bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatial ecology of a threatened python (Morelia spilota imbricata) and the effects of anthropogenic habitat change
Authors: PEARSON D. , SHINE R. , WILLIAMS A.
Published: May 2005

Abstract  Large predators play important ecological roles, but often are sensitive to habitat changes and thus are early casualties of habitat perturbation. Pythons are among the largest predators in many Australian environments, and hence warrant conservation‐orientated research. Carpet pythons (Morelia spilota imbricata) have declined across much of south‐western Australia presumably because of habitat clearance and degradation. Information on habitat use, home range sizes and movements is needed to plan for the conservation of this important predator. We studied pythons at two study sites (Garden Island and Dryandra Woodland) with markedly different climates, habitat types and disturbance histories. We surgically implanted radio‐transmitters in 91 pythons and tracked them for periods of 1 month to 4 years. Dryandra pythons remained inactive inside tree hollows during cooler months (May–September), whereas some (especially small) pythons on Garden Island continued to move and feed. Overall weekly displacements (mean = 100–150 m) were similar at the two study sites and among sex/age classes, except that reproductive females were sedentary during summer while they were incubating eggs. Home ranges averaged 15–20 ha. Adult male pythons had larger home ranges than adult females at Dryandra, but not at Garden Island. Radio‐tracked snakes at Dryandra exhibited high site fidelity, returning to previously occupied logs after long absences and reusing tree hollows for winter shelter. Many of the logs used by snakes had been felled during plantation establishment >70 years ago, with little subsequent regeneration of source trees. In contrast, Garden Island snakes usually sheltered under dense shrubs. Habitat usage was similar among different sex/age classes of snakes at each site, except that juvenile pythons were more arboreal than adults. Although carpet pythons demonstrate great flexibility in habitat use, certain habitat elements appear critical for the persistence of viable populations. Fire plays a central role in this process, albeit in complex ways. For example, low‐intensity fires reduce the availability of hollow logs on the ground at Dryandra and fail to regenerate shrub thickets required by prey species. Paradoxically, high‐intensity fires stimulate shrub thickets and fell trees creating new logs – but might also threaten overwinter trees. Thus, the impact of disturbances (such as wildfires) on the viability of python populations will be mediated in complex ways by alteration to important microhabitats such as vegetation cover or log availability. At Dryandra, landscape management should include occasional fire events to generate new logs as well as shrub thickets used by prey. Strategic burning may also be required at Garden Island to regenerate some vegetation communities.
Offspring size effects in the marine environment: A field test for a colonial invertebrate
Authors: MARSHALL DUSTIN JOHN , KEOUGH MICHAEL JAMES
Published: May 2005

Abstract  A central tenet of life‐history theory is the presence of a trade‐off between the size and number of offspring that a female can produce for a given clutch. A crucial assumption of this trade‐off is that larger offspring perform better than smaller offspring. Despite the importance of this assumption empirical, field‐based tests are rare, especially for marine organisms. We tested this assumption for the marine invertebrate, Diplosoma listerianum, a colonial ascidian that commonly occurs in temperate marine communities. Colonies that came from larger larvae had larger feeding structures than colonies that came from smaller larvae. Colonies that came from larger larvae also had higher survival and growth after 2 weeks in the field than colonies that came from smaller larvae. However, after 3 weeks in the field the colonies began to fragment and we could not detect an effect of larval size. We suggest that offspring size can have strong effects on the initial recruitment of D. listerianum but because of the tendency of this species to fragment, offspring size effects are less persistent in this species than in others.
Treatment of lower urinary tract symptoms suggestive of benign prostatic hyperplasia in relation to the patient's risk profile for progression
Authors: Trachtenberg John
Published: May 2005

Lower urinary tract symptoms suggestive of benign prostatic hyperplasia (LUTS/BPH) is a slowly progressing disease, with some patients progressing more rapidly than others. In 80% of patients who progress this is caused by the worsening of symptoms. The physician can predict the risk of progression from the patient's clinical profile; increased symptom severity, a poor maximum urinary flow rate (Qmax), and a high postvoid residual urine volume (PVR), are major risk factors for overall clinical progression of LUTS/BPH. A large baseline prostate volume and a high serum prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) level are the predominant risk factors for developing acute urinary retention. After predicting risk, the most appropriate treatment should be established by balancing the benefits of treatment against the possible risks and bother resulting from adverse events. From the Medical Therapy Of Prostatic Symptoms study it can be concluded that monotherapy with an α1‐adrenoceptor (AR) antagonist is an appropriate treatment for many patients with LUTS/BPH. However, for those at high risk of progression (those with a large prostate volume and high PSA level), it appears more appropriate to add a 5α‐reductase inhibitor to the α1‐AR antagonist to obtain maximum relief of symptoms, and ideally to halt the progression of the disease. This was confirmed by the RAND Appropriateness Method study, in which 12 urologists determined the most appropriate treatment for patients with LUTS/BPH based on their clinical profile, combination of clinical variables and/or risk factors. This study also indicates that patients at very high risk of progression, with severe obstruction (poor Qmax and high PVR), are potential candidates for immediate surgery.
Nighttime Insomnia Treatment and Education for Alzheimer's Disease: A Randomized, Controlled Trial
Authors: McCurry Susan M. , Gibbons Laura E. , Logsdon Rebecca G. , Vitiello Michael V. , Teri Linda
Published: May 2005

Objectives: To evaluate whether a comprehensive sleep education program (Nighttime Insomnia Treatment and Education for Alzheimer's Disease (NITE‐AD)) could improve sleep in dementia patients living at home with their family caregivers.

Design: A randomized, controlled trial.

Participants: Thirty‐six community‐dwelling patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD) and their family caregivers.

Intervention: All participants received written materials describing age‐ and dementia‐related changes in sleep and standard principles of good sleep hygiene. Caregivers in active treatment (n=17) received specific recommendations about setting up and implementing a sleep hygiene program for the dementia patient and training in behavior management skills. Patients in active treatment were also instructed to walk daily and increase daytime light exposure with the use of a light box. Control subjects (n=19) received general dementia education and caregiver support.

Measurements: Primary sleep outcomes were derived for patients and caregivers from 1 week of sleep‐wake activity measured at baseline, posttest (2 months), and 6‐month follow‐up using an Actillume wrist‐movement recorder. Secondary patient outcomes included the Epworth Sleepiness Scale, the Cornell Depression Scale, and the Revised Memory and Behavior Problem Checklist. Caregiver self‐reports included the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index and the Center for Epidemiological Study of Depression Scale.

Results: Patients participating in NITE‐AD showed significantly greater (P<.05) posttest reductions in number of nighttime awakenings, total time awake at night, and depression, and increases in weekly exercise days than control subjects. At 6‐month follow‐up, treatment gains were maintained, and additional significant improvements in duration of night awakenings emerged. When cognitive level was controlled, NITE‐AD patients had lower longitudinal ratings of daytime sleepiness than controls. There was a trend for control subjects to spend more time in bed at 6 months than NITE‐AD patients.

Conclusion: This study provides the first evidence that patients with AD who are experiencing sleep problems can benefit from behavioral techniques (specifically, sleep hygiene education, daily walking, and increased light exposure) that are known to improve sleep in nondemented, institutionalized older adults.
Pneumonia Versus Aspiration Pneumonitis in Nursing Home Residents: Prospective Application of a Clinical Algorithm
Authors: Mylotte Joseph M. , Goodnough Susan , Gould Margaret
Published: May 2005

Objectives: To prospectively evaluate a clinical algorithm for the diagnosis of pneumonitis and pneumonia in nursing home residents.

Design: Prospective cohort study.

Setting: Inpatient geriatrics unit.

Participants: Nursing home residents admitted to the hospital with suspected pneumonia.

Measurements: Identification of pneumonitis and pneumonia using the algorithm; medical record review and abstraction of clinical data; hospital outcome and length of stay.

Results: One hundred seventy episodes of suspected pneumonia were screened with the algorithm and classified into four groups: 25% pneumonia, 28% aspiration pneumonitis of 24 hours or less duration, 12% aspiration pneumonitis of more than 24 hours' duration, and 35% an aspiration event without pneumonitis. Presenting symptoms and signs, laboratory tests, severity of illness measures, or serum C‐reactive protein levels did not distinguish between the four groups. Those with an aspiration event without pneumonitis tended to be treated less often with antibiotic therapy after admission (P=.004) and after discharge (P=.01). Of those who survived, there was no significant difference in mean hospital length of stay between the four groups. There was no significant difference in the percentage of case fatality between the four groups, but those with aspiration pneumonitis of 24 hours or less duration and with an aspiration event without pneumonitis had a lower mortality than the other two groups.

Conclusion: Distribution of episodes of suspected pneumonia by clinical category as determined using the algorithm was similar to that of the derivation study, as were case fatality rates in each category. These findings suggest that the algorithm may be useful for making the distinction between pneumonitis and pneumonia in nursing home residents; further studies are warranted.
Capsaicin Troche for Swallowing Dysfunction in Older People
Authors: Ebihara Takae , Takahashi Hidenori , Ebihara Satoru , Okazaki Tatsuma , Sasaki Takahiko , Watando Aya , Nemoto Miyako , Sasaki Hidetada
Published: May 2005

Objectives: To determine whether oral capsaicin troche supplementation with every meal upregulates the impairment of upper respiratory protective reflexes such as the swallowing reflex and the cough reflex.

Design: Randomized, controlled study with recruitment through nursing homes.

Setting: Sendai, Japan, from September 2002 through December 2003.

Participants: Sixty‐four participants in nursing homes with a mean age±standard deviation of 81.9±1.0 with stable physical status.

Intervention: Participants were randomly assigned to the program for the supplementation of capsaicin trochisci or placebo trochisci before every meal for 4 weeks.

Measurements: Assessment of individual latency time of the swallowing reflex (LTSR) and cough reflex sensitivity.

Results: Before the commencement of this study, there were no significant baseline differences in multiple parameters between the intervention group and control group. LTSR in participants in the intervention group was significantly shorter than in the control group (P<.05). The odds ratio (OR) of the shortening of the LTSR of more than 1 minute in the intervention group was 3.4 (95% confidence interval (CI)=1.1−10.4), compared with the control group (P=.03). In particular, daily capsaicin supplementation significantly increased the ratio of LTSR reduction at 4 weeks after the study to baseline LTSR in the high‐risk group (baseline LTSR >6.0 seconds) compared with the low‐risk group (baseline LTSR <3.0 seconds) and the intermediate group (3.0 seconds <baseline LTSR <6.0 seconds) (P<.005). Seventeen (52.1%) participants in the intervention group and seven (21.9%) in the control group showed improvement in cough reflex sensitivity (OR=4.1, 95% CI=1.4−12.2; P<.01).

Conclusion: Daily capsaicin supplementation resulted in a significant improvement in upper protective respiratory reflexes, particularly in older people with a high risk for aspiration.
Clinician Assessment of the Driving Competence of Patients with Dementia
Authors: Ott Brian R. , Anthony David , Papandonatos George D. , D'Abreu Anelyssa , Burock Jeffrey , Curtin Alicia , Wu Chuang‐Kuo , Morris John C.
Published: May 2005

Objectives: To determine the validity and reliability of clinician ratings of the driving competence of patients with mild dementia.

Design: Observational study of a cross‐section of drivers with mild dementia based on chart review by clinicians with varying types of expertise and experience.

Setting: Outpatient dementia clinic.

Participants: Fifty dementia subjects from a longitudinal study of driving and dementia.

Measurements: Each clinician reviewed information from the clinic charts and the first study visit. The clinician then rated the drivers as safe, marginal, or unsafe. A professional driving instructor compared these ratings with total driving scores on a standardized road test and categorical ratings of driving competence. Clinicians also completed a visual analog scale assessment of variables that led to their determinations of driving competence.

Results: Accuracy of clinician ratings ranged from 62% to 78% for the instructor's global rating of safe versus marginal or unsafe. In general, there was moderate accuracy and interrater reliability. Accuracy could have been improved in the least‐accurate raters by greater attention to dementia duration and severity ratings, as well as less reliance on the history and physical examination. The most accurate predictors were clinicians specially trained in dementia assessment, who were not necessarily the most experienced in their years of clinical experience.

Conclusion: Although a clinician may be able to identify many potentially hazardous drivers, accuracy is insufficient to suggest that a clinician's assessment alone is adequate to determine driving competence in those with mild dementia.
Comparison of Commercial Real-Time PCR Assays for Quantification of Epstein-Barr Virus DNA
Authors: Ruiz Guillermo , Peña Pilar , de Ory Fernando , Echevarría Juan Emilio
Published: May 2005

Clinical research suggests a role for viral load measurement in predicting and monitoring Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-associated diseases. The aim of this study was to assess the performance of the recently commercially available quantitative assays for EBV based on real-time PCR: the RealArt EBV LC PCR kit and the LightCycler EBV quantification kit. A total of 87 samples were analyzed: 67 samples were obtained from transplant recipients and patients with EBV-associated diseases, 8 samples were obtained from the Quality Control for Molecular Diagnostics 2002 EBV Proficiency Program, and 12 negative qualitative nested PCR samples were used as negative controls. Inter- and intra-assay variabilities were determined by running replicates of two samples. All samples were run in a LightCycler instrument. The differences between positive and negative results were not considered statistically significant (
P
= 0.5355). There were no false-positive results using either method for nested PCR negative-control samples. The difference in viral load values using the two different methods was considered statistically significant (
P
< 0.01). The logarithmic linear correlation for both assays was low (
r
= 0.449) but significant (
P
< 0.01). The LightCycler EBV quantification kit showed a wider dispersal in results but produced substantially more-accurate melting temperature profile curves. The bias towards lower measurements was considerable in comparison with higher viral load. The differences in PCR efficiency and the presence of mutations could explain the disparity between the two methods. It was concluded that confidence intervals would be required to report the results rather than plain absolute values of viral load for patient monitoring.
Evaluation of Conventional and Real-Time PCR Assays Using Two Targets for Confirmation of Results of the COBAS AMPLICOR
Chlamydia trachomatis
/
Neisseria gonorrhoeae
Test for Detection of
Neisseria gonorrhoeae
in Clinical Samples
Authors: Boel C. H. E. , van Herk C. M. C. , Berretty P. J. M. , Onland G. H. W. , van den Brule A. J. C.
Published: May 2005

Two conventional PCR-enzyme immunoassays (PCR-EIAs) and two real-time PCR assays (LightCycler system; Roche Diagnostics) were evaluated as confirmation assays with
cppB
and 16S rRNA genes as targets. Of 765 male and female genitourinary and nasopharyngeal specimens positive for
Neisseria gonorrhoeae
in the COBAS AMPLICOR
Chlamydia trachomatis
/
Neisseria gonorrhoeae
PCR test (Roche Diagnostics), 229 (30%) were confirmed positive; 13 of these (5.7%) were lacking the
cppB
gene. Of the 534 samples (70%) that could not be confirmed, 81 (15%) showed a positive crossing point. However, melting curve analysis revealed an aberrant melting temperature in the LightCycler 16S rRNA assay; therefore, these samples were considered non-
N. gonorrhoeae Neisseria
species. Both of the 16S rRNA assays performed well, with positive predictive values of 99.1% and 100% for the PCR-EIAs and the real-time assays, respectively, and a negative predictive value of 99.8% for both. The
cppB
assays were compromised by the absence of the
cppB
gene in 5.7% of the
N. gonorrhoeae
-positive samples, resulting in negative predictive values of 96.8% and 97.6% for the PCR-EIAs and the real-time assays, respectively. Therefore, the 16S rRNA gene is preferable to the
cppB
gene as a target for confirmation assays. The melting curve analysis of the real-time assays provides useful additional information.
Five-Year Follow-Up Study of Mother-to-Child Transmission ofHelicobacter pyloriInfection Detected by a Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA Fingerprinting Method
Authors: Konno Mutsuko , Fujii Nobuhiro , Yokota Shin-ichi , Sato Kiyoshi , Takahashi Michiko , Sato Kohei , Mino Emi , Sugiyama Toshiro
Published: May 2005

Recent studies have speculated on the possible role of the mother in transmittingHelicobacter pyloriinfection to their children. In an attempt to either prove or disprove this supposition, we investigated the rates of infection of children born toH. pylori-positive mothers from birth to 5 years of age using serology and the stool antigen test. When infection of the children did occur, the strains from the children were compared to those of their mothers using DNA analysis. Sixty-nine of the 350 pregnant mothers (19.7%) had a positive serology forH. pylori. Fifty-one children underwent serological examinations and stool antigen tests at 4 to 6 days after birth, followed by 1, 3, and 6 months. They were continuously given the stool antigen test at 4- to 6-month intervals until the age of 5 years. Gastric juice samples were collected from the infected children and their mothers for culture and DNA analyses using a random amplified polymorphic DNA fingerprinting method. None of the 51 children acquiredH. pyloriinfection during the first year of life. Of the 44 children enrolled in a 5-year follow-up study, five (11%) acquiredH. pyloriinfection. They acquired the infection at the age of 1 year 2 months, 1 year 3 months, 1 year 6 months, 1 year 8 months, and 4 years 4 months. Random amplified polymorphic DNA fingerprinting confirmed that the strains of the five children exhibited DNA fingerprinting patterns identical to those of their mothers. These findings suggest that mother-to-child transmission is the most probable cause of intrafamilial spread ofH. pylori.
Role and Significance of Quantitative Urine Cultures in Diagnosis of Melioidosis
Authors: Limmathurotsakul Direk , Wuthiekanun Vanaporn , Chierakul Wirongrong , Cheng Allen C. , Maharjan Bina , Chaowagul Wipada , White Nicholas J. , Day Nicholas P. J. , Peacock Sharon J.
Published: May 2005

Melioidosis is associated with significant mortality in countries in which it is endemic. Previous studies have demonstrated that quantitative
Burkholderia pseudomallei
counts in blood are predictive of mortality. Here we examine the relationship between outcomes and quantitative
B. pseudomallei
counts in urine. A total of 755 patients presenting to Sappasithiprasong Hospital, Ubon Ratchathani, northeast Thailand (in the northeast part of the country), with melioidosis between July 1993 and October 2003 had quantitative urine cultures performed within 72 h of admission. Urine culture results were divided into the following groups: (i) no growth of
B. pseudomallei
from a neat sample or pellet, (ii) positive result from a centrifuged pellet only (<10
3
CFU/ml), (iii) detection of between 10
3
CFU/ml and 10
5
CFU/ml from a neat sample, or (iv) detection of ≥10
5
CFU/ml from a neat sample. The overall in-hospital mortality rate was 45%. Patients with negative urine cultures had the lowest death rate (39%). Mortality rates rose with increasing
B. pseudomallei
counts in urine, from 58% for those with positive spun pellets only to 61% for those with between 10
3
CFU/ml and 10
5
CFU/ml and 71% for those with ≥10
5
CFU/ml. This was independent of age, presence of bacteremia, known risk factors for melioidosis such as diabetes, and the prior administration of antibiotics. The presence of
B. pseudomallei
in urine during systemic infection is associated with a poor prognosis.
Rapid and Sensitive Detection of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus by Rolling Circle Amplification
Authors: Wang Bin , Potter Simon J. , Lin Yiguang , Cunningham Anthony L. , Dwyer Dominic E. , Su Yuelong , Ma Xuejun , Hou Yunde , Saksena Nitin K.
Published: May 2005

The severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) epidemic of 2003 was responsible for 774 deaths and caused significant economic damage worldwide. Since July 2003, a number of SARS cases have occurred in China, raising the possibility of future epidemics. We describe here a rapid, sensitive, and highly efficient assay for the detection of SARS coronavirus (SARS-CoV) in cultured material and a small number (
n
= 7) of clinical samples. Using rolling circle amplification (RCA), we were able to achieve sensitive detection levels of SARS-CoV RNA in both solid and liquid phases. The main advantage of RCA is that it can be performed under isothermal conditions with minimal reagents and avoids the generation of false-positive results, a problem that is frequently encountered in PCR-based assays. Furthermore, the RCA technology provides a faster, more sensitive, and economical option to currently available PCR-based methods.
Detection and Characterization of New Influenza B Virus Variants in 2002
Authors: Chi X. Sherry , Hu Aizhong , Bolar Trentice V. , Al-Rimawi Wafa , Zhao Ping , Tam John S. , Rappaport Ruth , Cheng Sheau-Mei
Published: May 2005

One-hundred five influenza B-positive specimens obtained from southeast Asia in 2002 were categorized on the basis of DNA sequencing of HA1 gene as well as real-time PCR analysis of the NA gene. Phylogenetic analysis of the HA1 gene sequences showed that the majority of the viruses (96.2%) belonged to the B/Victoria/2/87 lineage, while a smaller percentage of the viruses (3.8%) belonged to the B/Yamagata/16/88 lineage. The B/Yamagata/16/88 viruses displayed significant antigenic drift in the deduced amino acid sequences of the HA1 protein, and the B/Victoria/2/87-like viruses consisted of B/Hong Kong/1351/02-like (72.3%) and B/Hong Kong/330/01-like (27.7%) viruses. The B/Hong Kong/1351/02-like viruses were reassortants with the HA gene belonging to the B/Victoria/2/87 lineage and the NA gene belonging to the B/Yamagata/16/88 lineage, whereas both the HA and NA genes of B/Hong Kong/330/01 virus belonged to the B/Victoria/2/87 lineage. In this study, however, all the B/Hong Kong/330/01-like isolates exhibited the B/Yamagata/16/88-like NA gene, which likely resulted from reassortment of B/Hong Kong/330/01 and B/Hong Kong/1351/02 viruses during coinfection. Additional molecular characterization of the six internal genes showed that the M, NS, PA, and PB2 genes of the new variants were B/Hong Kong/1351/02 in origin, whereas the NP and PA genes retained the B/Hong Kong/330/01 origin. Interestingly, these new variants all appeared late in the year 2002. These results support the notion that influenza B viruses continued to evolve through antigenic drift and shift.
Comparison of a Real-Time Reverse Transcriptase PCR Assay and a Culture Technique for Quantitative Assessment of Viral Load in Children Naturally Infected with Respiratory Syncytial Virus
Authors: Perkins Stephanie M. , Webb David L. , Torrance Shauna A. , El Saleeby Chadi , Harrison Lisa M. , Aitken Jody A. , Patel Anami , DeVincenzo John P.
Published: May 2005

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is the most common cause of lower respiratory infection of children. Understanding RSV pathogenesis and evaluating interventions requires quantitative RSV testing. Previous studies have used the plaque assay technique. Real-time reverse transcriptase PCR (RTrtPCR) offers possible greater sensitivity, stability after freeze/thaw, and lower cost, thus facilitating multicenter studies. We developed RTrtPCR assays based upon the RSV N and F genes. The N-gene assay detected greater RSV quantity and was further evaluated. Standard curves utilized both extractions from RSV culture supernatants of known quantity and cloned purified copies of the target DNA. In vitro, the ratio of RSV subgroup A (RSV-A) genome copies to PFU was 153:1. A total of 462 samples collected quantitatively from 259 children were analyzed in duplicate by RTrtPCR. Results were compared with those of RSV plaque assays performed on fresh aliquots from the same children. Duplicate RTrtPCR results were highly correlated (
r
2
= 0.9964). The mean viral load from nasal washes obtained on the first study day was 5.75 ± standard error of the mean 0.09 log PFU equivalents (PFUe)/ml. Viral load by RTrtPCR correlated with plaque assay results (
r

2

= 0.158;
P
< 0.0001). Within individuals, upper and lower respiratory tract secretions contained similar viral concentrations. RSV-A-infected children had 1.17 log PFUe higher viral loads than did those with RSV-B (
P
< 0.0001). RSV quantification by RTrtPCR of the N gene is precise and has significant, though limited, correlation with quantitative culture. The utility of the RTrtPCR quantification technique for clinical studies would be solidified after its correlation with RSV disease severity is established.
Preclinical and Clinical Performance of the Efoora Test, a Rapid Test for Detection of Human Immunodeficiency Virus-Specific Antibodies
Authors: Arens Max Q. , Mundy Linda M. , Amsterdam Daniel , Barrett J. Tom , Bigg Dan , Bruckner David , Hanna Bruce , Prince Harry , Purington Timothy , Hanna Todd , Hewitt Ross , Kalinka Carolyn , Koppes Thomas , Maxwell Sarz , Moe Ardis , Doymaz Mehmet , Poulter Melinda , Saber-Tehrani Maryam , Simard Lorenzo , Wilkins-Carmody Donna , Vidaver John , Berger Cheryl , Davis Alan H. , Alzona Mortimer T.
Published: May 2005

Barriers to effective diagnostic testing for human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) infection can be reduced with simple, reliable, and rapid detection methods. Our objective was to determine the accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity of a new rapid, lateral-flow immunochromatographic HIV-1 antibody detection device. Preclinical studies were performed using seroconversion, cross-reaction, and interference panels, archived clinical specimens, and fresh whole blood. In a multicenter, prospective clinical trial, a four-sample matrix of capillary (fingerstick) whole-blood specimens and venous whole blood, plasma, and serum was tested for HIV-1 antibodies with the Efoora HIV rapid test (Efoora Inc., Buffalo Grove, IL) and compared with an enzyme immunoassay (EIA) (Abbott Laboratories) licensed by the Food and Drug Administration. Western blot and nucleic acid test supplemental assays were employed to adjudicate discordant samples. Preclinical testing of seroconversion panels showed that antibodies were often detected earlier by the rapid test than by a reference EIA. No significant interference or cross-reactions were observed. Testing of 4,984 archived specimens yielded a sensitivity of 99.2% and a specificity of 99.7%. A prospective multicenter clinical study with 2,954 adult volunteers demonstrated sensitivity and specificity for the Efoora HIV rapid test of 99.8% (95% confidence interval [CI], 99.3 and 99.98%) and 99.0% (95% CI, 98.5 and 99.4%), respectively. Reactive rapid HIV-1 antibody detection was confirmed in 99.6% of those with a known HIV infection (
n
= 939), 5.2% of those in the high-risk group (
n
= 1,003), and 0.1% of those in the low-risk group (
n
= 1,012). For 21 (0.71%) patients, there was discordance between the results of the rapid test and the confirmatory EIA/Western blot tests. We conclude that the Efoora HIV rapid test is a simple, rapid assay for detection of HIV-1 antibodies, with high sensitivity and specificity compared to a standardized HIV-1 EIA.
Use of Monoclonal Antibodies To Serotype
Bordetella pertussis
Isolates: Comparison of Results Obtained by Indirect Whole-Cell Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay and Bacterial Microagglutination Methods
Authors: Tsang Raymond S. W. , Sill Michelle L. , Advani Abdolreza , Xing Dorothy , Newland Penny , Hallander Hans
Published: May 2005

Sixty-one
Bordetella pertussis
isolates were tested blindly in two laboratories to determine their serotype nature by monoclonal antibodies using two independent methods: the standard bacterial microagglutination assay and an indirect whole-cell enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Both methods gave concordant results in 60 of the 61 isolates.
Identification and Characterization of Genomic Variations between
Mycobacterium bovis
and
M. tuberculosis
H37Rv
Authors: Amadio Ariel , Romano María Isabel , Bigi Fabiana , Etchechoury Ignacio , Kubica Tanja , Niemann Stefan , Cataldi Angel , Caimi Karina
Published: May 2005

Genetic differences between
Mycobacterium bovis
and
M. tuberculosis
were identified. We found (i) a deletion of
Rv3479
specific to
M. bovis
, (ii) that the
rpfA
gene is shortened to various extents in
M. bovis
, and (iii) an insertion in
Rv0648
and a duplication of
lppA
common in
M. tuberculosis
complex isolates.
Clonal Spread of Pediatric Isolates of Ciprofloxacin-Resistant,
emm
Type 6
Streptococcus pyogenes
Authors: Alonso Rodrigo , Mateo Estibaliz , Galimand Marc , Garaizar Javier , Courvalin P. , Cisterna Ramón
Published: May 2005

Twenty-four community isolates of
Streptococcus pyogenes
resistant to ciprofloxacin and susceptible to levofloxacin, gatifloxacin, and moxifloxacin were studied. Sequence determination of the quinolone resistance-determining regions in the
gyrA
and
parC
genes revealed a T/G mutation in
parC
leading to a Ser79Ala substitution in ParC. All isolates were of the
emm
type 6, and 18 and 2 of them were indistinguishable or closely related, respectively, on the basis of pulsed-field gel electrophoresis.
Erythromycin-Resistant Group A Streptococcal Isolates Collected between 2000 and 2005 in Oahu, Hawaii, and Their
emm
Types
Authors: Erdem Guliz , Ford Jacqueline , Johnson Dwight , Abe Lucienne , Yamaga Karen , Kaplan Edward
Published: May 2005

We examined erythromycin and clindamycin susceptibilities with Etest methodology among 546 group A streptococcal isolates collected in Hawaii between February 2000 and November 2004. Erythromycin resistance was low (3.1%). No isolate was clindamycin resistant. The prevalence of erythromycin resistance in group A streptococci remains low in Hawaii.
Oral
Campylobacter
Species Involved in Extraoral Abscess: a Report of Three Cases
Authors: Han Xiang Y. , Tarrand Jeffrey J. , Rice David C.
Published: May 2005

Oral
Campylobacter
species are rarely reported to cause extraoral infections. Here we present three cases of extraoral abscess caused by an oral
Campylobacter
sp. and a
Streptococcus
sp. The
Campylobacter
species were all isolated anaerobically and identified by sequencing analysis of the 16S rRNA gene. The cases included a breast abscess caused by
Campylobacter rectus
and a non-group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus in a patient with lymphoma, a liver abscess caused by
Campylobacter curvus
and an alpha-hemolytic streptococcus in a patient with complicated ovarian cancer, and a postobstructive bronchial abscess caused by
C. curvus
and group C beta-hemolytic
Streptococcus constellatus
in a patient with lung cancer. The abscesses were drained or resected, and the patients were treated with antibiotics with full resolution of the lesions. The
C. curvus
cases are likely the first reported infections by this organism, and the
C. rectus
case represents the second such reported extraoral infection.
New Species of
Bordetella
,
Bordetella ansorpii
sp. nov., Isolated from the Purulent Exudate of an Epidermal Cyst
Authors: Ko Kwan Soo , Peck Kyong Ran , Oh Won Sup , Lee Nam Yong , Lee Jang Ho , Song Jae-Hoon
Published: May 2005

A gram-negative bacillus, SMC-8986
T
, which was isolated from the purulent exudate of an epidermal cyst but could not be identified by a conventional microbiologic method, was characterized by a variety of phenotypic and genotypic analyses. Sequences of the 16S rRNA gene revealed that this bacterium belongs to the genus
Bordetella
but diverged distinctly from previously described
Bordetella
species. Analyses of cellular fatty acid composition and performance of biochemical tests confirmed that this bacterium is distinct from other
Bordetella
species. Furthermore, the results of comparative sequence analyses of two protein-coding genes (
risA
and
ompA
) also showed that this strain represents a new species within the genus
Bordetella
. Based on the evaluated phenotypic and genotypic characteristics, it is proposed that SMC-8986
T
should be classified as a new species, namely
Bordetella ansorpii
sp. nov.
BartonellaSpecies as a Potential Cause of Epistaxis in Dogs
Authors: Breitschwerdt Edward B. , Hegarty Barbara C. , Maggi Ricardo , Hawkins Eleanor , Dyer Page
Published: May 2005

Infection with aBartonellaspecies was implicated in three cases of epistaxis in dogs, based upon isolation, serology, or PCR amplification. These cases, in conjunction with previously published reports, support a potential role forBartonellaspp. as a cause of epistaxis in dogs and potentially in other animals, including humans.
FINITE GROUPS WITH MULTIPLICITY-FREE PERMUTATION CHARACTERS
Authors: FUMA MICHITAKU , NINOMIYA YASUSHI
Published: May 2005

Let G be a finite group and H a subgroup of G. The Hecke algebra ℋ(G,H) associated with G and H is defined by the endomorphism algebra End ℂ[G]((ℂH)G), where ℂH is the trivial ℂ[H]-module and (ℂH)G = ℂH⊗ℂ[H] ℂ[G]. As is well known, ℋ(G,H) is a semisimple ℂ-algebra and it is commutative if and only if (ℂH)G is multiplicity-free. In [6], by a ring theoretic method, it is shown that if the canonical involution of ℋ(G,H) is the identity then ℋ(G,H) is commutative and, if there exists an abelian subgroup A of G such that G = AH then ℋ(G,H) is commutative. In this paper, by a character theoretic method, we consider the commutativity of ℋ(G,H).
THE ROLE OF ESSENTIAL FATTY ACIDS IN DEVELOPMENT
Authors: Heird William C. , Lapillonne Alexandre
Published: May 2005

▪ Abstract  The presence of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and arachidonic acid (ARA) in human milk but not in infant formula, coupled with lower plasma and brain lipid contents of DHA in formula-fed than in breast-fed infants and reports of higher IQ in individuals who were breast-fed versus formula-fed as infants, suggest that exogenous DHA (and ARA) may be essential for optimal development. Thus, since 1990, several studies have examined the impact of formulas containing DHA or DHA plus ARA on visual function and neurodevelopmental outcome. Some of these studies have shown benefits but others have not. These results leave largely unanswered the question of whether these fatty acids are beneficial for either the term or preterm infant. However, evidence that preterm infants might benefit is somewhat more convincing than that for term infants. Despite the limited evidence for efficacy, formulas supplemented with DHA and ARA are now available and appear to be safe.
DEVELOPMENTAL DETERMINANTS OF BLOOD PRESSURE IN ADULTS
Authors: Adair Linda , Dahly Darren
Published: May 2005

▪ Abstract  Over the past 20 years a large and varied body of research has attempted to make the case for the developmental origins of elevated adult blood pressure (BP). Experimental animal research has identified plausible biological mechanisms through which fetal nutritional insufficiency may affect adult BP. The majority of human epidemiologic studies demonstrate an inverse association of birth weight (the most commonly used marker of fetal nutrition) with adult BP and higher risk of hypertension among individuals with lower weight at birth. The most adverse BP outcomes occur among individuals who were small at birth but relatively large as adults, a finding that suggests a role for postnatal growth. We critically review the literature on proposed mechanisms and epidemiologic evidence for developmental origins of adult BP and hypertension, considering associations with birth weight, maternal nutrition during pregnancy, child growth patterns, and infant feeding.
Neuronal deletion of Lepr elicits diabesity in mice without affecting cold tolerance or fertility
Authors: McMinn Julie E. , Liu Shun-Mei , Liu Hong , Dragatsis Ioannis , Dietrich Paula , Ludwig Thomas , Boozer Carol N. , Chua Streamson C.
Published: May 2005

Leptin signaling in the brain regulates energy intake and expenditure. To test the degree of functional neuronal leptin signaling required for the maintenance of body composition, fertility, and cold tolerance, transgenic mice expressing Cre in neurons ( CaMKIIα-Cre) were crossed to mice carrying a floxed leptin receptor ( Lepr) allele to generate mice with neuron-specific deletion of Lepr in ∼50% ( C F/F mice) and ∼75% ( C Δ17/F mice) of hypothalamic neurons. Leptin receptor (LEPR)-deficient mice ( Δ17/Δ17) with heat-shock-Cre-mediated global Lepr deletion served as obese controls. At 16 wk, male C F/F, C Δ17/F, and Δ17/Δ17 mice were 13.2 ( P < 0.05), 45.0, and 55.9% ( P < 0.001) heavier, respectively, than lean controls, whereas females showed 31.6, 68.8, and 160.7% increases in body mass ( P < 0.001). Significant increases in total fat mass ( C F/F: P < 0.01; C Δ17/F and Δ17/Δ17: P < 0.001 vs. sex-matched, lean controls), and serum leptin concentrations ( P < 0.001 vs. controls) were present in proportion to Lepr deletion. Male C Δ17/F mice had significant elevations in basal serum insulin concentrations ( P < 0.001 vs. controls) and were glucose intolerant, as measured by glucose tolerance test (AUC P < 0.01 vs. controls). In contrast with previous observations in mice null for LEPR signaling, C F/F and C Δ17/F mice were fertile and cold tolerant. These findings support the hypothesis that body weight, adiposity, serum leptin concentrations, and glucose intolerance are proportional to hypothalamic LEPR deficiency. However, fertility and cold tolerance remain intact unless hypothalamic LEPR deficiency is complete.
Stimulation of the Parapyramidal Region of the Neonatal Rat Brain Stem Produces Locomotor-Like Activity Involving Spinal 5-HT7 and 5-HT2A Receptors
Authors: Liu Jun , Jordan Larry M.
Published: May 2005

Locomotion can be induced in rodents by direct application 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) onto the spinal cord. Previous studies suggest important roles for 5-HT7 and 5-HT2A receptors in the locomotor effects of 5-HT. Here we show for the first time that activation of a discrete population of 5-HT neurons in the rodent brain stem produces locomotion and that the evoked locomotion requires 5-HT7 and 5-HT2A receptors. Cells localized in the parapyramidal region (PPR) of the mid-medulla produced locomotor-like activity as a result of either electrical or chemical stimulation, and PPR-evoked locomotor-like activity was blocked by antagonists to 5-HT2A and 5-HT7 receptors located on separate populations of neurons concentrated in different rostro-caudal regions. 5-HT7 receptor antagonists blocked locomotor-like activity when applied above the L3 segment; 5-HT2A receptor antagonists blocked locomotor-like activity only when applied below the L2 segment. 5-HT7 receptor antagonists decreased step cycle duration, consistent with an action on neurons involved in the rhythm-generating function of the central pattern generator (CPG) for locomotion. 5-HT2A antagonists reduced the amplitude of ventral root activity with only small effects on step cycle duration, suggesting an action directly on cells involved in the output stage of the pattern generator for locomotion, including motoneurons and premotor cells. Experiments with selective antagonists show that dopaminergic (D1, D2) and noradrenergic (α1, α2) receptors are not critical for PPR-evoked locomotor-like activity.
Genome-wide analysis of gene transcription in the hypothalamus
Authors: Bischof Jocelyn M. , Wevrick Rachel
Published: May 2005

As the genomic regions containing loci predisposing to obesity-related traits are mapped in human population screens and mouse genetic studies, identification of susceptibility genes will increasingly be facilitated by bioinformatic methods. We hypothesized that candidate genes can be prioritized by their expression levels in tissues of central importance in obesity. Our objective was to develop a combined bioinformatics and molecular paradigm to identify novel genes as candidates for murine or human obesity genetic modifiers based on their differential expression patterns in the hypothalamus compared with other murine tissues. We used bioinformatics tools to search publicly available gene expression databases using criteria designed to identify novel genes differentially expressed in the hypothalamus. We used RNA methods to determine their expression sites and levels of expression in the hypothalamus of the murine brain. We identified the chromosomal location of the novel genes in mice and in humans and compared these locations with those of genetic loci predisposing to obesity-related traits. We developed a search strategy that correctly identified a set of genes known to be important in hypothalamic function as well as a candidate gene for Prader-Willi syndrome that was not previously identified as differentially expressed in the hypothalamus. Using this same strategy, we identified and characterized a set of 11 genes not previously known to be differentially expressed in the murine hypothalamus. Our results demonstrate the feasibility of combined bioinformatics and molecular approaches to the identification of genes that are candidates for obesity-related disorders in humans and mice.
Increased Amplitudes of Distortion Product Otoacoustic Emissions in Patients with Unilateral Acoustic Neuroma
Authors: Gouveris Haralampos , Mann Wolf
Published: May 2005

We present a case series of 4 patients with a unilateral acoustic neuroma and increased amplitudes of the distortion products of otoacoustic emissions (DPOAEs) at the low- and middle- frequency bandwidth on the involved side compared to the uninvolved side despite a 28-dB hearing level (HL) worse (compared to the uninvolved side) pure-tone hearing threshold average for standard audiometric frequencies between 1 and 6 kHz at the involved side. In 3 of these patients, 2 with an inferior vestibular nerve origin of the acoustic neuroma and one in whom the nerve of origin could not be unequivocally defined, the tumor was extending extrameatally. One patient had a purely intrameatal acoustic neuroma of superior vestibular nerve origin. Moreover, notable was the presence of the DPOAEs in all of the involved ears despite elevated pure-tone hearing thresholds (pure- tone averages for the standard audiometric frequencies between 1 and 6 kHz ranging between 36 and 62 dB HL).
Phenotypic Characterization and Distribution of Dendritic Cells in Parotid Gland Tumors
Authors: Wischatta Martin , Brunhuber Thomas , Neher Andreas , Kacani Laco , Romani Nikolaus , Schrott-Fischer Annelies , Sprinzl Georg Mathias
Published: May 2005

Evidence on the relationship between the infiltration of dendritic cells (DCs) and prognosis in head and neck tumors exists. Interestingly, only limited information is available regarding the maturation state and distribution of DCs in parotid gland tumors. The purpose of our study was therefore to extend these observations and to investigate in more detail the density and distribution of mature DCs and Langerhans cells (LCs) in parotid gland tumors. We present immunohistochemical evidence of characterization and distribution of DCs and LCs in parotid gland tumors, enclosed pleomorphic adenomas and malignant parotid tumors. Two populations of mature DCs could be identified, P55+-DCs and DC-LAMP+-DCs, whereas LCs could be identified as Langerin+-LCs. The overall impression was that parotid gland tumors contained only few mature DCs and LCs. Considering the sparsity of mature DCs in the malignant tissues, anti- tumor response can be only limited. On the basis of our data, we imply that the application of DC vaccination in combination with other modalities for treatment of parotid gland carcinoma should be taken into account. In this regard, the utilization of DC immunotherapy for management of minimal residual disease after resection of primary tumor can be promising. Putative targets expressed in this type of tumors have to be defined.
Multiple Synchronous Fibrovascular Polyps of the Hypopharynx
Authors: Nuyens Michel R. , Bhatti Nasir I. , Flint Paul
Published: May 2005

Purpose of the Study: To evaluate the clinical, radiological presentation and surgical management of fibrovascular polyps of the hypopharynx. Methods: Retrospective medical analysis of a case report. We report the case of a 66-year-old man, who presented with an incarcerated left inguinal hernia, vomiting and regurgitation of a large mass into the oral cavity resulting in syncope. MRI and cine-esophagram demonstrated a large mass in the cervical esophagus. At the time of herniorrhaphy, endoscopy revealed an 11.8-cm hypopharyngeal mass that completely obstructed the oropharynx. Results: The airway was secured by tracheostomy and the lesion was subsequently removed via open pharyngotomy. Postoperatively, a second polyp was found ball-valving into the airway, and an endoscopic resection was performed prior to decannulation. Histopathology of both lesions confirmed the diagnosis of a fibrovascular polyp. Conclusion: Fibrovascular polyps are rare benign intraluminal esophageal lesions resulting in mild symptoms of dysphagia that may also cause significant morbidity such as syncope and asphyxia. This is the first report of synchronous fibrovascular polyps of the hypopharynx.