SARS-CoV-2 S2-targeted vaccination elicits broadly neutralizing antibodies

Several variants of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) have emerged during the current coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Although antibody cross-reactivity with the spike glycoproteins (S) of diverse coronaviruses, including endemic common cold coronaviruses (HCoVs), has been documented, it remains unclear whether such antibody responses, typically targeting the conserved S2 subunit, contribute to protection when induced by infection or through vaccination. Using a mouse model, we found that prior HCoV-OC43 S-targeted immunity primes neutralizing antibody responses to otherwise subimmunogenic SARS-CoV-2 S exposure and promotes S2-targeting antibody responses. Moreover, vaccination with SARS-CoV-2 S2 elicited antibodies in mice that neutralized diverse animal and human alphacoronaviruses and betacoronaviruses in vitro and provided a degree of protection against SARS-CoV-2 challenge in vivo. Last, in mice with a history of SARS-CoV-2 Wuhan-based S vaccination, further S2 vaccination induced broader neutralizing antibody response than booster Wuhan S vaccination, suggesting that it may prevent repertoire focusing caused by repeated homologous vaccination. These data establish the protective value of an S2-targeting vaccine and support the notion that S2 vaccination may better prepare the immune system to respond to the changing nature of the S1 subunit in SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern, as well as to future coronavirus zoonoses.

Influenza returns with a season dominated by clade 3C.2a1b.2a.2 A(H3N2) viruses, WHO European Region, 2021/22

In the WHO European Region, COVID-19 non-pharmaceutical interventions continued slowing influenza circulation in the 2021/22 season, with reduced characterisation data. A(H3) predominated and, in some countries, co-circulated with A(H1)pdm09 and B/Victoria viruses. No B/Yamagata virus detections were confirmed. Substantial proportions of characterised circulating virus subtypes or lineages differed antigenically from their respective northern hemisphere vaccine components. Appropriate levels of influenza virus characterisations should be maintained until the season end and in future seasons, when surveillance is adapted to integrate SARS-CoV-2.

Genetic diversity of influenza A viruses circulating in Bulgaria during the 2018-2019 winter season

Introduction

Influenza viruses evolve rapidly and change their antigenic characteristics, necessitating biannual updates of flu vaccines.

Aim

The aim of this study was to characterize influenza viruses circulating in Bulgaria during the 2018/2019 season and to identify amino acid substitutions in them that might impact vaccine effectiveness.

Methodology

Typing/subtyping of influenza viruses were performed using real-time Reverse Transcription-PCR (RT-PCR) and results of phylogenetic and amino acid sequence analyses of influenza strains are presented.

Results

A(H1N1)pdm09 (66 %) predominated over A(H3N2) (34 %) viruses, with undetected circulation of B viruses in the 2018/2019 season. All A(H1N1)pdm09 viruses studied fell into the recently designated 6B.1A subclade with over 50 % falling in four subgroups: 6B.1A2, 6B.1A5, 6B.1A6 and 6B.1A7. Analysed A(H3N2) viruses belonged to subclades 3C.2a1b and 3C.2a2. Amino acid sequence analysis of 36 A(H1N1)pdm09 isolates revealed the presence of six–ten substitutions in haemagglutinin (HA), compared to the A/Michigan/45/2015 vaccine virus, three of which occurred in antigenic sites Sa and Cb, together with four–nine changes at positions in neuraminidase (NA), and a number of substitutions in internal proteins. HA1 D222N substitution, associated with increased virulence, was identified in two A(H1N1)pdm09 viruses. Despite the presence of several amino acid substitutions, A(H1N1)pdm09 viruses remained antigenically similar to the vaccine virus. The 28 A(H3N2) viruses characterized carried substitutions in HA, including some in antigenic sites A, B, C and E, in NA and internal protein sequences.

Conclusion

The results of this study showed the genetic diversity of circulating influenza viruses and the need for continuous antigenic and molecular surveillance.

Development of the FAST-M maternal sepsis bundle for use in low-resource settings: a modified Delphi process

Objective

To develop a sepsis care bundle for the initial management of maternal sepsis in low resource settings.

Design

Modified Delphi process.

Setting

Participants from 34 countries.

Population

Healthcare practitioners working in low resource settings (n = 143; 34 countries), members of an expert panel (n = 11) and consultation with the World Health Organization Global Maternal and Neonatal Sepsis Initiative technical working group.

Methods

We reviewed the literature to identify all potential interventions and practices around the initial management of sepsis that could be bundled together. A modified Delphi process, using an online questionnaire and in‐person meetings, was then undertaken to gain consensus on bundle items. Participants ranked potential bundle items in terms of perceived importance and feasibility, considering their use in both hospitals and health centres. Findings from the healthcare practitioners were then triangulated with those of the experts.

Main outcome measure

Consensus on bundle items.

Results

Consensus was reached after three consultation rounds, with the same items deemed most important and feasible by both the healthcare practitioners and expert panel. Final bundle items selected were: (1) Fluids, (2) Antibiotics, (3) Source identification and control, (4) Transfer (to appropriate higher‐level care) and (5) Monitoring (of both mother and neonate as appropriate). The bundle was given the acronym ‘FAST‐M’.

Conclusion

A clinically relevant maternal sepsis bundle for low resource settings has been developed by international consensus.

Tweetable abstract

A maternal sepsis bundle for low resource settings has been developed by international consensus.

A maternal sepsis bundle for low resource settings has been developed by international consensus.

Patient-reported outcome measurement compared with professional judgment of cosmetic results after breast-conserving therapy

Background

In the present study, we set out to compare patient-reported outcomes with professional judgment about cosmesis after breast-conserving therapy (bct) and to evaluate which items (position of the nipple, color, scar, size, shape, and firmness) correlate best with subjective outcome.

Methods

Dutch patients treated with bct between 2008 and 2009 were analyzed. Exclusion criteria were prior amputation or bct of the contralateral breast, metastatic disease, local recurrence, or any prior cosmetic breast surgery. Structured questionnaires and standardized six-view photographs were obtained with a minimum of 3 years' follow-up. Cosmetic outcome was judged by the patients and, based on photographs, by 5 different medical professionals using 3 different scoring systems: the Harvard scale, the Sneeuw questionnaire, and a numeric rating scale. Agreement was scored using the intraclass correlation coefficient (icc). The association between items of the Sneeuw questionnaire and a fair-poor Harvard score was estimated using logistic regression analysis.

Results

The study included 108 female patients (age: 40-91 years). Based on the Harvard scale, agreement on cosmetic outcome between the professionals was good (icc: 0.78). In contrast, agreement between professionals as a group compared with the patients was found to be fair to moderate (icc range: 0.38-0.50). The items "size" and "shape" were identified as the strongest determinants of cosmetic outcome.

Conclusions

Cosmetic outcome was scored differently by patients and professionals. Agreement was greater between the professionals than between the patients and the professionals as a group. In general, size and shape were the most prominent items on which cosmetic outcome was judged by patients and professionals alike.

Antigenic and genetic characterization of influenza viruses isolated in Mozambique during the 2015 season

BACKGROUND

Due to the high rate of antigenic variation of influenza virus, seasonal characterization of the virus is crucial to assess and monitor the emergence of new pathogenic variants and hence formulate effective control measures. However, no study has yet been conducted in Mozambique to assess genetic, antigenic and antiviral susceptibility profile of influenza virus.

METHODS

A subset of samples (n = 20) from influenza positive children detected in two hospitals in Maputo city during 2015 season as part of the implementation of influenza surveillance system, were selected. The following assays were performed on these samples: antigenic characterization by hemagglutination inhibition assay, genetic characterization by Sanger sequencing of hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA) and susceptibility to oseltamivir and zanamivir (NA inhibitors) by enzymatic assay.

RESULTS

The A(H1N1)pdm09 subtype viruses remained closely related antigenically and genetically to the 2016 vaccine virus A/California/7/2009 and other widely distributed viruses belonging to genetic group 6B. The majority of influenza A(H3N2) viruses studied were antigenically similar to the 2016-2017 vaccine virus, A/Hong Kong/4801/2014, and their HA and NA gene sequences fell into genetic subclade 3C.2a being closely related to viruses circulating in southern Africa. The influenza B viruses were antigenically similar to the 2016 season vaccine virus and HA sequences of all three fell into the B/Yamagata-lineage, clade 3, but contained NA genes of the B/Victoria-lineage. All tested viruses were sensitive to oseltamivir and zanamivir.

CONCLUSION

Overall, all Mozambican influenza A and B viruses were most closely related to Southern African viruses and all were sensitive to oseltamivir and zanamivir. These findings suggest the existence of an ecological niche of influenza viruses within the region and hence highlighting the need for joint epidemiologic and virologic surveillance to monitor the evolution of influenza viruses.

Antigenic and genetic characterization of influenza viruses circulating in Bulgaria during the 2015/2016 season

Influenza virological surveillance is an essential tool for early detection of novel genetic variants of epidemiologic and clinical significance. The aim of this study was to determine the antigenic and molecular characteristics of influenza viruses circulating in Bulgaria during the 2015/2016 season. The season was characterized by dominant circulation of A(H1N1)pdm09 viruses, accounting for 66% of detected influenza viruses, followed by B/Victoria-lineage viruses (24%) and A(H3N2) viruses (10%). All sequenced influenza A(H1N1)pdm09, A(H3N2) and B/Victoria-lineage viruses belonged to the 6B.1, 3C.2a and 1A genetic groups, respectively. Amino acid analysis of 57 A(H1N1)pdm09 isolates revealed the presence of 16 changes in hemagglutinin (HA) compared to the vaccine virus, five of which occurred in four antigenic sites, together with 16 changes in neuraminidase (NA) and a number of substitutions in proteins MP, NP, NS and PB2. Despite the many amino acid substitutions, A(H1N1)pdm09 viruses remained antigenically closely related to A/California/7/2009 vaccine virus. Bulgarian A(H3N2) strains (subclade 3C.2a) showed changes at 11 HA positions four of which were located in antigenic sites A and B, together with 6 positions in NA, compared to the subclade 3C.3a vaccine virus. They contained unique HA1 substitutions N171K, S312R and HA2 substitutions I77V and G155E compared to Bulgarian 3C.2a viruses of the previous season. All 20 B/Victoria-lineage viruses sequenced harboured two substitutions in the antigenic 120-loop region of HA, and 5 changes in NA, compared to the B/Brisbane/60/2008 vaccine virus. The results of this study reaffirm the continuous genetic variability of circulating seasonal influenza viruses and the need for continued systematic antigenic and molecular surveillance.

Comprehensive phytochemical characterization of St. John's wort (Hypericum perforatum L.) oil macerates obtained by different extraction protocols via analytical tools applicable in routine control

The aim of the present study was to investigate the impact of crucial process parameters, i.e. of light and temperature conditions, during the preparation of St. John's wort (SJW, Hypericum perforatum L.) Arachis oil macerates. Extracts were prepared according to a standardized protocol over a period of 28 days. For this purpose, flowering tops of H. perforatum were macerated with Arachis oil (drug extract ratio, DERnative 1:4) under different light and temperature conditions. Spectrophotometric measurements were carried out to quantitate naphthodianthrones and to characterize extract color in the CIE L*C*h° system. Moreover, individual plant secondary metabolites were screened by UHPLC-DAD-MSn measurements following liquid-liquid extraction of the oil macerates with methanol. For quantitation purposes, the chromatographic method was validated using reference standards. This methodology allowed the separation of up to 25 constituents in oily and methanolic SJW extracts, covering hydroxycinnamic acids, flavanols, proanthocyanidins, flavonol glycosides, flavonol aglyca, biflavones, bisanthraquinone glycosides, naphthodianthrones and phloroglucinols. Lowest naphthodianthrone contents were determined in oil macerates recovered at 5 °C, whereas highest amounts were detected upon extraction at 50 °C (both under the exclusion of light). Color shades of the oil macerates differed markedly, revealing e. g. a*-values ranging from -4.6±0.3 to 42.5±0.3. The flavonoids quercetin, kaempferol and I3, II8-biapigenin as well as the phloroglucinols hyperforin and adhyperforin could be simultaneously detected and quantitated in all oil macerates. Contents of these constituents varied noticeably between macerates prepared under different conditions (quercetin 14.7±1.2 to 21.8±0.6 μg/g, kaempferol 3.0±0.1 to 5.4±0.4 μg/g, I3, II8-biapigenin 4.4±0.2 to 7.4±0.4 μg/g, hyperforin 52.6±46.0 to 451.4±24.9 μg/g, adhyperforin 6.9±5.7 to 74.5±7.1 μg/g). These results confirm that the quality of the resulting plant extracts is largely determined by the respective process parameters, i.e. especially temperature and light conditions, and thus must be thoroughly chosen and monitored to obtain tailor-made preparations.

Future directions for the European influenza reference laboratory network in influenza surveillance

By defining strategic objectives for the network of influenza laboratories that have national influenza centre status or national function within European Union Member States, Iceland and Norway, it is possible to align their priorities in undertaking virological surveillance of influenza. This will help maintain and develop the network to meet and adapt to new challenges over the next 3-5 years and underpin a longer-term strategy over 5-10 years. We analysed the key activities undertaken by influenza reference laboratories in Europe and categorised them into a framework of four key strategic objectives areas: enhancing laboratory capability, ensuring laboratory capacity, providing emergency response and translating laboratory data into information for public health action. We make recommendations on the priority areas for future development.

A multidisciplinary team approach minimises prophylactic mastectomy rates

BACKGROUND

Prophylactic mastectomy (PM) has become increasingly common but is not without complications especially if accompanied by reconstructive surgery. In patients with sporadic unilateral breast cancer, contralateral PM offers no survival advantage. Multidisciplinary team (MDT) communication and interaction may facilitate shared decision-making and curtail PM rates. The aim of this study was investigate the effect of a regional MDT meeting on PM decision-making.

METHODS

We conducted an observational study involving retrospective review of prospectively recorded MDT meeting records for a 151 patient requests for PM from 2011 to 2014. Final MDT decisions were recorded as PM 'accepted', 'declined' or 'pending'. For MDT sanctioned requests, the factors justifying PM were recorded. Where PM was declined, justification for MDT refusal was sought and recorded.

RESULTS

Approximately half of all requests for PM have been upheld (53.0%) and 1/3 of requests have been declined (32.5%). Of those declined, low risk of contralateral breast cancer versus relatively high risk of systemic relapse were commonly cited as justification for PM refusal (45.7%). A proportion of patients who initiated PM discussion subsequently changed their minds (19.6%), or failed to attend clinic appointments (6.5%). Some patients were deemed medically unfit for complex reconstructive surgery (13%), or were declined on the basis of an apparent cosmetic drive for surgery (6.5%), concerns regarding depression or anxiety (2.2%) and/or if family history could not be substantiated (6.5%).

DISCUSSION

MDT meetings facilitate cross-specialty interrogation of requests for PM, minimise unnecessary surgery and restrict PM to those likely to derive maximum benefit.

Cluster of influenza A cases in vaccinated population of adults in Virology Laboratory in Glasgow in December 2012

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

The majority of influenza infections during the 2012/2013 influenza season in Scotland have been due to influenza A H3N2. We report an outbreak of influenza A H3N2 in a vaccinated population of adults in the Regional Virology Laboratory in Glasgow. This investigation was carried out to confirm the epidemiological link between cases.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Staff with clinical symptoms of influenza-like illness were included. Samples were tested by real-time polymerase chain reaction and sequencing. Staff were interviewed to obtain information regarding symptom onset and vaccination status. Eight confirmed cases and six clinically diagnosed cases were reported, which all occurred within 4 days of a lunchtime Christmas quiz. The eight samples subtyped as H3 virus. The haemagglutinin gene in the confirmed cases was sequenced and shown to be identical. Most of the attendees had been immunised against influenza with the same vaccine batch at least 6 weeks earlier.

CONCLUSION

This outbreak appears to have been an isolated incident, which arose due to a social event that provided the ideal conditions for transmission of a respiratory disease. It may have been compounded by low-vaccine effectiveness this season. Sequence data supported the epidemiological link.

Laboratory preparedness in EU/EEA countries for detection of novel avian influenza A(H7N9) virus, May 2013

Following human infections with novel avian influenza A(H7N9) viruses in China, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, the World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Office for Europe and the European Reference Laboratory Network for Human Influenza (ERLI-Net) rapidly posted relevant information, including real-time RT-PCR protocols. An influenza RNA sequence-based computational assessment of detection capabilities for this virus was conducted in 32 national influenza reference laboratories in 29 countries, mostly WHO National Influenza Centres participating in the WHO Global Influenza Surveillance and Response System (GISRS). Twenty-seven countries considered their generic influenza A virus detection assay to be appropriate for the novel A(H7N9) viruses. Twenty-two countries reported having containment facilities suitable for its isolation and propagation. Laboratories in 27 countries had applied specific H7 real-time RT-PCR assays and 20 countries had N9 assays in place. Positive control virus RNA was provided by the WHO Collaborating Centre in London to 34 laboratories in 22 countries to allow evaluation of their assays. Performance of the generic influenza A virus detection and H7 and N9 subtyping assays was good in 24 laboratories in 19 countries. The survey showed that ERLI-Net laboratories had rapidly developed and verified good capability to detect the novel A(H7N9) influenza viruses.

Evaluation of the mechanism of gelation of an oleogel based on a triterpene extract from the outer bark of birch

Oleogels are known for their high physical, chemical, and mechanical stability and good in vivo efficacy, which make them appropriate vehicles for dermal drug delivery and skin care for very dry skin. Modern formulation research focusses on well tolerated and sustainable formulation concepts. This paper deals with an innovative oleogel, which is based on a triterpene dry extract from the outer bark of birch (TE). In this formulation TE does not only act as an excipient but provides interesting pharmacological properties at the same time. The oleogel was formulated using solely Simmondsia Chinensis seed oil (jojoba oil) and TE. Fluorescence microscopy and confocal Raman microscopy showed that suspended TE particles arrange in a three-dimensional gel network. Infrared spectroscopy revealed that the formation of hydrogen bonds between TE particles is responsible for the self-assembly of TE in oil. Moreover, the influence of TE concentration and morphology of the TE particles on the viscoelasticity of the resulting oleogels was analyzed. Gel strength increased with TE concentration and was critical to the specific surface area of the TE particles.

In vitro skin permeation and penetration of nonivamide from novel film-forming emulsions

The purpose of this study was to develop film-forming emulsions (FFE) facilitating long-term treatment of chronic pruritus with capsaicinoids. To this end, oil-in-water emulsions, which comprise dispersions of sustained-release polymers, were examined. Such emulsions form a film when applied to the skin and encapsulate the oily drug solution in a dry polymeric matrix. Permeation of the antipruritic drug nonivamide (NVA) is controlled by the matrix. Permeation rates of NVA from FFE and its concentration in the skin are equivalent to those achieved with a conventional semisolid formulation, but can be maintained for a longer period of time. FFE may therefore improve the treatment of chronic pruritus with capsaicinoids by enhancing patient compliance by means of a sustained-release regimen.

Zinc Detection in Serum by Anodic Stripping Voltammetry on Microfabricated Bismuth Electrodes

Zinc (Zn) homeostasis is required for a functional immune system. Critically ill patients often exhibit decreased Zn serum concentrations and could potentially benefit from Zn supplementation as a therapeutic strategy. However, the conventional approaches to monitoring Zn are time consuming and costly. This work reports on detection of Zn by anodic stripping voltammetry (ASV) on bismuth electrodes in a microfabricated electrochemical cell. The working potential window of the electrodeposited bismuth film electrode was investigated by cyclic voltammetry, while square wave ASV was used for measuring Zn in acetate buffer and blood serum. Conditions critical to sensing, such as preconcentration potential, preconcentration time, and buffer pH, were optimized for Zn detection. The sensor was successfully calibrated with pH 6 acetate buffer in the physiologically-relevant range of 5 μM to 50μM Zn and exhibited well-defined and highly repeatable peaks. The sensor was used to demonstrate measurement of Zn in blood serum digested in HCl. The results of this work show that Zn detection in serum is possible with smaller sample volumes (μL vs. μL) and faster turnaround time (hours vs. days) as compared with the conventional spectroscopic methods.

Hypericin for visualization of high grade gliomas: first clinical experience

AIMS

We aimed to demonstrate that Hypericin, a component of St. Johns Wort, selectively visualizes malignant gliomas. Hypericin is known as one of the most powerful photosensitizers in nature with excellent fluorescent properties.

METHODS

In five patients with a recurrence of a malignant glioma a newly developed water soluble formulation of hypericin was given intravenously (0.1 mg/kg body weight) 6 h before the surgical procedure. Tumor resection was performed under white light and fluorescence mode. The intensity grade of the tissue fluorescence was categorisized by the surgeon in three grades, highly fluorescent, weakly fluorescent and not fluorescent. In these areas tissue samples were taken and investigated by two blinded independent neuropathologists. Tissue samples were histologically classified differentiating between tumor tissue, tumor necrosis, tissue with scattered tumor cells and normal brain tissue.

RESULTS

In all patients tumor tissue was clearly distinguishable by its typically red fluorescence color from normal brain tissue which was colored blue under a special fluorescent filter. Histological evaluation of the 110 tissue samples showed a specificity of 100% and sensitivity of 91% for one of the two neuropathologists, whereas specificity for second pathologist was 90% and sensitivity 94%. The i.v. application of Hypericin proofed to be safe in all cases and there were no side effects observed.

CONCLUSION

Hypericin in its water soluble form is a well tolerated drug. In addition to its high photosensitizing properties hypericin will open up interesting new therapeutic possibilities especially when used in combination with fluorescence detection and simultaneously photodynamic therapy.

[The psychometric properties of three self-report screening instruments for identifying frail older people in the community]

BACKGROUND

Frailty can lead towards serious adverse consequences, such as disability. With regard to prevention valid screening instruments are needed to identify frail older people. The aim was to evaluate and compare the psychometric properties of three screening instruments: the Groningen Frailty Indicator (GFI), the Tilburg Frailty Indicator (TFI) and the Sherbrooke Postal Questionnaire (SPQ). For validation purposes the Groningen Activity Restriction Scale (GARS) was added.

METHODS

A questionnaire was sent to 687 older people (> or = 70 years). (1) Agreement between instruments, (2) internal consistency, (3) cumulative scalability according to Mokken scale analysis and (4) construct validity were evaluated.

RESULTS

The response rate was 77%. Prevalence estimates of frailty ranged from 40% to 59%. The highest agreement was found between the GFI and TFI (Cohen's kappa = 0.74). Cronbach's alpha for the GFI, TFI and SPQ was 0.73, 0.79 and 0.26, respectively. The scalability of the three instruments was inadequate (Loevinger's H: 0.28, 0.30 and 0.09 for GFI, TFI and SPQ, respectively). Frailty scores correlated significantly with each other and with the GARS scores.

CONCLUSION

Especially the GFI and TFI seem to be useful to identify frail older people. Further research regarding their predictive validity is still needed.

Start of the influenza season 2008-9 in Europe - increasing influenza activity moving from West to East dominated by A(H3N2)

The influenza season 2008-9 started in week 49 of 2008 and is so far characterised by influenza virus type A subtype H3N2. Isolates of this subtype that were tested proved susceptible to neuraminidase inhibitors, but resistant to M2 inhibitors. The circulating A(H3N2) viruses are antigenically similar to the component in the current northern hemisphere influenza vaccine.

Start of the influenza season 2008-9 in Europe - increasing influenza activity moving from West to East dominated by A(H3N2)

The influenza season 2008-9 started in week 49 of 2008 and is so far characterised by influenza virus type A subtype H3N2. Isolates of this subtype that were tested proved susceptible to neuraminidase inhibitors, but resistant to M2 inhibitors. The circulating A(H3N2) viruses are antigenically similar to the component in the current northern hemisphere influenza vaccine.

Scientific lessons from the first influenza pandemic of the 20th century

Re-analysis of the influenza pandemic of 1918 has given reassurance about a rather low reproductive number (R(o)), a prolonged herald wave of virus and that the skewed mortality towards the young adult could be a singularly unique event dependent upon previous infection history, perhaps not to be repeated in a future pandemic. Over 99% of those who contracted the virus survived, in spite of the absence of antivirals, vaccine and antibiotics for the secondary bacteria infections which probably accounted for one-third of the 50 million deaths. Therefore, in spite of a three-fold population increase since 1918 and 100 thousand plane journeys daily, judicious and careful planning together with a stockpile of antiviral drugs, oseltamivir, zanamivir and M2 blockers and a generic H5N1 vaccine, and application of hygiene would be expected to reduce mortality in a new pandemic, to figures significantly less than 1918.

A hypothesis: the conjunction of soldiers, gas, pigs, ducks, geese and horses in Northern France during the Great War provided the conditions for the emergence of the “Spanish” influenza pandemic of 1918–1919

The Great Influenza Pandemic of 1918-1919 was a cataclysmic outbreak of infection wherein over 50 million people died worldwide within 18 months. The question of the origin is important because most influenza surveillance at present is focussed on S.E. Asia. Two later pandemic viruses in 1957 and 1968 arose in this region. However we present evidence that early outbreaks of a new disease with rapid onset and spreadability, high mortality in young soldiers in the British base camp at Etaples in Northern France in the winter of 1917 is, at least to date, the most likely focus of origin of the pandemic. Pathologists working at Etaples and Aldershot barracks later agreed that these early outbreaks in army camps were the same disease as the infection wave of influenza in 1918. The Etaples camp had the necessary mixture of factors for emergence of pandemic influenza including overcrowding (with 100,000 soldiers daily changing), live pigs, and nearby live geese, duck and chicken markets, horses and an additional factor 24 gases (some of them mutagenic) used in large 100 ton quantities to contaminate soldiers and the landscape. The final trigger for the ensuing pandemic was the return of millions of soldiers to their homelands around the entire world in the autumn of 1918.

Peptide signal molecules and bacteriocins in Gram-negative bacteria: a genome-wide in silico screening for peptides containing a double-glycine leader sequence and their cognate transporters

Quorum sensing (QS) in Gram-negative bacteria is generally assumed to be mediated by N-acyl-homoserine lactone molecules while Gram-positive bacteria make use of signaling peptides. We analyzed the occurrence in Gram-negative bacteria of peptides and transporters that are involved in quorum sensing in Gram-positive bacteria. Many class II bacteriocins and inducing factors produced by lactic acid bacteria (LAB) and competence stimulating peptides (CSPs) synthesized by streptococci are processed by their cognate ABC-transporters during their secretion. During transport, a conserved leader sequence, termed the double-glycine motif (GG-motif), is cleaved off by the N-terminal domain of the transporter, which belongs to the Peptidase C39 protein family. Several peptides containing a GG-motif were recently described in Gram-negative bacteria (Trends Microbiol 2001;9:164-8). To screen for additional putative GG-motif containing peptides, an in silico strategy based on MEME, HMMER2.2 and Wise2 was designed. Using a curated training set, a motif model of the leader peptide was built and used to screen over 120 fully sequenced bacterial genomes. The screening methodology was applied at the nucleotide level as probably many small peptide genes have not been annotated and may be absent from the non-redundant databases. It was found that 33% of the screened genomes of Gram-negative bacteria contained one or more transporters carrying a Peptidase C39 domain, compared to 44% of the genomes of Gram-positive bacteria. The transporters can be subdivided into four classes on the basis of their domain organization. Genes coding for putative peptides containing 23-142 amino acids and a GG-motif were found in close association with genes coding for Peptidase C39 domain containing proteins. These peptides show structural similarity to bacteriocins and peptide pheromones of Gram-positive bacteria. The possibility of signal transduction based on peptide signaling in Gram-negative bacteria is discussed.

Trace metal speciation and contamination in an intertidal estuary

An analysis of the geochemical distribution of selected trace metals among various geochemical phases of the sediments in the Tees estuary was carried out using a sequential extraction technique and Differential Stripping Voltammetry. The sediments of the estuary are mainly organic rich clay silts and metal concentrations exceed those in the water column. Speciation results show that contamination of the estuary is mainly from anthropogenic sources. Pb and Zn are associated with the reducible, residual and oxidisable fractions. The speciation pattern of Cd was similar to those of lead and zinc. However there were also some exchangeable and bound to carbonate fractions although these were less significant. Cu is largely associated with the oxidisable and residual fractions, with insignificant bound to carbonate, exchangeable and reducible fractions. The most bioavailable forms of the metals are the free inorganic ions. Total metal concentrations in the estuary display a downward trend since the 1970s.

Gene expression studies on human primordial germ cells and preimplantation embryos

Research on the regulation of gene expression in human germ cells and preimplantation embryos is restricted due to the scarcity of samples and the requirement for highly sensitive molecular techniques to investigate the few cells available. To overcome these difficulties, we have developed a reliable procedure capable of generating amplified cDNA preparations from single cells. Using this procedure, we prepared cDNA from primordial germ cells (PGCs) isolated from the gonads of fetuses at 10 weeks gestation and from preimplantation embryos at the 1-cell, 4-cell, 8-cell and blastocyst stages. Our cDNA preparations allow us to investigate the expression profile of an almost unlimited number of different genes in the same sample preparation. This is of great advantage for studies of a panel of genes in a particular family or functional group, or with related mechanisms of regulation, e.g., developmental genes, oncogenes, cell cycle-control genes and imprinted genes. We have used these cDNA preparations in conjunction with differential display to identify genes specifically expressed in PGCs and preimplantation embryos in a sex- and developmental stage-specific manner. Genes specifically expressed in PGCs, oocytes and embryos were further analysed for their expression in embryonal carcinoma cells and in their differentiated derivatives following treatment by retinoic acid. Our strategy will disclose genes essential for gametogenesis and embryonic development which may only be expressed at certain stages of their development. The germ cell- and embryo-specific cDNA molecules, cDNA libraries and microarrays are a valuable resource for other researchers in this field.

Comparison of gene transcription in cloned bovine embryos produced by different nuclear transfer techniques

The efficiency of animal production using cloning technology is still relatively low and research to determine a more efficient nuclear transfer procedure is ongoing. One approach which may be informative in assessing the viability of nuclear transfer embryos is the analysis of embryonic gene expression. Using RT-PCR techniques we have previously detected the aberrant expression of FGF4, FGFr2 and IL6 in a significant proportion of bovine granulosa cell-derived nuclear transfer embryos, which correlated with a limited developmental potential in vivo. In order to analyse the effect of different donor cell nuclei on embryonic gene expression we have now analysed the expression of these genes in nuclear transfer embryos reconstructed with fetal epithelial cell nuclei. In addition, we have compared the expression of these genes in bovine nuclear transfer embryos produced by cell fusion or direct injection with variations in the timing of oocyte activation. In all nuclear transfer embryos analysed, FGFr2 and IL6 transcripts were detected at a similar rate to that in IVF embryos. However, the absence of FGF4 transcripts was again evident in a large proportion of nuclear transfer embryos and most significantly in those embryos whose development was activated almost immediately following the transfer of the donor nucleus. The results demonstrate the effects that different donor cell lines and different nuclear transfer procedures may have on the expression of developmentally important genes in nuclear transfer embryos.

The Medical Education Commission report on trends in graduate medical education 2001

The state of Louisiana Medical Education Commission offers the second publication in the Journal of Louisiana State Medical Society on Graduate Medical Education (GME) in Louisiana. The four previous annual reports of the Commission have provided data to focus on trends in size, status, proportions, and issues on GME. The Commission was established by Act 3 of the 1997 Louisiana Legislature. This summary report for 2001 provides the detailed and updated data on all GME residents and fellows in Louisiana for the last academic year. The presentation of data and trends poses three questions for analysis. First, what are the trends in Graduate Medical Education in Louisiana for total residents and fellows? Second, how do these trends relate to the size, status, and proportions of Graduate Medical Education in Louisiana and as compared to the United States? Third, where do these trends lead to the future in predictions and recommendations for Graduate Medical Education in Louisiana? The 4-year trend in the total number of Graduate Medical Education filled positions has been relatively consistent, with some recent increases in primary care residency positions, especially in Family Medicine and Medicine/Pediatrics. These increases will plateau as current trends on new program formation stabilize, requiring emphasis on recruitment and factors promoting recruitment for GME in the state of Louisiana. The state of Louisiana has participated proportionately relative to population in the growth of medical education in the last century and compares favorably with other states and the nation. Louisiana has exceeded national averages in the increases in primary care programs and residents and in the retention of trainees in practice sites in the state.

Treatment of grade 4 renal stab wounds with absorbable fibrin adhesive bandage in a porcine model

PURPOSE

In a porcine model we evaluated the efficacy of the absorbable fibrin adhesive bandage and other novel fibrin products for treating major renal stab wounds.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In commercial swine we produced an almost lethal, grade 4 renal stab wound via a 3.5 cm. sagittal, centrally located, through-and-through laceration. Each pig then received treatment in random fashion, including conventional oversewing of capsular defects with absorbable gelatin sponge and horizontal mattress sutures in 6, external absorbable fibrin adhesive bandage that was pressure held for 60 seconds in 6, external and internal absorbable fibrin adhesive bandage that was applied externally, inserted into the renal defect and pressure held for 60 seconds in 6, liquid fibrin sealant that was placed in the laceration and held for 60 seconds in 8, fibrin foam that was applied in the same manner as liquid fibrin in 5 and closing of the peritoneum over the lacerated kidney without further treatment in 6. Blood loss and time to hemostasis were recorded. Animals were sacrificed at 6 weeks to evaluate the injured renal unit.

RESULTS

Compared with conventional therapy the absorbable fibrin adhesive bandage applied externally alone or externally and internally resulted in significantly less bleeding and significantly less time to hemostasis (p <0.001). Liquid fibrin and fibrin foam did not reliably achieve hemostasis. Postoperatively computerized tomography and histological sectioning suggested that the absorbable fibrin adhesive bandage results in a stable, durable clot and healing is at least as successful as with conventional treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

The absorbable fibrin adhesive bandage appears to be a safe, rapid means of renal salvage after injury.

Movement of petroleum hydrocarbons in sandy coastal soils

In a field trial, oiled beach sand was buried in a coastal dune system in south Wales. A monitoring programme was designed to assess the rate of leaching of inorganic ions and hydrocarbons from the deposit. Active breakdown of the weathered oil occurred within the oiled beach sand, but hydrocarbons from the original material, or arising as a result of degradation, did not follow the same leaching pattern as inorganic ions; they remained within the original deposit. The results suggest that weathered oil coming ashore from spills at sea can be mixed with sand and buried to degrade in coastal soils, without risk of groundwater contamination by hydrocarbons.