bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Bicarbonate/Lactate Dialysis Solution on the Inflammatory Response of Spontaneous Peritonitis in Rats Undergoing Chronic Peritoneal Dialysis
Authors: Pawlaczyk Krzysztof , Holmes Clifford J. , Czekalski Stanislaw , Breborowicz Andrzej , Lindholm Bengt
Published: July 2009

Background: We evaluated the incidence of spontaneous peritonitis as well as the local inflammatory response and macroscopic changes in the peritoneum during the use of a bicarbonate/lactate-buffered (P) solution in comparison to conventional (D) solutions in rats on chronic peritoneal dialysis. Methods: Sixty-three male Wistar rats were implanted with peritoneal catheters. After 7 days, the animals were randomly divided into 2 experimental groups (32 rats in D, 31 rats in P) and infused twice daily over the following 4 weeks. Results: After 14 and 23 days, rats dialyzed with D had a higher peritonitis rate than those dialyzed with P. The median number of days until peritonitis occurred was 22 days for the rats in the D group and 29 days for the rats in the P group. Spontaneously infected rats dialyzed with the D solution had higher scores for adhesion formation. Conclusions: In this animal model, dialysis with P delayed the time to the 1st infection, reduced the overall peritonitis rate and reduced peritonitis-associated peritoneal adhesion formation during chronic peritoneal dialysis.
Serum Levels of 5-S-Cysteinyldopa Are Correlated with Skin Colors in Hemodialysis Patients but Not in Peritoneal Dialysis Patients
Authors: Murakami Kazutaka , Nakanishi Yukiko , Wakamatsu Kazumasa , Yamamoto Koichiro , Kohriyama Nahoko , Hasegawa Midori , Tomita Makoto , Nabeshima Kunihiro , Hiki Yoshiyuki , Asano Shinsuke , Kawashima Shiro , Ito Yasuhiro , Fujita Yoshiro , Asada Hiroaki , Nakai Shigeru , Sugiyama Satoshi , Ito Shosuke
Published: July 2009

Background: Diffuse hyperpigmentation is common in patients with chronic renal failure undergoing hemodialysis (HD) or peritoneal dialysis (PD). We previously reported that serum levels of 5-S-cysteinyldopa (5SCD, a pheomelanin precursor) and pheomelanin were significantly elevated in HD patients. Methods: Skin color was assessed using a Mexameter that measures the melanin index (MI) and the erythema index (EI). The upper inner arms (non-sun-exposed site) and the foreheads (sun-exposed site) of HD and PD patients and control subjects were analyzed. Results: MI values on the upper inner arms and on the foreheads of HD and PD patients were significantly higher than in controls. In HD patients, significant correlations were found for serum 5SCD levels with MI and EI on the upper inner arm, and for EI on the forehead. In PD patients, no such correlations were found. Conclusions: Hyperpigmentation in HD patients results partly from accumulation of pheomelanin in the skin.
Corneal Re-Epithelialization following Phototherapeutic Keratectomy for Recurrent Corneal Erosion as in vivo Model of Epithelial Wound Healing
Authors: Baumeister Martin , Bühren Jens , Ohrloff Christian , Kohnen Thomas
Published: July 2009

Background: This placebo-controlled double-blind study examined the suitability of recording corneal epithelialization after phototherapeutic keratectomy (PTK) as a model of epithelial wound healing. Methods: Eighteen patients with recurrent corneal erosion were randomized into 2 groups, and received PTK with a 7-mm ablation zone. Postoperatively, one group was treated with an ointment containing 5% dexpanthenol and the other with the ointment vehicle without dexpanthenol. The epithelial lesions were recorded by digital slit-lamp photographs with fluorescein staining at fixed intervals until epithelial closure. The size of the epithelial defect was measured, and the average time until epithelial closure was calculated. Reliability of measurements was tested by calculating Cronbach’s α from measurements at the same point in time. Results: Photographs could be taken at all scheduled examinations. The measured size of the epithelial defects showed a high reliability (Cronbach’s α = 0.994). The average time needed for epithelial closure was 57.5 h in the treatment group and 64.8 h in the placebo group (p = 0.177). Conclusions: Planimetric measurement of slit-lamp photographs of standardized epithelial defects is an adequate method for monitoring the progress of corneal epithelial wound healing. Although wounds treated with dexpanthenol showed a slightly shorter average healing time, the difference to the placebo was not significant.
Family-Based Association Study of the MCF2L2 Gene and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Authors: Zheng Qingmei , Shi Yuhua , Yang Zongli , Xu Xinghua , Wang Laicheng , Xue Fuzhong , Gu Harvest F. , Chen Zi-Jiang
Published: July 2009

Objective: The aim of the study was to determine the association between three single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) variants (rs35368790, rs35069869 and rs684846) of the MCF2 cell line-derived transforming sequence-like 2 (MCF2L2) gene and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in PCOS family trios. Methods: Genotyping was done by TaqMan assay that incorporates minor groove-binding probe technology for allelic discrimination. One hundred and fifty-two unrelated PCOS probands and their biological parents were recruited. All subjects were of Han Chinese origin and from Shandong Province. Results: The transmission disequilibrium test (TDT) for allelic association demonstrated that a weak association was detected in SNP rs35368790 with p = 0.008. However, we found no significant transmission distortion of the other two SNPs (rs35069869, χ2 = 3.645, p = 0.056; rs684846, χ2 = 1.429, p = 0.232, respectively). Conclusions: These results suggest that the genetic polymorphisms within MCF2L2 are likely to confer an increased susceptibility to PCOS in the Chinese population. Our present data may provide a basis for further studies of the role of the MCF2L2 gene in the etiology of PCOS.
Barrier Functions of Human Skin: A Holistic View
Authors: Menon G.K. , Kligman A.M.
Published: July 2009

The fascinating topic of skin barrier continues to engage researchers from diverse disciplines both in academia and industry. Much of the information on the basic biology of barrier formation, its ontogeny as well as repair and homeostasis comes from studies on animal models. A smaller number of human studies have validated the usefulness of animal models, while highlighting some essential differences. We submit that the human skin barrier is unique in several ways, as much due to our adaptive ability as our control over the environment (macro and micro) that none of the other species have exerted. The human skin is not only exposed to the greatest variations of environment due to our phenomenal mobility but also to the largest number of xenobiotics, both chemical and microbial, resulting from human activity. In this overview, we attempt to evaluate the interdependent relation of skin barriers to environmental stressors hoping to raise interest in some of the lesser known or neglected aspects of human skin barriers as they relate to skin health and dysfunctions.
Optimisation of Cosolvent Concentration for Topical Drug Delivery – II: Influence of Propylene Glycol on Ibuprofen Permeation
Authors: Watkinson R.M. , Guy R.H. , Hadgraft J. , Lane M.E.
Published: July 2009

The influence of formulation components on drug thermodynamic activity and on membrane properties has not been extensively studied to date. Propylene glycol (PG) has a long history of use as a component of topical pharmaceutical and cosmetic preparations. In the present study we investigated the influence of PG on the solubility and membrane permeability characteristics of ibuprofen in silicone and skin using binary (PG:water) and ternary (ethanol:PG:water) solvent systems. Fluxes were maximum for 70:30 PG:water systems in silicone membrane; however, for experiments conducted with skin, the flux of ibuprofen systematically increased with increasing amounts of PG. For silicone membrane, the flux values of ibuprofen from ternary ethanol:PG:water (25:25:50 and 50:25:25) systems were 1.2- and 1.5-fold higher than the highest values observed from the PG:water systems. A comparison of the data from occluded versus non-occluded studies suggested that the ethanol content was the critical determinant of flux enhancement in these systems. For human skin, a PG:water (50:50) mixture enhanced ibuprofen flux to the same extent as the corresponding ethanol:PG:water (25:25:50) system. However, the ternary system, ethanol:PG:water (50:25:25), demonstrated the greatest enhancement. An analysis of the partition and diffusion parameters for experiments conducted with skin confirmed that the influence of PG in the PG:water systems is primarily on the solubility and partitioning behaviour of ibuprofen. The ternary systems also appear to influence skin partition behaviour rather than diffusivity when compared with the permeation parameters of ibuprofen from saturated aqueous solutions.
Phenotypic Analyses and Mutation Screening of the SLC26A4 and FOXI1 Genes in 101 Taiwanese Families with Bilateral Nonsyndromic Enlarged Vestibular Aqueduct (DFNB4) or Pendred Syndrome
Authors: Wu Chen-Chi , Lu Ying-Chang , Chen Pei-Jer , Yeh Po-Lin , Su Yi-Nin , Hwu Wuh-Liang , Hsu Chuan-Jen
Published: July 2009

Recessive mutations in the SLC26A4 gene are responsible for nonsyndromic enlarged vestibular aqueduct (EVA) and Pendred syndrome. However, in some affected families, only 1 or 0 mutated allele can be identified, as well as no clear correlation between SLC26A4 genotypes and clinical phenotypes, hampering the accuracy of genetic counseling. To elucidate the genetic composition of nonsyndromic EVA and Pendred syndrome, we screened related genomic fragments, including the SLC26A4 coding regions, the SLC26A4 promoter and the FOXI1 transcription factor gene, in 101 Taiwanese families, and analyzed their phenotypic and genotypic results. Mutation screening in the SLC26A4 coding regions by direct sequencing and quantitative polymerase chain reaction detected 2 mutations in 63 (62%) families, 1 mutation in 24 (24%) families and no mutation in 14 (14%) families. The radiological findings, the presence of goiters and the audiological results were not different among probands (i.e. index cases of the families) with different SLC26A4 genotypes. Specifically, probands heterozygous for SLC26A4 mutations demonstrated clinical features indistinguishable from those of probands with 2 mutated alleles, implicating that there might be undetected mutations. However, except for a variant (c.–2554G>A of SLC26A4) with possible pathological consequences, no definite mutation was detected after extensive screening in the SLC26A4 promoter and FOXI1. In other words, in most Taiwanese families nonsyndromic EVA or Pendred syndrome might not result from aberrance in the transcriptional control of SLC26A4 by FOXI1. Meanwhile, exploration of undetected mutations in the SLC26A4 noncoding regions revealed 9 divergent haplotypes among the 21 no-mutation-detected SLC26A4 alleles of the c.919-2A>G heterozygotes, indicating that there might be no common and predominant mutations in the SLC26A4 introns.
Microbiological Analysis after Complete or Partial Removal of Carious Dentin in Primary Teeth: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Lula E.C.O. , Monteiro-Neto V. , Alves C.M.C. , Ribeiro C.C.C.
Published: July 2009

Since viable bacteria can persist in tooth cavities regardless of the technique used for caries removal, the objective of the present randomized clinical trial was to examine the microflora of primary teeth treated by complete or partial removal of carious dentin. Deciduous molars with acute carious lesions in the inner half of dentin and vital pulp were randomly divided into two groups of 16: complete removal, in which the carious dentin was completely removed with the help of a caries detector dye, and partial removal, in which the carious dentin was completely removed from the dentinoenamel junction and lateral walls, while the necrotic carious dentin from the cavity floor was only removed superficially. Dentin samples were obtained with a sterile No. 3 bur after caries removal and 3–6 months after protection with calcium hydroxide cement and restoration of the cavities with resin composite. The samples were stored in thioglycolate. Decimal dilutions were then prepared and seeded for the enumeration of Streptococcus spp., mutans streptococci, Lactobacillus spp. and total microorganisms. Before sealing, a larger number of microorganisms was detected in teeth submitted to partial caries removal compared to the complete removal group. However, after sealing the level of colonization was similar in the two groups for all microorganisms studied. The results suggest that persistence of bacteria does not seem to be a reason for reopening of cavities in deciduous teeth after partial caries removal.
Comparison of 0.05% Chlorhexidine and 10% Povidone-Iodine as Cutaneous Disinfectant for Prevention of Central Venous Catheter-Related Bloodstream Infection: A Comparative Study
Authors: Ishizuka M. , Nagata H. , Takagi K. , Kubota K.
Published: July 2009

Background: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guideline recommended the use of 2% chlorhexidine as a percutaneous disinfectant for central venous catheter (CVC) insertion. However, in Japan, 0.05% chlorhexidine is commonly used as well as 10% povidone-iodine, instead of 2% chlorhexidine. Purpose: It was the aim of this study to examine whether the use of 0.05% chlorhexidine is inferior to conventional 10% povidone-iodine as a percutaneous disinfectant for preventing CVC-related bloodstream infection (CVC-RBSI). Methods: Between September 2006 and July 2008, the time interval from insertion to development of CVC-RBSI was compared prospectively between patients prepared with 0.05% chlorhexidine (group 1, n = 286 CVCs) and those prepared with conventional 10% povidone-iodine (group 2, n = 298 CVCs). Results: Two hundred and thirty-nine patients received 584 CVCs for a total of 6,205 catheter-days. CVC-RBSI (3.22 per 1,000 catheter-days) was diagnosed in 20 cases. There were no significant differences in patient background factors between group 1 and 2, except for blood culture positivity (p = 0.0450). However, Kaplan-Meier analysis and the log rank test revealed no significant difference between group 1 and 2 in the time interval from insertion until development of CVC-RBSI. Conclusions: Use of 0.05% chlorhexidine is not inferior to conventional 10% povidone-iodine as a cutaneous disinfectant for the prevention of CVC-RBSI.
T-Cell-Priming Characteristics of Modified Timothy Grass Pollen Antigen B
Authors: Malley Arthur , Begley Donald E. , Forsham Ann
Published: July 2009

Previous studies demonstrated that antigen B (AgB), a major antigen of timothy grass pollen, modified by photooxidation (Ox-AgB), does not react with rabbit, human, or mouse antibodies directed against AgB and does not induce antibodies reactive with either native or modified AgB. In this paper we show that Ox-AgB retains an estimated 70% of the lymphocyte-activating properties and a significant amount of the T-cell-priming capabilities of AgB.
Extended Evaluation of Allergic BronchopuImonary Aspergillosis
Authors: Ghory Ann C. , Patterson Roy , Greenberger Paul , Roberts Mary
Published: July 2009

The clinical status and laboratory findings of 19 patients with allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) evaluated over a period ranging from 3 months to 10 years are reviewed (average 2.6 years). Criteria establishing the diagnosis of ABPA as well as an estimate of duration of ABPA prior to diagnosis in selected cases is presented. 10 of the 19 patients currently require chronic corticosteroids for control of asthma as compared to 4 patients at the time of initial diagnosis. 16 exacerbations of ABPA have occurred in 8 patients. There is no correlation between the severity of asthma and either the number of exacerbations or persistent radiographic stigmata of ABPA. Pulmonary function tests range from normal to obstructive and restrictive changes.
Effect of Different Dietary Lipids on the Immune Responses of Hartley Strain Guinea Pigs
Authors: Friend J.V. , Lock S.O. , Gurr M.I. , Parish W.E.
Published: July 2009

A diet containing 20% by weight of fat rich in unsaturated fatty acids reduced the ability of guinea pigs to form antibody and the delayed hypersensitivity response in vivo against a single antigen. Reduced responses in vivo are manifested on first challenge only, subsequent antigenic challenges showed responses similar to those of animals fed a normal diet. However, cells from animals fed large amounts of unsaturated fats when cultured in vitro with antigen and sera of normal animals fed a low-fat diet did not show reduced delayed hypersensitivity (macrophage migration inhibition and lymphocyte transformation). The serum of animals fed high-fat diets greatly inhibited the response to mitogens and to antigen in vitro of lymphocytes from tuberculin-sensitized animals fed either low or high-fat diet. As serum from animals fed low-fat diets did not have this effect, it is postulated that the inhibitory activity is due to a lipid or lipoprotein derivative of unsaturated fatty acids. Animals fed high-fat diets remained healthy, and showed no disorder related to the fat and no susceptibility to infection.
Characterization of a Sperm-Specific Antigen in Inbred Strains of Rats
Authors: Weinblatt Anita Corman , Gill, III Thomas J. , Kunz Heinz W.
Published: July 2009

Rat sperm have a cell surface autoantigen which is common to at least ten inbred strains. The expression of this antigen is quantitatively different, and, among the strains tested, the BN strain appears to have the largest amount. The sperm of the B13 strain were examined in detail for a unique sperm antigen, because this strain is heterozygous for genes influencing defects in growth and development which may be the analogue of the T/t complex in the mouse. The sperm did not contain any such unique antigen when tested by a radioactive double antibody technique.
Studies in Acute Leukemia
Authors: Gupta Sudhir , Garrett Thomas , Straus David , Good Robert A.
Published: July 2009

Leukemic blasts from patients with acute myeloblastic and acute monocytic leukemia were studied for their chemotaxis towards casein- or endotoxin-activated serum as well as for the presence of Fc receptors and surface immunoglobulins. Leukemic blasts from patients with acute myeloblastic leukemia lacked both Fc receptors and surface immunoglobulin and did not migrate towards chemoattractants. Leukemic blasts from patients with acute monocytic leukemia, however, demonstrated heterogeneity with regard to Fc receptors, surface immunoglobulins and chemotaxis, and could be divided into three groups: in group I, leukemic blasts which lacked both Fc receptors and surface immunoglobulin moved poorly; in group II, large proportions of leukemic blasts had Fc receptors but lacked surface immunoglobulins. These blasts migrated well towards the chemoattractants, and in group III, leukemic blasts which had both Fc receptors and surface immunoglobulins lacked chemotactic property. A correlation between the presence or absence of Fc receptors and chemotaxis was observed. In group III, lack of blast cell migration appears to be due to passive binding of IgG via the Fc receptors.
Inflammatory Potency of Antigen-Antibody Complexes and C-Reactive Protein in a Wound Chamber Model in Rats
Authors: Ahlstedt S.
Published: July 2009

In the present study, the inflammatory potencies of antigens carrying different numbers of determinants, i. e. penicilloyl5-rat serum albumin and penicilloyl28-rat serum albumin were compared in a wound chamber model in immunized rats. The results revealed that the antigen with more determinants had a more potent inflammatory effect. The kinetics of the inflammatory responses to the two antigens were similar, however. The inflammation in the chambers was also analyzed against antigen, penicilloyl26-bovine γ-globulin and antigen together with the acute phase reactant C-reactive protein of human source (CRP). CRP significantly increased the severity of the inflammation with antigen alone but the kinetics of the responses were similar.
Local Anaphylactoid Responses in Rats
Authors: West G.B.
Published: July 2009

The relative activities of 15 agents inducing anaphylactoid responses in the paws of two types of genetically different rats have been determined. Three groups were identified: group 1, where activity was much higher in R rats than in NR rats; group 2 where activity was low in both R and NR rats, and group 3, where activity was equally high in both R and NR rats. The influence of changes in the blood sugar level on these responses was also investigated in the three groups.
Effect of Experimental Dengue Virus Infection on Humoral and Cell-Mediated Immune Response to Thymus-Dependent Antigen
Authors: Nagarkatti Mitzi , Nagarkatti Prakash S. , Rao K.M.
Published: July 2009

Mice injected with dengue vims showed a depressed primary and secondary humoral immune response to SRBC as measured by the number of antibody-forming cells, haemagglutinin and haemolysin titres. The time of administration of SRBC during the infection was found to be an important factor determining the response to SRBC. The cell-mediated immune response was also suppressed as measured by the delayed hypersensitivity reaction to SRBC in the footpad. While the immunosuppression of humoral immunity was only transient and the animals recovered within 30 days following infection, the cell-mediated immunity remained suppressed throughout this period. Immunofluorescent studies and LD50 determination of the infected brains demonstrated significant virus titres from 7 to 15 days postinfection. This period coincided with maximal immunosuppression.
Inhibition of Murine Reaginic Antibody Responses by Nasal Immunotherapy with Modified Allergen
Authors: Schumacher M.J. , Mitchell G.F.
Published: July 2009

Optimal conditions were established for induction of reaginic antibodies to Lolium perenne pollen allergens in mice by intranasal dosing of allergens with Bordetella pertussis vaccine. This antibody response could be inhibited by pretreatment of the mice by nasal administration of 100 μg of glutaraldehyde-modified L. perenne allergens 9 times in 3 weeks before priming, whereas native allergens, in doses of 5 μg, did not inhibit an IgE response to subsequent priming. It was not possible to suppress an ongoing reaginic antibody response by intranasal treatment with either native allergens, or glutaraldehyde-modified allergens. Relevance to immunoprophylaxis of allergic disease is discussed.
Suppression of IgE Antibody Formation in Mice with Nonspecific Stimulation
Authors: Itaya T. , Tomioka H. , Kumagai A. , Tada T.
Published: July 2009

Effects of administration of various adjuvants were examined for the induction of IgE antibody response against a hapten-carrier conjugate in the mouse. It was confirmed that alum was an excellent adjuvant for induction of IgE antibody response, while poly A:U, CFA and LPS had much less activity. However, when these adjuvants were administered before immunization with antigen and alum, they suppressed the forthcoming antibody response to various degrees. Even alum exerted a profound suppressive effect when it was given before immunization. Such suppressive effect of alum and poly A:U was partially overcome by incorporating in the adjuvant the carrier protein. In contrast the suppressive effect of CFA was overcome by incorporating in the CFA an unrelated carrier conjugated to the same hapten (DNP). The results indicate that the target of the adjuvants is different from one to the other and further give a clue to study the possible application for the suppression of IgE antibody formation.
Interaction of the Antiallergic Agent AA-344 with Biogenic Amines and Prostaglandins in Production of Cyclic AMP in Rat Mast Cells
Authors: Ashida Yasuko , Saijo Taketoshi , Kuriki Hisashi , Maki Yoshitaka
Published: July 2009

AA-344, which has been evidenced to inhibit selectively IgE-mediated allergic reactions, exhibited an inhibitory effect on cyclic AMP phosphodiesterase (PDase) in the homogenates of purified rat peritoneal mast cells (RMC). AA-344 showed synergistic effects with epinephrine, isoproterenol or prostaglandin E2 and F2α in increasing cyclic AMP level in RMC: the combinations caused an increase in cyclic AMP 30–160 times as much as that caused by the respective agent alone. In the latter effect, AA-344 was at least 1,000 times as potent as theophylline. On the other hand, histamine or serotonin with or without AA-344 had no effect on the RMC cyclic AMP. These results obtained in vitro suggest that AA-344 may exert antiallergic action by increasing cyclic AMP via an interaction with epinephrine or prostaglandins which might be endogenously involved in regulation of a function of RMC in allergic reactions.
Comparison of Venom and Whole-Body Rast and Intradermal Testing in Vespid-Sensitive Patients
Authors: Meriney David , Nall Thomas , Wallace Dana , Rosenzweig David , Goel Zarina , Grieco Michael H.
Published: July 2009

14 patients clinically hypersensitive to vespid sting by history, 6 patients with large local reactions and 10 control subjects were skin tested with serial two- and tenfold dilutions of venom and whole-body extract of yellow jacket, wasp, and white-faced hornet antigens. Radioallergosorbent test determinations with the same antigens were also made. Determination of minimal reactive dose by skin testing distinguished control and hypersensitive patients groups for all three antigens using either venom or whole body extract. Yellow jacket venom skin testing detected 12 of 14 patients considered clinically hypersensitive. This was not the case with the other two venoms, possibly because most of the patients were yellow jacket sensitive, or any of the whole-body extracts. The Radioallergosorbent test was less useful than venom skin testing in detecting patients considered clinically sensitive.
Influence of Pregnancy on the Immune Response to Ragweed Antigen in Rats
Authors: Vijay H.M. , Buttare H.S. , Lavergne G.
Published: July 2009

The reactivity of spleen lymphocytes in culture and the reaginic antibody (IgE) response to nondialyzable water-soluble ragweed (DWSR) extract were assessed at different intervals of pregnancy in rats. On day 6 of pregnancy, spleen cells showed a significant reduction in their mitogenic response to phytohemagglutinin (PHA) and slightly lowered response to concanavalin A (Con A) when compared to that of control nonpregnant rats. On day 11 of pregnancy, values obtained with PHA were slightly lower and those obtained with Con A similar to those of control rats. However, at day 18 of gestation, PHA values also returned to normal levels. In contrast, IgE antibody response to DWSR from day 4 to 9 of pregnancy was either slightly enhanced or similar to that of control rats and significantly suppressed from day 11 to 18 of gestation. The decline in humoral response to DWSR during late pregnancy is discussed in the text.
Calcium Pools Involved in Histamine Release from Rat Mast Cells
Authors: Ennis Madeleine , Truneh A. , White J.R. , Pearce F.L.
Published: July 2009

Basic secretagogues, antigen, concanavalin A, the ionophore A23187 and, to a lesser extent, anti-rat IgE produce a significant release of histamine from rat peritoneal mast cells in the absence of extracellular calcium. This release is due to the mobilization of intracellular reservoirs of calcium. The release is abolished by prolonged exposure to chelating agents, but is potentiated by brief exposure to these substances. It is suggested that the latter treatment removes calcium from a superficial, regulatory site and thus facilitates the mobilization of more internal pools of the ion. By analogy with smooth muscle, these regulatory sites may also modulate calcium influx into the cell. On the basis of these and other results, the possible calcium pools important in histamine secretion are discussed.
Epinephrine Disposition in Control and Asthmatic Subjects
Authors: Volicer Ladislav , Snider Gordon , Sherter Carl , Stjärne Lennart , Mathé Aleksander A.
Published: July 2009

Epinephrine (Epi) disposition in the human body was investigated in asthmatic and control subjects. After intravenous infusion of labeled catecholamines, asthmatics excreted less label than controls but the ratio of unchanged to changed catecholamines was similar in both groups. Further studies investigated retention of Epi in the lung after a bolus injection of labeled Epi and inulin. While in the controls the apparent volume of distribution of Epi was larger than that of inulin, in asthmatics the volumes were similar. The distribution volumes of both Epi and inulin were larger in asthmatics than in controls and the mid-expiratory maximal flow correlated negatively with both volumes. The results indicate that disposition of Epi is altered in bronchial asthma and may be related to pathological processes in the lung.
Possible Involvement of Phospholipase A2 in A23187-Induced Histamine Release from Purified Rat Mast Cells
Authors: Nakao Akira , Buchanan Anita M. , Potokar Deborah S.
Published: July 2009

A23187-induced histamine release from purified rat mast cells is accompanied by degradation of mast cell phosphatidylcholine. When inhibitors of histamine release such as ethacrynic acid, eicosatetraynoic acid and phenylmethylsulfonylfluoride are added to the mast cell system, the phosphatidylcholine hydrolysis is inhibited along with the release of histamine. A simultaneous striking increase in prostaglandin D2 synthesis by the A23187-treated mast cells suggests that the degradation of phosphatidylcholine is associated with the activation of phospholipase A2. Arachidonic acid, one of the major products formed as a result of this activation, inhibits A23187 and antigen-induced histamine release when added 5 min prior to the histamine release inducers. Lysophosphatidylcholine, the other major product, demonstrates a biphasic effect, stimulating histamine release at low concentrations and inhibiting release at slightly higher concentrations. These findings suggest a histamine release regulating function for arachidonic acid and lysophosphatidylcholine.
Pollen-Allergen IgE Response in the Inbred Rat
Authors: Anfosso F. , Leyris R. , Soler M. , Charpin J.
Published: July 2009

Cyclophosphamide treatment (100 mg/kg) significantly increased the IgE response to plane-tree allergen P in low-responder strains of rats. A suppressive serum was obtained by injection of CFA in normal low-responder strains. The injection of this serum 2 days after cyclophosphamide treatment and 1 day prior to primary immunization, reversed the cyclophosphamide-enhanced IgE antibodies response without affecting the IgG2a levels. This effect is strain specific.
Immunoglobulins in Familial Hodgkin’s Disease and Immunodeficiency in Newfoundland
Authors: Salimonu L.S. , Bryant D.G. , Buehler S.K. , Chandra R.K. , Crumley J. , Marshall W.H.
Published: July 2009

A familial aggregate of 7 cases of Hodgkin’s disease, 3 of common variable immunodeficiency, 8 of other lymphoreticular malignancies, and 4 of embryonic tumours is being studied in a multidiscipline fashion to search for clues to aetiology. Part of the investigation was to examine immunoglobulin concentrations in the whole population, both in family members and in other members of the same communities. Analysis of the data on some 1,200 people revealed the expected changes with age in IgG, IgA and IgM. A striking age-related pattern for IgD with a peak in puberty and young adulthood was noted. The expected sex differences were also seen which were marked for IgM and mild for IgG. The immunoglobulin concentrations in families in which there had been a case of malignancy or immunodeficiency showed two deviations from values derived from controls: (i) relatives of the common variable immunodeficiency patients showed an elevated mean IgM, and (ii) relatives of the Hodgkin’s disease patients and of the lymphosarcoma patients showed mean IgD concentrations that were 20 times as high as that of controls from outside the study population and were the highest of all the groups within it. However, when compared with the controls from elsewhere in the province, the mean IgD values in all subgroups of the study population were significantly elevated including in a genetically separate group not descended from an important founding couple. It is concluded that factors causing elevated IgD in this high lymphoma incidence population are likely to be predominantly determined by environment rather than by genetic factors. We postulate that the increase may be partly due to the low socio-economic status of the population, but the reason why the highest values are found in the lymphoma families is not immediately clear.
Hyperproduction of IgE and T-Cell Dysfunction in Hodgkin’s Disease
Authors: Romagnani S. , Biagiotti Roberta , Amadori A. , Maggi E. , Biti G. , Bellesi G. , Ricci M.
Published: July 2009

Serum IgE levels were evaluated in 119 untreated and 112 treated patients with Hodgkin’s disease (HD). 38 of the nonatopic untreated patients showed significantly increased (> 300 IU/ml) IgE concentrations. No relationship could be found between increased IgE levels and depressed lymphocyte response to phytohemagglutinin (PHA) or the imbalance of TM and TG lymphocyte subsets. On the other hand, the mean level of suppressor activity elicitable from cells of untreated HD patients by concanavalin A preincubation did not differ significantly from that of healthy control subjects. In contrast, in treated patients, where there was a significant reduction in the number of circulating T lymphocytes, a further depression of the lymphocyte response to PHA, a more marked disproportion of TM and TG cell subsets and a noticeable fall in IgE concentration was found. These data suggest that increased IgE concentrations seen in untreated patients with HD are unrelated to the T-cell defects. They also suggest that hyperproduction of IgE is probably not invariably a consequence of a suppressor cell deficiency.
The Syndrome of Hypergammaglobulinemia M, Eosinophilia, Edema, and Fatigue
Authors: Marti Gerald E. , Chiang Jih-Lih , Patterson Roy
Published: July 2009

2 patients with an elevated serum IgM, eosinophilia, nonpitting edema, and fatigue previously reported, were reevaluated. Their clinical course remains relatively benign without evidence of organ damage after 19 patient years of evaluation. Corticosteroid therapy suppresses clinical manifestation, although IgM levels remain elevated. The numbers of T and B cells are normal. T cell function as studied by phytohemagglutinin stimulation of lymphocytes was normal.
Two-Step Leukocyte Migration in Agarose Technique
Authors: Agrup Gun , Källén Bengt , Nilsson Olle
Published: July 2009

A two-step modification of Clausen’s technique of leukocyte migration under agarose is described. Blood leukocytes from a subject are incubated for approximately 4 days with or without antigen. The cultures, after reconstitution with antigen followed by repeated washing of the cultured cells, are added to fresh, dextran-separated blood leukocytes, and migration tests are performed in the absence of the antigen. Cells preincubated with antigen give a very marked reduction of the migration of the target leukocytes which must not necessarily be autologous. An inhibition of target cell migration can be seen with cells cultured without antigen for up to 3 days; with longer culture time, this effect is reduced or disappears. The effect of cells cultured with antigen, however, is equally strong irrespective of the culture time up to 1 week, and the most clearcut results will, therefore, be obtained after approximately 4 days culture. Also migration enhancement has been seen. Treatment of cells during the incubation with antigen and cycloheximide gives a dose-dependent blocking of the inhibiting effect. 5 patients were studied both before and after sensitization with DNCB: low concentrations of DNCB gave an inhibition and high concentrations an enhancement of the migration when the patients were sensitized. The technique is more sensitive and reproducible than the original Clausen technique. It is also suitable in studies where shortage of cells is a problem.
Anti-Timothy IgE Formation: Suppression with Antigen D-dGl Conjugates
Authors: Malley A. , Deppe L.
Published: July 2009

Antigen D fragments (AgD1 and AgD2) and chemically synthesized quercetin-glutathione were conjugated to the synthetic polypeptide copolymer of D-glutamic acid and D-lysine (dGL). These conjugates were tested at varying epitope densities to determine their ability to suppress a secondary anti-antigen B IgE response. The data showed that all of the conjugates used with epitope densities of 5–20 groups per dGL produced significant dose-dependent suppression of a secondary IgE response. The duration of the observed suppression was short (about 30 days), but could be extended by additional treatment with the conjugate prior to the loss of unresponsiveness.
Effect of an Intramuscular Injection of Human Leukocyte Interferon on Blood Leukocyte Counts and Proportions of Lymphocytes Forming E, EA and EAC Rosettes
Authors: Einhorn Stefan , Blomgren Henric , Strander Hans
Published: July 2009

Following an intramuscular injection of human leukocyte interferon blood leukocyte counts decreased in most patients as tested 24 h after the injection. This decrease comprised lymphocytes, monocytes and granulocytes. 24 h after interferon injection, the proportion of lymphocytes forming E rosettes was increased in most patients, whereas the proportion of lymphocytes forming EA and EAC rosettes was not significantly changed.
Aggregation of Leukocytes Induced by the Complement-Derived Peptides C3a and C5a and by Three Synthetic Formyl-Methionyl Peptides
Authors: Damerau B. , Grünefeld E. , Vogt W.
Published: July 2009

The highly purified hog complement peptides C3a and C5a and three formyl-methionyl peptides induced dose-dependent aggregation of human leukocytes. For the effect Ca2+ and Mg2+ ions were required; in their absence the peptides induced specific desensitization. Human serum albumin (1 and 2%) reduced aggregation, whereas equivalent or even higher concentrations of plasma or serum were not inhibitory. SH reagents, protease inhibitors (N-tosyl-L-lysyl-chloromethyl ketone, N-tosyl-L-phenylalanyl-chloromethyl ketone), and colchicine also inhibited aggregation, whereas cytochalasin B greatly enhanced it. Dose-response studies under comparable conditions showed that aggregation is induced in similar dose ranges as chemotaxis. This suggests that complement-derived peptides generated in vivo may contribute to leukocyte accumulation in two ways, first by causing adherence of leukocytes to endothelium (equivalent to aggregation) and then by promoting migration to the inflammatory site.
The Generation of Haemolytic Plaque-Forming Cells from Human Tonsils
Authors: Mawle A.C.
Published: July 2009

At low cell numbers (2 × 106 cells/culture) good numbers of plaque-forming cells (PFC) were obtained in response to stimulation by pokeweed mitogen (PWM). Maximum PFC were obtained with the Marbrook chamber using 2 × 106 cells/culture, stimulating cells with a 1:50 dilution of PWM and harvesting after 6–7 days. 20 different experiments using standard conditions gave a geometric mean of 646 PFC/106 initial cells. All PFC detected were IgM.
Effect of Epitoge Density on the Induction of the IgE Immune Response in Mice
Authors: Nakagawa Takemasa , Blaser Kurt , de Weck Alain L.
Published: July 2009

The effect of hapten density on benzylpenicilloyl (BPO)-protein conjugates upon the induction of BPO-specific IgE immune response was investigated in BALB/c and C3H mice. Bovine γ-globulin (BGG) and ovalbumin (OA) were employed as carrier proteins. In both strains of mice, moderately substituted conjugates (BPO19-BGG, and BPO-OA with an epitope density from 2 to 7.5) elicited a persistent BPO-specific IgE, while heavily substituted conjugates (BPO38-BGG) induced only a transient response. In contrast, lightly substituted conjugates (BPO3.2-, BPO9.5-BGG, and BPO1-OA) failed to produce BPO-specific IgE antibodies. There was no significant difference in carrier-specific IgE immune response among these various conjugates. These results suggest that moderately substituted hapten-protein conjugates are one of the favorable conditions for eliciting hapten-specific IgE immune response in mice.
Density Gradient Electrophoresis of Mouse Spleen Lymphocytes
Authors: Platsoucas C.D. , Robbins S.G. , Catsimpoolas N.
Published: July 2009

Preparative density gradient electrophoresis has been employed for the separation of BALB/c mouse spleen T and B lymphocytes, on the basis of their surface charge. The high mobility cells were found to be predominantly T lymphocytes, whereas the low mobility cells were B lymphocytes. One way mixed lymphocyte cultures were prepared using electrophoretically separated BALB/c lymphocytes, either as responding or stimulating cells and unfractionated CBA/H/T6j mouse spleen lymphocytes, in the appropriate combination. The responding lymphocytes were found only among the high mobility cells which are primarily T lymphocytes. In contrast, the stimulating cells were found in the intermediate and low mobility fractions which contain the B lymphocytes and macrophages. Minimal stimulation in mixed lymphocyte culture was observed by T cells in this allogeneic system. Ia-positive cells were found only in the intermediate and low mobility fractions, which exhibited the capacity to stimulate allogeneic cells in MLC. Macrophages, identified by nonspecific esterase staining, exhibited intermediate electrophoretic mobility, their peak height coinciding with the maximum observed stimulation.
Suppressive Effect of Human Interferon on Memory Cells Primed to Different HLA-D Specificities
Authors: Attallah A.M. , Hartzman R.J.
Published: July 2009

In primed lymphocyte typing (PLT), lymphocytes will respond with accelerated kinetics and increased magnitude when confronted with the same stimulating cells in a secondary MLC, or with other cells sharing their HLA-D determinants. Human lympho-blastoid interferon (HIF) caused a dose-dependent inhibition of 3H-TdR uptake in PLT cultures. Flow cytometry cell cycle analysis of HIF-treated PLT cells has shown reduced number of cells in S phase with a concomitant rise in the number of cells in the G₀-G1 phase; this suggests that interferon has blocked the progression of PLT cells into S phase. Also HIF inhibited cells proliferation in response to a third party sharing a common determinant, Dw5 with the primary stimulator cell. HIF may be a potential immuno-suppressive agent for transplantation. The well-known antiviral effect of HIF might also prove useful in prevention opportunistic viral infection during transplantation.
Restoration of Impaired Immunoresponse by Germanium in Mice
Authors: Mizushima Y. , Shoji Y. , Kaneko K.
Published: July 2009

An organogermanium was given to young and aged C3H/HeJ mice sensitized by sheep red blood cells, and plaque-forming cells (PFC) in the spleens from the animals were measured. PFC decreased markedly in the aged mice. The organogermanium at an appropriate dose significantly increased the PFC in the aged mice, whereas it did not increase PFC in the young mice. Thus, germanium is considered to restore to some extent the impaired immunoresponses in aged mice.
Antigen-Binding Activity and Allergenicity of Heterologous γ-Globulin Absorbed from the Rectum
Authors: Nagatomi Hikaru , Ogita Tadaatsu , Okudaira Hirokazu , Mizushima Yutaka
Published: July 2009

The molecular integrity of rectally absorbed antigens was studied in rats and mice. About 2% in the radioactivity of 125I-labelled horse γ-globulin administered rectally reached the blood circulation. One fifth of this absorbed radioactivity (0.4%) reacted with anti-Fab antibody and about one eighth (0.25%) of the original antigen-binding activity was maintained. The results indicated that a small but significant portion of the rectally administered proteins remained intact and retained the immunological function. Rectally-administered proteins induced IgE antibody responses in the rat and the mouse.
Antigenic High Molecular Weight Material in Penicillin Preparations
Authors: Ahlstedt S. , Haag B. , Wiklund S.-E.
Published: July 2009

Using a radioimmunoassay, RIA, small amounts of high molecular weight antigens have been reproducibly identified in both biosynthetic and semisynthetic brands of penicillin. These impurities were found to be easily eliminated by simple chemical means. Measures to avoid this type of contaminants in penicillin preparations should be undertaken because of the immunogenic nature of the contaminants resulting in increased risk of sensitization of patients to penicillin.
Diet and Adjuvant-Induced Arthritis in the Rat
Authors: West G.B.
Published: July 2009

Rats fed a high carbohydrate or a high protein diet deficient in copper, magnesium or zinc, or in the three trace elements together, failed to develop adjuvant-induced arthritis, yet a deficiency of both copper and magnesium in the diets exhibited no such inhibition. On the other hand, only a magnesium deficiency reduced the severity of the dextran anaphylactoid reaction.
Respiratory Hypersensitivity to Ascaris Extract in Guinea Pigs Sensitized by Aerosol
Authors: Cain W.A. , Cox C.P. , Pennock B.E. , Wells J.H.
Published: July 2009

Guinea pigs exposed via the respiratory route to Ascaris suumextract in aerosol form became hypersensitive. The hypersensitivity was detectable by inhalational bronchial provocation testing using a noninvasive plethysmograph, by chopped lung histamine release, and by passive cutaneous anaplylaxis. The antibody responsible for the hypersensitivity seems to be directly associated with pulmonary tissue. A locally produced cytotropic pulmonary antibody, probably IgG or IgE may be causal. Histopathology included only a moderate pulmonary eosinophilia. Individual variability in susceptibility to experimental allergic asthma may be controlled by both physiologic and immunologic reactivities.
Allergens of Kentucky Blue Grass Pollen
Authors: Chakrabarty S. , Ekramoddoullah A.K.M. , Kisil F.T. , Sehon A.H.
Published: July 2009

Components with hapten-like properties were isolated from the nondialyzable fraction, i.e. the retentate (R) and the dialyzable fractions of the aqueous extract of Kentucky Blue Grass pollen (KBG aq.ext.), by preparative isoelectrofocussing on Sephadex G-100 gel. These haptenic components could not elicit the passive cutaneous anaphylaxis (PCA) reactions in rats passively sensitized with a murine reaginic antiserum to R, but could inhibit completely and specifically the PCA reaction which is normally elicitable with R. It was concluded that the specificity of the murine IgE antibodies was directed to a determinants) which was common to either allergenic or haptenic fractions. Moreover, by employing a pool of human sera from individuals allergic to KBG pollen in the radio-allergosorbent test procedure, it was apparent that most of the haptenic fractions lacked some of the specificities present on allergenic components of R that were recognized by the human IgE antibodies. Evidence was obtained to suggest that the electrophoretic heterogeneity of allergenic components present in various fractions of KBG aq.ext. may be due primarily to differences in their net charge, rather than to differences in their allergenic specificity.
Autoantibodies to Collagen in Patients with Chronic Liver Diseases
Authors: Menzel E.J. , Smolen J.S. , Renner F. , Steffen C. , Horak W.
Published: July 2009

Sera of patients with various liver diseases were investigated for the presence of autoantibodies to type I collagen with a sensitive radioimmunoassay employing 3H-labelled collagen type I. A high percentage (69%) of patients with chronic liver diseases, equally distributed between chronic active hepatitis and alcoholic liver disease, was found to possess antibodies to denaturated type I collagen, while no antibodies against native collagen were found. These antibodies belonged predominantly to the IgA immunoglobulin class. None of the patients with acute hepatitis or cholestatic liver disease, nor the healthy individuals investigated had IgA-anticollagen antibodies. These findings may be useful as a parameter for the detection of chronic liver disease.