bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Expression of CCR5 receptors on Reed–Sternberg cells and Hodgkin lymphoma cell lines: Involvement of CCL5/Rantes in tumor cell growth and microenvironmental interactions
Authors: Aldinucci Donatella , Lorenzon Debora , Cattaruzza Lara , Pinto Antonio , Gloghini Annunziata , Carbone Antonino , Colombatti Alfonso
Published: October 2007

The expression of CCL5/Rantes by Hodgkin (H) and Reed‐Sternberg (RS) cells has been recently documented. In the present study we demonstrated that the CCL5 receptor (CCR5) is constitutively expressed by Hodgkin Lymphoma (HL)‐derived cell lines (i.e. L‐428, KM‐H2, L‐1236 and L‐540) as shown by immunohistochemistry, flow cytometry and western blotting and also detected by immunohistochemistry on primary H‐RS cells from lymph node tissues. sCD40L never significantly affected CCR5 expression, whereas a short exposure to doxorubicin down regulated its expression. CCR5 receptors on HL cell lines were functionally active, since neutralizing anti‐CCL5 monoclonal antibodies inhibited basal proliferation of HL‐derived cell lines and recombinant CCR5 ligands (CCL3/Mip‐1α, CCL4/Mip1β and CCL5/Rantes) increased their clonogenic growth. CCL5 secretion by L‐1236, L‐428 and KM‐H2 cells was stimulated by CD40 engagement and also by coculturing L‐1236 cells on primary stromal fibroblasts from HL‐involved lymph nodes (HLF). Coculture experiments indicated that a direct contact of H‐RS cells induces HLF cells to produce CCL5. Supernatants from L‐1236, L‐428 and KM‐H2 cells stimulated migration of purified CD4+ T‐cells and eosinophils in vitro. The migratory response to HL‐cell lines supernatants was only partially neutralized (CD4+ cells: 70%; esinophils: 36%) by anti‐CCL5 antibodies, reinforcing the notion that multiple chemokines are involved in the recruitment of nonmalignant reactive cells in HL tissues. Taken together, our results indicate a possible involvement of the CCR5/CCR5‐ligands signaling in the regulation of H‐RS cells growth and in the formation/maintenance of the typical tissue microenvironment of HL. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Endogenous optical biomarkers of normal and human papillomavirus immortalized epithelial cells
Authors: Mujat Claudia , Greiner Cherry , Baldwin Amy , Levitt Jonathan M. , Tian Fenghua , Stucenski Lee A. , Hunter Martin , Kim Young L. , Backman Vadim , Feld Michael , Münger Karl , Georgakoudi Irene
Published: October 2007

Cellular transformation is associated with a number of phenotypic, cell biological, biochemical and metabolic alterations. The detection and classification of morphological cellular abnormalities represents the foundation of classical histopathology and remains an important mainstay in the clinic. More recently, significant effort is being expended towards the development of noninvasive modalities for the detection of cancer at an early stage, when therapeutic interventions are highly successful. Methods that rely on the detection of optical signatures represent one class of such approaches that have yielded promising results. In our study, we have applied two spectroscopic imaging approaches to systematically identify in a quantitative manner the fluorescence and light scattering signatures of subcellular abnormalities that are associated with cellular transformation. Notably, we find that tryptophan images reveal not only intensity but also localization differences between normal and human papillomavirus immortalized cells, possibly originating from changes in the expression, 3D packing and organization of proteins and protein‐rich subcellular organelles. Additionally, we detect alterations in cellular metabolism through quantitative evaluation of the NADH, FAD fluorescence and the corresponding redox ratio. Finally, we use light scattering spectroscopy to identify differences in nuclear morphology and subcellular organization that occur from the nanometer to the micrometer scale. Thus, these optical approaches provide complementary biomarkers based on endogenous fluorescence and scattering cellular changes that occur at the molecular, biochemical and morphological level. Since they obviate the need for staining and tissue removal and can be easily combined, they provide desirable options for further clinical development and assessment. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A small interfering RNA targeting proteinase‐activated receptor‐2 is effective in suppression of tumor growth in a Panc1 xenograft model
Authors: Iwaki Kentaro , Shibata Kohei , Ohta Masayuki , Endo Yuichi , Uchida Hiroki , Tominaga Masayuki , Okunaga Ryoki , Kai Seiichiro , Kitano Seigo
Published: October 2007

Proteinase‐activated receptor‐2 (PAR‐2), which is a G protein‐coupled receptor, is activated in inflammatory processes and cell proliferation. We previously demonstrated that an anti‐PAR‐2 antibody suppresses proliferation of human pancreatic cellsin vitro. However, there have been no studies of PAR‐2 signaling pathwaysin vivo. The aim of this study was to determine whether blockade of PAR‐2 by RNA interference influences pancreatic tumor growth. We originally constructed small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) targeting humanPAR‐2, and performed cell proliferation assays of Panc1 human pancreatic cancer cell line with these siRNAs. Intratumoral treatment with these PAR‐2 siRNAs and atelocollagen was also performed in a xenograft model with nude mice and Panc1 cells. siRNAs against humanPAR‐2inhibited proliferation of Panc1 cells, whereas control scramble siRNAs had no effect on proliferation. The PAR‐2 siRNAs dramatically suppressed tumor growth in the xenograft model. PAR‐2‐specific siRNA inhibited growth of human pancreatic cancer cells bothin vitroandin vivo. Blockade of PAR‐2 signaling by siRNA may be a novel strategy to treat pancreatic cancer. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Joining characteristics of β‐titanium wires with electrical resistance welding
Authors: Iijima Masahiro , Brantley William A. , Yuasa Toshihiro , Kawashima Isao , Mizoguchi Itaru
Published: October 2007

The goal of this research was to investigate the effects of different conditions for electrical resistance welding of β‐titanium orthodontic wires. Three electrode types were used with a range of power settings on an electrical resistance welding machine to join β‐titanium wires (Resolve, GAC International). Forces that caused bond failures for joined specimens were obtained with tensile loading, and the values were compared using one‐way ANOVA and the Tukey test (α = 0.05). Metallurgical phases in the joint region were determined by micro‐X‐ray diffraction. Mean tensile forces for bond failure ranged from 5 to 20 kgf for the eight specimen groups and were dependent on electrode type and power setting. All X‐ray diffraction peaks in the joint region were indexed to β‐titanium. Superior bond strength was achieved with the use of wide electrodes. The absence of phases other than β‐titanium in the joint area suggests that the electrical resistance welding may not adversely affect clinically important mechanical properties. Scanning microscope observations indicated that the localized permanent deformation and the formation of an undesirable equiaxed grain structure occurred with the use of narrow electrodes. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2008
Aerated membrane‐attached biofilm reactor as an effective tool for partial nitrification in pretreatment of anaerobic ammonium oxidation (ANAMMOX) process
Authors: Feng Yu‐Jou , Tseng Szu‐Kung , Hsia Tsung‐Hui , Ho Chun‐Ming , Chou Wen‐Po
Published: October 2007

BACKGROUND: A laboratory‐scale membrane aeration bioreactor was employed to treat synthetic ammonium‐rich wastewater to yield an appropriate NH4+/NO2− ratio for anaerobic ammonium oxidation (ANAMMOX). The main objectives of this study were to steadily obtain 50% partial nitrification in batch experiments, to evaluate the effects of aeration and to identify the dominant bacterial community of the biofilm for partial nitrification.

RESULTS: Some of the ammonium in the synthetic wastewater was partially nitrified. A suitable NH4+/NO2− ratio (1:1 to 1:1.3) for the ANAMMOX process was obtained after 24 h. The dissolved oxygen (DO) level in the treated water was very low (below 0.6 mg L−1). Both the appropriate NH4+/NO2− ratio and the low DO level make this bioreactor an ideal pretreatment system for ANAMMOX. In addition, a molecular biotechnology method was applied to prove that the ammonia‐oxidizing bacteria dominated the biofilm.

CONCLUSION: This system achieved surprising cost savings in the aeration process compared with traditional aeration systems. The combination of this system with the subsequent ANAMMOX process has great potential as a favorable short‐cut in the treatment of ammonium‐rich wastewater. Copyright © 2007 Society of Chemical Industry
Does diagnostic sonography alter thyroid and parathyroid hormone levels?
Authors: Serin Erdinc , Gurel Kamil , Kiyan Aysu , Caglayan Murat , Karavas Erdal
Published: October 2007

Purpose

To investigate possible alterations in the levels of thyroid and parathyroid hormones (PTHs) and thyroglobulin (TG) in healthy individuals following diagnostic sonographic examination of the thyroid gland.

Methods

Thirty healthy women with no pathologic findings underwent sonographic examination, followed 6 weeks later by a second examination involving a probe‐only application (PA) with the ultrasound scanner switched off. Duration times were identical for both examinations. Blood was drawn before and after the 2 applications. Thyroid hormone, PTH, and TG levels before and after the 2 applications were compared, and the difference between the variations for each parameter in the first and second applications was assessed. Blood samples were taken before and after the sonographic examination and the PA, and the serum concentrations of sensitive thyrotropin, total and free thyroxine, total and free tri‐iodothyronine, TG, and PTH were measured. The pre‐ and post‐examination levels of the hormones for the 2 applications were then compared and the difference between the variations for each parameter in the first and second application was then assessed.

Results

The only significant variations observed were in the TG levels after PA and PTH levels after both sonographic examination and PA. The comparison between the 2 difference values revealed no significant difference except for PTH.

Conclusion

This preliminary report on the possible influence of sonographic examination of the thyroid on the serum levels of thyroid and parathyroid hormones suggests that gland secretions such as PTH may be affected by external factors, including ultrasound. Clinicians should be aware of alterations in hormone levels by external factors. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound, 2008
Three‐dimensional reconstruction of the remodeling of the systemic vasculature in early pig embryos
Authors: Cornillie Pieter , Van Den Broeck Wim , Simoens Paul
Published: October 2007

Current research on angiogenesis and vascular regression is mainly focused on pathological conditions such as tumor growth and diabetic retinopathy, while a suitable physiological model to study the controlling factors in these processes is still lacking. The remodeling pattern of the embryonic vasculature into the adult configuration, such as the branchial arch arterial system developing into the aorta or the early embryonic veins building the caudal vena cava can potentially serve as a model. However, practical applications of the embryonic vascular patterning are impeded by the current controversy over the exact development of the caudal vena cava in mammals. To elucidate these ambiguities, specific developmental stages of vascular development in pig embryos were mapped by means of computer‐assisted 3D reconstructions starting from histological serial sections of Bouin's fixed embryos. Special attention was given to venous segments in the lumbar region, as their origin and fate are equivocally described in literature. Here we demonstrate that these venous segments originate from the caudal cardinal veins which are forced to migrate during development into a more dorsal position due to the expansion of the developing metanephroi and the more dorsal relocation of the umbilical arteries. These findings are in contrast with the generally accepted theory that the venous segments in the lumbar region arise from newly formed veins that are located dorsal to the early caudal cardinal system. Microsc. Res. Tech., 2008. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Hospital discharge information and older patients: Do they get what they need?
Authors: Flacker Jonathan , Park Wansoo , Sims Addie
Published: October 2007

BACKGROUND

Ineffective communication of hospital discharge instructions may have important implications for future health, function, and quality of life.

OBJECTIVE

To describe patient recall of predischarge communication of discharge instructions by hospital staff, and to demonstrate the feasibility a posthospitalization survey in this urban, public hospital population.

METHODS

Cross‐sectional telephone survey of 269 patients age 70 years or older who were discharged from an academically affiliated urban public hospital between September 7, 2004, and January 19, 2005.

RESULTS

The mean length of stay of the respondents was 5.6 days (range, 0–56 days), and the mean number of admissions over the study period was 1.6 (range, 1–7 times). The respondents were interviewed a average of 3 days after discharge (range, 1–10 days). Only 43.7% of the respondents replied yes when asked, “Did anyone talk with you about how to care for yourself at home after this hospitalization?” Among those who recalled how they received care instructions (n = 103), approximately 66.0% (n = 68) reported receiving instructions “verbally,” 10.7% (n = 11) reported receiving written instructions, and 23.3% (n = 24) reported receiving both. More than half the respondents (54.2%) did not recall anyone talking with them about how to care for themselves after hospitalization. Other significant gaps in important patient information were identified.

CONCLUSIONS

We found that a posthospitalization survey was both feasible and revealing in this urban, public hospital population. Furthermore, interviewee recall of predischarge communication of discharge instructions by hospital staff demonstrated significant gaps in communication between these patients and the hospital care team at time of discharge. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2007;2:291–296. © 2007 Society of Hospital Medicine.
SynopSIS: Integrating physician sign‐out with the electronic medical record
Authors: Sarkar Urmimala , Carter Jonathan T. , Omachi Theodore A. , Vidyarthi Arpana R. , Cucina Russell , Bokser Seth , van Eaton Erik , Blum Michael
Published: October 2007

BACKGROUND

Safe delivery of care depends on effective communication among all health care providers, especially during transfers of care. The traditional medical chart does not adequately support such communication. We designed a patient‐tracking tool that enhances provider communication and supports clinical decision making.

AIM

To develop a problem‐based patient‐tracking tool, called Sign‐out, Information Retrieval, and Summary (SynopSIS), in order to support patient tracking, transfers of care (ie, sign‐outs), and daily rounds.

SETTING

Tertiary‐care, university‐based teaching hospital.

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

SynopSIS compiles and organizes information from the electronic medical record to support hospital discharge and disposition decisions, daily provider decisions, and overnight or cross‐coverage decisions. It reflects the provider's patient‐care and daily work‐flow needs.

PROGRAM EVALUATION

We plan to use Web‐based surveys, audits of daily use, and interdisciplinary focus groups to evaluate SynopSIS's impact on communication between providers, quality of sign‐out, patient continuity of care, and rounding efficiency.

CONCLUSIONS

We expect SynopSIS to improve care by facilitating communication between care teams, standardizing sign‐out, and automating daily review of clinical and laboratory trends. SynopSIS redesigns the clinical chart to better serve provider and patient needs. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2007;2:336–342. © 2007 Society of Hospital Medicine.
Atomic force microscopy imaging and single molecule recognition force spectroscopy of coat proteins on the surface of Bacillus subtilis spore
Authors: Tang Jilin , Krajcikova Daniela , Zhu Rong , Ebner Andreas , Cutting Simon , Gruber Hermann J. , Barak Imrich , Hinterdorfer Peter
Published: October 2007

Coat assembly in Bacillus subtilis serves as a tractable model for the study of the self‐assembly process of biological structures and has a significant potential for use in nano‐biotechnological applications. In the present study, the morphology of B. subtilis spores was investigated by magnetically driven dynamic force microscopy (MAC mode atomic force microscopy) under physiological conditions. B. subtilis spores appeared as prolate structures, with a length of 0.6–3 µm and a width of about 0.5–2 µm. The spore surface was mainly covered with bump‐like structures with diameters ranging from 8 to 70 nm. Besides topographical explorations, single molecule recognition force spectroscopy (SMRFS) was used to characterize the spore coat protein CotA. This protein was specifically recognized by a polyclonal antibody directed against CotA (anti‐CotA), the antibody being covalently tethered to the AFM tip via a polyethylene glycol linker. The unbinding force between CotA and anti‐CotA was determined as 55 ± 2 pN. From the high‐binding probability of more than 20% in force–distance cycles it is concluded that CotA locates in the outer surface of B. subtilis spores. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Specificity enhancement with LC‐positive ESI‐MS/MS for the measurement of nucleotides: application to the quantitative determination of carbovir triphosphate, lamivudine triphosphate and tenofovir diphosphate in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells
Authors: Pruvost Alain , Théodoro Frédéric , Agrofoglio Luigi , Negredo Eugenia , Bénech Henri
Published: October 2007

Our previous negative ESI‐LC‐MS/MS method developed for nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI) triphosphate (‐TP) measurements in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) encountered some specificity problems for several NRTI‐TP and simultaneous endogenous nucleotide triphosphates analysis. As LC‐MS/MS offers several possibilities to circumvent such problems, we have investigated the contribution of the positive electrospray ionization mode in enhancing the specificity of the intracellular analyses of triphosphate metabolites of lamivudine, abacavir, and tenofovir. For intracellular NRTI‐TP analysis, after disruption of PBMCs, concentrated supernatants were directly injected into the LC‐MS/MS system, dimethylhexylamine being used as ion‐pairing agent to resolve NRTI‐TP. MS/MS detection was performed after positive electrospray ionization. Total run time was 12 min instead of 26 min for NRTI‐TP analysis. The validation parameters of the method met the international requirements, and endogenous chromatographic interferences were eliminated. The use of positive ESI, offering a better specificity and a slightly better sensitivity than the negative ESI mode for these compounds, resulted in specificity enhancement and more robust assay methods. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Detection and quantitation of HCV RNA using real‐time PCR after automated sample processing
Authors: Sandres‐Sauné K. , Abravanel F. , Nicot F. , Peron J.M. , Alric L. , Boineau J. , Pasquier C. , Izopet J.
Published: October 2007

There is considerable evidence that the loss of hepatitis C virus (HCV) RNA during the first 3 months of treatment with pegylated interferon plus ribavirin is a prognostic marker of response to therapy. Real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays for quantifying HCV RNA in plasma or serum are now commercially available. The extraction of HCV RNA can also be automated. This report analyses the performance of the COBAS Ampliprep‐COBAS Taqman 48 (CAP/CTM) real‐time PCR assay and compares this new test with the COBAS Amplicor HCV Monitor v 2.0 assay (CAM). CAP/CTM was 100% specific. The assay was linear across a wide range of HCV RNA concentrations without sample dilution. The intra‐assay variation was 0.3–3.3% and the interassay variation was 1.5–6.7%. A total of 118 clinical samples with different HCV genotypes were assayed using both methods. The results obtained using the two methods were well correlated (r = 0.89,P < 0.001). The mean difference [CAP/CTM‐CAM] was 0.17 log IU/ml and it was not influenced by the HCV genotype or by the subtype. It is concluded that the new CAP/CTM system is adequate for quantifying HCV RNA in clinical practice. J. Med. Virol. 79:1821–1826, 2007. © Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Use of replacement blood donors to study the epidemiology of major blood‐borne viruses in the general population of Maputo, Mozambique
Authors: Cunha Lina , Plouzeau Chloé , Ingrand Pierre , Gudo Joël Paulo Samo , Ingrand Isabelle , Mondlane José , Beauchant Michel , Agius Gérard
Published: October 2007

The seroprevalence rates of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), human T‐cell leukemia/lymphoma virus (HTLV), hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis D virus (HDV), and hepatitis C virus (HCV) in Mozambique are poorly documented. The epidemiology of these infections was studied in the Maputo region. All donors attending the blood bank during the study period were interviewed and underwent serological and molecular tests for markers of virus exposure. Thus, 1,578 consecutive replacement blood donors were investigated, as they undergo no selection (other than their relation with a patient needing a transfusion), and may thus provide reliable estimates of the prevalence rates in the general population. The age‐standardized prevalence rates among 15‐ to 49‐year‐old men and women were, respectively, 12.3 and 15.4% for HIV and 0.9 and 1.2% for HTLV. Low educational status (P = 0.014) and tattooing/scarification (P = 0.023) were predictive of HIV infection in multivariate analysis. The age‐adjusted prevalence rates of markers of hepatotropic virus among men and women were, respectively, 10.6 and 4.5% for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), 1.2 and 1.0% for anti‐HCV, and 0 and 0% for anti‐HDV. Two percent of donors had viral co‐infections, involving most frequently the combination of HIV and HBsAg +. A significant association was found between anti‐HIV and anti‐HBc (P = 0.012). HBsAg was associated with the place of birth (P = 0.011) and a history of transfusion (P = 0.069). Smokers had higher seroprevalence rates than nonsmokers for HIV (P < 0.0001) and HBsAg (P = 0.045). Genotype A was the most frequent HBV genotype (86.3%) followed by E and D. HCV genotypes were 1a, 1b, 3a, and 5a. These results show that HBV vaccination and HIV‐preventive measures need to be reinforced in Mozambique. J. Med. Virol. 79:1832–1840, 2007. © Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Amino acid changes in the attachment g glycoprotein of human respiratory syncytial viruses (subgroup A) isolated in Italy over several epidemics (1997–2006)
Authors: Montieri S. , Puzelli S. , Ciccozzi M. , Calzoletti L. , Di Martino A. , Milia M.G. , Rossi A. , Piro F. , Rezza G. , Donatelli I.
Published: October 2007

The human respiratory syncytial virus (HRSV) is the most important cause of admission to hospital for acute lower respiratory tract infections in infants and young children worldwide. Only few studies have investigated the molecular evolution of HRSV, and none has been conduct ed in Italy. The genetic diversity of the G glycoprotein of 59 subgroup A strains obtained from two clinical centers located in Northern and Central Italy was studied, during seven nonconsecutive epidemic seasons (1997–2006). The nucleotide sequences encompassing 624 bp, at the carboxy terminus of the G glycoprotein gene, were compared to sequences representative of previously defined HRSV genotypes. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that most Italian group A isolates clustered into two different lineages (GA2 and GA5), whereas only few isolates grouped into the other known lineages. Eight positively selected sites were found and it was predicted that serine and threonine of positively selected sites 117 and 262 (respectively) are O‐glycosilated. The presence of multiple identical sequences in three lineages (GA1, GA5, and BE/A1) suggests that certain strains are predominant in a given epidemic season. Although most of the sites of the G glycoprotein gene of HRSV‐A strains seem invariable because of strong purifying selection, some evolutionary “hot spots” may be present. Since the G glycoprotein is a major target (together with the F glycoprotein) of the HRSV humoral immune response, it is important to provide information about its genetic heterogeneity in order to address better both therapeutic and vaccine strategy. J. Med. Virol. 79:1935–1942, 2007. © Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Parvovirus B19 infection in chile: Markers of infection and immunity in patients with clinical symptoms
Authors: Larrañaga Carmen , León Oscar , Díaz Patricia , Miranda Marta , Norambuena Ximena , Pérez Marcela , Gaggero Aldo
Published: October 2007

Parvovirus B19 infection is associated with a wide variety of symptoms and signs, and given that some clinical features, such as anemia, arthropathy and rash may be attributable to other causes, laboratory diagnosis of B19 markers is necessary. The principal aims were to study the behavior of B19 infection‐associated diseases in the Chilean population and to compare B19 markers for recent or active infection and for immunity status in patients with clinical symptoms suspicious of B19 infection and control individuals. Sera from a total of 267 patients with diverse clinical manifestations associated with B19 and from 69 healthy controls were tested for B19 DNA using PCR and for specific IgM and immunoglobulin G (IgG) by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Out of 267 patients examined, 89 had B19‐associated disease markers: 43 had B19 DNA without IgM, 25 had IgM without B19 DNA, and 21 had both B19 DNA and IgM. Also 49 patients were positive only for IgG without B19 DNA or IgM. Out of the 69 healthy controls, only 2 had B19 DNA without IgM and 30 had IgG without B19 DNA and/or IgM. The distribution of the clinical diagnoses associated with recent B19 infection, tested by B19 DNA and/or IgM, included 38.5% with hematological illnesses, 23.4% with rheumatic diseases, 45.7% with infectious diseases, 33.3% with indications of prenatal infection, 32.3% with conditions that induce immunodeficiency, and 15.8% with other miscellaneous conditions. The use of both markers, DNA and IgM, allows a more adequate diagnosis of infection by this virus. J. Med. Virol. 79:1927–1934, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Case report: Severe neurological manifestation of dobrava hantavirus infection
Authors: Cerar Daša , Avšič‐Županc Tatjana , Jereb Matjaž , Strle Franc
Published: October 2007

In Europe infection with Puumala or Dobrava viruses causes hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS). In the course of HFRS, mild neurological symptoms such as headache, vertigo, and nausea are common. However, the data about the occurrence of severe, potentially life‐threatening neurological manifestations are rather scarce. Here, we present a case of HFRS with serologically proven Dobrava virus infection complicated by epileptic seizures and hemiparesis due to focal encephalitis. J. Med. Virol. 79:1841–1843, 2007. © Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Respiratory syncytial virus infections in hospitalized infants: Association between viral load, virus subgroup, and disease severity
Authors: Fodha Imène , Vabret Astrid , Ghedira Leila , Seboui Hassen , Chouchane Slaheddine , Dewar John , Gueddiche Neji , Trabelsi Abdelhalim , Boujaafar Noureddine , Freymuth François
Published: October 2007

The relationships between host factors, virus strain, viral load, and illness severity in respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)‐induced bronchiolitis are poorly defined. These relationships were evaluated prospectively in 81 previously healthy infants hospitalized with RSV bronchiolitis. Disease severity was determined by the respiratory rate, the duration of hospitalization, and whether patients during their hospitalization required pediatric intensive care unit admission or mechanical ventilation. RSV typing into subgroup A and B was obtained by RT‐PCR‐hybridization assay. The nasopharyngeal RSV viral loads were measured by real‐time quantitative RT‐PCR. Disease severity correlated significantly with the presence of risk factor (estimated gestational age < 37 weeks and/or birth weight < 2,500 g) and with chronologic age ≤ 28 days at time of sample collection. The results revealed significant association between disease severity and nasopharyngeal RSV viral load. Analysis also showed that disease severity was not associated significantly with RSV subgroup. Thus, RSV disease severity is likely to be determined by an interplay between host and virus factors, including RSV load. J. Med. Virol. 79:1951–1958, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Development and implementation of real‐time nucleic acid amplification for the detection of enterovirus infections in comparison to rapid culture of various clinical specimens
Authors: van Doornum G.J.J. , Schutten M. , Voermans J. , Guldemeester G.J.J. , Niesters H.G.M.
Published: October 2007

Several real‐time PCR and nucleic acid sequence‐based amplification (NASBA) primer pairs and a modified real‐time PCR primer pair for the detection of enteroviruses were compared. The modified real‐time PCR primer pair was evaluated on clinical samples in comparison with cell culture using the MagnaPure LC Isolation instrument for nucleic acid extraction. Six hundred forty samples could be examined both by cell culture and real‐time PCR. Faecal specimens (n = 285), cerebrospinal fluid (n = 210), throat swabs (n = 113), biopsies (n = 1, vesicular fluid (n = 11), and pleural fluid specimens (n = 9) were included. By culture, 26/640 (4%) samples were positive for enterovirus. By real‐time PCR, the number of positive specimens was 50 (7.8%). Of the 210 cerebrospinal fluid samples, three were positive by culture and nine by real‐time PCR. Seventeen and 33 of a total of 285 faecal specimens were positive by culture and real‐time PCR, respectively. In case of discrepant results, the clinical symptoms were in accordance with an infection due to enteroviruses. Genotyping using the VP1 gene correlated with serotyping by neutralization. In contrast, six of the 19 specimens that could be typed both by neutralization and by sequencing using the VP4 domain yielded a different genotype, yet within the same species. Real‐time PCR turned out to be suitable for the detection of enteroviruses in the daily routine setting. In comparison to rapid culture, it offers a rapid, more sensitive, and reliable assay; especially in cerebrospinal fluid, the yield of enteroviruses is much higher. J. Med. Virol. 79:1868–1876, 2007. © Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Comparison of real‐time fluorescent RT‐PCR and conventional RT‐PCR for the detection of hepatitis E virus genotypes prevalent in China
Authors: Zhao Chenyan , Li Zhuo , Yan Baoshan , Harrison Tim J. , Guo Xinhui , Zhang Feng , Yin Jiming , Yan Yan , Wang Youchun
Published: October 2007

To compare the specificity and sensitivity of a real‐time fluorescent RT‐PCR assay with conventional RT‐PCR, sera from 110 healthy blood donors, 120 patients with a clinical diagnosis of chronic hepatitis B, and 416 patients with non‐A‐C acute hepatitis, as well as serial dilutions of HEV genotypes 1 and 4, were tested with both assays. All samples from healthy blood donors and patients with chronic hepatitis B were negative by both assays. Real‐time RT‐PCR could detect the same final dilution of genotype 1 as conventional RT‐PCR but could detect a 10‐fold lower concentration of genotype 4 than conventional RT‐PCR. Of 416 samples from patients with a clinical diagnosis of non‐A‐C acute hepatitis, 127 (30.5%) and 83 (20.0%) were positive for HEV by real‐time and conventional RT‐PCR, respectively. The concordance of real‐time and conventional RT‐PCR was 80.8%. Furthermore, 96 and 57 of 171 samples were positive for anti‐HEV IgM by real‐time and conventional RT‐PCR, respectively, and 31 and 26 of 245 samples negative for anti‐HEV IgM, were positive by real‐time and conventional RT‐PCR, respectively. All amplicons positive by conventional RT‐PCR were sequenced. Of 83 isolates, 7 and 76 belonged to genotypes 1 and 4, respectively. Thus, both assays have a high specificity, but the real‐time RT‐PCR assay is more sensitive than conventional RT‐PCR. Furthermore, HEV genotype 4 is responsible for most sporadic cases of hepatitis E in the north of China. J. Med. Virol. 79:1966–1973, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Effects of fertilization and other agronomic measures on nutritional quality of crops
Authors: Wang Zhao‐Hui , Li Sheng‐Xiu , Malhi Sukhdev
Published: October 2007

Crops, as the basic source of essential substances and nutrients, do not always contain sufficient amounts of these essential nutrients to meet dietary requirements. In this review paper, we discussed the effects of fertilization and other agronomic measures on the nutritional quality of cereal, oilseed and protein crops, tuber plants and vegetables. Research indicates that application of N, P, K and S fertilizers generally increases crop yield as well as nutritional quality. For example, fertilizer increased protein concentration in cereals and pulses, oil concentration in oilseed crops, starch concentration in tubers, and concentration of essential amino acids and vitamins in vegetables. However, excessive fertilizer application, especially N fertilizer, can result in undesirable changes such as increases in nitrate, titratable acidity and acid to sugar ratio, while decreasing the concentration of vitamin C, soluble sugar, soluble solids, and Mg and Ca in some crops. Other agronomic measures, such as tillage and crop rotation, organic farming, soil moisture management, and crop breeding and genetic engineering can also have a large effect on food crop quality, though the potential benefits of these measures for improving crop quality has not been fully exploited. Research literature on this subject suggests that more information is needed in order to achieve an increase in the concentration of essential microelements, prevent accumulation of toxic levels of elements such as Cu, Mo, Zn, Ni, Se and nitrate, and other dangerous or toxic substances and elements in crops. Copyright © 2007 Society of Chemical Industry
Effects of genotype and environment on vitamin C content and its heterosis in towel gourd fruits
Authors: Xu Shengchun , Hu Jin , Tan Hong , Zhang Sheng
Published: October 2007

BACKGROUND: Vitamin C is an indispensable component in the diet of humans, who lack the ability to synthesise it. Towel gourd (Luffa cylindrica L.) is a vegetable that is widely consumed in Asia, but little is known about the vitamin C content in its fresh fruits. In this study the effects of genotype and environment on the vitamin C content and its heterosis in towel gourd fruits were investigated using eight inbred lines and nine F1 hybrids planted in two different seasons (spring and summer).

RESULTS: Among the 17 cultivars studied, vitamin C content ranged from 5.94 to 12.89 mg per 100 g, suggesting the possibility of selecting new towel gourd varieties with high vitamin C content. The effects of genotype, environment (planting season) and their interaction on vitamin C content were all significant (P⩽0.01), with genotype having the largest effect. Five out of six hybrids showed positive heterosis over the mean values of their parents. However, it was difficult to predict the vitamin C content in F1 fruits from that in their parents.

CONCLUSION: The results of this study suggest that the vitamin C content in towel gourd fruits can be affected by genotype and environment and might be increased by crossing. This could provide a theoretical basis for selecting varieties with high vitamin C content. Copyright © 2007 Society of Chemical Industry
Variety and storage conditions affect the precursor content and amount of acrylamide in potato crisps
Authors: Viklund Gunilla ÅI , Olsson Kerstin M , Sjöholm Ingegerd M , Skog Kerstin I
Published: October 2007

BACKGROUND: Acrylamide, a probable human carcinogen, is formed from the amino acid asparagine and reducing sugars when potato products are processed at high temperatures. This is a two‐year study on five Swedish‐grown potato clones, two of which are adapted to cold storage. The clones represented a wide range of precursor concentrations: asparagine, 3.7–15.3 mg g−1; reducing sugars, 0.9–14.9 mg g−1. Crisps were prepared in laboratory‐scale equipment mimicking industrial processing conditions.

RESULTS: Potatoes stored at 4 °C had significantly higher levels of glucose and fructose than potatoes stored at 8 °C. Acrylamide levels were significantly higher in crisps made from potatoes stored at 4 °C. Two clones with a large difference in asparagine concentration but similar glucose and fructose concentrations gave crisps with significantly different acrylamide contents. The lowest levels of acrylamide were found in crisps made from the potato variety with the lowest asparagine concentration.

CONCLUSION: The findings show that variety and storage conditions influence the levels of precursors. Acrylamide formation in crisps can be reduced by using potato varieties with low levels of both asparagine and reducing sugars. Mass transport of precursors during heating is suggested to be important for acrylamide formation in potato crisps. Copyright © 2007 Society of Chemical Industry
Pectin methylesterase, polyphenol oxidase and physicochemical properties of typical long‐storage cherry tomatoes cultivated under water stress regime
Authors: Barbagallo Riccardo N , Chisari Marco , Branca Ferdinando , Spagna Giovanni
Published: October 2007

BACKGROUND: The selection of cherry tomato genotypes with extended shelf‐life and resistant to water stress is an important aspect of Sicilian agriculture. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of watering regime on the expression of enzymatic activities (pectin methylesterase (PME, EC 3.1.1.11) and polyphenol oxidase (PPO, EC 1.14.18.1)) and the physicochemical properties of typical long‐storage cherry tomatoes in order to propose a solution strategy suitable for Sicilian cultivation.

RESULTS: PPO activity seemed to be related to the watering regime employed, showing a maximum under normal watering conditions. PME activity also decreased greatly with increasing water stress (loss of activity ranging from 22.31 to 82.01%). Water stress induced an increase in titratable acidity (up to 68.7% in cultivar ‘Giallo piccolo a punta’) and, above all, in dry matter and total soluble solids (increases ranging from 24.08 to 91.68% and from 5.93 to 40.90% respectively). Possible solution strategies for cultivation of tomato genotypes with extended shelf‐life are (a) selecting the local type that presents the lowest levels of PME and PPO (‘Pizzutello’) or (b) modifying the watering regime in order to induce commercial cultivars employed in intensive cultivation (e.g. ‘Naomi’) to better protect themselves from degradative enzymatic activities.

CONCLUSION: It appears that the adoption of high watering levels, leading to a more marked expression of degradative enzymatic activities, could result in cherry tomatoes with a high susceptibility to undesirable browning and softening reactions. Copyright © 2007 Society of Chemical Industry
High power L-band erbium-doped fiber laser pumped by a C-band superfluorescent source
Authors: Chen S-P , Li Y-G , Lu K-C , Zhou S-H , Liu Z-J
Published: October 2007

The C-band is demonstrated to be suitable for pumping L-band erbium-doped fiber laser (EDFL) with a broad pumping band. A high power C-band superfluorescent fiber source (SFS) peaked at 1545 nm with output power of 1.86 W is constructed and utilized as pump source for L-band EDFL. Based on this, an all single-mode-fiber L-band EDFL emitting at 1591.9 nm with 1.19 W output power is obtained. The laser exhibits a high conversion efficiency of 64.0% with a high ASE extinction ratio of 66 dB and a narrow bandwidth of less than 0.08 nm.
Spritzgegossene kupfergefüllte Thermoplaste für die Erzeugnisentwicklung
Authors: Markov A.V. , Bock H.‐J. , Mauser A. , Müller T. , Vyshnepolskiy B.
Published: October 2007

Ziel dieser Arbeit war es, die Gebrauchseigenschaften von kupfergefüllten thermoplastischen Polymeren, die durch Extrusion und Spritzgießen hergestellt sind, zu charakterisieren. Der Einfluss von Füllstoffgehalt und ‐form auf die mechanischen, thermischen und elektrischen Eigenschaften wurden untersucht. Hohe Gestaltungsfreiheit, das Fertigungspotenzial von kupfermodifizierten Kunststoffen und die niedrigen Energiekosten bei der Herstellung der Bauteile eröffnen vielfältige Möglichkeiten zu Anwendungen solcher Materialen in Elektronik, Auto‐ und Baugewerbe sowie anderen Branchen.
Mikrowellenangepasstes Sintern von Ferriten
Authors: Lampke Th. , Fischer B. , Walter G. , Wielage B.
Published: October 2007

Die Mikrowellensinterung kann bei vielen Keramiken zu besseren Eigenschaften sowie zu einer Verbesserung der Produktivität des Prozesses führen. Schwierigkeiten bei der technischen Umsetzung der Mikrowellentechnologie ergeben sich aus dem von der konventionellen Erwärmung abweichenden Temperaturprofil im Wärmgut. Für die Entwicklung einer mikrowellenangepassten Sintertechnologie ist die Bestimmung der inneren Temperaturverteilung mittels mathematischer Modellierung notwendig. Hierfür wird auf ein vereinfachtes Modell zurückgegriffen, welches ein Wärmequellenmodell mit einem herkömmlichen thermischen Modell zur Berechnung der Wärmeübertragung innerhalb des Gutes und zur Umgebung koppelt. Zur Steuerung des Erwärmungsprozesses wurde das Modell in einen Regelalgorithmus implementiert. Die Überprüfung des mikrowellenangepassten Regelkonzepts erfolgte an Nickel‐Zink‐Ferrit. Nachweislich wird ein wirksamer Schutz vor thermal‐runaway und unzulässigen Temperaturunterschieden innerhalb der Probe gewährleistet. Gleichzeitig ist es möglich, auf die temperaturabhängigen Änderungen der elektromagnetischen sowie thermophysikalischen Stoffeigenschaften zu reagieren.
Spray formed and rolled aluminium‐magnesium‐scandium alloys with high scandium content
Authors: Herding Th. , Keßler O. , Zoch H.‐W.
Published: October 2007

Aluminium‐magnesium‐scandium alloys offer good weldability, high corrosion resistance, high thermal stability and the potential for high strength by precipitation hardening. A problem of aluminium‐scandium alloys is the low solubility of about 0.3 mass‐% scandium when using conventional casting methods. The solution of scandium can be raised by higher cooling rates during solidification. This was realised by spray forming of Al‐4.5Mg‐0.7Sc alloys as flat deposits. Further cooling rates after solidification should also be high to prevent coarse precipitation of secondary Al3Sc. Therefore a cooling device was designed for the spray formed flat deposits. The flat deposits were rolled at elevated temperatures to close the porosity from spray forming. Microstructures, aging behaviour and tensile properties of the rolled sheets were investigated. Strength enhancements of about 100 MPa compared to conventional Al‐Mg‐Sc alloys were achieved.
Rotigotine transdermal patch in early Parkinson's disease: A randomized, double‐blind, controlled study versus placebo and ropinirole
Authors: Giladi Nir , Boroojerdi Babak , Korczyn Amos D. , Burn David J. , Clarke Carl E. , Schapira Anthony H.V. ,   SP513 investigators
Published: October 2007

Rotigotine is a new, non‐ergot dopamine agonist formulated in a transdermal delivery system. The present study was to investigate the efficacy and safety of the rotigotine transdermal patch in the treatment of early Parkinson's disease. Patients (n = 561) were randomized to rotigotine, ropinirole, or placebo. The titration period was up to 13 weeks, and there was a minimum dose‐maintenance period of 24 weeks for ropinirole and 33 weeks for rotigotine. The primary endpoint was the proportion of patients with a minimum of 20% decrease in the combined Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale Part II and Part III scores. The responder rate in the rotigotine group was significantly higher than in the placebo group (52% vs. 30%, P < 0.0001). Transdermal rotigotine at doses ≤8 mg/24 h did not show noninferiority to ropinirole at doses ≤24 mg/day. In a post‐hoc subgroup analysis, rotigotine ≤8 mg/24 hours had a similar efficacy to ropinirole at doses ≤12 mg/day. The rotigotine transdermal patch was well tolerated. The most common adverse events were application‐site reactions, nausea, and somnolence. Application‐site reactions were predominantly mild or moderate in intensity. In conclusion, the rotigotine transdermal patch represents an effective and safe option for the treatment of patients with early Parkinson's disease.
Host‐derived angiogenesis maintains bone blood flow after withdrawal of immunosuppression
Authors: Ohno Teruyasu , Pelzer Michael , Larsen Mikko , Friedrich Patricia F. , Bishop Allen T.
Published: October 2007

A novel method of living bone allotransplantation combining microvascular repair of the nutrient circulation, implantation of host‐derived arteriovenous (AV) bundles, and short‐term immunosuppression is described. We hypothesized that neoangiogenesis from the implanted vessels would maintain graft viability and circulation after withdrawal of FK506 (Tacrolimus) immunosuppression. Vascularized femoral transplantation was performed between DA and PVG rats. In addition to microsurgical pedicle anastomoses, a saphenous AV bundle from the recipient animal was implanted in the medullary space. Ninety‐seven rats were randomly allocated to groups differing in immunosuppression and AV bundle patency. Implanted vessels significantly improved capillary density and bone blood flow in nonimmunosuppressed and immmunosuppressed groups, respectively. A lower incidence of spontaneous AV bundle thrombosis was found with Tacrolimus treatment. More viable osteocytes were seen at 4 weeks when the AV bundle was patent. Further investigations may confirm host‐derived neoangiogenesis as an alternative to tolerance induction or immunosuppression in bone allotransplantation. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc. Microsurgery, 2007.
Ontogeny of leptin and its receptor expression in mouse testis during the postnatal period
Authors: Herrid Muren , O'Shea Tim , McFarlane James R.
Published: October 2007

The mechanism by which leptin regulate male reproductive development during postnatal periods remain to be determined. Using immunohistochemistry and reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR), we established that leptin is expressed in mouse testis with a cell‐type and stage‐dependent manner during the postnatal period. In testes of 5‐day‐old mice, leptin expression was mainly restricted to gonocytes, whereas the immunostaining of leptin was confined to spermatogonia in 10‐day‐old testes. From Day 20 and onwards, stage‐specific expression of leptin was evident in spermatocytes at stages VII–XII of the cycle in the seminiferous epithelium. RT‐PCR showed that leptin and its receptor isoforms, Ob‐Ra, Ob‐Rb, and Ob‐Re were all expressed in testes from 5‐ to 60‐day‐old mice. The mRNA for Ob‐Ra and Ob‐Re, but not Ob‐Rb or leptin were identified in both immature (14‐day‐old) and adult (60‐day‐old) isolated Leydig cells. These results suggest that besides its primary actions at the hypothalamic‐pituitary level, leptin has direct effects in the proliferation, differentiation of germ cells and the modulation of testicular steroidogenesis, using both autocrine and paracrine mechanisms. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 75: 874–880, 2008. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.