Francesca Bonvicini

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This research studied a new type of wound patch made from chitosan that contains an antimicrobial peptide called LTX-109. The patch is designed to gradually release LTX-109, which helps kill bacteria while also promoting healing. The results showed that the patch effectively prevents infections and supports a good environment for wound healing, making it a promising option for managing chronic wounds. Who this helps: This helps patients with chronic wounds and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at using extracts from tomato skin and pomegranate peel to create a mouthwash that could improve oral health. Researchers found that these extracts had strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, significantly increasing protective proteins in cells (Superoxide Dismutase 1) and reducing harmful inflammation markers. The mouthwash also showed effectiveness against bacteria that cause oral infections, indicating that using food waste like tomato skins and pomegranate peels could benefit oral health care. Who this helps: Patients seeking better oral health solutions.

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This study focused on creating new antimicrobial compounds based on a specific chemical structure called quaternary pyridinium salts. Researchers found that compounds 4, 5, and 6 were particularly effective against bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus and yeast like Candida albicans at very low concentrations, indicating strong antimicrobial properties without harming healthy cells. The length of the chemical chain (alkyl tail) in these compounds was important for their effectiveness, especially those with 10 to 14 carbon units. Who this helps: This benefits patients with bacterial and fungal infections, offering potential new treatment options.

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This study focused on creating a new type of wound dressing made from a special bilayer patch designed to help heal chronic wounds. The patch combines gelatin and chitosan and includes antibacterial properties from an antibiotic, releasing nearly all of it within 48 hours to fight infections. The results showed that this patch not only absorbs moisture well but also supports the growth of new tissue, making it an effective solution for difficult-to-heal wounds. Who this helps: Patients with chronic wounds and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at new metal-based compounds that could fight antibiotic-resistant bacteria and fungi. Researchers tested copper and nickel complexes created from specific ligands and found that the copper complexes were effective against human pathogens with an activity concentration of 4.2 and 3.5 micromolar, while the nickel complex had a higher concentration of 61.8 micromolar. This matters because these new compounds could provide alternatives to traditional antibiotics, helping combat the growing problem of antibiotic resistance. Who this helps: Patients dealing with infections caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

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This study looked at new hybrid compounds that combine parts of two known antimicrobial substances to fight fungal infections, which are becoming more resistant to current treatments. The researchers found that one of the new compounds showed strong effectiveness against certain resistant fungal strains, as well as significant activity against specific bacteria, with a safety ratio indicating it could be a promising option for treatment. This work is important because it could lead to better treatments for patients, especially those with weakened immune systems who are more vulnerable to infections. Who this helps: Patients with fungal infections and healthcare providers treating them.

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Researchers studied new compounds designed to fight malaria and bacterial infections, which are often present together in children with severe malaria. They created hybrid compounds that combined parts of an antimalarial drug (chloroquine) and tested them in the lab. Two of these compounds showed strong effects against both malaria and bacteria, with minimal toxicity to human cells, indicating they could be effective in treating patients suffering from both infections simultaneously. Who this helps: This helps children in sub-Saharan Africa at risk of severe malaria and bacterial infections.

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This study looked at how well snail slime can be packaged using a special material called ZIF-8 for delivering antibiotics. The researchers found that when snail slime is combined with ZIF-8, it becomes more effective at fighting bacteria. This method improves the slime’s antibacterial strength, making it a promising option for creating new antimicrobial treatments. Who this helps: This helps patients by providing better antibiotic options to fight infections.

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This study looked at a 6-year-old boy who contracted Tick-Borne Encephalitis (TBE), which he first showed signs of through muscle pain before developing severe brain symptoms. Doctors observed changes in his brain using MRI and EEG tests, which showed slow electrical activity in the brain. After treatment, the abnormal brain signals completely disappeared after three months, highlighting the importance of recognizing TBE early, especially in young patients who may not fit the typical profile. Who this helps: This information benefits doctors treating children with unusual symptoms, as it raises awareness of TBE.

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This study examined new titanium structures, coated with a substance called ZIF-8, to see if they could help prevent infections associated with implants and support bone cell growth. The researchers found that these scaffolds were not harmful to bone cells and increased the expression of a key protein for bone formation, while also significantly reducing bacterial growth on their surfaces. This is important because it shows that these modified scaffolds could improve the safety and effectiveness of implants in patients. Who this helps: This helps patients receiving implants, especially those at risk for infections.

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This study looked at how different extraction methods affect the qualities of snail secretion, which is used in cosmetics and other industries. The researchers tested four different extracts from Cornu aspersum snails, noticing that the method used changed the properties of the secretion significantly. For instance, they found that factors like pH, protein content, and even antibacterial properties varied, highlighting the importance of choosing the right extraction technique for specific uses. Who this helps: This helps manufacturers and researchers working with snail secretion in various industries.

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This study focused on creating new compounds known as isatin bis-imidathiazole hybrids that could fight infections caused by bacteria. Researchers found that some of these compounds effectively inhibited bacterial growth at concentrations between 13.8 and 90.1 microM without harming human cells. The best compound showed potential against tough-to-treat bacteria like methicillin-resistant strains and might lead to better treatments for various infections. Who this helps: This helps patients suffering from infections, particularly those involving resistant bacteria.

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This study examined a rare but serious muscle infection called pyomyositis, caused by the bacteria Streptococcus pneumoniae, in a 12-year-old girl. After experiencing high fever and pain, tests showed significant inflammation and pus in her muscles. The girl was treated with antibiotics and fully recovered after six weeks. Who this helps: This research benefits doctors and healthcare providers by increasing awareness and improving the diagnosis and treatment of this rare infection in children.

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This study investigated new materials made from cellulose acetate that can kill bacteria when exposed to light. Researchers mixed a photosensitizer (TPP), a surfactant (Pluronic F-127), and graphene oxide in different combinations and found that membranes containing all three additives significantly improved antibacterial effectiveness, with excellent bacterial inactivation observed. This is important because these materials could be used in medical settings and public spaces to help reduce infections. Who this helps: Patients and healthcare workers.

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This study looked at a new material made from cellulose and a zinc-based framework called ZIF-8 to help fight wound infections. The researchers found that this composite material effectively stopped the growth of harmful bacteria, including some that are resistant to antibiotics, making it a promising option for treating wounds. This is important because it could lead to better healing and protection against infections that can complicate recovery. Who this helps: This benefits patients with wounds, especially those at risk of infection.

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This study examined the leaves of the Arbutus unedo tree across different seasons and locations in Sardinia to understand how their chemical makeup changes. Researchers found that certain compounds increased during specific times: for example, glucose levels rose in summer, while the main active ingredient, beta-arbutin, peaked in autumn. They also discovered that leaves from higher altitude areas had lower levels of beneficial compounds, with the antioxidant and antibacterial activities varying significantly by season. Who this helps: This research benefits patients and herbal medicine practitioners by providing insight into the best times to harvest Arbutus unedo leaves for maximum health benefits.

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This study looked at how to make and refine silver-polydopamine nanoparticles, which are tiny particles that can help fight bacterial infections. Researchers developed a new method to monitor and clean these particles quickly and efficiently, leading to a purification process that maintained their antibacterial properties. They found that the nanoparticles were effective against bacteria, using a simple and eco-friendly approach. Who this helps: Patients with infections and healthcare providers treating antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

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Researchers studied a new material made by adding tiny tungsten oxide particles to hydroxyapatite, which is a common component used in medical implants. They found that this new combination effectively prevents the growth of bacteria without harming human cells. For instance, the material showed strong antibacterial action against certain bacteria while releasing tungsten at safe levels, making it a promising option for safer implants. Who this helps: This helps patients receiving implants and medical devices by reducing the risk of infections.

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This study focused on creating new compounds based on isatin to see if they could fight off harmful bacteria and fungi that cause serious infections in people. Researchers made 18 different versions of isatin and tested them against three dangerous strains of germs, finding that two of the compounds worked really well at low amounts (39.12 and 24.83 micrograms per milliliter). This is important because it could lead to new treatments for infections, especially for people with weakened immune systems. Who this helps: Patients, especially those with compromised immune systems.

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This study looked at using snail slime to create tiny silver particles in a safe and eco-friendly way. Researchers found that the best method involved mixing snail slime with silver nitrate at room temperature, producing stable particles that are about 15 to 30 nanometers in size. These silver nanoparticles were effective in stopping the growth of different types of bacteria, making them potentially useful for medical applications. Who this helps: This helps patients by providing a new way to develop antibacterial treatments.

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This study looked at a new type of sticky patch made from gelatin and snail slime that can deliver medication through the skin. The researchers found that these patches could hold a drug called Fluconazole effectively and helped deliver over 60% of the drug into the skin within 24 hours without losing its antifungal properties. This innovation is important because it offers a biodegradable and skin-friendly way to provide treatment for fungal infections. Who this helps: This benefits patients with skin infections, especially those needing antifungal treatments.

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Researchers studied a new type of bone graft that can release antibiotics directly where surgery is done to prevent infections. They tested a combination of two antibiotics, vancomycin and gentamicin, in a special scaffold made of collagen and minerals that supports bone healing. The results showed that this method is effective and safe for reducing infection risk and promoting bone repair during orthopedic surgery. Who this helps: This helps patients undergoing bone surgeries by reducing their risk of infections and improving recovery.

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This study examined how two new antimicrobial agents work together to fight infections caused by Candida albicans and Staphylococcus aureus, which often form tough biofilms that resist standard treatments. The combined treatment significantly reduced the amount of biofilm and killed many of the fungal and bacterial cells present. This is important because improving treatment options can lead to better management of serious infections related to medical devices. Who this helps: This helps patients with bloodstream infections and healthcare providers treating these conditions.

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This study looked at how many patients with celiac disease (CD) contracted COVID-19. Out of 542 CD patients, only 5 (0.92%) tested positive for the virus, and their infection rates were similar to those in the general population. However, CD patients were tested less frequently, which might explain why their positive test rate appeared higher. Who this helps: This research helps celiac disease patients by informing them about their COVID-19 risk.

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This study looked at how adding snail mucus to chitosan films changes their properties. The addition of snail mucus made the films much more flexible, increasing their stretchability by up to ten times, while also improving their ability to keep out water and stick to surfaces. This is important because it means these modified films could be used in better medical products and wound dressings that are safe and effective for patients. Who this helps: Patients who need better wound care options.

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This study looked at certain bacteria from the gut of healthy people that are not typically linked to common infections but have traits that can be dangerous. Researchers examined 32 bacteria from 20 healthy adults and found that some had genes associated with harmful characteristics, such as sticking to human cells and resisting antibiotics. Notably, only a few of the bacteria were sensitive to the antibiotic amoxicillin-clavulanic acid, highlighting a concern for potential future infections. Who this helps: Patients and doctors who need to understand antibiotic resistance and potential health risks from gut bacteria.

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This study looked at the effectiveness of essential oils from 100 different plants in the Lamiaceae family, which grow in the Mediterranean and Middle East, against harmful yeasts, particularly those that can cause infections in people with weakened immune systems. The researchers highlighted that certain essential oils show promise in stopping the growth of these yeasts and reducing their harmful effects. This is important because the number of infections caused by these yeasts is rising, and finding safe, natural treatments could help save lives. Who this helps: Patients with weakened immune systems and doctors treating their infections.

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This study looked at whether fermented drinks made with specific plant seed extracts could help protect the gut from harmful bacteria. The researchers found that these drinks not only reduced inflammation markers but also helped maintain the gut barrier's integrity when human intestinal cells were infected with a dangerous bacteria, E. coli O157:H7. Specifically, they noted a decrease in inflammation markers and improved cell health when the drinks were used. This matters because it indicates a potential way to support gut health and prevent damage from harmful infections. Who this helps: Patients with gut-related issues or infections.

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This study looked at new types of gelatin films that can deliver the antifungal drug econazole more effectively in the vagina. The researchers found that films made with a specific ingredient (Gelucire) improved the solubility of the drug by 9.2 times compared to the pure drug, and these films were also sturdy and adhered well. This matters because it could lead to better treatment options for vaginal infections, helping the medication stay where it is needed for a longer time. Who this helps: Patients dealing with vaginal infections.

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This study looked at how well brincidofovir (BCV) can stop parvovirus B19 (B19V), a virus that can cause various health problems in humans. The researchers found that BCV was significantly more effective than another drug, cidofovir (CDV), at preventing the virus from replicating in lab-grown cells. Specifically, BCV worked at concentrations of 0.22 to 0.63µM, while CDV required much higher levels (over 300µM) to have an impact. Who this helps: This benefits patients with parvovirus B19 infections by potentially providing a new treatment option.

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This study looked at the long-term effects of treatments for childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) on survivors' growth, development, and metabolism. It found that most survivors treated with intrathecal chemotherapy (CT) reach normal height and go through puberty properly, but they still face significant risks of long-term health issues like obesity and heart disease, particularly in females and those with a higher body mass index (BMI) at diagnosis. Understanding these outcomes is crucial for providing better follow-up care and preventing further health problems in these patients. Who this helps: This helps childhood cancer survivors and their healthcare providers.

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This research studied new antifungal compounds based on the chalcone structure to combat serious fungal infections, especially in patients with weakened immune systems. The scientists tested a group of these compounds and found that some effectively stopped the growth of a common yeast at concentrations that did not harm human cells. These promising compounds can also disrupt key factors that help fungi cause infections, making them potential new treatments for fungal infections. Who this helps: This benefits patients with weakened immune systems who are at risk for invasive fungal infections.

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This study looked at proteins extracted from leftover cauliflower leaves to see how they might protect blood vessel cells. Researchers found that one type of peptide strongly reduced an enzyme linked to inflammation at a concentration of about 8.3 micrograms per milliliter. Another peptide increased the activity of an important antioxidant enzyme and improved the health of these blood vessel cells. This research is important because it suggests that using cauliflower waste could lead to new ways to prevent heart problems caused by blood vessel damage. Who this helps: This helps patients at risk for heart disease.

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This study examined a new type of antibiotic based on anthracene-maleimide compounds to see how effectively it can fight infections. One particular compound showed strong ability to kill bacteria both in free-floating and established biofilm forms while also being safe for human use. This matters because it opens up new possibilities for developing antibiotics that can tackle resistant bacterial infections. Who this helps: This benefits patients dealing with tough bacterial infections.

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This study looked at bacteria found in the intestines of 20 healthy adults to understand their potential to cause infections and resist antibiotics. Out of 51 strains examined, most were sensitive to all tested antibiotics, with 12 strains showing characteristics similar to bacteria known to cause urinary tract infections. The findings suggest that while these bacteria usually do not harm healthy individuals, they could potentially lead to infections elsewhere in the body. Who this helps: This information benefits doctors and healthcare providers by informing them about the risk factors associated with these gut bacteria in healthy patients.

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This study looked at creating new antibacterial materials by combining silver nanoparticles with calcium phosphates. Researchers found that materials made from octacalcium phosphate (OCP) with silver showed better compatibility with bone cells than those made from another type of calcium phosphate, with an example being the OCP with 8.2% silver. This is important because these materials can help fight antibiotic-resistant bacteria while also supporting bone health, making them valuable for medical applications. Who this helps: This helps patients needing bone repair or implants.

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This study looked at 87 patients with Mowat-Wilson syndrome (MWS), a rare condition linked to changes in the ZEB2 gene that causes intellectual disabilities and various physical issues. The researchers found that different types of gene changes led to different severity levels of symptoms: more severe changes like deletions in the gene were associated with worse outcomes, while certain milder changes resulted in less severe symptoms. Understanding these differences helps doctors better recognize and manage the condition to improve care for patients. Who this helps: This helps patients with Mowat-Wilson syndrome and their doctors.

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This study looked at a new type of material designed to improve bone health while fighting off drug-resistant bacteria that can cause infections after surgeries. The researchers created a strong composite combining a bone-forming substance with nanoparticles made of silver, which prevented the growth of harmful bacteria and promoted the growth of bone-building cells. The findings showed that the material could significantly inhibit the growth of multi-drug resistant bacteria, making it useful for preventing infections in patients with bone-related issues. Who this helps: This benefits patients with bone disorders and those undergoing orthopedic surgeries.

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Researchers studied an extract from the roots of the plant Hemidesmus indicus, which is used in traditional Indian medicine, to see if it could fight the herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2. They found that at a concentration of 100 mg/mL, the extract significantly reduced the virus's ability to infect cells without harming those cells. This is important because it offers a potential new treatment option in response to rising drug resistance in herpes viruses. Who this helps: This benefits patients with herpes infections looking for more effective treatment options.

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This study looked at a drug called Clofazimine, which fights certain bacteria but has issues because it doesn't dissolve in water and builds up in fat. The researchers found that using a special delivery system made from tiny particles allowed them to load more of the drug into a solution, improving its effectiveness against drug-resistant bacteria. Specifically, Clofazimine could kill off harmful bacteria at concentrations below 100 nanomolar, making it more effective with this new delivery method. Who this helps: This benefits patients with infections caused by drug-resistant bacteria.

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This research looked at how well irregular immigrants in Italy followed tuberculosis (TB) screening procedures. Out of 368 immigrants, 90% completed screening for active TB and 87% for latent TB. Factors like homelessness and lack of steady work made it harder for some to comply, but overall, the high participation rates suggest that good support and services help in getting people screened and treated, which is crucial in preventing TB from spreading. Who this helps: This benefits irregular immigrants, healthcare providers, and public health officials working on TB prevention.

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This study looked at how Helicobacter pylori (Hp), a bacteria linked to stomach diseases like ulcers and cancer, interacts with the cells in human stomach tissue. Researchers examined over 300 detailed images of stomach biopsies and found that Hp has needle-like structures and other features that help it attach to and potentially invade stomach cells, with some cells showing signs of defense against the bacteria. Understanding this interaction is important because it sheds light on how Hp causes disease and might help develop better treatment strategies. Who this helps: This helps patients suffering from gastric diseases caused by Helicobacter pylori.

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This study looked at how well hydroxyurea (HU) can stop parvovirus B19 (B19V) from replicating in specific cells in the bone marrow that are important for producing red blood cells. The researchers found that HU effectively inhibited B19V replication at levels that are already seen in sickle cell disease patients taking the drug, with specific measures of 96.2 μM in one cell line and 147.1 μM in another. This is important because it shows that a medicine used for sickle cell disease might also help protect these patients from serious complications caused by this virus. Who this helps: Patients with sickle cell disease who are at risk for B19V infections.

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This study focused on creating a synthetic version of the Parvovirus B19 genome to better understand how the virus works and to develop a way to produce infectious virus. Researchers successfully created a model that generates the virus, finding that its ability to infect cells is influenced by specific features of its genetic material. This research matters because it provides a reliable tool for studying the virus's structure and functions, which could lead to better treatments. Who this helps: This benefits researchers and healthcare providers working on treatments for Parvovirus B19-related diseases.

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This study looked at a new type of material designed to fight harmful bacteria, especially those that resist common antibiotics, which can cause problems with medical implants. Researchers found that a specific material, loaded with a compound called 4-acetoxy-1-(methylthio)-azetidin-2-one, was very effective in preventing the growth of both resistant and non-resistant strains of Staphylococcus aureus, a common and dangerous bacteria. This is important because it could lead to better materials for implants that reduce the risk of infections, ultimately improving patient outcomes. Who this helps: Patients getting medical implants.

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This study looked at two plants from Sardinia, Hypericum scruglii and Hypericum hircinum, to see how their chemical makeup affects their ability to inhibit an enzyme called α-glucosidase, which is important for managing metabolic disorders like diabetes. The research found that H. scruglii and H. hircinum were much better at blocking this enzyme compared to a more commonly known plant, H. perforatum, with H. scruglii being particularly effective at an amount of 7.25 µg/ml. These findings matter because they suggest that these lesser-known plants could offer new options for treating conditions related to blood sugar regulation. Who this helps: This helps patients who are managing metabolic disorders, particularly diabetes.

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This study looked at Parvovirus B19 (B19V), a virus that can infect pregnant women and potentially harm their unborn babies. The researchers found that the virus can lead to serious issues such as severe anemia and even death in the fetus. Currently, testing for this virus is not routinely done during pregnancy, which can delay necessary treatments when complications arise. Who this helps: This information benefits pregnant women and their doctors by highlighting the need for better testing and management strategies for B19V during pregnancy.