bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
HOMER1 Promoter Analysis in Parkinson’s Disease: Association Study with Psychotic Symptoms
Authors: De Luca Vincenzo , Annesi Grazia , De Marco E. Valeria , de Bartolomeis Andrea , Nicoletti Giuseppe , Pugliese Pierfrancesco , Muscettola Giovanni , Barone Paolo , Quattrone Aldo
Published: July 2009

Aims:HOMER1 gene expression has been linked to abnormal movements in animals receiving chronic administration of antipsychotics. The continuing neurodegeneration of Parkinson’s disease (PD) and the prolonged use of L-dopa are associated with motor complications, such as dyskinesia, and psychotic side effects, including hallucinations and paranoid delusions. Approximately 25–40% of patients with idiopathic PD experience hallucinations. Genetic variability within different candidate genes has been implicated in the clinical severity of sporadic PD in many populations. Materials and Methods: We investigated 3 polymorphisms located in the 5′ flanking region of the HOMER1 gene within a sample of 131 sporadic PD patients from southern Italy, using a 3-SNP genotype and haplotype combination (rs4704559, rs10942891, rs4704560). Results: Our study implicates the effects of allele A of the rs4704559 marker in susceptibility to psychotic symptoms in PD (χ2 = 8.092, 1 d.f., p = 0.004). Conclusion: Even though our results are preliminary, this HOMER1 gene variant may represent a biomarker for side effect evaluation in PD patients.
A Case for the Worldwide Collection of Primary Benign Brain Tumors
Authors: McCarthy Bridget J. , Schellinger Kate A. , Propp Jennifer M. , Kruchko Carol , Malmer Beatrice
Published: July 2009

Background: Incidence data on malignant tumors are reported by the International Agency for Research on Cancer, with 189,485 new malignant brain tumors globally in 2002. However, collection and reporting of benign brain tumors are not universal. The objective here is to encourage the collection of primary benign brain tumors worldwide. Methods: Worldwide numbers of primary benign brain tumors were estimated through published articles and cancer registry reports presenting directly or indirectly reported benign incidence rates or frequencies for regions or countries. Results: An estimated 186,678 benign brain tumors were diagnosed worldwide in 2002. The estimated numbers of benign brain tumors were higher in females than males (105,918 vs. 80,759). Since many countries do not report primary benign brain tumors, the incidence rate estimates vary significantly by region. Conclusions: This is the first survey to assess worldwide numbers of benign brain tumors. Under-reporting, non-standardized collection, lack of age-adjustment, and other causes of the varying incidence rates must be considered. However, the estimated number of benign brain tumors approximately equals, and could exceed, the number of malignant brain tumors globally. Registration of primary benign brain histologies in different geographical areas and ethnicities could provide clues to the underlying causes of these tumors.
Renal Blood Flow during Acute Renal Failure in Man
Authors: Prowle John R. , Ishikawa Ken , May Clive N. , Bellomo Rinaldo
Published: July 2009

Background:In the critically ill, ischemia secondary to decreased renal blood flow (RBF) is believed to be central to the pathogenesis of acute renal failure (ARF); however, the scientific basis for this conclusion has not been systematically evaluated. Methods: Systematic interrogation of the Pubmed database, and screening bibliographies of retrieved reports, for studies of human ARF where RBF was measured. Results: Thirty-two articles published between 1944 and 2008 describing RBF in 373 patients with ARF were identified. Overall, mean RBF during ARF was 387 ml/min. It was 329 ml/min when estimated by clearance-based techniques (15 studies) and 471 ml/min when measured with nonclearance-based techniques (17 studies). Only 46 patients had measurements in the intensive care unit where mean RBF was 306 ml/min. Normal RBF was reported in 14 publications, mean 1,192 ml/min. Conclusions: Limited information is available on RBF during ARF in the critically ill. Measurements in contemporary patients are required to further our understanding of this condition.
Blood Pressure, Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease: The OPTIMA Longitudinal Study
Authors: Razay George , Williams Jonathan , King Elizabeth , Smith A. David , Wilcock Gordon
Published: July 2009

Background/Aims: Studies on the relation between blood pressure (BP), dementia and Alzheimer’s disease (AD) have yielded inconsistent results, showing an association with high or low BP, or no association with BP. The study was designed to look at the longitudinal effect of BP on cognitive function. Methods: Participants were part of the OPTIMA longitudinal study of patients with dementia and agematched cognitively healthy controls. The Cambridge Cognitive Examination (CAMCOG) and BP were measured. We tested the dependence of CAMCOG scores on BP using generalised linear mixed models. Results: A total of 235 were cognitively healthy controls, 42 had mild cognitive impairment (MCI), 141 had AD, and 59 had other dementia syndrome (ODS). In AD patients, the rate of decline of CAMCOG scores showed an inverted U-shaped (non-linear) dependence on diastolic BP. High (110 mm Hg) and low (60 mm Hg) levels of diastolic BP were related to faster cognitive decline over 5 years of follow-up (z = –2.51, p = 0.012). CAMCOG scores also showed an inverted U-shaped dependence on pulse pressure (z = –2.29, p = 0.022). Conclusion: High and low BP levels are related to faster cognitive decline in AD patients. This could have implications for the prevention and treatment of AD.
Expression of Fractalkine (CX3CL1) and Its Receptor in Endotoxin-Induced Uveitis
Authors: Chu Liqun , Li Xiaoxin , Yu Wenzen , Qian Tong , Qi Huijun , Huang Luzhen , Xu Yongsheng
Published: July 2009

Background/Aims: Chemokines play a critical role in inflammation and neurodegenerative disease in the central nervous system. In this study, endotoxin-induced uveitis (EIU) was induced to test the expression of fractalkine, a special neuronal chemokine, and its receptor CX3CR1 in acute inflammation of the retina. Methods:EIU was induced by footpad injections of lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Eight rats were sacrificed at each time point (0, 8, 16, 24, 48, and 72 h) after LPS injection. Sections were made for histopathological tests. Immunohistochemistry was performed using antibodies specific to fractalkine and CX3CR1. Retinas were collected, and total protein and mRNA from both the induced and control rats were extracted. mRNA and protein expression of fractalkine and CX3CR1 in the retina were determined by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and Western blots, respectively. Results: The EIU model was successfully induced. In control rats, both fractalkine and its receptor CX3CR1 were detected in the retina. LPS injection induced a transient upregulation of both proteins at 24 h as determined by the increased number of positively stained cells as well as increased levels of mRNA and protein (p < 0.05). Conclusion: A transitory increased expression of fractalkine and its receptor CX3CR1 occurred at the crest time of EIU, and this change in expression may play a role in the turnover of LPS-induced acute retina inflammation.
Gastric Emptying of Preterm Neonates Receiving Domperidone
Authors: Gounaris A. , Costalos C. , Varchalama E. , Kokori F. , Grivea I.N. , Konstantinidi K. , Syrogiannopoulos G.A.
Published: July 2009

Objectives: Immature gut motility in very low birth weight infants causes feeding intolerance. We evaluated the effect of domperidone, a prokinetic agent, on gastric emptying in very low birth weight infants. Methods: The study was conducted in a crossover design. Gastric emptying was assessed ultrasonographically by measuring the time it took the antral cross sectional area of the stomach to reach half of the value of the 1st measurement on 2 occasions: (1) upon administration of domperidone (0.3 mg/kg/8 h p.o.) for at least 2 days and (2) while patients received an equal quantity of sterile water. 11 infants were randomly assigned to receive domperidone before the 1st measurement and the remaining afterwards. There was a 3–5 day interval between the 2 measurements. At the time when both measurements were performed, every neonate had been receiving the same quantity and quality of milk. 12 infants were formula-fed while 10 were fed their own mother’s supplemented milk. Results: 22 infants with a mean (SD) birth weight of 1,377 g (319) and a mean (SD) gestational age of 30.2 weeks (2.1) were studied. The mean (SD) antral cross sectional area half-value time (in minutes) was 47.6 (23.9) in the domperidone group and 68.2 (25.5) in the control group (p = 0.008). There was no significant difference between formula-fed neonates and neonates fed their own mother’s milk in either group. Conclusions: Domperidone significantly reduces gastric emptying in preterm neonates, and this may account for its effect in cases of disturbances related to gut motility.
Non-Nutritive Sucking Habits in Sleeping Infants
Authors: Hanzer Marie , Zotter Heinz , Sauseng Werner , Pichler Gerhard , Müller Wilhelm , Kerbl Reinhold
Published: July 2009

Background: Pacifier use has been postulated to decrease the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). The responsible mechanisms are, however, unclear. Objectives: Since little is known about the non-nutritive sucking (NNS) habits of infants during sleep, we investigated NNS patterns and changes of physiological parameters during NNS in sleeping infants. Methods: Polygraphic recordings were performed in 12 infants with a median age of 55 days (range 7–82) who regularly used a pacifier during sleep. Episodes of active suckling (bursts) and quiescent periods were differentiated by video observations. We evaluated the time of suckling in relation to the total time of pacifier use, the median number of bursts per min, the median duration of single bursts and the median interval between 2 sequent bursts. In 48 randomly selected bursts, we additionally analyzed changes in heart rate, respiratory frequency and oxygen saturation compared to the 10-second period preceding the burst. Results: Median sleep time with a pacifier held in mouth was 31.3 min (13.0–117.6), of which 15.5% (6.4–36.7%) was spent with active suckling. The median number of bursts per min was 2.2 (1.2–4.5). The median duration of a burst was 3 s (1–22) and the median interval between 2 bursts was 10 s (1–1,434). Heart rate, respiratory frequency and oxygen saturation did not change significantly during suckling bursts. Conclusions: This pilot study presents important data for sucking habits in pacifier users which may provide a basis for further investigations concerning the efficacy of pacifiers in SIDS prophylaxis.
Antiaging Action of Retinol: From Molecular to Clinical
Authors: Bellemère G. , Stamatas G.N. , Bruère V. , Bertin C. , Issachar N. , Oddos T.
Published: July 2009

The antiaging efficacy of retinol (ROL) has been explored mainly clinically in photoprotected skin sites and for high doses of ROL (0.4–1.6%). The objective of the study was to demonstrate the antiaging action of a low and tolerable dose of ROL (0.1%) ex vivo by measuring the expression of cellular retinoic-acid-binding protein II (CRABP2) and heparin-binding epidermal growth factor (HBEGF) by a histological evaluation of the epidermis and in vivo by assessing major aging signs and performing three-dimensional profilometry and digital imaging during a 9-month double-blind placebo-controlled study involving 48 volunteers. Finally, epidermal cell proliferation was evaluated using tryptophan fluorescence spectroscopy. Our results demonstrate that 0.1% ROL induced CRABP2 and HBEGF gene expression and increased keratinocyte proliferation and epidermal thickness. In human volunteers, topical application of a ROL-containing product improved all major aging signs assessed in our study (wrinkles under the eyes, fine lines and tone evenness). Moreover, tryptophan fluorescence increased in the active-agent-treated group and not in the placebo-treated group, indicating that cell proliferation was accelerated in vivo. These data demonstrate that a product containing a low dose (0.1%) of ROL promotes keratinocyte proliferation ex vivo and in vivo, induces epidermal thickening ex vivo and alleviates skin aging signs, without any significant adverse reaction.
An End to Crossover Designs for Studies on the Effect of Sugar Substitutes on Caries?
Authors: Mäkinen K.K.
Published: July 2009

Clinical trials and laboratory studies involving the administration of oral health treatments and foods have benefited from the observance of the so-called crossover study design. Field experience and a growing number of laboratory experiments have shown, however, that ‘blind’ reliance on crossover designs may in some instances lead to unexpected results and erroneous conclusions. Some dietary substances, antibiotic agents, and even fluoride applications may have long-term effects that call into question the appropriateness of the washout periods between treatments. Studies have also been conducted on compounds that have turned out to display synergistic effects. When long-term and synergistic effects are simultaneously present in trials involving a crossover design, difficulties may arise in the interpretation of results. This communication uses as an example the long-term clinical and microbiological effects of xylitol and suggests that inclusion of the crossover practice in clinical trials should be separately and carefully contemplated in each instance.
Antimicrobial Activity of Vanadium Chloroperoxidase on Planktonic Streptococcus mutans Cells and Streptococcus mutans Biofilms
Authors: Hoogenkamp M.A. , Crielaard W. , ten Cate J.M. , Wever R. , Hartog A.F. , Renirie R.
Published: July 2009

The aim of this study was to investigate the antimicrobial activity of vanadium chloroperoxidase (VCPO) reaction products on planktonic and biofilm cellsof Streptococcus mutans C180–2. Planktonic and biofilm cells were incubated in a buffered reaction mixture containing VCPO, halide (either chloride or bromide) and hydrogen peroxide, and the killing efficacy was assessed by CFU counts. The enzymatic products formed by VCPO significantly reduced the viability of planktonic and biofilm cells compared to their negative controls and the effect on the biofilm cells was more effective than a 0.2% chlorhexidine digluconate treatment. We conclude that VCPO and its reaction products form a potent antimicrobial system against S. mutans.
A Practice-Based Study of the Variation of Diagnostics of Dental Caries in New and Old Patients of Different Ages
Authors: Korhonen M. , Gundagar M. , Suni J. , Salo S. , Larmas M.
Published: July 2009

Data mining of digital dental records provides possibilities for analysing the variation between dentists when diagnosing caries. A total of 71,317 male and 82,302 female subjects visited the health centres in Vantaa and Kemi during the ‘digital era’ (1994–2005). As subjects were classified as ‘new patients’ at the first examination, all re-examinations of the same subjects thereafter by the same dentist produced ‘old patients’. A mean number of decayed surfaces (DS) was counted as a function of the age of the subject during the follow-up. The significance of the difference between old and new patients was determined by the Mann-Whitney test for each age cohort at the cross sections, and for the whole follow-up. Caries was seen to affect new patients more than the old ones in both health centres after the age of 20 years. The mean DS values were the same, reaching about 1 for new and old patients at the age of 15 years. The mean DS had a peak for new patients in both health centres at the age of 25 years and another peak around 45–50 years in Kemi. With a few exceptions there was a significant difference between the DS values of new and old patients at most cross sections and for the whole follow-up time. Evidently dentists examine new patients more carefully than their old patients. After the age of 18 years patients may have changed their dentists because they have finished the free-of-charge treatment period.
Comparison of Methods for Evaluating Mineral Loss: Hardness versus Synchrotron Microcomputed Tomography
Authors: Delbem A.C.B. , Sassaki K.T. , Vieira A.E.M. , Rodrigues E. , Bergamaschi M. , Stock S.R. , Cannon M.L. , Xiao X. , De Carlo F. , Delbem A.C.B.
Published: July 2009

This study analyzed degrees of demineralization in bovine enamel using synchrotron microcomputed tomography (SMCT) and hardness measurements (Knoop hardness number, KHN). For 5 days, 40 bovine enamel blocks were individually subjected to a pH cycling model and treatment with fluoride dentifrices (placebo, 275, 550 and 1,100 μg F/g) diluted in deionized water twice a day. Surface hardness number and cross-sectional profiles of hardness and mineral concentration (by SMCT) were determined. Integrated hardness (KHN × μm) for sound and demineralized specimens was calculated and subtracted to give the integrated loss of hardness (ΔKHN) for the lesions. Increasing fluoride concentration in the dentifrices led to higher values for surface hardness after pH cycling and mineral concentration (gHAp cm–3), and lower values for ΔKHN (p < 0.05). From the present results, it may be concluded that hardness measurements revealed demineralization in all groups, which was lower in groups treated with dentifrice with a higher F concentration. SMCT and hardness measurements gave similar results in areas with higher demineralization, but diverged in areas with lower demineralization.
New Indications for Artificial Collagen-Elastin Matrices? Covering Exposed Tendons
Authors: Wetzig Tino , Gebhardt Carl , Simon Jan C.
Published: July 2009

We present an 80-year-old patient who presented a defect with exposed tendons on the dorsum of the hand after micrographic controlled tumour excision. The defect was closed using a combination of artificial collagen-elastin matrix (Matriderm®) covered by an autologous split-skin graft in a 1-step approach resulting in rapid healing and good functional and cosmetic results.
Disseminated Herpes Zoster Mimicking Rheumatoid Vasculitis in a Rheumatoid Arthritis Patient on Etanercept
Authors: Tresch S. , Trüeb R.M. , Kamarachev J. , French L.E. , Hofbauer G.F.L.
Published: July 2009

Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNFα)-blocking agents are immunomodulating agents introduced for treatment of a variety of chronic inflammatory disease conditions. Adverse effects include an increased incidence of infections. Clinically, these infections often have atypical presentations that may hamper prompt diagnosis. In our report of a patient on etanercept therapy for rheumatoid arthritis, the correct diagnosis was delayed because disseminated herpes zoster was clinically mimicking vasculitis. Initially assuming rheumatoid vasculitis, immunosuppression was increased, resulting in worsening of skin lesions. Only an extended work-up, including a skin biopsy and viral cultures, established the correct diagnosis. Management of varicella zoster virus (VZV) infection primarily focuses on early initiation of antiviral therapy to control VZV replication. Therapy with intravenous acyclovir followed by oral valacyclovir allowed complete resolution of acute skin changes. In immunosuppressed patients, the possibility of infection with atypical presentation must always be kept in mind, and that this might mimic other disease conditions. Broad differential diagnosis and an extended diagnostic workup help in establishing the correct diagnosis.
Dermatologists in Hospital Wards: An 8-Year Study of Dermatology Consultations
Authors: Peñate Yeray , Guillermo Noemi , Melwani Priti , Martel Rosa , Borrego Leopoldo
Published: July 2009

Background: The value of dermatologists as consultants is increasing. Objective: To evaluate the activity of dermatologists as inpatient consultants. Methods: Retrospective study of consultations to Dermatology of inpatients, visits per consultation, referral service, procedures performed, delay until visit and diagnoses based on ICD-9. Results: 3,144 requests generated 4,824 visits, 200 biopsies, 107 cultures and other procedures. The mean delay between request and visit was 0.75 days. The requesting service was recorded in 3,097 cases: 21.5% by Internal Medicine, 11.4% by Pediatrics, 8.3% by Neurology and 6.2% by the Infectious Diseases Unit. Follow-up was recommended in 12.4% by the Dermatology Service and in 8% by a dermatologist. Reliable diagnoses were recorded for 2,832 consultations. The most frequent diagnostic groups were diseases of the skin and subcutaneous tissue (ICD-9: 680–709) in 58%, infectious and parasitic diseases (ICD-9: 001–139) in 20%, and neoplasm (ICD-9: 140–239) in 5.7%. The most frequent diagnoses were contact dermatitis (ICD-9: 692.X) in 8.9%, drug reactions (ICD-9: 693.0) in 7.4%, candidiasis (ICD-9:112.X) in 7.1% and seborrheic dermatitis (ICD-9: 690) in 5.3%. Conclusions: Most diagnoses were of a specific cutaneous disease and the dermatologist would be in the best position to evaluate those that inpatients acquire.
Primary Skin Abscesses Are Mainly Caused by Panton-Valentine Leukocidin-Positive Staphylococcus aureus Strains
Authors: del Giudice Pascal , Blanc Véronique , de Rougemont Alexis , Bes Michèle , Lina Gérard , Hubiche Thomas , Roudière Laurent , Vandenesch François , Etienne Jérôme
Published: July 2009

Background: The role of Panton-Valentine leukocidin (PVL) in skin and soft-tissue infections is not clear. Objective: Our purpose was to determine the prevalence of PVL gene carriage among Staphylococcus aureus strains isolated from primary and secondary skin abscesses. Methods: A prospective study was conducted. From July 2003 to June 2008, S. aureus isolates from skin abscesses were screened for the PVL genes. The abscesses were considered primary if they occurred on previously healthy skin and secondary in all other cases. Results: Fifty-seven patients presenting with S. aureus skin abscesses were included in the study. The PVL genes were detected in 40 (70%) of the 57 S. aureus isolates. Thirty-eight (92.7%) of the 41 primary skin abscesses were due to PVL-positive strains, compared to only 2 (12.5%) of the 16 secondary skin abscesses (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Primary skin abscesses are mainly caused by PVL-positive S. aureus strains.
Immunogenicity of Ovalbumin-Ficoll Conjugates with Particular Reference to IgE Antibody Production
Authors: Carter Brian G.
Published: July 2009

Conjugates of ovalbumin with Ficoll (OA-Ficoll) were injected into BDF1 mice to establish their immunogenicity and specifically to determine their effect on the IgE anti-OA response. Mice injected with OA-Ficoll responded by producing IgG anti-OA, but not IgE anti-OA. Furthermore, soluble OA-Ficoll injected subsequent to native OA in the form optimal to elicit IgE antibody in fact suppressed the production of IgE anti-OA. Spleen cells from OA-Ficoll-injected mice when injected into normal mice suppressed the subsequent IgE response to OA. OA-Ficoll reacted only weakly with antibody to native OA and had no effect on the IgE antibody reponse to the unrelated antigen α-amylase.
Antibodies against Aspergillus fumigatus
Authors: Kauffman H.F. , de Vries K.
Published: July 2009

Three different stages were found during growth of Aspergillus fumigatus as characterized by the changes in pH of the medium: (1) An acidic phase (phase I); (2) a second phase (phase II) during which the pH rises till values around pH = 8.5; (3) a third phase (phase III) during which the pH remains constant or drops slightly. During phase I a fast appearance of certain antigenic components was found that is ascribed to an active process of excretion. Additional antigenic components appeared in the culture medium after lysis of the microorganisms (phases II and III). Lysis of the microorganisms and appearance of antigenic components are dependent on the glucose concentration of the medium.
Antibodies against Aspergillus fumigatus
Authors: Kauffmann H.F. , de Vries K.
Published: July 2009

Individual antigenic components of Aspergillus fumigatus were identified by crossed immunoelectrophoresis (CIE) using pooled rabbit hyperimmune antiserum. Patients’ sera with enhanced precipitins against A. fumigatus showed antibodies against identical antigenic components in CIE. Identification of the antigenic components by the intermediate gel technique showed high concentrations of antibodies against a small group of antigenic components. No differences were found in the indiviual antigenic components involved in the precipitation reactions between groups of sera with enhanced and normal IgE levels against A. fumigatus. Crossed immunoelectrofocusing was used to determine the isoelectric point of particular components that were identified by CIE.
Variability in Generation of Anti-Sheep Erythrocyte Plaque-Forming Cells from Cultures of Human Peripheral Blood
Authors: Hollingsworth J.W. , Dunne James V. , Small Daniel , Rose Jean E. , Vaughan John H.
Published: July 2009

We have encountered two types of variability in the numbers of cells making antibodies in vitro to sheep erythrocytes (PFC) in pokeweed-stimulated human peripheral blood mononuclear lymphocytes (PBM). One is a variation in number of PFC generated by the PBM of one individual compared to that of another, which is probably an in vitro counterpart to the well known individual variation in in vivo antibody responsiveness and presumed to be T cell controlled. The other variability is in numbers of PFC found in replicate tubes from a given individual. This variation is not T cell controlled, but rather is related to the relative number of monocytes in the system. Enhancement by monocytes of the numbers of PFC generated is also demonstrated.
Inability of Intravenously Injected Monocellular Suspensions of Human Bone Marrow to Establish in the Nude Mouse
Authors: Ganick Dorothy J. , Sarnwick Richard D. , Shahidi Nasrollah T. , Manning Dean D.
Published: July 2009

Mononuclear suspensions of normal and leukemic human bone marrow cells were injected into lethally irradiated nude mice. As judged by splenic focus assay, cells of human bone marrow suspensions were uniformly unable to establish colonies in the spleen, although comparably treated bone marrow cells from genetically unrelated mice readily produced such colonies. It thus appears that the nude mouse is able to prevent establishment of intravenously injected human bone marrow cells by means not involving T cell-dependent immunologic discrimination.
Demonstration and Quantification of IgE Antibodies Against Paracoccidioides brasiliensis in Paracoccidioidomycosis
Authors: Yarzábal Luis , Dessaint Jean Paul , Arango Myrtha , de Albornoz María C.B. , Campins Humberto
Published: July 2009

Using a radioimmunoassay technique, we have determined the total IgE concentration and specific IgE antibody level against Paracoccidioides brasiliensis in the sera of patients with mycologically confirmed active paracoccidioidomycosis. Patients with aspergilloma, or individuals with antibodies against Candida albicans, and sera of apparently healthy individuals from the endemic area were also examined. The level of total IgE was significantly elevated in 9 out of 10 cases of paracoccidioidomycosis. The mean level of specific IgE against P. brasiliensis was significantly higher in the serum of the patients in comparison with control individuals. The percentage of specific IgE relative to the total varied from 0.38 to 2.28%. The differences between IgE levels in paracoccidioidomycosis sera and in the other mycoses were statistically significant. Our results suggest a possible involvement of specific IgE antibodies against P. brasiliensis in the immune response of patients with paracoccidioidomycosis. The hyperimmunoglobulinemia E may be related to the T-cell defect that characterizes the severe forms of the disease.
Quantitative Studies on Immunofluorescent Staining
Authors: Binder Walter L. , Beutner Ernst H.
Published: July 2009

Dialysis of fluorescein-conjugated antibodies at pH 5.8–6.0 can reduce unwanted nonspecific staining. Selective precipitation of highly fluoresceinated proteins in mildly acidic buffer is a simple technique which can produce a reagent with greatly improved nonspecific staining characteristics with little or no loss of antibody activity. This technique may be especially useful when fluorescent antibody tests are to be performed on tissues which have a high propensity for nonspecific staining such as skin.
Pharmacological and Immunological Aspects of Histamine Release from Horse Leucocytes
Authors: Kings M.A. , de Weck A.L.
Published: July 2009

Pharmacological histamine releasing agents, such as compound 48/80, poly-L-lysine, adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH; β 1-24 available commercially as Synacthen®), catecholamines, purine bases, etc., are well known to induce histamine release from rat peritoneal mast cells and mast cells of other species; and to a lesser extent from peripheral blood leucocytes. It is reported in this paper that several of these potent histamine-releasing agents induce little or no histamine release from horse leucocytes. In particular the calcium ionophore A 23187 induced no histamine release. On the other hand concanavalin A induced release of histamine from horse leucocytes, which may be a function of the amount of IgE-like antibodies present on the cells. An anti-horse IgG antiserum presumably reacting with IgE light chains also induced histamine release from horse leucocytes. This antiserum was also used in inhibition studies with isoproterenol, adrenaline and colchicine, which inhibited histamine release in a manner similar to that noted in work on human leucocytes and rat mast cells. The well-known potentiator of histamine release deuterium oxide (D2O) also enhanced histamine release from horse leucocytes in a dose-dependent manner. Although IgE or IgE-like immunoglobulin has not yet been isolated in the equine species, bronchopulmonary allergy in the horse presumably mediated by IgE has been reported. Assessment of histamine release in vitro should permit better comparative studies of this type of allergy.
Dissociation between Humoral and Cellular Responses to PPD after BCG Vaccination
Authors: Neveu P.J. , Buscot N. , Soulillou J.P.
Published: July 2009

Following repeated BCG vaccination, some people exhibited negative skin tests to tuberculin (PPD) but showed antibody titers similar to those observed in skin test positive people. The purpose of the experiments reported here was to analyze this dissociation observed between cellular and humoral response to tuberculin. Leukocytes from skin test negative people were normally stimulated by various mitogens but not by PPD. After separation of leukocytes into adherent and nonadherent cell populations and in vitro transfer experiments, it was shown that the nonadherent cell population was responsible for the nonresponsiveness to PPD. On the other hand, serum immunoglobulin levels and anti-PPD antibody titers were similar to those observed in skin test positive people. The results show that in skin test negative people, T cells involved in cellular immune response to PPD are ineffective while macrophages, helper T cells and B lymphocytes seem to function normally.
Influence of Dextran Polymer Particles (Sephadex G-200) on Humoral Immune Responses
Authors: Ernst T.-M. , Gillert K.-E. , Müller S.
Published: July 2009

Dextran polymer particles (Sephadex G-200) mixed with bovine serum albumin (BSA) or sheep red blood cells (SRBC) were injected intraperitoneally (i.p.) into mice and the number of antibody-forming cells in spleen and antibody titers in sera were determined. Antibody formation following the first and the booster immunization to BSA was enhanced to a similar degree by Sephadex G-200 and incomplete Freund’s adjuvant. When SRBC were injected in a suboptimal dose of 5 × 106 cells, Sephadex G-200 enhanced the maximum of the primary immune response. In contrast, the polymer inhibited the primary and secondary immune response when 5 × 108 SRBC were given.
Susceptibility to Insulin Resistance after Kidney Donation: A Pilot Observational Study
Authors: Shehab-Eldin Walid , Shoeb Sabry , Khamis Said , Salah Yassien , Shoker Ahmed
Published: July 2009

Background: In chronic kidney disease the contribution of decreased glomerular filtration rate (GFR) versus enhanced inflammation to cause insulin resistance (IR) is controversial. Aim: This pilot observational study examines, therefore, the prevalence of IR after kidney donation and factors that may determine its level. Methods: Insulin, proinsulin, adiponectin, malondialdehyde, and hsCRP were measured by conventional techniques in 14 previous kidney donors and 25 healthy volunteers. Results: Estimated GFR from Cockcroft-Gault formula of 76.42 ± 19.39 ml/min/1.73 m2 in the nephrectomized group was significantly lower (p < 0.01) than that in the control group of 125 ± 32.9 ml/min/1.73 m2. Fasting serum insulin of 16.57 ± 16.86 mU/l and homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) of 4.86 ± 5.11 in the nephrectomized group were significantly higher (p < 0.01) than the insulin level of 6.02 ± 4.06 mU/l and HOMA-IR of 1.5 ± 1.06 in the control group. There was no significant difference in levels in inflammatory mediators between the two groups. None of the tested inflammatory mediators correlated significantly with IR. Conclusion: Reduced GFR alone in previous kidney donors is associated with increased IR.
Collagen VI Is a Subepithelial Adhesive Target for Human Respiratory Tract Pathogens
Authors: Bober Marta , Enochsson Charlotte , Collin Mattias , Mörgelin Matthias
Published: July 2009

Bacterial engagement of specific host tissue structures can be a means of targeting a pathogen to a particular niche, establishing persistent infections and inducing invasion. In this context, primary adhesion is often the first crucial colonization step allowing pathogens to withstand the mechanical clearing mechanisms of the host. As a consequence, bacteria have evolved adhesins with the capacity to mediate interaction between microorganism and host. Here we describe collagen VI as a novel target for adherence of Streptococcuspyogenes and Streptococcus pneumoniae. In upper and lower airways this collagen was distributed in the lamina propria underneath the epithelial basement membrane. Both pathogens exhibited strong affinity to collagen VI as shown by light and electron microscopy in combination with immunodetection and in vitro binding assays. For S. pyogenes this interaction was mediated by M1 protein. The presented data provide evidence for a previously unrecognized role for collagen VI in host-pathogen interplay during respiratory tract infection.
Abrogation of the Antibenzylpenicilloyl (BPO) IgE Response with BPO-Polyvinyl Alcohol Conjugates
Authors: Lee Weng Y. , Hubbard Dawn A. , Cripps Valerie , Sehon Alec H.
Published: July 2009

IgE antibodies to the benzylpenicilloyl (BPO) determinant and ovalbumin (OA) were readily induced B6D2F1 mice by a single i.p. injection of 10 µg of BPO4-OA suspended with 1 mg AI(OH)3 in 0.5 ml of saline. The potential of these mice to mount a de novo anti-BPO IgE antibody response was specifically abrogated by pretreatment of mice with tolerogenic conjugates consisting of the hapten coupled to the hydrophilic and nonimmunogenic polymers, polyvinyl alcohols (PVA), with average molecular weigths of 10,000 or 14,000 daltons. The average epitope density of these conjugates varied from 1.1 to 3.9. It is noteworthy that even BPO1.1-PVA, which elicied only weak PCA reactions in rats sensitized i.d. with mouse anti-BPO reaginic antibodies, was highly tolerogenic. More importantly, the ongoing anti-BPO reaginic response in sensitized mice was also readily suppressed by administration of these tolerogenic conjugates, e.g. a single dose of 100 µg of BPO2.7-PVA was sufficient to abolish an ongoing anti-BPO IgE response. Moreover, administration of these tolerogenic conjugates into mice sensitized to BPO4-OA, prior to their resensitization in presence of Bordetella pertussis, protected these animals from anaphylactic death on i.v. challenge with 2 mg of the polyvalent BPO9-MγG conjugate (MγG = mosue γ-globulins); by contrast, all control mice which had not received this tolerogenic regimen died of anaphylaxis. It is suggested that conjugates of PVA with haptenic antibiotic or other drug molecules may prove to be effective therapeutic agents for the specific suppression of IgE antibodies mediating allergies of the immediate type to a wide spectrum of low molecular weight allergenic compounds.
Intestinal Mast Cell Response in Rats and Chickens to Coccidiosis, with Some Properties of Chicken Mast Cells
Authors: Rose Elaine , Ogilvie Bridget M. , Bradley J.W.A.
Published: July 2009

The response of intestinal mast cells to infection with coccidian protozoa in rats and chickens was compared with the well-known increase in the numbers of these cells which follows helminth infections. In Eimeria-infected chickens and rats given a moderate primary infection, there was an initial fall in the numbers of intestinal mast cells, small and insignificant in the rats, but more marked in the chickens. This was followed, towards the end of infection, by a return to (chicken) or an increase above (rat) normal levels. In birds given a large challenge inoculum of oocysts there was, within hours of dosing, an initial increase in numbers followed by a return to normal by day 2 and this response was similar in both immunised and susceptible birds. This rapid recruitment of cells was not seen in immune rats similarly challenged: in this species numbers were not increased until day 2 at the earliest. A marked increase in vascular leakage after the large challenge inoculum was apparent only in immunised birds. Thus this could not be correlated with the increase in numbers of mast cells which occurred equally in both immune and susceptible and was probably related to the invasion of host cells by the parasite. The mast cells of chickens are not degranulated by polymyxin B or compound 48/80, both of which affect rat mast cells. In the rat, connective tissue and intestinal mast cells differ in various ways including their dye-binding properties, but this was not seen with chicken mast cells.
Macrophage Regulation of the IgE Response
Authors: Holt Patrick G. , Batty Janet E.
Published: July 2009

The ability of macrophage-associated antigen to both prime for, and subsequently trigger, IgE responses in inbred rats and mice was investigated. Peritoneal exudate cells briefly pulsed in vitro with ovalbumin (PEC-OVA) served as the immunogen, and both primed and unprimed animals as recipients. The experiments revealed that the intraperitoneal administration of relatively small numbers of PEC-OVA, while generally ineffective in inducing primary IgE responses in immunologically virgin mice, successfully primed the latter for secondary IgE responses following later challenge. Furthermore, PEC-OVA was highly effective in triggering vigorous secondary IgE responses in primed mice, producing PCA titres up to 10,000 in both moderate and high IgE-responder strains. The data further indicate that the IgE response induced in mice by PEC-OVA is transient, it exhibits a markedly lower threshold (in both the primary and secondary response) than corresponding haemagglutinating antibody responses, and is MHC-restricted. In the rat strain employed (low IgE-responder WAG), PEC-OVA administration evoked vigorous haemagglutinating antibody responses in pre-immunized rats, and primed immunologically virgin animals for similar secondary responses. However, PEC-OVA was only weakly immunogenic/antigenic for IgE responses in WAG rats.
Comparison of Antibody Responses in Chronic Mucocutaneous Candidiasis and Tinea Versicolor
Authors: DaMert Gary J. , Kirkpatrick Charles H. , Sohnle Peter G.
Published: July 2009

Antibody titers against Candida albicans and Pityrosporum orbiculare, the presumed etiologic agent of tinea versicolor, were determined in normal subjects, and in patients with tinea versicolor or chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis. Whereas antibody against both organisms was found in low titer in normal subjects, a majority of patients with each infection had elevated antibody titers against the infecting organism. Patients infected with one organism did not have elevated titers against the other, and titers against one did not correlate with titers against the other. Therefore, these studies indicate that both of the superficial infections are capable of inducing a significant humoral immune response and that actual infection with the organism rather than mere colonization is required for production of the elevated antibody titers.
Cytofluorometric Analysis of Anaphylactic Secretion of 5-Hydroxytryptamine and Heparin from Rat Mast Cells
Authors: Gustafsson Bertil
Published: July 2009

Actively sensitized rat mast cells were stimulated to secretion in vitro by means of an anaphylactic IgE antigen reaction or with polymyxin B. Release of 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) and heparin from the cells and from individual granules, extruded or displaced from stimulated cells with micromanipulation, was quantitated cytofluorometrically. Several similarities in action between the two secretagogues were found. All extruded and some intracellular granules from stimulated cells lacked 5-HT, and no heparin was released from the granules. Heparin secretion from mast cells was due to granule extrusion alone. Further, the proportions between 5-HT and heparin released from mast cells indicated that amine release, too, is mainly, but not exclusively, associated with overt granule exocytosis. The results suggested that the first extruded granules are the richest in both 5-HT and heparin. Antigen-induced secretion was not as vigorous as that induced by polymyxin and, unlike the latter, followed after a short lag of about 20 sec.
Saponin and Other Haemolysins (Vitamin A, Aliphatic Amines, Polyene Antibiotics) as Adjuvants for SRBC in the Mouse
Authors: Bomford R.
Published: July 2009

The hypothesis that the adjuvant, as well as the haemolytic, activity of saponin depends on binding to cholesterol in cell membranes is supported by showing that cholesterol absorbs out adjuvant activity, and inhibits immunopotentiation in vivo when added to the injection mixture. Also, out of a range of haemolytic substances, chosen for their known properties as adjuvants or for cholesterol binding, the only materials which displayed a comparable activity to saponin were the polyene antibiotics Nystatin and Amphotericin B, whose binding to membrane cholesterol causes similar morphological changes to that of saponin.
In vitro and in vivo Inhibition of Mast Cell Degranulation by a Factor from Schistosoma mansoni
Authors: Mazingue Christine , Camus Daniel , Dessaint Jean-Paul , Capron Monique , Capron André
Published: July 2009

Schistosome incubation product (SIP) obtained from Schistosoma mansoni was tested on mast cell degranulation in vitro or in vivo elicited by chemical compounds or anaphylactic reactions. Normal mast cells from Wistar rats were labeled with 3H-serotonin and incubated with the SIP. Serotonin release normally induced by the chemical compounds 48/80, polymyxin B or an anaphylactic system (ovalbumin-antiovalbumin) was inhibited when mast cells were preincubated with the SIP. Cutaneous reactions elicited by the compound 48/80 or polymyxin B and passive or active cutaneous anaphylactic reactions, were inhibited by the intradermal injection of the SIP before the challenge. The anaphylactic shock by ovalbumin was also inhibited in guinea pigs by a previous intraperitoneal injection of the SIP. This inhibitor appeared dialysable, heat resistant and soluble in trichloroacetic acid (TCA). The inhibitory activity was found in the fraction eluted from an antischistosome immunosorbent. However, no inhibition of cutaneous reactions was observed with the circulating (TCA-soluble, thermostable) M antigen previously described and purified from schistosomes. No effect of the SIP was observed on the growth of HeLa cells or the J 111 human monocytic cell line. The increase of intracellular cAMP levels in mast cells incubated with the SIP suggests that modulation of cAMP is involved in the mechanism of inhibition. The SIP inhibited also the mast cell-dependent eosinophil cytotoxicity for schistosomula sensitized with IgG2a antibody. The SIP appeared to act selectively on mast cell degranulation without effect on eosinophils or the mast cell mediators. This inhibitor, denominated schistosome-derived inhibitory factor, released by the parasite, which acts on mast cells could partly explain the low incidence of clinical allergic manifestations observed in parasitic diseases and might represent an escape mechanism of the parasite to the antibody-dependent eosinophil cytotoxicity mechanism.
Clinical Dextrans Lack Mitogenic Activity for Normal Human Lymphocytes in vitro
Authors: Cunnington P.G. , Blackshaw Rachel M. , Sykes I.K.
Published: July 2009

In vitro studies on mitogenic stimulation of lymphocytes from a panel of normal volunteers revealed no transformation in response to the presence of dextran 40, 70, 110 or 150 at concentrations ranging from 0.8 to 8,000 μg/ml. High molecular weight native dextran B512 was mitogenic in 1 individual only. In addition, neither Leuconostoc-derived nor fermentation medium-derived moieties, sometimes present in clinical dextrans, were implicated as lymphocyte mitogens. It is concluded on the basis of these findings that clinical dextrans of average molecular weight 40,000–150,000 are not B- or T-cell mitogens.
Transfer of Colon Inflammatory Disease from Immune to Normal Guinea Pigs by Lymphocytes
Authors: Rabin Bruce S. , Rogers Susan J.
Published: July 2009

Lymphocytes from guinea pigs which had been immunized with a saline extract of rabbit colon in complete Freund’s adjuvant were transferred to normal guinea pigs of the same strain. 19% of the donors and 42% of the recipients developed histologic alterations of the colon. Recipients of killed lymphocytes from immune animals, normal lymphocytes, or animals immunized with an unrelated antigen had normal tissue histology. Thus, a cell-mediated immune response directed to an antigen found in a saline extract of colon is a factor in the pathogenesis of this experimental model of immunologically mediated colon disease.
Antibody-Mediated Complement-Dependent Cytotoxicity in Immunologically Induced Experimental Colon Disease
Authors: Rabin Bruce S. , Herrington Ellen
Published: July 2009

Rabbits immunized with a saline extract of intestinal tissue in complete Freund’s adjuvant produce antibody which mediates complement-dependent cytotoxicity for colon epithelial cells in vitro. The presence of this antibody did not correlate with histologic alterations of the colon in the immunized rabbits. This suggests that antibody-mediated complement-dependent cytotoxicity may not be a factor in the pathogenesis of experimentally induced immunologically mediated colon disease.
Isolation of a Purified Allergen from Kentucky Blue Grass Pollen
Authors: Ekramoddoullah A.K.M. , Chakrabarty S. , Kisil F.T. , Sehon A.H.
Published: July 2009

An allergenic fraction, designated as C-I-2–6, was isolated from among the allergenic constituents present in the dialysate of the aqueous extract of defatted Kentucky blue grass (KBG) pollen by a combination of gel filtration, ion-exchange chromatography and preparative isoelectrofocussing. This fraction was shown to consist of glycoprotein with a molecular size corresponding to 10,000 daltons and of two components with closely related pI values (4.5–4.9); its protein moiety contained all the amino acids except cysteine. As demonstrated by crossed immunoelectrophoresis with a sheep anti-R serum, fraction C-I-2–6 shared the antigenic determinants of 2 of the 15 antigenic components of the non-dialysable components, i.e. retentate (R) of the aqueous extract of KBG pollen. Remarkably, in spite of the markedly lower molecular weight than R, fraction C-I-2–6 possessed all the allergenic determinants of R responsible for inducing murine IgE antibodies.