bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vinyl composites—fiberglass reinforced PVC
Authors: Summers James W. , Faber Edward , Kinson Philip L. , Rabinovitch Elvira B.
Published: December 2004

Glass fiber reinforced PVC has several distinctive and useful properties. Its tensile strength can be twice that of unreinforced PVC. Excellent coupling of the glass fibers to the PVC matrix is required for good retention of tensile strength when exposed to warm water, Its modulus can be twice that of unreinforced PVC and equal to that of wood. PVC's high load carrying capability is not significantly increased to higher temperatures by adding glass fibers as judged by its 264 psi heat deflection temperature. However, by changing the polymeric matrix, glass reinforced vinyl with an increased HDT of 86°C has been produced for higher use temperature. The coefficient of linear thermal expansion of PVC can be cut in half by the addition of glass fibers and has a coefficient equal to that of aluminum. Glass fiber reinforced PVC has exceptionally good resistance to crack propagation and resists shattering as judged by sawing, punching, stapling, and hammering. When properly formulated for weathering resistance, glass fiber reinforced PVC has good color retention, impact retention, and outstanding dimensional stability. As for all glass fiber reinforced plastics, processing equipment must be built for high abrasion resistance for long economical manufacturing runs.
Combining data from genomes, Y2H and 3D structure indicates that BolA is a reductase interacting with a glutaredoxin
Authors: Huynen Martijn A. , Spronk Chris A.E.M. , Gabaldón Toni , Snel Berend
Published: December 2004

Genomes, functional genomics data and 3D structure reflect different aspects of protein function. Here, we combine these data to predict that BolA, a widely distributed protein family with unknown function, is a reductase that interacts with a glutaredoxin. Comparisons at the 3D structure level as well as at the sequence profile level indicate homology between BolA and OsmC, an enzyme that reduces organic peroxides. Complementary to this, comparative analyses of genomes and genomics data provide strong evidence of an interaction between BolA and the mono‐thiol glutaredoxin family. The interaction between BolA and a mono‐thiol glutaredoxin is of particular interest because BolA does not, in contrast to its homolog OsmC, have evolutionarily conserved cysteines to provide it with reducing equivalents. We propose that BolA uses the mono‐thiol glutaredoxin as the source for these.
Possible benefit of intravenous immunoglobulin therapy in a lung transplant recipient with West Nile virus encephalitis
Authors: Hamdan A. , Green P. , Mendelson E. , Kramer M.R. , Pitlik S. , Weinberger M.
Published: December 2004

Abstract: During the summer of 2000, a countrywide epidemic of West Nile fever (WNF) occurred in Israel, with 417 confirmed cases and 35 deaths. Immunosuppressed patients had a 31% case‐fatality rate, which was significantly higher compared to non‐immunosuppressed patients (13%). We describe a 42‐year‐old male lung‐transplant recipient with serologically confirmed West Nile virus (WNV) encephalitis and deteriorating level of consciousness. He was treated with 0.4 g/kg intravenous immunoglobulin preparation from Israeli donors that contained a high titer of anti‐WNV antibodies (1 : 1600). The patient showed rapid improvement within 24 h and complete disappearance of signs and symptoms within 48 h. This is the second case of an immunosuppressed patient responding to the same preparation of intravenous immunoglobulins. Larger studies are required in order to establish the therapeutic role of immunoglobulins in patients with WNF.
Infection of central nervous system after kidney transplantation
Authors: Lezaic V. , Radivojevic D. , Blagojevic‐Lazic R. , Djukanovic Lj.
Published: December 2004

Editor's comment:

Central nervous system (CNS) infection remains an important problem among transplant recipients. The recent review by Singh and Husain and this letter from Yugoslavia underline the following: a subacute‐chronic presentation is typical of fungal and bacterial CNS infections; early diagnosis is the key to effective therapy; the indication for a CNS evaluation is an unexplained headache, particularly in conjunction with a change in the level of consciousness (classical meningeal findings may not be present in a timely fashion); and the minimum CNS evaluation is a cranial computerized tomographic (CT) scan and a lumbar puncture.

Robert H. Rubin, MD
Hamster‐to‐rat bone marrow xenotransplantation and humoral graft vs. host disease
Authors: Miki Toshio , Lee Yi‐Horng , Tandin Alessia , Subbotin Vladimir , Goller April , Kovscek Annastasia , Fung John J. , Valdivia Luis A.
Published: December 2004

Abstract: Bone marrow transplantation (BMT) may induce tolerance across xenogeneic barriers. We have established a xenogeneic BMT model where hamster BM is transplanted into splenectomized LEW rat recipients resulting in high levels of engraftment. Unfortunately, graft vs. host disease (GVHD) with severe dermatitis developed in all rat recipients. We were successful in treating or preventing the dermatitis of this xenogeneic GVHD by the use of the T‐cell suppressant tacrolimus. However, this compound did not prevent the development of a fatal liver injury in the rat recipients. This study was designed to elucidate the pathogenesis of this liver injury appearing in T‐cell suppressed rat recipients of hamster BM.

Splenectomized and irradiated (10 Gy) LEW rats received 300 × 106 unfractionated hamster BM cells. These BMT recipients were divided in 3 groups: Group I recipients (n = 8) did not receive further immunosuppression. Group II animals (n = 10) received tacrolimus 1 mg/kg/d for 7 d. Group III recipients (n = 6) were given the same daily dose of tacrolimus on a long‐term basis. Chimerism was detected by flow cytometry. Cytotoxicity of recipient's sera against rat and hamster lymph node cells was measured by complement‐dependent cytotoxicity (CDC) test. Immunofluorescence was used to detect hamster antirat antibodies on several recipient organs.

In Group I, 2 out of 8 animals engrafted (25%) and survived for a median of 21 d showing the severe dermatitis characteristic of GVHD. In group II (n = 10), 9/10 rat recipients engrafted (90%) and survival was increased to a median of 53.7 days. However, these surviving recipients developed fatal GVHD not different from that observed in Group I recipients. All animals in Group III (n = 6) engrafted and did not show the characteristic dermatitis of GVHD. Their survival, however, was shortened to a median of 30.3 d by a severe liver injury. This injury was characterized by hepatocyte necrosis in zones 1 and 2 with polymorphonuclear (PMN) cell infiltration. Deposits of hamster immunoglobulins were present around the necrotic areas and in the portal veins. Moreover, antirat antibodies appeared in the circulation. These antibodies were sensitive to dithiothreitol (DTT) treatment indicating that they were of the IgM class.

This study shows that xenogeneic GVHD may have a dual presentation in the hamster‐to‐rat model: a classical cellular GVHD not distinct to the allogeneic one and a humoral GVHD affecting solely the recipient liver. The degree of humoral injury is potentiated by T‐cell suppression.
Effect of short‐term and intermittent normobaric hypoxia on endogenous erythropoietin isoforms
Authors: Berglund B. , Aulin K. Piehl , Wide L.
Published: December 2004

The aim of the present study was to evaluate whether the Epo isoforms in blood, induced by short‐term and intermittent hypoxia, are different from those at normoxia at sea level and if this could be an impediment to the use of a direct Epo doping test based upon the electric charge of the Epo isoforms. Ten healthy subjects, 9 men and 1 woman, participated in the study. Median age was 22 years (range 20–32). Normobaric hypoxia was administered differently in 3 sub‐groups; two groups with 12 h hypoxia and 12 h normoxia up to 10 days: IM 2000 and IM 2700 living in 16.2% and 14.9% O2, corresponding to 2000 and 2700 m above sea level, respectively, and training in normoxia. The third group, C 2700, lived in hypoxia, 14.9% O2 corresponding to 2700 m, continuously for 48 h. The mean serum Epo level increased from 10.9 IUL−1 (range 8.8–12.5) to 23.5 IUL−1 (15.6–29.1) after 2 days followed by 19.7 IUL−1 (16.1–24.1) after 10 days exposure for intermittent hypoxia. The highest values 39.5 IUL−1 (31.5–50) were obtained for the group exposed for continuous hypoxia for 48 h. The median electrophoretic mobility of the serum Epo isoforms was above the cut‐off limit of 670 AMU, previously estimated for discrimination between recombinant and endogenous Epo, in all samples taken before and after exposure to hypoxia. The highest values, mean 730 mAMU (range 703–750) were obtained after 10 days of intermittent hypoxia. Conclusion: If the method had been used as a doping test, no false positive results would have been registered for the 15 serum samples from the 10 individuals exposed for hypoxia. Thus, the results indicate that the basic principle for direct detection of recombinant Epo doping, based upon the change in electric charge on Epo, can be used also on individuals having lived in a hypoxic milieu.
Nutritional supplements in Norwegian elite athletes—impact of international ranking and advisors
Authors: Sundgot–Borgen J. , Berglund B. , Torstveit M. K.
Published: December 2004

The aims of this study were to investigate (a) the use of nutritional supplements (NS) (vitamins, minerals, Omega 3, antioxidants, ginseng, amino acids, Creatine and energy supplements) in elite athletes of different international ranking (b) why athletes are using NS, and (c) who recommends the elite athletes to use NS.

The total population of elite athletes in Norwegian National Teams (n = 1620, 960 males and 660 females aged 15–39 years) and randomly selected (n = 1681) (916 males and 765 females) controls from the general population, were given a questionnaire including questions about use of nutritional supplements (NS), and from whom athletes had received information about nutrition and recommendations to use NS. The response rate was 76% for male and 92% for female athletes and 75% and 81% for male and female controls, respectively.

 A similar percentage of female athletes (54%) and controls (52%) reported use of one or more NS, but more male athletes (51%) than male controls (32%) used NS (P < 0.001). However, independent of gender, more athletes as compared to controls used minerals (males 26% vs. 8%; females 42% vs. 20%), amino acids (males 12% vs. 4%; females 3% vs. 0), and Creatine (males 12% vs. 2%; females 3% vs. 0). A lower percentage of NS users were observed in the best female athletes (52%) as compared to female athletes with less experience of international competition (73%) (P < 0.01). In male athletes, NS use was independent of international ranking (49%−53%). The coach was the main advisor for use of NS for both male (58%) and female athletes (52%). For male and female athletes, the main reason for using NS was that they felt it was needed in addition to their daily intake (56% and 67%, respectively). Forty one percent of the male and 37% of the female athletes using NS felt they were well informed about nutrition in general and NS. However, 8% of the NS users did not know whether the NS they used was doping classified or not. In conclusion: we found that a similar percentage of female elite athletes and controls, but a higher percentage of male elite athletes than controls, reported the use of NS. There was a lower percentage of NS use among the top female athletes, but not the top male athletes as compared to the less successful elite athletes. The coach was the main advisor for NS use both for male and female elite athletes.
Identification of a novel HLA‐DRB1 allele: DRB1*1353
Authors: Longhi E. , Frison S. , Poli F. , Gaboardi D. , Ferrioli G. , Scalamogna M.
Published: December 2004

Abstract: In this report we describe a new HLA‐DRB1 allele, DRB1*1353, which was initially recognized by a discrepancy between the results obtained with polymerase chain reaction using sequence‐specific oligonucleotide (PCR‐SSO) and sequence‐specific primers (PCR‐SSP). Sequence‐based typing revealed sequence differences with other known HLA‐DRB1 alleles. DRB1*1353 is identical to DRB1*13011 except for two nucleotide substitutions at nucleotide 84 (C(r)G) and at nucleotide 140 (T(r)A). These differences give rise to two amino acid substitutions at codons 28 and 47 from Asp to Glu and from Phe to Tyr, respectively.
About handy, handmade and handsome models
Authors: Molenaar Ivo W.
Published: December 2004

Statistical inference deals with natural variation between units and with uncertainty due to sampling, measurement error and random assignment to treatments. Almost always it does so within one model, assumed fixed and valid. Here, however, variation of conclusions due to variation in model choice will be discussed. Heuristics to find appropriate models are seldom taught, and model fit tests and model fit diagnostics are far from optimal. The use of more than one model for the same data is illustrated by examples from Item Response Theory.
Evaluation of a new whole‐blood filter that allows preparation of platelet concentrates by platelet‐rich plasma methods
Authors: Lozano Maria L. , Pérez‐Ceballos Elena , Rivera Jose , Paunovic Dragica , Candela Maria J. , Vicente Vicente
Published: December 2004

BACKGROUND: A novel WBC‐reduction in‐line whole‐blood (WB) filter that does not retain platelets was evaluated to assess the filtration performance and, after processing WB by the platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) method, to analyze the storage quality of filtered platelet concentrate (PC) units.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: To analyze the filter retention, blood was collected from random donors into quadruple blood packs with an integral in‐line filter (Imuflex WB‐SP, Terumo; n = 25) or in standard triple bag systems (n = 30). To assess the in vitro storage characteristics of platelets, 26 WB units were pooled in pairs and redistributed into 13 units that underwent WBC reduction and 13 units that were not WBC reduced. In all cases, WB was separated into RBCs, PCs, and plasma by the PRP method and platelet function was compared.

RESULTS: The filtration procedure led to RBC and PC WBC‐reduced products that met the AABB and European requirements. The average filtration time was 30 minutes, the filter retained about 45 mL of WB, and there was no further loss of RBCs during the fractionation procedure. In vitro PC storage characteristics of the filtered units were similar to those of the nonfiltered units.

CONCLUSION: A 4‐ and 3‐log WBC reduction was observed in RBC and PC units that were produced by the PRP method, with a mean residual WBC content of 0.24 ± 0.38 × 106 and 0.02 ± 0.03 × 106 per unit, respectively. The procedure, performed under relatively simple logistics, results in good‐quality, standard components that may reduce costs and ease the process of WBC reduction in transfusion services.
Expression of CD137 (4‐1BB) on Human Follicular Dendritic Cells
Authors: Lindstedt M. , Johansson‐Lindbom B. , Borrebaeck C. A. K.
Published: December 2004

Follicular dendritic cells (FDCs) are the antigen (Ag)‐trapping accessory cells of the germinal centres (GCs), essential for the development of humoral immune responses and memory. FDCs reside in the microenvironment of secondary lymphoid tissue where Ag‐activated B cells expand, and undergo isotype switching and affinity maturation prior to becoming memory B cells. In addition to delivering Ag, FDCs also provide potent nonspecific accessory signals to the B cells, which are important for the GC reaction. In this report, we show that human tonsilar FDCs express the costimulatory molecule CD137. Surface expression of CD137 on FDCs was confirmed by immunofluorescent labelling and fluorescence‐activated cell sorter analysis. CD137 was also highly expressed by the human cell line HK, which displays many characteristics of in vivo FDCs. The interaction between B cells and FDCs is essential for the GC reactions, and our finding suggests that CD137 plays a role in FDC‐regulated B‐cell responses.
The Formyl Peptide N‐Formyl‐methionyl‐leucyl‐phenylalanine Downregulates the Expression of FcγRs in Interferon‐γ‐Activated Monocytes/Macrophages In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Beigier‐Bompadre M. , Barrionuevo P. , Alves‐Rosa F. , Rubel C. J. , Palermo M. S. , Isturiz M. A.
Published: December 2004

N‐Formyl peptides are cleavage products of bacterial and mitochondrial proteins that have pro‐inflammatory activities and play an important role in antibacterial host defence. FcγRI is a receptor for the Fc portion of immunoglobulin G expressed in monocytes that mediates cytotoxicity and is upregulated by interferon‐γ (IFN‐γ) and interleukin‐10 (IL‐10). In this report, we demonstrate that N‐formyl‐methionyl‐leucyl‐phenylalanine (FMLP) downregulates the expression of FcγRI in IFN‐γ‐treated monocytes, but not in IL‐10‐treated monocytes. We determine that supernatants obtained from monocytes treated with IFN‐γ and then exposed to FMLP induce the downregulation of FcγRI in naïve monocytes. This effect is abrogated by the protease inhibitors phenylmethylsulphonyl fluoride and phosphoramidon, which inhibit serine and metalloproteases, respectively. Supernatants from FMLP‐treated neutrophils also induce the downregulation of FcγRI, when added to naïve monocytes. Similar observations were obtained in vivo in a mouse model of chronic inflammation. In vivo, FMLP also downregulates the expression of FcγRs in IFN‐γ‐activated macrophages. Our results support the existence of a new mechanism through which FMLP could modulate the activity of monocytes/macrophages during bacterial infections.
Cross‐Reaction of Anti‐Simian Immunodeficiency Virus Envelope Protein Antibodies with Human Immunoglobulins
Authors: Zigment‐Reed L. M. , Fairley C. A. , Chow K. H. , Yucel F. , Cirakoglu B. , Thompson K. M. , Suleyman S. , Pinchuk G. V.
Published: December 2004

It has been recently established that retroviral envelope proteins (REPs) have structural features similar to those of immunoglobulins (Igs). In this study, we asked whether anti‐REP antibodies cross‐react with human Igs (hIgs). To this end, murine monoclonal antibodies (mMoAbs) that had been raised against a simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) envelope protein, SIVMac251gp120, were screened for their ability to react with human monoclonal Igs (HMIgs). We show that two HMIgs, RFSJ2 (a rheumatoid factor) and PAMLN6 (a human anti‐hIg V region antibody), but not a number of other HMIgs, could be weakly, but consistently, bound by anti‐SIVMac251gp120 mMoAbs KK17 and KK46, as judged by indirect enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay and a liquid‐phase inhibition immunoassay. Both mMoAbs are specific to amino acid residues in the V3 loop of the SIVMac251gp120. The RFSJ2 Ig heavy‐chain V region (VH) is coded in part by a human VH gene, VH3–30.3 and includes the idiotope 7B4 (NKYY), which was previously shown to be present in the gp120 protein of a number of HIV‐2 and SIV strains. However, an entirely different VH gene codes the PAMLN6 VH region, opening the possibility that epitope(s) shared between SIVMac251gp120 and hIgs may not be limited to the 7B4 idiotope.
Modelling Autoimmune Rheumatic Disease: A Likelihood Rationale
Authors: Ulvestad E.
Published: December 2004

Immunoglobulins (Igs) and autoantibodies are commonly tested in sera from patients with suspected rheumatic disease. To evaluate the clinical utility of the tests in combination, we investigated sera from 351 patients with autoimmune rheumatic disease (ARD) rheumatoid arthritis (RA), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and Sjögren's syndrome (SS) and 96 patients with nonautoimmune rheumatic disease (NAD) (fibromyalgia, osteoarthritis, etc.). Antinuclear antibodies (ANA), rheumatoid factor (RF), antibodies against DNA and extractable nuclear antigens (anti‐ENA), IgG, IgA and IgM were measured for all patients. Logistic regression analysis of test results was used to calculate each patient's probability for belonging to the ARD or NAD group as well as likelihood ratios for disease. Test accuracy was investigated using receiver‐operating characteristic (ROC) plots and nonparametric ROC analysis. Neither concentrations of IgG, IgA, IgM, anti‐DNA nor anti‐ENA gave a significant effect on diagnostic outcome. Probabilities for disease and likelihood ratios calculated by combining RF and ANA performed significantly better at predicting ARD than utilization of the diagnostic tests in isolation (P < 0.001). At a cut‐off level of P = 0.73 and likelihood ratio = 1, the logistic model gave a specificity of 93% and a sensitivity of 75% for the differentiation between ARD and NAD. When compared at the same level of specificity, ANA gave a sensitivity of 37% and RF gave a sensitivity of 56.6%. Dichotomizing ANA and RF as positive or negative did not reduce the performance characteristics of the model. Combining results obtained from serological analysis of ANA and RF according to this model will increase the diagnostic utility of the tests in rheumatological practice.
Vaccination Induces Major Histocompatibility Complex Class II Expression in the Atlantic Salmon Eye
Authors: Koppang E. O. , Bjerkås E. , Bjerkås I. , Sveier H. , Hordvik I.
Published: December 2004

The aim of the study was to investigate the presence, distribution and density of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II+ cells in the ocular tissues of the Atlantic salmon, Salmo salar, prior to and following vaccination. Eyes were collected 14 days prior to and at 4, 11, 25 and 39 days and 4 months subsequent to vaccination with a commercial fish vaccine. A quantitative analysis was performed in sections on the number of immunopositive cells in the retinal layers. In all groups, MHC class II+ cells were detected in the area of the limbus but not in the central parts of the cornea. In the uvea, immunopositive cells were present in unvaccinated and vaccinated fish. Abundant immunopositive cells were identified in the choroid rete (or choroid gland) in all groups as well as in the ventral ciliary cleft, where macrophage‐like MHC class II+ cells were seen. Quantitative histology of the retina revealed a significant increase in MHC class II+ cells in the outer plexiform layer (OPL) and the inner nuclear layer (INL) 4 days following vaccination. Positive cells were detected in all layers of the retina with the exception of the photoreceptor layer.
Analysis of Complement‐Bound Hepatitis B Virus Complexes by an Immuno‐Capture Polymerase Chain Reaction Method
Authors: Wang S. Y. , Liu R. , Zhang J. Y. , Lian Q. Z. , Peng X. X.
Published: December 2004

Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) can be present in the circulating blood either as a free virus or as a virion–immunoglobulin (Ig) complex with or without complement. However, information regarding the complement‐bound HBV circulating immune complexes (CIC) in HBV‐infected patients is currently not available. In the present study, we have combined immuno‐capture and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and developed a quick method of high specificity for the detection of complement‐bound HBV CIC. We found that the frequency of HBV‐factor B was associated with clinical types of hepatitis B (HB) but not with that of HBV‐C1q. Moreover, increased frequency at P < 0.05 were found for HBV/C1q‐CIC in the group with normal total bilirubin (TBIL) and for HBV/factor B‐CIC in the group with positive hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg). These findings suggest that the immuno‐capture PCR (iPCR) for the detection of HBV‐bound CIC is a valuable method for analysis of the composition of the immune complexes and for the understanding of host immune response and immune pathogenesis in HBV‐infected individuals. In summary, iPCR is a valuable method for analysis of the composition of the immune complexes, which may provide new and valuable insights into HBV pathogenesis.
Interaction Between Borrelia burgdorferi and Immature Human Dendritic Cells
Authors: Suhonen J. , Komi J. , Soukka J. , Lassila O. , Viljanen M. K.
Published: December 2004

Antigen uptake and the following maturation of dendritic cells (DCs) are pivotal to the initiation of specific antimicrobial immune responses. DCs also play an important role in the recruitment and activation of the cells of the innate immune system. We have examined the interactions of DCs with Borrelia burgdorferi to find explanations for the difficulties the human immune system has in dealing with the bacterium. Phagocytosis of B. burgdorferi by immature DCs and the effect of the bacterium on the maturation and interleukin‐8 (IL‐8) secretion of DCs were studied. Borreliae were phagocytized and processed into fragments by DCs; narrow tube‐like pseudopods and broad pseudopods were used for the engulfment. The immature DC population gained a heterogeneous appearance within 2 h of incubation with the borreliae. A 24 h coculture with borreliae induced maturation and IL‐8 secretion in the DCs in a manner comparable with the effect of lipopolysaccharides. All strains studied, including a mutant strain lacking outer surface proteins A and B, were capable of inducing these responses. Thus, our results did not show any clear inadequacy concerning the way DCs are dealing with B. burgdorferi. However, further studies on the subject are required.
Molecular characterization of glutathione reductase cDNAs from pea (Pisum sativum L.)
Authors: Creissen Gary , Edwards E. Anne , Enard Corine , Wellburn Alan , Mullineaux Phil
Published: December 2004

A cDNA for pea glutathione reductase has been cloned and sequenced. The derived amino acid sequence of 562 residues shows a high degree of homology to the previously published GR sequences from human erythrocytes and from two prokaryotes: Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The pea enzyme differs from other GRs in having an M‐terminal leader sequence of about 60–70 residues which may be a chloroplast transit peptide and a 20 amino acid C‐terminal extension of unknown function.
Internal telomeric repeats and ‘TCP domain’ protein‐binding sites co‐operate to regulate gene expression in Arabidopsis thaliana cycling cells
Authors: Trémousaygue Dominique , Garnier Lionel , Bardet Claude , Dabos Patrick , Hervé Christine , Lescure Bernard
Published: December 2004

We have focused our interest on two cis‐regulatory elements, named site II motif and telo box, identified within the promoter of plant proliferating cellular nuclear antigen (PCNA) and putatively involved in meristematic expression of the gene. A conserved topological association between site II motifs and telo boxes is observed in the promoter of numerous genes expressed in cycling cells, including several cell cycle‐related genes and 153 Arabidopsis genes encoding ribosomal proteins. Meristematic expression of a GUS reporter gene was observed in plants under the control of Arabidopsis site II motif within a minimal promoter. This expression is strongly enhanced by addition of a telo box within this chimaeric promoter. We showed by gel retardation experiments that the site II motif is a target for several DNA‐binding activities present in Arabidopsis crude cell extract and can bind a transcription factor, At‐TCP20, from the Teosinte branched 1, Cycloidea, PCF (TCP)‐domain protein family. In yeast two‐hybrid experiments, At‐TCP20 appears to be a potential partner of AtPurα, which was previously shown to bind telo boxes. An important consequence of this analysis is to reveal new and conserved regulatory processes concerning the regulation of plant ribosomal gene expression in cycling cells. The implication of these observations in plant‐specific developmental pathways is discussed.
Characterization of a tomato protein that inhibits a xyloglucan‐specific endoglucanase
Authors: Qin Qiang , Bergmann Carl W. , Rose Jocelyn K. C. , Saladie Montserrat , Kolli V. S. Kumar , Albersheim Peter , Darvill Alan G. , York William S.
Published: December 2004

A basic, 51 kDa protein was purified from suspension‐cultured tomato and shown to inhibit the hydrolytic activity of a xyloglucan‐specific endoglucanase (XEG) from the fungus Aspergillus aculeatus. The tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum) protein, termed XEG inhibitor protein (XEGIP), inhibits XEG activity by forming a 1 : 1 protein:protein complex with a Ki ≈ 0.5 nm. To our knowledge, XEGIP is the first reported proteinaceous inhibitor of any endo‐β‐1,4‐glucanase, including the cellulases. The cDNA encoding XEGIP was cloned and sequenced. Database analysis revealed homology with carrot extracellular dermal glycoprotein (EDGP), which has a putative role in plant defense. XEGIP also has sequence similarity to ESTs from a broad range of plant species, suggesting that XEGIP‐like genes are widely distributed in the plant kingdom. Although Southern analysis detected only a single XEGIP gene in tomato, at least five other XEGIP‐like tomato sequences have been identified. Similar small families of XEGIP‐like sequences are present in other plants, including Arabidopsis. XEGIP also has some sequence similarity to two previously characterized proteins, basic globulin 7S protein from soybean and conglutin γ from lupin. Several amino acids in the XEGIP sequence, notably 8 of the 12 cysteines, are generally conserved in all the XEGIP‐like proteins we have encountered, suggesting a fundamental structural similarity. Northern analysis revealed that XEGIP is widely expressed in tomato vegetative tissues and is present in expanding and maturing fruit, but is downregulated during ripening.
Is there a role for traditional medicine in basic health services in Africa? A plea for a community perspective
Authors: van den Geest Sjaak
Published: December 2004

Traditional medicine in Africa is contrasted with biomedicine. Most traditional medical theories have a social and religious character and emphasize prevention and holistic features. Traditional medical practices are usually characterized by the healer's personal involvement, by secrecy and a reward system. Biomedical theory and practice show an almost opposite picture: asocial, irreligious, curative and organ‐directed; professional deatchment, public knowledge and ‐ until recently ‐ ‘free of charge’. It is suggested that local communities do not expect that basic health care will improve when traditional healers become integrated into the service. They ask instead for improvement of basic health care itself: more services with better access, more dedication and respect from doctors and nurses, more medicines and personnel. Fieldwork needs to be done at the community level to arrive at a better understanding and assessment of the community's opinion concerning a possible role of traditional medicine in basic health care.
Direct and indirect costs of the acute form of lymphatic filariasis to households in rural areas of Tamil Nadu, south India
Authors: Ramaiah K. D. , Ramu K. , Guyatt Helen , Vijar Kumar K. N. , Pani S. P.
Published: December 2004

Summary This study examined the direct and indirect costs due to acute form of lymphatic filariasis caused by Wuchereria bancrofti to the households in rural communities in Tamil Nadu state in south India. For nearly one‐third of the acute adenolymphangitis (ADL) episodes the affected did not seek treatment and for 27% of the episodes they consulted health personnel, underwent treatment and paid for it. On average, the ADL patients spent Rupees (Rs.) 2.35 (US $ 0.07) per episode on treatment, but expenditure was as high as Rs. 32.11 (US $ 0.92) among those who paid. Doctor's fees and medicines constituted 83% of the total treatment costs. Patients with multiple and longer duration episodes and with better living conditions spent relatively more on treatment. The proportion of patients who spent money on treatment was smaller in poorer households, but their treatment costs formed a relatively higher proportion of their income than those of middle and high‐income households. The ADL episodes curtailed economic and domestic activities. In 87% of the episodes, the affected were not able to attend any economic activity compared to 37% of the episodes in the case of controls. Patients spent only 0.68 ± 1.91 hours on economic activity compared to 4.40 ± 3.74 hours by the control individuals during the ADL episodes. The sign rank test showed that the mean difference of 3.73 ± 3.81 and 2.14 ± 1.83 hours in the time spent on economic and domestic activity respectively between cases and controls was highly significant (P 0.01). Regression analysis demonstrated that the difference in the time spent on activities is only due to ADL and no socio‐economic variable had any effect on it. The cost of treatment and loss in economic activities combined with high incidence in the study communities indicate the extent of the economic burden imposed by the hitherto neglected acute form of lymphatic filariasis and the necessity to control it.
Tuberculosis treatment in complex emergencies: are risks outweighing benefits?
Authors: Biot M. , Chandramohan D. , Porter J. D. H.
Published: December 2004

Tuberculosis (TB) is a major public health problem in complex emergencies. Humanitarian agencies usually postpone the decision to offer TB treatment and opportunities to treat TB patients are often missed. This paper looks at the problem of tuberculosis treatment in these emergencies and questions whether treatment guidelines could be more flexible than international recommendations. A mathematical model is used to calculate the risks and benefits of different treatment scenarios with increasing default rates. Model outcomes are compared to a situation without treatment. An economic analysis further discusses the findings in a trade‐off between the extra costs of treating relapses and failures and the savings in future treatment costs. In complex emergencies, if a TB programme could offer 4‐month treatment for 75% of its patients, it could still be considered beneficial in terms of public health. In addition, the proportion of patients following at least 4 months of treatment can be used as an indicator to help evaluate the public health harm and benefit of the TB programme.
Inland valley rice production systems and malaria infection and disease in the savannah of Côte d'Ivoire
Authors: Henry M.‐C. , Rogier C. , Nzeyimana I. , Assi S. B. , Dossou‐Yovo J. , Audibert M. , Mathonnat J. , Keundjian A. , Akodo E. , Teuscher T. , Carnevale P.
Published: December 2004

In sub‐Saharan Africa, lowlands developed for rice cultivation favour the development of Anopheles gambiae s. l. populations. However, the epidemiological impact is not clearly determined. The importance of malaria was compared in terms of prevalence and parasite density of infections as well as in terms of disease incidence between three agroecosystems: (i) uncultivated lowlands, ‘R0’, (ii) lowlands with one annual rice cultivation in the rainy season, ‘R1’ and (iii) developed lowlands with two annual rice cultivation cycles, ‘R2’. We clinically monitored 2000 people of all age groups, selected randomly in each agroecosystem, for 40 days (in eight periods of five consecutive days scheduled every 6 weeks for 1 year). During each survey, a systematic blood sample was taken from every sick and asymptomatic person. The three agroecosystems presented a high endemic situation with a malaria transmission rate of 139–158 infective bites per person per year. The age‐standardized annual malaria incidence reached 0.9 malaria episodes per person in R0, 0.6 in R1 and 0.8 in R2. Children from 0 to 9‐year‐old in R0 and R2 had two malarial attacks annually, but this was less in R1 (1.4 malaria episodes per child per year). Malaria incidence varied with season and agroecosystem. In parallel with transmission, a high malaria risk occurs temporarily at the beginning of the dry season in R2, but not in R0 and R1. Development of areas for rice cultivation does not modify the annual incidence of malarial attacks despite their seasonal influence on malaria risk. However, the lower malaria morbidity rate in R1 could be explained by socio‐economic and cultural factors.
The relationship between Anopheles gambiae density and rice cultivation in the savannah zone and forest zone of Côte d'Ivoire
Authors: Briët Olivier J. T. , Dossou‐Yovo Joel , Akodo Elena , Van De Giesen Nick , Teuscher Thomas M.
Published: December 2004

In 13 villages in the savannah zone and 21 villages in the forest zone of Côte d'Ivoire, the biting density of the principal malaria vector, Anopheles gambiae, was studied as a function of rice cultivation in the inland valleys in a 2‐km radius around each village. In the savannah villages, during the main season cropping period, surface water on rice‐cultivated and to a lesser extent on uncultivated inland valleys seems to contribute strongly to the A. gambiae population density. For the off‐season cropping period (which starts after the first light rains in the savannah zone), correlations were weaker. Breeding sites other than in inland valleys may play an important role in the savannah zone. In the forest zone, however, the A. gambiae population density was strongly correlated with the surface water availability (SWA) in the rice‐cultivated inland valleys, whereas the correlation with the SWA in other (uncultivated) inland valleys was weak. The requirement of sunlit breeding sites for A. gambiae might explain this difference between zones. In the forest zone, only inland valleys cleared for rice cultivation meet this requirement, whereas all other inland valleys are covered with dense vegetation. In the savannah zone, however, most undergrowth is burnt during the dry season, which permits sunlight to reach puddles resulting from the first rains.
Hereditary nasal parakeratosis in Labrador Retrievers
Authors: Pagé Nadia , Paradis Manon , Lapointe Jean‐Martin , Dunstan Robert W.
Published: December 2004

AbstractHereditary nasal dermatitis is reported in 14 Labrador Retrievers and 4 Labrador Retriever crosses. This appears to be a newly described inherited disorder for which an autosomal recessive mode of inheritance is suspected. The lesions were first noted between 6 and 12 months of age. Histopathological analysis revealed parakeratotic hyperkeratosis, often with marked multifocal accumulation of proteinaceous fluid between keratinocytes within the stratum corneum and superficial stratum spinosum. There was also a sub‐basal lymphoplasmacytic infiltration within the superficial dermis. Immunohistochemistry staining for IgG (n = 4), distemper and papillomaviruses (n = 4) were negative, as were serum antinuclear antibody serology (n = 4) and fungal culture (n = 7). Electron microscopy revealed an altered cornification process: retention of nuclear chromatin, absence of lamellar bodies and marked intercellular oedema. Dogs did not respond to oral administration of zinc methionin (n = 3), cephalexin (n = 4), vitamin A alcohol (n = 1) or topical tretinoin (n = 1). Improvement of the lesions was obtained with topical vitamin E (n = 2), petroleum jelly (n = 2), and propylene glycol (n = 5).
The effect of weather factors on the performance of herbicides to control Alopecurus myosuroides in winter wheat
Authors: Collings L V , Blair A M , Gay A P , Dyer C J , Mackay N
Published: December 2004

Summary The effect of weather factors before and after spraying on the activity of the herbicides isoproturon and clodinafop‐propargyl was assessed in field experiments from 1997 to 2000. The herbicides were sprayed at four rates on eight to 15 occasions between October and April and efficacy was assessed as ED50 for the surviving panicles of Alopecurus myosuroides Huds. The ED50 values (N = normal dose) varied between 0.18 N and 1.16 N for isoproturon and 0.11 N and 1.51 N for clodinafop‐propargyl. The effect of weather factors was investigated using multiple regression techniques for 1 to 14 days before and after spraying. These regressions were significant (P < 0.001) for each of the individual years. Between 86% and 97% of the total variation in response to both herbicides was accounted for, but the factors were not consistent from year to year. However, when the 3 years were combined for each herbicide the regression was also significant (P < 0.001) for isoproturon (78% variation accounted for) and for clodinafop‐propargyl (72% variation accounted for). The current blanket advice, that the best control results from applications to small plants, was not always correct.
Photosensitized Inactivation of Plasmodium falciparum‐ and Babesia divergens‐Infected Erythrocytes in Whole Blood by Lipophilic Pheophorbide Derivatives
Authors: Grellier Philippe , Santus René , Mouray Elisabeth , Agmon Vered , Mazière Jean‐Claude , Rigomier Daniel , Dagan Arie , Gatt Shimon , Schrével Joseph
Published: December 2004

Background and objectives: Blood transfusions can transmit parasitic infections, such as those caused by Plasmodium (malaria), Trypanosoma cruzi (Chagas' disease), and Babesia (babesiosis). A higher degree of blood transfusion safety would be reached if methods were available for inactivating such parasites. Materials and methods: We evaluated the effectiveness of photosensitization using lipophilic pheophorbide and red light illumination to eradicate red blood cells infected with Plasmodium falciparum, and with Babesia divergens, in whole blood. Fluorescence microscopy and conventional fluorometry showed the specific accumulation of pheophorbide derivatives in the RBC infected with either parasite, compared with uninfected RBC. The effectiveness of different derivatives in eradicating infected RBC was first estimated in parasite cultures. Results: The best photosensitizer was the N‐(4‐butanol) phrophorbide derivative (Ph4‐OH) at 0.2 μM concentration and 5‐min illumination. In whole blood, the eradication of RBC infected with B. divergens and P. falciparum was obtained with 2 μM Ph4‐OH and 10 and 20 min illumination, respectively. Under these conditions of photosensitization, low levels of RBC hemolysis were noted even after 2 weeks of storage at 4 °C and a subsequent 48‐hour incubation at 37 °C. No reduction of negative charges on treated RBC was noted and no increase in methemoglobin content. Conclusion: In plasma, Ph4‐OH is mainly transported by high‐density lipoproteins (HDL). This high affinity for HDL may explain the selective accumulation of lipophilic pheophorbide derivatives in the intracellular parasites. Photosensitization with pheophorbide derivatives may be a promising approach to inactivation of transfusion‐transmissible parasites and viruses in blood bank units.
Virological and Immunological Data of AIDS Patients Treated by Passive Immunotherapy (Transfusions of Plasma Rich in HIV‐1 Antibodies)
Authors: Morand‐Joubert Laurence , Vittecoq Daniel , Roudot‐Thoraval Françoise , Mariotti Martine , Lefrère François , Heshmati Farad , Audat Françoise , Lambin Patrick , Barré‐Sinoussi Françoise , Lefrère Jean‐Jacques
Published: December 2004

Background and objectives: In human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infections, passive immunotherapy can be carried out through infusions of virus‐inactivated plasma from symptomless HIV‐infected persons with abundant HIV antibodies. Materials and methods: We carried out a prospective, randomized, double‐blind, controlled, passive immunotherapy study, which compared two groups. One received plasma rich in HIV antibodies, the other a standard seronegative plasma. Results: Measurement of the plasma HIV RNA load showed in both groups a significant decrease in the mean viral copy number at the end of the first month, followed by an increase at the third month. Beyond the third month, a significant decrease in viral load was observed only in the treatment group. A significant difference in favor of the treatment group was observed for plasma viremia by HIV culture. For the cytokines involved in the viral replication and for the immune activation markers such as neopterin and β2‐microglobulin, the biological analysis in plasma failed to show a significant difference in either group. Clinically, the treatment group benefited by delay in the appearance of the first AIDS‐defining event and reduction in the cumulative incidence of such events. Conclusion: One possible interpretation is that passive immunotherapy affects plasma viral load, but there is no evidence that HIV‐specific antibodies are exclusively responsible for the observed effects.
Demonstration by Flow Cytometry of the Numbers of Residual White Blood Cells and Platelets in Filtered Red Blood Cell Concentrates and Plasma Preparations
Authors: Neumüller J. , Schwartz D.W. M. , Mayr W. R.
Published: December 2004

Background and objectives: New‐generation polyester filters provide significant depletion of white blood cells (WBC) and platelets (PLT) in filtered red blood cell concentrates (FRCC) and in filtered plasma preparations (FP). The aim of this study was to elaborate a sensitive flow cytometric method for monitoring residual WBC and PLT in FRCC and FP. Materials and methods: We determined the number of WBC in 500 μl FRCC of FP using 50 μl of a combination of monoclonal antibodies (MAB) against CD45 (FITC labeled) and CD19 (PE labeled). After lysis of red blood cells, we mixed a specific number of reference beads with the remaining WBC. The number of residual WBC related to the acquisition volume was defined by the acquired reference beads. Using this method, the detection limit (DL) was 3 WBC/μl. Alternative methods used MAB against CD45 (FITC and PerCP labeled) and CD14 (PE labeled) or lymphocyte subsets such as CD3 (FITC labeled) and CD19, CD4, CD8, CD16 and CD56 (PE labeled) in combination with CD45 (PerCP labeled). The DL values were 10 WBC/μl for the CD45/CD14 staining and 0.1 WBC/μl for the determination of both CD3+ and CD19+ lymphocytes. For residual PLT in FRCC or FP, we used an FITC‐conjugated MAB against CD41, with reference beads to determine the acquisition volume. PLT were demonstrated in a green‐fluorescence (FL1) single histogram after gating in the forward light scatter × 90° light scatter signal dot plot. PLT counting was as described for WBC. The DL value was about 2 PLT/μl. Results: Filtration with Pall WBF‐1 filters reduces WBC by 4 log and PLT by 3–4 log, resulting in cell counts which are below the critical limit for causing adverse transfusion reactions. Conclusions: Flow cytometry techniques provide a reproducible and objective tool for counting residual WBC and PLT in blood preparations compared with the Nageotte hemocytometer. Absolute numbers of leukocyte and lymphocyte subpopulations are obtainable.
Histamine Synthesis by White Cells during Storage of Platelet Concentrates
Authors: Muylle L. , Beert J. F. , Mertens G. , Bult H.
Published: December 2004

Objectives: To resolve the question whether histamine, like some cytokines, is actively synthesized during storage of platelet concentrates. Methods: We prepared conventional buffy coat platelet concentrates and stored them in the usual way at 22°C. Disodium cromoglycate was added to one series, saline to the controls. Samples were taken at intervals, to be tested for histamine and interleukin‐6 (IL‐6). Results: The plasma histamine level increased from a median of 1.02 ng/ml (range 0.11–3.27) to 12.9 ng/ml (range 4.30–32.9) whereas the total histamine content of the platelet concentrates remained unchanged during the 5‐day storage period. In contrast, the total content of IL‐6 increased rapidly. Conclusion: Histamine is not synthesized during storage of platelets, whereas IL‐6 is. The addition of disodium cromoglycate, a substance that inhibits granulocyte activation, had no effect on the release of histamine or on the total histamine content at various storage times.