bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intermediate Distance Testing of Optical Top-of-Rail (TOR) Lubricity Sensors on a Remote-Controlled Rail Cart
Authors: Mast Timothy , Pan Yu , Holton Carvel , Ahmadian Mehdi
Published: June 2021

The primary intent of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness and utility of a laser-based measurement unit for qualitative assessment of the presence and amount of Top-of-Rail Friction Modifier (TOR or TORFM), at reasonably high speeds and over long distances in the field. As a capstone to this phase of development, a series of field tests were conducted on revenue service track in partnership with a local Class 1 railroad. For these tests, the Third Generation Rail Lubricity Sensor was mounted on a Remote-Controlled Rail Cart and tested continuously over several miles of track. This longer window is able to cover the domain of multiple wayside applicators over a distance of more than 3 miles, the expected carry distance of TORFM.

The results of this testing demonstrate the capacity of optical sensors to measure and evaluate track lubricity. The signal characteristics at or near wayside applicators demonstrate a clear impulse from the heavy lubricant close to the applicator. Further, by collecting continuous data down track from a wayside applicator it is possible to observe several novel ways in which the TORFM and flange grease carries beyond the point of application. One such example is a clear spike in track lubricity when entering or exiting curves caused by the lateral shift of the wheelsets drawing fresh lubricant previously out of contact with the rail into contact creating a “phantom applicator” effect. These observations are crucial to understanding in detail the way the TORFM and flange grease is carried down track. They are also essential to creating predictive models for most effective application of friction modifiers to specific track geometries.
A Systems Approach for the Evaluation and Rebuilding of the Rogers Pass Systems on Canadian Pacific
Authors: Thurston David F.
Published: June 2021

In the 1980’s, Canadian Pacific (CP) constructed one of the most ambitious projects since the original completion of the railway in 1885. The Rogers Pass project was initiated at CP in the early 1980’s to allow for increased capacity and efficiency by installing a second main track within the Rogers Pass area. Completed in 1988, the Rogers Pass Project included the construction of a new line with significantly lower westbound grades and two tunnels with a combined length of over ten miles. Several other systems were required to complete the project that will be discussed I this paper. Recently, CP has started a new Multi-Year Plan to rebuild virtually all of the tunnel systems infrastructure that will not only prolong the life of these systems, but will introduce technology not known at the time of construction. These new systems will enable CP to greatly reduce maintenance cost while improving reliability. These systems include a high voltage transmission line that feed the ventilation house, a sophisticated ventilation system that allows fresh combustion air to reach the locomotives working the uphill grades, as well as process controllers that automate all of these systems. As all of the systems are reaching the end of their useful life, CP’s rebuilding will also increase overall system capacity.
Modelling the Effect of Track Stiffness Variation on Wheel Rail Interaction Using Finite Element Method
Authors: Mutswatiwa Lovejoy , Nkundineza Celestin , Güler Mehmet A.
Published: June 2021

For predictive maintenance purpose, wheel and rail wear evolution models have been developed based on wheel rail contact force calculations. These models are known to assume the wheel rotating on a rigid rail. However recent developments have shown that the flexibility of the track plays an important role in wear evolution. On the other hand, vertical track stiffness variation along the track is known to exist and to affect the track flexibility. The present research work investigates the influence of non-uniform track modulus on the wheel rail contact forces using elasto-plastic explicit dynamic Finite Elements (FE). The FE model is composed of a quarter car model running on a rail supported by three cross-ties. The modulus of elasticity of the cross-ties is calibrated to produce the total track modulus of the railroad track infrastructure. Non-uniformity of the track is modeled by assigning distinct elasticity moduli to the cross-ties. The instantaneous contact physical parameters are extracted from FE models repetitively for various cross-tie modulus ratios. The results show that increase in cross-tie modulus variation results in increased fluctuation amplitudes of wheel-rail contact parameters such as force, stress and contact area. This effect leads to changes of the rate of material removal on the wheels and rails. This research work intends to incorporate the spatial variation of the railroad track stiffness into rail vehicle wheel and track wear prediction models.
A Mini-Network Simulation Approach to Investigate the Capacity and Safety Aspects of National Rail Network
Authors: Pouryousef Hamed , Stewart Monique , Singh Som P. , Prabhakaran Anand
Published: June 2021

Over the last decades there have been major technology advancements in the railroad industry to improve the operational safety as well as performance of freight trains in shared-use corridors.

This study was focused on developing a methodology that allows evaluation of the impact of such advanced technologies over the safety and capacity aspects of the U.S. rail network using a benchmark mini-network simulation approach. A hypothetical mini-network of 5,000 miles of track with characteristics typical of the North American rail network was developed. Two hundred thirty two (232) daily trains, including a mix of intercity passenger, commuter, High Speed Rail and 78 freight trains, were used to simulate the traffic flow. Several network capacity and safety related parameters; network delay, network velocity, track utilization level, number of stops at stations, number of braking for route reservations, and number of stops at signals were analyzed in this study.

The results of the benchmark network simulations were then extended to the U.S. rail network, using an analytical technique with assumptions for important parameters and impact factors such as total route miles, freight train-miles, number of sidings/yards, congestion level and age of fleets. The results indicate that the methodology is able to quantify the improvement in network capacity and safety features that can be obtained when advanced technologies are deployed on freight trains.
Estimation of Pre-COVID19 Daily Ridership Patterns From Paper and Electronic Ticket Sales Data With Origin-Destination, Time-Of-Day, and Train-Start Detail on a Commuter Railroad: Quick-Response Big Data Analytics in a World Steeped With Tradition
Authors: Lu Alex , Marchwinski Thomas , Culhane Robert , Wei Xiaojing
Published: June 2021

Our niche method independently estimates hourly commuter rail station-to-station origin-destination (OD) matrix data each day from ticket sales and activation data from four sales channels (paper/mobile tickets, mail order, and onboard sales) by extending well-established transportation modelling methodologies. This algorithm’s features include: (1) handles multi-pack pay-per-ride fare instruments not requiring electronic validation, like ten-trip paper tickets “punched” onboard by railroad conductors; (2) correctly infers directionality for direction-agnostic ticket-types; (3) estimates unlimited ride ticket utilization patterns sufficiently precisely to inform vehicle assignment/scheduling; (4) provides integer outputs without allowing rounding to affect control totals nor introduce artifacts; (5) deals gracefully with cliff-edge changes in demand, like the COVID19 related lockdown; and (6) allocates hourly traffic to each train-start based on passenger choice. Our core idea is that the time of ticket usage is ultimately a function of the time of sale and ticket type, and mutual transformation is made via probability density functions (“patterns”) given sufficient distribution data. We generated pre-COVID daily OD matrices and will eventually extend this work to post-COVID inputs. Results were provided to operations planners using visual and tabular interfaces. These matrices represent data never previously available by any method; prior OD surveys required 100,000 respondents, and even then could neither provide daily nor hourly levels of detail, and could not monitor special event ridership nor specific seasonal travel such as summer Friday afternoons.
Metabolic perturbations sensitize triple-negative breast cancers to apoptosis induced by BH3 mimetics
Authors: Daniels Veerle W. , Zoeller Jason J. , van Gastel Nick , McQueeney Kelley E. , Parvin Salma , Potter Danielle S. , Fell Geoffrey G. , Ferreira Vinícius G. , Yilma Binyam , Gupta Rajat , Spetz Johan , Bhola Patrick D. , Endress Jennifer E. , Harris Isaac S. , Carrilho Emanuel , Sarosiek Kristopher A. , Scadden David T. , Brugge Joan S. , Letai Anthony
Published: June 2021

Blocking adenine synthesis sensitizes some triple-negative breast cancer cells to apoptotic death.
From lactate to antidepressant
Authors: Ferrarelli Leslie K.
Published: June 2021

The metabolism of lactic acid has antidepressant effects in mice.
Intestinal immune response to cholera toxin: dependence on route and dosage of antigen for priming and boosting
Authors: Svennerholm A M , Lange S , Holmgren J
Published: June 2021

The influence in immunization with cholera toxin of the route and antigen dose on intestinal antibody formation and protective immunity against experimental cholera was studied in mice. Administration by either the intravenous or oral route induced effective priming as well as boosting of mucosal immunity, with the effects on intestinal immunoglobulin A antitoxin synthesis and protective antitoxic immunity showing excellent concordance. A strong antigen dose dependence was found for both priming and boosting of the local immunity, irrespective of route. Very efficient high-dose priming did, however, partially decrease the dose dependence of the booster response and, conversely, a high booster dose partly overcame the relative inefficiency of low-dose priming. The results suggest that the amount of antigen reaching the immunocompetent cells in the gut rather than the route of administration per se determines the mucosal immunizing effect.
Cytotoxic lymphocytes and antibody-dependent complement-mediated cytotoxicity induced by administration of influenza vaccine
Authors: Quinnan G V , Ennis F A , Tuazon C U , Wells M A , Butchko G M , Armstrong R , McLaren C , Manischewitz J F , Kiley S
Published: June 2021

Recently defined aspects of cellular and humoral antiviral immunity were evaluated in 10 young adults given influenza vaccines containing A/USSR/77 (H1N1) antigens. Cytotoxic lymphocytes were measured by using cryopreserved lymphocytes as effector cells and syngeneic, virus-infected lymphocytes as target cells. An assay previously developed in this laboratory was adapted for the measurement of antibody-dependent, complement-mediated cytotoxicity. Antiviral cytotoxic lymphocyte responses were detected in 5 of 10 volunteers between 3 and 10 days after the initial vaccination. These responses were found both in individuals who were previously primed and in individuals who were not primed to influenza A/USSR/77 antigens. The complement-mediated lysis assay was found to be more sensitive than the hemagglutination inhibition test and probably detected antibodies to both subtype-specific and cross-reactive antigenic determinants. These responses to influenza antigens are similar to those obtained in studies of murine influenza which indicate that cytotoxic lymphocytes and antibody-dependent, complement-mediated cytotoxicity have a role in the early response to acute infection.
Slime glycolipoproteins and the pathogenicity of various strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa in experimental infection
Authors: Dimitracopoulos G , Bartell P F
Published: June 2021

Several strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa were differentiated on the basis of the surface properties of the cells. Fisher immunotype, phage type, polysaccharide depolymerase type, and indirect hemagglutination reactions were used for this purpose. Each strain was then studied with respect to events known to occur during the experimental infection of mice with P. aeruginosa. The virulence of the viable cells varied significantly, although all strains were virulent. Glycolipoproteins were isolated from the slime of each strain, and they appeared similar chemically when they were analyzed for gross composition. The toxicity of the isolated glycolipoproteins varied insignificantly, except for that of one strain. Viable cells of each strain and their respective glycolipoproteins caused leukopenia, which occurs in the course of the lethal infection. The antisera to the glycolipoproteins protected mice in every case against infection by the homologous strains. In some cases, various degrees of cross-protection were observed.
Chemical composition and biological activity of the Yersinia pestis envelope substance
Authors: Głosnicka R , Gruszkiewicz E
Published: June 2021

Purification of the envelope antigen of Yersinia pestis EV with passive hemagglutination activity is described. The purification procedure consisted of pancreatin digestion, chromatography on human erythrocyte stroma set on Celite, and rechromatography on Sephadex G-200. Chemical, physical, and biological properties of this antigen were investigated. The results show the lipid-polysaccharide structure of the isolated antigen. The carbohydrate moiety of the galactolipid antigen consists of galactose and fucose. The lipid fraction contained phosphatidylethanolamine and phosphatidylserine. The preparation showed high specificity in the hemagglutination reaction and in Y. pestis phage receptor activity. In two-dimensional immunoelectrophoresis, the isolated pancreatic envelope digest antigen appeared as a single line. Two-dimensional immunoelectrophoresis was modified for tandem separation and was employed to electrophoretically identify the pancreatic envelope digest, trypsin envelope digest preparation, and F1 envelope antigen of Y. pestis. Related or identical antigens showed confluence of peaks with reactions of identity.
Interferon in experimental viral infections in mice: tissue interferon levels resulting from the virus infection and from exogenous interferon therapy
Authors: Heremans H , Billiau A , De Somer P
Published: June 2021

In mice given single intraperitoneal doses of interferon, serum interferon levels peaked at 1 h postinjection and were reduced to zero at about 8 h. The interferon concentrations in spleen, liver, and lungs were about 100-fold higher than could be expected from the amount of serum contained in these organs. In the brain only low levels of antiviral activity were detected. In mice infected intraperitoneally with Mengo virus, viral replication in the brain occurred around day 4 and was accompanied by the appearance of large amounts of interferon (approximately 10(3.25) U/g). This was preceded, however, by viral replication in the spleen and by the appearance of modest amounts of interferon in spleen and serum. In these mice protection could be obtained with relatively small doses of interferon, provided protection could be obtained with relatively small doses of interferon, provided they were given before the time of maximal levels of endogenous serum interferon. In mice infected intranasally with vesicular stomatitis virus, virus replication in the brain started within 24 to 48 h and increased with time; also, small amounts of interferon (10(2) to 10(2.5) U/g) were already detectable on days 1 and 2. The major peak of virus replication in the brain occurred on days 5 to 6 and was accompanied by the appearance of large amounts of interferon (approximately 10(3.25) U/g). In this model early treatment with interferon also provided protection, but only if given in larger doses than in the Mengo virus system. Athymic (nu/nu) mice developed a chronic systemic infection when inoculated with a demotropic strain of vaccinia virus. No interferon was detected in sera, livers, spleens, or lungs of these animals; some mice had low levels of interferon-like antiviral activity in the brain, but no attempt was made to characterize this material. Daily administration of large doses of interferon failed to exert an effect on the development of this chronic disease. Yet, normal (NMRI) mice were protected against acute infection with dermotropic or neurotropic strains of vaccinia virus, and athymic mice were partially protected against acute lethal infection with neurotropic vaccinia virus.
Macrophages as a source of tumoricidal activity (tumor-necrotizing factor)
Authors: Männel D N , Moore R N , Mergenhagen S E
Published: June 2021

Macrophage-enriched peritoneal exudate cells from mice infected with Mycobacterium bovis BCG, macrophage-like tumor cells (PU 5-1.8), and peritoneal macrophages propagated in vitro with macrophage growth factor released tumoricidal activity into the culture medium within 2 to 3 h after stimulation with nanogram quantities of bacterial lipopolysaccharide. The cytotoxic activities from each of the macrophage culture supernatants eluted from diethylaminoethyl-Sephacel columns at a sodium chloride concentration of 200 mM exhibited a molecular weight of 50,000 to 60,000 as estimated by gel filtration, were stable at 56 degrees C for 30 min, and were active at a pH range of 6 to 10. A rabbit antiserum directed against serum-derived cytotoxic activity (tumor-necrotizing factor) from BCG-infected and lipopolysaccharide-challenged mice inhibited all of the cytotoxic activities generated in vitro. This suggests that the macrophage-derived cytotoxins are identical with serum-derived cytotoxic factor, which further implies that the macrophage is the cellular source of tumor-necrotizing factor.
Variability of Low-Molecular-Weight, Heat-Modifiable Outer Membrane Proteins of
Neisseria meningitidis
Authors: Poolman J. T. , De Marie S. , Zanen H. C.
Published: June 2021

Analysis of major outer membrane protein (MOMP) profiles of various meningococci by sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS)-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) revealed the presence of 0 to 2 low-molecular-weight, heat-modifiable MOMPs (molecular weight, 25,000 to 32,000) and 1 to 3 high-molecular-weight MOMPs (molecular weight, 32,000 to 46,000). Heat modifiability was investigated by comparing MOMP profiles after heating in SDS solutions at 100°C for 5 min or at 40°C for 1 h. Low-molecular-weight MOMPs shifted to higher apparent molecular weights after being heated at 100°C. Heat modifiability of high-molecular-weight MOMPs varied among strains; whenever modified these proteins shifted to lower apparent molecular weights after complete denaturation. Variability of low-molecular-weight, heat-modifiable MOMPs was demonstrated when MOMP profiles were compared of (i) isolates from index cases and associated cases and carriers among contacts, (ii) different isolates from the same individual, and (iii) isolates from a small epidemic caused by serogroup W-135. In some cases high-molecular-weight MOMPs revealed quantitative differences among related strains. The observed variability and quantitative differences indicate that MOMP serotyping and typing on the basis of SDS-PAGE profiles (PAGE typing) need careful reevaluation.
Immunosuppression of anti-sheep erythrocyte responses by glycerol teichoic acid immune complexes
Authors: Bolton R W
Published: June 2021

Sprague-Dawley rats which produce "naturally occurring" antibodies to glycerol teichoic acid (GTA) displayed immunosuppression of anti-sheep erythrocyte plaque-forming cell and serum antibody responses when a single dose of lipid-free GTA was administered 24 h before immunization. Such suppression was enhanced by administering GTA complexed with anti-GTA immunoglobulin G. Animals fed a GTA-free diet produced no anti-GTA immunoglobulins and failed to show GTA-mediated immunosuppression under similar experimental conditions. However, when those animals were given GTA-anti-GTA complexes, suppression was evident. The results suggested antigenic competition mediated by immune complex-activated suppressor T cells. Lipid-free GTA did not stimulate serum antibody responses under the experimental conditions employed.
Human alveolar macrophages: effects of endotoxin in vitro
Authors: Davis W B , Barsoum I S , Ramwell P W , Yeager H
Published: June 2021

Experiments were performed to evaluate the in vitro effects of Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharide on viability and function of human alveolar macrophages. Alveolar macrophages were obtained by fiberoptic bronchoscopy and saline bronchial lavage from 12 normal, nonsmoking volunteers. Cells were incubated with different concentrations of E. coli endotoxin for 1 and 24 h. Endotoxin (10 microgram/ml and more) was cytotoxic for alveolar macrophages after 24 h of incubation and induced significant inhibition of phagocytosis, adherence, and spreading. The effects of endotoxin on alveolar macrophage viability and function were dose and time dependent and were not influenced by indomethacin. Thus, human alveolar macrophages, like other mononuclear phagocytes, are extremely sensitive to endotoxin effects; these observations may be relevant in conditions in which endotoxin may be in contact with alveolar macrophages in vivo: endobronchial infections with gram-negative organisms, byssinosis, chronic bronchitis of grain handles, and humidifier fever.
Lipid A dependence of the ocular response to circulating endotoxin in rabbits
Authors: Howes E L , Morrison D C
Published: June 2021

The effects of bacterial lipopolysaccharides on ocular vascular permeability were measured after their intravenous injection in rabbits. Alterations in ocular vascular permeability were quantitated by the accumulation of 125I-labeled albumin in the enucleated eye compared with that in heart blood (ocular albumin space). Two lipopolysaccharides extracted from Escherichia coli O111:B4, one with high lipid A content and one with high polysaccharide content, were tested initially, and the one with greater lipid A was 200 times more effective in producing an alteration in ocular vascular permeability. Lipopolysaccharide from a rough strain, Salmonella minnesota (R595), containing lipid A primarily, as well as a purified lipid A extracted from +595, were also effective. But an extract of the protein associated with lipid A was without significant effect. In vitro pretreatment of the lipopolysaccharides with polymyxin B, an inhibitor of the biological activity of lipid A through direct binding, could abrogate the ocular response. These results indicate the paramount importance of the lipid A moiety in the ocular response to circulating endotoxin.
Eradication of Aleutian disease of mink by eliminating positive counterimmunoelectrophoresis test reactors
Authors: Cho H J , Greenfield J
Published: June 2021

The counterimmunoelectrophorsis test was applied on three Aleutian disease virus-infected mink ranches for the detection of specific Aleutian disease virus antibody. All mink on the ranches were tested during the pelting season and before the breeding season for 4 consecutive years. Aleutian disease has been eliminated from the three commercial mink ranches by culling out all mink that were positive for Aleutian disease virus antibody.
Comparison of specimen collection and laboratory techniques for isolation of Haemophilus ducreyi
Authors: Hammond G W , Lian C J , Wilt J C , Ronald A R
Published: June 2021

Sixteen patients with clinical chancroid were studied prospectively; different culture media and sampling techniques from genital lesions were evaluated. Technique A was aspiration of a saline wash from the ulcer which was pooled and inoculated into rabbit blood, rabbit blood + vancomycin (5 microgram/ml), and semisolid chocolate agar + vancomycin (3 microgram/ml). Each primary culture medium was subcultured to chocolate agar with 1% IsoVitaleX (CA), CA with vancomycin (3 microgram/ml) plus polymyxin (7.5 microgram/ml; CA + vp). Technique B was the use of a cotton swab, plated directly on CA, CA + v, and CA + vp. Nine strains of Haemophilus ducreyi were obtained. Technique A yielded seven strains, whereas technique B yielded eight strains; with each technique, five strains were isolated only after use of selective antibiotic media. CA + v medium yielded the largest number of isolates. Direct inoculation by swab to CA + v from chancroidal ulcers is effective as an isolation technique for growth of H. ducreyi.
New centrifugation blood culture device
Authors: Dorn G L , Smith K
Published: June 2021

A single-tube blood culture device designed for centrifugation in a tabletop centrifuge is described. Reconstruction experiments using 21 different organisms and human donor blood indicate that excellent recovery can be obtained by centrifugation for 30 min at 3,000 X g.
Quantitative evaluation of three commercial blood culture media for growth of anaerobic organisms
Authors: Mangels J I , Lindberg L H , Vosti K L
Published: June 2021

The ability of three different commercial blood culture media--brain heart infusion broth (Pfizer), thiol broth (Difco), and PRS-peptone broth (Becton, Dickinson & Co.)--to support the growth of five different anaerobes is described. Inocula of 100 and 1,000 colony-forming units per ml were used to evaluate potential differences in survival, lag time, growth rate, and doubling times of each anaerobe in each medium. In addition, each medium was evaluated for its ability to neutralize the antibacterial effects of whole blood. The results of this study indicate that the PRS-peptone broth is superior to brain heart infusion and thiol broths. Shorter lag times and accelerated generation times and growth rates were noted for more different anaerobes in the PRS-peptone broth. Neither the size of inoculum nor the addition of normal whole blood appeared to alter the survival or growth characteristics of the anaerobes in any medium. However, the addition of normal whole blood did extend the lag time of each anaerobe by approximately 1 to 2 h in each medium.
Evaluation of a micromethod for determination of Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus infection
Authors: Westergren G , Krasse B
Published: June 2021

A micromethod was developed for quantitative estimation in saliva of Streptococcus mutans and lactobacilli. With a semiautomatic pipette, 25 microliter of diluted saliva was spotted on the surface of an agar plate containing a selective medium. This volume gave a spot with a diameter of about 10 mm in which separate colonies could be counted. The results obtained with the spotting technique showed excellent agreement with those obtained with conventional agar plating. The method is convenient and results in a substantial saving of culture media.
Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay for Detection of Hepatitis A Antigen in Stool and Antibody to Hepatitis A Antigen in Sera: Comparison with Solid-Phase Radioimmunoassay, Immune Electron Microscopy, and Immune Adherence Hemagglutination Assay
Authors: Mathiesen Lars R. , Feinstone Stephen M. , Wong Doris C. , Skinhoej Peter , Purcell Robert H.
Published: June 2021

Previously described techniques for detection of hepatitis A antigen (HA Ag) and antibody (anti-HA) have required purified HA Ag and expensive equipment. Herein is described an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for specific detection of HA Ag in human stool filtrates and of anti-HA in sera by using selected HA Ag-containing human stool filtrates as the antigen source. Because human stools often react nonspecifically in serological tests for HA Ag, blocking with preexposure and hyperimmune anti-HA sera from a chimpanzee inoculated with hepatitis A virus was used to confirm specific detection of HA Ag. The sensitivity of ELISA was found to be comparable to that of solid-phase radioimmunoassay (SPRIA) and immune electron microscopy (IEM). Of 37 acute-phase stools collected from nine patients, 16 were positive for HA Ag by ELISA. In 13 of these, HA Ag particles were found by IEM, and an additional 3 stools negative by ELISA contained HA Ag particles by IEM. Eight control stools were negative by both ELISA and IEM. Anti-HA was measured in sera by demonstrating its ability to block binding of the enzyme conjugate to HA Ag in a stool without detectable nonspecificity. This test (blocking ELISA) was as sensitive and specific as blocking SPIRA, IEM, and immune adherence hemagglutination and, like SPRIA and IEM, detected early-developing antibody. The ELISA is simple to perform and requires only a minimum of equipment. It is useful for screening stools for HA Ag and for monitoring HA Ag during purification, as well as for detecting early and late anti-HA in sera.
Detection of group B streptococcal antibodies in human sera by radioimmunoassay: concentrations of type-specific antibodies in sera of adults and infants infected with group B streptococci
Authors: Wilkinson H W
Published: June 2021

Current interest in determining the possible protective role of antibodies against group B streptococcal disease prompted this study of the feasibility of using a radioimmunoassay to measure type-specific immunity in humans. The radioimmunoassay was standardized as a quantitative test for antibodies against the carbohydrate (CHO) antigens of all five group B types. The data showed that the CHO antigens extracted by a cold trichloroacetic acid-sonification method measure more antibodies than do the corresponding CHO antigens extracted by hot hydrochloric acid; that the Ia CHOs extracted from two different types, Ia and Ic, measure the same quantity of Ia antibodies; and that human sera contain antibodies reactive with all five type-specific CHOs. No evidence of "protective" antibody was found in the serum samples studied, although there was evidence of and antibody response in adults to prolonged colonization by group B streptococci. The wide ranges of antibody concentration in a serum bank collection, the broad reactivity of all human sera tested, and the mixed populations of antibodies in human sera that react with different determinants on the same type-specific CHO antigen (type III) indicate that further studies must be done to better define normal and susceptible populations and to determine antigenic components important in protection.
Determination of the hemin requirement of Haemophilus ducreyi: evaluation of the porphyrin test and media used in the satellite growth test
Authors: Hammond G W , Lian C J , Wilt J C , Albritton W L , Ronald A R
Published: June 2021

Gonococcal (GC) agar supplemented with glucose and glutamine was found to be superior to Eugonagar and Trypticase soy agar in demonstrating the hemin requirement of 23 strains of Haemophilus ducreyi by the satellite growth test. The porphyrin test confirmed the requirement for exogenous hematin. With the agar dilution technique, using supplemented GC agar, the hemin concentration required to initiate growth was 10 microgram/ml, and the optimal hemin concentration to produce growth equivalent to that on chocolate agar was between 200 and 500 microgram/ml. On GC agar with added glucose and glutamine, the lowest hemin concentration impregnated in paper disks able to initiate satellite growth was 50 microgram/ml. The hemin requirements of these H. ducreyi were much higher than that reported for other Haemophilus species.
Atypical isolate of Cryptococcus neoformans cultured from sputum of a patient with pulmonary cancer and blastomycosis
Authors: Moser S A , Friedman L , Varraux A R
Published: June 2021

Cryptococcus neoformans was isolated repeatedly from a patient with epider-moid carcinoma and pulmonary blastomycosis. The isolate was atypical in that it had only a minute capsule, caused persistent infection but no perceptible disease in mice, and initially appeared not to assimilate trehalose. Only after an incubation of 2 to 3 weeks did utilization of this substrate become apparent.
Comparison of WI-38, MRC-5, and IMR-90 cell strains for isolation of viruses from clinical specimens
Authors: Friedman H M , Koropchak C
Published: June 2021

With the diminishing supply of the human fetal lung WI-38 cell strain, a replacement for viral isolation is needed. Two candidates are the human fetal lung strains MRC-5 and IMR-90. A comparison of WI-38, MRC-5, and IMR-90 was performed to evaluate efficiency and speed of viral isolation, clarity of cytophatic effect, and ease of growing the cells. The inocula were clinical specimens rather than tissue culture-adapted isolates. Frozen samples of 46 specimens that had previously yielded an isolate on WI-38 were thawed and inoculated onto WI-38, MRC-5, and IMR-90 cells. In addition, 95 freshly taken clinical specimens uf undetermined infectivity were inoculated onto the cell strains. Viral recovery rates were similar on all three strains, as were the appearance and speed of onset of the cytophatic effect. MRC-5 and WI-38 cells remained healthy until generation 36, whereas IMR-90 cells went into crisis by generation 20. The longer life span of the MRC-5 cells makes them more suitable than IMR-90 cells to replace the WI-38 strain for routine use in viral diagnosis.
Serological reactions of the genus Peptostreptococcus
Authors: Graham M B , Falkler W A
Published: June 2021

White male New Zealand rabbits were immunized with soluble antigen preparations (SP) of the following gram-positive anaerobic cocci: Peptostreptococcus anaerobius ATCC 27337 and VPI 5737; P. micros VPI 2618; Streptococcus morbillorum ATCC 27527; P. parvulus VPI 5229; and P. productus ATCC 27340. SP were reacted with homologous and heterologous rabbit antisera in immunodiffusion, immunoelectrophoresis, indirect fluorescent-antibody, and tanned-cell passive hemagglutination tests. Even though each antiserum reacted strongly with its homologous SP, no interspecies reactivity was observed except between P. productus antisera and P. parvulus SP by the passive hemagglutination test. Antisera prepared to both strains of P. anaerobius reacted with the other strain in all serological tests.
Counterimmunoelectrophoresis for detection of microbial antigens: increased sensitivity with dextran-containing gels
Authors: Siber G R , Skapriwsky P
Published: June 2021

The addition of 4% dextran with a mean molecular weight of 70,000 to counterimmunoelectrophoresis gels enhanced the clarity of precipitin lines and increased the sensitivity of the procedure two- to fourfold with a variety of microbial antigens.
Diagnosis of pneumococcal pneumonia by antigen detection in sputum
Authors: Miller J , Sande M A , Gwaltney J M , Hendley J O
Published: June 2021

Pneumococcal polysaccharide was detected by counterimmunoelectrophoresis in the sputum of 20 of 26 (77%) adults with community-acquired pneumonia and a positive sputum culture for Streptococcus pneumoniae. The test was negative in 29 pneumonia patients with negative sputum culture for S. pneumoniae.Pneumococcal antigen was also detected in the sputum of six of nine adults with chronic bronchitis and a positive sputum culture, but was not detected in expectorated respiratory secretions of 22 pneumococcal carriers with colds. Pneumococcal antigen could also be detected in sputum by immunodiffusion; antigen titers varied from 1:2 to 1:256. These results strongly suggest that the detection of pneumococcal antigen in respiratory tract secretions indicates infection caused by S. pneumoniae.
Bacitracin and coagglutination for grouping of beta-hemolytic streptococci
Authors: Stoner R A
Published: June 2021

Bacitracin may be used for presumptive differentiation of group A from other beta-hemolytic streptococci. Whatever criteria are used for the test, a small number of erroneous results will be obtained. With the 1,161 strains studied in this laboratory, using a zone of 10 mm or greater as indicative of group A was better than using Maxted's original criterion of any zone of inhibition for group A. Co-agglutination is a preferable alternative to bacitracin testing, providing a grouping result as quickly as the bacitracin test but with the advantage of giving a definite grouping result. With the 247 strains studied so far, coagglutination results have correlated exactly with results of conventional grouping by a precipitin method.
Common bile duct obstruction secondary to infection with Candida
Authors: Marcucci R A , Whitely H , Armstrong D
Published: June 2021

A patient is reported who had biliary tract obstruction secondary to infection of the common bile duct with Candida albicans, with the formation of a fungus ball. Treatment consisted of surgical removal of the fungus ball and drainage. Chemotherapy was not necessary. Ureteral obstruction through fungus ball formation, and even pulmonary fungus ball formation, has been attributed to candida, but this is the first case reported, to our knowledge, of bile duct obstruction.
Vero microcultures for adenovirus neutralization tests
Authors: Hierholzer J C , Bingham P G
Published: June 2021

A microculture neutralization test is described for measuring specific antibody levels to the 35 human adenovirus serotypes in Vero cells. The test is read at 5 days by macroscopic observation after staining the uninfected cells with crystal violet. The test is performed with a minimum of manipulations and gives serum titers comparable with those obtained in tube macrocultures of monkey kidney, human embryonic kidney, and Vero cells. The Vero microculture neutralization test measures inhibition of adenovirus toxicity, although selected human adenoviruses serially subpassaged in Vero cells were shown to successfully adapt and replicate in the absence of detectable helper viruses.
Evaluation of the Oxi/Ferm tube system for identification of nonfermentative Gram-negative bacilli
Authors: Shayegani M , Lee A M , McLynn D M
Published: June 2021

The Oxi/Ferm tube system designed for identification of oxidative-fermentative gram-negative bacteria was evaluated for identification of nonfermentative gram-negative bacilli by comparing it with the conventional system. The nine biochemical reactions used as the initial tests in the Oxi/Ferm tube system showed a close agreement with the same conventional reactions. However, the system was only 41% accurate to species or biotype for complete identification of 239 isolates which were well distributed in 48 species and biotypes and included organisms not listed in the Oxi/Ferm tube identification list. The system correctly identified 56% of the test organisms when the degree of identification was based on the manufacturer's guidance list. However, all isolates of Acinetobacter calcoaceticus, Bordetella bronchiseptica, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, P. diminuta, and group IIf were completely identified by the system.
Whole-blood lymphocyte stimulation assay for measurement of cell-mediated immune responses in bovine brucellosis
Authors: Kaneene J M , Anderson R K , Johnson D W , Muscoplat C C , Nicoletti P , Angus R D , Pietz D E , Klausner D J
Published: June 2021

A study was conducted to develop an in vitro whole-blood lymphocyte stimulation assay for measurement of cell-mediated immune response in bovine brucellosis. A soluble antigen (BASA) prepared from killed cells of Brucella abortus 1119-3 was used. Cattle infected with B. abortus field strains, B. abortus 19 calfhood- and adult-vaccinated cattle, and nonexposed cattle were tested. Blood was diluted 10-fold in RPMI-1640 medium (without added serum) and cultured with BASA (at a concentration of 2.2 microgram per culture) at varying times of incubation. Results were assayed for [3H]thymidine incorporation into deoxyribonucleic acid. A 6-day period was found to be optimal for incubating blood cultures to achieve maximum specific lymphocyte stimulation. Serological tests and bacteriological isolation attempts were conducted simultaneously with lymphocyte stimulation tests, and there was a significant correlation between cell-mediated immune response and bacteriological findings. There was a significant correlation between cell-mediated immune response and the level of serum antibodies on a group basis, but there was little correlation between the two systems on individual infected animals. Among vaccinated animals there was little or no correlation between cell-mediated immune and humoral responses. The whole-blood assay was found to be simple, fast, sensitive, and reproducible.
Rapid urea broth test for yeasts
Authors: Roberts G D , Horstmeier C D , Land G A , Foxworth J H
Published: June 2021

A rapid, miniaturized, urea broth test useful for detecting urease activity of yeasts was compared to Christensen urea agar. All urease-producing yeasts tested were positive on both media; however, 60% were reactive in the urea R broth within 30 min, and the remainder were reactive within 4 h. This urea multiwell test may be useful as a rapid screening method for detecting urease-producing yeasts recovered from clinical specimens and as an adjunct test with other rapid methods of yeast identification.
Effectiveness of an Applied Microbiology Course Specifically Designed for Chemical Engineering Majors
Authors: HECHT GREGORY B. , MOSTO PATRICIA , SLATER C. STEWART
Published: June 2021

In recent years, the disciplines of microbiology and chemical engineering have developed an increasing convergence. To meet the needs of their future employers, today’s chemical engineering students must receive some background in microbiology. This report describes the development and content of “Biological Systems and Applications,” a novel course specifically designed to provide basic biology and applied microbiology knowledge, skills, and experience to sophomore chemical engineering majors. Data collected from entrance and exit surveys of the students demonstrated that the course is successful. The importance of the “project-base” learning technique and of interdisciplinary faculty-student and faculty-faculty collaborations are proposed as elements essential to the success of this particular course.
Colorectal cancer Outcomes in people with Severe Mental Illness Cohort (COSMIC): a protocol for an Australian retrospective cohort using linked administrative data
Authors: Protani Melinda M , Jordan Susan J , Kendall Bradley J , Siskind Dan , Lawrence David , Sara Grant , Brophy Lisa , Kisely Steve
Published: June 2021

Introduction

Colorectal cancer (CRC) mortality is significantly higher in those with severe mental illness (SMI) compared with the general population, despite similar incidence rates, suggesting that barriers to optimal screening and cancer care may contribute to disparities in CRC mortality in those with SMI. This study aims to compare participation in Australia’s National Bowel Cancer Screening Programme (NBCSP) in those with SMI and those in the general population. We will also investigate treatment pathways after diagnosis to determine whether treatment variations could explain differences in CRC mortality.

Methods and analysis

We will undertake a retrospective cohort study of Australians using linked administrative data to assess differences in screening and cancer care between those with and without SMI, aged 50–74 years on or after 1 January 2006. People with SMI will be defined using antipsychotic medication prescription data. The comparison group will be people enrolled in Medicare (Australia’s universal healthcare system) who have not been prescribed antipsychotic medication. Data on outcomes (NBCSP participation, follow-up colonoscopy, CRC incidence and CRC-cause and all-cause mortality) and confounders will be obtained from national-based and state-based administrative health datasets. All people in New South Wales, aged 50–74 with a new diagnosis of CRC on or after 1 January 2006, will be ascertained to examine stage at diagnosis and cancer treatment in those with and without SMI. Poisson regression will be used to calculate incidence rates and rate ratios for each outcome.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethics approval has been obtained from the University of Queensland Human Research Ethics Committee, the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare Ethics Committee and data custodians from every Australian State/Territory. Findings will be disseminated via publications in peer-reviewed journals and presented at appropriate conferences.

Trial registration number

ACTRN12620000781943.
Active vaccine safety surveillance of seasonal influenza vaccination via a scalable, integrated system in Western Australian pharmacies: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Salter Sandra , Singh Gurkamal , Nissen Lisa , Trentino Kevin , Murray Kevin , Lee Kenneth , Kop Benjamin , Peters Ian , Leeb Alan
Published: June 2021

Objectives

We integrated an established participant-centred active vaccine safety surveillance system with a cloud-based pharmacy immunisation-recording program in order to measure adverse events following immunisation (AEFI) reported via the new surveillance system in pharmacies, compared with AEFI reported via an existing surveillance system in non-pharmacy sites (general practice and other clinics).

Design

A prospective cohort study.

Participants and setting

Individuals >10 years receiving influenza immunisations from 22 pharmacies and 90 non-pharmacy (general practice and other clinic) sites between March and October 2020 in Western Australia. Active vaccine safety surveillance was conducted using short message service and smartphone technology, via an opt-out system.

Outcome measures

Multivariable logistic regression was used to assess the primary outcome: differences in proportions of AEFI between participants immunised in pharmacies compared with non-pharmacy sites, adjusting for confounders of age, sex and influenza vaccine brand. A subgroup analysis of participants over 65 years was also performed.

Results

Of 101 440 participants (6992 from pharmacies; 94 448 from non-pharmacy sites), 77 498 (76.4%) responded; 96.1% (n=74 448) within 24 hours. Overall, 4.8% (n=247) pharmacy participants reported any AEFI, compared with 6% (n=4356) non-pharmacy participants (adjusted OR: 0.87; 95% CI: 0.76 to 0.99; p=0.039). Similar proportions of AEFIs were reported in pharmacy (5.8%; n=31) and non-pharmacy participants (6; n=1617) aged over 65 years (adjusted OR: 0.94; 95% CI: 0.65 to 1.35; p=0.725). The most common AEFIs in pharmacy were: pain (2%; n=104), tiredness (1.9%; n=95) and headache (1.7%; n=88); and in non-pharmacy sites: pain (2.3%; n=1660), tiredness (1.9%; n=1362) and swelling (1.5%; n=1121).

Conclusions

High and rapid response rates demonstrate good participant engagement with active surveillance in both pharmacy and non-pharmacy participants. Significantly fewer AEFIs reported after pharmacist immunisations compared with non-pharmacy immunisations, with no difference in older adults, may suggest different cohorts attend pharmacy versus non-pharmacy immunisers. The integrated pharmacy system is rapidly scalable across Australia with global potential.