bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of acute non‐haemolytic transfusion reactions in female and male patients receiving female or male blood components
Authors: Imoto S. , Araki N. , Shimada E. , Saigo K. , Nishimura K. , Nose Y. , Bouike Y. , Hashimoto M. , Mito H. , Okazaki H.
Published: September 2010

summary To study the relationship between antibodies detected in patients’ and/or donors’ sera and the clinical features of acute non‐haemolytic transfusion reactions (ANHTRs), and to determine any gender‐related difference. ANHTRs range from urticaria to transfusion‐related acute lung injury (TRALI). Antibodies to human leukocyte antigen (HLA), granulocytes, platelets, and/or plasma proteins are implicated in some of the ANHTRs. A higher antibody positivity is expected for females than for males. A comparative study of ANHTRs for antibody positivity and their clinical features between females and males for both patients and donors is helpful for characterizing ANHTRs including TRALI more clearly, but such studies are few and outdated. Two hundred and twenty‐three ANHTR cases reported by 45 hospitals between October 2000 and July 2005 were analysed. The patients and 196 donors of suspect blood products were screened for antibodies to HLA Class I, HLA Class II, granulocytes, and platelets. The patients were also screened for anti‐plasma protein antibodies. The types and severity of ANHTR did not differ significantly between female and male patients. The frequency of the anti‐HLA antibodies, but not that of the non‐HLA antibodies, was significantly higher in females. Non‐HLA antibodies were significantly associated with severe reactions in females. All the TRALI cases had predisposing risk factors for acute lung injury, and 60% of the cases showed anti‐leucocyte antibodies. Although the anti‐HLA antibodies were detected more frequently in females than males, no significant association of ANHTRs including TRALI with gender, not only for patients, but also for donors, could be shown in this study.
Allergic inflammation
Authors: Durham S. R.
Published: September 2010

A greater understanding of the basic mechanisms of allergic inflammation is pertinent to the development of new treatments. Previous studies have focused on the role of mediators of hypersensitivity and effector cells, including mast cells and eosinophils. Recent evidence suggests that IgE‐dependent activation and tissue eosinophilia are under the local regulation of distinct cytokines. Originally described as products from T lymphocytes, these peptide messengers are produced by alternative cells, including mast cells, eosinophils and the respiratory epithelium. In vitro studies in murine models and using cloned human T lymphocytes indicate the preferential production of “Th2‐type” cytokines, including interleukin‐4 (IL‐4) and IL‐5. This review considers the evidence from in vivo studies in humans that “Th2‐type” cytokines have a primary role in orchestrating both IgE‐dependent events and local tissue eosinophilia. Novel therapeutic approaches might include a broad strategy directed against T lymphocytes, including the use of immunosuppressive agents or anti CD4 antibodies or more precise targeting of IL‐4 and/or IL‐5.
Hereditary angio‐oedema in children: A management guideline
Authors: Boyle Robert J. , Nikpour Mandana , Tang Mimi L. K.
Published: September 2010

Hereditary angio‐oedema is an uncommon condition, which usually first presents in childhood. In the absence of appropriate treatment hereditary angio‐oedema has a high mortality. There are a number of reports of successful short‐ and long‐term treatment with individual agents in those who suffer from hereditary angio‐oedema. However, there is little guidance in the literature for the overall management of children and adolescents with this condition. Here we review the treatment options available for children and adolescents with hereditary angio‐oedema, and propose a simple management guideline for such patients.
The primary prevention of asthma in children study: Design of a multifaceted prevention program
Authors: Kuiper Sandra , Maas Tanja , van Schayck Constant P. , Muris Jean W. M. , Schönberger Huub J. A. M. , Dompeling Edward , Gijsbers Barbara , van Weel Chris , André Knottnerus J. ,   the PREVASC group
Published: September 2010

The PREVASC study addresses the primary prevention of asthma in infants and small children. The objective of this study is to investigate whether a multifaceted prenatally started intervention strategy in high‐risk infants leads to a decrease in the occurrence of (severe) asthma and whether a refinement of the prevention strategy leads to an increase in the adherence to the prevention program. The primary prevention program includes house dust mite impermeable bed coverings, education on breast feeding, hypoallergenic feeding, timing of introduction of solid food and smoking cessation. A total of 888 infants were prenatally included. By the time of inclusion the mothers were 3–7 months pregnant. About 27 infants were excluded from the study and 18 dropped out. Of the remaining 843 infants 535 had a first‐degree familial predisposition of asthma (high‐risk group), whereas a reference group of 308 (162 boys) infants was not predisposed for asthma in the first‐degree (low‐risk group). To evaluate the (cost‐)effectiveness of the preventive intervention, 222 (118 boys) infants of the high‐risk group allocated to the intervention group and 221 (112 boys) allocated to a control group are followed up. The low‐risk infants served as controls to evaluate the predictive value of high risk (first‐degree familial predisposition of asthma). The infants are followed from the prenatal stage until they reach the age of 6 yr. The remaining 92 high‐risk infants were included in an optimized randomized‐clinical adherence trial (RCAT). Of these 92 infants, 45 (20 boys) were allocated to an intervention group and 47 (24 boys) to a control group. Until now all infants have been followed for at least 1 yr.
Acute allergic reaction to an iron compound in a milk‐allergic patient
Authors: Larramendi Carlos H. , Marco Francisco M. , García‐Abujeta José L. , Mateo Máxima , De La Vega Ana , Sempere José M.
Published: September 2010

A child allergic to cow's milk developed a mild systemic allergic reaction after the first dose of Ferplex 40® (iron proteinsuccinylate). Skin tests and in vitro studies were performed in the child, in three cow's milk‐allergic controls and in a non‐allergic control. Milk, casein and iron proteinsuccinylate (Ferplex 40®) were used for skin tests, specific immunoglobulin E (IgE) determination, sodium dodecyl sulfate‐polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS‐PAGE), immunoblotting and enzyme allergo sorbent test (EAST) inhibition. A review of the drug information sheet and contact with the manufacturer were also performed. Although proteinsuccinylate is indeed a succinylated casein (each dose containing about 575 mg of casein) there was no indication of the milk protein content in the prescribing information provided by the manufacturer. Skin tests and specific IgE were positive in the case and in all allergic controls, except for EAST to iron proteinsuccinylate in one control. In EAST, iron proteinsuccinylate in solid phase was 100% inhibited by casein and casein in solid phase was inhibited 74% by iron proteinsuccinylate. SDS‐PAGE of iron proteinsuccinylate showed a broad 46 kDa band and a blur of aggregated material. On immunoblot, the patient's IgE reacted to this heavily aggregated material and in the native casein extract recognized a 35‐kDa band. The allergenicity of succinylated casein (proteinsuccinylate) among milk‐allergic children is demonstrated. The protein source used in drug–protein conjugates should always be indicated by the manufacturer (as it should be in foods) to avoid potential risks to allergic patients.
Hypomethylation of DNA and resistance to apoptosis in tonsillar hypertrophy in children
Authors: Jiménez A. , López‐González M. A. , Solano F. , Chadli A. , Delgado F. , Pintado E. , Lucas M.
Published: September 2010

We analyzed the hypomethylation of DNA and the sensitivity to apoptosis of tonsillar cells and peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBL) in twenty children with either recurrent tonsillitis (RT) or tonsillar hypertrophy (TH). We found no significant differences in DNA methylation of PBL obtained from RT and TH groups. Hypomethylation of DNA extracted from tonsillar tissue was higher in TH than in RT and was associated with lower spontaneous and thapsigargin‐ induced apoptosis. By contrast, RT showed a low level of DNA hypomethylation and was associated with high sensitivity to spontaneous and thapsigargin‐induced apoptosis.
Food hypersensitivity among Caucasian and non‐Caucasian children
Authors: Dias Renuka P. , Summerfield Alison , Khakoo G. A.
Published: September 2010

There are little data regarding the frequency of different foods that cause hypersensitivity in the UK. Furthermore, there are no data regarding food hypersensitivity related to ethnic variations. This prospective study involved 76 children with IgE‐mediated food allergy presenting consecutively over 18 months to a Paediatric Allergy Clinic serving a well‐defined population that is 21% non‐Caucasian. A total of 52.6% of the paediatric allergy clinic population was non‐Caucasian compared with 35.9% in General Paediatric Clinics giving a mean difference in percentage of 16.7 (5.6, 27.8), p < 0.01. The average number of food allergens per child in the non‐Caucasian group was 2.05 vs. 1.22 in the Caucasian group, mean difference 0.83, which is significant (t = 4.15, d.f. = 74, p < 0.01). Analysis of other allergic conditions revealed no significant increase in the non‐Caucasian group. The mean age of first reaction to any food was 2.6 yr (range 0.3–12 yr) in Caucasian, and 1.7 yr (range 0.3–8 yr) in non‐Caucasian, children (p < 0.05). There were 125 reactions in the study population, with egg, peanut, tree nut, cow milk and cod being the commonest food allergens. Some novel foods, such as kiwi, lentil and sesame, were also represented in the top 10 food allergies, particularly in the non‐Caucasian population. Ethnic minorities are over‐represented in terms of the number of children with food allergy and number of food allergies per child, present at an earlier age with food allergy, and possibly have a greater variety of food allergies compared with Caucasians. This is important in terms of health education. Our findings need confirmation by a more detailed population based study, ideally using food challenges in addition to history and skin prick testing.
Reported pertussis infection and risk of atopy in 8‐ to 12‐yr‐old vaccinated and non‐vaccinated children
Authors: Bernsen Roos M. D. , Nagelkerke Nico J. D. , Thijs Carel , Van Der Wouden Johannes C.
Published: September 2010

Pertussis infection has been suspected to be a potential causal factor in the development of atopic disease because of the effect of pertussis immunization on specific IgE antibodies. Although several studies found a positive association between pertussis infection and atopic disorders, this relationship has not yet been studied in a population stratified by vaccination status. To assess the association between pertussis infection and atopic disorders in pertussis‐unvaccinated children and in pertussis‐vaccinated children. Using data from a previously conducted study on the relationship between the diphtheria‐tetanus‐pertussis‐(inactivated) poliomyelitis vaccination in the first year of life and atopic disorders, the study population of 1872 8–12 yr old was divided into children pertussis‐unvaccinated and children pertussis‐vaccinated in the first year of life. Within each group, the association between pertussis infection and atopic disorders (both as reported by the parents) was assessed. In the unvaccinated group, there were no significant associations between pertussis infection and atopic disorders. In the vaccinated group, all associations between pertussis infection and atopic disorders were positive, the associations with asthma [odds ratio (OR) = 2.24, 95% confidence interval (CI95%): 1.36–3.70], hay fever (OR = 2.35, CI95%: 1.46–3.77) and food allergy (OR = 2.68, CI95%: 1.48–4.85) being significant. There was a positive association between pertussis infection and atopic disorders in the pertussis vaccinated group only. From the present study, it cannot be concluded whether this association is causal or due to reverse causation.
Differential diagnosis of food‐induced symptoms
Authors: Ahrens Birgit , Beyer Kirsten , Wahn Ulrich , Niggemann Bodo
Published: September 2010

The symptoms of patients presenting with non‐allergic food‐related reactions may partly mimic allergic responses. Therefore, correct delineation of food allergies is often difficult and various differential diagnoses have to be considered. We describe three cases of differential diagnoses to food‐induced symptoms: A 14‐month‐old with lactose intolerance, an 8‐month‐old with severe diet‐induced malnutrition and subsequent development of kwashiorkor and a 12‐yr‐old with chronic urticaria due to colouring agents. These cases represent common symptom constellations involving food‐induced reactions. A proper and correct diagnosis of food‐related symptoms is particularly important for children – not only in order to find the appropriate diet but also to avoid unnecessary exclusion diets, which may lead to severe impairments in growth and development.
Content of β‐casomorphins in milk of women with a history of allergy
Authors: Sidor Katarzyna , Jarmołowska Beata , Kaczmarski Maciej , Kostyra Elżbieta , Iwan Matgorzata , Kostyra Henryk
Published: September 2010

The prevalence of food allergies increased over the past decade. Most symptoms of food allergy appear during the first 2 yr of life. The aim of this study was to determine the β‐casomorphin‐5 and ‐7 (BCMs) in colostrum and milk of 12 breast‐feeding women with a history and clinical manifestation of food allergy. The results were compared with the data obtained from a control group of healthy age‐matched breast‐feeding women. The level of BCM in women with food allergy was constant during lactation, whereas the highest level of opioid peptides was found in colostrums of healthy women with a subsequent rapid decrease in mature milk. These differences in BCMs profile between allergic and healthy breast‐feeding women suggest that BCM content in the human milk may be an indicator of allergic conditions.
Effect of Long‐term Oral Administration of an Immunostimulant Diet on Innate Immunity in Sea Bass (Dicentrarchus labrax)
Authors: Bagni M. , Archetti L. , Amadori M. , Marino G.
Published: September 2010

Immunostimulants represent a modern and promising tool in aquaculture, enhancing the resistance of cultured fish to disease and stress. This study investigated the effect of a combination of dietary glucans, α‐tocopherol and ascorbic acid on the innate immune response of cultured sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax). After 5 weeks of adaptation on a commercial diet containing 100 p.p.m. ascorbic acid and 200 p.p.m. α‐tocopherol, sea bass were switched to a diet supplemented with 2% β−1.3/β−1.6 glucans and ascorbic acid and α‐tocopherol at 500 p.p.m. The supplemented diet was given at 2% of body weight per day over a 2‐week period, every 3 months. Plasma lysozyme concentration, content and distribution of major plasma proteins and complement activity were measured prior to feeding the supplemented diet and after 40 weeks. Alternative pathways of complement activation and lysozyme activity were both significantly enhanced in fish fed on glucans and elevated doses of vitamins. No significant differences were observed in protein content or in albumin/globulin ratio. Compared to lysozyme activity, which showed marked individual variation, complement‐mediated haemolytic activity has been shown to be a more reliable indicator of sea bass immunocompetence. Further studies are in progress to clarify the effect of each dietary component on the innate immune response and disease resistance.
Clostridium botulinum and Bio‐compost. A Contribution to the Analysis of Potential Health Hazards Caused by Bio‐waste Recycling
Authors: Böhnel H. , Lube K.
Published: September 2010

Bio‐waste recycling and the production and use of bio‐compost are politically encouraged in Europe. Quality control takes no consideration of pathogenic anaerobic spore formers, e.g. Clostridium botulinum. A protocol for health hazard analysis concerning this pathogen has been developed. Samples of marketed bio‐compost were tested and results showed that about 50 % of the tested samples contained C. botulinum. For the first time it has been shown that the use of bio‐compost represents a health hazard to humans and animals, especially in the future when spores will have accumulated in the environment. The use of household bio‐waste collected in ‘bio‐bins’ is apparently one factor involved in the production of contaminated compost end‐products. Environmental factors in the propagation of C. botulinum are discussed. The improvement of bio‐waste recycling technology and management should be encouraged in order to minimize the health hazard caused by contaminated bio‐compost.
Comparison of Methods for the Determination of Antimicrobial Resistance inStaphylococcus aureusfrom Bovine Mastitis
Authors: Schlegelová J. , Ryšánek D. , Šedivá I. , Babák V.
Published: September 2010

The results of three standard methods (broth dilution, agar dilution, disk diffusion) and an experimental modification of the microdilution method for determination of resistance to ampicillin, cephalotin, cloxacillin, neomycin, novobiocin, penicillin and streptomycin were compared using 151Staphylococcus aureusisolates obtained from cases of mastitis. The accuracy of the dilution methods was compared by determination of minimum inhibition concentrations (MIC, MIC50, MIC90and modal MIC) and by assessment of the agreement within the tolerance of ±1 dilution step in 2‐fold dilution series. The results of the dilution methods were further compared with those of the reference disk diffusion method and the strains were classified as sensitive or resistant using the interpretation criteria for human strains. The comparisons indicated that MIC characteristics and the final classification as sensitive or resistant were method‐dependent. Resistance to aminoglycoside antibiotics was observed more often when using broth dilution methods, especially when the broth was supplemented with lactose.
Computerized Comparison of the Protein Compositions of Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae and Erysipelothrix tonsillarum Strains
Authors: Bernáth S. , Német L. , Tóth K. , Morovján G.
Published: September 2010

Protein profiles of six Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae strains, five Erysipelothrix tonsillarum strains and three Erysipelothrix strains of uncertain taxonomic position were studied by sodium dodecyl sulphate–polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS–PAGE). In a computerized comparison of the protein patterns of the strains, the level of similarity between the strains was determined. The SDS–PAGE protein bands were divided into 14 groups based on molecular weight. The relative distribution of proteins within these groups was used to characterize the strains. These distribution patterns were analysed by computing Pearson’s correlation coefficient between strains, and by cluster analysis based on Euclidean distances and the unweighted pair‐group method of arithmetic averages (UPGMA). The geometric mean of the similarities calculated by Pearson’s correlation coefficient was 0.980 ± 0.018 between the E. rhusiopathiae strains and 0.979 ± 0.013 for E. tonsillarum strains. The value was 0.932 ± 0.036 between the strains belonging to different species. However, a threshold value applicable for identification of a given strain to a species could not be established. Of the three strains of uncertain taxonomic position, the strains designated Rotzunge and Iszap 4 had a protein composition more similar to that of E. tonsillarum than to that of the E. rhusiopathiae type strain. The strain designated Pécs 56, which may be a member of a new species according to literature data, gave inconsistent results by the two methods used. The computerized evaluation method developed here is suitable for the comparison of the protein composition of the strains and for the construction of the protein similarity tree by cluster analysis.
Aspects of the Transmission of Protection againstMycoplasma hyopneumoniaefrom Sow to Offspring
Authors: Rautiainen E. , Wallgren P.
Published: September 2010

The aims of this study were to describe the variation in concentration of antibodies toMycoplasma hyopneumoniaein the serum and colostrum of sows, and to compare the amount of antibodies in colostrum with that obtained in the serum of the smallest piglets in a litter. In addition, the efficacy of the passive immunity in natural conditions was studied. The study was performed in a sow pool herd (600 sows) that was endemically infected withM. hyopneumoniae. Blood samples were collected from sows 19 days (n=25) before and 3 days (n=15) after farrowing, and a colostrum sample (n=25) was collected on the day of farrowing. All samples were analysed for antibodies toM. hyopneumoniaewith a monoclonal blocking enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Twelve sows (48%) were high‐responders with respect to antibody concentration in colostrum. The amount of blocking decreased in serum during the last weeks of pregnancy and 3 days post‐farrowing it was only 53% of the level found in colostrum. At the age of 14 days, 30 of the smallest piglets were weaned. They were divided into three experimental groups, being the offspring of high‐responding sows, low‐responding sows, or a mix of high‐ and low‐responding sows. The groups were transported to three separated isolation units and were followed until slaughter. At slaughter, lung lesions were not found. Nor couldM. hyopneumoniaebe demonstrated either by cultivation or by polymerase chain reaction. However, a significant increase in absorbance values, assessed by an indirect‐ELISA, was demonstrated in groups established from low‐responding sows. It was concluded that a high antibody level in colostrum appeared to protect piglets fromM. hyopneumoniae.
Keratoconjunctivitis and Periorbital Papillomatosis Associated with Heavy Periorbital Infestation by the Tail Louse Haematopinus quadripertusus in Heifers
Authors: Yeruham I. , Hadani A. , Perl S. , Elad D.
Published: September 2010

Heifers (Israeli–Holstein), aged 12–18 months, permanently maintained in open barns on an inadequate nutritional regime were found to be moderately to heavily infested by Haematopinus quadripertusus, the tail louse. The severely infested heifers showed keratoconjunctivitis and periorbital papillomatosis. Two treatments with an α‐cypermethrin pour‐on product 14 days apart controlled the lice, and were followed by alleviation of the inflammation and regression of the papillomas.
Antimicrobial Susceptibilities ofErysipelothrix rhusiopathiaeIsolated from Pigs with Swine Erysipelas in Japan, 1988–1998
Authors: Yamamoto K. , Kijima M. , Yoshimura H. , Takahashi T.
Published: September 2010

The susceptibility to 21 antimicrobial agents of 214 strains ofErysipelothrix rhusiopathiaeisolated from pigs affected with swine erysipelas in Japan between 1988 and 1998 was determined. Ampicillin, cloxacillin, benzylpenicillin, ceftiofur, tylosin, enrofloxacin and danofloxacin were the most active agents [minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs); ≤ 0.025−0.78 μg/ml], followed by cefazolin, virginiamycin, tiamulin, chloramphenicol, florphenicol and oxolinic acid (MICs; 0.1–25 μg/ml). Activity was poor or absent with kanamycin and sulfadimethoxine. Strains resistant to dihydrostreptomycin, erythromycin, clindamycin, lincomycin, oxytetracycline and doxycycline were detected. The susceptibilities to dihydrostreptomycin and oxytetracycline tended to decrease. Investigation of the differences in antimicrobial susceptibility of the 214 strains according to their serotypes, sources, isolation years and regions, showed that the strains resistant to dihydrostreptomycin were most frequently found in the strains of serotype 1a and in strains from septicaemic cases. Strains resistant to oxytetracycline were detected in all serotypes and all sources, and most of the strains resistant to erythromycin were detected in the strains of serotype 2. The frequency of strains resistant to dihydrostreptomycin gradually increased from 1988 to 1996, but then decreased between 1997 and 1998. The frequency of strains resistant to oxytetracycline was remained more than 38% from 1988 to 1998. It was suggested that the strains resistant to dihydrostreptomycin and oxytetracycline were distributed over almost all districts of Japan.
Infectious Bovine Keratoconjunctivitis and Lymphofollicular Hyperplasia of the Third Eyelid in Heifers
Authors: Yeruham I. , Perl S. , Elad D.
Published: September 2010

On a dairy cattle farm, infectious bovine keratoconjunctivitis was diagnosed in 29 (24 %) calves and heifers aged from 2 weeks to 1 year old. The highest infection rate (18 %) occurred in animals aged 3–6 months. The bacteriological examination of swabs from the affected animals yielded several species of bacteria: Moraxella bovis, Neisseria ovis, N. cuniculi, plasma coagulase‐negative Staphylococcus spp., α‐haemolytic Streptococcus spp., Arcanobacterium pyogenes and Escherichia coli. Moraxella bovis and N. ovis were the most common isolates. Hyperplasia of the lymphatic tissue of the third eyelid in the form of nodules 7–8 mm in diameter was diagnosed in two heifers aged 8 and 10 months.
Pig Paramyxovirus of the Blue Eye Disease Binding to a 116 kDa Glycoprotein Expressed in Pig Neuronal Membranes
Authors: Mendoza‐Magaña M. L. , Ramírez‐Herrera M. A. , Dueñas‐Jiménez J. M. , Dueñas‐Jiménez S. H.
Published: September 2010

Pig paramyxovirus of the blue eye disease (PPBED) is a novel member of the paramyxoviridae family which infects pigs. In neonatal pigs it causes neurological damage, whereas in adult pigs it affects the reproductive function. As PPBED damages the new‐born pig central nervous system (CNS), it is important to study whether PPBED binds to the membrane proteins of all brain tissue, or selectively binds to neuronal tissue of the brain stem, olfactory bulb, hippocampus, cerebellum, frontal, temporal and parietal brain cortex. It is also important to establish whether it also infects neurones obtained from new‐born, 60‐day‐old and adult pigs, and the role of carbohydrate residues in virus binding. The effect on virus binding of polyclonal antibodies against viral envelope proteins was also studied. Binding studies were performed using dot blot and virus overlay protein binding assays. PPBED was able to bind to membrane proteins from all brain regions, particularly to a protein band of approximately 116 kDa. Neuraminidase treatment of neuronal membrane proteins decreased virus binding; subsequent treatments with β‐galactosidase and manosidase did not increase virus binding inhibition. N‐glycosidase F and trypsin also decreased virus binding, but not the O‐glycanase. Antibodies against viral haemagglutinin‐neuraminidase blocked virus binding more efficiently than antibodies against viral fusion protein. In conclusion: (1) PPBED is able to bind to pig neurones of all brain regions studied and at all ages analysed; (2) a 116 kDa membrane protein containing sialic acid residues with an N‐linked oligosaccharide chain was specifically recognized; (3) PPBED haemagglutinin‐neuraminidase protein seems to play a central role in neural receptor recognition.
An Experimental Infection With Classical Swine Fever Virus in Pregnant Sows: Transmission of the Virus, Course of the Disease, Antibody Response and Effect on Gestation
Authors: Dewulf J. , Laevens H. , Koenen F. , Mintiens K. , De Kruif A.
Published: September 2010

An experimental infection with classical swine fever (CSF) virus in 12 conventional gilts, housed in a sow‐box housing system, was conducted in order to evaluate horizontal transmission, clinical, virological and serological response, and the effect on gestation. Two of the 12 gilts, of which 10 were pregnant, were experimentally inoculated. They became viraemic for the first time 6 days post‐inoculation (dpi). The contact gilts became viraemic between 18 and 21 days post‐inoculation. On the basis of virological findings and the martingale estimate ofR0(13.0) it was concluded that the two experimentally inoculated gilts infected all contact gilts, although random contacts between gilts were not possible. The presence of CSF infection could be diagnosed earlier and during a longer period when the leucocyte count or polymerase chain reaction were used in comparison with virus isolation in whole blood (P < 0.05). The observed clinical symptoms were atypical and highly variable between the gilts, which hampered clinical diagnosis. The pregnant gilts became infected between day 43 and 67 of gestation. In all cases vertical virus transmission occurred and this resulted partially in abortion and/or mummification.
Comparison of Closely Related Orthopoxvirus Isolates by Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA and Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism Analysis
Authors: Stemmler M. , Neubauer H. , Meyer H.
Published: September 2010

The reliability and reproducibility of random amplified polymorphic DNA analysis (RAPD) was compared with restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) by analysing three virus strains isolated from zoo animals in Berlin and three isolates which were cultivated from pets from Northern Germany. The RAPD technique was evaluated as a reliable tool with good reproducibility of the patterns for each virus strain investigated. Problems of interpretation due to inconsistent intensity of bands in different polymerase chain reaction runs may arise for less experienced personnel. The RAPD analysis can be performed within one working day and needs less DNA compared with RFLP so costs will be reduced. The obvious advantage of RFLP is that the pattern can be traced to the recognition site of the restriction enzyme whereas the RAPD primer sequence is not present in the orthopoxvirus genome at all. To the authors knowledge, the RAPD technique has never been applied in DNA viruses before and they conclude that this technique is a useful tool for the discrimination of closely related cowpoxviruses.
Development of a Multiplex Polymerase Chain Reaction for the Differentiation of Bovine Herpesvirus‐1 and ‐5
Authors: Alegre M. , Nanni M. , Fondevila N.
Published: September 2010

Bovine herpesvirus‐1 (BHV‐1) and bovine herpesvirus‐5 (BHV‐5) are closely related viruses which exhibit some important differences at the genetic and immunogenic levels which may explain the differences in their pathogenicity and epidemiological characteristics. A multiplex polymerase chain reaction (M‐PCR) was developed to detect and differentiate between BHV‐1 and BHV‐5. In this M‐PCR two pairs of primers (TK1, TK2 and GD1, GD2) were used in the same reaction mix to amplify a thymidine kinase genomic region (183 bp) of BHV‐1 and one genomic region of the glycoprotein D (564 bp) of BHV‐5. The specificity of the M‐PCR was demonstrated when using both primers pairs simultaneously with BHV‐1 and BHV‐5 templates. The two expected bands were amplified without the apparition of non‐specific products. However, when other herpesvirus strains were used, there was no amplification. To evaluate the sensitivity of the assay, dilutions of purified viral DNA were made for M‐PCR amplification. The detection limit was 7 pg for BHV‐1 and 22 pg for BHV‐5. It was also determined by comparing the M‐PCR with viral isolation. M‐PCR was able to detect one log10more than viral isolation for BHV‐1 and for BHV‐5 was two logarithms lower. The applicability of M‐PCR was demonstrated on different specimens. Twenty isolates from field samples (11 BHV‐1 and nine BHV‐5) were positive by M‐PCR, and the results were completely coincident with previous characterization using the immunoperoxidase assay. M‐PCR could detect viral DNA in organ samples from natural infections, such as semen and brain. In addition, M‐PCR detected more positive samples than observation of the citophatic effect in cell culture of nasal swabs from experimentally infected animals in two different assays. Owing to the difference in size of the M‐PCR products which allows easy identification in an electrophoretic run, it is not necessary to use extra blotting and hybridization steps or a second round of amplification to differentiate clearly between BHV‐1 and BHV‐5.
Occurrence of an Invertebrate Iridescent‐Like Virus (Iridoviridae) in Reptiles
Authors: Just F. , Essbauer S. , Ahne W. , Blahak S.
Published: September 2010

Viral isolates were obtained in 1998, 1999 and 2000 from the lung, liver and intestine of two bearded dragons (Pogona vitticeps) and a chameleon (Chamaeleo quadricornis) and from the skin of a frill‐necked lizard (Chamydosaurus kingii) by using viper heart cells (VH2) at 28°C. Electron microscopic examination of infected VH2 cells revealed the assembly of icosahedral iridovirus‐like particles measuring 139 nm (side to side) and 151 nm (apex to apex). Negatively stained virus particles had dimensions of 149 nm (side to side) and 170 nm (apex to apex). Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification of purified viral DNA with primers corresponding to the partial gene encoding the major capsid protein (MCP) of Frog virus‐3 (FV‐3), the type species of the genus Ranavirus, was unsuccessful. In contrast, primers corresponding to the partial MCP gene of Chilo iridescent virus (CIV; genus Iridovirus) amplified 500‐bp products with 97% identity to the nucleotide sequence of CIV and 100% identity to the nucleotide sequence of Gryllus bimaculatus iridescent virus (GbIV), an invertebrate iridescent virus. Virus protein profiles analysed by sodium dodecyl sulphate–polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS–PAGE) and restriction fragment length profiles of purified viral DNA treated with the endonucleases EcoRI, HindIII and HpaII were identical to those of GbIV.
Molecular Differentiation of Mycoplasma gallisepticum and Mycoplasma imitans Strains by Pulsed‐Field Gel Electrophoresis and Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA
Authors: Marois C. , Dufour‐Gesbert F. , Kempf I.
Published: September 2010

Pulsed‐field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) and random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) analysis were used to compare 21 Mycoplasma gallisepticum strains and five M. imitans strains. Each strain of M. gallisepticum typed by PFGE and RAPD methods was genetically quite unique and RAPD and PFGE fingerprinting enabled strain characterization. Relationships between the M. gallisepticum and M. imitans strains were established and dendrograms were drawn from PFGE and RAPD patterns. PFGE group A and RAPD group D were significantly associated with M. imitans strains (P < 0.05). Three M. imitans strains shared the same PFGE and RAPD patterns. The two M. gallisepticum vaccine strains had singular PFGE and RAPD patterns. Thus, PFGE and RAPD can be used to investigate disease outbreaks in vaccinated flocks or for epidemiological tracking. For M. gallisepticum, the RAPD and PFGE discriminatory powers were superior to 0.95 and the in vitro, in ovo and in vivo reproducibility of RAPD and PFGE was 100%. The RAPD drawback was the inconsistent band intensity complicating the interpretation of patterns, while the PFGE limit was its low typeability (86%). Thus, these two molecular typing methods seemed complementary for M. gallisepticum epidemiological studies.
Informative Value of an Indirect Enzyme‐Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) for the Detection of Bovine Viral Diarrhoea Virus (BVDV) Antibodies in Milk
Authors: Beaudeau F. , Belloc C. , Seegers H. , Assié S. , Pourquier P. , Joly A.
Published: September 2010

Bulk and individual milk samples from 117 herds located in Brittany (west France) were used to assess: (i) the performance characteristics of an indirect enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) applied to individual milk for the detection of antibodies to bovine viral diarrhoea virus (BVDV); and (ii) the relationship between the bulk milk result obtained from this test and the within‐herd prevalence of antibody‐positive lactating cows. This ELISA test was based on a monoclonal antibody directed against non‐structural protein NS2‐3 of pestiviruses. At the individual level, based on 1113 matched milk/serum samples, the sensitivity and specificity of this test applied to milk, compared with the virus neutralization test on serum, were 95.0 and 97.7%, respectively. At the herd level, the relationship between the optical density percentage (OD%) of bulk milk and the within‐herd prevalence of antibody‐positive lactating cows was assessed using the receiver operating characteristics (ROC) analysis. Classes of OD% of bulk milk were determined so that they were associated with minimum intraclass and maximum between‐class variances of within‐herd prevalence of antibody‐positive cows. The ROC analysis resulted in two classes of bulk milk results corresponding to different expected levels of within‐herd prevalence. Herds with an OD% of bulk milk <75% and ≥75% had a mean observed prevalence of antibody‐positive cows of 8.9 and 60.6%, respectively. Herds with a bulk milk result <75% were expected to be BVDV free, whereas large variations in prevalence of antibody‐positive cows existed in the herds with OD% ≥75%. The test described in this study is suitable to identify herds likely to have a low prevalence of BVDV antibody‐positive cows.
Enhancing our clinical links and credibility: Nurse lecturers in clinical practice
Authors: Omisakin Folorunso Dipo , Ncama Busisiwe Purity
Published: September 2010

Omisakin FD, Ncama BP. International Journal of Nursing Practice 2010; 16: 435–436 Enhancing our clinical links and credibility: Nurse lecturers in clinical practice
Demands of immigration among Chinese immigrant nurses
Authors: Ma Amy X , Quinn Griffin Mary T , Capitulo Katie L , Fitzpatrick Joyce J
Published: September 2010

Ma AX, Quinn Griffin MT, Capitulo KL, Fitzpatrick JJ. International Journal of Nursing Practice 2010; 16: 443–453 Demands of immigration among Chinese immigrant nurses

The purpose of this study was to identify the demands of immigration among Chinese nurses that have immigrated to the USA. The relationship between the demands of immigration and length of stay in the USA was investigated also. A descriptive correlational study design was used. A convenience sample of 128 nurses was recruited. A self‐administered survey was conducted using the demands of immigration scale developed by Aroian, along with a demographic questionnaire. The results showed Chinese immigrant nurses have high demands of immigration. There were significant negative relationships between the demands of immigration and length of stay in the USA. Immigration demands decreased as length of stay increased but remained high even for those who had been in the USA for > 5 years. This information is vital to health‐care agencies designing and implementing adaptation programmes targeting these demands to facilitate Chinese nurses' adaptation process.
A randomized controlled trial to assess the impact of an Admission Service on patient and staff satisfaction
Authors: Norton‐Westwood Deborah , Robertson‐Malt Suzi , Anderson Rita
Published: September 2010

Norton‐Westwood D, Robertson‐Malt S, Anderson R. International Journal of Nursing Practice 2010; 16: 461–471 A randomized controlled trial to assess the impact of an Admission Service on patient and staff satisfaction

This study aims to assess the benefits of an Admission Service (AS) wherein the nurse, when fluent in the language spoken by the patient (Arabic), improves the accuracy and efficiency of acquiring key assessment data needed to guide nursing care. Patients' satisfaction with their hospital experience begins formulating from their time of admission. Dissatisfaction is frequently reported in areas requiring careful, skilled communication such as obtaining emotional support and family participation and education. Over a 3‐month study recruitment, 314 patients were randomly assigned to be admitted either through the AS (n = 150) or to the unit via the standard admission process (n = 164). The AS improved the efficiency of admission time by > 150%. The nurse's assessment of their quality of admission was also improved: 76 vs. 26 nurses rated their quality of admission as ‘very good’ when assisted by the AS compared with standard admission to the unit.
Knowledge of heart attack symptoms and risk factors among native Thais: A street‐intercept survey method
Authors: Poomsrikaew Ornwanya , Ryan Catherine J , Zerwic Julie J
Published: September 2010

Poomsrikaew O, Ryan CJ, Zerwic JJ. International Journal of Nursing Practice 2010; 16: 492–498 Knowledge of heart attack symptoms and risk factors among native Thais: A street‐intercept survey method

This study aimed to determine Thais' knowledge of heart attack symptoms and risk factors and whether that knowledge was related to age, gender or education. Via a street‐intercept survey method, a convenience sample of people aged ≥ 35 years (n = 192) was recruited. Mean age was 47 ± 9.6 years (range 35–81), and 55.2% were female. Participants identified on average 5.6 of 9 heart attack symptoms (SD 1.8) and 5.3 of 8 heart attack risk factors (SD 2.1). However, 66.7% mistakenly thought the chest discomfort would be severe, sharp and stabbing, and many subjects erroneously selected symptoms that are actually stroke symptoms. There were no gender or educational differences in knowledge of heart attack symptoms and risk factors. Older adults recognized fewer total symptoms than did younger adults. These findings could direct health‐care providers to help the Thai population differentiate symptoms of heart attack from stroke.
The first Australian nurse practitioner census: A protocol to guide standardized collection of information about an emergent professional group
Authors: Middleton Sandy , Gardner Glenn , Gardner Anne , Della Phillip , Gibb Michelle , Millar Lynne
Published: September 2010

Middleton S, Gardner G, Gardner A, Della P, Gibb M, Millar L. International Journal of Nursing Practice 2010; 16: 517–524 The first Australian nurse practitioner census: A protocol to guide standardized collection of information about an emergent professional group

Internationally, collection of reliable data on new and evolving health‐care roles is crucial. We describe a protocol for design and administration of a national census of an emergent health‐care role, namely nurse practitioners in Australia using databases held by regulatory authorities. A questionnaire was developed to obtain data on the role and scope of practice of Australian nurse practitioners. Our tool comprised five sections and included a total of 56 questions, using 28existing items from the National Nursing and Midwifery Labour Force Census and nine items recommended in the Nurse Practitioner Workforce Planning Minimum Data Set. Australian Nurse Registering Authorities (n = 6) distributed the survey on our behalf. This paper outlines our instrument and methods. The survey was administered to 238 authorized Australian nurse practitioners (85% response rate). Rigorous collection of standardized items will ensure health policy is informed by reliable and valid data. We will re‐administer the survey 2 years following the first survey to measure change over time.
The challenge of providing child health care in the Indigenous population of New Zealand
Authors: Buchanan Leo , Malcolm John
Published: September 2010

This paper defines who is Maori, and traditional Maori attitudes to health and children. It notes the differing levels of engagement of Maori with their culture and the reliance of most Maori on Non Maori practitioners for their medical services. Three relatively common paediatric problems are then used to illustrate the challenges of neither underplaying nor overplaying environmental factors in working with Maori families. The key role of the word respect in working towards positive encounters with Maori is emphasized.
Lower respiratory infections in Australian Indigenous children
Authors: O'Grady Kerry‐Ann F , Chang Anne B
Published: September 2010

Despite Australia being one of the wealthiest countries of the world, Australian Indigenous children have a health status and social circumstance comparable to developing countries. Indigenous infants have 10 times the mortality rate for respiratory conditions. The lower respiratory infection (LRI) rate in Australian Indigenous children is at least as high as that of children in developing countries; the frequency of hospitalisations of Indigenous infants is triple that of non‐Indigenous Australian infants (201.7 vs. 62.6/1000, respectively). While Indigenous Australian children have many risk factors for LRIs described in developing countries, there is little specific data, and hence, evidence‐based intervention points are yet to be identified. Efficacy of conjugate vaccines for common bacterial causes of pneumonia has been less marked in Indigenous children than that documented overseas. Gaps in the management and prevention of disease are glaring. Given the burden of LRI in Indigenous children and the association with long‐term respiratory dysfunction, LRIs should be addressed as a matter of priority.
The oral health of Indigenous children: A review of four nations
Authors: Parker Eleanor J , Jamieson Lisa M , Broughton John , Albino Judith , Lawrence Herenia P , Roberts‐Thomson Kaye
Published: September 2010

This review of the oral health of children in Australia, New Zealand, Canada and the USA demonstrates that significant oral health inequalities exist in each nation. Despite traditionally low levels of disease in Indigenous communities, dental caries is now highly prevalent and of increased severity among Indigenous children in comparison to their non‐Indigenous counterparts. Early childhood caries is particularly prevalent. The high level of dental disease experience at an early age is associated with increased rates of general anaesthesia and greater risk of dental caries in later life. The rates and severity of dental caries experienced by young Indigenous children are even more alarming when we consider that dental caries is essentially a preventable disease. The success of specific preventive programmes is encouraging; these approaches should be further evaluated and implemented as part of broader health promotion programmes for Indigenous children and families in order to decrease current oral health disparities.
Indigenous perinatal and neonatal outcomes: A time for preventive strategies
Authors: Sayers Susan , Boyle Jacqueline
Published: September 2010

Pregnancy outcomes for Indigenous mothers and babies have improved, but marked disparities remain between Indigenous and non‐Indigenous women. Many contributors to these disparities such as smoking, alcohol use, poor nutrition, infection, teenage pregnancy and stress are preventable or modifiable particularly if addressed prior to pregnancy. It is suggested that we expand our reproductive health research, education and care to a life course approach beginning in early adolescence.
Smoking and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and Māori children
Authors: Thomas David P , Glover Marewa
Published: September 2010

Smoking and the deaths and suffering it causes are more common among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and Māori than other Australians and New Zealanders. While, many tobacco control activities that are not specifically targeted at children will have a positive impact on child health, this review concentrates on recent tobacco control research on pregnant women and children. The important tasks are to reduce smoking by pregnant Māori and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women to reduce infant and child exposure to second‐hand smoke and to reduce smoking initiation of children and adolescents. Health professionals who want to reduce the suffering caused by smoking among Māori and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children can be guided by much new relevant research evidence and clear frameworks about how to approach tobacco control in these communities.