bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prostaglandin E2 is a negative regulator on human plasmacytoid dendritic cells
Authors: Son Yonsu , Ito Tomoki , Ozaki Yoshio , Tanijiri Tsutomu , Yokoi Takashi , Nakamura Kengo , Takebayashi Masashi , Amakawa Ryuichi , Fukuhara Shirou
Published: June 2006

Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), a major lipid derived from the metabolism of arachidonic acid, is an environmentally bioactive substance produced by inflammatory processes and acts as a cAMP up‐regulator that plays an important role in immune responses. It has been reported that PGE2 has the ability to inhibit the production of interleukin‐12 by myeloid dendritic cells (MDCs) and macrophages, and then induce preferential T helper type 2 (Th2) cell responses. However, little is known of the function of PGE2 for plasmacytoid dendritic cells (PDCs), which may contribute to the innate and adaptive immune response to viral infection, allergy and autoimmune diseases. In the present study, we compared the biological effect of PGE2 on human PDCs and MDCs. PGE2 caused the death of PDCs but MDCs survived. Furthermore, we found that, whereas PGE2 inhibited interferon‐α production by PDCs in response to virus or cytosine–phosphate–guanosine, it inhibited interelukin‐12 production by MDCs in response to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or poly(I:C). Although both virus‐stimulated PDCs and LPS‐stimulated MDCs preferentially induced the development of interferon‐γ‐producing Th1 cells, pretreatment with PGE2 led both DC subsets to attenuate their Th1‐inducing capacity. These findings suggest that PGE2 represents a negative regulator on not only MDCs but also PDCs.
The lack of RNA‐dependent protein kinase enhances susceptibility of mice to genital herpes simplex virus type 2 infection
Authors: Carr Daniel J. J. , Wuest Todd , Tomanek Lisa , Silverman Robert H. , Williams Bryan R. G.
Published: June 2006

Mice deficient in RNA‐dependent protein kinase (PKR–/–) or deficient in PKR and a functional 2′,5′‐oligoadenylate synthetase (OAS) pathway (PKR/RL–/–) are more susceptible to genital herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV‐2) infection than wild‐type mice or mice that are deficient only in a functional OAS pathway (RL–/–) as measured by survival over 30 days. The increase in susceptibility correlated with an increase in virus titre recovered from vaginal tissue or brainstem of infected mice during acute infection. There was also an increase in CD45+ cells and CD8+ T cells residing in the central nervous system of HSV‐2‐infected PKR/RL–/– mice in comparison with RL–/– or wild‐type control animals. In contrast, there was a reduction in the HSV‐specific CD8+ T cells within the draining lymph node of the PKR/RL–/– mice. Collectively, activation of PKR, but not of OAS, contributes significantly to the local control and spread of HSV‐2 following genital infection.
Delayed type allergic reaction following the use of nonlatex rubber dam during endodontic treatment
Authors: Sunay H. , Tanalp J. , Güler N. , Bayirli G.
Published: June 2006

Aim  To describe the development of a delayed type allergic reaction 24 h following the use of nonlatex rubber dam during endodontic treatment. The symptoms were alleviated with adequate medication; however, the patient rejected any further analysis.

Summary  In recent years, allergic reactions because of latex rubber dam and gloves have received more attention. Nonlatex products are advocated in clinical use in cases where the patient presents an allergic background. Although rare, adverse reactions may be encountered even with these products. In this article, a very rare case is presented in which a patient developed signs of allergy 24 h after the utilization of nonlatex rubber dam and gloves during endodontic treatment. Signs including visible redness on the mucosa, submucosal oedema and desquamation in the vestibular mucosa were observed. With proper medication, the signs and symptoms were alleviated. Although the patient was referred to an allergy specialist for patch testing, she did not accept any further analysis.

Key learning points  This case emphasizes the necessity of precautions during the management of latex‐allergic patients in clinical practice. The unusual response encountered in this patient does not undermine the usefulness of nonlatex rubber dam and gloves in sensitive individuals.
Fetal anomaly screening: what do women want to know?
Authors: Lalor Joan , Begley Cecily
Published: June 2006

Aim.  This paper reports a study exploring women's experiences of receiving an adverse diagnosis at a routine second trimester ultrasound examination, and the factors that influenced their preparedness for an adverse finding.

Background.  Ultrasound has become a routine part of prenatal care offered to pregnant women in most developed countries and technological advances are making it increasingly possible to detect more anomalies, and at earlier gestations. When fetal anomaly detection can be an outcome of the examination, provision of effective information to ensure informed consent for screening remains a challenge.

Method.  A grounded theory study (n = 38) was carried out in 2004 and 2005 using an in‐depth interview within 4 weeks of diagnosis and constant comparative analysis.

Findings.  The core category of balancing information emerged, whereby women balanced the expectation of a healthy baby and the non‐threatening nature of the ultrasound examination with the shock of an adverse diagnosis. Assumed fetal health was contributed to by being in good health, experiencing normal symptoms of pregnancy and having other healthy children. The majority of women believed that provision of extensive and detailed lists regarding fetal anomaly detection would only cause unnecessary anxiety and worry, and suggested that a less detailed approach is required for a routine screening programme for low‐risk pregnancy.

Conclusion.  The drive to inform all women fully of ultrasound detection rates for specific anomalies may be counter‐productive as it will enhance the worry pregnant women already feel in relation to the health of their unborn baby.
Impact of the role of nurse, midwife and health visitor consultant
Authors: Coster Samantha , Redfern Sally , Wilson‐Barnett Jenifer , Evans Amanda , Peccei Riccardo , Guest David
Published: June 2006

Aim.  This paper describes the findings from one aspect of an evaluation study of the role of the nurse, midwife and health visitor consultant and the consultants’ perceived impact of their role on services and patient care.

Background.  The nurse, midwife and health visitor consultant role was established in 2000 in England to improve patient care, strengthen leadership and provide a clinical career opportunity for nurses, midwives and health visitors. An evaluative study was commissioned to report on the role 4 years after the new consultant posts were first established.

Method.  A multimethod evaluation was undertaken in 2002–2003 combining focus groups, telephone interviews and a comprehensive questionnaire survey of all the consultants in England. Four hundred and nineteen consultants responded to the questionnaire, 22 volunteered for the focus groups and 32 participated in the interviews.

Results.  Nearly half (44%) the consultants who responded to the survey reported having a substantial impact on their service and 55% reported having some positive impact. High reported impact increased to 71% for those who had been in post for 2 years or longer. Consultants felt that they had been most successful in providing better support to staff, but only 10% said that they had a major impact on reducing unnecessary expenditure within the service. Factors associated with high levels of reported impact included engagement in a wide range of activities, perceived competence in the role and strong medical support. Those reporting most impact also reported the greatest dissatisfaction with salary.

Conclusion.  As consultants become more established in their posts, they are able to identify improvements in practice, service reconfiguration and educational advantages for staff. Our findings suggest that the true influence of these posts will become clearer over time as the impact of consultants on long‐term organizational change becomes more apparent.
Breaking the silence: nurses’ understandings of change in clinical practice
Authors: Copnell Beverley , Bruni Nina
Published: June 2006

Aim.  This paper reports a study exploring critical care nurses’ understandings of change in their practice.

Background.  In contemporary nursing literature, change in clinical nursing practice is generally understood to be a rational process, synonymous with progress. It is seen as invariably contested, and hence difficult to achieve. It is represented as occurring infrequently. This literature effectively silences clinicians as this discourse of change does not recognize or incorporate their views or practices.

Methods.  This study was informed by a Foucauldian poststructuralist framework. The participants were 12 critical care nurses who engaged in three individual in‐depth, focused interviews. The transcripts were deconstructed to reveal participants’ discourses of change and the implications of these discourses for nursing work. The data were generated between 1996 and 1998 as part of a study whose in‐depth analysis was completed in 2003.

Findings.  Change was revealed as a highly complex phenomenon, closely intertwined with understandings of clinical nursing work. Participants showed difficulty in identifying or recalling clinical changes. Several dichotomies shaped their understandings of change, including change/stasis, formal/informal and dramatic/subtle. Their experiences of change frequently conflicted with prevailing dominant understandings, but they did not openly challenge them. Rather, they employed dichotomies, such as abstract/concrete and other/self, to enable them to work with these conflicts. As a result, they engaged in practices such as naming other nurses as ‘irrational’.

Conclusion.  The data provide new understandings of change in clinical nursing practice, some of which challenge many widely held views (for example, that such change is a rare occurrence). It is argued that a lack of open challenge by clinical nurses contributes to their silencing, promotes disharmony amongst nurses and, hence, works against a collaborative approach to decisions about clinical practice.
Early childhood home visiting programme: factors contributing to success
Authors: Heaman Maureen , Chalmers Karen , Woodgate Roberta , Brown Judy
Published: June 2006

Aim.  This paper reports a study of the factors that public health nurses, home visitors and parents consider important for the success of an early childhood home visiting programme.

Background.  The primary aim of early child home visiting programmes is to promote healthy and safe growth and development of infants and children in at‐risk families. Few studies have focused on actual programme components which foster this outcome.

Methods.  The research was a descriptive, qualitative evaluation. Success of the programme was defined as positive changes in families which were seen as directly related to participation. The 58 participants were 24 public health nurses, 14 home visitors and 20 parents. One in‐depth semistructured audio‐taped interview was conducted with each participant between October 2003 and February 2004. All interviews were transcribed and analysed using open coding; themes and categories were developed and reviewed for congruence of coding.

Findings.  Participants discussed several factors that they considered important for the success of the programme: its particular characteristics, the programme activities and the healthcare providers.

Conclusion.  Components contributing to the success of early childhood home visiting programmes include a strength‐based philosophy, voluntary enrolment of parents, regularly scheduled home visits, a curriculum to structure the home visitor's interventions, and careful attention to the selection, training, and supervision of home visitors.
The ecology of motherhood: the structuring of lactation costs by chacma baboons
Authors: BARRETT LOUISE , HALLIDAY JO , HENZI S. PETER
Published: June 2006

Data from a long‐term study of Papio hamadryas ursinus (L.) in the De Hoop Nature Reserve, Western Cape, South Africa, were used to test the assumptions and predictions of Altmann's model of maternal time budgets.

Female baboons’ feeding time was below model predictions, and there was no evidence for a consistent increase in feeding time with infant age. In addition, female feeding time was not significantly higher than observed baseline feeding times for nonlactating females.

Female baboons reduced activity levels in the first few months post‐partum, as reflected in significant increases in resting time, and there was some indication that females lost body mass over the course of lactation. When feeding demand was high, females sacrificed social time, and conserved resting time.

Females increased vigilance levels during the first 4 months of infant life and were more vigilant overall during lactation than when nonlactating. There was a negative relationship between feeding time and vigilance, but a positive relationship between resting time and vigilance.

Female baboons at De Hoop appear to cope with the energetic costs of lactation by reducing activity levels, although this cannot compensate completely for increased energetic costs. This may not be so much an ‘energy‐sparing’ strategy as a response to threats presented by infanticidal males in this population. Females therefore trade‐off feeding time against vigilance.
Superoxide dismutase and catalase activities in Photobacterium damselae ssp. piscicida
Authors: Díaz‐Rosales P , Chabrillón M , Arijo S , Martinez‐Manzanares E , Moriñigo M A , Balebona M C
Published: June 2006

The ability of a set of Photobacterium damselae ssp. piscicida strains isolated from different fish species to produce different superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase enzymes was determined. Unlike other bacterial pathogens, P. damselae ssp. piscicida is not able to produce different isoforms of SOD or catalase containing different metal cofactors when cultured under oxidative stress induced by hydrogen peroxide or methyl viologen, or under iron depleted conditions. However, iron content of the growth medium influenced the levels of SOD and catalase activity in cells, these levels decreasing with iron availability of the medium. Comparison of virulent and non‐virulent strains of P. damselae ssp. piscicida showed similar contents of SOD, but higher levels of catalase were detected in cells of the virulent strain. Incubation of bacteria with sole, Solea senegalensis (Kaup), phagocytes has shown that survival rates range from 19% to 62%, these rates being higher for the virulent strain. The increased levels of catalase activity detected in the virulent strain indicates a possible role for this enzyme in bacterial survival.
Effect of low intensity laser irradiation on surgically created bony defects in rats
Authors: NISSAN J. , ASSIF D. , GROSS M. D. , YAFFE A. , BINDERMAN I.
Published: June 2006

summary  Low intensity lasers have been used by clinicians to improve healing and reduce pain in humans. Lasing also results in new bone formation around hydroxyapatite implants and a significant increase in the total bone area. However, the exact mechanism of cell biostimulation by laser is still unclear. This study biochemically assessed the effects of low intensity laser (Gallium‐Arsenide) using 4 and 22·4 mW cm−2 power density on the bone healing process after surgically creating bony cavities in rat mandibles. Rats (n = 24) were divided into two groups each treated with specific energy, 4 or 22·4 mW cm−2, for 3 min each day post‐surgery. Surgical cavities were created on both sides of the mandible: the left served as an untreated control, the right was treated with laser. All rats were sacrificed after 1, 2 and 4 weeks of treatment. In the newly formed callus, accumulation of radiocalcium and alkaline phosphatase activity was measured to indicate osteogenic activity. One‐way anova with repeated measures showed that the low intensity laser using 4 mW cm−2 power density significantly increased radiocalcium accumulation from 2 weeks post‐surgery, whereas 22·4 mW cm−2 had no effect. No changes were noted in the activity of alkaline phosphatase with the laser treatment. These results suggest that laser therapy of low power density is effective on the bone healing process in artificially created osseous cavities by affecting calcium transport during new bone formation.
Sensitivity to antiviral therapy may change after liver transplantation in patients with chronic hepatitis C virus infection
Authors: Feliu A. , Carrión J. A. , Massaguer A. , Martínez‐Bauer E. , García‐Retortillo M. , González P. , Costa J. , Sánchez‐Tapias J. M. , Forns X.
Published: June 2006

Summary.  In hepatitis C virus (HCV)‐infected patients, it is generally assumed that the pattern of response to antiviral therapy remains unaltered after liver transplantation (LT). However, changes in the circulating HCV quasispecies and in the gene expression profiles of the graft might influence response to treatment after LT. We evaluated 22 HCV‐infected patients who received antiviral treatment while awaiting LT and in whom HCV infection recurred. Eleven of these patients underwent a new antiviral treatment course. Our study analyses the early virological response to both treatment courses to assess the influence of the changes in HCV on the response to therapy. Patients were considered early virological responders (EVR) if viral load declined ≥2log10 during the first 12 weeks of therapy. The remaining individuals were considered nonresponders (NR). HCV sequences from hypervariable region 1 and nonstructural 5A (NS5A) region before both treatment regimens were compared. Of 11 patients, 8 (73%) showed identical early response to both courses of therapy (group A: five EVR‐EVR, three NR‐NR). Interestingly, the response changed in three patients (27%) (group B): two NR became EVR after transplantation, whereas one EVR became NR. Fixation of mutations within the NS5A occurred preferentially in group B (100%) compared with group A (37%)(P = 0.12). However, the number of fixed mutations was not significantly different between groups, suggesting that the changes in sensitivity to therapy after LT are not exclusively dependent on variations in HCV strains. In conclusion, in HCV‐infected patients undergoing LT, the pattern of response to antiviral treatment may change after transplantation, and this possibility needs to be incorporated in clinical practice.
Impact of Bt maize pollen (MON810) on lepidopteran larvae living on accompanying weeds
Authors: GATHMANN ACHIM , WIROOKS LUDGER , HOTHORN LUDWIG A. , BARTSCH DETLEF , SCHUPHAN INGOLF
Published: June 2006

Environmental risks of Bt maize, particularly pollen drift from Bt maize, were assessed for nontarget lepidopteran larvae in maize field margins. In our experimental approach, we carried out 3‐year field trials on 6 ha total. Three treatments were used in a randomized block design with eight replications resulting in 24 plots: (i) near‐isogenic control variety without insecticide (control), (ii) near‐isogenic control variety with chemical insecticide (Baytroid) and (iii) Bt maize expressing the recombinant toxin. We established a weed strip (20 × 1 m) in every plot consisting of aChenopodium album(goosefoot)/Sinapis alba(mustard) mixture. In these strips we measured diversity and abundance of lepidopteran larvae during maize bloom and pollen shed.C. albumhosted five species but all in very low densities; therefore data were not suitable for statistical analysis.S. albahosted nine species in total. Most abundant werePlutella xylostellaandPieris rapae. For these species no differences were detected between the Bt treatment and the control, but the chemical insecticide treatment reduced larval abundance significantly. Conclusions regarding experimental methodology and results are discussed in regard to environmental risk assessment and monitoring of genetically modified organisms.
Molecular approach for assessing responses of microbial‐feeding nematodes to burning and chronic nitrogen enrichment in a native grassland
Authors: JONES KENNETH L. , TODD TIMOTHY C. , WALL‐BEAM JULIE L. , COOLON JOSEPH D. , BLAIR JOHN M. , HERMAN MICHAEL A.
Published: June 2006

A substantial proportion of the primary productivity in grassland ecosystems is allocated belowground, sustaining an abundant and diverse community of microbes and soil invertebrates. These belowground communities drive many important ecosystem functions and are responsive to a variety of environmental changes. Nematodes, an abundant and diverse component of grassland soil communities, are particularly responsive to altered environmental conditions, such as those associated with reduced fire frequency and nitrogen enrichment, with the most consistent responses displayed by microbial‐feeding nematodes. However, much of the available research characterizing nematode responses to environmental change has been carried out at the taxonomic level of family or by broad trophic categories (e.g. fungivores, bacterivores). The extent to which differential responses to environmental change occurs at the genus level or below is unclear. Therefore, the objective of this study was to use molecular methods to quantify the response of microbial‐feeding nematodes, at the lowest levels of taxonomic resolution, to nitrogen enrichment and changes in fire frequency. Using sequencing and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) probes for the 18S ribosomal RNA gene and the ITS1 region, we identified 19 microbial‐feeding nematode taxa across four families. When nematodes were sampled across treatments, we found that some nematode taxa within a family responded similarly to nitrogen and burning treatments, while other taxa within the same family respond quite differently. Additionally, although nematodes from different families on average responded differently to nitrogen enrichment and burning, similar responses were seen in nematode taxa that span three taxonomic families. Thus, if nematodes are to be used as indicators of environmental change, care should be taken to assess the response at the lowest taxonomic level possible.
Fine‐scale genetic structure of life history stages in the food‐deceptive orchid Orchis purpurea
Authors: JACQUEMYN HANS , BRYS REIN , VANDEPITTE KATRIEN , HONNAY OLIVIER , ROLDÁN‐RUIZ ISABEL
Published: June 2006

In natural plant populations, fine‐scale spatial genetic structure can result from limited gene flow, selection pressures or historical events, but the role of each factor is in general hard to discern. One way to investigate the origination of spatial genetic structure within a plant population consists of comparing spatial genetic structure among different life history stages. In this study, spatial genetic structure of the food‐deceptive orchid Orchis purpurea was determined across life history stages in two populations that were regenerating after many years of population decline. Based on demographic analyses (2001–2004), we distinguished between recruits and adult plants. For both sites, there was no difference in the proportion of polymorphic loci and expected heterozygosity between life history stages. However, spatial autocorrelation analyses showed that spatial genetic structure increased in magnitude with life history stage. Weak or no spatial genetic structure was observed for recruits, whereas adult plants showed a pattern that is consistent with that found in other species with a predominantly outcrossing mating system. The observed differences between seedlings and adults are probably a consequence of changes in management of the two study sites and associated demographic changes in both populations. Our results illustrate that recurrent population crashes and recovery may strongly affect genetic diversity and fine‐scale spatial genetic structure of plant populations.
Coordinate up‐regulation of carotenoid biosynthesis as a response to light stress in Synechococcus PCC7942
Authors: SCHÄFER LUTZ , SANDMANN MANUELA , WOITSCH SONJA , SANDMANN GERHARD
Published: June 2006

Carotenoid biosynthesis is up‐regulated by strong light in the cyanobacterium Synechococcus. By blocking off the pathway at the level of phytoene conversion, light‐dependent accumulation of phytoene was observed. Real‐time PCR studies demonstrated that four genes of the carotenogenic pathway are under transcriptional control. These were the genes encoding phytoene synthase, phytoene desaturase, ζ‐carotene desaturase and β‐carotene hydroxylase. The transcript of the first three follow a similar kinetics, whereas the transcript of β‐carotene hydroxylase increased much faster upon transfer to high light. Promoter activities were determined with transcriptional fusions to chloramphenicol acyltransferase as reporter enzyme. The activity of the promoter of the phytoene desaturase/synthase operon was higher under strong light.
How do leaf hydraulics limit stomatal conductance at high water vapour pressure deficits?
Authors: BUNCE JAMES A.
Published: June 2006

A reduction in leaf stomatal conductance (g) with increasing leaf‐to‐air difference in water vapour pressure (D) is nearly ubiquitous. Ecological comparisons of sensitivity have led to the hypothesis that the reduction in g with increasing D serves to maintain leaf water potentials above those that would cause loss of hydraulic conductance. A reduction in leaf water potential is commonly hypothesized to cause stomatal closure at high D. The importance of these particular hydraulic factors was tested by exposing Abutilon theophrasti, Glycine max, Gossypium hirsutum and Xanthium strumarium to D high enough to reduce g and then decreasing ambient carbon dioxide concentration ([CO2]), and observing the resulting changes in g, transpiration rate and leaf water potential, and their reversibility. Reducing the [CO2] at high D increased g and transpiration rate and lowered leaf water potential. The abnormally high transpiration rates did not result in reductions in hydraulic conductance. Results indicate that low water potential effects on g at high D could be overcome by low [CO2], and that even lower leaf water potentials did not cause a reduction in hydraulic conductance in these well‐watered plants. Reduced g at high D in these species resulted primarily from increased stomatal sensitivity to [CO2] at high D, and this increased sensitivity may mediate stomatal responses to leaf hydraulics at high D.
Gene expression profiles of O3‐treated Arabidopsis plants
Authors: TOSTI NICOLA , PASQUALINI STEFANIA , BORGOGNI ANDREA , EDERLI LUISA , FALISTOCCO EGIZIA , CRISPI STEFANIA , PAOLOCCI FRANCESCO
Published: June 2006

To analyse cellular response to O3, the tolerant Arabidopsis thaliana genotype Col‐0 was exposed to O3 fumigation (300 ppb) for 6 h and the modulation of gene expression during the treatment (3 h after the beginning of the treatment, T3 h) and the recovery phase (6 h from the end of the treatment, T12 h) assessed by gene chip microarray and real‐time reverse transcriptase (RT)‐PCR analyses. The Arabidopsis transcriptional profile is complex, as new genes (i.e. reticuline oxidase) and pathways, other than those already reported as O3‐responsive, appear to be involved in the O3 response. The steady‐state transcript levels of several WRKY genes were increased in O3‐treated plants and the W‐box was the cis‐element over‐represented in the promoter region of T3 h up‐regulated genes. The fact that the W‐box element was also over‐represented in almost all T3 h‐induced receptor‐like kinases (RLKs) suggests a WRKY‐mediated control of RLKs under O3 stress and a mechanicistic similarity with the pathogen‐induced transcriptional responses. We investigated the molecular and physiological implications of our findings in relation to O3‐induced plant stress response.
Eradication of Plasmodiophora brassicae during composting of wastes
Authors: Fayolle L. , Noble R. , Coventry E. , Aime S. , Alabouvette C.
Published: June 2006

Survival of infectious inoculum of the clubroot pathogen Plasmodiophora brassicae was assessed following bench‐scale flask composting experiments and large‐scale composting procedures. Clubroot‐affected material was provided by artificial inoculation of Chinese cabbage or naturally infected Brussels sprout and cabbage roots. Both sets of diseased material were used in flask experiments, and the latter in large‐scale windrow and aerated tunnel experiments. Municipal green wastes, onion waste and spent mushroom compost were evaluated in flask experiments with varying temperature, aeration and moisture conditions. Green wastes were used in larger‐scale composts. Within the limits of a Chinese cabbage seedling bioassay, both temperature and moisture content were critical for eradication of P. brassicae spores extracted from composted clubroot‐affected residues. Incubation in compost at 50°C for 7 days or 1 day at 60°C with high moisture levels (= −5 kPa matric potential or 60% w/w moisture content) eradicated inoculum from artificially inoculated Chinese cabbage roots. In large‐scale windrows and aerated tunnels, the pathogen was eradicated from naturally infected brassica wastes after 6–7 days at 54–73°C.
Clinical and Immunoserological Characteristics of Mixed Connective Tissue Disease Associated with Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension
Authors: Vegh J. , Szodoray P. , Kappelmayer J. , Csipo I. , Udvardy M. , Lakos G. , Aleksza M. , Soltesz P. , Szilágyi A. , Zeher M. , Szegedi G. , Bodolay E.
Published: June 2006

We investigated the clinical characteristics and immunoserological alterations in patients with mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD) associated with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). Anti‐U1RNP autoantibodies, anti‐endothelial cell antibodies (AECA) and serum thrombomodulin (TM) as well as von Willebrand factor antigen (vWFAg) concentrations were measured in 25 patients with MCTD associated with PAH and in 154 MCTD patients without PAH. The results showed that the probability of survival was lower in MCTD patients with PAH than in the 154 MCTD‐non‐PAH patients (5‐year survival rate in MCTD with PAH: 73%, versus 96% in MCTD‐non‐PAH; P < 0.01). AECA were more frequently present in the sera of MCTD patients with PAH than in MCTD‐non‐PAH (P < 0.001). Serum TM and vWFAg levels were higher in MCTD‐PAH patients than in MCTD‐non‐PAH patients (TM: P < 0.001; vWFAg: P < 0.001). Significant correlation was noticed between the quantity of AECA and TM level (r = 0.466) as well as the quantity of AECA and vWFAg level (r = 0.550). In conclusion, our results suggest that in MCTD the presence of AECA and endothelial cell activation may play a role in the development of PAH and in the maintenance of obliterative vascular processes.
Phagocytosis of Apoptotic Cells and Immune Regulation
Authors: Liu G. , Wu C. , Wu Y. , Zhao Y.
Published: June 2006

The termination of the apoptotic programme occurs in most cases via recognition and clearance by phagocytes, especially the professional phagocytes, such as macrophages and immature dendritic cells. Engulfed cells do not simply disappear from the midst of living tissues. The fine‐defined presentation of yielded self‐antigens to T cells is a central event in the induction or the maintenance of the peripheral immune tolerance to self. Conversely, abnormality in this pathway may contribute to the pathogenesis of systemic and organ‐specific autoimmune diseases. We herein reviewed the relationship between phagocytosis of apoptotic cells and immune regulation, especially the effects of engulfed apoptotic cells on immune tolerance and autoimmune diseases.
Human Serum Amyloid P Component Binds to Peripheral Blood Monocytes
Authors: MacDonald S. L. , Kilpatrick D. C.
Published: June 2006

The binding of human serum amyloid P component (SAP) to blood cells and monocyte‐derived dendritic cells was investigated by flow cytometry. Monocytes bound biotinylated SAP with avidity in a dose‐dependent and saturable manner. By contrast, the binding of SAP to monocyte‐derived dendritic cells was weak. No binding to erythrocytes, NK cells, T lymphocytes or B lymphocytes could be detected. The SAP–monocyte interaction was calcium‐independent and readily inhibited by C1q. SAP was nonmitogenic for human mononuclear cells and had no apparent influence on lymphocyte proliferation induced by mitogenic lectins. We speculate that binding of SAP by monocytes could be of physiological relevance at extravascular sites by influencing complement regulation.
A revision of the spring‐tail genus Vesicephalus Richards (Collembola, Symphypleona, Sminthurinae)
Authors: BAQUERO ENRIQUE , SNIDER RICHARD , JORDANA RAFAEL
Published: June 2006

Abstract A detailed morphological study of the collembolan genus Vesicephalus Richards in Delamare Deboutteville & Massoud, 1964 is presented, with the redescription of known species on the basis of new scanning electron microscopy observations. Vesicephalus is a rare genus found in North America, Spain (Europe) and Russia, having the unique characteristic of a pair of interocular vesicles with demonstrated photoreception function. This feature may be responsible for habitat restriction within the species range. The possible function of this photoreceptor is high sensitivity to light, which permits these animals to live in a dark environment. A key to the known five species is presented, together with chaetotaxic illustrations.
Participation in three consecutive mass drug administrations in Leogane, Haiti
Authors: Mathieu Els , Direny Abdel N. , De Rochars Madsen Beau , Streit Thomas G. , Addiss David G. , Lammie Patrick J.
Published: June 2006

Objectives  In the global effort to eliminate lymphatic filariasis, mass drug administrations (MDAs) are organised annually. The success of this strategy depends on achieving high levels of drug coverage, which reduce the number of persons with circulating microfilariae and consequently transmission. Persons who consistently fail to participate in MDAs represent a potential threat to the goal of filariasis elimination. We wanted to know the drug coverage, the proportion of persons who were systematically non‐compliant and factors associated with this behaviour.

Methods  We conducted three surveys following the third annual MDA of a filariasis elimination program in Leogane, Haiti: (1) a total population survey to determine coverage; (2) an adult survey to determine non‐compliance and associated factors and (3) an urban survey to make a rural–urban comparison.

Results  During the third MDA, the overall surveyed coverage was 78.5% [95% confidence interval (CI) 74.4–82.6] A survey among adult population showed coverage estimates for persons >14 years old of 59.4% (95% CI 52.0–66.7), 61.0% (95% CI 55.0–67.4) and 67.3% (95% CI 60.5–74.0), for the first, second and third MDA respectively. The coverage in rural areas (78.3%) was significantly higher than in urban areas (68.3%, P < 0.05). Of the population >14 years of age, 18% never took the drugs during any of three MDAs. These persons did not differ significantly from MDA participants by age, gender or other characteristics that we assessed.

Conclusion  More research is needed to identify characteristics of systematically non‐compliant persons in order to refine health education messages and improve distribution strategies to increase drug coverage.
Estimation of the cost of Taenia solium cysticercosis in Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
Authors: Carabin H. , Krecek R. C. , Cowan L. D. , Michael L. , Foyaca‐Sibat H. , Nash T. , Willingham A. L.
Published: June 2006

Objectives  To provide a comprehensive estimate of the societal costs of Taenia solium cysticercosis for the Eastern Cape Province (ECP), South Africa, as an objective measure of its impact in this endemic area.

Methods  Epidemiological data on the prevalence of epilepsy, proportion of epilepsy cases due to neurocysticercosis (NCC) and consequences of cysticercosis were gathered from published and unpublished sources. Economical data were mostly obtained from governmental sources. Three methods were used for estimating productivity losses. Monte Carlo sampling was used to represent the uncertainty of the estimates with 95% Credible Intervals (95% CI). The estimation is for 1 year using a societal approach. All costs are reported in 2004 US$.

Results  Overall, there were an estimated 34 662 (95% CI: 17 167–54 068) NCC‐associated cases of epilepsy in ECP in 2004. The overall monetary burden (in million of US$) was estimated to vary from US$18.6 (95% CI: US$9.0–32.9) to US$34.2 (95% CI: US$12.8–70.0) depending on the method used to estimate productivity losses. The agricultural sector contributed an average of $5.0 million. The prevalence of epilepsy, proportion of productivity reduction and the proportion of epilepsy cases attributable to NCC had the largest impact on the overall estimates.

Conclusion  This preliminary estimate suggests that T. solium cysticercosis results in considerable monetary costs to a region that is already economically constrained. Because this infection is preventable, these results could guide stakeholders in deciding where to invest scarce health and agricultural resources in their countries.
Unabated schistosomiasis transmission in Erinle River Dam, Osun State, Nigeria: evidence of neglect of environmental effects of development projects
Authors: Oladejo S. O. , Ofoezie I. E.
Published: June 2006

The status of Schistosoma haematobium infection around Erinle Dam in Osun State, Nigeria, was investigated 10 years after the disease was first reported in the area. School children in two rural communities (Ilie and Oba‐Ile) were examined for infection and the lake surveyed for snail intermediate host species between March 2000 and February 2001. Overall infection rate among 320 children examined in both communities was 46.6% (52.3% in Ilie and 43.0% in Oba‐Ile). Mean intensity of infection ranged between 144.2 ± 389 and 156.5 ± 378 eggs per 10 ml urine in Ilie and Oba‐Ile respectively (overall: 148.8 ± 378 eggs per 10 ml urine). Prevalence and intensity were comparable in both communities and between boys and girls, but varied significantly (P < 0.05) with age. Bulinus globosus identified by a previous study as the local intermediate host species was found to be abundant in the lake and occurred throughout the year, in contrast to seasonal occurrence reported previously. Both prevalence and intensity of infection also increased significantly over the levels reported 10 years earlier. These results are clear indications that transmission has remained unabated in the lake during the period. The need for urgent and effective national control programme to reduce the public health importance of schistosomiasis in Erinle and other dams in Nigeria was discussed.
Antenatal clinic‐based HIV prevalence in Zambia: Declining trends but sharp local contrasts in young women
Authors: Sandøy Ingvild F. , Kvåle Gunnar , Michelo Charles , Fylkesnes Knut
Published: June 2006

Objectives  To describe regional variation in human immunodefffeciency virus (HIV) prevalence trends in the period 1994–2002 and to assess the effects on prevalence trends of residence, educational level and age, and potential interaction between these variables.

Methods  The data were from the national HIV sentinel surveillance system comprising information collected using interviews and unlinked anonymous testing of blood among pregnant women attending antenatal clinics in 22 sites in 1994, 1998 and 2002.

Results  There was a decline in HIV prevalence in the age group 15–24 years in the period 1994–2002 both in rural (by 11%) and urban (by 26%) areas. The decline was strongest among highly educated women. However, this overall decline masked striking differences at community (site) levels with clearly declining epidemics in many sites contrasted by increasing epidemics in some and stability in others. Urban/rural residence, age, educational attainment, marital status and parity were factors closely associated with HIV infection. Having born many children was associated with lower risk of being infected by HIV, even in the age group 15–24.

Conclusions  The HIV prevalence decline in young women is likely to reflect a drop in incidence during the period. However, there were sharp geographical contrasts in trends. Such local contrasts probably indicate differences in effectiveness of preventive interventions. Understanding factors and mechanisms explaining the differences will be of critical importance to better guide preventive interventions.
Cryptosporidiose humaine et espèces en cause en Haïti
Authors: Raccurt Christian P. , Brasseur Philippe , Verdier Rose I. , Li Xunde , Eyma Etna , Stockman Christine Pannier , Agnamey Patrice , Guyot Karine , Totet Anne , Liautaud Bernard , Nevez Gilles , Dei‐Cas Eduardo , Pape Jean W.
Published: June 2006

La cryptosporidiose constitue un problème majeur de santé publique en Haïti. Pour évaluer son impact chez les patients atteints du SIDA et les sujets contacts, les enfants en bas âge, et pour déterminer les espèces en cause par génotypage, une étude a été menée à Port‐au‐Prince, incluant l’étude de la viabilité des oocystes éliminés dans les selles des patients. De janvier 2000 à janvier 2001, sur 1.529 selles diarrhéiques provenant de patients suivis dans les Centres GHESKIO et d'enfants hospitalisés à l'hôpital de l'Université d’État d’Haïti, 158 (10,3%) ont montré la présence d'oocystes de cryptosporidies. Chez ces malades, 56 adultes sur 57 (98%) et 7 enfants sur 36 (19%) étaient VIH‐positifs. Chez 102 sujets contacts examinés, un seul a été dépisté porteur sain de cryptosporidies du même génotype que celui de l'isolat trouvé chez le malade VIH‐positif. Le génotypage par biologie moléculaire de 69 isolats de cryptosporidies a identifié trois espèces: Cryptosporidium hominis (41), C. parvum (26) et C. felis (2). C'est la première fois qu'est rapportée dans la Caraïbe l'infestation de deux patients VIH‐positifs par C. felis. Les enfants généralement non infectés par le VIH sont dans 72% des cas parasités par C. hominis. Les adultes VIH‐positifs sont parasités aussi bien par le génotype humain que par les génotypes animaux. Sur 18 isolats de cryptosporidies étudiés à l'aide d'un modèle expérimental (souriceau nouveau‐né), la viabilité des oocystes a été confirmée pour 17 d'entre eux (12 C. hominis, 4 C. parvum, 1 C. felis). Le pouvoir infestant est dose‐dépendant et plus élevé avec C. parvum qu'avec les deux autres espèces. Au moins trois espèces de cryptosporidies circulent en Haïti où la population pauvre vit dans des conditions d'hygiène précaires, et utilise pour sa consommation une eau polluée notamment par des fèces d'origine humaine et animale, dans un tissu urbain surpeuplé où les animaux domestiques se déplacent en toute liberté.
Rolling out insecticide treated nets in Eritrea: examining the determinants of possession and use in malarious zones during the rainy season
Authors: Macintyre Kate , Keating Joseph , Okbaldt Yohannes B. , Zerom Mehari , Sosler Stephen , Ghebremeskel Tewolde , Eisele Thomas P.
Published: June 2006

Objective  This paper describes determinants of insecticide treated net (ITN) ownership and use in malarious areas of Eritrea. With ITN distribution and re‐treatment now free for all living in these areas, we examine barriers (other than cost) to access and use of ITNs. We explore the differences between use of an ITN as a proportion of all households in the survey (the roll back malaria indicator), and use of an ITN as a proportion of those households who already own an ITN.

Methods  A modified two‐stage cluster design was used to collect data from a sample of households (n = 2341) in the three most malarious administrative zobas (zones or provinces). Logistic regression was used to analyse the data.

Results  Our findings suggest environmental heterogeneity among zobas (including program effects specific to each zoba), perception of risk, and proximity to a clinic are important predictors of ITN possession and use. Among households with at least one ITN, 17.0% reported that children under five were not under an ITN the night before the survey, while half of all such households did not have all occupants using them the night before the survey. The number of ITNs, as well as zoba, was also significant determinants of use in these households with at least one ITN.

Conclusion  Current efforts to disseminate ITNs to vulnerable populations in Eritrea are working, as suggested by high ITN ownership and net‐to‐person ratios inside households. However, the gap between ITN ownership and use, given ownership, is large, and may represent lost opportunities to prevent infection. Closing this gap requires concerted efforts to change behaviour to ensure that all household members use ITNs as consistently and correctly as possible during and following the rains.
High seroprevalence of antibodies against dengue virus in a prospective study of schoolchildren in Managua, Nicaragua
Authors: Balmaseda Angel , Hammond Samantha N. , Tellez Yolanda , Imhoff Laurel , Rodriguez Yoryelin , Saborío Saira I. , Mercado Juan C. , Perez Leonel , Videa Elsa , Almanza Elvis , Kuan Guillermina , Reyes Miguel , Saenz Leyla , Amador Juan J. , Harris Eva
Published: June 2006

To investigate the incidence of dengue virus (DENV) infection in Nicaragua, a 2‐year prospective study was conducted in schoolchildren 4–16 years old in the capital city of Managua. Blood samples were collected before the rainy season in 2001, 2002 and 2003, and were assayed for DENV‐specific antibodies. Participants were monitored for dengue‐like illness, and acute and convalescent blood samples were collected from suspected dengue cases. In 2001 and 2002, 602 and 397 students were recruited, respectively, and paired annual serum samples were available from 467 and 719 participants in 2001–2002 and 2002–2003, respectively. The overall seroprevalence of anti‐DENV antibodies was 91%, increasing from 75% at age 4 to 100% at age 16. The incidence of DENV infection was 12% in Year 1 and 6% in Year 2 (P < 0.001). During Year 1, four laboratory‐confirmed dengue cases were detected, with one DENV2 isolate; during Year 2, there were six confirmed dengue cases, with one DENV1 isolate. These and additional circulating serotypes were confirmed by plaque reduction neutralisation test. This study demonstrates surprisingly high transmission of DENV in urban Nicaragua.
Impact of chloroquine on viral load in breast milk
Authors: Semrau Katherine , Kuhn Louise , Kasonde Prisca , Sinkala Moses , Kankasa Chipepo , Shutes Erin , Vwalika Cheswa , Ghosh Mrinal , Aldrovandi Grace , Thea Donald M.
Published: June 2006

The anti‐malarial agent chloroquine has activity against HIV. We compared the effect of chloroquine (n = 18) to an anti‐malarial agent without known anti‐HIV‐activity, sulfadoxine‐pyrimethamine (n = 12), on breast milk HIV RNA levels among HIV‐infected breastfeeding women in Zambia. After adjusting for CD4 count and plasma viral load, chloroquine was associated with a trend towards lower levels of HIV RNA in breast milk compared with sulfadoxine‐pyrimethamine (P = 0.05). Higher breastmilk viral load was also observed among women receiving presumptive treatment for symptomatic malaria compared with asymptomatic controls and among controls reporting fever in the prior week. Further research is needed to determine the potential role of chloroquine in prevention of HIV transmission through breastfeeding.