bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Isolation and characterization of a variant of human papillomavirus type 11 from a nasal inverting (schneiderian) papilloma
Authors: Pater Alan , Gardner Humphrey , Respler Don S. , Jahn Anthony , Pater Mary M.
Published: March 2007

We have previously reported the presence of a variant of human papillomavirus (HPV) type 11 in a nasal inverting papilloma [Respler et al., 1987]. In the present study, we have cloned molecularly the DNA of this variant at its unique restriction enzyme Bam HI site into lambda BF101 phage. Restriction enzyme mapping and DNA sequencing revealed that the genome of this virus contained an extra 531 base pair (bp) which was the repeat of most of the noncoding region (ncr) of HPV 11. Insertion of ranscriptional control elements, including the repeated sequence, in front of the chloramphenicol acetyltransferase (CAT) gene resulted in a 5‐ to 30‐fold increase in expression in transfected cells, as compared to the constructs containing a single ncr of HPV 11. This increased expression was due to enhanced levels of CAT RNA the synthesis of which is initiated by the viral promoter element.
Lack of reverse transcriptase activity in serum in sporadic post‐transfusional and presumed epidemic or water‐borne forms of severe non‐A, non‐B hepatitis
Authors: Brahm Javier , McClure Myra O. , Sommerfelt Maja A. , Exley Mark A. , Weiss Robin A. , Fagan Elizabeth A. , Williams Roger
Published: March 2007

Reverse transcriptase (RT) activity was not detected in any serum sample taken from 22 patients with mainly severe non‐A, non‐B hepatitis (NANBH), using two assays selected to cover the range of known human and animal retroviruses. The study included patients with fulminant and sub‐acute hepatic failure, which was attributed to sporadic, post‐transfusional, and presumed epidemic or water‐borne epidemiological forms of NANBH. Although we cannot exclude the possibility that some of the agents implicated in NANBH are retroviruses, our negative findings suggest that other agents may be involved at least in the severe forms of NANBH.
Recombinant vaccinia virus expressing epstein‐barr virus glycoprotein gp340 protects cottontop tamarins against EB virus‐induced malignant lymphomas
Authors: Morgan A. J. , Mackett M. , Finerty S. , Arrand J. R. , Scullion F. T. , Epstein M. A.
Published: March 2007

A strong association exists between Epstein‐Barr (EB) virus and two human cancers, endemic Burkitt's lymphoma and nasopharyngeal carcinoma. In addition, the virus causes infectious mononucleosis [reviewed in Epstein and Achong, 1979, 1986] and more recently has been implicated in lymphomas arising in immunosuppressed individuals [Cleary et al., 1986]. The possibility of preventing or influencing the course of these diseases by vaccination has been advocated for a number of years [Epstein, 1976]. especially in the case of undifferentiated nasopharyngeal carcinoma, which is the most common tumour of men in southern China and is prevalent in other specific regions; it therefore represents a major world cancer problem [Shanmugaratnam, 1971]. Two vaccinia virus strains were employed to make recombinants expressing the gene coding for the EB virus envelope glycoprotein, gp340, and were used to vaccinate cottontop tamarins. Protection against EB‐virus‐induced lymphoma was obtained in animals immunized with the laboratory (WR) strain recombinant but not with those recombinants derived from the vaccine (Wyeth) strain. Circulating antibodies to EB virus gp340 were not detected in any of the immunized animals.
Use of polyclonal and monoclonal antibodies and analysis of viral RNA in the detection of unusual group A human rotaviruses
Authors: Aboudy Yair , Shif Ilan , Zilberstein Ilana , Gotlieb‐Stematsky Tamar
Published: March 2007

Immuno‐enzymatic assay employing monoclonal antibodies and viral RNA analysis by gel electrophoresis were used to classify human group A rotaviruses (HRV) into subgroups I and II. Of 249 fecal samples positive for group A rotaviruses, 29 (11%) belonged to subgroup I and 215 (85%) were identified as subgroup II. Two samples (Ro‐302 and Ro‐500) contained mixed infections of the two subgroups. Three isolates belonged to neither one of the two subgroups, but they did not yield enough viral RNA to allow their classification. One subgroup I isolate (Ro‐1845) contained components typical of subgroup II viruses in that it was identical to serotype 3 and yielded RNA with fast‐moving 10th and 11th segments. After growth in culture, the two mixed infections yielded subgroup II viruses, which were identified as serotype 1. The three unclassified isolates grew poorly in culture and could not be further analyzed. The subgroup I isolate (Ro‐1845) grew well in culture and yielded virus similar to the original one.
Nasal‐Secretion leukocyte populations determined by flow cytometry during acute rhinovirus infection
Authors: Levandowski Roland A. , Weaver Carolan W. , Jackson George Gee
Published: March 2007

Leukocyte populations in the secretions of volunteers challenged by intranasal inoculation with rhinovirus serotype 25 were evaluated by means of flow cytometry. With the light‐scatter properties of peripheral blood leukocytes as the standard of reference, significant increases (P < 05) of both lymphocytes and phagocytes (polymorphonuclear leukocytes plus monocytes) were detected in the nasal secretions of persons infected by the viral challenge. There was a direct correlation of nasopharyngeal symptom severity with both the percentage of lymphocytes (P < .05) and the percentage of phagocytes (P < .001). Monoclonal antibodies for specific cell‐membrane antigens identified the lymphocytes and phagocytes as leukocytes and also demonstrated the presence of a population of monocytic cells during the phase of maximal symptoms. The panel of monoclonals chosen did not unequivocally identify a lymphocyte population except in the presence of nosebleed. However, the results show that flow cytometry can be used to investigate nasal‐secretion cell populations during the rhinovirus common cold.
Peripheral blood mononuclear cell‐mediated cytolytic activity during cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection of guinea pigs
Authors: Harrison C. J. , Myers M. G.
Published: March 2007

Inbred Strain‐2 guinea pigs exhibited endogenous peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC)‐mediated cytolytic activity against xenogeneic MA 104 targets and guinea pig cytomegalovirus (gpCMV)‐infected syngeneic and allogeneic targets. This endogenous cytolysis was unaffected by monoclonal T‐cell antibody depletion but was diminished by removal of plastic adherent cells. In nonadherent effector populations, cytolysis was mediated predominately by large granular lymphocytes (LGL).

During gpCMV infection, cytolysis of both target types was augmented (MA104 for 3 weeks and gpCMV targets for 10–14 weeks). Augmented cytolysis of gpCMV targets was MHC‐unrestricted and was diminished by removal of plastic adherent cells or monoclonal antibody depletion of T‐cells, being found largely in LGL enriched populations. A role for this augmented activity in limiting gpCMV infection in inbred guinea pigs is suggested by the temporal association of augmented cytolysis of gpCMV targets with the cessation of viremia and clinical recovery.
Contribution of rhinoviruses to respiratory viral infections in childhood: A prospective study in a mainly hospitalized infant population
Authors: Kellner Gabriele , Popow‐Kraupp Therese , Kundi Michael , Binder Christa , Wallner H. , Kunz Christian
Published: March 2007

A prospective study was carried out to investigate the contribution of rhinoviruses to respiratory viral infections in children and to investigate the influence of age, passive smoking, and educational level of the head of the family on the clinical course of viral respiratory disease.

Nasopharyngeal aspirates from 519 infants (90.8% inpatients, 9.2 % outpatients) were screened for the presence of rhinoviruses, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), adenoviruses, parainfluenza virus types 1, 2, 3, influenza virus types A and B, and enteroviruses by tissue culture isolation procedure, enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, and/or indirect immunofluorescence method. The total detection rate was 42.4%. The rate decreased with increasing age. Higher detection rates were observed in specimens from children suffering from a more severe respiratory disease, and the highest rate of virus‐positive specimens was found in those aged 0–6 months. Second to RSV (23.1%), rhinoviruses were the most frequently recovered pathogens found in 11.8% of children with acute respiratory tract infections (RTI). In the age group 0–6 months the majority of severe respiratory illnesses was due to RSV. In infants aged 6 months to 1 year a decrease in the number of severe illnesses caused by RSV and an increase in the number of children suffering from a more severe RTI caused by rhinoviruses was found. With the possible exception of one group of children infected with rhinoviruses, a negative effect of passive smoking on the incidence and severity of viral RTI could not be established. A beneficial effect of breast feeding on the severity of viral RTI could not be definitely demonstrated.
Enhancement of class I HLA antigen expression by cytomegalovirus: Role in amplification of virus infection
Authors: Grundy Jane E. , Ayles Helen M. , McKeating Jane A. , Butcher R. G. , Griffiths P. D. , Poulter L. W.
Published: March 2007

We have investigated the effect of cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection on the expression of class I HLA antigens on fibroblasts in vitro. Scanning and integrating microdensitometry was used to quantitate the level of cytoplasmic class I antigen expression, and an antibody binding assay was used to quantitate cell surface expression of class I HLA molecules. CMV infection resulted in a significant increase in the level of cytoplasmic and cell surface class I HLA antigen expression of fibroblast monolayers. The maximal effect was seen at 72 hours postinfection and was observed with both the laboratory strain of CMV, strain AD169, and with CMV purified directly from clinical specimens. Part of the increased HLA expression was mediated by interferon released from infected cells; however, an additional direct effect of the virus itself has not been ruled out. Interferon‐induced increased expression of class I HLA antigens was accompanied by increased binding of CMV to the cells, consistent with our recent demonstration that class I HLA molecules can function as a cellular receptor for CMV.
Placental transfer of IgG subclass‐specific antibodies to varicella‐zoster virus
Authors: Asano Yoshizo , Hiroishi Yuichi , Itakura Naoko , Hirose Shigeyuki , Kajita Yuji , Suga Sadao , Yazaki Takehiko
Published: March 2007

Commercially available mouse monoclonal antibodies to human IgG subclasses (IgG 1 to IgG 4) were used in an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay to examine the placental transfer of IgG subclass‐specific antibodies to varicella‐zoster virus (VZV). All 46 mothers had total IgG antibody to VZV, and an equal level of antibody was found in the cord blood. All of the mothers had high antibody activities to VZV in IgG 1 and IgG 4 subclasses. The majority of the mothers were negative for IgG 2 and IgG 3 VZV antibodies, and the level of antibody found to be positive was very low. The IgG 1 antibody activity in the cord blood was almost equal to that of the maternal, and significantly higher level of IgG 4 antibody was found in the cord than maternal blood.
Ribavirin effect on experimental Junin virus‐induced encephalitis
Authors: Remesar Mirta C. , Blejer Jorgelina L. , Weissenbacher Mercedes C. , Nejamkis Marta R.
Published: March 2007

Junin virus, the etiological agent of Argentine hemorrhagic fever, produces in man a disease mainly characterized by hemorrhagic alterations, commonly accompanied by neurological symptoms, and leading to 10% mortality. Intracerebral inoculation in 10‐day‐old rats or intraperitoneal inoculation in 2‐day‐old rats leads to high mortality due to severe encephalitis. Here, the effect of Ribavirin on these experimental models was tested in order to evaluate the degree of protection achieved against neuropathological manifestations. In intracerebrally infected 10‐day‐old rats the drug was administered 2 hr before virus inoculation. Doses ranged from 30 to 90 mg/kg body weight. Protection reached 40% for the 60 and 90 mg doses. Intraperitoneally infected 2‐day‐old rats received the drug in five 30‐mg daily doses, starting the same day as virus inoculation. Survival was 73%. Viral replication within peritoneal macrophages dropped markedly, leading to much lower CNS viral titres. Together with results reported in primates, our findings support further studies on Ribavirin, with a view to eventual trials in humans.
Synthetic env gp41 peptide as a sensitive and specific diagnostic reagent in different stages of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 infection
Authors: Närvänen Ale , Korkolainen Mirja , Suni Jukka , Korpela Jukka , Kontio Sari , Partanen Paul , Vaheri Antti , Huhtala Marja‐Liisa
Published: March 2007

An enzyme immunoassay (EIA) for serum antibodies to human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV‐1), based on the synthetic pentadecapeptide SGKLICTTAVPWNAS, a segment of the transmembrane glycoprotein (gp41) of the virus, was developed and tested for sensitivity and specificity. Sera of 152 individuals at various stages of HIV‐1 infection, including two prospectively and six retrospectively studied patients exposed to HIV‐1 but seronegative on initial testing in whole‐virus EIA and immunoblotting, were screened with the gp41 peptide antibody EIA. The reference population consisted of 1,000 healthy HIV‐1 antibody‐negative blood donors. In addition, five individuals with antibodies to HIV‐2 were studied. Antibodies to the synthetic peptide were detected in 100% of those with asymptomatic infection. Only one patient with LAS failed to react in the peptide EIA. Patients with HIV‐2 infection did not react in this test. The peptide antibodies appeared rapidly after infection, were detectable at the time when seroconversion was observed by immunoblotting, and preceded reactivity in whole‐virus EIA. Sera of seven patients with verified HIV‐1 infection did not react with gp41 in immunoblotting, although antibodies were readily detectable in the gp41 peptide EIA.
Nucleic acid spot hybridization with nonradioactive labeled probes in screening for human papillomavirus DNA sequences
Authors: Melki Ronald , Khoury Bernadette , Catalan Francois
Published: March 2007

We examined 161 human tissue samples using the spot hybridization technique with nonradioactive labeled DNA probes of human papillomavirus (HPV). Whole cells were spotted on nitrocellulose filters; DNA of the cells was denatured and fixed to the filter. Then the DNA spots were hybridized to nonradioactive labeled DNA and monitored by a sandwich immunoenzymatic reaction. This technique is simple, sensitive, specific, requires no special equipment, and can be used in clinical settings.

HPV DNA was found in 92% of samples in which, on the basis of histologic and colposcopic criteria, its presence was suspected, as well as in 31 samples where it was not suspected.
Vertical transmission of woodchuck hepatitis virus
Authors: Kulonen Katariina , Millman Irving
Published: March 2007

One newborn and 24 fetal woodchuck litters from a woodchuck hepatitis virus (WHV) endemic population were examined for serological or hepatic evidence of WHV. In 18 of 24 fetal litters, there was detectable WHV DNA in the livers, either at explant culture or tissue extract. Most of those WHV DNA‐positive liver extracts, which were examined by Southern blot, showed integration of WHV. However, WHV DNA replicative forms without integration were demonstrated in livers of two litters from late gestation. Woodchuck hepatitis surface antigen was detected in the sera of two other fetal litters from the late gestation period. WHV DNA was demonstrated in sera of three litters at different stages of ontogeny.
Seroepidemiological study of infection with West Nile virus in Karachi, Pakistan, in 1983 and 1985
Authors: Sugamata Masami , Ahmed Akhtar , Miura Teiji , Takasu Toshiaki , Kono Reisaku , Ogata Takayuki , Kimura‐Kuroda Junko , Yasui Kotaro
Published: March 2007

The prevalence of West Nile (WN) virus infection in Karachi, Pakistan, was unknown until 1982. It had been noticed that there were more than a few patients with encephalitides in Karachi, and it was supposed that Japanese encephalitis (JE) cases would be found among them. Therefore, a seroepidemiological study was conducted to define the prevalence of WN virus infection and the possible occurrence of JE virus infection in the Karachi area. Prevalences of haemagglutination inhibition (HI) and neutralization (NT) antibodies against WN virus were studied among 81 serum samples (in July, 33 samples; in September, 48) during 1983, and among 156 paired serum samples that were collected twice, in July and October of 1985. Nearly the same antibody‐positive rates were obtained in July of both years (1983: HI 55%; 1985: HI 53%; NT 50%); the rates increased slightly during September/October (1983: HI 65%; 1985: HI 59%, NT 54%). Among 156 paired samples in 1985, 20 (13%) and 12 (8%) showed positive‐ or negative‐antibody conversion between July and October. Two serum samples from each of 156 residents obtained in July had a significantly higher NT antibody titre against JE virus than against WN virus (in case 1, JE 1:80, WN < 1: 10; in case 2, JE 1:40, WN < 1:10). This is the first report to show the prevalence of WN virus infection in Karachi, Pakistan.
Molecular epidemiology of human rotavirus infections based on genome segment variations in viral strains
Authors: Sethi S. K. , Olive D. M. , Strannegard O. O. , Al‐Nakib W.
Published: March 2007

Molecular epidemiology of rotavirus infections in 621 hospitalized children was investigated by analysis of migration patterns of viral genomic ribonucleic acid (RNA) segments by electrophoresis in polyacrylamide gels. Based on migration patterns of RNA segments of 184 rotavirus strains, seven different electropherotypes were identified: 146 (79.3%) strains were “long,” and 38 (20.7%) were “short” electropherotypes; 61% belonged to a single dominant “long” electropherotype, which persisted throughout the 15‐month period of study, whereas six other cocirculating types appeared at varying intervals. Electrophoretic migration patterns of RNA from viral isolates of two patients suggested mixed infections with different rotaviruses. There was a lack of correlation between the electrophoretic migration of segments 10 and 11 and serologically defined subgroup specificity in three of the rotavirus strains. Rotavirus infections and different electropherotypes were observed throughout the year.
Appearance of immune complexes during experimental hepatitis A infection in chimpanzees
Authors: Margolis Harold S. , Nainan Omana V. , Krawczynski Krzysztof , Bradley Daniel W. , Ebert James W. , Spelbring John , Fields Howard A. , Maynard James E.
Published: March 2007

Circulating immune complexes (CICs) were detected during the course of experimental hepatitis A virus (HAV) infection in 8 of 9 chimpanzees. In all cases, the predominant class of antibody detected in the CIC was IgM. The appearance of IgM‐CIC usually preceded the onset of liver enzyme elevations, and in all instances, the appearance of IgM‐CIC correlated with the presence of IgM anti‐HAV. Six of 8 animals tested had significant depression of C3 concentrations during the course of infection, and this depression occurred at the peak of CIC activity. Immunohistologic studies demonstrated granular deposits of IgM localized in sinusoidal cells during peak of IgM‐CIC activity. IgM‐CICs appear to be a fairly consistent finding during HAV infection and probably represent the viremic phase of the disease. However, they do not appear to mediate hepatocellular injury by direct action on hepatocytes.
Detection of human cytomegalovirus by slot‐blot hybridisation assay employing oligo‐primed 32P‐labelled probe
Authors: Agha S. A. , Coleman J. C. , Selwyn S. , Mahmoud L. A. , Abd‐Elaal A. M. , Archard L. C.
Published: March 2007

A 32P‐labelled Hind III‐0 DNA fragment (nine Kilobases; Kb) from human cytomegalovirus AD‐169 (HCMV) was used in slot‐blot hybridisation assay for the detection of HCMV in clinical samples. The results obtained with DNA hybridisation assay (DNA HA) were compared with virus isolation using conventional tube cell culture (CTC) and centrifugation vial culture (CVC), immunofluorescence (IF), and complement fixation test (CFT). Of 15 CTC‐positive samples, 13 were positive with DNA HA (sensitivity 86.7%). Also, 14 additional samples were DNA HA‐positive but CTC‐negative. CVC and/or IF confirmed the diagnosis in nine of 14; the remaining five samples were from three patients who showed fourfold rising antibody titre by CFT. Although DNA HA using 32P‐labelled probes is relatively cumbersome and expensive, it is a valuable test for quantitation of viral shedding in patients with HCMV infections who may benefit from antiviral therapy.
Serum alphafetoprotein levels in subjects infected with hepatitis B virus
Authors: Kitau M. J. , Grint P. C. A. , Heath R. B. , Chard T.
Published: March 2007

Serum alphafetoprotein (AFP) levels were measured using a sensitive radioimmunoassay in 108 hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg)‐positive subjects and 695 controls. The concentrations were significantly higher in the HBsAg‐positives. Within this group, the highest levels were found in those with active HBV infection. In those without evidence of acute infection, the levels were higher in the high‐risk than in the low‐risk subjects. It is concluded: 1) that measurement of serum AFP might be a useful additional index of infectivity and prognosis in HBsAg‐positive subjects; and 2) that in the light of the association between chronic HBV infection, hepatocellular carcinoma, and raised AFP in non‐European populations, consideration should be given to regular monitoring of AFP levels in HBsAg‐positive subjects in the United Kingdom.
Susceptible adult murine model for Junin virus
Authors: Campetella Oscar E. , Galassi Nora V. , Sanjuan Norberto , Barrios Hebe A.
Published: March 2007

The adult mouse model had been considered resistant to Junin virus (JV) infection. However, we found that C3H/HeJ murine strain proved highly susceptible up to 5 months of age to intracerebral inoculation with the prototype XJ JV strain, showing neurological signs and 80–90% mortality within 13 days. Neutralizing antibodies (Nt Ab) were absent, but low immunofluorescent Ab levels (1:5) were detected as from day + 7. The virus could only be rescued by coculture of brain samples with Vero cells. Histopathological findings were consistent with the suckling mouse model and with a delayed‐type hypersensitivity reaction. XJ inoculation by extraneural routes failed to cause disease, however, it induced Nt Abs. Ic infection with XJCL3 strain of JV attenuated for man and guinea pig, but not for mouse, induced high Nt Ab levels but not mortality. In either case, mice resisted ic XJ challenge. Thus, C3H/HeJ is the first adult mouse model susceptible to JV.
Genome analysis of adenovirus 4a, a causative agent of pharyngoconjunctival fever and respiratory diseases in Brazil
Authors: Gomes S. A. , Gabbay Y. B. , Nascimento J. P. , Niel C.
Published: March 2007

An outbreak of pharyngoconjunctival fever caused by adenovirus (Ad) occurred in 1976 in Belem (northern Brazil). By restriction endonuclease analysis, it was shown that the type responsible was Ad4a, a variant of Ad4 prototype (Ad4p) and previously decribed as causative agent of ocular diseases. In an epidemiologic study carried out in Rio de Janeiro and Belem between 1977 and 1986, 148 Ads were isolated from children with respiratory disease. All five Ad4 strains encountered during this study were also Ad4a. This type, circulating in South America, can therefore cause both ocular and respiratory diseases. No Ad4p was isolated during this study. A percent of comigrating restriction fragments of only 50% between Ad4p and Ad4a was calculated from 13 restriction enzyme patterns. The restriction maps of Ad4a for nine endonucleases are presented and compared with those of Ad4p.
Detection of anti‐rotavirus IgG, IgM, and IgA antibodies in healthy subjects, rotavirus infections, and immunodeficiencies by immunoblotting
Authors: Ushijima Hiroshi , Honma Hitoshi , Ohnoda Hideki , Mukoyama Junji , Oyanagi Hisao , Araki Kazuko , Shinozaki Tatsuhiko , Morikawa Shigeru , Kitamura Takashi
Published: March 2007

Immune responses to individual simian rotavirus (SA 11) structural polypeptides were studied with emphasis on specific IgG, IgM, and IgA in paired sera from four children with rotavirus infections. Responses to simian rotavirus (SA 11) were also studied in 103 healthy children, 10 patients with primary immunodeficiency who received intravenous immunoglobulin, and 11 human immunodeficiency virus antibody‐positive patients.

All samples were immunoblotted for two major polypeptides—VP2 and VP6—of IgG. Immunoblotted IgA and IgM were elevated 2–4 weeks after the onset of the disease (stage II) in patients with rotavirus infection. Immunoblotted IgG remained almost the same at the onset of the disease and stage II.

The scores for primary and secondary immunodeficiency patients were lower than for healthy children. The score obtained by totaling all polypeptides found in each individual was compared with the optical density (OD) value obtained by enzyme immunoassay.
The Size of the Hepatitis Delta Agent
Authors: He Li‐Fang , Ford Eugenie , Purcell Robert H. , London William T. , Phillips Jere , Gerin John L.
Published: March 2007

The size of the hepatitis delta virus was determined by filtration of infectious plasma through polycarbonate membranes and the inoculation of filtrates into chimpanzees. Chimpanzees inoculated with filtrates of 50 nm and 30 nm, but not 15 nm filters, developed delta hepatitis. The minimum size of infectious hepatitis delta virus was estimated to be approximately 30 nm, which is consistent with measurements of particles thought to be the virus.
Neutralizing activity of antibodies against the major herpes simplex virus type 1 glycoproteins
Authors: Eing Bodo R. , Kühn Joachim E. , Braun Rüdiger W.
Published: March 2007

The specificity and neutralizing activity of antibodies against the major herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV‐1) glycoproteins were tested in serum samples of patients with a history of HSV‐1 infection. By preabsorption of sera to preparations of native and denatured HSV‐1 proteins, followed by immunoblotting and microneutralization, it was shown that the majority of neutralizing antibodies are directed against denaturation‐sensitive epitopes. Furthermore, preabsorption of sera to proteins of viral ts and deletion mutants revealed that antibodies specific for gB, gC, and gE had a low neutralizing activity. These results suggest a major role of anti‐gD in neutralization of viral infectivity. In addition, it was shown that antibodies directed against the gB monomer were distinct from antibodies against the gB homodimers. The latter, however, did not reveal any measurable neutralizing activity.
Replication of poliovirus in human mononuclear phagocyte cell lines is dependent on the stage of cell differentiation
Authors: Roivainen Merja , Hovi Tapani
Published: March 2007

Both wild‐type and attenuated strains of poliovirus type 3 were found to replicate in the U‐937 cells, an established cell line derived from human histiocytic lymphoma. However, preincubation of the cells with phorbol ester (PMA) that brought about the typical adherent macrophagelike appearance of the cultures, converted the cells to practically nonpermissive for poliovirus, while their ability to replicate vesicular stomatitis virus was not impaired. RC2A, another human cell line derived from monocytic leukemia, showed no detectable progeny virus production within 48 hr. Poliovirus replication in U‐937 cells may be a suitable model for detailed studies of poliovirus‐leukocyte interactions.
Recombinant‐yeast‐derived hepatitis b vaccine in healthy adults: Safety and two‐year immunogenicity of early investigative lots of vaccine
Authors: Butterly Lynn , Watkins Eloise , Dienstag Jules L.
Published: March 2007

We tested the safety and long‐term immunogenicity of two of the early investigative lots of a recombinant‐yeast‐derived hepatitis B vaccine in immunocompetent adults. Three 10‐μg doses of recombinant hepatitis B vaccine (Merck Sharp & Dohme Research Laboratories, West Point, PA) were administered by deltoid intramuscular injection at time 0, 1, and 6 months to 65 seronegative adult health workers. Following a complete three‐injection course, 98% of vaccinees acquired anti‐HBs, 97% at levels >10 mlU/ml, and 95% maintained such “protective” antibody levels at 1 year. At 2 years, 93% retained antibody, but only 68% had levels >10 mlU/ml. In those who responded to vaccination by achieving any detectable level of antibody, the peak geometric mean titer of anti‐HBs, measured at 9 months, was 741 ± 6 mlU/ml the geometric mean titer fell to 348 ± 6 at 1 year and to 66 ± 7 at 2 years. Side effects were trivial, and levels of yeast antibody, as measured by radioimmunoassay, were not changed from prevaccine levels. No serious adverse effects were encountered, and neither type B nor non‐B hepatitis occurred in any vaccinee. These findings demonstrate that the recombinant yeast hepatitis B vaccine is safe and immunogenic but that 10 μg of the early investigative lots of the recombinant vaccine is less immunogenic than 20 μg of the plasma‐derived vaccine. Recipients of early investigative vaccine lots should be considered for booster vaccination with currently available, more immunogenic vaccine lots.
Lymphocyte subsets alteration in patients with argentine hemorrhagic fever
Authors: Vallejos Daniel A. , Ambrosio Ana M. , Feuillade María R. , Maiztegui Julio I.
Published: March 2007

Peripheral blood lymphocyte subpopulations were studied in 15 patients with Argentine Hemorrhagic Fever (AHF), during the acute period of the disease and in early convalescence. Antihuman lg antibodies were used to identify B cells and monoclonal antibodies to assess T4 and T8 subsets. During the acute period of the disease, significant alterations were found in B, T4, and T8 lymphocytes (P < 0.001), as well as in T4/T8 ratios (P < 0.001). These abnormalities disappeared in early convalescence, around 30 days after the clinical onset. Diminished numbers of T4 lymphocytes are interpreted as relevant to the immunodepression that characterizes the acute phase of AHF.
Regulation of lymphocyte proliferation after influenza virus infection of human mononuclear leukocytes
Authors: Roberts Norbert J. , Nichols Joan E.
Published: March 2007

Previous studies demonstrated that in vitro infection with influenza A viruses altered several functions of human monocytes‐macrophages but did not detectably alter functions of human lymphocytes. However, both types of cells were infected, as determined by production and surface expression of viral antigens. In the current studies, human mononuclear leukocytes were infected in vitro and assayed for both influenza virus‐induced proliferation and mitogen (phytohemagglutinin [PHA])‐induced proliferation, as well as for ability to stimulate proliferative responses by normal autologous leukocytes. The leukocytes showed proliferation in response to the infectious virus, but concomitant depressed proliferative responses to PHA. Coculture experiments suggested suppression of PHA‐induced responses by the virus‐infected cells. However, upon coculture with fresh autologous leukocytes (without PHA stimulation), both virus‐infected macrophages and virus‐infected lymphocytes induced autologous lymphocyte proliferative responses. Altered proliferative responses to mitogen stimulation after exposure to the virus were not due to diminished interleukin‐1 production or diminished expression of HLA‐DR by monocytes‐macrophages. The expression of influenza virus antigens and resulting induction of autologous proliferative responses, combined with depressed mitogen‐induced proliferation, may be important in human antiviral defense.
Protein and nucleic acid analysis of influenza B viruses isolated in Italy in 1984
Authors: Donatelli I. , Mancini G. , Castrucci M. R. , Campitelli L. , Corcoran T. , Yates P. , Oxford J. S.
Published: March 2007

Genomic and phenotypic analysis of 30 influenza B viruses, isolated in Italy in 1984, antigenically closely related to the B/USSR/100/83 prototype virus, was carried out using T1oligonucleotide fingerprinting of total RNA and one‐dimensional peptide mapping. The results of fingerprinting analysis indicated an oligonucleotide spot homology of 90–96%, corresponding to a nucleotide sequence variation of only 0.75–0.3%. All the strains appear to belong to the same evolutionary line. Nevertheless, heterogeneity was found at the structural and antigenic level, when the viruses were compared by peptide mapping and monoclonal antibody analysis. No correlation between the biochemical variability of the viruses and the epidemiological characteristics of the different strains was established, which is consistent with the hypothesis that distinct variants, arisen at different times from a parental strain, co‐circulate during an epidemic, although the additional occurrence of random mutations during the evolution of the epidemic cannot be excluded.
Immunoblot analysis of the serological response in hantavirus infections
Authors: Zöller L. , Scholz J. , Stohwasser R. , Giebel L. B. , Sethi K. K. , Bautz E. K. F. , Darai G.
Published: March 2007

Sera from patients with nephropathia epidemica (NE) or Korean hemorrhagic fever (KHF) were tested for specific antibody response to antigens of Hällnäs virus and Hantaan virus strain 76–118. A Vero E6 derived cell line persistently infected with Hantaan virus strain B1, and Vero E6 cells freshly infected with Hantaan virus type strain 76–118 were used as antigens in the immunofluorescence assay (IFA) and the immunoblot. Blots were prepared from whole cell lysates. The convalescent‐phase sera of NE patients tested in this study regularly revealed a marked reaction with a 52 kilodalton (Kd) protein of Hällnäs virus and a 50 Kd protein of Hantaan virus. A convalescent serum from a patient with Korean hemorrhagic fever and a rat antiserum against Hantaan virus could recognize the 50 Kd band of Hantaan virus but showed no apparent reactivity with the 52 Kd component of Hällnäs virus in the standard dilutions. Some sera could additionally identify minor bands in the 55 Kd and/or 67 Kd region of the blots. A one‐way cross reactivity between Hantaan and Hällnäs viruses was also evident from the results of the immunofluorescence assays in that NE convalescent sera reacted with both viruses, whereas KHF convalescent or anti‐Hantaan sera gave strongly positive results with Hantaan virus but only faint reaction with Hällnäs virus.
Relationship between the occurrence of virus in plasma and cerebrospinal fluid of hiv‐1 infected individuals
Authors: Sönnerborg A. , Ehrnst A. , Strannegård Ö
Published: March 2007

Attempts to isolate human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV‐1) were carried out on cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and blood plasma samples from 111 HIV‐1 infected subjects in various stages of infection. HIV‐1 was recovered at a low rate from CSF of persons with normal immunological parameters but frequently from patients with abnormal values, in all stages of immune system involvement. Isolation from plasma was positive in the majority of the patients, in all stages of infection, with a frequency that was related to the degree of immunodeficiency.

HIV‐1 could be recovered from the CSF of most patients (74%) with viremia when 85 paired specimens of 58 patients were analyzed. By contrast, HIV‐1 was isolated from CSF, but not from plasma, in one case only. HIV‐1 p24 antigen measured by an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was detectable in only four CSF samples compared with 15 serum samples in paired specimens.

These findings indicate that most patients with HIV‐1 infection have circulating cell‐free infectious virus in the blood and simultaneously demonstrable HIV‐1 in the CSF. Replication of HIV‐1 exclusively in the central nervous system (CNS) appears to be a rare event.
Comparison of the immunogenicity of reduced doses of two recombinant dna hepatitis b vaccines in New Zealand children
Authors: Milne A. , Brawner T. A. , Dumbill P. C. , Kawachi I. , Pearce N. E.
Published: March 2007

A group of 201 hepatitis B virus (HBV) sero‐negative children 1–12 years of age received either three 2 μg doses of Merck Sharp and Dohme (MSD) or Smith Kline and French (SKF) recombinant DNA (rDNA) hepatitis B vaccine I.M. at monthly intervals. Each recipient was tested 4–6 weeks later for antibody to hepatitis B surface antigen (anti‐HBs) by enzyme immunoassay (EIA) and radioimmunoassay (RIA). Ninety‐six 4–5‐year‐old children, given 2 μg doses of a plasma‐derived vaccine (MSD, H‐B‐Vax) I.M. at 0, 1, 2 months, were tested at the same time with the same assays, for comparison. Anti‐HBs responses and geometric mean titres (GMT) were significantly higher with the MSDrDNA vaccine (96% and 338.9 IU/liter) than with the SKF/r DNA vaccine (82.3% and 69.4 IU/liter). We conclude that for the protection of young children, 2 μg doses of the MSD rDNA hepatitis B vaccine may be used under similar circumstances in which 2 μg of the MSD plasma‐derived vaccine was used. Further studies are needed before the other rDNA hepatitis B vaccine may be used in lower than the 10 μg dose recommended in children.
Antibody to Epstein‐Barr virus‐specific DNase as a marker for field survey of patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma in Taiwan
Authors: Chen Jen‐Yang , Chen Chien‐Jen , Liu Mei‐Ying , Cho Show‐Mei , Hsu Mow‐Ming , Lynn Tsong‐Chou , Shieh Ti , Tu Shieh‐Mien , Beasley R. Palmer , Hwang Lu‐Yu , Lee Hong‐Hsin , Kuo Shiow‐Ling , Yang Czau‐Siung
Published: March 2007

A serological survey using antibody to EpsteinBarr virus (EBV)‐specific DNase activity as a marker for the identification of patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) has been carried out on healthy subjects who visited Government Employees' Clinic Center (GECC) for routine health examination and on individuals residing in NPC high‐risk areas (HRA) in Taiwan. During a 3‐year prospective study, 22,596 and 9,869 sera were collected from the GECC and HRA groups, respectively. Taking neutralization of 2 or more units of EBV DNase activity as a positive response, the positivity rates in the GECC and HRA groups were 5.4% and 11.92%, respectively. Among the antibody‐positive individuals, three cases of NPC were found in the GECC group (detection rate 0.63%) and 11 in the HRA group (detection rate 1.32%). A further patient at stage III ofthe disease was found in the first year of following up of 1,005 antibody‐positive individuals. Among the 12 NPC patients in the HRA, five were newly diagnosed as having stage II (two patients) NPC. These results support the hypothesis that antibody against EBV‐specific DNase activity may be a useful marker for detection of patients with NPC, and they imply that individuals having high levels of antibody to EBV DNase activity may have an increased risk of development of NPC.
Topological distribution of virus‐specific and cross‐reactive antigenic determinants on the gB glycoprotein of the herpes simplex viruses
Authors: Eberle R. , Courtney R. J.
Published: March 2007

The antigenic properties and relations between the herpes simplex virus type 1 and 2 (HSV1, HSV2) gB glycoproteins were investigated. Using several assay systems to analyze the virusspecific reactivity of polyclonal monospecific rabbit anti‐gB sera, it was demonstrated that most of the antigenic determinants of the gB glycoproteins exposed at the surface of both virions and infected cells are virus‐specific rather than cross‐reactive. Comparative examination of the reactivity of human immune sera with HSV1 and HSV2 antigens by immunoblotting also revealed differences in the ability of HSV1 and HSV2 immune sera to recognize homologous vs. heterologous gB antigens. These results indicate that despite the high degree of amino acid sequence homology which exists between the HSV1 and HSV2 gB glycoproteins many of the immunologically relevant antigenic determinants of the gB glycoproteins probably reside in regions of the molecule which are not so highly conserved between the two HSV serotypes.
Absence of perinatal transmission of blood‐borne non‐a, non‐b hepatitis virus by chimpanzees with acute and chronic infection
Authors: Brotman Betsy , Boehle Wolfgang , Prince Alfred M.
Published: March 2007

Two chimpanzees were born to parents with chronic non‐A, non‐B hepatitis and remained with their mothers until 12 and 18 months, respectively. The infants were followed from 7 to 8 weeks of age with biweekly or monthly blood samples and with monthly liver biopsies from 4 to 7 months after birth. Another chimpanzee, along with both of its parents, was held throughout the parents' acute infection with non‐A, non‐B hepatitis; at this time the infant was 14–16 months of age, and it was followed with biweekly blood samples and monthly biopsies from the time of potential exposure for 20 months. No abnormalities indicative of non‐A, non‐B hepatitis were detected in these animals. During the 29 to 35 months of follow‐up, alanine aminotransferases and gamma glutamyl‐transferases (GGPT) levels remained well within normal range for animals held in the same facility. Histologic and electron microscopic examination of liver tissue revealed no abnormalities.
Characterization of two genome types of adenovirus type 31 isolated in stockholm during 1987
Authors: Johansson Mats E. , Brundin Marianne , Adamson Lisbeth , Grillner Lena , Landqvist Margareta , Thörner Årke , Wirgart Benita Zweygberg
Published: March 2007

The authors isolated during 1987 seven adenovirus type 31 (Ad31) within a 9‐month period. The isolates were obtained from urine, throat, and feces, implying a systemic spread of the infection. Most patients displayed gastrointestinal symptoms, but some had respiratory symptoms and fever.

All of the strains differed by restriction endonuclease analysis from the prototype strain (1315) by an additional BgI II restriction site. Ad31 isolates 1–6 could be divided into two groups by the enzymes Bam HI, Msp I, and Xho I. Each enzyme gave rise to the same group distribution: isolates 1–3 and 4–6, respectively. Digestion with Bst EII, Hind III, Kpn I, and Sma I resulted in identical patterns for isolates 1–6. Isolate 7, however, demonstrated a DNA deletion of approximately 0.8 kbp, but it was otherwise identical to isolates 4–6.

In conclusion, two separate genome types of Ad31 were isolated, one of which included a DNA deletion mutant. The increased isolation rate may reflect an epidemiological situation, as the same isolation procedure had been used both before and after this period.
Induction and persistence of local rotavirus antibodies in relation to serum antibodies
Authors: Bernstein David I. , McNeal Monica M. , Schiff Gilbert M. , Ward Richard L.
Published: March 2007

The induction and persistence of local rotavirus antibodies, including stool IgA, jejunal IgA, and jejunal neutralizing antibody, were evaluated in 14 adult volunteers infected with the CJN strain of human rotavirus. In addition, the relationships between local rotavirus IgA and serum rotavirus IgA, IgG, and neutralizing antibody were determined. Both stool and serum rotavirus IgA appeared to have similar kinetics. Both antibodies peaked by days 14–17 after inoculation in all subjects, then decreased rapidly. By days 26–28, titers had fallen to 13% and 30% of their respective peaks. Serum rotavirus IgG peaked somewhat later, occurring in five subjects on days 26–28. Serum neutralizing antibody peaked on days 26–28 in all but three subjects. Both serum IgG and neutralizing antibodies also declined more slowly than rotavirus IgA. Although all antibody concentrations had decreased to only a fraction of their peak responses by days 270–365 after rotavirus inoculation they remained higher than baseline levels. For example, stool rotavirus IgA concentrations were 13.5‐fold higher than baseline, while jejunal rotavirus IgA and neutralizing antibody were 8.9‐ and 4.3‐fold above baseline, respectively. Similarly, serum antibodies remained 3.7‐ to 11.2‐fold higher than baseline at 270–365 days after rotavirus inoculation. These studies imply that serum rotavirus IgA is a good indicator of local antibody responses. Furthermore, although both serum and local antibody titers peaked within 2–4 weeks after infection, these antibodies persisted at above baseline concentrations for at least 9–12 months after infection.
Serological typing scheme for bk‐like isolates of human polyomavirus
Authors: Knowles Wendy A. , Gibson Patricia E. , Gardner Sylvia D.
Published: March 2007

Human polyomavirus BK‐like isolates were subjected to restriction endonuclease analysis with the enzymes EcoRI and Hind III. End‐point dilution was used to obtain homogeneous virus pools for DNA analysis and to remove JC virus from a mixed stock. The results of Hind III digestion suggested that two subgroups could be distinguished.

Several BK‐like isolates were purified and rabbit antisera raised. The isolates were compared with each other and with BK and JC viruses by haemagglutination‐inhibition (HI) and by neutralisation. JC virus was serologically distinct, but all the other isolates showed some crossreactivity. Two subgroups were again evident: GS and PG were with prototype BK in subgroup 1, and MG and IV were in subgroup 2. Two isolates, AS and SB, reacted with isolates of both subgroups 1 and 2 but were distinct from one another: their genome was similar to subgroup 1 isolates. Typing by HI or by neutralisation may form a basis for grouping BK‐like polyomavirus isolates.
Serum antibody pattern, antigenemia, and virus isolation in infants born to mothers seropositive for human immunodeficiency virus type 1
Authors: Furlini Giuliano , Re Maria Carla , Ferranti Gabriella , Casa Paola Dalla , Placa Michele La
Published: March 2007

Forty children born to mothers seropositive for the human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV‐1) followed‐up to 15 months after birth were studied by means of serum antibody patterns to individual viral polypeptides, by the presence of detectable levels of viral core antigen (p24) and virus in serum and peripheral blood lymphocytes, and by total lymphocyte counts and T4/T8 lymphocyte ratios.

The results obtained indicate that a persistent antigenemia is significantly associated with positive virus isolation from peripheral blood lymphocytes and with changes in the intensity of antibody reaction to core (p24, p17) and pol (p31) antigens.

Six children (15%) presented unequivocal signs of HIV‐1 infection and five also had signs of immune system involvement.
Guillain‐Barré syndrome associated with acute delta hepatitis virus superinfection
Authors: Lin Shi‐Ming , Ryu Shan‐Jin , Liaw Yun‐Fan
Published: March 2007

We describe a patient with the clinical characteristics of Guillain‐Barré syndrome, including progressive ascending paresis; cerebrospinal fluid albumino‐cytological dissociation; polyphasic small evoked potential, with prolonged latency and slow motor nerve conduction velocity; and active denervation pattern on electromyography, in association with acute delta hepatitis virus superinfection. The patient recovered from Guillain‐Barré syndrome but developed chronic active delta hepatitis.