bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A FUZZY LOGIC APPROACH TO TOPIC EXTRACTION IN TEXTS
Authors: BOUIDGHAGHEN OURDIA , BOUGHANEM MOHAND , PRADE HENRI , MALLAK IHAB
Published: July 2009

The paper presents a preliminary investigation of potential methods for extracting semantic views of text contents under the form of structured sets of words, which go beyond standard statistical indexing. The aim is to build kinds of fuzzily weighted structured images of semantic contents. A preliminary step consists in identifying the different types of relations (is-a, part-of, related-to, synonymy, domain, glossary relations) that exist between the words of a text, using some general ontology such as WordNet. Then taking advantage of these relations, different types of fuzzy clusters of words can be built. Moreover, apart from its frequency of occurrence, the importance of a word may be also evaluated through some estimate of its specificity. A degree of "centrality" is also computed for each word in a cluster. The size of the clusters, the frequency, the specificity and the centrality of their words are indications that enable us to build a fuzzy set of sets of words that progressively "emerge" from a text, as being representative of its contents. The ideas advocated in the paper and their potential usefulness are illustrated on a running example and on two experiments. It is expected that obtaining a better representation of the semantic contents of texts may help in particular to give indications of what the text is about to a potential reader.
CNTF 1357 G → A polymorphism and the muscle strength response to resistance training
Authors: Walsh Sean , Kelsey Bethany K. , Angelopoulos Theodore J. , Clarkson Priscilla M. , Gordon Paul M. , Moyna Niall M. , Visich Paul S. , Zoeller Robert F. , Seip Richard L. , Bilbie Steve , Thompson Paul D. , Hoffman Eric P. , Price Thomas B. , Devaney Joseph M. , Pescatello Linda S.
Published: July 2009

The present study examined associations between the ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) 1357 G → A polymorphism and the muscle strength response to a unilateral, upper arm resistance-training (RT) program among healthy, young adults. Subjects were 754 Caucasian men (40%) and women (60%) who were genotyped and performed a training program of the nondominant (trained) arm with the dominant (untrained) arm as a comparison. Peak elbow flexor strength was measured with one repetition maximum, isometric strength with maximum voluntary contraction, and bicep cross-sectional area with MRI in the trained and untrained arms before and after training. Women with the CNTF GG genotype gained more absolute isometric strength, as measured by MVC (6.5 ± 0.3 vs. 5.2 ± 0.5 kg), than carriers of the CNTF A1357 allele in the trained arm pre- to posttraining ( P < 0.05). No significant associations were seen in men. Women with the CNTF GG genotype gained more absolute dynamic (1.0 ± 0.1 vs. 0.6 ± 0.1 kg) and allometric (0.022 ± 0.0 vs. 0.015 ± 0.0 kg/kg−0.67) strength, as measured by 1 RM, than carriers of the CNTF A1357 allele in the untrained arm pre- to posttraining ( P < 0.05). No significant associations were seen in men. No significant associations, as measured by cross-sectional area, were seen in men or women. The CNTF 1357 G → A polymorphism explains only a small portion of the variability in the muscle strength response to training in women.
Conocimiento del diálogo de interacción entre el microbio y el hospedador
Authors: Fasano Alessio
Published: July 2009

El tubo digestivo de los mamíferos es mucho más complejo de lo que se había supuesto. Una capa única de células epiteliales cubre todo el tubo digestivo, proporcionando de este modo la máxima superficie interfacial con el entorno. El epitelio intestinal es un sensor del entorno luminal, que no sólo controla las funciones digestivas, absortivas y secretoras, sino que también retransmite información a los sistemas inmunitario, vascular y nervioso de las mucosas. Estas funciones implican un conjunto complejo de receptores de reconocimiento de patrones (RRP) y tipos de células que elaboran factores de crecimiento, citocinas y proteínas matriciales extracelulares. Por otra parte, los microbios entéricos pueden asaltar las vías activadas por los RRP como parte de su arsenal patógeno a través de una ‘imitación del hospedador’. El conocimiento de la interacción entre la microbiota entérica y el hospedador, en circunstancias tanto fisiológicas como patológicas, puede proporcionar una información clave sobre la patogénesis de enfermedades locales y sistémicas. Este conocimiento puede llevar potencialmente a la identificación de estrategias terapéuticas novedosas para el tratamiento de estos trastornos.
Meta-Analysis of Genome-Wide Linkage Studies in Celiac Disease
Authors: Forabosco Paola , Neuhausen Susan L. , Greco Luigi , Naluai Åsa Torinsson , Wijmenga Cisca , Saavalainen Päivi , Houlston Richard S. , Ciclitira Paul J. , Babron Marie-Claude , Lewis Cathryn M.
Published: July 2009

Objective: A meta-analysis of genome-wide linkage studies allows us to summarize the extensive information available from family-based studies, as the field moves into genome-wide association studies. Methods: Here we apply the genome scan meta-analysis (GSMA) method, a rank-based, model-free approach, to combine results across eight independent genome-wide linkages performed on celiac disease (CD), including 554 families with over 1,500 affected individuals. We also investigate the agreement between signals we identified from this meta-analysis of linkage studies and those identified from genome-wide association analysis using a hypergeometric distribution. Results: Not surprisingly, the most significant result was obtained in the HLA region. Outside the HLA region, suggestive evidence for linkage was obtained at the telomeric region of chromosome 10 (10q26.12-qter; p = 0.00366), and on chromosome 8 (8q22.2-q24.21; p = 0.00491). Testing signals of association and linkage within bins showed no significant evidence for co-localization of results. Conclusion: This meta-analysis allowed us to pool the results from available genome-wide linkage studies and to identify novel regions potentially harboring predisposing genetic variation contributing to CD. This study also shows that linkage and association studies may identify different types of disease-predisposing variants.
A New Strategy for Linkage Analysis under Epistasis Taking into Account Genetic Heterogeneity
Authors: Bureau Alexandre , Mérette Chantal , Croteau Jordie , Fournier Alain , Chagnon Yvon C. , Roy Marc-André , Maziade Michel
Published: July 2009

Background/Aims: Epistasis, the biological interaction of multiple genes modulating their individual effects, is likely omnipresent in complex diseases, and modelling epistasis in linkage studies can help detect loci with little marginal effect and detect epistatic effects themselves. We propose a complete three-step strategy for parametric linkage analysis under epistasis and heterogeneity in extended pedigrees. Methods: (1) Loci most likely involved in epistatic interactions are pre-screened using two-locus one-marker analyses. (2) Among selected loci, linkage to each locus is evaluated conditionally on linkage information at another locus under two-locus epistatic models. Linkage statistics are maximized over a space of epistatic models to avoid misspecification of model parameters. (3) Families linked to the conditioning locus are selected to deal with heterogeneity between pairs of epistatically interacting loci and other unlinked loci. Properties of conditional linkage statistics prevent the introduction of bias. Results: Simulations reveal important gains in power to detect a locus with weak marginal effect involved in epistatic interaction. Application of our methods to schizophrenia and bipolar disorder in Eastern Quebec kindreds suggests epistasis between three locus pairs for bipolar disorder: 8p11-16p13, 15q11-16p13 and 18q12-15q11. Conclusion: These results suggest that the proposed strategy is powerful for tackling complex phenotypes involving epistasis and heterogeneity.
Tocilizumab Inhibits Interleukin-6-Mediated Matrix Metalloproteinase-2 and -9 Secretions from Human Amnion Cells in Preterm Premature Rupture of Membranes
Authors: Mano Yukio , Shibata Kiyosumi , Sumigama Seiji , Hayakawa Hiromi , Ino Kazuhiko , Yamamoto Eiko , Kajiyama Hiroaki , Nawa Akihiro , Kikkawa Fumitaka
Published: July 2009

Background/Aims: In the present study, we investigated the participation of inflammatory cytokine-induced mediated matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) expressions and inhibition of interleukin (IL)-6-induced MMP secretion in amniotic epithelial cells by tocilizumab. Methods: To investigate the role of MMP expressions, immunohistochemical staining was performed using membranes obtained from 10 patients with preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM) and from 10 patients who underwent a nonlabor cesarean section. We also investigated the regulation of MMP expression by inflammatory cytokines in human amnion cells. Results: Immunohistochemical staining showed a significantly higher expression of MMP-2 and -9 in PPROM. Treatment of cultured WISH and primary amniotic epithelial cells with 10–8 or 10–7M IL-6 or tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α clearly increased the secretion of MMP-2 and -9. Treatment with 10–8M TNF-α or IL-6 significantly increased the invasion of WISH or primary amniotic epithelial cells, respectively, compared with the control. At a low concentration of 1 μg/ml, tocilizumab (anti-human IL-6 receptor monoclonal antibody) inhibited the IL-6-induced MMP secretion. Conclusions: This paper is the 1st report of tocilizumab inhibiting IL-6-induced MMP-2 and MMP-9 secretions from human amnion cells in PPROM.
Progression of Mild Cognitive Impairment to Alzheimer’s Disease: Improved Diagnostic Value of the Combined Use of N200 Latency and β-Amyloid(1–42) Levels
Authors: Papaliagkas V.T. , Anogianakis G. , Tsolaki M.N. , Koliakos G. , Kimiskidis V.K.
Published: July 2009

Background/Aims: The aim of this study was to investigate the role of cerebrospinal fluid β-amyloid(1–42) levels and auditory event-related potentials (AERPs) in the progress of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) to Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Methods: In 53 MCI patients, lumbar puncture was performed and β-amyloid(1–42) levels were determined. Twenty patients were reexamined after 11 months. During this period, 5 of them progressed to AD. Neuropsychological and ERP analyses were performed on all patients during both baseline and endpoint examinations. Results: Compared to stable MCI patients, those that progressed to AD had significantly lower β-amyloid(1–42) levels (Mann-Whitney test, Z = –2.952, p = 0.003; effect size r = –0.41) and significantly prolonged N200 latencies (Mann-Whitney test, Z = –3.561, p < 0.001, effect size r = –0.49). From ERP variables, only the N200 latency significantly correlated with β-amyloid(1–42) levels (baseline examination: rs = –0.421, p = 0.002; follow-up examination: rs = –0.574, p = 0.008). Conclusions: The combined use of these two parameters enabled discrimination of stable MCI patients from those who developed AD, with 100% sensitivity and specificity. Therefore, this method could be of high diagnostic value for the early diagnosis of AD.
Risk Factors of Transition from Normal Cognition to Mild Cognitive Disorder: The PATH through Life Study
Authors: Cherbuin Nicolas , Reglade-Meslin Chantal , Kumar Rajeev , Jacomb Patricia , Easteal Simon , Christensen Helen , Sachdev Perminder , Anstey Kaarin J.
Published: July 2009

Aims: The aim of this study was to identify physical and mental health and lifestyle predictors of transition from normal cognition to mild cognitive disorder (MCD). Methods: A total of 2,082 individuals, aged 60–64 years, were assessed at 2 time-points 4 years apart for mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and other MCDs. Results: The main predictors of conversion to MCI and to other mild cognitive disorders were past alcohol intake, current anxiety and depression medication, increased systolic blood pressure, and past smoking. Conclusion: Participants with a history of smoking or harmful alcohol consumption, hypertension, or who took medication for anxiety or depression were at increased risk of transitioning to MCI or any MCD. Strategies targeted at managing the above risk factors may have benefits in preventing mild cognitive decline in relatively healthy middle-aged individuals living in the community.
Functional Rehabilitation of Mandibular Continuity Defects Using Autologous Bone and Dental Implants – Prognostic Value of Bone Origin, Radiation Therapy and Implant Dimensions
Authors: Klein M.O. , Grötz K.A. , Walter C. , Wegener J. , Wagner W. , Al-Nawas B.
Published: July 2009

Aim: The aim of this retrospective study was to investigate prognostic parameters for the rehabilitation of mandibular continuity defects with free autologous bone and dental implants for patients after intraoral squamous cell carcinoma. Methods: Following potential prognostic factors for implant survival were analyzed: bony bed (local bone versus augmented iliac crest bone), radiation dose (no radiation, <50 Gy, ≥50 Gy) and implant dimensions. Kaplan-Meier survival estimates of the inserted implants were performed. Results: After 5 years, the cumulative survival rate of all investigated implants was 82.6%. Dental implantation into augmented bone resulted in a significantly lower survival rate (78.4%), compared to original local bone (92.8%). Modifications of implant dimensions as well as radiation therapy showed no significant impact on implant survival. Conclusion: For the investigated compromised collective, our results reveal a satisfactory long-term survival rate of dental implants even in augmented bone and underline the value of dental implantation for the functional rehabilitation of cancer patients.
The Activities of Paraoxonase, Xanthine Oxidase, Adenosine Deaminase and the Level of Nitrite in Pseudoexfoliation Syndrome
Authors: Yağcı Ramazan , Gürel Ahmet , Ersöz İbrahim , Karadağ Remzi , Hepşen İbrahim F. , Duman Sunay
Published: July 2009

Aim: Our purpose was to investigate the possible roles of nitrite levels and the activity of paraoxonase (PON), xanthine oxidase (XO) and adenosine deaminase (ADA) in the pathogenesis of pseudoexfoliation (PEX) syndrome. Methods: Serum samples were taken from 43 patients with PEX and 41 control subjects. The serum PON, XO and ADA activities and nitrite levels were assayed by spectrophotometric methods. Results: The PON, ADA and XO activities and nitrite levels (means ± standard deviation) were 81.72 ± 42.56 U/ml, 19.75 ± 5.72 U/l, 0.16 ± 0.09 U/l and 94.23 ± 27.72 μmol/l in the PEX group, respectively. In the control group, the PON, ADA and XO activities and the nitrite levels were 111.02 ± 43.51 U/ml, 15.21 ± 3.93 U/l, 0.13 ± 0.06 U/l and 61.96 ± 19.05 μmol/l, respectively. The serum PON activity was significantly lower in the PEX group when compared with the control group. The serum XO and ADA activities and nitrite levels were significantly higher in the patients with PEX when compared with the control subjects. Conclusion: Decreased PON (an antioxidant enzyme) activity as well as increased ADA and XO activities and nitrite levels indicate that oxidative stress is increased and purine metabolism is altered in PEX syndrome.
Complete Regression of Choroidal Metastasis Secondary to Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer with Intravitreal Bevacizumab and Oral Erlotinib Combination Therapy
Authors: Kim Seong-Woo , Kim Myung Jin , Huh Kuhl , Oh Jaeryung
Published: July 2009

Purpose: To report a case of a complete regression of choroidal metastasis secondary to non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Methods: Retrospective case review of a female patient treated with intravitreal bevacizumab and oral erlotinib combination therapy for choroidal metastases secondary to NSCLC. Best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), fluorescein angiography (FA), optical coherence tomography (OCT), and B-scan ultrasonography were compared during the 4-month treatment period. Results: Four weeks after the third injection of bevacizumab (2.5 mg), the BCVA had improved to 20/40 from 20/200 and the 2 subretinal masses had completely disappeared. FA demonstrated only a retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) window defect with minimal to no leakage. In the B-scan ultrasonography and OCT, no further mass-like lesion was detected. The retina and RPE layer were flattened. Conclusion: Combining intravitreal bevacizumab and oral erlotinib could be another treatment option for patients with choroidal metastasis of NSCLC.
Bone Disease Induced by Phenytoin Therapy: Clinical and Experimental Study
Authors: Moro-Alvarez M.J. , Díaz Curiel M. , de la Piedra C. , Mariñoso M.L. , Carrascal M.T.
Published: July 2009

Previous studies have made references to prolonged treatment with phenytoin as a possible risk factor in the development of osteoporosis and/or osteomalacia. We studied a group of 30 epileptic patients who were under long-term treatment with phenytoin (DPH) in an ambulatory regimen. We found the prevalence of osteoporosis to be 3.3% and of osteopenia to be 56.6%, affecting predominantly the femur, without any significant decrease in bone mineral density of the lumbar spine. These patients were showing signs of bone turnover uncoupling with increases in bone resorption markers. At this time, they also exhibited slight alterations in their phosphocalcium metabolism with trends to hypocalcemia and secondary hyperparathyroidism that was found not to be caused by a vitamin D deficiency as the serum levels of 25(OH)D and 1,25(OH)2D were normal. With the aims of corroborating these results and to investigate the physiopathological effects on the bone induced by anticonvulsant drugs we developed a further experimental study in which we administered DPH over a 6-week period with a dose of 5 g/kg/day to male Wistar rats that were in the growth phase. This treatment produced a decrease in overall BMD and bone mineral content in the femur. We did not find osteomalacia in the vertebral biopsy, but the administration of DPH to these animals decreased trabecular volume as well as lessened the thickness of osteoid edges together with an uncoupling in bone turnover. There was also a marked decrease in bone formation and a tendency towards increased bone resorption. We have also found a decrease in resistance to fracture by torsion in the biomechanical assay, which translates into an increase in bone fragility. In these male Wistar rats, the administration of DPH produced a tendency towards increasing the markers of resorption and, though changes in serum levels of calcium and phosphorus were not observed, to provoke an increase in the parathyroid hormone levels; with normal levels of 1,25(OH)2D which has produced the same inclination in rats as in humans.
Relationship between Increased Body Iron Stores, Oxidative Stress and Insulin Resistance in Healthy Men
Authors: Syrovatka Petr , Kraml Pavel , Potockova Jana , Fialova Lenka , Vejrazka Martin , Crkovska Jirina , Andel Michal
Published: July 2009

Aim: The aim of our cross-sectional study was to assess the relationships between body iron stores, oxidative stress, impaired insulin sensitivity and carotid atherosclerosis in a cohort of healthy men in primary prevention of cardiovascular disease. Methods: We examined 151 volunteers, aged 35– 60 years. Anthropometric parameters, markers of metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance, inflammatory markers, parameters of oxidative stress and intima-media thickness of common carotid artery were measured. Results: Ferritin correlated positively with waist circumference, body mass index, impaired insulin sensitivity, plasma triglycerides and inversely with high-density lipoprotein cholesterol. We observed positive correlations between ferritin, oxidized lowdensity lipoprotein and advanced oxidation protein products after adjustment for age, waist circumference, body mass index and measured inflammatory markers (high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, fibrinogen, interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α). There were no significant associations between ferritin and intima-media thickness or markers of endothelial dysfunction. In a stepwise multiple regression analysis, triglycerides, waist circumference and elevated transaminases were independent determinants of the serum ferritin level. Conclusion: Our results provide evidence for a relationship between plasma ferritin and oxidative modification of lipids as well as proteins in vivo. Higher body iron stores may contribute to impaired insulin sensitivity through increased oxidative stress in a cohort of healthy men.
Frequency and Determinants for Hemorrhagic Transformation of Cerebral Infarction
Authors: Terruso Valeria , D’Amelio Marco , Di Benedetto Norma , Lupo Innocenzo , Saia Valentina , Famoso Giorgia , Mazzola Maria Antonietta , Aridon Paolo , Sarno Caterina , Ragonese Paolo , Savettieri Giovanni
Published: July 2009

Background: Frequency and associated risk factors for hemorrhagic transformation (HT), a worrying complication of ischemic stroke (IS), are not clearly defined. Our aim was to estimate the overall frequency and risk factors for HT in a hospital-based population. Methods: A retrospective review of medical records of patients discharged from our department during the period 2004–2006 with a diagnosis of anterior IS. Demographic, clinical and hematological information was collected. Uni- and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to estimate risk for spontaneous HT. Results: We included 240 patients (125 males, 52%), mean age at admission was 72.5 years. HT was observed in 29 patients (12%). At univariate analysis, consciousness impairment at admission (OR 5.6, 95% CI 1.3–28.2), the presence of early CT signs (OR 2.4, 95% CI 1.1–5.3), infarcts of medium-large size (OR 11.3, 95% CI 4.1–30.8), cardioembolic stroke (OR 2.3, 95% CI 1.1–5.2) and low total cholesterol levels (OR 3.3, 95% CI 1.3–8.2) were significantly associated with HT. At multivariate analysis, only infarct size (OR 10.2, 95% CI 3.2–32.1) was still significantly associated with HT. Conclusions: Frequency of HT in our study was 12%. Consistently with previous results, HT was associated with the size of ischemic area. As patients included in our study did not receive thrombolytic therapy, our results are applicable to those patients whom clinicians, working in a hospital setting, usually deal with.
The Significance of Serum Factors in Stimulation of Lymphocytes from Patients with Periodontal Disease by Veillonella Alcalescens
Authors: Ivanyi L. , Lehner T.
Published: July 2009

Peripheral blood lymphocytes were stimulated in vitro by sonicates of Veillonella alcalescens, in the presence of autologous and substituted sera. An inhibition of response of lymphocytes from patients with gingivitis or early periodontitis was found when autologous serum was replaced by serum from patients with severe periodontitis. Conversely, the deficient response of lymphocytes from patients with severe periodontitis was enhanced when autologous serum was replaced by serum from patients with gingivitis or mild periodontitis. The serum stimulating and inhibitory factors did not alter the negative response of lymphocytes from normal subjects, who have not apparently been sensitized to Veillonella alcalescens antigens.
Inhibition of Migration of Normal Guinea Pig Blood Leukocytes by Homologous Immune γ2-Globulin in the Presence of Specific Antigen
Authors: Packalén T. , Wasserman J.
Published: July 2009

Guinea pigs were immunized with homologous thyroglobulin in complete Freund’s adjuvant or BCG and killed tubercle bacilli. Their sera contained γ2-globulin, which in the presence of specific antigen inhibited in vitro the migration of blood leukocytes from nonimmunized animals. The γ1-globulin fraction did not. The relationship between the inhibitory activity of the two globulins and their hemagglutination titers was studied.
Reactions of Human Sera with Tissue Particles
Authors: Kasukawa R. , Milgrom F.
Published: July 2009

In 10 of 120 adult human sera agglutinins were found which reacted with suspensions of various tissues from man and various animals including tissues of the serum donor. These serum factors had properties of IgM. One of the agglutinins reacted only at low temperature close to 4 °C and the other at the temperature range of 0–37 °C. The serum factors under investigation were tentatively classified as natural antibodies.
Competition of Normal γ-Globulins with Cytophilic Antibody for Corneal Cells
Authors: Modabber F.Z. , Sapse A.T.
Published: July 2009

Sections of cornea from normal rabbits when incubated with rabbit antiserum to β-galactosidase (BGZ) and washed were shown to bind BGZ. This passive sensitization is presumably mediated by a ‘cytophilic’ antibody present in the hyperimmune serum. Incubation of the corneal discs with unfractionated normal rabbit serum or its γ2-IgG fractions, significantly reduced the ability of the discs to bind cytophilic antibody. This inhibition was produced only by normal γ2-IgG and not by γ1-IgG which indicates the presence of specific receptors on cell surfaces for binding cytophilic antibody. Preemption of these receptors and thereby inhibition of passive sensitization of cornea by normal γ2-globulin is presented as a possible means to reduce the manifestations of allergic responses in the eye.
Prediction of Mortality in Elderly Patients with Hip Fractures: A Two-Year Prospective Study of 1,944 Patients
Authors: Söderqvist Anita , Ekström Wilhelmina , Ponzer Sari , Pettersson Hans , Cederholm Tommy , Dalén Nils , Hedström Margareta , Tidermark Jan
Published: July 2009

Background: Hip fracture patients are reported to have an increased mortality rate compared to the general population. In order to be able to reduce the morbidity and mortality after a hip fracture, our efforts to identify the patients at risk already upon admission to the hospital need to be increased. For such a risk assessment, robust, validated, and reproducible criteria are mandatory. Objective: To determine preoperative factors associated with mortality and to evaluate the combined use of the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) and the Short Portable Mental Status Questionnaire (SPMSQ) to identify patients with an increased mortality rate and to create a predictive model to assess the mortality risk after hip fracture surgery. Methods: A total of 1,944 consecutive patients aged 66 years or older admitted for a hip fracture were included in a prospective cohort study with a 24-month follow-up. The patients were assessed with regard to gender, age, type of hip fracture, smoking habits, comorbidities, general physical health according to the ASA classification, and cognitive function according to the SPMSQ. A higher ASA score indicates an increasingly severe systemic disease and a lower SPMSQ score indicates an increasingly severe cognitive dysfunction. We used Cox proportional hazard models and classification trees to identify the factors associated with mortality. The predictive model was created based on factors that were significantly associated with death and all readily accessible upon admission. Results: The mortality rate during the acute hospitalization period was 4%, at 4 months 16%, and at 24 months 38%. The most prominent factors associated with mortality were high ASA scores, low SPMSQ scores, high age and male gender. The SPMSQ score provided additional information about the survival time, compared to when the ASA score was used alone. Conclusion: The combined use of the ASA classification for assessing physical health and the SPMSQ for assessing cognitive function effectively identified hip fracture patients with an increased mortality rate. We present a predictive model including age, gender, ASA, and SPMSQ that can be used to assess the mortality risk after hip fracture surgery.
Surface Molecular Components of Human Lymphocytes
Authors: Mehrishi J.N.
Published: July 2009

The presence of at least 5 different types of ionizable groups on the surface of normal human lymphocytes on a per-cell-basis has been established. Two possible arrangements of these groups have been put forward. These surface groups (positively and negatively charged) may provide a molecular basis for establishing differences, if any, between types of lymphocytes. The complex reactions taking place on the surface of lymphocytes involved in immune processes are of considerable interest in health and disease.
Heterophile Antibodies and Tissue Injury
Authors: Taichman N.S. , Tsai Chi-Cheng
Published: July 2009

Forssman antiserum was inoculated into the skin of normal guinea pigs. Within moments endothelial and perivascular cells exhibited a spectrum of ultrastructural lesions, culminating in overt necrosis of these elements. At the same time platelets and PMN-leukocytes adhered to damaged vascular surfaces and formed thrombotic obstructions in the microcirculation. Platelets and PMN-leukocytes also appeared to be degranulating, liberating lysosomal and other biologically active constituents from the cells. These data support the concept that vascular structures are primary target tissues and suggest that PMN-leukocytes and platelets may be pathogenetic determinants in the response to Forssman antiserum.
The Cardiac Auto-Immune System
Authors: Lin Tsue-Ming , Halbert S.P. , Paskevitz A.
Published: July 2009

(1) The properties of the 5 cardiac antigens in human heart which cross-react with rabbit anti-rabbit heart auto-antibodies were studied, and compared to the rabbit heart auto-antigens analyzed previously. They were found to be similar in many respects. All were rendered undetectable by proteinases, but were unaffected by ribonuclease or desoxyribonuclease; they were salted out by exposure to similar concentrations of ammonium sulfate or potassium phosphate; they were variably labile to heat or pH extremes; and their elution characteristics from hydroxyl apatite and Sephadex G-100 were similar. (2) Further evidence was obtained that the human cardiac proteins detectable with rabbit anti-rabbit heart auto-antibodies were found only in human heart, and were not present in human skeletal muscle, kidney, pancreas, liver or plasma. (3) Passive hemagglutination assay correlated with immunodiffusion tests in terms of organ specificity and auto-antibody titers. (4) The precipitin systems formed between rabbit anti-rabbit heart auto-antibodies and human heart extracts failed to show esterase, catalase, glucosaminidase, glucuronidase, cysteine-amino-peptidase or phosphatase activities, as had been found earlier for the rabbit heart auto-immune system. Cardiolipin was found to be unrelated to any of the above human cardiac auto-antigens. (5) Urea, with or without dithiothreitol, incactivated only 2 of the human cardiac auto-antigens.
Antibody Plaque Formation in vitro in the Presence of Respiration Inhibitors
Authors: Sabet T.Y. , Friedman H.
Published: July 2009

The suppressive effects of 4 respiration inhibitors on in vitro antibody plaque formation to sheep erythrocytes by mouse spleen cells in agar gel was determined. Potassium cyanide, at a concentration of 10––2 m, and rotenone, at a concentration of 10––4 m, markedly suppressed antibody plaque-forming cells (PFC) when added to the agar gel in vitro. In contrast, potassium azide, at a concentration of 10––2 m showed a slight inhibition and thenoyltrifluoroacetone, at a 10––3 m-concentration, showed no effect. Both cyanide and azide decreased the hemolytic titers of serum hemolysins at a 10––2 m-concentration. All inhibitors had no effect on serum hemolysins at 10––3 m-concentration or lower. These results support the concept that actual viability of antibody-forming cells is not necessary for hemolytic plaque formation in vitro, since only relatively large concentrations of respiration inhibitors, much greater than the dosages needed to inhibit cell metabolism, inhibited antibody formation.
Aspermatogenesis
Authors: Katsh S. , Aguirre A. , Willson J.T. , Katsh G.F.
Published: July 2009

The testes of guinea pigs varying in ages up to 10 weeks and the testes of guinea pigs rendered aspermatogenic by immunization with antigen were assayed for RNase, DNase, cathepsin, acid phosphatase, β-glucuronidase, hyaluronidase, sorbitol dehydrogenase, lactic dehydrogenase and leucine amino peptidase. The principal findings were: (1) RNase, DNase and cathepsin were significantly elevated in the aspermatogenic testes. This finding is related to the lysosomal membrane damage mediated by antibody and is discussed from the point of view of cell damage; (2) hyaluronidase is proposed as a marker for aspermatogenic antigen since it appears when ASA is found and is lost when the antigen is lost; (3) the levels of hyaluronidase and other enzymes in aspermatogenic testes indicate a conversion from the mature to the immature type of testes.
Equine Secretory IgA and Secretory Component
Authors: Pahud J.-J. , Mach J.-P.
Published: July 2009

A complete secretory immunologic system has been identified in the equine species. It is characterised by the presence of a secretory component either bound to secretory IgA (SIgA) or remaining in the free form (FSC). The mean molecular weights of SIgA, serum IgA and FSC have been estimated. The homology of the equine and human IgA classes have been demonstrated by cross-reaction with anti-human IgA antisera. A quantitative study of equine immunoglobulins in various fluids have shown that SIgA is predominant in saliva, mature milk, nasal and lacrimal secretions, but not in colostrum. In vitro binding of human and bovine FSC is found to occur mostly with the polymeric form of equine serum IgA.
Surface Immunoglobulins on Bursa-Derived Chicken Lymphoid Cells
Authors: Bankhurst A.D. , Rouse B.T. , Warner N.L.
Published: July 2009

Cell suspensions from the spleen of normal and hormonally-bursectomized chickens were reacted with 125I-labelled anti-immunoglobulin proteins of different class specificity. Following autoradiography, it was demonstrated that 22.5%, 24.3% and 11.8% of normal spleen cells labelled with radioiodinated anti-light chain, anti-μ chain, and anti-γ chain, respectively. The efficacy of bursectomy was confirmed by the absence of in vitro immunoglobulin synthesis by spleen fragments. No labelling was observed with any anti-immunoglobulin protein on spleen cells from bursectomized birds. Since maternal serum immunoglobulins were still present in the bursectomized birds, the possibility of cytophilic antibody being a cause of normal cell labelling was remote. The results support the hypothesis that the bursa-derived (B) cell is the equivalent of the mammalian nonthymus-derived (B) lymphocyte since both have a high surface density of immunoglobulin.
The Effect of Laundry Detergent Containing B. subtilis Enzyme in Producing Sensitization Reactions in Guinea Pigs
Authors: Perelmutter L. , Lavallée A. , Wiberg G.S.
Published: July 2009

Guinea pigs exposed to laundry detergents containing B. subtilis enzymes (alcalase) under home use conditions, i.e. by inhalation, abraded skin or topical application and oral ingestion, produced sensitization reactions. The jejunum smooth muscles of these animals contracted in the presence of alcalase and the sera caused morphological changes of rat mast cells in the presence of alcalase. It was found that long periods (50–60 days) of chronic exposure was necessary to produce sensitization. The relevance of these results to sensitization of consumers to B. subtilis enzymes in laundry detergent is discussed.
The Induction of Immunological Tolerance During the Primary Response
Authors: Frey J.R. , de Weck A.L. , Geleick H. , Polak L.
Published: July 2009

By injecting adult guinea pigs intravenously with dinitrochlo-robenzene sulfonate (DNBSO3) 2 to 24 h after applying a sensitizing epicutaneous dose of dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB), the production of PCA-detectable anti-DNP antibodies and the induction of contact hypersensitivity to DNCB is strongly depressed for over 14 weeks. The proportion of animals acquiring this state of specific unresponsiveness as well as its stability against a second sensitizing attempt with DNCB alone are clearly dependent on the dose of DNBSO3 injected and on the time interval elapsing between both hapten applications. However, the tolerogenic effect of DNBSO3 is stronger when injected some weeks before sensitization. The results obtained are discussed on the basis of current concepts on the relationship between antigen and immunocompetent cells. The possibilities to interpret our findings by means of reversible blocking or affinity labelling of cellular receptors, specific annihilation of antigen-sensitive cells or immune deviation are considered.
Adjuvance in the Cebus Monkey
Authors: Malkiel S. , Hargis Betty J.
Published: July 2009

Both Bordeteiia pertussis phase I vaccine and commercial house dust extract were found to be effective adjuvants in the non-human primate, the Cebus monkey.
Separation and Characterization of Birch Pollen Antigens with Special Reference to the Allergenic Components
Authors: Belin L.
Published: July 2009

The major allergens of birch pollen were separated from most of the non-allergenic antigens as well as from non-proteinic water-soluble components by gel filtration on Sephadex G-100. These allergens appeared homogenous as to their molecular weight which was calculated to be about 20,000. They seemed to consist of at least two, heat stable, differently charged but antigenically similar proteins. The major allergen of alder pollen appeared closely related to those of birch pollen. The results bring up the question of the nature of allergenicity. They are consistent with the notion that a stable structure, a certain molecular weight and ability to induce reagin formation are prerequisites for an allergenic molecule.
Characterization of Allergen Extracts by Polyacrylamide Gel Isoelectrofocusing and Radioimmunosorbent Allergen Assay
Authors: Varga J.M. , Ceska M.
Published: July 2009

The potency of commercial dog and cat allergen extracts produced by different firms may vary by a factor which may range from several 100 to more than 1,000. In cat extracts, major common components can be demonstrated between pI 4.5–5.0. In addition to these, additional components were seen in the pI ranges 3.0–3.9; 5.3; and 7.5–8.5. In commercial dog extracts, major common components were detected between pI 4.3–4.7. In one dog extract, the presence of additional components with pI 3.0–3.4; 3.5–3.7; 3.9–4.1; 4.9–5.0; 5.1 and 5.2–5.3 was demonstrated. There are indications, that in the sera of allergic patients, IgE antibodies are present which are counterparts of breed-specific allergens.
Localization of Ragweed Antigens in the Intact Ragweed Pollen Grain
Authors: Hubscher T. , Eisen A.H.
Published: July 2009

A study was done to localize the soluble antigens on the intact ragweed pollen grains. For this purpose, ragweed pollen grains were paraffin embedded, sectioned and stained with FITC-conjugated antisera to the various ragweed antigens. The results demonstrate that the major water-soluble antigens, WSR, antigen E and RA3 are localized to the exine of the ragweed pollen grain. Similarly, the soluble antigens of grass, timothy and birch pollen were localized to the surface of the respective intact pollen grain.
Anaphylactic Release of Histamine from Guinea Pig Skin in vitro
Authors: Yeoh T.S. , Tay C.H. , Greaves M.W.
Published: July 2009

An in vitro system for the study of the mechanism of type 1 anaphylactic reactions is described using skin slices from actively sensitized guinea pigs. Anaphylactic histamine release was found to occur with low concentrations of antigen. Release of histamine was rapid and occurred over a narrow temperature range. This system appears to be a useful model for study of specificity of inhibitors of type 1 anaphylactic reaction.
Indirect Haemagglutination for Demonstration of Antibodies to Stratum Corneum of Skin
Authors: Krogh H.K. , Mæland J.A. , Tönder O.
Published: July 2009

A new method for preparation of soluble antigens from stratum corneum of skin is described. Homogenated callus was digested with trypsin before extraction with phenol-water. The extract sensitized sheep erythrocytes for agglutination by human sera. This agglutination was due to a true antigen-antibody reaction between stratum corneum antigen on the erythrocytes and antibodies in the human sera. The indirect haemagglutination test was as sensitive as the immune adherence test with skin sections earlier described. The antigen and antibodies involved in the two test systems are identical. All of 1,150 normal sera tested contained antibodies to stratum corneum. The titres ranged from 8 to 16,384 with mode titres of 32 and 64. Presumably, the antibodies are natural hetero- or auto-antibodies.
Antigenic Constituents in Pregnancy Plasma which are Undetectable in Normal Non-Pregnant Female or Male Plasma
Authors: Gall S.A. , Halbert S.P.
Published: July 2009

Up to four antigenic constituents have been found in the plasma of pregnant women which are not detectable in specimens from normal untreated non-pregnant women, or from men. They are visualized by immunodiffusion methods with hyperimmune rabbit antiserum to pregnancy plasma, after exhaustive absorption with lyophilized normal untreated non-pregnant female plasma. These constituents are distinct from each other as judged by their differing electrophoretic mobilites. It is unlikely that they represent any of the known normal plasma proteins visualized by gel diffusion because of the absorption methods used. In addition, it has been shown that none of them represent human chorionic gonadotropin, human placental lactogen, oxytocin, C-reactive protein, oxytocinase (cystine-amino-peptidase), alkaline phosphatase or esterase, and they are unrelated to bovine prolactin. Preliminary data revealed that one of these pregnancy-associated plasma constituents is synthesized during the course of oral hormone contraception.
Studies in Immunodermatology
Authors: Beutner E.H. , Chorzelski T.P. , Jarzabek M. , Wood G.W. , de Abreu Leme Cid , Bier O.
Published: July 2009

Intraepidermal changes resulted from intradermal injections of rabbits with sera of patients suffering from Brazilian pemphigus foliaceus which contained high titers of pemphigus antibodies when followed immediately by treatment with a 1% or 2% solution of 2,4-dinitrochlorobenzene. Preliminary studies yielded epidermal changes including microbullae which were characteristic of those seen in human pemphigus both by immunofluorescence and by histopathology. In further experiments, intraepidermal clefts associated with strong in vivo binding of pemphigus antibodies appeared, in sections examined by immunofluorescent staining for human IgG, without typical acantholytic cells in these clefts.
Studies in Immunodermatology
Authors: Wood G.W. , Beutner E.H. , Chorzelski T.P.
Published: July 2009

Eleven sera from patients with Brazilian pemphigus foliaceus were tested for their ability to transfer the characteristic epidermal lesions of pemphigus to monkeys. Sera were injected one, two or three times intradermally. Intraepidermal acantholytic microbullae were frequently observed following two or three injections of sera with high pemphigus antibody titers, but only irregularly following single injections of such sera.
Is ‘Desensitization’ for Ragweed Hay Fever Immunologically Specific?
Authors: Lichtenstein L.M. , Levy D.A.
Published: July 2009

Cell reactivity (the peak percentage release of histamine) to ragweed antigen E and timothy pollen extract was studied in the leukocytes of children chosen for clinical ragweed sensitivity and treated with that antigen. At the beginning of therapy all children had responded to antigen E with >50% histamine release. At the time studied the cells of about one third released <50% to antigen E and their cell reactivity to timothy pollen (with which they had not been treated) correlated significantly (p <0.001). While there was a significant correlation (p <0.001 ) between the sensitivity (concentration of antigen required for 30% histamine release) and reactivity of the cells to each antigen, there was no correlation between the sensitivity of the cells to the two antigens. It is suggested that immunotherapy to one antigen decreased cell reactivity to both that antigen and to a non-cross-reacting antigen. Since decreased cell reactivity after immunotherapy has been shown by some investigators to be correlated with a positive clinical result, these studies raise a question as to the antigeníc specificity of immunotherapy.
Ontogenetic Studies on Lymphoid Cell Traffic in the Chicken
Authors: Hemmingsson E.J. , Linna T.J.
Published: July 2009

Male chickens of different ages were injected with tritiated thymidine into the parenchyma of the bursa of Fabricius. Using a radiochemical method based on DNA and tritium measurements, a transport of label from the bursa of Fabricius to the thymus, to the spleen, and to the caecal tonsils could be demonstrated in newly hatched, 9-day-old, and 6-week-old chickens, but not in 14-week-old chickens. Autoradiographic data showed that at least part of this transport was by bursa-derived cells. In the 6-week-old group, the localization of the migrating cells in the target organs was determined. Migrant cells in the thymus were found almost exclusively in the medulla. In the spleen, most of the cells homed within clusters of pyroninophilic cells in the red pulp. Bursa-derived cells could not be demonstrated in germinal centres with this technique, and significant cell traffic from the bursa of Fabricius to the bone marrow could not be detected. The pattern of cell migration correlates well with the morphological and functional maturation of the lymphoid system.
Analysis of the Tissue Constituents and Enzymes of Human Liver by Crossed Immunoelectrophoresis – Comparison of Normal and Cystic Fibrosis Liver
Authors: Greene E.L. , Halbert S.P. , Jequier S.
Published: July 2009

The tissue composition of human liver has been analyzed by a highly resolving new technic, crossed immunoelectrophoresis, using potent anti-liver serum absorbed with human plasma. As many as 57 different constituents which were unrelated to plasma proteins were revealed. Liver extracts from cystic fibrosis patients showed significantly fewer components than did the normal tissue. Of the liver constituents detected by this method, six were identified as distinct enzymes, including 3 esterases, 1 glucosaminidase, 1 glucuronidase and 1 catalase. No consistent alterations in these liver enzymes were found in cystic fibrosis livers. Kidney, submaxillary gland and pancreas shared, respectively, 45, 16 and 18 antigens with liver, as determined by their cross-reactivity with the anti-liver serum. A single tissue esterase revealed in kidney with this antiserum was clearly distinct from the single predominant esterase seen in lung with this reagent.
A Solid-Phase Radioimmunoassay for a Thermostable Adrenal-Specific Antigen
Authors: Auer I.O. , Yagi Y. , Kasukawa R. , Milgrom F.
Published: July 2009

A radioimmunoassay for the detection of a thermostable antigen of bovine adrenal was described. Antibodies labelled with 125I were ‘purified’ by absorption with nonadrenal antigens of bovine origin and by recovering antibodies adsorbed to plastic tubes coated by adrenal antigen. The test was performed by counting radioactivity on antigen coated tubes after their reaction with radio-labelled purified antibodies. The antigen was quantitated on the basis of the reduction of the radioactivity which resulted from the neutralization of antibodies. The sensitivity of the test was satisfactory in that 15 ng of antigen/ml of serum could be detected. In preliminary experiments performed on 5 rabbits, the antigen in concentrations up to 180 ng/ml was detected within 24 h after injection of 0.5–1.0 g of a homogenate of bovine adrenal.