bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phenotypic And Genotypic Characterization Of Penicillinase‐Producing Strains Of Neisseria Gonorrhoeae
Authors: Falk Edvard S. , Danielsson Dan , Bjorvatn Bjarne , Melby Kjetil , Sørensen Birger , Kristiansen Bjørn‐Erik , Lund Svein , Sandström Eric
Published: August 2010

Thirty penicillinase‐producing Neisseria gonorrhoeae (PPNG) strains, 26 representing 9 serovars of the protein IB and 4 representing 2 serovars of the protein IA serogroup, had 10 different patterns when investigated by the restriction enzyme (RE) technique with Hind III enzyme. One RE pattern dominated, representing 11 strains with 6 different serovars of both the protein IA and IB serogroup. Identical serovars and RE patterns were found among 7 patients (3, 2 and 2, respectively) with positive epidemiology. The majority of the strains (24/30) were resistant to, or showed decreased sensitivity to, doxycycline with minimum inhibitory concentrations between 1 and 8 mg/1, consistent with the Far East origin. All the 30 PPNG strains showed by agarose gel electrophoresis to harbour a 2.8 Mdalton, a 4.4 Mdalton, as well as a 24.5 Mdalton plasmid, whereas the two non‐PPNG strains had only the 2.8 Mdalton plasmid.
Frequency Of Aspergillus Fumigatus Isolates and Antibodies to Aspergillus Antigens In Cystic Fibrosis
Authors: Schønheyder H. , Jensen T. , Høiby N. , Andersen P. , Koch C.
Published: August 2010

The frequency of Aspergillus fumigatus isolates from sputum was assessed prospectively during a 22‐month period in 156 patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) from one center, and findings were compared to a cross‐sectional evaluation of specific IgG and IgA antibodies, occurrence of chronic Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection, and pulmonary function. The prevalence rate for the 22‐month period was 40%. Positive A. fumigatus cultures appeared to be independent of the presence or duration of chronic bronchopulmonary Ps. aeruginosa infection, but isolation of A. fumigatus in patients with pseudomonas infection for more than 5 years was associated with notably decreased pulmonary function. Levels of IgG antibodies to a 470,000 daltons A. fumigatus antigen fraction were higher in patients with positive cultures in the observation period than in those without. IgG antibodies to a 25,000–50,000 daltons antigen fraction were directly correlated to A. fumigatus frequency in patients with positive cultures both prior to and during the survey. On the other hand, levels of IgA antibodies to the 470,000 daltons fraction were inversely related to A. fumigatus frequency, suggesting a role of IgA antibodies in the bronchial clearance of aspergilli. Decreased pulmonary function was found to be associated with elevated levels of A. fumigatus antibodies. It is concluded that immune reactions elicited by A. fumigatus may play a role in clearance of the fungus from the airways but also may contribute to lung morbidity in some patients.
Effect of Monosaccharides and Ethyleneglycol on the Interaction Between Escherichia Coli Bacteria and Octyl‐Sepharoser̀
Authors: öhman Lena , Magnusson Karl‐Eric , Stendahl Olle
Published: August 2010

Combined effects of monosaccharides and reduced surface tension of the medium were studied in relation to the hydrophobic binding of Escherichia coli bacteria, with and without mannose‐specific structures. Hydrophobic binding was analyzed by hydrophobic interaction chromatography on Octyl‐Sepharoser̀. The results showed that ethyleneglycol, as well as mannose, reduced the hydrophobic interaction of the bacteria with mannose‐specific structures. This effect was potentiated by combining ethyleneglycol and mannose. No other monosaccharides tested (galactose and fucose) had any effect on the hydrophobic interaction of bacteria with mannose‐specific structures. These results further strengthen the hypothesis that the mannose‐specific interaction of Escherichia coli bacteria is, at least in part, mediated by hydrophobic forces.
Successful Cultivation of Spirochetes from Skin Lesions of Patients With Erythema Chronicum Migrans Afzelius and Acrodermatitis Chronica Atrophicans
Authors: Åsbrink Eva , Hovmark Anders
Published: August 2010

Spirochetes could be cultivated from 9 out of 13 skin biopsies from patients with erythema chronicum migrans Afzelius (ECMA) and from 2 out of 5 biopsies from patients with acrodermatitis chronica atrophicans (ACA) by using a newly modified serumless Kelly's medium. The different spirochete strains grew best at a low oxygen tension. Attempts to grow spirochetes from blood and cerebrospinal fluid failed. The cultivation of spirochetes from secondary ECMA lesions favours the presumption that a spirochetemia may occur in ECMA. The isolation of spirochetes from an ACA patient who had a disease duration of > 10 years proves that the spirochetes may survive in the human body for a considerable time.
Effect of Gamma Interferon on Spreading of Mouse Peritoneal Macrophages on Solid Surfaces
Authors: Kjeldsberg E. , Rollag H. , Lund H. , Holberg‐Pettersen M. , Degre M.
Published: August 2010

The influence of a homologous gamma interferon preparation (MuIFN‐γ) on in vitro spreading of freshly‐seeded unelicited mouse peritoneal macrophages (MPM) was tested. Light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy observations gave comparable results. Addition of MuIFN‐γ enhanced the spreading on solid surfaces, especially 3–5 hours after seeding. Maximal effect was achieved with 10 units of IFN. Addition of specific anti‐MuIFN‐γ or treatment of the preparation at pH 2 eliminated both antiviral activity and effect on spreading of MPM.
A Rat Model for Sepsis in Chronic Biliary Obstruction
Authors: Tanaka Nobutaka , Christensen Poul , Rydén Stefan , Klöfver‐Ståhl Britten , Bengmark Stig
Published: August 2010

The effect of retrograde intrabiliary (RI) injection ofE. coliwas studied in Spraque‐Dawley rats with and without chronic biliary obstruction. The challenge dose ofE. coliwas standardized by the use of frozen (‐80 °C) aliquots of bacteria. Injection of 102, 105or 108colony‐forming units (CFU), respectively, into three groups of 8 normal rats, immediately after occlusion of the common bile duct (CBD), did not kill any of the animals. In contrast, 5 of 8 animals with chronic biliary obstruction died fromE. colisepsis after RI injection of 102bacteria (p < 0.05). Furthermore, all of 4 obstructed animals died after challenge with 105CFU (p < 0.01), as compared to the 8 normal rats surviving this dose. Intraperitoneal injection of 105E. colidid not kill any of 6 animals with 3 weeks biliary obstruction. It is concluded that chronic biliary obstruction and RI injection are prerequisites for the occurrence of lethal septicemia in the animals. The model might be suitable for the study of biliary sepsis in chronic biliary obstruction.
Antibacterial Activity In Vitro and Regression Studies for Ceftazidime and Ceftriaxone
Authors: Frimodt‐Møller Niels , Højbjerg Tove , Hvass Erik , Møller Susanne , Mortensen Ida , Thomsen Villy Frølund
Published: August 2010

The antibacterial activity in vitro of ceftazidime and ceftriaxone was investigated against 575 recent clinical isolates. Both cephalosporins displayed excellent activity against most of the pathogens tested, in particular Gram‐negative bacteria, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Apart from the Pseudomonas group, Acinetobacter calcoaceticus and Campylobacter jejuni ceftriaxone was slightly to moderately more active than ceftazidime overall. Ceftriaxone was moderately active against Streptococcus faecalis. Regression lines for the two antibiotics were almost identical. Corresponding to differences in susceptibility, the zone sizes differed for the two drugs with respect to certain bacterial groups, e.g. Pseudomonas sp. and enterococci. Therefore, the two cephalosporins cannot substitute for each other in disc susceptibility testing. Breakpoints for disc tests around 8–16 μg/ml, as suggested in the literature, appear too high considering the beneficial pharmacokinetic properties of the two drugs.
Experimental Transmission of Aleutian Disease virus (ADV) to Different Animal Species
Authors: Alexandersen Søren , Jensen Åse Uttenthal , Hansen Mogens , Aasted Bent
Published: August 2010

Two animals from each of 8 different species (mink, Finn raccoon, cat, dog, ferret, blue fox, mouse and rabbit) were inoculated with the highly virulent Utah I strain of ADV. Only the mink developed hypergammaglobulinemia. All animals produced antibodies to ADV antigens, but with different litres. Mink sera had much higher antibody titres than the other animal sera. Antibodies to the ADV‐coded, non‐structural polypeptide (p71) were found in mink, Finn raccoons and dogs only. Presence of this kind of antibodies was taken as evidence of ADV replication, because p71 was not present in the ADV inoculum. The animals were killed 4 weeks after virus inoculation. Homogenates of different organs from mink, Finn raccoons, ferrets, dogs, mice and the cat were shown to infect ADV‐negative mink, which developed antibodies to ADV following inoculation. We conclude from the present studies that mink and Finn raccoons are potential threats as ADV transmitters. Cats, ferrets, dogs and mice may be considered potential ADV reservoirs, because they possibly harbour ADV for 4 weeks or longer. Blue foxes and rabbits did not seem to be a risk factor for ADV transmission.
Effect of Aerobic and Anaerobic Atmosphere on the Detection of Micro‐Organisms From Blood Cultures
Authors: Sandven Per , Høiby E. Arne
Published: August 2010

Blood from patients with suspected bacteraemia was simultaneously cultured in two Vacutainer blood culture bottles containing 45 ml of supplemented peptone broth (Becton Dickinson), five ml of blood in each bottle. The cultures were incubated at 37 °C for seven days. One of the bottles was vented and the other unvented. A total of 3958 blood culture sets were processed during the 20‐month period of the study. Altogether 438 (11%) of the blood culture sets were positive. Of the 438 isolates, 317 (72%) were detected in both bottles, 61 (14%) in the vented bottle and 60 (14%) in the unvented bottle. A total of 60 (14%) isolates would not have been detected if only five ml of blood had been cultured. Only minor differences in the isolation rates of different bacterial and fungal species from the vented and unvented bottles were found. The results indicate that aerobic incubation of Vacutainer bottles with supplemented peptone broth is sufficient in routine diagnostic work.
Fatal Outcome of Splenectomy in Rats With Experimental Biliary Infection
Authors: Tanaka Nobutaka , Christensen Paul , Rydén Stefan , Klöfver‐Stáhl Britten , Bengmark Stig
Published: August 2010

The effect of splenectomy in normal rats receiving retrograde intrabiliary (RI) or intravenous (IV) injection of 105Escherichia coli was studied. IV injection of the bacteria did not cause any deaths, independent of whether simultaneous ligation of the common bile duct was performed or not. In contrast, RI injection immediately after splenectomy resultet in the death of 9/12 animals although only 1/12 RI‐injected rats with intact spleens died (p < 0.005). The findings might have implications for the performance of splenectomy in patients with combined hepato‐biliary diseases.
A Comparison of a Conventional and a Radiometric Examination of Clinical Blood Cultures With Respect to Recovery Rate and Detection Time of Microorganisms
Authors: Arpi Magnus , Lester Anne , Frederiksen Wilhelm
Published: August 2010

The results from a comparative investigation of two different blood culture systems with respect to the recovery rate and the detection time are presented. Patients from whom enough blood volume could be drawn to fill two or more Venoject® tubes, were consecutively included in the study. The blood was equally divided between our conventional system (4 tubes of nutrient broth, 4 tubes of semisolid nutrient agar and 4 tubes of semisolid thioglycollate agar) and a radiometric system, Bactec® (one aerobic and one anaerobic vial). From a total of 1252 blood cultures, one or both systems detected 170 positive cultures (13.6%) from 140 patients. Of a total of 127 positive blood cultures representing bacteremia, the dominating species were Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, accounting for 31 and 27% respectively. The radiometric system detected 95% and the conventional system 82% of all clinically relevant isolates (p< 0.001). Especially E. coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae were detected more frequently in the radiometric system. The radiometric system had a shorter average detection time than the conventional system (1.0 versus 1.7 days). This may have therapeutical and prognostical consequences for patients with bacteremia. One fourth of all positive blood cultures was due to contamination. The majority of the contaminants, mainly coagulase negative staphylococci, were found in the radiometric system, as were false positive cultures. This comparative study demonstrated positive and negative sides of both systems tested.
Demonstration of Streptococcal Antigens Produced in Vivo and Identification of a Nephritis Associated Protein
Authors: Bergholm A.‐M. , Holm S. E.
Published: August 2010

An experimental infectious model in rabbits was used to study the release of bacterial substances in vivo in relation to the development of renal lesions, using three different group A Streptococci (type M56, M12 and T3). Three weeks post infection, renal lesions were confirmed in animals infected with M56 and M12, but not T3 streptococci, by histological and immunohistological analyses of the kidneys. Tissue‐cage fluid (TCF) from the potentially nephritogenic strains (M56 and M12) showed a time‐related increase of proteins and a production of streptococcal antibodies in serum. Isoelectrofocusing of TCF from nephritogenic and non‐nephritogenic strains showed the presence of “nephritogenic‐strain‐specific” proteins in the most cationic region as well as in pH region 5.8–6.4. Immunoblotting after SDS‐PAGE of TCF revealed a nephritogenic‐strain‐restricted protein that, by means of a mouse‐monoclonal antibody, identified with the NSAP (Nephritic‐Strain‐Associated Protein). The biological activity demonstrated in the focus of infection using the M56 and M12 strains thus seems to be related in time to the induction of the nephritic process.
Campylobacter Strains In Sweden
Authors: Kaijser Bertil , Sjögren Eva
Published: August 2010

Campylobacter is one of the most common causes of diarrhoea in humans. Different typing systems have been put forward as aids to improved understanding of the epidemiology and clinical signs of the disease. In the present investigation we have adopted indirect haemagglutination for serotyping of heatstable (Penner) antigens and direct slideagglutination for heatlabile (Lior) antigens. All the strains from the patients (n = 277) seeking medical care for diarrhoea at the East Hospital, Göteborg, Sweden over 21 months were studied. With 19 antisera against heastable antigens, 79.8% of the domestic strains were typable and 73.8% of the foreign strains. For the heatlabile antigens corresponding figures were 94.2% and 87.2%. There was a great variety of combinations of heatstable and heatlabile antigens on the strains. No marked relation between one antigen or antigen combination and clinical sign of disease was found. We conclude that serotyping is mainly useful for epidemiological studies. A limited number of antisera can be used for typing the majority of strains. If a choice is to be made, typing for heatlabile antigen seems simple and gives somewhat higher typability.
The Throat Carrier Rate of Group a and Other Beta Hemolytic Streptococci Among Patients in General Practice
Authors: Hoffmann Steen
Published: August 2010

In a one‐year multicenter study in general practice the rate of asymptomatic throat carriage of group A beta hemolytic streptococci (GABHS) was investigated. 2,626 patients, none of whom had had sore throat or any other streptococcal illness during the preceding three months, were evaluated. The GABHS carrier rate was 2.2% with no sex or season dependent variation, and it was 10.9% in patients ≤ 14 years of age, 2.3% in patients between 15 and 44 years old, and 0.6% in patients ≥ 45 years old. An additional 7.2% of the patients carried beta hemolytic streptococci of groups B, C, or G. For groups C and G the influence of age on carrier rates was similar to that found for GABHS. Tetracycline resistance was found in 21% of the group A strains, in 61% of the group B strains, and in 28% of the group C and group G strains.
Influence of Culture Medium and Incubation Time on the Fatty Acid Compositions of Some Rapid‐Growing Mycobacteria as Analysed by Packed and Capillary Column gas Chromatography
Authors: Larsson L. , Valero‐Guillén P. , Martin‐Luengo F. , Pacheco F.
Published: August 2010

Cellular fatty acids of four rapid‐growing mycobacterial species (Mycobacterium chelonei, M. fortuitum, M. phlei, and M. smegmatis) were analysed by packed and capillary column gas chromatography after one, three, four, six, eight, and twelve days of incubation on Löwenstein‐Jensen and Sauton agar media. Variations in incubation time did not affect the chromatograms except in the case of twelve‐day incubated M. smegmatis. Mycobacteria cultivated on Sauton agar medium contained more tuberculostearic and less oleic acid compared with Löwenstein‐Jensen. For informative and reproducible analytical results, we recommend using a chemically defined culture medium and splitless injection on a capillary column capable of separating not only the methyl esters of the cellular fatty acids but also the diagnostically important secondary alcohols containing 18 and 20 carbon atoms.
Population Analysis of Susceptibility To Cefotaxime in Enterobacteriaceae
Authors: Søgaard Per
Published: August 2010

Population analysis of susceptibility to cefotaxime (CTX) in eight species of Enterobacteriaceae was carried out. One strain of each species was examined. The strains represented their individual species as regards natural susceptibility to ampicillin (A) and carbenicillin (Ca). Cephalothinase activity of the parental strains and strains selected on the plates with the highest concentration that allowed growth was determined by an ultraviolet assay. The populations of the A‐susceptible/Ca‐susceptible (A‐s/Ca‐s) species, Escherichia coli and Proteus mirabilis were homogeneous as regards susceptibility to CTX. The A‐resistant/Ca‐resistant (A‐r/Ca‐r) species, Klebsiella oxytoca and Citrobacter koseri, were less homogeneous, but in all four mentioned species no increase in cephalothinase activity was observed between the parental strains and the strains selected in the population analysis. The four A‐r/Ca‐s species, Enterobacter cloacae, Citrobacter freundii, Proteus vulgaris, and Morganella morganii, were heterogeneous. The frequency of CTX‐r mutants was approx. 10‐6.5. The IC50 for CTX was 27.5–28.5 times higher for the mutants than for the parental strains. The CTX resistance was maintained in subcultures of the strains. All four species had a very high increase in cephalothinase activity from parental strains to the strains selected in the population analysis. Only the enzyme of Proteus vulgaris was able to hydrolyze CTX.
Binding of Human Serum High Density Lipoprotein to Staphylococcus Capitis
Authors: Osland Arve
Published: August 2010

Of twelve different staphylococcal species tested, Staphylococcus capitis and Staphylococcus warneri bound human serum high density lipoprotein (HDL). The binding of HDL was observed with bacteria cultivated on brain‐heart infusion broth agar, but not on nutrient broth agar. The factor mediating the binding of HDL seems to be a bacterial component and not a component of the growth medium. Studies on the binding of HDL to S. capitis showed that a subfraction of HDL was involved in the reaction. This subfraction constituted approximately 30 % of the total purified serum HDL.
Localisation of the Penicillinase Gene in Naturally Occurring Staphylococcus Aureus Strains
Authors: Rosdahl Vibeke Thamdrup
Published: August 2010

Localisation of the penicillinase gene was studied in a total of 104 inducible Staphylococcus aureus strains selected from 10,229 bacteraemia strains isolated in the years 1957–1981. The strains represented all possible combinations of the most common patterns of phage type and susceptibility to heavy metals (cadmium, arsenate and mercury) and antibiotics. The material was further supplemented with epidemically occurring strains. Localisation of the penicillinase gene was established by isolation of penicillinasenegative variants and analysis of DNA‐bands on CsCl gradients and gel‐electrophoresis.

Fifty‐five strains contained a penicillinase plasmid; 49 had a chromosomal location. The genetic location was mainly connected with phage types. All strains belonging to the 83A complex and the majority of the strains of the 52, 52A, 80, 81 complex and of phage type 95 contained a penicillinase plasmid, whereas chromosomal location was found in all strains of group II and of the 94,96 complex. In all strains but three (group III) the resistances to heavy metals were located on the penicillinase plasmid. Association between the penicillinase plasmid and genes coding for resistance to other antibiotics was found in one tetracycline resistant strain only.

Three micro‐constitutive strains had chromosomally located penicillinase gene, whereas one macroconstitutive strain contained a penicillinase plasmid.
Blocking of Antibody Complement‐Dependent Effector Functions by Streptococcal IgG Fc‐Receptor and Staphylococcal Protein a
Authors: Schalén Claës , Truedsson Lennart , Christensen Karen Kvist , Christensen Poul
Published: August 2010

Using haemolysis in gel, two bacterial IgG‐binding substances, an Fc‐receptor isolated from group A streptococci type M15, and protein A from Staphylococcus aureus, were shown to inhibit complementmediated lysis of sheep erythrocytes sensitized with rabbit IgG. When the crude alkaline extracts of ten types of group A streptococci were tested to see whether streptococcal components other than Fc‐binding material might affect lysis, the degree of inhibition was found to be correlated with Fc‐binding activity. In no case was the lysis of IgM‐coated cells inhibited. Opsonophagocytosis experiments showed that both purified streptococcal Fc‐receptor and protein A impaired antibody complement‐dependent killing by human polymorphonuclear leukocytes of each of two strains of group B streptococci (lacking IgG Fc‐receptors). Furthermore, the impairment was ascribable to interference with the fixation of complement to the antibodies, as demonstrated in pre‐opsonization experiments with one of the strains. Our results suggest that blocking of the binding of complement to IgG is an important virulence mechanism in Fc‐receptor‐bearing streptococci and staphylococci.
Induction of Local Immunity to Group a Streptococci Type M50 in Mice by Non‐Type‐Specific Mechanisms
Authors: Kurl Daya N. , Stjernquist‐Desatnik Anna , Schalén Claés , Christensen Poul
Published: August 2010

The possibility of inducing immunity in the upper respiratory tract against type M50 group A streptococci was studied in mice. The M50 type exhibited an LD100 a of 105 colony‐forming units (CFU) when administered intranasally (i.n.), and of 107 CFU when introduced intraperitoneally (i.p.). I.n. administered vaccines prepared from M types 12, 18, 30, 49, 50 and 55 were equally efficient in preventing lethal infection after i.n. challenge with type M50. Subcutaneous (s.c.) immunization with type 18 had no effect, whereas s.c. immunization with type 50 was effective against i.n. challenge with type 50. Neither with i.n. nor s.c., did vaccination with type 18 ‐ in contrast to with type 50 ‐ protect against i.p. challenge with type 50. The results strongly suggest that local immunity against M50 group A streptococci can be achieved using a non‐type‐specific mechanism. Once the local barrier had been overcome, protection against systemic infection was type‐specific in accordance with classic concepts.
THE MICROSCOPIC DIAGNOSIS OF PNEUMOCYSTIS CARINII
Authors: Nielsen PEDER BO , Goyot PIERRE , Mojon MADELEINE
Published: August 2010

An assessment of the Gram, the Methylene blue, and the Ziehl‐Neelsen procedures in diagnosing Pneumocystis carinii has been performed. By using heat and methanol as fixatives and phase‐contrast microscopy we found the procedures valuable in detecting the pneumocysts, especially in the Gram staining. The diagnosis should, however, be confirmed by a re‐staining with a specific staining, viz. the toluidine blue 0 or the silver impregnation a.m. Gomori‐Grocott. It is additionally shown that the staining a.m. Gomori‐Grocott is dependent on the density of the preparation.
INFLUENCE OF A CARCINOGENIC AGENT, 7.12 DIMETHYLBENZ (α) ANTHRACENE (DMBA), ON PRODUCTION OF INTERFERON ALPHA/BETA IN MURINE AND HUMAN CELLS
Authors: DegrÉ M. , Holberg‐Petersen M.
Published: August 2010

Interferon production in mouse and human cells induced by paramyxovirus was inhibited by pretreatment of cells with 7.12 dimethylbenz (α) anthracene. The inhibition was moderate but reproducible. It was most pronounced in mouse fibroblast cells, somewhat less in the mouse L‐929 cell line and in human embryo fibroblast cells. Addition of the microsomal activator systems was necessary in the human system. A possible employment of this phenomenon in testing carcinogenic potential is discussed.
EVALUATION OF MINIBACT, A NEW SYSTEM FOR RAPID IDENTIFICATION OF ENTEROBACTERIACEAE
Authors: Kjaeldgaard POUL , Nissen BENT , Lange NIELS , Laursen HELGA
Published: August 2010

Minibact, a new system for four‐hour identification of Enterobacteriaceae, combined with a computer identification system, was compared with Micro‐ID and API 20E in testing 110 strains of Enterobacteriaceae. Minibact gave identification rates of 96.4% at species level and 96.4% at genus level; the corresponding values for Micro‐ID were 87.3% and 91.8%, and for API 20E 91.8% and 94.5%. In conclusion, Minibact combined with a computer identification program gave high identification rates fully comparable to those of Micro‐ID and API 20E, and the system might be an alternative to conventional identification systems in clinical microbiological departments.
CURVED RODS RELATED TO MOBILUNCUS– PHENOTYPES AS DEFINED BY MONOCLONAL ANTIBODIES
Authors: PÅHlson C. , HallÉN A. , Forsum U.
Published: August 2010

51 strains, including clinical isolates, type and reference strains of Mobiluncus, were studied as to phenotype and reactivity with a set of monoclonal antibodies to defined Mobiluncus antigens. Numerical analysis of phenotypic data and the reactivity with monoclonal antibodies showed that the bacteria are clustered to form the two main species, M. mulieris and M. curtisii, although some atypical variants occur. In indirect immunofluoresence assay, the unique antigens were fully exposed on the cell surface and could therefore be used as markers for specific microscopic identification of Mobiluncus in mixed vaginal samples from women attending an STD clinic. The monoclonal antibodies identified M. mulieris and M. curtisii, showing a high correlation with the detection of motile curved rods in wet smears and curved rods in Gram‐stained preparations. 70% of the samples harbouring Mobiluncus as seen by direct identification with monoclonal antibodies were culture‐positive when an elaborate dilution technique for culture was used.
INFLUENCE OF POLYSACCARIDE CAPSULE AND IONIC STRENGTH ON BUOYANT DENSITY OF GROUP B STREPTOCOCCI
Authors: HÅKansson STELLAN , Holm STIG
Published: August 2010

Density fluctuation during the cell cycle was investigated with group B strepcococcus (GBS), type Ia, in isotonic medium. Maximum density occurred at late lag‐phase, with a minimum at the middle of logarithmic growth. During the stationary phase the density remained stable. The buoyant density of serotypes Ia, Ib, II, III and a rough variant was determined by means of gradient centrifugation. In an isotonic milieu at the early stationary phase, the density of the strains varied in the range between 1.06 and 1.11 g/ml. Low ionic strength reduced the density of all strains. Neuraminidase‐treatment increased the buoyant density of types Ia, Ib and III. The same pattern was seen in isotonic and hypotonic medium, although low ionic strength markedly augmented these differences. The influence of tonicity and neuraminidase‐treatment was most prominent with types Ia and III, which may be due to relatively thicker polysaccaride capsules in these types.
RELIABILITY OF A DISK DIFFUSION METHOD USING SEMICONFLUENT GROWTH IN THE DETERMINATION OF AMINOGLYCOSIDE RESISTANCE
Authors: Huovinen PENTTI , Herva ELJA , Katila MARJA‐LEENA , Klossner MARJA‐LIISA , Renkonen OLLI‐VEIKKO , Toivanen PAAVO
Published: August 2010

Susceptibility of 553 blood culture isolates to gentamicin, tobramycin, amikacin, and netilmicin was determined by a routine disk diffusion method with semiconfluent growth (AB Biodisk, Solna, Sweden) and a microtiter‐method (Sensititre®). The disk diffusion test gave false sensitive results in 9.4–71% of the 9–39 aminoglycoside resistant strains studied. False resistant results occurred in 1.0–7.6% of measurements among the over 500 aminoglycoside sensitive strains. Because of the frequent error rate, the disk method with semiconfluent growth should be replaced with other methods in the determination of aminoglycoside resistance in bacteriological laboratories.
CHARACTERIZATION OF SOME PREVIOUSLY UNCLASSIFIED “PASTEURELLA” SPP. OBTAINED FROM THE ORAL CAVITY OF DOGS AND CATS AND DESCRIPTION OF A NEW SPECIES TENTATIVELY CLASSIFIED WITH THE FAMILY PASTEURELLACEAE POHL 1981 AND PROVISIONALLY CALLED TAXON 16
Authors: Bisgaard M. , Mutters R.
Published: August 2010

The taxonomic relationship of 23 unclassified canine and feline strains of Pasteurellaceae and five strains received as Pasteurella spp. or Haemophilus influenzae‐murium was investigated by phenotypic and genetic characterization. Eleven strains were classified with four recently described species of genus Pasteurella sensu stricto. Fourteen canine and feline strains formed a homogeneous group, tentatively designated taxon 16. Both phenotypic characters and mol% G + C in DNA and genome size indicate classification of taxon 16 with genus Pasteurella. DNA/DNA hybridizations, however, failed to locate taxon 16 on genus level with accepted or proposed species of the family Pasteurellaceae Pohl 1981. Two additional species obtained from rats and mice remained unclassified, in addition to a human isolate obtained from a dog‐bite. The necessity of detailed phenotypic characterization within the family Pasteurellaceae Pohl 1981 needs to be stressed.
TAXONOMIC RELATIONSHIP OF SELECTED BIOGROUPS OF PASTEURELLA HAEMOLYTICA AS REVEALED BY DNA:DNA HYBRIDIZATIONS
Authors: Mutters R. , Bisgaard M. , Pohl S.
Published: August 2010

Genetic investigations of selected bovine and ovine strains of Pasteurella haemolytica sensu stricto (biogroup 1), P. haemolytica biogroups 2, 3, 5 and 9, P. testudinis and porcine isolates of so‐called P. haemolytica, tentatively designated taxon 15, confirmed the existence of these phenotypically delineated taxa. Evidence was further obtained to indicate that P. haemolytica biogroups 1, 2, 3, 5 and 9 and P. testudinis constitute a new genus within the family Pasteurellaceae Pohl 1981, and that P. testudinis represents a “missing link” between so‐called P. haemolytica biovars A and T. The proposed genus seems to contain several new species. Additional investigations are, however, indicated before final conclusions can be drawn. The authors desist from proposing genus and species names for the same reasons. Porcine strains provisionally named taxon 15 seem to constitute a separate group within the family Pasteurellaceae Pohl 1981, underlining the distinct degree of specificity members of this family show for host species.
PRODUCTION OF TOXIN IN STRAINS PREVIOUSLY CLASSIFIED AS PASTEURELLA MULTOCIDA
Authors: Nielsen Jens Peter , Bisgaard Magne , Pedersen Knud Børge
Published: August 2010

169 strains of P. multocida ssp. multocida, 24 strains of P. multocida ssp. septica, 22 strains of P. multocida ssp. gallicida, and 8 strains of P. avium and P. canis, respectively, were tested for toxin production in EBL‐cell culture assay. Toxin production was only demonstrated in strains belonging to P. multocida ssp. multocida. Toxigenic strains were derived from pigs, calves, cats, dogs, rabbits and turkeys.
EXEMPLIFICATION OF SEROLOGICAL CROSS‐REACTIVITY OF NEISSERIA LIPOPOLYSACCHARIDES
Authors: MæLand J. A. , Smeland S.
Published: August 2010

Antibodies against the Gc2 serotype determinant of gonococcal lipopolysaccharides (LPS) and antisera against strains of meningogocci were tested by ELISA against the Gc2 LPS, and the antibodies examined for inhibition by bacteria of prototype strains of gonococci and meningococci. From one of the anti‐meningococcal sera and anti‐lactose (anti‐lac) type of antibody was isolated. The results showed that antigenic sites belonging to the serotype, variable, and common sets of determinants as defined for gonococcal LPSs, may cross‐react with meningococci. The anti‐lac antibody combined with all of 34 strains of gonococci, with 41 out of 44 strains of meningococci tested, and with a Neisseria cinerea strain. The anti‐lac showed no reactivity with any of a number of other Gram‐negative cocci or bacilli examined. The results indicate that LPS from most strains of the pathogenic Neisseria species share a lactosyl moiety, presumably an inner core structure, of similar or identical configuration.
CHEMICAL COMPOSITION AND BIOLOGICAL PROPERTIES OF A LIPOPOLYSACCHARIDE FROM BACTEROIDES INTERMEDIUS
Authors: Johne BERIT , Bryn KLAUS
Published: August 2010

Endotoxin (lipopolysaccharide, LPS) from an oral strain of Bacteroides intermedius was isolated by phenol extraction and purified by ultracentrifugation and gel filtration. The preparation was essentially free from contaminating nucleic acid and protein. The LPS contained rhamnose, fucose, mannose, glucose, galactose, glucosamine, and an unidentified sugar (approximate molar ratios 9:1:6:3:1:7:2). Neither heptose nor 2‐keto‐3‐deoxyoctonate was detected. The major fatty acids were 3‐hydroxy‐15‐methylhexadecanoic acid and 3‐hydroxyhexadecanoic acid. The LPS was homogeneous with regard to molecular size, and its polysaccharide chain appeared short compared to the E. coli 055 LPS which was used as reference. A molecular weight of approximately 7,800 was estimated from gas chromatography data and by gel filtration in the presence of sodium deoxycholate. The B. intermedius LPS demonstrated low potency in the Limulus amoebocyte lysate assay, and in the chick embryo and mouse lethality tests and gave negative response in the local Shwartzman reaction.
GROUP JK DIPHTHEROID BACTEREMIA
Authors: Heltberg OLE , Friis‐MØLler ALICE , Ersgaard HANS
Published: August 2010

A 71‐year‐old man with a permanent, subcutaneously implanted, intra‐cardial pacemaker suffered from prolonged bacteremia with an antibiotic‐susceptible group JK diphtheroid rod. He died in spite of the formation of specific serum antibody and parenteral treatment with ampicillin, cephradine and gentamicin. A second multi‐resistant, but otherwise similar group JK strain was isolated post‐mortem from the aseptically removed pacemaker electrode tip. The susceptible and the multi‐resistant strains differed antigenically in crossed immunoelectrophoresis assays, and fatty acid isomer patterns were dissimilar. The theory that a multi‐resistant group JK clone emerged by simple mutation in susceptible, indigenous group JK skin flora is rejected. The concept of major structural differences among group JK bacteria, possibly affecting cell‐wall permeability, is supported. Crossed immunoelectrophoresis is suggested as a means for strain comparison in epidemiological surveys. Vancomycin is regarded as the antibiotic of choice for the treatment of potentially fatal, deep‐seated infections.
ISOLATION AND CHARACTERIZATION OF A MUCIN‐DEGRADING STRAIN OF PEPTOSTREPTOCOCCUS FROM RAT INTESTINAL TRACT
Authors: Carlstedt‐Duke BODIL , Midtvedt TORE , Nord CARL ERIK , Gustafsson BENGT E.
Published: August 2010

A mucin‐degrading microorganism was isolated from the intestinal tract by serial sectioning from the serosal side of the caecum wall from a conventinal rat. The ability of degrading the intestinal water‐soluble mucin was present both in vivo after monocontamination of germ‐free rats and in vitro, when adding the microbe to Mucin medium. The morphology, Gram‐positive cocci single or in short chains and the very weak biochemical activities allow us to place this strain in the species Peptostreptococcus micros.
CHLAMYDIA TRACHOMATIS: IN VITRO SUSCEPTIBILITY TO ANTIBIOTICS SINGLY AND IN COMBINATION
Authors: Christensen J. J. , Holten‐Andersen W. , Nielsen P. B.
Published: August 2010

Decreased susceptibility in vitro to erythromycin has been demonstrated for few C. trachomatis isolates outside Scandinavia, making local susceptibility‐screening indicated. Eleven recent isolates of C. trachomatis found in a Danish hospital have been examined for susceptibility, expressed as minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) to antibacterial agents commonly used in genito‐urinary infections. Full susceptibility to doxycycline and erythromycin was demonstrated. Clindamycin and ampicillin showed moderate activity, and sulfamethizole had a MIC value in the border area of what is needed for therapeutic effect in non‐urinary infections. C. trachomatis, being a major pathogen in pelvic inflammatory disease, makes combination chemotherapy desirable in order to protect against resistance development, to obtain synergistic effect and to ensure effect in infections of mixed etiology – provided antagonism could not be anticipated. In three checkerboard trials, with the combinations doxycycline plus ampicillin, erythromycin plus sulfamethizole and ampicillin plus sulfamethizole, using MIC as end‐point, neither synergism nor antagonism could be demonstrated in the concentration range from 1/8 to 4 times the MIC values of each drug.
EFFECT OF ENCEPHALOMYOCARDITIS (EMC) VIRUS ON MURINE FOETAL AND PLACENTAL GROWTH MONITORED BY QUANTIFICATION OF MATERNAL PLASMA LEVELS OF PREGNANCY‐ASSOCIATED MURINE PROTEIN‐2 AND α‐FETOPROTEIN
Authors: Hau J. , Buschard K.
Published: August 2010

The present study demonstrates that i) pregnant mice seem to be more sensitive to encephalomyocarditis (EMC) infection than non‐pregnant mice, and ii) the infection results in significantly increased maternal plasma levels of insulin and pregnancy‐associated murine protein‐2 (PAMP‐2), of placental origin, and α‐fetoprotein (AFP), of foetal origin. Maternal plasma levels of PAMP‐2 and AFP are correlated with placental and foetal growth respectively. This indicates that the EMC infection and the increased peripheral insulin levels lead to increased growth of the foetoplacental unit.
REPEATED PASSAGE OF FRESHLY ISOLATED GROUP A STREPTOCOCCI ON BLOOD AGAR
Authors: Stjernquist‐Desatnik ANNA , Kurl DAYA N. , Christensen POUL
Published: August 2010

Group A streptococcal strains (three T‐type 1, two T‐type 2 and three T‐type 4), freshly isolated from throat cultures, were subjected to 25 serial passages on blood agar. All strains changed their M protein production and/or opacity factor (OF)‐activity during the passages. The capacity of each strain to adhere to a pool of buccal cells from six healthy individuals was studied both before and after passage. Five of six strains with decreased OF‐activity/M protein production diminished significantly in adherence capacity, whereas one of two strains with increasing OF‐activity adhered better to the epithelial cells. The results are discussed in relation to the clinical view of asymptomatic carriers of group A streptococci.
QUANTITATIVE DETERMINATION OF β‐LACTAMASE PRODUCTION IN STAPHYLOCOCCUS AUREUS STRAINS COMPARED TO QUALITATIVE TESTING BY A MICROBIOLOGICAL CLOVER LEAF TEST, A CHROMOGENIC CEPHALOSPORIN TEST AND A IODOMETRIC TEST
Authors: JarlØV JENS OTTO , Rosdahl VIBEKE THAMDRUP
Published: August 2010

One hundred and twelve β‐lactamase producing strains of Staphylococcus aureus with known quantitative production were investigated together with 45 non‐β‐lactamase producing derivatives by three qualitative β‐lactamase tests: the microbiological clover leaf test, the iodometric tube test and a chromogenic cephalosporin disc test. For the β‐lactamase producing strains strong positive reactions in the qualitative tests were not correlated with high β‐lactamase production, large degree of extracellularity or high induction ratio in any of the tests. Low β‐lactamase production was not correlated to weak reactions. Best results in identifying β‐lactamase production were obtained using the iodometric test in which 109 of 112 β‐lactamase producing strains were positive and no false positive reactions were observed. Some strains had only weak positive reactions but they were easily read. The clover leaf test and the chromogenic cephalosporin test detected 105 and 107 of 112 strains, respectively. The chromogenic cephalosporin disc test had more weakly reacting strains, which were difficult to read, especially among strains of phage type 95. Three non‐β‐lactamase producing strains of phage type 95 were positive in the clover leaf test. It is concluded that the iodometric tube test is the most useful one for qualitative determination of β‐lactamase production in S. aureus. It is recommended as control when normal susceptibility testing for penicillin has shown susceptibility or doubtful susceptibility. Furthermore, it is useful when no susceptibility testing has been carried out and a rapid result is needed.
BETA‐LACTAMASE PRODUCTION IN COAGULASE‐NEGATIVE MICROCOCCACEAE
Authors: Rosdahl VIBEKE THAMDRUP , JarlØV JENS OTTO , Knudsen ANNA MARIE
Published: August 2010

A total of 8 penicillin‐susceptible and 55 penicillin‐resistant coagulase‐negative Micrococcaceae were investigated for their beta‐lactamase production by one quantitative and threee qualitative methods. Seven of the 8 penicillin‐susceptible strains had no beta‐lactamase production; one had a very low production. Among the 55 penicillin‐resistant strains, 54 produced beta‐lactamase (mean 63 units/mg bacteria). Methicillin/gentamicin‐resistant strains produced less enzyme than strains susceptible to these antibiotics. The percentage extracellularity (mean 18%) was lower than in Staphylococcus aureus, whereas the induction ratio (mean 56) was higher. No significant difference between the different species could be observed, but 70% of the strains were Staphylococcus epidermidis. Among the 55 beta‐lactamase producing strains, the microbiological clover‐leaf method detected 51, the iodometric method 40 and the chromogenic cephalosporin method 38. None of the three qualitative methods gave any false positive reactions.
THE EPIDEMIOLOGY OF ACINETOBACTER CALCOACETICUS: BIOTYPE AND RESISTANCE‐PATTERN OF 328 STRAINS CONSECUTIVELY ISOLATED FROM CLINICAL SPECIMENS
Authors: Gerner‐Smidt P.
Published: August 2010

328 clinical isolates of Acinetobacter calcoaceticus from hospitalized patients and persons attending general practitioners were characterized according to biotype and resistance‐pattern. 117 strains of biotype (b.) anitratus, 200 of b.lwoffi, 11 of b. haemolyticus and no strains of b. alcaligenes were found. B. anitratus was more frequently isolated from patients in hospitals than b.lwoffi; b.lwoffi was more often found in general practice. Strains of b.anitratus had more resistance traits than b.lwoffi. Strains of b.anitratus obtained in hospitals were more resistant than strains from general practice. No such difference was found with b.lwoffi.
IN VITRO ACTIVITY OF AMIFLOXACIN (WIN 49 375) COMPARED WITH THOSE OF CIPROFLOXACIN AND OFLOXACIN
Authors: Digranes ASBJØRN
Published: August 2010

The in vitro activity of the novel fluoroquinolone derivative, amifloxacin (WIN 49 375), was compared with the activities of ciprofloxacin and ofloxacin. A total of 500 clinical isolates of Gram‐negative and Gram‐positive bacteria were included, and the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) was determined by an agar dilution method. All drugs were highly active against Enterobacteriaceae, but ciprofloxacin showed the highest activity on a weight‐for‐weight basis (MIC 90%≤ 0.03 mg/l). Ciprofloxacin was the most active agent against Pseudomonas isolates; all isolates being inhibited by 0.25 mg/l or less. The staphylococcal isolates were inhibited by ciprofloxacin and ofloxacin at relatively low concentrations (MIC 100%= 1 mg/l), whereas amifloxacin showed moderate activity against the majority of these isolates. Ciprofloxacin was highly active against enterococci, ofloxacin was moderately active, and amifloxacin was inactive. All Neisseria gonorrhoeae isolates were susceptible to the lowest concentrations of the agents that were employed in the study (0.03 mg/l).
SUSCEPTIBILITY TESTING OF 7 ANTIBIOTICS AGAINST ANAEROBIC BACTERIA: COMPARISON OF 2 DIFFERENT MEDIA AND CARBON DIOXIDE CONCENTRATIONS
Authors: Jansen JENS E. , Bremmelgaard ANNIE
Published: August 2010

Anaerobic agar (AA) and Danish Blood agar (DBA) were evaluated by a standardized agar diffusion and agar dilution test in 5% CO2. The activity of seven antibiotics (tetracycline, clindamycin, metronidazole, rifamycin, chloramphenicol, penicillin, erythromycin) was tested against 40 anaerobic bacteria, including 3 control strains (Cl.perfringens ATCC 13124, B.fragilis ATCC 25285, B.thetaiotaomicon ATCC 29741). 70% of the strains were resistant to erythromycin in 10% CO2, only 30% in 5% CO2. No evident CO2‐effect could be seen with the other antibiotics. Mean MIC for tetracycline was twice as great on AA than DBA. In spite of that, tablet sensitivity testing with tetracyline on AA proved to be more accurate and completely separated the resistant and susceptible strains. For penicillin, the mean MIC was one dilution step higher on AA. No major differences could be seen with the other antibiotics. AA was superior to DBA in providing growth of anaerobes. Measurement on AA was easier, and it was more precise. Except for tetracycline, MIC on control strains fell well within range set by The National Committee for Clinical Laboratory Standards (NCCLS) on AA. Acceptable correlation coefficients were recorded between agar diffusion and agar dilution. Prediction of susceptibility based on zone diameter measurements was very good on AA. Only one discrepancy that could cause change of susceptibility status occurred on AA, while there were 12 on DBA. On DBA, there was poor correlation between MIC, compared with earlier results on the same agar. The 50% inhibitory concentration (IC50) was also measured, but offered no advantage over MIC.
COMPARISON OF TWO AGGLUTINATION TESTS FOR DIFFERENTIATION BETWEEN COAGULASE POSITIVE AND COAGULASE NEGATIVE STAPHYLOCOCCI
Authors: Flesland Ø.
Published: August 2010

Two agglutination tests, Monostaph (Bionor A/S, N‐3700 Skien, Norway) and Staphaurex (Wellcome), for the identification of Staphylococcus aureus have been evaluated. Using the coagulase test as reference method both tests were equally reliable and in complete aggreement with the coagulase tube test when tested on 216 strains of Micrococcaceae.
FAILURE TO DETECT HYDROGEN‐SULPHIDE PRODUCTION IN LACTOSE/SUCROSE‐FERMENTING ENTEROBACTERIACEAE, USING TRIPLE SUGAR IRON AGAR
Authors: Kolmos Hans Jorn , Schmidt Jytte
Published: August 2010

Triple Sugar Iron agar failed to detect hydrogen sulphide in 44 out of 69 hydrogen‐sulphide producing strains of Enterobacteriaceae, which at the same time fermented lactose and/or sucrose. The species involved were Salmonella typhi, Salmonella enteritidis, Citrobacter freundii, Escherichia coli, and Proteus vulgaris. By contrast, no false‐negative reactions were observed in 74 strains, which fermented neither lactose nor sucrose. Failure to detect hydrogen sulphide was probably due to acidification of the medium following the fermentation of carbohydrates. A medium without carbohydrates is preferable in diagnostic situations where hydrogen‐sulphide detection is of great importance.