bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Application of an allele‐specific PCR to clinical HIV genotyping samples detects additional K103N mutations in both therapy naïve and experienced patients
Authors: Carr Jillian M. , Green Tara , Shaw David , Daly Lyndal , Hart Wendy , Ratcliff Rodney , Higgins Geoffrey , Burrell Christopher J. , Li Peng , Qiao Ming 
Published: October 2009

AbstractLow‐level drug resistance is not detected by routine consensus sequence genotype analysis (CSA) but low levels of specific mutations, such as the non‐nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI)‐resistant mutation K103N, can be quantitated by allele‐specific PCR (ASP). This study has applied an ASP to quantitate low‐level K103N in patients presenting for clinical HIV genotyping and assess the correlation with antiretroviral treatment history and outcomes. HIV RNA was extracted from patient plasma and subjected to PCR amplification of the reverse transcriptase (RT) region followed by genotyping by CSA and real‐time ASP for K103N. When applied to samples from patients presenting for genotyping, the ASP detects K103N, not K103 nor K103R, but cross‐reacts with K103S. ASP identified all samples that were K103N by CSA (10.5%) and an additional 14% by ASP only, representing patients who were therapy naïve and with NNRTI treatment history. ASP detected therapy‐acquired K103N at low levels up to 6 years after cessation of NNRTI therapy. In three patients with new HIV diagnosis and K103N detected by ASP only, K103N virus declined rapidly from the circulation but persisted in PBMC DNA at >12 months post‐diagnosis. Efavirenz (EFV) combination therapy in three patients with low‐level K103N suppressed successfully viral load, although one patient developed failure and CSA‐detectable K103N after 15 months of therapy. Thus, analysis of K103N by ASP in conjunction with CSA genotyping provides additional information that reflects K103N transmission and persistence but detection of low‐level K103N does not preclude successful EFV‐containing combination therapy. J. Med. Virol. 81:1983–1990, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Rapid changes in rotaviral genotypes in Ecuador
Authors: Hasing Maria Eloisa , Trueba Gabriel , Baquero Maria Ines , Ponce Karina , Cevallos William , Solberg Owen D. , Eisenberg Joseph N.S. 
Published: October 2009

AbstractPrevious studies suggest that the emerging G9P[8] genotype was the most prevalent rotavirus genotype in Ecuador during 2005. This present study provides a temporal analysis of the distribution of rotavirus genotypes in two locations within Ecuador by adding additional years (2006 — early 2008) to the originally reported 2005 data. Data were collected in a rural (northern coastal Ecuador) and urban (Quito) area. In the rural area, a community sample of cases (those presenting diarrhea) and controls (those not presenting diarrhea) were collected between August 2003 and March 2008 resulting in a total of 3,300 stool samples (876 cases and 2,424 controls). Of these samples, 260 were positive for rotavirus by an immunochromatographic test (196 cases and 64 controls). In Quito, 59 fecal samples were collected from children presenting diarrhea and diagnosed with rotavirus. An RT‐PCR analysis of samples collected between 2005 and 2007 suggested that G9 was replaced by G1 and G2 in the rural and urban settings. During this period G9 decreased from 79% to 9% while G2 increased from 0% to 43% in the rural communities, and G9 decreased from 79% to 37% while G2 increased from 3% to 57% in the urban area of Quito. This rapid replacement of G9 by G1 and G2 reinforces the necessity of surveillance to inform vaccination programs. J. Med. Virol. 81:2109–2113, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Co‐circulation of three pathogenic hantaviruses: Puumala, Dobrava, and Saaremaa in Hungary
Authors: Plyusnina Angelina , Ferenczi Emöke , Rácz Gábor R. , Nemirov Kirill , Lundkvist Åke , Vaheri Antti , Vapalahti Olli , Plyusnin Alexander 
Published: October 2009

AbstractHantaviruses (Bunyaviridae) cause hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) in Eurasia and hantavirus (cardio)pulmonary syndrome (HCPS) in the Americas. HFRS is caused by Hantaan virus (HTNV), Seoul virus (SEOV), Dobrava virus (DOBV), Saaremaa virus (SAAV), and Puumala virus (PUUV). Of those, only HTNV is not present in Europe. In recent years, hantaviruses, described in other parts of Europe, were also detected at various locations in Hungary. To study the genetic properties of Hungarian hantaviruses in detail, sequences of the viral S and M segments were recovered from bank voles (Myodes glareolus), yellow‐necked mice (Apodemus flavicollis), and striped field mice (Apodemus agrarius) trapped in the Transdanubian region. As expected, the sequences recovered belonged, respectively, to PUUV (two strains), DOBV (one strain), and SAAV (one strain). On phylogenetic trees two new Hungarian PUUV strains located within the well‐ supported Alpe‐Adrian (ALAD) genetic lineage that included also Austrian, Slovenian, and Croatian strains. Analysis of the Hungarian SAAV and DOBV genetic variants showed host‐specific clustering and also geographical clustering within each of these hantavirus species. Hungarian SAAV and DOBV strains were related most closely to strains from Slovenia (Prekmurje region). This study confirms that multiple hantaviruses can co‐circulate in the same locality and can be maintained side‐by‐side in different rodent species. J. Med. Virol. 81:2045–2052, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Intrahepatic long‐term persistence of parvovirus B19 and its role in chronic viral hepatitis
Authors: Wang Chun , Heim Albert , Schlaphoff Verena , Suneetha P.V. , Stegmann Kerstin A. , Jiang Hong , Krueger Martin , Fytili Paraskevi , Schulz Thomas , Cornberg Markus , Kandolf Reinhard , Manns Michael P. , Bock C. Thomas , Wedemeyer Heiner 
Published: October 2009

AbstractParvovirus B19 (B19V) has been detected in the liver of Asian patients infected with HBV and may contribute to acute and chronic liver disease. This study aimed to investigate the impact of B19V infection in European patients with viral hepatitis. B19V DNA was detected in 1/91 and 0/50 serum samples from patients with chronic hepatitis C and B, respectively. In contrast, B19V DNA was amplified frequently from explanted end‐stage liver tissues (37/50, 74%) and from routine biopsy samples (14/32, 44%) (P < 0.05). However, there was no significant difference in B19V copy number per cell between these two groups. B19V‐specific CD4+ T‐cell responses to two dominant MHC‐class‐restricted epitopes were detected in a similar frequency in healthy anti‐B19V‐positive individuals (3/19; 16%) and patients with chronic hepatitis C (3/13; 23%). These results indicate that B19V can persist in the liver. However, there is no evidence that B19V is a “hepatitis virus” worsening liver disease in European patients with chronic hepatitis C. J. Med. Virol. 81:2079–2088, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Prevalence of different HPV types and estimation of prognostic risk factors based on the linear array HPV genotyping test
Authors: Papachristou Eleni , Sypsa Vana , Paraskevis Dimitrios , Gkekas Athanasios , Politi Ekaterini , Nicolaidou Electra , Anifantis Ioannis , Psichogiou Mina , Tsitsika Artemis , Hadjivassiliou Maria , Petrikkos Georgios , Katsambas Andreas , Creatsas Georgios , Hatzakis Angelos 
Published: October 2009

AbstractThe aim of the study was to evaluate the prevalence and risk factors of HPV in a gynecologic population attending outpatient clinics using two new molecular tests. The Amplicor HPV test and the Linear Array (LA) HPV Genotyping test were used for the detection of HPV DNA in 320 women. Multiple logistic regression was used to identify independent prognostic factors of HPV positivity. The agreement between the two methods in terms of their qualitative results was 89.3% (kappa: 0.63). Based on the LA results, the overall prevalence of HPV DNA was 49.1%, 95% confidence interval (95% CI: 43.5%, 54.7%). The prevalence of high‐risk HPV types was 30.3%. The predominant types were HPV‐6 (24.8%) and HPV‐16 (20.4%). Among women with normal cytology, the prevalence of HPV was much higher in those presenting other findings, such as inflammation, than those without other abnormal findings (49.5% vs. 31.5%). On the basis of multivariate analysis, the risk of HPV infection was higher among women with multiple sexual partners [>3 vs. 1: OR = 3.1, 95% CI: (1.5, 7.2)], Pap smear findings [low/high‐grade lesions vs. negative: OR = 2.8, 95% CI: (1.2, 6.5)], the presence of warts [yes vs. no: OR = 3.0, 95% CI: (1.5, 6.3)] and no history of child birth [no vs. yes: OR = 2.6, 95% CI: (1.0, 6.7)]. Younger age was an additional risk factor for HPV infection with carcinogenic genotypes [OR for 1 year increase = 0.93, 95% CI: (0.89, 0.98)]. J. Med. Virol. 81:2059–2065, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Evolving clinical landscape of chronic hepatitis B: A multicenter Italian study
Authors: Stroffolini Tommaso , Almasio Piero L. , Sagnelli Evangelista , Mele Alfonso , Gaeta Giovanni Battista ,   and the Italian Hospitals' Collaborating Group
Published: October 2009

AbstractThe aim of the study was to evaluate the characteristics of chronic hepatitis B with special reference to the geographical origin of the patients and to the prevalence of HBeAg and viral and non‐viral co‐factors of liver disease. A cross‐sectional multicenter survey was undertaken, which enrolled 1,386 HBsAg chronic carriers observed consecutively in 21 referral centers over a 6‐month period. The prevalence of HBeAg in patients was 11%; the presence of HBeAg was associated independently with a younger age and co‐infection with HIV. Anti‐HDV, anti‐HCV, or anti‐HIV antibodies were detected in 8.1%, 6.5%, and 2%, respectively. However, among the patients first diagnosed during the study period (incident cases), 14.3% were anti‐HDV positive. Seven percent of the patients were immigrants; they were younger than Italian patients and 18% were HBeAg positive; no difference was observed in the prevalence of anti‐HDV, anti‐HCV, or anti‐HIV antibodies. The presence of cirrhosis was associated independently with an age >52 years, the presence of anti‐HDV or anti‐HCV, alcohol use >4 drinks/day, and a high BMI. The clinical epidemiology of chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection shows a dynamic profile, with the potential for re‐emergence of cases with HBeAg or anti‐HDV and an emerging impact of metabolic factors on the evolution of liver disease. J. Med. Virol. 81:1999–2006, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Monodisperse Hollow Tricolor Pigment Particles for Electronic Paper
Authors: Meng Xianwei , Tang Fangqiong , Peng Bo , Ren Jun 
Published: October 2009

Abstract
A general approach has been designed to blue, green, and red pigments by metal ions doping hollow TiO 2. The reaction involves initial formation of PS at TiO2 core–shell nanoparticles via a mixed-solvent method, and then mixing with metal ions solution containing PEG, followed calcining in the atmosphere. The as-prepared hollow pigments exhibit uniform size, bright color, and tunable density, which are fit for electronic paper display.
Alternating Magnetic Field Controlled, Multifunctional Nano-Reservoirs: Intracellular Uptake and Improved Biocompatibility
Authors: Ghosh Santaneel , GhoshMitra Somesree , Cai Tong , Diercks David R , Mills Nathaniel C , Hynds DiAnna L 
Published: October 2009

Abstract
Biocompatible magnetic nanoparticles hold great therapeutic potential, but conventional particles can be toxic. Here, we report the synthesis and alternating magnetic field dependent actuation of a remotely controllable, multifunctional nano-scale system and its marked biocompatibility with mammalian cells. Monodisperse, magnetic nanospheres based on thermo-sensitive polymer network poly(ethylene glycol) ethyl ether methacrylate-co-poly(ethylene glycol) methyl ether methacrylate were synthesized using free radical polymerization. Synthesized nanospheres have oscillating magnetic field induced thermo-reversible behavior; exhibiting desirable characteristics comparable to the widely used poly-N-isopropylacrylamide-based systems in shrinkage plus a broader volumetric transition range. Remote heating and model drug release were characterized for different field strengths. Nanospheres containing nanoparticles up to an iron concentration of 6 mM were readily taken up by neuron-like PC12 pheochromocytoma cells and had reduced toxicity compared to other surface modified magnetic nanocarriers. Furthermore, nanosphere exposure did not inhibit the extension of cellular processes (neurite outgrowth) even at high iron concentrations (6 mM), indicating minimal negative effects in cellular systems. Excellent intracellular uptake and enhanced biocompatibility coupled with the lack of deleterious effects on neurite outgrowth and prior Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval of PEG-based carriers suggest increased therapeutic potential of this system for manipulating axon regeneration following nervous system injury.
Plant Stanol Esters Lower Serum Triacylglycerol Concentrations via a Reduced Hepatic VLDL‐1 Production
Authors: Plat Jogchum , Mensink Ronald P. 
Published: October 2009

AbstractPlant stanol esters not only lower low density lipoprotein cholesterol but also have previously been shown to lower serum triacylglycerol (TAG) concentrations, especially in subjects with elevated TAG concentrations. To find a possible explanation, we explored changes in serum lipoprotein profiles, as measured with nuclear magnetic resonance. For this, serum samples from two parallel‐designed controlled studies were evaluated before and 8 weeks after the consumption of plant stanol esters. In the first study, dyslipidemic metabolic syndrome subjects participated and in the second study normolipidemic subjects. In metabolic syndrome subjects, plant stanol esters lowered concentrations of large (>60 nm) and medium (35–60 nm) VLDL particles as compared to controls. In normolipidemic subjects, the serum concentration of large VLDL‐1 particles was also lowered, although less pronounced. Based on these findings, we hypothesize that the effect of plant stanol esters on serum TAG concentrations origins from a lowered hepatic production of large TAG‐rich VLDL‐1 particles.
Interindividual variability of drug transporters: Impact on opioid treatment in chronic renal failure
Authors: Ranzani Guglielmina Nadia , De Gregori Simona , De Gregori Manuela , Regazzi Mario , Govoni Stefano 
Published: October 2009

AbstractSome transmembrane transporters influence the absorption, the tissue distribution and the elimination of opioids, and their genetic variants may be an important factor in therapeutic efficacy and toxicity. Uptake and efflux transporters may facilitate or limit access of opioids to blood—brain barrier (BBB), modulating pain relief. As renal function is crucial in the metabolism and pharmacokinetic profile of any drug, renal failure and end‐stage renal disease may alter drug disposition by affecting protein and tissue binding, and reducing systemic clearance of drugs.
Ultrasound and facet blocks: A review
Authors: Bertini Laura , Baciarello M. 
Published: October 2009

AbstractFacet or zygapophysial joints are considered to be common sources of chronic spinal pain. In addition to causing localized spinal pain, facet joints may refer pain to adjacent structures. Cervical facet‐joint pain may radiate to the head, neck, and shoulders. Thoracic facets may produce paraspinous mid‐back pain with neuralgic characteristics; and lumbar facet joints may refer pain to the back, buttocks, and proximal lower extremities. Because the facet joint is innervated by the medial branches arising from the posterior rami of the spinal nerve at the same level and a level above the joint, LA blocks of these nerves have been advocated for diagnostic and prognostic purposes. Intra‐articular l—z joint injection with LA has also been proposed as a method for diagnosing facet‐joint pain, with both procedures appearing to provide comparable diagnostic value. Because several blocks are often needed to identify the symptomatic joint or to rule outzygapophysial joint pain, the procedure may expose patients and personnel to considerable radiation doses. In contrast, ultrasound is not associated with exposure to radiation. Ultrasound guidance was recently proposed as a possible alternative to fluoroscopy for the conduct of lumbar medial‐branch block. Ultrasound‐guided techniques require training in specific areas: (1) pattern recognition of the ultrasonographic appearances of anatomic structures, (2) probe handling and scanning skills, and (3) manual dexterity in aligning the needle to the ultrasound beam, thereby enabling the needling of the target. Ultrasound could become an attractive alternative to fluoroscopy or CT scanning, helping to increase the practicability of lumbar facet nerve blocks.
Regulatory role of monoamine neurotransmitters in astrocytic NT‐3 synthesis
Authors: Mele Tina , Čarman‐Kržan Marija , Jurič Damijana Mojca 
Published: October 2009

AbstractAstrocytes actively control neuronal activity and synaptic transmission and by producing various neurotrophic factors represent an important local cellular source of trophic support in the normal and diseased brain. Our present study showed the ability of astrocytes to synthesize neurotrophin‐3 (NT‐3) and the active involvement of the monoamine neurotransmitters noradrenaline, adrenaline, dopamine, and serotonin, as well as basic intracellular second messenger systems, in the regulation of NT‐3 production in neonatal rat cortical astrocytes.Using a new NT‐3 specific enzyme‐immunoassay, we showed that neonatal rat cortical and, for comparison, cerebellar astrocytes in primary culture can synthesize NT‐3; the basal cellular content of NT‐3 protein was 23.2 ± 0.4 pg NT‐3/mg cell protein and 23.6 ± 0.9 pg NT‐3/mg cell protein, respectively. The examined neurotransmitters, with the exception of serotonin, were able to potently and transiently increase NT‐3 mRNA and NT‐3 protein content; their maximal effects were dose‐ and time‐dependent. Noradrenaline (1 μM), adrenaline (1 μM), and dopamine (100 μM) showed a maximal increase in NT‐3 cellular content after 6 h treatment causing a 1.9‐, 1.8‐ and 2.7‐fold elevation, respectively. Prior to the observed increase in NT‐3 protein levels, the examined catecholamines increased NT‐3 mRNA levels with maximal effects observed after 1 h (noradrenaline) and 2 h (adrenaline and dopamine) of incubation causing 2.4‐, 2.6‐ and 3‐fold elevation, respectively. Screening different activators of basic intracellular second messenger systems for their influence on NT‐3 synthesis revealed that forskolin (20 μM), dibutyryl cAMP (dBcAMP) (100 μM), as well as calcimycin (1 μM) (Ca2+ ionophore A23187) and phorbol 12‐myristate 13‐acetate (TPA) (100 nM), markedly increased the cellular level of NT‐3 protein. Neurotransmitter‐induced NT‐3 levels were susceptible (to varying degrees) to inhibition by H‐89 (protein kinase A inhibitor) or staurosporin (protein kinase C inhibitor), which led us to conclude that downstream signaling responsible for the stimulation of NT‐3 synthesis by monoamines in astrocytes consists of multiple, complex intracellular mechanisms involving the cAMP/protein kinase A pathway, activation of protein kinase C, as well as mobilization of Ca2+ ions.Our results indicate for the first time that monoaminergic neurotransmitters play an important role in the regulation of NT‐3 synthesis in cultured rat astrocytes.
Brachycephalic Feline Noses: CT and Anatomical Study of the Relationship between Head Conformation and the Nasolacrimal Drainage System
Authors: Schlueter Claudia , Budras Klaus D , Ludewig Eberhard , Mayrhofer Elisabeth , Koenig Horst E , Walter Alice , Oechtering Gerhard U 
Published: October 2009

Aims A study was designed to evaluate the influence of head conformation on the course of the nasolacrimal drainage system (NDS) in 31 brachycephalic and 15 mesocephalic cats using computed tomography (CT), CT-dacryocystography and anatomical methods. Findings The higher the degree of brachycephalia, the more the facial bones and upper canine teeth are displaced dorsally (ie, the more pronounced the dorsorotation). Dorsorotation leads to abnormal dislocation of the ventral nasal concha and to almost horizontally rotated upper canine teeth, and thus a steeply oriented NDS. In severe brachycephalia the NDS is forced to pass below the canine tooth (adopt a V-shaped course) and the drainage function seems to be inefficient. Practical relevance The rotation of the upper canine teeth appears to provide a basis for classification of brachycephalia in cats. The authors recommend that breeders avoid breeding from individuals affected by this condition and to give preference to cats with longer facial bones.
Environmental Enrichment: Practical Strategies for Improving Feline Welfare
Authors: Ellis Sarah LH 
Published: October 2009

Practical relevance The clinical application of evidence-based enrichment strategies for the domestic cat housed in a variety of confined environments, ranging from the veterinary cage to the domestic home, is of particular importance - both in relation to providing opportunity for appropriate feline behaviour, and in the prevention and treatment of behavioural and associated health problems (eg, feline lower urinary tract disease associated with negative emotional states such as generalised anxiety). Environmental enrichment has gained particular relevance in the light of current animal welfare legislation. For example, in the UK, the Animal Welfare Act 2006 stipulates that owners/keepers have a duty of care to their animal(s) that includes allowing the animal to exhibit normal behaviour patterns. Evidence base Research into environmental enrichment as a means of improving animal welfare is still very much in its infancy, particularly in relation to the domestic cat. Thus, evidence-based studies are somewhat sparse and more are needed to validate current recommended enrichment practices. Audience This article aims to assist general veterinary practitioners to recognise how cats respond to confinement, and to understand what constitutes environmental enrichment, to help them implement or advise on appropriate enrichment strategies for cats confined in a hospital cage, home environment (particularly an indoor-only home), or cattery or rescue shelter, based on published evidence to date. [Box: see text]
Treatment Options for Hyperphosphatemia in Feline CKD: What's Out there?
Authors: Kidder Aimee C , Chew Dennis 
Published: October 2009

Practical relevance Phosphorus is retained in chronic kidney disease (CKD), promoting renal secondary hyperparathyroidism and eventually resulting in hyperphosphatemia. Most agree that phosphate retention is a major contributor to the progression of CKD in many species and it is well known that hyperphosphatemia is associated with a significant mortality risk in humans with end-stage renal disease.Patient group Chronic kidney disease is a common ailment of geriatric cats.Evidence base There is evidence in cats suggesting that the use of a phosphate-restricted diet in IRIS stage 2–3 disease has a beneficial effect on clinical outcome. However, despite the fact that intestinal phosphate binders are commonly used in veterinary practice for patients with CKD, there have been few published reports focusing on the safety and efficacy of these products in veterinary medicine. No phosphorus binders are licensed as medications for dogs or cats. This article draws on data from clinical trials in humans and studies in cats to discuss treatment goals and options for phosphate retention and hyperphosphatemia in feline CKD.Clinical significance With careful monitoring of serum phosphate and parathyroid hormone, and implementation of phosphate-restricted dietary management and intestinal phosphate binders, progression of CKD and the degree of hyperparathyroidism in cats may be reduced.Audience Companion animal and feline practitioners are at the forefront in the management of CKD in cats.