bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Community participation eliminates yaws in Ecuador
Authors: Anselmi Mariella , Moreira Juan‐Martín , Caicedo Cinthia , Guderian Ronald , Tognoni Gianni 
Published: December 2004

SummaryYaws is no longer a national and international health priority for intervention, but there is still a negative perception of the disease in the few affected communities. A survey in 1988 in the northern region of Ecuador documented a prevalence of 16.5% of clinical cases and 96.3% of serological cases. A continuous, long‐term community‐based surveillance programme was therefore put in place focusing on yaws as one of the sentinel diseases. The results of this intervention are reported here. In 1993, a second survey showed a reduction in the prevalence of clinical cases to 1.4% and of serological cases to 4.7%. Between 1993 and 1998, no other clinical cases were detected and the serological prevalence in 1998 was 3.5%, corresponding with clinical cases of primary or congenital syphilis, latent yaws under follow‐up, and individuals with low serological titres indicating a ‘serological scar’. These data indicate that yaws has been eliminated. Another important outcome of the intervention is the increased self‐confidence in the communities that health problems can be tackled.
Sexually transmitted infections in a female population in rural north‐east Brazil: prevalence, morbidity and risk factors
Authors: De Lima Soares Valquíria , De Mesquita Ana Maria Torres S. , Cavalcante Fábia Gazzaneo T. , Silva Zenaldo Porfírio , Hora Valéria , Diedrich Thomas , De Carvalho Silva Patrícia , De Melo Poliana Gomes , Dacal Alfredo Raimundo C. , De Carvalho Eduardo Maia Freese , Feldmeier Hermann 
Published: December 2004

SummaryObjectives To determine the prevalence of major sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and gynaecological morbidity in women of reproductive age living in rural communities in north‐east Brazil and to assess risk factors associated with the presence of STIs.Methods A total of 341 women (84%) were examined gynaecologically and colposcopically. The gynaecological history was taken by means of a standardized, pre‐tested questionnaire. Cervical smears were obtained and vaginal fluid was collected. Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VC), bacterial vaginosis (BV), trichomoniasis (TV) and syphilis seroreactivity were determined by standard laboratory techniques. Infections with Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Chlamydia trachomatis and human papilloma virus (HPV) were diagnosed by hybrid capture assays using vaginal lavage fluid. Odds ratios (OR) were calculated to assess risk factors associated with STIs.Results The prevalence of HPV, BV and TV was 26%, 15% and 10%, respectively. VC as well as infections with N. gonorrhoeae and C. trachomatis were detected in 6%; syphilis seroreactivity, in 3%. Multiple infections were very common, and 51% of women had at least one STI. Vaginal discharge, the predominant morbidity (56%), was significantly associated with BV (OR = 6.3; P < 0.001), vulvovaginal itching with VC (OR = 3.5; P < 0.05) and lower abdominal pain with C. trachomatis infection (OR = 2.6; P < 0.04). Colpitis was diagnosed in 27% of women and significantly associated with TV (OR = 3.5%; P < 0.001) and VC (OR = 2.9; P <  0.05). Being unmarried was a significant risk factor for having an STI (OR = 2.4; P < 0.05). Among unmarried women, age (<20 years) was a significant risk factor (OR = 3.3; P = 0.01).Conclusions The STIs are highly prevalent in this female population in the rural hinterland of north‐east Brazil and associated with considerable morbidity. In view of the expected spread of HIV from the urban centres at the coast to the interior there is an urgent need for providing STI‐related health care and health education for adolescents and women in rural Brazil.
Epidemiology and geography of Schistosoma mansoni in Uganda: implications for planning control
Authors: Kabatereine Narcis B. , Brooker Simon , Tukahebwa Edridah M. , Kazibwe Francis , Onapa Ambrose W. 
Published: December 2004

SummaryIntestinal schistosomiasis caused by infection with Schistosoma mansoni is a widespread public health problem in Uganda. Although long known to be endemic, its current distribution within the country requires updating of parasitological data to help guide planned control. We report such data collected between 1998 and 2002 from 201 schools and 68 communities across Uganda. In accordance with epidemiological expectation, prevalence and intensity increased with age, peaking at 10–20 years and thereafter declined moderately with age, whereas intensity declined more rapidly with age, and the prevalence of infection in a school was non‐linearly related to the mean intensity of infection. We used geographical information systems to map the distribution of infection and to overlay parasitological data with interpolated environmental surfaces. The derived maps indicate both a widespread occurrence of infection and a marked variability in infection prevalence, with prevalence typically highest near the lakeshore and along large rivers. No transmission occurred at altitudes >1400 m or where total annual rainfall was <900 mm; limits which can help estimate the population at risk of schistosomiasis. The results are discussed in reference to the ecology of infection and provide an epidemiological framework for the design and implementation of control efforts underway in Uganda.
Serological responses to food antigens in normal and atopic dogs, and dogs with gastrointestinal disease
Authors: Foster A. P. , Hotston Moore A. , Knowles T. G. , Cousins P. D. G. , Hall E. J. , Day M. J. 
Published: December 2004

In human atopic disease with concurrent food allergy there may be significant increases in serum IgE. Serological methods have not been advocated for suspected food allergy in dogs. The aim of this study was to investigate humeral responses to food antigens in dogs. Serum IgG and IgE antibodies were measured by ELISA against food antigens using polyclonal antidog IgG and IgE reagents. Antigens included beef, chicken, pork, lamb, chicken, turkey, white fish, whole egg, wheat, soybean, barley, rice, maize corn, potato, yeast and cow’s milk. Three groups were used: normal dogs (n = 40 for IgE and n = 91 for IgG), dogs with atopic dermatitis (n = 91), and dogs with four types of gastrointestinal disease (n = 64 for IgE and n = 72 for IgG). The gastrointestinal (GI) subgroups included bacterial overgrowth, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), food‐responsive and other GI diseases, but statistically significant differences were not detected between them. Statistically significant differences were detected for IgE data for all antigens, and for all except egg and yeast for IgG, using χ2‐test and analysis of variance, respectively. Compared with other groups, atopic dogs had more IgE and dogs with GI disease had more IgG. The relationship of antigen responses for pooled data was analysed using principle component analysis and a cluster plot. Some clustering of variables was apparent for both IgE and IgG. For example for IgG, dog response to chicken and turkey was similar. Using multinomial regression, a predictive model for disease type was formulated with the IgG and IgE response as predictor variables. This study was supported, in part, by TLC Pet Allergy Testing Ltd.
Simultaneous Genotyping of Human Platelet Antigens by Hot Start Sequence‐Specific Polymerase Chain Reaction with DNA Polymerase AmpliTaq Gold
Authors: Chen Dong‐Feng , Pastucha Ladislav T. , Chen Hai‐Yan , Kadar Janos G. , Stangel Walter 
Published: December 2004

Abstract Objectives: Human platelet alloantigen (HPA) typing has potential clinical relevance in a variety of contexts. We can improve methods for HPA genotyping by complementing our knowledge of the DNA sequence polymorphisms of HPA genes and experience with various DNA‐based HPA typing techniques. Methods: A newly available DNA polymerase, AmpliTaq Gold (Perkin Elmer), provided in an inactive state and activated by heat, makes it possible to perform a hot start polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in order to prevent nonspecific amplification during the setup of PCR. To establish a practical procedure for HPA‐1, 2, 3 and 5 genotyping, we applied the AmpliTaq Gold for a hot start PCR and employed 8 pairs of published sequence‐specific primers (SSP). A simple simultaneous genotyping of these 4 HPA systems could be rapidly achieved with high specificity. Results: The HPA gene frequencies observed in 126 randomly selected German blood donors were 0.82 and 0.18 for HPA‐1a and 1b, 0.92 and 0.08 for HPA‐2a and 2b, 0.63 and 0.37 for HPA‐3a and 3b and 0.90 and 0.10 for HPA‐5a and Sb, respectively. Conclusion: Using our hot start PCR‐SSP procedure with AmpliTaq Gold a simple, rapid and reproducible genotyping for HPA‐1, 2, 3 and S systems could be achieved.
Risk Factors and Anti‐HBc Reactivity among First Time Blood Donors
Authors: Molijn M. H. J. , van der Linden J. M. , Ko L. K. , Gorgels J. , Hop W. , van Rhenen D. J. 
Published: December 2004

Abstract Background and objectives: The usefulness of testing for antibody to hepatitis B core antigen (anti‐HBc) as a surrogate marker for non‐A, non‐B hepatitis can no longer be clearly established in the face of anti‐hepatitis C virus testing. Application of anti‐HBc testing in blood donors for detection of hepatitis B in addition to hepatitis B surface antigen testing (HbsAg) is a matter of debate. Materials and methods: We examined the serology and risk analysis data in a group of first‐time blood donors. In 1.48% of 16,081 donors, anti‐HBc reactivity was found. We invited a study group of 112 donors for extensive interviewing about the risk of blood transmissible diseases, and for serological testing. A control group of 240 first‐time donors was studied as well. Results: In the study group, the age was older (p < 0.001), a history of liver disease was more frequent (p < 0.001), and the donor (p < 0.001) or the donor's partner (p < 0.05) had either stayed longer in an HBV‐endemic area or had been born in one. Combining these with the serological results, we found that strong anti‐HBc reactivity was related to hepatitis B risk factors in HBsAg‐negative donors. Conclusion: Anti‐HBc testing in HbsAg‐negative first‐time donors makes it possible to identify hepatitis B risk factors with a prevalence of 0.02%. Our findings also stress the importance of including the history of the donor's partner(s) in the risk analysis before blood donation.
Platelet Antibody Detection in Pediatric Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura: Evaluation of Three Screening Methods
Authors: Biglino Paola , Perutelli Paolo , Mori Pier Giorgio 
Published: December 2004

Abstract Background and objectives: Immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) is a common hematologic disorder, two forms of which occur in children. The detection of circulating platelet antibodies is helpful in diagnosis. Materials and methods: We evaluated three different immunological methods for detecting platelet antibodies in the serum of children with ITP. These were: a solid‐phase red‐cell adherence test (SPRCA), an enzyme immunoassay (EIA), and an immunofluorescence test (PSIF). Results: The sensitivity of the methods in detecting IgG antibodies ranged from 28.1 (EIA) to 39.4% (SPRCA). We also looked for IgM antibodies by PSIF, thus raising the sensitivity of this test from 32.0 to 40.0%. A combination of two tests (SPRCA and EIA) allowed us to detect 61.8% positive samples. By doing all three tests, we obtained 71.3% positive samples. Finally, we reached 73.5% by adding PSIF for IgM. We found a higher frequency of circulating antibodies in both acute and chronic ITP at onset than in clinical remission. There were a few positive sera in chronic ITP, but not in the acute form in remission. Conclusion: The individual tests each have a relatively low sensitivity, but the combination of all three increases the diagnostic effectiveness. The finding of platelet antibodies during remission may predict evoluation toward a systemic autoimmune state.
Markers of Haemostatic Activation before and after Blood Donation and Plasmapheresis
Authors: Rahr Hans B. , Roman Corina , Ingerslev Jørgen , Jørgensen Jan 
Published: December 2004

Abstract Background and objectives: Previous studies have reported signs of haemostatic activation after haemorrhage. The aim of this study was to measure sensitive markers for haemostatic activation after blood donation or plasmapheresis in healthy donors. Materials and methods: Blood samples were drawn before as well as 5 min and 1 h after donation in 40 male donors, of whom 29 gave 1 unit of blood and 11 underwent plasmapheresis. Standard assays were used. Results: Plasma concentrations of the activation markers prothrombin fragment 1+2, thrombin‐antithrombin complexes, and von Willebrand factor did not increase after blood or plasma donation. Conclusions: In our opinion, these procedures are safe.
CD36 Autoantibodies and Thrombotic Diathesis, Thrombocytopenia and Repeated Early Fetal Losses
Authors: Borzini P. , Riva M. , Nembri P. , Rossi E. , Pagliaro P. , Vergani P. , Greppi P. , Tantardini P. 
Published: December 2004

Abstract Background and objectives: Autoantibodies to CD36, a platelet glycoprotein, have been found in patients with thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura, and in those with lupus‐like anticoagulant with thrombotic complications. Materials and methods: Conventional hematologic and laboratory methods were used. The patient was a pregnant woman, who had had two early fetal losses separated by a normal offspring. Despite severe thrombocytopenia, she was asymptomatic. Results: Serological investigations were strongly suggestive of CD36 autoantibodies. Neither clinical nor laboratory data were typical of those usually associated with cd36 autoantibodies, namely thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP), systemic lupus erythematosis (SLE), or prothrombotic compliance. Prophylaxis with salicylates and prednisone was started at the 8th week of gestation, and an offspring with mild thrombocytopenia was delivered by cesarean section at the 32nd week of gestation because of abruptio placentae. Conclusions: There may be a cause‐and‐effect relationship between early fetal losses and CD36 autoantibodies.
Intersecting Pools and Their Potential Application in Testing Donated Blood for Viral Genomes
Authors: Mortimer Janet 
Published: December 2004

AbstractAmplification assays for viral genomes are at present too expensive and cumbersome to be applied to individual blood donations. Through constructing interesting pools of specimens, however, it may be possible to screen as a single process large numbers of units for several low prevalence viruses using relatively few tests. The preparation of the intersecting pools that would be required is explained in this paper. If test sensitivity and specificity were adequate, the testing of these pools would permit timely release of components that had the security of genetic testing added to current serological screening programmes. The method also makes screening for other viruses feasible.
Peripheral Blood Stem Cell Transplantation
Authors: Watts M. J. , Linch D. C. 
Published: December 2004

AbstractHigh dose chemo/radiotherapy requiring autologous haemopoietic stem cell support is increasingly used in a variety of malignant disorders. Mobilised peripheral blood stem cells (PBSC) have largely replaced the use of autologous bone marrow due to more rapid haemopoietic reconstitution with less resource use including blood and platelet transfusion requirements. PBSC graft adequacy is monitored by CD34+ cell and granulocyte‐monocyte‐colony‐forming‐cell measurements, and thresholds for rapid engraftment have been determined. Studies are in progress to determine the optimal mobilisation regimens that will permit the achievement of the necessary progenitor thresholds with only one or two aphereses. This will facilitate the use of multiple cycles of high dose therapy and possibly the use of PBSC collected by venesection rather than apheresis. PBSC are also increasingly used in the allogeneic setting where specific mobilisation protocols not using cytotoxic drugs are employed. These technical advances will aid the execution of large trials to determine the efficacy of high dose therapy.
Transfusion‐Related Immunomodulation in Chinese Children with Thalassaemia
Authors: Li Karen , Li Chi Kong , Wong Raymond P. O. , Wong Annie , Shing Matthew M. K. , Chik Ki Wai , Yuen Patrick M. P. 
Published: December 2004

Abstract Background and objectives: Multiple transfusions can induce immunomodulation. This study was carried out to investigate the immunological status of 50 transfusion‐dependent children with β‐thalassaemia, taking into account that lymphocyte characteristics are affected by sex, age and race. We paid particular attention to the influence of transfusion and serum ferritin on the lymphocyte subsets which may be affected by the exposure to foreign antigens. Materials and methods: By multicolour immunofluorescent analysis using flow cytometry, we determined lymphocyte characteristics with regard to major subsets (T lymphocytes, B lymphocytes and NK cells), activation (membrane IL‐2 receptor CD25, HLA‐D) and memory/naive T cells (CD45RO/CD45RA). Data from 51 age‐ and sex‐balanced children served as controls. Results: The normal Chinese children had higher NK levels than the β‐thalassaemia children. The levels of CD25 and HLA‐D indicated a broad‐based increase in activation status. Memory T cells were also increased when compared with their normal counterparts. We found additional and more marked alterations in the lymphocyte subsets of those who had received over 100 transfusions. While levels of NK cells were inversely correlated with the number of transfusions, CD25+ cells increased with transfusions. Conclusion: Many multitransfused β‐thalassaemia children have altered levels of lymphocyte subsets compared with normals. What remains to be investigated is the long‐term consequence of possessing low NK and non‐MHC‐restricted T cells (CD3+CD56+CD16+) and a high activation status in terms of resistance of infections and development of malignancy.
Immunochemical Characterization of the Rh Cw Antigen Using Human Monoclonal Antibodies
Authors: Thorpe Susan J. , Boult Christina E. , Thompson Keith M. 
Published: December 2004

Abstract Background and objectives: Human monoclonal antibodies have been produced against various Rh antigens. We report here the production of another one against Rh C and the first such antibody against Rh Cw. Materials and methods: Two heterohybridomas secreting IgG human monoclonal antibodies against Rh Cw and Rh C (MS‐353 and MS‐242 respectively) were produced from alloimmunized donors. Their specificity was confirmed by serological testing. Results: MS‐353 reacted with all Cw‐positive phenotypes but not with any Cw‐negative phenotypes, whereas MS‐242 reacted with all Cw‐positive and C‐positive phenotypes. Using 125I‐labelled antibodies, the average number of Cw sites/red cell was 32,000 (R1wR1w), 15,200 (R1wR1), 19,800 (R1wR2), 15,300 (R1wr), 26,200 (r′wr), and the average number of C sites per red cell on equivalent Cw/C‐positive phenotypes was similar: 22,400 (R1R1), 21,800 (R1wR1), 12,300 (R1R2), 11,700 (R1wR2), 13,400 (R1r), 15,100 (R1wr), 21,100 (r′r), 18,700 (r′wr). MS‐353 and MS‐242 were mutually inhibitory. Both antibodies specifically immunoprecipitated a 33‐ to 34‐kD polypeptide from 125I‐surface‐labelled cells. Conclusion: MS‐353 is suitable for the serological detection of Cw‐positive cells, and the immunochemical data are entirely consistent with the report that the Cw antigen is associated with a point mutation in the RHCE gene [Blood, 1995;86:1196–1201].
Genotyping of the Human Platelet Antigen‐1 by ELISA Detection of Allele – Specific Amplicons
Authors: Müller Thomas H. , Döscher Andrea , Schunter Friedrich 
Published: December 2004

Abstract Background and objectives: The purpose of the study was to establish a valid and efficient method for genotyping of the human platelet alloantigen‐1 (HPA‐1) in large sample numbers. Materials and methods: Digoxigenin‐ and fluorescein‐labelled allele‐specific primers and a biotinylated common primer were included in the hot‐start PCR. Amplicons were bound to avidin‐coated plates to identify the products by ELISA. Results: This approach reduced the number of PCR analyses for HPA‐1 typing by half. PCR products were detected with high sensitivity and good reproducibility (interassay – CV: <8%) in the ELISA. The typing of 100 blood donors with both PCR plus gel electrophoresis and ELISA‐PCR showed identical results. Conclusion: This method offers efficient HPA‐1 genotyping in large numbers of donors and patients.
Collaborative Study to Assess the Suitability of a Proposed Working Reagent for Human Parvovirus B19 DNA Detection in Plasma Pools by Gene Amplification Techniques
Authors: Saldanha J. , Minor P. ,   B19 Collaborative Study Group
Published: December 2004

Abstract Background and objectives: A collaborative study was done to examine the sensitivity and specificity of assays for the detection of human parvovirus B19 DNA in plasma pools by PCR techniques and to establish a working reagent for B19 DNA testing of plasma pools. Materials and methods: Duplicate samples consisting of a tenfold dilution series of a positive cryosupernatant diluted in B19 DNA‐negative cryosupernatant were sent to 17 laboratories. Results: The sensitivity of the assays varied: 2 laboratories were able to detect the 10−7 dilution while 1 laboratory failed to detect B19 DNA in any samples. In addition, 5 laboratories obtained false‐positive results. Conclusions: In general, laboratories using assays optimised for rapid detection of B19 DNA in serum samples did not perform well, indicating that such rapid methods are not adequate for examination of plasma pools. The 10−6 dilution was detected by approximately half the laboratories and could be used as the working reagent.
Detection of Irregular Red Cell Antibodies: More than 3 Years of Experience with a Gel Technique and Pooled Screening Cells
Authors: Titlestad Kjell , Georgsen Jørgen , Andersen Helle , Kristensen Tom 
Published: December 2004

Abstract Background and objectives: The purpose of this study was to evaluate more than 3 years of experience with a gel technique in combination with pooled screening cells for the detection of irregular red cell antibodies. Materials and methods: Conventional serologic methods were used for blood typing, antibody screening and cross‐matching until the end of 1992. We introduced the gel technique as a routine assay for antibody detection and identification in 1993. Results: After the tube technique had been abandoned, the number of false‐positive antibody screening tests was reduced by 71%, positive antibody screening tests by 33%, enzyme agglutination by 100% and rouleaux reactions and cold‐reacting antibodies by more than 50%. There was a 40% increase in first‐time detection of clinically relevant antibodies. We saw no increase in delayed haemolytic transfusion reactions. Conclusions: For the detection of irregular red cell antibodies, pooled screening cells in combination with a gel technique are at least as efficient and safe as a conventional tube technique with unpooled test cells.