bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence of Circulating Antibodies Directed Toward Ovaries Among Women With Premature Ovarian Failure
Authors: COULAM CAROLYN B. , RYAN ROBERT J.
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: The presence of circulating antibodies to the ovary in serum samples from women with premature ovarian failure suggests that an autoimmune mechanism is a factor in the pathogenesis of this disorder in some women. Sera from 110 women with elevated serum levels of gonadotropins, low serum levels of estrogens, normal karyotypes, and amenorrhea before the age of 35 years were investigated for the presence of antibodies to the ovary. Of the total sera from these 110 patients with premature ovarian failure, 30 (27%) had results that were positive for the presence of circulating antibodies to ovary.
Immunohistochemical Findings in Acute Atherosis Associated With Intrauterine Growth Retardation
Authors: Labarrere Caelos , Alonso José , Manni Jorge , Domenichini Enzo , Althabe Omar
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: Lesions of acute atherosis in 23 placentas from pregnancies complicated by fetal growth retardation (less than tenth percentile) were studied by an immunoperoxidase staining. Twelve of them were from normotensive pregnancies, ten complicated by pregnancy induced hypertension, and the remaining associated with systemic lupus erythematosus. Twentythree placentas with physiological changes of the spiral arteries corresponding to normal pregnancies served as controls. Six of the cases complicated by fetal growth retardation showed absence of physiological changes in basal decidua. Massive intramural granular deposits of IgM, a smaller amount of C3 and C1q, and slight deposits of IgA and IgG were found in vessels with acute atherosis. No intramural deposition of immunoglobulins or complement was observed in vessels with or without physiological changes. The presence of granular deposits of immunoglobulins and complement within the vessel walls with acute atherosis may be related to an immunological disorder, probably mediated by immune complexes.
Effect of Sperm Antibodies in Males on Human In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)
Authors: CLARKE G.N. , LOPATA A. , McBAIN J.C. , BAKER H.W.G. , JOHNSTON W.LH.
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: The effect of sperm antibodies on the human fertilization process was evaluated by analyzing the Royal Women's Hospital in vitro fertilization (IVF) data. The results suggest that sperm autoantibodies, particularly those of IgA immunoglobulin class (determined by immunobead test (IBT)) can interfere with IVF. Thus, in a group (n = 8) of couples where the male partner had 80% or more of his motile spermatozoa coated with IgG and IgA class sperm antibodies, an overall fertilization rate of only 27% (18/66 ova) was obtained. In contrast, in a group (n = 9) with positive IBT results, but with less than 80% of motile spermatozoa coated with IgA class antibodies, a normal fertilization rate of 72% (47/65 ova) was obtained. Three of these patients had 90% or more of their motile spermatozoa coated with IgG and less than 70% coated with IgA class antibodies. In this subgroup a good fertilization rate of 16/21 (76%) was obtained. Another observation derived from this investigation is that the oocytes that do fertilize in the presence of sperm antibodies can subsequently proceed with normal cleavage, implantation, and pregnancy. This provides a rationale for attempting to treat these patients by reducing the proportion of antibody‐coated sperm in vitro for future IVF cycles.
Clindamycin Levels in Reproductive Tissues
Authors: JOHNSON SUSAN R. , PETZOLD C. ROSEMARIE , GALASK RUDOLPH P.
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: Clindamycin is widely used in a variety of obstetric and gynecologic infections. Despite in vitro and clinical evidence of activity against anaerobes, genital organ tissue levels resulting from intravenous administration of the drug have not previously been reported. Following a single intravenous infusion of 600 mg of clindamycin phosphate, tissue levels were determined in operative specimens obtained from ten women. Specimens of cervix, uterus, fallopian tube, and ovary were obtained, and mean Clindamycin levels for each site were: cervix, 2,63 μg/ml; endometrium, 5.58 μg/ml; myometrium, 2.39 μg/ml; fallopian tube, 2.96 μg/ml; and ovary, 3.74 μg/ml. The mean serum level was 6.26 μg/ml at the time of uterine artery interruption. The clindamycin concentrations at all sites exceeded the usual therapeutic minimal inhibitory concentration, substantiating the usefulness of clindamycin in obstetric and gynecologic anaerobic infections.
In Vitro Release of Pregnancy‐Associated Plasma Protein‐A (PAPP‐A) by Human Endometrial Cells
Authors: BISCHOF PAUL , TSENG LINDA
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: Evidence has now accumulated to sustain the idea that pregnancy‐associated plasma protein‐A (PAPP‐A) is not pregnancy specific: it can be localized immunohistochemically in nonpregnant human endometrium. Thus, it was of interest to see if a primary cell culture of human endometrial cells was capable of producing PAPP‐A.

Immunoreactive PAPP‐A‐like material was detected in the culture medium of glandular as well as stromal cells. The presence of PAPP‐A in endometrial culture medium was specific and could not be attributed to a nonspecific protease effect on the tracer used in radioimmunoassay. The production rate of PAPP‐A by stromal cells could be enhanced by the addition of medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA). Estradiol (E2) alone or in combination with MPA did not modify the production rate of PAPP‐A. The production rate of PAPP‐A by glandular cells remained unchanged after treatment with MPA and/or E2. These results confirm that in nonpregnant women PAPP‐A is a progesterone‐dependent protein produced by the endometrium.
Differential Expression of Trophoblast Lymphocyte Cross‐Reactive (TLX) Antigens on T and B Lymphocytes
Authors: MACLEOD A.M. , CATTO G.R.D. , STEWART K.N. , MATHER A.J. , MASON R.J. , POWER D.A. , MCINTYRE J.A.
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: Heterologous sera raised to human trophoblast (TLX antisera) have been shown to recognize peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBL); in unrelated studies noncytotoxic Fc receptors blocking B lymphocyte antibodies have been found in the sera of women during normal pregnancies. This study aimed to determine whether (a) there was any relation between Fc receptor blocking and cytotoxic anti‐TLX activity in ten TLX sera and (b) different reactivity patterns arose when ten TLX antisera were tested in the cytotoxicity assay against separated T and B lymphocytes. Independent factor analysis showed four antisera with T lymphocy‐totoxicity patterns giving a loading high on one mathematical factor and low on a second. Three sera shared the opposite pattern and three were intermediate. The groups were similar but more discrete than those obtained when PBL were used as targets. Patterns of B lymphocytoxicity were dissimilar from T and both differed from the erythrocyte antibody rosette inhibition activity. Activity did not correlate with the HLA‐A, ‐B, or ‐DR types carried by the panel cells. These data indicate that TLX antisera contain antibodies directly cytotoxic to antigens differentially expressed on T and B lymphocytes and that noncytotoxic Fc receptor blocking antibodies are not associated with any TLX groupings.
Primary Chronic Abortion, Preeclampsia, Idiopathic Intrauterine Growth Retardation, Hydatidiform Mole, and Choriocarcinoma: A Unifying Concept
Authors: LABARRERE CARLOS A. , ALTHABE OMAR H.
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: Different degrees of maternal hyporesponse, as far as blocking activity is concerned, are proposed for primary chronic abortion, preeclampsia, and idiopathic intrauterine growth retardation. On the other hand, a maternal hyperresponse to fetal antigens with a higher production of blocking antibodies may be related to an unusual proliferation of the trophoblast in cases of hydatidiform mole and choriocarcinoma.
Evaluation of the Functional Maturity of Newborn T8+ Suppressor Cells and the Resistance of Newborn Lymphocytes to Suppression
Authors: CHENG HENRY , DELESPESSE GUY
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: Concanavalin A (Con A) was used to study the suppressor function of human umbilical cord blood T cells. The suppressor activity and the phenotype of Con A‐activated adult and cord T cells were compared using allogeneic adult mononuclear cell (MNC) response to pokeweed mitogen (PWM), phytohemagglutinin (PHA), and alloantigen as indicator culture systems. It was found that Con A‐activated adult suppressor T cells were predominantly T8+cells and suppressed PWM‐induced IgG production by adult lymphocytes, as well as PHA‐ and alloantigen‐induced proliferation of allogeneic adult MNC. Con A‐activated cord T cells, however, exhibited no significant suppression in any of the three indicator systems. Furthermore, using Con A‐activated adult T8+cells as a source of suppression, the proliferative response of cord lymphocytes to PHA and alloantigen were as susceptible to suppression as those of adult lymphocytes. These results, together with previous findings that PWM‐induced cord suppressor T cells were predominantly T4+cell‐mediated suppression, suggest that fetus/newborn lymphocytes achieved their selective inhibition on adult lymphocytes through the T4+suppressor cell circuit.
Collagen‐Induced Arthritis and Pregnancy in Mice: The Effects of Pregnancy on Collagen‐Induced Arthritis and the High Incidence of Infertility in Arthritic Female Mice
Authors: HIRAHARA FUMIKI , WOOLEY PAUL H. , LUTHRA HARVINDER S. , COULAM CAROLYN B. , GRIFFITHS MARIE M. , DAVID CHELLA S.
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: Collagen‐induced arthritis (CIA) in mice is a model of inflammatory polyarthritis that has many features similar to human rheumatoid arthritis. In rheumatoid arthritis, pregnancy leads to amelioration of the disease while exacerbation develops after delivery. We used the CIA model to elucidate the role of pregnancy on disease and vice versa. The onset of arthritis in pregnant mice was delayed in the B10.RIII strains immunized with native porcine type II collagen 7–12 days prior to syngeneic [B10.RIII (susceptible to CIA) × B10.RIII] and allogeneic (B10.RIII female × B10.K male that are CIA resistant) pregnancy. In contrast, when mice were immunized on days 1–6 of pregnancy, the onset of arthritis was earlier as compared with controls. In addition, once the mice developed CIA after delivery, the disease showed markedly rapid progression as compared to the control immunized group. Humoral immune responses to type II collagen showed significantly decreased levels on day 14 (at late stage of pregnancy) both in syngeneic and allogeneic postmating immunized pregnant mice. The same effect was also seen in allogeneic premating immunized pregnant mice on day 21 (at mid‐stage of pregnancy). The levels of these antibodies increased after delivery. Subclasses of IgG1 and IgG2a antibodies to type II collagen were suppressed during pregnancy. In the pseudopregnant group, these antibodies showed decreased levels on day 14, but did not differ from the control groups on day 21 and 28. Some immunoregulatory changes may play a role in these alterations in pregnant arthritic mice. In comparison to the effects of syngeneic (susceptible × susceptible) pregnancy on CIA, allogeneic (susceptible female × resistant male) pregnancy seemed to be beneficial for the affected individuals. Litter size and mean birth weight were not affected by immunization of type II collagen. After onset of CIA, both syngeneic and allogeneic matings failed to produce offspring in arthritic female mice. The estrus cyclicity was highly disturbed in arthritic female mice and gonadotropin stimulation in arthritic mice induced significantly less ova in oviducts and maturing follicles as compared to nonarthritic controls. Immunological factors yet to be elucidated may be involved in this ovarian dysfunction.
Carbohydrates of the Surface of the Normal Human Spermatozoon
Authors: MAZZINI MARÍA N. , CERACI PABLO , DE CEREZO JOSEFINA M.S. , CEREZO ALBERTO S.
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: Autoproteolysis of human spermatozoa produces oligopeptides with oligosaccharide chains of the N‐glycosidic‐linked type that are released from the “surface exposed” parts of glycoproteins. The products eluted in the previous washing of the spermatozoa have the same composition and solubility characteristics as the oligopeptides from the digestion. This suggests that autoproteolysis is a constant process that normally occurs on the spermatozoa membrane. The cytochemical characterization and localization of the N‐glycosidic‐linked oligosaccharide receptors on the human spermatozoa membrane after digestion, in the presence or absence of seminal plasma, indicates that only part of the oligosaccharides are cleaved. Their distribution on the different zones of the spermatozoon changed as the probability of detecting these receptors in the intermediate segment increased after proteolysis; this indicates that in this zone the receptors are cryptic ones that become exposed by the action of the proteolytic enzymes. In the presence of seminal plasma most receptors on the acrosome are eliminated.
In Vitro Suppression of Murine Blastocysts Growth by Sera From Women With Reproductive Disorders
Authors: OKSENBERG J.R. , BRAUTBAR C.
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: Early mouse embryos at the two‐cell stage were cultured in medium supplemented with sera from women with primary and secondary multiple spontaneous abortions and with long term unexplained infertility as compared to sera obtained from normal fertile women and pooled human male sera. On the basis of microscopic observation and uptake of 3H‐thymidine we report a relationship between reproductive histories and the presence of a serum embryo inhibition factor in eight of ten sera samples from women with primary habitual abortions, six of ten sera from women with secondary habitual abortions, and ten of ten sera from women with unexplained infertility. This activity occurs independently of positive maternal antipaternal lymphocytotoxicity. Fractionation of serum samples by ammonium sulphate precipitation, resulted in removal of the embryo‐inhibition factor with the IgG fraction in four of five primary habitual abortion cases and in two of five secondary habitual abortion patients, but not in the case of unexplained infertility. We propose that the appearance of such inhibition factor may be of relevance in the etiologies discussed in this paper and may possibly provide the basis for a new classification of idiopathic spontaneous habitual abortions, i.e. positive or negative for the embryo inhibition factor.
Cellular Immune Aspects of the Human Fetal‐Maternal Relationship
Authors: SHOHAT BATYA , HIRSCH MICHAEL , JARDENA OVADIA , HENRY JOSHUA , LEVY ISKA , TRAININ NATHAN
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: In the present study the number and the function of T lymphocytes obtained from peripheral blood of 35 mothers immediately after delivery and from the cord blood of the respective newborns were tested. Furthermore, the effect of the newborns' lymphocytes on the immunological competence of the mothers' lymphocytes was investigated by means of graft‐versus‐host‐reaction xenograft test. The blood of 14 of the mothers and their newborns was also examined by monoclonal antibodies for determination of T helper and T suppressor lymphocytes. A marked reduction in the absolute number of T helper cells was found in the blood of mothers after delivery. In addition, mothers' lymphocytes manifested a high suppressor activity when added to normal human lymphocytes. It was also found that the cord blood contains lower number and percentage of T suppressor cells. Yet the T cells of the cord blood exert a high suppressor activity on the mother as well as on normal donor lymphocytes. The impaired function of cord blood lymphocytes could be restored by in vitro addition of THF, a thymic hormone.
Monoclonal Antibody GB25 Recognizes Human Villous Trophoblasts
Authors: HSI BAE‐LI , YHE CHANG‐JING G.
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: A monoclonal antibody GB25 which was raised against placental syncytiotrophoblast reacted specifically with villous trophoblasts. It recognized syncytiotrophoblast, villous cytotrophoblasts of the first‐trimester placentae, and a majority of the cytotrophoblasts in the chorion laeve, but not the residual cells of cytotrophoblastic shell in the basal plates and the cells in the cytotrophoblastic columns. This antibody will be useful for isolating and differentiating villous from extravillous cytotrophoblasts in the first‐trimester placentae.
Correlation of Antispermatozoal Antibody With Infertility in Immunized Female Rabbits Using 14C‐Protein A in a Filter Radioassay
Authors: ENG LUDEMAN A. , METZ CHARLES B.
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: The meaningful detection of antisperm antibody in immunologically infertile females has been confounded by the many methods of assay that exist. With many of these methods there is poor correlation of assay results with infertility. In this report, female rabbits were rendered partially or completely infertile by immunization with sperm fractions. A filter radioassay for antisperm antibody was developed that consists of incubating 107 sperm with sperm from immunized rabbits and 14C‐Protein A, a long‐lived and versatile indirect radiolabel for many antibodies of the IgG class. The spermatozoa are washed by rapid vacuum filtration on polycarbonate membrane filters instead of by time‐consuming centrifugation. The filters with the collected spermatozoa are then counted in a liquid scintillation counter. Sera from female rabbits isoimmunized with sperm antigens show a highly significant correlation (r = −0.904; p < 0.001) between assay results and infertility as measured by the percentage of eggs that underwent cleavage after artificial insemination.
Skin Graft Survival in the Uterine Lumen of Ewes Treated With Progesterone
Authors: HANSEN PETER J. , BAZER FULLER W. , SEGERSON EDWARD C.
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: An experiment was conducted to determine the effect of progesterone on survival of skin transplants placed in the uterine lumen of ovariectomized ewes. Animals were treated for 30 days with either a corn oil vehicle (n = 4) or progesterone at 50 (n = 3) or 200 mg/day (n = 3). An autograft and allograft were then placed in each uterus, and treatments were continued for an additional 30 days before grafts were examined for survival. All autografts were present 30 days after grafting and most appeared healthy upon histological examination. Allografts placed into the uterine lumen of progesterone‐treated ewes were present 30 days after grafting but were necrotic in histological appearance. Allografts placed within the uterus of corn oil‐treated ewes were completely resorbed. Uterine secretions that accumulated in the uterine lumen were examined for inhibitory effects on [3H‐methyl]thymidine incorporation by lymphocytes stimulated with phytohemagglutinin (PHA). The total amount of immunosuppressive activity in the uterine lumen was greater (P< 0.05) for progesterone‐treated ewes than for corn oil‐treated ewes. Concentrations of progesterone in uterine secretions of progesterone‐treated ewes ranged from 0.3 to 3.4 ng/ml. Thymidine incorporation into PHA‐stimulated lymphocytes was not affected by in vitro treatment with up to 500 ng/ml of progesterone. In conclusion, progesterone delayed resorption of skin allografts placed in the uterine lumen. Results are consistent with the hypothesis that progesterone mediated this effect by stimulating the secretion of immunosuppressive substances into the uterine lumen.
Immunoactive Products of Placenta. V: Soluble Factors From Murine Placenta Can Block Effector Stages of Maternal Antipaternal Cell‐Mediated Immunity
Authors: CHAOUAT G. , KOLB J.P. , RIVIERE M. , LANKAR D.
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: Supernatants from short‐term cultures of placental or trophoblast‐enriched cell suspensions derived from 14–17‐day isopregnant mice display suppressive activity on NK lysis in vitro. The soluble factor is produced by trypsin‐sensitive cells and requires protein synthesis. Its activity is destroyed by treatment with insoluble trypsin. The suppression is not strain restricted, but appears species‐restricted. The factor acts at the level of the NK effectors themselves. Furthermore, such supernatants also are able to inhibit CTL‐mediated lysis at the effector stage, in an MHC nonrestricted, nonspecific fashion. The effect is not seen with supernatants from control fetal tissues. At least two mechanisms could be involved: inhibition of homing toward allogeneic targets, and a direct effect on effector cell lytic action. These factors could play an important role in protecting the placenta from the deleterious effects of maternal antipaternal immunity and could explain the survival of the fetus in a presensitized maternal host.
Humoral Response of Normal and Athymic (Nude) Mice to Human Choriogonadotropin Immunogens
Authors: RAIKOW RADMILA B. , ACEVEDO HERNAN F. , POWELL JOHN E. , STEVENS VERNON C. , FOGARTY PATRICIA A. , ANDINO VIVIAN W.
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: The production of antibodies against human choriogonadotropin (hCG) was studied in normal and athymic (nu/nu) mice of two strains (C57/BL and Balb/ c), injected with native (whole) hCG or an immunogen consisting of a synthetic hCGβ COOH‐terminal peptide, residues 109–145, conjugated to diphteria toxoid and mixed with a synthetic muramyl dipeptide analog (nor‐MDP) as adjuvant. Both the short‐term effect of native hCG dissolved in saline and injected IM (primary response), and the long‐term effect of the native hCG and of the hCG immunogen dissolved in saline, emulsified in squalene‐Arlacel A, and injected SC as a depot injection (secondary or memory response), were considered. The results obtained indicate that native hCG may be classified as a T‐cell independent antigen in the sense that it can elicit low levels of IgM antibodies on a short term basis in athymic mice that have either no or very low T‐cell levels. In long‐term studies using hCG and the hCG immunogen no antibodies could be detected in athymic mice 14 days after a booster inoculation given 28 days after primary immunization, a regimen that produced high levels of antibodies in normal mice. Because of their inability to sustain humoral responses to native hCG as well as to other hCG immunogens, athymic mice seem well suited for in vivo studies of some of the biological effects of hCG.
In Vitro Inhibitory Effect of Human Syncytiotrophoblast Plasma Membranes on the Cytolytic Activities of CTL and NK Cells
Authors: DEGENNE D. , KHALFOUN B. , BARDOS P.
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: We have previously described the purification procedure for syncytiotrophoblast plasma membranes (STPM) and have now studied their immunomodulatory properties on the in vitro cytotoxic assays of generated cytotoxic T‐lymphocytes (CTL) and natural killer cells (NK). STPM inhibited the cytolytic activities of CTL and NK against their target cells, whereas RBC ghosts, even at the highest protein concentration used, were ineffective. This inhibitory effect was dose‐dependent upon the STPM‐protein concentration and appeared to be particularly distinct at low effector/ target ratios. It is hypothesized that the inhibitory activity of STPM may be exerted by blocking the effector cells or by masking their targets. Regardless of the mode of action, since cytotoxic cell activities are known to play an important role in the allograft rejection process, this suppressive inhibitory effect of STPM might be a crucial mechanism in the tolerance of the semiallogenic fetal graft.
Human Amnion as a Model for IgG Transport
Authors: STONE DARRYL L. , SUZUKI YASUNOBU , WOOD GARY W.
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: The ability of fresh human amnion to bind and internalize horseradish peroxidase‐Iabeled IgG (IgG‐HRP) was examined in an in vitro Ussing chamber system. The amnion demonstrated unique cell membrane receptors for the Fc portion of IgG molecules (FeyR). The FcγR exhibit exquisite specificity and affinity for IgG monomers as demonstrated by staining with labeled IgG. Labeled IgA, IgM, F(ab')2 fragments of IgG, aggregated IgG, and antigen‐antibody complexes all failed to bind to the amnionic epithelial cells. Binding was only minimally affected by changes in ionic strength or pH when viewed at the light microscopic level. The FcγR are located on both the apical and basal cell membranes. The binding of IgG‐HRP to the amnion cell membrane was detectable within 1 min, and internalization of the ligand occurred within 5 min. No binding of IgG‐HRP was observed following treatment of the membrane with 0.25% trypsin for 30 min at room temperature. Incubation of the amnion at 4°C or in the presence of colchicine or cytochalasin D prevented internalization of the IgG‐HRP. These experiments demonstrate FcγR on human amnionic epithelial cells that both bind and internalize IgG, thus allowing the amnion to be used as a model system for studying IgG transport.
Ontogeny of Expression of Pa and RT1.Aa Antigens on Rat Placenta and on Fetal Tissues
Authors: HO G‐NERNG , MACPHERSON TREVOR A. , KUNZ HEINZ W. , GILL THOMAS J.
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: The unique pregnancy‐associated (Pa) antigen, which is a class I antigen encoded by the major histocompatibility complex (MHC), elicits a nondestructive maternal antibody response. By contrast, the class I transplantation antigen RTI.Aa elicits a destructive antibody response in tissue transplantation but not during pregnancy. With the use of the avidin‐biotin complex (ABC) immunohistochemical method, the Pa and RTl.Aa antigens were localized on the basophilic and giant cells of the basal zone trophoblast, the endovascular trophoblast and decidual interstitial trophoblast, and the chorioallantoic membrane but not on the labyrinthine zone trophoblast as early as the 12th day of gestation. These two antigens were also expressed on the epidermis, hair follicles, spleen, thymic medulla, bronchial epithelium, intestinal epithelium, the hepatic Kupffer cells, endocardium, endothelium of blood vessels, renal tubular cells and glomeruli, and renal pelvis and ureter of fetal and adult rat tissues. Absorption studies with placental tissue confirmed the presence of these two antigens in the rat placenta, and antibody‐blocking studies confirmed their unique specificities.
Human Leukocyte Antigens (HLA) Class I and Class II on Sperm Cells Studied at the Serological, Cellular, and Genomic Levels
Authors: BISHARA AMAL , OKSENBERG JORGE R. , FRANKEL GADI , MARGALIOTH EHUD I.J. , PERSITZ EMANUEL , NELKEN DAVID , FRIEDMANN ADAM , BRAUTBAR CHAIM
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: The expression of human leukocyte antigens (HLA) on highly purified human ejaculated sperm cells was studied using the sensitive enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) technique and a wide panel of monoclonal antibodies to class I and class II HLA. In addition, the stimulatory capacity of these cells was tested in mixed cultures of lymphocytes and spermatozoa, and the levels of RNA homologous to the HLA class I and class II genes were determined. The results obtained using the ELISA indicate that the class I and class II HLA serologically defined antigens are weakly expressed on the cell surface of the mature spermatozoa. Highly purified sperm cells consistently stimulated heterologous lymphocytes but not when HLA‐DR compatibility was observed between stimulator and responder. The proliferative response of lymphocytes induced by sperm cells was lower than the response obtained in a lymphocyte‐lymphocyte combination, though the kinetics of the response were similar in both cases. In addition, it was found that spermatozoa contained RNA species homologous to HLA class II DRβ and DQβ genes sequences but not to HLA class I sequences. The levels of these RNA species were significantly reduced after interferon stimulation. Lymphocytes that served as positive control were found to contain RNA complementary to both HLA class I and class II genes.
Potentiation of Autoimmune Response in Rats Infected With Toxoplasma gondii
Authors: ROMERO‐PIFFIGUER MARTA , FERRO MARÍA ELENA , RIERA CLELIA M.
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: The influence that an infection with Toxoplasma gondii in thymus proximity produces on the autoimmune response was studied. Rats infected with 3 × 103 trophozoites of T. gondii in thymus proximity were immunized with 5 mg/ml of chemically modified rat male accessory glands saline extract (MRAG) and/ or human serum albumin (HSA) emulsified in complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA) at 6 days after infection. A second immunization was performed 30 days later. Four experimental groups were made: group 1—rats were immunized with MRAG‐CFA and HSA‐CFA; group 2‐rats were infected and immunized with MRAG‐CFA and HSA‐CFA; group 3—rats were infected and immunized with MRAG‐CFA; group 4—rats were infected and immunized with HSA‐CFA. The cellular immune response was evaluated at 15 days after first immunization by delayed type hypersensitivity (DTH) test and the humoral response was studied by passive haemagglutination test at 45 days after first immunization. The results indicate that the cellular and humoral immune response against MRAG were significantly potentiated in infected rats (p < 0.02, p < 0.05, respectively). The response to HSA did not show significant differences between the infected and uninfected groups. Concomitantly, the histopathological alterations produced by T. gondii in thymus gland were studied at 6 and 52 days after infection. Cortical depletion and presence of parasites in the thymic cortex were detected in both cases. Involution thymic was demonstrated in infected rats killed at 52 days after infection. The possible participation of the thymus gland in the enhancement of the autoimmune response to MRAG is discussed.
Effect of Bovine Virus Diarrhoea Virus on Pregnancy in the Ewe Monitored by Ultrasound Scanning and Levels of 15‐Keto‐13,14‐Dihydro‐PGF2α and Progesterone
Authors: CARLSSON U. , FREDRIKSSON G. , KINDAHL H. , ALENIUS S.
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: Fourteen unvaccinated and seronegative ewes were experimentally infected with bovine virus diarrhoea virus around day 60 of pregnancy. Two other groups of pregnant ewes served as control animals. The animals were followed with ultrasound scanning to study the status of the fetus and with frequent blood sampling for analysis of progesterone and 15‐keto‐13,14‐dihydro‐PGF2α, two hormones that could reflect the propagation of the infection. The unvaccinated ewes responded to the infection with abortion, resorption of the fetus, mummification or no changes at all. The endocrinological changes reflected in a most adequeate way the pathological changes in the uterus. Detailed endocrinological studies can contribute to the understanding of the pathogenesis of some infectious diseases that affect reproduction.
Lymphocyte Subsets in the Neonates of Preeclamptic Mothers
Authors: BAKER DAVID A. , HAMEED CHAUDHRY , TEJANI NERGESH , THOMAS JOANNE , DATTWYLER RAYMOND
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: With the aid of specific monoclonal antibodies, indirect immunofluorescence, and flow cytometry, peripheral blood lymphocyte populations were studied in 12 preeclamptic mothers and compared with those of ten normal patients at term. As well, lymphocyte subsets from newborns of these preeclamptic mothers and ten normal patients at term were studied. Lymphocytes were labelled with murine monoclonal antibodies directed against T cells and subsets of helper cells, suppressor/cytotoxic cells and natural killer cells. Cord blood lymphocytes of neonates from preeclamptic mothers showed a statistically significant reduction of total T cells, helper cells, and natural killer cells as compared to control. A significant reduction in helper/ suppressor ratio was also observed. It is hypothesized that the differences in the immune system of the neonates in the preeclamptic group may be due to the stress of intrauterine malnutrition secondary to uteroplacental insufficiency.
Major Histocompatibility Antigens on Trophoblast and Their Regulation: Implications in the Maternal‐Fetal Relationship
Authors: HEAD JUDITH R. , DRAKE BELINDA L. , ZUCKERMANN FEDERICO A.
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: Recent technological advances have provided methods of detecting antigens encoded by the major histocompatibility complex with greater precision, allowing the expression of such antigens on the components of the placenta to be clarified. Of specific interest is the expression of these antigens on trophoblast cells, the fetal‐derived epithelial cells that confront maternal blood and tissues at the maternal‐fetal interface. It is now clear that the different trophoblast subpopulations differentially express class I antigens, although none appear to express class II antigens. Class I antigens can be induced by exposure to interferons on some populations but apparently not others, suggesting that the regulation of their expression differs for sub‐populations of trophoblast cells, depending on gestational stage and location. This restricted expression has important implications for maternal‐fetal immune interactions during the different phases of pregnancy and perhaps also bears on physiological functions of the feto‐placental unit, such as growth and differentiation.
Analysis of the Action of Corticosteroid Treatment in Immunologic Infertility: A Preliminary Report and an Alternative Hypothesis
Authors: SCARSELLI GIANFRANCO , LIVI CLAUDIA , EMMI LORENZO , CHELO ELISABETTA , NOCI IVO , PELLEGRINI SANDRA
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: The presence of sperm antibodies can be demonstrated in 8–10% of the male partners of infertile couples. The therapeutic schedule with which the highest pregnancy rate has been obtained in these cases is that proposed by Shulman, which uses methylprednisolone (MP). If treatment with corticosteroids (CS) is effective, the way in which it acts is not entirely clear. In this study we report the results of 16 treatment cycles with CS administered to eight male patients having sperm antibodies in their serum, in which several parameters of humoral immunity were evaluated. The results are conflicting: several parameters (such as IgG concentration) underwent only slight variations after 7 days of therapy, whereas in 12 cycles out of 16, the Tray agglutination test (TAT) indicated that a reduction or disappearance of the antibodies had been obtained. This confirms the usefulness of CS in immunological infertility, and allows us to hypothesize that the beneficial effect may be found in a reduction of inflammation rather than in a suppression of the immunological response, since CS are well known to have these two kinds of effect.
How Should Sperm Antibody Tests Be Used Clinically?
Authors: HAAS GILBERT G.
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: Immunoglobulin‐specific assays are currently available for detection of patients with antibody‐mediated infertility. Care must be taken in insuring that the correct immunoglobulin class is assayed, the assay is directed to the possible interaction of antibodies and sperm in the male or female genital tract, and the antigen employed will not detect antibodies against antigens not found on the plasma membrane of living sperm.
Antigen Presenting Cells in Human Decidual Tissue: III. Role of Accessory Cells in the Activation of Suppressor Cells
Authors: OKSENBERG JORGE R. , MOR‐YOSEF SCHLOMO , EZRA YOSEF , BRAUTBAR CHAIM
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: Human decidual antigen presenting cells (DAPCs) exposed to fetal cells in vitro induce generation of suppressor T cells among a population of peripheral blood lymphocytes. Human lymphocyte antigen (HLA)‐class II positive antigen presenting cells were isolated from early normal human decidual tissue and from peripheral blood (PAPCs) by adhering Ficoll‐Pa‐que separated cell suspensions to fibronectin. In contrast to PAPCs, DAPCs pulsed with fetal antigens induced a radio‐sensitive, Leu 1,2‐positive T suppressor cell population. A nylon wool adherent B cell population is required during the in vitro induction of the suppressor cells. These suppressor cells impair primary mitogen and mixed lymphocyte culture (MLC) responses, generation of anti‐trinitrophe‐nyl (TNP) cytotoxic T lymphocytes, and antibody response of autologous and allogeneic lymphocytes. Only intact viable embryonic cells can effectively confer upon DAPCs the ability to induce T suppressor cells. The T suppressor cell induction by DAPCs primed with fetal antigens is restricted by the major histocompatibility complex. Our results show that the HLA‐DR molecules are the most prominent restriction elements.
Inhibition of Lymphocyte‐Mediated Antibacterial Activity by Human Seminal Plasma
Authors: DE SIMONE C. , CARETTO G. , GRASSI P.P. , COVELLI V. , LENZI A. , ANTONACI S. , JIRILLO E.
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: Seminal plasma displays a suppressive function on many immunological responses. In light of recent findings on the antibacterial activity mediated by different lymphocyte subsets, we have assessed the effect of male inhibitory material (MIM) in this system. Results provide evidence that MIM pretreatment of peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBL) leads to a significant inhibition of antibacterial activity against Salmonella typhi and S. minnesota R345 (Rb). Both CD4+ and CD8+ cell‐mediated activities are reduced by this treatment, while another defense mechanism (bacterial binding to PBL) is unaffected. Taken together, these results indicate a role for MIM in the depression of immune response and suggest that lymphocytes mediating antibacterial activity and bacterial cytoadherence are different entities.
Special Antigens on Sperm From Autoimmune Infertile Men
Authors: MATHUR SUBBI , CHAO LEE , GOUST J.M. , MILROY GREGORY T. , WOODLEY‐MILLER C. , CALDWELL JODY Z. , DARU JOSEPH , WILLIAMSON H.O.
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: Sera from three fertile men and four infertile men without sperm antibodies, 17 infertile men with sperm antibodies in serum and seminal plasma (S.P.), and 25 infertile men with sperm antibodies in S.P. were tested by Western Blot analysis against sperm membrane extracts and S.P. from fertile nonautoimmune men and infertile autoimmune men. Sera from fertile men reacted against common antigens with molecular weights (MW) of 28, 38, 48, 60, and 68 kD present on sperm from autoimmune and nonautoimmune men and special antigen of MW 76 kD on the sperm of fertile men. Sera from 15 of 17 (88%) autoimmune infertile men with sperm antibodies in serum and S.P. detected special antigens with MW of 58 kD (sera reactivity in 47% of these men), 43kD (in 29%), 30 kD (in 24%), 35 kD (in 18%), 52 kD (in 12%), 41 kD (in 6%), and 71 kD (in 6%) on the sperm of autoimmune men in addition to the common antigens. Sera from 15 of 25 (60%) men with sperm antibodies in their S.P. showed reactivity to special antigens with MW 52 kD (in 20%), 35 kD (in 16%), 41 kD (in 16%), 58 kD (in 8%), 70/71 kD (in 8%), 30 kD (in 8%), and 56 kD (in 4%). Sera from 18 of 42 (43%) infertile men with sperm antibodies also detected special antigens of MW 26, 46, and 76 kD present only in fertile men's sperm. Sera from only 15 of 42 (36%) autoimmune infertile men reacted against special antigens with MW 17, 20, 23, 30, 43, and 58 kD in the seminal plasma of autoimmune infertile men. Cross‐absorption studies using sera from autoimmune infertile men further supported the presence of unique antigens on their sperm. It is proposed that the special antigens present on the sperm from infertile autoimmune men may be responsible for the enhanced humoral and cell‐mediated immune responses observed in these men.
Antispermatozoal Antibodies in Three Men With Infertility Due to Congenital Aplasia of the Vasa Deferentia
Authors: KAY DAVID J. , HOSKEN BRUCE , BOETTCHER BARRY , CLARK LEON
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: Men presenting with azoospermia due to aplasia of the vas deferens have commonly been considered to be infertile without hope of treatment. With improved methods of artificial insemination however, and more particularly with the advent of in vitro fertilization, it has been suggested that usable spermatozoa may be able to be drawn from the epididymes of such men so that fertilization is achieved.

The clinical situation of such men is analogous to that of long term vasectomised patients, 60% of whom are known to produce antibodies to spermatozoa which would interfere with the fertilization process. It was therefore decided to attempt to draw fluid from the epididymes of three such patients and at the same time conduct immunological studies on their sera, seminal fluid and, where available, epididymal fluid. Unfortunately, the spermatozoa obtained from all three men lacked sufficient progressive motility for use in in vitro fertilization. In addition, all men had antispermatozoal antibodies in their sera. Two of them also had antispermatozoal antibodies in their epididymal fluid and on their sperm, one at the same titer as in his serum. Since it is known that antibodies coating sperm reduce the changes of fertilization it is suggested that their presence should be assessed in all such men being considered for treatment.

In addition, these studies demonstrate that antispermatozoal antibodies can enter the male tract at the level of the epididymis or higher and there were strong suggestions of local antibody production at this level in the tract.
Amniotic Fluid Thymosin α1 Levels Increase During Gestation
Authors: WELCH ROBERT A. , LEE HORCHANG H. , SOKOL ROBERT J. , MUTCHNICK MILTON G.
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: Thymosin α1 is one of several cytokines produced by the thymus that modulates immune function. The presence of elevated serum levels of thymosin α1 in pregnant women and their newborns has suggested that this peptide may play a role in perinatal immunology. In this investigation, we used a microenzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay to assay amniotic fluid for immunoreactive thymosin α1 and found levels that were remarkably higher than newborn serum levels (P < 10−4). The increase of thymosin α1 in amniotic fluid with fetal age was natural logarithmic (r = 0.838, P < 10−6). Thymosin α1 in amniotic fluid may account for some of the immunologic properties of this medium.
A Monoclonal Antibody Against Human Testicular Anti‐Müllerian Hormone
Authors: LEGEM LAURENCE , LEFÈVRE GILBERT , VIGIER BERNARD , PICARD JEAN‐YVES , JOSSO NATHALIE
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: Using immunochromatography on a polyclonal antibody, testicular anti‐Müllerian hormone (AMH) was purified from homogenates of human fetal testicular tissue and used as an antigen for hybridoma production. Two IgM clones were obtained. Both recognized AMH on biopsies of human testicular tissue and one blocked its anti‐Müllerian activity. This monoclonal antibody (MAb) exhibited a relatively high affinity for AMH, and was studied further. It is interspecific, recognizing AMH in other mammalian species. The study of this MAb in relation to an IgM MAb raised against bovine AMH (bAMH) indicates that both MAbs recognize different but related epitopes on bAMH.
Changes of Lymphocyte Subsets in Normal Pregnant and Postpartum Women: Postpartum Increase of NK/K (Leu 7) Cells
Authors: IWATANI Y. , AMINO N. , TACHI J. , KIMURA M. , URA I. , MORI M. , MIYAI K. , NASU M. , TANIZAWA O.
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: Changes in lymphocyte subsets in whole blood of normal pregnant and postpartum women were examined by flow cytometry with an automated leukocyte differential system. From the first trimester and throughout pregnancy, the absolute counts of T(CD3) and B(CD20) and T‐cell subsets (CD4, CD8) decreased with a decrease in the absolute lymphocyte count, although the proportions of these cells remained unchanged except for a decrease in the percentage of T helper‐inducer (CD4) cells in the first trimester. On the contrary, the percentage of NK/K (Leu 7) cells, but not of NK/K (CD16) cells, increased in the first trimester and then both gradually decreased in the second and third trimesters. In the postpartum period, the percentages and absolute counts of T(CD3) and NK/K (Leu 7) cells, but not of other cells, increased transiently. These changes of lymphocyte subsets may indicate suppression of immunological activity during pregnancy and its “increase” in the postpartum period.
Antinuclear Autoantibodies in Sera of Healthy Pregnant Women and Their Offspring
Authors: PIURA BENJAMIN , TAUBER ERNEST , SAROV BATIA , NAGGAN LECHAIM , SHOENFELD YEHUDA
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: The presence of autoantibodies in the fetus has previously been investigated in the offspring of mothers with autoimmune diseases, but not in the offspring of healthy pregnant women. Employing the ELISA method, we examine four SLE‐associated autoantibodies (anti‐dsDNA, anti‐ssDNA, anti‐poly(I), and anti‐cardiolipin) in sera obtained from 196 healthy pregnant women and their offspring. All detected autoantibodies in maternal and blood cord sera were of the IgM isotype. Thirty‐four maternal sera (17.3%) were positive for one or more tested autoantibodies: 16 (8.1%) for one autoantibody alone, 17 (8.6%) for two autoantibodies, and one (0.5%) for three autoantibodies; 1.5%, 5.6%, 9.6%, and 10.2% of the maternal sera were positive for autoantibodies against dsDNA, ssDNA, poly(I), and cardiolipin, respectively. In only one blood cord serum sample was an autoantibody (IgM anti‐ssDNA) detected. This infant was born to a healthy seronegative mother. The finding that all offspring of IgM seropositive mothers are IgM seronegative is not surprising since maternal IgM autoantibodies do not cross the placenta. The finding of an IgM seropositive infant born to an IgM seronegative mother may indicate that the fetus is capable of self‐production of autoantibodies.
A Comprehensive Client Management System for Crisis Intervention Services
Authors: Thigpen Joe D. , Jones Elizabeth
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: This paper presents and evaluates a comprehensive client management system for suicide and crisis intervention services. The management system consists of five service designations: self‐injury, crisis, active support, general support, and single contact. These designations determine the extent and type of activity engaged in, as well as the scope of follow‐up and monitoring. As intended, self‐injury clients received more contacts, longer periods of involvement, and more time in direct service. There was little difference in the length of each contact and the ability to ascertain outcome. While the management system established valuable service guidelines and priorities, it did not resolve approaches to some of the idiosyncratic problems presented to suicide and crisis intervention services.
The Suicide of Seymour Glass
Authors: Eisen Gail S.
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: This paper explores the suicide of Seymour Glass, a major character in J. D. Salinger's fiction and utilizes the “psychological autopsy” technique as a framework for investigating the psychodynamics of Seymour's death. Based upon materials provided throughout Salinger's stories, the suicide is analyzed in terms of five major elements related to Seymour's emotional state and manifest behaviors: (1) details of the death; (2) personal history; (3) level of perturbation; (4) personality and life‐style; and (5) intention and lethality of the act. Additionally, this essay posits various interpretations of the suicide and allows for insights into the psychodynamic functioning of a major literary character.
A Psychiatrist's Experience of Death Terror
Authors: Casey Jesse F.
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: An episode of total paralysis (from medication) with full consciousness is described and its relation to death terror is discussed.
Autocastration as a Counterphobic Focal Suicide
Authors: Pabis Roman , Mirza Masood Ali , Tozman Seymour
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: A case of autocastration is presented and a psychodynamic formulation is proposed. Implications for treatment are discussed.