bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High incidence of haemophagocytic syndrome following umbilical cord blood transplantation for adults
Authors: Takagi Shinsuke , Masuoka Kazuhiro , Uchida Naoyuki , Ishiwata Kazuya , Araoka Hideki , Tsuji Masanori , Yamamoto Hisashi , Kato Daisuke , Matsuhashi Yoshiko , Kusumi Eiji , Ota Yasunori , Seo Sachiko , Matsumura Tomoko , Matsuno Naofumi , Wake Atsushi , Miyakoshi Shigesaburo , Makino Shigeyoshi , Ohashi Kenichi , Yoneyama Akiko , Taniguchi Shuichi
Published: August 2009

Umbilical cord blood transplantation (CBT) is widely accepted, but one critical issue for adult patients is a low engraftment rate, of which one cause is haemophagocytic syndrome (HPS). We aimed to identify the contribution of HPS to engraftment failure after CBT, following preparative regimens containing fludarabine phosphate, in 119 patients (median age, 55 years; range; 17–69 years) with haematological diseases. Graft‐versus‐host disease prophylaxis comprised continuous infusion of a calcineurin inhibitor with or without mycophenolate mofetil. Of the 119 patients, 20 developed HPS within a median of 15 d (cumulative incidence; 16·8%) and 17 of them did so before engraftment. Donor‐dominant chimaerism was confirmed in 16 of 18 evaluable patients with HPS. Despite aggressive interventions including corticosteroid, ciclosporin, high‐dose immunoglobulin and/or etoposide, engraftment failed in 14 of 18 patients. Of these 14 patients, four received second rescue transplantation and all resulted in successful engraftment. Overall survival rates significantly differed between patients with and without HPS (15·0% vs. 35·4%; P < 0·01). Univariate and multivariate analysis identified having fewer infused CD34+ cells as a significant risk factor for the development of HPS (P = 0·01 and 0·006, respectively). We concluded that engraftment failure closely correlated with HPS in our cohort, which negatively impacted overall survival after CBT.
Aspirin induces apoptosis in mesenchymal stem cells requiring Wnt/β‐catenin pathway
Authors: Deng L. , Hu S. , Baydoun A. R. , Chen J. , Chen X. , Cong X.
Published: August 2009

Background and Objectives:  Mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) are multipotent progenitor cells that are have found use in regenerative medicine. We have previously observed that aspirin, a widely used anti‐inflammatory drug, inhibits MSC proliferation. Here we have aimed to elucidate whether aspirin induces MSC apoptosis and whether this is modulated through the Wnt/β‐catenin pathway.

Materials and methods:  Apoptosis of MSCs was assessed using Hoechst 33342 dye and an Annexin V–FITC/PI Apoptosis Kit. Expression of protein and protein phosphorylation were investigated using Western blot analysis. Caspase‐3 activity was detected by applying a caspase‐3/CPP32 Colorimetric Assay Kit.

Results:  In these MSCs, aspirin induced morphological changes characteristic of apoptosis, cytochrome c release from mitochondria, and caspase‐3 activation. Stimulating the Wnt/β‐catenin pathway by both Wnt 3a and GSK‐3β inhibitors (LiCl and SB 216763), blocked aspirin‐induced apoptosis and protected mitochondrial function, as demonstrated by decreased cytochrome c release and caspase‐3 activity. Aspirin initially caused a time‐dependent decrease in COX‐2 expression but subsequently, and unexpectedly, elevated the latter. Stimulation of COX‐2 expression by aspirin was further enhanced following stimulation of the Wnt/β‐catenin pathway. Application of the COX‐2 inhibitor NS‐398 suppressed elevated COX‐2 expression and promoted aspirin‐induced apoptosis.

Conclusion:  These results demonstrate that the Wnt/β‐catenin pathway is a key modulator of aspirin‐induced apoptosis in MSCs by regulation of mitochrondrial/caspase‐3 function. More importantly, our findings suggest that aspirin may influence MSC survival under certain conditions; therefore, it should be used with caution when considering regenerative MSC transplantation in patients with concomitant chronic inflammatory diseases such as arthritis.
Soil‐gas diffusivity in large soil monoliths
Authors: Lange S. F. , Allaire S. E. , Rolston D. E.
Published: August 2009

The variability of gas diffusion in soil is not well known, but is important for assessing greenhouse gas emissions, soil decontamination, oxidation in soil and plant and root respiration. The goal of this study was to assess small‐scale variability of the relative soil‐gas diffusivity (Ds / Do, msoil air) using large intact soil monoliths and to compare Ds / Do calculation methods. Neon (Ne) was maintained constant at the lower boundary of three monoliths of two soils (a sand and an organic soil). Ne concentration was measured at large spatial and temporal frequencies. Calculation methods included the use of average concentration, and average Ds / Do per horizon, per section, or for the entire soil profile. Considering all sections of the monoliths, Ds / Do varied from 3.5 × 10−3 to 1.2 × 10−1 for the Ap horizon and from 4.8 × 10−3 to 8.3 × 10−1 for the Bf horizon in the sand and from 1.0 × 10−3 to 7.9 × 10−3 for the Ohp horizon and from 2.4 × 10−4 to 7.7 × 10−2 for the Of horizon in the organic soil. For the entire soil profile, variations in Ds / Do between monoliths reached 125% in the sand and 56% in the organic soil. The Ds / Do calculation method influenced the apparent variability (CV) of Ds / Do and, to a lesser extent, Ds / Do values of the overall soil profile. Differences in Ds / Do between monoliths could not be explained solely by the variability of total soil porosity and air‐filled porosity. Soil macroporosity (cracks and earthworm burrows) and layering greatly influenced variability of gas movement. Thus, the choice of sampling procedure, calculation method and modelling must be governed by the scale of the processes of interest and soil variability attributes.
Uncomplicated neurosurgical resection of a malignant glioneuronal tumour under haemostatic cover of rFVIIa in a severe haemophilia patient with a high‐titre inhibitor: a case report and literature review of rFVIIa use in major surgeries
Authors: AOUBA A. , DEZAMIS E. , SERMET A. , ROTHSCHILD C. , HERMINE O. , LASNE D. , TORCHET M‐F.
Published: August 2009

Summary.  The development of inhibitors following factor VIII replacement therapy is a serious complication in severe inherited haemophilia. Whereas significant experience, notably in orthopaedic surgery, is now obtained with the use of bypassing agents in haemophilia with high‐titre inhibitor, new surgical challenges might occur due to patients’ increasing life expectancy. A 56‐year‐old severe haemophilia A patient with a high‐titre inhibitor was diagnosed for probable right temporoparietal malignant glioneuronal tumour on cerebral magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) (4 cm x 3 cm cerebromeningeal tumour with perilesional oedema and transfalcial herniation) requiring total resection. Then recombinant activated FVII (rFVIIa) was chosen as the haemostatic agent: bolus of 270 μg kg−1 every 2 h during the first 24 h, 180 μg kg−1 every 3, 4 and 6 h, respectively, at days 2–3, from days 4–10 and finally from days 11–15. Tranexamic acid was associated. Pre‐ and postoperative courses were uneventful, the surgical procedure being assessed at optimal haemostatic condition without any unusual haemorrhage on MRI controls, diffuse intravascular coagulation criteria or thromboembolic event. Intensive rFVIIa therapy has shown to be safe and effective in this first reported neurosurgery about a malignant tumour exhibiting to a high‐bleeding risk notably in haemophilia with high‐titre inhibitor. The use of lower doses of rFVIIa might have been possible; however, in the absence of accurate test for monitoring rFVIIa therapy, the potentially life‐threatening complications of this procedure required maximum haemostasis with high rFVIIa doses.
Fitness and quality of life in children with haemophilia
Authors: BRODERICK C. R. , HERBERT R. D. , LATIMER J. , CURTIN J. A.
Published: August 2009

Summary.  Prior to the introduction of prophylactic clotting factor, children with haemophilia were discouraged from physical activity due to the risk of bleeds. Reports of children with haemophilia having lower levels of fitness and strength than their healthy peers were therefore well accepted. This study aimed to establish whether these deficits continued, and specifically, whether Australian boys with haemophilia and von Willebrand disorder had lower strength and aerobic capacity than their peers, despite widespread use of prophylaxis. Forty‐four boys aged 6.1–17.0 years (mean 10.9, SD 3.2) with haemophilia A and B and von Willebrand disorder participated in the study. Fitness, strength and body mass index (BMI) measures were compared with age‐ and gender‐matched data from a representative cohort of school children. Quality of Life was measured using the Haemo‐QoL to obtain baseline measures in an Australian population. There were no statistically significant or clinically important differences in aerobic fitness or BMI between the boys with haemophilia and controls in any age category. Boys with haemophilia in Years 4, 6 and 10 had greater strength than their peers. Australian boys with bleeding disorders do not have impaired aerobic capacity or strength compared with their peers. Quality of life in Australian boys with haemophilia is comparable to their European counterparts.
Autism spectrum disorders in genetic syndromes: implications for diagnosis, intervention and understanding the wider autism spectrum disorder population
Authors: Moss J. , Howlin P.
Published: August 2009

Background An emerging literature on behavioural phenotypes has highlighted apparent associations between autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) or ASD‐related phenomenology and a number of different genetically determined syndromes.

Method A systematic review of the current literature regarding the association with ASD and ASD characteristics was conducted in the following syndrome groups: Fragile X, Rett, Tuberous Sclerosis Complex, Down, Angelman, CHARGE and Phenylketonuria. Specific consideration was given to the role of intellectual disability in assessing the association between ASD and these syndrome groups.

Results The review highlights that while formal diagnostic assessments may indicate an association between ASD and specific syndrome groups, detailed investigation has revealed subtle but qualitative differences in the presentation of ASD‐like phenomenology in particular syndrome groups. The degree of ID of the individual clearly has a role to play with regard to the development and presentation of ASD‐like characteristics, and caution should be taken when assessing ASD symptomatology in genetically determined syndromes associated with severe ID. However, degree of ID cannot solely account for the heightened prevalence of ASD characteristics in some specific syndrome groups.

Conclusions There is a need for caution in interpreting the significance of superficial similarities between ASD and the behavioural phenotypes of certain genetically determined syndromes. However, recognition of ASD‐like characteristics (even where a true diagnosis of ASD may not be relevant) in individuals with genetic syndromes is crucial in ensuring that individuals receive appropriate behavioural management and educational placement. Further research in this field requires fine‐grained investigation of behavioural phenomenology within individual syndrome groups.
Time‐lapse FRET microscopy using fluorescence anisotropy
Authors: MATTHEWS D.R. , CARLIN L.M. , OFO E. , BARBER P.R. , VOJNOVIC B. , IRVING M. , NG T. , AMEER‐BEG S.M.
Published: August 2009

We present recent data on dynamic imaging of Rac1 activity in live T‐cells. Förster resonance energy transfer between enhanced green and monomeric red fluorescent protein pairs which form part of a biosensor molecule provides a metric of this activity. Microscopy is performed using a multi‐functional high‐content screening instrument using fluorescence anisotropy to provide a means of monitoring protein–protein activity with high temporal resolution. Specifically, the response of T‐cells upon interaction of a cell surface receptor with an antibody coated multi‐well chamber was measured. We observed dynamic changes in the activity of the biosensor molecules with a time resolution that is difficult to achieve with traditional methodologies for observing Förster resonance energy transfer (fluorescence lifetime imaging using single photon counting or frequency domain techniques) and without spectral corrections that are normally required for intensity based methodologies.
Loss of enteric neurons accompanied by decreased expression of GDNF and PI3K/Akt pathway in diabetic rats
Authors: Du F. , Wang L. , Qian W. , Liu S.
Published: August 2009

Abstract  To investigate the enteric neuropathy in diabetic rats and the role of glia cell line‐derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) and its signalling pathway PI3K/Akt in regulating enteric neurons survival. Male Sprague–Dawley (SD) rats were randomly divided into normal control group, diabetic groups (rats with diabetes for 4, 8 and 12 weeks respectively). Proximal and distal colon specimens were obtained from each rat. Phosphoinositol‐3‐kinase signalling pathway was analysed by Akt phosphorylation. Protein gene product 9.5 (PGP9.5) used as a pan‐neuronal marker. The expressions of GDNF, phospho‐Akt (p‐Akt), neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) neurons, cholinergic [choline acetyltransferase (CHAT) stained] neurons and total neurons were measured by immunohistochemical streptavidin‐biotin complex (SABC) methods, Western blot and real‐time polymerase chain reaction methods for each specimen. (i) Expression of GDNF was significantly decreased in diabetes 8 and 12 weeks group compared with the control group in both proximal (P < 0.01) and distal (P < 0.01) colon. The change of GDNF expression was greater in the 12 weeks group than that in the 8 weeks group (P < 0.05). There were no significant differences between the 4 weeks group and the control group in expression of GDNF (P > 0.05). (ii) The change trend of Akt phosphorylation was the same with GDNF. (iii) The numbers of nNOS, CHAT neurons and total neurons in proximal and distal colon were decreased significantly during the course of diabetes (P < 0.05). Diabetes can significantly induce enteric neuropathy. This change may be mediated, in partly, via a reduction of GDNF and its main downstream signalling pathway PI3K/Akt, which is a survival signal for enteric neurons.
TLR9 Activation Increases TAP‐Independent Vesicular MHC Class I Processing In vivo
Authors: Chen L. , Jondal M.
Published: August 2009

Cross‐presentation of soluble protein antigens on major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I by dendritic cells (DC) can occur in vesicular, endolysosomal compartments and be either dependent or independent of TAP peptide transporters. Here we investigate if an immunostimulatory CpG oligodeoxynucleotide can increase the activity in a TAP‐independent endolysosomal vesicular pathway (el‐VP) in vivo as we have earlier found in in vitro cultured DC. We use the in vivo response of CFSE labelled OT‐1 T cells, transgenic for a T‐cell receptor (TCR) that recognizes an ovalbumin (OVA)‐derived peptide (SIINFEKL) presented by H‐2Kb, transferred into TAP1−/− mice, as a functional read‐out for activity in the el‐VP. We have found a poor OT‐1 T‐cell response to soluble OVA which, however, could be strongly enhanced by the simultaneous administration of CpG. This increased responsiveness required both the endolysosomal cathepsin S (CatS) and Toll like receptor (TLR)9, the CpG receptor, both of which are present in the el‐VP. Confocal microscopy demonstrated a co‐localization of H‐2Kb/SIINFEKL and the endolysosomal marker LAMP1 in CD11c positive DC which was markedly increased by CpG administration. No complexes were found in the ER and cis‐Golgi compartments in TAP1−/− mice, indicating the lack of classical MHC‐I processing. In DC isolated from CatS−/− mice the opposite was found, complexes were present in the ER but not in the el‐VP. We conclude that in vivo activation of TLR9 by CpG increases the efficiency of TAP independent el‐VP and that this might contribute to the potent adjuvant activity of this type of compound. The cellular mechanisms remain to be established.
Insulin2 Gene (Ins2) Transcription by NOD Bone Marrow‐derived Cells Does Not Influence Autoimmune Diabetes Development in NOD‐Ins2 Knockout Mice
Authors: Martin‐Pagola A. , Pileggi A. , Zahr E. , Vendrame F. , Damaris Molano R. , Snowhite I. , Ricordi C. , Eisenbarth G. S. , Nakayama M. , Pugliese A.
Published: August 2009

Insulin is a critical autoantigen for the development of autoimmune diabetes in non‐obese diabetic (NOD) mice. About 80% of NOD females and 30–40% of NOD males develop diabetes. However, Insulin2 (Ins2) knockout NOD mice develop autoimmune diabetes with complete penetrance in both sexes, at an earlier age, and have stronger autoimmune responses to insulin. The severe diabetes phenotype observed in NOD‐Ins2−/− mice suggests that lack of Ins2 expression in the thymus may compromise immunological tolerance to insulin. Insulin is a prototypical tissue specific antigen (TSA) for which tolerance is dependent on expression in thymus and peripheral lymphoid tissues. TSA are naturally expressed by medullary thymic epithelial cells (mTEC), stromal cells in peripheral lymphoid tissues and bone marrow (BM)‐derived cells, mainly CD11c+ dendritic cells. The natural expression of TSA by mTEC and stromal cells has been shown to contribute to self‐tolerance. However, it is unclear whether this also applies to BM‐derived cells naturally expressing TSA. To address this question, we created BM chimeras and investigated whether reintroducing Ins2 expression solely by NOD BM‐derived cells delays diabetes development in NOD‐Ins2−/− mice. On follow‐up, NOD‐Ins2−/− mice receiving Ins2‐expressing NOD BM cells developed diabetes at similar rates of those receiving NOD‐Ins2−/− BM cells. Diabetes developed in 64% of NOD recipients transplanted with NOD BM and in 47% of NOD mice transplanted with NOD‐Ins2−/− BM (P = ns). Thus, NOD‐Ins2−/− BM did not worsen diabetes in NOD recipients and Ins2 expression by NOD BM‐derived cells did not delay diabetes development in NOD‐Ins2−/− mice.
Improved time control on Cretaceous coastal deposits: new results from Sr isotope measurements using laser ablation
Authors: Burla Stefan , Oberli Felix , Heimhofer Ulrich , Wiechert Uwe , Weissert Helmut
Published: August 2009

Sr‐isotope measurements of unaltered oyster shell calcite using laser‐ablation multi‐collector ICPMS techniques represent a powerful tool capable of establishing a chronostratigraphic framework for fossil near‐shore deposits. This approach is tested on two shoal‐water successions from the Portuguese Algarve and Lusitanian basins covering Late Barremian to Albian strata. 87Sr/86Sr values derived from low‐Mg calcite of oyster shells fluctuate between 0.70717 ± 0.00001 and 0.70746 ± 0.00002; absolute values as well as stratigraphic trends match well with the global open‐marine seawater signal. The new Sr‐isotope results in combination with existing bio‐ and chemostratigraphic records allow for identification of an Early Aptian biocalcification crisis at both studied localities and show that this event has severely affected coastal environments along the evolving Atlantic. Siliciclastic intervals in the Algarve section are interpreted as near‐shore equivalents of enhanced detrital shedding into shelf and deep‐sea environments as a consequence of increased chemical weathering rates during humid climate episodes.
BFA‐induced compartments from the Golgi apparatus and trans‐Golgi network/early endosome are distinct in plant cells
Authors: Lam Sheung Kwan , Cai Yi , Tse Yu Chung , Wang Juan , Law Angus Ho Yin , Pimpl Peter , Chan Ho Yin Edwin , Xia Jun , Jiang Liwen
Published: August 2009

Brefeldin A (BFA) is a useful tool for studying protein trafficking and identifying organelles in the plant secretory and endocytic pathways. At low concentrations (5–10 μg ml−1), BFA caused both the Golgi apparatus and trans‐Golgi network (TGN), an early endosome (EE) equivalent in plant cells, to form visible aggregates in transgenic tobacco BY‐2 cells. Here we show that these BFA‐induced aggregates from the Golgi apparatus and TGN are morphologically and functionally distinct in plant cells. Confocal immunofluorescent and immunogold electron microscope (EM) studies demonstrated that BFA‐induced Golgi‐ and TGN‐derived aggregates are physically distinct from each other. In addition, the internalized endosomal marker FM4‐64 co‐localized with the TGN‐derived aggregates but not with the Golgi aggregates. In the presence of the endocytosis inhibitor tyrphostin A23, which acts in a dose‐ and time‐dependent manner, SCAMP1 (secretory carrier membrane protein 1) and FM4‐64 are mostly excluded from the SYP61‐positive BFA‐induced TGN aggregates, indicating that homotypic fusion of the TGN rather than de novo endocytic trafficking is important for the formation of TGN/EE‐derived BFA‐induced aggregates. As the TGN also serves as an EE, continuously receiving materials from the plasma membrane, our data support the notion that the secretory Golgi organelle is distinct from the endocytic TGN/EE in terms of its response to BFA treatment in plant cells. Thus, the Golgi and TGN are probably functionally distinct organelles in plants.
Causes of morbidity among HIV‐infected children on antiretroviral therapy in primary care facilities in Lusaka, Zambia
Authors: Mubiana‐Mbewe Mwangelwa , Bolton‐Moore Carolyn , Banda Yolan , Chintu Namwinga , Nalubamba‐Phiri Mutinta , Giganti Mark , Guffey M. Brad , Sambo Pauline , Stringer Elizabeth M. , Stringer Jeffrey S. A. , Chi Benjamin H.
Published: August 2009

Objectives  To describe the pattern of incident illness in children after initiation of antiretroviral therapy (ART) in a large public health sector programme in Lusaka, Zambia.

Methods  Systematic chart review to retrospectively extract data from medical records of children (i.e. <15 years) initiating ART in the Lusaka, Zambia public sector. Incident conditions were listed separately and then grouped according to broad categories. Predictors for incident diagnoses were determined using univariate and multivariable analysis.

Results  Between May 2004 and June 2006, 1705 HIV‐infected children initiated ART. Of these, 1235 (72%) had their medical records reviewed. Median age at ART initiation was 77 months and 554 (45%) were females. Eight hundred and forty‐one (68%) children had an incident condition during this period, with a median time of occurrence of 64 days from ART initiation. Twenty‐eight incident conditions were documented. When categorized, the most common were mucocutaneous conditions [incidence rate (IR): 70.6 per 100 child‐years, 95% CI: 64.5–77.2] and upper respiratory tract infection (IR: 70.1 per 100 child‐years; 95% CI: 64.0–76.7). Children with severe immunosuppression (i.e. CD4 < 10%) were more likely to develop lower respiratory tract infection (16.3%vs. 10.2%; P = 0.003) and mucocutaneous conditions (43.9% vs. 35.3%; P = 0.005) than those with CD4 ≥ 10%.

Conclusion  There is a high incidence of new illness after ART initiation, emphasizing the importance of close monitoring during this period. Early initiation of ART and use of antimicrobial prophylaxis may also help to reduce the occurrence of such co‐morbidities.
Site factors may be more important than participant factors in explaining HIV test acceptance in the prevention of mother‐to‐child HIV transmission programme in Kenya, 2005
Authors: Anand Abhijeet , Shiraishi Ray W. , Sheikh Abdullahi Ahmed , Marum Lawrence H. , Bolu Omotayo , Mutsotso Winfred , Sabin Keith , Ayisi Robert , Diaz Theresa
Published: August 2009

Objective  To determine the role of participant factors on the acceptance of a Prevention‐of‐Mother‐to‐Child (PMTCT) HIV test programme in a situation with an opt‐out testing strategy.

Methods  We analysed antenatal clinic (ANC) HIV sentinel surveillance data. All 43 sites in the 2005 round of Kenya’s ANC surveillance offered opt‐out PMTCT services and recorded if women were offered PMTCT HIV testing and whether they accepted or refused. Logistic regression was used to determine the role of participant‐level factors on PMTCT acceptance.

Results  During the period of sentinel surveillance, 13 026 women attended ANC and testing was offered to 12 030 women. Of those offered testing, 9690 (80.5%) accepted, with a large variation in the percent of acceptors by site. Age, residence and educational status were significant determinants of PMTCT acceptance. However, after adjusting for site none of the participant‐level factors were significant determinants of PMTCT acceptance.

Conclusions  Participant level factors were not significant determinants of PMTCT HIV test acceptance after adjusting for sites. PMTCT programmes should collect and evaluate the role of site‐level (provider and testing service) factors on PMTCT acceptance. Improvement of site‐level factors could improve PMTCT uptake.
Pupal sampling for Aedes aegypti (L.) surveillance and potential stratification of dengue high‐risk areas in Cambodia
Authors: Seng Chang M. , Setha To , Nealon Joshua , Socheat Duong
Published: August 2009

Objectives  To identify and describe the distribution of dengue vectors and factors affecting this distribution in Cambodia, with a view to practicing rational, evidence‐based dengue outbreak prevention activities.

Methods  Entomological survey with a questionnaire component in 100 randomly selected households in each of 13 clusters of high or low human population density of seven Cambodian provinces. Entomological and other indices were calculated, and statistical methods used to describe factors of potential outbreak risk.

Results  Aedes aegypti was the principle dengue vector in all clusters, making up 95.5% (20 555 of 21 325) of the Aedes pupae population. The majority of pupae were recovered either from large concrete water storage jars (16 230; 76.1%) or concrete water storage tanks (2819; 13.2%). There were small but significantly higher levels of dengue vector infestation in rural than urban areas. The mean pupae density over the survey was 16.4/house, which ranged between clusters from 5.2/house to 56.9/house. The ‘pupae‐per‐person’ index was 2.4 and 3.6 in urban and rural areas, respectively, and was independent of mean human population density or household water container distribution.

Conclusions  High populations of household‐associated dengue vectors were present in all surveyed clusters. The highly skewed distribution of pupae in a limited number of key containers suggests adoption and further development of community‐based control measures targeting these containers holds most potential chance of controlling dengue outbreaks in Cambodia.
Monitoring for multidrug‐resistant Plasmodium falciparum isolates and analysis of pyrimethamine resistance evolution in Uige province, Angola
Authors: Menegon Michela , Pearce Richard J. , Inojosa Walter O. , Pisani Vincenzo , Abel Paulo M. , Matondo Alexandre , Bisoffi Zeno , Majori Giancarlo , Ord Rosalynn , Warhurst David C. , Roper Cally , Severini Carlo
Published: August 2009

Objectives  To assess the extent of drug resistance in Uige through molecular genetic analysis and to test whether the dhfr triple mutant alleles present in Angola are of southeast Asian origin.

Methods  Seventy‐one samples of blood from children admitted to the Pediatric Emergency Unit of Uige Provincial Hospital in 2004 were screened for resistance mutations at pfcrt, pfmdr1, pfdhfr, pfdhps and pfATPase6.

Results  Mutations in pfcrt (codon76), pfmdr1 (codon86), pfdhfr (codons 51, 59, 108) and pfdhps (codons 436, 437) were common. Among the 66 isolates for which we were able to determine complete genetic information 13.7% carried all seven of these mutations. Flanking microsatellite analysis revealed the triple mutant pfdhfr was derived from the southeast Asian lineage, while the N51I+S108N double mutant pfdhfr alleles are a local origin. pfATPase6 mutations were rare and S769N was not found.

Conclusion  The parasite population of Uige Angola has high frequency mutations in pfcrt, dhfr and dhps associated with resistance to chloroquine and sulphadoxine pyrimethamine, reflecting past reliance on these two drugs which were the mainstay of treatment until recently. Our findings show that drug resistance in Uige has occurred through a combination of local drug pressure and the regional and international dispersal of resistance mutant alleles.
The effect of a soap promotion and hygiene education campaign on handwashing behaviour in rural India: a cluster randomised trial
Authors: Biran Adam , Schmidt Wolf‐Peter , Wright Richard , Jones Therese , Seshadri M , Isaac Pradeep , Nathan N. A. , Hall Peter , McKenna Joeleen , Granger Stewart , Bidinger Pat , Curtis Val
Published: August 2009

Objective  To investigate the effectiveness of a hygiene promotion intervention based on germ awareness in increasing handwashing with soap on key occasions (after faecal contact and before eating) in rural Indian households.

Methods  Cluster randomised trial of a hygiene promotion intervention in five intervention and five control villages. Handwashing was assessed through structured observation in a random sample of 30 households per village. Additionally, soap use was monitored in a sub‐sample of 10 households per village using electronic motion detectors embedded in soap bars.

Results  The intervention reached 40% of the target population. Germ awareness increased as well as reported handwashing (a possible indicator of perceived social norms). Observed handwashing with soap on key occasions was rare (6%), especially after faecal contact (2%). Observed handwashing with soap on key occasions did not change 4 weeks after the intervention in either the intervention arm (−1%, 95% CI −2%/+0.3%), or the control arm (+0.4%, 95% CI −1%/+2%). Data from motion detectors indicated a significant but small increase in overall soap use in the intervention arm. We cannot confidently identify the nature of this increase except to say that there was no change in a key measure of handwashing after defecation.

Conclusion  The intervention proved scalable and effective in raising hygiene awareness. There was some evidence of an impact on soap use but not on the primary outcome of handwashing at key times. However, the results do not exclude that changes in knowledge and social norms may lay the foundations for behaviour change in the longer term.
Do audio‐guided decision aids improve outcomes? A randomized controlled trial of an audio‐guided decision aid compared with a booklet decision aid for Australian women considering labour analgesia
Authors: Raynes‐Greenow Camille H. , Roberts Christine L. , Nassar Natasha , Trevena Lyndal
Published: August 2009

Objective  To assess the effectiveness of an audio‐guided component: an audio‐guided decision aid vs. a stand‐alone booklet decision aid.

Background  Despite extensive evaluation of decision aids in clinical settings the presentation style has not been properly assessed, and audio‐guided decision aids are widely used although not supported by evidence‐based research.

Design  Randomized controlled trial.

Setting and participants  Two obstetric hospitals in Sydney, Australia. A total of 395 pregnant women having their first baby and approximately ≥36 weeks of gestation, planning a vaginal birth of a single infant and with self‐assessed English sufficiency to read and listen to English‐presented material.

Intervention  A decision aid for labour and childbirth analgesia that was presented in two ways: an audio‐guided decision aid compared with a booklet only style decision aid.

Main outcome measures  Decisional conflict, knowledge and anxiety.

Results  Although both groups improved their knowledge scores and decreased their decisional conflict there were no significant differences between groups: mean knowledge score – audio‐guided group, 65.9 vs. booklet group, 64.3; mean difference, 1.7; 95% CI (–7.5, 4.2); mean decisional conflict score – audio‐guided group, 23.6 vs. booklet group, 24.3; mean difference, 0.7; 95% CI (–1.4, 2.9). Acceptability and compliance were high.

Discussion and conclusions  This evaluation highlights the lack of additional benefit in using audio‐guided formats for presenting health information to consumers who are from a general English‐speaking population. These results considered together with the increase in costs and work involved in producing audio components suggests that written and pictorial methods may be sufficient for decision aids aimed at a general audience.
Medical word use in clinical encounters
Authors: Koch‐Weser Susan , DeJong William , Rudd Rima E.
Published: August 2009

Objective  Doctors often use medical language with their patients despite findings from a variety of studies that have shown that patients frequently misunderstand medical terminology. Little is known about the patterns of medical word use by doctors and patients during clinical encounters.

Methods  A content analysis of 16 verbatim transcripts of first clinical encounters between rheumatologists and newly referred patients was conducted to assess how doctors and patients introduced medical words. Medical words were identified via a computer program using a defined list.

Results  Doctors did not introduce or use more medical words than patients, but the types of words that doctors and patients introduced did differ. The majority of patient‐initiated medical words occurred during the history taking (94%). Doctors did not explain, or use as part of an explanation, the majority (79%) of the medical words they introduced, and patients seldom responded in a way that would indicate whether or not they had correctly interpreted those terms. There was relatively little repetition of medical words within or even across encounters.

Conclusions  This study provides insights into how the use of medical terminology could contribute to misunderstanding. Findings suggest that steps already promoted in the literature to improve doctor–patient communication may also ameliorate potential problems arising from the use of medical terminology.
Natural egg parasitism on Helicoverpa (Heliothis) armigera Hbn. (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae) on tomato in South Portugal1
Authors: Meierrose Carola , Araujo J.
Published: August 2009

Field observations on natural parasitism on Heliothis armigera eggs by Trichogramma rhenana and Telenomus sp. have been undertaken during ten weeks in 1982, on a semi‐commercial tomato field near Evora South Portugal. The field observations were conducted until the first pesticide application. The average percentage of parasitism from mid‐June to mid‐August was 80.4 %. The mean number of parasites per host egg was 1.9 with a sex‐ratio of 2 ♀:1 ♂. These results are compared with field observations on a commercial field in 1983, conducted during the whole cropping period. The traditionnal pesticide management of the commercial tomato field resulted in a significant reduction in average percentages of parasitism: only 33 % instead of 80.4 % could be observed. Parasites appeared six weeks later than their host. Percentage of parasitism by Trichogramma rhenana decreased from 74.8% to 18%, as agrochemicals interfered.

Natürlicher Eiparasitismus bei Helicoverpa (Heliothis) armigera Hbn. (Lep., Noctuidae) an Tomaten in Südportugal

Feldbeobachtungen zur natürlichen Parasitierung von Heliothis armigera‐Eiern durch Tricho‐gramma rhenana und Telenomus sp. wurden 1982 während 10 Wochen auf einem halb‐kommer‐ziellen Tomatenfeld bei Evora in Südportugal durchgeführt. Die Beobachtungen endeten zum Zeitpunkt der ersten Pflanzenschutzmittelanwendung. Die durchschnittliche Parasitierungsrate von Mitte Juni bis Mitte August betrug 80,4%. Die mittlere Anzahl von Parasiten pro Wirtsei betrug 1,9 mit einem Weibchenanteil von 67 %. Diese Ergebnisse werden verglichen mit Beobach‐tungen auf einem kommerziellen Feld während der gesamten Anbausaison 1983. Übliche Pflan‐zenschutzmittelanwendungen hatten eine signifikante Verminderung der durchschnittlichen Para‐sitierungsrate zur Folge: nur 33 % statt 80,4 % wurden erreicht. Die Parasiten traten 6 Wochen spater als ihr Wirt auf. Die Parasitierungsraten durch Trichogramma rhenana verminderten sich von 74,8 % auf 18 % unter der Anwendung von Agrochemikalien im Feld.
Factors affecting inundative releases of Trichogramma minutum Ril. against the Spruce Budworm1
Authors: Smith S. M. , Hubbes M. , Carrow J. R.
Published: August 2009

Inundative releases of Trichogramma minutum Riley for biological control of the spruce bud‐worm, Choristoneura fumiferana (Clemens), were investigated in Canada's boreal forest during 1982 and 1983. The most significant factors affecting the level of egg mass parasitism were the time of release, the density of the parasitoids, and the local weather conditions. Food supply to the female parasitoids, vertical location of the host egg mass in the stand, intensity of solar radiation, and density of the host insect were less important. Parasitism was not affected by the tree species on which budworm egg masses were laid. Parasitoids reared at different temperatures and on different host eggs differed in biological characteristics and could influence the success of field releases. Geographical strains of T. minutum were not considered as important in subsequent releases as the rearing conditions because of the high degree of individual variation within each strain.

Einflußfaktoren auf die Massenfreisetzung von Trichogramma minutum Riley gegen den Wickler Choristoneura fumiferana (Clemens)

In den Wäldern der borealen Zone Kanadas wurden 1982 und 1983 Massenfreisetzungen von T. minutum zur biologischen Bekämpfung von Choristoneura fumiferana durchgeführt. Die wichtig‐sten Einflußfaktoren auf die Eiparasitierungsrate waren der Zeitpunkt der Freisetzung, die Anzahl freigesetzter Parasitoide und die örtlichen Witterungsbedingungen. Weniger wichtig waren der Futtervorrat für die Parasitoiden‐Weibchen, die vertikale Verteilung der Wirtseier im Bestand, Intensität der Sonneneinstrahlung und Wirtsdichte. Die Baumart, an der die Eier vom Wirt abgelegt wurden, war ohne Einfluß auf die Parasitierung. Parasitoide, die bei unterschiedlichen Temperaturen und in verschiedenen Wirtseiern gezüchtet wurden, unterschieden sich hinsichtlich biologischer Eigenschaften und beeinflußen dadurch den Erfolg der Freilandfreisetzungen. Die geographischen Herkünfte von T. minutum sind für die spätere Freisetzung von geringerer Bedeutung als die jeweiligen Aufzuchtsbedingungen, da innerhalb der Herkünfte große individu‐elle Unterschiede bestehen.
Biological and ecological comparison of Trichogramma and Telenomus as control agents of lepidopterous pests1
Authors: Hirose Yoshimi
Published: August 2009

The potential of Trichogramma (Hym., Trichogrammatidae) and Telenomus (Hym., Scelionidae) as natural control agents of lepidopterous pests from the viewpoint of their life history strategies are compared by reviewing the literature and more closely examining two case histories. The results suggested that Trichogramma can be a natural control agent when the hosts are present throughout a long growing season, due to the strong intergeneration response of this r‐selected parasitoid, while Telenomus can be a natural control agent if hosts are not always present during a long growing season, due to adult longevity and extended fecundity. In general, Telenomus should be a better control agent than Trichogramma in natural regulation of lepidopterous pests partly because it has greater longevity and higher searching ability.

Biologischer und ökologischer Vergleicb zwischen Trichogramma und Telenomus als Mittel zur Bekämpfung schädlicher Lepidopteren

Das Vermögen von Trichogramma und Telenomus als natürliche Gegenspieler von Schadlepidop‐teren wird unter dem Gesichtspunkt ihrer Lebensrhythmus‐Strategien anhand der Literatur und zweier näher untersuchter Fälle in der Vergangenheit verglichen. Das Ergebnis zeigt, daß Trichogramma zur biologischen Bekämpfung von solchen Wirtstieren eingesetzt werden kann, die über einen langen Zeitraum vorhanden sind, da dieser r‐selektierte Parasitoid eine starke Interge‐nerations‐Reaktion aufweist. Dagegen kann Telenomus aufgrund der langen Lebensdauer seiner Adulten und seiner hohen Fekundität gegen solche Schädlinge eingesetzt werden, die in der Vegetationszeit nicht ständig vorhanden sind. Insgesamt ist der Einsatz von Telenomus aufgrund seiner längeren Lebensdauer und größeren Suchaktivität besser zur natürlichen Regelung von Schadlepidopteren geeignet als derjenige von Trichogramma.
Host‐preference studies with Trichogramma evanescens Westwood (Hym., Trichogrammatidae) for Mamestra brassicae, Pieris brassicae and Pieris rapae1
Authors: Dijken Marianne J. van , Kole Marian , Lenteren Joop C. van , Brand Anne Marie
Published: August 2009

As part of development of an IPM programme for cabbage crops in the Netherlands the possibilities for biological control of lepidopteran pests by means of inundative releases of Trichogramma species is examined. The studies involve pre‐introductory research to select effective Trichogramma species/strains. This paper deals with laboratory research on the host‐selection process. We examined whether strains of Trichogramma evanescens Westwood prefer one of the three most harmful lepidopteran pest species in cabbage, Mamestra brassicae, Pieris brassicae and Pieris rapae when these are offered simultaneously to the parasitoids. The most important aspect of this paper is the development of a fast and reliable method to determine host preference. It appears from the evaluation of the different methods used in this study that direct observation of the parasitization behaviour of the wasp is necessary to determine preference in a reliable way. Differences were found in host preferences between strains of one Trichogramma species. The differential acceptance and preference of the three host species is used to select Trichogramma strains as potential biological control agents.

Untersuchungen zur Wirtspräferenz von Trichogramma evanescens Westwood (Hym., Tricho‐grammatidae) gegenüber Mamestra brassicae, Pieris brassicae und Pieris rapae

Im Rahmen der Entwicklung eines Programms zur integrierten Schädlingsbekämpfung in Kohlfel‐dern in den Niederlanden werden die Möglichkeiten einer biologischen Bekämpfung von Schadin‐sekten mittels der Überschwemmungs‐Methode von Trichogramma‐Arten überprüft, Mittelpunkt der Arbeit sind Laboruntersuchungen über die Wirtswahl. Es wurde überprüft, ob Herkünfte von T. evanescens einen der drei gefährlichen Kohlschädlinge, M. brassicae, P. brassicae und P. rapae bevorzugten, wenn diese drei Lepidopteren gleichzeitig angeboten wurden. Der wichtigste Aspekt war es, eine schnelle und zuverlässige Methode zur Bestimmung der Wirtspräferenz zu entwik‐keln. Aufgrund der Auswertung der verschiedenen in dieser Untersuchung angewandten Metho‐den ergab sich, daß es notwendig ist, das Parasitierungsverhalten der Schlupfwespen direkt zu beobachten, um eine zuverlässige Aussage über die Wirtspräferenz zu erlangen. Es traten Unterschiede bezüglich der Wirtspräferenz zwischen verschiedenen Herkünften einer Tricho‐gramma‐Art auf. Die unterschiedliche Annahme und Bevorzugung der drei Wirte wird ausge‐nutzt, um geeignete Trichogramma‐Herkünfte zur biologischen Schädlingsbekämpfung auszu‐wählen.
Untersuchungen über ein Kernpolyeder‐Virus aus Yponomeuta evonymellus L. (Lep., Yponomeutidae) und seine Wirkung auf verschiedene Yponomeuta‐Arten1,2
Authors: Feemers Margarete
Published: August 2009

Studies on a new nuclearpolyhedrosis of Yponomeuta evonymellus L. (Lep., Yponomeutidae) and its effects on different Yponomeuta species. I. Morphology and pathology

The first part of the paper deals with the morphology and pathology of a nuclear polyhedrosis virus which was isolated from Yponomeuta evonymellus‐larvae in 1976, but which was also pathogenic to Y. cognatellus, Y. padellus and Y. rorellus. The efficiency of this NPV and its response to environmental factors will be shown in a second part in one of the next issues of this journal.

Observations with the electron microscope showed that the inclusion bodies, irrespective of the Yponomeuta species in which they had been multiplied, were of irregular polyhedrical shape with an average diameter of 1 μ.

Ultrathin sections revealed the rod‐shaped virus particles (0,23 μ. × 0,03 μ) in randomly distributed bundles within the inclusion bodies.

Virus‐infected larvae died after 10–12 days p.I. First external symptoms of the virus disease were observed about two days earlier: a whitening of the bodies, followed by a swelling of the caterpillars and finally a disrupting of the cuticula. Polyhedral development was observed in cell nuclei of the haemolymphe, hypodermis, midgut‐musculature, and fat body, but not in the tracheal matrix.

Es wird in diesem 1. Teil über die Morphologie und Pathogenese eines 1976 in Yponomeuta evonymellus‐Larven entdeckten und auch in Y. cognatellus, Y. padellus sowie Y. rorellus vermehr‐baren Kernpolyeder‐Virus berichtet. In dem in einem der nächsten Hefte dieser Zeitschrift folgenden 2. Teil werden die Wirkung und Umweltabhängigkeit des Virus beschrieben.

Elektronenmikroskopische Untersuchungen ergaben, daß die unregelmäßig‐vieleckigen Poly‐eder, unabhängig von der Yponomeuta‐Art, in der sie gebildet wurden, einen mittleren Durchmes‐ser von 1 μ aufwiesen. Anhand von Ultradünnschnitten wurde festgestellt, daß die stäbchenförrai‐gen, 0,23 × 0,03 μ großen Virionen in Bündeln vorliegen.

10‐12 Tage p. I. trat der Tod der virusinfizierten Larven ein, deren Erkrankung 2 Tage zuvor äußerlich durch die Aufhellung einiger Larven, gefolgt von einem Anschwellen des Raupenkör‐pers und Aufplatzen der Cuticula erkennbar wurde. Eine Virusvermehrung konnte in den Zellkernen der Hämocyten, der Hypodermis, der Darmmuskulatur und der Fettzellen, nicht jedoch in den Trachealzellen nachgewiesen werden.
Dacus oleae (Gmel.) ovipositing in olive drupes (Diptera, Tephrytidae)1
Authors: Dominici M. , Pucci C. , Montanari G. E.
Published: August 2009

This study speaks about the relationship between olive fly (D. oleae) ovipositing and certain physical parameters of drupes. During the first period of observation weight was the most important parameter statistically. Subsequently, this relationship became less important because of the remarcable increase in the density of population and because of the presence in the olives of particular substances which induce the female to select the smaller drupes for ovipositing.

Verteilung des Befalls mit Dacus oleae (Gmel.) (Diptera, Tephrytidae) bei Oliven

In dieser Studie sind die Ergebnisse eines Experiments zusammengefaßt, das in einem Jahr hohen Befalls von D. oleae (1983) und in 2 verschiedenen Olivenhainen Mittelitaliens die Beziehung zwischen der Anzahl der Eiablagen in einer Steinfrucht und einigen ihrer physikalischen Parameter untersuchte.

Die Ergebnisse zeigten sehr deutlich, daß von alien betrachteten Variablen der Steinfrucht (Gewicht, Länge der gröml;ßen und der kleinsten Achse, Sorte sowie Lage und Zeitpunkt der Pflanzung) das Gewicht die Veränderlichkeit der Eiablagen in den Steinfrüchten statistisch am besten erklärt. Diese Abhängigkeit schwächt sich mit der Zeit ab, nicht nur auf Grund der Erhöml;hung des Befalls, sondern vor allem auf Grund der Zusammensetzung der anziehenden und abstoßenden Substanzen, die während des Reifungsprozesses von den Oliven produziert werden.

Ein weiteres Resultat ist, daß schwerere Steinfrüchte, obwohl sie im Durchschnitt mehr als eine Eiablage aufweisen, die vollständige Entwicklung des Nachwuchses besser garantieren als leich‐tere.