bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PCR for Detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis in Experimentally Infected Dogs
Authors: Bonovska M. , Tzvetkov Y. , Najdenski H. , Bachvarova Y.
Published: July 2005

The susceptibility of dogs to infection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis was studied through different ways of experimental infection. The examination shows, that in most cases the disease runs subclinically with pathological changes localized mainly in the lungs, lymph nodes, small intestines, liver, kidneys and spleen. Histological findings demonstrate granulomatous inflammation with caseosation and predominance of epitheloide macrophages and single lymphocytes. Tissue samples from internal organs of experimentally infected dogs as well as non‐infected but contact animals were investigated by direct PCR. Specific PCR‐products were obtained in 44 of 96 studied samples. Eighty‐three (86.5%) of PCR results coincided with bacteriological finds, 82 (85.4%) with the pathological and 71 (74.0%) simultaneously with bacteriological and pathological results. The observed specific DNA products in tissue samples of infected and non‐infected dogs demonstrate significant sensitivity of PCR method. It could be assumed that the transmission of M. tuberculosis infection is possible by close contact between ill and healthy dogs and that the naturally infected dogs or dogs suffering from tuberculosis may serve as a permanent source of infection to humans and other animals.
Statistical Evaluation of Classical Swine Fever Surveillance Plans in Italy (1995–2003)
Authors: Feliziani F. , Maresca C. , Giovannini A. , Mammoli R. , Rutili D.
Published: July 2005

Surveillance plans were carried out in Italy from 1995 to 2003, with the main aim of controlling the possible circulation of low‐virulence classical swine fever viral strains. The repetition of a serological monitoring programme over several years, with constantly negative results, can prove the absence of the infection while increasing the degree of confidence. In our case, in 2003, after eight repetitions of the surveillance plan, the probability that there was at least one infected farm reached 0.006%. Therefore, on the basis of the results of the sampling carried out from 1995 to 2003, we may state that there is no endemic infection, even because of a low virulence virus, in continental Italy.
Studies of the Efficacy of Enterocoliticin, a Phage‐Tail Like Bacteriocin, as Antimicrobial Agent Against Yersinia enterocolitica Serotype O3 in a Cell Culture System and in Mice
Authors: Damasko C. , Konietzny A. , Kaspar H. , Appel B. , Dersch P. , Strauch E.
Published: July 2005

The efficacy of enterocoliticin, a phage tail‐like bacteriocin, as antimicrobial compound against infections with pathogenic Yersinia enterocolitica serotype O3 strains was assessed. In cell cultures, which were infected with the Y. enterocolitica strains 13 169 or 6471/76, bactericidal activity of enterocoliticin was found for bacteria adhering to the surface of eukaryotic cells, whereas bacteria, which had invaded the eukaryotic cells, were not accessible to the bacteriocin. The interaction of enterocoliticin with Y. enterocolitica was further examined in animals. Female BALB/c mice were experimentally infected with the two Y. enterocolitica strains and enterocoliticin was applied as antimicrobial compound by the oral route. Experimental variations concerning the infectious doses of the Y. enterocolitica strains and the time points of application of the bacteriocin were investigated. The increase of the Yersinia CFU titre in animals was retarded at time points shortly after the application of enterocoliticin indicating that the particles were effective on recently introduced Yersinia. The repeated application of enterocoliticin, however, did not prevent the colonization of the gastrointestinal tract by Yersinia.
Role of Microfilaments and Microtubules in the Invasion of EPC Cells by Aeromonas hydrophila
Authors: Chu W.H. , Lu C.P.
Published: July 2005

The influence of the cytoskeleton on the invasion of Aeromonas hydrophila strain AhJ‐1, isolated from diseased fish, in the monolayer cell of epithelioma papillosum cells of carp (EPC) was evaluated by the recovery of gentamicin‐resistant bacteria from Triton X‐100 cell lysates. The depolymerization of microfilaments (MF) by cytochalasin B and D inhibited the uptake of A. hydrophila in a dose‐dependent manner and that of microtubules (MT) by colchicines and nocodazole did not affect the invasion of A. hydrophila in EPC cells significantly. The invasion frequency decreased approximately 62% with the addition of 0.1 μg/ml cytochalasin D and nearly 86% by the addition of 5.0 μg/ml. Invasion decreased approximately 49% and 83% by addition of cytochalasin B in a concentration of 2.5 μg/ml and 10.0 μg/ml. Colchicine and nocodazole, inhibitors of MT formation appears to have little effect on the invasion of EPC cells by strain Ah J‐1. Thus MF formation, but not MT formation seems to play an important role in the internalization of A. hydrophila J‐1.
Campylobacterspp. in Dogs and Cats in Switzerland: Risk Factor Analysis and Molecular Characterization with AFLP
Authors: Wieland B. , Regula G. , Danuser J. , Wittwer M. , Burnens A. P. , Wassenaar T. M. , Stärk K. D. C.
Published: July 2005

A 1‐year cross‐sectional study was carried out to determine the prevalence, risk factors for carriage, and genetic diversity ofCampylobacterspp. in healthy dogs and cats in Switzerland. Veterinary practitioners collected samples from 1268 animals (all ages) presented for vaccination. The prevalence ofCampylobacterspp. in 634 dogs and 596 cats that were eligible for the study was 41.2% (confidence interval 95%: 37.3–45.1%) and 41.9% (CI 95%: 37.9–46%), respectively. Risk factors identified for carriage ofCampylobacter jejuniwere found to be different from risk factors forC. upsaliensis/C. helveticus. Young animals (≤3 years) had significantly higher odds of carryingC. upsaliensis/C. helveticusthan older animals (OR 1.8–3.3), whereas forC. jejunicarriage, the age was not a risk factor. Amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) genotyping revealed heterogeneity amongC. jejunistrains and was found to clearly separateC. helveticusfromC. upsaliensis. It was shown that cats more often carryC. helveticuswith an estimated prevalence of 28.2%, whereas dogs mainly are carryingC. upsaliensis.
Differential integration rates of hepatitis B virus DNA in the liver of children with chronic hepatitis B virus infection and hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: HUANG HSIANG‐PO , TSUEI DAW‐JEN , WANG KUAN‐JAN , CHEN YING‐LIEN , NI YEN‐HSUAN , JENG YUNG‐MING , CHEN HUEY‐LING , HSU HONG‐YUAN , CHANG MEI‐HWEI
Published: July 2005

Background and Aim:  Integration of hepatitis B virus‐DNA (HBV‐DNA) into the host genome, a phenomenon found frequently in hepatocellular carcinomas (HCC) and causally linked to oncogenesis, has not been well characterized in children. The aim of the present study was to determine the prevalence of HBV integration more accurately and to decide whether the integration rate varies at different stages of chronic HBV infection in children.

Methods:  Of 13 children with chronic hepatitis, 14 liver biopsy tissues were analyzed. One liver tissue with pure liver cirrhosis, nine non‐tumor, and nine tumor liver tissues from children with HCC were analyzed by a very sensitive method, inverse polymerase chain reaction (IPCR).

Results:  Thirteen genuine viral‐host junctional sequences from 23 patients were successfully isolated and proved that IPCR is a useful method in this context. The results also indicated that the detection rate of HBV‐DNA integration increased in parallel with the progress of liver histology towards the neoplastic transformation, with 0% in the liver of chronic hepatitis, 22.2% in non‐tumor livers of HCC patients, and 66.7% in tumor liver tissues of HCC patients.

Conclusion:  The present results indicate that integration of HBV‐DNA into the host genome was rarely confirmed at the early stage of chronic hepatitis in children until the stage of HCC formation.
Decreased density of interstitial cells of Cajal and neuronal cells in patients with slow‐transit constipation and acquired megacolon
Authors: LEE JUNG IL , PARK HYOJIN , KAMM MICHAEL A , TALBOT IAN C
Published: July 2005

Background: The pathophysiology of constipation is not clearly identified as yet, and the interstital cells of Cajal (ICC), known to generate the slow wave activity and to be involved in intestinal neurotransmission and the enteric nervous system (ENS), are suspected to play an important role. The aims of the present study were to assess the distribution of ICC and neuronal cells of ENS in patients with slow‐transit constipation and acquired megacolon.

Methods: Sigmoid colon specimens were obtained from patients who underwent colectomy due to slow‐transit constipation (n = 10), acquired megacolon (n = 9) and non‐obstructive colon cancer (n = 10) as a control group. The ICC were visualized by c‐Kit immunohistochemistry and neuronal cells of the ENS were demonstrated by protein gene product (PGP) 9.5. Density of cells stained by c‐Kit and PGP 9.5 was calculated as percent area (area stained/area of X–Y plane) × 100, when images were collected at a magnification of ×40 objective, with maximum area examined in the horizontal X–Y plane of 400 µm × 400 µm using an image analyzer.

Results: The densities of ICC and PGP 9.5 reactive neuronal structures were significantly decreased in all layers of sigmoid colon specimens in patients with slow‐transit constipation and acquired megacolon, compared with that of the control group. However, there was no statistically significant difference in either the density of ICC or that of neuronal structures between the patients with slow‐transit constipation and acquired megacolon.

Conclusions: Slow‐transit constipation and acquired megacolon were associated with alteration of ICC and neuronal cells of ENS in the sigmoid colon.

© 2005 Blackwell Publishing Asia Pty Ltd
Effects of cagA+ and cagA– strains of Helicobacter pylori on the human gastric mucus layer thickness
Authors: AL‐MARHOON MOHAMMED S , NUNN SHEILA , SOAMES ROGER W
Published: July 2005

Background:  Infection with cytotoxin‐associated gene A (cagA) Helicobacter pylori is associated with severe gastric diseases, with contradictory views being expressed concerning the effect of H. pylori on the gastric mucus thickness. The aim of the present study was to differentiate between the effect of cagA+ and cagA– strains on gastric mucus thickness.

Methods:  Ninety‐nine patients without peptic ulcers who were not on medication were randomly recruited from consecutive endoscopy clinics: six biopsies (five antral, one body) were obtained from each patient. Cryostat sections (18 µm) were cut and stained using the modified periodic acid–Schiff/Alcian blue technique. Mucus thickness was measured using computer‐assisted light microscopy. The H. pylori status was assessed by histology, Campylobacter‐like organism (CLO)test and culture, and cagA+ status determined by polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

Results:  There was no significant difference (P = 0.784) in mean mucus thickness between cagA+ (52.7 ± 1.2 µm, n = 10), cagA– (46.6 ± 1.1 µm, n = 18) or H. pylori‐negative patients (51.3 ± 1.1 µm, n = 30). In cagA– patients, mucus thickness was significantly reduced with increased H. pylori colonization density, Spearman (rs) = −0.805, P < 0.0001. In contrast, in cagA+ patients there was a weak positive, but not significant, association between mucus thickness and H. pylori colonization density, rs = 0.333, P = 0.381.

Conclusions:  The human gastric mucus thickness is not affected by infection with cagA+ or cagA– strains of H. pylori compared with uninfected. Although a trend of increased mucus thickness with cagA+ infection was observed.

© 2005 Blackwell Publishing Asia Pty Ltd
A combination of the Helicobacter pylori stool antigen test and urea breath test is useful for clinical evaluation of eradication therapy: A multicenter study
Authors: ITO MASANORI , TANAKA SHINJI , KIM SUNJIN , TAHARA KAZUMASA , KAWAMURA YUZURU , SUMII MASAHARU , TAKEHARA YOSHIHIKO , HAYASHI KOZO , OKAMOTO EIICHI , KUNIHIRO MASAKI , KUNITA TOSHIRO , IMAGAWA SHINOBU , TAKATA SHUNSUKE , UEDA HIROYUKI , EGI YASUO , HIYAMA TORU , UENO YOSHITAKA , KITADAI YASUHIKO , YOSHIHARA MASAHARU , CHAYAMA Kazuaki
Published: July 2005

Background:  Helicobacter pylori stool antigen (HpSA) test is a new tool for evaluating the H. pylori infection. The present study was carried out to investigate the clinical usefulness of the HpSA test in the evaluation of eradication therapy by comparing it with the 13C‐urea breath test (UBT).

Methods:  One hundred and five patients received eradication therapy for H. pylori. After more than 8 weeks, the success of the therapy was evaluated by the HpSA test and the UBT. Concordant results were regarded as a final diagnosis, but when the results were discordant, histological examination was carried out.

Results:  Of the 105 patients receiving eradication therapy for H. pylori, 25 patients were regarded as H. pylori positive by the UBT and and 20 patients were regarded as H. pylori positive by the the HpSA test. Nine patients (8.6%) showed discordant results (seven cases with UBT(+) and HpSA(–), and two with UBT(–) and HpSA(+)). Five cases out of nine were ultimately judged as having a false‐positive result of the UBT, and in these cases the UBT values were relatively low (below 10 per thousand). The final diagnostic accuracies of the UBT and the HpSA test were 94.3% (88.0–97.9%; 95% CI) and 97.1% (91.9–99.4%), respectively. When we used the HpSA test in cases with weakly positive UBT values, we were able to diagnose the correct status of H. pylori infection after eradication in 99% of all patients (94.8–100.0%).

Conclusion:  The HpSA test is a useful tool for the evaluation of eradication therapy and a combination of the HpSA test and UBT is clinically recommended.
Vasoconstrictor responses are normal but prostanoid‐mediated vasodilatation is enhanced in human cirrhotic mesenteric arteries
Authors: VAUGHAN RHYS B , ANGUS JAMES A , ANGUS PETER W
Published: July 2005

Background and Aims:  The mechanisms responsible for mesenteric vasodilatation in cirrhosis have not been fully elucidated. The aim of the present study was to examine whether there is altered intrinsic vascular reactivity of human mesenteric vessels in cirrhosis, which might contribute to vasodilatation in vivo.

Methods:  Ten mesenteric arteries from six cirrhosis patients undergoing liver transplantation were compared with 11 arteries from six control patients. Vasoconstrictor responses to potassium, norepinephrine and methoxamine were determined. Endothelium‐dependent vasodilatation responses to acetylcholine and substance P were determined both before and after inhibition of nitric oxide (NO) and prostanoid synthesis.

Results:  Cirrhotic vessels responded normally to potassium depolarization and did not differ to control vessels with respect to sensitivity and maximal response to norepinephrine. In cirrhotic vessels, inhibition of NO synthesis had significantly less effect on substance P‐induced vasorelaxation than in controls (% Relaxation: cirrhosis 70.3 ± 9.6; control 34.9 ± 9.5; P = 0.03). However, after inhibition of both NO and prostanoid synthesis, vasodilatory responses were eliminated in both groups.

Conclusions:  The findings of the present study indicate that intrinsic hyporesponsiveness to vasoconstrictors does not play a pathogenetic role in the mesenteric vasodilatation in human cirrhosis. Furthermore, vasodilator prostanoids might make a significant contribution in mediating enhanced endothelium‐dependent vasorelaxation in the mesenteric circulation.
Advanced resonant ultrasound spectroscopy for measuring anisotropic elastic constants of thin films
Authors: OGI H. , NAKAMURA N. , HIRAO M.
Published: July 2005

This paper presents an advanced resonant ultrasound spectroscopy (RUS) method to determine the elastic constants Cij of thin films. Polycrystalline thin films often exhibit elastic anisotropy between the film growth direction and the in‐plane direction, and they macroscopically show five independent elastic constants. Because all of the Cij of a deposited thin film affect the mechanical resonance frequencies of the film/substrate layer specimen, measuring resonance frequencies enables one to determine the Cij of the film with known density, dimensions and the Cij of the substrate. Resonance frequencies have to be measured accurately because of low sensitivity of the Cij of films to them. We achieved this by a piezoelectric tripod. Mode identification has to be made unambiguously. We made this measuring displacement–amplitude distributions on the resonated specimen surface by laser Doppler interferometry. We applied our technique to copper thin film and diamond thin film. They show elastic anisotropy and the Cij smaller than bulk values of Cij. Micromechanics calculations indicate the presence of incohesive bonded regions.
Amorphous Mo–N and Mo–Si–N films in microelectromechanical systems
Authors: KATTELUS H. , YLÖNEN M. , BLOMBERG M.
Published: July 2005

Micromachining based on metallic structural material possesses several inherent advantages. Metallic thin films can be deposited at room temperature by various means. In microelectromechanical systems they can thus be fabricated on top of polymeric sacrificial materials. The sacrificial layer is finally removed in oxygen plasma either before or after wafer dicing with no need for wet processing. However, in metallic micromachining, it is not trivial to find materials and processes producing structural layers with well‐controlled and uniform mechanical characteristics. Amorphous alloys Mo–N and Mo–Si–N are investigated in this study for the purpose, showing properties superior to polycrystalline metals for microelectromechanical devices and systems applications.
Tensile testing of silicon thin films
Authors: TSUCHIYA T.
Published: July 2005

The tensile strength of silicon thin films was investigated using a specimen chucking system dedicated for microscale specimens. The system uses electrostatic force to fix and hold the free end of the cantilever‐shaped specimens. The thin film tensile tester was built using this system. The accuracy and reliability of this method were assured by comparing it with other tensile‐testing methods using single‐crystal silicon specimens. The result shows good agreement between the testing methods. The strength properties of polysilicon thin films, such as the effect of the testing environment and the specimen size and the film fabrication conditions, were investigated.
Characterization of structural films using microelectromechanical resonators
Authors: MUHLSTEIN C. L.
Published: July 2005

Micromachined resonant fatigue characterization structures have been used by a variety of investigators to evaluate the stress‐life fatigue behaviour of thin films. This work will review the design, testing and analysis of these versatile thin‐film characterization structures. Subsequent discussion will illustrate how this material characterization approach has been used to evaluate the high‐cycle fatigue behaviour of silicon films commonly used in microelectromechanical systems (MEMS). This work demonstrates that properly designed resonators can be used to monitor extraordinarily low fatigue crack growth rates (i.e. ≪ 10−10 m/cycle) relevant to these minute mechanical components.
Investigation of the methanogen population structure and activity in a brackish lake sediment
Authors: Banning Natasha , Brock Fiona , Fry John C. , Parkes R. John , Hornibrook Edward R. C. , Weightman Andrew J.
Published: July 2005

The methanogen community in sediment from the edge of a small brackish lake connected to the Beaulieu Estuary (Hampshire, UK) was investigated by analysis of 16S rRNA gene diversity using new methanogen‐specific primers plus Archaea‐specific primers. 16S rRNA gene primers previously used for polymerase chain reaction (PCR) detection of methanogenic Archaea from a variety of environments were evaluated by in silico testing. The primers displayed variable coverage of the four main orders of methanogens, highlighting the importance of this type of primer evaluation. Three PCR primer sets were designed using novel reverse primers to facilitate specific amplification of the orders Methanomicrobiales/Methanosarcinales, Methanobacteriales and Methanococcales. Diversity of the methanogen functional gene, methyl coenzyme M reductase (mcrA), was also studied. All gene libraries constructed from this sediment indicated that Methanomicrobiales and Methanosarcinales were the only methanogens detected. There was good agreement between the relative sequence abundances in the methanogen‐specific 16S rRNA gene library and terminal restriction fragment length polymorphism (T‐RFLP) profiling, suggesting that the population was dominated by putative H2/CO2 utilizing Methanomicrobiales, although acetate‐utilizing methanogens were also present. The methanogen population analyses were in agreement with methanogenic activity measurements, which indicated that bicarbonate methanogenesis was higher than acetate methanogenesis at all depths measured and overall there was a significant difference (P = 0.001) between the rates of the two pathways. This study demonstrates the utility of new 16S rRNA gene PCR primers targeting specific methanogenic orders, and the combined results suggest that the CO2 reduction pathway dominates methanogenesis in the brackish sediment investigated.
An improved method for counting bacteria from sediments and turbid environments by epifluorescence microscopy
Authors: Lunau Mirko , Lemke Andreas , Walther Katja , Martens‐Habbena Willm , Simon Meinhard
Published: July 2005

We present a new procedure for effectively detaching particle‐associated bacteria by 10% (v/v) methanol and sonication which is particularly suitable for samples with a high particle load and sediments. We also optimized the sample preparation by applying the highly dsDNA‐specific fluorescent stain SybrGreen I together with an optically brilliant mounting medium (polyvinylalcohol 4–88, ‘moviol’) in one step. The new protocol allows a much faster, easy and less toxic handling of samples as compared to other methods. Cells are stained directly on a black Nuclepore filter and show an intensive fluorescence signal with low background. The detachment procedure was optimized with respect to the temperature of the 10% methanol solution (35°C), ultrasonication and centrifugation. The application of the new method in comparison with detachment procedures with pyrophosphate and Tween‐80 with various types of marine samples including sediments always yielded higher numbers and/or higher fractions of particle‐associated cells. Staining and mounting the samples with the moviol‐SybrGreen I solution allowed an accurate and highly reproduceable enumeration of bacteria also in samples with high concentrations of SPM. Fixation of bacteria by glutardialdehyde resulted in a brighter fluorescence as compared to fixation by formalin. Because of the high specificity to dsDNA and bright fluorescence of SybrGreen I, the fast and easy handling and the possibility to store stained samples for at least several months at −20°C without any loss in fluorescence intensity, the newly developed method is also an attractive alternative to DAPI staining of aquatic bacteria.
Biogeochemical processes in the saline meromictic Lake Kaiike, Japan: implications from molecular isotopic evidences of photosynthetic pigments
Authors: Ohkouchi Naohiko , Nakajima Yoji , Okada Hisatake , Ogawa Nanako O. , Suga Hisami , Oguri Kazumasa , Kitazato Hiroshi
Published: July 2005

Stable carbon and nitrogen isotopic compositions were determined for individual photosynthetic pigments isolated and purified from the saline meromictic Lake Kaiike, Japan, to investigate species‐independent biogeochemical processes of photoautotrophs in the natural environment. In the anoxic monimolimnion and benthic microbial mats, the carbon isotopic compositions of BChls e and isorenieratene related to brown‐coloured strains of green sulfur bacteria are substantially (∼10‰) depleted in 13C relative to those found in the chemocline. In conjunction with 16S rDNA evidence reported previously, it strongly suggests that Pelodyctyon luteolum inhabited and photosynthesized in the anoxic monimolimnion and benthic microbial mats by using 13C‐depleted regenerated CO2. By contrast, both Chl a and BChl a in the monimolimnion and microbial mats have similar isotopic compositions as they do in the chemocline, implying that the source organisms live only in the chemocline. In the chemocline, the nitrogen isotopic compositions of BChl e homologues ranges from −7.7 to − 6.5‰, whereas that of BChl a is −2.1‰. These isotopic compositions suggest that green sulfur bacteria Chlorobium phaeovibrioides would conduct nitrogen fixation in the chemocline, whereas purple sulfur bacteria Halochromatium sp. and cyanobacteria Synechococcus sp. may assimilate nitrite.
Gene sequence heterogeneity of Corallococcus coralloides strains isolated from geographically diverse locations
Authors: Stackebrandt Erko , Päuker Orsola
Published: July 2005

Thirty‐three strains classified as Corallococcus coralloides isolated from mostly soil samples in 14 countries of four continents, were subjected to phylogenetic analyses. Based on 16S rDNA analyses the strains form a highly related cluster, sharing above 98.7% sequence similarity. Four groups were recognized within this cluster, only one of which, containing two strains from St. Lucia, Lower Antilles, was exclusively defined by strains from the same sample. The other groups contained members from different countries, even continents. The largest group embraced the type strains of C. coralloides DSM 2259T and Corallococcus exiguus 14696T which were almost indistinguishable in their 16S rRNA gene sequence. Corallococcus macrosporus DSM 14697T grouped outside the C. coralloides cluster, showing a higher relationship to a member of Myxococcus. The topology of the tree generated on the basis of the partial gyrase B (gyrB) gene sequence supports the rRNA gene tree, though some differences in the order of branching were observed. As judged by the binary similarity values the higher resolution power of gyrB sequences was confirmed. From a taxonomic standpoint, the size of myxospores is not a valuable taxonomic criterion, as small‐ and medium‐sized myxospores are members of the same group. If the species status of C. coralloides and C. exiguus is verified by other methods (e.g. DNA–DNA hybridisation, RiboTyping), the genus Corallococcus may embrace a broad range of yet‐to‐be described novel species. The presence of strains within the same sample displaying higher relatedness to strains from other locations points towards an intensive dispersal of myxospores across continents.
Symbiotic and saprophytic survival of three unmarked Rhizobium leguminosarum biovar trifolii strains introduced into the field
Authors: Duodu Samuel , Bhuvaneswari T. V. , Gudmundsson J. , Svenning Mette M.
Published: July 2005

The symbiotic and saprophytic persistence of three unmarked Rhizobium leguminosarum biovar trifolii (Rlt) strains introduced into a field site in Iceland were followed. This site was free of clover cultivation and initially devoid of clover‐nodulating rhizobia as tested by nodulation studies. Nodule occupancy by strains was identified based on their distinct ERIC‐polymerase chain reaction (PCR) DNA fingerprint patterns. The survival and persistence of the individual strains in soil were monitored by the quantitative real‐time PCR (qRT‐PCR) assay, targeting the host‐specific nodE gene. The most dominant strain in the nodule population, Rlt 20‐15, showed relatively less saprophytic survival ability and maintained high numbers only in the presence of the appropriate host plant. Conversely, the minor nodule occupant, Rlt 32‐28, persisted in soil at a relatively higher abundance both in the presence of its host legumes and in the presence of a non‐host grass. The qRT‐PCR assay was successfully applied to quantify rhizobial strains directly in soil without culturing or nodulation. However, the assay demonstrated less sensitivity compared with the plant infection most‐probable‐number (MPN) method for estimating the population size of rhizobia in soil. The quantitative detection limit of our qRT‐PCR assays was 1 × 103 cells per gram of soil, as opposed to the MPN test which has a detection limit of 10 cells per gram of soil.
Tricks of the Trade: The Performance and Interpretation of Authenticity
Authors: Moeran Brian
Published: July 2005

abstract This paper discusses a Tokyo advertising agency's preparation of campaign ideas for a competitive presentation made to a Japanese multinational corporation planning to advertise in both Germany and the United States, and the part played therein by the author as authentic foreign other. Based on anthropological fieldwork, the paper gives details of the client's orientation and the agency's subsequent market analysis and creative interpretations, while following the back‐stage interpretations of key personnel's tastes by the agency's account team as a means towards making their final selection of campaign ideas for the presentation. This description gives rise to two complementary analyses of authenticity. One concerns advertising as ‘authentic reproduction’ in the context of the interpretation of cultural stereotypes. The other analyses back stage strategy and front stage performance to show how the performance and interpretation of authenticity are tricks of the trade that enable Japanese business organizations to be seen as professional and credible in the eyes of their clients, competitors, customers and partners.
In Search of Authenticity*
Authors: Peterson Richard A.
Published: July 2005

abstractAfter showing that authenticity is socially constructed rather than an attribute of that which is called authentic, we examine the authenticity work involved in claiming authenticity and discuss the processes of authentication. We then explore the situations in which the quest for authenticity makes for change and conclude by showing that the salience of authenticity can change.
Intonational phrasing, discontinuity, and the scope of negation
Authors: Błaszczak Joanna , Gärtner Hans‐Martin
Published: July 2005

And nothing is, but what is not(Macbeth I.iii.142)

Abstract. We discuss several cases of English and German negative quantifiers taking extended scope. We argue that these scope extensions are sensitive to linear and prosodic continuity, a fact that we capture in terms of a Condition on Extended Scope Taking (CEST). We provide two formalizations of CEST, one couched in minimalist terms and another within the framework of Combinatory Categorial Grammar (CCG). We compare and contrast the resulting systems and suggest that although the differences are clearly discernible it is too early to judge which of the competitors should be preferred.
EPP in T: More Controversial Subjects
Authors: Epstein Samuel David , Pires Acrisio , Seely T. Daniel
Published: July 2005

Abstract. This paper has two goals. First, it provides a solution to an important and particularly recalcitrant problem regarding non‐control infinitival complements of derived nouns, which have been argued to provide independent motivation for the retention of the EPP in T. Second, it presents an unnoted problem regarding the elimination of the EPP in infinitival complements of underived nouns, proposing an analysis for them that need not appeal to the EPP in T. To reach these goals, this paper appeals to: (i) an approach to null complementizers as affixes that require specific kinds of hosts, as proposed inBošković and Lasnik 2003(building on, but modifying certain aspects of the foundational analysis inPesetsky 1991andStowell 1981); and (ii) an argument (based onOrmazabal 1995) that non‐control infinitival complements to nouns are CPs headed by an affixal null C.
MASTER AND APPRENTICE, KNIGHT AND SQUIRE: EDUCATION IN THE ‘CELTIC’ IRON AGE
Authors: KARL RAIMUND
Published: July 2005

Summary.The role of education and agency of children as factors in the formation of Iron Age culture is addressed. Historical sources on education from Iron Age Gaul are compared with later ‘medieval Celtic’ practices. Fosterage, common Celtic *altros, may have been the evolutionary precursor of apprenticeships and knight–squire relationships, as developed in the feudal states of medieval Europe. Fosterage establishes artificial kinship, strengthens kinship alliances by providing hostages, helps to forge strong emotional bonds between foster parents, children and siblings, and helps to confirm social hierarchies, while providing specialized education. Professional specialists gain increased security outside their own group. It gives children a role in the tradition of culture, and allows them to blend artistic styles and create unique adaptations combining ‘local’ traditions with ‘external’ innovations. Fosterage can thus be established as an important method of peer polity interaction in Iron Age and medieval ‘Celtic’ societies.
ROMAN CIRENCESTER AND GLOUCESTER COMPARED
Authors: HURST HENRY
Published: July 2005

Summary. Roman Cirencester and Roman Gloucester have in the past been seen as examples of success and (relative) failure in the urbanization of Roman Britain, but they seem better understood as expressions of different urban ideas. Cirencester actively remoulded itself as a model Roman city, although there may be allusions to its earlier past in its layout. Gloucester, perhaps deliberately, did not, with the result that its earlier history is expressed physically within the Roman city plan. The two communities may also have presented their collective identities differently. Other aspects of their urban expression are also explored.
Body shape and composition in HIV‐infected women: an urban cohort
Authors: Karmon SL , Moore RD , Dobs AS , Keruly J , Barnett S , Cofrancesco J
Published: July 2005

Objectives

Alterations in body shape and composition are associated with HIV/AIDS. Wasting remains prevalent; increasingly, lipodystrophy is reported. Obesity is also epidemic in the USA. In this study, we sought to characterize the body changes reported by women attending a US urban clinic, and to evaluate contributing factors using inexpensive methods that are readily available in clinical practice.

Methods

In an urban Maryland clinic, a cross‐section of HIV‐infected women were evaluated by self report, anthropomorphic measurements, bioelectric impedance analysis (BIA) and chart review; they were categorized as no change, lipodystrophy, weight loss/wasting or weight gain/obesity.

Results

One hundred and sixty‐one women were evaluated: 144 (89%) were African‐American; 100 (62%) had used intravenous drugs and 40 (25%) were actively injecting drugs, while 39 (24%) smoked crack. Ninety‐five (59%) were on highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) for a median period of 11.7 months [interquartile range (IQR)=4.5–24.2]. Since starting current HAART or in the previous year, 12 (7.4%) reported lipodystrophy changes, 85 (52.8%) weight gain, 27 (16.8%) overall weight loss, and 37 (23.0%) no change. Lipodystrophy was associated with higher CD4 percentage (P=0.03), lower frequency of crack use (P=0.04) and higher educational level (P=0.03). Weight loss correlated with longer duration of infection (P=0.01), select BIA results and increased rate of crack use (P=0.005). Weight gain was associated with higher fat mass (P=0.005), higher peak viral load (P=0.02), and lower rate of intravenous drug use (P=0.03).

Conclusions

Self‐reported changes in body shape were common. Obesity and complications of illicit drug use were more prevalent than lipodystrophy in this inner‐city population of HIV‐positive women.
Prevention of cryptococcosis in HIV‐infected patients with limited access to highly active antiretroviral therapy: evidence for primary azole prophylaxis
Authors: Cantey PT , Stephens DS , Rimland D
Published: July 2005

Despite advances in the treatment of HIV disease, the incidence and mortality of invasive cryptococcal disease remain significant. A matched, case‐control study was performed to examine the impact of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) and azole use on the incidence of invasive cryptococcal disease in HIV‐infected patients. The study was performed at a metropolitan hospital with a large indigent population and an incidence of seven cases of cryptococcal disease per 1000 persons with AIDS. Bivariate analysis, matched on CD4 count, revealed that both HAART use [odds ratio (OR) 0.43; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.23–0.99] and azole use (OR 0.14; 95% CI 0.06–0.34) had a protective effect. Conditional logistic regression stratified on CD4 lymphocyte count revealed a protective role for azole use (OR 0.15; 95% CI 0.06–0.40) but not for HAART use (OR 0.47; 95% CI 0.18–1.26). Of note, the prevalence of HAART use was low in both cases and controls, with only 12% of cases and 23% of controls on HAART. The results of this study support previous evidence that azole use prevents invasive cryptococcal disease. Although current guidelines for the prophylaxis of opportunistic infections do not suggest routine prophylaxis for cryptococcal infection, this issue should be reconsidered, especially in populations that have a low prevalence of HAART use.
Dysregulation of CD28 and CTLA‐4 expression by CD4 T cells from previously immunodeficient HIV‐infected patients with sustained virological responses to highly active antiretroviral therapy
Authors: Stone SF , Price P , French MA
Published: July 2005

Objectives

Current guidelines recommend commencing highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) in HIV‐infected patients when CD4 T‐cell counts reach 350 cells/μL. However, late‐presenting HIV‐infected patients with CD4 T‐cell counts<50 cells/μL are still common. The ability of long‐term HAART to normalize immune dysregulation in severely immunodeficient HIV‐infected patients remains unclear. Here we address indices of immune dysregulation in previously severely immunocompromised HIV‐infected patients treated with long‐term HAART who had achieved increased CD4 T‐cell counts and complete suppression of HIV viraemia.

Methods

We examined expression of CD28, cytotoxic T‐lymphocyte antigen‐4 (CTLA‐4) and intracellular perforin by CD4 and CD8 lymphocytes from 25 highly selected HIV‐infected patients [nadir CD4 T‐cell counts <50 cells/μL, >4 years on HAART and >6 months of complete viral suppression (<50 HIV‐1 RNA copies/mL)] and 18 HIV‐seronegative age‐ and sex‐matched controls.

Results

HIV‐infected patients had lower percentages of CD28‐expressing CD4 lymphocytes and higher percentages of CTLA‐4‐expressing CD4 lymphocytes than controls. The percentage of CTLA‐4‐expressing CD4 lymphocytes correlated inversely with that of CD28‐expressing CD4 lymphocytes. The proportion of CD4 lymphocytes expressing perforin was generally low. However, more HIV‐infected patients than controls had >1% of CD4 lymphocytes expressing perforin [11 of 25 (44%) vs. one of 18 (5.5%)]. The percentage of CD8 lymphocytes expressing perforin did not differ between HIV‐infected patients and controls. Amongst HIV‐infected patients, the percentage of perforin‐expressing CD8 lymphocytes correlated inversely with nadir but not current CD4 T‐cell count.

Conclusions

Expression of CD28, CTLA‐4 and perforin by CD4 lymphocytes remain dysregulated in HIV‐infected patients with previous severe immunodeficiency, despite increased CD4 T‐cell counts and control of HIV viraemia by HAART.
Animal landscapes: otters and wildfowl in England 1945–1970
Authors: Matless David , Merchant Paul , Watkins Charles
Published: July 2005

The paper considers otter hunting and wildfowling in England between 1945 and 1970, showing how arguments over human conduct in relation to the animal were linked to scientific studies of populations, moral arguments over cruelty and the abilities of field sports to restyle themselves as modern. If wildfowling restyles itself as a new conservationist practice, otter hunting is increasingly regarded as a form of landed barbarism. Detailed studies of Herefordshire and Norfolk are drawn upon alongside national debates. The paper emphasizes the effects of geography in debates over such practices, extending work on animal geographies through the study of animal landscapes.
The Cinderella complex – narrating Spanish women's history, the home and visions of equality: developing new margins
Authors: Mohammad Robina
Published: July 2005

This paper examines the development of feminism in Spain within the context of political transformations. It focuses on one particular strand of feminist thinking: ‘equality feminism’. The paper traces the evolution of equality feminism and its institutionalization, supported by the production and dissemination of a feminist history of the Franquista dictatorship (1936–1939). Yet, under scrutiny such narratives maintain a silence on the social, political and geographical diversity of women's experiences prior to, during and beyond the Franquista dictatorship. Drawing on women's oral testimonies (recorded in the city of Málaga, Andalucía) the paper animates the silences of this feminist history in Spain and the limits of state feminist ideology.
Continuously functioning artificial nephron system: The promise of nanotechnology
Authors: Nissenson Allen R. , Ronco Claudio , Pergamit Gayle , Edelstein Martin , Watts Richard
Published: July 2005

Nearly 900,000 patients worldwide have end‐stage renal disease and require dialysis or kidney transplantation. Despite the availability of these forms of renal replacement therapy for nearly four decades, mortality and morbidity are high and patients often have a poor quality of life. We have developed a human nephron filter (HNF) utilizing nanotechnology that would eventually make feasible a continuously functioning, wearable or implantable artificial kidney. The device consists of two membranes operating in series within one device cartridge. The first membrane mimics the function of the glomerulus, using convective transport to generate a plasma ultrafiltrate containing all solutes approaching the molecular weight of albumin. The second membrane mimics the function of the renal tubules, selectively reclaiming designated solutes to maintain body homeostasis. No dialysis solution is used in this device. The HNF has been computer‐modeled, and operating 12 hr per day, 7 days per week the HNF provides the equivalent of 30 mL/min glomerular filtration rate (compared to half that amount for conventional thrice‐weekly hemodialysis). Animal studies should begin in the next 1 to 2 years, and clinical trials would then follow 1 to 2 years subsequent. The HNF system, by eliminating dialysate and utilizing a novel membrane system created through applied nanotechnology, represents a breakthrough in renal replacement therapy based on the functioning of native kidneys. The enhanced solute removal and wearable design should substantially improve patient outcomes and quality of life.
The effect of a change in epoetin alfa reimbursement policy on anemia outcomes in hemodialysis patients
Authors: Berns Jeffrey S. , Fishbane Steven , Elzein Hafez , Lynn Robert I. , Deoreo Peter B. , Tharpe David L. , Meisels Ira S.
Published: July 2005

In 1997, the Health Care Financing Administration Hematocrit Measurement Audit (HMA) program initiated use of a 3‐month rolling average hematocrit (Hct) level for reimbursement of epoetin claims in hemodialysis patients, with denial of payment when this value exceeded 36.5%. This study evaluated the impact of the HMA program on anemia‐related outcomes in hemodialysis patients. An observational, retrospective study of 987 hemodialysis patients from 11 dialysis centers in the United States was performed, collecting data between October 1996 and December 1997. Centers were selected from a pool of nearly all facilities in the United States, which during May 1997 satisfied one of two criteria: greater than 75% of patients at the facility had mean Hct level of ≥33% (Group A) or fewer than 50% of patients at the facility had mean Hct level of ≥33% (Group B). Each facility maintained its own anemia management practices without specific anemia management interventions as part of this study. Hct level, hemoglobin (Hb) level, and epoetin dose were analyzed to compare the pre‐HMA period (October 1996 to May 1997) to the HMA period (June to December 1997) and/or for each of the five quarters of the study period. The primary study endpoint was the percentage of patients with Hct levels of ≥33% during each study quarter. The mean Hct level at baseline was 34% in Group A and 33.4% in Group B (p = 0.01). Hct levels, which were increasing before implementation of the HMA program, decreased during the HMA period (p < 0.001 and p = 0.013 in Groups A and B, respectively). The percentage of patients in Groups A and B with mean quarterly Hct levels of ≥33% decreased during the last quarter of the HMA implementation period compared to the quarter immediately preceding the start of the HMA program (p < 0.001 for both comparisons). Changes in Hb levels were similar to those seen in Hct levels. The mean epoetin dose administered decreased from 13,090 U/week at the start of the study to 11,884 U/week immediately before the HMA program took effect (p < 0.05). The HMA program adversely affected anemia treatment outcomes, regardless of whether dialysis units before HMA implementation had <50% of patients with a Hct level of ≥33% or had >75% of patients with a Hct level of ≥33%. The decline in mean weekly dose of epoetin was likely a result of withholding doses out of concern among providers about risk of reimbursement denial.
Important role of blood rheology in atherosclerosis of patients with hemodialysis
Authors: Kobayashi Shuzo , Okamoto Kouji , Maesato Kyouko , Moriya Hidekazu , Ohtake Takayasu
Published: July 2005

Concerning a role of blood rheology for atherosclerosis in patients with hemodialysis (HD), little data are available. It may be due to the fact that the method for evaluating rheologic properties of circulating blood has been limited. We examined blood rheology in 118 HD patients by using microchannel array flow analyzer that makes it possible to directly observe the flow of blood cell elements through the microchannel. Transit time (TB) of heparinized whole blood through slit pores (7 × 30 µm) was used as an index of rheology and related with various inflammatory biomarkers such as high‐sensitive CRP (hsCRP), monocyte chemotactic protein‐1, osteopontin, or fibrinogen (Fg). Moreover, as a surrogate marker of atherosclerosis, carotid intima‐media thickness (IMT) and aortic stiffness evaluated by brachial‐ankle pulse‐wave velocity (baPWV) were studied. In HD patients, TB had strong positive correlations with hsCRP (r = 0.427; p < 0.00001), Fg (r = 0.452; p < 0.00001), and osteopontin (r = 0.227; p < 0.0134). Further, TB was significantly well correlated with IMT (r = 0.400; p < 0.0001) and PWV (r = 0.470; p < 0.0001). Multivariate regression analysis showed that baPWV, IMT, Fg, hematocrit, white blood cell count, and CRP were chosen as significant explanatory factors for TB. These results suggest that blood rheology may play an important role for atherosclerosis in patients with HD.