bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Flapless Implant Surgery Using an Image‐Guided System. A 1‐ to 4‐Year Retrospective Multicenter Comparative Clinical Study
Authors: Berdougo Marc , Fortin Thomas , Blanchet Eric , Isidori Michel , Bosson Jean‐Luc
Published: February 2009

Purpose:The aim of this retrospective multicenter clinical study was to compare the survival rate of dental implants placed with two different surgical procedures: (1) a flapless surgical procedure using an image‐guided system (IGS flapless protocol) and (2) the conventional technique (open flap without IGS) with a computed tomography scan.

Materials and Methods:Between 2001 and 2004, 552 implants were placed in 169 patients by six practitioners who used both protocols to restore completely and partially edentulous arches: 271 of them were placed with the IGS flapless protocol (test group) and 281 with the conventional procedure (control group). Each implant was categorized as “survival” or “failure” after 1 to 4 years of follow‐up after prosthesis implantation. A preoperative classification was used to evaluate the anatomic features of each case. There was initially no possible comparison between these two groups because of the indication bias relative to the retrospective clinical study data characteristics. After a classic logistic regression analysis, propensity scores were used to reduce this bias: prognosis variables were included in a regression logistic model to define the probability for each implant to be treated with the IGS flapless protocol. Implants showing the same probability were categorized into three classes. The implants were then compared with each other within the same class.

Results:After the follow‐up period, the cumulative survival rate was 98.57% in the control group and 96.30% in the test group. Whatever the statistical method used, no statistical differences between the two protocols were shown. Transmucosal implant placement showed a survival rate of 97%. Even though the initial conditions were less favorable, the survival rate in the test group was comparable with the standard protocol group.

Conclusion:Passing an implant through the gum does not interfere with osseointegration. The IGS flapless procedure makes it possible to use the flapless procedure, even though anatomic conditions were initially unfavorable.
The effects of α‐secretase ADAM10 on the proteolysis of neuregulin‐1
Authors: Freese Christian , Garratt Alistair N. , Fahrenholz Falk , Endres Kristina
Published: February 2009

Although ADAM10 is a major α‐secretase involved in non‐amyloidogenic processing of the amyloid precursor protein, several additional substrates have been identified, most of them in vitro. Thus, therapeutical approaches for the prevention of Alzheimer’s disease by upregulation of this metalloproteinase may have severe side effects. In the present study, we examined whether the ErbB receptor ligand neuregulin‐1, which is essential for myelination and other important neuronal functions, is cleaved by ADAM10. Studies with β‐ and γ‐secretase inhibitors, as well as with the metalloproteinase inhibitor GM6001, revealed an inhibition of neuregulin‐1 processing in human astroglioma cell line U373; however, specific RNA interference‐induced knockdown of ADAM10 remained without effect. In vivo investigations of mice overexpressing either ADAM10 or dominant negative ADAM10 showed unaltered cleavage of neuregulin‐1 compared to wild‐type animals. As a consequence, the myelin sheath thickness of peripheral nerves was unaffected in mice with altered ADAM10 activity. Thus, although the β‐secretase BACE‐1 acts as a neuregulin‐1 sheddase, ADAM10 does not lead to altered neuregulin‐1 processing either in cell culture or in vivo. Adverse reactions of an ADAM10‐based therapy of Alzheimer’s disease due to neuregulin‐1 cleavage are therefore unlikely.
Plastid localization of the PEND protein is mediated by a noncanonical transit peptide
Authors: Terasawa Kimihiro , Sato Naoki
Published: February 2009

Plastid envelope DNA‐binding protein (PEND) is a DNA‐binding protein with a chloroplast basic region‐zipper domain at its N‐terminus and a transmembrane domain at its C‐terminus. The localization of PEND to the inner envelope membrane was demonstrated in a targeting experiment using isolated membranes and green fluorescent protein‐tagged fusion proteins. An N‐terminal sequence analysis showed that the presequence is 15 amino acids long; however, based on neural network‐based prediction tools, this short peptide is not predicted to be a chloroplast‐targeting sequence. In the present study we confirmed, by the digestion of intact chloroplasts, that PEND is located in the envelope membrane. We then demonstrated that the N‐terminal 88‐amino acid sequence is sufficient for plastid import in vitro. The transient expression of green fluorescent protein‐tagged fusion proteins revealed that neither the N‐terminal 29‐amino acid sequence nor the 16‐amino acid sequence directed green fluorescent protein to chloroplasts, but that the N‐terminal 66‐amino acid sequence was sufficient for correct targeting. These results suggest that targeting of PEND to the chloroplast requires both the presequence and the basic region, whereas postimport processing cleaves only the presequence. Interestingly, deletion of the presequence in the green fluorescent protein‐tagged 88‐amino acid construct resulted in targeting to the nucleus. This raises the possibility of plastid‐to‐nuclear signal transduction by the relocalization of PEND.
Channel‐forming activities of peroxisomal membrane proteins from the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Grunau Silke , Mindthoff Sabrina , Rottensteiner Hanspeter , Sormunen Raija T. , Hiltunen J. Kalervo , Erdmann Ralf , Antonenkov Vasily D.
Published: February 2009

Highly‐purified peroxisomes from the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae grown on oleic acid were investigated for the presence of channel (pore)‐forming proteins in the membrane of these organelles. Solubilized membrane proteins were reconstituted in planar lipid bilayers and their pore‐forming activity was studied by means of multiple‐channel monitoring or single‐channel analysis. Two abundant pore‐forming activities were detected with an average conductance of 0.2 and 0.6 nS in 1.0 m KCl, respectively. The high‐conductance pore (0.6 nS in 1.0 m KCl) is slightly selective to cations (PK+/PCl− ∼ 1.3) and showed an unusual flickering at elevated (> ±40 mV) holding potentials directed upward relative to the open state of the channel. The data obtained for the properties of the low‐conductance pore (0.2 nS in 1.0 m KCl) support the notion that the high‐conductance channel represents a cluster of two low‐conductance pores. The results lead to conclusion that the yeast peroxisomes contain membrane pore‐forming proteins that may aid the transfer of small solutes between the peroxisomal lumen and cytoplasm.
Sap properties and alk(en)ylresorcinol concentrations in Australian‐grown mangoes
Authors: Hassan M.K. , Irving D.E. , Dann E.K. , Coates L.M. , Hofman P.J.
Published: February 2009

Physical and chemical properties of sap and sap concentrations of constitutive alk(en)ylresorcinols were determined in several varieties of mango grown in different locations in Queensland, Australia, over two consecutive cropping seasons. Sap weight from individual fruit, sap pH, percentage of non‐aqueous sap and concentrations of constitutive alk(en)ylresorcinols (5‐n‐heptadecenylresorcinol and 5‐n‐pentadecylresorcinol) in sap varied significantly among the varieties. ‘Calypso’, ‘Keitt’, ‘Kensington Pride’ and ‘Celebration’ had the greatest proportion of non‐aqueous sap, whereas ‘Nam Doc Mai’ had the least. The highest concentrations of 5‐n‐heptadecenylresorcinol were found in the sap of ‘Kensington Pride’, and the lowest in ‘Honey Gold’ and ‘Nam Doc Mai’. Highest concentrations of 5‐n‐pentadecylresorcinol were found in sap of ‘Calypso’ and ‘Celebration’, and the lowest levels were in ‘Honey Gold’ and ‘Nam Doc Mai’. There was a direct relationship between the percentage of non‐aqueous sap and the concentrations of alk(en)ylresorcinols (r2 = 0.77 for 5‐n‐heptadecenylresorcinol, and r2 = 0.87 for 5‐n‐pentadecylresorcinol). The alk(en)ylresorcinols were distributed mainly in the upper non‐aqueous phase of ‘Kensington Pride’ sap. Growing location also had significant effects on the composition of mango sap but the effects appeared to be related to differences in maturity. Sap removal is necessary to prevent sapburn, but considerable quantities of alk(en)ylresorcinols that assist in protecting the harvested fruit from anthracnose disease are also removed.
High-velocity H2O maser emission from the post-asymptotic-giant-branch star OH 009.1-0.4
Authors: Walsh A. J. , Breen S. L. , Bains I. , Vlemmings W. H. T.
Published: February 2009

Observations of H2O masers towards the post-asymptotic-giant-branch star and water fountain source OH 009.1-0.4 were made as part of The H2O southern galactic Plane Survey, with the Mopra radiotelescope. Together with followup observations using the Australia Telescope Compact Array (ATCA), we have identified H2O maser emission over a velocity spread of nearly 400 km s-1 (-109 to +289 km s-1). This velocity spread appears to be the largest of any known maser source in our Galaxy. High-resolution observations with the ATCA indicate that the maser emission is confined to a region 0.3 × 0.3 arcsec and shows weak evidence for a separation of the red- and blueshifted maser spots. We are unable to determine if the water fountain is projected along the line of sight, or is inclined, but either way OH 009.1-0.4 is an interesting source, worthy of followup observations.
An ultra-compact dwarf around the Sombrero galaxy (M104): the nearest massive UCD
Authors: Hau George K. T. , Spitler Lee R. , Forbes Duncan A. , Proctor Robert N. , Strader Jay , Mendel J. Trevor , Brodie Jean P. , Harris William E.
Published: February 2009

We report the discovery of an ultra-compact dwarf (UCD) associated with the Sombrero galaxy (M104). This is the closest massive UCD known and the first spectroscopically verified massive UCD which is located in a low-density environment.

The object, we name SUCD1, was identified in Hubble Space Telescope (HST)/Advanced Camera for Surveys (ACS) imaging and confirmed to be associated with the Sombrero galaxy by its recession velocity obtained from Keck spectra. The light profile is well fitted by a Wilson model. We measure a half-light size of 14.7 ± 1.4 pc, an absolute magnitude of MV=-12.3 mag(MK=-15.1 mag) and an internal velocity dispersion of 25.0 ± 5.6 km s-1. Such values are typical of UCDs. From Lick spectral indices we measure a luminosity-weighted central age of 12.6 ± 0.9 Gyr, [Fe/H] of -0.08 ± 0.08 dex and [α/Fe] of 0.06 ± 0.07 dex. The lack of colour gradients suggests these values are representative of the entire UCD. The derived stellar and virial masses are the same, within errors, at ∼3.3 × 107 M⊙. Thus, we find no strong evidence for dark matter or the need to invoke a non-standard initial mass function.

We also report arguably the first X-ray detection of a bona fide UCD, which we attribute to the presence of low-mass X-ray binaries. The X-ray luminosity of LX= 0.56 × 1038 erg s-1 is consistent with the values observed for globular clusters (GCs) of the same metallicity. Overall, we find SUCD1 has properties similar to other known UCDs and massive GCs.
The effect of modified jazz dance on balance, cognition, and mood in older adults
Authors: Alpert Patricia T , Miller Sally K , Wallmann Harvey , Havey Richard , Cross Chad , Chevalia Theresa , Gillis Carrie B , Kodandapari Keshavan
Published: February 2009

Purpose:  The purpose of this pilot study was to evaluate the impact of jazz dance class instruction on balance, cognition, and mood (specifically depression) in 13 healthy, community‐dwelling, English‐speaking older women with a mean age of 68.

Data sources:  Data were collected using self‐report questionnaires (Folstein Mini Mental Status Examination [MMSE] and Geriatric Depression Scale [GDS]), and the sensory organization test (SOT) for balance measurements (using the NeuroCom Smart Balance Master) was performed at three time periods in the study: time 1: between week 1 and week 2 of jazz class (baseline), time 2: between week 8 and week 9 of jazz class (midpoint), and time 3: after week 15 of jazz class (final measurement).

Conclusions:  Differences in mean MMSE and GDS scores over time were not significant; however, SOT scores showed an increasing trend (p < .001). Data analysis using analysis of variance with repeated measures showed that balance measures improved throughout the duration of the study (F2,10= 19.68, p < .001). Post hoc analyses using paired t tests with a Bonferroni correction indicated that significant increases in balance occurred from time 1 to time 2 and from time 2 to time 3. These preliminary pilot study findings suggest that jazz dance does not impact cognition or mood but may improve balance in older women. This finding may have significant implications for fall prevention in the postmenopausal population.

Implications for practice:  Because falls are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in older adults of both genders, research is needed to evaluate both the impact of jazz dance on balance in older men and jazz dance as a fall prevention strategy in aging adults. Additionally, longitudinal research with a larger sample size is needed to test the effectiveness of jazz dance as a strategy for improving balance, cognition, and mood.
Implementing a restorative care philosophy of care in assisted living: Pilot testing of Res‐Care‐AL
Authors: Resnick Barbara , Galik Elizabeth , Gruber‐Baldini Ann L , Zimmerman Sheryl
Published: February 2009

Purpose:  The purpose of this study was to pilot test the feasibility of the Restorative Care for Assisted Living (Res‐Care‐AL) intervention. Res‐Care‐AL is a nurse‐initiated intervention using a social ecological model and self‐efficacy (SE)‐based approach to implement a restorative care intervention for nursing home residents.

Data sources:  Resident and nursing assistant (NA) outcome measures were obtained at baseline and 4 months postintervention. Resident outcomes included SE and outcome expectations, physical activity, function, resilience, social support for exercise, grip strength, and gait and balance, fear of falling, and quality of life. Outcomes associated with the NAs included SE and outcome expectations and knowledge and performance of restorative care.

Conclusions:  At 4 months, the residents had better function (p = .05), grip strength (p = .05), and time spent in physical activity (p = .01). The NAs had a significant improvement in outcome expectations (p = .02) and a nonsignificant improvement in knowledge (p = .06), SE (p = .09), and performance of restorative care activities (p = .82).

Implications for practice:  Nurse practitioners can effectively implement and facilitate restorative care interventions in AL settings using a theoretically based model and a nursing team.
Xanthopterin in the Oriental Hornet (Vespa orientalis): Light Absorbance Is Increased with Maturation of Yellow Pigment Granules
Authors: Plotkin Marian , Volynchik Stanislav , Ermakov Natalya Y. , Benyamini Avishai , Boiko Yulia , Bergman David J. , Ishay Jacob S.
Published: February 2009

The Oriental hornet bears both brown and yellow colors on its cuticle. The brown component is contributed by the pigment melanin, which is dispersed in the brown cuticle and provides protection against insolation, while the yellow‐colored part contains within pockets in the cuticle granules possessing a yellow pigment. These yellow granules (YG) are formed about 2 days prior to eclosion of the imago, and their production continues for about 3 days posteclosion. Xanthopterin is the main component of the granule and lends it its yellow color. Xanthopterin produces a characteristic excitation/emission maximum at 386/456 nm. Characterization by use of mass spectrometry showed the compound to have a molecular ion of 179, as expected from xanthopterin. Spectroscopic examination of the absorption of an entire stripe of yellow cuticle in the course of its metamorphosis revealed that the absorption steadily increases throughout the process to a maximal level of absorption about 3 days posteclosion. In the absence of the YG, the cuticle is permeable to the passage of all wavelengths within the visible range and to the UV range (290–750 nm) in all age groups of hornets. The newly ecloded hornets depart the nest to engage in activities requiring exposure to insolation only as the process of granule formation terminates, namely, when the layer of YG in the cuticle suffices to absorb all the harmful UV radiation.
Surface Charge Changes upon Formation of the Signaling State in Visual Rhodopsin†
Authors: Möller Martina , Alexiev Ulrike
Published: February 2009

The cytoplasmic surface of G protein‐coupled receptors plays a central role for activation and deactivation of the receptor. To understand the molecular mechanisms which underlie these processes, we determined the surface charge density and its changes upon activation directly at the cytoplasmic surface of bovine rhodopsin and correlated these changes with key events in receptor activation. The surface charge density was calculated from the ionic strength dependence of the apparent pKa of the surface‐bound pH‐indicator dye fluorescein according to the Gouy‐Chapman theory. The surface charge density at pH 6.5 changes by 0.8 ± 0.2 elementary charge/1000 Å2 in rod outer segment disk membranes and by 0.4 ± 0.2 elementary charge/1000 Å2 in rhodopsin/dodecylmaltoside micelles upon formation of the active metarhodopsin‐II state. By comparison of these surface charge density values determined with and without the native lipid environment, we calculated the charge change to about 1 elementary charge/cytoplasmic rhodopsin surface. The more positive surface charge density in metarhodopsin‐II decreases back to the dark state level of σ = −2.0 ± 0.2 elementary charges/1000 Å2 in the opsin state, providing further evidence that the cytoplasmic surface properties after metarhodopsin‐II decay resemble almost those of the dark state.
Structural Characterization of a Zinc High‐affinity Binding Site in Rhodopsin†
Authors: Toledo Darwin , Cordomí Arnau , Proietti Maria Grazia , Benfatto Maurizio , Del Valle Luis J. , Pérez Juan J. , Garriga Pere , Sepulcre Francesc
Published: February 2009

For the first time to our knowledge, X‐ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) has been used to investigate the environment of putative Zn2+ binding sites in rhodopsin. We studied native purified nondeionized rhodopsin without any further addition of Zn2+, as well as with 1.5 mol of Zn2+—as zinc chloride—per mole of protein. Three different binding sites in rhodopsin were considered based on computational chemistry studies, and a quantitative analysis of the XAS signal was performed by fitting the experimental data to their simulated XAS spectra. Our results demonstrate that Zn2+ is intrinsically bound to rhodopsin and are compatible with the existence of an octahedral coordination involving six oxygen atoms in the first shell (average Zn‐O distance of 2.08 Å), and with a second coordination shell containing one or two phosphorus or sulfur atoms at an average distance of 2.81 Å.
Light‐sensitive Intelligent Drug Delivery Systems†
Authors: Alvarez‐Lorenzo Carmen , Bromberg Lev , Concheiro Angel
Published: February 2009

Drug delivery systems (DDS) capable of releasing an active molecule at the appropriate site and at a rate that adjusts in response to the progression of the disease or to certain functions/biorhythms of the organism are particularly appealing. Biocompatible materials sensitive to certain physiological variables or external physicochemical stimuli (intelligent materials) can be used for achieving this aim. Light‐responsiveness is receiving increasing attention owing to the possibility of developing materials sensitive to innocuous electromagnetic radiation (mainly in the UV, visible and near‐infrared range), which can be applied on demand at well delimited sites of the body. Some light‐responsive DDS are of a single use (i.e. the light triggers an irreversible structural change that provokes the delivery of the entire dose) while others able to undergo reversible structural changes when cycles of light/dark are applied, behave as multi‐switchable carriers (releasing the drug in a pulsatile manner). In this review, the mechanisms used to develop polymeric micelles, gels, liposomes and nanocomposites with light‐sensitiveness are analyzed. Examples of the capability of some polymeric, lipidic and inorganic structures to regulate the release of small solutes and biomacromolecules are presented and the potential of light‐sensitive carriers as functional components of intelligent DDS is discussed.
Requirement for Metalloproteinase‐dependent ERK and AKT Activation in UVB‐induced G1‐S Cell Cycle Progression of Human Keratinocytes
Authors: Han Weinong , He Yu‐Ying
Published: February 2009

UVB (280–315 nm) in natural sunlight represents a major environmental challenge to the skin and is clearly associated with human skin cancer. Here we demonstrate that low doses of UVB induce keratinocyte proliferation and cell cycle progression of human HaCaT keratinocytes. Different from UVA, UVB irradiation induced extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK) and AKT activation and their activation are both required for UVB‐induced cell cycle progression. Activation of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) was observed after UVB exposure and is upstream of ERK/AKT/cyclin D1 pathway activation and cell cycle progression following UVB radiation. Furthermore, metalloproteinase (MP) inhibitor GM6001 blocked UVB‐induced ERK and AKT activation, cell cycle progression, and decreased the EGFR phosphorylation, demonstrating that MPs mediate the EGFR/ERK/AKT/cyclin D1 pathways and cell cycle progression induced by UVB radiation. In addition, ERK or AKT activation is essential for EGFR activation because ERK or AKT inhibitor blocks EGFR activation following UVB radiation, indicating that EGFR/AKT/ERK pathways form a regulatory loop and converge into cell cycle progression following UVB radiation. Identification of these signaling pathways in UVB‐induced cell cycle progression of quiescent keratinocytes as a process mimicking tumor promotion in vivo will facilitate the development of efficient and safe chemopreventive and therapeutic strategies for skin cancer.
Chlorin–Bacteriochlorin Energy‐transfer Dyads as Prototypes for Near‐infrared Molecular Imaging Probes: Controlling Charge‐transfer and Fluorescence Properties in Polar Media
Authors: Kee Hooi Ling , Diers James R. , Ptaszek Marcin , Muthiah Chinnasamy , Fan Dazhong , Lindsey Jonathan S. , Bocian David F. , Holten Dewey
Published: February 2009

The photophysical properties of two energy‐transfer dyads that are potential candidates for near‐infrared (NIR) imaging probes are investigated as a function of solvent polarity. The dyads (FbC‐FbB and ZnC‐FbB) contain either a free base (Fb) or zinc (Zn) chlorin (C) as the energy donor and a free base bacteriochlorin (B) as the energy acceptor. The dyads were studied in toluene, chlorobenzene, 1,2‐dichlorobenzene, acetone, acetonitrile and dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO). In both dyads, energy transfer from the chlorin to bacteriochlorin occurs with a rate constant of ∼(5–10 ps)−1 and a yield of >99% in nonpolar and polar media. In toluene, the fluorescence yields (Φf = 0.19) and singlet excited‐state lifetimes (τ∼5.5 ns) are comparable to those of the benchmark bacteriochlorin. The fluorescence yield and excited‐state lifetime decrease as the solvent polarity increases, with quenching by intramolecular electron (or hole) transfer being greater for FbC‐FbB than for ZnC‐FbB in a given solvent. For example, the Φf and τ values for FbC‐FbB in acetone are 0.055 and 1.5 ns and in DMSO are 0.019 and 0.28 ns, whereas those for ZnC‐FbB in acetone are 0.12 and 4.5 ns and in DMSO are 0.072 and 2.4 ns. The difference in fluorescence properties of the two dyads in a given polar solvent is due to the relative energies of the lowest energy charge‐transfer states, as assessed by ground‐state redox potentials and supported by molecular‐orbital energies derived from density functional theory calculations. Controlling the extent of excited‐state quenching in polar media will allow the favorable photophysical properties of the chlorin–bacteriochlorin dyads to be exploited in vivo. These properties include very large Stokes shifts (85 nm for FbC‐FbB, 110 nm for ZnC‐FbB) between the red‐region absorption of the chlorin and the NIR fluorescence of the bacteriochlorin (λf = 760 nm), long bacteriochlorin excited‐state lifetime (∼5.5 ns), and narrow (≤20 nm) absorption and fluorescence bands. The latter will facilitate selective excitation/detection and multiprobe applications using both intensity‐ and lifetime‐imaging techniques.
Pre‐transfusion testing
Authors: White J.
Published: February 2009

The first step in successful pre‐transfusion testing is receipt of timely requests for blood with adequate clinical details and correctly labelled samples, to enable the laboratory to provide compatible blood components, that meet any special requirements for the patient, e.g. irradiated, phenotyped. Establishing compatibility and suitability of blood for a patient is a complex process including: sample acceptance; checking historical records; testing for ABO/D; antibody screening and identification; serological or electronic crossmatching; selecting appropriate blood components; labelling and issue.

The specifications for routine serological testing and final method of establishing compatibility will depend on the resources available, and on national policy and guidelines. Variability in resources includes: access to historical records; standard of reagents available for serological testing; level of IT; use of automation; and availability of staff with specialist transfusion training. Different testing protocols may be required for specific groups of patients such as neonates, transfusion dependent patients and transplant recipients.

Quality assurance is essential throughout the process. The risk of error in pre‐transfusion testing varies considerably depending on the combination of tests and procedures selected together, and a risk assessment of the overall process is advisable. A higher proportion of errors occur ‘out of hours’, where staff are working under pressure, and may be using non‐routine techniques. Safety can be improved by managing emergency and ‘out of hours’ requests, and applying ‘maximum blood ordering schedules’ to reduce unnecessary crossmatching. Well designed procedures and policies can do as much to improve safety as accurate and sensitive techniques.
Hepatitis C infection: recent insights relevant to transfusion safety
Authors: Busch M. P. , Kleinman S. H.
Published: February 2009

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infects over 100 million persons worldwide, and is hence one of the most prevalent and clinically significant blood‐borne pathogens. The introduction of HCV antibody screening in the early 1990s led to detection of large numbers of infected donors and dramatic increases in blood safety. The seroprevalence of HCV in blood donors varies, ranging from rates as low as 0·01% in South Africa to ~0·5% in most developed countries, to > 5% in focal endemic areas such as Egypt. Studies of HCV in infected donors and recipients were instrumental in the discovery of HCV, and have yielded ongoing insights into HCV epidemiology, natural history and pathogenesis. Recent examples include detailed characterization of the dynamics of acute HCV infection based on studies of plasma donor panels, and important contributions to understanding viral and host factors influencing HCV transmission and disease outcome based on linked donor‐recipient cohort studies. The addition of nucleic acid testing (NAT) for HCV RNA to routine HCV antibody screening of donors in 1999 further reduced the risk of transfusion‐transmitted HCV. Mini‐pool (MP)‐NAT screening has led to detection of well over 500 donors in the viraemic, preseroconversion phase of primary HCV infection, as well as to discrimination of seropositive donors into those with resolved and chronic infections. Studies of donors with acute, chronic/persistent and resolved HCV infections have further contributed to our understanding of viral and host genetic and immunological determinants of spontaneous clearance of HCV and short‐ and long‐term disease outcomes. This review will highlight these past scientific contributions, and present the results of a recent survey of the yield of HCV MP‐NAT screening and estimated residual risks of MP‐NAT screened transfusions in different regions of the world. Finally, the review will discuss available evidence for the infectivity of very low‐level viraemia that may be missed by MP‐NAT, information that is pivotal to modelling the residual risk of MP‐NAT screened blood transfusions, and which will guide further strategies to reduce risk by further enhancing screening or implementation of pathogen‐inactivation technologies.
Climate change and vector‐borne viral diseases potentially transmitted by transfusion
Authors: Rios M.
Published: February 2009

Vector‐borne diseases occur when infectious agents (virus, protozoa, bacteria, or helminthes) are transmitted to their hosts by a carrier organism. Climate conditions and their changes play a role in the inter‐relationship between these agents, the vectors and the host (or hosts). This review is focused on arthropod‐borne viruses (Arboviruses). These viruses are transmitted between susceptible vertebrate hosts by blood‐feeding arthropods, and may be transmitted by blood transfusion, tissue and organ transplantation and breast feeding. The lifecycle of arboviruses is influenced by changes in temperature, rainfall, humidity, length of day, average daily solar radiation and/or storm patterns, as well as changes in the frequency of rare events such as floods or droughts. A plethora of studies have suggested that climate changes, particularly temperature changes, are likely to be induced by increase in the amount of greenhouse gases, such as methane, carbon dioxide (CO2) and chlorofluorocarbons, which deplete ozone in the atmosphere leading to an increase in ultraviolet radiation. Current models predict that ambient temperature will increase by 3–5°C on average with a doubling in CO2concentration in the atmosphere. Vectors, pathogens and hosts each survive and reproduce within a range of optimal climatic conditions: temperature and precipitation being most important, while sea level elevation, wind and daylight duration are also important. Climate changes may affect important determinants of vector‐borne disease transmission including (i) vector survival and reproduction, (ii) the vector's biting rate, and (iii) the pathogen's incubation rate within the vector organism. Droughts can increase the dissemination of arboviral diseases in urban areas by allowing a boost in the population of mosquitoes in foul water concentrated in catch basins where they breed. Furthermore, eggs can be vertically infected with arboviruses and heat waves speed up the maturation of the mosquitoes and of the viruses within mosquitoes. Droughts also cause a decline in mosquito predators like frogs, darning needles and dragonflies. In addition, birds congregate around shrinking water sites, enhancing circulation of viruses among birds and mosquitoes. In conclusion, the seriousness of some of the recent epidemics like West Nile virus and Dengue appear to has been influenced by climate change. As most of the arboviral infections are asymptomatic in humans, there is an increased opportunity for blood, organ and tissue donations by infected individuals during the viraemic period, resulting in an increased risk of transmission of arboviruses.
The impact of training in transfusion medicine
Authors: Damanhouri G. A.
Published: February 2009

Background  Basic training skills and program for all health care providers working in the blood transfusion services is important and essential. All blood transfusion staff should have active participation in a training program that includes teaching all national and international regulations related to blood transfusion administration and guidelines of safe blood and blood products. The blood bank staff (physicians, medical technologists and nurses) should pass proper assessment procedures in order to work in this vita health related services. All staff working in blood transfusion services should receive a proper education and learning skills in this field of medicine. Awareness of blood safety and Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) in blood transfusion should be greatly increased among them.

Methods and Results  Sustainable national and international education and training in blood transfusion services are needed and should be considered as a priority. Methods of teaching and training may include courses or workshops consist of a series of lectures, practical sessions, problem based learning and computer based distance learning programs. A proper training and continuous medical education in blood transfusion services have played an important role in minimizing the risk of transfusion related complications in many countries.

Conclusions  Creating an effective learning and training environment is a real challenge for most developing countries. Transfusion medicine is a branch of medicine which has a great link with almost all medical and surgical specialties. Blood transfusion safety plays an important and significant role in the patient's management. Proper qualified training personnel are the key of delivering safe blood components and the Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) in blood transfusion services.
Generation and characterization of mesenchymal stromal cells for clinical application
Authors: Sensebé L.
Published: February 2009

Mesenchymal Stem Cells/Multipotent Marrow Stromal Cells (MSC) are multipotent adult stem cells harboring a wide range of differentiation capacities as well as non‐HLA restricted immunosuppressive properties, leading to an increase in their uses for immunomodulation and regenerative medicine. MSC are generally cultivated from bone marrow (BM). Alternative sources (e.g. adipose tissue or umbilical cord) are rapidly developing. Considering the starting material used, the differentiation potential may be different, in example adipose tissue derived MSC exhibit a greater potential for endothelium repair. Whatever the sources of MSC, a first step of adherence to plastic is required. When seeding, the cell density is of major importance acting on growth speed, cell amplification, and differentiation potential. Considering medium used, until now serum free media are not available to cultivate MSC for clinical application. Standard process with FCS without any growth factor supplementation is effective but time consuming, sometime failing, and not totally secure. Although processes using recombinant growth factors (e.g. FGF2) or platelet lysate have demonstrated their interest, definitive standards to produce clinical‐grade MSC are still lacking.

 To reach GMP standards, two major steps have to be done. First, MSC cultures need to be done in closed system; this step is not easy to perform. Second, the controls of produced batches have to ensure efficacy and safety. Now, the controls are principally based on FACS analysis and the expected CD73posCD105posCD90posCD45neg MSC phenotype is easily obtained. But the major problem remains the lack of fully validated controls of the final cell product efficacy and safety. Considering the genetic stability of MSC during culture processes, whatever the culture method, aneuploidy could occur during clinical‐grade production of BM‐MSC but does not lead to cell transformation. But these results should lead to develop more accurate and powerful controls of all MSC in cultures.
Patient‐specific component requirements: ‘right blood, right patient, right time, right place’
Authors: Letowska M.
Published: February 2009

Although transfusion therapy may save the patient's life, it also carries the risk of severe complications and is therefore recommended only when all other forms of treatment have proved ineffective. The decision to transfuse should be preceeded by careful evaluation of the clinical condition of each individual patient and not be based exclusively on laboratory results (e.g. hemoglobin concentration). Whenever possible, only such components should be transfused, the lack of which is responsible for the disease symptoms. Most blood is separated into components prior to transfusion which offers several advantages: i) blood resources are conserved therefore several patients can benefit from one donated unit ii) each component is stored in optimal conditions iii) a specific component can be transfused in large amounts to those who are in need of it. Transfusion medicine in a hospital setting is focused on ensuring that ‘the right blood is given to the right patient in the right time and the right place’.
Haemovigilance: recent achievements and developments in the near future
Authors: De Vries R. R. P.
Published: February 2009

Since the introduction of haemovigilance in the 1990s, the majority of the European countries has established a national haemovigilance system and communication between these systems was organized through the European Haemovigilance Network (EHN). The concept of haemovigilance has steadily expanded and the number of haemovigilance systems outside Europe is increasing. Several of these systems have also joined the EHN. Furthermore, initiated by the World Health Organization, a Global Steering Committee for Haemovigilance has been installed to promote haemovigilance particularly in developing countries. Both these haemovigilance systems and the network have documented the safety of blood transfusion and indicated where the main problems and opportunities for improvement are. Furthermore, they have suggested measures for improvement of the safety and, last but not least, documented the effect of these measures. Therefore, they have contributed considerably to the improvement of the quality and safety of the blood transfusion chain. In the near future, the EHN will become an official International Haemovigilance Network. Ongoing developments concerning the scope of vigilance include the vigilance of optimal use of blood products and safety of cells and tissues of human origin (biovigilance).
Emerging pathogens and possible threats to blood services
Authors: Burger R.
Published: February 2009

New pathogens emerge regularly. These new agents include both bacterial and viral pathogens. Many viral agents have a viremic phase during the course of infection and are transmitted by blood transfusion. New infectious agents provide a major challenge for blood services. The extend and mode of transmission through blood is initially unclear. Serological tests and molecular tools are used to detect infectious donors. A residual risk remains due to the diagnostic window period and sensitivity limits of the tests systems. Some detection systems proved to be extremely helpful, e.g. for HIV, HCV or WNV, but sometimes provide in certain periods of the infection false‐negative results due to sensitivity problems or to escape mutants (e.g. Hepatitis B). WNV provides an excellent example, how rapid and efficient blood donation services coped with this new threat for blood safety. Not all emerging infectious agents transmissible by blood represent a threat for the health. A number of putative pathogens turned out later not to be associated with pathogenesis. Prion diseases represent a particular challenge for detection in blood donors. Since the ‘normal’ cellular form the host protein is widely distributed, the usual nucleic acid amplification systems or serological tests are not feasible. Extremely sensitive tests (picogram range) are required for detection of the pathological protein in the asymptomatic period. Variants of existing viruses e.g. newly emerging Influenza A subtypes with the potential for pandemic spread represent an enormous threat for public health and for the safety of blood. Blood services should take precautions for an influenza pandemic. The mosquito borne Chikungunya virus turned out to be transmitted by blood transfusion and caused many infections in the islands of the Indian Ocean and in India. Newly emerging infectious agents require attention and rapid actions in order to guarantee a safe and reliable blood supply.
The Prevalence, Clinical Characteristics, and Prognosis of Diastolic Heart Failure: A Clinical Study in Elderly Saudi Patients With Up to 5 Years Follow‐Up
Authors: ElShaer Fayez , Hassan Walid , Fawzy Mohamed E , Lockyer Marilyn , Kharabsheh Suliman , Akhras Nathem , Shahid Maie , ElWidaa Hassan , ElKum Naser , Canver Charles
Published: February 2009

Data from 519 patients older than 65 years with congestive heart failure (CHF) were analyzed after 5 years of clinical follow‐up. Two groups were included in the analysis: 321 patients with ejection fractions ≥50% (group with diastolic heart failure) and 198 patients with reduced ejection fraction <50% (group with systolic heart failure). Hypertension (81%) was the strongest predictor of congestive heart failure, followed by diabetes (46%) and coronary disease (33%). Diastolic heart failure was more predominant in elderly female (P=.007), hypertensive (P=.0001), and hypertrophic (P=.001) patients. Length of hospital stay, readmission rate, all‐cause morbidity, and cumulative mortality were not statistically significant between both groups (P=.09).
B‐Type Natriuretic Peptide–Directed Ultrafiltration Improves Care in Acutely Hospitalized Dialysis Patients
Authors: Tapolyai Mihály , Uysal Aşkin , Maeweathers Gail , Bahta Elias , Dossabhoy Neville R.
Published: February 2009

In an observational study in 19 consecutive acutely hospitalized dialysis patients, ultrafiltration (UF) volume was determined by B‐type natriuretic peptide (BNP) levels. Patients were ultrafiltrated daily until they achieved a target BNP level <500 pg/mL. The UF volumes ranged from 2 to 5 L per session. All patients were male veterans aged 68±11 years (mean ± SD), 74% were diabetic, 47% were African Americans, 58% underwent prevalent dialysis, and 53% had an arteriovenous fistula. Left ventricular ejection fraction on 2‐dimensional echocardiography was 43.8%±27.9% (n=16). The admission BNP was 2412±1479 pg/mL (range, 561–5000 pg/mL) and BNP at hospital discharge was 1245±1173 pg/mL (range, 345–5000 pg/mL) (nonparametric Wilcoxon P=.0013). Admission weight was 88.9±27.9 kg and at discharge was 78.1±25.6 kg (P=.0002). The number of antihypertensive medications taken was 3.8±2.0 at admission and 2.3±1.7 at discharge (P=.0005). The number of patients with >2 blood pressure medications decreased from 14 to 6 (Fisher exact test, P=.02). The systolic/diastolic/mean arterial blood pressure decreased from admission to discharge (153.6±43.8/80.6±21.8/102.4±27.3 to 132.1±27.9/68.9±14.6/89.9±16.5 mm Hg; P=.0222/.0139/.0329, respectively). Although all patients were volume‐overloaded at admission according to BNP criteria (>500), only 42% were identified as having heart failure. BNP‐directed UF is safe because it minimizes symptomatic hypotension, identifies occult congestive heart failure in a large number of patients, and significantly reduces blood pressure in addition to reducing body weight and number of medications used.
Questions de conservation : particularités et nouvelles technologies
Authors: Memet Jean‐Bernard
Published: February 2009

Avec le développement de l’archéologie sous‐marine et la mise au jour croissante de vestiges sous l’eau, la conservation et la restauration du patrimoine culturel subaquatique se sont avérées être des étapes essentielles pour la protection et la mise en valeur de cet héritage de l’humanité. C’est pourquoi archéologues et restaurateurs doivent travailler de concert pour étudier et préserver des découvertes souvent fragiles, surtout lorsqu’elles sont extraites de l’eau ou tout simplement sorties de leur contexte. Chacun doit connaître le métier de l’autre. L’archéologue doit avoir une bonne compréhension des interactions entre le milieu aquatique et les matériaux et être prêt à effectuer les premiers soins. Le conservateur, quant à lui, doit être au fait non seulement des matériaux et de leur mode de dégradation ainsi que des techniques de restauration et de conservation, mais aussi du milieu environnant en devenant lui‐même plongeur.
La Convention de l’UNESCO sur la protection du patrimoine culturel subaquatique de 2001 : avantages et défis
Authors: Koschtial Ulrike
Published: February 2009

L’article explique la Convention de l’UNESCO sur la protection du patrimoine culturel subaquatique de 2001. Élaborée pour lutter contre le pillage et la destruction dont ce patrimoine est victime de façon croissante, la Convention engage les États souverains qui en sont devenus parties. Sans modifier leurs droits souverains ni réglementer la propriété des épaves ou des vestiges submergés, elle tente d’instaurer une protection globale du patrimoine culturel subaquatique, où qu’il se trouve, et d’harmoniser ladite protection avec celle du patrimoine terrestre. La Convention entrant en vigueur le 2 janvier 2009, le moment est idéal pour en expliquer les tenants et aboutissants et son importance pour le développement de l’archéologie subaquatique et des musées liés à cette activité.
Des itinéraires archéologiques au fond des mers
Authors: Alves Francisco J. S.
Published: February 2009

Cet article est un panorama international de la muséalisation du patrimoine culturel immergé et un coup de projecteur sur les expériences portugaises de création d’itinéraires archéologiques subaquatiques, à la lumière des concepts de conservation in situ et d’accès durable du public consacrés par la Convention de l’UNESCO de 2001 sur la protection du patrimoine culturel subaquatique.
L’Exploration archéologique subaquatique des cénotes mayas
Authors: López Luis Alberto Martos
Published: February 2009

Les cénotes sont des formations géologiques naturelles le plus souvent reliées à des galeries souterraines et à des nappes phréatiques. Ces puits naturels constituent des systèmes hydrauliques complexes et dynamiques qui ont, pendant longtemps, connu des liens étroits avec les sociétés environnantes. Ces « capsules à remonter le temps » renferment des informations pertinentes sur les aspects symboliques et religieux de la culture maya, aussi bien que sur l’histoire géologique de la péninsule du Yucatán. Les archéologues, les géologues et les biologistes travaillent de concert pour étudier ces sites uniques en utilisant les techniques de plongée spéléologique. Cependant, les cénotes sont devenus une attraction touristique et un lieu de rencontres sportives et, de ce fait, la chasse au trésor représente une réelle menace pour leur intégrité. Un programme de gestion durable de ce patrimoine culturel exceptionnel devrait permettre de favoriser tout à la fois son accès au public et sa préservation.