bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intensive lipid lowering may reduce progression of carotid atherosclerosis within 12 months of treatment: the METEOR study
Authors: Bots M. L. , Palmer M. K. , Dogan S. , Plantinga Y. , Raichlen J. S. , Evans G. W. , O’Leary D. H. , Grobbee D. E. , Crouse III J. R. ,   METEOR Study Group
Published: March 2009

Background.  In several statin trials, vascular event rates for treatment groups begin to separate 1 year after commencement of treatment. For atherosclerosis progression, the temporal sequence of the effect has not been defined. We used data from the Measuring Effects on intima media Thickness: an Evaluation Of Rosuvastatin (METEOR) trial to determine the earliest time point at which significant differences in atherosclerosis progression rates could be detected after initiation of statin therapy.

Methods.  The METEOR trial was a double‐blind, randomized placebo‐controlled trial that studied the effect of LDL‐C lowering with 40 mg rosuvastatin on the rate of change of carotid intima media thickness (CIMT) measured by B‐mode ultrasound amongst 984 low risk subjects. Ultrasound assessments were made at baseline and every 6 months up to 2 years.

Results.  Rosuvastatin treatment was associated with a 49% reduction in LDL‐C‐C, a 34% reduction in total cholesterol, an 8.0% increase in HDL‐C and a 16% reduction in triglycerides (all P < 0.0001 compared with placebo). The difference in rate of mean maximum CIMT progression between the rosuvastatin and placebo groups (based on near and far wall measurements from both left and right common carotid and internal carotid segments and carotid bifurcation) was not statistically significant after 6 months (0.0023 mm year−1 and 0.0106 mm year−1, respectively P = 0.34). After 12 months, CIMT progression rates were significantly different between the groups: 0.0032 mm year−1 and 0.0133 mm year−1 in the rosuvastatin‐treated and placebo‐treated groups, respectively (P = 0.049). This divergence grew with further follow‐up: −0.0009 mm year−1 and 0.0131 mm year−1 after 18 months (P < 0.001) and −0.0014 mm year−1 and 0.0131 mm year−1 after 24 months of treatment (P < 0.001). Results were stronger for the mean common CIMT progression (based on near and far wall measurements from both left and right common carotid segments).

Conclusion.  Aggressive LDL‐C lowering seems to exert its beneficial effect on atherosclerosis progression during the first 12 months of treatment. This parallels the timing of event reduction seen in clinical trials and suggests that the efficacy of lipid lowering treatment on CIMT progression can be evaluated in trials with a duration of 1 year, given sufficient sample size, high precision of measurements and a treatment effect comparable to that seen in METEOR.

Trial Registration:  Clinicaltrials.gov identifier: NCT00225589.
Lack of de novo hepatitis C virus infections and absence of nosocomial transmissions of GB virus C in a large cohort of German haemodialysis patients
Authors: Ross R. S. , Viazov S. , Clauberg R. , Wolters B. , Fengler I. , Eveld K. , Scheidhauer R. , Hüsing J. , Philipp Th. , Kribben A. , Roggendorf M.
Published: March 2009

Summary.  To determine the prevalence and incidence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections among haemodialysis patients, a large prospective multicentre trial was conducted in the German Federal State of North Rhine‐Westphalia. Sera obtained from the recruited patients in two separate sampling rounds run 1 year apart were analysed for both anti‐HCV antibodies and HCV RNA. HCV RNA positive samples were also genotyped by direct sequencing of an HCV core fragment. In the first and second rounds, 150 (5.2%) of 2909 and 114 (5.4%) of 2100 patients were anti‐HCV positive, respectively, and 4% of individuals were viraemic. Evaluation of potential risk factors in a case–control study indicated that the factors ‘foreign country of birth’, ‘blood transfusions given before 1991’ and ‘duration of treatment on haemodialysis’ were associated with the risk of HCV infection. Among the 2100 patients of whom ‘paired’ serum samples from both rounds were available for testing, not a single ‘de novo’ HCV infection could be recorded. The fact that in a subset of about 20% of these patients no nosocomial GB virus C (GBV‐C) transmission occurred during the observational period suggests that the lack of HCV seroconversions was not only attributable to the isolation of HCV‐infected patients but also to the strict adherence to so‐called universal hygienic precautions for infection control maintained in the participating dialysis centres.
Entire genome sequences of two new HCV subtypes, 6r and 6s, and characterization of unique HVR1 variation patterns within genotype 6
Authors: Li C. , Lu L. , Zhang X. , Murphy D.
Published: March 2009

Summary.  Hepatitis C virus genotype 6 currently contains 21 recognized subtypes, 6a–6u, for which 6r and 6s lack complete genome sequences. In this study, we entirely sequenced variants QC245 and QC66 from Cambodian immigrants in Canada representing subtypes 6r and 6s, respectively. The two genomes shared 75.3% nucleotide similarities to each other and 72.0–82.9% to 21 reference sequences representing subtypes 6a–6q, 6t–6u and variants km41 and gz52557. QC66 and QC245 displayed genome lengths of 9473 and 9450 nt and each contained a single open reading frame of 9051 nt. In 10 protein encoding regions QC245 and QC66 shared common sizes with TV249/6t and 537796/6l isolates, respectively. Phylogenetic analyses demonstrated that QC245 was more closely related to subtype 6f, but both QC66 and QC245 were subtypically different from all other genotype 6 subtypes. Our full‐length sequence data confirmed the status of subtype 6r and 6s within genotype 6. Analysis of partial sequences revealed seven 6t and two 6s isolates that were all isolated from Cambodian immigrants. Analysis of the hypervariable region 1 sequences of 81 genotype 6 variants revealed two unique patterns of variation. First, most variants showed an amino acid deletion at the 4th position and second, many contained a basic residue at the 7th position. Possible roles of these two variation patterns are further discussed.
More introgression with less gene flow: chloroplast vs. mitochondrial DNA in the Picea asperata complex in China, and comparison with other Conifers
Authors: DU FANG K. , PETIT RÉMY J. , LIU JIAN QUAN
Published: March 2009

Recent work has suggested that rates of introgression should be inversely related to levels of gene flow because introgressed populations cannot be ‘rescued’ by intraspecific gene flow if it is too low. Mitochondrial and chloroplast DNA (mtDNA and cpDNA) experience very different levels of gene flow in conifers due to their contrasted maternal and paternal modes of transmission, hence the prediction that mtDNA should introgress more readily than cpDNA in this group. Here, we use sequence data from both mtDNA and cpDNA to test this hypothesis in a group of closely related spruces species, the Picea asperata complex from China. Nine mitochondrial and nine chloroplast haplotypes were recovered from 459 individuals in 46 natural populations belonging to five species of the Picea asperata complex. Low variation was found in the two mtDNA introns along with a high level of differentiation among populations (GST = 0.90). In contrast, we detected higher variation and lower differentiation among populations at cpDNA markers (GST = 0.56), a trend shared by most conifer species studied so far. We found that cpDNA variation, although far from being fully diagnostic, is more species‐specific than mtDNA variation: four groups of populations were identified using cpDNA markers, all of them related to species or groups of species, whereas for mtDNA, geographical variation prevails over species differentiation. The literature suggests that mtDNA haplotypes are often shared among related conifer species, whereas cpDNA haplotypes are more species‐specific. Hence, increased intraspecific gene flow appears to decrease differentiation within species but not among species.
The structural and biochemical characterizations of a novel TET peptidase complex from Pyrococcus horikoshii reveal an integrated peptide degradation system in hyperthermophilic Archaea
Authors: Durá M. Asunción , Rosenbaum Eva , Larabi Amédé , Gabel Frank , Vellieux Frédéric M. D. , Franzetti Bruno
Published: March 2009

The structure of a 468 kDa peptidase complex from the hyperthermophile Pyrococcus horikoshii has been solved at 1.9 Å resolution. The monomer contains the M42 peptidase typical catalytic domain, and a dimerization domain that allows the formation of dimers that assemble as a 12‐subunit self‐compartmentalized tetrahedron, similar to those described for the TET peptidases. The biochemical analysis shows that the enzyme is cobalt‐activated and cleaves peptides by a non‐processive mechanism. Consequently, this protein represents the third TET peptidase complex described in P. horikoshii, thereby called PhTET3. It is a lysyl aminopeptidase with a strong preference for basic residues, which are poorly cleaved by PhTET1 and PhTET2. The structural analysis of PhTET3 and its comparison with PhTET1 and PhTET2 unravels common features explaining the general mode of action of the TET molecular machines as well as differences that can be associated with strong substrate discriminations. The question of the stability of the TET assemblies under extreme temperatures has been addressed. PhTET3 displays its maximal activity at 95°C and small‐angle neutron scattering experiments at 90°C demonstrate the absence of quaternary structure alterations after extensive incubation times. In conclusion, PhTETs are complementary peptide destruction machines that may play an important role in the metabolism of P. horikoshii.
5‐hydroxyindalpine, an agonist at the putative 5‐HT1P receptor, has no activity on human recombinant monoamine receptors but accelerates distension‐induced peristalsis in mouse isolated colon
Authors: Mitchell N. A. , Pepperell E. , Ociepka S. , Brown J. D. , Witherington J. , Tuladhar B. , Sanger G. J. , Lee K. , Cellek S.
Published: March 2009

Abstract  Although the putative 5‐HT1P receptor has been implicated to have a role in peristalsis, experiments which suggest this function are preliminary or have measured only components of the reflex. We have, therefore, further characterized a reported agonist at this receptor (5‐hydroxyindalpine; 5‐OHIP) and investigated the effects of 5‐OHIP and 5‐hydroxytrytophan‐dipeptide (5‐HTP‐DP), a reported 5‐HT1P receptor antagonist, on distension‐induced peristalsis in mouse colon. The effects of 5‐OHIP on intracellular calcium, cyclic adenosine monophosphate concentrations or GTPγS binding were measured in cell lines expressing human recombinant 5‐HT1A, 1B, 1D, 2A, 2B, 2C, 3, 4, 6, 7 and α1A, α1B, D1, D2, D3, H1, H3 receptors. The effects of 5‐OHIP and 5‐HTP‐DP on peristalsis were assessed by measuring changes in frequency and times to reach threshold of peristaltic contractions, as well as the threshold and maximum pressures of each peristaltic stroke. 5‐hydroxyindalpine (1 nmol L−1–10 μmol L−1) had no significant activity at any of the receptors studied. However, 5‐OHIP (0.1 nmol L−1–1 μmol L−1) concentration‐dependently increased the frequency of peristalsis (EC50 = 4.4 nmol L−1) and reduced the time taken to reach threshold and threshold pressure, without altering maximum pressures. The maximum effect of 5‐OHIP was at 1 μmol L−1 (68.0 ± 14.5% increase in frequency); 10 μmol L−1 decreased peristalsis. 5‐hydroxytrytophan‐dipeptide (1–300 nmol L−1) also increased the frequency of peristalsis and prevented the actions of 5‐OHIP. The higher concentration (1 μmol L−1) transiently inhibited peristalsis and after recovery, prevented the actions of 5‐OHIP but not the excitatory activity of the cholinesterase inhibitor neostigmine. In summary, the present data demonstrate an interaction of ‘5‐HT1P‐ligands’ with the peristaltic reflex. However, the absence of an effect of 5‐OHIP on a range of different monoamine receptors continues to highlight the need to investigate the identity of the putative 5‐HT1P receptor.
Predictive models of weed population dynamics
Authors: FRECKLETON R P , STEPHENS P A
Published: March 2009

Many of the challenges faced by weed ecologists can be met only by the capability to predict the responses of weed populations to changes in their environment or management. In spite of this, a review of papers published in Weed Research suggests that weed ecologists are remarkably reluctant to produce detailed, quantitative predictions. This may result from uncertainty in the accuracy of predictions and indeed, a variety of reasons have been put forward to suggest that the potential utility of weed models may be limited in this regard. In this study, we review the applications to which weed models have been put. Focusing on predictive population modelling, we highlight several limitations that can lead to failures of this approach and we discuss the likely prospects for weed population modelling. We make three points regarding the future of weed modelling. First, owing to prohibitive data requirements, the development of highly mechanistic models that attempt to make detailed predictions of weed population numbers is unlikely to be very successful. Second, data collection for developing weed models needs to be rethought. Weed models are most commonly compromised by a lack of spatial and temporal replication, preventing modellers from measuring parameter variability and error effectively and limiting assessments of model uncertainty. Finally, the utility of models needs to be better appreciated; models are key tools in making long range predictions of how management will affect weed populations, but, we estimate, they are used in only a small fraction of studies. Without the further development of models for weed population dynamics, our ability to predict long‐term dynamics will be restricted.
Proof of Foetal Antigens Entering the Maternal Circulation
Authors: DUNSFORD I.
Published: March 2009

Il a été constaté chez quatre femmes de groupe O, rh négatives, un manque complet d'isoagglutinine anti‐A au moment de la naissance d'un enfant du groupe A. Avant et après la naissance, ces femmes avaient toutes de l'anti‐A. L'une d'elles avait au moment de l'accouchement dans son sang une petite quantité de globules agglutinées par les sérums‐test anti‐A, anti‐D et anti‐C, donc correspondant aux globules de l'enfant, qui était de groupe A, CDe‐cde. Ces faits soutiennent la thèse de Chown, selon laquelle les globules rouges (et peutêtre d'autres éléments cellulaires) du fétus font irruption à la naissance dans la circulation maternelle.

In 4 Fällen konnte zur Zeit der Geburt ein Fehlen der zu envartenden Isoagglutinine im Serum der Mütter beobachtet werden. Dieser Befund stützt die Annahme, wonach fötale Erythrozyten (oder auch andere antigentragende Gewebszellen) bei der Geburt in den mütterlichen Kreislauf gelangen.
Changes in Anti‐A, Anti‐B, Anti‐D and Cold Agglutinins Reactivity Resulting from Ultraviolet Irradiation
Authors: JANKOVIĆ B. D. , SIMONOVIĆ B. , ARSENIJEVIĆ K. , MILETIĆ B.
Published: March 2009

Antisera containing anti‐A, anti‐B, non‐specific cold agglutinins and complete and incomplete anti‐D were exposed to ultraviolet irradiation. Ultraviolet irradiation for two to three hours was found to be effective for the inactivation of anti‐A, anti‐B, non‐specific cold agglutinins and complete anti‐D, whereas incomplete anti‐D is more stable.

Electrophoretic patterns of irradiated sera showed the formation of a protein complex.

Des serums contenant les isoagglutinines anti‐A ou anti‐B, des agglutinines froides non spécifiques, de l'anti‐D complet ou incomplet, furent traités par rayons ultraviolets. Ce traitement, appliqué durant 2 à 3 heures, suffit pour inactiver l'anti‐A, l'anti‐B, l'agglutinine froide et l'anti‐D complet, tandis que I'anti‐D incomplet se montra plus risistant.

L'examen électrophorétique des sérums irradiés mit en évidence la formation d'un complexe protéinique.

Eine zwei‐ bis dreistundige Ultraviolettbestrahlung reicht aus, urn Anti‐A‐, Anti‐B‐Isoagglutinine, komplette Anti‐D‐Antikörper und unspezifische KälteaggIutinine zu inaktivieren. Inkomplette Anti‐D‐Antikörper werden durch diese Behandlung nicht inaktiviert. Bei der elektrophoretischen Analyse zeigen die bestrahlten Seren Denaturierungsschäden in Form von Eiweißkomplexen.
Large Scale Production of Human Plasma Fractions
Authors: Kistler P. , Nitschmann Hs.
Published: March 2009

The modifications put on the alcohol fractionation procedure of Nitschmann., Kistler and Lergier [8] since 1954 are communicated. The yields and purities realised were calculated from the results of about 150 fractionation runs, 100 1 of plasma each. The actual method allows the isolation of 48% of the total plasmaproteins as albumin (98% pure in electrophoretic analysis), 9,8% as γ‐Globulin (practically 100% pure) and 3,4% as clottable fibrinogen. A scheme summarizes the details of the entire procedure.

Les modifications apportées depuis 1954 à la méthode de fractionnement de Nitschmann, Kistler et Lergier [8] sont décrites. Le rendement et la pureté des differents fractions ont été calculées à partir des résultats de 150 fractionnements de 100 litres chacun. La méthode actuelle permet d'obtenir 48% des protéines plasmatiques totales sous forme d'albumine (degré de pureté électrophorétique de 98%), 9,8% sous forme de γ‐globuline (degré de pureté pratiquement de 100%) et 3,4% sous forme de fibrinogène coagulable. Un schéma détaillé risume l'ensemble du procédé de fractionnement.

Die seit 1954 vorgenommenen Veränderungen der Alkoholfraktionierungsmethode nach Nitschmann, Kistler und Lergier [8] werden dargelegt. Die mit der Methode praktisch erzielten Ausbeuten und Reinheiten wurden aus den Ergebnissen von and 150 100‐Liter‐Plasma‐Ansätzen ermittelt: Nnch dem heutigen Verfahren lassen sich etwa 48% der totalen Plasmaproteine als Albumin (ungefähr 98% elektrophoretisch rein), 9,80/, als γ‐Globulin (praktisch 100prozentig rein) und 3,4% als gerinnbares Fibrinogen gewinnen. Das ganze Fraktionierverfahren ist in Form eines detaillierten Schemas zusammenfassend dargestellt.
Clearance of Rh‐Positive Foetal Erythrocytes from the Blood of Rh‐Negative Adults by Intravenously Applicable Immunoglobulin G anti‐D1
Authors: Börner P. , Deicher H. , Hoppe H. H. , Pixberg H. U. , Sieg W.
Published: March 2009

Summary. The elimination of 1 ml Cr5‐1labelled, D‐positive, ABO‐compatible foetal erythrocytes by 200 μg of intravenously applied immunoglobulin G anti‐D was followed in 9 d‐negative probands. The red cells were quickly removed to the spleen, resulting in an erythrocyte half‐time of between 3 and 6 h. Deposition in other organs was not observed. None of the probands showed active formation of anti‐D antibody at 3 and 7 month afterwards. The intravenously applicable immunoglobulin G anti‐D therefore compares favourably with other preparations currently in use for intramuscular application.

The mode of action of antibody mediated suppression of the immune response is discussed.
Antigenic Markers on Cultured Human Cells
Authors: Dawson Anne
Published: March 2009

Summary. The cross‐reactions of M and N antibodies and the MN antigens of human tissue cells in culture have been investigated by mixed agglutination. Cross‐reactions have been found chiefly between the N antigen of tissue cells and anti‐M and anti‐N antibodies; and between anti‐N antibodies and the M antigen of red cells.

Attempts were made to reduce cross‐reactivity by testing the cells at different temperatures and after treatment with enzymes. These conditions were also imposed upon red cells in direct agglutination using the same antisera but there was little correlation between the results of the direct agglutination and mixed agglutination tests.
Serotyping for Homotransplantation XXVIII Sib‐Pair Assay for NonHL‐A Antigens1
Authors: Mittal K. K. , Mickey M. R. , Terasaki P. I.
Published: March 2009

Summary. Negative results were obtained in an investigation of 118 selected lymphocytotoxic antisera for activity against antigens determined by a locus or loci independent of the HL‐A locus. The sera studied were those not readily identifiable in terms of either generally recognized or tentative HL‐A antigenic specificities, and accordingly were considered appropriate for study to search for nonHL‐A antibodies. It is concluded that antisera active in lymphocytotoxicity tests against nonHL‐A antigens are quite rare.

The investigation utilized a sib‐pair method based on the consideration that sibs alike at the HL‐A locus should react alike, except for technical error, to sera detecting only HL‐A antigens and that most such alike sibs should frequently react differently to sera detecting nonHL‐A antigens. Details of the method are described and its sensitivity is illustrated by showing that several red cell antigens were readily detected as determined by loci independent of the HL‐A locus.
Stability of Immune Serum Globulin during Storage: Effects of Prior Heating1
Authors: Art G. P. , Finlayson J. S.
Published: March 2009

Summary. Samples of Immune Serum Globulin (Human) [ISG] stored for 0–11 years at 5°C were examined by ultracentrifugation, starch gel electrophoresis, and solubility in trichloroacetic acid. The extent of proteolytic degradation was dependent on the manufacturing process (salt or ethanol precipitation) and the source (venous, placental, or mixed). Incubation of ISG with added plasmin at temperatures from ‐23°C to 50°C showed that maximum degradation to 3.5 S material occurred at 24°C, relatively little occurred at 45°C, and none occurred at ‐23°C or 50°C. Placental ISG was stored, without added plasmin, for up to 2 years, and the following observations were made: considerably more proteolysis took place at 24°C than at 5°C; heating at 45°C or 50°C prior to storage at 24°C markedly reduced the extent of degradation; and the magnitude of this reduction was the same for samples heated at 45°C for 36 h, 48 h, or 72 h, or at 50°C for 72 h. Heating at 45°C produced minimal changes in the electrophoretic or anticomplementary characteristics of ISG but did result in a marked decrease in the amount of 10 S material present.
A Shared HL‐A Haplotype Seems to Make a Cadaver Donor Satisfactory for Kidney Transplantation1
Authors: Fotino Marilena , Allen F. H.
Published: March 2009

Abstract. Genetically related donor‐recipient kidney transplant pairs who share 1 HL‐A haplotype have a high incidence of successful outcome. We present evidence that unrelated pairs who appear to be possible sharers of an HL‐A haplotype also are satisfactory. Although there is some uncertainty, in an unrelated pair, whether they do, in fact, share an HL‐A haplotype, because there are usually alternative possibilities, the probabilities usually favor that they do share a haplotype.
Comparison of Counterelectrophoresis and Hemagglutination Inhibition Tests for Hepatitis‐Associated Antigen1
Authors: Shaffer W. E. , Vyas G. N. , Shahed A. , Chen E. , Perkins H. A.
Published: March 2009

Comparison of testing for hepatitis‐associated antigen (HAA) by a commercial counter‐electrophoresis system and a semiautomated hemagglutination inhibition technique shows the latter to be a practical and sensitive procedure for screening voluntary blood donors.
Another Example of Isoimmune Neonatal Neutropenia Due to Anti‐Na1
Authors: Weerdt Ch. M. van der , Lalezari P.
Published: March 2009

Abstract. A review of the present knowledge of transplacental transmission of anti‐neutrophil antibodies is given. A family in which one, possibly two of the three children had severe neutropenia after birth with subsequent infections, is described. An agglutinating antibody, directed against the neutrophil‐specific antigen NA 1, was demonstrated in the maternal serum. The father and all three children were NA 1‐positive. This case is another example of isoimmune neonatal neutropenia due to anti‐NA 1 antibodies.
Fast Haemoglobin Variant Found in Hawaiian‐Chinese‐Caucasian Family in Hawaii and a Chinese Subject in Taiwan
Authors: Blackwell R.Q. , Jim R.T.S. , Liu C.‐S. , Weng M.‐I. , Wang C.‐L. , Shih T.‐B.
Published: March 2009

Abstract. Haemoglobin J Honolulu, found in members of a family of mixed Hawaiian‐Chinese‐Caucasian ancestry, has been shown by chemical structure studies to have its structural alteration at position β‐59 where a threonyl group replaces the lysyl group normally occupying that position. The same anomaly was found recently in haemoglobin J Kaohsiung, a variant from a Chinese subject living in Taiwan. The relative amounts of haemoglobin A0 to haemoglobin J Honolulu were 52/48; the corresponding ratio for A0/J Kaohsiung was 53/47. In both subjects there were no signs of anaemia resulting from the anomalous haemoglobins. Family studies in the Honolulu kindred are not sufficiently complete to provide conclusive evidence concerning which part of the ancestry, Chinese, Hawaiian, or Caucasian, is the source of the variant.
The Mg Blood Group Antigen in Two Indian Families
Authors: Joshi S. R. , Bharucha Z. S. , Sharma R. S. , Bhatia H. M.
Published: March 2009

The first two examples of Mg antigen from India are reported. Two families with 9 Mg positive individuals are studied. In one family, inheritance was by the gene complex Mgs but in the other there was no means of deciding between Mgs and MgS. The antigen Mg appears to be rare, since no other instance was detected in over 9,200 samples tested. 12 out of 1,614 random sera (0.74%) showed the presence of anti‐Mg antibody.
Antiimmunoglobulin Antibodies in Immunodeficiencies: Their Influence on Intolerance Reactions to γ‐globulin Administration
Authors: Ropars C. , Caldera L. H. , Griscelli C. , Homberg J. C. , Salmon C.
Published: March 2009

Abstract. Patients without immunodeficiencies or with partial deficiency syndromes frequently develop anti‐immunoglobulin antibodies following γ‐globulin administration. Such antibodies are rare in patients with severe immunodeficiencies. In the population studied, the anti‐immunoglobulin antibodies are not associated with intolerance reactions, with the exception of anti‐IgA class‐specific antibody. The anti‐complementary activity of commercial preparations seems to be the principal cause for such reactions, particularly in patients with severe immunodeficiencies.
Complement‐Fixing and Lymphocytotoxic Antibodies in Serum of Pregnant Women at Delivery
Authors: NYMAND GUNNAR
Published: March 2009

Abstract. Data from an examination of 2,008 sera from parous women for lymphocytotoxic antibodies (LCTAb) and complement‐fixing platelet antibodies (CFPAb) are presented. The incidence of LCTAb was 13.4% and the incidence of CFPAb 2.9%. The finding of 14 sera with CFPAb to platelets in the absence of LCTAb is discussed. It is suggested that cytotoxic antibodies belong to two different globulin classes: complement‐fixing cytolytic antibodies and blocking antibodies only cytolytic with rabbit complement. The incidences of CFPAb and LCTAb were found significantly lower in primparae. Smoking also seemed to depress the ability to form antibodies.
Characterization of a Human Saliva Antigen Precipitated by a Lectin from Lotus tetragonolobus1
Authors: Napier Pamela W. , Everhart D. L. , Grundbacher F. J.
Published: March 2009

Abstract. Ouchterlony precipitin tests give visual evidence that extracts from Lotus tetragonolobus contain two different lectins. In addition to the H antigen, Lotus identifies another antigen, called the L antigen, which is not the A, B, Lea, Sda, I or SC1 saliva antigen and has been found in variable strength in secretor and nonsecretor saliva of individuals of all ABO blood groups. The L antigen is part of a cathode migrating glycoprotein. Sugar inhibition studies reveal that the terminal sugars are the same as for the H and Lea antigens, the presumable difference being that l‐fucose is attached to a different site. The L antigen is absent in the saliva and red cells of the Bombay type, but red cells of all other individuals absorb both lectins from Lotus extract.
DTT Test: A New Method to Differentiate IgM and IgG Erythrocyte Antibodies1
Authors: Pirofsky B. , Rosner E. R.
Published: March 2009

Abstract. A new test to determine the immunoglobulin class of erythrocyte antibodies is presented. Dithiothreitol (DTT), at a concentration of 0.01 m, has been used in a rapid 15 min, 37°C incubation test system. Dialysis is not required. The accuracy of this new DTT test was compared to a standard 2‐ME procedure. Human sera containing saline‐acting and incomplete varieties of erythrocyte antibodies were tested. Identical results were obtained by both methods with 292 of 302 (96.7%) test sera. Anion‐exchange chromatography was employed to produce erythrocyte antibody solutions of known immunoglobulin class. Incubation of these solutions with DTT decreased the immunologic reactivity of IgM erythrocyte antibodies, without affecting the activity of IgG varieties.
Ag(i): Detection of an Antithetical Factor to Ag(h)
Authors: Bütler R. , Brunner E.
Published: March 2009

Abstract. A trispeciflc anti‐Ag serum (M. H.) was found to reveal a new Ag factor: Ag(i). Ag(i) occurs in 98.3% of the white population and is antithetical to Ag(h). The results of Ag(i) typing in Swiss, Tibetans and Senegalese are amalgamated with previously obtained genetic data. Different models for the Ag chromosome are discussed.
Agglutination Kinetics
Authors: Lopez M. , Habibi B. , Lemeud J. , Salmon C.
Published: March 2009

Abstract. A simple, sensitive and highly reproducible method is described using a particle counting procedure for the study of agglutination percentage of red cells as a function of time. The method may advantageously be used for the current study of zygosity and other antigenic variations especially in family investigations.
Routine Screening of Donor Plasma Suitable for the Preparation of Antitetanus Immunoglobulin
Authors: Eldridge P. L. , Entwistle C. C.
Published: March 2009

Abstract. A radial immunodiffusion assay for serum antitetanus antibody has been in routine use in this laboratory for 12 months. It has proved simple and reliable for the screening of normal blood donors. Earlier preliminary observations — that (a) 4.4% East Anglian donors have antibody levels of 5 IU/ml or more and (b) 29% of such donors maintain more or less constant antibody levels for a considerable time without further known stimulation — have been confirmed.
Antibody to Vaccinia
Authors: Entwistle C. C.
Published: March 2009

Abstract. 3.6% of sera from random blood donors were found to contain antibody to vaccinia antigen(s) when screened by IEOP. Antibodies of the strength previously suggested as suitable for use in the preparation of anti‐vaccinia immune globulin (titre 2 or more) were only found in revaccinated donors, especially but not exclusively those bled within about 3 months of last vaccination.
Comparison of Low‐Molecular‐Weight Products Following Reaction of C3‐C3b with C3b Inactivator and with Trypsin1
Authors: Freedman J. , Chaplin H. , Johnson C.A. , Hughes‐Jones N. C.
Published: March 2009

Abstract. Substitution of trypsin for Konglutinogen‐activating factor (KAF) in the procedure for cleaving C3d from C3‐C3b substrate produced a relatively heterogeneous low‐molecular‐weight fraction (C3d‐Tryp) which differed in a number of ways from the KAF‐mediated cleavage product (C3d‐KAF). The differences were demonstrable by agar and polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, 125I‐labelling, content of immunoreactive 125I‐labelled C3d, inhibition of anti‐complement antiglobulin reagents and rabbit immunization. By comparison with C3d‐KAF, the C3d in C3d‐Tryp was more heterogeneous and exhibited a faster electrophoretic mobility in agar at pH 8.6. By contrast to C3d‐KAF, C3d‐Tryp contained protein carrying C3c antigenic determinants.
ABO Blood Groups and HBsAG Subtypes and Titers in Healthy Carriers
Authors: Babes V. T. , Steiner N. , Lenkei Rodica , Buzernescu Georgeta
Published: March 2009

Abstract. The investigation covered 457 ‘healthy’ HBsAg carriers detected following a screening by CEP. HBsAg in the sera of these subjects were subtyped by ID and titrated by CEP. The results obtained were analyzed according to the blood group of the cases investigated. Differences were found between the distribution of blood groups among the normal unselected population and among ‘healthy’ carriers, where the incidence of AB subjects was much higher. The difference was more marked for the carriers of HBsAg/ad.
Blood Transfusions and Antibody Response in Patients Waiting for a Kidney Transplant1
Authors: Werner‐Favre Christiane , Jeannet Michel
Published: March 2009

Abstract: Cold and warm B and T cell antibodies have been investigated following blood transfusion in patients waiting for a kidney transplant. 18 out of 28 patients were sensitized after a single transfusion: half of them presented a B‐warm pattern and the other half either a T‐warm or a B‐cold pattern. Several sera collected after one transfusion were absorbed with pooled platelets. All three T‐warm sera have become negative after absorption. Out of 21 B‐warm sera, 6 remained B‐warm, 3 became B‐cold and 12 were negative after absorption. There was no difference in strength between the B‐warm sera which were absorbed and those which resisted to absorption. Dilution studies showed that sera followed a similar trend: they convert from T‐warm to B‐warm and B‐cold patterns. Sequential sera from patients receiving systematic transfusions were tested at regular intervals after each transfusion. Most patients produced B‐warm antibodies.
Preparation of a Stable Intravenous Gamma‐Globulin: Process Design and Scale‐Up
Authors: Fernandes Peter M. , Lundblad John L.
Published: March 2009

Abstract.Intravenous γ‐globulin has been prepared on a pilot scale by the process of reduction with dithiothreitol and alkylation with iodoacetamide. The spent reagents are removed by diafiltration followed by ultrafiltration. The product is stabilized with maltose to minimize precipitation. Process design concepts as well as product characteristics are discussed.
Human IgG Allotypes Co‐Occurring in More than One IgG Subclass
Authors: van Loghem Erna , De Lange Gerda , van Leeuwen A.M. , van Eede P.H. , Nijenhuis L.E. , Lefranc Marie‐Paule , Lefranc G.
Published: March 2009

Inheritance of an excess of immunoglobulin allotypes in one haplotype was encountered which could not be explained by the assumption of a duplicated locus. The surplus of allotypes was related to markers on the CH3 domain of γ3 chains. Two such cases were investigated extensively. The IgG3 molecules were isolated by gel filtration and by absorption on protein A. Only the usual combination of allotypes appeared to be present on the IgG3 molecules. The supernumerary markers were found in one case on IgG2 molecules and in the other case on IgG1 molecules. This followed from investigations of eluates after separation of the subclasses by immune absorptions. A hypothesis was proposed to explain these events by mutation of a particular position of an otherwise homologous stretch of γ‐subclass DNA.
An Example of a Naturally Occurring Anti‐cE (Rh27) that Binds Complement
Authors: Kline William E. , Sullivan Carolyn M. , Pope Marcy , Bowman Robert J.
Published: March 2009

A serum sample from a nontransfused male containing anti‐Rh27 and an additional weakly reacting antibody was investigated. One absorption of the serum with RzRl cells left only anti‐Rh27 while repeated absorption with RlRl cells or autologous cells had no effect. Treatment of the serum with reducing agents destroyed all activity suggesting the antibody was predominantly IgM. Tests with monospecific antiglobulin reagents in the indirect antiglobulin test revealed very weak reactions with anti‐IgM and anti‐IgA, no reactions with anti‐IgG, and strong reactions with anti‐C3(C3c + C3d) and anti‐C4. This is the first reported example of a naturally occurring complement binding anti‐Rh27.
Isoelectrofocusing in the Study of the Bf System: Existence of Two Common Subtypes of the BfF Allele1
Authors: Geserick Gunther , Patzelt Dieter , Schröder Helga , Nagai Tatsuo
Published: March 2009

Abstract. The inherited polymorphism of the properdin factor B (Bf system) was studied by isoelectrofocusing in polyacrylamide gel (PAGIF, pH range 5.0–8.0), followed by immunofixation. Using the described technique, two different subtypes of F bands are visible (designated as F‘ and F“). Studies of 13 families and 48 mother‐child pairs are not in contradiction to the assumption of a codominant inheritance by two alleles (BfF’ and BF”) at a single locus.
Red Cell Suspensions in SAGM Medium Further Experience of in vivo Survival of Red Cells, Clinical Usefulness and Plasma‐Saving Effects1
Authors: Högman Claes F. , Åkerblorn Olof , Hedlund Kenneth , Rosén Ingrid , Wiklund Lars
Published: March 2009

Abstract. Red cells depleted of buffy coat and more than 90% of the plasma were suspended and stored in a medium composed of sodium chloride, adenine, glucose and man‐nitol (SAGM). The 24‐hour posttransfusion survival of 51Cr‐labeled red cells was 83.5 ± 5.3% (n = 4) after storage for 35 days and 77.4 ± 4.7%o (n = 6) after 42 days. No abnormal in vivo hemolysis occurred as judged from posttransfusion haptoglobin consumption studies. No abnormal body temperature elevation was found at continuous pertrans‐fusion recordings. The frequency of febrile or urticaria1 transfusion reactions was 0.19% as compared to 0.68% during a whole‐blood transfusion period. Since a mean of 280 ml of plasma can be collected from each blood unit the plasma‐saving effects of the system are considerable. Favorable large‐scale clinical experience is reported.
Rapid Preparation of Fresh Platelet Concentrates from CPD‐Blood by (Mild) Acidification
Authors: Merlin D. , Bucher U.
Published: March 2009

Abstract. Two methods of preparation of platelet concentrates (PC) derived from citrate‐phosphate‐dextrose (CPD) whole blood have been compared: (1) resuspension after having left the PC undisturbed at room temperature for 1 h (according to Mourad), and (2) immediate resuspension of the PC after the centrifugation of a platelet‐rich plasma which has been acidified beforehand by the addition of ACD. In vitro platelet yield in acidified (CPD/ACD‐)PC was at least equal to and, in cases with a particularly strong postcentrifugal tendency for clumping of platelets, clearly better (p<0.05) than in the ‘Mourad platelets’. The results show that it is possible to produce PC from fresh CPD whole blood without delay. This may be helpful in clinical situations where freshly prepared PC should be available immediately. A special double bag (Fenwal DFX 733) containing CPD‐A in the primary bag and 10 ml of ACD in the satellite bag, allows preparation of PC under these conditions in a closed system.
Effect of Storage on Platelet Release and Aggregation Responses
Authors: Scott N.J. , Harris J.R. , Bolton A.E.
Published: March 2009

Abstract. The effect of storage conditions on the aggregation and release responses of platelets have been investigated, using ADP as activating agent and β‐thromboglobulin (BTG) as a measure of the release reaction. Spontaneous release of BTG during storage was also investigated. Platelets held at room temperature maintained their ability to aggregate and release BTG in response to ADP after 3 days storage. After storage for 1 day at 4°C platelets showed normal aggregation in response to ADP but did not release BTG. After 4–6 days, platelets stored at room temperature showed a smaller spontaneous loss of BTG than those stored at 4°C. Spontaneous release of BTG from platelets in whole blood stored at 4°C was significantly lower than from platelets stored as concentrates, although platelets prepared from whole blood stored for 1 day showed neither release nor aggregation in response to ADP stimulation. We suggest that ADP‐stimulated BTG release may be a sensitive test of platelet function during storage.
Studies on the Binding of IgG and F(ab) Anti‐A to Adult and Newborn Group A Red Cells
Authors: Romano E.L. , Zabner‐Oziel P. , Soyano A. , Linares J.
Published: March 2009

Abstract. The values of the functional affinity constants for the binding of human IgG anti‐A and its F(ab) derivative with adult and newborn group‐A red cells have been determined. The values obtained for both monovalent and bivalent antibody with both types of cells were of the same order (about 1times108M‐1), indicating that IgG anti‐A binds to red cells only by one of its F(ab) arms.
Competition between ABO and Le Gene Specified Enzymes
Authors: Pendu J. Le , Oriol R. , Lambert F. , Dalix A. M. , Lemieux R. U.
Published: March 2009

Abstract. One B‐ and two A‐specific radioimmunoassays detected A and B antigenic determinants in saliva of ABH nonsecretors. The A or B antigens found in saliva of nonsecretors had lower efficiency and higher heterogeneity, in the inhibition of the A or B assays, as compared to A or B antigens in saliva of ABH secretors. In the 3 assays, samples of nonsecretor Lewis positive donors (Lea) had less A or B antigens than samples of nonsecretor Lewis negative donors (Lec), suggesting that there is a competition between A or B and Le gene‐specified products.
A New Technique in Quantitative Immunohematology: Solid‐Phase Kinetic Enzyme‐Linked Immunosorbent Assay
Authors: Spitalnik S. , Cowles J. , Cox M. T. , Baker D. , Holt J. , Blumberg N.
Published: March 2009

Abstract. A solid‐phase kinetic enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay has been developed to measure binding of antibodies to purified or synthetic blood group antigens and tested in the Lewis blood group system. Chemically synthesized Lewis a antigen is used as the target for the binding of serum antibody in this sandwich‐type assay. Kinetic, rather than endpoint, determinations are used to calculate the amount of specific antibody. Data are presented showing the assay to be quantitative, sensitive, and specific. It can separately quantitate the amount of IgG or IgM anti‐Lewis a present in patient sera. The assay uses commercially available reagents and is semiautomated. Thus, it will be useful for studies in quantitative immunohematology as other blood group antigens become available in purified form.
A Pilot Study of Hepatitis B Viral Markers in Volunteer Blood Donors in Kenya, East Africa
Authors: Bowry T.R. , Shah M.V.
Published: March 2009

Abstract. The occurrence of three major markers of hepatitis B viral (HBV) infection—the surface antigen (HbsAg), its specific antibody (HBsAb), and antibody to the core antigen (HBcAb)—is reported on 101 Kenyan volunteer blood donors which are tested by highly sensitive techniques.

The surface antigen carrier rate was 14% by radioimmunoassay as opposed to 0.1–1% in Northern Europe and in the USA. The prevalence of the core aad surface antibodies is 53 and 57%, respectively. The core antibody as the only indicator of HBV infection occurred in 3% of Kenyan donors as compared to 0.4 in Caucasian volunteers. The overall infectious pool of HBV in Kenyan donors is 17%. Another application of the core and surface antibody screening of the blood donors has been reported recently in relation to the control of non‐A, non‐B posttransfusion hepatitis. The coexistence of the two antibodies is observed in 41% of the Kenyan donors after excluding the infectious pool. Exclusion of such a large proportion of donors to control non‐A, non‐B posttransfusion hepatitis is impractical in Kenya though it can be considered in Europe and in the USA where their prevalence rate is 1–4%. It is relevant to observe, however, that in spite of such high transmission rate of the virus in the community in Kenya, 25% of the adult population have been spared. As the immune status in relation to the HBV of the adult recipients of the blood is likely to be similar to that of the donors, a quarter are susceptible to the virus infection. The susceptible group is of course larger still amongst the paediatric recipients.
A New Method to Collect Granulocytes Using a Low Dose of Hydroxyethyl Starch
Authors: Szymanski I.O.
Published: March 2009

Abstract. A new granulocyte collection method employing discontinuous flow centrifugation and low donor dose of hydroxyethyl starch (HES) is presented. Following the procedure, the increase in serum polysaccharide concentration was 100 mg/dl, about 20% of that seen after standard discontinuous flow leukapheresis. The average efficiency of granulocyte collection by this method is about 64%. The average yield of WBC from 2,600 ml of donors' whole blood is 1.64 ± 0.54 × 1010 (mean±l SD) and the average granulocyte yield is 1.33 ± 0.51 × 1010 (mean ± l SD). The granulocytes were shown to migrate to the sites of infection in vivo. This approach is an improvement over standard discontinuous flow leukapheresis because of the high efficiency of granulocyte collection and because multiple procedures are possible without exposing donors to more HES than is currently given during a single procedure.
Prevention of Leakage of Di‐(2‐ethylhexyl)phthalate from Blood Bags by Glow Discharge Treatment and Its Effect on Aggregability of Stored Platelets
Authors: Ishikawa Yoshihide , Honda Kenji , Sasakawa Shigeru , Halada Kenji , Kobayashi Hiroaki
Published: March 2009

Abstract. Platelets storage in glow discharge treated PVC bags was studied. The amount of leaked di‐(2‐ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) was 150–200 μg/ml/day in the nontreated PVC bags, but only 20–40 μg/ml in the treated bags after 48 h. The adhesion of silicone to PVC was much improved, and consequently, uniform coating with silicone became feasible. The decrease of the ability of platelets to aggregate was accelerated by DEHP. When stored platelets were resuspended in fresh plasma, the ability to aggregate was gradually restored. However, the degree of restoration of the ability of platelets which had been incubated with DEHP was low. When platelets were stored in the glow discharge treated and then silicone‐coated PVC bags, their adhesion on the surface and the decrease of their function were prevented.
Studies on the Retention of Passively Transferred Antibodies in Man
Authors: Shibata Yasuo , Baba Makoto
Published: March 2009

Abstract. Catabolism of intravenously or intramuscularly administered human immunoglobulin in man was studied by the administration of HBs antibodies at a high titer and analysis with a highly sensitive radioimmunoassay technique. The half‐life in the blood of the antibodies in the aggregate‐reduced antibody preparation administered intravenously was found to be 17.7 days and of those in the antibody preparation administered intramuscularly to be 23.8 days.
Fetal Immunization against the Mother's Lymphocytes
Authors: Werneburg B. , Tongio M.M. , Mayer S.
Published: March 2009

In 2 cases the child's serum at birth contained a lymphocytotoxic antibody whose specificity did not correspond to the maternal serum's specificity. Further investigation suggested that the newborns were immunized against their mother as the antibodies were directed against maternal antigens.
Transferrin Binding by Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells in Human Lymphomas, Myelomas and Leukemias
Authors: Yeh Chang‐Jing G. , Taylor Colin G. , Faulka W. Page
Published: March 2009

Significantly more peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBM) from 39 patients with lymphoma (p<0.001), myeloma (p<0.001), or leukemia (p<0.001–0.025) bind transferrin (Trf) than those of 23 normals. That Trf was bound to a receptor on these cells was shown by the inhibition of these cells bound to 125I‐Trf with unlabeled Trf. The paucity of Trf receptors on PBM from normals and their presence on diseased cells prompt a suggestion that Trf receptors may offer a useful approach to the diagnosis and possible treatment of some blood dyscrasias.