Microevolution of the chromosomal region of acute disease antigen A (adaA) in the query (Q) fever agent Coxiella burnetii.

The acute disease antigen A (adaA) gene is believed to be associated with Coxiella burnetii strains causing acute Q fever. The detailed analysis of the adaA genomic region of 23 human- and 86 animal-derived C. burnetii isolates presented in this study reveals a much more polymorphic appearance and distribution of the adaA gene, resulting in a classification of C.

Cytobiocompatibility of collagen and ePTFE membranes on osteoblast-like cells in vitro.

In guided bone regeneration (GBR), a semipermeable membrane is placed over an osseous defect to create a secluded environment in which bone formation can proceed without ingrowth of connective tissue cells from the overlaying soft tissue. Although the cell-occlusive property of GBR membranes appear to be essential to new bone formation, the role of transmembrane tissue fluid diffusion is not known. The objective of this study was to evaluate the degree to which diffusion across commonly used GBR membranes can support functional properties of osteoblast-like cells in vitro.

Rapid diagnosis of adenoviral keratoconjunctivitis by a fully automated molecular assay.

Objective: To establish and evaluate a new test system for rapid detection and diagnosis of adenoviral keratoconjunctivitis.

Design: After establishment of the molecular assay, 52 conjunctival smears were studied.

Participants: Samples were derived from patients with a clinical presentation compatible with keratoconjunctivitis.