Cyclin D1 as an aid in the diagnosis of mantle cell lymphoma in skin biopsies: a case report

Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL), an uncommon and aggressive form of non-Hodgkin lymphoma, typically involves lymph nodes. It usually only secondarily involves extranodal sites. We describe an unusual case of a MCL that presented and relapsed in the earlobes. Light microscopic findings were initially regarded as suggestive of small lymphocytic lymphoma, although subsequent analysis of fresh tissue by flow cytometry led to the diagnosis of MCL. Retrospective application of a broad panel of recently developed markers suitable for analysis of routinely processed tissue yielded results that also permitted a diagnosis of MCL. If these results had been available at the time of initial presentation, they would have obviated the need for rebiopsy. Greater awareness not only of the phenotypic criteria by which lymphomas are classified but of the lymphoma markers available for evaluation of routinely processed tissue should facilitate the accurate diagnosis of diseases like MCL and minimize the risk of misdiagnosis as an indolent disorder.

Skin resurfacing with the erbium:YAG laser

The Er:YAG laser provides superficial ablation and is generally used for more superficial rejuvenation. Three newer systems provide for thermal-coagulative and ablative properties. These systems are considered as intermediate resurfacing lasers, providing faster healing and results that are typically in between those of the CO2 and standard Er:YAG lasers. The use of traditional and combination Er:YAG lasers is reviewed along with preoperative and postoperative considerations.

Associate degree nursing education: challenging premonitions with resourcefulness

The demise of associate degree nursing education is greatly exaggerated. Most nurses enter nursing through associate degree programs. However, external forces--including changes in the structure of healthcare delivery models, changes in practice settings, and the public's demand for decreased healthcare cost--are forcing associate degree nursing educators to provide a different type of product. The authors offer strategies for educators to meet the challenge of equipping associate degree nursing students with the skills needed for the 21st century.

Influence of Carbon Black Structure on Vulcanizate Properties

Samples of carbon black representing regular and high structure levels of HAF and ISAF were subjected to ball milling under an inert atmosphere for varying periods of time. The structure level varied inversely with duration of ball milling. Tests of the various blacks in SBR revealed that the persistent or reinforcing structure was changed by ball milling and not just the transient structure. It was also shown that laboratory abrasion resistance was greatly reduced by reducing the structure below a level of DBP absorption of 100–110 cm3/100 gms. Above this level, structure did not seem to contribute significantly to abrasion resistance.