MedWorm: Laboratory Medicine

Endothelin-1, big endothelin-1, and nitric oxide in patients with chronic renal disease and hypertension

Journal of Clinical Laboratory Analysis — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 16:25:53 +0100

The complex pathogenesis of chronic renal disease (CRD) depends on endothelin (ET) axis (ETs and ET receptors) and nitric oxide (NO) because of their vasoactive effects and their role in general modulation of vascular homeostasis. Various renal cells synthesize ETs and NO that play a significant role in renal hemodynamics as well as in water and salt excretion via urine. ET-1 is a strong vasoconstrictor. Besides its vasoactive effects, ET-1 modulates mitosis and apoptosis in a cell type-dependent manner, and may play an important role in CRD pathogenesis. The aims of this study were to emphasize the role and interactions of ET-1, Big ET-1, and NO in CRD. Concentrations of these vasoactive molecules were measured in plasma/serum and/or urine of 57 patients with diabetic nephropathy (subgrou...

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ESEM imaging of dynamic biological processes: the closure of stomatal pores

Journal of Microscopy — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Historically, electron microscopy of dynamic biological processes has been impossible to achieve in real time because conventional electron microscopy requires specimen fixation, dehydration and metallic coating. The advent of the environmental scanning electron microscope removes these restrictions, allowing fully hydrated samples to be imaged in their native state. We explore the possibility of secondary electron imaging of biological systems undergoing natural morphological changes in the microscope chamber and present a proof of principle study on the closure of stomatal pores in Tradescantia andersonia leaf tissue. An imaging protocol is developed and the advantages and limitations of this high-resolution imaging technique are considered, including a discussion of potential beam damag...

Recrystallization of plane strain compressed Al–1 wt.% Mn alloy single crystals of typical unstable orientations

Journal of Microscopy — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

A systematic study of crystal lattice reorientation in early stages of recrystallization has been carried out to correlate the orientations of recrystallization nuclei with the deformation microtexture and with slip systems. Microstructure and texture of Al[ndash]1 wt.% Mn single crystals of unstable initial orientations of {112}〈111〉, {100}〈001〉 and {001}〈110〉 have been examined by high-resolution field-emission gun scanning electron microscope local orientation measurements. All single crystals were channel-die deformed at room temperature and then annealed for a short time. It was shown that often observed presence of the 〈112〉 directions as rotation axes in the formation of new nuclei orientation directly suggested a close link wi...

TEM studies of plasma nitrided austenitic stainless steel

Journal of Microscopy — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Cross-sectional transmission electron microscopy and X-ray phase analysis were used to study the structure of a layer formed during nitriding the AISI 316L stainless steel at temperature 440°C. It was found that the applied treatment led to the formation of 6-[mu]m-thick layer of the S-phase. There is no evidence of CrN precipitation. The X-ray diffraction experiments proved that the occurred austenite lattice expansion [ndash] due to nitrogen atoms [ndash] depended on the crystallographic direction. The cross-sectional transmission electron microscopy studies showed that the layer consisted of a single cubic phase that contained a lot of defects such as dislocations, stacking faults, slip bands and twins. The high-resolution electron microscopy observations were applied to study the defe...

Depth measurements of etch-pits in GaN with shape reconstruction from SEM images

Journal of Microscopy — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

The method, which allows shape reconstruction by reading the intensity from the scanning electron microscopy image, is presented and discussed in details. The method is applied to read the morphology of etch-pits, which were formed on the GaN surface by etching in molten KOH[ndash]NaOH eutectic mixture to delineate dislocations. The etch-pit depth distributions are obtained and used to determine densities of pits related to screw, mixed or edge-type dislocations. The results are compared with atomic force microscopy. (Source: Journal of Microscopy)

TEM studies of melt-spun alloys with liquid miscibility gap

Journal of Microscopy — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

The microstructures of the Fe[ndash]Cu-based alloys melt-spun from various temperatures are presented. Two compositions, with different Fe and Cu content, revealing liquid miscibility gap, were studied. Nonuniform, large-elongated areas were observed for lower melt-spinning temperatures, indicating liquid/liquid phase separation in the crucible before cooling. An increase of the melt ejection temperature, followed by rapid cooling, brought about precipitation process within homogeneous melt. Studies of the system with higher Fe content proved amorphous nature of the matrix and crystalline structure of the primary formed Cu-rich precipitates. Moreover, generations of the secondary spherical particles, precipitated within the previously formed Cu-rich melt, were observed. The microstructure ...

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Electron detection in the intermediate chamber of the variable pressure SEM

Journal of Microscopy — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Two concepts of the secondary electron detection inside the intermediate chamber of the variable pressure scanning electron microscopy have been discussed. One of them, the two-stage secondary electron detector has been the subject of previous publications. The other one, the intermediate secondary electron detector is an improved solution in respect of its complexity, vacuum demands and dimensions. Both detector systems apply some kinds of scintillators, so they present advantages specific for scintillator detectors but extended to a wide range of gas pressures, from high vacuum to pressures exceeding 10 mbar. The detector functioning is illustrated with computer simulations of electron and ion flow in the input region of the detectors made with use of the MC[ndash]SIMION program. This so...

Dependence of cathodoluminescence on layer resistance applied for measurement of thin-layer sheet resistance

Journal of Microscopy — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

The dependence of spatially and spectrally resolved cathodoluminescence in a scanning electron microscope on resistances in semiconductor structures, especially on the layer resistance, is reported. This previously unstudied dependence is utilized for thin-layer sheet-resistance measurement. The method is illustrated by an assessment of lateral confinements in semiconductor-laser heterostructures. (Source: Journal of Microscopy)

Shear banding phenomenon in a Cu–8 at.% Al alloy analysed by orientation imaging microscopy

Journal of Microscopy — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

The microstructure and texture of Cu[ndash]8 at.% Al alloy single crystal with (112)[11] orientation plane strain compressed at 77 K were characterized by scanning electron microscope and transmission electron microscope orientation mappings in order to investigate the influence of twins and shear bands on slip propagation across a structure of twin-matrix layers and the resulting texture evolution. It was shown that the strong, initial texture changes are due to deformation twinning at low deformations. At larger deformations, twin-matrix bending within some narrow areas led to the formation of kink-type bands, which became the precursors of shear bands. It is shown with scanning electron microscope and transmission electron microscope orientation mappings how the structure of twins and m...

Identification of electron beam vibration sources by separation of magnetic distortion from electric distortion on scanning electron microscope imaging

Journal of Microscopy — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Different types of distortions in scanning electron microscopy require different methods of their elimination, and therefore influence of these types on particular elements of the SEM system should be known. The proposed method allows for separation of the direct influence of the magnetic field on the electron beam in the SEM chamber from its influence in the SEM column and from the distortions generated in the SEM scanning block. For this purpose, a series of distorted images is registered for several working distances (between the final aperture of the electron column and the specimen) and for several energies of the electrons. Magnitudes of the distortions are measured on these images. For each applied electron energy, the dependence of the results versus the working distance is approxi...

TEM characterization of MBE grown CdTe/ZnTe axial nanowires

Journal of Microscopy — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

CdTe/ZnTe axial nanowires were successfully fabricated by molecular beam epitaxy with the use of Au nano-catalysts and vapour[ndash]liquid[ndash]solid growth mechanism. Nanowires had zinc-blende structure with numerous stacking faults in the bottom ZnTe part and near perfect crystalline structure in the top CdTe part. Energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDXS) and lattice fringe spacing analysis revealed nonabrupt nature of hetero[minus]interface, whose width was estimated to be 50[ndash]70 nm for the nanowires having a diameter in the range from 40 to 50 nm. (Source: Journal of Microscopy)

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Microstructural changes during creep of CMSX-4 single crystal Ni base superalloy at 750°C

Journal of Microscopy — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

TEM studies of creep tested CMSX-4 nickel-base single crystal superalloy were performed to analyse a microstructure evolution during creep at temperature 750°C, and uniaxial tensile stress of 675 MPa. Microstructural analyses were focused mainly on examination of dislocation configurations during primary and secondary creep stages of high temperature deformation. At such low temperature and high stress creep deformation proceed by cutting of [gamma]' particles by dislocations. It was found that primary creep is initiated by movement of dislocations with Burgers vector a/2 in the [gamma] phase. The second type of dislocations active at primary creep stage are extended dislocation ribbons with overall a Burgers vector, separated by superlattice stacking faults, cutting both the [gamma] and ...

IgM, IgG, and IgA anti-DNA topoisomerase I antibodies in systemic sclerosis

Journal of Clinical Laboratory Analysis — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: This report confirms that different immunoglobulin classes with anti-topo I activity may occur in SSc. IgG was the predominant serological feature with both, the recombinant and native antigens. The study also demonstrates the association between high levels of these autoantibodies and some clinical manifestations of SSc. J. Clin. Lab. Anal. 23:408-416, 2009. © 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc. (Source: Journal of Clinical Laboratory Analysis)

Prevalence characterization of extended-spectrum [beta]-lactamases among Escherichia coli isolates collected in Zhengzhou

Journal of Clinical Laboratory Analysis — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: We describe a complex ESBL epidemiology. The study revealed a high rate of ESBL-producing E. coli isolates. TEM and CTX-M enzymes dominated in ESBL-positive E. coli isolates in Zhengzhou, China. J. Clin. Lab. Anal. 23:404-407, 2009. © 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc. (Source: Journal of Clinical Laboratory Analysis)

New method for calcium on the ADVIA analyzer is free from interference of gadolinium-type contrast agents

Journal of Clinical Laboratory Analysis — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Recently, Siemens Diagnostics released a new calcium assay (CA_2) based on complex formation of calcium with Arsenazo III dye for use on the three automated, random access ADVIA Chemistry analyzers (1650, 2400, and 1200). We evaluated this method for analytical performance as well as potential interference from gadolinium-containing magnetic contrast agents. With Siemens Chemistry serum and urine controls, 2-levels each, the imprecision for the new method was (n=40 each): within-run and total CV of (Source: Journal of Clinical Laboratory Analysis)

Rapid liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometer (LCMS) method for clozapine and its metabolite N-desmethyl Clozapine (Norclozapine) in human serum

Journal of Clinical Laboratory Analysis — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

This study describes a simple liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometer (LCMS) method in human serum. The ion transitions monitored were m/z 327, 270, 296 for Clozapine, m/z 313, 192, 227 for Norclozapine and m/z 328, 271 for Loxapine. The assay is linear (25-1000 ng/ml) and showed a good correlation (r=0.98) within the analytical range of 79-1210 ng/ml in human serum. This assay is highly specific and sensitive for the simultaneous measurements of Clozapine and Norclozapine. The simplification of this assay makes it ideal for high throughput analyses of the patient samples in a routine clinical laboratory staffed with general medical technologists. J. Clin. Lab. Anal. 23:394-398, 2009. © 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc. (Source: Journal of Clinical Laboratory Analysis)

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CXCL12 rs1801157 polymorphism in patients with breast cancer, hodgkin's lymphoma, and non-hodgkin's lymphoma

Journal of Clinical Laboratory Analysis — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Chemokines and their receptors regulate the trafficking of immune cells during their development, inflammation, and tissue repair. The single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs1801157 (previously known as CXCL12-A/ stromal cell-derived factor-1 (SDF1)-3[prime]A) in CXCL12/SDF1 gene was assessed in breast cancer, Hodgkin's lymphoma (HL), and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL), since the chemokine CXCL12, previously known as SDF1, and its receptor CXCR4 regulate leukocyte trafficking and many essential biological processes, including tumor growth, angiogenesis, and metastasis of different types of tumors. Genotyping was performed by PCR-RFLP (polymerase chain reaction followed by restriction fragment length polymorphism) using a restriction enzyme HpaII cleavage. No significant difference was observ...

Gene diagnosis for nine Chinese patients with DMD/BMD by multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification and prenatal diagnosis for one of them

Journal of Clinical Laboratory Analysis — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

This study aims to perform gene diagnosis for nine patients with Duchenne/Becker muscular dystrophy (DMD/BMD) and their parents with multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification (MLPA), and to carry out prenatal gene diagnosis for one of them. Genomic DNA of the peripheral blood and fetal amniotic fluid cell was extracted from the pedigrees' members with DMD/BMD. Gene diagnosis was performed for theses pedigrees' members using a SALSA KIT. Short tandem repeats (STR) genotyping and X-linkage analysis were performed for the pedigree members of the fetus, which was used in the prenatal diagnosis. MLPA analysis results show that five of nine patients (DMD-1, DMD-2, DMD-4, DMD-8, and DMD-9) with DMD/BMD were found to have several hemizygous exon deletions in the dystrophin gene. The other p...

Increased soluble serum markers caspase-cleaved cytokeratin-18, histones, and ST2 indicate apoptotic turnover and chronic immune response in COPD

Journal of Clinical Laboratory Analysis — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

In this study, we hypothesized that systemic markers of apoptosis are altered in patients with mild-to-severe COPD.Materials and Methods: A total number of 64 patients and controls were enrolled in the study. Lung function parameters of all groups (nonsmoker, healthy smoker, COPD GOLD I&II, COPD GOLD III&IV) were evaluated at the time of inclusion. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays were used to quantify protein levels in serum samples.Results: Serum contents of apoptotic end-products caspase-cleaved cytokeratin-18 and histone-associated-DNA-fragments were increased in patients with COPD, whereas anti-inflammatory soluble ST2 showed a peak in patients with COPD I&II (P=0.031) compared to healthy smokers. Levels of pro-inflammatory caspase-1/ ICE correlated significantly with the number of ...

AML1 amplification and 17q25 deletion in a case of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia

Journal of Clinical Laboratory Analysis — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

We report a case of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) with both acute myeloid leukemia 1 (AML1) amplification and 17q25 deletion. AML1 gene is located on 21q22 and encodes a transcription factor. AML1 amplification is a common finding in childhood ALL, and itis observed as an increase in gene copy number by the FISH analysis. The mechanism of AML1 amplification is not associated with AML1 gene mutations. The 17q25 is a gene-rich chromosomal location and distinct abnormalities of this region have been observed in previous cases of different kinds of leukemia. Deletion of the 17q25 region has been reported in two leukemia patients. Septin 9 (SEPT9) and survivin genes are located on 17q25. High expression of these genes and AML1 amplification are regarded as markers in tumorigenesi...

A novel genetic variant of BMP2K contributes to high myopia

Journal of Clinical Laboratory Analysis — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Loss of eye growth regulation may cause myopia, because modulation of optic globe size is essential for the generation of normal optic power. Evidence has implied variations of BMP2 gene expression mediate ocular development and retinal tissue remodeling. Given BMP2 as a potential regulator involved in myopia development, we investigate whether gene BMP2-inducible kinase (BMP2K, BIKe), whose expression is up-regulated during BMP2-induced osteoblast differentiation, contributes to susceptibility of high myopia. Participants grouped into high myopia had a spherical equivalent greater than -6.00 D, compared with a control group of spherical equivalent less than -0.5 D. Genotyping of polymorphisms 1379 G/A (rs2288255) and 3171 C/G (rs12507099), corresponding with 405 Gly/Ser and 1002 Thr/Ser v...

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Human epididymis protein 4 is a biomarker for transitional cell carcinoma in the urinary system

Journal of Clinical Laboratory Analysis — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Objective: To investigate human epididymis protein 4 (HE4) levels in transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) of the urinary system and its relationship with clinicopathological features.Methods: 102 patients with TCC, 60 with benign urinary diseases, and 60 healthy controls were included in this study. The HE4 levels were used to analyze different clinicopathologic characteristics and changes between pre- and postsurgical operation.Results: The HE4 level was significantly increased in patients with TCC compared to patients with benign urinary diseases patients (P (Source: Journal of Clinical Laboratory Analysis)

Pathology Testing Prices as a Commodity: Australia’s Health System Stands at a Crossroads

Dark Daily — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 16:39:32 +0100

Increased Test Volumes in Recent Years Trigger an Important Review of Coverage and Funding for Pathology Testing Services DATELINE: MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA—Pathology testing is under the gun in Australia. Fast-rising utilization of pathology testing over the past decade has caught the attention of health system policy makers. They are concerned about the funding and clinical service implications [...] (Source: Dark Daily)

JALA Information for authors

Journal of the Association for Laboratory Automation — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 16:39:32 +0100

(Source: Journal of the Association for Laboratory Automation)

World News

Journal of the Association for Laboratory Automation — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 16:39:32 +0100

The Exoscan portable FTIR spectrometer system now offers increased sampling and usability capabilities that extend its capability to an array of applications for lab and/or field use. New sampling interfaces for the Exoscan system include internal reflectance, grazing angle reflectance, diffuse reflectance, and specular reflectance. With these enhancements, Exoscan can accommodate liquids, powders, pastes, and reflective and nonreflective solids. (Source: Journal of the Association for Laboratory Automation)

Please Do Pay Attention to the Man Behind the Curtain

Journal of the Association for Laboratory Automation — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 16:39:32 +0100

“…ALA is an impressive best practices model from which other associations and professional societies learn.” (Source: Journal of the Association for Laboratory Automation)

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Changes, Challenges, and Choices

Journal of the Association for Laboratory Automation — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 16:39:32 +0100

“ALA and JALA have become the intersection at which the vitality of like minds not only connects, but combusts and creates.” (Source: Journal of the Association for Laboratory Automation)

Editorial Board

Journal of the Association for Laboratory Automation — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 16:39:32 +0100

(Source: Journal of the Association for Laboratory Automation)

Journal of the Association for Laboratory Automation — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 16:39:32 +0100

(Source: Journal of the Association for Laboratory Automation)

Subject Index

Journal of the Association for Laboratory Automation — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 16:39:32 +0100

(Source: Journal of the Association for Laboratory Automation)

Author Index

Journal of the Association for Laboratory Automation — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 16:39:32 +0100

(Source: Journal of the Association for Laboratory Automation)

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Meetings and Events

Journal of the Association for Laboratory Automation — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 16:39:32 +0100

December 5–8 2009 ASH Annual Meeting: New Orleans, LA (Source: Journal of the Association for Laboratory Automation)

A Microfluidic Cartridge System for Multiplexed Clinical Analysis

Journal of the Association for Laboratory Automation — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 16:39:32 +0100

Cartridge-based microfluidics is a promising technology for clinical diagnostics. By miniaturizing the fluid-handling processes required for genomic and proteomic analyses, reagent and specimen volume is minimized along with the size of the system. We demonstrate an automated microfluidic system capable of performing six multiplexed genomic and proteomic analyses simultaneously, by means of an integrated electrochemical sensor and embedded controls. (Source: Journal of the Association for Laboratory Automation)

Iridium Oxide Nanomonitors for Real-time Health Monitoring Systems

Journal of the Association for Laboratory Automation — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 16:39:32 +0100

An innovative lab-on-a-chip device based on iridium oxide (IrOx) nanowires was designed, fabricated, and developed for real-time “point-of-care” diagnostics. The turnaround time in detection and the need for expensive equipment for analysis have considverably limited rapid and “point-of-care” diagnosis. This research demonstrates the potential of IrOx nanowires toward early disease diagnosis by detecting proteins that are disease markers. The device designed is based on electrical detection of protein biomarkers wherein a single capture immunoassay is built onto a vertically aligned IrOx nanowire platform. Detection of two inflammatory proteins, C-reactive protein (CRP) and myeloperoxidase (MPO) (Calbiochem, La Jolla, CA), that are biomarkers of cardiovascular diseases is demonstra...

Analysis of Retina and Erythrocyte Glycerophospholipid Alterations in a Rat Model of Type 1 Diabetes

Journal of the Association for Laboratory Automation — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 16:39:31 +0100

An automated tandem mass spectrometry–based analysis using precursor ion and neutral loss scans in a triple quadrupole (QqQ) mass spectrometer has been used to identify and quantify changes in the abundances of glycerophospholipids extracted from retina and erythrocytes in a rat streptozotocin model of type 1 diabetes, 6 and 36 weeks after the induction of diabetes, compared with age-matched nondiabetic controls. The utility of an “internal standard” method compared with an “internal standard free” method for quantification of differences in the abundances of specific lipid ions was evaluated in both retina and erythrocyte lipid extracts. In retina, equivalent results were obtained by using the internal standard and internal standard free methods for quantification. In erythrocy...

Pathway Reporter Assays Reveal Small Molecule Mechanisms of Action

Journal of the Association for Laboratory Automation — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 16:39:31 +0100

Cell-based, phenotypic screening of small molecules often identifies compounds with provocative biological properties. However, determining the cellular target(s) and/or mechanism of action (MoA) of lead compounds remains an extremely challenging and time-consuming exercise. To provide insights into a compound's cellular action and greatly reduce the time required for MoA determination, we have developed a screening platform consisting of an extensive series of reporter gene assays (RGAs). A collection of >11,000 compounds of known MoA (e.g., World Drug Index entries) were screened against the entire panel. The output provided evidence that an RGA signature could be ascribed to numerous, biologically diverse MoAs. The reference database generated suggested novel biological activity for par...

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High-Pressure/High-Temperature Microreactors for Nanostructure Synthesis

Journal of the Association for Laboratory Automation — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 16:39:31 +0100

We describe continuous synthesis of nanostructures in microfluidic systems consisting of multiple sub–millimeter-sized channels in which fluid flows continuously and chemical reactions take place. The small reaction volumes combined with the high heat and mass transfer rates enable reactions to be performed under more controlled conditions with higher yields than can typically be achieved with conventional reactors. Moreover, manipulation of reaction parameters, while the reaction proceeds, allows optimization of synthesis conditions. The ability to work at elevated temperatures and pressures while confining potentially toxic, high reactive starting materials will become important for the synthesis of novel nanostructured materials. (Source: Journal of the Association for Laboratory Auto...

Automation of the SomaLogic Proteomics Assay: A Platform for Biomarker Discovery

Journal of the Association for Laboratory Automation — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 16:39:31 +0100

At SomaLogic, we have embarked on an ambitious program of clinical studies using a novel aptamer-based proteomics technology to discover biomarkers and develop new tools to diagnose, understand, and treat human disease. As part of this program, we designed and implemented an automated assay for its highly multiplexed proteomics discovery platform. The performance of the automated assay was validated in a study that compared the automated assay to the specifications of an established manual method. Results showed that the automated method performed to the required specifications, and that the automation system improved the efficiency, productivity, and economics of our biomarker discovery program. (Source: Journal of the Association for Laboratory Automation)

A Method for Identifying Small-Molecule Aggregators Using Photonic Crystal Biosensor Microplates

Journal of the Association for Laboratory Automation — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 16:39:31 +0100

Small molecules identified through high-throughput screens are an essential element in pharmaceutical discovery programs. It is now recognized that a substantial fraction of small molecules exhibit aggregating behavior leading to false positive results in many screening assays, typically due to nonspecific attachment to target proteins. Therefore, the ability to efficiently identify compounds within a screening library that aggregate can streamline the screening process by eliminating unsuitable molecules from further consideration. In this work, we show that photonic crystal (PC) optical biosensor microplate technology can be used to identify and quantify small-molecule aggregation. A group of aggregators and nonaggregators were tested using the PC technology, and measurements were compar...

Backscattering Interferometry for Low Sample Consumption Molecular Interaction Screening

Journal of the Association for Laboratory Automation — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 16:39:31 +0100

Backscattering interferometry (BSI), which uses a simple optical train comprising a He–Ne laser, a microfluidic channel, and a position sensor, has now enabled the measurement of both tethered and free-solution, label-free, molecular interactions within just nanoliters of sample. The simple macro-to-micro interface allows for a highly efficient assay work flow, which has been used to interrogate molecular binding interactions between proteins, ions and protein, and small molecules and proteins, with a high dynamic range of dissociation constants (KD) and unmatched sensitivity. With this technique, the equilibrium KD for several different binding partners was determined, typically using just picomole–micromole quantities of the binding pair at physiologically relevant concentrations. (S...

Perspectives on Utilizing Unique Features of Microfluidics Technology for Particle and Cell Sorting

Journal of the Association for Laboratory Automation — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 16:39:30 +0100

In this report, we use recent examples from our work to illustrate the potential of microfluidic cell- and particle-sorting devices. We demonstrate the potential of chip-based high-gradient magnetophoresis that enable high-purity separation through reversible trapping of target particles paired with high-stringency washing with minimal loss. We also describe our work in the development of devices that perform simultaneous multitarget sorting, either through precise control of magnetic and fluidic forces or through the integration of multiple actuation forces into a single monolithic device. We believe that such devices may serve as a powerful “front-end” module of highly integrated analytical platforms capable of providing actionable diagnostic information directly from crude, unproces...

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Automation Highlights from the Literature

Journal of the Association for Laboratory Automation — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 16:39:30 +0100

Automated semipreparative LC/MS systems are now well established commercially and commonly used for purification of early stage drug discovery compounds. A number of vendors have instruments on the market that are capable of reliably purifying compounds with good water/acetonitrile solubility. However, these systems often fail when the sample has poor solubility, extreme polarity, and/or poor ionization. Even in cases when substantial optimization has been done before purification, a certain percent of failures to recover the desired product is unavoidable. In the past, when most of the samples run on LC/MS semipreparative systems were large combinatorial libraries, some losses in this high-throughput mode were acceptable. However, now the focus shifted to smaller libraries with higher pur...

GSTP1*B allele increases the risk for asthma in children

Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 16:39:18 +0100

Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine 47 (11): 1451-1453 (Source: Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine)

Quick and easy colorimetric test for calibration control of liquid handling workstations

Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 16:39:18 +0100

Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine 47 (11): 1447-1449 (Source: Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine)

Hypoxia related growth factors and p53 in preoperative sera from patients with colorectal cancer – evaluation of the prognostic significance of these agents

Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 16:39:18 +0100

Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine 47 (11): 1439-1445 Abstract Background: Insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) belong to a group of hypoxia related proteins. IGF-I induces expression of VEGF and decomposes wild type p53 in cancer cell lines. The goal of our study was to evaluate serum IGF-I, VEGF and p53 with respect to overall and disease free survival of patients with colorectal cancer (CRC) patients compared with healthy volunteers. Methods: Preoperative blood samples from 125 patients with CRC and 16 healthy volunteers were examined using ELISA for serum IGF-I, p53 and VEGF concentrations. Results: Concentrations of p53 and VEGF were significantly higher in CRC patients than in controls (p (Source: Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory...

Biochemical role of intravaginal sildenafil citrate as a novel antiabortive agent in unexplained recurrent spontaneous miscarriage: first clinical study of four case reports from Egypt

Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 16:39:18 +0100

Conclusions: We conclude that intravaginal sildenafil citrate tablets used as suppositories might be a novel, interesting, safe antiabortive option in the treatment of threatened miscarriage in patients with a history of URSM. We are the first to report this novel clinical application in four case reports in Egypt. Clin Chem Lab Med 2009;47:1433–8. (Source: Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine)

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Potential of the Sebia Capillarys® neonat fast automated system for neonatal screening of sickle cell disease

Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 16:39:18 +0100

Conclusions: Sebia Capillarys® neonat fast automated system is a reliable tool for haemoglobinopathy neonatal screening. Clin Chem Lab Med 2009;47:1423–32. (Source: Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine)

A new turbidimetric method for assaying serum C-reactive protein based on phosphocholine interaction

Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 16:39:18 +0100

Conclusions: The functional CRP assay allowed measurement of CRP in serum and plasma in the range of 7 mg/L–400 mg/L. The assay is particularly suited in conditions where resources are restricted. Since the assay is species independent, the described functional CRP assay could be used for veterinary purposes as well. Clin Chem Lab Med 2009;47:1417–22. (Source: Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine)

Potential utility of the new Sysmex XE 5000 red blood cell extended parameters in the study of disorders of iron metabolism

Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 16:39:18 +0100

Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine 47 (11): 1411-1416 Abstract Background: New erythrocyte parameters are reported by the Sysmex XE 5000 analyzer. This instrument measures the hemoglobin (Hb) content of individual red cells, calculates the percentage of hypochromic red cells (%Hypo He) and the percentage of hyperchromic red cells (%Hyper He) and quantifies the proportion of marginally sized erythrocytes (%Micro R and %Macro R). The goals of the study were to establish the reference range for erythrocyte extended parameters, their value in different types of anemia and to investigate their reliability in the study of disorders of iron metabolism. Materials: Three hundred and ninety samples were analyzed. The Kolmogorov-Smirnoff test, independent samples t-test and Pearson correlatio...

Markers of infection in inpatients and outpatients with acute Q-fever

Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 16:39:18 +0100

Conclusions: Acute Q-fever, a relatively mild pneumonia with low CURB-65 scores, specifically induces a response in CRP, while PCT concentrations and leukocytes are within the normal range or increased only marginally. Clin Chem Lab Med 2009;47:1407–9. (Source: Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine)

The rate of manual peripheral blood smear reviews in outpatients

Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 16:39:18 +0100

Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine 47 (11): 1401-1405 Abstract Background: The International Consensus Group for Hematology Review recommends manual blood smears for new findings from automated complete blood cell (CBC) tests. However, in outpatients, the rate of peripheral manual blood smear reviews is uncertain, as is the effect of historical results on this rate. Methods: In a prospective cohort study of 687,955 members of a health maintenance organization, we extracted 39,759 consecutive automated CBC test results and determined the rate of manual peripheral smear reviews that were indicated using different triggering criteria, and historical results. Results: Individual triggering values increased from 10.7% to 19.5% when comparing our criteria to those of the consensus criter...

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Detection of myelin autoantibodies: evaluation of an assay system for diagnosis of multiple sclerosis in differentiation from other central nervous system diseases

Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 16:39:18 +0100

Conclusions: The ELISA kit we evaluated is suitable for the measurement of neuronal autoantibodies. The initial validation demonstrates its potential use in the differential diagnosis of central neuronal system diseases. Clin Chem Lab Med 2009;47:1395–400. (Source: Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine)

Impaired anti-inflammatory function of apolipoprotein A-II concentrations predicts metabolic syndrome and diabetes at 4 years follow-up in elderly Turks

Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 16:39:18 +0100

Conclusions: Serum apoA-II concentrations confer risk for MetS and diabetes and exhibit evidence of anti-inflammatory properties among Turks. These findings support the effects seen for several other HDL protein constituents. This finding may explain the increased cardiometabolic risk among Turks. Clin Chem Lab Med 2009;47:1389–94. (Source: Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine)

Enhanced bone metabolism in vegetarians – the role of vitamin B12 deficiency

Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 16:39:18 +0100

Conclusions: Low vitamin B12 status is related to increased bone turnover in vegetarians which is independent from vitamin D status. Clin Chem Lab Med 2009;47:1381–7. (Source: Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine)

Serum albumin fragmentation in end-stage renal disease patients – a pilot study

Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 16:39:18 +0100

Conclusions: These results indicate that in addition to increased expression of LMWP, a relevant amount of albumin fragments are detectable in the serum of patients undergoing MHD. Uremia appears to facilitate the fragmentation of albumin and/or the retention of albumin fragments in blood. Clin Chem Lab Med 2009;47:1373–9. (Source: Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine)

Prevalence of thyroid autoimmunity and subclinical hypothyroidism in persons with chronic kidney disease not requiring chronic dialysis

Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 16:39:18 +0100

Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine 47 (11): 1367-1371 Abstract Background: The prevalence of thyroid autoimmunity and subclinical primary hypothyroidism in persons with chronic kidney disease (CKD) not requiring chronic dialysis is not well defined. Methods: We studied 1000 consecutive adult outpatients who were referred by their general practitioner for blood testing over the last 2 years. We excluded those with abnormal serum free thyroxine (FT4) levels (n=85). No participants required chronic renal replacement therapy. Thyroid autoimmunity was defined as increased concentrations of serum anti-thyroid antibodies. Subclinical primary hypothyroidism was defined as a serum thyrotropin (TSH) concentration >4 mIU/L. CKD was defined as an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) (S...

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Comparison of visual vs. automated detection of lipemic, icteric and hemolyzed specimens: can we rely on a human eye?

Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 16:39:18 +0100

Conclusions: Visual inspection of lipemic, icteric and hemolyzed samples is highly unreliable and should be replaced by automated systems that report serum indices. Clin Chem Lab Med 2009;47:1361–5. (Source: Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine)

Molecular diagnostics in acute leukemias

Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 16:39:18 +0100

Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine 47 (11): 1333-1341 Abstract Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) both represent highly heterogeneous entities on the basis of diverse cyto- and molecular genetic alterations with considerable influence on prognosis and therapeutic decisions. In recent years, insights into the complex network of molecular markers underlying this diversity have shown marked progress due to the detection of novel mutations, such as nucleophosmin gene (NPM1) in AML, and due to the description of cooperation pathways in leukemogenesis. Also, targeted therapeutic strategies are continuously expanding as illustrated by the tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) imatinib for BCR-ABL positive ALL. Thus, molecular analysis based on various techniques...

Discordant total and free prostate-specific antigen (PSA) assays: does calibration with WHO reference materials diminish the problem?

Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 16:39:18 +0100

Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine 47 (11): 1325-1331 Abstract Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) assay-dependent variations could result in misinterpretation of individual PSA values. Therefore, the situation for clinical interpretation of PSA or percent free PSA (%fPSA) results is complicated. This review summarizes the differences in various total PSA (tPSA) and free PSA (fPSA) assays, and results obtained using the new World Health Organization (WHO) calibrated Access assays from various studies. Method comparisons between the traditionally calibrated Hybritech PSA and fPSA assays and the new “standardized” WHO calibrated assays yield results that are ∼25% lower for PSA and fPSA. A PSA cut-off of 3 or 3.1 μg/L should be considered for WHO calibrated assays in order to achi...

The Journal Impact Factor: don't expect its demise any time soon

Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 16:39:18 +0100

Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine 47 (11): 1319-1324 Abstract Much emphasis continues to be placed on the Journal Impact Factor (IF), a measure of journal article citation rates, and typically used as a surrogate marker of quality of both the article and journal. The IF is both revered and reviled, and is neither a perfect nor comprehensive measure, having several limitations and being subject to easy manipulation. The IF holds ‘power’ for journals because it can influence their future success. Furthermore, the perceived utility of the IF has grown way beyond that of its original and still popular use as a surrogate marker of publication ‘quality’. The IF is increasingly being used (i) to objectively evaluate the scientific and academic value of scientists across a wide va...

Journal Impact Factor: it will go away soon

Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 16:39:18 +0100

Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine 47 (11): 1317-1318 (Source: Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine)

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Map of Medicine Uses Evidence-Based Medicine to Help Physicians

Dark Daily — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 14:00:29 +0100

Provides doctors with fast access to care pathways and diagnostic rules Most pathologists and laboratory professionals in the United States are unaware of a unique clinical resource called the “Map of Medicine”. This was started in the United Kingdom and utilizes evidence-based medicine (EBM) guidelines in the care pathways it makes available to clinicians who visit [...] (Source: Dark Daily)

Nation’s List of Top Ten Largest Healthcare Systems Include Some Surprises

Dark Daily — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 13:00:18 +0100

Rankings based on annual revenue and the Veterans’ Administration tops the list When Dark Daily recently published a list of the Top Ten Largest Medical Groups in the United States, not only was it a popular topic, but many readers asked us to present a similar list for healthcare systems. Dark Daily is glad to oblige [...] (Source: Dark Daily)

Gunman Enters Clinical Laboratory in Oregon Yesterday, Two Dead, Two Injured

Dark Daily — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 09:05:08 +0100

Man kills his estranged wife, then himself after shooting his way into the laboratory Yesterday, in Tualatin, a quiet suburb city near Portland, Oregon, a gunman entered a laboratory facility owned by Legacy MetroLab and shot his estranged wife. He then killed himself. Two other individuals in the laboratory were injured, including a man admitted to [...] (Source: Dark Daily)

Advances in phase-sensitive acoustic microscopy studies of polymer blend films: annealing effects and micro-elastic characterization of PS/PMMA blends

Journal of Microscopy — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

The unique phase-sensitive acoustic microscope is used for the structural and mechanical characterization of thin films of polystyrene/polymethylmethacrylate blends. The effect of annealing on blends of polystyrene/polymethylmethacrylate spin coated from different solvents unto a substrate is studied. Varying the solvents according to vapour pressure and spin coating at different speeds (for thickness variation) led to changes in phase domain distributions and overall structural properties before annealing. Annealing in vacuum at 190°C for 48 h resulted in the elimination of solvent effects with all samples reverting to a similar morphology irrespective of common solvent and thickness. The Young's moduli at specific points on the film (Epolystyrene= 3.4 ± 0.3 GPa, Epolymethylmethacrylate...

Succession Planning Omission Will Dearly Cost Many Clinical Labs and Pathology Groups

Dark Daily — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 09:00:59 +0100

Your lab’s oldest Baby Boomer managers are turning 62 and thinking about retirement! There’s a ticking clock in your lab: the fast-approaching retirement of your best section managers, department heads, senior administrators, and pathologists! Yet there is still time for your lab or pathology group to address important succession planning opportunities. “Every day, about 8,760 Baby Boomers [...] (Source: Dark Daily)

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Characterizing voltage contrast in photoelectron emission microscopy

Journal of Microscopy — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

A non-destructive technique for obtaining voltage contrast information with photoelectron emission microscopy is described. Samples consisting of electrically isolated metal lines were used to quantify voltage contrast in photoelectron emission microscopy. The voltage contrast behaviour is characterized by comparing measured voltage contrast with calculated voltage contrast from two electrostatic models. Measured voltage contrast was found to agree closely with the calculated voltage contrast, demonstrating that voltage contrast in photoelectron emission microscopy can be used to probe local voltage information in microelectronic devices in a non-intrusive fashion. (Source: Journal of Microscopy)

Development and implementation of an automatic system for verification, validation and delivery of laboratory test results

Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 16:46:49 +0100

Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine 47 (11): 1355-1360 Abstract Background: The verification/validation of laboratory test results is one of the most critical aspects of the total testing process, which may produce conflicts between competencies and duties at the point of professional crossroads. This process has centered for decades on the human component, with positive effects as well as potential adverse consequences (postanalytical errors). Manual validation of data is a time-consuming activity, is inherently subjective and arbitrary, and requires the constant presence of postgraduate physicians or biologists within the laboratory with adverse economical and organizational impacts. To overcome these inherent limitations, we have developed and implemented in our stat department a...

Meta-analyses of diagnostic studies

Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 16:46:49 +0100

Conclusions: Reported sensitivities and specificities of different studies assessing similar diagnostic tests are not only negatively correlated, but also negatively correlated in a curvilinear manner. It is appropriate to take this negative curvilinear correlation into account in the data pooling of such meta-analyses. The DORs can be applied for that purpose. Clin Chem Lab Med 2009;47:1351–4. (Source: Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine)

MountainStar–PAML Lab Joint Venture Doubles in Size in 24 Months

Dark Daily — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 09:00:22 +0100

Hospital/commercial lab JV finds success in competitive Salt Lake City market DATELINE: SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH—Since its formation less than two years ago, MountainStar Clinical Laboratories, LLC, has more than doubled in size. This unique laboratory outreach joint venture is a partnership between MountainStar Healthcare and Pathology Associates Medical Laboratories (PAML). To learn more about this fast-growing [...] (Source: Dark Daily)

Teaching “Best Practices” in Pathology Group Practice Management

Dark Daily — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 09:00:16 +0100

Essential to protect pathology reimbursement with skilled management Despite a slow economy, new technology continues to flood into anatomic pathology. These two contradictory forces make it essential for pathologist business leaders and their practice administrators to respond appropriately to preserve reimbursement and maximize the compensation of pathologists in the group. Dollars are not flowing to labs as [...] (Source: Dark Daily)

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Index

Clinics in Laboratory Medicine — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 16:51:33 +0100

(Source: Clinics in Laboratory Medicine)

Respiratory Viruses in Bronchiolitis and Their Link to Recurrent Wheezing and Asthma

Clinics in Laboratory Medicine — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 16:51:33 +0100

Bronchiolitis is the leading cause of hospitalization for children younger than 1 year of age and these hospitalized children have an increased risk for developing childhood asthma. It remains unclear, however, which children who have severe bronchiolitis (eg, an episode requiring hospitalization) will develop recurrent wheezing or asthma. Although many environmental and genetic factors may play a role in the pathway from bronchiolitis to asthma, this article focuses on the viruses that have been linked to bronchiolitis and how these viruses may predict or contribute to future wheezing and asthma. The article also discusses vitamin D as an emerging risk factor for respiratory infections and wheezing. (Source: Clinics in Laboratory Medicine)

Respiratory Syncytial Virus Vaccine Development

Clinics in Laboratory Medicine — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 16:51:33 +0100

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a clinically significant cause of respiratory tract disease, especially among high-risk infants and immunocompromised and elderly adults. Despite the burden of disease, there is no licensed prophylactic RSV vaccine. The initial efforts to develop an RSV vaccine involved formalin-inactivated virus preparations that unexpectedly caused vaccine-enhanced disease in clinical trials in RSV-naive children. Over the last 40 years, cautious and deliberate progress has been made toward RSV vaccine development using various experimental approaches, including live attenuated strains and vector-based and viral protein subunit/DNA-based candidates. The scientific rationale, preclinical testing, and clinical development of each of these approaches are reviewed. (Sourc...

Recently Discovered Human Coronaviruses

Clinics in Laboratory Medicine — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 16:51:33 +0100

This article focuses on the characteristics of the five HCoVs that are known, and summarizes current knowledge of their pathogenic potential in people, with an emphasis on the interactions between these viruses and their cognate receptors on susceptible target cells. (Source: Clinics in Laboratory Medicine)

The Human Bocaviruses: A Review and Discussion of Their Role in Infection

Clinics in Laboratory Medicine — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 16:51:33 +0100

This article is a comprehensive review of what is known about HBoV. It includes an evaluation of diagnostic modalities, symptoms occurring in affected patients, and a discussion as to whether HBoV is responsible for identified clinical manifestations. The article reviews the incidence and effect of coinfection and updates on related members (HBoV-2 and HBoV-3) recently reported. Understanding of respiratory viruses such as HBoV remains vitally important to the health of adult and pediatric patients. (Source: Clinics in Laboratory Medicine)

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Emerging Molecular Assays for Detection and Characterization of Respiratory Viruses

Clinics in Laboratory Medicine — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 16:51:33 +0100

This article describes several emerging molecular assays that have potential applications in the diagnosis and monitoring of respiratory viral infections. These techniques include direct nucleic acid detection by quantum dots, loop-mediated isothermal amplification, multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification, amplification using arbitrary primers, target-enriched multiplexing amplification, pyrosequencing, padlock probes, solid and suspension microarrays, and mass spectrometry. Several of these systems already are commercially available to provide multiplex amplification and high-throughput detection and identification of a panel of respiratory viral pathogens. Further validation and implementation of such emerging molecular assays in routine clinical virology services will enhance t...

Utilization of Nucleic Acid Amplification Assays for the Detection of Respiratory Viruses

Clinics in Laboratory Medicine — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 16:51:33 +0100

This article reviews the performance of commercially available assays and discusses issues relevant to the development of in-house assays. (Source: Clinics in Laboratory Medicine)

Antigen-Based Assays for the Identification of Influenza Virus and Respiratory Syncytial Virus: Why and How to Use Them in Pediatric Practice

Clinics in Laboratory Medicine — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 16:51:33 +0100

This article describes the clinical and socioeconomic relevance of influenza (IV) and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in pediatrics, the characteristics and limitations of currently available assays, and the impact of rapid diagnostic tests. This article shows that rapid tests for the detection and identification of IV and RSV in the respiratory secretions of infants and children are useful in the diagnosis of common, and possibly severe diseases, such as influenza and bronchiolitis. The tests' specificity and sensitivity make them most reliable when the prevalence of influenza or RSV infection is high, which suggests that their routine use should be restricted to the peak periods of viral circulation. The most recently marketed tests are similarly effective in identifying viruses, and s...

Developments in Immunologic Assays for Respiratory Viruses

Clinics in Laboratory Medicine — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 16:51:33 +0100

This article discusses the major immunologic methods employed for respiratory virus diagnosis, recent developments in immunoassays and sample collection, and current test algorithms. (Source: Clinics in Laboratory Medicine)

Developments in Tissue Culture Detection of Respiratory Viruses

Clinics in Laboratory Medicine — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 16:51:33 +0100

Viral culture is the historical gold standard for detection of most viruses that cause respiratory tract infections. Viral culture remains valuable because it is reasonably sensitive for most respiratory viruses, and it is cheaper and less technically demanding than nucleic acid amplified tests. The disadvantages of conventional viral culture using multiple tubes of cell lines are that it is labor intensive, moderately expensive, and slow. Advances in viral culture include the introduction of new cell lines, which can be more sensitive or convenient than previously used cell lines, and the use of shell-vial culture for respiratory viruses. Shell-vial culture is as sensitive as conventional culture for most respiratory viruses and it has a much shorter turn-around time. The shorter turn-aro...

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Preface

Clinics in Laboratory Medicine — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 16:51:33 +0100

Respiratory viruses continue to be a fascinating subject. The mutability of these viruses leads to the periodic emergence of new serotypes or species of viruses as human pathogens. Because these viruses are readily transmitted, a new respiratory virus that emerges can spread rapidly. The coronavirus associated with the severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) and the novel influenza A (H1N1) virus (swine influenza) are two examples of respiratory viruses that spread very quickly after emerging. According to data from the World Health Organization, there have been 55,867 cases and 238 deaths due to the H1N1 virus to date (http://www.who.int/csr/don/2009_06_24/en/index.html, accessed June 25, 2009). This outbreak underscores the importance of our continued attention to the epidemiology, mani...

Forthcoming issues

Clinics in Laboratory Medicine — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 16:51:33 +0100

(Source: Clinics in Laboratory Medicine)

Clinics in Laboratory Medicine — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 16:51:33 +0100

(Source: Clinics in Laboratory Medicine)

Ranking the Nation’s 20 Largest Doctor Groups Reveals Surprises

Dark Daily — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 09:00:55 +0100

Nine of the 10 largest medical groups are located on the East and West coasts When it comes to the list of the 20 largest physicians groups in the United States, Kaiser Permanente is at the top. With 7,000 physicians, Permanente Medical Group in Northern California is the nation’s largest. Number two is Southern California Permanente [...] (Source: Dark Daily)

Field effect in cancer-an update.

Annals of Clinical and Laboratory Science — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 20:26:02 +0100

Authors: Chai H, Brown RE The concept "field effect in cancer" originated in 1953 from the histopathological observations of Slaughter and colleagues [1] regarding the occurrence of multiple primary oral squamous cell carcinomas and their local recurrences. The development of modern molecular technologies has extended the field effect concept by exploring the molecular abnormalities in tissues that appear histologically normal. To date, such field effect biomarkers have been reported in several sites and organs, eg, head and neck, colon and rectum, prostate, breast, lung, esophagus, stomach, and skin. Two popular hypotheses have been proposed. One hypothesis implicates genetic alterations that occur in a stepwise fashion (initiation, promotion, and progression); a clone gains growth ad...

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An academic-based hospital donor site: do physicians donate blood?

Annals of Clinical and Laboratory Science — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 20:26:02 +0100

This study shows the dearth of physician blood donors and a strong cohort of institution-affiliated repeat donors. Physicians represent a potential, stable, and sustainable donor pool; further studies are needed to establish physician recruitment programs. PMID: 19880760 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Annals of Clinical and Laboratory Science)

Correlation of JAK2 V617F mutant allele quantitation with clinical presentation and type of chronic myeloproliferative neoplasm.

Annals of Clinical and Laboratory Science — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 20:26:02 +0100

Authors: Malysz J, Crisan D Activating JAK2 V617F mutation is present in many patients with chronic myeloproliferative neoplasms. We evaluated, retrospectively, clinical and laboratory data from 70 patients with BCR-ABL1 negative, JAK2 positive, chronic myeloproliferative disease. Quantity of the JAK2 mutant allele was tested for correlation with the clinical presentation, type of chronic myeloproliferative disease, hemoglobin level, white blood cell and platelet counts, spleen size, and/or cardiovascular complications. RealTime-PCR was used for amplification of DNA from marrow or peripheral blood. Polycythemia vera was more frequently diagnosed among patients with >or=50% mutational load than among those with <50% mutational load (71% vs 25%; p = 0.003). Patients with >or=50%...

A peptide from a ras effector-domain blocks ras-dependent cardiac hypertrophy in myocytes.

Annals of Clinical and Laboratory Science — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 20:26:02 +0100

Authors: Deng L, Boujdir M, Tremontano A, Pincus MR, El-Sherif N PNC-2 is a peptide corresponding to an effector domain (residues 96-110) of ras-p21 that strongly and specifically blocks mitogenic signal transduction by oncogenic but not activated, normally-expressed wild-type ras-p21 protein. Since myocardial hypertrophy can be induced both by oncogenic and overexpressed wild-type ras-p21, we investigated whether PNC-2 can block norepinephrine (NE)-induced, ras-dependent myocardial hypertrophy in cardiac myocytes. Since PNC-2 blocks oncogenic ras-p21-induced activation of JNK and ERK, we further determined whether this peptide blocks activation of these kinases in NE-treated myocytes. Using cultured neonatal rat ventricular myocytes (NRVM), we found that NE alone significantly increas...

Holotranscobalamin as an indicator of vitamin B12 deficiency in gastrectomized patients.

Annals of Clinical and Laboratory Science — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 20:26:02 +0100

Authors: Lee YK, Kim HS, Kang HJ Transcobalamin-bound vitamin B(12), or holotranscobalamin (HoloTC), a biologically active form, is believed to be a sensitive marker of vitamin B(12) deficiency. We investigated the prevalence of vitamin B(12) deficiency in gastrectomized patients using HoloTC and total vitamin B(12) to determine the diagnostic utility of HoloTC. We enrolled 128 gastrectomized patients and measured serum HoloTC, total vitamin B(12), homocysteine (Hcy), and complete blood count (CBC). HoloTC values were also obtained from 100 healthy controls. The precision of HoloTC measurement was good and the normal range of HoloTC was set at >or=42.48 pmol/L. Among the 128 gastrectomized subjects, HoloTC was low (<42.48 pmol/L) in 32 patients (25.0%) and total vitamin B(12) was...

Thin-layer cytopathology of a gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) in effusion: diagnostic dilemmas.

Annals of Clinical and Laboratory Science — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 20:26:02 +0100

Authors: Zappacosta R, Caraceni D, Stura S, Zappacosta B, Rosini S Although gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) are uncommon, they represent the most frequent mesenchymal neoplasms of the gastrointestinal tract. During recent years, considerable information has been published about the pathogenesis, molecular biology, histological criteria, surgery, and adjuvant pharmacological treatment of GISTs, but there have been few reports about the cytologic diagnosis of GISTs, particularly in effusions; in such specimens these neoplasms cause a wide range of potential pitfalls. In this case report, we show that by combining morphological and immunocytochemical studies on thin layer slide preparations, the cytologic diagnosis of GISTs can be both accurate and efficient. PMID: 19880764 [P...

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Biochemical changes associated with reperfusion after off-pump and on-pump coronary artery bypass graft surgery.

Annals of Clinical and Laboratory Science — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 20:26:02 +0100

Authors: Chandrasena LG, Peiris H, Waikar HD A prospective study was performed to monitor the postoperative changes in biochemical markers associated with reperfusion injury following (i) cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) with aortic cross-clamping and cardioplagia (CABG); (ii) CPB with a tissue stabilizing device (SUP.CPB); or (iii) surgery on beating heart (off-pump CABG or OPCABG). Of the 48 patients, 16 were subjected to CABG, 16 to SUP.CPB, and 16 to OPCABG. Arterial and venous blood samples drawn 10 min preoperatively and 0.2, 4, 24, and 48 hr after surgery were assayed for plasma lactate, total calcium, and ionized calcium and erythrocyte glutathione peroxidase (GPX) and superoxide dismutase (SOD). Results revealed that ionized calcium, SOD, and GPX levels of all patients increased a...

Acetaminophen combinations protect against iron-induced cardiac damage in gerbils.

Annals of Clinical and Laboratory Science — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 20:26:02 +0100

This study tested if acetaminophen, N-methyl-D-glucamine dithiocarbamate (NMGDTC), deferoxamine, and combinations of these agents reduce excess iron content, prevent iron-induced pathology, reduce cardiac arrhythmias, and reduce mortality in iron-overloaded gerbils. Eight groups of 16 gerbils received iron dextran injections (ferric hydroxide dextran complex, 120 mg/kg, ip) or saline solution (controls) twice/wk for 8 wk. The 8 groups were treated every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday with one of the following: saline control, acetaminophen, 150 mg/kg, ip), acetaminophen (150 mg/kg, po), deferoxamine, 83 mg/kg, ip), NMGDTC (200 mg/kg, ip), or combinations of acetaminophen (75 mg/kg) with deferoxamine (42 mg/kg, each ip, separately) or acetaminophen (75 mg/kg) with NMGDTC (100 mg/kg, each ip,...

Effects of high methionine diet on oxidative stress in serum, apo-B containing lipoproteins, heart, and aorta in rabbits.

Annals of Clinical and Laboratory Science — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 20:26:02 +0100

This study investigated in rabbits whether a high methionine (HM) diet influences oxidative stress parameters in serum, apo-B containing lipoproteins (LDL+VLDL), heart, and aorta. Rabbits received a normal commercial chow supplemented with 2% L-methionine (w/w) for 6 mo (approximately 1 g/kg body wt/day). Serum homocysteine (HCys), malondialdehyde (MDA), diene conjugate (DC), and cholesterol levels were found to be increased, but protein carbonyl (PC) and triglyceride levels remained unchanged in the HM group as compared to controls. Cholesterol, endogenous DC, and copper-induced MDA levels were significantly higher in the LDL+VLDL fraction of plasma lipoproteins in the HM group. MDA and DC levels were found to be increased in homogenates of heart and aorta in the HM group. The HM diet cau...

Therapy-related myelodysplastic syndrome/acute myeloid leukemia after treatment with temozolomide in a patient with glioblastoma multiforme.

Annals of Clinical and Laboratory Science — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 20:26:02 +0100

Authors: Kim SJ, Park TS, Lee ST, Song J, Suh B, Kim SH, Jang SJ, Lee CH, Choi JR Therapy-related myelodysplastic syndrome and acute leukemia after treatment with temozolomide have rarely been described in the literature. Only 10 cases in association with temozolomide have been documented. The cases included anaplastic astrocytoma (4 cases), anaplastic oligodendroglioma (2 cases), low grade astrocytoma (2 cases), low grade oligodendroglioma (1 case), and one case of secondary Philadelphia-positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia in a patient with glioblastoma multiforme. Here we report a novel case of therapy-related myelodysplastic syndrome/acute myeloid leukemia associated with der(1;7)(q10;p10) in a glioblastoma multiforme patient treated with temozolomide. Results of bone marrow morph...

Two novel HADHB gene mutations in a Korean patient with mitochondrial trifunctional protein deficiency.

Annals of Clinical and Laboratory Science — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 20:26:02 +0100

Authors: Park HD, Kim SR, Ki CS, Lee SY, Chang YS, Jin DK, Park WS Mitochondrial trifunctional protein (MTP) is a heterocomplex composed of 4 alpha-subunits containing LCEH (long-chain 2,3-enoyl-CoA hydratase) and LCHAD (long-chain 3-hydroxyacyl CoA dehydrogenase) activity, and 4 beta-subunits that harbor LCKT (long-chain 3-ketoacyl-CoA thiolase) activity. MTP deficiency is an autosomal recessive disorder that causes a clinical spectrum of diseases ranging from severe infantile cardiomyopathy to mild chronic progressive polyneuropathy. Here, we report the case of a Korean male newborn who presented with severe lactic acidosis, seizures, and heart failure. A newborn screening test and plasma acylcarnitine profile analysis by tandem mass spectrometry showed an increase of 3-hydroxy speci...

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Haemophilus influenzae serotype a meningitis.

Annals of Clinical and Laboratory Science — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 20:26:02 +0100

Authors: de Pádua RA, de Lima Scodro RB, Ghiraldi LD, Siqueira VL, Yamashita YK, Helbel C, Cardoso RF This work describes a case of Haemophilus influenzae serotype a meningitis in Brazil, after almost a decade since the introduction of Haemophilus influenzae serotype b conjugate vaccine. Uncertainty about the replacement of H. influenzae serotypes as a cause of invasive diseases justifies continuous surveillance, coupled with investigations of carriage rates and requirements of chemoprophylaxis in contact persons. PMID: 19880770 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Annals of Clinical and Laboratory Science)

PCR detection of Histoplasma capsulatum var. capsulatum in whole blood of a renal transplant patient with disseminated histoplasmosis.

Annals of Clinical and Laboratory Science — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 20:26:02 +0100

We report the identification of Histoplasma capsulatum var. capsulatum from whole blood in a renal transplant patient with disseminated histoplasmosis using colorimetric microtiter-plate PCR. This modality demonstrated utility in reaching a definitive diagnosis in a timely manner. Blood fungal cultures in this case remained negative, suggesting that molecular assays may facilitate the laboratory diagnosis of disseminated histoplasmosis. PMID: 19880771 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Annals of Clinical and Laboratory Science)

Lobular carcinoma in situ.

Annals of Clinical and Laboratory Science — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 20:26:02 +0100

Authors: Hajdu SI, Tang P PMID: 19880772 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Annals of Clinical and Laboratory Science)

James Peter, M.D., Ph.D., Founder of Specialty Laboratories, Dies of Cancer

Dark Daily — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 13:21:14 +0100

Peter Built His Company into a Major National Esoteric Laboratory One of laboratory medicine’s most successful scientist-entrepreneurs died last Friday, October 30, 2009. James B. Peter M.D., Ph.D., Founder of Specialty Laboratories, Inc., died in his home in Santa Monica, California of complications from cancer. He was 76 years old. A native of Omaha, Nebraska, it was [...] (Source: Dark Daily)

Laboratory Transforms Manual Urinalysis with Automation and More

Dark Daily — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 09:00:47 +0100

Pre-analytical products, automated systems, and Lean Six Sigma combined to improve outcomes In today’s era of automation and Lean Six Sigma processes in laboratory medicine, the manual urinalysis test may be ready for a major makeover. Such a development would be welcome because, in the typical American hospital, the clinical laboratory performs an average of 120 [...] (Source: Dark Daily)

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The journal impact factor: navigating between Scylla and Charybdis

Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine 47 (11): 1315-1316 (Source: Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine)

Considerations for the development of a reference method for sequencing of haploid DNA – an opinion paper on behalf of the IFCC Committee on Molecular Diagnostics. International Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine

Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine 47 (11): 1343-1350 Abstract Following the completion of sequencing of the human genome, there has been a very rapid increase in the development of new molecular diagnostic tests. However, the numerous genetic tests and genetic testing technologies offered do not always satisfy essential quality criteria required to ensure confidence in the results that are produced. This is of particular importance for genetic tests since many patients may be tested for a particular genetic defect only once in their lifetime. Thus, there is a pressing need for comprehensive guidelines for the validation of molecular diagnostic tests and procedures, including DNA sequencing, the latter being a fundamental aspect of the development and validation of most genetic tes...

Guidelines for the reporting of nongynecologic cytopathology specimens.

Archives of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSIONS: We describe the major elements of quality nongynecologic cytology reporting and discuss areas of controversy in cytology reporting. Standardized nongynecologic specimen reporting will expand the concept of common report elements already widely implemented in gynecologic cytology reporting. The intent is to improve communication with the health care team while remaining in compliance with federal mandates and accreditation guidelines. PMID: 19886707 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Archives of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine)

Automatic failure in gynecologic cytology proficiency testing. Results from the College of American Pathologists proficiency testing program.

Archives of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSIONS:The automatic failure rate in PAP PT is lower than expected based on 2004 data from the College of American Pathologists Interlaboratory Comparison Program. Automatic failures are a relatively small component (1% or less) of proficiency testing failures. The rate of automatic failure decreased from 2006 to 2007 and may be due to loss of poor performers in the testing pool, the test-taking environment, or removal of less robust slides from the program. PMID: 19886708 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Archives of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine)

New frontiers in pathology.

Archives of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Visscher DW, Myers JL PMID: 19886709 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Archives of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine)

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Update on selected salivary gland neoplasms.

Archives of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSIONS: When diagnosing carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma, pathologists must report several important pieces of information to allow for optimal clinical management. In addition to histologic subtype, the degree of differentiation as well as the degree of invasion, if any, must be reported because all have prognostic relevance. Polymorphous low-grade adenocarcinoma can be a challenging diagnosis on biopsy specimens. Evaluation of the tumor periphery and nuclear features should lead to the correct diagnosis in most cases. Salivary duct carcinoma is an aggressive malignancy characterized by histologic resemblance to breast carcinoma, high-grade cytologic features, and expression of androgen receptor. Benign and malignant myoepithelial neoplasms have a broad morphologic spectrum, and immu...

Ovarian cancer update: lessons from morphology, molecules, and mice.

Archives of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Cho KR Ovarian carcinomas are a heterogeneous group of neoplasms. Pathologists currently employ a morphology-based classification system to divide ovarian carcinomas into major subgroups based on degree (tumor grade) and type of differentiation (eg, serous, endometrioid, clear cell, or mucinous). Molecular studies have shown that specific genetic defects are likely to be present in certain histologic types of ovarian carcinomas and unlikely to be present in others. Within the serous and endometrioid carcinomas, the molecular defects in low-grade versus high-grade tumors also appear to be largely distinct. Recently, mouse models of ovarian carcinoma have been developed that recapitulate many of the morphologic features and biologic behavior of selected subtypes of ovarian cance...

Common diagnostic challenges in the pathology of nonneoplastic lung diseases: a case-based review.

Archives of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Lagstein A, Myers JL We use a case-based format to review 4 relatively common, diagnostic challenges in surgical pathology of nonneoplastic lung diseases. All cases are linked to virtual slides so that the reader can participate in a manner that simulates the breakout session held at the 2008 New Frontiers in Pathology course at the University of Michigan, from which, this material was excerpted. Brief clinical histories and a summary of radiologic findings are followed by a description of the pertinent histologic findings and a concise topic review, intended to focus on practical diagnostic considerations. Our goal is that readers gain a greater understanding of those features most helpful in recognizing usual interstitial pneumonia, Langerhans cell histiocytosis, aspiration ...

Adenocarcinoma in Barrett mucosa treated by endoscopic mucosal resection.

Archives of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Appelman HD Adenocarcinoma and dysplasias are recognized complications of Barrett mucosa. In the past, the treatment for this carcinoma was esophagectomy. However, new techniques, including endoscopic mucosal resection, sometimes replace esophagectomy and are becoming standard procedures in clinical practice, not just in major medical centers. Pathologists must learn to handle these specimens, which have extensive artifacts. Also, Barrett mucosa has duplicated stromal layers beneath the mucosa that include a new lamina propria and a new muscularis mucosae. We must be aware of these peculiarities because of staging implications. Regardless of new technology, the diagnostic approach to dysplasia depends on the light microscopic interpretation, which is not as reliable or consist...

Association of cystic neck metastases and human papillomavirus-positive oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma.

Archives of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: McHugh JB Human papillomavirus is an established cause of oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma. Similar to cervical cancer, these cancers are usually caused by high-risk human papillomavirus types 16 and 18 and are associated with high-risk sexual behaviors. Human papillomavirus-associated oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma typically affects the palatine and lingual tonsils and frequently results in cystic neck metastases. The histopathology of this subset of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma is unique and typically characterized by poorly differentiated, nonkeratinizing morphology with a basaloid appearance. These tumors occur in younger patients and are more often seen in nonsmokers compared with conventional oral cavity and oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinomas. Th...

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Angiosarcoma, radiation-associated angiosarcoma, and atypical vascular lesion.

Archives of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Lucas DR Angiosarcoma, one of the least common sarcomas, has become increasingly important because of its association with radiation therapy, especially for breast cancer. Most are sporadic, presenting as cutaneous tumors in the scalp/face of elderly patients. However, angiosarcoma has a wide anatomic distribution including soft tissue, visceral organ, and osseous locations. Predisposing conditions include environmental exposures to chemical or radioactive sources. Radiation-associated angiosarcoma typically presents as a cutaneous tumor several years posttherapy. The latency for radiation-associated mammary angiosarcoma is relatively short, sometimes less than 3 years. Atypical vascular lesion refers to a small, usually lymphatic-type vascular proliferation in radiated skin. ...

Current perspectives on the Gleason grading of prostate cancer.

Archives of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: This review addresses the trend in contemporary practice toward a grading shift, with rare utilization of Gleason patterns 1 and 2, and discusses the refinement of histologic criteria for Gleason patterns 3 and 4; approaches to Gleason grading in the setting of unusual variant morphologies of prostate cancer; significance of higher tertiary pattern 5; and practice recommendations for reporting in the setting of extended multiple core biopsies and multifocal prostate cancers in radical prostatectomy. Finally, the impact of consensus recommendations in current practice, its limitations and pitfalls, are also addressed. PMID: 19886716 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Archives of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine)

Apocrine ductal carcinoma in situ involving a sclerosing lesion with adenosis: report of a case.

Archives of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Visscher DW Apocrine metaplasia is a ubiquitous component of the mammary fibrocystic change spectrum. Although mostly associated with cysts, apocrine metaplasia can also present as a proliferative lesion, rarely with cytologic atypism. Apocrine atypia is characterized by 3-fold nuclear enlargement, multiple nucleoli, and hyperchromatism and generally arises in florid adenosis or radial sclerosing lesions. Dramatic apocrine atypia may be very difficult to distinguish from apocrine ductal carcinoma in situ. The latter is distinguished from apocrine atypia by greater extent of the lesion (>0.4 cm) and the presence of greater nuclear pleomorphism with nuclear membrane irregularity. The clinical significance of apocrine atypia is poorly understood and reflects the lack of publis...

Carcinoma of the breast with medullary-like features: diagnostic challenges and relationship with BRCA1 and EZH2 functions.

Archives of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Kleer CG This case presentation reviews the histologic distinction between pure medullary carcinoma and breast carcinomas with medullary-like features. This particular case prompts us to analyze the relationship among medullary carcinoma, basal-like breast carcinomas and carcinomas associated with germline BRCA1 mutations. In addition to now well-defined features, such as expression of high-molecular-weight cytokeratins and EGFR (epidermal growth factor receptor), basal-like tumors have a deficiency or dysfunction of BRCA1. This association in part explains the histologic features of BRCA1-associated breast cancers. Recent studies in our laboratory demonstrate that BRCA1 protein is regulated by a recently described gene, EZH2. These concepts illustrate the important relationsh...

Mitotic index of invasive breast carcinoma. Achieving clinically meaningful precision and evaluating tertial cutoffs.

Archives of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSIONS: Standard errors for MI based on a single count of 10 HPFs are too broad and coefficients of variation too large to be acceptable for clinical use. This is explained as a binomial probability effect, possibly with a contribution from tumor heterogeneity. Errors can be reduced in proportion to the square root of the number of sets of 10 HPFs counted. Tertial cutoffs of MI of the Nottingham system currently used in breast carcinoma grading are too high to be applicable to the population we studied. We recommend validation of cutoffs before they are applied to a particular population of breast carcinomas. Counting 5 sets of 10 HPFs is necessary to accurately rank carcinomas with low MIs. PMID: 19886719 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Archives of Pathology and Laboratory Medicin...

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Primary intraosseous squamous cell carcinoma of the jaws. Clinicopathologic presentation and prognostic factors.

Archives of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSIONS: Primary intraosseous squamous cell carcinoma is a high-grade malignancy with frequent, regional lymph node metastasis and high rates of recurrence and mortality. The tumor grading and regional lymph node metastasis may serve as useful indicators for prognosis. PMID: 19886720 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Archives of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine)

Standards to support information systems integration in anatomic pathology.

Archives of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSION: The IHE anatomic pathology working group has defined standard-based informatics transactions to support the basic diagnostic workflow in anatomic pathology laboratories. In further stages, the technical framework will be completed to manage whole-slide images and semantically rich structured reports in the diagnostic workflow and to integrate systems used for patient care and those used for research activities (such as tissue bank databases or tissue microarrayers). PMID: 19886721 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Archives of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine)

p38 Mitogen-activated protein kinase and hematologic malignancies.

Archives of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSIONS: In some hematologic malignancies, activation of p38 plays a key role in promoting or inhibiting proliferation and also in increasing resistance to chemotherapeutic agents. The importance of different p38 isoforms in various cellular functions has been acknowledged recently. Further understanding of these isoforms will allow the design of more specific inhibitors to target particular isoforms to maximize the treatment effect and minimize the side effects for treating hematopoietic malignancies. PMID: 19886722 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Archives of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine)

Sarcomatoid chromophobe renal cell carcinoma with heterologous sarcomatoid elements. A case report and review of the literature.

Archives of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Quiroga-Garza G, Khurana H, Shen S, Ayala AG, Ro JY Chromophobe renal cell carcinoma (CRCC) is a distinct subtype of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) that is well known for its relatively good prognosis. Sarcomatoid transformation in this tumor, although rare, has been well documented in the literature and, as in other types of RCC, carries an ominous prognosis for the patient. The finding of heterologous elements in the sarcomatoid component of CRCC is an extraordinary event, which has been reported in only 2 previous cases. Here, we present the third such case, occurring in the left kidney of a previously healthy 63-year-old woman. The nephrectomy specimen showed CRCC with extensive sarcomatoid changes displaying heterologous elements in the form of chondrosarcomatous and osteosar...

Crystal-storing histiocytosis as a cause of symptomatic cardiac mass.

Archives of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

We present a 64-year-old man with a prior history of weakness and weight loss and hematologic evaluation that had revealed immunoglobulin G kappa monoclonal light chains in the serum and negative bone marrow biopsy. He presented with supraventricular tachyarrhythmia and a right atrial mass seen on echocardiogram and excised surgically. Histologically, the tumor was composed of sheets of macrophages infiltrating the atrial myocardium. The histiocytes were filled with multiple needle-shaped, periodic acid-Schiff-negative crystals. These cells and associated plasma cells failed to show clonal light chain restriction by in situ hybridization or immunohistochemistry, and there was no area of lymphoma in the tumor. Ultrastructural examination showed numerous stick-like, trapezoidal, or polygonal...

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Dieulafoy disease of the colon.

Archives of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Jain R, Chetty R Dieulafoy disease is a rare cause of upper gastrointestinal hemorrhage (usually gastric) and an even rarer cause of colonic bleeding. There is a sudden onset of catastrophic bleeding in a previously healthy individual, which cannot be managed conservatively. Although this entity can be diagnosed and treated by endoscopy and angiography, the knowledge of its existence in colon is critical to making the diagnosis because of its small size. In an era of widespread use of endoscopy, the pathologists uncommonly receive resection specimens for Dieulafoy lesions. However, the diagnosis can be missed because of the small size of the lesion and the almost normal appearance of the mucosa. Awareness of its existence will provide an answer for otherwise unexplained gastro...

Primary bone lymphoma.

Archives of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Bhagavathi S, Fu K Primary bone lymphomas are rare, even though secondary involvement of the bone marrow is a common event in systemic lymphomas. Most primary bone lymphomas are primary bone diffuse large B-cell lymphomas (PBDLBCLs) with a rare occurrence of follicular, marginal zone, anaplastic large cell, Hodgkin, and T-cell lymphomas. The PBDLBCL affects the middle-aged to elderly population, with a slight predominance in men. The patients present with bone pain, palpable mass, fractures, or neurologic symptoms. The metaphysis of bones is a common location of PBDLBCL. Morphologically, the lymphoma consists of a polymorphous mixture of small to large cells with multilobated nuclei, fine chromatin, and inconspicuous to prominent nucleoli. Differential diagnoses for PBDLBCL in...

Benign fibroblastic polyps of the colon.

Archives of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Huber AR, Shikle JF Benign fibroblastic polyps of the colon are a recently described entity among mucosal polyps found in the colorectum. These polyps are typically discovered on routine screening colonoscopy within the distal colon. Benign fibroblastic polyps occur most commonly in adult women in the sixth decade of life. Histologically, benign fibroblastic polyps are bland spindle cell lesions that fill the lamina propria and displace the surrounding crypts. The spindle cell proliferation lacks atypia and significant mitotic activity. Hyperplastic changes are frequently present both in the adjacent epithelium and within the lesions. Immunohistochemically, the cells of benign fibroblastic polyps are invariably positive for vimentin with rare focal positivity for CD34 and smoo...

Errors Outside the Clinical Laboratory Can Lead to Fatal Consequences for Patients

Dark Daily — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 09:00:12 +0100

Guest Commentary by: Mark Graban Clinical laboratory professionals and leaders should be reminded that their accountability for quality and patient safety does not end at the instrument or the microscope—at least from the general public’s perception and the needs of patients. This summer, I was walking through Boston Common and saw a woman with a homemade sign [...] (Source: Dark Daily)

PAML Has New Owner as Catholic Health Initiatives Buys a Stake

Dark Daily — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 13:38:45 +0100

Deal with Providence Health gives PAML access to 78 CHI hospitals in 20 states Yesterday it was announced that Pathology Associates Medical Laboratories (PAML) of Spokane, Washington, has a new equity partner. In a joint release, Catholic Health Initiatives (CHI) and Providence Health & Services acknowledged a “definitive agreement in which CHI will assume a 25% [...] (Source: Dark Daily)

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Is precession electron diffraction kinematical? Part II A practical method to determine the optimum precession angle.

Ultramicroscopy — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Eggeman AS, White TA, Midgley PA A series of experiments was undertaken to investigate the kinematical nature of precession electron diffraction data and to gauge the optimum precession angle for a particular system. Kinematically forbidden reflections in silicon were used to show how a large precession angle is needed to minimise multi-beam conditions for specific reflections and so reduce the contribution from dynamical diffraction. Small precession angles were shown to be detrimental to the kinematical nature of some low-order reflections. By varying precession angles, precession electron diffraction data for erbium pyrogermanate were used to investigate the effect of dynamical diffraction on the output from structure solution algorithms. A good correlation was noted betwee...

Four-dimensional telomere analysis in recordings of living human cells acquired with Controlled Light Exposure Microscopy

Journal of Microscopy — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100

We present a toolbox for determining telomere positions within the nucleus with subresolution accuracy and tracking telomeres in 4D controlled light exposure microscopy (CLEM) recordings. The use of CLEM allowed for durable imaging and thereby improved segmentation performance considerably. With minor modifications, the underlying algorithms can be expanded to the analysis of other intranuclear features, such as nuclear bodies or DNA double stranded break foci. (Source: Journal of Microscopy)

Reducing scanning electron microscope charging by using exponential contrast stretching technique on post-processing images

Journal of Microscopy — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100

An exponential contrast stretching (ECS) technique is developed to reduce the charging effects on scanning electron microscope images. Compared to some of the conventional histogram equalization methods, such as bi-histogram equalization and recursive mean-separate histogram equalization, the proposed ECS method yields better image compensation. Diode sample chips with insulating and conductive surfaces are used as test samples to evaluate the efficiency of the developed algorithm. The algorithm is implemented in software with a frame grabber card, forming the front-end video capture element. (Source: Journal of Microscopy)

Stereological estimation of the total number of ventilatory units in mice lungs

Journal of Microscopy — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100

We present an unbiased estimator of the total number of alveolar structures distal to the transition from a bronchiole to an alveolar duct system ('ventilatory units', VUs). In species without respiratory bronchioles, including mice, the number of VUs is equivalent to the number of acini. The acinus is a functional unit of gas exchange, defined as a parenchymal unit distal to a terminal bronchiole in which all airways contain alveoli and thus participate in gas exchange. The estimator combines two different estimators of the number of VUs: (1) an estimator derived from the Euler number of all the openings of the bronchial tree and (2) an estimator derived from direct counts of topological changes occurring at bronchiole-alveolar duct junctions. Combining the two estimators eliminates the r...

NanoSIMS imaging of Bacillus spores sectioned by focused ion beam

Journal of Microscopy — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Preparation and sectioning of bacterial spores by focused ion beam and subsequent high resolution secondary ion mass spectrometry analytical imaging is demonstrated. Scanning transmission electron microscopy mode imaging in a scanning electron microscope is used to show that the internal structure of the bacterial spore can be preserved during focused ion beam sectioning and can be imaged without contrast staining. Ion images of the sections show that the internal elemental distributions of the sectioned spores are preserved. A rapid focused ion beam top-sectioning method is demonstrated to yield comparable ion images without the need for sample trenching and section lift-out. The lift-out and thinning method enable correlated transmission electron microscopy and high resolution secondary ...

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Meet the Nation’s Top 10 Healthcare Systems for Quality

Dark Daily — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 14:52:06 +0100

Advanced use of EHRs is one characteristic of nation’s quality leaders It’s a new study and ranking of top-performing health systems that Dark Daily readers will find interesting and useful. Thomson Reuters announced its latest Top 10 rankings, and identified three main ingredients for attaining higher-quality outcomes. They were: 1) a corporate-level coordinating committee; 2) ample [...] (Source: Dark Daily)

Long-range correlations in In(2)O(3)(ZnO)(7) investigated by DFT calculations and electron holography.

Ultramicroscopy — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Röder F, Lubk A, Lichte H, Bredow T, Yu W, Mader W The system In(2)O(3)(ZnO)(7) exhibits a strained ZnO-like domain structure intersected by indium containing, parallely arranged defect planes with a regular spacing of about 2.4nm. We propose that the strain within the domains originates from long-range electric fields due to charge localization at the defects inducing ionic displacements. The origin of the electric fields has been investigated theoretically by means of density functional theory (DFT). Calculated electric fields were incorporated as scattering potentials in holographic imaging simulations. Since the exact structure of the system is unknown, a novel structure model was derived for In(2)O(3)(ZnO)(7) from known members of the homologous series of In(2)O(3)(Z...

Multivariate statistics applications in phase analysis of STEM-EDS spectrum images.

Ultramicroscopy — Sat, 24 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Parish CM, Brewer LN Spectrum imaging (SI) methods are displacing traditional spot analyses as the predominant paradigm for spectroscopic analysis with electron beam instrumentation. The multivariate nature of SI provides clear advantages for qualitative analysis of multiphase specimens relative to traditional gray-scale images acquired with non-spectroscopic signals, where different phases with similar average atomic number may exhibit the same intensity. However, with the improvement in qualitative analysis with the SI paradigm has come a decline in the quantitative analysis of the phases thus identified, since the spectra from individual pixels typically have insufficient counting statistics for proper quantification. The present paper outlines a methodology for quantitativ...

Image analysis benchmarking methods for high-content screen design

Journal of Microscopy — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 23:00:00 +0100

The recent development of complex chemical and small interfering RNA (siRNA) collections has enabled large-scale cell-based phenotypic screening. High-content and high-throughput imaging are widely used methods to record phenotypic data after chemical and small interfering RNA treatment, and numerous image processing and analysis methods have been used to quantify these phenotypes. Currently, there are no standardized methods for evaluating the effectiveness of new and existing image processing and analysis tools for an arbitrary screening problem. We generated a series of benchmarking images that represent commonly encountered variation in high-throughput screening data and used these image standards to evaluate the robustness of five different image analysis methods to changes in signal-...

Clinical Labs Make Money by Using Revenue Cycle Management

Dark Daily — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 15:45:21 +0100

Management Tool Contributes to More Collected Revenue, Higher Sales Prices Revenue Cycle Management (RCM) is hitting the radar screen at the nation’s best-managed clinical laboratories. That’s because shrinking reimbursement makes it imperative for clinical labs and pathology groups to collect every dollar legally due for the lab testing services they provide. RCM is a proven management [...] (Source: Dark Daily)

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A histopathological study of the pulp of dogs' teeth after induction of experimental pulp inflammation for different periods of time

Journal of Microscopy — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 23:00:00 +0100

The purpose of this study was to investigate the reaction of the pulp of dogs' teeth after insertion of soft carious dentin from freshly extracted human teeth into the buccal cavities for short and longer periods of time. Forty-seven mature lower and upper teeth were used in this study. On the middle of the buccal side of the teeth, 3 × 5 mm class [nu] cavities were prepared, soft carious dentin from freshly extracted human teeth was inserted into the floor of the cavity, and those were filled with glass ionomer. The dogs were killed after 7, 14, 28 and 47 days using vital perfusion techniques. Six-micrometre sections were prepared and blindly evaluated by pathologist. An inflammatory reaction occurred in all of the samples. Moderate to severe inflammation were shown in all periods except...

Combining FIB milling and conventional Argon ion milling techniques to prepare high-quality site-specific TEM samples for quantitative EELS analysis of oxygen in molten iron

Journal of Microscopy — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 23:00:00 +0100

This paper reports a procedure to combine the focused ion beam micro-sampling method with conventional Ar-milling to prepare high-quality site-specific transmission electron microscopy cross-section samples. The advantage is to enable chemical and structural evaluations of oxygen dissolved in a molten iron sample to be made after quenching and recovery from high-pressure experiments in a laser-heated diamond anvil cell. The evaluations were performed by using electron energy-loss spectroscopy and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy. The high signal to noise ratios of electron energy-loss spectroscopy core-loss spectra from the transmission electron microscopy thin foil, re-thinned down to 40 nm in thickness by conventional Argon ion milling, provided us with oxygen quantitativ...

Gridded Aclar: preparation methods and use for correlative light and electron microscopy of cell monolayers, by TEM and FIB–SEM

Journal of Microscopy — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Aclar, a copolymer film with properties very similar to those of tissue culture plastic, is a versatile substrate to grow cells for light (including fluorescence) and electron microscopic applications in combination with both chemical fixation and cryoimmobilization. In this paper, we describe complete procedures to perform correlative light and electron microscopy using Aclar as substrate for the culture of cell monolayers to be finally embedded in plastic. First, we developed straightforward, efficient and flexible ways to mark the surface of the Aclar to create substrates to locate cells first at the light microscopy and then the electron microscopy level. All the methods enable the user to self-design gridded Aclar pieces, according to the purpose of the experiments, and create a large...

HITECH ACT Mandates New Patient Privacy Requirements on Labs and Pathology Groups

Dark Daily — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 17:03:15 +0100

Labs Must Report Privacy Breaches of 500 or More to the Media Call it HITECH collides with HIPAA! Most pathologists and lab executives know that passage of the HITECH Act was the part of 2009’s American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (also referred to as “ARRA” or the “stimulus bill”). HITECH provides incentives for the expanded [...] (Source: Dark Daily)

Rapid quantification of the effects of blotting for correlation of light and cryo-light microscopy images

Journal of Microscopy — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Recent technical developments allowed the accurate correlation of fluorescently labelled organelles in living cells to cryo-electron micrographs. We aimed at expanding this approach to Plasmodium berghei sporozoites, the motile forms of a rodent malaria parasite, which can be imaged by cryo-electron tomography in toto without the need for sectioning. Sporozoites are crescent shaped eukaryotic cells that move on flat supports including EM grids in a circular, unidirectional manner. While sporozoites can be visualized with fluorescent light and cryo-light microscopy prior to tomography, few motile sporozoites remained on the grid after blotting excess liquid impairing a complete correlation from light microscopy to cryo-electron tomography. Comparison with cells showing different adhesion st...

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Two-photon microscopy of deep intravital tissues and its merits in clinical research

Journal of Microscopy — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Multiphoton excitation laser scanning microscopy, relying on the simultaneous absorption of two or more photons by a molecule, is one of the most exciting recent developments in biomedical imaging. Thanks to its superior imaging capability of deeper tissue penetration and efficient light detection, this system becomes more and more an inspiring tool for intravital bulk tissue imaging. Two-photon excitation microscopy including 2-photon fluorescence and second harmonic generated signal microscopy is the most common multiphoton microscopic application. In the present review we take diverse ocular tissues as intravital samples to demonstrate the advantages of this approach. Experiments with registration of intracellular 2-photon fluorescence and extracellular collagen second harmonic generate...

Tensorial Minkowski functionals and anisotropy measures for planar patterns

Journal of Microscopy — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Quantitative measures for anisotropic characteristics of spatial structure are needed when relating the morphology of microstructured heterogeneous materials to tensorial physical properties such as elasticity, permeability and conductance. Tensor-valued Minkowski functionals, defined in the framework of integral geometry, provide a concise set of descriptors of anisotropic morphology. In this article, we describe the robust computation of these measures for microscopy images and polygonal shapes. We demonstrate their relevance for shape description, their versatility and their robustness by applying them to experimental data sets, specifically microscopy data sets of non-equilibrium stationary Turing patterns and the shapes of ice grains from Antarctic cores. (Source: Journal of Microscop...

Improvement of the pore trapping method to immobilize vital coccoid bacteria for high-resolution AFM: a study of Staphylococcus aureus

Journal of Microscopy — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Preparation of vital bacteria for atomic force microscope study under aqueous fluid, such as physiological buffer or bacterial growth medium, presents challenges as cells will often desorb from the supporting surface or be dislodged by the atomic force microscope tip during imaging. An established method of immobilizing coccoid bacteria is to trap cells in polycarbonate track etched filter pores. We have significantly improved this method by modifying the pore diameter of commercially available filters to correspond to the diameter of the target strain, enabling high-resolution imaging of stationary organisms under buffer and dividing organisms under growth media. (Source: Journal of Microscopy)

Micro-computed X-ray tomography: a new non-destructive method of assessing sectional, fly-through and 3D imaging of a soft-bodied marine worm

Journal of Microscopy — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 23:00:00 +0100

The detailed examination of the internal and functional anatomy of soft-bodied marine worms has, until now, only been possible using the time consuming and destructive techniques of dissection, histology and electron microscopy. This is the first description of soft body morphology in polychaetes (Nephtys hombergii) derived by means of a bench-top X-ray micro-CT scanner. The data are augmented, for comparison, by dissections, microscopy and scanning electron microscopy of the same species to show how this non-destructive technique can rapidly and reliably produce high-quality morphological data. It can also be applied to rare or unique invertebrate soft tissue material from museum collections and also to large-scale invertebrate comparative anatomical studies possibly leading to greater ev...

Quality control protocol for in vitro micro-computed tomography

Journal of Microscopy — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 23:00:00 +0100

The aim of this work was to present and discuss a quality control protocol for in vitro micro-computed tomography (microCT), based on the adaptation of the quality control protocols for medical computed tomography. The importance of establishing a quality control protocol is related to the opportunity to identify problems on time comparing the microCT images acquired in different time points, and in this way to verify the performance of the device. The proposed quality control protocol was applied for a long-time monitoring period to verify the stability of the micro-tomographic system over time. The protocol proposed in this study was applied to the histomorphometric characterization of bone tissue, but it can be used on a wide range of in vitro microCT applications. Noise and uniformity ...

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Measurement of potential distribution function on object surface by using an electron microscope in the mirror operation mode

Journal of Microscopy — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 23:00:00 +0100

The quantitative theory of image contrast in an electron microscope in the mirror operation mode is given in this paper. This theory permits us to calculate the potential distribution on the object surface from the current density distribution on the microscope screen. The potential distribution results in image formation on the screen. Local electric fields existing on the object surface lead to a perturbation of electron trajectories above the object and to a redistribution of the current density on the screen, causing image contrast. Using the quantitative correlation between these fields and the function of current density distribution on the screen, it is possible to calculate the magnitude of these microfields as well. As illustration, a measured potential distribution on an object s...

Automatic twin statistics from electron backscattered diffraction data

Journal of Microscopy — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 23:00:00 +0100

A new computer code has been developed to automatically extract quantitative twin statistics from electron backscatter diffraction data. The new code is an improvement upon previous codes in that it handles materials of any crystal symmetry, type I, Type II and compound twins, and general stress states. Moreover, accuracy of the results has been greatly improved. In addition, twin statistics including number, area fraction, twin thickness and twinning dependencies on orientation, grain size and neighbourhood effects can be routinely analysed. The new code has been applied to scan data from deformed magnesium, zirconium and uranium, and can potentially be used for any twinning material for which reliable electron backscatter diffraction results can be obtained. (Source: Journal of Microscop...

Activation of NFkB and coagulation in lung injury by hyperoxia and excessive mechanical ventilation: one more reason "low and slow" is the way to go?

Translational Research : the journal of laboratory and clinical medicine — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 21:34:23 +0100

Authors: Jacobson JR, Birukov KG PMID: 19840762 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Translational Research : the journal of laboratory and clinical medicine)

gammadelta T cells and Th17 cytokines in hypersensitivity pneumonitis and lung fibrosis.

Translational Research : the journal of laboratory and clinical medicine — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 21:34:20 +0100

Authors: Simonian PL, Roark CL, Born WK, O'Brien RL, Fontenot AP Hypersensitivity pneumonitis (HP) is an inflammatory lung disease caused by the repeated inhalation of aerosolized antigens. With chronic exposure to an inhaled antigen, patients are at risk of developing irreversible pulmonary fibrosis as well as an increased morbidity and mortality. Although alphabeta T cells have been shown to be important in the pathogenesis of HP, gammadelta T cells also accumulate in the bronchoalveolar lavage of patients with HP. gammadelta T cells represent a distinct lymphocyte subset, whose primary function is not well understood. In contrast to alphabeta T cells, gammadelta T cells recognize unprocessed antigens, such as those upregulated on injured or stressed epithelial cells. In a murine mod...

MedWorm: Laboratory Medicine

Endothelin-1, big endothelin-1, and nitric oxide in patients with chronic renal disease and hypertension

ESEM imaging of dynamic biological processes: the closure of stomatal pores

Recrystallization of plane strain compressed Al–1 wt.% Mn alloy single crystals of typical unstable orientations

TEM studies of plasma nitrided austenitic stainless steel

Depth measurements of etch-pits in GaN with shape reconstruction from SEM images

TEM studies of melt-spun alloys with liquid miscibility gap

Electron detection in the intermediate chamber of the variable pressure SEM

Dependence of cathodoluminescence on layer resistance applied for measurement of thin-layer sheet resistance

Shear banding phenomenon in a Cu–8 at.% Al alloy analysed by orientation imaging microscopy

Identification of electron beam vibration sources by separation of magnetic distortion from electric distortion on scanning electron microscope imaging

TEM characterization of MBE grown CdTe/ZnTe axial nanowires

Microstructural changes during creep of CMSX-4 single crystal Ni base superalloy at 750°C

IgM, IgG, and IgA anti-DNA topoisomerase I antibodies in systemic sclerosis

Prevalence characterization of extended-spectrum [beta]-lactamases among Escherichia coli isolates collected in Zhengzhou

New method for calcium on the ADVIA analyzer is free from interference of gadolinium-type contrast agents

Rapid liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometer (LCMS) method for clozapine and its metabolite N-desmethyl Clozapine (Norclozapine) in human serum

CXCL12 rs1801157 polymorphism in patients with breast cancer, hodgkin's lymphoma, and non-hodgkin's lymphoma

Gene diagnosis for nine Chinese patients with DMD/BMD by multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification and prenatal diagnosis for one of them

Increased soluble serum markers caspase-cleaved cytokeratin-18, histones, and ST2 indicate apoptotic turnover and chronic immune response in COPD

AML1 amplification and 17q25 deletion in a case of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia

A novel genetic variant of BMP2K contributes to high myopia

Human epididymis protein 4 is a biomarker for transitional cell carcinoma in the urinary system

Pathology Testing Prices as a Commodity: Australia’s Health System Stands at a Crossroads

JALA Information for authors

World News

Please Do Pay Attention to the Man Behind the Curtain

Changes, Challenges, and Choices

Editorial Board

Table of Contents

Subject Index

Author Index

Meetings and Events

A Microfluidic Cartridge System for Multiplexed Clinical Analysis

Iridium Oxide Nanomonitors for Real-time Health Monitoring Systems

Analysis of Retina and Erythrocyte Glycerophospholipid Alterations in a Rat Model of Type 1 Diabetes

Pathway Reporter Assays Reveal Small Molecule Mechanisms of Action

High-Pressure/High-Temperature Microreactors for Nanostructure Synthesis

Automation of the SomaLogic Proteomics Assay: A Platform for Biomarker Discovery

A Method for Identifying Small-Molecule Aggregators Using Photonic Crystal Biosensor Microplates

Backscattering Interferometry for Low Sample Consumption Molecular Interaction Screening

Perspectives on Utilizing Unique Features of Microfluidics Technology for Particle and Cell Sorting

Automation Highlights from the Literature

GSTP1*B allele increases the risk for asthma in children

Quick and easy colorimetric test for calibration control of liquid handling workstations

Hypoxia related growth factors and p53 in preoperative sera from patients with colorectal cancer – evaluation of the prognostic significance of these agents

Biochemical role of intravaginal sildenafil citrate as a novel antiabortive agent in unexplained recurrent spontaneous miscarriage: first clinical study of four case reports from Egypt

Potential of the Sebia Capillarys® neonat fast automated system for neonatal screening of sickle cell disease

A new turbidimetric method for assaying serum C-reactive protein based on phosphocholine interaction

Potential utility of the new Sysmex XE 5000 red blood cell extended parameters in the study of disorders of iron metabolism

Markers of infection in inpatients and outpatients with acute Q-fever

The rate of manual peripheral blood smear reviews in outpatients

Detection of myelin autoantibodies: evaluation of an assay system for diagnosis of multiple sclerosis in differentiation from other central nervous system diseases

Impaired anti-inflammatory function of apolipoprotein A-II concentrations predicts metabolic syndrome and diabetes at 4 years follow-up in elderly Turks

Enhanced bone metabolism in vegetarians – the role of vitamin B12 deficiency

Serum albumin fragmentation in end-stage renal disease patients – a pilot study

Prevalence of thyroid autoimmunity and subclinical hypothyroidism in persons with chronic kidney disease not requiring chronic dialysis

Comparison of visual vs. automated detection of lipemic, icteric and hemolyzed specimens: can we rely on a human eye?

Molecular diagnostics in acute leukemias

Discordant total and free prostate-specific antigen (PSA) assays: does calibration with WHO reference materials diminish the problem?

The Journal Impact Factor: don't expect its demise any time soon

Journal Impact Factor: it will go away soon

Map of Medicine Uses Evidence-Based Medicine to Help Physicians

Nation’s List of Top Ten Largest Healthcare Systems Include Some Surprises

Gunman Enters Clinical Laboratory in Oregon Yesterday, Two Dead, Two Injured

Advances in phase-sensitive acoustic microscopy studies of polymer blend films: annealing effects and micro-elastic characterization of PS/PMMA blends

Succession Planning Omission Will Dearly Cost Many Clinical Labs and Pathology Groups

Characterizing voltage contrast in photoelectron emission microscopy

Development and implementation of an automatic system for verification, validation and delivery of laboratory test results

Meta-analyses of diagnostic studies

MountainStar–PAML Lab Joint Venture Doubles in Size in 24 Months

Teaching “Best Practices” in Pathology Group Practice Management

Index

Respiratory Viruses in Bronchiolitis and Their Link to Recurrent Wheezing and Asthma

Respiratory Syncytial Virus Vaccine Development

Recently Discovered Human Coronaviruses

The Human Bocaviruses: A Review and Discussion of Their Role in Infection

Emerging Molecular Assays for Detection and Characterization of Respiratory Viruses

Utilization of Nucleic Acid Amplification Assays for the Detection of Respiratory Viruses

Antigen-Based Assays for the Identification of Influenza Virus and Respiratory Syncytial Virus: Why and How to Use Them in Pediatric Practice