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Microscopic Examination (microscopic + examination)
Kinds of Microscopic Examination Selected AbstractsVascular endothelial growth factor in edematous mouse embryos induced by retinoic acid in uteroCONGENITAL ANOMALIES, Issue 2 2001Yoshiko Yasuda ABSTRACT, Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is induced by hypoxic environment and contributes to vascular formation in both developing embryos and adults. Exogenous retinoic acid (RA) induces avascular yolk sacs with anemic stunted embryos of day 9 and 10 of gestation when RA is given to pregnant mice on day 6, 6.5 or 7 of pregnancy (Yasuda et al., 1996). We undertook the present studies to find out whether VEGF is activated and plays any role in those RA-exposed embryos. Embryos were obtained from dams given 60 mg/kg of RA on day 6 or 7 of pregnancy and sacrificed three days later. Most RA-exposed embryos showed edematous swelling without prominent vascular nets, but had beating heart tubes on day 9 and day 10 of gestation. Microscopic examination of developing tissue components showed various degrees of degeneration, and distension of the dorsal aorta when the body cavity was dosed. Northern blot analysis revealed expression of VEGF mRNA in the RA-exposed and control embryos. The highest expression of VEGF mRNA was seen in the embryos of day 10 exposed to RA on day 7, and these embryos had a significantly lower ATP content than did the controls (p < 0.01). Immunoreactive VEGF was detectable in both experimental and control embryos; in the former it was especially visible in the distended neuroepithelium, endothelium and membranes. These VEGF-immunoreactive regions also expressed another permeability factor, bradykinin. These findings suggest that VEGF upregulated by hypoxic conditions in edematous embryos induced by RA exposure in utero acts as hyperpermeability. [source] The BSCC Code of Practice , exfoliative cytopathology (excluding gynaecological cytopathology)CYTOPATHOLOGY, Issue 4 2009A. Chandra Exfoliative cytopathology (often referred to as non-gynaecological cytology) is an important part of the workload of all diagnostic pathology departments. It clearly has a role in the diagnosis of neoplastic disease but its role in establishing non-neoplastic diagnoses should also be recognised. Ancillary tests may be required to establish a definitive diagnosis. Clinical and scientific teamwork is essential to establish an effective cytology service and staffing levels should be sufficient to support preparation, prescreening, on-site adequacy assessment and reporting of samples as appropriate. Routine clinical audit and histology/cytology correlation should be in place as quality control of a cytology service. Cytology staff should be involved in multidisciplinary meetings and appropriate professional networks. Laboratories should have an effective quality management system conforming to the requirements of a recognised accreditation scheme such as Clinical Pathology Accreditation (UK) Ltd. Consultant pathologists should sign out the majority of exfoliative cytology cases. Where specimens are reported by experienced biomedical scientists (BMS), referred to as cytotechnologists outside the UK, this must only be when adequate training has been given and be defined in agreed written local protocols. An educational basis for formalising the role of the BMS in exfoliative cytopathology is provided by the Diploma of Expert Practice in Non-gynaecological Cytology offered by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS). The reliability of cytological diagnoses is dependent on the quality of the specimen provided and the quality of the preparations produced. The laboratory should provide feedback and written guidance on specimen procurement. Specimen processing should be by appropriately trained, competent staff with appropriate quality control. Microscopic examination of preparations by BMS should be encouraged wherever possible. Specific guidance is provided on the clinical role, specimen procurement, preparation and suitable staining techniques for urine, sputum, semen, serous cavity effusion, cerebrospinal fluid, synovial fluid, cyst aspirates, endoscopic specimens, and skin and mucosal scrapes. [source] Airborne fungal spores, pollen grains, and vegetable cells in routine Papanicolaou smearsDIAGNOSTIC CYTOPATHOLOGY, Issue 6 2004Ph.D., Rafael Martínez-Girón M.D. Abstract The objective was to demonstrate the presence of airborne fungal spores, pollen grains, and vegetable cells in smears and establish their significance. Microscopic examination was of smears stained by the Papanicolaou technique. We found several types of airborne spores (Alternaria, Exserohilum, Aspergillus, Cladosporium, Epicoccum, Curvularia, and Ascosmycete), pollen grains (Lilium, bullrush, Pinus, Acacia, hazelnut, and oak), and several types of vegetable cells. The existence of these structures may be due to intrinsic or to extrinsic contamination of the sample. Anemophilous fungi spores and pollen grains have been shown to possess great allergenic capacity. Pollen grains and vegetable cells may be mistaken for certain microorganisms or malignant cells. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2004;30:381,385. © 2004 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] SOLITARY PEDUNCULATED GASTRIC GLAND HETEROTOPIA TREATED BY ENDOSCOPIC POLYPECTOMY: REPORT OF A CASEDIGESTIVE ENDOSCOPY, Issue 1 2001Kazuo Kitabayashi The patient, a 68-year-old woman with a long-standing history of schizophrenia, was admitted to our hospital complaining of vomiting which had lasted approximately 3 weeks. Endoscopic examination of the stomach revealed a solitary pedunculated submucosal tumor, of approximately 2 cm in diameter, on the anterior wall of the upper body, close to the greater curvature. The lesion was endoscopically excised using a polypectomy snare without any complication. Microscopic examination was compatible with the diagnosis of gastric gland heterotopia showing submucosal proliferation of pseudopyloric glands, fundic glands and foveolar epithelium with fibromuscular stromal framework. The proliferating foveolar epithelium and fibromuscular stroma were in continuity with the overlaying gastric mucosa and muscularis mucosae, respectively. The lesion was entirely covered by normal gastric epithelium. No atypical cells were revealed in the lesion. The clinical significance of gastric gland heterotopia is unclear because of its controversial histogenesis and carcinogenetic potential. We herein report a rare case of solitary pedunculated gastric gland heterotopia with some review of scientific reports. [source] Acute isolated cerebral mucormycosis in a patient with high grade non-Hodgkins lymphomaEUROPEAN JOURNAL OF NEUROLOGY, Issue 4 2000M. Zarei A 57-year-old female in complete remission of grade IV non-Hodgkin lymphoma whilst on intensive chemotherapy, suddenly developed unilateral hemispheric stroke with a fatal outcome in 3 days. She was apyrexial and had received antifungal prophylaxis during her treatment. Post-mortem examination showed complete thrombosis of the internal carotid artery leading to infarction in the territory of the middle and anterior cerebral arteries. Microscopic examination of the brain showed involvement of intra-cranial vessel walls and brain parenchyma by mucormyces, with no evidence of systemic mucormycosis. Isolated cerebral mucormycosis is a rare occurrence, more commonly found in intravenous drug abusers, but can occur in patients with haematological malignancy. [source] Erythema multiforme-like lesions associated with lesional infiltration of tumor cells occurring with adult T-cell lymphoma/leukemiaINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DERMATOLOGY, Issue 4 2008Tomoyuki Ohtani MD A 66-year-old Japanese woman visited our hospital with a complaint of multiple papules on her trunk and extremities. She had a past medical history of appendicitis and blood transfusion 40 years earlier. For the last 10 years, she had noticed multiple, gradually enlarging papulonodular lesions with surrounding erythema on her trunk and extremities. ,Physical examination revealed multiple, violaceous papules or nodules, less than 10 mm in diameter, with surrounding erythema on her trunk and extremities (Fig. 1). The results of routine laboratory examinations, including blood count, liver function, renal function, serum calcium, and lactate dehydrogenase, were within the normal range. The peripheral blood picture showed a small population of atypical lymphocytes below 1% of the total white blood cells. Human T-cell lymphotropic virus type I (HTLV-I) serology was positive. A microscopic examination of a biopsy specimen from a nodule on the abdomen demonstrated diffuse infiltration of large pleomorphic T cells in the upper and middle dermis, although highly atypical lymphocytes, so-called flower cells, could not be recognized. Infiltrating lymphocytes were positive for CD2, CD3, CD4, CD5, CD7, and CD45, but negative for CD8 and CD20, immunohistologically. Bone marrow biopsy also demonstrated the infiltration of lymphocytes expressing CD2, CD3, CD4, CD5, and CD7, but not CD25. Southern blot analysis of the infiltrating cells in the skin revealed an integration of HTLV-I proviral DNA in T cells. Clonal T-cell receptor , gene rearrangement was detected in skin and bone marrow biopsies. No abnormal mass or bone defect was detected by chest or abdominal computed tomographic scanning, systemic gallium-67 citrate scintigraphy, or chest radiography. On the basis of these data, the patient was diagnosed with smouldering-type adult T-cell lymphoma/leukemia. Figure 1. Clinical features of adult T-cell lymphoma/leukemia (ATL) skin lesions. Crusted, target-like, dark-red plaques on the lower legs ,The patient was started on topical steroid and electron beam radiation therapy (27 Gy/14 days). Five days after the start of irradiation, she noticed multiple patches of edematous erythema appearing on the trunk and extremities (Fig. 2). As it was initially suspected that these newly emerging erythema multiforme or toxic eruptions were caused by irradiation, therapy was interrupted. Anti-herpes simplex virus antibody was not checked because no typical herpes simplex lesions were noticed. The patient was not taking any systemic drugs. A skin biopsy was taken from a representative lesion on the chest. The pathologic specimen showed epidermotropism, liquefaction degeneration in the basal layer, marked edema, and dense infiltration of mononuclear cells in the upper dermis. Infiltrating cells possessed abundant cytoplasm and large pleomorphic nuclei with distinct nucleoli (Fig. 3). These findings were consistent with the histopathologic findings of erythema multiforme, except for the atypical lymphoid cell infiltration. Immunohistochemical staining demonstrated that the phenotype of the skin-infiltrating cells was identical to that of the atypical cells in the initial lesions. As the eruptions did not disappear in spite of the interruption of radiation, total skin irradiation was restarted. After completion of therapy, both the erythema multiforme-like lesions and the initial adult T-cell lymphoma/leukemia nodules on the trunk and extremities had resolved, leaving brown pigmentation. The patient has been free of any recurrence of skin lesions or systemic symptoms for 6 years after the completion of total skin irradiation. Figure 2. Appearance of erythema multiforme (EM)-like lesions. Edematous red plaques involving the breast Figure 3. Microscopic examination of a biopsy specimen from (EM)-like lesions on the chest (hematoxylin and eosin staining). (a) Epidermotropism, liquefaction degeneration in the basal layer, and dense infiltration of mononuclear cells and severe edema in the upper dermis (×100). (b) High-power magnification revealed that the dermal infiltration included atypical lymphoid cells with abundant cytoplasm, convoluted large nuclei, and distinct nucleoli (×400) [source] Juvenile hyaline fibromatosis: a case report and review of the literatureINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DERMATOLOGY, Issue 11 2004Jean E. Thomas MD Background, Juvenile hyaline fibromatosis (JHF) is a rare, inherited condition characterized by tumor-like growth of hyalinized fibrous tissue on the head and neck, joint contractures, and gingival hypertrophy. There may be marked clinical heterogeneity. Methods, We present a case of a 3-year-old Haitian boy with multiple firm nodules on the scalp and chin without joint contractures or gingival hypertrophy. Family history was not available. Results, Biopsy specimens from three scalp nodules were processed with routine and immunohistochemical stains. The matrix was periodic acid Schiff (PAS) and Alcian blue positive. The cellular stromal component was positive for vimentin and scattered factor XIIIa positive cells were found. Osteoclast-like giant cells were also noted, and stained for CD68. Conclusions, Our patient had the nodular growths on the scalp and face that are characteristically found in JHF. Microscopic examination confirmed the diagnosis and showed scattered intracytoplasmic and extracellular eosinophilic globules in three separate biopsy specimens. These were positive with PAS. [source] Apocrine carcinoma of the vulva in a band-like arrangement with inflammatory and telangiectatic metastasis via local lymphatic channelsINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DERMATOLOGY, Issue 1 2003Takahiro Kiyohara MD Background Primary adenocarcinomas of the vulva have been classified as sweat gland carcinomas, extramammary Paget's disease, and primary breast carcinomas of the vulva. They share some common histopathologic features. Methods We describe a 72-year-old Japanese woman with apocrine carcinoma of the vulva and local lymphatic metastasis. Results The patient presented with a bruise on her inguinal area. Physical examination revealed a 4 cm × 7 cm, dark-red, irregularly elevated tumor on the left labium majora. Dome-shaped, flesh-colored, small papulovesicles were scattered on the abdomen, accompanied by erythema and induration. The lesion showed a band-like arrangement. General examination revealed multiple bone metastases, particularly in the spine. Microscopic examination revealed a moderately differentiated adenocarcinoma with signet ring cells. A few pagetoid clear cells were present in the hypertrophic epidermis. The peripheral papulovesicles demonstrated the same histopathologic view as in inflammatory and telangiectatic, metastatic breast carcinoma. Tumor cells were positive for various ductal and glandular markers. Estrogen and progesterone receptors were not expressed. Ultrastructural findings suggested differentiation towards apocrine or mammary glands because of the presence of an apocrine process and electron-dense mucous granules. The patient died in spite of combination chemotherapy and irradiation therapy. Conclusions We report a rare case of apocrine carcinoma of the vulva in a band-like arrangement with local lymphatic metastasis which showed the clinical and histopathologic characteristics of inflammatory and telangiectatic carcinoma. [source] Urethral condyloma acuminata following urethral instrumentation in an elderly manINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF UROLOGY, Issue 10 2004YASUHIRO SUMINO Abstract, A 70-year-old man had undergone urethral dilatation with bougie for 8 months following transurethral resection of the prostate and complained papillary masses at the urethral meatus. Physical and endoscopic examination revealed multiple tumors from the urethral meatus to the bulbous urethra. These tumors were resected transurethrally and 5-FU cream was instilled into urethra. Microscopic examination revealed urethral condyloma acuminata. Human papillomavirus types 6/11 were detected in the condylomas. As high prevalence rate of genital human papillomavirus was reported in penile skin of healthy men, urethral instrumentation including transurethral surgery might cause dissemination of penile skin human papillomavirus into the urethral lumen. [source] Phyllodes tumor of the prostate: Recurrent obstructive symptom and stromal proliferative activityINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF UROLOGY, Issue 9 2004KOJI SHIRAISHI Abstract We report the case of a 59-year-old man with a metachronous development of phyllodes tumor and adenocarcinoma of the prostate. He complained of urinary obstruction and transurethral resections of the prostate (TUR-P) had been performed six times in 10 years. Microscopic examination showed cystically dilated glands consisting of bizarre cells with pleomorphic, hyperchromatic nuclei in the stroma at the sixth TUR-P. Radical prostatectomy was performed against recurrences and adenocarcinoma was incidentally detected. Apparent up-regulation of proliferative nuclear antigens (PCNA), but not p53, was observed in the prostatectomy specimen by Western blotting. Active proliferation of stromal cells is considered to have caused the recurrent obstructive symptom. [source] Follicular porokeratosis: distinct clinical entity or histologic variant?JOURNAL OF CUTANEOUS PATHOLOGY, Issue 11 2009M. Pongpudpunth Various clinical subtypes of porokeratosis, clinically characterized by annular plaques with a normal or atrophic center and a distinctive keratotic ridge, are described based on the age of onset, size, number and distribution of the lesions. Follicular involvement, identified by follicular localization of cornoid lamellae, is uncommon and has only been reported in association with other subtypes such as disseminated superficial actinic porokeratosis and porokeratosis of Mibelli. We present a case of follicular porokeratosis in a 40-year-old male who presented initially with scaly red "papules" in a follicular distribution on the upper extremity. Microscopic examination of a punch biopsy specimen revealed parakeratosis confined to the follicle and mild interface change. A repeat biopsy performed in 2008 revealed identical histologic features. In terms of etiopathogenesis, a clone of cells at the base of the follicle demonstrating abnormal keratinization is not a novel concept and has been demonstrated in other porokeratotic dermatoses. However, the presence of lesions that are solely follicular based, in terms of clinical presentation and histologic findings, and static over a 3-year period favors the concept that follicular porokeratosis is a distinct clinical entity and not merely a histologic variant of the porokeratotic dermatoses described in the literature thus far. [source] Cutaneous mesenchymal hamartoma with mixed myogenous differentiationJOURNAL OF CUTANEOUS PATHOLOGY, Issue 4 2006John Edwin Schrecengost A 3-month-old infant girl presented with a polypoid lesion in the perianal region. No changes in this lesion had been noted since birth. Microscopic examination of the excised specimen showed a mixture of mesenchymal elements, dominated by haphazard thin fascicles of skeletal muscle. Collagen and vascular changes were also apparent. Immunohistochemistry showed positive staining for muscle-specific actin and desmin in the fascicular components of the lesion, and smooth muscle actin, desmin, and h-caldesmon positivity in a haphazard collection of muscle fibers in the deep dermis and anal submucosa. Numerous Verhoeff-van Gieson positive elastic fibers were also noted. Hamartomas containing skeletal muscle have rarely been reported outside of the head and neck region. They must be distinguished from a variety of other tumors, including juvenile rhabdomyoma, benign Triton tumor, and rhabdomyosarcoma. [source] HMB-45 (gp103) and MART-1 expression within giant cells in an atypical fibroxanthoma: a case reportJOURNAL OF CUTANEOUS PATHOLOGY, Issue 3 2004Megan J. Smith-Zagone Background:, Atypical fibroxanthoma (AFX) is a cutaneous tumor that primarily occurs in the sun-damaged skin of the head and neck of adults. It is often a rapidly growing, solitary lesion that may clinically resemble squamous cell carcinoma, malignant melanoma, or lobular hemangioma. The histologic differential diagnosis primarily includes spindle cell squamous carcinoma and spindle cell melanoma, and immunohistochemical studies are often needed to establish the diagnosis. Case report:, We report an unusual case of an AFX with aberrant HMB-45 and MART-1 (melanoma antigen recognized by T cells-1) immunohistochemical expression. Clinical information was obtained. Histologic examination and immunohistochemical studies were performed. Results:, A 54-year-old woman presented with a 1.5 cm posterior scalp lesion, which was excised. Microscopic examination revealed a dermal tumor composed of pleomorphic and spindled cells with numerous giant cells. The tumor cells expressed CD68 but did not express either keratin or S-100. In addition, there was focal gp100 (with HMB-45) and MART-1 expression limited to the large, multinucleated cells with vacuolated cytoplasm. A diagnosis of AFX was subsequently made. Conclusions:, This is the first reported case of an AFX with HMB-45 and MART-1 reactivity. [source] Multiple hepatic nodules: Rare manifestation of clonorchiasisJOURNAL OF GASTROENTEROLOGY AND HEPATOLOGY, Issue 9 2006Wei-Chih Liao Abstract A 38-year-old man was admitted due to intermittent right upper quadrant pain for 1 month. Leukocytosis with marked eosionphilia and elevated serum alkaline phosphatase were noted. Stool examinations revealed no parasites or ova. Ultrasonography and computed tomography disclosed multiple hepatic tumors. Biopsy of the hepatic tumor was performed due to non-conclusive imaging studies and revealed eosinophil infiltration in portal areas only. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiography showed mild dilatation with irregularity of bilateral intrahepatic ducts, compatible with chronic cholangitis. Bile was aspirated and biliary lavage with normal saline was performed during endoscopy-guided biliary cannulation. Microscopic examination of the aspirate showed the characteristic ova of Clonorchis sinensis. The patient received Praziquantel therapy for 1 day. Abdominal pain reduced in intensity gradually. Eosinophilia and multiple hepatic lesions resolved after adequate treatment of Clonorchis sinensis. The rare manifestation of multiple hepatic tumors in Clonorchis sinensis should be differentiated from other primary or metastatic neoplasms, while biliary lavage for parasite ova is a valuable diagnostic tool when stool examination is negative. [source] Uncommon dermoid cyst presented in the mandible possibly originating from embryonic epithelial remnantsJOURNAL OF ORAL PATHOLOGY & MEDICINE, Issue 3 2002Kazuo Komiyama Abstract A case of an intraosseous dermoid cyst that had developed in the mandible of a 29-year-old-male is reported. The patient was admitted to our dental clinic complaining of pain in the right molar area of the mandible. The patient had no particular history of the present illness. A radiographic examination revealed diffuse bone absorption in the right molar area. A biopsy showed the lesion to be an intraosseous dermoid cyst which was surgically enucleated. Microscopic examination of the excised tissue showed it to be well circumscribed with fibrous tissues, and the cystic space lined by keratinized epithelium. In addition, sweat glands and hair follicle-like skin appendages were identified in the cystic wall, where a daughter cyst was also found. We suggested that this uncommon cyst had developed in the mandible, as a result of embryonic epithelium migration. The patient remained in good health during the three year follow-up. [source] Evaluation of human nasal RPMI 2650 cells grown at an air,liquid interface as a model for nasal drug transport studiesJOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES, Issue 3 2008Shuhua Bai Abstract This study tests the hypothesis that human nasal RPMI 2650 cells grown at an air,liquid interface is a feasible model for drug transport studies via the nasal route. RPMI 2650 cells were cultured in Eagle's minimal essential medium (MEM) at both air,liquid and liquid,liquid interfaces. For each culture regimen, monolayer integrity was tested by measuring the transepithelial resistance (TEER) as well as the transport of paracellular and transcellular markers across the monolayer. The expression of tight junction proteins,differentiation markers,in cells of the different monolayers was studied by western blot analysis and confocal microscopy. The highest TEER values (192,±,3 ,,·,cm2) were observed for RPMI 2650 cells seeded onto collagen-coated permeable polytetrafluoroethylene inserts and grown at an air,liquid interface for 10 days; a seeding density of 4,×,105/cm2 generated and maintained a cell monolayer with suitable barrier properties at days 9,12. Microscopic examination showed that RPMI 2650 cells grown on filter inserts formed a fully confluent monolayer. The apparent permeability coefficients of the paracellular marker, [14C] mannitol, and the transcellular marker, [3H] propranolol, were 5.07,±,0.01,×,10,6 cm/s and 16.1,±,0.1,×,10,6 cm/s, respectively. Western blot analysis indicated the presence of four tight junction proteins: ZO-1, occludin, claudin-1 and E-cadherin; and the quantities of ZO-1, occludin, and E-cadherin were significantly higher in cells grown at an air,liquid interface than in cells grown at a liquid,liquid interface. Confocal microscopic studies showed ZO-1, F-actin, occludin and claudin-1 proteins at cell-cell contacts and revealed significant differences in the distributions and densities of ZO-1 protein in cells grown at the two types of interface. The data indicate that RPMI 2650 cells grown at an air,liquid interface form polarized monolayers with the cells interconnected by tight junction proteins. This human nasal cell line model could provide a useful tool for in vitro screening of nasal drug candidates. © 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc. and the American Pharmacists Association J Pharm Sci 97:1165,1178, 2008 [source] Imported Malaria in Children: A Comparative Study Between Recent Immigrants and Immigrant Travelers (VFRs)JOURNAL OF TRAVEL MEDICINE, Issue 4 2010Juan Arnáez MD Background. In Europe, imported malarial cases occur in returning travelers and immigrants mostly from African countries. There have been an increasing number of cases in the past years in Spain. Methods. An analysis of all cases of malaria who attended at the Hospital of Mostoles in the Southwest of Madrid from 1995 to 2007 was performed. Clinical, epidemiological, laboratory, and parasitological findings were analyzed and compared between immigrants coming from endemic countries (recent immigrants) and children who traveled to endemic areas to visit friends and relatives (VFRs). Results. Sixty cases of imported malaria were detected. Most of the cases (59 of 60) were acquired in sub-Saharan Africa. The most common species was Plasmodium falciparum (43 of 60). Microscopic examination was positive in 95%, and the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for Plasmodium achieved additional diagnosis in seven cases. Fourteen cases were VFRs; none of them used appropriate malaria chemoprophylaxis. Fever and thrombocytopenia were significantly more common among VFRs. They also had significantly higher parasite density. Twelve cases were asymptomatic at the time of diagnosis; all of them were recent immigrants. Conclusions. VFRs account for a significant number of childhood malarial cases. These patients had not taken malaria chemoprophylaxis and malarial cases were more severe. VFR children are a high-risk group, and pretravel advice should underline the risk for malaria. Recent immigrants can be asymptomatic and parasitemias are lower. Therefore, a high index of suspicion is necessary, and PCR for Plasmodium should be performed in case of negative thick smears. [source] Requirements for cell-to-cell movement of Barley stripe mosaic virus in monocot and dicot hostsMOLECULAR PLANT PATHOLOGY, Issue 2 2001Diane M. Lawrence Summary The Barley stripe mosaic virus (BSMV) RNAß genome contains a series of overlapping open reading frames termed the triple gene block. The three most abundant proteins, ,b, ,c and ,d, have been shown to have essential roles in infectivity, but their function in cell-to-cell movement has not previously been unambiguously defined, nor has the role of a minor translational read-through protein, ,d, been characterized. We have now examined the direct involvement of each of these proteins in cell-to-cell movement in planta by engineering fusions of the green fluorescent protein (GFP) to a cysteine-rich regulatory protein designated ,b. Microscopic examination of inoculated and systemically infected barley and oat leaves revealed high levels of fluorescence that moved rapidly through the compact striate vascular tissue without infecting epidermal cells. In contrast, a radial pattern of fluorescence spread through a large number of epidermal and mesophyll cells before entry into the reticulate vascular tissue of the dicot hosts Nicotiania benthamiana and Chenopodium amaranticolor. Mutational analyses indicated that the ,b, ,c and ,d proteins are each essential for cell-to-cell movement in local lesion and systemic hosts, whereas the ,d, protein is dispensable. Collectively, these results demonstrate conclusively that the three major triple gene block-encoded proteins act in concert to mediate cell-to-cell movement of BSMV. [source] Corticobasal degeneration as cause of progressive non-fluent aphasia: Clinical, radiological and pathological study of an autopsy caseNEUROPATHOLOGY, Issue 6 2006Masaki Takao A Japanese male developed gradual loss of spontaneous speech at age 60. Three years later meaningful speech had deteriorated to the point that it had become restricted to monotonous utterances. Neuropsychological examination at age 62 showed that he had severe non-fluent aphasia. A brain MRI demonstrated mild cortical atrophy with ischemic lesions in the cerebral white matter. He was diagnosed as having primary progressive aphasia. At age 63, he was admitted to the hospital to reevaluate the neurological condition. Neurologic examination showed severe non-fluent aphasia, hyperreflexia, snout and sucking reflexes. No alien hand was observed. He was able to walk, dress, wash himself and use chopsticks as well as name real objects. At age 65, 99mTc-hexamethylpropyleneamine oxime single photon emission computed tomography (HMPAO-SPECT) revealed diffuse cerebral hypoperfusion that was particularly prominent in the left frontal lobe. An MRI showed progressive cortical atrophy with the definite atrophy of the left paracentral gyrus. The hippocampal formation and putamen were also atrophic. He died of pneumonia at age 67. The brain weighed 810 g with atrophy of the frontal lobe, globus pallidus, enlargement of the lateral ventricles and depigmentation of the substantia nigra. Microscopic examination showed severe neuronal loss and gliosis in the cerebral cortex, globus pallidus interna and substantia nigra. Ballooned neurons were observed in the cerebral cortex. Gallyas-Braak method revealed numerous astrocytic plaques and argentophilic threads in the cerebrum. Clinical diagnosis of corticobasal degeneration sometimes is difficult in individuals with atypical clinical presentations. More exact clinical and radiological criteria may warrant a diagnosis of corticobasal degeneration. [source] Perineurioma of the mandibular dental nerve: a case report and review of the literatureORAL SURGERY, Issue 2 2009E.F. Vencio Abstract Perineurioma is an uncommon benign tumour of the nerve sheath composed exclusively of well-differentiated perineurial cells. It usually affects the limbs or trunk; intraoral lesions are uncommon. A rare case of perineurioma is described involving the mandibular dental nerve in a 59-year-old female, microscopically characterised by a combined pattern of intraneural and soft tissue perineurioma. The patient was referred for treatment of a lesion in the mandible. Panoramic radiography revealed a well-delimited osteolytic lesion with radiopaque halo in an edentulous region of the left mandible. Occlusal view showed no expansion of cortical bone. A surgical procedure for incisional biopsy disclosed a connection between the tumour and the alveolar inferior nerve. Grossly, an enlargement of the affected nerve was described. Microscopic examination showed tumour cells arranged in pseudo-onion bulb structures, with scattered collagen bundles, and areas with a whorled (storiform) arrangement. Many concentric whorls of spindle cells exhibiting thin, elongated eosinophic processes were seen. Immunohistochemical study exhibited strong positivity for epithelial membrane antigen. We report a rare case of perineurioma affecting the mandibular dental nerve showing both intraneural and soft tissue microscopic patterns and discuss morphological aspects for differential diagnosis. [source] Phlebosclerotic colitis coincident with carcinoma in adenomaPATHOLOGY INTERNATIONAL, Issue 10 2003Yasuhiko Kimura Phlebosclerosis of the colon is a rare disease characterized by a thickening of the wall of the colon with fibrosis, hy-alinization and calcification to the affected veins. These symptoms result in a type of ischemic colitis known as phlebosclerotic colitis. A case of phlebosclerotic colitis coincident with carcinoma in adenoma is reported. A 74-year-old Japanese woman was admitted to hospital because of a mass in her right lower abdomen. Abdominal computed tomography examination revealed linear calcifications in the wall of the cecum and the ascending colon. Colonoscopy revealed dark purple mucosa with multiple ulcers in the cecum and the ascending colon. Biopsy specimens showed a marked hyalinous thickening of the wall of small blood vessels in the mucosa. Phlebosclerotic colitis was suspected because of negative results with amyloid stain. Alternative ileocolic angiography showed the serpentine of the peripheral nature blood vessels and pooling at the late venous phase. Microscopic examination of the surgically resected colon revealed mucosal and submucosal fibrosis, and a thickening of the venous wall with fibrosis, hyalinization and calcification from the mucosa to the serosa, which caused a marked luminal narrowing. A small polypoid lesion was also found in the affected region and was diagnosed histologically as carcinoma in adenoma. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of phlebosclerotic colitis complicated by carcinoma. [source] Influence of helminth infections on childhood nutritional status in lowland Bolivia,AMERICAN JOURNAL OF HUMAN BIOLOGY, Issue 5 2009S. Tanner Infectious disease, such as diarrheal disease, respiratory infections, and parasitic infections, are an important source of nutritional and energetic stress in many populations. Inspired by the research and methodological innovations of A. Roberto Frisancho, this work considers the impact of childhood environment and local disease ecology on child health and nutritional patterns among an indigenous group in lowland Bolivia. Specifically, we examine the association between soil-transmitted helminth infection, especially hookworm species, and anthropometric markers of short- and long-term nutritional status. Fecal samples, anthropometric dimensions, and health interviews were collected for 92 children ranging in age from 2.0 to 10.9 years. Microscopic examination revealed high levels of parasitic infection, with 76% of children positive for hookworm species infections (77% of girls and 74% of boys). Less common infections included Ascaris lumbricoides, Trichurius trichiura, and Strongyloides stercoralis with only 15% of children positive for multiple-species infections. After adjusting for sex and age, no statistically significant associations were observed between helminth infections and the frequency of reported illness or anthropometric measures of nutritional status. These data demonstrate the difficulty of assessing nutritional impacts of endemic infections. Am. J. Hum. Biol., 2009. © 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] Effect of Asparagus racemosus rhizome (Shatavari) on mammary gland and genital organs of pregnant ratPHYTOTHERAPY RESEARCH, Issue 8 2005S. K. Pandey Abstract Asparagus racemosus (AR) Willd (family Liliaceae) is commonly known as Shatavari. The alcoholic extract of its rhizome was administered orally to adult pregnant female albino rats at a dose of 30 mg/100 g body weight, daily for 15 days (days 1,15 of gestation). The macroscopic findings revealed a prominence of the mammary glands, a dilated vaginal opening and a transversely situated uterine horn in the treated group of animals. The weight of the uterine horns of the treated group was found to be significantly higher (p < 0.001) but the length was shorter (p > 0.01). Microscopic examination of the treated group showed proliferation in the lumen of the duct of mammary gland. It was obliterated due to hypertrophy of ductal and glandular cells. Hyperplasia of the glandular and muscular tissue and hypertrophy of the glandular cells were observed in the genital organs. The parenchyma of the genital organs showed abundant glycogen granules with dilated blood vessels and thickening of the epithelial lining. The oviduct in the treated group showed hypertrophied muscular wall, whereas the ovary revealed no effect of the drug. The results suggest an oestrogenic effect of Shatavari on the female mammary gland and genital organs. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Reproduction in male rats is vulnerable to treatment with the flavonoid-rich seed extracts of Vitex negundoPHYTOTHERAPY RESEARCH, Issue 1 2004Suwagmani Das Abstract A partially puri,ed ,avonoid-rich extract was prepared from the seed of Vitex negundo. The effect of this extract on the reproductive system of male rats was investigated at four different concentrations. All the major accessory sex organs shed weight when the preparation was administered at doses of ,15 mg/rat/day after 15 days of treatment. The drop in weight was also re,ected in disturbed tissue biochemistry. Secretory products such as citric acid in the prostate, fructose in seminal vesicles and epididymal , -glucosidase activity, indices of accessory sex organ function in males, diminished. Microscopic examination of the sperm derived from the cauda epididymides of treated animals showed only a marginal change in vitality. However, sperm numbers dwindled and slackness in their motility was observed, factors that may impede fertility. Toxicity testing in blood did not point to distress in any of the vital organs. Taken together, it is inferred that the seed extracts of V. negundo interfere with male reproductive function without producing adverse toxicity in other vital organs. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Examination of the dehiscence zone in soybean pods and isolation of a dehiscence-related endopolygalacturonase genePLANT CELL & ENVIRONMENT, Issue 4 2002L. C. Christiansen Abstract Microscopic examination of cross sections of dorsal and ventral sutures of soybean pods (Glycine max cv. TGx1835-2E) at two different stages of maturity revealed that the dehiscence zone of soybean pods is functionally equivalent to the dehiscence zone known from crucifers. Enzymatic assays demonstrated the presence of endo-1,4- , -glucanases and endopolygalacturonases, the activity of which accumulated in the dehiscence zone and peaked during maturation. A single partial cDNA encoding an endopolygalacturonase was isolated by polymerase chain reaction and this clone was used to isolate the complete gene encoding the endopolygalacturonase in question. Approximately 1·2 kb of 5, upstream sequence was cloned in the plant transformation vector pCAMBIA1301 in front of the uidA (GUS) gene and transformed into Arabidopsis thaliana. Expression analysis of the soybean endopolygalacturonase transcript revealed that the endopolygalacturonase is primarily found in dehiscence-related tissue and is presumably involved in the breakdown of the middle lamella prior to dehiscence. This result was corroborated by GUS stainings of the transgenic Arabidopsis lines [source] In situ reinforcement of poly(butylene terephthalate) and butyl rubber by liquid crystalline polymerPOLYMER COMPOSITES, Issue 5 2009S. Kumar Ternary in situ butyl rubber (IIR)/poly(butylene terephthalate) (PBT) and liquid crystalline polymer (LCP) blends were prepared by compression molding. The LCP used was a versatile Vectra A950, and the matrix material was IIR/PBT 50/50 by weight. Morphological, thermal, and mechanical properties of blends were investigated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), differential scanning calorimetry, and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Microscopy study (SEM) showed that formation of fibers is increasing with the increasing amount of LCP A950. Microscopic examination of the fractured surface confirmed the presence of a polymer coating on LCP fibrils. This can be attributed to some interactions including both chemical and physical one. The increased compatibility in polymer blends, consisting of IIR/PBT, by the presence of LCP A950 may be explained by the adsorption phenomena of the polymer chains onto the LCP fibrils. SEM and AFM images provided the evidence of the interaction between IIR/PBT and the LCP. Dynamic mechanical analyses (DMA) and TGA measurements showed that the composites possessed a remarkably higher modulus and heat stability than the unfilled system. Storage modulus for the ternary blend containing 50 wt% of LCP exhibits about 94% increment compared with binary blend of IIR/PBT. From the above results, it is suggested that the LCP A950 can act as reinforcement agent in the blends. Moreover, the fine dispersion of LCP was observed with no extensional forces applied during mixing, indicating the importance of interfacial adhesion for the fibril formation. POLYM. COMPOS., 2009. © 2008 Society of Plastics Engineers [source] Genesis of Tertiary Magnetite,Apatite Deposits, Southeast of Zanjan, IranRESOURCE GEOLOGY, Issue 4 2009Hossein Azizi Abstract Magnetite,apatite deposits in the Alborz volcano,plutonic belt, southeast Zanjan, in Iran, have blade, lenzoid, and vein forms, which extend in an E-W direction. There are many magnetite,apatite veins and veinlets in this region, and some of them are economically important, such as Zaker, Morvarid, Sorkheh,Dizaj, and Aliabad. The sizes of the vein orebodies vary between 2 and 16 m in width, 10,100 m in length, and 5,40 m in depth. Microscopic examination of thin sections and polishes indicate that they are composed of magnetite and apatite, with minor amounts of goethite, hematite, actinolite, quartz, muscovite,illite, talc, dolomite, and calcite. The geochemistry and mineralogy of the granitic host rock reveals that it is calc-alkaline and I-type. Field observations, mineral paragenesis, the composition of the orebodies, and the composition of the fluid inclusions in the apatite minerals with low salinity (less than 20 wt.% NaCl equivalent) indicate that these magnetite veins were hydrothermally generated at about 200,430°C and are not related to silica,iron oxide immiscibility, as are the major Precambrian magnetite deposits in central Iran. [source] Multifocal mesenchymal hamartoma of the chest wallRESPIROLOGY, Issue 3 2006Semsi ALTANER Abstract: Chest wall hamartomas are extremely rare. Frequently mesenchymal hamartomas are presented as a single mass and contain some primitive mesenchymal elements such as chondroid and trabecular bone structures. A 60-year-old man presented to hospital with chest pain. Thirteen years earlier, his CXR and thoracic CT showed three masses on the right and two masses on the left, but he had not received any treatment thereafter. His CT showed the same masses present 13 years earlier, but they were bigger and right thoracotomy was undertaken. At thoracotomy, two sections of the mass in the right posterior mediastinum and one section of the mass in the right apex were excised. They had an occasional bloody appearance and contained small cystic areas, and some areas were extremely hard. Microscopic examination showed that the lesions consisted of mature adipose tissue, a large number of veins of different diameters and collagen tissue. Besides, primitive mesenchymal elements, lymphoid cell accumulations and trabecular bone structures were seen focally. Bilateral chest wall hamartomas are extremely rare and may be confused with malignancy. [source] Temporal triangular alopecia and a review of 52 past casesTHE JOURNAL OF DERMATOLOGY, Issue 4 2010Masashi YAMAZAKI Abstract Temporal triangular alopecia (TTA) is a circumscribed, non-cicatricial form of alopecia confined to the frontotemporal region. The patient, a 15-year-old boy, was noticed at birth to have an alopecial area, sized 1.5 cm × 2.5 cm, in the right temporal region. Microscopic examination revealed miniaturized hair follicles accompanied by differentiated sebaceous glands. We have provided a synopsis of the past 52 cases. Of the 53 cases of TTA including our case, more than half (55.8%) were detected in childhood between the ages of 2 and 9 years, while 36.5% were detected at birth and only 3.8% (only two cases) in adulthood. There were three familial cases. Several congenital diseases were associated with the condition, for example, phakomatosis pigmentovascularis, Down syndrome and Dandy,Walker malformation. This information suggests that TTA can be recognized as a hamartomatous mosaic disease. [source] Case of cystic schwannomaTHE JOURNAL OF DERMATOLOGY, Issue 11 2008Yu Sung CHOI ABSTRACT Schwannoma is a well-defined tumor arising from the nerve sheath. It may present as a solitary mass in any part of the body, but is more commonly seen in the head, neck and extremities. We describe a 32-year-old female patient with a small dermal nodule on the forehead, which was 2 cm in diameter, round and of a cystic nature. Microscopic examination revealed that it consisted of compact spindle cells arranged partly in short bundles or a fascicular pattern with outstanding cystic degeneration manifested as a large, unilocular cavity in the center of the tumor tissue. The tumor cells were positive for S-100 protein and negative for epithelial membrane antigen (EMA), while the tumor capsule was positive for EMA. There was no S-100-positive membrane-like structure lining the cyst wall. [source] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||