bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relationship between the cell surface hydrophobicity and adherence of Candida krusei and Candida albicans to epithelial and denture acrylic surfaces
Authors: SAMARANAYAKE Y. H. , WU P. C. , SAMARANAYAKE L. P. , SO M.
Published: August 2009

C. krusei is an emerging pathogen, especially in immunocompromised hosts, and is implicated, together with Candida albicans, as an etiological agent of oral candidoses. As the cell surface hydrophobicity of these yeasts appears to be important in the pathogenesis of superficial candidoses, 20 oral isolates of C. krusei and 5 oral isolates of C. albicans were investigated using a biphasic (hydrocarbon/aqueous) separation hydrophobicity assay. All the C. krusei isolates demonstrated significantly greater hydrophobicity than the C. albicans isolates (p<0.001). Further, there were significant intra‐species differences in cell surface hydrophobicity amongst C. krusei isolates. When hydrophobicity and adhesion to surfaces were compared using data from a previous study, there was a positive correlation between the cell surface hydrophobicity and adhesion of C. krusei isolates to HeLa surfaces (r=0.53, p<0.05), but not to acrylic surfaces. The current data, while confirming the inter‐ and intraspecies differences in cell surface hydrophobicity of Candida species, indicate that this attribute together with other cell surface features may determine the hierarchy of virulence amongst the different Candida species.
Binding of Galanthus nivalis lectin to Chlamvdia trachomatis and inhibition of in vitro infection
Authors: AMIN KAWA , BEILLEVAIRE DIDIER , MAHMOUD ELGAALI , HAMMAR LENA , MARDH PER‐ANDERS , FRÖMAN GUNNAR
Published: August 2009

A glycoprotein present in Chlamydia trachomatis, serotype L1, elementary bodies (EBs) was earlier found to bind the lectin from Galanthus nivalis (GNA). In the present paper we investigate the interaction of GNA with chlamydial EBs and its effect on in vitro infectivity. The binding affinity was studied with 125I‐GNA lectin. Within 15 min about 80% maximal binding was obtained. The chlamydia‐GNA interaction was inhibited by α‐methylmannoside, causing a decrease of about 50% at 1 mM. Curve fit analyses indicated two types of binding sites for GNA on the EBs. The affinity to these differed by a factor of 15. The influence of the lectin on the ability of C. trachomatis to infect McCoy cells was also investigated. There was a GNA‐dependent inhibition with a 50% reduction in the number of intracellular inclusions at 0.2 μuM of the lectin. The findings indicate the presence of terminal mannose structures on the chlamydial surface at or in the proximity of the cell‐binding domains. Mannose‐binding proteins of eukaryotic cells could be important for the initial uptake of EBs.
A Streptococcus agalactiae R protein analysed by polyclonal and monoclonal antibodies
Authors: BEVANGER LARS , KVAM AUGUSTA IRENE , MÆELAND JOHAN A.
Published: August 2009

Unexpected cross‐reactivity between two Streptococcus agalactiae (GBS) isolates formed the basis for purification of a GBS protein called the Ra antigen, and raising of murine monoclonal antibody (MAb) against Ra. The Ra protein was resistant to trypsin digestion, susceptible to pepsin digestion, formed a ladder‐like pattern of lines with a periodicity of ˜8 kD on immunoblotting, was surface localized in GBS strains, and was variably expressed by GBS. These characteristics provided evidence that the Ra antigen belonged to the R proteins of GBS. By testing of reference GBS isolates and antiserum, including an anti‐R4 protein serum, cross‐reactivity was recorded consistent with the assumption that Ra is a R4 protein. The Ra/R4 protein also showed cross‐reactivity with a previously described GBS protein called protein Rib (J. Exp. Med. 177: 1593–1603, 1993). Several characteristics of the Ra/R4 protein were similar to those of the GBS protein cα, but the two proteins showed no cross‐reactivity. The anti‐Ra/R4 MAb has proved useful in serosubtype determination of GBS of known serotype and should be a valuable tool for studying the immunobiological function of antibodies targetting the surface‐localized Ra/R4 protein.
A histological and immunohistological study of malarial placentas
Authors: MOSHI E. Z. , KAAYA E. E. , KITINYA J. N.
Published: August 2009

Sections of 18 malaria‐infected placentas were stained with haematoxylin and eosin, periodic acid and methenamine silver, and immunohistochemically with monoclonal antibodies against human common leukocyte antigen, CLA (CD 45), B cells (CD 20, L 26), T cells (CD 45RO, UCHL‐1) and collagen IV. Parasitized erythrocytes accumulated in the maternal villous spaces, with none in the foetal circulation. These were found in association with inflammatory leukocytes and pigments. Fibrinoid necrosis was more prevalent in the heavily infected placentas. Thickening and reduplication of foetal capillary basement membranes, and a decrease in leukocytes, including B and T cells, were seen in the heavily infected placentas. These findings are in keeping with previously reported depression of cellular and humoral immunity in patients with heavy parasitaemia.
Up‐regulation of CD44 and ICAM‐1 expression on gastric epithelial cells by H. pylori
Authors: FAN XUE G. , FAN XUE J. , XIA HUA‐XIANG , KEELING PAUL W. N. , KELLEHER DERMOT
Published: August 2009

Interaction between lymphocytes and epithelial cells may play a key role in Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori)‐associated gastric mucosal inflammation. This interaction process is at least partially mediated by various cell adhesion molecules. The aims of the present study were to assess using flow cytometric analysis whether H. pylori directly or supernatants from H. pylori‐activated peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) can affect the expression of adhesion molecules on the gastric epithelial cell line AGS in vitro. The results showed that resting AGS cells expressed CD44 and ICAM‐1. Co‐culture of AGS with H. pylori or cytokine‐rich supernatants from H. pylori‐activated PBMC resulted in up‐regulation of expression of CD44 and ICAM‐1 on AGS cells. These data suggest that H. pylori directly and indirectly through inflammatory cytokines may contribute to alternations in adhesion molecule expression on gastric epithelial cells. This may be of pathological significance in H. pylori‐associated gastric mucosal inflammation and carcinogenesis.
Hyaluronan and procollagen type III aminoterminal peptide in serum and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid from patients with pulmonary fibrosis
Authors: MILMAN N. , KRISTENSEN M. S. , BENTSEN K.
Published: August 2009

Previous studies of the collagen synthesis markers hyaluronan (hyaluronic acid) (HA) and procollagen type III aminoterminal peptide (PIIINP) in pulmonary fibrosis have reported elevated levels in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and suggested an association with disease activity. The objective of the present study was to evaluate whether HA and PIIINP in BALF and serum (S) correlated with paraclinical markers of disease activity (chest X‐ray profusion score, pulmonary function tests (FEV1, FVC, TLC, DLCO)) in patients with pulmonary fibrosis. The material comprised 27 patients with biopsy‐proven pulmonary fibrosis (12 cryptogenic and 15 due to connective tissue diseases) and 24 control subjects with normal lung function. BAL was performed in the right middle lobe with 250 ml saline. HA and PIIINP were measured in the cell‐free BALF supernatant and in serum. Patients had higher BALF‐HA (mean 86±17 (SEM) μg/1) than controls (39±2 μg/1 (p<0.01)), higher BALF‐albumin (124±24 mg/1) than controls (58±4 mg/1 (p<0.01)) and higher BALF/S–HA ratio (2.4±0.6) than controls (1.2±0.6 (p<0.05)). There were no significant differences respecting BALF‐PIIINP, S‐HA, or S‐PIIINP. Patients (n=14) with progressive disease had higher BALF‐HA, higher BALF‐albumin, higher S‐PIIINP, and higher S‐immunoglobulins than those with stable disease, but the differences did not reach statistical significance. Smokers (n=18) had lower BALF‐HA, lower S‐HA, lower S‐PIIINP, lower S‐immunoglobulins, and higher lung function tests than non‐smokers, but the differences did not reach statistical significance. In patients, significantly positive correlations were found between BALF‐HA and BALF‐albumin, between BALF‐PIIINP and BALF‐albumin, and a significantly negative correlation between S‐PIIINP and TLC. None of the BALF or serum markers correlated with chest X‐ray profusion score or any of the other lung function measurements. It is concluded that disease activity may be associated with elevated HA and PIIINP levels. Smoking may influence the immunological processes in pulmonary fibrosis and may be a confounder in studies of these patients.
Bronchoalveolar lavage in radiologically detected diffuse lung disease
Authors: MILMAN N. , GRAUDAL N. , JACOBSEN G. K.
Published: August 2009

During a 7‐year period bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) was performed as a routine diagnostic procedure at fiberoptic bronchoscopy in 172 consecutive patients with diffuse pulmonary lesions. In 42 patients, BAL was technically insufficient or data were incomplete. These patients were excluded. The remaining 130 patients consisted of 78 men and 52 women with a median age of 43 years (range 19–79); 59 were smokers. They were divided into 6 groups: I. sarcoidosis (n=77); II. cryptogenic fibrosing alveolitis (n=16); III. secondary fibrosing alveolitis (n=7); IV. malignancy (n=7); V. allergic alveolitis (n=6); VI. miscellaneous (n=17). Group VI was not included in the statistical evaluation, which involved only the 113 patients in groups I‐V. BAL was performed in a segment of the right middle lobe with 150–200 ml isotonic saline. The return fluid (BALF) was filtered through two layers of cotton gauze, and total and differential cell counts were assessed. Median BALF return volume was 67% (range 35–90). Eighty percent of the procedures were performed by the same operator. Total cell count displayed no significant difference amongst the five diagnostic groups (p=0.06). Differential cell count displayed differences amongst the groups respecting macrophages (p=0.002), lymphocytes (p=0.0004), neutrophils (p=0.0001) and eosinophils (p=0.04). Patients with sarcoidosis had a higher percentage of lymphocytes, patients with secondary fibrosis a higher percentage of neutrophils, and patients with cryptogenic fibrosis a higher percentage of eosinophils than the other groups. Malignant cells were observed in BALF in 14.3% of patients with malignant lesions. Among the patients with sarcoidosis, 75% had a lymphocyte‐dominated BALF (>10%) compared with 31% of the patients with cryptogenic fibrosis, 14% of the patients with secondary fibrosis, and 43% of the patients with malignancy. Dominance of neutrophils (>10%) and/or eosinophils (>5%) in BALF was observed in cryptogenic and secondary fibrosis. In most patients, BAL cannot provide a definite diagnosis, but may support the clinical suspicion of a specific diagnosis. In clinical practice, BAL seems to be of limited value in the diagnostic evaluation of radiologically detected diffuse, non‐infectious pulmonary lesions.
Expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) and Ki‐67 in soft tissue sarcoma. Is prognostic significance histotype‐specific?
Authors: CHOONG PETER F. M. , ÅKERMAN MÅNS , WILLÉN HELENA , ANDERSSON CHRISTINA , GUSTAFSON PELLE , ALVEGÅRD THOR , RYDHOLM ANDERS
Published: August 2009

Abnormal patterns of proliferation characterize the behavior of many tumors. Proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) and Ki‐67 are two cell cycle antigens which are expressed in proliferative states. Our study examines the prognostic value of these cell‐cycle antigens in soft tissue sarcoma (STS). Paraffin‐embedded primary tumor tissues from 185 patients (1980–92) were stained with the anti‐PCNA antibody PC‐10; 182 of these were stained with the antibody MIB‐1 for Ki‐67. Using PCNA (≤50; >50%) and Ki‐67 (≤10; >10%) indices, we examined and compared metastasis‐free survival (MFS) in a mixed‐histotype group, as well as after subdivision into MFH and non‐MFH groups. Fifty‐seven patients developed metastases. The median follow‐up for survivors was 6 (2–13) years. In the mixed series, the 2‐year MFS for a PCNA index ≤50 was 76%, and for an index >50 56%. Survival predicted by Ki‐67 index was comparable. PCNA index (but not Ki‐67) strongly correlated with the incidence of metastasis in MFH tumors and predicted 2‐year MFS of 81 vs 48%. In contrast, Ki‐67 index (but not PCNA) strongly correlated with metastasis in non‐MFH tumors and predicted 2‐year MFS survival of 90 vs 45%. No correlation existed between PCNA and Ki‐67 indices in the mixed histotype, MFH or non‐MFH groups. In combination, a high PCNA and Ki‐67 index correlated with poor survival, a high PCNA and lower Ki‐67 index (or vice versa) with an intermediate survival, and low PCNA and Ki‐67 indices with the best survival. The pattern of PCNA and Ki‐67 expression raises the possibility of histotype specificity.
Haemophilus influenzaerelease histamine and enhance histamine release from human bronchoalveolar cells
Authors: CLEMENTSEN PAUL , LARSEN FINN OLE , MILMAN NILS , SKOV PER STAHL , NORN SVEND
Published: August 2009

Haemophilus influenzae (H. influenzae), Streptococcus pneumoniae (S. pneumoniae)andBranhamella catarrhalis (B. catarrhalis)are often found in the lower respiratory tract of patients with chronic bronchitis. Earlier studies have shown that bacteria induce mediator release from human basophils and parenchymal lung mast cells. In this study the capability of bacteria to trigger or potentiate histamine release from superficially located mast cells in the airway epithelium was studied in cell suspensions obtained by bronchoalveolar lavage in patients with chronic bronchitis (CB). In approximately half of the patientsH. influenzaeandStaphylococcus aureus (S. aureus)were found to trigger histamine release, whereas no response was obtained byS. pneumoniaeor B.catarrhalis.The mediator release was caused by a non‐IgE‐dependent mechanism. At lower concentrations ofH. influenzaecausing no histamine release the bacterium was found to enhance IgE‐mediated histamine release triggered by anti‐IgE antibody. The synergy was more pronounced in patients with CB than in controls. SinceH. influenzaeis found in the lower respiratory tract of the patients but not in normal individuals, the infection here may via histamine release lead to harmful effects on the airways of importance for precipitation and exacerbation of chronic bronchitis.
Inhibition of growth of Proteus mirabilis and Escherichia coli in urine in response to fasting and vegetarian diet
Authors: KJELDSEN‐KRAGH JENS , KVAAVIK ELISABETH , BOTTOLFS MARTHE , LINGAAS EGIL
Published: August 2009

It has recently been shown that serum antibody levels against Proteus mirabilis decreased in patients with rheumatoid arthritis who improved clinically during treatment with 7–10 days of fasting followed by a one‐year vegetarian diet. As P. mirabilis is commonly implicated in urinary tract infections, this study was carried out to examine whether fasting and vegetarian diet may influence the growth of P. mirabilis and Escherichia coli in urine. Urine samples were collected from 22 patients who were referred to a health farm for various reasons. The dietary regimen recommended by the health farm consisted of fasting for 7 to 10 days followed by a vegan diet. The growth of both bacteria in urine samples collected after 8 days was significantly slower than in samples collected at baseline. In urine samples collected after 18 days growth was also reduced, although not significantly for E. coli. Our results show that dietary manipulation may reduce the ability of urine to support the growth of P. mirabilis and E. coli.
Glomerular antigens in severe hereditary nephrosis
Authors: HOLTHÖFER HARRY , HALTIA ANNI , JALANKO HANNU , HOLMBERG CHRISTER , SOLIN MARJA‐LIISA
Published: August 2009

In search of the basic defect and cell type responsible for the massive treatment‐resistant proteinuria of congenital nephrotic syndrome of the Finnish type (CNF), we examined tissue samples of CNF kidneys using established antibody and lectin markers of various glomerular cell types. Markers of vascular endothelium (antibodies to factor VIII and a human homologue of podocalyxin (anti‐PHM5) and UEA I lectin) showed no qualitative changes in the endothelial cells of glomeruli or peritubular areas in CNF as compared with controls. Markers of glomerular mesangial cells (antibodies to desmin, smooth muscle actin, RCA I lectin) revealed a secondary increase in mesangial reactivity reflecting the sclerosis and expansion of the mesangial areas in CNF. Markers of visceral epithelial cells (antibodies to a human homologue of podocalyxin, C3b receptor, vimentin, common lymphocytic leukemia antigen, gp44, and the WGA, LFA and, after neuraminidase treatment, PNA lectin) failed to show appreciable qualitative changes in CNF kidney samples. Interestingly, the α2β1 integrins appeared greatly reduced in all CNF samples studied, possibly explaining the mechanisms of CNF‐associated proteinuria.
Genetics of IgA deficiency
Authors: TRUEDSSON L. , BASKIN B. , PAN Q. , RABBANI H. , VORÊCHOVSKÝ I. , SMITH C. I. E. , HAMMARSTRÖM L.
Published: August 2009

IgA deficiency is the most common humoral defect in man and results in an increased susceptibility to respiratory tract and gastrointestinal infections. Both clinical and genetic data support a close relationship with common variable immunodeficiency, a disease which involves not only IgA and IgG production, but also, in half of the patients, IgM. It is likely that the two disorders represent an allelic condition with a variable expression of a common gene defect which is thought to be involved in the regulation of immunoglobulin class switching. It is possible that a single, autosomally inherited gene with a limited penetrance is responsible for the development of both these defects.
A high‐affinity soluble folate receptor in fluids of non‐neoplastic ovarian cysts: radioligand binding, molecular size, hydrophobic residue, and immunological properties
Authors: HOLM JAN , HANSEN STEEN INGEMANN , HØIER‐MADSEN MIMI , HELKJÆR POUL‐ERIK , BZOREK MICHAEL
Published: August 2009

The presence of a soluble folate receptor in fluids of non‐neoplastic ovarian cysts was demonstrated. Radioligand binding exhibited characteristics typical of high‐affinity folate‐binding proteins. These included positive cooperativity, a tendency to increased binding affinity with decreasing receptor concentration, a slow ligand dissociation at pH 7.4 and inhibition by folate analogues. The folate receptor was probably synthesized in the lining epithelial cells of the cysts which showed positive immunostaining with antibodies against human milk folate‐binding protein. The gel filtration profile of cystic fluid contained two radioligand‐bound peaks, 25 and 100 kDa, whereas a single band of 70 kDa was seen on SDS‐PAGE immunoblotting. Treatment with the enzyme phosphatidylinositol‐specific phospholipase C resulted in a partial conversion of the 100 kDa peak to the 25 kDa peak. This suggests that insertion of a hydrophobic glycosylphosphatidylinositol tail into Triton X‐100 micelles could give rise to large molecular size forms of the receptor on gel filtration.
The Legionella micdadei flagellin: Expression in Escherichia coli K 12 and DNA sequence of the gene
Authors: BANGSBORG JETTE M. , HINDERSSON PETER , SHAND GEOFFREY , HØIBY NIELS
Published: August 2009

To study the structure and function of the Legionella flagellum, we screened a genomic L. micdadei library in Escherichia coli for expression of the flagellin (Fla) subunit. One recombinant clone, JM105 (pHI5588), producing a truncated Fla protein of 40.5 kDa was identified. The plasmid pHI5588 carried a L. micdadei DNA insert of 5 kb, containing ca 95% of the fla gene. The complete DNA sequence of the L. micdadei fla gene was obtained by combining sequence data from pHI5588 with results using a polymerase chain reaction‐based system for genome walking (vectoretle PCR). The L. micdadei fla gene shared a high degree of homology with other flagellin genes in the amino‐ and carboxy termini, whereas the central region was found to be nonconserved. The fla sequence will facilitate the cloning of Fla proteins from other Legionella species and the study of flagella in the pathogenesis of Legionnaires' disease.
An experimental study of gastric stump carcinoma in Wistar rats
Authors: Ehrnström Roy
Published: August 2009

The risk of gastric stump carcinoma is increased 15–20 years after gastric resection for benign disease. Reflux of duodenal juice, bacterial overgrowth and formation of N‐nitroso compounds are possible etiological factors. There is a geographical variation in the incidence of gastric cancer, possibly explained by differences in food intake. Experimentally it is possible to induce gastric stump carcinoma in rats without the addition of exogenous carcinogens. The aim of this study was: 1) to find the incidence of gastric careinoma in rats subjected to BII resection and followed for 10 months, and 2) to examine if acetic acid, a common dietary factor, could influence the development of gastric carcinoma. Amongst BII‐operated male Wistar rats, infiltrating carcinoma was found in 5/20 on a normal diet and in 5/24 exposed to acetic acid (NS). Benign mucosal changes were seen in 12/20 and 16/24 respectively (NS). With the exception of a profound inflammation in one sham‐operated animal, no mucosal pathological changes were found in 24 sham‐operated and 24 control animals where no operation was performed.
Significance of variations in section mounting technique for nuclear stereology and morphology in urinarv bladder neoplasms
Authors: LADEKARL MORTEN , SVANHOLM HANS
Published: August 2009

Owing to its toxicity it would be desirable to avoid xylene in the processing of histological tissue. Consequently, modifications of the section mounting technique excluding xylene have recently been suggested. Changes in tissue preparation might, however, influence histopathological structures used for malignancy grading of tumours. In the current study, we investigated the impact of alterations in the mounting process on the subjectively evaluated quality of nuclear morphology and on the stereologically obtained mean nuclear volume, v̄v(nuc), of urothelial neoplasms. Paraffin sections from 14 tumours were, after the haematoxylin‐eosin staining, mounted with DPX and a coverslip either, 1) from the water bath, 2) after dehydration in ethanol but without clearing, or, 3) after dehydration and xylene clearing. We found that the nuclear morphology of ethanol‐treated and xylene‐cleared specimens was somewhat more brilliant than that of sections mounted from water. The v̄v(nuc) of xylene‐cleared sections ranged from 142 to 751 μm3, and the mean value of 350 μm3 was not significantly different from that of ethanol‐treated sections of 367 μm3 (2p=0.67). In contrast, the mean v̄v(nuc) of sections mounted from water was 459 μm3, approximately 30% larger (2p≤0.02). Thus, although previous studies have demonstrated the prognostic value of v̄v(nuc) in patients with bladder cancer, the present study shows that modifications in section mounting technique may significantly influence the results, underscoring the need for standardization of tissue processing. Sections mounted from ethanol seem to be as good as routine xylene‐cleared sections, whereas sections mounted from water have a less brilliant morphology and results of nuclear stereology different from those of routine sections.
Generation of hydroxyl radicals by polymorphonuclear neutrophils during exposure to direct current and iron
Authors: Fagerheim Ingrid , Lingaas Egil
Published: August 2009

Human polymorphonuclear neutrophils were exposed to direct output current of 3 or 5 mA at either 300 or 500 V for 1 h in the presence and absence of iron. The current density was 25 or 40 nA/cm2. The formation of free oxygen radicals was measured as breakdown products from deoxyribose and methional. The cells were shown to generate oxygen radicals on electrical stimulation. A physiological concentration of iron enhanced radical formation, but OH was also formed in the absence of added iron. The most pronounced stimulation was seen at output current 5 mA and 500 V
Quantitative analyses of plasma opsonizing activity and polymorphonuclear cell response during phagocytosis: standardisation of a chemiluminescent method
Authors: Farinelli Andrea , Setti Maurizio , Puppo Francesco , Scudeletti Marco , De Martini Daniele , Balestra Vincenzo , Indiveri Francesco
Published: August 2009

Although measurement of chemiluminescence has become a widespread tool in the study of phagocytosis of peripheral neutrophils, several problems linked to spontaneous fluctuation in chemiluminescence and the number of variables involved have occasionally either limited its usefulness for clinical and experimental purposes or compelled operators to take particular care when using the technique. In the present paper, sources of variability are investigated and most of the parameters involved are thoroughly analysed and step‐by‐step normalised. A stochastic calibration procedure for validation of the method is applied and a monofunctional test protocol for quantitative evaluation of plasma opsonizing activity in whole blood chemiluminescence is suggested. With regard to the goal of proposing a reverse monofunctional test, we discuss the reasons why further studies aimed at standardised evaluation of the cellular components are needed.
Vitronectin modulates the expression of complement components of the terminal pathway synthesized by human umbilical vein endothelial cells in vitro
Authors: Berge V. , Berge K. E. , Johnson E.
Published: August 2009

In this study we demonstrate that human endothelial cells (EC) synthesize mRNA for vitronectin by using techniques based on reverse transcriptase (RT) reaction and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The identification of vitronectin mRNA, shown by sequence analysis of PCR‐amplified RT product of RNA extracted from EC, clearly demonstrates that these cells synthesize mRNA for vitronection. We further investigated whether vitronectin in serum‐free EC cultures regulates the net expression of the terminal complement pathway, measured as the terminal complement complex (TCC) bound to co‐cultured agarose beads which activate the alternative pathway. Presence of polyclonal F(ab‘)2 anti‐human vitronectin (VN) antibodies, regardless of concentration (10–80 μg/ml), significantly reduced the binding of monoclonal anti‐C3c antibodies to co‐cultured beads, whereas the binding of monoclonal anti‐TCC antibodies was unaltered or significantly increased compared with controls. Despite some interexperimental variation in the results, addition of vitronectin (10–80 μg/ml) to the EC resulted in an inversely related pattern compared with experiments using anti‐VN antibodies. The binding indices of anti‐C3c are comparable to the controls. On the other hand, there is a steady concentration‐dependent (10–80 μg of vitronectin added) reduction in binding of anti‐TCC up to approximately 60%. The results indicate that vitronectin regulates the expression of synthezised and surface‐bound TCC in serum‐free EC cultures, comparable to previous findings in serum.
The effect of 1,25‐vitamin D3 on maturation of monocytes from HIV‐infected patients varies with degree of immunodeficiency
Authors: Haug C. J. , MÜLler F. , Rollag H. , Aukrust P. , DegrÉ M. , FrØLand S. S.
Published: August 2009

The active metabolite of vitamin D, 1,25‐dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25D), has been shown to induce monocyte‐to‐macrophage maturation in vitro as well as monocytic differentiation of bone marrow precursors and monocytic leukaemic cell lines. In this study we assessed whether 1,25D could improve the maturation defect we have previously demonstrated in monocytes from AIDS patients. In vitro growth and maturation of monocytes from 10 controls, 15 asymptomatic HIV positives (CDC group II or III) and 13 symptomatic HIV positives (CDC group IV) was examined by assessing cellular morphology, differentiation, adherence and protein content. Cells were cultured for 10 days with or without addition of 1,25D at a concentration of 100 pg/ml. In addition, patients were monitored clinically and by immunological parameters and HIV p24 antigen in serum. The present study showed that addition of 1,25D significantly improved the growth and maturation in both patient and control groups. There was a significant negative correlation between response to 1,25D and CD4+ lymphocyte count in blood in HIV‐infected patients. A greater response to 1,25D was seen in monocytes from patients with advanced immunodeficiency and symptomatic disease than in monocytes from asymptomatic patients. However, in the most advanced cases of HIV infection with serious ongoing opportunistic infections the response to 1,25D was very poor, possibly reflecting profound and incorrigible dysfunction of monocytes
Detection of penicillin resistance in Streptococcus pneumoniae by diffusion tests
Authors: Poulsen Rikke Lykke , Knudsen Jenny Dahl , Petersen Mette Barendorff , Fuursted Kurt , Espersen Frank , Frimodt‐MØLler Niels
Published: August 2009

Four different diffusion tests used to detect penicillin resistance in Streptococcus pneumoniae were evaluated for 34 penicillin‐susceptible pneumococci (MIC <0.1 μg/ml), 35 intermediate penicillin‐resistant (MIC 0.1–1.0 μg/ml) and 23 penicillin‐resistant strains (MIC >2 μg/ml). The 1 μg oxacillin disk from AB Biodisk, the 1 μg oxacillin Neo‐Sensitabs from Rosco, the 5 μg penicillin Low Neo‐Sensitabs and the penicillin E test were tested on Mueller‐Hinton blood agar, PDM Antibiotic Sensitivity Medium II supplemented with blood, and Danish Blood Agar. MICs obtained by the agar dilution method were used as reference. The 1 μg oxacillin AB Biodisk was able to separate all the penicillin‐susceptible pneumococci correctly from those with reduced penicillin susceptibility (MIC 0.1 μg/ml), whereas use of the 1 μg oxacillin Neo‐Sensitabs resulted in high frequencies (14–29%) of intermediate penicillin‐resistant strains interpreted as penicillin susceptible. The 5 μg penicillin Low Neo‐Sensitabs proved completely useless for detecting penicillin resistance in pneumococci. High rates of agreement (82–93%) were found between the penicillin E test and the reference MIC determination method on all the tested media.
The β‐lactamases of Moraxella (Branhamella) catarrhalis isolated from Danish children
Authors: Ejlertsen T. , Skov R.
Published: August 2009

Two distinct β‐lactamases have been isolated from Moraxella catarrhalis: the stronger acting BRO‐1 enzyme and the weaker acting BRO‐2. Several reports have noted an effect of penicillin and ampicillin on infections caused by M. catarrhalis in spite of the presence of β‐lactamase production. The purpose of this work was to characterize the β‐lactamases of M. catarrhalis isolated from Danish children regarding type and susceptibility, and to relate these findings to the eradication of β‐lactamases‐producing strains by use of antibiotic treatment with penicillin or ampicillin. MICs for penicillin V, ampicillin, cefuroxime and amoxicillin/clavulanic acid (2:1) were determined in 70 strains of M. catarrhalis: 46 strains from children with lower respiratory tract infection (LRTI) and 24 strains from respiratory healthy children, β‐lactamase production was found in 59 strains. The BRO‐1 enzyme was identified by isoelectric focusing in 55 strains (93.2%) and BRO‐2 in 3 strains (5.1%); in 1 strain no isoelectric bands were produced. All strains were susceptible to cefuroxime and amoxicillin/clavulanic acid, and non‐β‐lactamase‐producing strains were susceptible to penicillin and ampicillin. For the β‐lactamase‐producing strains, MIC50 of penicillin was 8.0 μg/ml, while MIC50 of ampicillin was 1.0 μg/ml and MIC90 of ampicillin was 2.0 μg/ml. M. catarrhalis was more often eradicated from the children who received antibiotic treatment with penicillin or ampicillin than from those who did not receive any treatment, indicating an in vivo effect of penicillin and ampicillin in spite of the β‐lactamase production.
Semiquantitative estimation of Shigella antigen‐specific antibodies: correlation with disease severity during shigellosis
Authors: Islam Dilara , Wretlind Bengt , Hammarstrom Lennart , Christensson Birger , Lindberg Alf A.
Published: August 2009

Systemic and mucosal antibody responses during shigellosis were analysed and correlated with clinical severity. Patients infected with Shigella dysenteriae type 1 (SDIP), and S. flexneri (SFIP) were grouped according to disease severity. The disease was more severe in SDIP than in SFIP. Higher levels of Shigella antigen‐specific serum antibodies were associated with severe disease. In contrast, decreased serum levels of IgG, IgM and total protein were associated with severe disease. Faecal levels of total IgA, secretory IgA, albumin, and LPS specific s‐IgA were increased in severe disease. The results of the study indicate that the level of humoral immune response correlates with the disease severity in shigellosis and that the local immune system in the mucosa is directly engaged in the response. This is also reflected at the systemic level by increased serum levels of specific antibodies and non‐specific inflammatory parameters.
HLA class I antigens are expressed by Sertoli cells of intratubular germ cell neoplasia
Authors: BræNdstrup Otto
Published: August 2009

Five frozen samples from seminomas and one from a combined seminoma/embryonal carcinoma and surrounding tissue were examined for the presence of HLA class I molecules using an antibody directed against a monomorphic epitope of the 45 kDa long chain of HLA‐A, ‐B and ‐C molecules. Only tubules with intratubular germ cell neoplasia stained positively, while normal seminiferous tubules and invasive tumor cells stained negatively. The immunohistology with anti‐HLA class I antibody was compared to that with anti‐β2‐microglobulin antibody which reacts with the light nonpolymorphic chain of all HLA class I molecules. Immunohistology with these two antibodies was indistinguishable. This result combined with immunohistology using anti‐PLAP indicates that the stained cells are Sertoli cells. The results are discussed in relaltion to lymphocytic infiltration and immune surveillance of seminomas.
Preserved neutrophil response to Candida albicans stimulation in AIDS patients with Candida esophagitis
Authors: Jensen Trine , Obel Niels
Published: August 2009

Polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMNs) and their interaction with immunoglobulins constitute a major line of defence against invading Candida albicans. The function of neutrophils, assessed by superoxide production, and the opsonizing efficacy of sera from 15 AIDS patients with esophageal candidiasis and 15 healthy control subjects were studied. When stimulated with opsonized C. albicans the superoxide generation of PMNs from AIDS patients did not differ from the response observed in healthy subjects. However, a significant depression was demonstrated when PMNs were maximally stimulated by phorbol‐12‐myristate‐13‐acetate (PMA). A reduction in opsonizing capability of serum from AIDS patients was detected when tested with zymosan particles. However, the opsonizing capacities of serum from AIDS patients and control subjects were comparable in anticandidal activity, a result that may be explained by a compensatory stimulation of the specific humoral anticandidal response due to perpetual mucous candidiasis in the AIDS patients. These results suggest that anticandidal activity of PMNs and sera from AIDS patients with esophageal candidiasis is preserved, matching the clinical evidence that systemic candidiasis is seldom seen in non‐neutropenic AIDS patients.
Passive immunization with monoclonal antibodies specific for lipopolysaccharide (LPS) O‐side chain protects mice against intravenous Yersinia enterocolitica serotype O:3 infection
Authors: Skurnik Mikael , Mikkola Pasi , Toivanen Paavo , Tertti Risto
Published: August 2009

Passive immunization with monoclonal antibodies specific for the lipopolysaccharide (LPS) O‐side chain protected mice against intravenously given lethal doses of Yersinia enterocolitica O:3 bacteria. On the other hand, passive immunization with monoclonal antibody specific for the LPS core oligosaccharide did not protect mice. Neither antibody was able to protect mice against orally given lethal doses of bacteria. These results indicate that the O‐side chain functions as an important antigenic structure during infection, and that immunity to it probably offers protection also in the in vivo situation.
Synergistic effect of ethyl‐6‐O‐decanoyl glucoside and chlorhexidine in contact lens disinfection
Authors: Lehtonen Olli‐Pekka J. , Vaahtoranta‐Lehtonen Hanna , Leivo Pekka , MÄKi Mirja
Published: August 2009

Contact lenses with adherent Serratia marcescens and Pseudomonas aeruginosa could not be sterilised either with polyaminopropyl biguanide or with chlorhexidine (CHX) commercial solutions meant for contact lens disinfection, even after treatment lasting 12 h. Ethyl‐6‐O‐decanoyl glucoside (EDG) with chlorhexidine enhanced the killing significantly. The same was also found to be the case for dispersed cells of P. aeruginosa on cellulose acetate filters. EDG enhances the bactericidal effect of 0.00025 CHX by a mechanism not solely due to detergent action and is a potential adjunct to CHX in clinical applications.
Diabetic animal models:
Authors: Buschard Karsten
Published: August 2009

Insulin‐dependent (type 1) diabetes is a frequent disease with an incidence of up to about 1%. It requires daily treatment and serious late complications are observed. Good animal models exist for studying diabetes. These can be categorized as animals with spontaneously developing diabetes (BB rats, NOD mice) and as animals with induced diabetes (e.g. by virus). Immunodeficient nude mice have also been widely used. None of the models is perfect, but each has contributed to our present knowledge of the disease. Studies on the pathogenesis of type 1 diabetes are given as an example. Recently, experience with prophylactic treatment of animals in order to prevent diabetes has been applied to humans with promising results.
Does high pancreatic duct pressure compromise the duct mucosal barrier function to pancreatic exocrine proteins?
Authors: Arendt Dr.Thomas , HÄNsler Marion , Stoffregen Clemens , FÖLsch Ulrich R.
Published: August 2009

The effect of duct pressure on the barrier function of the pancreatic duct mucosa to both activated and nonactivated pancreatic exocrine enzymes was studied in a feline model. The cat main pancreatic duct was perfused from the tail to the head of the gland with rat pancreatic juice at high duct pressure (40 cm H2O). In a first experiment, nonactivated pancreatic juice was perfused. Analysis of the juice for loss of fluid volume (measurement by weight) and for loss of individual proteins (two‐dimensional isoelectric focusing/sodium dodecyl sulphate gel electrophoresis, reversed phase‐high performance liquid chromatography) after duct passage showed that pancreatic secretions were completely recovered from the duct lumen. In another experiment, applying the same pressure, the duct was perfused with activated pancreatic juice. Morphologic analysis showed a preservation of the pancreatic duct mucosal integrity immediately after duct perfusion and absence of pancreatic inflammatory lesions 24 h after duct passage. We conclude that the pancreatic duct mucosa is impermeable to the leakage of pancreatic exocrine proteins from the duct lumen at duct pressure ≥40 cm H2O. Flow of activated pancreatic juice along the pancreatic duct at duct pressure ≥40 cm H2O does not cause acute pancreatitis. These data do not support the hypothesis that leakage of pancreatic juice from the duct lumen caused by high intraductal pressure due to duct obstruction initiates acute pancreatitis.
Methylcholanthrene‐induced sarcomas in nude mice have short induction times and relatively low levels of surface MHC class I expression
Authors: Engel Anne‐Marie , Svane Inge Marie , Mouritsen SøRen , Rygaard JøRgen , Clausen Jes , Werdelin Ole
Published: August 2009

In order to study the role of the T‐cell‐mediated immune defense in tumor development, a total of 93 sarcomas were induced using different doses (8 μg (0.1%), 40 μg (0.5%) and 400 μg (5%)) of 3‐methylcholanthrene in athymic nude Balb/c mice and phenotypically normal immunocompetent Balb/c mice. A shorter tumor induction time and a higher tumor incidence after treatment with low doses of methylcholanthrene were seen in nude mice than in immunocompetent mice, indicating that they have a lower resistance to the carcinogen. Contrary to expectations we found that the MHC class I expression of tumors from nude mice was lower than that of tumors from normal mice. Higher surface expression of MHC class I was demonstrated on high dose tumors from normal mice than on low dose tumors from normal mice. The cellular composition of the individual tumors raised in nude mice was more heterogeneous with respect to MHC class I expression. Since the mice differ genetically only with respect to the nu gene, these results indicate that a lack of T‐cell‐mediated defense mechanisms may confer upon the bearer a lower resistance to 3‐methylcholanthrene and a different MHC profile of the ensuing tumor.
Priming of neutrophil and monocyte activation in human immunodeficiency virus infection
Authors: Meyer Christian N. , Nielsen Henrik
Published: August 2009

Activation of human blood neutrophils and monocytes for enhanced release of toxic oxygen radicals may take place after priming with several cytokines including hematopoietic growth factors. The potential impact of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) on this response and the relative potency of various cytokines remains unclear. Blood neutrophils and monocytes were isolated from 25 HIV outpatients with variable immunodeficiency. Oxidative burst response upon stimulation with N‐for‐myl‐methionyl‐leucyl‐phenylalanine was assessed in neutrophils after priming with granulocyte colony‐stimulating factor (G‐CSF), granulocyte‐macrophage colony‐stimulating factor (GM‐CSF) and interferon‐gamma (IFN‐g), and in monocytes after priming with GM‐CSF and IFN‐g. Monocyte oxidative burst responses were not changed in patients or controls. In contrast, following priming with IFN‐g, GM‐CSF or medium (but not G‐CSF) the neutrophils in HIV patients with CD4 counts >200 × 109/L exhibited a significantly higher chemiluminescence response than was seen in healthy age‐matched controls, whereas the response in patients with lower CD4 counts was not different from controls. At comparable concentrations, GM‐CSF induced a significantly higher priming than G‐CSF and IFN‐g. A significant positive correlation between CD4 counts and priming activity of GM‐CSF and IFN‐g on neutrophils was observed. We conclude that neutrophils in HIV infection have a normal or enhanced response to the oxidative metabolism priming activity of hematopoietic growth factors in vitro, whereas priming effect on monocytes was not seen.
Cytotoxicity and proliferation of splenocytes and lymph node cells from adjuvant‐treated nude mice:
Authors: Radzikowski C. , Rygaard J. , BudzyŃSki W. , Salwa J. , Stenvang J. P. , Schou M. , Lorenzen L. , Zeuthen J.
Published: August 2009

The cytotoxicity of NK cells and lymphocytes derived from nonadherent splenocytes (SPL) and regional lymph node cells (LNC) from complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA)‐treated athymic nude young (4–6 weeks) and aged (over 1 year) BALB/c nu/nu mice in vitro activated with rIL‐2, anti‐CD3 mAb or PPD was analyzed and compared to SPL and LNC from age‐matched euthymic BALB/c mice. The high natural cytotoxicity to YAC‐1 target cells of SPL or LNC could be augmented by 48 h stimulation in vitro with rIL‐2, especially when derived from young nude BALB/c mice. The increase in cytotoxic activity was accompanied by increased proliferative activity of both SPL and LNC, which showed statistically significant differences between the rates of stimulation of cells from the young and aged groups. Anti‐CD3 mAb strongly activated the cytotoxicity of BALB/c euthymic donor effector cells against P‐815 target cells, corresponding to a very high proliferative activity of these cells, but anti‐CD3 mAb did not lead to activation of effector cells from nude donors. FACS analyses of antigenic markers similarly showed an increased number of T cells in LNC from aged BALB/c nude donors, which, however, never reached the levels of those of euthymic animals.
Cell surface properties of Acinetobacter baumannii
Authors: KÖLjalg Siiri , Vuopio‐Varkila Jaana , LyytikÄInen Outi , Mikelsaar Marika , WadstrÖM Torkel
Published: August 2009

Cell surface properties of 78 strains of Acinetobacter baumannii of different origin (lower respiratory tract, wound, blood and environment) were investigated. The bacterial adhesion to collagen, fibronectin, fibrinogen and vitronectin was detected by particle agglutination assays. Salt aggregation tests were used to determine the cell surface hydrophobicity of isolated A. baumannii strains. We found that A. baumannii strains originating from patients with wound infection and bacteraemia showed significantly lower aggregative properties compared to respiratory and environmental strains. Electron microscopic investigations revealed more fimbriated bacterial cells among the highly aggregative A. baumannii strains. This study demonstrates that the investigated A. baumannii strains can be divided into two different groups according to their cell surface properties and source of isolation, whereas the majority of strains, from the lower respiratory tract and the hospital environment expressed strong adhesive properties.
Co‐infection with HIV‐1/ HTLV‐II and the risk of progression to AIDS and death
Authors: Eskild Anne , Samdal Helvi H. , Heger Bernt ,   the Oslo HIV Cohort Study Group
Published: August 2009

Human T‐cell lymphotropic virus (HTLV) types I and II were the first discovered human retroviruses. While HTLV‐I has been clearly associated with disease, the health implications of HTLV‐II infection are still unsettled. A prospective epidemiological study of 409 HIV‐infected subjects of different transmission categories was performed to study the presence of HTLV‐II antibodies, and whether HTLV‐II antibodies are associated with the progression to AIDS and to death of any cause. Of 409 subjects, 30 (7.3%) were HTLV‐II positive at study entry; 2 subjects seroconverted during follow‐up. In the HTLV‐II‐positive group 2 were heterosexually HIV infected, 28 (of whom 2 were seroconverters) were IDUs and 2 were homosexual men. When controlling for transmission category, gender, age and CD4+ lymphocyte count at study entry, the relative risk of AIDS progression for the HTLV‐II‐positive group was 2.1 (0.8–5.1, 95% confidence interval (CI)) as compared to the HTLV‐II‐negative group. The adjusted relative risk of dying was 2.1 (1.0–4.3, 95% CI). When studying IDUs separately, the adjusted relative risk of AIDS progression was 2.3 (0.8–6.9, 95% CI) and the relative risk of dying was 2.0 (0.9–4.6, 95% CI). The results of this study suggest that HTLV‐II is a cofactor in HIV disease progression. The number of HTLV‐II‐infected subjects, was, however, small, and insufficient control of confounding factors must be taken into consideration.