| Iron Limitation and the Role of Siderophores in Marine Synechococcus |
Jun-2009 |
|
| Authors:
Adam R Rivers; WOODS HOLE OCEANOGRAPHIC INSTITUTION MA
|
 | Marine cyanobacteria in the genus Synechococcus are widely distributed and contribute significantly to global primary productivity. In many parts of the ocean their growth is limited by a lack of iron, an essential nutrient that is virtually insoluble in seawater. To overcome this, Synechococcus have evolved a number of strategies to acquire iron. Gene distribution, metagenomics and a novel immunological flow cytometry assay in the Costa Rica Upwelling Dome were ... |
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| Process Research and Development of Antibodies as Countermeasures for C. botulinum |
Feb-2009 |
41 pages |
| Authors:
Michael Meagher; NEBRASKA UNIV LINCOLN
|
 | This final report describes the design and construction of a CGMP facility for yeast and bacteria on the first floor and basement of Othmer Hall, the home for the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Biological Process Development Facility. Total cost for construction was $11,165,740, with the University of Nebraska-Lincoln providing $5,179,226 (46%) of the funding, USAMRMC providing $4,958,049 (45%), and JVAP providing $1,028,465 (9 %). This final report also describes the expression, ... |
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| Evaluation of Quantitative Anti-F1 IgG and Anti-V IgG ELISAs for use as an in Vitro-Based Potency Assay of Plague Vaccine in Mice |
01-Apr-2008 |
10 pages |
| Authors:
S F Little; W M Webster; H Wilhelm; B Powell; J Enama; J J Adamovicz; ARMY MEDICAL RESEARCH INST OF INFECTIOUS DISEASES FORT DETRICK MD BACTERIOLOGY DIV
|
 | Quantitative anti-F1 and anti-V IgG enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) were developed to measure the serological response of female Swiss Webster mice after vaccination with the recombinant fusion protein, rF1-V, which is being developed as a plague vaccine. Several fundamental parameters of the ELISA were evaluated: specificity, precision, accuracy, and stability. Experimental results suggested that a potency assay based upon the serological response of female Swiss Webster mice, as measured by ... |
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| Tularemia: Current Diagnosis and Treatment Options |
APR 2008 |
11 pages |
| Authors:
Matthew J. Hepburn; Andrew J. Simpson; ARMY MEDICAL RESEARCH INST OF INFECTIOUS DISEASES FORT DETRICK MD
|
 | Tularemia is an infection caused by Francisella tularensis with a worldwide distribution and diverse clinical manifestations. Limitations in both culture and serologic testing have led to substantial research into new diagnostic techniques and their clinical application, with PCR testing as the best example. This review focuses on the utility of culture, PCR and serologic testing for tularemia. In addition, we also review the evidence to support different therapeutic options for ... |
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| Onset Dynamics of Type A Botulinum Neurotoxin-Induced Paralysis |
01-Jan-2008 |
19 pages |
| Authors:
Michael Adler; Yaroslav Chushak; Frank J Lebeda; Keith Erickson; ARMY MEDICAL RESEARCH INST OF INFECTIOUS DISEASES FORT DETRICK MD
|
 | Experimental studies have demonstrated that botulinum neurotoxin serotype A (BoNT/A) causes flaccid paralysis by a multi-step mechanism. Following its binding to specific receptors at peripheral cholinergic nerve endings, BoNT/A is internalized by receptor-mediated endocytosis. Subsequently its zinc-dependent catalytic domain translocates into the neuroplasm where it cleaves a vesicle-docking protein, SNAP-25, to block neurally evoked cholinergic neurotransmission. We tested the hypothesis that mathematical models having a minimal number of reactions and ... |
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| Assay for and Replication of Karshi (Mammalian Tick-Borne Flavivirus Group) Virus in Mice |
2008 |
5 pages |
| Authors:
Michael J. Turell; Chris A. Whitehouse; Ashley Butler; Carson Baldwin; Hannah Hottel; Christopher N. Mores; ARMY MEDICAL RESEARCH INST OF INFECTIOUS DISEASES FORT DETRICK MD
|
 | Little is known about the replication of Karshi virus, a member of the mammalian tick-borne flavivirus group, in its rodent hosts. Therefore, we developed a novel quantitative real-time RT-PCR assay and measured the amount of viral RNA in selected tissues of infected Swiss Webster mice. Two-day-old mice were highly susceptible, with 100% fatality between days 9 and 12 after infection, while 9-day-old mice were less susceptible with death occurring only ... |
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| Use of a Recombinant Fluorescent Substrate with Cleavage Sites for All Botulinum Neurotoxins in High-Throughput Screening of Natural Product Extracts for Inhibitors of Serotypes A, B, and E7 |
14 DEC 2007 |
8 pages |
| Authors:
Harry B. Hines; Alexander D. Kim; Robert G. Stafford; Shirin S. Badie; Ernst E. Brueggemann; David J. Newman; James J. Schmidt; ARMY MEDICAL RESEARCH INST OF INFECTIOUS DISEASES FORT DETRICK MD
|
 | The seven serotypes of botulinum neurotoxin (BoNTs) are zinc metalloproteases that cleave and inactivate proteins critical for neurotransmission. Synaptosomal protein of 25 kDA (SNAP-25) is cleaved by BoNTs A, C, and E, while vesicle-associated membrane protein (VAMP) is the substrate for BoNTs B, D. F. and G. BoNTs are not only medically useful drugs, but are also potential bioterrorist and biowarfare threat agents. Because BoNT protease activity is required for ... |
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| Deployable, Field-Sustainable, Reverse Transcription-Polymerase Chain Reaction Assays for Rapid Screening and Serotype Identification of Dengue Virus in Mosquitoes |
MAR 2007 |
8 pages |
| Authors:
James C. McAvin; Michael D. Powers; Jamie A. Blow; John L. Putnam; William B. Huff; James A. Swaby; ARMY MEDICAL RESEARCH INST OF INFECTIOUS DISEASES FORT DETRICK MD
|
 | Dengue virus universal and serotype 1 to 4 fluorogenic probe hydrolysis, reverse transcription (RT)-polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays and positive-control RNA template were freeze-dried in a thermally stable, hydrolytic enzyme-resistant format and deployed for testing in a dengue fever-endemic region of Thailand. The study site presented austere testing conditions. Field-collected Aedes aegypti mosquitoes and individual and pooled, field-collected, A. aegypti, A. albopictus, and Culex tritaeniorhynchus mosquitoes were used for RT-PCR ... |
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| Effect of Aluminum Hydroxide Adjuvant and Formaldehyde in the Formulation of rPA Anthrax Vaccine |
02 JAN 2007 |
9 pages |
| Authors:
S. F. Little; B. E. Ivins; W. M. Webster; S L. Norris; G. P. Andrews; ARMY MEDICAL RESEARCH INST OF INFECTIOUS DISEASES FORT DETRICK MD BACTERIOLOGY DIV
|
 | The serological response and efficacy of Bacillus anthracis recombinant protective antigen (rPA) vaccines formulated with aluminum hydroxide adjuvant, either with or without formaldehyde, were evaluated in rabbits. Rabbits that had been injected with a single dose of 25mug of rPA adsorbed to 500mug of aluminum in aluminum hydroxide gel (Alhydrogel) had a significantly higher quantitative anti-rPA IgG ELISA titers (p |
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| Medical Surveillance Monthly Report (MSMR). Volume 12, Number 7, October 2006 |
Oct-2006 |
37 pages |
| Authors:
ARMED FORCES HEALTH SURVEILLANCE CENTER SILVER SPRING MD
|
 | The force health protection strategy of the U.S. Armed Forces is designed to deploy medically ready forces, minimize illnesses and injuries during deployments, and provide care for medical conditions following deployments. In March 2005, the Department of Defense launched the Post-Deployment Health Reassessment (PDHRA) program to identify and respond to service member health concerns that persist for three to six months following deployment, with a specific emphasis on mental health. ... |
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| Conversion of a Mouse Fab into a Whole Humanized IgG Antibody for Detecting Botulinum Toxin |
APR 2006 |
10 pages |
| Authors:
Thomas J. Palys; Kara E. Schmid; John M. Scherer; Randal J. Schoepp; ARMY MEDICAL RESEARCH INST OF INFECTIOUS DISEASES FORT DETRICK MD
|
 | Antibodies serve as the gold standard in most immunodiagnostic assays. Recent advances in recombinant DNA technology have offered the production of antibody fragments or Fabs as promising alternatives. However, the lack of the Fc region of the antibody can be difficult in many standard diagnostic platforms. Therefore we sought to convert a murine Fab into a whole humanized IgG. The variable regions from an anti-botulinum Fab were cloned into human ... |
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| Rapid Detection of Clostridium botulinum Toxins A, B, E, and F in Clinical Samples, Selected Food Matrices, and Buffer Using Paramagnetic Bead-Based Electrochemiluminescence Detection |
20 MAR 2006 |
11 pages |
| Authors:
Victor R. Rivera; Frank J. Gamez; William K. Keener; Jill A. White; Mark A. Poli; ARMY MEDICAL RESEARCH INST OF INFECTIOUS DISEASES FORT DETRICK MD
|
 | Sensitive and specific electrochemiluminescence (ECL) assays were used to detect Clostridium botulinum neurotoxins serotypes A, B, E, and F in undiluted human serum, undiluted human urine, assay buffer, and selected food matrices (whole milk, apple juice, ground beef, pastry, and raw eggs). These novel assays used paramagnetic bead-based electrochemiluminescent technology in which biotinylated serotype-specific antibodies were bound to streptavidin-coated paramagnetic beads. The beads acted as the solid support and captured ... |
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| Process Research and Development of Antibodies as Countermeasures for C. Botulinum |
MAR 2006 |
37 pages |
| Authors:
Michael Meagher; NEBRASKA UNIV LINCOLN
|
 | This report describes the design of a CGMP facility for yeast and bacteria on the first floor and basement of Othmer Hall, the home for the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Biological Process Development Facility. Design and a preliminary cost estimate is completed and the Program statement for the project is being submitted to the University of Nebraska Board of Reagents for approval. This report also describes research on the expression of ... |
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| Bis-imidazoles as Molecular Probes for Peripheral Sites of the Zinc Endopeptidase of Botulinum Neurotoxin Serotype A |
02 FEB 2006 |
10 pages |
| Authors:
Isidro Merino; Jason D. Thompson; Charles B. Millard; James J. Schmidt; Yuan-Ping Pang; MAYO CLINIC ROCHESTER MN MAYO CLINIC COLL OF MEDICINE
|
 | Botulinum neurotoxin serotype A (BoNTA) is highly toxic, and its antidote is currently unavailable. The essential light-chain subunit of BoNTA is a zinc endopeptidase that can be used as a target for developing antidotes. However, the development of high-affinity, small-molecule inhibitors of the endopeptidase is as challenging as the development of small-molecule inhibitors of protein-protein complexation, This is because the polypeptide substrate wraps around the circumference of the endopeptidase upon ... |
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| Neutralizing Antibody Response to Booster Vaccination with the 17d Yellow Fever Vaccine |
18 JAN 2006 |
8 pages |
| Authors:
M. J. Hepburn; M. G. Kortepeter; P. R. Pittman; E. F. Boudreau; J. A. Mangiafico; P. A. Buck; S. L. Norris; E. L. Anderson; ARMY MEDICAL RESEARCH INST OF INFECTIOUS DISEASES FORT DETRICK MD
|
 | A retrospective review was conducted of yellow fever vaccination among laboratory workers receiving annual serologic assessment to determine the initial and long-term response after boosting. Patients were divided into three groups based on pre-vaccination serology: Group 1, 1:10; Group 2, 1:20-1:40 and Group 3, >1:40. The percent with >/=four-fold increase in titers after booster vaccination were: 78% (646/829, Group 1), 65% (79/121, Group 2) and 10% (8/79, Group 3) (p ... |
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| Serotype-Selective, Small-Molecule Inhibitors of the Zinc Endopeptidase of Botulinum Neurotoxin Serotype A |
2006 |
15 pages |
| Authors:
Jewn G. Park; Peter C. Sill; Edward F. Makiyi; Alfonso T. Garcia-Sosa; Charles B. Millard; James J. Schmidt; Yuan-Ping Pang; ARMY MEDICAL RESEARCH INST OF INFECTIOUS DISEASES FORT DETRICK MD
|
 | Botulinum neurotoxin serotype A (BoNTA) is one of the most toxic substances known. Currently there is no antidote to BoNTA. Small molecules identified from high-throughput screening reportedly inhibit the endopeptidase - the zinc-bound, catalytic domain of BoNTA - at a drug concentration of 20 M. However, optimization of these inhibitors is hampered by challenges including the computational evaluation of the ability of a zinc ligand to compete for coordination with ... |
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| Ultra-Sensitive Detection of Prion Protein in Blood Using Isothermal Amplification Technology |
DEC 2005 |
16 pages |
| Authors:
Niel T. Constantine; MARYLAND UNIV BALTIMORE
|
 | The detection of pathologic prion protein that is implicated in transmissible spongiform encephalopathies is necessary to diagnose disease. Presently, the Western blot or ELISA are used to test the brain stem in cattle for the presence of PrPsc after proteinase K digestion of normal, cellular prion (PrPc) before admission of these animals into the food chain. However, infected animals and humans cannot be diagnosed in the pre-clinical stage of infection. ... |
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| Expression and Purification of Clostridium botulinum Type B Light Chain |
26 OCT 2005 |
14 pages |
| Authors:
Janice Gilsdorf; Nizamettin Gul; Leonard A. Smith; ARMY MEDICAL RESEARCH INST OF INFECTIOUS DISEASES FORT DETRICK MD
|
 | A full-length synthetic gene encoding the light chain of botulinum neurotoxin serotype B, approximately 50kDa (BoNT/B LC), has been cloned into a bacterial expression vector pET24a+. BoNT/B LC was expressed in Escherichia coli BL21.DE3.pLysS and isolated from the soluble fraction. The resultant protein was purified to homogeneity by cation chromatography and was determined to be >98% pure as assessed by SDS-polyacrylamide gel stained with SilverXpress and analyzed by densitometry. Mass ... |
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| Transmission Dynamics and Prospective Environmental Sampling of Adenovirus In a Military Recruit Setting |
05-Oct-2005 |
11 pages |
| Authors:
K L Russell; C B Morn; A E Kajon; M A Osuna; P E Kammerer; D J Ecker; E Moradi; N E Freed; L B Blyn; S E Franklin; M P Broderick; M A Ryan; NAVAL HEALTH RESEARCH CENTER SAN DIEGO CA
|
 | High levels of adenovirus morbidity among US military recruits have returned since the loss if the adenovirus vaccines in 1996. The transmission dynamics of adenovirus have never been well understood, complicating attempts to interrupt spread with preventive methods. Methods Enrollment and end-of-study samples were taken and active surveillance for febrile respiratory illnesses performed on 341 recruits and support personnel. Simultaneously, surface and air samples were collected. Classic cell culture, serology, ... |
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| Characterization of Botulinum Progenitor Toxins by Mass Spectrometry |
AUG 2005 |
11 pages |
| Authors:
Harry B. Hines; Frank Lebeda; Martha Hale; Ernst E. Brueggemann; ARMY MEDICAL RESEARCH INST OF INFECTIOUS DISEASES FORT DETRICK MD DIV OF TOXINOLOGY AND AEROBIOLOGY
|
 | Botulinum toxin analysis has renewed importance. This study included the use of nanochromatography-nanoelectrospray-mass spectrometry/mass spectrometry to characterize the protein composition of botulinum progenitor toxins and to assign botulinum progenitor toxins to their proper serotype and strain by using currently available sequence information. Clostridium botulinum progenitor toxins from strains Hall, Okra, Stockholm, MDPH, Alaska, Langeland, and 89 representing serotypes A through G, respectively, were reduced, alkylated, digested with trypsin, and identified ... |
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| Process Research and Development of Antibodies as Countermeasures for C. Botulinum |
MAR 2005 |
69 pages |
| Authors:
Michael Meagher; NEBRASKA UNIV LINCOLN
|
 | This report describes the project to fill out shell space on the third floor of Othmer Hall, the new home for the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Biological Process Development Facility. Construction is 95% completed and all research laboratories of the BPDF are functional. The 5% includes a Master Cell Banking. The third floor is home to all process research capabilities, i.e. molecular biology, fermentation, cell culture, analytical methods, quality control, purification ... |
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| Cross-Serotype Neutralization of Dengue Virus in Aotus nancymae Monkeys |
31 JAN 2005 |
6 pages |
| Authors:
Tadeusz J. Kochel; Douglas M. Watts; Alfonso S. Gozalo; Daniel F. Ewing; Kevin R. Porter; Kevin L. Russell; NAVAL MEDICAL RESEARCH INST DETACHMENT LIMA (PERU)
|
 | Previously, we observed that serum from humans immune to dengue serotype 1 (dengue-1) neutralized the American genotype of dengue serotype 2 (American-2) to a greater extent than it neutralized the Asian genotype of dengue serotype 2 (Asian-2). To determine if this activity is protective, Aotus nancymae monkeys were infected with dengue-1 followed by either American-2 or Asian-2. Dengue-1 infected animals produced antibody with neutralizing titers of 2656 antibodies against dengue-1, ... |
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| Clinical Use of Plasma and Plasma Fractions Chapter: Viral Inactivation Techniques |
26 JAN 2005 |
26 pages |
| Authors:
Joesph P. Pelletier; YALE UNIV NEW HAVEN CT
|
 | Even though the blood supply is very safe, concerns regarding transmission of transfusion-related pathogens exist. Risks are reduced by donor screening, arm-preparation techniques, first aliquant diversion, screening for pathogens and, in many countries, pathogen reduction/eradication technology. The risk for viral infection from transfusion is now reported at 1:2,135,000 for HIV, 1:138,700-233,000 for HBV, 1:1935,000 for HCV, 1:250,000 for HTLV 1 and 2 (after screening peripherally), 1:1,000,000 HAV, 1:10,000 for parvovirus ... |
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| Protein Receptor(s) of Botulinum Neurotoxin |
JAN 2005 |
361 pages |
| Authors:
Bal R. Singh; MASSACHUSETTS UNIV NORTH DARTMOUTH
|
 | Seven serotypes of botulinum neurotoxin (BoNT) are a group of water-soluble large proteins that act on the presynaptic nerve cells of the neuro-muscular junctions. BoNTs act intracellulary to block acetylcholine neurotransmitter release leading to the flaccid muscle paralysis in the dreaded botulism disease. In order to enter the neuronal cells, BoNTs bind to as yet to be clearly identified protein receptor(s), which could be targeted to develop proper antidotes. The ... |
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| Production of Recombinant Protein Pap31 and Its Application for the Diagnosis of Bartonella bacilliformis Infection |
2005 |
7 pages |
| Authors:
A. Taye; H. Chen; K. Duncan; Z. Zhang; L. Hendrix; J. Gonzalez; W. Ching; NAVAL MEDICAL RESEARCH CENTER SILVER SPRING MD
|
 | Tropical bartonellosis is a highly fatal epidemic and endemic infectious disease that occurs throughout the communities of the Andes Mountains in South America. The disease is caused by the facultative intracellular bacteria, Bartonella bacilliformis. The emergence of bartonellosis in new geographic areas and an increase in the number of reported cases suggest the need for a rapid test for epidemiologic study and investigation of the disease burden. The objective of ... |
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| Serotype Distribution of Respiratory Adenoviruses in Egypt Determined By Serial Multiplex PCR |
16 DEC 2004 |
29 pages |
| Authors:
David Metzgar; Miguel Osuna; Samuel Yingst; Magda Rakha; Kenneth Earhart; NAVAL HEALTH RESEARCH CENTER SAN DIEGO CA
|
 | Eighty-eight adenovirus (Ad) isolates and associated clinical data were collected from walk-in patients with influenza-like illness in Egypt (13 from Cairo, 75 from Alexandria) during routine influenza surveillance from 1999 through 2002. Ad diversity has not been well characterized in this region, and this sample set offered the opportunity to begin to define the locally important serotypes. Ad distributions are geographically variable, and serotype is clinically relevant because it determines ... |
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| The Structure of the Neurotoxin- Associated Protein HA33/A from Clostridium botulinum Suggests a Reoccurring Beta-Trefoil Fold in the Progenitor Toxin Complex |
16 DEC 2004 |
12 pages |
| Authors:
Joseph W. Arndt; Jenny Gu; Lukasz Jaroszewski; Robert Schwarzenbacher; Michael A. Hanson; Frank L. Lebeda; Raymond C. Stevens; ARMY MEDICAL RESEARCH INST OF INFECTIOUS DISEASES FORT DETRICK MD
|
 | The hemagglutinating protein HA33 from Clostridium botulinum is associated with the large botulinum neurotoxin secreted complexes and is critical in toxin protection, internalization, and possibly activation. We report the crystal structure of serotype A HA33 (HA33/A) at 1.5 A resolution that contains a unique domain organization and a carbohydrate recognition site. In addition, sequence alignments of the other toxin complex components, including the neurotoxin BoNT/A, hemagglutinating protein HA17/A, and non-toxic ... |
|
| Prospective and Retrospective Testing of High Prevalence HIV-1 Serum and Blood Using Rapid and Conventional Technology |
DEC 2004 |
7 pages |
| Authors:
Darrell E. Singer; Linda Hird; Jamie Bulken-Hoover; Ginamarie Foglia; R. D. Royster Iv.; Jennifer A. Malia; Eva K. Calero; Warren Sateren; Merlin L. Robb; Deborah L. Birx; Nelson L. Michael; UNIFORMED SERVICES UNIV OF THE HEALTH SCIENCES BETHESDA MD
|
 | We have conducted studies with existing rapid HIV-1 serology technology for applicability in military operations. Studies on fresh and frozen serum and differing HIV sub- types have been conducted in both the research and field environments. Testing has been compared to reference technology for calculation of operating characteristics. Conclusion: Rapid HIV-1 testing technology is an evolving field subject to market demands. Several tests exist that support warfighter use in the ... |
|
| Phenotypic Profiles of Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli Associated With Early Childhood Diarrhea in Rural Egypt |
DEC 2004 |
9 pages |
| Authors:
Hind I. Shaheen; Sami B. Khalil; Malla R. Rao; Remo A. Elyazeed; Thomas F. Wierzba; Jr. Peruski Leonard F.; Shannon Putnam; Armando Navarro; Badria Z. Morsy; Alejandro Cravioto; John D. Dlemens; Ann-Mari Svennerholm; Stephen J. Savarino; NAVAL SUBMARINE MEDICAL RESEARCH LAB GROTON CT
|
 | Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC) causes substantial diarrheal morbidity and mortality in young children in countries with limited resources. We determined the phenotypic profiles of 915 ETEC diarrheal isolates derived from Egyptian children under 3 years of age who participated in a 3-year population-based study. For each strain, we ascertained enterotoxin and colonization factor (CF) expression, the O:H serotype, and antimicrobial susceptibility. Sixty-one percent of the strains expressed heat-stable enterotoxin (ST) ... |
|
| Conformational Sampling of the Botulinum Neurotoxin Serotype A Light Chain: Implications for Inhibitor Binding |
11 NOV 2004 |
11 pages |
| Authors:
James C. Burnett; James J. Schmidt; Connor F. McGrath; Tam L. Nguyen; Ann R. Hermone; Rekha G. Panchal; Jonathan L. Vennerstrom; Krishna Kodukula; Daniel W. Zaharevitz; Rick Gussio; Sina Bavari; ARMY MEDICAL RESEARCH INST OF INFECTIOUS DISEASES FORT DETRICK MD
|
 | Botulinum neurotoxins (BoNTs) are the most potent of the known biological toxins, and consequently are listed as category A biowarfare agents. Currently, the only treatments against BoNTs include preventative antitoxins and long-term supportive care. Consequently, there is an urgent need for therapeutics to counter these enzymes--post exposure. In a previous study, we identified a number of small, nonpeptidic lead inhibitors of BoNT serotype A light chain (BoNT/A LC) metalloprotease activity, ... |
|
| Attenuation of Dengue Virus Infection by Adeno-Associated Virus-Mediated siRNA Delivery |
09 AUG 2004 |
11 pages |
| Authors:
Weidong Zhang; Rajeswari Singam; Gary Hellermann; Xiaoyuan Kong; Homero S. Juan; Richard F. Lockey; Shuen-Ju Wu; Kevin Porter; Shyam S> Mohapatra; UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA TAMPA
|
 | Background: The need for safe and effective treatment of dengue virus (DEN), a class A agent that causes dengue hemorrhagic fever/dengue shock syndrome, has been a critical global priority. An effective vaccine for DEN is not yet available. In this study the possibility of attenuating DEN infection using adeno-associated virus (AAV)-encoded short interfering RNAs (siRNA) was examined in Vero cells and human dendritic cells (DCs). Methods: A cassette encoding siRNA ... |
|
| Field Evaluation of a Deployable RT-PCR Assay System for Real-Time Identification of Dengue Virus |
JUN 2004 |
11 pages |
| Authors:
James C. McAvin; Jamie A. Blow; John L. Putnam; James A. Swaby; ARMY MEDICAL RESEARCH INST OF INFECTIOUS DISEASES FORT DETRICK MD
|
 | Dengue fever and the more severe form of the disease, dengue hemorrhagic fever, occurs in tropical and subtropical regions globally through infection by one or more of four viral serotypes, DEN-1, DEN-2, DEN-3 and DEN-4. Viral transmission to humans is through mosquito vectors, primarily Aedes aegypti. Dengue universal and DEN 1-4 serotype specific fluorogenic, real-time RT-PCR assays and positive control nucleic acid were field-formatted by lyophilization and adapted for use ... |
|
| Process Research and Development of Antibodies as Countermeasures for C. botulinum |
MAR 2004 |
38 pages |
| Authors:
Michael Meagher; NEBRASKA UNIV LINCOLN
|
 | This report describes the project to fill out shell space on the third floor of Othmer Hall, the new home for the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Biological Process Development Facility. Construction is 90% completed and all research laboratories of the BPDF will be functional in May 2004. Detailed design of the cGMP basement has been initiated and is expected to be completed by Fall 2004. The third floor will house all ... |
|
| Development of an in Vitro-Based Potency Assay for Anthrax Vaccine |
08 FEB 2004 |
11 pages |
| Authors:
S. F. Little; W. M. Webster; B. E. Ivins; P. F. Fellows; S. L. Norris; ARMY MEDICAL RESEARCH INST OF INFECTIOUS DISEASES FORT DETRICK MD
|
 | The potency assay currently used to evaluate consistency of manufacture for the anthrax vaccine is contingent upon meeting specified parameters after statistical analysis of the percent survival and time to death of vaccinated guinea pigs after challenge with spores of a virulent strain of Bacillus anthracis. During the development of a new anthrax vaccine based upon recombinant protective antigen (rPA) adsorbed to aluminum hydroxide gel (Alhydrogel), we found that the ... |
|
| In Vivo Phase Variation and Serologic Response to Lipooligosaccharide of Campylobacter jejuni in Experimental Human Infection |
FEB 2004 |
8 pages |
| Authors:
Martina M. Prendergast; David R. Tribble; Shahida Baqar; Daniel A. Scott; John A. Ferris; Richard I. Walker; Anthony P. Moran; NAVAL MEDICAL RESEARCH CENTER SILVER SPRING MD
|
 | Some Campylobacter jejuni strains which exhibit mimicry of gangliosides in their lipooligosaccharides (LOSs) are associated with development of Guillain-Barre syndrome, which complicates the selection of a suitable C. jejuni strain in a live-attenuated vaccine. C. jejuni 81-176 is the most well characterized strain available, but structurally, LOS of C. jejuni 81-176 exhibits mimicry of predominantly GM2 and GM3 gangliosides. We compared the antiganglioside human serologic responses of 22 volunteers post-oral ... |
|
| Evaluation of an Anti-rPA IgG ELISA for Measuring the Antibody Response in Mice |
2004 |
9 pages |
| Authors:
S. F. Little; W. M. Webster; S. L. Norris; G. P. Andrews; ARMY MEDICAL RESEARCH INST OF INFECTIOUS DISEASES FORT DETRICK MD BACTERIOLOGY DIV
|
 | A recombinant protective antigen (rPA)-based enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was developed to measure the serological response of female A/J mice after inoculation with the new rPA-based anthrax vaccine. Several fundamental parameters of the ELISA were evaluated: specificity, precision, accuracy, linearity, and stability. Experimental results suggested that the quantitative anti-rPA IgG ELISA could be used to measure antibody levels in female A/J mice and may be useful as a potency assay ... |
|
| Process Research and Development of Antibodies as Countermeasures for C. botulinum |
MAR 2003 |
30 pages |
| Authors:
Michael M. Meagher; NEBRASKA UNIV LINCOLN
|
 | This report describes the ongoing project to fill out shell space on the third floor and basement of Othmer Hall, the new home for the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Biological Process Development Facility. At the detailed design is completed and construction is nearly half completed with the expected completion date being December 2003. The third floor will house all of the process research capabilities, i.e. molecular biology, fermentation, cell culture, analytical ... |
|
| Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine Cost-Benefit Analysis: Is the Pain Worth the Gain for U.S. Armend Forces Active Duty Dependents Living on Okinawa, Japan? |
AUG 2002 |
45 pages |
| Authors:
Scott A. Hartwich; TEXAS UNIV HEALTH SCIENCE CENTER AT HOUSTON
|
 | Japanese encephalitis (JE) is an arboviral disease of major public health importance in Asia, causing approximately 40,000 clinical cases each year. JE infection leads to a viral encephalitis in approximately 1 in 200 infections. Incidence rates of clinical infection range from 1 to 10 per 10,000 persons in areas where JE is endemic. Fatalities approach 25% and residual neurologic sequelae in 30% of cases. Culex mosquitoes, primarily Culex tritaemorhynchus, transmit ... |
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| A Database Application for Donor-Recipient HLA Match Used in Kidney Transplantation |
25 OCT 2001 |
|
| Authors:
Zhou Guohong; CAPITAL UNIV OF MEDICAL SCIENCES BEIJING (CHINA) DEPT OF BME
|
 | The outcome of kidney transplants from unrelated live donors or from cadaver kidneys have been reported to be strongly influenced by HLA compatibility. Due to the difficulty of allocation of kidneys for identical HLA match, to increase patients' chances of receiving transplants. Consequently, matching has been of deduced amino acid residues of the individual HLA molecules shared by cross-reactive antigen groups(CREGs). Currently may hospitals in China use serological method for ... |
|
| IGF-1, 1,25 (OH) Vitamin D, and Prostate Cancer |
OCT 2001 |
14 pages |
| Authors:
Edward L. Giovannucci; HARVARD SCHOOL OF PUBLIC HEALTH BOSTON MA
|
 | The scientific rationale for this Idea Grant was to clarify whether modifiable, mainly nutritional, influence levels of IGF-l, IGFBP-3, 1,25 (OH)2 vitamin D (l,25(OH)2D), and 25(OH)vitamin D. High levels of IGF-l and low l, 25(OH)2D have been shown to be related to elevated risk of prostate cancer. Some dietary factors that hypothetically impact on these serological factors, including total energy intake, calcium intake and protein intake, have been associated with ... |
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| Use of Novel Technologies to Identify and Investigate Molecular Markers for Ovarian Cancer Screening and Prevention |
OCT 2001 |
309 pages |
| Authors:
Nicole D. Urban; FRED HUTCHINSON CANCER RESEARCH CENTERSEATTLE WA
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 | The purpose of this study is to identify novel genes that encode proteins that can be used to detect ovarian cancer before it spreads outside the ovary and becomes incurable. The goal is to assemble a panel of known and novel ovarian tumor markers that may form the basis of a cost-effective, serologic screening test for early stage ovarian tumors. The research encompasses the use of two novel technologies to ... |
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| Identification and Characterization of Tumor Antigens Associated with Breast Cancer |
AUG 2001 |
9 pages |
| Authors:
Alicia A. Sanders; ALABAMA UNIV IN BIRMINGHAM
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 | Recently, advances in tumor immunology and identification of tumor- associated antigens (TAAs) have led to an increased interest in vaccination strategies to treat cancer and/or prevent cancer relapse. Immunotherapy can be used as an adjuvant with other systemic therapy to target micro-metastatic disease and prevent cancer recurrence. Although preclinical/clinical trials using cloned tumor-associated antigens for tumor vaccination are ongoing in melanoma and other cancers, breast cancer immunotherapy is limited due ... |
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| The HLA Dictionary 2001: A Summary of HLA-A, -B, -C, -DRB1/3/4/5, -DQB1 Alleles and Their Association with Serologically Defined HLA-A, -B, -C, -DR and -DQ Antigens |
AUG 2001 |
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| Authors:
G. M. Schreuder; C. K. Hurley; S. G. Marsh; M. Lau; M. Maiers; NATIONAL INSTITUTES OF HEALTH BETHESDA MD
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 | This report presents the serologic equivalents of 123 HLA-A 272 HLA-B and 155 HLA-DRBl alleles. The equivalents cover over 64% of the presently identified HLA-A -B and -DRBl alleles. The dictionary is an update of the one published in 1999 and also includes equivalents for HLA-C DRB3 DRB4 DFB5 and DQB 1 alleles. The data summarize information obtained by the WHO Nomenclature Committee for Factors of the HLA System the ... |
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| Simplified Microneutralization Test for Serotyping Adenovirus Isolates |
AUG 2001 |
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| Authors:
Marietta D. Malasig; Pulak R. Goswami; Leta K. Crawford-Mkisza; David P. Schnurr; Gregory C. Gray; NAVAL HEALTH RESEARCH CENTER SAN DIEGO CA
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 | Several microneutralization procedures for serotyping of human adenovirus have been published, however, these procedures were tedious and time consuming requiring determination of virus challenge dose prior to testing, use of serial dilution of antisera and a staining step to interpret results. We sought to evaluate a simplified microneutralization procedure using an empirically determined virus challenge dose, a single dilution of antisera and microscopic observation of characteristic cytopathic effect as a ... |
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| A Medical Research and Evaluation Facility (MREF) and Studies Supporting the Medical Chemical Defense Program. Protection of Guinea Pigs by Passive Immunization With Human Botulinum Immune Globulin Obtained Post Primary Series and Post Six-Month Booster I |
OCT 2000 |
383 pages |
| Authors:
Carl T. Olson; Robert E. Hunt; Rebekah A. Starner; Michelle L. Clagett; Nancy A. Niemuth; BATTELLE MEMORIAL INST COLUMBUS OH
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 | Studies (MREF Tasks 95-39, 96-45, 97-51, and 97-52) have previously demonstrated a high degree of correlation between circulating neutralizing antibody titers and protection against high doses of all botulinum toxin serotypes in the guinea pig model. Neutralizing antibodies have been proposed to the FDA as a serological marker for human protection since efficacy for This vaccine cannot be directly demonstrated in traditional human clinical trials. Task 97-53 establishes the level ... |
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| Use of Novel Technologies to Identify and Investigate Molecular Markers for Ovarian Cancer Screening and Prevention |
OCT 2000 |
159 pages |
| Authors:
Nicole Urban; FRED HUTCHINSON CANCER RESEARCH CENTERSEATTLE WA
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 | The purpose of this study is to identify novel genes that encode proteins that can be used to detect ovarian cancer before it spreads outside the ovary and becomes incurable. The goal is to assemble a panel of known and novel ovarian tumor markers that may form the basis of a cost-effective, serologic screening test for early stage ovarian tumors. The research encompasses the use of two novel technologies to ... |
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| Identification and Characterization of Tumor Antigens Associated with Breast Cancer |
AUG 2000 |
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| Authors:
Alicia S. Racelis; Theresa V. Strong; ALABAMA UNIV IN BIRMINGHAM
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 | Recently, identification of tumor-associated antigens (TAAs) have led to an increased interest in vaccination strategies to treat cancer and/or prevent cancer relapse. Immunotherapy can be used as an adjuvant with other systemic therapy to target micro-metastatic disease and prevent cancer recurrence. Although preclinical/clinical trials using identified tumor-associated antigen for tumor vaccination are ongoing in melanoma and other cancers, breast cancer immunotherapy is limited, due to the limited numbers of breast ... |
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| Outbreak of Influenza in Highly Vaccinated Crew of US Navy Ship |
2000 |
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| Authors:
Kenneth C. Earhart; Christine Beadle; Larry K. Miller; Martin W. Pruss; Gregory C. Gray; Elizabeth K. Ledbetter; Mark R. Wallace; NAVAL HEALTH RESEARCH CENTER SAN DIEGO CA
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 | An Outbreak of influenza A (H3N2) occurred aboard a U.S. Navy ship in February 1996, despite 95% of the crew's having been appropriately vaccinated. Virus isolated from ill crew members was antigenically distinct from the vaccination strain. With an attack rate of 42%, this outbreak demonstrates the potential for rapid spread of influenza in a confined population and the impact subsequent illness may have upon the workplace. |
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| International Congress for the Assessment of Stress Intensity and Stress Compatibility in Large Groups. Held in Bad Radkersburg, Austria on November 25-27, 1999 |
Nov-1999 |
58 pages |
| Authors:
INSTITUTE OF APPLIED STRESS RESEARCH BAD RADKERSBURG (AUSTRIA)
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 | This is the final report for the first International Congress for the Assessment of Stress Intensity and Stress Compatibility in Large Groups held November 25-27, 1999, in Bad Radkersburg, Austria. The report includes the list of attendees; the program, abstracts of presentations and related published papers. The majority of presentations deal with the effects of magnesium in stress. Presentation titles include: Effects of bed rest on sympathoadreanal and hormonal responses ... |
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| Use of Novel Technologies to Identify and Investigate Molecular Markers for Ovarian Cancer Screening and Prevention |
OCT 1999 |
93 pages |
| Authors:
Nicole Urban; FRED HUTCHINSON CANCER RESEARCH CENTERSEATTLE WA
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 | The subject of this research is ovarian-cancer-related gene discovery. Our purpose is to identify novel genes that encode proteins that can potentially be used to detect ovarian cancer before it spreads outside the ovary and becomes incurable. The goal is to assemble a panel of known and novel ovarian tumor markers that may form the basis of a cost-effective, serologic screening test for early stage ovarian ... |
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