bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Early onset of autoimmunity in MRL/++ mice following immunization with β2 glycoprotein I
Authors: ARON A L , CUELLAR M L , BREY R L , MCKEOWN S , ESPINOZA L R , SHOENFELD Y , GHARAVI A E
Published: July 2010

Antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) are associated with thrombosis, thrombocytopenia and recurrent fetal loss in humans and in some animal models. Immunization with β2 glycoprotein I (β2GPI) induced aPL production in normal rabbits and mice. However, the association of these antibodies with disease manifestations remains controversial. To determine whether induction of aPL by β2GPI immunization in an autoimmune strain of mice (MRL/++) would result in acceleration of clinical and serological autoimmune disease manifestations, three groups of 8-week-old female mice were studied. One group was immunized with β2GPI, and one with ovalbumin (OVA); the third was not immunized. After two booster injections, sera were analysed for the presence of anticardiolipin (aCL) and anti-DNA by ELISA and anti-nuclear antibody (ANA) by immunofluorescence. Mice were studied for thrombocytopenia, proteinuria, fecundity rates, litter sizes and the development of central nervous system dysfunction. Elevated levels of aCL, anti-DNA and ANA were detected in all β2GPI-immunized, in three OVA-immunized, and in none of the unimmunized mice. The anti-DNA antibodies were inhibited by CL micelles, suggesting cross-reactivity between aCL and anti-DNA. Platelet counts, fecundity rates and litter size were reduced in β2GPI-immunized but not in OVA-immunized or unimmunized mice. None of the mice developed neurological dysfunction or significant proteinuria over a 10-week period post-immunization. These findings suggest that β2GPI immunization induces aPL in MRL/++ mice associated with accelerated autoimmune manifestations resembling the antiphospholipid syndrome.
Influence of the genetic pattern and sex of mice in experimental paracoccidioidomycosis
Authors: SINGER-VERMES L M , SAKAMOTO T N , VAZ C A C , CALICH V L G
Published: July 2010

Eight genetically different strains of mice were compared regarding the dissemination of Paracoccidioides brasiliensis to the lungs, liver and omentum/pancreas, DTH responses and specific antibody production at 16 weeks after intraperitoneal infection with Pb18, a virulent P. brasiliensis isolate. The degree of dissemination of the infection varied: B10.A and C57Bl/6, the most susceptible mouse strains, had positive cultures and high colony-forming unit (CFU) counts in all analysed organs. DBA/2 and A/Sn mice had negative cultures, being thus classified as the most resistant strains. CBA/J, C3H/HeJ, F1(A/SnxB10.A) and BALB/c mice were regarded as relatively resistant, since discrete fungal growth was observed only in one or two of the studied organs. All mouse strains, except B10.A mice, produced specific DTH responses which did not seem to be associated with the severity of disease. Production of high levels of specific antibodies was found in all strains except in the DBA/2 and C57B1/6 mice. The influence of the host sex on the outcome of paracoccidioidomycosis was evident only in susceptible animals: female B10.A mice displayed lower CFU counts in the three examined organs, whereas no differences were found between male and female A Sn animals. The higher resistance of female B10.A mice was not accompanied by differences in their capacity to maintain a DTH reaction, nor in their production of antibody. This fact argues against the widely believed association of susceptibility to P. brasiliensis infection with both impaired DTH reactivity and increased humoral response.
Antigen-presenting function of human peritoneum mesothelial cells
Authors: VALLE M T , DEGL'INNOCENTI M L , BERTELLI R , FACCHETTI P , PERFUMO F , FENOGLIO D , KUNKL A , GUSMANO R , MANCA F
Published: July 2010

Mesothelial cells (MC) from human peritoneal omentum fragments obtained during surgical insertion of peritoneal catheters for continuous peritoneal dialysis in end stage renal failure (ESRF) patients were cultured in vitro. MC exhibited a phenotype different from macrophages, but MHC class II molecules were well expressed. Therefore MC lines were tested for antigen-presenting capacity by pulsing with soluble antigens (tetanus toxoid and purified protein derivative (PPD)) or with a corpusculate antigen (Candida albicans bodies). Autologous peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) depleted of adherent monocytes and cloned T cells generated from an individual matched for the MHC class II antigen DR2 were used to test antigen-presenting function. MC effectively presented the soluble and corpusculate antigens to autologous and MHC-compatible allogeneic lymphocytes, indicating that they are endowed with both endocytic/phagocytic activity and with processing/presenting capacity. Preincubation of MC with human recombinant interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) up-regulated MHC class II and intercellular adhesion molecule-I (ICAM-I) expression, but the effect on antigen-presenting function was not consistent. Since MC are an important component of the peritoneal environment, they may participate, along with macrophages, in activation of specific T cells and in the generation of local cell-mediated immunity to various pathogens.
Suppression of haematopoiesis by IgG autoantibodies from patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)
Authors: LIU H , OZAKI K , MATSUZAKI Y , ABE M , KOSAKA M , SAITO S
Published: July 2010

The inhibiting activity of serum on haematopoiesis has been described in patients with SLE. To explore further the features of serum inhibitor, we first examined the suppression of granulocytic and erythroid colony formation in vitro by serum from patients with SLE using methylcellulose culture. The potent inhibiting activity was demonstrated in six of 20 patients. All of these six patients were associated with leukocytopenia and/or anaemia. Five of 10 sera from patients with active SLE suppressed the colony formation of both burst-forming units of erythrocyte (BFU-E) and colony-forming units of granulocyte/macrophage (CFU–GM), and one serum suppressed BFU–E only, IgG fraction isolated from sera with inhibiting activity suppressed colony formation without complement involvement. The elimination of monocytes and lymphocytes from target mononuclear cells did not affect the suppression by the IgG fractions. The suppressive effect was completely eliminated after incubation of the IgG fractions with progenitor-enriched mononuclear cells. Flow cytometric analysis showed these IgG bound to CD34+ haematopoietic progenitor cells, but not to CD33+ cells. These data suggest that (i) the inhibitor of colony formation in serum was observed in IgG fraction; (ii) its suppressive effect on colony formation was mediated by neither monocytes and lymphocytes nor complements; and (iii) IgG fraction could bind to primitive haematopoietic progenitor cells and suppress the growth of these cells. Thus. IgG autoantibodies to primitive haematopoietic progenitor cells are demonstrated to be present in the sera of a significant proportion of active SLE patients with anaemia and leukocytopenia and to suppress the progenitor cell growth.
Purification of antigenically intact Ro ribonucleoproteins; biochemical and Immunological evidence that the 52-kD protein is not a Ro protein
Authors: BOIRE G , GENDRON M , MONAST N , BASTIN B , MÉNARD H A
Published: July 2010

Anti-Ro sera immunoprecipitate Ro ribonucleoproteins (RNPs) from human cell extracts. Ro RNPs are biochemically heterogeneous particles whose functions are unknown and whose exact composition remains controversial. In addition to 60-kD Ro and to La proteins, a 52-kD polypeptide (p52) has been proposed to be a stable component of the Ro RNPs. To confirm the immunological studies supporting this hypothesis, we have biochemically purified Ro RNPs from HeLa cells using non-denaturing conditions. Ro RNPs segregated into three distinct populations, one of which only contained hY5 RNA (Rohy5 RNPs). No p52 co-purified with Ro RNPs. Despite the absence of p52, purified Ro RNPs had biochemical and immunological properties identical to those of unfractionated Ro RNPs. Many anti-Ro sera only recognize p52 in immunoblots, and are said to be monospecific anti-p52, Preincubation with purified Rohy5 RNPs (free of p52) of all human anti-Ro (including so-called mo no specific anti-p52) sera abolished their capacity to immunoprecipitate Ro RNPs from unfractionated HeLa cell extracts. Conversely, preincubation of anti-Ro sera with purified p52 protein specifically inhibited recognition of p52 in immunoblots, but did not interfere with immunoprecipitation of Ro RNPs, Our data demonstrate that anti-p52 antibodies do not target intact Ro RNPs, nor do they target the native 60-kD Ro protein. Contrary to previous reports, p52 protein is not a stable component of antigenically intact Ro RNPs.
Endothelial cell binding by human polyclonal anti-DNA antibodies: relationship to disease activity and endothelial functional alterations
Authors: CHAN T M , YU P M , TSANG K L C , CHENG I K P
Published: July 2010

Polyclonal anti-dsDNA and anti-ssDNA antibodies (PoAb) that showed significant binding to human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) were isolated from eight patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Anti-dsDNA PoAbs from five patients and anti-ssDNA PoAbs from seven patients demonstrated enhanced binding to HUVEC during active disease, compared with PoAbs obtained from corresponding patients during remission. Reduction of the DNA content in the PoAb preparations by DNase treatment was associated with enhanced binding to HUVEC in 20 of 32 PoAbs tested, which included 75%‘active disease’ PoAbs, and with reduced binding to HUVEC in three of 32 PoAbs tested, all obtained during remission. Such altered endothelial cell binding was reversed with DNA reconstitution. Binding of the remaining nine PoAbs to HUVEC was not altered by variations in their DNA content. Induced plasma membrane expression of E-selectin, but reduced expression of vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) by HUVEC, was observed following incubation of HUVEC with ‘active disease’ PoAbs from three and two of the eight patients, respectively. PoAbs and serum samples from two of the eight patients during active disease induced von Willebrand factor release from HUVEC, which was not observed during remission. We conclude that anti-DNA antibodies from selected patients with SLE can bind to endothelial cells. Correlation between cellular binding and disease activity suggests that such binding of anti-DNA antibodies to endothelial cells could be of pathogenic significance. Preliminary data also suggest that the expression of adhesion molecules and haemostatic factor(s) by endothelial cells may be modified following their binding by anti-DNA antibodies.
The effect of cyclosporin A, FK506, and rapamycin on the murine chronic graft-versus-host response—anin vivomodel of Th2-like activity
Authors: Bundick R V , Craggs R I , Holness E
Published: July 2010

We have evaluated the effects of three potent immunosuppressive agents: cyclosporin A, FK506, and rapamycin, on a murine chronic graft-versus-host response (chronic GVHR). The chronic GVHR has previously been described lo be a Th2-like response, and is characterized by a marked splenomegaly and hyper-IgE production in the early stages of the response. The effects of the immunosuppressive agents on both splenomegaly and hyper-IgE were measured 3 weeks after the induction of the chronic GVHR. Rapamycin was found to inhibit both splenomegaly and the hyper-IgE response in a dose-dependent manner. Unexpectedly cyclosporin A and FK506 were found to potentiate markedly both the splenomegaly and hyper-IgE response at low doses before exhibiting an inhibitory effect at higher doses. We propose the differences of activity seen with rapamycin compared with cyclosporin A and FK506 may be explained by their different mechanisms of action, and also by the selectivity of low dose cyclosporin A and FK.506 for Th1 -like lymphocytes. The implications of these observations are discussed in relation to the use of these immunosuppressives for the treatment of Th2-like diseases.
Lipopolysaccharide and interferon-γ enhance Fas-mediated cell death in mouse vascular endothelial cells via augmentation of Fas expression
Authors: Koide N , Morikawa A , Tumurkhuu G , Dagvadorj J , Hassan F , Islam S , Naiki Y , Mori I , Yoshida T , Yokochi T
Published: July 2010

The effect of interferon (IFN)-γ and/or lipopolysaccharide (LPS) on Fas-mediated cell death with anti-Fas agonistic antibody in vascular endothelial cells was examined using a mouse END-D cell line. Anti-Fas agonistic antibody exhibited cytotoxic actions on END-D cells. Fas-mediated cell death was enhanced by LPS or IFN-γ. The combination of IFN-γ and LPS significantly enhanced cell death compared to IFN-γ or LPS alone. IFN-γ and LPS augmented cell surface expression of Fas, but not tumour necrosis factor (TNF) receptor 1. Inhibitors of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) prevented augmentation of Fas expression in IFN-γ and LPS-treated END-D cells. IFN-γ and LPS-treated END-D cells did not become susceptible to TNF-α or nitric oxide-mediated cytotoxicity. IFN-γ and LPS thus appear to augment selectively Fas expression via activation of p38 MAPK and enhance Fas-mediated cell death in END-D cells. Furthermore, administration of IFN-γ and LPS into mice induced in vivo expression of Fas on vascular endothelial cells and Fas ligand (FasL) on peripheral blood leucocytes. The relationship between enhancement of Fas-mediated cell death by IFN-γ and LPS and the development of vascular endothelial injury is discussed.
Increased expression of Toll-like receptor (TLR) 2 and TLR4 in the colonic mucosa of children with inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Szebeni B , Veres G , Dezsõfi A , Rusai K , Vannay Á , Mraz M , Majorova E , Arató A
Published: July 2010

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) may result from exaggerated stimulation of the mucosal immune system by luminal bacterial flora. Bacterial products are recognized by pattern recognition receptors such as Toll-like receptors (TLRs), which are key regulators of the innate immune system. Therefore, the expression of TLR2, TLR3 and TLR4 in colonic biopsy samples taken from children with active IBD were studied and compared to controls. Colonic biopsy samples were collected from macroscopically inflamed and non-inflamed regions of the mucosa of 12 children with freshly diagnosed IBD (fdIBD) and 23 children with relapsed IBD (rIBD). Specimens were also obtained from eight controls. TLR2, TLR3 and TLR4 mRNA expression and protein levels were determined by real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT–PCR) and Western blot. We found higher TLR2 and TLR4 mRNA and protein levels in the inflamed colonic mucosa of children with fdIBD and rIBD compared to controls. In the non-inflamed colonic mucosa of children with fdIBD and rIBD, TLR2 and TLR4 mRNA and protein levels were similar to controls. TLR2 and TLR4 mRNA and protein levels also did not differ between children with fdIBD or rIBD in either inflamed or non-inflamed colonic mucosa. TLR3 mRNA expression and protein levels were similar in all groups studied. Our results of increased levels of TLR2 and TLR4 in the inflamed colonic mucosa of children with IBD confirm the hypothesis that innate immunity has an important role in the pathogenesis of this disease.
Increased weight loss with reduced viral replication in interleukin-10 knock-out mice infected with murine cytomegalovirus
Authors: Oakley O R , Garvy B A , Humphreys S , Qureshi M H , Pomeroy C
Published: July 2010

The anti-inflammatory cytokine interleukin (IL)-10 plays an important role in the regulation of host-immune responses. Here we studied the role IL-10 plays in host responses to cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection. We demonstrate that manifestations of murine CMV (MCMV) disease are more severe in IL-10 knock-out mice, despite significantly reduced levels of viral replication. Cytokine analysis of serum revealed increased levels of interferon (IFN)-γ, monocyte chemotactic protein 1 (MCP-1) and IL-6, all of which are potent stimulators of inflammatory responses. Depletion of IFN-γ by monoclonal antibodies in IL-10 knock-out mice failed to improve the physical condition of the mice, while increasing viral replication. In contrast, serum levels of IL-6 in the knock-out animals were unaffected by IFN-γ depletion and remained significantly elevated early in the course of infection. These data suggest that increased weight loss observed in IL-10 knock-out mice may be attributed to the uncontrolled production of proinflammatory cytokines, including IL-6.
Regulation of galectin-3 function in mucosal fibroblasts: potential role in mucosal inflammation
Authors: Lippert E , Gunckel M , Brenmoehl J , Bataille F , Falk W , Scholmerich J , Obermeier F , Rogler G
Published: July 2010

Recently we identified galectin-3 (gal-3), which is secreted by colonic epithelial cells (CEC), to be a strong activator of colonic lamina propria fibroblasts (CLPF). Modulation of CLPF function may play a role during stricture and fistula formation in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Therefore, we investigated further the expression of gal-3 and effects on CLPF. The aim of this study is to perform a direct comparison of gal-3 between tissue from healthy controls and from patients with either Crohn's disease (CD) or ulcerative colitis (UC). CEC, CLPF and intestinal macrophages (IMAC) were isolated from control and IBD colonic tissue. Interleukin-8 secretion as a readout of CLPF activation was quantified by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Gal-3 in cell cultures and tissue samples was evaluated by Western blot, immunofluorescence and immunohistochemistry. CLPF-migration was assayed in the 48-well modified Boyden chamber. Gal-3 expression was found in all segments of the colon. In the terminal ileum, less gal-3 was found compared with the colon. Immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence revealed a homogenous distribution of gal-3 in CEC and IMAC of control mucosa and UC. However, significantly less gal-3 was found in IMAC from CD patients. In CD fistulae and stenoses, gal-3 expression was reduced significantly and barely detectable. In co-incubation studies lactose reduced significantly the CLPF-stimulatory potential of gal-3, indicating that the C-terminal domain of gal-3 is responsible for CLPF activation. Gal-3 stimulated CLPF migration in CLPF derived from fistulae. In conclusion, gal-3 expression is down-regulated in CD-fistulae and stenoses as well as in IMAC in CD patients. Gal-3 induces migration of CLPF derived from fistulae. Its role for stricture and fistula formation warrants further investigation.
Special Article: Chronic granulomatous disease in the United Kingdom and Ireland: a comprehensive national patient-based registry
Authors: Jones L B K R , McGrogan P , Flood T J , Gennery A R , Morton L , Thrasher A , Goldblatt D , Parker L , Cant A J
Published: July 2010

There are no epidemiological studies from the British Isles of chronic granulomatous disease, characterized by recurrent, life-threatening bacterial and fungal infections and inflammatory sequelae. Patients were enrolled in a national registry and medical records were analysed. Of 94 subjects, 69 had X-linked disease, 16 had autosomal recessive disease and nine were unknown. Prevalence was 7·5/million for 1990–99 and 8·5/million for 1980–89. Suppurative adenitis, abscesses and pneumonia presented commonly. Twenty-three of 30 patients who underwent high resolution computerized tomography had chronic respiratory disease. Inflammatory sequelae included bowel stricture and urogenital tract granulomata. Growth failure was common; 75% of those measured were below the population mean. All patients received prophylactic antibiotics and 93% anti-fungal prophylaxis. Interferon gamma was used to treat infection, but rarely as prophylaxis. Despite prophylaxis, estimated survival was 88% at 10 years but 55% at age 30 years. Morbidity remains significant, severe infectious complications common. Curative treatments including stem cell transplantation should be considered for patients with frequent or serious complications.
Effects of moderate and severe malnutrition in rats on splenic T lymphocyte subsets and activation assessed by flow cytometry
Authors: Cortés-Barberena E , González-Márquez H , Gómez-Olivares J L , Ortiz-Muñiz R
Published: July 2010

Malnutrition is distributed widely throughout the world and is a particular problem in developing countries. Laboratory animals have been very useful in studying the effects of varying levels of malnutrition because non-nutritional factors that affect humans may be controlled. The objective of the present study was to determine the effects of moderate and severe malnutrition on lymphocyte proportions and activation markers of T cells in experimentally malnourished rats during lactation by flow cytometry. Lower absolute (total) and relative (%) numbers of CD3+ and CD4+ lymphocyte subpopulations were observed in moderately (second degree) and severely (third degree) malnourished rats compared with well-nourished rats (P < 0·05). Both groups of malnourished rats showed a significant decrease in the percentage of CD71+ cells at 24 h post-activation with phytohaemagglutinin (PHA). After 24 h activation of spleen cells with PHA, a lower percentage of CD25+ cells was observed in malnourished than well-nourished rats (P < 0·05). In conclusion, the results of this study indicated an altered expression of CD71 and CD25 during activation of T lymphocytes in malnourished rats and may partially explain increased susceptibility to infection associated with malnutrition. Moreover, these results demonstrated that moderate malnutrition affects the response of T lymphocytes as much as severe malnutrition.
Cytotoxic T lymphocyte and natural killer cell responses to non-typeableHaemophilus influenzae
Authors: King P T , Ngui J , Farmer M W , Hutchinson P , Holmes P W , Holdsworth S R
Published: July 2010

Cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL) and natural killer (NK) cells have a key role in host defence against infectious pathogens, but their response to bacteria is not well characterized. Non-typeable Haemophilus influenzae is a major cause of respiratory tract infection including otitis media, sinusitis, tonsillitis and chronic bronchitis (especially in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and bronchiectasis). This bacterium is also present in the pharynx of most healthy adults. The primary factor that may determine whether clinical disease occurs or not is the nature of the lymphocyte response. Here we examined the CTL cell and NK cell responses to nontypeable H. influenzae in healthy control subjects and in subjects who had bronchiectasis and recurrent bronchial infection with this bacterium. Cells were stimulated with live H. influenzae and intracellular cytokine production and release of cytotoxic granules measured. Control subjects had significantly higher levels of interferon gamma production by both CTL and NK cells, while levels of cytotoxic granule release were similar in both groups. The main lymphocyte subsets that proliferated in response to H. influenzae stimulation were the CTL and NK cells. The results suggest that CTL and NK cell responses may be important in preventing disease from nontypeable H. influenzae infection.
99th Dahlem Conference on Infection, Inflammation and Chronic Inflammatory Disorders: Immune therapies of type 1 diabetes: new opportunities based on the hygiene hypothesis
Authors: Chatenoud L , You S , Okada H , Kuhn C , Michaud B , Bach J-F
Published: July 2010

Insulin-dependent (type 1) diabetes is a prototypic organ-specific autoimmune disease resulting from the selective destruction of insulin-secreting β cells within pancreatic islets of Langerhans by an immune-mediated inflammation involving autoreactive CD4+ and CD8+ T lymphocytes which infiltrate pancreatic islets. Current treatment is substitutive, i.e. chronic use of exogenous insulin which, in spite of significant advances, is still associated with major constraints (multiple daily injections, risks of hypoglycaemia) and lack of effectiveness over the long term in preventing severe degenerative complications. Finding a cure for autoimmune diabetes by establishing effective immune-based therapies is a real medical health challenge, as the disease incidence increases steadily in industrialized countries. As the disease affects mainly children and young adults, any candidate immune therapy must therefore be safe and avoid a sustained depression of immune responses with the attendant problems of recurrent infection and drug toxicity. Thus, inducing or restoring immune tolerance to target autoantigens, controlling the pathogenic response while preserving the host reactivity to exogenous/unrelated antigens, appears to be the ideal approach. Our objective is to review the major progress accomplished over the last 20 years towards that aim. In addition, we would like to present another interesting possibility to access new preventive strategies based on the ‘hygiene hypothesis’, which proposes a causal link between the increasing incidence of autoimmune diseases, including diabetes, and the decrease of the infectious burden. The underlying rationale is to identify microbial-derived compounds mediating the protective activity of infections which could be developed therapeutically.
99th Dahlem Conference on Infection, Inflammation and Chronic Inflammatory Disorders: Viruses, autoimmunity and immunoregulation
Authors: Filippi C M , Von Herrath M G
Published: July 2010

Based on studies in animal models, viral infections, in particular by enteroviruses, can accelerate or halt type 1 diabetes (T1D) development. Among factors that determine the outcome are the degree of viral replication in the target organ (viral titres), the tropism of the virus for β cells, and the precise time-point of infection in relation to the diabetogenic process. Mechanisms underlying these phenomena have been assessed in mouse studies and should now be verified for human T1D. For enhancement of diabetes development, up-regulation of interferon pathways, expression of class-I major histocompatibility complexes and Toll-like receptor-dependent immunity appear important. In contrast, prevention of T1D involves pathways that the immune system usually invokes to shut down anti-viral responses to limit immunopathology, and which can ‘clean out’ autoreactive memory effector T cells as a bystander phenomenon: up-regulation of inhibitory molecules and invigoration of regulatory T cell (Treg) function. Importantly, these immunoregulatory processes also appear to foster and sustain persistent viral infections. Induction of immunoregulatory mechanisms, and in particular the phenotype and function of Tregs, is of interest therapeutically and will be discussed.
A new model equation for predicting safe storage moisture levels for optimum stability of dehydrated foods
Authors: CAURIE M.
Published: July 2010

A new model equation for drawing up water sorption isotherms, applicable over a wide range of water activity, has been suggested from which safe moisture levels for dehydrated food storage may be easily calculated.
Diffusion of carbon dioxide in tomato fruits during cold storage in modified atmosphere
Authors: BERTOLA N. , CHAVES A. , ZARITZKY N. E.
Published: July 2010

Treatments with 20% CO2 of tomato fruit produced a beneficial extension of storage life. The diffusion of CO2 in tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill) cv. Platense was measured chromatographically and the concentration profiles in the internal gaseous atmosphere of the fruit were determined for non‐steady state conditions to establish minimum treatment times that can ensure adequate penetration of the gas.

The effective diffusivity of CO2 in the tissue was determined by fitting concentration data, obtained from experiments with whole fruit without skin, to the non‐steady state solution of the diffusion equation, assuming negligible external mass transfer resistance. The diffusivity was modelled using Maxwell‐Eucken expressions, taking account of the heterogeneous structure of the tissue.

The resistance of the fruit skin was evaluated using whole fruits with the stem scar covered with paraffin and fitting experimental data to the solution in terms of mass Biot number; the specific resistance of the peel was some 200 times greater than that of the stem scar.
Contextual evaluation of canned lagers using repertory grid method
Authors: GAINS N. , THOMSON D. M. H.
Published: July 2010

The contexts in which 20 consumers typically consumed a range of 17 canned lagers were investigated using the repertory grid method, and three principal axes were found to describe the perceptual dimensions common to most people. Super‐strength and premium canned lagers were considered more self‐indulgent, whilst ordinary lagers were considered more appropriate for refreshment. Premium canned lagers were considered appropriate for drinking away from the home, whilst super‐strength canned lagers are more typically drunk at home. The investigation demonstrates the use of this method to identify contrasting contexts of use in a narrow range of highly branded products, and provides information which has implications for advertising and marketing.
Effect of irradiation and packaging type on sensory quality of chill‐stored turkey breast fillets
Authors: LYNCH J. A. , MACFIE H. J. H. , MEAD G. C.
Published: July 2010

A panel of experienced assessors was used to test the effect of irradiation at 2.5kGy (250krad) on the sensory quality of 1‐day and 21‐day‐old turkey breast fillets stored at 1°C in either oxygen‐permeable polythene or an oxygen‐impermeable barrier film. In the application of Free Choice Profiling and Generalized Procrustes Analysis, assessors used their own terms to describe the appearance, odour and flavour of the samples.

The irradiated samples showed negligible growth of micro‐organisms across 21 days of storage. Radiation treatment resulted in an intense pink colour in the raw and cooked samples, which was maintained during storage in oxygen‐impermeable film, but decreased in samples exposed to oxygen during storage. Radiation also produced a set of unpleasant raw odour notes variously described as sour, rancid, mature, bad meat or putrid in the samples stored in oxygen‐impermeable film. These notes were unlike the sulphurous notes previously associated with protein denaturation in irradiated chicken and were apparently distinct from the odour notes that developed in corresponding non‐irradiated samples.
Modelling the deep‐fat frying of beef meatballs
Authors: ATEBA PETER , MITTAL GAURI S.
Published: July 2010

Mathematical models describing heat, moisture and fat transfers during deep‐fat frying of beef meatballs were developed and validated against experimental data consisting of temperatures at two locations in the product, and average moisture and fat contents. Fat diffusivity in the product was 0.287 × 10‐7m2s‐1 while fat conductivity followed Eyring's model with frequency factor of 0.137 × 10‐6m s‐1 K‐1 and activation energy of 2.70 kJ mol‐1.
Biochemical and functional characterization ofHelicobacter pylorivesicles
Authors: Olofsson Annelie , Vallström Anna , Petzold Katja , Tegtmeyer Nicole , Schleucher Jürgen , Carlsson Sven , Haas Rainer , Backert Steffen , Wai Sun Nyunt , Gröbner Gerhard , Arnqvist Anna
Published: July 2010

Helicobacter pylorican cause peptic ulcer disease and/or gastric cancer. Adhesion of bacteria to the stomach mucosa is an important contributor to the vigour of infection and resulting virulence.H. pyloriadheres primarily via binding of BabA adhesins to ABO/Lewis b (Leb) blood group antigens and the binding of SabA adhesins to sialyl‐Lewis x/a (sLex/a) antigens. Similar to most Gram‐negative bacteria,H. pyloricontinuously buds off vesicles and vesicles derived from pathogenic bacteria often include virulence‐associated factors. Here we biochemically characterized highly purifiedH. pylorivesicles. Major protein and phospholipid components associated with the vesicles were identified with mass spectroscopy and nuclear magnetic resonance. A subset of virulence factors present was confirmed by immunoblots. Additional functional and biochemical analysis focused on the vesicle BabA and SabA adhesins and their respective interactions to human gastric epithelium. Vesicles exhibit heterogeneity in their protein composition, which were specifically studied in respect to the BabA adhesin. We also demonstrate that the oncoprotein, CagA, is associated with the surface ofH. pylorivesicles. Thus, we have explored mechanisms for intimateH. pylorivesicle–host interactions and found that the vesicles carry effector‐promoting properties that are important to disease development.
What is the mechanism of ParA‐mediated DNA movement?
Authors: Howard Martin , Gerdes Kenn
Published: July 2010

The stable maintenance of low‐copy‐number plasmids requires active partitioning, with the most common mechanism in prokaryotes involving the ATPase ParA. ParA proteins undergo intricate spatiotemporal relocations across the nucleoid, dynamics that function to position plasmids at equally spaced intervals. This spacing naturally guarantees equal partitioning of plasmids to each daughter cell. However, the fundamental mechanism linking ParA dynamics with regular plasmid positioning has proved difficult to dissect. In this issue of Molecular Microbiology, Vecchiarelli et al. report on a time‐delay mechanism that allows a slow cycling between the nucleoid‐bound and unbound forms of ParA. The authors also propose a mechanism for plasmid movement that does not rely on ParA polymerization.
A tyrosyl DNA phosphodiesterase 1 from kinetoplastid parasite Leishmania donovani (LdTdp1) capable of removing topo I–DNA covalent complexes
Authors: Banerjee Bijoylaxmi , Roy Amit , Sen Nilkantha , Majumder Hemanta K.
Published: July 2010

Tyrosyl DNA phosphodiesterase 1 (Tdp1) is a member of phospholipase D superfamily, which cleaves a broad range of 3′‐DNA adducts, the best characterized of which is the phosphodiester bond formed between DNA and topoisomerase IB. This study describes cloning and functional characterization of the enzyme, termed as LdTdp1 in the kinetoplastid parasite Leishmania donovani. Sequence analysis confirmed conservation of the active site motifs typical for all Tdp1 proteins. LdTdp1 activity was detected in the parasite nucleus as well as in the kinetoplast. The enzyme harbours a nuclear localization signal at its C‐terminus. Overexpression of the active enzyme protected the parasites against topoisomerase IB inhibitor camptothecin (CPT) and oxidative agent H2O2‐mediated cytotoxicity and its downregulation rendered the parasites hypersensitive to CPT. Trapping of mutant LdTdp1 on DNA takes place following CPT treatment in L. donovani cells. The expression level and associated activity of LdTdp1 were found to be higher in CPT‐resistant L. donovani parasites. Altogether, this is the first report of Tdp1 from the kinetoplastid parasite L. donovani, which actively participates in topoisomerase I‐mediated DNA damage repair process and thereby counteracts the cytotoxic effect of topoisomerase I inhibitors.
Nocardia infection in lung transplant recipients
Authors: Khan Babar A , Duncan Michael , Reynolds John , Wilkes David S.
Published: July 2010

Abstract:  Nocardia is a well‐recognized pathogen in immunocompromised hosts, but the incidence of Nocardia infections in lung transplant recipients is not well defined. A chart review from 1990 to 2007 at Clarian Hospital Lung Transplant Center and Indiana University Medical Center revealed Nocardia infections in four of 410 lung transplant recipients despite prophylaxis. All infections were confined to lung and occurred at a median time of 315 d after transplantation. Nocardia nova was isolated in two patients, Nocardia farcinica in one, and unspecified Nocardia sp. in one. Nocardia isolates were susceptible to trimethoprim sulfa (TMP/SMX). Our data suggest that the dose of TMP/SMX, commonly used for Pneumocystis prophylaxis is not protective for Nocardia. Contrary to historic data reporting 40% mortality, none of the patients in our study died because of Nocardia. Nocardia infection is an under‐recognized entity in lung transplant recipients, and the optimal duration of therapy and prophylaxis are unclear.
Reactions of Kidney Cells with Cytotoxic Antisera: Possible Evidence for Kidney‐Specific Antigens
Authors: PERKINS H. A. , GANTAN Z. , SIEGEL S. , HOWELL E. , BELZER F. O. , KOUNTZ S. L.
Published: July 2010

HL–A typing of cadaver kidney cell suspensions by fluorochromasia cytotoxicity was successful in 76 out of 124 cases. In the 44 cases with confirmed phenotypes, 24 had identical results for lymphocytes and kidney cells. Twenty kidney cells had HL–A antigens not detected on that donor's lymphocytes, most commonly HL–A7 and HL–A8. In eight of these 20 cases, the additional kidney antigens brought the total to more than two per segregant series, in disagreement with an earlier report from this laboratory. The discrepancy was traced to a‘change in the method of complement preparation. The complement was successfully deprived of the resulting non‐specific cytotoxicity for kidney cells by absorption with human red blood cells. Prior to absorption, the complement had rendered kidney cells susceptible to the lytic effect of anti‐A and B red cell antibodies. Using the absorbed complement, a patient who had hyperacutely rejected two cadaver kidneys provided sera with an antibody reacting with, and absorbed by, the kidney cells but not the lymphocytes of the donors.
LD Typing in Man using Cells Frozen and Stored in Microtiter Plates*
Authors: NETZEL B. , GROSSE‐WILDE H. , BAUMANN P. , MEMPEL W.
Published: July 2010

A method of freezing LD typing cells in microtiter plates was developed. Two × 105 lympho‐cytes in a small volume (15 μl) with a low DMSO concentration (5%) were directly frozen in a — 70° C freezer. These cells were used in the mixed lymphocyte culture after thawing by diluting step‐by‐step with serum and culture medium without washing.

The kinetics obtained with cells frozen in microtiter plates were comparable to those with fresh cells.

Typing for LD determinants was performed in a group of unrelated persons and in a family study using the LD homozygous reference cell Pi frozen in microtiter plates.
Genetic Independence between the HL‐A System and Deficits in the First and Sixth Components of Complement
Authors: Mittal K. K. , Wolski K. P. , Lim D. , Gewurz A. , Gewurz H. , Schmid F. R.
Published: July 2010

From two families, one with Clr deficiency and the other with C6 deficiency, evidence was obtained suggesting genetic independence between the transmission of a 50% deficit in the functional activity of these two complement components and the inheritance of the HL‐A system, the ABO system, and the sex of individuals.
Coexistence in Human Sera of a Cell (Membrane?) Antigen and of Autoantibodies Directed against it
Authors: Sulitzeanu D. , Gorsky Y. , Morecky S. , Klein G.
Published: July 2010

Antibodies purified from sera of patients with Burkitt's lymphoma by absorption onto and elution from cultured lymphoblastoid cells, were labeled with 125I and repurified by repeating the absorption‐elution procedure. The doubly purified antibodies bound with a high degree of efficiency to immunoadsorbents prepared by entrapping in polyacrylamide gel normal human serum or exudate fluids from patients with ovarian or breast cancer. Binding was specific, as it could be inhibited by high dilutions of human sera but not by animal sera. Globulin fractions of human sera were strongly inhibitory. Their capacity to inhibit was lost after treatment with rabbit anti‐human IgG serum, indicating that at least part of the inhibition could be ascribed to antibodies. Some inhibitory activity was also found, however, in the “albumin” fractions of sera, suggesting that an antigen was also involved. It appears, therefore, that practically all human sera contain antibodies reacting with an antigen(s) which is present on human cells and is also circulating freely in serum and other body fluids. Sera of patients with Burkitt's lymphoma contained, on the average, higher concentrations of these antibodies, as compared to sera of individuals not suffering from this disease. The antigen is thought to be associated with the cell membrane and has been identified in cells of widely differing origin.
Splits of the HLA DR2 antigen
Authors: MERVART H , KALOVSKY E , MOORE B. P. L
Published: July 2010

The reaction of ninety DR2 positive persons with 20 anti‐DR2 sera were studied. Four of the panel and members of two families did not react with two of these anti‐DR sera and were considered to have the short‐split “DR2.2”. DR2 positive samples reacting strongly with all anti‐DR2 were designated “DR2.1”.
Effect of paracetamol and coxib with or without dexamethasone after laparoscopic cholecystectomy
Authors: TIIPPANA E. , BACHMANN M. , KALSO E. , PERE P.
Published: July 2010

Background:Pain after laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LCC) is multifactorial. Effective post‐operative pain control is necessary in LCC performed as day‐case surgery. We studied the efficacy of paracetamol or valdecoxib with or without dexamethasone after LCC.

Methods:One hundred sixty patients were randomized to four groups of 40 patients. Groups 1 and 3 received parecoxib 40 mg intravenously (IV) during surgery and valdecoxib 40 mg × 1 per os (PO) for 7 post‐operative days. Groups 2 and 4 received paracetamol 1 g × 4 IV during surgery and 1 g × 4 PO for 7 days. In addition, Groups 3 and 4 were given dexamethasone 10 mg IV intra‐operatively. Propofol and remifentanil were used during surgery. The patients were given oxycodone 0.05 mg/kg IV in phase 1 post‐anaesthesia care unit (PACU 1) or 0.15 mg/kg PO in phase 2 post‐anaesthesia care unit (PACU 2) as needed to keep visual analogue scale <3/10. The patients were supplied with the study drugs for 7 post‐operative days.

Results:Pain intensity, nausea and the need of oxycodone in phase 1 PACU were similar in all groups. Dexamethasone reduced the need of oral oxycodone in phase 2 PACU (7.0 ± 1.0 mg vs. 9.1 ± 1.0 mg,P<0.05). Pain intensity was similar in all groups at home. More patients in the parecoxib/valdecoxib groups needed rescue medication on the 1st post‐operative day (P<0.001) than paracetamol‐treated patients.

Conclusion:Paracetamol was as effective as parecoxib/valdecoxib for pain after LCC. Dexamethasone decreased the need of oxycodone in phase 2 PACU. The effect of dexamethasone was similar in paracetamol and parecoxib/valdecoxib patients.
Children in day surgery: clinical practice and routines. The results from a nation‐wide survey
Authors: SEGERDAHL M. , WARRÉN‐STOMBERG M. , RAWAL N. , BRATTWALL M. , JAKOBSSON J.
Published: July 2010

Background:Day surgery is common in paediatric surgical practice. Safe routines including parental and child information in order to optimise care and reduce anxiety are important. Most day surgery units are not specialised in paediatric care, which is why specific paediatric expertise is often lacking.

Methods:We studied the practice of paediatric day surgery in Sweden by a questionnaire survey sent to all hospitals, obtaining an 88% response rate. Three specific paediatric cases were enquired for in more detail.

Results:The proportion of paediatric day surgery vs. in‐hospital procedures was 46%. Seventy‐one out of 88 responding units performed paediatric day surgery. All units had anxiolytic pre‐medication as a routine in 1–6‐year‐olds, and in 7–16‐year‐olds at 60% of the units. Most units performed circumcision and adenoidectomy, while 33% performed tonsillectomy. Anaesthesia induction was intravenous in older children, and also in 1–6‐year‐olds at 50% of the units. Parental presence at induction was mandatory. Post‐operatively, 93% of units routinely assessed pain. Paracetamol and NSAIDs were the most common analgesics, as monotherapy or combined with rescue medication in the recovery as IV morphine. At 42% of units, take‐home bags of analgesics were provided, covering 1–3 days of treatment. Pain was the most frequent complaint on follow‐up. Micturition difficulties were common after circumcision, nausea after adenoidectomy and nutrition difficulties after tonsillectomy.

Conclusions:In Sweden, most day surgery units perform paediatric surgery, most children receive pre‐medication, anaesthesia is induced IV and take‐home analgesics paracetamol and or NSAIDs are often provided. Still, pain is a common complaint after discharge.
Über die pathogenen Eigenschaften einiger geophiler Dermatophyten, die in Bodenproben aus Rumänien f estgestellt wurden
Authors: ALTERAS R. EVOLCEANU u. I.
Published: July 2010

Es wird über die Erzeugung einer oberflächlichen, kurzdauernden experimentellen Mykose beim Menschen durch Chrysosporium keratinophilum (Frey) (Carmichael), Trichophyton indicum (Randhawa u. Sandhu) und Trichophyton evolceanui (Randhawau u. Sandh) berichtet.
Biotypes of the seed beetle Callosobruchus maculatus have differing effects on the germination and growth of their legume hosts
Authors: Fox Charles W. , Bush Marsha L. , Messina Frank J.
Published: July 2010

Populations of the seed beetle Callosobruchus maculatus (F.) exhibit considerable differences in body size and larval behaviour. We examined whether such variation modifies the relationship between beetle infestation and host plant performance.

Larvae from African and Asian biotypes were reared in seeds of four hosts that represented an almost four‐fold variation in seed mass. We estimated mass lost to larval consumption, and compared germination rates and seedling growth between infested and control seeds.

In seeds bearing a single larva, the larger‐bodied, contest‐competing larvae of the Asian biotype caused a 38–47% greater reduction in seed mass compared with the smaller‐bodied, scramble‐competing larvae of the African biotype. The amount of seed mass lost per larva remained similar in seeds with one or two scramble‐competing larvae but decreased significantly in seeds bearing two contest‐competing Asian larvae.

Differences in larval consumption and behaviour produced striking differences in the frequency of germination. Germination of singly‐infested mung bean (i.e. the smallest host) was 71% for African‐infested seeds versus 11% for Asian‐infested seeds. In cowpea (i.e. the largest host), 76% of Asian‐infested seeds germinated, whereas the germination rate of African‐infested cowpeas (92%) was similar to that of uninfested seeds.

Effects of beetle origin persisted after germination. Seedlings derived from Asian‐infested seeds had greater cotyledon damage 7 days after germination, and displayed lower height and less biomass 15 days after germination. Cotyledon damage was a good predictor of seedling performance (i.e. better than seed mass consumed) 15 days after germination.

Previous studies have suggested that population differences in larval size and burrowing behaviour (‘centripetal tendency’) reflect adaptation to different‐sized seeds. The present study demonstrates that these differences in turn influence the impact of larval feeding on host viability. Strong biotypic variation makes it difficult to generalize about pest impacts at the level of pest species.
Dental Hygiene Regulation and Access to Oral Healthcare: Assessing the Variation across the US States
Authors: Wanchek Tanya
Published: July 2010

Regulations in many US states prevent dental hygienists (DHs) from fulfilling their potential to improve oral healthcare. Wing et al. found that stringent practice regulations lower DH wages and reduce access to care. We add licensure regulations to the analysis and estimate the simultaneous effect of licensure and practice restrictions on the DH labour market and access to care. The results are consistent with licensure restrictions reducing employment, practice restrictions reducing wages, and wage and employment rates jointly influencing the prevalence of dental office visits. These results suggest that in order to significantly improve access to oral healthcare, states need to consider how their entry and practice regulations interact to influence outcomes.