bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence of IgE antibody to crude and purified allergens of Japanese cedar pollen among different troops of Japanese monkeys (Macaca fuscata)
Authors: Hashimoto M. , Sakaguchi M. , Inouye S. , Imaoka K. , Nigi H. , Fujimoto K. , Honjo S. , Taniguchi Y. , Kurimoto M. , Gotoh S. , Minezawa M. , Yokota A. , Nakamura S.
Published: September 2011

We measured specific IgE antibodies to the crude allergen as well as two purified allergens (Cry j I and Cry j II) of Japanese cedar (Cryptomeria japonica—CJ) pollen in the serum of 276 Japanese monkeys in nine troops. Of 45 monkeys with CJ specific IgE in eight of nine troops, 23 (51%) were found to have IgE to both Cry j I and Cry j II, 21 (47%) only to Cry j I, and one (2.2%) only to Cry j II. The positive rate of specific IgE antibody to each allergen varied among the troops.
Intrarectal inoculation of macaques by the simian immunodeficiency virus, SIVmne E11S: CD4 + depletion and AIDS
Authors: Kuller LaRene , Benveniste Raoul E. , Tsai Che‐Chung , Clark Edward A. , Polacino Patricia , Watanabe Robin , Overbaugh Julie , Katze Michael G. , Morton William R.
Published: September 2011

Macaca nemestrina and Macaca fascicularis were inoculated with various doses of a single‐cell clone of SIVmne‐infected HuT 78 cells (E11S) by both the intravenous and intrarectal routes. Animals inoculated intravenously at each dose seroconverted and virus was isolated from peripheral blood mononuclear cells, but only the high‐dose intrarectally exposed macaques became viremic and seroconverted. However, some seronegative, virus isolation negative intrarectally inoculated macaques showed evidence of infection and disease.
Primates: Models for red cell transfusion studies—Cryopreservation and survival of transfused red cells in primates
Authors: Rowe Arthur W.
Published: September 2011

Primates are excellent models for study of blood transfusion in humans. Erythrocytes of chimpanzees, gibbons, baboons, and rhesus monkeys have a half life (T/2) of 14 to 16 days and a life span (T/10) of approximately 50 to 60 days, which is about half of that found in man. Red cells of primates were cryopreserved by freezing using either a droplet method or the low‐glycerol rapid‐freeze procedure. Thawed cells survive normally when transfused into the same species. Transfusion of incompatible isologous blood in alloimmunized baboons, in the presence of high titer antibodies, showed survival with small volumes to be virtually nil, but with large volumes, a short normal survival period was followed by a “collapse” phenomenon similar to that seen in humans.
Inhibition of simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) replication by CD8 + cells of SIV‐infected rhesus macaques: Implications for immunopathogenesis
Authors: Blackbourn David J. , Chuang Linda F. , Killam Keith F. , Chuang Ronald Y.
Published: September 2011

The ability of the CD8 + cells from simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV)‐infected rhesus macaques to inhibit SIV replication was investigated. Inhibition was produced by a heat‐stable soluble factor of molecular size greater than 10kDa. CD8 + supernatants from some macaques were found not only to suppress SIV growth but also to be cytolytic toward both infected and uninfected CD4+ cells. Such indiscriminate CD8 + cell‐mediated cell killing may therefore account for DC4 + cell depletion in certain SIV‐infected macaques.
Use of intrauterine devices as a means of contraception in a colony of chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes)
Authors: Porteous I.S. , Mundy N.I. , Grall C.
Published: September 2011

The uncontrolled reproduction of the captive chimpanzee colony at the Primate Centre, CIRMF, Gabon, has led to high neonatal mortality. The only solution meeting ethical, financial, and practical considerations was to attempt reversible physical contraception using intrauterine devices (IUDs). Human IUDs were inserted into 21 females of various ages, parities, and stages of the menstrual cycle. Over a 30‐month period, five of the study animals became pregnant. This reduction of conception rate, with minimal side effects, demonstrates the reliability of IUDs for controlling reproduction of chimpanzee colonies.
Response of cynomolgus macaques to immunization against a synthetic peptide from the human zona pellucida
Authors: Mahi‐Brown Cherrie A. , Moran Francisco
Published: September 2011

Abstract: This study tested immunogenicity of a synthetic peptide hZP3327–341 from a human zona pellucida (ZP) glycoprotein. After antibody response to various peptide‐carrier conjugates was assessed in mice, two female cynomolgus macaques were immunized with the peptide conjugated to keyhole limpet hemocyanin (KLH). A control macaque was immunized with KLH. The peptide was immunogenic in both species, and included both B and T cell epitopes since low to moderate titers of peptide‐specific antibodies and a T cell proliferative response were measured. Profiles of ovarian steroid metabolites indicated unchanged ovarian function in the macaques, but only the control conceived when bred. Ovarian histology was normal except that immunoglobulin was bound to ZP in follicles of the peptide‐immune macaques. ZP from these females bound sperm and induced acrosome reactions at rates equal to those of an untreated control. The results support the feasibility of an immunocontraceptive vaccine based on autologous ZP peptides.
Lipoprotein profiles and glucose tolerance in lean and obese chimpanzees
Authors: Steinetz Bernard G. , Randolph Carla , Cohn Douglas , Mahoney C. James
Published: September 2011

Abstract: We compared serum lipid profiles and glucose tolerance of obese and lean chimpanzees maintained on a 10.9% fat diet. Seven of 14 obese and 6 of 17 lean chimpanzees were hypercholesterolemic (low density lipoprotein cholesterol > 160 mg/dl), three obese and three lean animals had total cholesterol/high density lipoprotein cholesterol ratios of 5.9–10.7, and two obese and one lean chimpanzee had abnormal glucose tolerance. Useful numbers of captive chimpanzees thus exhibit metabolic abnormalities without recourse to high fat diets and could serve as surrogates in studies of human metabolic diseases.
Evaluation of anti‐human antibodies for immunohistochemistry on archival nonhuman primate tissues
Authors: Wykrzykowska Joanna J. , Pauley Douglas R. , Lackner Andrew A. , Simon Meredith A.
Published: September 2011

Abstract: A panel of commercially available antibodies which recognize specific antigens on human tissues was developed for use in immunohistochemistry on tissues from eight species of nonhuman primates. Antibodies were selected for potential usefulness in diagnostic pathology, and for effectiveness in formalin‐fixed, paraffin‐embedded tissues. Tissues from four species of macaques and four New World monkeys were evaluated. Using these antibodies we were able to identify 17/21 antigens examined in all eight species, and 21/21 antigens in the four species of macaques. Detailed immunohistochemistry protocols are presented, along with a systematic approach to developing a protocol for a new antibody.
Cyclical changes in the renin‐angiotensin‐aldosterone system during the menstrual cycle of the baboon (Papio hamadryas)
Authors: Harewood Winthrop J. , Gillin Adrian , Mohamed Safaa , Willis Narelie , Lazzaro Vittoria , Duggin Geoffery G. , Tiller David J.
Published: September 2011

Abstract: This study characterizes the renin‐angiotensin‐aldosterone system during the normal menstrual cycle in the baboon. Ten animals received a daily dose of an ACE inhibitor or placebo in a randomized blind cross‐over design. Data were obtained during the mid‐follicular and early luteal phases of normal non‐pregnant menstrual cycles. All examinations and blood collections were performed with ketamine sedation: 7–kg by im injection. Blood pressure was recorded by sphygmomanometer. Serum ACE activity was measured by spectrophotometry. Aldosterone (ALDO), angiotensin I (AI), and angiotensin II (AII) were measured by radioimmunoassay. Plasma renin activity (PRA) was measured by AI generation. The renin‐angiotensin‐aldosterone system was found to be activated in the follicular phase and suppressed during the luteal phase of the normal non‐pregnant menstrual cycle in the baboon.
Effects of ketamine sedation on glucose clearance, insulin secretion and counterregulatory hormone production in baboons (Papio hamadryas)
Authors: Lehmann Roger , Wagner Joseph L. , Fernandez Luis A. , Bourgoignie Jacques J. , Ricordi Camillo , Alejandro Rodolfo , Kenyon Norma S.
Published: September 2011

Since the effects of ketamine sedation seem to differ between subspecies of baboons, we assessed the endocrine response to an intravenous glucose tolerance test (IVGTT) in 12 hamadryas baboons. The first phase insulin secretion, basal insulin, and glucose levels, as well as the glucose clearance, were significantly lower in sedated baboons as compared to fully awake animals. Glucagon and Cortisol were significantly higher, while growth hormone was lower during ketamine sedation. Papio hamadryas appears to be a promising pre‐clinical model for the study of endocrine replacement therapy in insulin‐dependent diabetes. However, the data obtained must be interpreted with the knowledge that the anesthetic employed to allow for testing of the animals does have an effect on the parameters described in this report.
Expression of the gibbon ape leukemia virus receptor‐1 in rhesus macaque tissues
Authors: Wong Scott W. , Swanson Ryan M. , Bergquam Eric P.
Published: September 2011

Abstract: A cDNA fragment specific for the rhesus macaque gibbon ape leukemia virus (GaLV) receptor (Glvr‐1) was isolated by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification and oligonucleotide primers specific for human Glvr‐1 and a cDNA library derived from rhesus macaque brain. Sequence analysis of the fragment revealed the polypeptide domain necessary for infection by GaLV. This fragment was utilized to elucidate expression levels of Glvr‐1 RNA in rhesus macaque tissues. By Northern blot analysis, Glvr‐1 RNA is most abundantly expressed in the thymus and bone marrow, with detectable levels also in the brain and testes of juvenile male macaques. In the developing 70‐days gestation fetus, Glvr‐1 expression was observed predominately in the liver and spleen. Although additional studies are required, these studies support the notion that cell types involved in hematopoiesis express Glvr‐1.
Evidence for morphine‐induced galactorrhea in male cynomolgus monkeys
Authors: Malaivijitnond Suchinda , Varavudhi Puttipongse
Published: September 2011

We evaluated the effect of a daily injection of morphine hydrochloride on galactorrhea in male cynomolgus monkeys. Three groups of three monkeys (nine total) were used. The treatment schedule was separated into three periods: pre‐treatment, treatment, and post‐treatment. Each group of monkeys was subcutaneously injected daily with 1.5, 3.0, or 6.0 mg/kg (monkey weight) of morphine for 74–130 days, respectively, during the treatment period, and with saline during the pre‐treatment and post‐treatment periods. We then measured the prolactin (PRL) and testosterone (T) levels from weekly blood samples that were taken 20 hours after injection. No statistically significant differences in either the PRL or T level were detected throughout the treatment period. However, monkeys treated with 3.0 and 6.0 mg/kg/day showed a decrease in T level and an increase in PRL level during the early post‐treatment period. Seven of the nine monkeys produced a milk‐like secretion from their mammary gland (a symptom of galactorrhea) during the treatment and post‐treatment periods. For several months of post‐treatment period (average 6.75 months), we monitored the time‐course changes in PRL and T levels in all monkeys for 10 hours after a single injection of morphine at the same dose given during the treatment period. Morphine induced a sudden increase in the PRL level (peaked within 30 minutes) and a gradual decrease in the T level (leveled off within 6.5–10 hours), and then returned to basal levels. These results indicate that morphine does not cause a long‐term effect on hormonal changes and that a morphine‐induced transient rise in PRL levels accompanied by a decrease in T levels can induce spontaneous galactorrhea in male cynomolgus monkeys.
Secnidazole vs. paromomycin: Comparative antiprotozoan treatment in captive primates
Authors: Gracenea M. , Gómez M.S. , Fernández J. , Feliu C.
Published: September 2011

The antiprotozoan activity of secnidazole was studied in Cercocebus t. torquatus, Cercopithecus campbelli, Erythrocebus patas (Cercopithecidae), and Gorilla gorilla (Pongidae) compared with that of paromomycin in Cercocebus t. lunulatus (Cercopithecidae), E. patas, and G. gorilla (Pongidae) by coprological analysis. The antiprotozoan activity of both drugs depended on the parasite species and the host species. The drugs acted in a similar way on Entamoeba coli parasitising C. t. torquatus, and E. patas. This activity was different from that observed on I. buestchlii from the same host species. Nevertheless, E. coli parasitising cercopithecids and pongids responded to drugs differently.
The origin and pattern of distribution of the posterior intercostal arteries in the baboon (Papio ursinus)
Authors: Ohale L.O.C.
Published: September 2011

The posterior intercostal arteries of six female and four adult male baboons (Papio ursinus) were investigated by latex injection and subsequent dissection to determine their origin and pattern of distribution. Basic morphological and functional similarities with that of man could provide some base‐line data pertinent to future experimental studies in the areas of thoracic aortic aneurysm and aortic atherosclerotic lesion in man. Basic similarities were observed between the baboon and man in the number of intersegmental arteries, the origin of the first two pairs of posterior intercostal arteries, and the anastomosis between the superior intercostal and the third posterior intercostal arteries. However, the baboon showed a craniocaudal sequence of paired orifices giving rise to paired arteries; orifices with incompletely divided septum giving rise to paired arteries; single orifices leading to a common trunk, which finally gives rise to paired arteries; and single orifices opening into single arteries. In addition, there was a craniocaudal decrease in the distance between any given pair of intercostal arteries and an increase in the spacing between adjacent pairs of intercostal arteries. Where a single artery supplied one side of the intercostal space, the contralateral side received a collateral branch, either from the preceding or succeeding intercostal artery. Though the basic organisation of the origin and distribution of the posterior intercostal arteries in the baboon is similar to that of man, the differences observed in the baboon might be attributed to factors such as body size, mode of activity, and even the phylogenetic level of development of the baboon.
Studies of CD40L expression by lymphoid cells from experimentally and naturally SIV‐infected nonhuman primate species
Authors: Brice G.T. , Mayne A.E. , Leighton K. , Villinger F. , Allan J.S. , Ansari A.A.
Published: September 2011

Abstract: Dysfunction of T lymphocytes is well documented in HIV‐1‐infected individuals; however, the mechanisms responsible for the noted dysfunction are not well understood. CD40L is an important costimulatory molecule that helps initiate immune responses, and there is controversy regarding whether or not expression of CD40L is compromised in HIV‐1‐infected individuals. We have utilized the SIV infection of experimentally infected (disease‐susceptible) and naturally infected (disease‐resistant) nonhuman primates as animal models of human AIDS to address this issue. Little is known concerning the expression of CD40L in nonhuman primates. Studies were conducted to determine the frequency, density, phenotype, and kinetics of CD40L expression by in vitro activated peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from different species of uninfected and SIV‐infected monkeys. Data obtained show marked differences in the density and phenotypic lineage that expresses CD40L in lymphoid cells from the three species examined. However, no detectable differences were noted in the frequency and density of CD40L expression by in vitro activated lymphoid cells from uninfected and SIV‐infected disease‐susceptible rhesus macaques and seropositive as compared to seronegative disease‐resistant sooty mangabeys. These data suggest that phenotypic expression of CD40L is not compromised due to SIV infection.
A simple ethological monitoring system to assess social stress in group‐housed laboratory rhesus macaques
Authors: Augustsson Hanna , Hau Jann
Published: September 2011

Abstract: The increasing awareness of the importance of social housing of laboratory primates results in the establishment of group housing in many facilities. Our aim was to develop a set of manageable tools to allow continuous monitoring of social relations within groups and to establish an objective, scientific ground on which changes in group composition could be based. We studied 38 adult rhesus monkeys (Macaca mulatta) grouped as five one‐male/multi‐female groups using focal sampling. We recorded the occurrence and direction of aggressive and non‐aggressive social interactions as well as time spent inactive in proportion to social contacts, feeding and other activities. The present analysis clearly identified low‐ranking animals with none or few affiliative contacts and who also spent much time inactive and separated from other low‐ranking animals. This suggests that the present approach results in useful information concerning compatibility between group members and enables identification of animals experiencing high social stress.
Neutralizing antibody responses in Africa green monkeys naturally infected with simian immunodeficiency virus (SIVagm)
Authors: Gicheru Michael M. , Otsyula Moses , Spearman Paul , Graham Barney S. , Miller Christopher J. , Robinson Harriet L , Haigwood Nancy L. , Montefiori David C.
Published: September 2011

Abstract: This study assessed the magnitude and cross‐reactivity of the neutralizing antibody response generated by natural SIV infection in wild‐caught African green monkeys. Neutralizing antibodies of variable potency, sometimes exceeding a titer of 1:1,000, were detected in 20 of 20 SIV‐seropositive African green monkeys in Kenya. Detection of those neutralizing antibodies was dependent on the strain of virus and the cells used for assay, where the most sensitive detection was made with SIVagml532 in Sup T1 cells. Potent neutralization of SIVagml532 was seen with contemporaneous autologous serum. Potent neutralization was also detected with laboratory‐passaged SIVmac251 and SIVsmB670, but not with SIVsmE660 and two additional strains of SIVagm. Serum samples from rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta) experimentally infected with either SIVmac251 or SIVsmE660 were capable of low‐level neutralization of SIVagm. These results indicate that natural infection with SIV can generate strain‐specific neutralizing antibodies in African green monkeys. They also indicate that some neutralization determinants of SIVagm are partially shared with SIV strains that arose in sooty mangabys and were subsequently transmitted to rhesus macaques.
Efficacy of ultraviolet B phototherapy for psoriasis in patients infected with human immunodeficiency virus
Authors: Fotiades J. , Urn H. W. , Jiang S. B. , Soter N. A. , Sanchez M. , Moy J.
Published: September 2011

To evaluate the efficacy of ultraviolet B (UVB) phototherapy for the treatment of psoriasis in patients infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), the response of 14 patients was compared to that of matched seronegative control individuals. All patients were evaluated prior to treatment (baseline) and after 21 treatments for the extent of total body surface area (TBSA) involvement and the quantification of scale, erythema, and thickness of plaques using a scale of 0 (absent) to 4 (severe). The only concomitant medication allowed was salicylic acid in petrolatum. The cumulative score for scale, erythema, and thickness improved 1.9± 0.5 [mean± standard error of mean (SEM)] in the HIV group and 2.4± 0.3 in controls. There was 40.9± 7.3 % reduction of TBSA involvement in the former and 38.4± 7.6 % reduction in the latter group. None of the differences was statistically significant. There was no statistically significant difference in the response to therapy among various stages of immunosuppression in the HIV group. There was also no deterioration of immune status in this group. UVB phototherapy is an effective treatment for psoriasis in patients infected with HIV. The response is identical to that of matched control individuals.
Inhibition of ultraviolet‐induced formation of reactive oxygen species, lipid peroxidation, erythema and skin photosensitization by Polypodium leucotomos
Authors: González S. , Pathak M. A.
Published: September 2011

González S, Pathak MA. Inhibition of ultraviolet‐induced formation of reactive oxygen species, lipid peroxidation, erythema and skin photosensitization by Polypodium leucotomos. Photodermatol Photoimmunol Photomed 1996: 12: 45–56. © Munksgaard, 1996

The acute reactions of human skin to solar ultraviolet radiation (290–400 nm) are recognized as a form of inflammation reactions that are mediated by several possible mechanisms including (a) direct action of photons on DNA, (b) generation of reactive free radicals and reactive oxygen species involving the formation of O2*−, 1O2, H2O2, *OH, etc., (c) generation of prostaglandins (PGD2, PGE2, etc.), histamine, leucotrienes, and other inflammatory mediators. It is conceivable that UV‐induced reactions represent oxidative stress mediated by the formation of free radicals, reactive oxygen, lipid peroxidation, liberation of membrane phospholipids, and subsequent formation of prostaglandins by cyclo‐oxygenase pathway. In this study, we examined the role of reactive oxygen species and lipid peroxidation in in vitro reactions as well as in vivo skin inflammation reactions induced by (a) UVB radiation (290–320 nm), and (b) skin photosensitization reaction by PUVA treatment involving 8‐methoxypsoralen and UVA (320–400 nm) radiation and presented data for the generation of superoxide anion (O2*‐) and lipid peroxides. We have also evaluated, both in vitro as well as in vivo systems, the quenching or the inhibition of O2*‐ by a plant extract known as Polypodium leucotomos. The P. leucotomos extract was found to exhibit interesting antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory as well as photoprotective properties against photo‐oxidative stress involving the generation of reactive oxygen, lipid peroxidation under in vitro reactions as well as in vivo experimental conditions. Significant inhibition of UVB‐induced erythemal response, and 8‐methoxypsoralen plus UVA‐induced phototoxic reaction after topical application or oral administration of the photosensitizer could be demonstrated in guinea pig skin and human skin following the topical application of P. leucotomos extract. The photoprotective mechanism of P. leucotomos involving interaction with reactive oxygen species or free radicals appears to have potential clinical usefulness in preventing sunburn and inhibiting phototoxic reaction.
Phototoxicity due to sulphonamide derived oral antidiabetics and diuretics: investigations in a cell culture model
Authors: Selvaag E. , Anholt H. , Moan J. , Thune P.
Published: September 2011

A number of sulphonamide‐derived oral antidiabetics (chlorpropamide, glibenclamide, glipizide, gliquidone, glymidine, tolazamide and tolbutamide) and diuretics (bemetizide, bendroflumethiazide, benzylhydrochlorothiazide, bumetanide, butizide, chlortalidone, furosemide, hydrochlorothiazide, hydroflumethiazide, indapamide, piretanide, polythiazide, trichlormethiazide and xipamide) were investigated for phototoxicity in a cell culture model. Cell death dependent on ultraviolet A fluence and test substance concentration was observed in the presence of the oral antidiabetics glibenclamide and gliquidone, as well as the diuretics bemetizide, bendroflumethiazide, benzyl‐hydrochlorothiazide, bumetanide, butizide, hydrochlorothiazide, hydroflumethiazide, piretanide, polythiazide and trichlormethiazide. Bendroflumethiazide was phototoxic at 5times10−5 M and higher concentrations, bemetizide, benzylhydrochlorothiazide, bumetanide and hydroflumethiazide were phototoxic at 2.5times10−4 M and higher concentrations, and the oral antidiabetics glibenclamide and gliquidone as well as the diuretics butizide, hydrochlorothiazide, piretanide, polythiazide and trichlormethiazide were phototoxic at 5−4 M and higher concentrations. Electron microscopic investigations showed swelling of mitochondria and endoplasmic reticulum as well as aggregation of euchromatin when the cells were irradiated in the presence of photosensitizers***
Chronic exposure of Sk‐1 hairless mice to narrow‐band ultraviolet A (320–355 nm)
Authors: Menter J. M. , Sayre R. M. , Etemadi A. A. , Agin P. P. , Wills I.
Published: September 2011

Several recent investigations collectively suggest that the role of ultraviolet A (UVA) in chronic actinic skin damage may be greater than originally thought. In the present work, the output of a xenon‐arc solar‐simulator passed through a Bausch & Lomb monochromator in conjunction with a 2‐mm Schott WG‐320 filter produced narrow‐band UVA centered at 338 nm, half‐band width 24 nm, Io=3.4±0.3 mW/cm2. We chronically irradiated 10 Sk‐1 albino hairless mice 5 times per week for 18 weeks, starting with 1.25 J/cm2, for 33 irradiation days, sequentially followed by 1.50 J/cm2 (34 days), 1.8 J/cm2 (10 days), 2.0 J/cm2 (22 days) to afford a total UVA dose of 154.3 J/cm2 over 99 irradiation days. Erythema was noted clinically by day 6, which persisted throughout the irradiation. During the irradiation period, some scaling, consistent with mild epidermal hyperplasia was noted during irradiation days 37–56. This response later regressed despite continued chronic irradiation. Hematoxylin and eosin examination immediately after the final irradiation revealed a mild inflammatory response, with some dermal restructuring. At the end of the experiment, no significant signs of epidermal hyperplasia or (pre)malignant lesions were seen, although some stratum corneum thickening was noted. Marked dermal collagen damage and moderate elastosis was also evident. We believe that the observed differences in results reported in previous studies are in large part due to differences in light sources and irradiation protocols.
A double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, crossover trial of oral vitamin C in erythropoietic protoporphyria
Authors: Boffa M. J. , Ead R. D. , Reed P. , Weinkove C.
Published: September 2011

There is evidence that reactive oxygen species and free radicals may be involved in the pathogenesis of photosensitivity in erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP). Considering the well‐known antioxidant properties of vitamin C, we investigated whether oral supplementation with this vitamin was photoprotective in patients with EPP. Twelve patients with EPP received either oral vitamin C 1 g daily or placebo, for 4 weeks, followed by a crossover period of another 4 weeks. Nine patients were already receiving beta carotene at entry and continued this at the same dose throughout the study. Patients compared their sunlight tolerance throughout each of the treatment periods with sunlight tolerance at entry on a 10 cm visual analogue scale; at the end of the study, they were asked to choose which treatment period they felt had been associated with least photosensitivity. Eight patients stated that they were able to tolerate sunshine better during the vitamin C period, 2 during the placebo period and 2 noticed no difference between the two periods. This distribution of preferences approached but did not reach statistical significance in favour of vitamin C. Visual analogue scores improved by a median of 1.2 cm in the vitamin C period. This change too approached but did not reach statistical significance. Although these results do not reach statistical signficance, it appears possible that oral vitamin C may reduce photosensitivity in some patients with EPP. A larger study is necessary to confirm this impression.
Flow cytometry study of the role of superoxide anion and hydrogen peroxide in cellular photodestruction with 5‐aminolevulinic acid‐induced protoporphyrin IX
Authors: Gilaberte Y. , Pereboom D. , Carapeto F. J. , Alda J. O.
Published: September 2011

Flow cytometry was used to investigate the participation of reactive oxygen species, other than singlet oxygen, in the cytotoxic effect of photodynamic therapy (PDT) with 5‐aminolevulinic acid (ALA)‐induced protoporphyrin IX (PpIX) in vitro in A‐431 squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) cells and human skin fibroblasts (HSF). We used propidium iodide to determine cellular cytotoxicity, hydroethidine to measure intracellular superoxide anion (O2−) and dihydrorhodamine 123 to assess intracellular hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) content. Our data support the importance of the incubation time with ALA in the selectivity of PDT with ALA against SCC cells, inducing minimum damage on normal HSF. Photoradiation mortality curves of the response of these cell lines to ALA‐induced PpIX photosensitization correlated with the extent of photosensitizer accumulation. Intracellular O2− production correlated with cell death, increasing both in a light dose‐dependent fashion in ALA treated cells. This correlation was not observed with H2O2‐intracellular production. These results suggest the effectiveness of PDT with ALA in vitro in SCC, the significant participation of O2− in its phototoxic mechanism, and the usefulness of flow cytometry in the study of the cytotoxic effect of ALA‐induced PpIX PDT.
Time course of 8‐methoxypsoralen‐induced skin photosensitization in PUVA‐bath photochemotherapy
Authors: Reuther T. , Gruss C. , Behrens S. , on Kobyletzki G. , Neumann N. , Lehmann P. , Altmeyer P. , Kerscher M.
Published: September 2011

In recent years PUVA‐bath photochemotherapy has been shown to be an effective treatment modality for several dermatoses. A limitation of PUVA‐bath photochemotherapy has been the lack of guidelines for optimal performance, including the time course of photosensitization of the skin exposed to the 8‐methoxypsoralen (8‐MOP) bath water solution. In the present study 12 healthy volunteers were exposed to a 20 min bath in 150 1 of an 8‐MOP water solution (0.5 mg/1, 37°C). Immediately, as well as 1, 2, 3 and 5 h after the 8‐MOP bath, irradiation was performed with increasing doses of UVA (0.5, 1, 2, 3, 5 J/cm2) on 2 cm2 test areas. The minimal phototoxic dose (MPD) was determined 72 h after the UVA exposure. In all volunteers, photosensitization was highest immediately after the bath, with a MPD significantly below 5 J/cm2 (0.5‐2 J/cm2). One hour after the bath, erythema could be induced by 2 to 5 J/cm2 UVA. Two hours after the bath, erythema could be induced using irradiation of 5 J/cm2 only in two volunteers. Three and five hours after the 8‐MOP bath, no erythema could be induced in any volunteer by UVA doses up to 5 J/cm2. Our results indicate that optimal bath‐PUVA requires UVA irradiation immediately after the 8‐MOP bath. Further, these results imply that no restrictions on further sun exposure are mandatory 3 h after the 8‐MOP bath, thus allowing the patient to pursue normal life activities.
The Human Leucocyte Antigen (HLA) DR Expression and the Distribution of T‐Lymphocytes in the Fimbriae of the Normal Fallopian Tube and During Pelvic Adhesion Disease
Authors: EDELSTAM GRETA A.B. , KARLSSON‐PARRA ALEX
Published: September 2011

PROBLEM: Systematically to investigate the expression of human leucocyte antigen (HLA) DR on the columnar epithelium and the content of T‐lymphocytes in the fimbriae specimens of the fallopian tube from healthy women and from women with infertility and pelvic adhesions.

METHOD: The staining of HLA‐DR expression on the columnar epithelium was judged on a four‐graded scale according to the distribution of HLA‐DR expression. The amount and distribution of T‐lymphocytes were registered.

RESULTS: The biopsies from normal fimbriae contained sparsely infiltrating T‐lymphocytes. On the columnar epithelial cells, a patchy HLA‐DR expression was observed that was more widespread in preovulatory cases. In some biopsies from sactosalpinx, the HLA‐DR expression was found completely to cover the columnar epithelial cells and was associated with a heavy infiltration of T‐lymphocytes. CD4+ T‐lymphocytes dominated in all but one adhesion biopsies.

CONCLUSION: The findings indicate an ongoing immunological activity in pelvic adhesions that might immunologically influence fertility.
The Role of Estradiol, Progesterone, and Transforming Growth Factor on Human Endometrioma Cell Culture
Authors: Badawy Shawky Z.A. , Holland James , Landas Steve , Frankel Loren , Cuenca Violeta , Khan Seema
Published: September 2011

The present study demonstrates several aspects of endometrioma cells in culture, namely, 1) cell growth, proliferation, and morphology, 2) effect of cell culture on estrogen and progesterone receptor concentration, 3) effect of estradiol, progesterone, and transforming growth factor.

The tissue sample was obtained from ovarian endometriomas that were removed via laparotomy or laparoscopy. The tissue sample was digested with collagenase. After washing, the tissue was cultured in endothelial cell culture medium. Cell count was done by flow cytometry. Receptor study was done by immunohistochemistry.

The results demonstrated the growth and proliferation of endometrioma cell in culture medium. Electron microscopy showed stroma‐like cells. The cells lost their estrogen and progesterone receptors. Estradiol and progesterone added to these cultures did not affect the rate of growth and proliferation of the cells.

Transforming growth factor significantly increased the rate of growth and proliferation of these cells.
Comparison of Immunosuppressive Properties of Hydatidiform Mole Decidua and Trophoblast Extracts
Authors: Bennett William A. , Brackin Martha N. , Long Cecil A. , Cowan Bryan D.
Published: September 2011

PROBLEM: The immunologic privilege afforded the fetus relies upon immunoregulation within the maternal‐fetal interface. Trophoblast and decidua‐derived immunoregulatory factors enforce this privilege by locally suppressing maternal responses to trophoblast antigens. The relative contribution of trophoblast or decidua immunosuppressive factors to pregnancy immunotolerance are not well characterized. The purpose of this study was to compare the suppressive effects of hydatidiform mole trophoblast and decidua extracts on interleukin‐2‐dependent proliferation.

METHOD: Tissue extracts were prepared from hydatidiform mole trophoblast and decidua following uterine evacuation. Samples were submitted to interleukin‐2‐dependent and ‐independent cell proliferation assays.

RESULTS: Hydatidiform mole trophoblast extract significantly (P < 0.05) suppressed interleukin‐2‐dependent proliferation but did not affect interleukin‐2‐independent cell proliferation. In contrast, molar decidua extract suppressed both cell lines.

CONCLUSIONS: Human hydatidiform mole trophoblast contains factor(s) that specifically abrogate interleukin‐2‐dependent clonal expansion of murine cytotoxic T‐cells. In contrast, extracts of molar decidua suppressed both interleukin‐2‐dependent and ‐independent responses. This indicates that the trophoblast antagonizes critical interleukin‐2‐mediated immunologic responses, but that the decidua uses nonspecific antiproliferative mechanisms for immunoregulation.
The Use of Intravenous Immunoglobulin in Recurrent Pregnancy Loss Associated With Combined Alloimmune and Autoimmune Abnormalities
Authors: Kiprov Dobri D. , Nachtigall Robert D. , Weaver Roderic C. , Jacobson Arnold , Main Elliott K. , Garovoy Marvin R.
Published: September 2011

PROBLEM: Several studies have evaluated the effect of intravenous gammaglobulin (IVIG) in women with unexplained recurrent spontaneous abortions (RSA). Data regarding the underlying immunologic abnormalities in these patients is scant. This study reports the pregnancy outcome and immunologic changes observed in a large group of women with RSA associated with well‐defined alloimmune and autoimmune abnormalities treated with IVIG.

METHODS: Thirty‐five patients with three or more recurrent miscarriages were studied. None of the patients had identifiable alloimmune response to paternal lymphocytes. Twenty‐four patients had anti‐thyroid antibodies, ten patients had high levels of circulating immune complexes, and six patients had anti‐cardiolipin antibodies. Five patients had Hashimoto's disease, one had immune thrombocytopenic purpura, and one had Crohn's disease. Twenty‐three patients had more than one autoimmune abnormality. All patients received IVIG infusions (200–250 mg/kg) every 3 weeks during the first 8 months of pregnancy.

RESULTS: Twenty‐eight patients (80%) had a successful pregnancy. Decrease of the level of autoantibodies and circulating immune complexes was observed in all patients who had a successful pregnancy. Only three of these patients developed measurable alloimmune response to paternal antigens.

CONCLUSIONS: This preliminary study suggests that IVIG may be of benefit to patients with recurrent pregnancy loss associated with combined alloimmune and autoimmune abnormalities. This benefit was seen in spite of lack of detectable correction of the alloimmune abnormality in the majority of patients.
Human Decidua‐Associated Protein (hDP) 200 Identified as a Monoclonal Rheumatoid Factor Is Not an Acute Phase Reactant
Authors: Halperin Reuvit , Schneider David , Maymon Ron , Bukovsky Ian , Hadas Eran
Published: September 2011

PROBLEM: The role of human decidua associated protein (hDP) 200, identified as a monoclonal rheumatoid factor, has not been determined yet. This study examines if this protein, being an immunoglobulin, participates in the inflammatory processes involving the uterus.

METHOD: Uterine fluid samples were obtained prospectively from two groups of women: the study group, containing 26 women with laparoscopically verified pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), and the control group, containing 34 regularly cycling, fertile women, referred to the Family Planning Clinic. Uterine fluid sampling was performed once in each patient, and the concentration of uterine fluid hDP 200 was determined by double site ELISA, by using the monoclonal antibody DEC 21.

RESULTS: A statistically significant decrease in uterine fluid hDP 200 concentration was observed in women with pelvic inflammatory disease as compared to regularly cycling fertile women (P<0.00004). The hDP 200 levels in women with PID ranged from 10 to 1,000 mU/ml, with no difference in hDP 200 concentration among intra‐uterine device (IUD) users as compared to non‐users.

CONCLUSION: This study supports the concept that hDP 200, identified as a monoclonal rheumatoid factor existing locally in the uterus, is not an acute phase reactant but is probably involved in the reproduction process.
Decidual and Placental Histologic Findings in Patients Experiencing Spontaneous Abortions in Relation to Pregnancy Order
Authors: KOHUT KAREN G. , ANTHONY MONIQUE‐NICOLE A. , SALAFIA CAROLYN M.
Published: September 2011

PROBLEM: In investigating possible immunologic causes of miscarriage, we hypothesized a more frequent maternal immune response in placental tissue in women miscarrying their first pregnancy, compared to woman miscarrying following at least one full‐term delivery.

METHOD OF STUDY: We reviewed the medical charts of 273 consecutive women who had treatment for miscarriage. After application of the exclusion criteria, 32 patients were selected who had a full‐term pregnancy outcome following the index miscarriage. The patients were divided into two groups based on the pregnancy order of the index miscarriage. Group 1 (n=16) included women who lost their first pregnancy. Group 2 (n=16) included women who miscarried a pregnancy after at least one full‐term delivery. Miscarriage tissue was evaluated for placental and decidual histologic features of uteroplacental vasculopathy and chronic inflammation.

RESULTS: Lesions of chronic inflammatory and uteroplacental vasculopathy were generally more common in Group 1 as compared to Group 2, and the presence of more than one of the histopathologic lesions was significantly more frequent in Group 1 (37.5%, 6/16) than in Group 2 (0/16, P=.02, Fisher's Exact).

CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrates more frequent lesions of chronic inflammation and uteroplacental vasculopathy in miscarriage patients with a first pregnancy loss, compared to those patients who have had a pregnancy loss following at least one full‐term delivery.
Expression of Fas Ligand in Murine Ovary
Authors: Guo Mao Wu , Xu Ji Ping , Mori Etsuko , Sato Eimei , Saito Shigeru , Mori Tsuneatsu
Published: September 2011

Corresponding to the expression of Fas in the ovarian oocytes as previously reported (Guo et al., Biochem Biophys Res Commun 1994; 203:1438–1446; Mori et al., JSIR 1995; 9:49–50), the expression of Fas ligand (FasL) in the ovarian follicle was found to be restricted in the area of granulosa cells by the indirect immunofluorescence (IIF) test. Reverse transcriptase/polymerase chain reaction (RT/PCR) technique coupled with Southern blot hybridization analysis showed that the highest level of FasL mRNA was demonstrated in murine ovaries and granulosa cells 1 day after the administration of pregnant mare's serum gonadotropin (PMSG), while the level of FasL mRNA became very weak on the day 5, respectively. The observed gradual decrease in FasL mRNA could not be attributed to a generalized degradation of cellular RNA during atresia, as evidenced by the presence of constitutive expression of elongation factor 1α (EF‐1α) mRNA in murine ovaries and granulosa cells treated with PMSG. Furthermore, in situ hybridization analysis with a FasL‐specific probe confirmed that FasL was specifically localized in the granulosa cells of most follicles and its expression was regulated by PMSG administration. FasL localized in granulosa cells might possibly play an important role in the formation of the ovarian atretic follicles, most likely depending on PMSG administration.
Maternal Response to Paternal Trophoblast Antigens
Authors: Mowbray James , Jalali Reza , Chaouat Gérard , Clark David A. , Underwood Jennifer , Allen W R , Mathias Susanna
Published: September 2011

PROBLEM: What is the function of the immunoglobulin (Ig) G antibody bound to trophoblast in normal pregnancy, and what is the antigen?

METHOD: IgG was acid eluted from term human placental microvesicles and reacted with the antigen, R80K, left on the vesicles. The eluted antibody was used to detect the antigen on monocytes, lymphocytes, and lymphoblastoid cell lines. The eluted antibody is highly polymorphic, but monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) were made against conserved regions of the molecule. These also reacted with the murine equivalent of the human R80K and were used in inhibition studies of natural killer (NK) cell killing and the mouse abortion models, CBA x DBA2 F1 resorption in CBA females, the endotoxin‐induced resorption model, and a sonic stress‐induced murine resorption model.

RESULTS: All 600 syncytiotrophoblast microvesicle preparations of human term placenta had IgG antibody bound, elutable at pH 3.0. The eluted antibody reacted with about 15% of unrelated human placentae. In horses mares make detectable antibody early in pregnancy, at about the time of implantation. The IgG antibody was bound to an 80‐kDa protein (R80K) also detected on B lymphocytes and monocytes. In HLA homozygous lymphoblastoid B cell lines, which reacted with one or more eluted antibodies, had a pattern of cytotoxicity independent of HLA Class I; and as a single 80‐kDa peptide chain, R80K did not resemble HLA molecules. Genetic studies in horses show that of the two paternal allotypes of R80K detectable by placental alloantibodies, only one, usually the grandpaternal one, is present in all the placentae of a sibship. Two of 26 eluted human antibodies had affinity for K562 and inhibited killing by human peripheral blood NK cells. One mAb, BA11, against a conserved site on R80K inhibited killing of K562, and also reacted with the murine R80K homologue. BA11 inhibited murine NK cell killing and virtually completely inhibited three NK cell‐dependent mouse resorption models.

CONCLUSION: R80K protein is a target molecule for NK cell activity expressed on all placentae. It has a polymorphic alloantigenic determinant completely covered with maternal antibody in all successful term pregnancies. In murine NK cell‐dependent models of abortion, a mAb against a monomorphic determinant present in human and murine R80K prevents abortion very effectively. It seems that the R80K molecule must be covered with antibody to prevent NK attacks on trophoblast.
The Role of Virologic and Immunologic Factors in Mother‐to‐Child Transmission of HIV‐1
Authors: Colognesi Claudia , Tresoldi Eleonora , Scarlatti Gabriella , Halapi Eva , Jansson Marianne , Hodara Vida , Steuer Gabriella , Leitner Thomas
Published: September 2011

PROBLEM: More than 90% of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV‐1) infection in children is acquired by mother‐to‐child transmission. However, infection of the child occurs in between 14 and 35% of cases.

METHOD OF STUDY: To understand the mechanisms involved in HIV‐1 transmission, we have investigated the antigenic, molecular, and phenotypic characteristics of the virus harbored in infected mothers and their children.

RESULTS: A clear correlation was observed between the transmission of the virus and the isolation of viral variants with a rapidly replicating and syncytium‐inducing phenotype from the mother Furthermore, non‐transmitting mothers were able to neutralize several primary isolates more frequently than transmitting mothers. The comparison of the viral phenotype and genotype of mother‐child pairs showed that the transmitted virus did not have common features, suggesting that transmission is usually not a selective process.

CONCLUSIONS: This study suggests that transmission is governed by an interaction of both viral and immunological factors. The results obtained indicate that different strategies can be applied for the prevention of transmission.
Preliminary Characterization of an Immunosuppressive Inducer Factor Secreted by the JEG‐3 Choriocarcinoma Cell Line: In Vitro and In Vivo Studies
Authors: Markert Udo R. , Chaouat Gérard
Published: September 2011

PROBLEM: The direct immunosuppressive and suppressive inducing capacities of supernatants from human trophoblastic choriocarcinoma cell lines (HCS) are well investigated in several former studies. The responsible factor is not yet determined.

METHOD OF STUDY: We first confirmed those data and we purified a 3–5‐kDa suppressor‐inducer factor from HCS by using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) on both DEAE and gel filtration columns, followed by ultrafiltration. We then tested the activities of such isolated fractions on in vitro immune responses from human cells and in vivo by its effects in a murine local graft‐versus‐host (GVH) assay (popliteal lymph node assay, PLN).

RESULTS: A single fraction induces both “direct suppression” in vitro as well as in vitro suppressor cell activation/development in human peripheral blood lymphocyte cultures as assessed by suppression of cells cultured in such a fraction containing culture medium of the mixed lymphocyte reaction. Furthermore the very same fraction suppresses in vivo murine allogeneic immune responses as assessed by a local GVH reaction (PLN assay).

CONCLUSIONS: We have isolated a suppressive fraction, whose activities suggest that it might be of interest not only in reproductive immunology, but also in transplantation systems.