bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pneumococcal Polysaccharides Interact with Human Dendritic Cells
Authors: Meltzer Ulrike , Goldblatt David
Published: February 2006

Dendritic cells (DCs) are critical antigen presentation cells whose influence on murine immune responses to polysaccharide antigens has only recently been elucidated. Little is known about human DC-polysaccharide interactions. We set out to study the interaction between human monocyte-derived DCs and pneumococcal capsular polysaccharides (PPS) in vitro. Immature DCs were generated from peripheral blood monocytes and incubated with fluorescein isothiocyanate-labeled PPS type 9N or 14 for assessment of uptake. DCs were exposed to PPS type 1, 6B, 9N, 14, 19F, or 23F in the absence or presence of
Escherichia coli
lipopolysaccharide (LPS) for assessment of phenotypic DC maturation and cytokine production. PPS were taken up by immature DCs and proceeded to HLA-DR
+
and lysosome-associated membrane protein-1
+
late endosomal compartments. Uptake was reduced in the presence of cytochalasin D and wortmannin, suggesting that both cytoskeletal rearrangements and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase activation may be required for internalization. None of the PPS tested induced DC phenotype changes, maturation, or interleukin-12 (IL-12)/IL-10 production. However, PPS were capable of modulating the response of the DCs to a second signal such as LPS. Exposure of DCs to PPS in the presence of LPS resulted in an altered cytokine balance with significantly increased IL-10 production and reduced IL-12 production compared to LPS alone. This effect was not seen using the control antigen tetanus toxoid. DC-pneumococcus interaction may affect subsequent immune responses to pneumococci, as an altered cytokine balance may have a profound effect on DC-driven T-cell priming.
TprK Sequence Diversity Accumulates during Infection of Rabbits withTreponema pallidumsubsp.pallidumNichols Strain
Authors: LaFond Rebecca E. , Centurion-Lara Arturo , Godornes Charmie , Van Voorhis Wesley C. , Lukehart Sheila A.
Published: February 2006

ThetprKgene inTreponema pallidumundergoes antigenic variation. In allT. pallidumisolates examined to date, except the Nichols type strain, heterogeneoustprKsequences have been identified. This heterogeneity is localized to seven variable (V) regions, andtprKsequence diversity accumulates with serial passage in naïve rabbits. TheT. pallidumNichols genome described a singletprKsequence, and after decades of independent passage, only minortprKsequence diversity is seen among the Nichols strains from different laboratories. We hypothesized thatT. pallidumNichols is capable of only limitedtprKdiversification. To address this hypothesis, we passaged theT. pallidumNichols strain in naïve rabbits at the peak of infection (rapid passage) or after the adaptive immune response had cleared most organisms in vivo (slow passage). After 22 rapid passages (9- to 10-day intervals), notprKV region sequence changes were observed. In contrast, after two slow passages (30- to 35-day intervals), three V regions had sequences that were completely different from that of the original inoculum. New sequences were observed in all seven V regions by the fifth slow passage. In contrast to the rapid-passaged Nichols strain, rapid-passaged Chicago C, a clonal strain isolated from the highly diverse parent Chicago strain, developed significanttprKdiversification. These findings suggest thattprKvariation can occur, but at a lower rate, in Nichols and that immune pressure may be required for accumulation of bacteria with diversetprKsequences. Adaptation to growth in rabbits may explain the limited repertoire of V region sequences seen in the Nichols strain.
Screening forToxoplasma gondii-Regulated Transcriptional Responses in Lipopolysaccharide-Activated Macrophages
Authors: Lee Chiang W. , Bennouna Soumaya , Denkers Eric Y.
Published: February 2006

Toxoplasma gondii-infected macrophages are blocked in production of the proinflammatory cytokines interleukin-12 (IL-12) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) upon activation with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Here, we used pathway-focused cDNA arrays to identify additionalT. gondii-regulated transcriptional responses. Parasite infection decreased 57 (inclusive of IL-12 and TNF-α) and increased expression of 7 of 77 LPS-activated cytokine and cytokine-related genes. Interestingly, we found that the LPS-induced transcriptional response of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 was synergistically increased byT. gondii, results that we validated by conventional reverse transcription-PCR and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Importantly, although the parasite exerted disparate effects in LPS-signaling leading to TNF-α versus IL-10 production, both responses required functional Toll-like receptor 4. We suggest that these effects represent parasite defense mechanisms to avoid or delay induction of antimicrobial activity and/or T-cell-mediated immunity duringToxoplasmainfection.
Binding of the Streptococcal Surface Glycoproteins GspB and Hsa to Human Salivary Proteins
Authors: Takamatsu Daisuke , Bensing Barbara A. , Prakobphol Akraporn , Fisher Susan J. , Sullam Paul M.
Published: February 2006

GspB and Hsa are homologous surface glycoproteins of
Streptococcus gordonii
that bind sialic acid moieties on platelet membrane glycoprotein Ibα. Since this species is an important member of the oral flora, we examined the direct binding of these adhesins to human salivary proteins. Both GspB and Hsa bound low-molecular-weight salivary mucin MG2 and salivary agglutinin. Hsa also bound several other salivary proteins, including secretory immunoglobulin A. Screening of six oral streptococcal isolates revealed that at least two of the strains expressed GspB homologues. These results indicate that GspB-like adhesins may be important for oral bacterial colonization.
Synthesis of Syndecan-1 by Skeletal Muscle Cells Is an Early Response to Infection withTrichinella spiralisbut Is Not Essential for Nurse Cell Development
Authors: Beiting Daniel P. , Park Pyong Woo , Appleton Judith A.
Published: February 2006

Trichinella spiraliscreates a unique intracellular habitat in striated muscle. We report that a proteoglycan, syndecan-1, is induced early in infection yet is not essential for habitat development and exerts a modest influence on the immune response. This report is the first to address the requirement for a specific muscle protein in trichinellosis by using mice deficient in the relevant gene.
Modulation of Human Neutrophil Functions In Vitro by
Treponema denticola
Major Outer Sheath Protein
Authors: Puthengady Thomas Bina , Sun Chun Xiang , Bajenova Elena , Ellen Richard P. , Glogauer Michael
Published: February 2006

In this study of human polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs), pretreatment with
Treponema denticola
major outer sheath protein (Msp) inhibited formyl-methionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine (fMLP)-induced chemotaxis, phagocytosis of immunoglobulin G-coated microspheres, fMLP-stimulated calcium transients, and actin assembly. Msp neither altered oxidative responses to phorbol myristate or fMLP nor induced apoptosis. Msp selectively impairs chemotaxis and phagocytosis by impacting the PMN cytoskeleton.
Requirement of
norD
for
Brucella suis
Virulence in a Murine Model of In Vitro and In Vivo Infection
Authors: Loisel-Meyer Séverine , Jiménez de Bagüés Maria Pilar , Bassères Eugénie , Dornand Jacques , Köhler Stephan , Liautard Jean-Pierre , Jubier-Maurin Véronique
Published: February 2006

A mutant of
Brucella suis
bearing a Tn
5
insertion in
norD
, the last gene of the operon
norEFCBQD
, encoding nitric oxide reductase, was unable to survive under anaerobic denitrifying conditions. The
norD
strain exhibited attenuated multiplication within nitric oxide-producing murine macrophages and rapid elimination in mice, hence demonstrating that
norD
is essential for
Brucella
virulence.
Structural Analysis of the Interaction between Shiga Toxin B Subunits and Linear Polymers Bearing Clustered Globotriose Residues
Authors: Watanabe Miho , Igai Katsura , Matsuoka Koji , Miyagawa Atsushi , Watanabe Toshiyuki , Yanoshita Ryohei , Samejima Yuji , Terunuma Daiyo , Natori Yasuhiro , Nishikawa Kiyotaka
Published: February 2006

We previously developed linear polymers bearing clustered trisaccharides of globotriaosylceramide (Gb3) as orally applicable Shiga toxin (Stx) neutralizers. Here, using a Gb3 polymer with a short spacer tethering the trisaccharide to the core, we found that shortening the spacer length markedly reduced the binding affinity for Stx2 but not Stx1. Moreover, mutational analysis revealed that the essential binding sites of the terminal trisaccharides were completely different between Stx1 and Stx2. These results provide the molecular basis for the interaction between Stx B subunits and Gb3 polymers.
Identification of Secreted Cysteine Proteases from the Parasitic Nematode
Haemonchus contortus
Detected by Biotinylated Inhibitors
Authors: Yatsuda Ana P. , Bakker Nicole , Krijgsveld Jeroen , Knox David P. , Heck Albert J. R. , de Vries Erik
Published: February 2006

Seven cathepsin B-like cysteine proteases (CBLs) were identified from the immunoprotective excretory-secretory products of
Haemonchus contortus
. Two-dimensional (2-D) zymography and biotinylated inhibitors were employed to localize active CBLs in 2-D protein gels. Mass spectrometry provided the identification of AC-4, HMCP1, HMCP2, and GCP7 as well as three novel CBLs encoded by clustered expressed sequence tags.
C34T mutation of theAMPD1gene in an elite white runner: Figure 1
Authors: Lucia A , Martin M A , Esteve-Lanao J , San Juan A F , Rubio J C , Oliván J , Arenas J
Published: February 2006

The case is reported of an elite, male, white endurance runner (28 years of age), who is one of the best non-African runners in the world despite carrying the C34T mutation in the gene (AMPD1) that encodes the skeletal muscle specific isoform of AMP deaminase, an enzyme that plays an important role in muscle metabolism. The frequency of the mutant allele in sedentary white people is 8–11%. Previous research has shown that this mutation, at least in homozygotes, can impair the exercise capacity of untrained people and their trainability. The maximum oxygen uptake of the study subject was exceptionally high (83.6 ml/kg/min), whereas his ammonia and lactate concentrations at high submaximal running speeds were lower than those of other world class runners who are not carriers of the mutation. The partial metabolic deficiency of the study subject is possibly compensated for by his exceptionally favourable anthropometric characteristics (body mass index 18.2 kg/m2).
Anthropometry profiles of elite rugby players: quantifying changes in lean mass
Authors: Duthie G M , Pyne D B , Hopkins W G , Livingstone S , Hooper S L
Published: February 2006

Objective:To demonstrate the utility of a practical measure of lean mass for monitoring changes in the body composition of athletes.

Methods:Between 1999 and 2003 body mass and sum of seven skinfolds were recorded for 40 forwards and 32 backs from one Super 12 rugby union franchise. Players were assessed on 13 (7) occasions (mean (SD)) over 1.9 (1.3) years. Mixed modelling of log transformed variables provided a lean mass index (LMI) of the form mass/skinfoldsx, for monitoring changes in mass controlled for changes in skinfold thickness. Mean effects of phase of season and time in programme were modelled as percentage changes. Effects were standardised for interpretation of magnitudes.

Results:The exponent x was 0.13 for forwards and 0.14 for backs (90% confidence limits ±0.03). The forwards had a small decrease in skinfolds (5.3%, 90% confidence limits ±2.2%) between preseason and competition phases, and a small increase (7.8%, 90% confidence limits ±3.1%) during the club season. A small decrease in LMI (∼1.5%) occurred after one year in the programme for forwards and backs, whereas increases in skinfolds for forwards became substantial (4.3%, 90% confidence limits ±2.2%) after three years. Individual variation in body composition was small within a season (within subject SD: body mass, 1.6%; skinfolds, 6.8%; LMI, 1.1%) and somewhat greater for body mass (2.1%) and LMI (1.7%) between seasons.

Conclusions:Despite a lack of substantial mean changes, there was substantial individual variation in lean mass within and between seasons. An index of lean mass based on body mass and skinfolds is a potentially useful tool for assessing body composition of athletes.
Regular tai chi chuan exercise enhances functional mobility and CD4CD25 regulatory T cells
Authors: Yeh S-H , Chuang H , Lin L-W , Hsiao C-Y , Eng H L
Published: February 2006

Background:The duration and vigour of physical exercise are widely considered to be critical elements that may positively or negatively affect physical health and immune response.

Objectives:To investigate the effect of a 12 week programme of regular tai chi chuan exercise (TCC) on functional mobility, beliefs about benefits of exercise on physical and psychological health, and immune regulation in middle aged volunteers.

Methods:This quasi-experimental research design involving one group with testing before and after the programme was conducted to measure the effect of 12 weeks of TCC exercise in 14 men and 23 women from the normal community.

Results:Regular TCC exercise had a highly significant positive effect on functional mobility (p  =  0.001) and beliefs about the health benefits of exercise (p  =  0.013) in the 37 participants. Total white blood cell and red blood cell count did not change significantly, but a highly significant (p<0.001) decrease in monocyte count occurred. A significant (p  =  0.05) increase in the ratio of T helper to suppressor cells (CD4:CD8) was found, along with a significant (p  =  0.015) increase in CD4CD25 regulatory T cells. Production of the regulatory T cell mediators transforming growth factor β and interleukin 10 under specific antigen stimulation (varicella zoster virus) was also significantly increased after this exercise programme.

Conclusions:A 12 week programme of regular TCC exercise enhances functional mobility, personal health expectations, and regulatory T cell function.
Prognostic value of intra-left ventricular electromechanical asynchrony in patients with mild hypertrophic cardiomyopathy compared with power athletes
Authors: D’Andrea A , Caso P , Cuomo S , Salerno G , Scarafile R , Mita C , De Corato G , Sarubbi B , Scherillo M , Calabrò R
Published: February 2006

Objectives:We sought to assess the indexes of myocardial activation delay, using Doppler myocardial imaging (DMI), as potential diagnostic tools and predictors of cardiac events in patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) compared with power athletes.

Background:the distribution and magnitude of left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy are not uniform in patients with HCM, which results in heterogeneity of regional LV systolic function.

Methods:The study population comprised 70 young patients with HCM (mean (SD) age 29.4 (5.9) years) with mild septal hypertrophy (15–19 mm) and 85 age and sex matched athletes with septal thickness >12 mm, followed up for 44.4 (10.8) months. Using pulsed DMI, myocardial peak velocities, systolic time intervals, and myocardial intraventricular and interventricular systolic delays were measured in six different basal myocardial segments.

Results:DMI analysis showed in HCM lower myocardial both systolic and early diastolic peak velocities of all the segments. Patients with HCM also showed significant interventricular and intraventricular delay (p<0.0001), whereas athletes showed homogeneous systolic activation of the ventricular walls. During the follow up, seven sudden deaths occurred in the HCM group, while no cardiovascular event was observed in the group of athletes. In patients with HCM, intraventricular delay on DMI was the most powerful independent predictor of sudden cardiac death (p<0.0001). An intraventricular delay >45 ms identified with high sensitivity and specificity patients with HCM at higher risk of ventricular tachycardia and cardiac events (test accuracy 90.6%).

Conclusions:DMI may be a valid supporting tool for the differential diagnosis between HCM and “athlete’s heart”. In patients with HCM, DMI indexes of intraventricular delay may provide additional information for selecting subgroups of patients with HCM at increased risk of ventricular arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death at follow up. Accordingly, such patients may benefit from early intensive treatment and survey.

Miniabstract:Doppler myocardial imaging may represent a valid supporting tool for the differential diagnosis between mild hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) and “athlete’s heart”. In patients with HCM, DMI indexes of intraventricular delay may provide additional information for selecting subgroups of patients with HCM at increased risk of ventricular arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death at follow up.
Ultrasound assessment of spleen size in collegiate athletes
Authors: Hosey R G , Mattacola C G , Kriss V , Armsey T , Quarles J D , Jagger J
Published: February 2006

Objectives:To determine normal spleen dimensions in a healthy collegiate athletic population.

Methods:631 Division I collegiate athletes from one university participated in the study. During pre-participation examinations, demographic data collected were collected from volunteer athletes including sex, race, measurement of height and weight, and age. Subjects also completed a medical history form to determine any history of mononucleosis infection, platelet disorder, sickle cell disease (or trait), thalassaemia, or recent viral symptoms. Subjects then underwent a limited abdominal ultrasound examination, where splenic length and width were recorded.

Results:Mean (SD) splenic length was 10.65 (1.55) cm and width, 5.16 (1.21) cm. Men had larger spleens than women (p<0.001). White subjects had larger spleens than African-American subjects (p<0.001). A previous history of infectious mononucleosis or the presence of recent cold symptoms had no significant affect on spleen size. In more than 7% of athletes, baseline spleen size met current criteria for splenomegaly.

Conclusions:There is a wide range of normal spleen size among collegiate athletes. Average spleen size was larger in men and white athletes than in women and black athletes. A single ultrasound examination for determination of splenomegaly is of limited value in this population.
Mapping of somatostatin receptor types in GH or/and PRL producing pituitary adenomas
Authors: Thodou E , Kontogeorgos G , Theodossiou D , Pateraki M
Published: February 2006

Background:Somatostatin is a tetradecapeptide exerting inhibitory action on endocrine and exocrine cell secretion and proliferation. Somatostatin receptors (SST) are widely expressed in various neoplasms including endocrine tumours. Using immunohistochemistry, the expression of SST1, SST2A, SST2B, SST3, SST4, and SST5was studied in tissue microarrays (TMAs), using a series of 90 human pituitary adenomas producing growth hormone and/or prolactin, including 30 of each somatotroph, lactotroph, and mixed somatotroph/lactotroph adenoma type.

Methods:For immunohistochemistry, the standard avidin biotin complex method enhanced by tyramide was used, using polyclonal antisera for all SST types. A four point scoring system was used to assess the membranous immunopositivity.

Results:All SST types were positive in all tumour types, showing varying immunoreactivity scores. SST5and SST2Awere the predominant receptors, showing strong expression in high frequency in all three adenoma types. Strong expression of SST1was higher in lactotroph adenomas than in other tumour types.

Conclusions:The immunohistochemical results of SST expression are in agreement with most findings of previous molecular studies. The fact that SST2Aexpression is predominant suggests that pharmaceutical octapeptide somatostatin analogues may act through this receptor, while the role of SST2Bmay be merely synergistic.
Aberrant maspin expression in gallbladder epithelium is associated with intestinal metaplasia in patients with cholelithiasis
Authors: Maesawa C , Ogasawara S , Yashima-Abo A , Kimura T , Kotani K , Masuda S , Nagata Y , Iwaya T , Suzuki K , Oyake T , Akiyama Y , Kawamura H , Masuda T
Published: February 2006

Objective:Aberrant expression of maspin protein related to DNA hypomethylation in the promoter region is frequently observed in gallbladder carcinomas, whereas the non-tumorous gallbladder epithelium is maspin negative. We investigated maspin expression in non-tumorous gallbladder epithelium in patients with cholelithiasis.

Methods:An immunohistochemical study of maspin expression was performed in 69 patients with cholelithiasis and 30 patients with gastric cancer without cholelithiasis.

Results:Immunoreactivity for maspin was observed in focal and patchy regions of the gallbladder epithelium. Positive immunoreactivity for maspin was significantly associated with the presence of intestinal metaplasia in patients with cholelithiasis (p<0.05).

Conclusion:The high incidence of aberrant maspin expression in both intestinal metaplasia and carcinoma of the gallbladder supports the assumption that intestinal metaplasia of the gallbladder may predispose to gallbladder carcinoma.
High predictive value of epidermal growth factor receptor phosphorylation but not of EGFRvIII mutation in resected stage I non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)
Authors: Sonnweber B , Dlaska M , Skvortsov S , Dirnhofer S , Schmid T , Hilbe W
Published: February 2006

Aims:Overexpression and mutation of epidermal growth factor regulator (EGFR) are frequently found in the carcinogenesis of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Because targeting of this receptor has proven therapeutic efficacy, studying EGFR has become a matter of particular scientific interest. The present study analysed the EGFR receptor, rate of EGFRvIII mutations, and rate of activated phosphorylated EGFR (pEGFR) by immunohistochemistry on cryostat sections.

Methods:Surgically obtained tumour specimens of a series of 78 NSCLC patients and 66 adjacent tumour free specimens were examined immunohistochemically using monoclonal antibodies to stain EGFR, pEGFR, and EGFRvIII.

Results:EGFRvIII and pEGFR expression was found in 42% and 26% of the tumours respectively and both were increased significantly compared with tumour free samples. EGFR, pEGFR, and EGFRvIII expression did not correlate with any of the previously tested markers (c-erbB-2, c-erbB-3, p53, ki-67, and microvessel density). Similar distributions of immunohistochemical profiles were seen, regardless of histological subtype, age, or sex. In stage I patients, EGFR phosphorylation at tyrosine residue 845 proved to be an independent prognostic factor.

Conclusion:Because pEGFR correlated with poor prognosis, it can be speculated that it plays a crucial biological role in the pathogenesis of NSCLC.
The tryptase positive compact round cell infiltrate of the bone marrow (TROCI-BM): a novel histopathological finding requiring the application of lineage specific markers
Authors: Horny H-P , Sotlar K , Stellmacher F , Krokowski M , Agis H , Schwartz L B , Valent P
Published: February 2006

Aims:Compact tryptase-positive round cell infiltrates of the bone marrow (TROCI-BM) are very rare histopathological findings and may pose challenging problems with regard to the cell type involved (either mast cells or basophilic granulocytes) and the exact diagnosis.

Methods:A selected panel of immunohistochemical markers against mast cell and basophil related antigens, including CD25, CD34, CD117/Kit, and the 2D7 antigen (which is found only in basophilic granulocytes) on a total of 410 routinely processed bone marrow biopsy specimens (including 88 cases of systemic mastocytosis (SM), 20 cases of chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML), 92 cases of myeloid neoplasms other than CML, and 210 controls with normal/reactive bone marrows).

Results:In total, 17 cases with TROCI-BM could be identified: 11 SM (including two cases of well-differentiated SM and two mast cell leukaemias; MCL), 2 myelomastocytic leukaemia (MML), 2 CML with excess of basophils (secondary basophilic leukaemia (CMLba)), and 2 tryptase positive acute myeloid leukaemia (AML). Regarding the cell types involved, TROCI-BM cells were found to express CD117/Kit in all cases of SM and MCL. In MML and tryptase postitive AML, TROCI-BM cells were found to coexpress CD34 and Kit. The basophil specific antigen 2D7 was only detected in CD34/Kit negative TROCI-BM cells in two patients with CMLba. The activating point mutation D816V was detected in 8/11 patients with SM but not in any of the other haematological malignancies.

Conclusions:In summary, a total of six rare myeloid neoplasms may present with a novel immunohistochemical phenomenon tentatively termed TROCI-BM.
Globicatellabacteraemia identified by 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequencing
Authors: Lau S K P , Woo P C Y , Li N K H , Teng J L L , Leung K-W , Ng K H L , Que T-L , Yuen K-Y
Published: February 2006

Background:Globicatellaare streptococcus-like organisms that have been rarely isolated from clinical specimens. Their epidemiology and clinical significance remain largely unknown.

Aims:To describe two cases ofGlobicatellabacteraemia identified by 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene sequencing.

Methods:Two unidentified streptococcus-like bacteria isolated from blood cultures of patients were subject to 16S rRNA gene sequencing.

Results:Two cases ofGlobicatellabacteraemia were identified by 16S rRNA gene sequencing. In the first case, a gram positive coccus was isolated from the blood culture of an 80 year old woman with diabetes mellitus and nosocomial sepsis, who died the day after developing the bacteraemia. The bacterium was unidentified by conventional phenotypic tests, the Vitek (gram positive identification) and the ATB expression (ID32 Strep) systems. In the second case, a similar bacterium was isolated from the blood culture of a 92 year old woman with polymicrobial acute pyelonephritis complicated by septic shock, who subsequently recovered after antibiotic treatment. 16S rRNA gene sequencing of the two isolates showed 0.5% nucleotide difference from that ofG. sulfidifaciensand 0.7% nucleotide difference from that ofG. sanguinis, indicating that they wereGlobicatellaspecies.

Conclusions:BecauseGlobicatellais rarely encountered in clinical microbiology laboratories, it may have been overlooked or misidentified in these cases. 16S rRNA gene sequencing is a useful tool to better characterise the epidemiology and clinical significance ofGlobicatella.
Centrilobular necrosis in autoimmune hepatitis: a histological feature associated with acute clinical presentation
Authors: Hofer H , Oesterreicher C , Wrba F , Ferenci P , Penner E
Published: February 2006

Aims:The characteristic histological feature of autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is interface hepatitis with predominant portal lymphoplasmacytic necroinflammatory infiltration. Centrilobular necrosis (CN), reminiscent of toxic or circulatory liver injury, has been reported in AIH. The aim of this study was to assess the frequency of CN in patients with AIH and its correlation with laboratory and clinical data.

Methods:Liver biopsies were obtained from 114 patients (90 women, 24 men, mean (SD) age 45.4 (19.4) years) with AIH and were evaluated under code by a single pathologist according to the modified Knodell score.

Results:CN was found in 20 (17.5%) patients with virtually unaffected portal areas in four cases. Patients with AIH with CN had a higher total hepatic activity index (median (range) 11 (6 to 15)v5 (2 to 10)) and presented less frequently with cirrhosis (10%v38%). Patients with CN had a higher frequency of acute onset (87%v32%), higher bilirubin (median (range) 12.0 (0.43 to 40.0)v1.9 (0.36 to 46)) and higher ALT levels (median (range) 25.6 (2.7 to 63.9)v7.2 (0.7 to 62.6)), than did patients with AIH without centrizonal injury.

Conclusion:CN with sparing of the portal areas represents a rare histological pattern in AIH. CN is associated with an acute clinical presentation and might reflect an early lesion preceding portal involvement. Recognition of this particular histological appearance enables early diagnosis of AIH and a timely initiation of immunosuppressive therapy.
Assessment of a prognostic biochemical indicator of nutrition and inflammation for identification of pressure ulcer risk
Authors: Reynolds T M , Stokes A , Russell L
Published: February 2006

Background:Pressure ulcers represent a major cost to the healthcare systems of the world but preventative measures are expensive and could be better targeted. Current risk screening mechanisms are often subjective and could be improved.

Aims:To evaluate whether a biochemical assessment tool (Prognostic Inflammatory and Nutritional Index; PINI) based on measurement of albumin, α1-acid glycoprotein, C-reactive protein, and prealbumin is of value in estimating the prognosis of patients with pressure ulcers of European Pressure Ulcer Advisory Panel grade 1 and above.

Methods:Serum samples were collected from patients participating in a clinical trial of a pressure ulcer preventing mattress. These were analysed for the markers listed above and the PINI calculated. PINI was then evaluated against patient outcome.

Results:A statistically significant difference between PINI values in patients whose pressure ulcers improved and those whose ulcers worsened was found in parametric testing, but significance was not achieved in non-parametric testing. A receiver operating characteristic plot showed the PINI was superior to chance in estimating prognosis.

Conclusions:The PINI appears to offer a potential route to improving pressure ulcer risk estimation and thus allocation of scarce equipment to improve prevention.
Limited tissue fixation times and whole genomic amplification do not impact array CGH profiles
Authors: Ghazani A A , Arneson N C R , Warren K , Done S J
Published: February 2006

Background:Array comparative genomic hybridisation (CGH) is a powerful method for the genetic analysis of lesional and normal tissues to identify genomic imbalances associated with malignancies. However, the use of this technique with DNA extracted from archival formalin fixed, paraffin embedded (FFPE) tissue specimens, the most widely available resource for retrospective studies, is subject to quantitative and qualitative limitations. In this report, the suitability and integrity of the DNA extracted from FFPE MCF7 breast cancer cells fixed for different periods of time for array CGH applications were examined.

Results:Using our established cDNA microarray protocol in conjunction with whole genome amplification methods, the genetic profiles of freshly harvested MCF7 cells and their matched FFPE counterparts were analysed. Congruent profiles between FFPE MCF7 cells and their fresh counterpart and between amplified and non-amplified FFPE MCF7 cells were observed. Our results demonstrate that formalin fixation of <20 hours has no significant adverse effect on the integrity of DNA for array CGH studies.

Conclusions:Our findings attest to the fidelity of our array CGH methods to effectively examine material recovered from FFPE tissue specimens for microarray applications. This in turn has great potential to identify novel diagnostic and prognostic markers for human disease.
Psychometric properties of the Need for Recovery after work scale: test-retest reliability and sensitivity to detect change
Authors: de Croon E M , Sluiter J K , Frings-Dresen M H W
Published: February 2006

Background:Monitoring worker health and evaluating occupational healthcare interventions requires sensitive instruments that are reliable over time. The Need for Recovery scale (NFR), which quantifies workers’ difficulties in recovering from work related exertions, may be a relevant instrument in this respect.

Objectives:To examine (1) the NFR’s test-retest reliability and (2) the NFR’s sensitivity to detect the effect of a fatigue inducing change, namely an increase in working hours.

Methods:Two year longitudinal data of 526 truck drivers and 144 nurses were used. Two week, one year, and two year test-retest reliability was examined in both stable and unstable work environments by calculating intraclass correlations (ICCs). Work environmental (in)stability was quantified by four events that might have occurred during the follow up period: (1) a reorganisation or merge (0 = yes, 1 = no), (2) a change of supervisor or management (0 = yes, 1 = no), (3) a change in working hours or work schedules (0 = yes, 1 = no), and (4) a change in work activities, position, or duties (0 = yes, 1 = no). The four scores constituted a work (in)stability index ranging from 0 to 4. The NFR’s sensitivity to detect the effect of the increase in working hours was assessed indirectly by comparing it with an alternative scale, namely the Checklist Individual Strength.

Results:Test-retest reliability over a two year interval was good to excellent when applied in stable work environments (ICCs 0.68 to 0.80) but, as expected, poor to fair when applied in unstable work environments (ICCs 0.30 to 0.55). The NFR was sensitive in detecting an increase in work related fatigue due to the increase in working hours (effect size 0.40).

Conclusions:The NFR’s test-retest reliability and sensitivity to detect change are favourable. This implicates that the NFR may form a valuable part of health surveys and may be a useful tool for evaluating occupational healthcare interventions.
Tuberculosis and silica exposure in South African gold miners
Authors: teWaterNaude J M , Ehrlich R I , Churchyard G J , Pemba L , Dekker K , Vermeis M , White N W , Thompson M L , Myers J E
Published: February 2006

Aims:To examine the effect of silica exposure, in the absence of silicosis, on the prevalence of pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB), which is epidemic among South African gold miners.

Methods:Cross-sectional study of 520 gold miners over 37 years of age. Length of service, and cumulative and average dust and quartz exposure indices were derived for each miner. Chest radiographs were read for PTB by two NIOSH “B” readers. PTB was defined as a self-reported history of PTB or PTB on chest radiograph. Logistic regression was used to adjust for age, smoking, and silicosis. PTB effects of different exposure metrics for silica, scaled on their interquartile range (IQR), were compared.

Results:Means (ranges) were: age 46.7 (37.1–59.9) years; length of service 21.8 (6.3–34.5) years; average intensity of respirable quartz 0.053 (0–0.095) mg/m3. PTB prevalence was 19.4% (95% CI 16.0 to 22.8) on history alone, and 35.2% (95% CI 31.1 to 39.3) on history or on chest radiograph. Length of service was poorly predictive of PTB, while all exposure indices which included dust or quartz yielded prevalence odds ratios (PORs) of approximately 1.4 (95% CI ∼1.1 to 1.8) for changes of one interquartile range in exposure. Controlling for silicosis—by adjustment or restriction—did not modify these results. Drillers and winch operators had the highest PTB prevalences and the highest dust and silica exposures.

Conclusion:Older in-service gold miners in South Africa have a high prevalence of PTB, which is significantly associated with dust and silica exposure, even in the absence of silicosis. Limitations include a survivor workforce and the use of cumulative exposures based on current exposures. Dust control is an important component in control of the PTB epidemic in South African gold mines.
Sickness absence as a risk factor for job termination, unemployment, and disability pension among temporary and permanent employees
Authors: Virtanen M , Kivimäki M , Vahtera J , Elovainio M , Sund R , Virtanen P , Ferrie J E
Published: February 2006

Objectives:This study examined sickness absence as a risk factor for job termination, unemployment, and disability pension among temporary and permanent workers.

Methods:Prospective cohort study with data on employment contract and sickness absence in 1996, job termination by 1997, and employment status in 1997 and 2000 for 19 093 temporary and 41 530 permanent public sector employees.

Results:For women aged 40 years or less and for women over 40, a high sickness absence increased the risk of job termination among temporary employees (OR 1.52 (95% CI 1.36 to 1.71) and OR 1.70 (95% CI 1.36 to 2.13) respectively). High absence was not associated with job termination among men in temporary employment. Among permanent employees, high sickness absence predicted job termination among older, but not among younger employees. Temporary employees with high sickness absence were at the highest risk of immediate unemployment and unemployment three years later. Among older permanent employees, high sickness absence was associated with subsequent work disability pension.

Conclusions:A high rate of sickness absenteeism increases the risk of job termination and unemployment among women in temporary public sector jobs. For permanent employees, secure employment provides protection against unemployment even in the case of high sickness absence.
Chlorpyrifos exposure and biological monitoring among manufacturing workers: Table 1
Authors: Burns C J , Garabrant D , Albers J W , Berent S , Giordani B , Haidar S , Garrison R , Richardson R J
Published: February 2006

Aim:To use biological monitoring data to evaluate the soundness of job based exposure classifications.

Methods:The authors studied 52 chlorpyrifos manufacturing workers and 60 referent workers to compare chlorpyrifos exposure estimations from job titles and work areas to urinary excretion of 3,5,6 trichloro-2-pyridinol (TCP), a metabolite of chlorpyrifos. Work history records and industrial hygiene monitoring data were used to establish cumulative interim exposure. Chlorpyrifos exposure during the study year was assessed biologically by urinary excretion of TCP.

Results:Exposure as measured by three urinary TCP samples was significantly higher among the chlorpyrifos workers (188 μg/l) than it was for the referent subjects (7 μg/l). Urinary TCP also correlated well with specific exposure categories of negligible (0.73–1.98 mg/m3days), low (1.99–4.91 mg/m3days), and moderate (4.92–15.36 mg/m3days). The weighted Kappa coefficient was 0.80 (95% CI 0.72 to 0.87) for the mean TCP over the study period.

Conclusions:The estimates of chlorpyrifos exposure based on job classifications and industrial hygiene measurements were significantly related to urinary TCP excretion, indicating that the ambient estimates are useful for providing exposure estimates among chlorpyrifos manufacturing workers.
Association of renal function and δ-aminolevulinic acid dehydratase polymorphism among Vietnamese and Singapore workers exposed to inorganic lead
Authors: Chia S-E , Zhou H J , Yap E , Tham M T , Dong N-V , Hong Tu N T , Chia K-S
Published: February 2006

Objectives:To investigate the effect of δ-aminolevulinic acid dehydratase (ALAD) polymorphisms on the association between blood lead and renal function among Vietnamese and Singaporean workers who were exposed to low to medium levels of inorganic lead, and to study the distribution of ALAD polymorphism among Vietnamese, Chinese, Malays and Indians.

Methods:A total of 459 male and female workers were studied. Blood and urine were collected for each worker in order to determine ALAD genotype, blood lead, and urinary δ-aminolevulinic acid (ALAU). Renal function tests included urine albumin (Ualb), urine β2 microglobulin (Uβ2m), urinary α1 microglobulin (Uα1m), N-acetyl-glucosaminidas (NAG), and urine retinol blinding protein (RBP). A multiple regression model with interaction term was applied to fit the entire data and to explore the modifying effect of ALAD polymorphism on the relation of blood lead to each renal function parameter.

Results:ALAD1-1 was the predominant genotype for all the ethnic groups while ALAD2-2 was the rarest. The frequency of ALAD2 allele was higher among Malays (8.8%) and Indians (10.6%) compared to the Chinese (5.0%) and Vietnamese (4.3%). The geometric mean of blood lead for all workers was 19.0 μg/dl. The models for Uβ2m, Uα1m, and NAG showed that the ALAD1-2/2-2 group had higher β coefficients than the ALAD1-1 group. Corresponding to 10 μg/dl blood lead, ALAD1-1 homozygotes had an increment of 1.288 μg/g Cr, 1.175 mg/g Cr, and 1.995 U/g Cr for Uβ2m, Uα1m, and NAG, respectively. ALAD1-2/2-2 subjects had higher increments of 3.802 μg/g Cr, 2.138 mg/g Cr, and 3.89 U/g Cr for Uβ2m, Uα1m, and NAG, respectively.

Conclusion:The frequency of the ALAD2 allele is as low in Vietnamese workers as in Chinese. Workers with the ALAD2 allele appeared more susceptible to the effects of lead (especially at higher levels) on renal function.
Validation of an asthma questionnaire for use in healthcare workers
Authors: Delclos G L , Arif A A , Aday L , Carson A , Lai D , Lusk C , Stock T , Symanski E , Whitehead L W , Benavides F G , Antó J M
Published: February 2006

Background:Previous studies have described increased occurrence of asthma among healthcare workers, but to our knowledge there are no validated survey questionnaires with which to study this occupational group.

Aims:To develop, validate, and refine a new survey instrument on asthma for use in epidemiological studies of healthcare workers.

Methods:An initial draft questionnaire, designed by a multidisciplinary team, used previously validated questions where possible; the occupational exposure section was developed by updating health services specific chemical lists through hospital walk-through surveys and review of material safety data sheets. A cross-sectional validation study was conducted in 118 non-smoking subjects, who also underwent bronchial challenge testing, an interview with an industrial hygienist, and measurement of specific IgE antibodies to common aeroallergens.

Results:The final version consisted of 43 main questions in four sections. Time to completion of the questionnaire ranged from 13 to 25 minutes. Test–retest reliability of asthma and allergy items ranged from 75% to 94%, and internal consistency for these items was excellent (Cronbach’s α ⩾ 0.86). Against methacholine challenge, an eight item combination of asthma related symptoms had a sensitivity of 71% and specificity of 70%; against a physician diagnosis of asthma, this same combination showed a sensitivity of 79% and specificity of 98%. Agreement between self-reported exposures and industrial hygienist review was similar to previous studies and only moderate, indicating the need to incorporate more reliable methods of exposure assessment. Against the aerollergen panel, the best combinations of sensitivity and specificity were obtained for a history of allergies to dust, dust mite, and animals.

Conclusions:Initial evaluation of this new questionnaire indicates good validity and reliability, and further field testing and cross-validation in a larger healthcare worker population is in progress. The need for development of more reliable occupational exposure assessment methods that go beyond self-report is underscored.
Predictors of leaving nursing care: a longitudinal study among Swedish nursing personnel
Authors: Fochsen G , Josephson M , Hagberg M , Toomingas A , Lagerström M
Published: February 2006

Objectives:Despite extensive research on turnover among nursing personnel very little is known about the impact of physical workload and health on leaving. The aim of this study was to find predictors for leaving nursing care with special reference to physical working conditions and musculoskeletal problems.

Methods:This study is based on longitudinal data from a survey of nursing personnel who were employed at various county hospitals in Sweden from 1992–95. A self administrated follow up questionnaire was used to identify their present position in the labour market. The response rate was 73% (n = 1095).

Results:The results showed that nursing personnel reporting musculoskeletal problems of the neck/shoulder or knees and those who had limited use of transfer devices were more likely to leave nursing care.

Conclusions:The study highlights the importance of taking musculoskeletal problems and use of transfer devices into consideration in order to retain nursing personnel.
Occupational health needs of universities: a review with an emphasis on the United Kingdom
Authors: Venables K M , Allender S
Published: February 2006

This study describes the needs of universities in relation to planning the provision of occupational health services, by detailing their occupational hazards and risks and other relevant factors. The paper presents the results of (1) an enquiry into publicly available data relevant to occupational health in the university sector in the United Kingdom, (2) a literature review on occupational health provision in universities, and (3) selected results from a survey of university occupational health services in the UK. Although the enquiry and survey, but not the literature review, were restricted to the UK, the authors consider that the results are relevant to other countries because of the broad similarities of the university sector between countries. These three approaches showed that the university sector is large, with a notably wide range of occupational hazards, and other significant factors which must be considered in planning occupational health provision for individual universities or for the sector as a whole.
A 2-DIMENSIONAL CELLULAR AUTOMATON FOR AGENTS MOVING FROM ORIGINS TO DESTINATIONS
Authors: MOUSSA NAJEM
Published: February 2006

We develop a two-dimensional cellular automaton (CA) as a simple model for agents moving from origins to destinations. Each agent moves towards an empty neighbor site corresponding to the minimal distance to its destination. The stochasticity or noise (p) is introduced in the model dynamics, through the uncertainty in estimating the distance from the destination. The friction parameter "μ" is also introduced to control the probability that movement of all involved agents to the same site (conflict) is denied at each time step. This model displays two states; namely the freely moving and the jamming state. If μ is large and p is low, the system is in the jamming state even if the density is low. However, if μ is large and p is high, a freely moving state takes place whenever the density is low. The cluster size and the travel time distributions in the two states are studied in detail. We find that only very small clusters are present in the freely moving state, while the jamming state displays a bimodal distribution. At low densities, agents can take a very long time to reach their destinations if μ is large and p is low (jamming state); but long travel times are suppressed if p becomes large (freely moving state).
HIV-1 STRATEGIES OF IMMUNE EVASION
Authors: CASTIGLIONE F. , BERNASCHI M.
Published: February 2006

We simulate the progression of the HIV-1 infection in untreated host organisms. The phenotype features of the virus are represented by the replication rate, the probability of activating the transcription, the mutation rate and the capacity to stimulate an immune response (the so-called immunogenicity).

It is very difficult to study in-vivo or in-vitro how these characteristics of the virus influence the evolution of the disease. Therefore we resorted to simulations based on a computer model validated in previous studies.

We observe, by means of computer experiments, that the virus continuously evolves under the selective pressure of an immune response whose effectiveness downgrades along with the disease progression. The results of the simulations show that immunogenicity is the most important factor in determining the rate of disease progression but, by itself, it is not sufficient to drive the disease to a conclusion in all cases.