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The aim of this article is to develop a simplified equivalent dynamic model capable to capture the transient behavior of a gas-fueled co-generator. To comply with this exigency, an online identification methodology based on the sensitivity theory in conjunction with the Lyapunov function is adopted. By this methodology, stable solutions can be achieved in the online environment, renewing the parameters of the model at every change occurring on the physical system. In order to investigate the effectiveness of the proposed methodology in deriving a simplified dynamic model, several simulations and experimental tests were performed on the Prince Lab microgrid located at the Polytechnic University of Bari. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a control strategy for real-time operation of a master-slave controlled microgrid is developed. The basic idea of this control strategy is to schedule all dispatchable energy sources available into a microgrid to minimize its operational costs. Control actions are centrally evaluated by solving a two-stage optimization problem formulated to take place on two different time-scales: in the day-ahead and in the real-time. The first one provides a 24-hour plan in advance. It mainly draws up the active power levels that Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) should provide for each quarter hour of the next day by taking into account energy prices of the day-ahead energy market, the forecasted energy production of non-dispatchable renewables and loads. The real-time optimization problem updates the active power set-points of DERs in order to minimize as much as possible the real-time deviations between the actual power exchanged with the utility grid and its scheduled value. The effectiveness of the proposed methodology has been experimentally tested on an actual microgrid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many efforts have been made to select and isolate naturally occurring animal-friendly Epichloë strains for later reinfection into elite cultivars. Often this process involves large-scale screening of Epichloë-infected wild grass populations where strains are characterized and alkaloids measured. Here, we describe for the first time the use of genotyping-by-sequencing (GBS) on a collection of 217 Epichloë-infected grasses (7 S. arundinaceum, 4 L. perenne, and 206 S. pratensis). This genotyping strategy is cheaper than complete genome sequencing, is suitable for a large number of individuals, and, when applied to endophyte-infected grasses, conveniently genotypes both organisms. In total, 6273 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the endophyte data set and 38 323 SNPs in the host data set were obtained. Our findings reveal a composite structure with three distinct endophyte clusters unrelated to the three main S. pratensis gene pools that have most likely spread from different glacial refugia in Eurasia. All three gene pools can establish symbiosis with E. uncinata. A comparison of the endophyte clusters with microsatellite-based fingerprinting of the same samples allows a quick test to discriminate between these clusters using two simple sequence repeats (SSRs). Concentrations of loline alkaloids and mycelial biomass are correlated and differ significantly among the plant and endophyte subpopulations; one endophyte strain has higher levels of lolines than others, and one specific host genotype is particularly suitable to host E. uncinata. These findings pave the way for targeted artificial inoculations of specific host-endophyte combinations to boost loline production in the symbiota and for genome association studies with the aim of isolating genes involved in the compatibility between meadow fescue and E. uncinata. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main aim of this article is to assess and control impacts that a grid-tied microgrid may have on a distribution network. For this purpose, the tie-line power flow has been considered in a performance index to be minimized. In particular, three statistical indices have been compared on the microgrid operated under a classical day-ahead dispatching policy and an online optimal control strategy. The online optimization process starts from the same day-ahead dispatching policy and tries to compensate the tie-line power flow deviations from the scheduled value. For this purpose, a real-time economic dispatching algorithm based on a proportional integral derivative controller has been developed and implemented on the PrInCE Lab microgrid, located at the Polytechnic University of Bari, Bari, Italy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Proposes a second-order dynamic model to represent an actual So–Nick BESS. • An input–output identification procedure is proposed for parameters identification. • The procedure is based on the Sensitivity theory involving the Lyapunov function. • Experimental tests prove the practical applicability of the proposed methodology. Abstract The aim of this paper is to derive an accurate input/output dynamic equivalent model of a So–Nick Battery Energy Storage System (BESS). For this purpose, an on-line identification methodology has been applied. By this methodology, unknown model parameters are identified in the continuous time domain by solving an optimization problem aimed at minimizing the error between output trajectories of the physical system and its dynamic equivalent model. The methodology is based on the Sensitivity theory involving the Lyapunov function, ensuring the stability of the algorithm. Experimental results are used to validate the proposed approach by adopting the Sodium–Nickel Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) embedded into the experimental Prince Lab of the Polytechnic University of Bari, Italy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this paper is to examine how a coordinated control strategy for managing the active power reserve in isolated microgrids is presented. This methodology can be applied in those microgrids where a specified generator assumes the role of the isochronous generator for the overall system. The derived algorithm evaluates control actions in the on-line environment by solving a constrained dynamic optimization problem aimed at maximizing the overall spinning reserve and, in particular, the reserve offered by the master unit equipped with the isochronous governor controller. The solution of this problem is obtained by adopting the direct Lyapunov theorem applied to the Sensitivity theory, ensuring the algorithm’s stability. Tests performed on the experimental microgrid, which has been built at the Polytechnic University of Bari, demonstrated the ability of the proposed methodology to share the regulation burden among all sources and storage systems, establishing adequate reserve margins of the master unit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper deals with the development of an on-line identification method for deriving simplified dynamic models. The practical applicability of the derived algorithm has been tested on the Capstone C30 microturbine installed at the Polytechnic University of Bari, Italy. For this purpose, a second order model has been identified by adopting the sensitivity theory involving the Lyapunov function giving rise to stable solutions in the on-line environment, renewing model parameters at every changes occurring on the physical system. This characteristic can be fruitfully adopted for implementing actual models in time domain simulators, giving rise to accurate results even if some internal parameters change. In order to investigate on the effectiveness of the proposed methodology in deriving a simplified dynamic model, several simulations and experimental tests were conducted in the Prince Lab of the Polytechnic University of Bari. The good agreement between simulations and laboratory tests confirm the validity and the applicability of the proposed methodology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this paper was to develop a multi-area decentralized controller for improving the voltage profile of large active distribution networks. Voltages at control buses of each area are kept as close as possible to their reference values by managing the reactive power of distributed generators within the same areas. Moreover, in order to avoid exchanging a considerable amount of data on more or less large portions of the network, the proposed methodology adopted an equivalent reduced network for each area. This equivalent network model is seen at control buses and nodes where distributed generation units are connected. With this simplification, each area controller will have to evaluate simultaneously, the unknown parameters of the reduced network and the optimal control laws for the voltage profile optimization of its control area. To comply with this exigency, a multi-objective optimization problem was formulated. The solution of this problem formulation was found by adopting an algorithm operating in the continuous time domain. Test results are provided on a 49-bus distribution network, demonstrating the effectiveness of the developed methodology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this paper is to define an organized approach for improving the economic, reliable and secure operation of microgrids operating either in the On-grid or in the Off-grid. According to this methodological approach, a microgrid can be operated into five Operating Modes and five Transitions. Proper management of each of them has been examined and implemented on the existing microgrid developed at the Prince — Electrical Energy System Lab of the Polytechnic of Bari. This microgrid can be considered a hard test bed for dynamic stability studies since it is an inertialess system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes a decentralized controller to coordinate the reactive power injections of PV generators in order to contribute to the voltage regulation in distribution networks. The control actions are evaluated in the real time by adopting an optimization methodology involving the sensitivity applied to the Lyapunov function. By this approach it is possible to derive an auto-adaptive algorithm that can be implemented on actual distribution network without implying additional costs for infrastructures. Computer simulations have been performed on a MV distribution system to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed control scheme at different operating conditions and to confirm its ability to work in the real time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes a centralized control methodology for optimizing nodal voltages of distribution networks by acting on the reactive power produced by PV-inverters. Control actions are centrally evaluated in real-time by solving a constrained dynamic optimization problem aimed at minimizing the voltage deviation from a reference value. The solution of this problem is obtained by adopting an algorithm operating in the continuous time domain based on a fast artificial dynamic system involving the sensitivity theory. By this approach the controller is able to promptly respond to any change in the system operating point, allowing its adoption in the continuous time domain. However, it must be considered that the injection of the reactive power provided by PV-inverters entails greater conduction and switching losses, causing a reduction in the active power output, thus implying less incomings. As a consequence, these additional operating costs have been analyzed and evaluated in order to establish an economic compensation mechanism able to guarantee fair reimbursement to PV generators engaged in this regulation service. Computer simulations performed on an MV distribution system, demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed control scheme under different operating conditions, confirming its ability to control the network in real-time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes a decentralized nonlinear autoadaptive controller for reducing system losses by the optimal management of the reactive power supplied by the inverters of photovoltaic (PV) units. This ancillary service can be furnished on the base of standard needs or on voluntary basis. The control design is based on an optimization procedure involving the sensitivity theory in conjunction with the Lyapunov function and provides control laws acting as references of the PV inverter local controller. PV inverters must operate in a decoupled manner in order to provide the reactive power imposed by the control law and to transfer the active power produced by PV modules. The experiences and results conducted in an indoor laboratory as well as on an actual distribution network managed by ENEL Distribuzione S.p.A. demonstrate its effectiveness in reducing system losses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In this paper a novel methodology for evaluating the external equivalent model of a distributed network is presented. The proposed method is based on a non-linear parameter identification process which involves an artificial dynamic system, whose dynamics are explicitly designed to be stable by adopting the Lyapunov theory. This dynamic identification method is competitive with existing reduction methods, since it does not require system linearization or any a priori information about the system under study. Few measurements at boundary nodes are required to obtain the essential information regarding the external system. Even if these measurements are strongly corrupted by noise, the algorithm is quite insensible to it. Due to its ability to be auto-adaptive at any changes in the system operating conditions and to its great speed convergence, the identification procedure can be usefully applied for real-time applications. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This paper proposes an auto-adaptive controller that enables to suitably manage the reactive power supplied by the inverters of PV units whishing to provide the reactive power ancillary service on the base of standard needs or on a voluntary basis. The derived controller is based on an optimization procedure involving the sensitivity theory in conjunction with the Lyapunov function and provides control laws feeding the inverters of the PV units. The controller promptly minimizes system losses preserving the active power produced by the PV plants against the reactive one. In fact, when the PV modules do not get enough sunlight to generate active power, the proposed procedure forces the PV inverters to provide a reactive power equal to the rated power. On the contrary, in order to preserve the major economic benefits for the investor deriving from the produced active power during the sunlight hours, the method automatically reduces the injection of reactive power. The computer simulations, performed on a distribution system, demonstrate that the controller is capable to control the network in the real-time, mainly due to its ability to be auto-adaptive at any changes in the system operating conditions. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Human melanoma cell lines were shown to express ligands for the natural cytotoxicity receptor, NKp46, expressed by natural killer (NK) cells. We aimed to examine the expression of ligands for NKp46 by various primary human melanocytic cells and melanocytic lesions. Sections from primary nevi and melanomas were tested for expression of NKp46 ligands employing chimeric NKp46-Fc for staining. The melanocytes present in the reticular dermis were negative for NKp46 ligands in common nevi; in malignant melanocytic lesions, the deeper melanocytes were focally positive. In dermoepidermal junction of all melanocytic lesions, the melanocytes showed enhanced expression of NKp46 ligands. Melanophages in all lesions were consistently positive for NKp46 ligands. These observations establish the expression of NKp46 ligands by primary-transformed melanocytes. Normal melanocytes did not express ligands to NKp46. Therefore, the results show (i) a correlation between the malignant potential of the lesion and the expression of NKp46 ligands in the reticular dermis, and (ii) enhanced expression of NKp46 ligands in the active proliferation zone (dermoepidermal junction) of nevi and melanomas. Ligands to NKp46 were expressed on the membrane and within the cells. The physiological role of NKp46 ligands in the progression of malignancy within melanocytic lesions should be explored further.Journal of Investigative Dermatology (2008) 128, 972–979. doi:10.1038/sj.jid.5701111; published online 1 November 2007 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report unusual congenital ichthyosiform dermatosis in 5 of 12 children in two related families of unaffected, consanguineous Bedouin parents. It appeared shortly after birth as a fine peeling of nonerythematous skin on palms and soles. Gradually it evolved into prominent, well-demarcated areas of peeling skin in moist and traumatized regions. The cutaneous manifestations share features of ichthyosis bullosa of Siemens (IBS) and peeling skin syndrome (PSS). Histologic examination revealed orthokeratosis, a thickened granular cell layer, and spongiosis without epidermolytic hyperkeratosis. On electron microscopy there was prominent intercellular edema and numerous aggregates of keratin filaments in basal keratinocytes. This combination of clinical, histologic, and ultrastructural features has not been previously reported in the heterogeneous group of congenital ichthyoses. We suggest that it represents a new variant of exfoliative ichthyosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 91-year-old patient presented with a nonfebrile, pruritic, widespread eruption that appeared 10 days after starting therapy with cefuroxime tablets, 1000 mg/day, due to stasis dermatitis with secondary infection. The patient was also treated with paracetamol tablets, 500–1000 mg/day, 10 days before the onset of the eruption. Previous diseases included congestive heart disease, hyperglycemia, and ectropion. There was no personal or family history of psoriasis. Additional medications, taken for more than 2 years at the time of the eruption, included indomethacin, captopril, hydrochlorothiazide, isosorbide-5-mononitrate tablets, and a combination drug Laxative®. Examination revealed widespread erythema involving 95% of the total body surface area, with numerous 1–2 mm nonfollicular pustules (Fig. 1). There was no predilection to the body folds. Within 24 h of hospitalization, during intravenous therapy with cefuroxime, the patient's condition worsened and bullae containing clear fluid appeared. Nikolsky's sign was positive on erythematous skin, and eventually skin detachment involved 41% of the total body surface area (Fig. 2). There were no target or target-like lesions and there was no involvement of the mucous membranes. An early biopsy from a pustule revealed subcorneal and intraepidermal spongiform pustules, papillary edema, perivascular mononuclear infiltrate with a few eosinophils in the dermis, and leukocytoclastic vasculitis. A later biopsy showed similar findings with no evidence of full-thickness epidermal necrosis or necrotic keratinocytes. Direct immune fluorescence (DIF) taken from erythematous skin was negative. Laboratory studies showed the following results: sedimentation rate, 80 mm/h; white blood cell count, 26,200/mm3 with 87% polymorphonuclears and 1.8% eosinophils; hemoglobin, 13.0 g/dL; albumin, 2.8 g/dL (normal, 3.5–5.5 g/dL); other blood chemistry tests were normal. Immunologic studies for... [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 44-year-old woman presented with a 6-month history of subcutaneous nodules involving her face and shins. Her past history revealed myomatous uterus with menometrorrhagia, resulting in an iron deficiency anemia, treated by ferrum sulfate tablets. She also had diabetes mellitus type II treated by glibenclamide and metformin tablets. There was no evidence of bromide or iodide ingestion. On initial examination, several firm, tender, erythematous subcutaneous nodules, 2–4 cm in diameter, were present on the face (Fig. 1) and shins (Fig. 2), two with normal overlying skin. Within a few weeks, the nodule on the left shin enlarged and several superficial ulcers appeared, surrounded by purplish borders, secreting sinuses, and a vegetative exophytic surface (Fig. 3). Physical examination was normal. Incisional biopsies from the ulcer margins showed pseudoepitheliomatous hyperplasia, diffuse neutrophilic infiltration with microabscess formation (Fig. .4), and the presence of a dense infiltrate composed of epithelioid cells, giant cells, and a few lymphocytes forming non-necrotizing granulomas within the dermis and subcutaneous lobules (Fig. 5). Leukocytoclastic vasculitis was also present in the lower dermis. Routine blood tests and urine analysis were normal, except for a high erythrocyte sedimentation rate (120/h) and anemia with a hemoglobin level of 10 g%. The results of the following laboratory tests were found to be within normal limits: rheumatoid factor; antinuclear antibody; C3; C4; serum immunoglobulins; serum protein electrophoresis; stool for parasites and occult blood; X-ray of the chest, left shin, hands, and facial bones; isotopic bone scanning; abdominal ultrasonography; chest and abdominal computerized tomography. Repeated smears and tissue cultures for bacteria, nmycobacteria, and fungi obtained from several ulcer sites were negative. Smears and cultures for Leishmania and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for Leishmania were negative. Based on the clinical and histologic picture, our case was diagnosed as vegetative pyoderma gangrenosum. The lesions did not respond to systemic antibacterial agents including minocycline and cotrimoxazole. A marked improvement was observed following treatment with prednisone at an initial dose of 40 mg/day. Relapse of the lesions was observed after several attempts to reduce the steroid dose. Using dapsone as an adjuvant therapy in increasing dose up to 250 mg/day induced significant improvement, which allowed us to reduce the dose of prednisone to 10 mg/day. Dapsone was discontinued after 3 weeks of treatment due to acute hepatitis induced by the drug. A few days after cessation of dapsone, the cutaneous lesions recurred, and were only partially controlled by a prednisone regimen of 10/20 mg on alternate days. Complete remission was achieved after 6 months of therapy, leaving a small cribriform scar on the leg. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report an immunocompromised patient who developed a cutaneous infection caused by acremonium which is a rare opportunistic fungi. With the increasing number of immunocompromised patients opportunistic fungal infection can cause serious diseases and early recognition is mandatory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Identify the main design features of different microgrids around the world. • This paper explores the main issues arising from the development of a microgrid. • An attempt to define potential solutions to overcome the main technical issues. • It defines guidelines for practical implementation and operation of microgrids. A microgrid is a small portion of a power distribution system with distributed generators along with energy storage devices and controllable loads which can give rise to a self-sufficient energy system. From the utility grid side, a microgrid is seen as an equivalent generator that is able to seamlessly disconnect and operate autonomously once a fault affects the main grid. The design, installation and operation of such systems lead to dealing with a number of technical and operational challenges including control, protection and infrastructure requirements. To help designers and researchers address these challenges and draw potential recommendations for practical microgrid implementations, in this paper a review of the main design features of existing microgrids is undertaken, also in light of the experience gained during the realization of the Prince Lab microgrid at Polytechnic University of Bari, Italy. The main control functions required to guarantee an economic, reliable and secure operation of a microgrid are also reviewed. Finally, key practical guidelines for monitoring, operation and implementation of microgrids are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In most plant species, a rapid increase in free proline content occurs following exposure to hyperosmotic stress conditions. However, inconsistent results were reported concerning the role of such an increase on the plant response to water shortage or excess salt. Therefore, the possibility that proline accumulation may help the cell to withstand stress conditions, or that it simply represents a stress marker, is still a matter of debate. A possible relationship between proline accumulation and salt tolerance was investigated in a set of 17 Italian rice varieties.Rice seedlings were exposed to increasing salt concentrations during germination and early growth. The resulting levels of free proline were measured separately in shoots and roots and compared to those in untreated controls. Results were related to the corresponding ability of a given genotype to tolerate stress conditions.Neither absolute proline levels in untreated or in salt‐stressed seedlings showed a straightforward relationship to the relative tolerance to salt, estimated as conductivity values able to reduce growth by 10 or 50%. Conversely, a highly significant correlation was found between the increase in proline levels in shoots and the ability to withstand stress.The results strengthen a recent hypothesis suggesting than an increase in proline metabolic rates, more than the resulting proline content, may help the cell to counteract the effects of abiotic stress conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT We describe a patient with an unusual presentation of multiple arteriovenous haemangioma (AVH) grouped in one area of the scalp. The diagnosis was confirmed by histological, X-ray and ultrasound studies. These lesion represent a rare, benign, acquired vascular hamartomatous formation that arises from the suprapapillary vascular plexus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Calcified pseudotumours (CPTs) are rarely found in the central nervous system (CNS). Information on supratentorial CPT is limited. We add our experience treating three supratentorial CPTs. Clinical presentation, pathological findings and clinical course are discussed, and a literature review is provided. Method: Between September 2011 and December 2012, three patients (age range 33-60 years) were diagnosed with symptomatic supratentorial CPTs, for which they underwent resection. Their clinical, radiological, and surgical data were retrospectively retrieved from their medical records and reported. Results: Symptoms at presentation included headache ( n = 1), blurred vision ( n = 1), and cognitive decline ( n = 1). One tumour was in the left frontal lobe very close to the convexity surface, and the other two were in the midline adjacent to the corpus callosum. Radiological features included a calcified mass on computerised tomography ( n = 3), a hypointense ( n = 2) or hyperintense ( n = 1) signal on T2 and a rim of enhancement with some non-homogenous lesional enhancement on T1-gadolinium (Gd) sequences on magnetic resonance imaging ( n = 2). Two patients underwent gross total resection and had an uneventful postoperative course. The third underwent partial removal due to the tumour's adherence to adjacent vascular structures and suffered postoperative complications. On pathology, all lesions had low cellularity fibrovascular tissue mixed with lobules of a haematoxylinophilic, chondromyxoid-like matrix surrounded at its periphery by a variable layer of palisading spindle, epithelioid or multinucleated giant cells. All three CPTs had focal inflammatory infiltrates and variable degrees of metaplastic calcification and ossification. Conclusions: Surgical removal is recommended for benign intracranial CPTs that are symptomatic, are associated with brain oedema, or show tumour growth. Stable and asymptomatic CPTs can be followed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Cavernous angiomas (CA) are congenital intraparenchymal vascular malformations that contain sinusoidal spaces lined by a single-layer endothelium, separated by collagenous stroma with no intervening brain parenchyma. Despite the congenital origin of CA, they rarely present in the neonatal and prenatal period. In this paper, we present a case report of a neonatal suprasellar CA that presented with a bleed. We also present a literature review focusing on specific features of intracranial CA in the neonatal and fetal age groups. Case report: A 27-day-old neonate presented with a left eye ptosis for 2 days, followed by a generalized seizure. A head computed tomography revealed a suprasellar hematoma with intraventricular and subarachnoid extension. Brain magnetic resonance imaging revealed hemorrhages of various ages. Magnetic resonance angiography did not reveal any vascular malformation. Surgical exploration of the suprasellar mass revealed a capsulated dense hematoma. Postoperatively, the neonate was weaned of artificial ventilation over a protracted period and remained hemiparetic with signs of third nerve palsy. Pathology revealed a CA. CA presenting as a suprasellar bleed with subarachnoid and intraventricular extension is very rare especially among neonates. To the best of our knowledge, 20 cases of CA have been reported in the neonatal and fetal period in the English literature. Summary: Neonatal CA in general and suprasellar location in particular are extremely rare lesions. Neonatal/fetal CA seems to present more aggressively and have a worse prognosis compared to those presenting at a later age. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Distribution networks are evolving to become more responsive with increasing integration of distributed energy resources (DERs) and digital transformation at the grid edges. This evolution imposes many challenges to the operation of the network, which then calls for new control and operation paradigms. Among others, a so-called grid-edge control is emerging to harmonise the coexistence of the grid control system and DER's autonomous control. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of the grid-edge control with various control architectures, layers, and strategies. The challenges and opportunities for such an approach at the grid edge with the integration of DERs and digital transformation are summarised. The potential solutions to support the network operation by using the inherent controllability of DER and the availability of the digital transformation at the grid edges are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a case study of a 91 year old man with a rapidly growing tumour on his face, which had developed within the past few months. It was inferred that the patient was known to suffer from ischaemic heart disease and hypertension treated with aspirin, cilazapril, and metoprolol. Moreover, histological examination inferred a dense infiltrate involving the entire dermis, without involvement of the epidermis.

A 7-month-old infant developed a discrete pustular rash confined to both soles during the acute phase of Kawasaki disease. Histological examination of a pustular lesion from the sole of a foot showed subcorneal neutrophilic microabscesses, psoriasiform acanthosis with a thin granular layer and mononuclear perivascular infiltrates in the upper dermis, consistent with psoriasis. Following the standard treatment with intravenous gamma globulin, the initial symptoms and signs of Kawasaki disease resolved completely. Eight weeks later, psoriasiform plaques appeared on both cheeks and on the extensor surfaces of the forearms and legs. Skin biopsy from one of these lesions revealed psoriasiform epidermal hyperplasia, focal parakeratosis and dilated papillary capillaries. The patient was treated with mild-potency topical steroids that resulted in rapid and complete resolution of the skin lesions. Concurrent association of psoriatic skin lesions and Kawasaki disease might not be incidental and could stem from a common pathogenetic mechanism induced by superantigens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Multiple miliary osteoma cutis of the face represents primary extra-skeletal bone formation that arises within the skin of the face. METHODS: A 60-year-old woman with multiple miliary osteoma cutis of the face was treated by application of 0.05% tretinoin (all-trans-retinoic acid) cream nightly. RESULTS: After 3 months of therapy there were fewer papules and a decrease in size of remaining lesions. In a literature search, it was found that local application of tretinoin was successful and achieved a decrease in the number of papules over the face in all patients with multiple miliary osteoma cutis of the face; however, the length of time to achieve response varied from a few weeks to 6 months. CONCLUSION: It is suggested that local application of tretinoin cream should be considered in the therapy of multiple miliary osteoma cutis of the face, particularly when the lesions are small and superficial. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pilonidal sinuses usually occur in the sacrococcygeal area in young men, and occasionally can be found in other ectopic sites. We present a retrospective case review on unusual locations of pilonidal sinuses in the past 4 years. The lesion sites were as follows: one on the penis, two on the scalp, two on the abdomen, one on the neck, two in the groin and two in the axilla. Abdominal and penile lesions are uncommon, but the other locations reported are unusually rare. To our knowledge, the groin has not been reported previously as a site of a pilonidal sinus, although the histological appearance of hidradenitis suppurativa may well resemble it. When trying to clarify the pathogenesis of these occurrences, we found that recurrent hair removal was a common characteristic of the patients we contacted, and this may have been the initiating trauma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SUMMARY: A 60-year-old woman presented with a 3-week history of a pruritic papulo-nodular eruption on the face and trunk after a bee sting. Histological examination showed a predominantly lymphocytic infiltrate with follicular centres and tingible body macrophages. Immunohistochemically, positive staining for both kappa and lambda light chains was noted. The eruption settled with oral antihistamine and topical corticosteroid. These findings support the diagnosis of follicular B-cell pseudolymphoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rhabdoid meningioma is an aggressive phenotype of meningioma, associated with a poor prognosis. We present a very rare case of high-grade meningioma with rhabdoid features that eventually expressed in a coma state. Comprehensive genomic profiling using a Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) assay revealed three genomic alterations: activating BRAF mutation (V600E), loss of CDKN2A/2B, and APC I1307K. After treatment with BRAF inhibitor (dabrafenib), the child's clinical condition improved progressively. After seven months, an MEK inhibitor was added (trametinib). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Presents information on a study which reported the case of acne in an adolescent with a history of asymptomatic facial skin lesions since childhood. Results of the skin and physical examination of the patient; Details on lipoid proteinosis or Urbach-Wiethe disease.

Infrared spectroscopy is widely perceived as a future technology for cancer detection and grading. Malignant melanoma, an aggressive skin cancer, is accessible to non-invasive IR radiation based surface probes for its identification and grading. The present work examines the differences in the IR spectra of melanoma tissues and the surrounding epidermis in skin biopsies with the objective of identifying diagnostic parameters and suitable computational/statistical methods of analysis. Melanoma could be differentiated from the epidermis in biopsies of 55 patients, using parameters derived from absorbance bands originating from molecular vibrations of nucleic acids and/or their bases. Additionally, absorbances from tyrosine and phosphate that are abnormally elevated in malignant melanoma could be used as markers. Two-dimensional plots of these parameters in tandem with advanced statistical methods successfully demonstrate the potential of IR spectroscopy to distinguish between epidermal and melanoma regions with a high classification success. The work underlines the importance of developing data analysis methods in FTIR based diagnosis using melanoma as a model system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim of this study was to identify risk factors for incomplete excision of squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs). Patients and methods: A cross-sectional study of 369 patients who underwent a primary excision of SCCs was performed within an outpatient and a hospital plastic surgery department setting. Results: Incomplete excision occurred in 25 of 369 primary excisions of SCC (6.8%). Location of the tumors on the forehead, temples, peri-auricular region, ears, cheeks, nose, lips or neck was significantly associated with incomplete excision of the tumors. In particular, high incomplete excision proportions were observed for tumors located on the ears (16.7%), neck (16.7%), temples (11.1%), nose (10.8%) or lips (7.1%). Incomplete excision of SCC was associated with the setting of the operation in the hospital as compared to ambulatory settings ( p = 0.046) and was inversely associated with the specimen thickness ( p = 0.002). There was no statistically significant association between incomplete excision of SCC and gender, age, clinical appearance of the lesion (suspected SCC vs other diagnoses), differentiation pattern, diameter of the tumor, length or width of the excised specimen, solar changes or ulceration. Conclusion: We recommend that in patients with SCCs located in the forehead, temples, periauricular region, ears, cheeks, nose, lips or neck surgeons should commence particular surgical measures to avoid inadequate excisions of the tumors. In particular, surgeons should use wider excisional margins in tumors located in the embryonic fusion planes (e.g. eyelids and naso-labial folds). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To explore the scope and significance of alternate promoter usage and its putative inter-relationship to alternative splicing, we searched expression sequence tags for the 5' region of acetylcholinesterase (ACHE) genes. Three and five novel first exons were identified in human and mouse ACHE genes, respectively. Reverse transcription-PCR and in situ hybridization validated most of the predicted transcripts, and sequence analyses of the corresponding genomic DNA regions suggest evolutionarily conserved promoters for each of the novel exons identified. Distinct tissue specificity and stress-related expression patterns of these exons predict combinatorial complexity with known 3' alternative AChE mRNA transcripts. Unexpectedly one of the 5' exons encodes an extended N terminus in-frame with the known AChE sequence, extending the increased complexity to the protein level. The resultant membrane variant(s), designated N-AChE, is developmentally regulated in human brain neurons and blood mononuclear cells. Alternative promoter usage combined with alternative splicing may thus lead to stress-dependent combinatorial complexity of AChE mRNA transcripts and their protein products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Here, we describe that microenvironmental IL-1β and, to a lesser extent, II-1α are required for in vivo angiogenesis and invasiveness of different tumor cells. In IL-1β knockout (KO) mice, local tumor or lung metastases of B16 melanoma cells were not observed compared with WT mice. Angiogenesis was assessed by the recruitment of blood vessel networks into Matrigel plugs containing B16 melanoma cells; vascularization of the plugs was present in WT mice, but was absent in IL-1β KO mice. The addition of exogenous IL-1 into B16-containing Matrigel plugs in IL-1β KO mice partially restored the angiogenic response. Moreover, the incorporation of IL-1 receptor antagonist to B16-containing plugs in WT mice inhibited the ingrowth of blood vessel networks into Matrigel plugs. In IL-1α KO mice, local tumor development and induction of an angiogenic response in Matrigel plugs was less pronounced than in WT mice, but significantly higher than in IL-1β KO mice. These effects of host-derived IL-1α and IL-1β were not restricted to the melanoma model, but were also observed in DA/3 mammary and prostate cancer cell models. In addition to the in vivo findings, IL-1 contributed to the production of vascular endothelial cell growth factor and tumor necrosis factor in cocultures of peritoneal macrophages and tumor cells. Host-derived IL-1 seems to control tumor angiogenesis and invasiveness. Furthermore, the anti-angiogenic effects of IL-1 receptor antagonist, shown here, suggest a possible therapeutic role in cancer, in addition to its current use in rheumatoid arthritis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: To find a possible correlation of Ki67 antigen and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) with prognosis in anorectal malignant melanoma. Methods and results: Thirty patients with anorectal malignant melanoma were studied. The percentage of tumour cells stained for Ki67 and PCNA in paraffin sections was assessed. Mode of treatment (local excision or abdominoperineal resection), depth of tumour invasion, attempt at cure as defined by complete tumour excision and absence of distant metastases at presentation, tumour blood vessel invasion, and tumour necrosis, as well as Ki67 and PCNA, were all correlated with survival. By univariate analysis, PCNA, Ki67, attempt at cure, local excision (and not abdominoperineal resection), and depth of invasion were all significantly associated with longer survival. By multivariate analysis, only PCNA was significantly associated with survival, while Ki67 showed a significant positive correlation with PCNA. With a cut-off point of 40%, patients with lower Ki67 scores showed survival advantage over those with higher Ki67 scores (P =0.0004). With a cut-off point of 80%, patients with lower PCNA scores showed survival advantage over those with higher PCNA scores (P =0.0001). The staining for proliferation markers was also associated with depth of tumour invasion. Conclusions: Ki67 and PCNA immunostaining in paraffin sections may be useful for the prediction of survival in patients with anorectal malignant melanoma. Larger studies are needed to confirm our results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We describe an Israeli Jewish Moroccan family presenting with autosomal dominant seborrhea-like dermatosis with psoriasiform elements, including enhanced keratinocyte proliferation, parakeratosis, follicular plugging, Pityrosporum ovale overgrowth and dermal CD4 lymphocyte infiltrate. We mapped the disease gene to a 0.5-cM region overlapping the PSORS2 locus (17q25) and identified a frameshift mutation in ZNF750, which encodes a putative C2H2 zinc finger protein. ZNF750 is normally expressed in keratinocytes but not in fibroblasts and is barely detectable in CD4 lymphocytes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background : Paclitaxel and trastuzumab are new treatments for patients with metastatic breast cancer. Case report : We describe here a 40-year-old female patient with metastatic breast cancer who developed a photosensitive rash 1 month after initiation of paclitaxel and trastuzumab therapy. The eruption appeared on the dorsal aspect of her hands, forearms, legs and face and consisted of erythema, edema and vesicles, and was associated with distal onycholysis. Aberrations in various parameters of the metabolism of porphyrins were observed in urine and erythrocytes. Sun avoidance and withdrawal of paclitaxel was followed by resolution of the rash and a return to the normal pattern of porphyrins biosynthesis. Conclusion : The combination of paclitaxel and trastuzumab treatment and sun exposure may induce a photosensitive reaction, associated with changes in various parameters of porphyrins biosynthesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Bevacizumab (BVZ) is an antiangiogenic agent approved by the Food and Drug Administration that is used for the treatment of recurrent glioblastoma. Complications related to impaired healing may adversely affect patients resected for recurrent high-grade glioma (HGG) after treatment with BVZ. Objective To examine the complication rate, outcome, and tumor vasculature in patients resected for recurrent HGG after treatment with BVZ. Methods Data were reviewed retrospectively from patients undergoing surgery for recurrent HGG after treatment with BVZ. Results were compared with a control group of recurrently operated BVZ-naïve HGG. Tumor samples and magnetic resonance imaging scans were analyzed. Results Fifteen patients underwent HGG resection after progression after BVZ. Forty-four BVZ-naïve patients who underwent surgeries for tumor recurrence were included as controls. Median time from BVZ treatment to surgery was 30 days (2–107). Median overall survival from time of tumor diagnosis was 21.0 months (12–83.0), and median survival from post-BVZ surgery was 5.0 months (2.0–19.0), compared with 8.1 months in BVZ-naïve controls measured from time of their last reoperation. Five of the 15 patients survived 6 or more months after post-BVZ surgery. Nine patients developed postsurgical complications requiring intervention. Complication rates for surgery after BVZ treatment were 66.7% compared with 38.6% in the control group ( P = 0.077). We did not see overt changes in histopathology or immunohistochemistry staining; however, tumor vasculature in tumors resected after treatment with BVZ showed a significant decrease in mean vessel density. Conclusions Surgery for recurrent HGG may be feasible in a select group of patients. Mean tumor vessel density may be decreased after treatment with BVZ. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A case study of a 25-year-old man was referred for dermatological consultation with an asymptomatic swelling of the penis and scrotum present for 9 months is presented. The patient has no history of surgery, trauma or venereal disease, and no other symptoms. Chronic scrotal or penoscrotal oedema can be a result of venous or lymphatic obstruction that may be caused by malignancy, venereal disease, trauma and peritoneal dialysis.