bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
mRNA EDITING AND SPLICED‐LEADER RNA TRANS‐SPLICING GROUPS OXYRRHIS, NOCTILUCA, HETEROCAPSA, AND AMPHIDINIUM AS BASAL LINEAGES OF DINOFLAGELLATES1
Authors: Zhang Huan , Lin Senjie
Published: May 2008

Identification of novel dinoflagellate taxa through molecular analysis is hindered by lack of well‐defined basal lineages. To address this issue, we attempted to reassess the phylogenetic status of Oxyrrhis marina Dujard. as well as other potentially basal taxa. The analysis was based on two newly established premises: (1) editing density of mitochondrial cob and cox1 mRNA increases from basal to later diverging lineages; (2) nuclear‐encoded mRNA in dinoflagellates is trans‐spliced to receive a 22 bp spliced leader (SL) at the 5′‐end. We analyzed these two genetic traits in O. marina, Noctiluca scintillans (Macartney) Kof. et Swezy, Heterocapsa triquetra (Ehrenb.) F. Stein, H. rotundata (Lohmann) Ge. Hansen, Amphidinium carterae Hulburt, and A. operculatum Clap. et J. Lachm. Surprisingly, no editing was detected in cob and cox1 mRNAs in these lineages, except for a small number of editing events in Amphidinium. However, nuclear‐encoded mRNAs in these species contained the SL sequence at the 5′‐end, indicative of SL RNA trans‐splicing. These findings, together with the recent cob‐cox1‐18S rRNA three‐gene phylogeny, suggest the following: (1) O. marina is a basal dinoflagellate; (2) Heterocapsa, Amphidinium, and Noctiluca likely are also early diverging lineages of dinoflagellates, and the position of Heterocapsa is inconsistent with literature and needs further investigation; and (3) the presence of the 22 bp SL and mitochondrial (mt) mRNA editing can be considered a landmark of dinoflagellate splits.
APPLICATION OF PHYLOGENETIC PRINCIPLES TO TESTING EVOLUTIONARY SCENARIOS: A COMMENT ON KACZMARSKA ET AL. “MOLECULAR PHYLOGENY OF SELECTED MEMBERS OF THE ORDER THALASSIOSIRALES (BACILLARIOPHYTA) AND EVOLUTION OF THE FULTOPORTULA”1
Authors: Theriot Edward C.
Published: May 2008

While rigorous techniques have usually been used to generate phylogenetic trees from molecular data, morphological analysis has sometimes been more informal. A recent example was a study of the evolution of the fultoportula in the diatom order Thalassiosirales (Kaczmarska et al. 2006). Phylogeny was inferred using modern phylogenetic principles applied to nuclear SSU rDNA sequences, but inferences about morphological character evolution were made using noncanonical reasoning and evolutionary scenario building. The preferred hypothesis posited that marginal fultoportulae evolved from the marginal ridge of Lithodesmiales. A related hypothesis suggested that fultoportulae in the valve center were not homologous with those near the valve margin. Shared symplesiomorphies, shared homoplasies, gaps in the fossil record, and subtle morphological differences between central‐ and marginal‐area fultoportulae were offered as the primary evidence for these scenarios. The literature has demonstrated such arguments to be either irrelevant or logically weaker than inferences made under the tests of similarity, conjunction, and congruence. Five prior hypotheses about the origin and evolution of the fultoportula were examined in this study using these tests. The hypothesis that the areola evolved into the multistrutted process, which evolved into the fultoportula, was best supported.
COMPARISON OF SIMPLE AND MULTIMETRIC DIATOM‐BASED INDICES FOR GREAT LAKES COASTLINE DISTURBANCE1
Authors: Reavie Euan D. , Kireta Amy R. , Kingston John C. , Sgro Gerald V. , Danz Nicholas P. , Axler Richard P. , Hollenhorst Thomas P.
Published: May 2008

Because diatom communities are subject to the prevailing water quality in the Great Lakes coastal environment, diatom‐based indices can be used to support coastal‐monitoring programs and paleoecological studies. Diatom samples were collected from Great Lakes coastal wetlands, embayments, and high‐energy sites (155 sites), and assemblages were characterized to the species level. We defined 42 metrics on the basis of autecological and functional properties of species assemblages, including species diversity, motile species, planktonic species, proportion dominant taxon, taxonomic metrics (e.g., proportion Stephanodiscoid taxa), and diatom‐inferred (DI) water quality (e.g., DI chloride [Cl]). Redundant metrics were eliminated, and a diatom‐based multimetric index (MMDI) to infer coastline disturbance was developed. Anthropogenic stresses in adjacent coastal watersheds were characterized using geographic information system (GIS) data related to agricultural and urban land cover and atmospheric deposition. Fourteen independent diatom metrics had significant regressions with watershed stressor data; these metrics were selected for inclusion in the MMDI. The final MMDI was developed as the weighted sum of the selected metric scores with weights based on a metric’s ability to reflect anthropogenic stressors in the adjacent watersheds. Despite careful development of the multimetric approach, verification using a test set of sites indicated that the MMDI was not able to predict watershed stressors better than some of the component metrics. From this investigation, it was determined that simpler, more traditional diatom‐based metrics (e.g., DI Cl, proportion Cl‐tolerant species, and DI total phosphorus [TP]) provide superior prediction of overall stressor influence at coastal locales.
MOLECULAR PHYLOGENY, ULTRASTRUCTURE, AND TAXONOMIC REVISION OF CHLOROGONIUM (CHLOROPHYTA): EMENDATION OF CHLOROGONIUM AND DESCRIPTION OF GUNGNIR GEN. NOV. AND RUSALKA GEN. NOV.1
Authors: Nakada Takashi , Nozaki Hisayoshi , Pröschold Thomas
Published: May 2008

We examined the molecular phylogeny and ultrastructure of Chlorogonium and related species to establish the natural taxonomy at the generic level. Phylogenetic analyses of 18S rRNA and RUBISCO LSU (rbcL) gene sequences revealed two separate clades of Chlorogonium from which Chlorogonium (Cg.) fusiforme Matv. was robustly separated. One clade comprised Cg. neglectum Pascher and Cg. kasakii Nozaki, whereas the other clade included the type species Cg. euchlorum (Ehrenb.) Ehrenb., Cg. elongatum (P. A. Dang.) Francé, and Cg. capillatum Nozaki, M. Watanabe et Aizawa. On the basis of unique ultrastructural characteristics, we described Gungnir Nakada gen. nov. comprising three species: G. neglectum (Pascher) Nakada comb. nov., G. mantoniae (H. Ettl) Nakada comb. nov., and G. kasakii (Nozaki) Nakada comb. nov. We also emended Chlorogonium as a monophyletic genus composed of Cg. euchlorum, Cg. elongatum, and Cg. capillatum. Because Cg. fusiforme was distinguished from the redefined Chlorogonium and Gungnir by the structure of its starch plate, which is associated with pyrenoids, we reclassified this species as Rusalka fusiformis (Matv.) Nakada gen. et comb. nov.
IDENTIFICATION AND ASSESSMENT OF DOMOIC ACID PRODUCTION IN OCEANIC PSEUDO‐NITZSCHIA (BACILLARIOPHYCEAE) FROM IRON‐LIMITED WATERS IN THE NORTHEAST SUBARCTIC PACIFIC1
Authors: Marchetti Adrian , Lundholm Nina , Kotaki Yuichi , Hubbard Katherine , Harrison Paul J. , Virginia Armbrust E.
Published: May 2008

We identified and investigated the potential toxicity of oceanic Pseudo‐nitzschia species from Ocean Station Papa (OSP), located in a high‐nitrate, low‐chlorophyll (HNLC) region of the northeast (NE) subarctic Pacific Ocean. Despite their relatively low abundances in the indigenous phytoplankton assemblage, Pseudo‐nitzschia species richness is high. The morphometric characteristics of five oceanic Pseudo‐nitzschia isolates from at least four species are described using SEM and TEM. The species identified are Pseudo‐nitzschia dolorosa Lundholm et Moestrup, P. granii Hasle, P. heimii Manguin, and P. cf. turgidula (Hust.) Hasle. Additional support for the taxonomic classifications based on frustule morphology is provided through the sequencing of the internal transcribed spacer 1 (ITS1) rDNA. Pseudo‐nitzschia species identification was also assessed by the construction of ITS1 clone libraries and using automated ribosomal intergenic spacer analysis (ARISA) for environmental samples collected during the Subarctic Ecosystem Response to Iron Enrichment Study (SERIES), conducted in close proximity to OSP in July of 2002. Based on ITS1 sequences, the presence of P. granii, P. heimii, P. cf. turgidula, and at least five other putative, unidentified Pseudo‐nitzschia ITS1 variants was confirmed within iron‐enriched phytoplankton assemblages at OSP. None of the oceanic isolates produced detectable levels of particulate domoic acid (DA) when in prolonged stationary phase due to silicic acid starvation. The lack of detectable concentrations of DA suggests that either these strains produce very little or no toxin, or that the physiological conditions required to promote particulate DA production were not met and thus differ from their coastal, toxigenic congeners.
DEMOGRAPHIC CONSEQUENCES OF COALESCENCE IN SPORELING POPULATIONS OF MAZZAELLA LAMINARIOIDES (GIGARTINALES, RHODOPHYTA)1
Authors: Santelices B. , Alvarado J. L.
Published: May 2008

Coalescing macroalgae are ecologically important members of intertidal and shallow subtidal communities. However, we still lack quantitative information on the demographic consequences of coalescence. Using demographic models developed for modular invertebrates, we studied the demography of settlement and early recruitment in the coalescing macroalga Mazzaella laminarioides (Bory) Fredericq. Permanently marked microscopic fields on laboratory‐incubated and field‐incubated plates were monitored regularly (at 15, 30, 45, and 60 d) using image analysis techniques to evaluate the relative importance of settler abundance, mortality, coalescence (fusion), and fission on the changes in size and numbers of recruits. On the plates, spores settled individually or in groups. Over time, spores in close proximity may coalesce, resulting in a mixture of unisporic and multisporic crusts. When new spores arrive, they may or may not coalesce with previously settled crusts. Coalescence and mortality reduce the number of sporelings, but coalescence increases the size of the sporelings, thereby reducing further probability of sporeling mortality. Crust fissions are negligible in frequency, while the frequency of coalescence increases from ∼25% after only 3 d, to ∼75% after 60 d. Thus, as a result of variable settlement, mortality, and coalescence, any area colonized by M. laminarioides would contain a mixture of crusts of different sizes, ages, and genetic constitution. The interactions between the above three processes create a more complex survivorship curve than the ones known for unitary organisms.
HDL2 of Heavy Alcohol Drinkers Enhances Cholesterol Efflux From Raw Macrophages via Phospholipid‐Rich HDL2b Particles
Authors: Mäkelä Sanna M. , Jauhiainen Matti , Ala‐Korpela Mika , Metso Jari , Lehto Tiina M. , Savolainen Markku J. , Hannuksela Minna L.
Published: May 2008

Background:  Alcohol consumption is associated with increased serum high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol levels and a decreased risk for the development of atherosclerosis. However, the effects of heavy alcohol intake on reverse cholesterol transport, one of the key anti‐atherogenic processes related to HDL, are poorly known.

Methods:  The ability of total HDL as well as HDL2 and HDL3 subclasses to promote cholesterol efflux from 3H‐cholesterol‐labeled RAW 264.7 macrophages was studied among 6 heavy alcohol drinkers and 6 controls. Distribution of HDL subclasses was analyzed by 4 to 30% native gradient gels. Serum phospholipid transfer protein (PLTP) and cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP) activities were analyzed among several other biochemical measures.

Results:  Cholesterol efflux to HDL2 of heavy drinkers was 22% (p = 0.025) higher relative to controls. The increase in HDL2 phospholipids, with a concomitant 2‐fold (p = 0.055) increase in large HDL2b particles, was associated with enhanced cholesterol efflux to HDL2. Interestingly, the cholesterol efflux to HDL3 did not differ between the 2 study groups. These findings may be partially explained by a decreased CETP activity (−26%, p = 0.037) and an increased PLTP activity (39%, p = 0.045) in heavy drinkers.

Conclusions:  The increased cholesterol efflux potential of HDL2 is most likely an anti‐atherogenic feature linked to heavy alcohol consumption. The cholesterol efflux and HDL phospholipids also associated strongly within the whole study group (rs = 0.910, p ≤ 0.01) suggesting a common pathway of enhanced cholesterol efflux via enlarged phospholipid‐rich HDL particles.
Developing a Senior Healthcare Practice Using the Chronic Care Model: Effect on Physical Function and Health‐Related Quality of Life
Authors: Stock Ronald , Mahoney Eldon R. , Reece Dan , Cesario Lorelei
Published: May 2008

An ambulatory senior health clinic was developed using the chronic care model (CCM), with emphasis on an interdisciplinary team approach. To determine the effect of this care model approach in a nonprofit healthcare system, an observational, longitudinal panel study of community‐dwelling Medicare beneficiaries was performed to examine the effect on physical function and health‐related quality of life (HRQL). Participants in the study were recruited from a community sample of 6,864 eligible Medicare beneficiaries. Informed consent and baseline data were obtained from 1,709 individuals (recruitment response rate=25%) and complete data across 30 months from 1,307 (completion response rate=76%). Participants receiving care in the CCM‐based senior healthcare practice (n=318) were compared with patients of primary care physicians supported by care managers (n=598) and a group without care managers (n=391). Self‐reported data were collected over the telephone to measure physical function and HRQL at baseline and 6, 18, and 30 months. A multiple group mixture growth model was used to analyze physical function and HRQL across the 30 months. Physical function and HRQL mean scores decreased across time in all participants and were moderately correlated at each wave (correlation coefficient=0.74–0.79). Two latent growth classes were identified. In class 1, physical function decreased, and HRQL remained stable across time. In class 2, physical function and HRQL decreased in parallel. Ninety‐seven percent of intervention group patients were in class 1, and 99% of patients in comparison groups 1 and 2 were in class 2. Despite physical function decline, patients in a senior health clinic care model maintained HRQL over time, whereas patients receiving traditional care had physical function and HRQL decline. An interdisciplinary team CCM approach appears to have a positive effect on HRQL in this population.
Geriatric Co‐Management of Proximal Femur Fractures: Total Quality Management and Protocol‐Driven Care Result in Better Outcomes for a Frail Patient Population
Authors: Friedman Susan M. , Mendelson Daniel A. , Kates Stephen L. , McCann Robert M.
Published: May 2008

Hip fractures in older adults are a common event, leading to substantial morbidity and mortality. Hip fractures have been previously described as a “geriatric, rather than orthopedic disease.” Patients with this condition have a high prevalence of comorbidity and a high risk of complications from surgery, and for this reason, geriatricians may be well suited to improve outcomes of care. Co‐management of hip fracture patients by orthopedic surgeons and geriatricians has led to better outcomes in other countries but has rarely been described in the United States. This article describes a co‐managed Geriatric Fracture Center program that has resulted in lower‐than‐predicted length of stay and readmission rates, with short time to surgery, low complication rates, and low mortality. This program is based on the principles of early evaluation of patients, ongoing co‐management, protocol‐driven geriatric‐focused care, and early discharge planning. This is a potentially replicable model of care that uses the expertise of geriatricians to optimize the management of a common and serious condition.
Complications and Outcomes of Lumbar Spine Surgery in Elderly People: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Cloyd Jordan M. , Acosta Frank L. , Ames Christopher P.
Published: May 2008

As the number of elderly persons in the United States continues to increase, there will be an associated increase in age‐related diseases, such as degenerative conditions of the lumbar spine. Elderly patients frequently present to their geriatrician or primary care provider with low back and leg pain. Spine surgery is one of several options the geriatric patient may consider for symptomatic relief, but the literature describing the safety and efficacy of spine surgery in older patients is inconclusive and at times confusing. The purpose of this article is to describe common degenerative conditions of the lumbar spine and to review the complications and outcomes of spine surgery in elderly patients, with particular attention to how they compare with those of younger patients. A better understanding of the risks and prognosis associated with these types of surgeries will enable more‐informed decision‐making by patients and physicians.
Reliability of the Hierarchical Assessment of Balance and Mobility in Frail Older Adults
Authors: Rockwood Kenneth , Rockwood Michael R. H. , Andrew Melissa K. , Mitnitski Arnold
Published: May 2008

OBJECTIVES:To study the test–retest and interrater reliability of the Hierarchical Assessment of Balance and Mobility (HABAM) in frail older adults.

DESIGN:Convenience sample of 167 frail older adults seen as part of routine care by an academic geriatrician at a tertiary care teaching hospital.

SETTING:Inpatient medical and geriatric wards, geriatric ambulatory care clinic, emergency department, home visits.

PARTICIPANTS:The interrater reliability sample consisted of 98 inpatients and 69 outpatients. The test–retest reliability sample tracked 63 of the inpatients over the first 2 days of their hospital stay.

MEASUREMENTS:Mobility and balance were assessed using the HABAM. Frailty was assessed using a frailty index based on a standardized Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment. Reliability was assessed using Pearson correlations and the intraclass correlation coefficients.

RESULTS:The interrater reliability of the HABAM was 0.92 and ranged from 0.88 to 0.96 across settings for the various components (balance, transfers, mobility). Test–retest reliability was 0.91 (range 0.85–0.92).

CONCLUSION:The HABAM appears to be a reliable means of assessing mobility and balance in frail older adults.
Ultrasonography in Pain Medicine: A Critical Review
Authors: Gofeld Michael
Published: May 2008

▪ Abstract:  Recently, ultrasonography has been increasingly used in the field of regional anesthesia to assure reliable blockade of peripheral nerves and to visualize neuroaxial structures. As its popularity is steadily increasing, it may become a standard of care for both intraoperative analgesia and postoperative pain control. The application of ultrasound in chronic pain management, however, remains underutilized. Multiple reasons can be suggested to explain this situation. Nonetheless, numerous articles have been published and some interventionalists have gained experience and started to spread their knowledge through hands‐on workshops and medical meetings.

It, therefore, seems timely to describe the techniques of ultrasound‐guided injections for chronic pain, to review accumulated experience in this field, to reappraise the scientific and clinical value of this method, and to outline potential future developments. ▪
Photochemical inactivation with amotosalen and long‐wavelength ultraviolet light of Plasmodium and Babesia in platelet and plasma components
Authors: Grellier Philippe , Benach Jorge , Labaied Mehdi , Charneau Sébastien , Gil Horacio , Monsalve Gloria , Alfonso Ryan , Sawyer Lynette , Lin Lily , Steiert Matthias , Dupuis Kent
Published: May 2008

BACKGROUND: Transfusion‐transmitted cases of malaria and babesiosis have been well documented. Current efforts to screen out contaminated blood products result in component wastage due to the lack of specific detection methods while donor deferral does not always guarantee safe blood products. This study evaluated the efficacy of a photochemical treatment (PCT) method with amotosalen and long‐wavelength ultraviolet light (UVA) to inactivate these agents in red blood cells (RBCs) contaminating platelet (PLT) and plasma components.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Plasmodium falciparum– and Babesia microti–contaminated RBCs seeded into PLT and plasma components were treated with 150 µmol per L amotosalen and 3 J per cm2 UVA. The viability of both pathogens before and after treatment was measured with infectivity assays. Treatment with 150 µmol per L amotosalen and 1 J per cm2 UVA was used to assess the robustness of the PCT system.

RESULTS: No viable B. microti was detected in PLTs or plasma after treatment with 150 mol per L amotosalen and 3 J per cm2 UVA, demonstrating a mean inactivation of greater than 5.3 log in PLTs and greater than 5.3 log in plasma. After the same treatment, viable P. falciparum was either absent or below the limit of quantification in three of four replicate experiments both in PLTs and in plasma demonstrating a mean inactivation of at least 6.0 log in PLTs and at least 6.9 log in plasma. Reducing UVA dose to 1 J per cm2 did not significantly affect the level of inactivation.

CONCLUSION: P. falciparum and B. microti were highly sensitive to inactivation by PCT. Pathogen inactivation approaches could reduce the risk of transfusion‐transmitted parasitic infections and avoid unnecessary donor exclusions.
Regional and temporal variation in American Red Cross blood donations, 1995 to 2005
Authors: Crawford Stephen O. , Reich Nicholas G. , An Ming‐Wen , Brookmeyer Ron , Louis Thomas A. , Nelson Kenrad E. , Notari Edward P. , Trouern‐Trend Jonathan , Zou Shimian
Published: May 2008

BACKGROUND: Maintaining a stable blood supply is a critical goal of the American Red Cross Blood Services. Extensive Red Cross data provided the opportunity to assess both long‐term and short‐term trends in the variation of weekly blood donations.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Overall trends and week‐to‐week variation in donation rates were assessed in volunteer, whole‐blood donations from 1995 to 2005 among three Red Cross donor regions: the Connecticut region, the Greater Chesapeake and Potomac (Maryland) region, and the Southern California region, adjusting for population change, calendar time, age, sex, and donor region.

RESULTS: Weekly donation rates varied widely by region, ranging from 3.5 donations per 10,000 persons in Southern California to 10.2 donations per 10,000 in Connecticut. Week‐to‐week variation in donation rates within each region was also quite high. Typical swings in weekly donation rates ranged from 38 percent in Connecticut to 56 percent in Southern California. Week‐to‐week variation was also 103 percent higher (95% confidence interval [CI], 87%‐120%) among 18‐ to 24‐year‐old donors, compared to 25‐ to 44‐year‐olds, ranging from 32 to 49 percent. By comparison, week‐to‐week variation among adults 25 and older was more stable, ranging from 16 to 21 percent.

CONCLUSION: This study suggests that there is a great deal of variation in donation rates, particularly among the youngest donors. Improving recruitment and retention among these donors will be critical to maintaining an adequate blood supply as the donor population ages.
Thrombin generation before and after multicomponent blood collection
Authors: Cimenti Christina , Sipurzynski Sabine , Gallistl Siegfried , Rosenkranz Andrea , Hiden Michael , Leschnik Bettina , Schallmoser Katharina , Lanzer Gerhard , Muntean Wolfgang E.
Published: May 2008

BACKGROUND: Apheresis technology has made tremendous progress up to the development of automated blood component collection, which offers increased efficiency in donor blood use, but the concern about the contact of donor blood with artificial surfaces remains. Activation of the hemostatic system is a major issue in this context and is controversial. The aim of this study was to estimate the effect of apheresis on continuous thrombin generation (TG), representing a new tool to examine the overall function of the plasmatic clotting system.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Twenty‐six voluntary blood donors, fulfilling the law requirement for apheresis donation, participated in the study. Two units of platelets (6 × 1011) and 1 unit of red cells (250 mL; hematocrit level, 80%) were collected using two types of cell separators (Amicus, Fenwal, Inc.; and Trima Accel, Gambro BCT). Each donor underwent collection on both apheresis systems with at least 8 weeks in between. Samples of blood were collected before, immediately after, and 48 hours after apheresis. TG was measured using a slow fluorogenic substrate by means of calibrated automated thrombography (CAT).

RESULTS: CAT data changed only slightly, and no significant changes were seen before, immediately after, and 48 hours after apheresis (p > 0.05). The variables did not differ significantly between the two different apheresis systems (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSION: Using a CAT‐based technique, no change in variables of continuous TG were observed, suggesting that multicomponent blood collection did not lead to severe alterations in the hemostatic system of the donors.
Microchimerism decades after transfusion among combat‐injured US veterans from the Vietnam, Korean, and World War II conflicts
Authors: Utter Garth H. , Lee Tzong‐Hae , Rivers Ryan M. , Montalvo Lani , Wen Li , Chafets Daniel M. , Reed William F. , Busch Michael P.
Published: May 2008

BACKGROUND: Blood transfusion after traumatic injury can result in microchimerism (MC) of donor white cells (WBCs) in the recipient as late as 2 to 3 years postinjury, the longest prospective follow‐up to date. The purpose of this study was to determine how long transfusion‐associated MC lasts after traumatic injury.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: A group of US combat veterans who received transfusions who responded to a recruitment notice was retrospectively evaluated. Their blood was sampled, and MC was assessed by quantitative allele‐specific polymerase chain reaction detection of differences at the HLA‐DR locus or a panel of insertion‐deletion polymorphism loci. Results of veterans were compared to those from an age‐ and gender‐matched blood donor control group, from whom WBCs were retrieved from leukoreduction filters.

RESULTS: Among 163 combat veterans who received transfusion and 150 control subjects who did not receive transfusions, 16 (9.8%) of the veterans and 1 (0.7%) control subject had evidence of MC (relative risk, 14.7; 95% confidence interval, 2.0‐110). The veterans with MC included 3 who served in WWII (7% of subjects from that conflict), 5 in Korea (18%), and 6 in Vietnam (7%).

CONCLUSIONS: Transfusion for combat‐related injury can result in MC that lasts for 60 years, suggesting that it may involve permanent engraftment. MC is rare among male blood donors who did not receive transfusions, who are probably representative of individuals who have not had postnatal allogeneic exposures.
Long‐term serologic follow‐up of blood donors with biologic false reactivity on an anti‐human T‐cell lymphotropic virus Types I and II chemiluminescent immunoassay and implications for donor management
Authors: Kiely Philip , Thomas Brian , Kebede Mekonnen
Published: May 2008

BACKGROUND: This study reports the results of the long‐term serologic follow‐up of blood donors who gave an index biologic false‐reactive (BFR) result on an anti‐human T‐lymphotropic virus Types I and II (HTLV‐I and ‐II) chemiluminescent immunoassay (ChLIA).

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: All allogeneic whole‐blood and apheresis donors who gave an index BFR result on a HTLV‐I and ‐II ChLIA between May 10, 1997, and December 31, 2004, were included in the study. Donors were followed up for an additional 2 years until December 31, 2006.

RESULTS: A total of 332 donors gave an index BFR donation during the study period. Donors were divided into five groups based on results of donations subsequent to the index BFR donation: 89 (26.8%) donors gave only nonreactive donations subsequent to the index BFR result, 56 (16.9%) donors gave only BFR donations, 43 (13.0%) gave one or more subsequent BFR donations before giving only nonreactive donations, 59 (17.8%) donors gave intermittent BFR and nonreactive donations, and 85 (25.6%) donors gave no further donations during the study period. The estimated mean duration of biologic false reactivity from the time of the index BFR donation in donors who gave only a single BFR result was 7.0 (1.4‐42.75) months and 23.3 (4.1‐92.25) months in those donors who gave several BFR results before giving nonreactive donations. Modeling of the data indicated that notification and deferral of donors after two consecutive BFR donations would result in the deferral of 143 of 332 (43.1%) of donors with an index BFR result while allowing donors to give three BFR results would reduce the number of deferred donors to 74 of 332 (22.3%).

CONCLUSION: The results of this study indicate that although biologic false reactivity is usually transient, the time for resolution is variable. Allowing donors to give two or three BFR results before notification and deferral is one strategy that would substantially reduce the number of donors requiring deferral.
Bacterial detection in apheresis platelets: blood systems experience with a two‐bottle and one‐bottle culture system
Authors: Su Leon L. , Kamel Hany , Custer Brian , Vanderpool Sandi , Harpool Dennis , Busch Michael , Tomasulo Peter
Published: May 2008

BACKGROUND: United Blood Services (UBS) began bacterial testing of platelets (PLTs) using one‐bottle cultures in September 2003. Collection of 7‐day PLTs using two‐bottle cultures began in April 2006. This study compares our experience using both systems.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: PLTs from 13 UBS regional centers cultured from September 1, 2003, to September 1, 2007, were included in the analysis. Positive‐signal bottles from a commercially available microbial detection system (BacT/ALERT, bioMérieux) were sent, with corresponding PLTs if available, for confirmatory testing using plate culture media. AABB definitions were used with modifications.

RESULTS: A total of 51,265 7‐day PLT collections and 191,521 5‐day PLT collections were tested with bacterial cultures. The overall true‐positive (TP) rate for the two‐bottle system (1:8544) was comparable to the TP rate with the previous one‐bottle system (1:6344). In three of six yield cases, only the anaerobic bottle was positive (two cases of Group D Streptococci, one case of Corynebacterium spp.). The false‐positive (FP) and indeterminate (IND) rates in the anaerobic bottle (1:1767 and 1:1830, respectively) were significantly higher than those in the aerobic bottle (1:6408 and 1:17,088, respectively; p < 0.001). One confirmed transfusion‐related septic reaction, classified as a late TP after investigation, was reported out of 242,786 tested PLT donations.

CONCLUSION: The rate of TP cases by the two‐bottle system was not increased over the one‐bottle system, although anaerobic‐bottle‐only positive cases were detected. FP and IND rates were increased in the two‐bottle system, attributable to the anaerobic bottle. Observation of only one documented transfusion‐related septic reaction in 4 years of bacterial screening at UBS is reassuring, although limitations in passive surveillance and higher rates of reactions reported by others indicate the need for continued vigilance.
Dengue virus in blood donations, Puerto Rico, 2005
Authors: Mohammed Hamish , Linnen Jeffrey M. , Muñoz‐Jordán Jorge L. , Tomashek Kay , Foster Gregory , Broulik Amy S. , Petersen Lyle , Stramer Susan L.
Published: May 2008

BACKGROUND: A single instance of transfusion‐transmitted dengue infection has been reported. The high incidence of dengue in endemic countries, the high proportion of asymptomatic infection, and the median 5‐day viremia, however, suggest that transfusion‐associated dengue transmission may be more widespread than documented.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: The prevalence of dengue virus (DENV) RNA was determined in all blood donations to the American Red Cross in Puerto Rico from September 20 to December 4, 2005, using a specific type of nucleic acid amplification test called transcription‐mediated amplification (TMA). TMA‐positive donations were defined as those having two repeatedly reactive TMA results. TMA‐positive donations were tested by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay for immunoglobulin M (IgM) antibodies, by reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR), and by viral culture.

RESULTS: Twelve (0.07%) of 16,521 blood donations tested were TMA‐positive. Four were positive by RT‐PCR (DENV serotypes 2 and 3). Virus was cultured from 3 of 4 RT‐PCR–positive donations. One of the 12 TMA‐positive donations was IgM‐positive. Only 5 donations remained TMA‐positive when diluted 1:16, as is done for routine minipool screening for other transfusion‐transmissible viral infections (hepatitis C, human immunodeficiency, West Nile viruses [WNVs]).

CONCLUSION: Nearly 1 in 1000 blood donations contained DENV RNA, and virus could be cultured from TMA‐positive donations, suggesting a transfusion transmission risk similar to that which existed in the United States for WNV before universal donation screening. Similar to WNV, IgM antibody screening is likely to be ineffective, and some potentially infectious donations will be missed by minipool screening. Transfusion transmission should be considered in patients with dengue after blood transfusion.
Generalized Additive Models and Lucilia sericata Growth: Assessing Confidence Intervals and Error Rates in Forensic Entomology*
Authors: Tarone Aaron M. , Foran David R.
Published: May 2008

Abstract:  Forensic entomologists use blow fly development to estimate a postmortem interval. Although accurate, fly age estimates can be imprecise for older developmental stages and no standard means of assigning confidence intervals exists. Presented here is a method for modeling growth of the forensically important blow fly Lucilia sericata, using generalized additive models (GAMs). Eighteen GAMs were created to predict the extent of juvenile fly development, encompassing developmental stage, length, weight, strain, and temperature data, collected from 2559 individuals. All measures were informative, explaining up to 92.6% of the deviance in the data, though strain and temperature exerted negligible influences. Predictions made with an independent data set allowed for a subsequent examination of error. Estimates using length and developmental stage were within 5% of true development percent during the feeding portion of the larval life cycle, while predictions for postfeeding third instars were less precise, but within expected error.
Age Determination of Ballpoint Pen Ink by Thermal Desorption and Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry*
Authors: Bügler Jürgen H. , Buchner Hans , Dallmayer Anton
Published: May 2008

Abstract: Two main approaches can be used for determining the age of an ink: indirect dating and direct dating. Indirect dating is based on the chemical analysis of an ink followed by comparison with known samples in a reference collection. The collection should contain information about the inks including the market introduction dates. This approach may allow for an anachronism to be detected. The second concept is based on measuring ink components that change with age. The analysis of solvents in ballpoint inks may be a useful parameter for determining the age of ink on paper. In a previous study, the authors demonstrated that thermal desorption of ink directly from paper, followed by chemical analysis using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS), is a promising procedure for characterizing ink‐binder resins and solvents. Preliminary tests showed that monitoring the evaporation of ink solvent from ink on paper is not a suitable method for ink dating. Thermal analysis of ink on paper in two steps revealed that fresh ink releases a relative amount of solvent at a certain low temperature in a defined period of time, which decreases as the ink ages. As a consequence, this relative amount of solvent released at a certain low temperature, and its decrease with time, can be used to estimate ink age. This age‐dependent parameter was studied in 85 different inks ranging in age from 1 week to 1.5 years. It was found that some inks showed a significant decrease of this parameter up to an age of several months, and that the aging process can be monitored within this period. For other inks, however, the age‐dependent parameter decreases relatively fast, e.g., within a few days, to a constant level, which can be too fast for casework. Based on these results, a general procedure for assessing the age of ballpoint pen inks on paper was developed.
The Value of DNA Material Recovered from Crime Scenes
Authors: Bond John W. , Hammond Christine
Published: May 2008

Abstract:  DNA material is now collected routinely from crime scenes for a wide range of offenses and its timely processing is acknowledged as a key element to its success in solving crime. An analysis of the processing of approximately 1500 samples of DNA material recovered from the property crime offenses of residential burglary, commercial burglary, and theft of motor vehicle in Northamptonshire, U.K. during 2006 identified saliva and cigarette ends as the main sources of DNA recovered (approximately 63% of samples) with blood, cellular DNA, and chewing gum accounting for the remainder. The conversion of these DNA samples into DNA profiles and then into matches with offender profiles held on the U.K. National DNA database is considered in terms of the ease with which Crime Scene Examiners can recover DNA rich samples of different sources, the location of the DNA at the crime scene, and its mobility. A logistical regression of the DNA material recovered has revealed a number of predictors, other than timeliness, that greatly influence its conversion into a DNA profile. The most significant predictor was found to be Crime Scene Examiner accreditation with offense type and DNA sample condition also being relevant. A similar logistical regression of DNA samples profiled that produced a match with an offender on the U.K. National DNA database showed no significance with any of the predictors considered.
Planned Complex Suicide: An Unusual Case
Authors: Pélissier‐Alicot Anne‐Laure , Gavaudan Gilles , Bartoli Christophe , Kintz Pascal , Piercecchi‐Marti Marie‐Dominique , Desfeux Jacques , Leonetti Georges
Published: May 2008

Abstract:  We report an unusual case of planned complex suicide. The victim was a woman aged 67 years, who was found dead in her bath in a state of advanced putrefaction. A plugged‐in hairdryer was submerged in the water and the electrical fuses in the room had short‐circuited. A kitchen knife lay below the body of the victim, whose left forearm bore incisions suggestive of wrist‐cutting. At autopsy, no sign suggesting electrocution could be observed because of the advanced state of putrefaction of the body. Toxicological analysis revealed massive ingestion of tianeptine (blood concentration 15.5 mg/L). Although the exact cause of death could not be determined because of the state of the corpse, meticulous examination of the scene and information obtained from the victim’s relatives led to the conclusion of suicide.
Comparison of Modern Techniques for Saliva Screening*
Authors: Myers Jarrah R. , Adkins William K.
Published: May 2008

Abstract:  Saliva stains present a unique challenge in the forensic setting, often challenging the analyst to weigh the value of presumptive indication of the fluid versus the potential for DNA analysis to yield identification information. There are many situations in which determining the presence of a body fluid is probative and further corroborates DNA evidence. That said, even a minute portion of sample consumed by a screening test could mean the difference between a full, partial, or null profile obtained through DNA analysis. The basis of presumptive testing or screening of saliva has historically been based on the presence of amylase, a component found in relatively high concentrations in human saliva versus other body fluids and substances. Though the current available methods for the screening of saliva in a forensic application have grown in number, the popularity of these methods seemingly has not. This study attempts to identify a specific and sensitive saliva screening test by comparing three modern techniques—the recently released SALIgAE®, Phadebas®, and starch‐iodine mini‐centrifuge test—on the basis of sensitivity, specificity, mixtures, and simulated casework samples while also considering sample consumption. The Phadebas® method for presumptive saliva testing detected dilutions of neat saliva down to 1:200 versus considerably less sensitive results with SALIgAE® and the starch‐iodine mini‐centrifuge test. Utilizing a screening test with a high degree of sensitivity, such as Phadebas®, allows an analyst to gain a maximum amount of information in the form of body fluid indication and DNA results because of the consumption of a small portion of sample.
Relative importance of consumptive and non‐consumptive effects of predators on prey and plant damage: the influence of herbivore ontogeny
Authors: Thaler Jennifer S. , Griffin Celine A. M.
Published: May 2008

The non‐consumptive (or trait‐mediated) effects of predators on prey are known to contribute substantially to the negative impact of insect predators on herbivorous insects. Our goal now is to understand what factors alter the relative importance of the consumptive (or density‐mediated) and non‐consumptive components of the total predator impact. This is important both for understanding the effects of predators in natural systems as well as for successfully manipulating predators for biological control in agriculture. In this study, we tested whether herbivore ontogeny influenced the contribution of consumptive and non‐consumptive effects of a predator on herbivore survivorship and plant damage by the herbivores. We addressed these questions using the native plant Solanum ptychanthum Dunal (Solanaceae), the predator Podisus maculiventris Say (Heteroptera: Pentatomidae), and first‐, third‐, and fourth‐instar Manduca sexta L. (Lepidoptera: Sphingidae). In field cage experiments, we found that first‐ and third‐instar M. sexta were more vulnerable to predators compared to fourth instars. In the presence of predators, M. sexta caterpillars spent less time on feeding compared to caterpillars in the absence of predators. The amount of damage the plants received was reduced in the presence of the predator and the consumptive and non‐consumptive components contributed approximately equally to this reduction. Thus, the non‐consumptive component of the predator is important for all of the herbivore stages vulnerable to predation in our study. We conclude with a discussion of possible implications of considering non‐consumptive effects of predators in biological control of agricultural pests.
Age‐dependent normative values for differential luminance sensitivity in automated static perimetry using the Octopus 101
Authors: Hermann Agnes , Paetzold Jens , Vonthein Reinhard , Krapp Elke , Rauscher Stephan , Schiefer Ulrich
Published: May 2008

Purpose:  To determine age‐dependent normative differential threshold values for the Octopus 101 instrument and to create a smooth mathematical model characterizing the age‐dependency and asymmetry of the hill of vision.

Methods:  Static automated perimetry within the central 30° visual field (VF) was conducted with the Octopus 101 (background luminance 10 cd/m2) in 81 eyes of 81 ophthalmologically healthy subjects (11–12 per decade of age) aged 10–79 years.

A 4‐2‐2 staircase strategy with three reversals was run. The test point grid consisted of 68 concentrically arranged points with test point condensation towards the VF centre, representing the approximately rotation‐symmetrical 30° hill of vision. Thresholds of differential luminance sensitivity (DLS) were estimated by the maximum likelihood method. A smooth mathematical model was fitted to the normative data.

Results:  The model fit was satisfactory (r2 = 0.74). Covariables were: age, eccentricity, angle and subject. Total random standard deviation (SD) was 1.75 dB. The residual SD exceeded 1.75 dB in the border region, was 1.5 dB within the centre and fell below 1.25 dB in a ring around the centre. Average thresholds of DLS varied with age quadratically. It is close to constant for the 10–40–year‐old age group and declines ever more steeply thereafter. The effect of age on DLS in the VF increased with eccentricity. The greatest drop was located in the peripheral superior hemifield: at 25° eccentricity the superior DLS was estimated to be 5.5 dB higher in 10‐year‐olds than in 75‐year‐olds.

Conclusions:  This new smooth model allows for the prediction of age‐related normal threshold values for any stimulus location within the 30° VF and thus for the calculation of global and local measures of defect such as mean defects or p‐values for any type of stimulus.
Two studies on suicidality in the postpartum
Authors: Pinheiro R. T. , Da Silva R. A. , Magalhães P. V. S. , Horta B. L. , Pinheiro K. A. T.
Published: May 2008

Objective:  Research in the prevalence of and risk factors for suicidality in the postpartum is extremely limited. We present here data on the prevalence of and factors associated with suicidality from two postpartum samples.

Method:  The first sample (SC) comprised 317 women consecutively screened for a trial of psychotherapy for postpartum depression. The second sample was a population‐based (PB) sample of 386 women. We used the Mini‐International Neuropsychiatric Interview (MINI) to assess suicidality in the SC sample and the self‐harm question of the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI9) in the PB sample.

Results:  According to the MINI and the BDI9, prevalence of high suicide risk was 5.7% and 11.1%, respectively, in the SC sample. Previous suicide attempts and a positive BDI were retained as predictors of suicidality. The BDI9 indicated suicidality in 8.3% of the 386 women in the PB sample; a positive BDI was retained in the multivariate analysis as a risk of suicidality.

Conclusion:  Clinicians should enquire vigorously about suicidality in women presenting with depressive symptoms or previous suicide attempts in the postpartum.
Alexithymia and cognitive behaviour therapy outcome for subthreshold depression
Authors: Spek V. , Nyklíček I. , Cuijpers P. , Pop V.
Published: May 2008

Objective:  Alexithymia is hypothesized to be a stable trait that hinders favourable outcomes of psychotherapy. We tested two hypotheses: i) alexithymia is not stable but changes along with a change in depressive symptoms and ii) pretreatment alexithymia hinders gaining benefits from psychotherapy.

Method:  A total of 201 participants (mean age = 54 years, SD = 4.4) with subthreshold depression were treated with cognitive behaviour therapy. Outcome was defined as the change in depressive symptoms from pretreatment to post‐treatment and to 1‐year follow‐up.

Results:  Changes in depressive symptoms were significantly correlated with changes in alexithymia. Baseline alexithymia scores were not correlated with treatment outcome.

Conclusion:  Alexithymia is less stable than hypothesized: changes in alexithymia were associated with change in depressive symptoms. Furthermore, alexithymia does not hinder cognitive behaviour therapy outcome.