On the basis of the results, repeat testing of equivocal specimens might not be necessary as these specimens are overwhelmingly found to be positive for hrHPV. Additionally, hrHPV tests falling in the equivocal range should be considered as definite positive tests, as follow-up results in this cohort demonstrate that significant histologic abnormalities are associated with 10.5% of these cases (20/191), and with 33% of those biopsied (20/60) cases.

Background In this study we evaluated alternative CD4+ T‐cell counting methods in clients of a PMTCT Programme in rural Uganda. Methods The Coulter Manual CD4 Count method for CD4+ T‐cell enumeration (Cyto‐Spheres) and an automated method (volumetric, single‐platform flow cytometry; CyFlow) were compared with a standard, dual‐platform flow cytometry protocol (DPFC, FACScan). Results Correlation and precision of agreement were higher for the CyFlow method (r = 0.929 and η = 0.08) when compared to DPFC than for the Cyto‐Spheres method (r = 0.725 and η = 0.3). Multiple linear regression analysis showed that CD4+ cell counts by the CyFlow method were a stronger predictor for results of DPFC than those of the Cyto‐Spheres method (r2 = 0.864 and r2 = 0.552, respectively). When compared to DPFC the CyFlow method generated higher CD4+ cell counts than the Cyto‐Spheres method, as expressed by a higher median and mean difference (+70 and +90 cells for CyFlow, +28 and −1.4 cells for Cyto‐Spheres). Conclusion Both, the manual Cyto‐Spheres method and the CyFlow method can be used for the enumeration of CD4+ cells in resource‐limited settings. Under supervised conditions, the CyFlow method produced results more consistent with the reference method than the Cyto‐Spheres method. © 2006 International Society for Analytical Cytology

Bio‐Micro‐Electro‐Mechanical Systems (BioMEMS) are a new tool in life sciences, supporting cell biology research by providing reproducible and miniaturized experimental platforms. In order to cultivate cells in such systems, appropriate microenvironmental conditions are required. Due to the multitude and variety of microbioreactors and cultivated cell types available, standardized cell handling methods and comprehensive biocompatibility data are sparse. The bioreactor developed at Ilmenau University of Technology features BioMEMS consisting of silicon, glass, and polymers, supplied by peripheral components. To verify the system's suitability for cell cultivation, it was necessary to prove whether materials and surfaces are biocompatible. Custom‐tailored biocompatibility test procedures along with adequate cell seeding and handling methods had to be developed. According to this, proper positive and negative control samples had to be identified. The cultivation procedures were carried out using osteoblast‐like murine fibroblasts (MC3T3‐E1) and primary human osteoblasts (hOB). We could provide evidence that cultivation of these cells in our BioMEMS is feasible. In this context the relevant materials and the system's structure can be regarded as to be biocompatible. We could show that cell seeding and handling methods possess a strong impact on growth, development, and cellular activity of cell cultures in BioMEMS. Statistical biocompatibility data for the materials used is given. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2011; 108:687–693. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.