, ACS-5 were located right of the Vf gene. Three families derived from crosses between scab-resistant and scab-susceptible cultivars, including ,Liberty' × ,Deljub', ,Liberty' × ,Delcorf', and ,Florina' ×,Delcorf', previously screened for scab resistance following greenhouse inoculation with the fungal pathogen Venturia inaequalis, were genotyped and compared with phenotypic reactions to scab infection in the field. For each family, a subset progeny of 30 seedlings (propagated onto Malling 9 rootstock and of 7 years old) was selected based on fungal sporulation according to the following scheme. Ten seedlings with no visible scab sporulation on leaves were given phenotypic scores of 0 (deemed resistant); 10 seedlings with moderate scab sporulation were given phenotypic scores of 1.0 (deemed moderately resistant); and 10 seedlings with heavy sporulation were given phenotypic scores of 2.0 (deemed susceptible). DNA was isolated from leaf tissue collected from all 90 seedlings, parents and Malus floribunda 821, the original source of the Vf gene, and screened with all six SCARs. All six SCARs were present in the two scab-resistant parents, ,Liberty' and ,Florina', and M. floribunda 821; while, the two scab-susceptible parents, ,Deljub' and ,Delcorf', lacked all SCARs. All SCARs were either present or absent in varying numbers of seedlings in each progeny with phenotypic ratings of either 0 (resistant) or 1.0 (moderately resistant); while all seedlings with phenotypic ratings of 2.0 (susceptible) lacked all SCARs. The inconsistencies between phenotypic scab ratings and SCAR marker data are discussed. [source] Host-driven divergence in the parasitic plant Orobanche minor Sm. (Orobanchaceae)MOLECULAR ECOLOGY, Issue 19 2008C. J. THOROGOOD Abstract Many parasitic angiosperms have a broad host range and are therefore considered to be host generalists. Orobanche minor is a nonphotosynthetic root parasite that attacks a range of hosts from taxonomically disparate families. In the present study, we show that O. minor sensu lato may comprise distinct, genetically divergent races isolated by the different ecologies of their hosts. Using a three-pronged approach, we tested the hypothesis that intraspecific taxa O. minor var. minor and O. minor ssp. maritima parasitizing either clover (Trifolium pratense) or sea carrot (Daucus carota ssp. gummifer), respectively, are in allopatric isolation. Morphometric analysis revealed evidence of divergence but this was insufficient to define discrete, host-specific taxa. Intersimple sequence repeat (ISSR) marker-based data provided stronger evidence of divergence, suggesting that populations were isolated from gene flow. Phylogenetic analysis, using sequence-characterized amplified region (SCAR) markers derived from ISSR loci, provided strong evidence for divergence by clearly differentiating sea carrot-specific clades and mixed-host clades. Low levels of intrapopulation SCAR marker sequence variation and floral morphology suggest that populations on different hosts are probably selfing and inbreeding. Morphologically cryptic Orobanche taxa may therefore be isolated from gene flow by host ecology. Together, these data suggest that host specificity may be an important driver of allopatric speciation in parasitic plants. [source] Identification of a SCAR marker linked to a recessive male sterile gene (Tems) and its application in breeding of marigold (Tagetes erecta)PLANT BREEDING, Issue 1 2009Y. H. He Abstract In marigold, an F2 segregation population of 167 plants was constructed from a cross of a line (M525A) carrying the male sterility trait × an inbred line (f53f). In line M525A, the male sterility trait was controlled by the recessive gene, Tems. The intersimple sequence repeat (ISSR) and sequence-related amplified polymorphism (SRAP) techniques combined with bulked segregant analysis were used to develop markers linked to the trait. From a survey of the 38 ISSR primers and 170 SRAP primer combinations, only one SRAP marker that was closely linked to the target trait was identified and successfully converted into sequence characterized amplified region (SCAR) marker that was located within 2.4 cM from Tems locus. The marker was validated with five other two-type lines and in each case the male fertile plants were reliably identified. This SCAR marker therefore permits the efficient marker-assisted selection of male sterile individuals in breeding programmes of marigold and will greatly facilitate the breeding of F1 cultivars. [source] Development and characterization of SCAR markers associated with a dominant genic male sterility in rapeseedPLANT BREEDING, Issue 1 2008D. F. Hong Abstract Rs1046AB is a dominant genic male sterility (DGMS) line in rapeseed, in which the sterility has always been thought to be conditioned by the interaction of a male sterility gene (Ms) and its non-allelic restorer gene (Rf). This system provides not only a tool for assisting in recurrent selection but also a promising system for hybrid production. Based on previous studies, two amplified fragment length polymorphism markers linked with the Ms gene were converted into a dominant and a co-dominant sequence characterized amplified region (SCAR) marker, respectively. The putative linear order relationship of three dominant SCAR markers with the same genetic distance from the Rf gene, was also determined by an examination of whether the homologues of these markers are present or not in different lines carrying Rf. A bigger fragment generated by the closest marker linked to the Rf gene was observed in all lines carrying the recessive allele rf, suggesting that this marker is a co-dominant marker, which was further confirmed by nucleotide sequence comparison of these fragments. SCAR markers specific for Ms and Rf will be especially valuable in marker-assisted DGMS three-line breeding. [source] Development of SCAR markers for identification of stem rust resistance gene Sr31 in the homozygous or heterozygous condition in bread wheatPLANT BREEDING, Issue 6 2006B. K. Das Abstract The stem rust resistance gene Sr31, transferred from rye (Secale cereale) into wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) imparts resistance to all the virulent pathotypes of stem rust (Puccinia graminis f. sp. tritici) found in India. Wheat genotypes including carriers and non-carriers of the Sr31 gene were analysed using arbitrary primed polymerase chain reaction (AP-PCR). AP-PCR markers viz. SS30.2580(H) associated with the Sr31 gene and SS26.11100 associated with the allele for susceptibility were identified. Linkage between the markers and phenotypes was confirmed by analysing an F2 population obtained from a cross between a resistant and a susceptible genotype. The markers were tightly linked to the respective alleles. Both the AP-PCR markers were converted into sequence characterized amplified region (SCAR) markers, viz. SCSS30.2576 and SCSS26.11100 respectively. The markers were validated in two more segregating populations and 49 wheat genotypes. Using both markers it was possible to distinguish the homozygous from the heterozygous carriers of the Sr31 gene in the F2 generation. The markers developed in this study can be used for pyramiding of the Sr31 gene with other rust resistance genes and in marker-assisted selection. [source] Identification of a molecular marker linked to an Agropyron elongatum-derived gene Lr19 for leaf rust resistance in wheatPLANT BREEDING, Issue 3 2003D. P. Cherukuri Abstract The leaf rust resistance gene Lr19, transferred from Agropyron elongatum into wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) imparts resistance to all pathotypes of leaf rust (Puccinia recondita f.sp. tritici) in South-east Asia. A segregating F2 population from a cross between the leaf rust resistant parent ,HW 2046' carrying Lr19 and a susceptible parent ,Agra Local' was screened in the phytotron against a virulent pathotype 77-5 of leaf rust with the objective of identifying the molecular markers linked to Lr19. The gene was first tagged with a randomly amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) marker S73728. The RAPD marker linked to the gene Lr19 which mapped at 6.4 ± 0.035 cM distance, was converted to a sequence characterized amplified region (SCAR) marker. The SCAR marker (SCS73719) was specific to Lr19 and was not amplified in the near-isogenic lines (NILs) carrying other equally effective alien genes Lr9, Lr28 and Lr32 enabling breeders to pyramid Lr19 with these genes. [source] Geographic distribution and genetic diversity of Fusarium graminearum and F. asiaticum on wheat spikes throughout ChinaPLANT PATHOLOGY, Issue 1 2008B. Qu A large number of Fusarium graminearum and F. asiaticum isolates were collected from wheat spikes from all regions in China with a history of fusarium head blight (FHB) epidemics. Isolates were analysed to investigate their genetic diversity and geographic distribution. Sequence characterized amplified region (SCAR) analyses of 437 isolates resolved both species, with 21% being F. graminearum (SCAR type 1) and 79% being F. asiaticum (SCAR type 5). AFLP profiles clearly resolved two groups, A and B, that were completely congruent with both species. However, more diversity was detected by AFLP, revealing several subgroups within each group. In many cases, even for isolates from the same district, AFLP haplotypes differed markedly. Phylogenetic analyses of multilocus DNA sequence data indicated that all isolates of SCAR type 1, AFLP group A were F. graminearum, whilst isolates of SCAR type 5, AFLP group B were F. asiaticum, demonstrating that it is an efficient method for differentiating these two species. Both species seem to have different geographic distributions within China. Fusarium graminearum was mainly obtained from wheat growing in the cooler regions where the annual average temperature was 15°C or lower. In contrast, the vast majority of F. asiaticum isolates were collected from wheat growing in the warmer regions where the annual average temperature is above 15°C and where FHB epidemics occur most frequently. This is the first report of the distribution of, and genetic diversity within, F. graminearum and F. asiaticum on wheat spikes throughout China. [source] Variation in the response of melon genotypes to Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. melonis race 1 determined by inoculation tests and molecular markersPLANT PATHOLOGY, Issue 2 2003Y. Burger Screening of genotypes of melon (Cucumis melo) for resistance to wilt caused by Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. melonis is often characterized by wide variability in their responses to inoculation, even under carefully controlled conditions. The variability at the seedling stage of 17 genotypes susceptible to race 1 was examined in growth-chamber experiments. Disease incidence varied from 0 to 100% in a genotype-dependent manner. Using four combinations of light (60 and 90 µE m,2 s,1) and temperatures of (27 and 31°C), only light intensity showed a statistically significant effect. Marker-assisted selection for fusarium resistance breeding using cleaved amplified polymorphic sequence (CAPS) and sequence-characterized amplified region (SCAR) markers were compared using a single set of genotypes that included 24 melon accessions and breeding lines whose genotype regarding the Fom-2 gene was well characterized. The practical value of the markers for discriminating a range of genotypes and clarifying the scoring of phenotypes was also tested using a segregating breeding population which showed codominant SCAR markers to be useful in marker-assisted selection. [source] Recombination is suppressed over a large region of the rainbow trout Y chromosomeANIMAL GENETICS, Issue 6 2009R. B. Phillips Summary The previous genetic mapping data have suggested that most of the rainbow trout sex chromosome pair is pseudoautosomal, with very small X-specific and Y-specific regions. We have prepared an updated genetic and cytogenetic map of the male rainbow trout sex linkage group. Selected sex-linked markers spanning the X chromosome of the female genetic map have been mapped cytogenetically in normal males and genetically in crosses between the OSU female clonal line and four different male clonal lines as well as in outcrosses involving outbred OSU and hybrids between the OSU line and the male clonal lines. The cytogenetic maps of the X and Y chromosomes were very similar to the female genetic map for the X chromosome. Five markers on the male maps are genetically very close to the sex determination locus (SEX), but more widely spaced on the female genetic map and on the cytogenetic map, indicating a large region of suppressed recombination on the Y chromosome surrounding the SEX locus. The male map is greatly extended at the telomere. A BAC clone containing the SCAR (sequence characterized amplified region) Omy - 163 marker, which maps close to SEX, was subjected to shotgun sequencing. Two carbonyl reductase genes and a gene homologous to the vertebrate skeletal ryanodine receptor were identified. Carbonyl reductase is a key enzyme involved in production of trout ovarian maturation hormone. This brings the number of type I genes mapped to the sex chromosome to six and has allowed us to identify a region on zebrafish chromosome 10 and medaka chromosome 13 which may be homologous to the distal portion of the long arm of the rainbow trout Y chromosome. [source] Isolation of Y- and X-linked SCAR markers in yellow catfish and application in the production of all-male populationsANIMAL GENETICS, Issue 6 2009D. Wang Summary Sex controls have been performed in some farmed fish species because of significant growth differences between females and males. In yellow catfish (Pelteobagrus fulvidraco), adult males are three times larger than female adults. In this study, six Y- and X-linked amplified fragment length polymorphism fragments were screened by sex-genotype pool bulked segregant analysis and individual screening. Interestingly, sequence analysis identified two pairs of allelic genes, Pf33 and Pf62. Furthermore, the cloned flanking sequences revealed several Y- and X-specific polymorphisms, and four Y-linked or X-linked sequence characterized amplified region (SCAR) primer pairs were designed and converted into Y- and X-linked SCAR markers. Consequently, these markers were successfully used to identify genetic sex and YY super-males, and applied to all-male population production. Thus, we developed a novel and simple technique to help commercial production of YY super-males and all-male populations in the yellow catfish. [source] Steroid avoidance in renal transplantation using basiliximab induction, cyclosporine-based immunosuppression and protocol biopsiesCLINICAL TRANSPLANTATION, Issue 1 2005Mysore S Anil Kumar Abstract:, Background:, Reducing chronic steroid exposure is important to minimize steroid-related morbidity, particularly for susceptible renal transplant recipients. Steroid-free and steroid-sparing protocols have shown benefits, but safety has not been established for all populations. We investigated the safety of steroid avoidance (SA) in a population including African-Americans, using modern immunosuppression with protocol biopsy monitoring. Methods:, A randomized-controlled SA trial (early discontinuation, days 2,7) was conducted in a population (n = 77) including African-Americans and cadaveric kidney recipients. Patients received basiliximab, cyclosporine (CsA), and mycophenolate mofetil (MMF). In controls, steroids were tapered to 5 mg prednisone/d by day 30. Protocol biopsies were performed (1, 6, 12 and 24 months) to evaluate subclinical acute rejection (SCAR) and chronic allograft nephropathy (CAN). Results:, The SA did not result in significantly higher incidences of graft loss, AR, SCAR, CAN, or renal fibrosis. SA patients experienced similar renal function, comparable serum lipid levels, and a trend toward fewer cases of new-onset diabetes. Clinical outcomes of African-American and non-African-American patients did not significantly differ. Conclusions:, The SA is safe in the context of basiliximab induction and CsA-based immunosuppression. This protocol could minimize steroid-related side effects in susceptible groups, including African-Americans, without increasing the risk of AR or graft failure. [source] Demonstrating the clinical and cost effectiveness of adhesion reduction strategiesCOLORECTAL DISEASE, Issue 5 2002M. S. Wilson Abstract Objective To examine the feasibility of conducting Randomized Controlled Trials (RCT) in lower abdominal surgery to demonstrate a reduction in adhesion-related admissions following use of an adhesion reduction product, and to model the cost effectiveness of such products. Methods The number of patients in each limb of a RCT comparing an adhesion reduction product to a control has been estimated based on 25% and 50% reductions in adhesion-related readmissions one year after surgery, for P = 0.05 at a power of 80% and P = 0.01 at a power of 90%. A cost effectiveness model based on the Surgical and Clinical Adhesions Research Group (SCAR) database has been developed which calculates the percentage reduction in readmissions required of an adhesion reduction product to return the cost of investment. It also estimates the cumulative costs of adhesion-related readmissions for lower abdominal surgery and the cost savings associated with an adhesion reduction policy using a low or high cost product. Results 7.2% of patients undergoing lower abdominal surgery will readmit due to adhesions in the first year after surgery. To demonstrate a 25% reduction in readmissions one year after surgery, it is calculated that a RCT would require between 5686 (P = 0.05, power = 80%) and 7766 (P = 0.01, power = 90%) lower abdominal surgery patients followed-up for one year. A cost effectiveness analysis demonstrates that routine use of adhesion reduction products costing £50 per patient will payback the cost of such investment if they reduce adhesion-related readmissions by 16% after 3 years. A product costing £200 will need to offer a 64.1% reduction in readmissions after 3 years. For the estimated 158 000 lower abdominal surgery operations conducted in the UK each year, the cumulative costs of adhesion-related readmissions over 10 years are estimated at £569 Million. Conclusion Demonstrating the clinical effectiveness of adhesion reduction products in the RCT setting is unlikely to be feasible due to the large number of patients required. Products costing £200 or more are unlikely to payback their direct costs. [source] Phenotypic Reaction and Genetic Analysis Using AFLP-derived SCARs for Resistance to Apple ScabJOURNAL OF PHYTOPATHOLOGY, Issue 5 2004E. M. Huaracha Abstract Six sequence-characterized amplified region (SCAR) markers linked to the apple scab resistance gene Vf were evaluated for their utility in marker-assisted selection (MAS) in apple breeding. Of the six SCARs used in this study, ACS-6 was located left of the Vf gene, ACS-7 and ACS-9 co-segregated with Vf, and ACS-8, ACS-4, ACS-5 were located right of the Vf gene. Three families derived from crosses between scab-resistant and scab-susceptible cultivars, including ,Liberty' × ,Deljub', ,Liberty' × ,Delcorf', and ,Florina' ×,Delcorf', previously screened for scab resistance following greenhouse inoculation with the fungal pathogen Venturia inaequalis, were genotyped and compared with phenotypic reactions to scab infection in the field. For each family, a subset progeny of 30 seedlings (propagated onto Malling 9 rootstock and of 7 years old) was selected based on fungal sporulation according to the following scheme. Ten seedlings with no visible scab sporulation on leaves were given phenotypic scores of 0 (deemed resistant); 10 seedlings with moderate scab sporulation were given phenotypic scores of 1.0 (deemed moderately resistant); and 10 seedlings with heavy sporulation were given phenotypic scores of 2.0 (deemed susceptible). DNA was isolated from leaf tissue collected from all 90 seedlings, parents and Malus floribunda 821, the original source of the Vf gene, and screened with all six SCARs. All six SCARs were present in the two scab-resistant parents, ,Liberty' and ,Florina', and M. floribunda 821; while, the two scab-susceptible parents, ,Deljub' and ,Delcorf', lacked all SCARs. All SCARs were either present or absent in varying numbers of seedlings in each progeny with phenotypic ratings of either 0 (resistant) or 1.0 (moderately resistant); while all seedlings with phenotypic ratings of 2.0 (susceptible) lacked all SCARs. The inconsistencies between phenotypic scab ratings and SCAR marker data are discussed. [source] Genetic linkage map construction and location of QTLs for fruit-related traits in cucumberPLANT BREEDING, Issue 2 2008X. J. Yuan Abstract A 173-point genetic linkage map of cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.), consisting of 116 SRAPs, 33 RAPDs, 11 SSRs, 9 SCARs, 3 ISSRs, and 1 STS, was constructed using 130 F2 progeny derived from a narrow cross between line S94 (Northern China open-field type) and line S06 (greenhouse European type). The seven linkage groups spanned 1016 cM with a mean marker interval of 5.9 cM. Using the F2 population and its F3 derived families, a total of 38 QTLs were detected on five linkage groups with an LOD threshold of 3.0 for nine fruit-related traits: fruit weight, length, and diameter, fruit flesh thickness, seed-cavity diameter, fruit-stalk length, fruit pedicel length, length/diameter and length/stalk ratio. Of the identified QTLs, fsl4.3 for fruit-stalk length explained the largest portion of phenotypic variation (r2 = ,30%). Several QTLs were detected in the same linkage region in different generations and different seasons. Additionally, several QTLs for various fruit traits were mapped to the same or neighbouring marker intervals, suggesting they are possible character associations for controlling cucumber fruit development. [source] Repigmentation after Surgery of Melanoma in a Burn Scar: Dermoscopy as Aid for the Management DecisionDERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 7 2007ERIKA RICHTIG MD No abstract is available for this article. [source] Lessons on Dermoscopy: Malignant Melanoma on Surgical Scar,Dermoscopic FeaturesDERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 12p1 2004Nicola Arpaia MD No abstract is available for this article. [source] Pyoderma gangrenosum of the scalp treated with cyclosporine AINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DERMATOLOGY, Issue 12 2002Pasquale Patrone MD A 56-year-old woman presented with an ulcer, with a depth of 9 mm, on the vertex and frontal parietal regions of the scalp. The lesion had a round shape (diameter, 7 cm), with clear-cut margins and vertical borders sinking vertically to a bottom that was entirely covered with purulent fibrinous yellowish matter and greenish colored necrotic tissue. Other numerous small roundish ulcers were present next to the large ulcer. These had irregular margins with a yellowish fibrinous bottom (Fig. 1). The patient reported the appearance of two small ulcers on the left and on the right frontal parietal regions about 1 year earlier. These had been treated locally with antimicrobials and antiseptics with no result. During the 2 months prior to our evaluation, a few small round-shaped ulcers had appeared on the scalp. These had progressively increased in size and number. Figure Figure 1 . Large ulcer with clear-cut margins, covered by purulent fibrinous matter, and other small roundish ulcers The patient had been an insulin-dependent diabetic for 23 years. Hematochemical examinations showed no significant alterations, except for a rise in glycemia. Urine examination gave normal results. Carcinoembryonic antigen and lymphocytic phenotyping indices were normal. Echographic, endoscopic, and radiocontrast studies of the abdomen did not reveal the presence of lesions either in the gastrointestinal tract or in other organs. Samples of ulcerous tissue were collected from the scalp to perform histologic and microbiologic analysis in search of fungi and bacteria. This last examination revealed the presence of Staphylococcus aureus and Candida parapsylosis. Direct search for mycobacteria was negative. Histology indicated the presence of dermal granulomatous inflammation with giant multinucleate cells, associated with large zones of suppuration and colliquative necrosis. While waiting to complete the diagnostic course, topical antiseptic, antimicrobial, and fibrinolytic therapy was administered; subsequently, as this did not lead to any improvement, systemic treatment with cyclosporine A (5 mg/kg/day) was started. Rapid improvement of the clinical picture occurred. The ulcers appeared cleaner from the first 2 weeks of treatment, radial growth stopped, and the margins were slightly more superficial. The patient continued with immunomodulating therapy at home over a period of 7 months. The dose was progressively reduced until, over a period of about 3 months, complete re-epithelialization of the lesion, with subsequent partial regrowth of the hair, was obtained (Figs 2 and 3). No relapses were observed 1 year after treatment was suspended. Figure 2. Partial re-epithelialization of the lesion with partial regrowth of the hair Figure 3. Scar and hair regrowth [source] Can We Improve the Identification of Ventricular Scar to Guide Substrate-Based Ventricular Tachycardia Ablation?JOURNAL OF CARDIOVASCULAR ELECTROPHYSIOLOGY, Issue 6 2010BRETT D. ATWATER M.D. No abstract is available for this article. [source] Patients with Scar-Related Right Ventricular Tachycardia: Determinants of Long-Term OutcomeJOURNAL OF CARDIOVASCULAR ELECTROPHYSIOLOGY, Issue 10 2009ADRIANUS P. WIJNMAALEN M.D. Introduction: Patients with established arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy/dysplasia (ARVC/D) based on task force (TF) criteria and ventricular tachycardia (VT) are at risk of VT recurrence and sudden death. Data on patients with VT due to right ventricular (RV) scar not fulfilling TF criteria are lacking. The purpose of this study was to assess the long-term arrhythmia recurrence rate and outcome in patients with scar-related right VT with and without a diagnosis of ARVC/D. Methods: Sixty-four patients (age 43.5 ± 15 years, 49 males) presenting with nonischemic scar-related VT of RV origin were studied. Scar was identified by electroanatomical mapping, contrast echocardiography, and/or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Patients were evaluated and treated according to a standard institute protocol. Results: Twenty-nine (45%) patients were diagnosed with ARVC/D according to TF criteria (TF+) and 35 (55%) with RV scar of undetermined origin (TF,) at the end of follow-up (64 ± 42 months). Patients were treated with antiarrhythmic drugs, radiofrequency catheter ablation, and/or implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) implantation. VT recurrence-free survival for TF+ and TF, was 76% versus 74% at 1 year and 45% versus 50% at 4 years (P = ns). Patients with fast index VT (cycle length [CL], 250 ms, n = 31) were more likely to experience a fast VT during follow-up than patients with a slow index VT (CL > 250 ms, n = 33) (61% vs 3%, P < 0.001). Conclusions: Scar-related RV VTs have a high recurrence rate in TF+ and TF, patients. Patients presenting with a fast index VT are at high risk for fast VT recurrence and may benefit most from ICD therapy. [source] Clinical Application of PET/CT Fusion Imaging for Three-Dimensional Myocardial Scar and Left Ventricular Anatomy during Ventricular Tachycardia AblationJOURNAL OF CARDIOVASCULAR ELECTROPHYSIOLOGY, Issue 6 2009JING TIAN M.D., Ph.D. Background: Image integration has the potential to display three-dimensional (3D) scar anatomy and facilitate substrate characterization for ventricular tachycardia (VT) ablation. However, the current generation of clinical mapping systems cannot display 3D left ventricle (LV) anatomy with embedded 3D scar reconstructions or allow display of border zone and high-resolution anatomic scar features. Objective: This study reports the first clinical experience with a mapping system allowing an integrated display of 3D LV anatomy with detailed 2D/3D scar and border zone reconstruction. Methods: Ten patients scheduled for VT ablation underwent contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) and Rubidium-82 perfusion/F-18 Fluorodeoxyglucose metabolic Positron Emission Tomography (PET) imaging to reconstruct 3D LV and scar anatomy. LV and scar models were co-registered using a 3D mapping system and analyzed with a 17-segment model. Metabolic thresholding was used to reconstruct the 3D border zone. Real-time display of CT images was performed during ablation. Results: Co-registration (error 4.3 ± 0.7 mm) allowed simultaneous visualization of 3D LV anatomy and embedded scar and guided additional voltage mapping. Segments containing homogenous or partial scar correlated in 94.4% and 85.7% between voltage maps and 3D PET scar reconstructions, respectively. Voltage-defined scar and normal myocardium had relative FDG uptakes of 40 ± 13% and 89 ± 30% (P < 0.05). The 3D border zone correlated best with a 46% metabolic threshold. Real-time display of registered high-resolution CT images allowed the simultaneous characterization of scar-related anatomic changes. Conclusion: Integration of PET/CT reconstruction allows simultaneous 3D display of myocardial scar and border zone embedded into the LV anatomy as well as the display of detailed scar anatomy. Multimodality imaging may enable a new image-guided approach to substrate-guided VT ablation. [source] Role of Left Ventricular Scar and Purkinje-Like Potentials During Mapping and Ablation of Ventricular Fibrillation in Dilated CardiomyopathyPACING AND CLINICAL ELECTROPHYSIOLOGY, Issue 3 2009ANIL-MARTIN SINHA M.D., D.Phil. Background: Purkinje-like potentials (PLPs) have been described as important contributors to initiation of ventricular fibrillation (VF) in patients with normal hearts, ischemic cardiomyopathy, and early after-myocardial infarction. Methods: Of the 11 consecutive patients with VF storm, nonischemic cardiomyopathy (68 ± 22 years, left ventricular ejection fraction 28 ± 8%) who were given antiarrhythmic drugs and/or heart failure management, five had recurrent VF and underwent electrophysiology study (EPS) and catheter ablation. Results: At EPS, frequent monomorphic premature ventricular contractions (PVC) and/or ventricular tachycardia did not occur. With isoproterenol, VF was induced in three patients, and sustained monomorphic PVCs were induced in one patient. Three-dimensional electroanatomical mapping using CARTO (Biosense-Webster Inc., Diamond Bar, CA) revealed posterior wall scar in four of the five patients. PLP in sinus rhythm were recorded around the scar border in these four patients, and radiofrequency ablation targeting PLP was successfully performed at these sites. The patient without PLP did not undergo ablation. During follow-up (12 ± 5 months), only the patient without PLP had four VF recurrences requiring implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) shocks. Conclusion: In patients with VF and dilated cardiomyopathy, left ventricular posterior wall scar in the vicinity of the mitral annulus seems to be a common finding. Targeting PLP along the scar border zone for ablation seems to efficiently prevent VF recurrence in these patients. [source] Nontransmural Scar Detected by Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Origin of Ventricular Tachycardia in Structural Heart DiseasePACING AND CLINICAL ELECTROPHYSIOLOGY, Issue 2009MIKI YOKOKAWA M.D. Background: Contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) identifies scar tissue as an area of delayed enhancement (DE). The scar region might be the substrate for ventricular tachycardia (VT). However, the relationship between the occurrence of VT and the characteristics of scar tissue has not been fully studied. Methods: CMR was performed in 34 patients with monomorphic, sustained VT and dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM, n = 18), ischemic cardiomyopathy (ICM, n = 10), or idiopathic VT (IVT, n = 6). The VT exit site was assessed by a detailed analysis of the QRS morphology, including bundle branch block type, limb lead polarity, and precordial R-wave transition. On CMR imaging, the transmural score of each of the 17 segments was assigned, using a computer-assisted, semiautomatic technique, to measure the DE areas. Segmental scars were classified as nontransmural when DE was 1,75% and transmural when DE was 76,100% of the left ventricular mass in each segment. Results: A scar was detected in all patients with DCM or ICM. Nontransmural scar tissue was often found at the VT exit site, in patients with DCM or ICM. In contrast, no scar was found in patients with IVT. Conclusions: CMR clarified the characteristics and distribution of scar tissue in patients with structural heart disease, and the presence and location of scar tissue might predict the VT exit site in these patients. [source] Long-term results after excision of breast mass using a vacuum-assisted biopsy deviceANZ JOURNAL OF SURGERY, Issue 11 2009Cha Kyong Yom Abstract Background:, The excision of breast lesions using an ultrasound-guided vacuum-assisted biopsy device (VABD) is a widely used technique for the diagnosis and treatment of breast disease, but the results of long-term follow-up after VABD excision of benign breast tumours have not been reported. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the results of long-term follow-up after complete excision of benign breast tumours using an ultrasound-guided VABD. Methods:, This is a retrospective clinical study. Between January 2001 and December 2004, patients who had undergone VABD excision of benign breast tumours and been followed up by clinical examination and ultrasonography for 2 years or more were included. Results:, One hundred eighty-four cases representing 153 patients were studied. The median follow-up period was 33 months (range, 24,67 months). All lesions were histologically benign. The mean size of the lesions was 1.09 ± 0.57 cm (range, 0.3,3.03 cm). Within 2 years after VABD excision, residual lesions were detected in 10% of patients sonographically, but after 2 years or more, residual masses were found in 6.5% of patients. Scar changes also decreased from 36.0% to 15.8% during the period of follow-up. Finally, the benign breast tumours were completely excised without residual masses in 93.5% of the participant patients. Residual masses developed in two fibroadenoma cases (1.08%); one was re-excised and the other was followed serially. Conclusion:, Ultrasound-guided VABD excision is a minimally invasive technique for the complete removal of benign breast tumours. The results of this long-term follow-up of VABD excisions are comparable to conventional methods. [source] Fractional Photothermolysis for the Treatment of Surgical ScarsDERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 4 2010JOY H. KUNISHIGE MD The authors have indicated no significant interest with commercial supporters. [source] Comparison of a Long-Pulse Nd:YAG Laser and a Combined 585/1,064-nm Laser for the Treatment of Acne Scars: A Randomized Split-Face Clinical StudyDERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 11 2009SEONG UK MIN MD BACKGROUND Nonablative laser is gaining popularity because of the low risk of complications, especially in patients with darker skin. OBJECTIVE To compare the efficacy and safety of a long-pulse neodymium-doped yttrium aluminium garnet (Nd:YAG) laser and a combined 585/1,064-nm laser for the treatment of acne scars. MATERIALS AND METHODS Nineteen patients with mild to moderate atrophic acne scars received four long-pulse Nd:YAG laser or combined 585/1,064-nm laser treatment sessions at fortnightly intervals. Treatments were administered randomly in a split-face manner. RESULTS Acne scars showed mild to moderate improvement, with significant Echelle d'évaluation clinique des cicatrices d'acné (ECCA) score reductions, after both treatments. Although intermodality differences were not significant, combined 585/1,064-nm laser was more effective for deep boxcar scars. In patients with combined 585/1,064-nm laser-treated sides that improved more than long-pulse Nd:YAG laser-treated sides, ECCA scores were significantly lower for combined 585/1,064-nm laser treatment. Histologic evaluations revealed significantly greater collagen deposition, although there was no significant difference between the two modalities. Patient satisfaction scores concurred with physicians' evaluations. CONCLUSION Both lasers ameliorated acne scarring with minimal downtime. In light of this finding, optimal outcomes might be achieved when laser treatment types are chosen after considering individual scar type and response. [source] Treatment of Surgical Scars with Nonablative Fractional Laser Versus Pulsed Dye Laser: A Randomized Controlled TrialDERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 8 2009EMILY TIERNEY MD OBJECTIVE Comparison of the efficacy of nonablative fractional laser (NAFL) and the V-beam pulsed dye laser (PDL) for improvement of surgical scars. METHODS A randomized blinded split-scar study. Fifteen scars in 12 patients were treated a minimum of 2 months after Mohs surgery. Patients were treated on half of the scar with a 1,550-nm NAFL and on the contralateral half with the 595 nm PDL. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) A nontreating physician investigator evaluated the outcome of the scar in terms of scar dyspigmentation, thickness, texture, and overall cosmetic appearance (5-point grading scale). RESULTS After a series of four treatments at 2-week intervals, greater improvements were noted in the portion of surgical scars treated with NAFL (overall mean improvement 75.6%, range 60,100%, vs. PDL, 53.9%, range 20,80%; p<.001). CONCLUSION These data support the use of NAFL as a highly effective treatment modality for surgical scars, with greater improvement in scar appearance than with PDL. It is likely that the greater depth of penetration and focal microthermal zones of injury with NAFL, inducing neocollagenesis and collagenolysis, account for its greater improvement in scar remodeling. These encouraging results lead us to recommend that NAFL be added to the current treatment armamentarium for surgical scars. [source] Clinical Trial of Dual Treatment with an Ablative Fractional Laser and a Nonablative Laser for the Treatment of Acne Scars in Asian PatientsDERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 7 2009SANGEUN KIM MD BACKGROUND Many methods have been proposed for the treatment of acne scars, with variable cosmetic results. Nonablative skin resurfacing is one method that has been proposed. Because of a need for more noticeable clinical improvements, the ablative fractional laser was recently introduced. OBJECTIVE To reduce complications and improve the results of ablative fractional laser resurfacing by combining this treatment of acne scars with nonablative lasers. METHODS A series of 20 patients (skin phototypes IV,V) with atrophic facial acne scars were randomly divided into two groups that received three successive monthly treatments with an ablative fractional laser using high (group A) and low (group B) energy on one facial half and an ablative fractional laser with low energy plus a nonablative resurfacing laser on the other facial half. Patients were evaluated using digital photography at each treatment visit and at 3 months postoperatively. Clinical assessment scores were determined at each treatment session and follow-up visit. RESULTS Although the use of the ablative fractional laser with high energy resulted in an improvement in patients' acne scars, the combination of ablative fractional laser resurfacing and nonablative laser resurfacing yielded the best results, as assessed in photographs as well as by the overall appearance of the acne scars. With the combination method, fewer complications were observed. [source] Hypertrophic Scars and Keloids,A Review of Their Pathophysiology, Risk Factors, and Therapeutic ManagementDERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 2 2009DOLORES WOLFRAM MD BACKGROUND Hypertrophic scars and keloids result from an abnormal fibrous wound healing process in which tissue repair and regeneration-regulating mechanism control is lost. These abnormal fibrous growths present a major therapeutic dilemma and challenge to the plastic surgeon because they are disfiguring and frequently recur. OBJECTIVE To provide updated clinical and experimental information on hypertrophic scars and keloids so that physicians can better understand and properly treat such lesions. METHODS A Medline literature search was performed for relevant publications and for diverse strategies for management of hypertrophic scars and keloids. CONCLUSION The growing understanding of the molecular processes of normal and abnormal wound healing is promising for discovery of novel approaches for the management of hypertrophic scars and keloids. Although optimal treatment of these lesions remains undefined, successful healing can be achieved only with combined multidisciplinary therapeutic regimens. [source] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||