Juvenile xanthogranuloma as a differential diagnosis for sellar and suprasellar lesions in child: Case report and review of literature.

Juvenile xanthogranuloma (JXG) is a rare type of non-Langerhans cell histiocytosis. Its systemic form affects 4% of patients. Lesions in the Central Nervous System (CNS) occur in 2% of systemic cases. Sellar JXG should be one of the differential diagnoses for sellar lesions in young. This is a 15-year-old patient with non-specific headache, progressive visual loss and magnetic resonance imaging showing sellar lesion with suprasellar extension. The patient underwent microsurgery by pterional craniotomy with partial resection of the tumor. Pathology evidenced JXG. It progressively evolved with impairment of neuroendocrine functions, new lesions in different CNS locations and death two years after diagnosis. Sellar JXG without cutaneous manifestations is rare. There are no specific findings of the disease. Diagnosis requires additional tests, being defined by pathological analysis. Total resection presents a greater potential control comparing to partial resection. Even so, some patients may have progressive disease with poor clinical outcome.

Growth and hematological responses of tambaqui, Colossoma macropomum fed different levels of rice, Oryza spp / Crescimento e resposta hematológica do tambaqui, Colossoma macropomum alimentados com diferentes níveis de arroz, Oryza spp

Abstract The tambaqui (Colossoma macropomum) is a fish of primary importance in South American aquaculture, principally in the Amazon region and has a particularly unique diet in the wild. Oryza spp, or Wild rice as it is commonly known, is native to the floodplains of muddy rivers in the Amazon region. The aim of this study was to analyze the physical performance and the effects of dietary levels of Oryza spp. via the hematological parameters, total food intake, conversion efficiency, growth ratio and swimming performance of this fish. Diets containing 45% Oryza spp. induced the best performance in tambaqui. Diets containing 15% and 30% did not affect these indices, thus indicating that this amount of Oryza can be used as an alternative energy source for this important species within Brazilian aquaculture.

Resumo O tambaqui Colossoma macropomum é um peixe de importância na aquicultura brasileira, especialmente na região amazônica. O arroz silvestre é comum nas planícies inundadas dos rios de aguas barrentas da Amazônia. O objetivo deste trabalho foi analisar os efeitos combinados do treinamento físico e dos níveis dietéticos de Oryza spp. nos parâmetros hematológicos, consumo de alimentos, eficiência de conversão, taxa de crescimento e desempenho de natação deste peixe. Dietas contendo 45% de arroz apresentaram o melhor desempenho para tambaquis. As dietas contendo 15% e 30% não afetaram esses índices, indicando que alguma quantidade de arroz pode ser usada como fonte de energia alternativa para esta importante espécie dentro da aquicultura.

Triticale silage replaces sorghum silage in finishing of Braford heifers / Silagem de triticale substitui silagem de sorgo na terminação de novilhas da raça Braford

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of sorghum silage substitution with different proportions of triticale silage on the performance and carcass of Braford heifers. Twenty-four Braford heifers were randomly assigned to four diets where sorghum silage was replaced at 0%, 30%, 60%, and 100% for triticale silage in a feedlot system. During sixty-tree days of the experiment, the feed intake, feed ratio conversion, and average daily gain were measured. The heifers were slaughtered and the effects of the sorghum and triticale silage in carcass characteristics were evaluated. The replacement of sorghum silage with triticale silage did not affect the feed intake and average daily gain (P> 0.05). Feed gain ratio was higher for the heifers that received lower proportions of triticale silage (0% and 30%) in replace sorghum silage (P <0.05). Eye loin area and fat thickness were similar among treatments (P<0.05). Other carcass characteristics, such as slaughter live weight, dressing percentage, conformation and fat classification were similar among experimental treatments (P<0.005). Triticale silage can replace sorghum silage for finishing beef heifers in feedlot system and provides similar carcass characteristics.(AU)

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o efeito da substituição da silagem de sorgo por diferentes proporções de silagem de triticale no desempenho e na carcaça de novilhas Braford. A silagem de sorgo foi substituída em 0%, 30%, 60% e 100% pela silagem de triticale como fonte de volumoso na alimentação de 24 novilhas da raça Braford, em um sistema de confinamento. O período experimental total foi de 63 dias para a avaliação do consumo dos componentes da ração, a conversão alimentar e o ganho médio diário. Ao final do experimento, os animais foram abatidos e avaliados em relação às características de carcaça. A substituição da silagem de sorgo pela silagem de triticale não apresentou efeito no consumo dos componentes da ração e no ganho médio diário entre as novilhas (P>0,05). A conversão alimentar foi melhor para as novilhas que receberam menores proporções de silagem de triticale (0% e 30%) em substituição à silagem de sorgo (P<0,05). As características das carcaças foram semelhantes entre os animais independentemente da fonte de volumoso. A silagem de triticale apresenta-se como alimento alternativo à silagem de sorgo em regiões de transição climática para a terminação de novilhas de corte, proporcionando o mesmo desempenho animal e as mesmas características de carcaça.(AU)

Avaliação do estresse e do desempenho de suínos na fase de creche, empregando-se técnicas de enriquecimento ambiental / Evaluation of stress and performance of pigs during the nursery phase, using environmental enrichment techniques

O enriquecimento ambiental é uma ferramenta importante dentro dos sistemas de produção, a fim de promover o bem-estar e favorecer a saúde dos animais. Portanto, o objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o efeito do enriquecimento ambiental sobre o estresse de suínos na fase de creche. Foram utilizados 32 leitões, alojados em granja experimental, distribuídos em quatro grupos (n= 8): corda, corrente, garrafa PET e controle negativo. Amostras de sangue foram coletadas no início e no final do experimento para contagem de leucócitos circulantes e determinação de antioxidantes não enzimáticos, óxido nítrico, malondialdeído, e de saliva para avaliação do cortisol. Foi aplicado etograma e fez-a ganho médio de peso diário e a conversão alimentar. Os parâmetros avaliados no primeiro dia do experimento não variaram entre os grupos (P>0,05). No último dia do experimento, os valores de neutrófilos e da relação neutrófilo/linfócito foram mais elevados nos leitões do grupo corrente, assim como os valores de cortisol salivar (P<0,05). O ácido úrico apresentou-se mais elevado nos leitões do grupo corrente e o malondialdeído (MDA) nos do grupo garrafa (P< 0,05). Os enriquecimentos ambientais estimularam comportamentos positivos nos leitões, tendo a corda se destacado como o mais atrativo. Por outro lado, a corrente apresentou efeito negativo sobre a fisiologia dos animais, gerando estresse, assim como a garrafa, que induziu a peroxidação lipídica e um menor ganho de peso nos leitões.(AU)

Environmental enrichment is an important tool within production systems to promote welfare and animal health. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of enrichment objects on stress of piglets in nursery phase. 32 piglets housed in experimental farm were distributed in 4 groups (n= 8): rope, chain, pet bottle and negative control. Blood samples were collected at the beginning and end of the experiment to count circulating leukocytes and determine non-enzymatic antioxidants, nitric oxide, malondialdehyde, and saliva to evaluate cortisol. At the same time, an etogram and evaluation of mean daily gain and feed conversion were applied. The evaluated parameters on first day of the experiment did not vary between groups (P> 0.05). On the last day, neutrophil and neutrophil /lymphocyte ratios were higher in chain group piglets, as were salivary cortisol values (P< 0.05). Uric acid was higher in chain group and MDA in bottle group (P< 0.05). Environmental enrichment stimulated positive behaviors in piglets, where the rope stood out as the most attractive. On the other hand, chain had a negative effect on animal physiology, generating stress, as well as the bottle that induced lipid peroxidation and a lower weight gain in piglets.(AU)

Responses of antioxidant enzymes, photosynthetic pigments and carbohydrates in micropropagated Pitcairnia encholirioides L.B. Sm. (Bromeliaceae) under ex vitro water deficit and after rehydration / Respostas de enzimas antioxidantes, pigmentos fotossintéticos e carboidratos em Pitcairnia encholirioides L.B. Sm. (Bromeliaceae) micropropagadas, sob déficit hídrico ex vitro e após reidratação

In this study, the activities of antioxidant enzymes, photosynthetic pigments, proline and carbohydrate contents in Pitcairnia encholirioides under ex vitro conditions of water deficit were evaluated. Results show that plants under progressive water stress, previously in vitro cultured in media supplemented with 30 g L-1 sucrose and GA3, accumulated more proline and increased peroxidase (POD) activity and the contents of photosynthetic pigments and carbohydrates. For plants previously in vitro cultured with 15 g L-1 sucrose and NAA, no differences were found for proline content and there were reductions in activities of peroxidase (POD), catalase (CAT) and poliphenoloxidase (PPO), and in contents of carbohydrates, with progress of ex vitro water deficit. After rehydration, plants showed physiological recovery, with enzymatic activities and contents of metabolites similar to those found in the controls not submitted to dehydration, regardless of the previous in vitro culture conditions. These results show that micropropagated P. encholirioides has high tolerance to dehydration once in ex vitro conditions, which can ensure the survival of plants from tissue culture when transferred to its natural environment, emphasizing the importance of such biotechnology for the propagation of endangered species.

Neste estudo, foram avaliadas as atividades de enzimas antioxidantes, pigmentos fotossintéticos, conteúdo de prolina e carboidratos em Pitcairnia encholirioides sob déficit hídrico em condições ex vitro. Os resultados mostraram que as plantas sob estresse hídrico progressivo, previamente cultivadas in vitro em meio de cultura suplementado com 30 g L-1 de sacarose e GA3 acumularam mais prolina e aumentaram a atividade da peroxidase (POD) e os teores de pigmentos fotossintéticos e carboidratos. Para plantas previamente cultivadas in vitro com 15 g L-1 de sacarose e ANA, não foram encontradas diferenças nos conteúdos de prolina e houve reduções nas atividades da peroxidase (POD), catalase (CAT) e polifenoloxidase (PPO), e no conteúdo de carboidratos, com o progresso do déficit hídrico ex vitro. Após a reidratação, as plantas apresentaram recuperação fisiológica, com atividades enzimáticas e conteúdo de metabólitos semelhantes aos encontrados nos controles não sujeitos à desidratação, independentemente das condições de cultivo in vitro. Estes resultados mostram que P. encholirioides micropropagada tem alta tolerância à desidratação uma vez em condições ex vitro, o que pode garantir a sobrevivência de plantas provenientes da cultura de tecidos quando transferidas para seu ambiente natural, enfatizando a importância desta biotecnologia para a propagação de espécies ameaçadas.

Responses of antioxidant enzymes, photosynthetic pigments and carbohydrates in micropropagated Pitcairnia encholirioides L.B. Sm. (Bromeliaceae) under ex vitro water deficit and after rehydration / Respostas de enzimas antioxidantes, pigmentos fotossintéticos e carboidratos em Pitcairnia encholirioides L.B. Sm. (Bromeliaceae) micropropagadas, sob déficit hídrico ex vitro e após reidratação

Abstract In this study, the activities of antioxidant enzymes, photosynthetic pigments, proline and carbohydrate contents in Pitcairnia encholirioides under ex vitro conditions of water deficit were evaluated. Results show that plants under progressive water stress, previously in vitro cultured in media supplemented with 30 g L-1 sucrose and GA3, accumulated more proline and increased peroxidase (POD) activity and the contents of photosynthetic pigments and carbohydrates. For plants previously in vitro cultured with 15 g L-1 sucrose and NAA, no differences were found for proline content and there were reductions in activities of peroxidase (POD), catalase (CAT) and poliphenoloxidase (PPO), and in contents of carbohydrates, with progress of ex vitro water deficit. After rehydration, plants showed physiological recovery, with enzymatic activities and contents of metabolites similar to those found in the controls not submitted to dehydration, regardless of the previous in vitro culture conditions. These results show that micropropagated P. encholirioides has high tolerance to dehydration once in ex vitro conditions, which can ensure the survival of plants from tissue culture when transferred to its natural environment, emphasizing the importance of such biotechnology for the propagation of endangered species.

Resumo Neste estudo, foram avaliadas as atividades de enzimas antioxidantes, pigmentos fotossintéticos, conteúdo de prolina e carboidratos em Pitcairnia encholirioides sob déficit hídrico em condições ex vitro. Os resultados mostraram que as plantas sob estresse hídrico progressivo, previamente cultivadas in vitro em meio de cultura suplementado com 30 g L-1 de sacarose e GA3 acumularam mais prolina e aumentaram a atividade da peroxidase (POD) e os teores de pigmentos fotossintéticos e carboidratos. Para plantas previamente cultivadas in vitro com 15 g L-1 de sacarose e ANA, não foram encontradas diferenças nos conteúdos de prolina e houve reduções nas atividades da peroxidase (POD), catalase (CAT) e polifenoloxidase (PPO), e no conteúdo de carboidratos, com o progresso do déficit hídrico ex vitro. Após a reidratação, as plantas apresentaram recuperação fisiológica, com atividades enzimáticas e conteúdo de metabólitos semelhantes aos encontrados nos controles não sujeitos à desidratação, independentemente das condições de cultivo in vitro. Estes resultados mostram que P. encholirioides micropropagada tem alta tolerância à desidratação uma vez em condições ex vitro, o que pode garantir a sobrevivência de plantas provenientes da cultura de tecidos quando transferidas para seu ambiente natural, enfatizando a importância desta biotecnologia para a propagação de espécies ameaçadas.

Changes on physiological parameters of tambaqui (Colossoma macropomum) fed with diets supplemented with Amazonian fruit Camu camu (Myrciaria dubia) / Alterações em parâmetros fisiológicos de tambaqui (Colossoma macropomum) alimentados com dietas suplementadas com fruta amazônica camu camu (Myrciaria dubia)

Abstract The physiological responses of juvenile tambaqui (Colossoma macropomum) fed commercial feed supplemented with different concentrations of camu camu (Myrciaria dubia) were evaluated. The design was completely randomized, with treatments arranged in a factorial design with three proportions of camu camu (15%, 30% and 45%) and a control treatment (100% commercial diet), with four replicates per treatment. A total of 96 tambaqui specimens were used, with a mean initial weight of 11.69 ± 2.68 g and a mean length of 7.06 ± 0.44 cm. After 30 days, hematological parameters, metabolic variables, growth and fish swimming performance were evaluated. The different proportions of camu camu in the diet did not cause significant changes to the tambaqui's hematological parameters during the feeding period, except for hemoglobin (Hb) concentration and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) after the 30th day, and hematocrit (Ht) after the swimming stress test, which increased significantly (p < 0.05). The significant increases in metabolic variables, such as cortisol, glucose, proteins and triglycerides, and in hematologic variables after the Ucrit test reflect, respectively, biochemical adaptations for maintenance of the energy mobilization process and a regulatory necessity in tissue oxygen demand during intense exercise. Fish fed 15% and 30% camu camu gained the most weight and achieved the best swimming performance, respectively. The results for camu camu concentrations above 30% suggest a saturation of its intrinsic properties in the diet at this level and a loss of nutrients from the commercial feed replaced by the fruit, reducing productive performance and nutritional assimilation.

Resumo As respostas fisiológicas de juvenis de tambaqui (Colossoma macropomum) alimentados com ração comercial suplementada com diferentes concentrações de camu camu (Myrciaria dubia) foram avaliados. As amostras analisadas foram inteiramente casualizadas, com os tratamentos arranjados em esquema fatorial com três proporções de camu camu (15%, 30% e 45%) e um tratamento controle (ração comercial 100%), com quatro repetições por tratamento. Um total de 96 amostras de tambaqui foram utilizadas, com um peso médio inicial de 11,69 ± 2,68 g e um comprimento médio de 7,06 ± 0,44 cm. Após 30 dias, foram avaliados os parâmetros hematológicos, variáveis ​​metabólicas, crescimento e desempenho natatório de peixes. As diferentes proporções de camu camu na dieta não causou alterações significativas nos parâmetros hematológicos dos tambaquis durante o período de alimentação, com exceção de hemoglobina (Hb) e concentração de hemoglobina corpuscular média (CHCM), após o 30º dia, e hematócrito (Ht), após o teste de natação de estresse, que aumentou de forma significativa (p <0,05). Os aumentos significativos nas variáveis ​​metabólicas, como o cortisol, glicose, proteínas e triglicerídeos, e nas variáveis ​​hematológicas após o teste Ucrit reflete, respectivamente, adaptações bioquímicas para a manutenção do processo de mobilização de energia e uma necessidade de regulamentação na demanda de oxigênio nos tecidos durante o exercício intenso. Os peixes alimentados com 15% e 30% de camu camu obtiveram mais peso e melhor desempenho natatório, respectivamente. Os resultados para as concentrações camu camu superiores a 30% indicam uma saturação das suas propriedades intrínsecas na dieta, a este nível e uma perda de nutrientes a partir da ração comercial substituído pelo fruto, reduzindo o desempenho produtivo e assimilação nutricional.

Prevalence and factors associated with erectile dysfunction in patients with chronic kidney disease on conservative treatment.

Population with chronic kidney disease (CKD) has had many problems, and some of these have arisen from sexual disorders. The present study intends to determine the prevalence and the associated factors with erectile dysfunction (ED) among patients with CKD on conservative treatment (CKDCT). This transversal study was conducted from May 2013 to December 2015. The tools used were: medical records and the International Index of Erectile Function. Data were analyzed by univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis. Among 245 patients that have participated of this study, ED was present in 71.02% and it was severe in 36.73%. Age greater than 50 years, body mass index lower than 25, diabetes mellitus, stages IV/V of CKD, cardiac conduction disturbances, benign prostatic hyperplasia, smoking, alcohol use, albumin <3.5 g per 100 ml and creatinine clearance between 15 and 29 ml min-1 per 1.73 m2 were associated with ED. Time of CKD was the only variable associated with ED independent of the presence of other factors. ED prevalence in patients with CKDCT is high and it is severe in more than half of them. Several factors are associated with ED in this population but the principal one is the time of CKD.

Growth and hematological responses of tambaqui, Colossoma macropomum fed different levels of rice, Oryza spp

Abstract The tambaqui (Colossoma macropomum) is a fish of primary importance in South American aquaculture, principally in the Amazon region and has a particularly unique diet in the wild. Oryza spp, or Wild rice as it is commonly known, is native to the floodplains of muddy rivers in the Amazon region. The aim of this study was to analyze the physical performance and the effects of dietary levels of Oryza spp. via the hematological parameters, total food intake, conversion efficiency, growth ratio and swimming performance of this fish. Diets containing 45% Oryza spp. induced the best performance in tambaqui. Diets containing 15% and 30% did not affect these indices, thus indicating that this amount of Oryza can be used as an alternative energy source for this important species within Brazilian aquaculture.

Resumo O tambaqui Colossoma macropomum é um peixe de importância na aquicultura brasileira, especialmente na região amazônica. O arroz silvestre é comum nas planícies inundadas dos rios de aguas barrentas da Amazônia. O objetivo deste trabalho foi analisar os efeitos combinados do treinamento físico e dos níveis dietéticos de Oryza spp. nos parâmetros hematológicos, consumo de alimentos, eficiência de conversão, taxa de crescimento e desempenho de natação deste peixe. Dietas contendo 45% de arroz apresentaram o melhor desempenho para tambaquis. As dietas contendo 15% e 30% não afetaram esses índices, indicando que alguma quantidade de arroz pode ser usada como fonte de energia alternativa para esta importante espécie dentro da aquicultura.

Growth and hematological responses of tambaqui fed different amounts of cassava (Manihot esculenta) / Crescimento e respostas hematológicas de tambaquis alimentados com diferentes quantidades de mandioca (Manihot esculenta)

Tambaqui,Colossoma macropomum is a fish of primary importance in Brazilian aquaculture and in the Amazon region in particular. The aim of this work is to analyze the combined effects of physical training and levels of dietary cassava (Manihot esculenta) on the hematological parameters, food intake, conversion efficiency, growth ratio and swimming performance of this fish. A diet for tambaqui consisting of 30% cassava caused decreases in weight gain and specific growth rate compared with the control group. Diets containing 15% or 45% cassava did not affect these indices and did not cause hematological changes in tambaqui juveniles, indicating that some amount of cassava can be used as an alternative energy source for this important aquaculture species.(AU)

Tambaqui Colossoma macropomum, é um peixe de importância fundamental na aquicultura do Brasil e, em particular, na Região Amazônica. O objetivo deste trabalho foi analisar o efeito combinado do treinamento físico com diferentes níveis de macaxeira (Manihot esculenta) na dieta, sobre os parâmetros hematológicos, ingestão alimentar, eficiência de conversão, taxa de crescimento e performance natatória desses peixes. A dieta com 30% de cassava causou diminuição no ganho de peso e na taxa de crescimento específico quando se comparou ao grupo controle. Dietas contendo 15% e 45% de cassava não apresentaram efeito sobre estes índices e não causaram alterações hematológicas significativas em indivíduos juvenis de tambaqui, indicando que estas quantidades de cassava podem ser administradas como alternativa de fonte de energia para essa importante espécie na aquicultura.(AU)

Atypical mechanism of NF-κB activation by TRE17/ubiquitin-specific protease 6 (USP6) oncogene and its requirement in tumorigenesis.

The NF-κB transcription factor has a central role in diverse processes, including inflammation, proliferation and cell survival, and its activity is dysregulated in diseases such as autoimmunity and cancer. We recently identified the TRE17/ubiquitin-specific protease 6 (USP6) oncogene as the first de-ubiquitinating enzyme to activate NF-κB. TRE17/USP6 is translocated and overexpressed in aneurysmal bone cyst (ABC), a pediatric tumor characterized by extensive bone degradation and inflammatory recruitment. In the current study, we explore the mechanism by which TRE17 induces activation of NF-κB, and find that it activates the classical NF-κB pathway through an atypical mechanism that does not involve IκB degradation. TRE17 co-precipitates with IκB kinase (IKK), and IKK activity is augmented in stable cell lines overexpressing TRE17, in a USP-dependent manner. Optimal activation of NF-κB by TRE17 requires both catalytic subunits of IKK, distinguishing its mechanism from the classical and non-canonical pathways, which require either IKKß or IKKα, respectively. TRE17 stimulates phosphorylation of p65 at serine 536, a modification that has been associated with enhanced transcriptional activity and nuclear retention. Induction of S536 phosphorylation by TRE17 requires both IKKα and IKKß, as well as the IKKγ/NEMO regulatory subunit of IKK. We further demonstrate that TRE17(long) is highly tumorigenic when overexpressed in NIH3T3 fibroblasts, and that inhibition of NF-κB significantly attenuates tumor formation. In summary, these studies uncover an unexpected signaling mechanism for activation of classical NF-κB by TRE17. They further reveal a critical role for NF-κB in TRE17-mediated tumorigenesis, and suggest that NF-κB inhibitors may function as effective therapeutic agents in the treatment of ABC.

Aproveitamento de soro de queijo para produção de iogurte probiótico / The use of cheese whey for probiotic yogurt production

Desenvolveu-se um iogurte natural aproveitando o soro de queijo de coalho, avaliando diferentes processos de pasteurização e concentração de leite em pó. Os iogurtes submetidos a 90ºC/5min nas concentrações de 8 por cento e 10 por cento de leite em pó não apresentaram diferenças entre si (P>0,05) quanto à aceitação sensorial. Os produtos foram caracterizados como integral, atenderam às exigências de proteínas e forneceram mais de 15 por cento do requisito diário recomendado de cálcio para crianças de um a 10 anos, satisfazendo as exigências de cálcio. Em ambas as formulações, o pH decresceu de aproximadamente 4,6 para 4,2 e a acidez aumentou de 0,7g a 1,0g de ácido láctico/100g do produto durante 28 dias de armazenamento. Não houve contaminação por Staphilococcus aureus, coliformes fecais, bolores e leveduras. A contagem de bactérias láticas variou de 5,6x10(9) a 8,0x10(8)UFC/g durante a vida de prateleira, sugerindo a promoção de efeitos benéficos por este alimento probiótico. Concluiu-se que a utilização do soro para a produção de iogurte é uma alternativa viável ao agregar valor econômico, nutricional e funcional ao subproduto.

The objective of this work was to develop a natural yogurt utilizing the resultant whey of a "coalho" cheese production, assaying different processes of pasteurization and powdered milk concentrations. The yogurt submitted to 90ºC/5min with 8 and 10 percent of powdered milk achieved the highest grade on sensorial analysis, with no significant difference (P>0,05). Products were characterized as integral, attended the request for protein, and supplied over 15 percent of the daily feed intake of calcium for children aged 1 to 10, characterizing it as calcium enriched. In both formulations, the pH decreased from 4.6 to 4.2 approximately and the acidity increased from 0.7g to 1.0g lactic acid/100g of product during 28 days of storage. There was no contamination by S. aureus, fecal coliforms, molds and yeasts. The counting of lactic bacteria varied from 5.6x10(9) to 8.0x10(8)CFU/g during shelf life, suggesting the promotion benefits from this probiotic product. It was concluded that whey utilization for yogurt production is a viable alternative to increase economic, nutritional, and functional value.

TRE17/USP6 oncogene translocated in aneurysmal bone cyst induces matrix metalloproteinase production via activation of NF-kappaB.

Aneurysmal bone cyst (ABC) is an aggressive, pediatric bone tumor characterized by extensive destruction of the surrounding bone. Although first described over 60 years ago, its molecular etiology remains poorly understood. Recent work revealed that ABCs harbor translocation of TRE17/USP6, leading to its transcriptional upregulation. TRE17 encodes a ubiquitin-specific protease (USP), and a TBC domain that mediates binding to the Arf6 GTPase. However, the mechanisms by which TRE17 overexpression contributes to tumor pathogenesis, and the role of its USP and TBC domains, are unknown. ABCs are characterized by osteolysis, inflammatory recruitment and extensive vascularization, the processes in which matrix proteases have a prominent role. This led us to explore whether TRE17 regulates the production of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). In this study we show that TRE17 is sufficient to induce expression of MMP-9 and MMP-10, in a manner requiring its USP activity, but not its ability to bind Arf6. TRE17 induces transcription of MMP-9 through activation of nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-kappaB), mediated in part by the GTPase RhoA and its effector kinase, ROCK. Furthermore, xenograft studies show that TRE17 induces formation of tumors that reproduce multiple features of ABC, including a high degree of vascularization, with an essential role for the USP domain. In sum, these studies reveal that TRE17 is sufficient to initiate tumorigenesis, identify MMPs as novel TRE17 effectors that likely contribute to ABC pathogenesis and define the underlying signaling mechanism of their induction.

Fusion genes in epithelial neoplasia.

Recurrent chromosomal rearrangements with the formation of fusion genes have been traditionally associated with haematological and mesenchymal neoplasms. This view has cultivated the erroneous impression that the oncogenic mechanisms present in these tumours are fundamentally different from those found in epithelial neoplasms. In spite of the fact that, as a group, most epithelial tumours apparently show a higher degree of chromosomal instability, a careful and critical analysis of relatively older findings and several more recent discoveries has shown that some common mechanistic denominators occur in all forms of neoplasms independent of their line of differentiation. The aim of this review is to briefly review and discuss the occurrence, mechanisms and biological relevance of chromosomal rearrangements and fusion genes in epithelial neoplasia, with a special emphasis in thyroid, head and neck, kidney, breast, prostate and lung neoplasms.

Can MDM2 and CDK4 make the diagnosis of well differentiated/dedifferentiated liposarcoma? An immunohistochemical study on 129 soft tissue tumours.

BACKGROUND: Well differentiated liposarcomas (WDLPS) and dedifferentiated liposarcomas (DDLPS) have been shown to have supernumerary chromosomes with amplified sequences of the MDM2 and CDK4 genes. MDM2 and CDK4 protein overexpression have also been identified in these tumours. AIM: To investigate whether immunohistochemistry (IHC) for MDM2 and CDK4 can be used to diagnose WDLPS and DDLPS. METHODS: IHC for MDM2/CDK4 was carried out on a series of 129 paraffin-embedded lipomatous and non-lipomatous soft tissue tumours. The cases were divided into four groups: WDLPS (n = 19), DDLPS (n = 10), benign adipocytic tumours (BAT) (n = 17), and other mesenquimal tumours (OMT) (n = 83). IHC results were compared in each group and the diagnostic efficacy of the test in identifying WDLPS and DDLPS among the other soft tissue tumours was determined. A percentage of tumour cell positivity was evaluated to better characterise the pattern of tumour immunostaining. RESULTS: Sensitivity and specificity of positive MDM2 and CDK4 immunostainings to identify WDLPS among BAT was 100% and 58.8%, and 68.4% and 88.2%, respectively. When distinguishing DDLPS from OMT, sensitivity and specificity of MDM2 and CDK4 were 90% and 65%, and 70% and 96.3%, respectively. The highest specificity was achieved when a case was considered positive with strong and diffuse immunoreactivity in more than 30% of the neoplastic cells (94.1% and 100%, and 77.1% and 98.8%, respectively). CONCLUSION: Detection of MDM2/CDK4 protein overexpression by IHC can be used by pathologists to diagnose WDLPS and DDLPS. Considering a strong and diffuse immunostaining pattern in most of the neoplastic cells achieves the best results in identifying these tumours.

Massive localised lymphoedema: a clinicopathological study of 22 cases and review of the literature.

BACKGROUND: Massive localised lymphoedema (MLL) is a rare, relatively recently described pseudosarcoma most often occurring in morbidly obese patients. AIM: To perform a retrospective review of all cases diagnosed as MLL. METHODS AND RESULTS: Clinical information was obtained. 22 morbidly obese adults (mean patient weight 186 kg) presented with unilateral, large soft tissue lesions of longstanding duration. Most lesions involved the thigh, but also occurred in the posterior calf and lower leg. Clinically, most lesions were regarded as representing benign processes, including pedunculated lipoma, lymphocoele or recurrent cellulites, although soft tissue sarcoma was also suspected in two cases. Grossly, all masses showed markedly thickened skin with a "cobblestone" appearance, and were ill-defined, unencapsulated, lobulate, and very large (mean size 31 cm, range 15-61.5 cm, mean weight 3386 g, range 1133-10,800 g). Histologically, all 22 cases showed striking dermal fibrosis, expansion of the fibrous septa between fat lobules with increased numbers of stromal fibroblasts, lymphatic proliferation and lymphangiectasia. Multinucleated fibroblastic cells, marked vascular proliferation, moderate stromal cellularity and fascicular growth raised concern among referring pathologists for atypical lipomatous tumour/well differentiated liposarcoma, angiosarcoma, and a fibroblastic neoplasm such as fibromatosis in 10, 2 and 1 case, respectively. CONCLUSION: The diagnosis of MLL continues to be challenging, in particular for pathologists. Awareness of this entity, clinical correlation and gross pathological correlation are essential in the separation of this distinctive pseudosarcoma from its various morphological mimics.

Focal metatarsal sinus tracts in a Weimaraner successfully managed with ciclosporin.

Focal metatarsal sinus tracts ('fistulation') are, to the authors knowledge, reported for the first time in a Weimaraner. The six-year-old, entire male had a five-month history of two symmetrical, well-demarcated sinuses on the plantar aspect of each metatarsus. The area surrounding each pair of sinuses was slightly fluctuant and a serosanguineous discharge could be expressed. Cytological examination of the discharge was characteristic of pyogranulomatous inflammation. Bacterial culture showed the material to be sterile. Examination of a skin biopsy revealed a severe inflammatory reaction involving the dermal collagen, with an infiltrate of neutrophils, macrophages, lymphocytes, plasma cells and multi-nucleated giant cells, with some micro-pustule formation. Treatment with ciclosporin induced total remission. Reduction of the dose of ciclosporin resulted in recurrence of the physical signs with further remission on re-introduction of the original dosage. This is the first report of the use of ciclosporin to control this condition.

Intradermal hepatitis B vaccination in patients with advanced chronic renal failure: immunogenicity and follow-up.

BACKGROUND: Patients undergoing dialysis usually have a poor response to conventional hepatitis B vaccination. AIM: To observe the effects of intradermal hepatitis B (HB) vaccination in a 13-month prospective study of adult patients with end-stage renal failure. The patients were with or without previous hepatitis B vaccination, but all had antibody titres <10 mUI/mL. METHODS: Patients were allotted to two groups: previous hepatitis B virus vaccination and no previous hepatitis B virus vaccination or anti-HBs titres <10 mUI/mL. Patients in both groups received 16 i.d. injections of 0.1 mL of hepatitis B virus vaccine over an eight-week period. Patients had antibody titres assessed before vaccination, 1 month after and every 3 months for a year. Antibody titres >/=10 mUI/mL were considered protective. RESULTS: Seventy patients completed the protocol. Protective titres were elicited in 82% of each group. Age, time under dialysis, diabetes, smoking and body-mass index were not associated with seroconversion. Persistent protective titres >12 months occurred in 27 (58.7%). Adverse events were trivial. CONCLUSION: Intradermal hepatitis B virus vaccination is an alternative in end-stage renal failure.

Type II collagen, but not aggrecan expression, distinguishes clear cell chondrosarcoma and chondroblastoma.

AIM: Chondroblastoma and clear cell chondrosarcoma are uncommon skeletal neoplasms that have a strong tendency to involve the epiphysis of long bones. They also share some overlapping histological features. Thus, it can be difficult both radiographically and histologically to distinguish these neoplasms. So far there are no immunohistochemical markers available that have been shown to be helpful in differentiating these neoplasms. METHODS: In our study of a series of clear cell chondrosarcomas (n = 15) and chondroblastomas (n = 35), S100, vimentin, aggrecan and collagen type II were detected by immunohistochemistry. RESULTS: We detected immunohistochemical evidence of type II collagen within both the extracellular matrix-rich (chondroid) and matrix-poor areas in all 15 cases of clear cell chondrosarcoma. In contrast, immunohistochemical analysis failed to show staining of collagen type II in any of the 35 chondroblastomas. Other markers, including S100 protein, vimentin and aggrecan proteoglycan were tested in parallel and found to be focally positive in both neoplasms. CONCLUSION: Therefore, our data show that in cases when clear cell chondrosarcoma and chondroblastoma pose a diagnostic challenge, the presence of type II collagen in the extracellular tumour matrix significantly supports the diagnosis of clear cell chondrosarcoma and aids in distinguishing it from chondroblastoma.