bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ENDOCARDITIS CAUSED BY CARDIOBACTERIUM HOMINIS
Authors: BRUUN B. , BUCH J. , KIRKEGAARD E. , BJÆLDAGER P.
Published: August 2010

Two cases of endocarditis caused by Cardiobacterium hominis are reported. There were no unusual clinical features of endocarditis in the patients except for the extensive valvular damage present at time of hospitalization. Properties which distinguish C. hominis from other fastidious, gram negative rods are oxidase and catalase reactions, indole production and carbohydrate fermentation pattern.
ANTIBODY RESPONSE TO ALPHA‐ AND BETAHEMOLYSIN FROM STAPHYLOCOCCUS AUREUS IN PATIENTS WITH STAPHYLOCOCCAL INFECTIONS AND IN NORMALS
Authors: CHRISTENSSON BERTIL , HEDSTRÖM SVEN ÅKE , KRONVALL GÖRAN
Published: August 2010

One hundred and nineteen patients with S. aureus infections and 22 patients with non‐S. aureus septicemia were investigated for anti‐alpha hemolysin antibodies using a radioimmunoassay (RIA). As compared to 160 healthy controls, patients with S. aureus endocarditis, septicemia, chronic osteomyelitis and recurrent furunculosis showed significantly higher antibody levels, while the non‐S. aureus septicemia group showed normal levels. Corresponding results were obtained using the conventional anti‐staphylolysin (ASTA) test. Only patients with recurrent furunculosis had significantly elevated anti‐beta hemolysin antibody levels assessed by RIA, in comparison with healthy controls. The highest antibody levels were found in furunculosis patients infected with S. aureus strains which were high producers of beta hemolysin. The results indicate that furunculosis patients do not have a defective serological response against S. aureus beta hemolysin.
EVALUATION OF THE ANAEROBE‐TEK SYSTEM FOR THE IDENTIFICATION OF BACTEROIDES AND FUSOBACTERIUM SPECIES
Authors: Vege Åshild , Dibb William L. , Hofstad Tor
Published: August 2010

Reference strains and clinical isolates of Bacteroides and Fusobacterium species were examined by the Anaerobe‐Tek System (A/T‐system). Of 104 strains, only 57 (54.8%) were identified correctly to species level. 38 strains (36.5%) were incorrectly identified and for 9 strains (8.7%) there were no codes in the manufacturers' data base manual. The results indicate that, in our hands, the A/T‐system in its present form, is not suitable for the identification of clinical isolates of Bacteroides and Fusobacterium species.
ANTIBIOTIC SUSCEPTIBILITY PATTERN AND CAPSULAR TYPES OF HAEMOPHILUS INFLUENZAE RECOVERED FROM CLINICAL SPECIMENS IN NORTHERN NORWAY
Authors: MELBY K. , LEINSLIE T. , HAGEN N. , VORLAND L. H.
Published: August 2010

One hundred and nine strains of Haemophilus influenzae recovered from clinical specimens were examined for antibiotic sensitivity pattern and capsular types. All strains from blood cultures, cerebrospinal fluid and a joint aspirate were type b whereas most of the isolates were acapsular when recovered from other specimens viz. wound secretions (67%), maxillary sinus (75%), lower resp tract (86%), nasal cavity (90%). Out of the 109 strains 88 (81%) were non‐typable, and 3,6% were beta‐lactamase‐producing, two of which were type e, one was type b and one was acapsular. Three beta‐lactamase‐producing strains were isolated from specimens from the respiratory tract and one from blood cultures. Beta‐lactamase‐producing strains including one chloramphenicol‐resistant strain harboured similar plasmids, as judged by agarose gel electrophoresis. The strains showed quite a uniform sensitivity to antibacterial agents with the exception of sulphonamides to which the capsular strains, particularly type b strains, were less susceptible.
TOXIN A OF CLOSTRIDIUM DIFFICILE: PRODUCTION, PURIFICATION AND EFFECT IN MOUSE INTESTINE
Authors: LÖNNROTH IVAR , LANGE STEFAN
Published: August 2010

Clostridium difficile produces one diarrhoeogenic toxin designed A, and one cytopathogenic toxin designed B. Toxin A was purified in a four‐step‐fractionation procedure. In the last purification step the toxin was separated by elution with galactose from an agarose gel. The purified toxin A induced a clear and watery hypersecretion in intestinal loops of mouse, while mixtures of toxin A and B induced a haemorrhagic secretion. At an ED50 value for the purified toxin A of 0.5 μg there was a brief, optimal hypersecretion after four hours. Like the fluid secretion induced by cholera toxin, that induced by toxin A could be inhibited by chlorpromazine or by depletion of intestinal bile. In contrast to cholera toxin, however, toxin A did not activate intestinal adenylate cyclase – at least not permanently. Antisera which neutralized cholera toxin did not neutralize toxin A, and vice versa.
PREVALENCE OF CYTOMEGALOVIRUS ANTIBODIES IN NORWEGIAN KIDNEY‐TRANSPLANT RECIPIENTS AND THEIR LIVING DONORS
Authors: SKAR ANNE GRETE , HODDEVIK GUNNAR
Published: August 2010

376 sera from Norwegian kidney‐transplant recipients and their living, related donors, were tested for the presence of cytomegalovirus antibodies (CMV‐ab) by the complement fixation test (CF), and for IgG CMV‐ab by the enzyme‐linked immuno‐sorbent assay (ELISA). Whenever the results of the two methods differed, the sera were also tested by the indirect fluorescence antibody test (FAT). 325 of 376 sera showed corresponding results, giving a concordance of 86 per cent between CF and ELISA, ELISA being the more sensitive of the two, with a sensitivity in the same range as FAT, and high specificity with only 0.3 per cent false positive results. The prevalence of CMV‐ab in Norwegian kidney‐transplant recipients and their living, related donors, differed very little. The overall CMV‐ab seropositivity was 76 per cent. The prevalence increased from 50 per cent at the age of 20 years, to 80 per cent at 30 years and 90 to 100 per cent from 60 years of age.
INVASIVENESS OF SALMONELLA TYPHIMURIUM IN HEp‐2 CELL CULTURES PREINFECTED WITH COXSACKIE B 1 VIRUS
Authors: BUKHOLM GEIR , DEGRÉ MIKLOS
Published: August 2010

The influence of infection of HEp‐2 cells with Coxsackie B 1 virus on the invasiveness of Salmonella typhimurium has been studied. The bacterial invasiveness was significantly increased in the cell cultures incubated with virus before bacterial inoculation. This effect was a function of time after introduction of virus into the cell cultures and the concentration of virus. The increase in bacterial invasiveness was observed before production of infectious virus particles and before development of cytopathogenic effect was evident. Two strains of non‐invasive Escherichia coli did not show invasiveness after the virus treatment of the cells. The results indicate a specific mechanism for the interaction.
IMMUNOGLOBULIN A1 PROTEASE ACTIVITY IN STRAINS OF UREAPLASMA UREALYTICUM
Authors: KILIAN MOGENS , BROWN MARY B. , BROWN THOMAS A. , FREUNDT E. A. , CASSELL GAIL H.
Published: August 2010

Thirteen serovars of Ureaplasma urealyticum were analyzed for the ability to cleave human IgA. Strains of all of the serovars tested cleaved IgA1 in the hinge region of the α‐chain, resulting in intact Fc and monomeric Fab fragments. IgA1 protease activity was also observed in concentrated cell‐free extracts of spent cultivation medium, indicating that the IgA1 protease was excreted into the medium during growth of the micro‐organisms. Five clinical isolates of U. urealyticum obtained from urine, cervix, vagina, amniotic fluid, and synovial fluid were positive for IgA1 protease activity. No proteolytic activity was observed against human IgA2, IgG, or IgM. Strains of Mycoplasma fermentans, M. salivarium and seven serovars of M. hominis were negative for IgA1 protease activity.
EFFECT OF TEMPERATURE ON THE SURVIVAL OF NEISSERIA MENINGITIDIS
Authors: HØIBY E. ARNE , SANDVEN PER , SOLBERG OTTO
Published: August 2010

The effect of different temperatures and variations in temperature on the survival of Neisseria meningitidis in modified Stuart transport medium and in human cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) has been investigated. The meningococcal strains examined died quickly during storage at 37 °C, while storage at 4 °C and 22 °C caused only a moderate decrease in their viability. Short periods of temperature variations during storage at 22 °C in transport medium were found to be harmful only when the specimens were kept at ‐20 °C for these short periods. According to our results, 37 °C storage temperature cannot be recommended for specimens such as those examined. As 4 °C may be harmful to H. influenzae one cannot generally recommend keeping specimens from meningitis patients in refrigerator until analyzed. Room temperature therefore seems preferable. Specimens inoculated onto growth‐supporting media should of course contrarily be incubated at 35–37 °C.
NORFLOXACIN: IN VITRO ACTIVITY COMPARED WITH THAT OF SEVEN OTHER ANTIBACTERIAL AGENTS AGAINST URINARY TRACT PATHOGENS
Authors: DIGRANES A. , DIBB W. L. , ØSTERVOLD B.
Published: August 2010

The minimal inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of norfloxacin, nalidixic acid, ampicillin, amoxycillin/clavulanic acid (4:1), mecillinam, cefaclor, sulphamethoxazole/trimethoprim (20:1) and netilmicin against 435 clinical isolates of bacterial urinary tract pathogens have been determined. An agar dilution method was employed. Norfloxacin was the most active agent in the study on a weight‐for‐weight basis. The drug was highly active against Enterobacteriaceae. Norfloxacin was more active than netilmicin against Pseudomonas aeruginosa (MICs ≤2 mg/l and ≤4 mg/l, respectively). Norfloxacin was also active against Gram‐positive bacteria including enterococci and Staphylococcus saprophyticus (MICs ≤ 4 mg/l). Norfloxacin may well become a useful agent for the oral treatment of urinary tract infection, particularly as a drug for the treatment of infections caused by multiresistant organisms.
ACTIVATION OF POLYMORPHONUCLEAR LEUKOCYTES BY SALMONELLA
Authors: HUIXIU J. , STENDAHL O. , EDEBO L.
Published: August 2010

The interaction of polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMN) with salmonella, as studied by chemiluminescence and phagocytosis, was very different for a number of clinical isolates. Particularly bacteria in the serogroups C1 and E4 deviated from other Salmonella. The differences were observed in the rate of activation, peak value, duration of the chemiluminescence, and in the extent of association and ingestion as studied microscopically. Old laboratory S‐strains such as Salmonella typhimurium 395 MS and S. minnesota S99, which did not associate with the PMN, showed little activation of the PMN, whereas their phagocytosis‐sensitive R‐mutants induced rapid activation, high peak values, and short duration of the chemiluminescence. Certain isolates belonging to the C1/E4 group induced intermediate types of reactions. The kinetics of the activation was related to the physicochemical surface properties of the bacteria. Heating the bacteria at 70 °C for 45 min enhanced the activation of PMN by the S‐type strains conspicuously but in different ways, whereas that of R‐mutants was delayed. Different clinical isolates of salmonella have shown different physico‐chemical surfaces, liability to phagocytosis by PMNs and different degrees of eliciting inflammatory mediators from PMNs in vitro. The results indicate that the C1/E4 group of Salmonella has pathogenicity mechanisms different from most salmonellae.
RAPID DIAGNOSIS OF CHLAMYDIA TRACHOMATIS PNEUMONIA IN INFANTS
Authors: FRIIS B. , KUO C. C. , WANG S‐P. , MORDHORST C. H. , GRAYSTON J. T.
Published: August 2010

By utilizing a species specific monoclonal antibody against Chlamydia trachomatis for a direct fluorescent antibody stain, chlamydia organisms were demonstrated in smears of respiratory tract secretions from two infants with pneumonia. C. trachomatis organisms were isolated from tracheo‐nasopharyngeal aspirates of both babies and high titer IgM antibodies found in both against the isolated serotype. None of the three diagnostic methods were positive for C. trachomatis in any of the other 39 infants and children to six years of age with pneumonia studied.
NEUTROPHIL PHAGOCYTOSIS OF TREPONEMA DENTICOLA AS INDICATED BY EXTRACELLULAR RELEASE OF LACTOFERRIN
Authors: HURLEN BJØRN , OLSEN INGAR , LINGAAS EGIL , MIDTVEDT TORE
Published: August 2010

Lysosomal enzyme release from viable human neutrophils occurs during phagocytic activity in vivo. Phagocytosis of a strain of T.denticola, an oral spirochete, was indicated by the finding of lactoferrin in the extracellular medium of neutrophils challenged with this organism. The extracellular release of lactoferrin was dependent on duration of bacterial challenge, but peak concentration appeared at a later stage than seen in phagocytosis experiments with Escherichia coli, which served as a control. Neutrophil phagocytosis of T.denticola may be of importance as a defence factor in periodontal disease.
COMPARATIVE INVESTIGATIONS OF PASTEURELLA HAEMOLYTICA SENSU STRICTO AND SO—CALLED P. HAEMOLYTICA ISOLATED FROM DIFFERENT PATHOLOGICAL LESIONS IN PIGS
Authors: BISGAARD M.
Published: August 2010

During the present investigation evidence was obtained to indicate that porcine Pasteurella haemolytica–like strains were sufficiently different from P. haemolytica sensu stricto to constitute a new taxon within the family Pasteurellaceae Pohl 1981. Thirteen strains formed a homogenous group tentatively designated taxon 15. The final taxonomical position of taxon 15, however, has to await further taxonomical investigations, including determinations of mol % G+C in DNA and DNA: DNA hybridizations. A species name has not been suggested, for the same reasons.
ADMINISTRATION ROUTE AND SPLENECTOMY EFFECTS ON RESISTANCE TO PNEUMOCOCCI IN RATS
Authors: OFFENBARTL KARSTEN , GULLSTRAND PER , ALWMARK ANDERS , CHRISTENSEN POUL
Published: August 2010

Normal and splenectomized rats were challenged with Streptococcus pneumoniae type 1 via different administration routes. In experiment I, previously splenectomized or sham—operated rats received 4 times 103 colony—forming units (CFU) of pneumococci via (i) a peripheral vein, (ii) subcutaneously, or (iii) intraperitoneally. The results indicated an increased susceptibility of the splenectomized animal to pneumococci administered via all three routes. However, subcutaneously administered pneumococci gave a lower mortality than pneumococci given intravenously or intraperitoneally. In experiment II 40 splenectomized rats received 4 times 103 CFU of pneumococci via (i) peripheral, (ii) portal, or (iii) caval veins or the aorta. No differences in mortality were found. In experiment III, non‐operated animals received 4 times 105 CFU of pneumococci either intravenously or intraperitoneally, resulting in mortality rates of 0/20 and 17/20, respectively. After 2 weeks the rats surviving intravenous challenge received 4 times 105 CFU of pneumococci intraperitoneally; all survived. The data indicate the the spleen and the subcutis have a greater capacity to protect against pneumococci in the absence of specific antibody than the peritoneum or the circulation outside the spleen.
MICROTESTS FOR RAPID IDENTIFICATION OF ENTEROBACTERIACEAE Four‐Hour Tests by Use of Substrate—Impregnated Paper Discs
Authors: NISSEN BENT
Published: August 2010

A number of microtests for the diagnosis of Enterobacteriaceae in 4 hours were developed. Composition of substrates and preparation of reaction wells are described. There were used substrate—impregnated paper discs affixed to microwell plates. Test results of 253 stock cultures of Enterobacteriaceae were correlated with results obtained by conventional tube methods. Twenty out of 23 microtests showed total correlations of more than 95%, and the remaining 3 tests 85–94%. The microtests are concluded to be economic and reliable alternatives to conventional tube methods and seem suitable for routine identification of Enterobacteriaceae.
INTESTINAL WATER—SOLUBLE MUCINS IN GERMFREE, EXGERMFREE AND CONVENTIONAL ANIMALS
Authors: GUSTAFSSON BENGT E. , CARLSTEDT‐DUKE BODIL
Published: August 2010

Water‐soluble intestinal mucins were investigated in germfree (GF), exgermfree (EXG) and conventional (CONV) rats and in GF and CONV mice. After agar gel electrophoresis, all GF animals had similar specific band patterns demonstrated by PAS and Toluidine Blue. These patterns, never seen in CONV animals, disappeared in GF animals infected either with intestinal contents from CONV rats or mono—infected with a mucin converting microorganism, labelled Peptostreptococcus N. The intestinal microflora seem to have a profound influence on the water‐soluble mucins, and specific microorganisms appear to be involved in the conversion of these substances. Any CONV animal with a GF mucin pattern in the faeces must be considered to have a disturbance of the normal intestinal microflora.
INDUCTION OF AGGREGATION IN STREPTOCOCCUS MITIS BY CERTAIN IONS
Authors: ABAAS SALEEM
Published: August 2010

Streptococcus mitis ATCC 903 aggregated when suspended in salt solutions containing the ions zinc, aluminium, lanthanum and cerium. This aggregation was very rapid as compared to spontaneous aggregation occurring in this strain. It was not inhibited by alkaline pH. Washed bacteria treated previously with zinc sulphate recovered and retained their ability to aggregate spontaneously at a slow rate. No such effect was observed with lanthanum‐induced aggregation. The aggregates caused by lanthanum chloride were stable in sodium chloride up to 5 M concentrations. Magnesium sulphate dissociated these aggregates at 250 mM. Aggregation induced by zinc sulphate was less stable in these salts. The spontaneously aggregated cells were dissociated completely at 10 mM magnesium sulphate or 100 mM sodium chloride. Bacteria which had lost their ability to aggregate, owing to trypsin or β‐galactosidase treatment, were re‐aggregated after addition of zinc, lanthanum or aluminium ions. Galactosamine inhibited the spontaneous aggregation and aggregation induced by zinc but not the aggregation induced by lanthanum or aluminium ions. In conclusion, the results provide a molecular model of induced and spontaneous aggregations where the two phenomena are qualitatively different.
SERUM IgA ANTIBODIES TO ASPERGILLUS FUMIGATUS DETERMINED BY ENZYME‐LINKED IMMUNOSORBENT ASSAY
Authors: SCHØNHEYDER H. , ANDERSEN P.
Published: August 2010

Serum IgA antibodies to three Aspergillus fumigatus antigen fractions were determined by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) in 13 patients with aspergilloma, 23 patients with aspergillus lung infiltrates, 8 patients with allergic broncho‐pulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA), and 113 healthy blood donors. All three groups of patients had higher median serum IgA antibody levels against the three antigen fractions than healthy subjects. Thirty six (82%) of 44 patients had IgA antibody values to at least one antigen fraction above the 95 percentile of the blood donor group. Patients with aspergillomas and aspergillus lung infiltrates had slightly higher IgA antibody levels than ABPA patients. Determination of serum IgA antibodies to A. fumigatus antigen fractions had a lower diagnostic efficacy than previously found for IgG antibodies.
Etiologic Importance of Coagulase‐Negative Micrococcaceae Isolated from Blood Cultures
Authors: Hansen Bente Gahrn
Published: August 2010

Coagulase‐negative Micrococcaceae from blood cultures were classified biochemically according to Baird‐Parker and to Kloos & Schleifer and by means of antibiotic susceptibility testing, in an attempt to distinguish between bacterial growth due to contamination and growth due to bacteremia. S. epidermidis biotype 1 (according to Baird‐Parker) accounted for c. 60% of the isolates and for c. 85% of the isolates considered to be of clinical importance. The more time‐ and resource‐demanding classification of Kloos & Schleifer provided no further clinically useful information, as the predominant number of isolates turned out to be S. epidermidis. Isolates other than S. epidermidis (according to Kloos & Schleifer) accounted for c. 45% of the total number of isolates but for only 20% of the isolates considered of clinical importance. Resistance to multiple antibiotics was recorded more often in isolates from patients with positive clinical information than in isolates thought to be contaminators. The frequency of blood cultures contaminated with coagulase‐negative Micrococcaceae was estimated at c. 1.5%. Records from 91 patients were reviewed. By correlating the clinical findings to biochemical classification, resistance types, and the massiveness of growth it was suggested that the quantitative rather than the qualitative findings are suitable for determining clinical significance of isolates of coagulase‐negative Micrococcaceae from blood cultures.
Polyagglutinability Due to Loss of O‐Antigenic Determinants in Pseudomonas Aeruginosa Strains Isolated from Cystic Fibrosis Patients
Authors: Ojeniyi Bente , Bék Leif , Høiby Niels
Published: August 2010

O‐polyagglutinable P. aeruginosa are prevalent among chronically infected cystic fibrosis patients. In the present work, one O‐group 3, one O‐group 9 and one polyagglutinable 0–3/9 strain were analysed by use of both corresponding group specific antisera against the O‐antigen and polyspecific antisera against all extractable antigens of the 3 strains. Quantitative immunoelectrophoresis and classical tube‐agglutination methods were employed in the analysis. The results showed that the polyagglutinable strain contained 0.1% and the 0–9 strain 1%, respectively, of the O‐antigen‐containing LPS present in the 0–3 strain. It is discussed whether these differences represent a gradual antigenic adjustment to the defence mechanisms of the chronically infected patients.
The Antibacterial Effect of Selected Neuroleptics onVibrio Cholerae
Authors: Kristiansen Jette E. , Gaarslev Knud
Published: August 2010

The present investigation has been undertaken to illustrate the anti‐bacterial effect of chlorpromazine, clopenthixol and levomepromazine‐maleate. It has been shown that clopenthixol has the strongest antibacterial effect. It is known that chlorpromazine also has an antisecretory activity. The fact that clopenthixol exists in cis(Z)‐ and trans(E)‐isomerical compounds, and that these compounds both have an antibacterial effect, but only the cis‐compound has an antisecretory and neuroleptic effect, might suggest the development of more specific pharmaceuticals in these new fields.
Determination of Species‐ and Laboratory‐Related Interpretive Breakpoints for Doxycycline Susceptibility Testing Using Single‐Strain Regression Analysis
Authors: Forsberg Per , Petersson Ann Cathrine , Kronvall Goran
Published: August 2010

Single‐strain Regression Analysis (SRA) was performed for doxycycline on a total of 68 bacterial strains representing 16 different species. Species‐ and laboratory‐related zone diameter breakpoints were determined and compared with histograms of zone diameter values obtained from 942 routine susceptibility tests. Calculated breakpoints were similar within individual species. When considering the homogeneity of susceptibility groups within bacterial species, the calculated breakpoints gave rise to relatively few interpretive errors. In contrast, general breakpoints for doxycycline as recommended by the Swedish Reference Group (SRG) (R < = 20 mm and S > = 26 mm) would give rise to a high proportion of false interpretations in the present laboratory. Fifty‐three per cent of H. influenzae strains would have been assigned to the wrong susceptibility group. For E.coli and K.pneumoniae, 22 and 35 per cent, respectively, would have been erroneously categorized using SRG breakpoints. E.cloacae and E.aerogenes would have been assigned another category in 39 and 50 per cent, respectively. The procedure for setting species‐specific and laboratory‐related interpretive breakpoints is described. Determination of species‐ and laboratory‐related interpretive breakpoints using SRA provides a new approach towards improved accuracy of disc‐diffusion susceptibility testing.
Invasiveness Of Salmonella Typhimurium In Hep‐2 Cell Cultures Pre‐Infected With Mycoplasma Hominis and Mycoplasma Orale
Authors: Bukholm Gier , Eng Jan
Published: August 2010

The influence of mycoplasma infection on the in vitro invasiveness of S. typhimurium in HEp‐2 cell cultures has been tested. Two strains of arginine‐utilizing mycoplasma species Mycoplasma hominis and M. orale both seemed to inhibit the bacterial in vitro invasiveness. Both the ratio of infected cells and the number of intracellular bacteria per cell were reduced in the mycoplasma‐infected cultures.
Ultrafiltration as a Means to Eliminate Inhibition of the Limulus Amoebocyte Lysate (LAL) Assay
Authors: Paulssen Jorunn , Bjørnson Eli , Fystro Doris
Published: August 2010

Inhibition of the Limulus Amoebocyte Lysate (LAL) assay for the detection of endotoxin is often a problem when testing parenteral solutions with actual concentrations of chemical substances. Seven samples of sterile, pyrogen‐free solutions widely used in Norwegian hospitals, with inhibiting effect on the LAL test, were spiked with endotoxin, and ultrafiltered with different volumes of diluent. For six of the seven samples the inhibition was reduced or eliminated.
Variations in Binding of Mammalian Fibrinogens to Streptococci Groups A, B, C, E, G and to Staphylococcus Aureus
Authors: Reutersward Anders , Miörner Hákan , Wagner Manfred , Kronvall Göran
Published: August 2010

Twenty‐eight beta‐hemolytic streptococci of groups A, B, E, G and Streptococcus equisimilis as well as four Staphylococcus aureus strains were tested for their ability to bind fibrinogen preparations from different animal species: homo, baboon, rabbit, rat, guinea‐pig, dog, horse, pig, cow and sheep. The patterns of binding indicated differences in the structures of the bacterial fibrinogen receptors. There were higher binding levels in streptococci groups A, G, and S. equisimilis than in representative group B and E strains. Considerable differences in the binding capacity were found within streptococci groups A and E. Group C and group G strains showed rather similar patterns and could be further divided into high‐level and low‐level binding strains. There is no correlation between binding levels of different animal fibrinogen preparations and the strains isolated from corresponding animals. Recent studies by others have shown that resistance to phagocytosis is mediated by fibrinogen‐binding in streptococci group A. The existence of similar fibrinogen‐binding structures in several streptococcal species indicates an important role with a definite survival value. It also suggests that M or T protein analogues are present in streptococci groups C, G and E.
Serotyping of Campylobacter Jejuni Isolated From Sporadic Cases and Outbreaks in Northern Norway
Authors: Melby Kjetil , Størvold Gunnar , Congi Rosa V. , Penner John L.
Published: August 2010

In the northern regions of Norway, 123 cases of Campylobacter jejuni gastroenteritis were either sporadic infections or due to five separate outbreaks during 1980–83. Using a serotyping scheme based on thermostable antigens and the passive haemagglutination technique, 92 isolates were serotyped. Excluding duplicates from the outbreaks, the serotype distribution based on 79 isolates showed that serotypes 6, 7 and 12, 40 were the most frequent in occurrence. Each included 11 (13.9%) of the isolates and each serotype was also identified twice as the epidemic strain in four different outbreaks. A fifth outbreak strain was serotype 13, 16, 50. The number of isolates that reacted in one or more antisera of the cross reacting group of serotypes 4, 13, 16, 43 and 50 was 21 (26.6%). The other 23 isolates fell into 19 other serotypes and 13 (16.5%) were untypable.
Serological Response to Toxic Shock syndrome Toxin in Staphylococcus Aureus Infected Pathients and Healthy Controls
Authors: Christensson Bertil , Hedström Sven Åke
Published: August 2010

The prevalence of antibodies to Toxic Shock Syndrome Toxin (TSST‐1) in a Swedish healthy control population was investigated using an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). 88% of the control group above the age of 10 showed positive antibody levels as compared to 31% of those who were under 10 years old. These results indicate a very common normal exposure to TSST‐1 during early life and also identify the small risk‐group of potential TSS‐patients. Patients with S. aureus endocarditis and septicemia showed slightly higher antibody levels as compared to the controls (p< 0.05). The difference was in part due to 3/4 septicemia patients, infected with TSST‐1 producing strains, who showed very high antibody levels. None of these 4 patients developed any signs of TSS. 5/5 menstrual associated TSS‐patients were negative in the ELISA in serial serum samples as were 3/5 non‐menstrual associated TSS‐patients. The TSST‐1 ELISA is proposed for identifying chiefly young women at risk of acquiring menstrual related Toxic Shock Syndrome.
The Ibc Proteins Of Group b Streptococci: Isolation Of The α and β Antigens by Immunosorbent Chromatography and Test For Human Serum Antibodies Against The Two Antigens
Authors: Bevanger Lars
Published: August 2010

The Ibc protein fraction from group B streptococci contains at least two antigens, named α and β. Rabbit antisera to each of these antigens were used to prepare affinity‐purified α and β antigens. Analysis of the purified antigens by SDS‐PAGE showed at least three weakly stained proteins in the α antigen ‐and multiple protein bands in the β antigen preparation. Conditions for optimalization of ELISA for testing of human serum antibodies against these antigens were investigated. When tested at a dilution of 1 in 200, ELISA activity corresponding to an OD405 > 0.2 was shown by 11.2 per cent of 157 blood donor sera in tests with the α antigen, and 77.7 per cent with the β antigen. Increasing antibody activity against the α antigen was shown by a patient with septicaemia caused by an α antigen‐producing strain. The antigens were immunoblotted and tested against human and rabbit antibodies. With the α antigen, antibodies from both species produced a diffuse stained area, and with the β antigen multiple stained bands, some of which were colinear with the human and rabbit antibody. Thus, antibodies to the β antigen of group B streptococci are present in a large proportion of the healthy population. These antibodies may be important in the protection against group B streptococcal disease.
Mannose‐Specific and Hydrophobic Interaction Between Escherichia Coli and Polymorphonuclear Leukocytes ‐ Influence of Bacterial Culture Period
Authors: öhman Lena , Magnusson Karl‐Eric , Stendahl Olle
Published: August 2010

The influence of culture period on mannose‐specific and hydrophobic properties of the bacterial surface and on bacteria/polymorphonuclear leukocyte (PMNL) interaction was studied. Four E. coli strains, PN7 (01:K1), ABU2 (ON:K14), CU9 (06:K14) and CU13 (08:KN) and two Salmonella typhimurium strains 395 MR 10 and 395 MS, well characterized according to physicochemical surface properties, presence of type 1 fimbriae and interaction with PMNL, were used in the study.

The results show that with prolonged culture period, the liability to hydrophobic interaction increases, the agglutination‐strength of mannose‐specific maltobionamide liposomes increases, while the agglutination‐titer with guinea‐pig erythrocytes remains constant. Furthermore, the mannose‐specific association with and metabolic activation of PMNL is augmented, while the ingestion is unchanged. In addition, our results demonstrate differences in sensitivity between the methods used to detect exposure of mannose‐specific structures on the surface of bacteria, and that the culture condition is important for bacterial surface properties.

It thus appears that the culture conditions have a great influence on the surface properties of E. coli bacteria and the interaction with phagocytic cells.
Interaction Between Human Polymorphonuclear Leukocytes (PMNL) and Bacteria Cultivated in Aerobic and Anaerobic Conditions
Authors: Maluszynska G. M. , Stendahl O. , Magnusson K.‐E.
Published: August 2010

A study was performed on one strain of Escherichia coli (E. coli K12D22) and on one strain of Salmonella braenderup (S. braenderup S2828). The physico‐chemical surface properties of the bacteria were strongly influenced by oxygen supply, viz. anaerobic growth conditions resulted in increasing of hydrophobicity. Interaction between human polymorphonuclear leukocytes and bacteria, measured as chemiluminescence, was more efficient when bacteria had been cultivated anaerobically than when cultivated aerobically. The results show the importance of the surface hydrophobicity of bacteria in interaction with PMNL, and the role of the growth conditions of bacteria in that process.
Comparative Thermoresistance of two Biological Indicators for Monitoring Steam Autoclaves
Authors: Skaug N. , Kalager T.
Published: August 2010

The thermoresistance of various lots of two biological indicators (Bls) for steam sterilization control, a Scandinavian BI (SBI) and the Attestg̊ BI (ABI), were compared during sterilization cycles in a hospital prevacuum (pressure‐pulsing) steam autoclave at 134°C, saturated steam. ABI No. 1242, ABI No. 1262 (its replacement) and incremental heat exposure times between 0 s and 180 s were used. The intrachamber temperature and pressure were continuously measured and monitored throughout the sterilization cycles. The results showed that both of the ABIs were more thermoresistant than the SBI, giving 33.1% (ABI No. 1242), 18.9% (ABI No. 1262), and 0% (SBI) autoclave survivors. Because the time needed to reach 134°C (preconditioning time) increased as the day progressed, and varied from day to day, correlation between individual incremental heat exposure times and the number of surviving BI units was not possible. Standardized test conditions are necessary for a true comparison of BIs.
Pressure‐ and Temperature‐Dependent Adhesion of Pseudomonas Aeruginosa to Hep‐2 Cells
Authors: Berdal Bjøm P. , Bjøro Kristian , Bukholm Geir , Øgaard Alain R.
Published: August 2010

Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria adhere to human epitheloid (HEp‐2) cells in culture. Under normal atmospheric conditions (1 ATA), this adhesion increased significantly when the temperature rose from 22 to 37 °C. Under hyperbaric atmosphere (= air, 7 ATA) conditions, a similar, significant enhancement of bacterial adhesion to the cells was noted when the temperature rose. If the temperature was kept stable at 22 or 37 °C and the pressure was increased from 1 to 7 ATA, a pressure‐induced enhancement was observed. This was statistically significant, at both temperature levels. Temperature‐induced or ‐stimulated adhesion may help to explain some outbreaks of P. aeruginosa infections, for instance in whirlpools. The enhancement of this phenomenon under hyperbaric atmosphere conditions could have some relevance to recurrent P. aeruginosa otitis externa, a most common nuisance among professional divers.
Evaluation of Two Commercial Kits for Rapid Detection of Human Rotavirus in Feces: Rotalex®, A Latex Agglutination Test and Rotavirus Elisa Kit®
Authors: Jensen Annette
Published: August 2010

96 fecal specimens from children with symptoms of gastroenteritis were tested with a latex agglutination test (Rotalex®, Orion Diagnostica, Finland) and an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent test (Rotavirus ELISA Kit®, Dakopatts, Copenhagen, Denmark). Using the ELISA method as reference, the latex agglutination (LX) came out with three non‐specific and two false negative results. The LX test was found to be a rapid, practical and non‐expensive choice for a laboratory examinating few samples daily.
Subtyping of Danish Haemophilus Influenzae Type B by Their 45000 and 46000 Molecular Weight Proteins
Authors: Hønberg Per Z.
Published: August 2010

In order to obtain a way of subtyping Haemophilus influenzae type b strains, outer‐membrane protein patterns were investigated. Outer‐membrane proteins from 45 different Haemophilus influenzae type b strains were examined by sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The non‐heated sarkosyl insoluble outer‐membrane preparations all contained four major proteins with molecular weights (Mr) of 39,000, 33,000, 30,000, and 28,000, except for one strain which possessed a protein weighing approximately 32,000. After heating the samples a 45,000 Mr protein appeared in 43 of the strains, and a 46,000 Mr in two. The 39,000 Mr protein remained unchanged, whereas the 33,000 Mr protein disappeared. The 30,000 and the 28,000 Mr proteins became more clearly separated. A faint 16,000 Mr band was observed in both heated and non‐heated samples. 42 strains with the light heat‐modified protein band had identical protein patterns and could not be subdivided by the methods used and may therefore constitute a clone. The remaining strains had individual patterns.
The Influence of Antimicrobial Agents on Macrophage‐Associated Staphylococcus Aureus
Authors: Nesthus Ingerid , Haneberg Bjørn , Glette Johan , Solberg Claus Ola
Published: August 2010

Macrophages obtained by culturing human blood monocytes were incubated with Staphylococcus aureus for phagocytosis to occur and exposed to gentamicin, rifampin, clindamycin or trimethoprim/sulphamethoxazole. The macrophage‐associated bacteria were protected against gentamicin at low concentrations (1 mg/l) and trimethoprim/sulphamethoxazole. However, high concentrations of gentamicin and clindamycin reduced the number of bacteria, indicating that these drugs penetrated into human macrophages and killed phagocytosed bacteria. Rifampin, even at low concentrations (0.5 mg/l), caused a marked reduction in macrophage‐associated bacteria, implying that the drug penetrated into the phagocytes and retained its effect in the cells most effectively.
Interaction of Group A Type 1 Streptococcal M Protein With Fibrinogen
Authors: Kühnemund O. , Havliček J. , Knöll H. , Sjöquist J. , Köhler W.
Published: August 2010

Adsorption chromatography of streptococcal extracts on immobilized fibrinogen allows isolation of components that are linked to the corresponding receptors. In this study it is shown by an indirect bactericidal test that fibrinogen binds the M proteins of the streptococcal strains used. Phage‐associated lysin extracts of group A type 1 streptococci precipitated with fibrinogen in a double‐diffusion test. Fibrinogen reactive components of other streptococcal types inhibited this precipitation reaction. This suggests that the fibrinogen receptors in different types of group A streptococci have identical activity. The interaction between M protein and fibrinogen does not interfere with the interaction between M protein and the corresponding type specific antibodies. The streptococcal antigen components isolated by immobilized fibrinogen showed mitogenic activity in a lymphocyte transformation test.
Gonococcal Serovar Distribution in Stockholm, with Special Reference to Multiple Infections and Infected Partners
Authors: Bäckman Marianne , Rudén Ann‐Kerstin M. , Bygdeman Solgun M. , Jonsson Anita , Ringertz Olof , Sandström Eric G.
Published: August 2010

Serological classification with co‐agglutination, using monoclonal antibody reagents, was used to classify gonococcal strains from 731 consecutive patients seen at the Venereal Outpatients clinic at the Department of Dermatology, Södersjukhuset, Stockholm, up to April 1983. The strains could be divided into two serogroups, WI and WII/III. For the identification of strains belonging to serogroup WI, six Protein IA specific antibody reagents were used, and for strains of serogroup WII/III, seven Protein IB specific antibody reagents. The serogroup WI could be further subdivided into eight different serovariants (serovars), and serogroup WII/III into 30 different serovars. All strains reacted with at least one monoclonal antibody reagent and no strain reacted with both WI and WII/III specific reagents. In both serogroups there was one serovar that was common among women and heterosexual men and another which was more frequent among homosexual men. The 84 contact pairs had strains of corresponding serovar in 95%. Among 258 patients with two or more gonococcal isolates on the same occasion, the isolates from 93% had the corresponding serovar. Repeated gonococcal infections were more frequent among heterosexual men than among women and more frequent among homosexual than among heterosexual men. The serological classification of N. gonorrhoeae is a stable and rapid method and a useful epidemiological tool.
Binding of Aggregated Human Serum Albumin to M12 And Some Other Types of Group A Streptococci
Authors: Kurl Daya N. , Christensen Poul , Eliasson Ingvar , Schalen Claës
Published: August 2010

In radiobinding tests many group A, C and G streptococci react with IgG and IgA, irrespective of the antigen‐combining sites, as well as with various other serum proteins, e.g. human serum albumin (HSA). The present study demonstrated that glutaraldehyde‐aggregated, radiolabelled HSA (a*HSA), in comparison to monomeric HSA, binds more avidly to streptococci. Of group A streptococci, strains representing types M6, M12, M18, M46, M55 and M57 displayed pronounced binding of a*HSA whereas a number of other serotypes were non‐reactive. The streptococcal sites involved proved to be relatively heat‐resistant and highly sensitive to trypsin treatment. Human fibrinogen counteracted the binding of a*HSA. The uptake by M12 was inhibited strongly by rabbit antiserum raised against M12, whereas other antisera were less active. The results suggest that the bacterial structure binding a*HSA is a protein and that, in at least one serotype, M12, the binding occurs to the M‐protein.
Population Analysis of Susceptibility to Cefotaxime and Desacetyl‐Cefotaxime in Staphylococcus and Enterobacteriaceae
Authors: Hansen Bente Gahrn , Søgaard Per
Published: August 2010

Population analyses of susceptibility to cefotaxime (CTX) and desacetyl‐cefotaxime (DCTX) of strains of Staphylococcus and some genera of Enterobacteriaceae were carried out. DCTX, which is the main metabolite of CTX, has antimicrobial activity. The penicillinase‐producing strains of S. aureus and S. epidermidis were homogeneous as regards susceptibility to both agents. CTX was about 4–8 times more active than DCTX. The methicillin‐resistant strains contained a sub‐population of resistant bacteria with both CTX and DCTX. The frequency of resistant bacteria was 10−6 ‐ 10‐5. The E. coli strain was homogeneous to both agents. The strains of Enterobacter cloacae and Citrobacter freundii had a subpopulation of resistant bacteria with both agents. The frequency of resistant bacteria was 10−7 ‐ 10‐4.5. In Klebsiella pneumoniae no resistant sub‐population was found. CTX was about four times more active than DCTX with the strains of the Enterobacteriaceae. DCTX had no advantage over CTX as regards homogeneity of susceptibility of the populations examined. CTX seems applicable for treatment of infections with E. coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and penicillinase‐producing, methicillin‐susceptible Staphylococcus, but should not be used alone in treatments of infections with Enterobacter cloacae or Citrobacter freundii.
The Susceptibility of Plasmodium Falciparum in Vitro To Chlorpromazine and the Stereo‐isomeric Compounds Cis(z)‐ And Trans(E)‐Clopenthixol
Authors: Kristiansen Jette E. , Jepsen Søren
Published: August 2010

New antimalaria drugs are needed on the background of increasing resistance to chloroquine. This study was undertaken to elucidate whether other membrane stabilizers than chloroquine have anti‐malarial activity in vitro. We here report the anti‐plasmodial activity of chlorpromazine (CPZ) and the stereo‐isomeric compounds cis(Z)‐ and trans(E)‐clopenthixol. As a screening method we used a modified Desjardins' 3H‐hypoxanthine assay. The IC50= 50% inhibition of 3H‐hypoxanthine uptake was found at 1.028 ng/ml = 3.2 μM CPZ, 758 ng/ml = 1.6 μM trans(E)‐clopenthixol and 436 ng/ml = 0.9 μM cis(Z)‐clopenthixol. The inhibitory effect of trans(E)‐clopenthixol in these low concentrations on Plasmodium falciparum in vitro seems particularly promising, since it is known that trans(E)‐clopenthixol has no neuroleptic effect.
Bacteremia Caused by a Beta‐Lactamase Producing Strain of Branhamella Catarrhalis
Authors: Christensen J. J. , Bruun B.
Published: August 2010

A case of Branhamella catarrhalis bacteremia without known infectious focus in a granulocytopenic patient is reported. There were no unusual clinical features of bacteremia, such as purpura, in this case which distinguished it from bacteremia due to other bacteria. The isolated strain was beta‐lactamase producing. The patient recovered uneventfully on antibiotics; at the same time, however, the bone marrow was also normalized.
Genetic Transformation in Streptococcus Sanguis
Authors: Gaustad P.
Published: August 2010

Streptococcus sanguis (serogroups H and W) strains are frequently competent in genetic transformation. In a collection of 18 strains of S. sanguis isolated from blood cultures, 12 strains were spontaneously competent in transformation by streptomycin‐resistant DNA, and three strains were induced to competence by the use of culture filtrates containing competence factor (CF). Culture filtrates from spontaneously competent S. sanguis strains only induced competence in transformation of strains of the same species. In addition to the three “constitutional” types of S. sanguis with regard to specificity of transformation previously reported (originally represented by the strain Challis, 13b and NCTC 7863), a possible fourth type, (represented by strain 21452) was found. Further studies are required to ascertain the role of these types. The “constitutional” types are characterized by the range of activity of their CF's. These specificities seem useful in identification of S. sanguis and its separation from S. mitis (mitior). Tests of spontaneously competent strains with culture filtrates from other competent strains showed variable effects on the transformation frequencies in different strains.
Determination of Interpretive Breakpoints for Ceftazidime Disc‐diffusion Susceptibility Testing Using Single‐Strain Regression Analysis
Authors: Petersson Ann Cathrine , Kronvall Goran
Published: August 2010

Interpretive breakpoints for ceftazidime disc‐diffusion susceptibility testing were determined using single‐strain regression analysis (SRA). Regression lines were determined for a total of 58 strains representing 15 species, from inhibition zone diameters obtained for discs containing six different ceftazidime concentrations. Statistical analysis for excluding non‐linearity of test‐results was performed. A minimum of five tests on consecutive days was required for maximal precision of regression analysis according to the SRA‐method. Calculated regression lines showed similarities within individual and groups of bacterial species. A minimum of five strains could be used to represent these groups. Interpretive breakpoints according to recommended MIC‐limits were determined for each species taking into consideration confidence limits for zone correlates of MIC‐values. Single‐strain regression analysis for the determination of interpretive breakpoints for ceftazidime disc‐diffusion susceptibility testing in individual laboratories.
Actinomycotic Infections of the Central Nervous System
Authors: Tvede M. , Bodenhoff J. , Bruun B.
Published: August 2010

Two cases of CNS infections caused byActinomyces israelii, one a fatal case of brain abscess and the other a case of subdural empyema with complete recovery, are reported. One of the patients suffered from a congenital ventricular septal defect, and in both patients a pulmonary focus was found. When slow‐growing bacteria such asActinoymycesmay be suspected, it is important to cultivate anaerobically for at least five days.