bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Gene sequence heterogeneity of Corallococcus coralloides strains isolated from geographically diverse locations
Authors: Stackebrandt Erko , Päuker Orsola 
Published: July 2005

SummaryThirty‐three strains classified as Corallococcus coralloides isolated from mostly soil samples in 14 countries of four continents, were subjected to phylogenetic analyses. Based on 16S rDNA analyses the strains form a highly related cluster, sharing above 98.7% sequence similarity. Four groups were recognized within this cluster, only one of which, containing two strains from St. Lucia, Lower Antilles, was exclusively defined by strains from the same sample. The other groups contained members from different countries, even continents. The largest group embraced the type strains of C. coralloides DSM 2259T and Corallococcus exiguus 14696T which were almost indistinguishable in their 16S rRNA gene sequence. Corallococcus macrosporus DSM 14697T grouped outside the C. coralloides cluster, showing a higher relationship to a member of Myxococcus. The topology of the tree generated on the basis of the partial gyrase B (gyrB) gene sequence supports the rRNA gene tree, though some differences in the order of branching were observed. As judged by the binary similarity values the higher resolution power of gyrB sequences was confirmed. From a taxonomic standpoint, the size of myxospores is not a valuable taxonomic criterion, as small‐ and medium‐sized myxospores are members of the same group. If the species status of C. coralloides and C. exiguus is verified by other methods (e.g. DNA–DNA hybridisation, RiboTyping), the genus Corallococcus may embrace a broad range of yet‐to‐be described novel species. The presence of strains within the same sample displaying higher relatedness to strains from other locations points towards an intensive dispersal of myxospores across continents.
Symbiotic and saprophytic survival of three unmarked Rhizobium leguminosarum biovar trifolii strains introduced into the field
Authors: Duodu Samuel , Bhuvaneswari T. V. , Gudmundsson J. , Svenning Mette M. 
Published: July 2005

SummaryThe symbiotic and saprophytic persistence of three unmarked Rhizobium leguminosarum biovar trifolii (Rlt) strains introduced into a field site in Iceland were followed. This site was free of clover cultivation and initially devoid of clover‐nodulating rhizobia as tested by nodulation studies. Nodule occupancy by strains was identified based on their distinct ERIC‐polymerase chain reaction (PCR) DNA fingerprint patterns. The survival and persistence of the individual strains in soil were monitored by the quantitative real‐time PCR (qRT‐PCR) assay, targeting the host‐specific nodE gene. The most dominant strain in the nodule population, Rlt 20‐15, showed relatively less saprophytic survival ability and maintained high numbers only in the presence of the appropriate host plant. Conversely, the minor nodule occupant, Rlt 32‐28, persisted in soil at a relatively higher abundance both in the presence of its host legumes and in the presence of a non‐host grass. The qRT‐PCR assay was successfully applied to quantify rhizobial strains directly in soil without culturing or nodulation. However, the assay demonstrated less sensitivity compared with the plant infection most‐probable‐number (MPN) method for estimating the population size of rhizobia in soil. The quantitative detection limit of our qRT‐PCR assays was 1 × 103 cells per gram of soil, as opposed to the MPN test which has a detection limit of 10 cells per gram of soil.
Intonational phrasing, discontinuity, and the scope of negation
Authors: Błaszczak Joanna , Gärtner Hans‐Martin 
Published: July 2005

And nothing is, but what is not(Macbeth I.iii.142)Abstract. We discuss several cases of English and German negative quantifiers taking extended scope. We argue that these scope extensions are sensitive to linear and prosodic continuity, a fact that we capture in terms of a Condition on Extended Scope Taking (CEST). We provide two formalizations of CEST, one couched in minimalist terms and another within the framework of Combinatory Categorial Grammar (CCG). We compare and contrast the resulting systems and suggest that although the differences are clearly discernible it is too early to judge which of the competitors should be preferred.
Body shape and composition in HIV‐infected women: an urban cohort
Authors: Karmon SL , Moore RD , Dobs AS , Keruly J , Barnett S , Cofrancesco J 
Published: July 2005

ObjectivesAlterations in body shape and composition are associated with HIV/AIDS. Wasting remains prevalent; increasingly, lipodystrophy is reported. Obesity is also epidemic in the USA. In this study, we sought to characterize the body changes reported by women attending a US urban clinic, and to evaluate contributing factors using inexpensive methods that are readily available in clinical practice.MethodsIn an urban Maryland clinic, a cross‐section of HIV‐infected women were evaluated by self report, anthropomorphic measurements, bioelectric impedance analysis (BIA) and chart review; they were categorized as no change, lipodystrophy, weight loss/wasting or weight gain/obesity.ResultsOne hundred and sixty‐one women were evaluated: 144 (89%) were African‐American; 100 (62%) had used intravenous drugs and 40 (25%) were actively injecting drugs, while 39 (24%) smoked crack. Ninety‐five (59%) were on highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) for a median period of 11.7 months [interquartile range (IQR)=4.5–24.2]. Since starting current HAART or in the previous year, 12 (7.4%) reported lipodystrophy changes, 85 (52.8%) weight gain, 27 (16.8%) overall weight loss, and 37 (23.0%) no change. Lipodystrophy was associated with higher CD4 percentage (P=0.03), lower frequency of crack use (P=0.04) and higher educational level (P=0.03). Weight loss correlated with longer duration of infection (P=0.01), select BIA results and increased rate of crack use (P=0.005). Weight gain was associated with higher fat mass (P=0.005), higher peak viral load (P=0.02), and lower rate of intravenous drug use (P=0.03).ConclusionsSelf‐reported changes in body shape were common. Obesity and complications of illicit drug use were more prevalent than lipodystrophy in this inner‐city population of HIV‐positive women.
Dysregulation of CD28 and CTLA‐4 expression by CD4 T cells from previously immunodeficient HIV‐infected patients with sustained virological responses to highly active antiretroviral therapy
Authors: Stone SF , Price P , French MA 
Published: July 2005

ObjectivesCurrent guidelines recommend commencing highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) in HIV‐infected patients when CD4 T‐cell counts reach 350 cells/μL. However, late‐presenting HIV‐infected patients with CD4 T‐cell counts<50 cells/μL are still common. The ability of long‐term HAART to normalize immune dysregulation in severely immunodeficient HIV‐infected patients remains unclear. Here we address indices of immune dysregulation in previously severely immunocompromised HIV‐infected patients treated with long‐term HAART who had achieved increased CD4 T‐cell counts and complete suppression of HIV viraemia.MethodsWe examined expression of CD28, cytotoxic T‐lymphocyte antigen‐4 (CTLA‐4) and intracellular perforin by CD4 and CD8 lymphocytes from 25 highly selected HIV‐infected patients [nadir CD4 T‐cell counts <50 cells/μL, >4 years on HAART and >6 months of complete viral suppression (<50 HIV‐1 RNA copies/mL)] and 18 HIV‐seronegative age‐ and sex‐matched controls.ResultsHIV‐infected patients had lower percentages of CD28‐expressing CD4 lymphocytes and higher percentages of CTLA‐4‐expressing CD4 lymphocytes than controls. The percentage of CTLA‐4‐expressing CD4 lymphocytes correlated inversely with that of CD28‐expressing CD4 lymphocytes. The proportion of CD4 lymphocytes expressing perforin was generally low. However, more HIV‐infected patients than controls had >1% of CD4 lymphocytes expressing perforin [11 of 25 (44%) vs. one of 18 (5.5%)]. The percentage of CD8 lymphocytes expressing perforin did not differ between HIV‐infected patients and controls. Amongst HIV‐infected patients, the percentage of perforin‐expressing CD8 lymphocytes correlated inversely with nadir but not current CD4 T‐cell count.ConclusionsExpression of CD28, CTLA‐4 and perforin by CD4 lymphocytes remain dysregulated in HIV‐infected patients with previous severe immunodeficiency, despite increased CD4 T‐cell counts and control of HIV viraemia by HAART.
Continuously functioning artificial nephron system: The promise of nanotechnology
Authors: Nissenson Allen R. , Ronco Claudio , Pergamit Gayle , Edelstein Martin , Watts Richard 
Published: July 2005

AbstractNearly 900,000 patients worldwide have end‐stage renal disease and require dialysis or kidney transplantation. Despite the availability of these forms of renal replacement therapy for nearly four decades, mortality and morbidity are high and patients often have a poor quality of life. We have developed a human nephron filter (HNF) utilizing nanotechnology that would eventually make feasible a continuously functioning, wearable or implantable artificial kidney. The device consists of two membranes operating in series within one device cartridge. The first membrane mimics the function of the glomerulus, using convective transport to generate a plasma ultrafiltrate containing all solutes approaching the molecular weight of albumin. The second membrane mimics the function of the renal tubules, selectively reclaiming designated solutes to maintain body homeostasis. No dialysis solution is used in this device. The HNF has been computer‐modeled, and operating 12 hr per day, 7 days per week the HNF provides the equivalent of 30 mL/min glomerular filtration rate (compared to half that amount for conventional thrice‐weekly hemodialysis). Animal studies should begin in the next 1 to 2 years, and clinical trials would then follow 1 to 2 years subsequent. The HNF system, by eliminating dialysate and utilizing a novel membrane system created through applied nanotechnology, represents a breakthrough in renal replacement therapy based on the functioning of native kidneys. The enhanced solute removal and wearable design should substantially improve patient outcomes and quality of life.
The effect of a change in epoetin alfa reimbursement policy on anemia outcomes in hemodialysis patients
Authors: Berns Jeffrey S. , Fishbane Steven , Elzein Hafez , Lynn Robert I. , Deoreo Peter B. , Tharpe David L. , Meisels Ira S. 
Published: July 2005

AbstractIn 1997, the Health Care Financing Administration Hematocrit Measurement Audit (HMA) program initiated use of a 3‐month rolling average hematocrit (Hct) level for reimbursement of epoetin claims in hemodialysis patients, with denial of payment when this value exceeded 36.5%. This study evaluated the impact of the HMA program on anemia‐related outcomes in hemodialysis patients. An observational, retrospective study of 987 hemodialysis patients from 11 dialysis centers in the United States was performed, collecting data between October 1996 and December 1997. Centers were selected from a pool of nearly all facilities in the United States, which during May 1997 satisfied one of two criteria: greater than 75% of patients at the facility had mean Hct level of ≥33% (Group A) or fewer than 50% of patients at the facility had mean Hct level of ≥33% (Group B). Each facility maintained its own anemia management practices without specific anemia management interventions as part of this study. Hct level, hemoglobin (Hb) level, and epoetin dose were analyzed to compare the pre‐HMA period (October 1996 to May 1997) to the HMA period (June to December 1997) and/or for each of the five quarters of the study period. The primary study endpoint was the percentage of patients with Hct levels of ≥33% during each study quarter. The mean Hct level at baseline was 34% in Group A and 33.4% in Group B (p = 0.01). Hct levels, which were increasing before implementation of the HMA program, decreased during the HMA period (p < 0.001 and p = 0.013 in Groups A and B, respectively). The percentage of patients in Groups A and B with mean quarterly Hct levels of ≥33% decreased during the last quarter of the HMA implementation period compared to the quarter immediately preceding the start of the HMA program (p < 0.001 for both comparisons). Changes in Hb levels were similar to those seen in Hct levels. The mean epoetin dose administered decreased from 13,090 U/week at the start of the study to 11,884 U/week immediately before the HMA program took effect (p < 0.05). The HMA program adversely affected anemia treatment outcomes, regardless of whether dialysis units before HMA implementation had <50% of patients with a Hct level of ≥33% or had >75% of patients with a Hct level of ≥33%. The decline in mean weekly dose of epoetin was likely a result of withholding doses out of concern among providers about risk of reimbursement denial.
Important role of blood rheology in atherosclerosis of patients with hemodialysis
Authors: Kobayashi Shuzo , Okamoto Kouji , Maesato Kyouko , Moriya Hidekazu , Ohtake Takayasu 
Published: July 2005

AbstractConcerning a role of blood rheology for atherosclerosis in patients with hemodialysis (HD), little data are available. It may be due to the fact that the method for evaluating rheologic properties of circulating blood has been limited. We examined blood rheology in 118 HD patients by using microchannel array flow analyzer that makes it possible to directly observe the flow of blood cell elements through the microchannel. Transit time (TB) of heparinized whole blood through slit pores (7 × 30 µm) was used as an index of rheology and related with various inflammatory biomarkers such as high‐sensitive CRP (hsCRP), monocyte chemotactic protein‐1, osteopontin, or fibrinogen (Fg). Moreover, as a surrogate marker of atherosclerosis, carotid intima‐media thickness (IMT) and aortic stiffness evaluated by brachial‐ankle pulse‐wave velocity (baPWV) were studied. In HD patients, TB had strong positive correlations with hsCRP (r = 0.427; p < 0.00001), Fg (r = 0.452; p < 0.00001), and osteopontin (r = 0.227; p < 0.0134). Further, TB was significantly well correlated with IMT (r = 0.400; p < 0.0001) and PWV (r = 0.470; p < 0.0001). Multivariate regression analysis showed that baPWV, IMT, Fg, hematocrit, white blood cell count, and CRP were chosen as significant explanatory factors for TB. These results suggest that blood rheology may play an important role for atherosclerosis in patients with HD.
Effect of intermittent compression of upper arm veins on forearm vessels in patients with end‐stage renal disease
Authors: Rus Rina R. , Ponikvar Rafael , Kenda Rajko B. , Buturovič‐Ponikvar Jadranka 
Published: July 2005

AbstractNative arteriovenous fistula is the best vascular access for chronic hemodialysis. Primary and long‐term success depends, in part, on the state of arteries and veins at the time of the operation. The aim of our study was to investigate the effects of intermittent compression of upper arm veins on forearm vessels in patients with terminal renal disease. The study group was composed of 16 chronic hemodialysis patients who performed daily intermittent compression of the upper arm without vascular access by elastic band (Eschmarch). Ten chronic hemodialysis patients were included in the control group, which performed no specific activity. Forearm measurements were obtained at the beginning of the study and 4 and 8 weeks later during the course of intermittent compression of the upper arm veins. The forearm circumference and maximal handgrip strength were measured. The artery measures, including endothelium‐dependent vasodilatation and forearm vein variables, were obtained by ultrasonography measurements. The forearm circumference, maximal handgrip strength, and artery variables, including endothelium‐dependent vasodilatation, remained unchanged. The basal venous diameters (2.29 ± 0.19 mm at the beginning, 2.46 ± 0.19 mm after 4 weeks, and 2.53 ± 0.18 mm after 8 weeks) were significantly increased in the study group. The distensibility of veins was preserved in the study group. There were no significant changes in the control group. Our study demonstrated that daily intermittent compression of the upper arm veins increases the forearm vein diameter and preserves the distensibility of veins in patients with end‐stage renal failure.
Characteristics of heart rate variability entropy and blood pressure during hemodialysis in patients with end‐stage renal disease
Authors: Yamanaka Nozomu , Aoyama Togo , Ikeda Noriaki , Higashihara Masaaki , Kamata Kouju 
Published: July 2005

AbstractEntropy (ENT) is a newly developed measure of the complexity of heart rate variability (HRV). The aim of this study was to characterize the complexity of HRV in patients with end‐stage renal disease (ESRD) and to find a possible clinical utility. Healthy subjects and patients with ESRD undergoing hemodialysis (HD) were recruited. The HD population consisted of patients with and without diabetes mellitus (DM). An electrocardiogram was recorded before HD, and blood pressure was measured during HD. The coefficients of variation of R‐R intervals, high‐ and low‐frequency components, and ratio of the low‐ to high‐frequency components were measured as variables of HRV. The ENT was used to describe the complexity of HRV. Forty‐six healthy subjects and 27 HD patients participated in this study. The ENT negatively correlated with the duration of DM (p = 0.001), systolic blood pressure (p = 0.003), and mean blood pressure (p = 0.004) before a HD session. ENT in HD patients was lower than that in healthy subjects (p < 0.01). ENT in HD patients with DM was lower than that in HD patients without DM (p < 0.01). The change in systolic blood pressure (ΔSBP) during a HD session showed high correlations to ENT and ultrafiltration rate (UFR) of the dialyzer. The following equation was obtained: ΔSBP = 2.25 × ENT − 2.28 × UFR − 21.27 (R2 = 0.805; p < 0.0001). ENT decreased with uremic and diabetic status. ENT also represents a possible prediction of hypotension during a HD session.
Beyond thrice‐weekly hemodialysis
Authors: Diaz‐Buxo Jose A. 
Published: July 2005

AbstractThe frequency, length, and dose of hemodialysis (HD) have empirically evolved during the past four decades. The relationships among these variables and their influence on clinical outcomes are complex. Despite the lack of controlled studies and the selection bias inherent to cohorts studied with enhanced or intensified HD prescriptions, this review explores the impact of frequency, length, and dose of HD on clinical outcomes. The experiences with frequent HD make a formidable case for frequent therapies. The data show that quotidian regimens are associated with the best biochemical profiles, volume and hypertension control, and nutritional status, but do not provide the evidence for superior survival when compared to long nocturnal thrice‐weekly or every‐other‐day conventional HD. The correlation between frequency and clinical outcomes seems evident, but not likely to be linear. Perhaps the greatest benefits are achieved from the simple avoidance of 48 hr without dialysis. Considering the additional cost and patient involvement with daily dialysis compared to every‐other‐day dialysis, it is logical to include the latter in future controlled studies on the benefits of frequent HD.
The Influence of β‐Adrenergic Agonists and Antagonists on T‐Wave Alternans in Patients with and Without Ventricular Tachyarrhythmia
Authors: KOMIYA NORIHIRO , SETO SINJI , NAKAO KOJIRO , YANO KATSUSUKE 
Published: July 2005

Background: T‐wave alternans (TWA) is an important noninvasive measurement of ventricular tachyarrhythmia (VT) and is known to be influenced by the sympathetic nervous system. We examined the correlation between TWA measurement and the sympathetic nervous system in patients with and without VT.
Methods and Results: Thirty‐five patients (28 men, 7 women; mean age, 59 ± 15 years) with tachyarrhythmia were assigned to two groups: VT group (n = 15) and supraventricular tachyarrhythmia (SVT) group (n = 20). Alternans voltage in lead vector magnitude (eVM) was measured during atrial pacing (90, 110 beats/min (bpm)). After eVM was measured at baseline, propranolol was administered, and eVM was measured again. In a subset of 18 patients (10 with VT and 8 with SVT), isoproterenol was administered prior to propranolol infusion. After propranolol infusion, eVM of both the VT and the SVT groups decreased significantly compared to baseline. The changes in absolute value of eVM at 110 bpm after propranolol infusion were greater in the VT group than in the SVT group (−1.3 ± 0.8 μV vs −0.5 ± 0.8 μV, P < 0.05). The eVM values of both the VT and the SVT groups increased after administration of isoproterenol compared to the baseline value. The changes in absolute value and percentile of eVM after isoproterenol infusion were smaller in the VT group than in the SVT group (2.0 ± 1.8 μV vs 3.9 ± 3.5 μV, P < 0.05; 21 ± 18% vs 48 ± 36%, P < 0.05).
Conclusions: The sympathetic nervous system has an influence over microvolt‐level TWA. Administration of a β‐adrenergic antagonist caused a significant decrease in TWA, particularly in the VT group. This may partially explain the mechanism by which adrenergic antagonists inhibit VTs.
“V‐H‐A Pattern” as a Criterion for the Differential Diagnosis of Atypical AV Nodal Reentrant Tachycardia from AV Reciprocating Tachycardia
Authors: OWADA SHINGEN , IWASA ATSUSHI , SASAKI SHINGO , HIGUMA TAKUMI , KIMURA MASAOMI , KOBAYASHI TAKAO , ASHIKAGA KEIICHI , OKUMURA KEN 
Published: July 2005

Background: During ventricular extrastimulation, His bundle potential (H) following ventricular (V) and followed by atrial potentials (A), i.e., V‐H‐A, is observed in the His bundle electrogram when ventriculo‐atrial (VA) conduction occurs via the normal conduction system. We examined the diagnostic value of V‐H‐A for atypical form of atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia (AVNRT), which showed the earliest atrial activation site at the posterior paraseptal region during the tachycardia.
Methods: We prospectively examined the response of VA conduction to ventricular extrastimulation during basic drive pacing performed during sinus rhythm in 16 patients with atypical AVNRT masquerading atrioventricular reciprocating tachycardia (AVRT) utilizing a posterior paraseptal accessory pathway and 21 with AVRT utilizing a posterior paraseptal accessory pathway. Long RP' tachycardia with RP'/RR > 0.5 was excluded. The incidences of V‐H‐A and dual AV nodal physiology (DP) were compared between atypical AVNRT and AVRT.
Results: V‐H‐A was demonstrated in all the 16 patients (100%) in atypical AVNRT and in only 1 of the 21 (5%) in AVRT (P < 0.001). DP was demonstrated in 10 patients (63%) in atypical AVNRT and in 4 (19%) in AVRT (P < 0.05). The sensitivity of V‐H‐A for atypical AVNRT was higher than that of DP (P < 0.05). Positive and negative predictive values were 94% and 100%, respectively, for V‐H‐A and 71% and 74%, respectively, for DP.
Conclusions: The appearance of V‐H‐A during ventricular extrastimulation is a simple criterion for differentiating atypical AVNRT masquerading AVRT from AVRT utilizing a posterior paraseptal accessory pathway.