bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anterior Segment Optical Coherence Tomography Measurement of LASIK Flaps: Femtosecond Laser vs Microkeratome
Authors: Zhou Yuehua , Tian Lei , Wang NingLi , Dougherty Paul J.
Published: November 2010

Purpose:

To compare the uniformity and accuracy of LASIK flaps created with a femtosecond laser versus a mechanical microkeratome using optical coherence tomography (OCT).

Methods:

A prospective study was performed on 72 consecutive patients who underwent LASIK in both eyes in alternating fashion with either the AMO IntraLase FS60 (72 eyes) or the Moria M2 microkeratome (72 eyes). One month after surgery, anterior segment OCT was performed on each eye to measure flap thickness at 20 locations and the results were assessed for uniformity and accuracy.

Results:

At 1 month after surgery, the microkeratome group flap ranges were greater than those found in the femtosecond laser group (
P
<.05). The meridian and radial flap uniformity in the femtosecond laser group were better, showing an almost planar configuration, than the meniscus-shaped flaps created with the microkeratome. Comparison of the nasal and temporal flap thickness revealed more regularity in the femtosecond laser group than the microkeratome group. The maximum deviation from the intended flap thicknesses was 7 μm in the femtosecond laser group compared to 26 μm in the microkeratome group. During the 1440 measurements of the 72 eyes, a difference >20 μm was observed in 0.42% of eyes in the femtosecond laser group and 15% of eyes in the microkeratome group.

Conclusions:

LASIK flaps made with the IntraLase FS60 were more uniform with more accurate thickness than those created by the Moria M2 microkeratome.
Hyperopic LASEK Treatments with Mitomycin C Using the SCHWIND AMARIS
Authors: McAlinden Colm , Skiadaresi Eirini , Moore Jonathan E.
Published: November 2010

Purpose:

To investigate the outcomes of hyperopic laser epithelial keratomileusis (LASEK) with mitomycin C (MMC) using the SCHWIND AMARIS platform.

Methods:

Prospective study of 28 eyes of 14 patients. Mean preoperative manifest spherical equivalent refraction was +2.71±0.72 diopters (D) (range: +1.50 to +4.50 D). All eyes underwent LASEK with an Aberration-Free™ algorithm with the SCHWIND AMARIS followed by a 35-second application of MMC with a 6.7-mm optical zone size.

Results:

At 1 year, mean manifest spherical equivalent refraction was 0.03±0.30 D (range: −0.53 to +0.50 D), with 13 eyes within −0.13 to +0.13 D and all 28 eyes within ±0.50 D. Mean uncorrected distance visual acuity was −0.03±0.09 logMAR, and the efficacy and safety indices were 1, respectively, at 1 year. The postoperative manifest spherical equivalent refraction was stable between 1 and 3 months and 1 year.

Conclusions:

Hyperopic LASEK with MMC using the SCHWIND AMARIS provided good outcomes in terms of accuracy, efficacy, safety, and stability.
Rest is a Meaningful Occupation for Women with Hip and Knee Osteoarthritis
Authors: Gibbs Laura B. , Klinger Lisa
Published: November 2010

Rest is often acknowledged as an integral part of occupational therapy and occupational science, yet little is known about the experience of rest. This article arose from a question posed by the researchers during an earlier phenomenological study of women's experiences of adapting to osteoarthritis. A secondary analysis of the interview and focus group data from the initial study was conducted to answer the question, “How is rest experienced by these women with hip and knee osteoarthritis?” For these 11 women between the ages of 60 and 75 years, rest is a meaningful occupation that contributes to well-being and the achievement of occupational balance. Rest sometimes requires adaptation and is often enfolded with other occupations. Rest is described as different from sleep, which diverges from many classifications of rest in health frameworks. These findings suggest that rest is an important occupational experience and belongs in models of occupational therapy.
Assessing the Photoreceptor Mosaic over Drusen Using Adaptive Optics and SD-OCT
Authors: Godara Pooja , Siebe Cory , Rha Jungtae , Michaelides Michel , Carroll Joseph
Published: November 2010

Drusen are extracellular deposits that accumulate between the retinal pigment epithelium and Bruch’s membrane. They are one of the earliest clinical manifestations of age-related macular degeneration and it is thought that they disrupt the overlying photoreceptors, leading to subsequent vision loss. The purpose of this study was to illustrate how spectral domain optical coherence tomography and adaptive optics fundus imaging can be used to quantitatively analyze the integrity of the overlying photoreceptors in a single subject with macular drusen. This imaging approach and the image analysis metrics introduced may serve as the foundation for valuable imaging-based biomarkers for detecting the earliest stages of disease, tracking progression, and monitoring treatment response.
Possible Methods of Blood Entrance in Terson Syndrome
Authors: Michalewska Zofia , Michalewski Janusz , Nawrocki Jerzy
Published: November 2010

Background and Objective:

To present spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT), scanning laser ophthalmoscopy, and intraoperative images showing possible pathways of blood entrance into the eye and ways in which it may spread inside the eye in Terson syndrome.

Patients and Methods:

Nine eyes of 5 patients with Terson syndrome underwent pars plana vitrectomy. Surgeries were recorded and analyzed afterward. SD-OCT and scanning laser ophthalmoscopy examinations were performed after surgery.

Results:

Visual acuity improved in all cases. SD-OCT three-dimensional mode improved visualization of the internal limiting membrane (ILM), possibly due to sub-ILM blood spreading detachment near the macula and optic disc. Scanning laser ophthalmoscopy revealed blood spreading along vessels and blood under the retina was observed intraoperatively.

Conclusion:

SD-OCT, scanning laser ophthalmoscopy, and intraoperative images show that blood may enter the vitreous cavity around the retinal vessels near the optic disc. Inside the eye, the blood may spread intraretinally, sub-ILM, or along the retinal vessels.
SD-OCT with Prolonged Scan Depth for Imaging the Anterior Segment of the Eye
Authors: Shen Meixiao , Wang Michael R. , Yuan Yimin , Chen Feng , Karp Carol L. , Yoo Sonia H. , Wang Jianhua
Published: November 2010

An 840-nm wavelength spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) with prolonged scan depth was developed and mounted onto a conventional slit lamp for imaging the anterior segment of the eye. X–Y cross aiming was applied to align the SD-OCT scanning position during imaging. An internal fixation target displayed on a miniature LCD monitor was provided. The SD-OCT instrument had an axial resolution of 6 μm and a prolonged scan depth of 7.2 mm. High-quality SD-OCT images, consisting of 2,048 × 2,048 pixels, were acquired of the entire anterior chamber and entire crystalline lens from a healthy subject. The entire cornea, anterior chamber angle, limbus, and iris were clearly visible. Additionally, the internal structure of crystalline lens, including anterior and posterior surfaces of the crystalline lens, capsule, nucleus, and cortex, were clearly imaged with the instrument. The system was also tested in imaging accommodation of the same eye, demonstrating the feasibility of the novel approach for evaluating presbyopia/accommodation.
Enhancement of Suboptimal CD8 Cytotoxic T Cell Effector Function In Vivo Using Antigen-Specific CD80 Defective T Cells
Authors: Puliaeva Irina , Soloviova Kateryna , Puliaiev Maksym , Lang Thomas , Puliaev Roman , Via Charles S.
Published: November 2010

T cell upregulation of B7 molecules CD80 and CD86 limits T cell expansion in immunodeficient hosts; however, the relative roles of CD80 separate from CD86 on CD4 versus CD8 T cells in a normal immune system are not clear. To address this question, we used the parent-into-F1 (P→F1) murine model of graft-versus-host disease and transferred optimal and suboptimal doses of CD80 and/or CD86 knockout (KO) T cells into normal F1 hosts. Enhanced elimination of host B cells by KO T cells was observed only at suboptimal donor cell doses and was greatest for CD80 KO→F1 mice. Wild-type donor cells exhibited peak CD80 upregulation at day 10; CD80 KO donor cells exhibited greater peak (day 10) donor T cell proliferation and CD8 T cell effector CTL numbers versus wild-type→F1 mice. Fas or programmed cell death-1 upregulation was normal as was homeostatic contraction of CD80 KO donor cells from days 12–14. Mixing studies demonstrated that maximal host cell elimination was seen when both CD4 and CD8 T cells were CD80 deficient. These results indicate an important role for CD80 upregulation on Ag-activated CD4 and CD8 T cells in limiting expansion of CD8 CTL effectors as part of a normal immune response. Our results support further studies of therapeutic targeting of CD80 in conditions characterized by suboptimal CD8 effector responses.
HIV Immune Escape at an Immunodominant Epitope in HLA-B*27–Positive Individuals Predicts Viral Load Outcome
Authors: Ammaranond Palanee , van Bockel David J. , Petoumenos Kathy , McMurchie Marylin , Finlayson Robert , Middleton Melanie G. , Davenport Miles P. , Venturi Vanessa , Suzuki Kazuo , Gelgor Linda , Kaldor John M. , Cooper David A. , Kelleher Anthony D.
Published: November 2010

The CTL response in HLA-B*27+ HIV-infected individuals is characterized by an immunodominant response to a conserved epitope in gag p24 (aa 263–272, KRWIILGLNK; KK10). Mutations resulting in substitution of the arginine (R264) at position 2 of this epitope have been identified as escape mutations. Nineteen HLA-B*27+ long-term nonprogressors were identified from an Australian cohort with an average follow-up of 16 y following infection. Viral and host genetic factors impacting on disease progression were determined at multiple time points. Twelve of 19 had wild-type sequences at codon 264 at all time points; 7 of 19 carried CTL escape variants. Median viral load and CD4+ T cell counts were not significantly different between these groups at enrollment. Viral load, as judged by levels at their last visit (1,700 and 21,000 RNA copies/ml, respectively; p = 0.01) or by time-weighted area under the curve was higher in the escape group (p = 0.02). Escape mutants at other HLA-B*27–restricted epitopes were uncommon. Moreover, host polymorphisms, such as CCR5Δ32, CCR2-64I, and SDF1-3′A, or breadth of TCR repertoire responding to KK10 did not segregate to wild-type or escape groups. Host and viral factors were examined for a relationship to viral load. The only factor to affect viral load was the presence of the R264 escape mutations at the immunodominant epitope. CTL escape at R264 in the KK10 epitope is a major determinant of subsequent viral load in these HLA-B*27+ individuals.
Interactions of NK Cell Receptor KIR3DL1*004 with Chaperones and Conformation-Specific Antibody Reveal a Functional Folded State As Well As Predominant Intracellular Retention
Authors: Taner Sabrina B. , Pando Marcelo J. , Roberts Allison , Schellekens Jennifer , Marsh Steven G. E. , Malmberg Karl-Johan , Parham Peter , Brodsky Frances M.
Published: November 2010

Variable interaction between the Bw4 epitope of HLA-B and the polymorphic KIR3DL1/S1 system of inhibitory and activating NK cell receptors diversifies the development, repertoire formation, and response of human NK cells. KIR3DL1*004, a common KIR3DL1 allotype, in combination with Bw4+ HLA-B, slows progression of HIV infection to AIDS. Analysis in this study of KIR3DL1*004 membrane traffic in NK cells shows this allotype is largely misfolded but stably retained in the endoplasmic reticulum, where it binds to the chaperone calreticulin and does not induce the unfolded protein response. A small fraction of KIR3DL1*004 folds correctly and leaves the endoplasmic reticulum to be expressed on the surface of primary NK and transfected NKL cells, in a form that can be triggered to inhibit NK cell activation and secretion of IFN-γ. Consistent with this small proportion of correctly folded molecules, trace amounts of MHC class I coimmunoprecipitated with KIR3DL1*004. There was no indication of any extensive intracellular interaction between unfolded KIR3DL1*004 and cognate Bw4+ HLA-B. A similarly limited interaction of Bw4 with KIR3DL1*002, when both were expressed by the same cell, was observed despite the efficient folding of KIR3DL1*002 and its abundance on the NK cell surface. Several positions of polymorphism modulate KIR3DL1 abundance at the cell surface, differences that do not necessarily correlate with the potency of allotype function. In this context, our results suggest the possibility that the effect of Bw4+ HLA-B and KIR3DL1*004 in slowing progression to AIDS is mediated by interaction of Bw4+ HLA-B with the small fraction of cell surface KIR3DL1*004.
FADD Deficiency Impairs Early Hematopoiesis in the Bone Marrow
Authors: Rosenberg Stephen , Zhang Haibing , Zhang Jianke
Published: November 2010

Signal transduction mediated by Fas-associated death domain protein (FADD) represents a paradigm of coregulation of apoptosis and cellular proliferation. During apoptotic signaling induced by death receptors including Fas, FADD is required for the recruitment and activation of caspase 8. In addition, a death receptor-independent function of FADD is essential for embryogenesis. In previous studies, FADD deficiency in embryonic stem cells resulted in a complete lack of B cells and dramatically reduced T cell numbers, as shown by Rag1−/− blastocyst complementation assays. However, T-specific FADD-deficient mice contained normal numbers of thymocytes and slightly reduced peripheral T cell numbers, whereas B cell-specific deletion of FADD led to increased peripheral B cell numbers. It remains undetermined what impact an FADD deficiency has on hematopoietic stem cells and progenitors. The current study analyzed the effect of simultaneous deletion of FADD in multiple cell types, including bone marrow cells, by using the IFN-inducible Mx1-cre transgene. The resulting FADD mutant mice did not develop lymphoproliferation diseases, unlike Fas-deficient mice. Instead, a time-dependent depletion of peripheral FADD-deficient lymphocytes was observed. In the bone marrow, a lack of FADD led to a dramatic decrease in the hematopoietic stem cells and progenitor-enriched population. Furthermore, FADD-deficient bone marrow cells were defective in their ability to generate lymphoid, myeloid, and erythroid cells. Thus, the results revealed a temporal requirement for FADD. Although dispensable during lymphopoiesis post lineage commitment, FADD plays a critical role in early hematopoietic stages in the bone marrow.
IL-9 Production by Regulatory T Cells Recruits Mast Cells That Are Essential for Regulatory T Cell-Induced Immune Suppression
Authors: Eller Kathrin , Wolf Dominik , Huber Julia M. , Metz Martin , Mayer Gert , McKenzie Andrew N. J. , Maurer Marcus , Rosenkranz Alexander R. , Wolf Anna M.
Published: November 2010

Both mast cells (MCs) and regulatory T cells (Tregs) have gained attention as immunosuppressive cell populations. To investigate a possible interaction, we used the Th1- and Th17-dependent model of nephrotoxic serum nephritis (NTS), in which both MCs and Tregs have been shown to play a protective role. Transfer of wild-type (wt) Tregs into wt recipients almost completely prevents development of NTS and leads to a profound increase of MCs in the renal draining lymph nodes (LNs). By contrast, transfer of wt Tregs into animals deficient in MCs, which are characterized by an exaggerated susceptibility to NTS, no longer exhibited protective effects. Blocking the pleiotropic cytokine IL-9, known to be involved in MC recruitment and proliferation, by means of a mAb in mice receiving Tregs abrogated protection from NTS. Moreover, transfer of IL-9–deficient Tregs also failed to protect from NTS. In the absence of Treg-derived IL-9, MCs fail to accumulate in the LNs, despite the fact that IL-9 deficiency does not alter the general suppressive activity of Tregs. In summary, to our knowledge, we provide the first direct in vivo evidence that the nephroprotective, anti-inflammatory effects of Tregs critically depend on IL-9–mediated attraction of MCs into kidney-draining LNs.
Remarkable Conservation of Distinct Nonclassical MHC Class I Lineages in Divergent Amphibian Species
Authors: Goyos Ana , Sowa Jessica , Ohta Yuko , Robert Jacques
Published: November 2010

Nonclassical MHC class Ib (class Ib) genes are heterogeneous genes encoding molecules that are structurally similar to classical MHC class Ia molecules but with limited tissue distribution and polymorphism. Mammalian class Ib genes have diverse and often uncharacterized functions, and because of their rapid rate of evolution, class Ib phylogeny is difficult to establish. We have conducted an extensive genomic, molecular, and phylogenetic characterization of class Ib genes in two Xenopodinae amphibian species of different genera that diverged from a common ancestor as long ago as primates and rodents (∼65 million years). In contrast with the unsteadiness of mammalian class Ib genes, our results reveal an unusual degree of conservation of most Xenopodinae class Ib gene lineages, including a novel monogenic lineage represented by the divergent Xenopus laevis XNC10 gene and its unequivocal Silurana (Xenopus) tropicalis orthologue, SNC10. The preferential expression of this gene lineage by thymocytes themselves from the onset of thymic organogenesis is consistent with a specialized role of class Ib in early T cell development and suggests such a function is conserved in all tetrapods.
5A, an Apolipoprotein A-I Mimetic Peptide, Attenuates the Induction of House Dust Mite-Induced Asthma
Authors: Yao Xianglan , Dai Cuilian , Fredriksson Karin , Dagur Pradeep K. , McCoy J. Philip , Qu Xuan , Yu Zu-Xi , Keeran Karen J. , Zywicke Gayle J. , Amar Marcelo J. A. , Remaley Alan T. , Levine Stewart J.
Published: November 2010

New treatment approaches are needed for patients with asthma. Apolipoprotein A-I (apoA-I), the major structural protein of high-density lipoproteins, mediates reverse cholesterol transport and has atheroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects. In this study, we hypothesized that an apoA-I mimetic peptide might be effective at inhibiting asthmatic airway inflammation. A 5A peptide, which is a synthetic, bihelical apoA-I mimetic, was administered to wild-type A/J mice via osmotic mini-pump prior to the induction of house dust mite (HDM)-induced asthma. HDM-challenged mice that received the 5A apoA-I mimetic peptide had significant reductions in the number of bronchoalveolar lavage fluid eosinophils, lymphocytes, and neutrophils, as well as in histopathological evidence of airway inflammation. The reduction in airway inflammation was mediated by a reduction in the expression of Th2- and Th17-type cytokines, as well as in chemokines that promote T cell and eosinophil chemotaxis, including CCL7, CCL17, CCL11, and CCL24. Furthermore, the 5A apoA-I mimetic peptide inhibited the alternative activation of pulmonary macrophages in the lungs of HDM-challenged mice. It also abrogated the development of airway hyperresponsiveness and reduced several key features of airway remodeling, including goblet cell hyperplasia and the expression of collagen genes (Col1a1 and Col3a1). Our results demonstrate that the 5A apoA-I mimetic peptide attenuates the development of airway inflammation and airway hyperresponsiveness in an experimental murine model of HDM-induced asthma. These data support the conclusion that strategies using apoA-I mimetic peptides, such as 5A, might be developed further as a possible new treatment approach for asthma.
CD8 Regulates T Regulatory Cell Production of IL-6 and Maintains Their Suppressive Phenotype in Allergic Lung Disease
Authors: Joetham Anthony , Okamoto Masakazu , Takeda Katsuyuki , Schedel Michaela , Ohnishi Hiroshi , Dakhama Azzeddine , Gelfand Erwin W.
Published: November 2010

Naturally occurring CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ T regulatory cells (nTregs) regulate lung allergic responses through production of IL-10 and TGF-β. nTregs from CD8−/− mice failed to suppress lung allergic responses and were characterized by reduced levels of Foxp3, IL-10, and TGF-β, and high levels of IL-6. Administration of anti–IL-6 or anti–IL-6R to wild-type recipients prior to transfer of CD8−/− nTregs restored suppression. nTregs from IL-6−/− mice were suppressive, but lost this capability if incubated with IL-6 prior to transfer. The importance of CD8 in regulating the production of IL-6 in nTregs was demonstrated by the loss of suppression and increases in IL-6 following transfer of nTregs from wild-type donors depleted of CD8+ cells. Transfer of nTregs from CD8−/− donors reconstituted with CD8+ T cells was suppressive, and accordingly, IL-6 levels were reduced. These data identify the critical role of CD8–T regulatory cell interactions in regulating the suppressive phenotype of nTregs through control of IL-6 production.
Murine FLT3 Ligand-Derived Dendritic Cell-Mediated Early Immune Responses Are Critical to Controlling Cell-Free Human T Cell Leukemia Virus Type 1 Infection
Authors: Rahman Saifur , Khan Zafar K. , Wigdahl Brian , Jennings Stephen R. , Tangy Frederic , Jain Pooja
Published: November 2010

Human T cell leukemia virus type 1 (HTLV-1) is associated with two immunologically distinct diseases: HTLV-1–associated myelopathy/tropical spastic paraparesis and adult T cell leukemia. We observed previously that depletion of dendritic cells (DCs) in CD11c-diphtheria toxin receptor transgenic mice followed by infection with cell-free virus led to greater proviral and Tax mRNA loads and diminished cellular immune response compared with mice infected with cell-associated virus. To understand the significance of these in vivo results and explore the host–pathogen interaction between DCs and cell-free HTLV-1, we used FLT3 ligand-cultured mouse bone marrow-derived DCs (FL-DCs) and chimeric HTLV-1. Phenotypically, the FL-DCs upregulated expression of surface markers (CD80, CD86, and MHC class II) on infection; however, the level of MHC class I remained unchanged. We performed kinetic studies to understand viral entry, proviral integration, and expression of the viral protein Tax. Multiplex cytokine profiling revealed production of an array of proinflammatory cytokines and type 1 IFN (IFN-α) by FL-DCs treated with virus. Virus-matured FL-DCs stimulated proliferation of autologous CD3+ T cells as shown by intracellular nuclear Ki67 staining and produced IFN-γ when cultured with infected FL-DCs. Gene expression studies using type 1 IFN-specific and DC-specific arrays revealed upregulation of IFN-stimulated genes, most cytokines, and transcription factors, but a distinct downregulation of many chemokines. Overall, these results highlight the critical early responses generated by FL-DCs on challenge with cell-free chimeric HTLV-1.
Molecular Phenotypes of Unifocal, Multifocal, and Diffuse Invasive Breast Carcinomas
Authors: Tot Tibor , Pekár Gyula , Hofmeyer Syster , Gere Maria , Tarján Miklós , Hellberg Dan , Lindquist David
Published: November 2010

We analyzed the subgross distribution of the invasive component in 875 consecutive cases of breast carcinomas using large-format histology sections and compared the immunophenotype (estrogen and progesterone receptor expression, HER2 overexpression and expression of basal-like markers, CK5/6, CK14, and epidermal growth factor receptor) in unifocal, multifocal, and diffuse tumors. Histology grade and lymph node status were also analyzed. Unifocal invasive carcinomas comprised 58.6% (513/875), multifocal invasive carcinomas 36.5% (319/875), and diffuse invasive carcinomas 4.9% (43/875) of the cases. The proportion of lymph node-positive cases was significantly higher in multifocal and diffuse carcinomas compared to unifocal cancers, but no other statistically significant differences could be verified between these tumor categories. Histological multifocality and diffuse distribution of the invasive tumor component seem to be negative morphologic prognostic parameters in breast carcinomas, independent of the molecular phenotype.
Is it Possible to Extirpate Cardiovascular Events in Primary Aldosteronism after Surgical Treatment
Authors: Nishikawa Tetsuo , Matsuzawa Yoko , Saito Jun , Omura Masao
Published: November 2010

It is well known that primary aldosteronism (PA) due to aldosterone-producing adenoma (APA) is a surgically curable secondary hypertension. Thus, the differential diagnosis between unilateral hyperaldosteronemia due to APA and bilateral hyperaldosteronemia due to idiopathic hyperaldosteronism (IHA) is crucial to decide surgical indication for treatment in PA patients. Adrenal venous sampling (AVS) can diagnose the laterality of hypersecretion of aldosterone in those patients, while it is still impossible to differentiate bilateral hypersecretion of bilateral aldosterone-producing adenomas (Blt-APAs) from that of bilateral hyperplasia of IHA. To solve the problem, we try to develop a new method of supper-selective ACTH-stimulated adrenal venous sampling (SS-ACTH-AVS). We performed SS-ACTH-AVS by using a strip-tip type 2.2 Fr micro-catheter (Koshin Medical Inc. Japan). Adrenal effluents were sampled super-selectively at the central veins and at one or two tributaries of adrenal veins in each gland. We would like to emphasize that SS-ACTH-AVS can precisely analyze the situation of hyperfunction of steroidogenesis in each side of adrenals as well as in some tiny lesions inside the adrenal cortex which are not visible in the CT images. Moreover, we can differentiate Blt-APAs from IHA, and postulate the decision of surgical treatment, such as partial adrenalectomy. Thus, we should perform SS-ACTH-AVS especially in the case demonstrating the existence of bilateral adrenal lesions such as unilateral and bilateral tumors, or even no tumor in both sides in the patients with PA.
Humoral and In Vivo Cellular Immunity against the Raw Insect-Derived Recombinant Leishmania infantum Antigens KMPII, TRYP, LACK, and papLe22 in Dogs from an Endemic Area
Authors: Todolí Felicitat , Solano-Gallego Laia , de Juan Rafael , Morell Pere , Núñez Maria del Carmen , Lasa Rodrigo , Gómez-Sebastián Silvia , Escribano José M. , Alberola Jordi , Rodríguez-Cortés Alhelí
Published: November 2010

Leishmania infantum causes visceral leishmaniasis, a severe zoonotic and systemic disease that is fatal if left untreated. Identification of the antigens involved in Leishmania-specific protective immune response is a research priority for the development of effective control measures. For this purpose, we evaluated, in 27 dogs from an enzootic zone, specific humoral and cellular immune response by delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) skin test both against total L. infantum antigen and the raw Trichoplusia ni insect-derived kinetoplastid membrane protein-11 (rKMPII), tryparedoxin peroxidase (rTRYP), Leishmania homologue of receptors for activated C kinase (rLACK), and 22-kDa potentially aggravating protein of Leishmania (rpapLe22) antigens from this parasite. rTRYP induced the highest number of positive DTH responses (55% of leishmanin skin test [LST]-positive dogs), showing that TRYP antigen is an important T cell immunogen, and it could be a promising vaccine candidate against this disease. When TRYP-DTH and KMPII-DTH tests were evaluated in parallel, 82% of LST-positive dogs were detected, suggesting that both antigens could be considered as components of a standardized DTH immunodiagnostic tool for dogs.
Cutaneous Leishmaniasis (Leishmania major Infection) in Dutch Troops Deployed in Northern Afghanistan: Epidemiology, Clinical Aspects, and Treatment
Authors: van Thiel Pieter-Paul , Leenstra Tjalling , de Vries Henry J. , van der Sluis Allard , van Gool Tom , Krull Alex C. , van Vugt Michèle , de Vries Peter J. , Zeegelaar Jimmy E. , Bart Aldert , van der Meide Wendy F. , Schallig Henk D. F. H. , Faber William R. , Kager Piet A.
Published: November 2010

Cutaneous leishmaniasis caused by Leishmania major infection affected 172 (18.3%) of 938 Dutch military troops deployed in northern Afghanistan in 2005. The high attack rate was a result of initial insufficient availability of means of prevention and insufficient adherence to preventive measures. At presentation, the lymphatic system was involved in 24.8%. Treatment with intralesional injections of antimony with or without cryotherapy was satisfactory, but 19.5% of patients received secondary treatment with miltefosine. Six months after treatment, 128 (77.1%) of 166 treated patients were cured, 16 (9.6%) were lost to follow-up, and 22 (13.3%) already experienced cure at six weeks but were not seen at six months. Natural evolution played a role in this observational study, which showed cure of all patients seen at six months. In general, management of cutaneous leishmaniasis was feasible under field conditions.
Health Workers' Use of Malaria Rapid Diagnostic Tests (RDTs) to Guide Clinical Decision Making in Rural Dispensaries, Tanzania
Authors: Masanja M. Irene , McMorrow Meredith , Kahigwa Elizeus , Kachur S. Patrick , McElroy Peter D.
Published: November 2010

Rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) were developed as an alternative to microscopy for malaria diagnosis. The RDTs detect malaria parasite antigen(s) in whole blood with high sensitivity and specificity. We assessed health worker malaria treatment practices after the introduction of RDTs in peripheral health facilities without microscopy. From December 2007 to October 2008, we introduced histidine-rich protein II (HRP-2)-based ParaHIT RDTs for routine use in 12 health facilities in Rufiji District, Tanzania. Health workers received training on how to perform RDTs for patients 5 years of age or older with fever or suspected malaria. Children < 5 years of age were to be treated empirically per national guidelines. Among the 30,195 patients seen at these 12 health facilities, 10,737 (35.6%) were tested with an RDT for malaria. 88.3% (9,405/10,648) of tested patients reported fever or history of fever and 2.7% (289/10,677) of all tested individuals were children < 5 years of age. The RDT results were recorded for 10,650 patients (99.2%). Among the 5,488 (51.5%) RDT-positive patients, 5,256 (98.6%) were treated with an appropriate first-line antimalarial per national guidelines (artemether-lumefantrine or quinine). Among the 5,162 RDT-negative patients, only 205 (4.0%) were treated with an antimalarial. Other reported treatments included antibiotics and antipyretics. Implementation of RDTs in rural health facilities resulted in high adherence to national treatment guidelines. Patients testing negative by RDT were rarely treated with antimalarials. Unapproved antimalarials were seldom used. Health workers continued to follow guidelines for the empiric treatment of febrile children.
Comparative Pathogenesis of Epidemic and Enzootic Chikungunya Viruses in a Pregnant Rhesus Macaque Model
Authors: Chen Ching-I , Clark David C. , Pesavento Patricia , Lerche Nicholas W. , Luciw Paul A. , Reisen William K. , Brault Aaron C.
Published: November 2010

Since 2004, an East African genotype of Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) has emerged, causing significant epidemics of an arthralgic syndrome. In addition, this virus has been associated for the first time with neonatal transmission and neurological complications. In the current study, pregnant Rhesus macaques were inoculated with an enzootic or epidemic strain of CHIKV to compare pathogenesis and transplacental transmission potential. Viremias were similar for both strains and peaked at 2–3 days post-inoculation (dpi). Viral RNA was detected at necropsy at 21 dpi in maternal lymphoid, joint-associated, and spinal cord tissues. The absence of detectable viral RNA and the lack of germinal center development in fetuses indicated that transplacental transmission did not occur. Neutralizing antibodies were detected in all dams and fetuses. Our study establishes a non-human primate model for evaluating vaccines and antiviral therapies and indicates that Rhesus macaques could serve as a competent enzootic reservoir.
In Vitro Praziquantel Test Capable of Detecting Reduced In Vivo Efficacy in Schistosoma mansoni Human Infections
Authors: Lamberton Poppy H. L. , Hogan Sarah C. , Kabatereine Narcis B. , Fenwick Alan , Webster Joanne P.
Published: November 2010

Although great reductions in human schistosomiasis have been observed after praziquantel (PZQ) mass drug administration (MDA), some individuals remain infected after multiple treatments. Many MDA programs now require monitoring for drug efficacy as a key component. No molecular tools for PZQ resistance currently exist and investigations into the dose of PZQ required to kill 50% of adult worms in vivo (ED50) present ethical, logistical, and temporal restraints. We, therefore, assessed the feasibility and accuracy of a rapid, inexpensive in vitro PZQ test in the laboratory and directly in the field in Uganda under MDA in conjunction with highly detailed infection intensity, clearance, and reinfection data. This test strongly differentiated between subsequently cleared and uncleared infections as well as differences between parasite populations pre- and post-PZQ treatments, advocating its use for on-the-spot monitoring of PZQ efficacy in natural foci. After only a few treatments, uncleared parasites were identified to be phenotypically different from drug-sensitive parasites, emphasizing the urgent need for monitoring of these repeatedly PZQ-treated populations.
Pyrethroid Susceptibility in Natural Populations of the Anopheles punctulatus Group (Diptera: Culicidae) in Papua New Guinea
Authors: Keven John B. , Henry-Halldin Cara N. , Thomsen Edward K. , Mueller Ivo , Siba Peter M. , Zimmerman Peter A. , Reimer Lisa J.
Published: November 2010

The development of insecticide resistance has compromised mosquito control efforts in many parts of the world. Papua New Guinea (PNG) has a long history of dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) use and currently distributes pyrethroid-treated nets for malaria control. This study is the first to investigate the status of pyrethroid resistance in the Anopheles punctulatus group, the major malaria and filariasis vectors of PNG. The study used World Health Organization standard susceptibility bioassays to detect knockdown phenotypes and a novel nested polymerase chain reaction to detect the knockdown resistant (kdr) allele in these vectors. Our results show 100% susceptibility to pyrethroids in all populations surveyed and an absence of the kdr allele.
Seoul Virus Infection in a Wisconsin Patient with Recent Travel to China, March 2009: First Documented Case in the Midwestern United States
Authors: Nielsen Carrie F. , Sethi Vishal , Petroll Andrew E. , Kazmierczak James , Erickson Bobbie R. , Nichol Stuart T. , Rollin Pierre E. , Davis Jeffrey P.
Published: November 2010

Diagnosis of Seoul virus-associated hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) cases among United States residents is rare. We describe confirmation of a Seoul virus infection in a 36-year-old scientist who worked with laboratory rats in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, but most likely acquired the infection during a trip to Shenyang, China.
Atmospheric OH reactivities in the Pearl River Delta – China in summer 2006: measurement and model results
Authors: Lou S. , Holland F. , Rohrer F. , Lu K. , Bohn B. , Brauers T. , Chang C.C. , Fuchs H. , Häseler R. , Kita K. , Kondo Y. , Li X. , Shao M. , Zeng L. , Wahner A. , Zhang Y. , Wang W. , Hofzumahaus A.
Published: November 2010

Abstract. Total atmospheric OH reactivities (kOH) have been measured as reciprocal OH lifetimes by a newly developed instrument at a rural site in the densely populated Pearl River Delta (PRD) in Southern China in summer 2006. The deployed technique, LP-LIF, uses laser flash photolysis (LP) for artificial OH generation and laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) to measure the time-dependent OH decay in samples of ambient air. The reactivities observed at PRD covered a range from 10 s−1 to 120 s−1, indicating a large load of chemical reactants. On average, kOH exhibited a pronounced diurnal profile with a mean maximum value of 50 s−1 at daybreak and a mean minimum value of 20 s−1 at noon. The comparison of reactivities calculated from measured trace gases with measured kOH reveals a missing reactivity of about a factor of 2 at day and night. The reactivity explained by measured trace gases was dominated by anthropogenic pollutants (e.g., CO, NOx, light alkenes and aromatic hydrocarbons) at night, while it was strongly influenced by local, biogenic emissions of isoprene during the day. Box model calculations initialized by measured parameters reproduce the observed OH reactivity well and suggest that the missing reactivity is contributed by unmeasured, secondary chemistry products (mainly aldehydes and ketones) that were photochemically formed by hydrocarbon oxidation. Overall, kOH was dominated by organic compounds, which had a maximum contribution of 85% in the afternoon. The paper demonstrates the usefulness of direct reactivity measurements, emphasizes the need for direct measurements of oxygenated organic compounds in atmospheric chemistry studies, and discusses uncertainties of the modelling of OVOC reactivities.
On realistic size equivalence and shape of spheroidal Saharan mineral dust particles applied in solar and thermal radiative transfer calculations
Authors: Otto S. , Trautmann T. , Wendisch M.
Published: November 2010

Abstract. Realistic size equivalence and shape of Saharan mineral dust particles are derived from on in-situ particle, lidar and sun photometer measurements during SAMUM-1 in Morocco (19 May 2006), dealing with measured size- and altitude-resolved axis ratio distributions of assumed spheroidal model particles. The data were applied in optical property, radiative effect, forcing and heating effect simulations to quantify the realistic impact of particle non-sphericity. It turned out that volume-to-surface equivalent spheroids with prolate shape are most realistic: particle non-sphericity only slightly affects single scattering albedo and asymmetry parameter but may enhance extinction coefficient by up to 10%. At the bottom of the atmosphere (BOA) the Saharan mineral dust always leads to a loss of solar radiation, while the sign of the forcing at the top of the atmosphere (TOA) depends on surface albedo: solar cooling/warming over a mean ocean/land surface. In the thermal spectral range the dust inhibits the emission of radiation to space and warms the BOA. The most realistic case of particle non-sphericity causes changes of total (solar plus thermal) forcing by 55/5% at the TOA over ocean/land and 15% at the BOA over both land and ocean and enhances total radiative heating within the dust plume by up to 20%. Large dust particles significantly contribute to all the radiative effects reported.
Influence of aerosol acidity on the chemical composition of Secondary Organic Aerosol from β-caryophyllene
Authors: Chan M. N. , Surratt J. D. , Chan A. W. H. , Schilling K. , Offenberg J. H. , Lewandowski M. , Edney E. O. , Kleindienst T. E. , Jaoui M. , Edgerton E. S. , Tanner R. L. , Shaw S. L. , Zheng M. , Knipping E. M. , Seinfeld J. H.
Published: November 2010

Abstract. The secondary organic aerosol (SOA) yield of β-caryophyllene photooxidation is enhanced by aerosol acidity. In the present study, the influence of aerosol acidity on the chemical composition of β-caryophyllene SOA is investigated using ultra performance liquid chromatography/electrospray ionization-time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC/ESI-TOFMS). A number of first-, second- and higher-generation gas-phase products having carbonyl and carboxylic acid functional groups are detected in the particle phase. Particle-phase reaction products formed via hydration and organosulfate formation processes are also detected. Increase of acidity leads to different effects on the abundance of individual products; significantly, abundances of organosulfates are correlated with aerosol acidity. To our knowledge, this is the first detection of organosulfates and nitrated organosulfates derived from a sesquiterpene. The increase of certain particle-phase reaction products with increased acidity provides chemical evidence to support the acid-enhanced SOA yields. Based on the agreement between the chromatographic retention times and accurate mass measurements of chamber and field samples, three β-caryophyllene products (i.e., β-nocaryophyllon aldehyde, β-hydroxynocaryophyllon aldehyde, and β-dihydroxynocaryophyllon aldehyde) are identified as chemical tracers for β-caryophyllene SOA. These compounds are detected in both day and night ambient samples collected in downtown Atlanta, GA and rural Yorkville, GA during the 2008 August Mini-Intensive Gas and Aerosol Study (AMIGAS).
Diagenetic control of nitrogen isotope ratios in Holocene sapropels and recent sediments from the Eastern Mediterranean Sea
Authors: Möbius J. , Lahajnar N. , Emeis K.-C.
Published: November 2010

Abstract. The enhanced accumulation of organic matter in Eastern Mediterranean sapropels and their unusually low δ15N values have been attributed to either enhanced nutrient availability which led to elevated primary production and carbon sequestration or to enhanced organic matter preservation under anoxic conditions. In order to evaluate these two hypothesis we have determined Ba/Al ratios, amino acid composition, N and organic C concentrations and δ15N in sinking particles, surface sediments, eight spatially distributed core records of the youngest sapropel S1 (10–6 ka) and older sapropels (S5, S6) from two locations. These data suggest that (i) temporal and spatial variations in δ15N of sedimentary N are driven by different degrees of diagenesis at different sites rather than by changes in N-sources or primary productivity and (ii) present day TOC export production would suffice to create a sapropel like S1 under conditions of deep-water anoxia. This implies that both enhanced TOC accumulation and δ15N depletion in sapropels were due to the absence of oxygen in deep waters. Thus preservation plays a major role for the accumulation of organic-rich sediments casting doubt on the need of enhanced primary production for sapropel formation.
Stable carbon isotope discrimination and microbiology of methane formation in tropical anoxic lake sediments
Authors: Conrad R. , Noll M. , Claus P. , Klose M. , Bastos W. R. , Enrich-Prast A.
Published: November 2010

Abstract. Methane is an important end product of degradation of organic matter in anoxic lake sediments. Methane is mainly produced by either reduction of CO2 or cleavage of acetate involving different methanogenic archaea. The contribution of the different methanogenic paths and of the diverse bacteria and archaea involved in CH4 production exhibits a large variability that is not well understood. Lakes in tropical areas, e.g. in Brazil, are wetlands with high potential impact on the global CH4 budget. However, they have hardly been studied with respect to methanogenesis. Therefore, we used samples from 16 different lake sediments in the Pantanal and Amazon region of Brazil to measure production of CH4, CO2, analyze the content of 13C in the products and in intermediately formed acetate, determine the abundance of bacterial and archaeal microorgansisms and their community composition and diversity by targeting the genes of bacterial and archaeal ribosomal RNA and of methyl coenzyme M reductase, the key enzyme of methanogenic archaea. These experiments were done in the presence and absence of methyl fluoride, an inhibitor of acetoclastic methanogenesis. While production rates of CH4 and CO2 were correlated to the content of organic matter and the abundance of archaea in the sediment, values of 13C in acetate and CH4 were related to the 13C content of organic matter and to the path of CH4 production with its intrinsic carbon isotope fractionation. Isotope fractionation was small (average 10‰) for conversion of Corg to acetate-methyl, which was hardly further fractionated during CH4 production. However, fractionation was strong for CO2 conversion to CH4 (average 75‰), which generally accounted for >50% of total CH4 production. Canonical correspondence analysis did not reveal an effect of microbial community composition, despite the fact that it exhibited a pronounced variability among the different sediments.
Combining satellite radar altimetry, SAR surface soil moisture and GRACE total storage changes for model calibration and validation in a large ungauged catchment
Authors: Milzow C. , Krogh P. E. , Bauer-Gottwein P.
Published: November 2010

Abstract. The availability of data is a major challenge for hydrological modelling in large parts of the world. Remote sensing data can be exploited to improve models of ungauged or poorly gauged catchments. In this study we combine three datasets for calibration and validation of a rainfall-runoff model of the ungauged Okavango catchment in Southern Africa: (i) Surface soil moisture (SSM) estimates derived from SAR measurements onboard the Envisat satellite; (ii) Radar altimetry measurements by Envisat providing river stages in the tributaries of the Okavango catchment, down to a minimum width of about one hundred meters; and (iii) Temporal changes of the Earth's gravity field recorded by the Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE) caused by total water storage changes in the catchment. The SSM data are compared to simulated moisture conditions in the top soil layer. They cannot be used for model calibration but support bias identification in the precipitation data. The accuracy of the radar altimetry data is validated on gauged subbasins of the catchment and altimetry data of an ungauged subbasin is used for model calibration. The radar altimetry data are important to condition model parameters related to channel morphology such as Manning's roughness. GRACE data are used to validate the model and to condition model parameters related to various storage compartments in the hydrological model (e.g. soil, groundwater, bank storage etc.). As precipitation input the FEWS-Net RFE, TRMM 3B42 and ECMWF ERA-Interim data sets are considered and compared.
Hydrogeological model and hydraulic behaviour of a large landslide in the Italian Western Alps
Authors: Pisani G. , Castelli M. , Scavia C.
Published: November 2010

Abstract. A study of the large, deep-seated Rosone landslide (Italian Western Alps) is presented. A large amount of geological and geomechanical data has been collected in this area, due to the presence of various villages and man-made structures, and an automatic monitoring system was installed in December 2000. Since its installation, this system has been showing a continuous slow movement with periodical accelerations that can be correlated to heavy rainfall events. A hydrogeological model has been developed to study the influence of rainfall events on the pore pressure variations inside the rock slope. The structural characteristics, inclinometric and piezometric measurements, statigraphic and seismic profiles, geomorphologic information, water balance and chemical analyses of the main springs in the slope have been taken into account to consider this problem. A numerical hydraulic investigation, based on a continuum equivalent model of the landslide, has then been carried out using the FLAC3D computer code. Some preliminary results, which highlight the role of permeability and the porosity values of the rock mass on the pore pressure variations during heavy rainfall, are shown in the paper.