Microflora

Reproduction, 2003 May, 125(5), 733 - 41
Effect of oestradiol treatment on mast cell populations and microflora in the vaginal cul-de-sac of seasonally anoestrous brushtail possums (Trichosurus vulpecula); Mahoney PM et al.; Mast cell populations in the vaginal cul-de-sac of female brushtail possums do not appear to be related to microbial invasion but changes in their density occur at oestrus, indicating a hormonal influence . The present study examined the effect of treatment with oestradiol on microflora and on mast cell numbers and their spatial location in cul-de-sac tissue of seasonally anoestrous brushtail possums . Tissue was collected from seasonally anoestrous brushtail possums (n = 6 per group) that were either untreated (anoestrous group) or were subjected to 6 days of treatment with oestradiol (oestradiol group) administered via subcutaneous implants or with the oil vehicle alone (control group) . Tissue was collected aseptically for microbiological procedures and the fractionator and optical disector were used to quantify mast cell populations . Microflora populations were low (< 4.0 x 10(4) organisms g(-1)) and numbers of mast cells were similar in all groups . Mast cell density was greatest in epithelial and connective tissues from seasonally anoestrous and control animals and lowest in oestradiol-treated possums, in which there was a significant increase in cul-de-sac mass and volume . There is an inverse relationship between circulating oestrogen concentrations and mast cell density in possum cul-de-sac tissue, which is probably the result of an increase in tissue volume.

Zh Mikrobiol Epidemiol Immunobiol, 2000 Jul-Aug, (4 Suppl), 117 - 21
{Role of Chlamydia pneumoniae in the etiology of atherosclerosis}; Likhoded VG et al.; The review of literature on the role of C . pneumoniae in the etiology of atherosclerosis is presented . The patients with coronary disease show a greater detection rate and higher titers of antibodies to C . pneumoniae . The causative agent can be detected in atheromas in of immunocytochemical studies and by means of electron microscopy, as well as in the polymerase chain reaction . In addition, live C . pneumoniae can be isolated from atheromas . The process of atherogenesis is modeled by infecting susceptible animals with chlamydiae . C . pneumoniae induce the formation of foam cells in the culture of human macrophages due tho the surplus absorption of cholesterol by macrophages from low-density lipoproteins . Chlamydial lipopolysaccharide is capable of inducing the formation of foam cells . The conclusion has been made that C . pneumoniae is one of the possible etiological agents of atherosclerosis . The possible role of the endotoxins of bacteria of the intestinal microflora, regularly supplied to the blood stream in the presence of sharply decreased immunity to endotoxins, in the etiology of atherosclerosis is also supposed.

Zh Mikrobiol Epidemiol Immunobiol, 2000 Jul-Aug, (4 Suppl), 92 - 5
{Microbiological approaches to the prognostication of inflammatory complications after intrauterine interventions}; Kremleva EA et al.; The species composition and persistence parameters of vaginal microflora in women after intrauterine interventions (intrauterine contraception and artificial abortion) has been studied . The relationship between inflammatory complications after intrauterine interventions and previous changes in the microflora has been established . Criteria for the evaluation of vaginal microbiocenosis, making it possible to prognosticate the appearance of inflammatory complications after intrauterine interventions, have been worked out.

Zh Mikrobiol Epidemiol Immunobiol, 2000 Jul-Aug, (4 Suppl), 82 - 5
{Some features of tonsillar microflora and microbial interaction (in normal and pathological states)}; Bukharin OV et al.; The description of a new method for the determination of interaction between bacterial strains isolated from the mucous membrane of tonsils of healthy children and patients with chronic tonsillitis . In the analysis of mutual influence of symbionts on the hemolytic, lecitovitellase, lysozyme and antilysozyme activity of microbes isolated from healthy children no changes in the expression of these pathogenicity and persistence factors have been detected in the overwhelming majority of cases (70.8-89.9%) . In the microflora of sick children interactions were synergic with respect to pathogenicity factors in 35.2-46.7% of cases and antagonistic in 18.7-31.3% of cases.

Meded Rijksuniv Gent Fak Landbouwkd Toegep Biol Wet, 2002, 67(2), 343 - 51
Suppression of Pythium spp . by Trichoderma spp . during germination of tomato seeds in soilless growing media; Aerts R et al.; In the Flemish horticulture Pythium spp . is an important pathogen of tomato plants (Lycopersicon esculenthum) in soilless growing media . Therefore some experiments were conducted to evaluate the possibility of decreasing the damage caused by Pythium spp . by Trichoderma spp . In a tray with several growing media, a suspension of Trichoderma conidia (10(6)/ml growing medium) was applied two weeks before sowing . On some objects, a compost extract (Biostimulus) was added . The growing media used in the experiment were rockwool, recycled rockwool and recycled coconut fibre . After sowing, the trays were covered with perlite . Three isolates of Trichoderma spp.: T . asperellum (Biofungus), T . harzianum (Tri 003) and Trichoderma sp . (KHK) and two isolates of Pythium spp.: P . ultimum (MUCL) en P . aphanidermatum (HRI, UK) were used . Propamocarb was used as a chemical standard . The use of coconut fibre growing medium resulted in a higher percentage (36%) of germination than the rockwool media when only Pythium spp . was used . The presence of the spontaneous developing microflora in the coconut fibre medium gave probably also a suppression of Pythium spp . For that reason the results of the suppression by Trichoderma spp . are not easy to explain and very variable on the different objects . Pythium ultimum was more suppressed than P . aphanidermatum on all the growing media and the application of all the Trichoderma isolates increased the germination percentage of tomato seeds . T . asperellum (Biofungus) gave on rockwool also a good result for the suppression of P . aphanidermatum (increasing of germination with 48%) . This effect was comparable with the propamocarb treatment (48%) . T . harzianum (Tri 003) gave a small suppression (22%) and Trichoderma sp . (KHK) gave almost no suppression of P . aphanidermatum (7%) . When less Trichoderma conidia were applied the germination percentage decreased . The adding of a compost extract (Biostimulus) had no influence on the results . This experiment shows that application of Trichoderma conidia in the presence of Pythium spp . increases the germination percentage of tomato seeds, sowed in the used soilless growing media.

Curr Issues Intest Microbiol, 2003 Mar, 4(1), 21 - 32
Prebiotics and calcium bioavailability; Cashman K; A prebiotic substance has been defined as a non-digestible food ingredient that beneficially affects the host by selectively stimulating the growth and/or activity of one or a limited number of bacteria in the colon . Therefore, compared to probiotics, which introduce exogenous bacteria into the colonic microflora, a prebiotic aims at stimulating the growth of one or a limited number of the potentially health-promoting indigenous micro-organisms, thus modulating the composition of the natural ecosystem . In recent years, increasing attention has been focussed on the possible beneficial effects of prebiotics, such as enhanced resistance to invading pathogens, improved bowel function, anti-colon cancer properties, lipid lowering action, improved calcium bioavailability, amongst others . The objective of this review is to critically assess the available data on the effects of prebiotics on calcium bioavailability, and place it in the context of human physiology and, when possible, explain the underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms . The review will also try to highlight future areas of research that may help in the evaluation of prebiotics as potential ingredients for functional foods aimed at enhancing calcium bioavailability and protecting against osteoporosis.

Environ Toxicol Chem, 2003 Apr, 22(4), 784 - 90
Structural and functional approach to studying pesticide side-effects on specific soil functions; Liebich J et al.; The microbial communities in the soil are responsible for material cycling and thus also for maintaining the fertility of agricultural soils . In order to assess pesticide side effects on the soil processes, detailed knowledge is required about the structure and function of the soil microflora . Therefore, the degradation and humification of 14C-labeled maize straw was studied in process-oriented microcosms . Apart from a native orthic luvisol, a heat-treated soil was used that has been freed from organic carbon by incineration at 600 degrees C . Microbial communities involved in the turnover of the crop residues were investigated using denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE) of 16S rDNA sequences . Both 13C-nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy and gel permeation chromatography were used to analyze humic acids produced in the microcosms . To evaluate the sensitivity of the microcosms, the influence of the fungicide dithianon was used in a case study at a concentration of 50 mg/kg . Microbial activity was reduced because of the application of the pesticide, especially in the native soils, while mineralization of 14C-labeled maize straw was only slightly affected . The buildup of fungal biomass was inhibited for at least three weeks . Despite these effects on the microbial communities, no significant differences in the humification products after 26 weeks of incubation were observed.

Life Sci Space Res, 1976, 14, 345 - 9
On methods of detection of extraterrestrial life; Imshenetsky AA et al.; New methods have been developed for detecting microbial growth from the microflora of desert soils . The first is a polarimetric method in which the fall in optical activity due to assimilation of D-glucose is followed . Detectable changes with desert soils were seen in a few hours, and the method can be employed with small amounts of material . The second method is the release of heat from metabolizable substrates as measured by a microcalorimeter . In the presence of glucose a characteristic response from desert soils was found within 24 hours.

Skin Pharmacol Appl Skin Physiol, 2003 May-Jun, 16(3), 188 - 202
EEMCO guidance for the in vivo assessment of skin surface pH; Parra JL et al.; The pH of the skin follows a sharp gradient across the stratum corneum (SC), which is suspected to play an important role in controlling the enzymatic activities involved in cellular metabolism and renewal . This gradient is maintained by several systems, such as sweat and sebum secretion and degradation as well as cellular metabolism . At the surface of the skin, what is measured is in fact an apparent skin pH due to extracted material from the SC diffusing into water applied at the surface . pH values recorded at the surface of a semi hydrophobic milieu such as the SC should be interpreted with great caution because it is obvious that hydrogen ions are not in a pure solution at the surface of the skin . For a correct measurement of skin surface pH, it is recommended to follow all practical operating conditions . Care must be taken in identifying the skin site, healthy controls (age, gender, skin type), the time of day of the measurement and the environmental conditions . Also, subjects should receive precise instructions before the test, mainly in terms of hygiene procedure or use of topical products . The interpretation of data should not overlook the fact that even small differences in pH may reflect significant modifications at the molecular level . Although it is usually agreed that the pH of the skin surface may influence the cutaneous microflora, much remains to be learnt about the role of the acid mantle of the skin with regard to defensins and other protective mechanisms .

J Med Microbiol, 2003 Apr, 52(Pt 4), 365 - 9
Molecular analysis of the microflora in chronic venous leg ulceration; Hill KE et al.; There is growing evidence to suggest that the resident microflora of chronic venous leg ulcers impairs cellular wound-healing responses, thereby playing an important role in maintaining the non-healing phenotype of many of these wounds . The significance of individual species of bacteria will remain unclear until it is possible to characterize fully the microflora of such lesions . The limitations and biases of culture-based microbiology are being realized and the subsequent application of molecular methods is revealing greater diversity within mixed bacterial populations than that demonstrated by culture alone . To date, this approach has been limited to a small number of systems, including the oral microflora . Here, for the first time, the comprehensive characterization of the microflora present in the tissue of a chronic venous leg ulcer is described by the comparison of 16S rDNA sequences amplified directly from the wound tissue with sequences obtained from bacteria that were isolated by culture . The molecular approach demonstrated significantly greater bacterial diversity than that revealed by culture . Furthermore, sequences were retrieved that may possibly represent novel species of bacteria . It is only by the comprehensive analysis of the wound microflora by both molecular and cultural methods that it will be possible to further our understanding of the role of bacteria in this important condition.

J Nutr, 2003 Apr, 133(4), 1127 - 31
Pigs' gastrointestinal microflora provide them with essential amino acids; Torrallardona D et al.; The synthesis of essential amino acids by the gut microflora of pigs, and their absorption, were assessed from the incorporation of (15)N from dietary (15)NH(4)Cl and of (14)C from dietary (14)C-polyglucose into amino acids in the body tissues of four pigs . Both (15)N and (14)C were incorporated into essential amino acids in body protein . Because pig tissues cannot incorporate (15)N into lysine or (14)C into essential amino acids, the labeling of these amino acids in body protein indicated their microbial origin . The absorption of microbial amino acids was estimated by multiplying the total content of each amino acid in the body by the ratio of the isotopic enrichment of the amino acid in the body to that in microbial protein . Because the ratio of (14)C:(15)N in body lysine was closer to that in the microflora of the ileum than to that of the cecum, absorption was assumed to take place exclusively in the ileum . The estimates of microbial amino acid absorption from (14)C-labeling were as follows (g/d): valine 1.8, isoleucine 0.8, leucine 2.0, phenylalanine 0.3 and lysine 0.9, whereas for lysine, the estimate from (15)N-labeling was 1.3 g/d . We conclude that the gastrointestinal microflora contribute significantly to the amino acid requirements of pigs.

Lik Sprava, 2002, (8), 63 - 5
{Characterisation of microbial growth and role of the foot tendinous-synovial formation in pathogenesis of diabetic gangrene of the lower extremity}; Islamov AS et al.; The paper is based on the analysis of results of treatment of 74 patients with diabetes mellitus complicated by pyo-necrotic injuries of the foot . In all patients, microbiological procedures were done besides general clinical studies . The material for microbiological assays was the purulent exudation taken from the deeper portions of the wound immediately after lancing the pathological focus . The microbial content was studied separately in fragments of the tendon from its distal (adjacent to the wound) and proximal (every other 6 to 7 cm within the confines of the intact common integument) ends . In the wound, it came up to 6.45 +/- 0.16 lg/ml and 5.2 +/- 0.31 lg/ml (P < 0.05), in the distal end it was 5.93 +/- 0.19 lg/a and 4.81 +/- 0.24 lg/a (P < 0.005) for aerobs and anaerobs respectively . In the proximal end of tendons 6-7 cm from the primary pathological focus, aerob gradient was 2.8 +/- 0.19 lg/a, that for representatives of anaerobic microbes being 1.71 +/- 0.161 lg/a (P < 0.001) . In one third of patients the anaerobic microflora gradient was not found out.

Lik Sprava, 2002, (8), 47 - 9
{Cytology of peritoneal exudate as the criterion for phases of inflammation in diffuse purulent peritonitis}; Teshaev OR et al.; A cytological study was made of the exudation from the abdominal cavity in 131 patient with diffuse peritonitis to determine the time-related course of the inflammatory process in the peritoneum against the background of the therapy conducted . The exudation from the abdominal cavity was assayed at hospital admission, at surgery, and in the postoperative period, the planned ointment assanations having been performed . Used in the cytological study was the M . P . Pokrovsky and M . S . Makarov method in modification of D . M . Steinberg (1948) who suggested ways for the amounts of the microflora and those cell types occurring in the exudate to be determined in smears-impressions with the relevant cytogrammes made up . The most significant characteristics of the maiden, second, and third phases of inflammation of the peritoneum were revealed . On the basis of the above characteristics (cytologic signs) we have developed criteria for phases of inflammation of the peritoneum that permit the assessment of efficiency of the therapy treatments administered to be carried out.

J Int Acad Periodontol, 2001 Oct, 3(4), 104 - 11
Subgingival microflora and antibody responses against periodontal bacteria of young Japanese patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus; Takahashi K et al.; Periodontal disease is a complication of patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM), although the mechanisms responsible for this relationship remain unclear . The aim of this study was to examine oral manifestations and the prevalence of periodontal pathogens from subgingival plaque samples and serum IgG antibody levels against them in young Japanese type 1 diabetic subjects . One hundred and seventeen Japanese T1DM subjects (53 male, 64 female, mean age +/- SD, 16 +/- 6.5 years) participated in this study . Thirty-nine periodontally healthy, age-matched nondiabetics served as controls . T1DM subjects were clinically assigned into three groups: 12 periodontitis, 32 gingivitis and 73 periodontally healthy . Microbiological tests for four periodontal pathogens, Porphyromonas gingivalis, Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans, Prevotella intermedia and Capnocytophaga ochracea were performed using 16S ribosomal RNA-based polymerase chain reaction methods . Serum IgG antibody levels against 12 periodontal bacteria including the four species assessed by polymerase chain reaction were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay . In the T1DM subjects, the Periodontitis group had a significantly longer mean duration of diabetes and a higher percentages of subjects harbouring P . gingivalis and P . intermedia than the Periodontally Healthy group . Serum IgG antibody levels against P . gingivalis were significantly elevated in the Periodontitis group compared with Gingivitis and Periodontally Healthy groups . These results indicate that Japanese T1DM subjects are a high-risk group for periodontal disease and both P . gingivalis infection and duration of T1DM are risk factors for the progression of periodontitis in patients with T1DM.

J Periodontol, 2003 Feb, 74(2), 175 - 80
Effects of Nd:YAG and CO2 laser treatment and ultrasonic scaling on periodontal pockets of chronic periodontitis patients; Miyazaki A et al.; BACKGROUND: The aim of the present study was to compare the effectiveness of Nd:YAG and CO2 laser treatment to that of ultrasonic scaling used as monotherapies by examining clinical parameters, subgingival microflora, and interleukin-1 beta (IL-1beta) in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) . METHODS: Eighteen patients, each of whom had 2 or more sites with probing depth measuring > 5 mm, were included this clinical trial . The 41 sites were randomly assigned treatment with either Nd:YAG laser alone (n = 14, 100 mj, 20 pps, 2.0 W, 120 seconds), CO2 laser alone (n = 13, 2.0 W, 120 seconds), or ultrasonic scaling alone (n = 14, maximum power, 120 seconds) . At baseline and at 1, 4, and 12 weeks, clinical measurements (plaque index, PI; gingival index, GI; probing depth, PD; clinical attachment level, CAL; and bleeding on probing, BOP) were performed and subgingival plaque and GCF sampled . A quantitative analysis of Porphyromonas gingivalis was carried out using real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) procedures . The amounts of IL-1beta were estimated by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) . RESULTS: Decreased inflammation and PD were observed in all 3 groups after treatment . A microbiological analysis indicated significant decreases in P . gingivalis in the Nd:YAG and scaling groups at 1, 4, and 12 weeks compared to baseline (P < 0.05) . The amount of GCF significantly decreased in the Nd:YAG and scaling groups at 12 weeks . The amount of IL-1beta increased in the CO2 group from baseline to 1 week (P < 0.05) . The Nd:YAG group tended to show a decrease in IL-1beta from 1 to 12 weeks, although these data were not statistically significant . CONCLUSIONS: Our data suggest that Nd:YAG laser and ultrasonic scaling treatments showed significant improvements regarding the clinical parameters and subgingival microflora compared to the baseline, but no significant difference was observed between the 3 groups.

Eksp Klin Gastroenterol, 2003, (1), 58 - 9, 183
{Comparative efficacy of mezakol and sulfasalazine in treating chronic relapsing ulcerative colitis}; Rogozina VA et al.; This research testifies to the fact that it is more preferable to use mesacol than sulfasalazine in treatment of common forms of ulcerative colitis of light and average severity . Mesacol acts faster in arresting inflammations in proximal parts of the larger intestine . One can assume that the pH-dependent release of 5-aminosalicylic acid in these forms of the disease suffers less than the destruction of the diazo link by the anaerobic microflora, due to which a higher concentration of the preparation is formed in the large intestine . Another alternative explanation can be the dose-dependent effect . Thus, 2.4 . g of mesacol correspond to 6 g of sulfasalazine . The dose of sulfasalazine was smaller in our study . Mesacol had no advantages over sulfasalazine in treatment of distal colitis, which can and must be treated with rectal introduction of corticosteroids and 5-aminosalicylic acid preparations . Thus, mesacol must be reserved for treatment of patients with common ulcerative colitis of light and average severity in case of intolerance to sulfasalazine or impossibility to increase the preparation dose over 4 g/day . Its efficiency and price make the preparation available for most patients and patient care institutions.

Sci Total Environ, 2003 Mar 20, 304(1-3), 83 - 106
Critical levels of atmospheric pollution: criteria and concepts for operational modelling of mercury in forest and lake ecosystems; Meili M et al.; Mercury (Hg) is regarded as a major environmental concern in many regions, traditionally because of high concentrations in freshwater fish, and now also because of potential toxic effects on soil microflora . The predominant source of Hg in most watersheds is atmospheric deposition, which has increased 2- to >20-fold over the past centuries . A promising approach for supporting current European efforts to limit transboundary air pollution is the development of emission-exposure-effect relationships, with the aim of determining the critical level of atmospheric pollution (CLAP, cf . critical load) causing harm or concern in sensitive elements of the environment . This requires a quantification of slow ecosystem dynamics from short-term collections of data . Aiming at an operational tool for assessing the past and future metal contamination of terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, we present a simple and flexible modelling concept, including ways of minimizing requirements for computation and data collection, focusing on the exposure of biota in forest soils and lakes to Hg . Issues related to the complexity of Hg biogeochemistry are addressed by (1) a model design that allows independent validation of each model unit with readily available data, (2) a process- and scale-independent model formulation based on concentration ratios and transfer factors without requiring loads and mass balance, and (3) an equilibration concept that accounts for relevant dynamics in ecosystems without long-term data collection or advanced calculations . Based on data accumulated in Sweden over the past decades, we present a model to determine the CLAP-Hg from standardized values of region- or site-specific synoptic concentrations in four key matrices of boreal watersheds: precipitation (atmospheric source), large lacustrine fish (aquatic receptor and vector), organic soil layers (terrestrial receptor proxy and temporary reservoir), as well as new and old lake sediments (archives of response dynamics) . Key dynamics in watersheds are accounted for by quantifying current states of equilibration in both soils and lakes based on comparison of contamination factors in sediment cores . Future steady-state concentrations in soils and fish in single watersheds or entire regions are then determined by corresponding projection of survey data . A regional-scale application to southern Sweden suggests that the response of environmental Hg levels to changes in atmospheric Hg pollution is delayed by centuries and initially not proportional among receptors (atmosphere >> soils not equal sediments>fish; clearwater lakes >> humic lakes) . This has implications for the interpretation of common survey data as well as for the implementation of pollution control strategies . Near Hg emission sources, the pollution of organic soils and clearwater lakes deserves attention . Critical receptors, however, even in remote areas, are humic waters, in which biotic Hg levels are naturally high, most likely to increase further, and at high long-term risk of exceeding the current levels of concern: </=0.5 mg (kg fw)(-1) in freshwater fish, and 0.5 mg (kg dw)(-1) in soil organic matter . If environmental Hg concentrations are to be reduced and kept below these critical limits, virtually no man-made atmospheric Hg emissions can be permitted.

Food Chem Toxicol, 2003 May, 41(5), 695 - 702
The human colonic microflora influences the alterations of xenobiotic-metabolizing enzymes by catechins in male F344 rats; Lhoste EF et al.; As other xenobiotics, polyphenols are metabolized both by the endogenous detoxication system and the gut microflora . We hypothesized that the presence of a gut microflora may account for the effect of catechins on phase I and II xenobiotic-metabolizing enzymes and that the human bacterial metabolites may be different from those of a rodent gut microflora . Therefore, the effects of 2% (+)-catechin or 2% (-)-epicatechin were studied in germ free (GF) rats and rats inoculated with the flora of a human volunteer (HFA) . In addition, the catechins were administered in ethanol as a vehicle . In the liver, (+)-catechin or (-)-epicatechin decreased the total amount of CYP450 in both GF and HFA rats while the isoenzyme CYP2E1 decreased . In GF rats only, CYP2C11 increased when compared to the rats treated with the vehicle alone . (+)-catechin increased the specific activity of UGT-chloramphenicol in GF rats only and that of cytosolic glutathion-S-transferase (GST) in HFA rats only . In the intestine, (+)-catechin and (-)-epicatechin increased the specific activity of UGT-4-methylumbelliferone in both GF and HFA rats and that of UGT- chloramphenicol in HFA rats only . In conclusion, the presence of a human flora in rats is able to modify the inducing effect of catechins on the UGT and GST activities suggesting the involvement of bacterial metabolites . The alterations on CYP 450 are independent of the presence of a human gut flora.

Int Endod J, 2003 Jan, 36(1), 64 - 70
Histological evaluation of teeth with hyperplastic pulpitis caused by trauma or caries: case reports; Caliskan MK et al.; AIM: The purpose of this histological study was to examine teeth with hyperplastic pulpitis caused by trauma or caries . SUMMARY: The pulp tissue of one young permanent incisor with a complicated crown-root fracture and a hyperplastic pulpitis, which had been contaminated with oral microflora for 40 days, and pulp polyps from four permanent first molars whose crowns were destroyed by extensive caries were prepared for standard histological examination . Histologically, normal pulp tissue organization was observed in the tooth with a complicated crown-root fracture in the cervical radicular region . Irregular calcification was seen in the coronal and radicular portion of the pulp in the four carious teeth with pulp polyps . Radicular pulp tissue in the middle and apical third of root canals beneath irregular calcification showed intensive fibrosis but was free from inflammatory cells . KEY LEARNING POINTS: Hyperplastic pulpitis is a type of irreversible chronic open pulpitis . Young permanent teeth with hyperplastic pulpitis caused by trauma or caries have a great inherent defensive capacity to heal.

Int J Phytoremediation, 2002, 4(2), 101 - 15
Isolation, characterization, and identification of bacteria associated with the zinc hyperaccumulator Thlaspi caerulescens subsp . calaminaria; Lodewyckx C et al.; We investigated bacterial populations associated with the Zn hyperaccumulator Thlaspi caerulescens subsp . calaminaria grown in a soil collected from an abandoned Zn-Pb mine and smelter in Plombieres, Belgium . The bacterial population of the nonrhizospheric soil consisted of typical soil bacteria, some exhibiting multiple heavy-metal resistance characteristics that often are associated with polluted substrates: 7.8% and 4% of the population survived in the presence of elevated levels of Zn (1 mM) and Cd (0.8 mM), respectively . For the bacterial population isolated from the rhizosphere, the comparable survival rates were 88 and 78% . This observation indicates a selective enrichment of the metal-resistant strains due to an increased availability of the metals in soils near the roots compared with nonrhizospheric soil . The endophytic inhabitants of the roots and shoots were isolated, identified, and characterized . Although similar endophytic species were isolated from both compartments, those from the rhizoplane and roots showed lower resistance to Zn and Cd than the endophytic bacteria isolated from the shoots . In addition, root endophytic bacteria had additional requirements . Contrary to the rootresiding inhabitants, the shoot represented a niche rich in metal-resistant bacteria and even seemed to contain species that were exclusively abundant there . These differences in the characteristics of the bacterial microflora associated with T . caerulescens might possibly reflect altered metal speciation in the different soils and plant compartments studied.

Biochem Soc Trans, 2003 Apr, 31(2), 381 - 3
Polyamines and colon cancer; Milovic V et al.; In colon cancer, the activities of polyamine-synthesizing enzymes and polyamine content are increased 3-4-fold over that found in the equivalent normal colonic mucosa, and polyamines have even been attributed as markers of neoplastic proliferation in the colon . Furthermore, and in contrast with all other cell systems in the body, normal and neoplastic cells in the colon are exposed to high concentrations of putrescine from the lumen, synthesized by colonic microflora . While such a high polyamine supply may be of benefit in non-neoplastic colonic mucosal growth, the role of luminal polyamines in colon cancer is a clear concern . Luminal polyamines are readily taken up by neoplastic colonocytes, they are utilized in full to support neoplastic growth, and their uptake is strongly up-regulated by the mitogens known to play an important role in colonic carcinogenesis . Inhibition of polyamine synthesis and their uptake, impaired utilization of exogenous polyamines, and enhanced catabolism of polyamines in neoplastic colonocytes are therefore logical approaches in the chemoprevention of colorectal cancer.

Vet Parasitol, 2003 Apr 2, 113(1), 35 - 57
Pathogenicity of Cryptosporidium parvum--evaluation of an animal infection model; Enemark HL et al.; With the intention of developing a standardised method for assessment of pathogenicity of Cryptosporidium parvum, the CPB-0 isolate was studied by propagation in 1-day-old calves followed by inoculation into specific pathogen free (SPF) piglets . The experiment was repeated . Diarrhoea and shedding of oocysts were seen in all animals infected with the CPB-0 isolate . Clinical signs included depression, inappetence, vomiting (exclusively in the piglets), and death . Histological examination at 17 and 19 days post-infection revealed parasitic stages and microscopic changes primarily restricted to colon and rectum.The unintended presence of rotavirus in some of the experimental animals revealed an additive or synergistic effect between rotavirus and C . parvum as indicated by prolonged diarrhoea, increased oocyst shedding, decreased weight gain and elevated levels of serum haptoglobin and serum amyloid A (SAA) in piglets infected simultaneously with both pathogens . The difference in daily weight gain between infected and control animals was significant only for piglets co-infected with rotavirus . The acute phase response of haptoglobin and SAA was characterised by a large individual variation . In piglets, co-infected with rotavirus, the levels of serum haptoglobin were 3.5 and 4.6 times higher in the infected versus the controls 6 and 9dpi, respectively (mean values: 2411microg/ml+/-S.D . 2023 and 1840 microg/ml+/-S.D . 1697) . In the controls infected with rotavirus, peak haptoglobin concentration was seen 3dpi (mean: 1022 microg/ml+/-S.D . 425) . Elevated levels of SAA were seen in 1 of 6 piglets infected with C . parvum, and in 5 of 6 piglets co-infected with rotavirus . Tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNFalpha) was undetectable in all serum samples from piglets.The obvious advantages of the SPF pig model are the naturally acquired intestinal microflora, the development of distinct clinical signs similar to cryptosporidiosis in humans and calves, the size of the animals, and the accessibility of individuals born within a short time span . This makes the model ideal for dose-response studies, evaluation of therapeutic agents as well as for assessment of differences in the clinical response to isolates of diverse genetic background . In conclusion, it was shown that the CPB-0 isolate was pathogenic to calves and piglets at a dose of 2.5 x 10(5) oocysts, and that the clinical signs could be replicated during separate experiments . Moreover, diarrhoea, oocyst shedding, body weight changes, histological alterations, and the acute phase response of haptoglobin and SAA were identified as useful parameters for discrimination of isolate-specific differences of pathogenicity.

Exp Eye Res, 2003 Apr, 76(4), 417 - 20
Minocycline effect on meibomian gland lipids in meibomianitis patients; Shine WE et al.; The objective of this research was to determine the effect of oral minocycline on the meibomian gland nonpolar and free fatty acid lipids of chronic blepharitis patients . Patients--seborrheic blepharitis (SBBL), acne rosacea (AR) without ocular involvement, and acne rosacea with meibomianitis (AR-MKC) . Minocycline treatment--50mg orally for 2 weeks followed by 100mg to the end of 3 months; this was followed by 3 more months with no treatment . Meibomian gland secretions (meibum) were collected before treatment, at the end of the 3 months on treatment, and 3 months after stopping treatment . Lipids were separated and analyzed for wax and sterol esters, triglycerides, diglycerides, free cholesterol and free fatty acids . Data were analyzed statistically by ANOVA . Minocycline treatment resulted in decreased diglycerides and free fatty acids in the group AR-MKC, which continued into the second 3 months (off treatment) and was significant . Cholesterol decreased, but triglycerides initially decreased with treatment and then increased when treatment in the group was discontinued (second 3 months); these results, however, were not significant . Thus, minocycline has its greatest effect on lipid types, which result from degradation (lipase) reactions, suggesting a lipase inhibition effect and/or direct effect on ocular flora . This minocycline effect continues even after treatment is discontinued, suggesting a more lasting effect on ocular microflora . Minocycline may be most effective when the treatment period is longer than 3 months . These results give insight into disease mechanisms associated with chronic blepharitis.

Zh Mikrobiol Epidemiol Immunobiol, 2003 Jan-Feb, (1), 60 - 3
{Parital microflora of human intestine}; Vorob'ev AA et al.; The modified method of the microbiological study of parietal mucin has been developed . The proposed method makes it possible to evaluate the parietal microflora of the intestine . The advantages of using physiological saline and Hanks' solution as medium ensuring the storage and self-thinning of mucin have been proved . The optimum time of making the microbiological study of intestinal mucin has also been determined.

Anaesthesist, 2003 Feb, 52(2), 142 - 52
{Selective digestive tract decontamination in intensive care medicine . Fundamentals and current evaluation}; Krueger WA et al.; Selective digestive tract decontamination (SDD) is a method where topical non-absorbable antibiotics are applied to the oropharynx and stomach which primarily is aimed at the prevention of ventilator-associated pneumonia . The rationale for SDD is that ventilator associated pneumonia usually originates from the patients'own oropharyngeal microflora . SDD is also used for the prevention of gut-derived infections in acute necrotizing pancreatitis and in liver transplantation . Despite numerous clinical trials and several meta-analyses, SDD is still a controversial topic . It is now commonly accepted that the incidence of pneumonia is reduced,however, the concept of using topical antibiotics has its inherent limitations and the best results have been obtained by combination with a short course of intravenous antibiotics . Several issues surrounding the notorious difficulties in establishing the diagnosis of ventilator-associated pneumonia especially in the presence of antibiotics are an on-going matter of debate.Furthermore, pneumonia is the leading cause of death from nosocomial infections and its prevention was not adequately followed by reduced mortality in most individual trials, however, a benefit was suggested by recalculation of data in meta-analyses.Patients are not well defined by their need for ICU admission and mechanical ventilation and the attributable mortality of infections depends more on the type and severity of the underlying diseases.Recently published trials substantially improved our understanding as to which patients may derive most benefit from SDD.Currently, it seems that an improved survival can be achieved in surgical and trauma patients with severe but salvageable diseases, which might be classified e.g.by calculation of APACHE-II scores on admission.However, the most important drawback of SDD is the development of resistance and an increased selection pressure towards Gram-positive pathogens, especially in institutions with endemic multi-resistant microorganisms.Thus, it appears that "selective" must not only be interpreted as selective suppression of pathogenic bacteria but rather as selection of appropriate groups of patients with respect to underlying diseases and severity of illness . Furthermore, it means selection of ICUs where the endemic resistance patterns might allow the use of SDD at a relatively low risk for selection of resistant microorganisms, which is still the major concern associated with SDD.

J Clin Microbiol, 2003 Mar, 41(3), 1073 - 9
Quantitative microbiologic models for preterm delivery; Onderdonk AB et al.; Preterm delivery (PTD) is the leading cause of infant morbidity and mortality in the United States . An epidemiological association between PTD and various bacteria that are part of the vaginal microflora has been reported . No single bacterial species has been identified as being causally associated with PTD, suggesting a multifactorial etiology . Quantitative microbiologic cultures have been used previously to define normal vaginal microflora in a predictive model . These techniques have been applied to vaginal swab cultures from pregnant women in an effort to develop predictive microbiologic models for PTD . Logistic regression analysis with microbiologic information was performed for various risk groups, and the probability of a PTD was calculated for each subject . Four predictive models were generated by using the quantitative microbiologic data . The area under the curve (AUC) for the receiver operating curves ranged from 0.74 to 0.94, with confidence intervals (CI) ranging from 0.62 to 1 . The model for the previous PTD risk group with the highest percentage of PTDs had an AUC of 0.91 (CI, 0.79 to 1) . It may be possible to predict PTD by using microbiologic risk factors measured once the gestation period has reached the 20-week time point.

Best Pract Res Clin Gastroenterol, 2003 Feb, 17(1), 47 - 61
Manipulation of the bacterial flora in inflammatory bowel disease; Marteau P et al.; In this chapter we summarize the clinical and experimental data which indicate that bacteria, especially from the endogenous microflora, play a role in the pathogenesis of Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis and pouchitis . We review the clinical trials, focusing on randomized controlled trials which used antibiotics or probiotics to treat situations of IBD or prevent recurrence, and we discuss the future of this approach.

Curr Opin Microbiol, 2003 Feb, 6(1), 72 - 6
Interactions of bacterial pathogens with dendritic cells during invasion of mucosal surfaces; Granucci F et al.; Recent studies of mucosal immunity suggest a key role for dendritic cells in the regulation of gut immune responses, in both physiological and pathological conditions . Dendritic cells are widely distributed in the lamina propria of the gut and are involved in direct bacterial uptake across mucosal surfaces, which questions the role of dendritic cells in innate mucosal responses . Approximately 400 commensal microbial species are present in the gut lumen . So how do dendritic cells distinguish pathogens from luminal microflora? Are the cytokines and chemokines induced in dendritic cells tailored to the class of microbes being recognized? Several very important questions still need to be addressed.

Chemosphere, 2003 May, 51(7), 569 - 76
Inoculation of an atrazine-degrading strain, Chelatobacter heintzii Cit1, in four different soils: effects of different inoculum densities; Rousseaux S et al.; The possibility to improve atrazine degradation in soils by bioaugmentation was studied . The atrazine-mineralizing strain, Chelatobacter heintzii Cit1, was inoculated in four sterile and four non-sterile soils, at varying inoculum densities . Two soils, which had shown enhanced atrazine mineralization, were used to determine which inoculum density was capable of restoring their original mineralizing capacity after sterilization . The two other soils, with intermediate and low capacity to mineralize atrazine, were used in order to demonstrate that atrazine mineralization in such soils could be improved by inoculation . Mineralization kinetics were fitted using the Gompertz model . In the case of soils adapted to atrazine mineralization, inoculation of C . heintzii did not accelerate the rate of atrazine mineralization, which was essentially performed by the indigenous microflora . However, with soils that did not mineralize atrazine, the introduction of 10(4) cfug(-1) resulted in a 3-fold increase of atrazine mineralization capacity.

J Microbiol Methods, 2003 Apr, 53(1), 67 - 76
Direct quantification of fungal DNA from soil substrate using real-time PCR; Filion M et al.; Detection and quantification of genomic DNA from two ecologically different fungi, the plant pathogen Fusarium solani f . sp . phaseoli and the arbuscular mycorrhizal fungus Glomus intraradices, was achieved from soil substrate . Specific primers targeting a 362-bp fragment from the SSU rRNA gene region of G . intraradices and a 562-bp fragment from the F . solani f . sp . phaseoli translation elongation factor 1 alpha gene were used in real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays conjugated with the fluorescent SYBR(R) Green I dye . Standard curves showed a linear relation (r(2)=0.999) between log values of fungal genomic DNA of each species and real-time PCR threshold cycles and were quantitative over 4-5 orders of magnitude . Real-time PCR assays were applied to in vitro-produced fungal structures and sterile and non-sterile soil substrate seeded with known propagule numbers of either fungi . Detection and genomic DNA quantification was obtained from the different treatments, while no amplicon was detected from non-seeded non-sterile soil samples, confirming the absence of cross-reactivity with the soil microflora DNA . A significant correlation (P<0.0001) was obtained between the amount of genomic DNA of F . solani f . sp . phaseoli or G . intraradices detected and the number of fungal propagules present in seeded soil substrate . The DNA extraction protocol and real-time PCR quantification assay can be performed in less than 2 h and is adaptable to detect and quantify genomic DNA from other soilborne fungi.

Hua Xi Kou Qiang Yi Xue Za Zhi, 2002 Oct, 20(5), 356 - 60
{Oral microflora of 42 patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma}; Lu X et al.; OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of squamous cell carcinoma on oral bacteria . METHODS: This study investigated the microbial contents of the plaque on the surfaces of oral squamous cell carcinomas . Samples were obtained from the central surface of lesions, contiguous healthy mucosa and saliva of 42 patients with oral squamous carcinoma before and after operation . RESULTS: The median of bacterial colony forming units per milliliter (CFUs/ml) of saliva before operation was 8.10 x 10(8) CFUs/ml . The median of CFUs per square centimeter of the tumor surface was 5.21 x 10(5) CFUs/cm2 which was significantly higher than that of the healthy (the control) mucosa (1.77 x 10(4) CFUs/cm2, P = 0.0001) . The CFUs per square centimeter of mucosa surface at the operative zone was 4.34 x 10(5) CFUs/cm2 which was also significantly higher than that of the healthy (control) mucosa(7.24 x 10(4) CFUs/cm2, P = 0.0001) . CONCLUSION: Oral carcinoma can break the balance of oral microflora, which may be one of the reasons leading to the high susceptivity of these compromised patients to systemic infection.

Environ Int, 2003 Mar, 28(8), 719 - 28
Habitat function of agricultural soils as affected by heavy metals and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons contamination; Maliszewska-Kordybach B et al.; Ecotoxic activity of soils polluted with polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) and heavy metals (HM) was evaluated in pot and laboratory experiments . Plants and soil microorganisms were chosen as test organisms and six different soil materials were used in the study . The applied levels of HM and PAH were aimed to reflect environmental conditions in the "worst case" situation . Zn(2+), Pb(2+) and Cd(2+) were introduced to the soils as an aqueous solution of the mixture of salts at the concentrations corresponding to 1000, 500 and 3 mg kg(-1), respectively . Mixture of four PAH compounds (flourene, anthracene, pyrene and chrysene) as a CH(2)Cl(2) solution was applied at levels of 10-100 mg summation operator 4PAH kg(-1) . Population and activity of soil microflora was evaluated as measured of total bacteria counts, intensity of respiration and enzyme activity (dehydrogenases and phosphatases) . Effect on plants was evaluated on the base of the growth (plant at an early stage of their development) and yield (mature plant) measurements . The results indicate that combined effect of PAH and heavy metals on soil microorganisms activity and on some plants at an early stage of their development can be stronger than in soils amended with HM or PAH separately . Reaction of tested organisms was related to soil properties, PAH concentration, time and plant species . Mature plants (maize) were insensitive to the applied levels of both group of contaminants.

J Pharmacol Exp Ther, 2003 Mar, 304(3), 985 - 93
Soy-derived isoflavones exert opposing actions on Guinea pig ventricular myocytes; Liew R et al.; Soy-derived isoflavones appear to possess cardioprotective properties, although the precise nature of this protection and the particular isoflavones responsible remain unclear . We hypothesized that isoflavones may differ in their cardiac actions in view of their varying affinities for the estrogen receptor and differences in ability to inhibit tyrosine kinase . We investigated the direct effects of three closely related isoflavones, genistein, daidzein, and equol (a metabolite of daidzein formed by gut microflora), on the contractile function of isolated guinea pig ventricular myocytes . Genistein (10 and 40 microM) significantly increased cell shortening and the Ca(2+) transient (measured using indo-1) . In contrast, equivalent concentrations of equol produced the opposite effect, decreasing cell shortening and the Ca(2+) transient, whereas daidzein was without effect . The opposing actions of genistein and equol were still observed in the presence of the specific estrogen receptor antagonist ICI 182,780 (10 microM) . However, the stimulatory actions of genistein were markedly reduced in the presence of the potent phosphotyrosine phosphatase inhibitor, bpV(phen) . Both genistein and equol significantly inhibited the peak L-type Ca(2+) current . We conclude that genistein and equol affect the contractile function of ventricular myocytes in opposing ways despite a common initial action of Ca(2+) current antagonism . These differences occur independently of the estrogen receptor but may be partly related to the unique actions of genistein as a tyrosine kinase inhibitor . Furthermore, isoflavone metabolites, such as equol, may be more biologically active than their precursors and have a greater role in cardioprotection than previously realized.

Antimicrob Agents Chemother, 2003 Mar, 47(3), 878 - 82
Prevalence of tetracycline resistance genes in oral bacteria; Villedieu A et al.; Tetracycline is a broad-spectrum antibiotic used in humans, animals, and aquaculture; therefore, many bacteria from different ecosystems are exposed to this antibiotic . In order to determine the genetic basis for resistance to tetracycline in bacteria from the oral cavity, saliva and dental plaque samples were obtained from 20 healthy adults who had not taken antibiotics during the previous 3 months . The samples were screened for the presence of bacteria resistant to tetracycline, and the tetracycline resistance genes in these isolates were identified by multiplex PCR and DNA sequencing . Tetracycline-resistant bacteria constituted an average of 11% of the total cultivable oral microflora . A representative 105 tetracycline-resistant isolates from the 20 samples were investigated; most of the isolates carried tetracycline resistance genes encoding a ribosomal protection protein . The most common tet gene identified was tet(M), which was found in 79% of all the isolates . The second most common gene identified was tet(W), which was found in 21% of all the isolates, followed by tet(O) and tet(Q) (10.5 and 9.5% of the isolates, respectively) and then tet(S) (2.8% of the isolates) . Tetracycline resistance genes encoding an efflux protein were detected in 4.8% of all the tetracycline-resistant isolates; 2.8% of the isolates had tet(L) and 1% carried tet(A) and tet(K) each . The results have shown that a variety of tetracycline resistance genes are present in the oral microflora of healthy adults . This is the first report of tet(W) in oral bacteria and the first report to show that tet(O), tet(Q), tet(A), and tet(S) can be found in some oral species.

Vopr Pitan, 2002, 71(5), 34 - 8
{Resistant starches and immune system}; Sotnikova EV et al.; Different absorbtion level is inherent capacities for natural, resistant and hydrolized starches to regulate a volume of non-hydrolyzed starches in colon . This regulates an interaction with intestinal microflora to produce the short chain fatty acids and other bio-active compounds . The T- and B-lymphocyte receptors are targets for starches to disrupt the number and density of plasma membrane receptors CD3, CD4, and CD8 . All starches regulate the expression of adhesion molecules LFA-1 and ICAM-1, as well as receptor Mac-1 . Maize starch increases the level of spontaneous and ceramide-dependent apoptosis in thymic and spleen cells of experimental animals.

Nippon Geka Gakkai Zasshi, 2002 Dec, 103(12), 869 - 72
{Biliary bacterial infection in liver surgery}; Arai T et al.; Hepatectomy for biliary tract carcinoma with obstructive jaundice is associated with a higher incidence of postoperative septic complications as compared with hepatectomy for hepatocellular carcinoma or metastatic liver cancer . Since most bacteria isolated from septic sites are identical to those found in the preoperative percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage (PTBD) bile, bacterial colonization in bile appears to be responsible for posthepatectomy septic complications in patients with biliary tract carcinoma . Although it remains unclear how bile becomes contaminated after bile duct obstruction or why preoperative PTBD increases the incidence of biliary infection, bacterial translocation via the portal vein, resulting from loss of integrity of the intestinal mucosa and change in intestinal microflora, may in part account for the mechanisms . Moreover, impaired function of Kupffer cells and altered structure and function of hepatocyte tight junctions might also participate in the development of postoperative bacteremia in such patients . As septic complications and liver failure are profoundly associated with each other, it is important to take all measures before surgery to enhance liver function and to prevent postoperative septic complications.

Med Tr Prom Ekol, 2002, (12), 21 - 7
{State of nonspecific anti-infection resistance among medical personnel}; Koroleva EP et al.; The authors compared nonspecific anti-infectious resistance among medical staffers varying in speciality . Skin microflora parameters and salivary lysozyme content appeared to be considerably lower in obstetric staffers and in State sanitary and epidemiologic supervision officers than in general population.

Breastfeed Rev, 2002 Nov, 10(3), 5 - 18
The impact of breastmilk on infant and child health; Oddy WH; Infant-formula-feeding is inferior to breastfeeding because human milk provides specific and non-specific factors that have long-term consequences for early metabolism and the development of disease . Human milk enhances the immature immunologic system of the neonate and strengthens host defense mechanisms against infective and other foreign agents . Some mechanisms that explain active stimulation of the infant's immune system by breastfeeding are the bioactive factors in human milk such as hormones, growth factors and colony stimulating factors, as well as specific nutrients . Human milk may reduce the incidence of disease in infancy because mammalian evolution promotes a survival advantage . In addition, factors in milk promote gastrointestinal mucosal maturation, decrease the incidence of infection, alter gut microflora, and have immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory functions . Hormones, growth factors and cytokines in human milk may modulate the development of disease . Furthermore breastfed babies have reduced exposure to foreign dietary antigen . Following the termination of breastfeeding, there is evidence of ongoing protection against illness due to protective influences on the immune system mediated via human milk . Industry continues to attempt to improve infant formula with the addition of compounds such as fatty acids, oligosaccharides, nucleotides and lactoferrin . However, human milk has such far-reaching effects on the infant's immune response that optimal development depends heavily on its provision . All mothers should be encouraged and supported to continue breastfeeding for six months and beyond in order to promote the good health of their infants.

Digestion, 2002, 66(4), 246 - 56
Inhibition of intestinal bacterial translocation with rifaximin modulates lamina propria monocytic cells reactivity and protects against inflammation in a rodent model of colitis; Fiorucci S et al.; BACKGROUND: A modification of the intestinal flora and an increased bacterial translocation is a common finding in patients with inflammatory bowel disease as well as in animal model of colitis . Rifaximin, a non-absorbable derivative of rifamycin, is an effective antibiotic that acts by inhibiting bacterial ribonucleic acid synthesis . AIMS: In the present study, we investigated the effect of the administration of rifaximin (10, 30 and 50 mg/kg/day) or prednisolone (10 mg/kg/day) in 2,4,6-trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS)-induced colitis in mice . METHODS: Colitis was induced in mice by intrarectal administration of TNBS (1.5 mg/mouse in 50% ethanol) and disease severity assessed clinically and by histologic scoring of colon damage, determination of interleukin (IL)-2, IL-12, interferon (IFN)-gamma and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha (protein and mRNA and myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity in the colon . Cytokines production by the lamina propria mononuclear cells (LPMC) and luminal bacteria were also measured . RESULTS: Rifaximin administration (30 or 50 mg/kg/day) increased survival rates of colitic mice and reduced colitis severity as demonstrated by improvement of wasting syndrome, histologic scores, decrease in colon IL-2, IL-12, IFN-gamma and TNF-alpha (protein and mRNA) levels, and diminished colon MPO activity . Rifaximin administration caused a significant reduction of colon bacterial translocation towards mesenteric lymph nodes . LPMC obtained from rifaximin-treated mice released significantly lower amount of IFN-gamma in response to ex vivo stimulation with agonistic anti-CD3 and anti-CD28 antibodies . Rifaximin (50 mg/kg/day) significantly accelerates recovery in mice with established colitis . CONCLUSIONS: Luminal bacterial microflora plays a role in the pathogenesis of TNBS-induced colitis in mice . Rifaximin administration reduces the development of colitis and accelerates healing of established disease by preventing bacterial translocation .

Lancet, 2003 Feb 8, 361(9356), 512 - 9
Gut flora in health and disease; Guarner F et al.; The human gut is the natural habitat for a large and dynamic bacterial community, but a substantial part of these bacterial populations are still to be described . However, the relevance and effect of resident bacteria on a host's physiology and pathology has been well documented . Major functions of the gut microflora include metabolic activities that result in salvage of energy and absorbable nutrients, important trophic effects on intestinal epithelia and on immune structure and function, and protection of the colonised host against invasion by alien microbes . Gut flora might also be an essential factor in certain pathological disorders, including multisystem organ failure, colon cancer, and inflammatory bowel diseases . Nevertheless, bacteria are also useful in promotion of human health . Probiotics and prebiotics are known to have a role in prevention or treatment of some diseases.

J Invest Surg, 2002 Nov-Dec, 15(6), 303 - 10
Hyperbaric oxygen prevents bacterial translocation in thermally injured rats; Akin ML et al.; This study was designed to evaluate the effects of hyperbaric oxygen (HBO2) on intestinal microflora and bacterial translocation (BT) caused by experimentally induced thermal injury in rats . Rats were separated into four groups, namely, HBO2 group, thermal injury (TI) group, TI + HBO2 group, and control group . All groups were further separated into short-term (2 days) and long-term (7 days) treatment or injury groups . Control group was neither exposed to thermal injury nor was given any treatment . Thirty percent second-degree thermal burn was induced on the dorsal body part of the rats in TI groups . In the HBO2 groups, rats received HBO2 treatment either without TI or following TI induction, for 2 and 7 days, respectively . Sampling from tissues and portal vein was performed on day 3 in the short-term groups and on day 8 in the long-term groups . Samples were cultured for identification of bacteria and colony counts . HBO2 treatment significantly reduced the colony counts of endogenous microflora in distal ileum of healthy rats (p < .05), while TI significantly increased the colony counts of endogenous microflora in distal ileum in short and long-term TI groups (p < .05) . Presence of bacterial translocation was proven by bacterial isolation in mesenteric lymph nodes, liver, spleen and blood . Both short- and long-term HBO2 treatment following TI significantly reduced the colony counts of intestinal microflora (p < .05) and prevented bacterial translocation almost completely . It is concluded that thermal injury causes both bacterial overgrowth within intestinal lumen and bacterial translocation across the intestinal wall . HBO2 administration prevents both bacterial overgrowth and translocation.

Crit Care Med, 2003 Feb, 31(2), 598 - 607
Influence of the critically ill state on host-pathogen interactions within the intestine: gut-derived sepsis redefined; Alverdy JC et al.; Severe and prolonged states of catabolic stress have been shown to have profound effects on the intestinal tract microflora and intestinal function . Gut-derived sepsis is a term used to describe a state of systemic inflammation with organ dysfunction after severe catabolic stress hypothesized to be initiated and perpetuated by the intestinal tract microflora . Popular notions of the mechanism of this process have suggested that stress promotes the translocation of intestinal bacteria or their toxins into the systemic compartment resulting in the release of proinflammatory cytokines which participate in the systemic inflammatory response syndrome . This review is an attempt to redefine the mechanism of gut-derived sepsis by focusing on molecular events that result from host-pathogen interactions within the intestinal tract itself . This evidence-based review posits that gut-derived bacteremia, even with potent nosocomial pathogens, is an event of low proinflammatory potential and, itself, is an insufficient stimulus for the systemic inflammatory response and organ failure state typically seen after severe and prolonged catabolic stress . Mechanisms of this apparent paradox are discussed.

J Gastroenterol, 2002 Nov, 37 Suppl 14, 73 - 7
Intestinal microflora as a therapeutic target in inflammatory bowel disease; Mitsuyama K et al.; Although the causes of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) remain incompletely understood, increasing evidence implicates intestinal microflora in the pathogenesis of these disorders . Alteration of intestinal flora therefore may offer a plausible therapeutic approach . Although recent data support a potential therapeutic role for probiotics and prebiotics in patients with IBD, such treatments need to be further assessed by large, double-blind controlled trials . A better understanding of the intestinal microflora and the mechanisms of their action may help us to develop more effective treatment for IBD.

Indian J Exp Biol, 2002 Jan, 40(1), 83 - 8
Effect of formulated diet on digestive enzymes of Labeo rohita (Ham.); Sethuramalingam TA et al.; Six sets of feeding experiments were carried out using formulated diets containing prawn head waste (PW), chicken intestine waste (CW), banana flower (BF), cauliflower waste (CAU) Dolicos lab lab (DLL) and groundnut leaf (GNL) in four levels of inclusion (15, 30, 45 and 60%) to assess the pattern of distribution and activities of digestive enzymes like cellulase, amylase, maltase, invertase, protease and lipase in the digestive tracts of Labeo rohita fingerlings . A control group of fish was fed with diets containing antibiotics to destroy the digestive tract microflora which may induce digestive functions . In general, the activity of digestive enzymes depended on the amount and type of the ingredients present in the diets ingested by the fish . Test animals showed both endogenous and bacterial cellulase activities which suggests the necessity for including cellulose (plant protein source) as dietary ingredient . Occurrence of higher amount of cellulase in the foregut and amylase in the fore and midgut influenced by DNL and GNL diets revealed the possibility of including less than 40% of the respective ingredients in the diet of rohu . Maltase and invertase were highly influenced by GNL, DLL and BF diets than PW and CW diets . More than 40% inclusion of PW and CW was found to increase protease and lipase secretion in the midgut and hindgut regions . The higher secretion of lipase in the midgut suggested the physiological versatility for lipid digestion in rohu fingerlings.

Ann Surg, 2003 Feb, 237(2), 246 - 55
Protective effects of medium-chain triglycerides on the liver and gut in rats administered endotoxin; Kono H et al.; OBJECTIVE: To determine if medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) prevent organ injuries and mortality in rats administered endotoxin and to investigate effects of MCT on the gut . SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA: Since dietary MCTs prevent alcohol-induced liver injury by inhibiting activation of Kupffer cells in the enteral feeding model, the authors hypothesized that MCT could prevent deleterious conditions in endotoxemia . METHODS: After a preliminary experiment determined the optimal dose of MCT, rats were given MCT (5 g/kg per day) or the same dose of corn oil by gavage daily for 1 week . Then, lipopolysaccharide (LPS) was administered intravenously and survival was assessed for the next 24 hours . For analysis of mechanisms, rats were killed 9 hours after LPS injection and serum and liver sections were collected . To investigate effects of MCT on the gut, pathologic change, permeability, and microflora were assessed . Kupffer cells isolated by collagenase digestion and differential centrifugation were used for endotoxin receptor CD14 immunoblotting, phagocytic index, and TNF-alpha production assay . RESULTS: All rats given corn oil died after LPS administration; however, this mortality was prevented by MCT in a dose-dependent manner . Rats given corn oil showed liver injury after LPS administration . In contrast, MCT prevented this pathologic change nearly completely . MCT blunted CD14 expression on the Kupffer cells and TNF-alpha production by isolated Kupffer cells; however, there were no differences in phagocytic index between the two groups . The length of the intestinal epithelium was increased in the MCT group compared to the corn oil group . Further, after LPS administration, increases in gut permeability and injury were prevented by MCT . Importantly, MCT also prevented hepatic energy charge and gut injuries in this condition . CONCLUSIONS: Enteral feeding using MCT could be a practical way of protecting the liver and intestine during endotoxemia.

J Can Dent Assoc, 2003 Feb, 69(2), 84 - 9
Dental erosion in gastroesophageal reflux disease; Barron RP et al.; Dentists are often the first health care professionals to diagnose dental erosion in patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) . Gastroesophageal reflux (GER) is the passage of gastric contents into the esophagus, and GERD is defined as symptoms or complications of GER . Twenty-four-hour monitoring of esophageal pH is helpful in diagnosing GERD . Treatment of dental erosion resulting from GERD involves a multidisciplinary approach among family physician, dentist, prosthodontist, orthodontist and gastroenterologist . When possible, dental erosion should be treated with minimal intervention, and such treatment should include control of microflora, remineralization, adhesive restorations and use of biomimetic materials.

Eur J Pharm Sci, 2003 Jan, 18(1), 3 - 18
Microbially triggered drug delivery to the colon; Sinha VR et al.; Increasing acceptance of protein- and peptide-based drugs necessitates an investigation into the suitability of various sites for their administration . Colon is being investigated for delivery of such molecules . Colon-specific drug delivery is designed to target drug molecules specifically to this area . Development of site-specific delivery systems may exploit a specific property of the target site for drug activation/release . The gastrointestinal tract is inhabited by over 400 bacterial species, each having a specific niche in the tract . Colon, the distal part of the intestine is inhabited by a large variety of gram negative microflora . This flora produces a vast number of enzymes which are being exploited for formulation of colon-specific drug delivery systems . A number of microbially activated systems for colon-specific drug delivery are being evaluated . These include prodrugs and synthetic or natural polymer-based delivery systems . This article aims at reviewing the various microbially activated drug delivery systems for colon-specific drug delivery with specific reference to the microflora of the various segments of the gastrointestinal tract and their role in targeting drug delivery to the colon.

Hua Xi Kou Qiang Yi Xue Za Zhi, 2001 Jun, 19(3), 164 - 6
{Clinical study on effects of root canal instrumentation on the root canal microflora}; He J et al.; OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effects of instrumentation and ultrasonic treatment on the root canal flora . METHODS: A total of 21 single-rooted teeth with chronic apical periodontitis were selected and prepared using step-back/ultrasonic technique, Samples were taken before and after the step-back preparation, and after the ultrasonic treatment . RESULTS: The number and species of bacteria in the root canal were both reduced dramatically and there were significant differences among the three groups (P < 0.05) . CONCLUSION: The instrumentation and ultrasonic treatment of root canal can effectively reduce the number and species of root canal microflora.

Stomatologiia (Mosk), 2002, 81(5), 48 - 50
{Role of microflora in diseases of the buccal mucosa}; Rabinovich IM et al.; The role of microflora was studied in patients with diseases of the buccal mucosa (aphthous stomatitis, lichen planus, leukoplasia, desquamative glossitis, etc.) . Quantitative and qualitative composition of the microflora and its sensitivity to antibiotics, antifungal agents, and bacteriophages were studied . The following changes in the microflora were distinguished: dysbiotic shift, dysbacteriosis of the I-II, III, and IV degree . Microbiological status of patients with diseases of the buccal mucosa is essential for the course, outcome, and prognosis of the underlying diseases.

Jpn J Antibiot, 2002 Oct, 55(5), 493 - 9
{Overview of lipophilic yeast Malassezia: the current status of the molecular diagnosis}; Yamada Y et al.; The lipophilic yeast, genus Malassezia is a part of the normal cutaneous microflora of human and warm-blooded vertebrates . Species of the genera were re-classified to seven species; M . pachydermatis, M . globosa, M . furfur, M . obtusa, M . restricta, M . slooffiae and M . sympodialis . However, the means of species identification in conventional clinical laboratories have not been reported and the clinical significance of each species is not clearly understood . Species identifications of genus Malassezia which depend on the morphological, physiological characters are difficult and time-consuming . Recently, many molecular techniques have been developed for identification or typing of Malassezia . PCR-mediated methods, PCR-direct sequencing and nested-PCR using specific primers, are useful to identify the spices . The basic information obtained from these approaches have been contributing to the understanding of these pathogenic yeasts and related diseases.

J Allergy Clin Immunol, 2003 Jan, 111(1), 51 - 6
Mode of delivery and risk of allergic rhinitis and asthma; Bager P et al.; BACKGROUND: It has been hypothesized that cesarean section might increase the risk of developing allergic disease by depriving the fetus and newborn of exposure to maternal microflora . Furthermore, it has been suggested that complicated modes of delivery might be associated with an increased risk of asthma . OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this investigation was to study whether cesarean section and other complicated modes of delivery are associated with an increased risk of allergic rhinitis or asthma . METHODS: Information on self-reported allergic rhinitis, asthma ever, current asthma, and occupation was obtained from 9722 singleton women born in Denmark during the period 1973-1977 who participated in a national cohort study during the period 1997-2001 . For these women, information was available on mode of delivery (spontaneous delivery, cesarean section, vacuum extraction, or other complicated mode of delivery, such as rotation/traction or use of forceps), gestational age, birth weight, and length at birth from the Danish Medical Birth Register . Information on parity and maternal age was obtained from the Danish Civil Registration System . RESULTS: The odds ratios (ORs) of allergic rhinitis were 1.16 (95% CI, 0.90-1.49) for cesarean section and 1.06 (95% CI, 0.85-1.32) for other complicated modes of delivery in comparison with spontaneous delivery . The corresponding ORs of asthma ever were 1.33 (95% CI, 1.02-1.74) and 1.18 (95% CI, 0.94-1.49) for cesarean section and other complicated modes of delivery, respectively, and the ORs of current asthma were 1.22 (95% CI, 0.87-1.73) and 1.26 (95% CI, 0.94-1.68), respectively, in comparison with spontaneous delivery . CONCLUSIONS: Our findings do not support the hypothesis that cesarean section or other complicated modes of delivery are associated with the development of allergic rhinitis . However, there might be a positive association with development of asthma--in particular, for cesarean section--that was not explained by gestational age, birth weight, ponderal index, smallness for gestational age, parity, maternal age, or occupation.

J Perinat Med, 2002, 30(6), 467 - 75
Socioeconomic and environmental risk factors of bacterial vaginosis in early pregnancy; Kalinka J et al.; The main aim of this prospective study was to determine the socioeconomic, demographic and environmental factors that may be associated with the occurrence of bacterial vaginosis at early pregnancy in an indigent population from Central Poland . A group of 196 pregnant women was selected randomly from the patients of 10 district maternity units in the Lodz region, Central Poland . Only singleton pregnancies between 8 and 16 week of gestation were qualified for inclusion in the survey . A standard questionnaire covering medical, socioeconomic, demographic, constitutional and environmental items was administered to every subject and was verified with medical records . Cervico-vaginal swabs were collected from the women under study and tested for bacterial vaginosis (BV) according to Spiegel's criteria . Based on the results of Gram stain, BV was diagnosed in 51 women (28.5%), grade I microflora among 66 (36.9%) and grade II among 62 women (34.6%) . In the univariate analysis, only single marital status proved to be an important risk factor associated with BV during pregnancy, this was confirmed in the multivariate analysis . Pregnant women who present risk factors for abnormal cervico-vaginal microflora should be covered by comprehensive prenatal surveillance, which enables early detection and treatment of this pathology . Research that identifies the causal pathways and mechanisms through which social disadvantage leads to a higher risk of preterm birth may help to reduce current socioeconomic and demographic disparities and improve pregnancy outcome.

Mikrobiologiia, 2002 Nov-Dec, 71(6), 849 - 57
{Dynamics of microbial processes in the stratal waters of the Romashkinskoe oil field}; Tarasov AL et al.; Dynamics of the microbial processes developing in parallel with the exploitation of the Romashkinskoe oil field (Tatarstan) was studied in two areas differing in the degree of stratal water freshening . Flooding the strata in conjunction with purposeful measures on stratal microflora activation was shown to increase the microbial population density and activate both methanogenesis and sulfate-reduction; the latter process was limited by the low sulfate concentration . Development of anaerobic processes correlated with changes in acetate concentration in the stratal water . High mineralization (over 200 g/l) inhibited the stratal water microflora even if other conditions were favorable . Isotopic analysis of the carbonate carbon showed that the bicarbonate concentration increased in the stratal water due to microbial degradation of oil hydrocarbons and further participation of the biogenic carbon dioxide in dissolution of the carbonate cement of the oil-bearing strata . In strongly desalinated stratal water, the proportion of the newly formed bicarbonate was as high as 80%.

J Immunol, 2003 Jan 15, 170(2), 816 - 22
Microbial colonization drives lymphocyte accumulation and differentiation in the follicle-associated epithelium of Peyer's patches; Yamanaka T et al.; Peyer's patches (PPs) are lined by follicle-associated epithelium (FAE) with Ag-transporting M cells . To investigate the spatial relationships of B cells, T cells, and dendritic cells (DCs) in PPs during microbial colonization, their in situ redistribution was examined in germfree (GF) rats exposed to a conventional pathogen-free microflora (conventionalized, CV) . Although occasional B and T cells occurred in the FAE of GF rats, it contained mainly immature DCs (CD4(+)CD86(-)), whereas mature DCs (CD86(high)) were seen in the interfollicular zones even under GF conditions . In CV rats, DCs had disappeared from the FAE, which instead contained clusters by B and T cells associated with induction of putative M cell pockets . CD86 was seen neither in the FAE nor in the follicles under GF conditions, but it became apparent on intraepithelial B cells 5 wk after colonization . The level of CD86 on these B cells was comparable to that on germinal center B cells, although the B cell follicles did not show direct contact with the M cell areas . B cells in the follicular mantles acquired Bcl-2 after 12 wk in CV rats, whereas B cells in the FAE did not express Bcl-2 at a substantial level throughout the experimental period . The cellular redistribution patterns and phenotypic characteristics observed after colonization suggested that immature DCs, but not B cells, are involved in Ag presentation during primary immune responses against intestinal bacteria . However, the spatial cellular relationships sequentially being established among DCs, B cells, and T cells in PPs, are most likely important for the induction of post-germinal center B cells subsequently residing within the M cell pockets.

ASDC J Dent Child, 2002 May-Aug, 69(2), 143 - 7, 123
Clinical and microbiological changes in a child with rapid alveolar bone loss and refill; Ooshima T et al.; A 10-year-old Japanese girl with severe tooth mobility in her lower permanent incisors was examined clinically, as well as radiographic and microbiological means . The incisors had severe alveolar bond loss and pocket depths exceeding 7 mm at the first visit, however, 10 periodontal bacteria were not detected in subgingival plaque samples taken from the lower central incisors using a 16S rRNA-based polymerase chain reaction method . Periodontal treatment consisting of mechanical debridement and antibiltic medication resulted in a significant improvement of the clinical parameters . Three months after the first examination, dental radiographs showed refilling of alveolar bone in the region . Further, microbiological examinations after remission detected only oral microflora commonly found in health children including A . actinomycetemcomitans . Based on the clinical, readiographic, and microbiological findings, the present case was diagnosed as acute periodontitis.

Zh Mikrobiol Epidemiol Immunobiol, 2002 Nov-Dec, (6), 91 - 9
{Microbial ecology of the vagina}; Kafarskaia LI et al.; In this review recent information on relationships between the vaginal environment and microflora, including new taxonomic groups of microorganisms, is updated . The role of normal microflora in formation of vaginal colonization resistance and possible participation of some representatives of normal microflora, mainly nonsporulating anaerobic organisms, in the development of perinatal, neonatal and gynecological infectious complications are considered.

Br J Nutr, 2002 Nov, 88 Suppl 2, S159 - 63
Gastrointestinal physiology and functions; Schneeman BO; While the health benefit of a functional food may be a metabolic response that lowers risk for disease, the actual target for the food or food component may be on the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) . For example, slowing absorption from the intestine, as measured by examining the appearance of the nutrient or food component in the blood, the hormone response associated with absorption of the compound or excretion of the compound, may provide a health benefit . However, the food component may slow absorption by delaying gastric emptying, altering the mixing within the intestinal contents or decreasing the availability of digestive enzymes in the intestine . These measures of GIT function provide validation of the mechanisms by which the functional food or food components affect metabolism . Bioavailability of physiologically active compounds from foods will be determined by the digestibility of foods that contain these compounds, their subsequent absorption and utilization by tissues . The physical structure of foods contributes to the functional effects of foods as well as to the availability of compounds from foods . For example, recent studies have demonstrated that changing the viscosity of the gut contents alters absorption and GIT response . Additionally, food structures such as the plant cell wall change the availability of absorbable compounds along the gastrointestinal contents . The areas of probiotics and prebiotics have highlighted the potential importance of gut microflora in health . While evidence suggests biological activity relevant to disease risk reduction, the long-term implications of the microbial activity have yet to be established.

J Gen Appl Microbiol, 2000 Jun, 46(3), 105 - 111
Isolation and enumeration of marine actinomycetes from seawater and sediments in Alexandria; Ghanem NB et al.; Actinomycetes were isolated from near-shore marine sediments and water at four different sites in Alexandria . Statistical analysis revealed that variation in temperature, pH, and dissolved phosphate were of insignificant values, but that variation in total nitrogen and organic matter were significant . The treatment of sediments and water samples by heat resulted in a selective reduction of the nonactinomycetal heterotrophic microflora . Four selective culture media were used for counting actinomycetes in marine water and sediments . The starch nitrate medium favored the growth of these microorganisms . The diversity and counts of actinomycetes varied with the seasonal variation, and the highest counts were detected in dry warm seasons . The numbers of this bacterial group in sediments exceeded by far their numbers in seawater . A positive correlation was found between population size and location . Actinomycetes were found in the highest numbers in the upper layers (0-20 cm depth) . In a few cases, the counts of actinomycetes showed bimodal maxima 0-20 and 60-100 cm deep . Sediments were the best source of marine actinomycetes, and their distribution varied depending on the depth from which samples were collected . The ratio of actinomycetes to the total microflora ranged from 0.48 to 2.29, depending on location.

Prostate, 2003 Jan 1, 54(1), 68 - 78
Soy isoflavonoid equol modulates the growth of benign and malignant prostatic epithelial cells in vitro; Hedlund TE et al.; BACKGROUND: The dietary consumption of high levels of soy has been linked to reduced risks for prostate cancer (PC) in Asians and vegetarians . In vitro studies have focused on the two most abundant isoflavones in soy, genistein and daidzein . However, daidzein is differentially metabolized by gut microflora in humans, yielding compounds with very different bioactivities and half-lives . Asians are significantly more likely to produce the metabolite equol than Caucasians, suggesting its role in the prevention of PC . We hypothesize that equol is a bioactive metabolite that exerts direct antiproliferative effects on prostatic epithelial cells . METHODS: Benign and malignant prostatic epithelial cells were treated in vitro with equol, genistein, and daidzein by using the range of concentrations found in the prostatic fluids of Asians consuming soy . Growth and cell cycle distribution were analyzed over time . RESULTS: After 9 days of treatment, equol inhibited growth of benign human prostatic epithelial cells (PrEC) by 37% at 10(-6) M and 80% at 10(-5) M . Although genistein also had profound effects, daidzein appeared only one tenth as potent as equol . Equol and daidzein caused an accumulation of cells in G0/G1, whereas genistein arrested cells in G2/M . The isoflavonoids demonstrated differential effects on the established PC cell lines 22Rv1, LNCaP, LAPC-4, PC-3, and DU 145 . PC-3 cells showed the greatest resistance . CONCLUSION: Equol is a biologically active metabolite of daidzein that has potent antiproliferative effects on benign and malignant prostatic epithelial cells at concentrations that can be obtained naturally through dietary soy consumption .

Pest Manag Sci, 2002 Dec, 58(12), 1229 - 35
Isolation and characterization of efficient isoxaben-transforming Microbacterium sp strains from four European soils; Arrault S et al.; Nutrient-agar plates containing isoxaben (500 mg litre(-1)) were used to isolate isoxaben-metabolising bacteria from four European soils incubated with the herbicide under laboratory conditions . In flask experiments, inoculation of a basal salts medium containing nitrogen and {phenyl-U-14C}isoxaben with an isolate (B2b) resulted in 33% recovery of the initial radioactivity as {14C}carbon dioxide after 2 weeks . A major metabolite identified by GC-MS and NMR analysis as 3-(1-ethyl-1-methylpropyl)isoxazol-5-ylamine accumulated both in basal salts and nutrient broth media . 2,6-Dimethoxybenzoic acid, a suspected metabolite of isoxaben, was not detected in either liquid media . However, the capability of the B2b isolate to use 2,6-dimethoxybenzoic acid as a source of carbon was demonstrated . Soil inoculation with the B2b strain resulted in an increase in the recovery of {14C} carbon dioxide from both {phenyl-U-14C} and {isoxazole-5-14C}isoxaben . The metabolite identified as 3-(1-ethyl-1-methylpropyl)isoxazole-5-ylamine only accumulated if the soil was autoclaved before inoculation . This metabolite was rapidly mineralized by the microflora of a natural soil without history of isoxaben treatment . Homology patterns of sequenced 16S rDNA between isoxaben-transforming isolates and reference strains showed that the four isolates identified belonged to the genus Microbacterium.

FASEB J, 2003 Jan, 17(1), 44 - 6 Epub 2002 Nov 15.
The role of indigenous microflora in the development of murine intestinal fucosyl- and sialyltransferases; Nanthakumar NN et al.; Most enteric bacteria use intestinal brushborder glycoconjugates as their target host cell receptors . It has been postulated that resident microbes regulate specific glycosyltransferases that are responsible for synthesizing brushborder glycoconjugates . To investigate this hypothesis, we measured glycosyltransferase enzyme activities in intestine from different regions of maturing conventional (CONV), germ-free (GF), and ex-germ-free (XGF) mice and compared them to general enzyme markers of gut development, for example, disaccharidases . High alpha2,3/6-Sialyltransferase (ST) activity and low alpha1,2-fucosyltransferase (FT) activities were detected from duodenum to colon in suckling CONV mice, but the relative levels of these activities reversed during the third postnatal wk, rapidly reaching adult levels by the fourth wk . These age-related enzyme changes were significantly attenuated in GF mice, maintaining an immature pattern well past 3 wk . Introduction of gut microflora in GF mice rapidly initiated maturation of glycosyltransferase activity but had no significant affect on developmental programming of dissacharidases . Therefore, in mice, intestinal glycosyltransferase activities are under tissue and developmental control and microflora play a major role in their specific ontogeny but not in overall development . These findings may help explain the regional specificity of commensal bacteria and of enteric pathogens and may also relate age-related changes in microflora to susceptibility to enteropathogens.

Curr Drug Targets Infect Disord, 2002 Sep, 2(3), 193 - 9
Pandemic of atopic diseases--a lack of microbial exposure in early infancy?
Kalliomaki M, Isolauri E.
Improved hygienic conditions in Western societies have reduced early microbial exposure, which has been proposed as a reason for the continuously rising prevalence of atopy and subsequent atopic diseases: atopic eczema, allergic rhinitis and asthma (The Hygiene Hypothesis of Allergy) . This hypothesis is supported by immunological data showing that the immune response to microbial antigens, both pathogenic and non-pathogenic ones, is accompanied by preferential expression of cytokines that counterbalance the T-helper 2-polarized cytokine production of neonates, the continuity of which might lead to enhanced IgE production, atopy, and atopic disease . Experimental, epidemiological and clinical studies, conducted over the last decade, indicate that non-pathogenic microbes in the gut might be a major factor essential for the maturation of the human immune system to a nonatopic mode . A recent randomised, placebo-controlled trial demonstrated that perinatal administration of probiotics, cultures of potentially beneficial bacteria of the healthy gut microflora, halved the later development of atopic eczema during the first two years of life . Some putative mechanisms of action of gut commensals in host-microbe interactions have been described . Two structural components of bacteria, the lipopolysaccharide portion of Gram-negative bacteria and specified CpG motif in bacterial DNA, activate immunomodulatory genes via Toll-like receptors present e.g . on intestinal epithelial cells thus controlling physiological cytokine milieu in the gut . Probiotics have also been shown to reverse increased intestinal permeability and to reduce antigen load in the gut by degrading and modifying macromolecules . The actual preventive role of natural and genetically constructed supplementary microbes in the development of immunological diseases, like allergy, remains to be elucidated.

Curr Opin Biotechnol, 2002 Oct, 13(5), 490 - 6
Prebiotics and synbiotics: towards the next generation; Rastall RA et al.; Recent research in the area of prebiotic oligosaccharides and synbiotic combinations with probiotics is leading towards a more targeted development of functional food ingredients . Improved molecular techniques for analysis of the gut microflora, new manufacturing biotechnologies, and increased understanding of the metabolism of oligosaccharides by probiotics are facilitating development . Such developments are leading us to the time when we will be able to rationally develop prebiotics and synbiotics for specific functional properties and health outcomes.

Gastroenterology, 2002 Dec, 123(6), 1949 - 61
Differential localization of colitogenic Th1 and Th2 cells monospecific to a microflora-associated antigen in mice; Yoshida M et al.; BACKGROUND & AIMS: Clonal expansion of T cells is associated with inflammatory bowel diseases, which indicates antigenic activation of the T cells . We investigated whether the introduction of CD4 T cells specific to a microflora would initiate colitis and assessed the cytokine requirements for colitogenic CD4 T cells . METHODS: Severe combined immunodeficiency disease (SCID) mice were reconstituted with CD4 T cells, which were either deficient in interleukin (IL)-4/interferon (IFN)-gamma production or differentiated in vitro to T-helper (Th) 1/Th 2 and bearing a transgenic T-cell receptor (TCR) specific to ovalbumin (OVA), and then inoculated with an Escherichia coli-producing OVA (ECOVA) . Clinical and histologic manifestations of colitis were assessed . RESULTS: Mice with ECOVA colonization and OVA-specific CD4 T cells developed colitis with histologic features of focal infiltration by mononuclear cells, destruction of crypts, and loss of goblet cells . Further, infiltration was initiated in pre-existing lymph follicles . Th1- and IL-4 deficient T cells were diffusely localized in the lamina propria and submucosa, whereas Th2- and IFN-gamma-deficient T cells were localized preferentially in lymph follicles . CONCLUSIONS: A microbe-associated antigen, non-cross-reactive to colonic tissue, can drive antigen-specific CD4 T cells to cause colitis in SCID mice . Although the presence of IFN-gamma and IL-4 in the effector CD4 T cells was not an absolute requirement for the development of colitis, they seemed to regulate it in part by modulating migration of the effector T cells.

Inflamm Bowel Dis, 2002 Nov, 8(6), 399 - 406
Variable response to probiotics in two models of experimental colitis in rats; Shibolet O et al.; BACKGROUND AND AIM: Clinical and experimental data suggest an important role for intestinal microflora in the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease, and probiotics have been shown to ameliorate pouchitis . We evaluated the effect of different preparations of probiotic bacteria on experimental colitis in rats . METHODS: Rats were treated daily intragastrically with two probiotic preparations, VSL#3 or strain GG (LGG), 7 days before induction of colitis and for another week thereafter . Colitis was induced by intracolonic administration of either dinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (DNBS) or iodoacetamide . Rats were killed 7 days after induction of colitis, the colon isolated, washed, weighed, lesion area measured, and mucosa processed for determination of myeloperoxidase (MPO) and nitric oxide synthase (NOS) activities and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) generation . RESULTS: In rats cotreated with VSL#3 or LGG and iodoacetamide, there was a significant decrease in the lesion area, 98 +/- 37 mm and 142 +/- 43 mm, respectively, as compared with 342 +/- 66 mm in the control group . Colonic wet weight significantly decreased to 1.3 +/- 0.1 g/10 cm and 1.4 +/- 0.1 g/10 cm, respectively, as compared with 1.7 +/- 0.1 g/10 cm . There was also a significant decrease in PGE2 generation, MPO, and NOS activities in the VSL#3 and LGG treatment groups . Presence of VSL#3 bacteria in the rat's colon was confirmed by culture and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification . Neither probiotic preparation had an effect on the extent of colonic damage in DNBS-induced colitis . CONCLUSION: Both VSL#3 and LGG significantly ameliorated colitis induced by the sulfhydryl-blocker iodoacetamide, but had no effect on the immune-mediated DNBS-induced colitis . The results suggest a possible role for sulfhydryl compounds in the protective effect of probiotic bacteria, and support their use in patients with inflammatory bowel disease.

J Appl Microbiol, 2002, 93(6), 986 - 93
Effectiveness of chlorine washing disinfection and effects on the appearance of artichoke and borage; Sanz S et al.; AIM: Optimal conditions for chlorine application to obtain a reasonable decrease in the microbial counts without damaging the appearance of artichoke and borage have been established . METHODS AND RESULTS: The influence of chlorine concentration (0-200 mg l(-1)), pH, addition of organic acids, contact time and presence of protective structures on the microflora and vegetal appearance were studied . When pH was not controlled the effect of chlorine depended on its concentration until the pH increase caused by addition of chlorine reached 8.8 . Any further increase in chlorine concentration was nullified by the pH increase . When pH was adjusted to 4.5 with acetic acid, the effectiveness increased with concentration . However, the use of citric acid to control pH caused a sharp decrease in effectiveness at concentration about 250 mg l(-1) . The higher effectiveness of chlorine on homogenized plant extracts compared with the whole plant showed the impact of the vegetal structures on the resistance of the microorganisms . For artichoke, a relationship between the effectiveness of chlorine disinfection and its structures was also found . Extended washing times did not affect the total counts . However, in both vegetables, the appearance was affected by the extended contact times . CONCLUSIONS: The solutions rendering the highest microbial reduction with minimum damages were: 50 mg l(-1) free chlorine without pH control for artichoke and 100 mg l(-1) free chlorine at pH 7.0 for borage . SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY: Specific conditions for chlorine disinfection of artichoke and borage were determined to reduce the microorganisms in minimally processed artichoke and borage without damaging their appearance.

Appl Environ Microbiol, 2002 Dec, 68(12), 6383 - 7
Field studies using a recombinant mycoinsecticide (Metarhizium anisopliae) reveal that it is rhizosphere competent; Hu G et al.; In the summer of 2000, we released genetically altered insect-pathogenic fungi onto a plot of cabbages at a field site on the Upper Marlboro Research Station, Md . The transformed derivatives of Metarhizium anisopliae ARSEF 1080, designated GPMa and GMa, carried the Aequorea victoria green fluorescent protein (gfp) gene alone (GMa) or with additional protease genes (Pr1) (GPMa) . The study (i) confirmed the utility of gfp for monitoring pathogen strains in field populations over time, (ii) demonstrated little dissemination of transgenic strains and produced no evidence of transmission by nontarget insects, (iii) found that recombinant fungi were genetically stable over 1 year under field conditions, and (iv) determined that deployment of the transgenic strains did not depress the culturable indigenous fungal microflora . The major point of the study was to monitor the fate (survivorship) of transformants under field conditions . In nonrhizosphere soil, the amount of GMa decreased from 10(5) propagules/g at depths of 0 to 2 cm to 10(3) propagules/g after several months . However, the densities of GMa remained at 10(5) propagules/g in the inner rhizosphere, demonstrating that rhizospheric soils are a potential reservoir for M . anisopliae . These results place a sharp focus on the biology of the soil/root interphase as a site where plants, insects, and pathogens interact to determine fungal biocontrol efficacy, cycling, and survival . However, the rhizospheric effect was less marked for GPMa, and overall it showed reduced persistence in soils than did GMa.

Med Hypotheses, 2003 Jan, 60(1), 143 - 7
Alternative treatment of gallbladder disease; Moga MM; Major risk factors for gallbladder disease include a sedentary lifestyle and a diet rich in refined sugars . In genetically prone individuals, these two factors lead to an abnormal bile composition, altered gut microflora, and hyperinsulinemia, with resulting gallstone formation . As a large percentage of gallbladder patients have continued digestive complaints following cholecystectomy, the author examines complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) treatments to counteract gallstone formation . Herbal medicine such as turmeric, oregon grape, bupleurum, and coin grass may reduce gallbladder inflammation and relieve liver congestion . Elimination of offending foods, not necessarily 'fatty' foods, is often successful and recommended by many holistic physicians . Regular aerobic exercise has a beneficial effect on hyperinsulinemia, which is often associated with gallbladder disease . Dietary changes that lower plasma insulin levels, such as a change in dietary fats and substitution of unrefined carbohydrates for refined carbohydrates, may also be helpful.

Biosci Biotechnol Biochem, 2002 Oct, 66(10), 2259 - 63
Soft gel medium solidified with gellan gum for preliminary screening for root-associating, free-living nitrogen-fixing bacteria inhabiting the rhizoplane of plants; Hashidoko Y et al.; For preliminary screening for and characterization of free-living nitrogen-fixing bacteria from rhizoplane microflora, we used Winogradsky's mineral mixture-based nitrogen-free medium solidified with 0.3% gellan gum . The soft gel medium enabled some reference and wild free-living nitrogen-fixing bacteria to grow in characteristic colonies, including their reaction to oxygen and their motility change . Gellan gum is thus likely to be a better gel matrix than agarose for the investigation of root-associating, free-living nitrogen-fixing bacteria to identify their characteristic behaviors.

Antonie Van Leeuwenhoek, 2002 Aug, 81(1-4), 537 - 47
Antibiotic production by bacterial biocontrol agents; Raaijmakers JM et al.; Interest in biological control of plant pathogens has been stimulated in recent years by trends in agriculture towards greater sustainability and public concern about the use of hazardous pesticides . There is now unequivocal evidence that antibiotics play a key role in the suppression of various soilborne plant pathogens by antagonistic microorganisms . The significance of antibiotics in biocontrol, and more generally in microbial interactions, often has been questioned because of the indirect nature of the supporting evidence and the perceived constraints to antibiotic production in rhizosphere environments . Reporter gene systems and bio-analytical techniques have clearly demonstrated that antibiotics are produced in the spermosphere and rhizosphere of a variety of host plants . Several abiotic factors such as oxygen, temperature, specific carbon and nitrogen sources, and microelements have been identified to influence antibiotic production by bacteria biocontrol agents . Among the biotic factors that may play a determinative role in antibiotic production are the plant host, the pathogen, the indigenous microflora, and the cell density of the producing strain . This review presents recent advances in our understanding of antibiotic production by bacterial biocontrol agents and their role in microbial interactions.

J Clin Periodontol, 2002 Oct, 29(10), 901 - 9
Two-part implants inserted in a one-stage or a two-stage procedure . A prospective comparative study; Heydenrijk K et al.; OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of using a two-part implant system in a one-stage procedure and to monitor the microflora in the peri-implant area in relation to clinical and radiographic outcome . MATERIAL AND METHODS: After randomisation, 40 edentulous patients (Cawood & Howell class V-VI) received two IMZ implants in the anterior mandible inserted by either a one-stage (n = 20) or a two-stage (n = 20) surgical procedure for overdenture treatment . A standardised clinical and radiographic evaluation was performed after denture insertion as well as 6 and 12 months thereafter . Twelve months after loading, peri-implant samples were collected and analysed for the presence of putative periodontal pathogens using culture technique . RESULTS: No striking differences were found between the two groups with regard to the clinical parameters during the evaluation period . The mean bone loss in the first year of functioning was 0.6 mm in both groups . With regard to the gingiva score, plaque score, bleeding score or bone loss between T0 and T12, no associations were found with the presence of the cultured microorganisms . An association was present between pockets >or= 4 mm and the presence of Peptostreptococcus micros in the two-stage group . CONCLUSIONS: The short-term results indicate that two-part implants inserted in a one-stage procedure may be as predictable as inserted in the common two-stage procedure . The peri-implant sulcus can and does harbour potential periodontal pathogens without significant signs of tissue breakdown.

Lik Sprava, 2002 Jul-Sep, (5-6), 87 - 9
{Effectiveness of natural pectin-containing fruit pastes in patients with chronic enteritis}; Filak FH; As many as 56 patients with chronic enteritis in different stages aged 19-55 years were studied for myoelectrical activity of the intestines before treatment, following a single ingestion of pastes, and at the end of the course, intestinal absorptive function, and condition of the microflora . Combined treatment involving the use of pectin-containing apple paste in patients with chronic enteritis has a positive effect on the basic pathogenetic links of the disorder, which fact permits avoiding polypragmasy, undesirable medicinal preparations-associated complications, allergic reactions . It can come to be widely used in medical practice for treating patients with intestinal disorders.

Am J Obstet Gynecol, 2002 Nov, 187(5), 1267 - 71
Bacterial vaginosis and vaginal fluid defensins during pregnancy; Balu RB et al.; OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to examine the association between Gram stain findings of vaginal fluid and the concentration of vaginal fluid neutrophil defensins . STUDY DESIGN: Vaginal fluid specimens obtained from 749 women at 24 to 29 weeks of gestation were tested for bacterial vaginosis and assayed for neutrophil defensins . Bacterial vaginosis was studied as a categoric variable (negative, intermediate, and positive), whereas defensins were examined as a continuous measure and dichotomized on the basis of presence versus absence and at the 90th percentile . Multiple linear and logistic regression models were used to assess the relationship between bacterial vaginosis and defensins . RESULTS: Women with intermediate bacterial vaginosis were more likely to have elevated vaginal fluid neutrophil defensins (>90th percentile) than women with normal vaginal flora (adjusted odds ratio, 2.3; 95% CI, 1.3, 4.2), whereas women with frank bacterial vaginosis were not (adjusted odds ratio, 1.3; 95% CI, 0.7, 2.6) . Among women with any detectable defensin (69.5% of the study population), intermediate bacterial vaginosis was associated positively with defensin concentrations in multiple linear regression models (P =.007) . Women with intermediate and frank bacterial vaginosis had 5.9 microg/mL and 2.2 microg/mL higher defensin concentrations, respectively, than women who did not have bacterial vaginosis . The presence of leukocytes in vaginal fluids was associated positively with defensin concentrations (P <.0001) . CONCLUSION: Changes in vaginal microflora during mid pregnancy are associated with an increased concentration of vaginal fluid neutrophil defensins.

Mikrobiol Z, 2002 Jul-Aug, 64(4), 62 - 80
{Probiotics based on live cultures of microorganisms}; Smirnov VV et al.; The modern state of probiotic design and production was discussed in the survey . The worldwide data concerning types of probiotics and their use for restoration of resident microflora of hot-blooded animals and people were systematized . Much attention has been recently paid to the use of the natural preparations to maintain and regenerate the state of the resident microflora of animals and people . These preparations are known as probiotics . The term "probiotic" means microorganisms or substances which are capable to render sanitary effect on macroorganism . I . I . Mechnikov's concept on detoxifications of harmful substances formed in the digestive tract of men by probiotics is expounded . The modern concepts of the probiotics division into groups have been presented . Different kinds of industrial probiotics were considered . The mechanism of positive action of probiotics and their mutual relations with micro- and macroorganisms were provided . The scientific substantiation of new probiotic design was presented.

Science, 2002 Nov 15, 298(5597), 1424 - 7
Critical roles of activation-induced cytidine deaminase in the homeostasis of gut flora; Fagarasan S et al.; Activation-induced cytidine deaminase (AID) plays an essential role in class switch recombination (CSR) and somatic hypermutation (SHM) of immunoglobulin genes . We report here that deficiency in AID results in the development of hyperplasia of isolated lymphoid follicles (ILFs) associated with a 100-fold expansion of anaerobic flora in the small intestine . Reduction of bacterial flora by antibiotic treatment of AID-/- mice abolished ILF hyperplasia as well as the germinal center enlargement seen in secondary lymphoid tissues . Because an inability to switch to immunoglobulin A on its own does not lead to a similar phenotype, these results suggest that SHM of ILF B cells plays a critical role in regulating intestinal microflora.

Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol, 2002 Dec, 283(6), G1232 - 7
Cutting-edge technology: IV . Genomic engineering for studies of the gastrointestinal tract in mice; Bullard DC et al.; Advances in our understanding of the complex, dynamic interactions that exist among the gastrointestinal microflora, the epithelium of the gastrointestinal mucosae, and the immune system have been facilitated by powerful new genetic tools . Recent understanding that the gastrointestinal epithelium performs not only a barrier function but is also an active sensor of the microflora and an important intermediary in regulating and integrating cross-talk between it and cells of the innate and adaptive immune systems provides one of the most fertile and challenging areas for application of these technologies . The intestinal epithelium also represents an important model system for study of programs of cell lineage commitment and differentiation, given its continual and rapid regeneration throughout life and the regional differences in these programs that exist along the gastrocolonic and crypt-villous axes . This review will highlight current and emerging technologies that are available in the mouse model for identification and manipulation of genetic elements that regulate the normal and pathological physiology of the intestinal tissues in the post-genomic era.

Bull Exp Biol Med, 2002 Feb, 133(2), 164 - 6
Pathogenetic role of dysbacteriosis in the development of complications of type 1 diabetes mellitus in children; Rozanova GN et al.; A relationship between enteric microbiocenosis and severity of type 1 diabetes mellitus was detected . Microbiological analysis showed II-IV degree dysbacteriosis in all diabetic children . Long-term therapy with probiotics aimed at eradication of opportunistic microflora resulted in recovery of microbiocenosis, which was paralleled by improvement of the clinical status, regression of complications in children who were ill for a long time, and prevention of complications in children with newly detected diabetes . These results indicate the leading role of chronic enteric toxic infectious process in the development of complications of type 1 diabetes . The significance of infection in the pathogenesis of other noninfectious diseases in man is discussed.

Meded Rijksuniv Gent Fak Landbouwkd Toegep Biol Wet, 2001, 66(2b), 645 - 53
Occurrence and diversity of egg pathogenic fungi of the Mediterranean cereal cyst nematode Heterodera latipons; Ismail S et al.; Eighteen fungal strains in nine genera present in German and Syrian soils were isolated from eggs of the barley cyst nematode H . latipons . The fungi were selected out of the soil microflora using the slide-frame baiting technique from a semiarid soil originating from Syria heavily infested with H . latipons and from a temperate soil from German heavily infested with H . schachtii . Fusarium and Acremonium were the most common fungi isolated from the both soils . The natural suppressiveness or antagonistic potential of egg pathogenic fungi in the Syrian and German soils toward H . latipons also was measured . The results demonstrated that a higher level of antagonistic potential and a greater level of fungal egg pathogen biodiversity is present in the semiarid Syrian soils . This is important for the natural control of the Mediterranean cereal cyst nematode H . latipons which is widely spread throughout the region . The high level of biodiversity in the soil may allow subsequent buffering of the pest even when unsuitable soil conditions for growth of the antagonistic fungi occur e.g . low organic matter, as is common in the semiarid soils of the Middle East . These isolates may also lend themselves to management in the field or to inundative approaches to biocontrol of cereal cyst nematodes in the semiarid production zone.

Folia Microbiol (Praha), 2002, 47(4), 461 - 2
Influence of a single gamma-irradiation on rat microflora; Benova K et al.; Changes in leukocyte counts and in the gut microflora of laboratory rats irradiated with single whole-body dose of gamma rays (5.0 Gy) were determined . The number of leukocytes was lower especially 1 and 2 weeks after irradiation . A significant decrease in lymphocytes was observed 1 week and in monocytes 1 and 2 weeks after irradiation . In parallel with these changes, an increase in common microflora was observed; some microorganisms, which normally are not present in duodenum, liver and mouth cavity, were detected in these organs.

Nutr Cancer, 2002, 42(2), 194 - 205
Different effects of short- and long-chained fructans on large intestinal physiology and carcinogen-induced aberrant crypt foci in rats; Poulsen M et al.; Inulin-type fructans, which are nondigestible carbohydrates, have been shown to modulate the number of induced preneoplastic lesions in the colon as well as the colonic microflora in laboratory animals . The present study was designed to investigate the effect of a short- and long-chained inulin-type fructan on 1,2-dimethylhydrazine dihydrochloride-induced aberrant crypt foci (ACF) in the rat colon . In addition, the present study investigated the influence of chain length, dietary level (5% or 15%), and duration of feeding (5 or 10 wk) on the following intestinal parameters supposed to be involved in the development of ACF: microflora, short-chain fatty acids, pH, and cell proliferation . A 3-wk pretreatment period with both fructans was included . Feeding the long-chained fructan (5% or 15%) significantly inhibited the numbers of small and total ACF after 5 and 10 wk . The short-chained fructan (15%) inhibited the number of small and total ACF after 5 and 10 wk but significantly increased the numbers of medium and large ACF after 10 wk . In conclusion, the effect on ACF outcome was influenced by the chain length of the fructans.

J Paediatr Child Health, 2002 Dec, 38(6), 543 - 9
Scientific rationale and benefits of nucleotide supplementation of infant formula; Yu VY; The present review examines the role of dietary nucleotides in infants, and the scientific rationale and benefits of nucleotide supplementation of infant formula . The immunoprotective benefits of human milk, the biology of human milk nucleotides, and the immunological and gastrointestinal effects of dietary nucleotides in animal studies and in vitro experiments are examined . Clinical studies are reviewed, especially those examining the efficacy of nucleotide-supplemented infant formula in enhancing immunity and reducing the risk of sepsis . The presence of human milk cells, and a variety of immunoactive and trophic components of human milk, can explain the reduced incidence of sepsis in breastfed term and preterm infants . Nucleotides, believed to play an immunomodulatory role, are found in lower concentrations in infant formula . Animal studies have shown that dietary nucleotides enhance a number of immune responses and the growth, differentiation and repair of the gut . Several clinical studies have reported beneficial effects of nucleotide supplementation on gut microflora, diarrhoea and immune function, and one study has reported better catch-up growth in term infants with severe intrauterine growth retardation . More basic research studying the metabolism of nucleotides in neonates is encouraged . Additional randomized controlled trials are necessary to demonstrate the clinical benefits of nucleotide supplementation of infant formula, as it cannot be presumed that nucleotides produce the same benefits for the infant as human milk . Studies are especially necessary in high-risk neonatal situations, such as extreme prematurity, significant suboptimal nutrient intake before and after birth, and recovery from gut injury.

Dig Liver Dis, 2002 Sep, 34 Suppl 2, S68 - 71
Probiotics and atopic dermatitis . A new strategy in atopic dermatitis; Miraglia del Giudice M Jr et al.; Over the last few decades, the prevalence of atopic dermatitis has been increasing from 2% to 100%, with 90% of cases within 5 years of age versus 6% between 6 and 10 years and 2% after 10 years, and environmental factors may possibly play an important role in this increase as in other atopic diseases . Many findings suggest an important role of atopy in atopic dermatitis; moreover, 40% of children with atopic dermatitis have food allergy and the removal of the food allergen from the patient's diet leads to a significant clinical improvement . In a possible scenario, IgE-bearing dendritic cells are likely to process allergens acquired in the gastrointestinal tract, circulate to the skin and activate local T cells . Cultures of beneficial live microorganisms characteristic of the commensal microflora are administered with probiotic functional foods in order to provide a microbial challenge for the maturation of gut-associated lymphoid tissue, which the infant often lacks . The probiotic effects are attributed to normalisation of the increased intestinal permeability and balancing gut microecology, improvement of the immunological defence barrier (IgA) of the intestine, alleviation of the intestinal inflammatory response, and downregulation of proinflammatory cytokines characteristic of local and systemic allergic inflammation.

Dig Liver Dis, 2002 Sep, 34 Suppl 2, S54 - 7
Bile salts, intestinal microflora and enterohepatic circulation; Floch MH; Use of probiotic therapy implies an attempt to maintain the normal bacterial flora or to alter the bacterial flora so that organisms beneficial to the host are nurtured . We also know that the bacterial flora are essential in the deconjugation and transformation of bile acid metabolism . The relationships of the bile acids to intestinal bacteria and their recurrent exposure in the enterohepatic circulation are discussed.

Nat Immunol, 2002 Nov, 3(11), 1033 - 40
Bacterial strategies for overcoming host innate and adaptive immune responses; Hornef MW et al.; In higher organisms a variety of host defense mechanisms control the resident microflora and, in most cases, effectively prevent invasive microbial disease . However, it appears that microbial organisms have coevolved with their hosts to overcome protective host barriers and, in selected cases, actually take advantage of innate host responses . Many microbial pathogens avoid host recognition or dampen the subsequent immune activation through sophisticated interactions with host responses, but some pathogens benefit from the stimulation of inflammatory reactions . This review will describe the spectrum of strategies used by microbes to avoid or provoke activation of the host's immune response as well as our current understanding of the role this immunomodulatory interference plays during microbial pathogenesis.

J Dent Res, 2002 Nov, 81(11), 761 - 6
Molecular and cultural analysis of the microflora associated with endodontic infections; Munson MA et al.; Cultural studies have indicated that a subset of the oral microflora is responsible for endodontic infections . Approximately 50% of oral bacteria are unculturable, so it is likely that currently unknown bacteria are present in such infections . In this study, cultural and molecular analyses were performed on the microflora in aspirate samples collected from 5 infected root canals . 16S rDNA sequences from 261 isolates and 624 clones were identified by comparison with database sequences . Sixty-five taxa were identified, of which 26 were found by the molecular method alone . A mean of 20.2 taxa was found in each sample . A new species of Dialister was the only organism present in all 5 samples . Twenty-seven novel taxa were detected, 18 of which belonged to the phylum Firmicutes and 8 to Bacteroidetes . Culture-independent, molecular analysis has revealed a more diverse microflora associated with endodontic infections than that revealed by cultural methods alone.

Semin Neonatol, 2002 Aug, 7(4), 275 - 81
The role of breastfeeding in prevention of neonatal infection; Hanson LA et al.; The immune system of the human newborn is of very limited size . It expands rapidly, especially due to the exposure to the gut microflora . Normally the newborn is colonized with microbes from the mother's intestinal flora at and after delivery . The many defence factors of the mother's milk include large amounts of secretory IgA antibodies produced by lymphocytes which have migrated from the mother's gut to the mammary glands . Therefore the SIgA antibodies are mainly directed against the mother's previous and recent gut microflora . Thus breastfeeding modulates the early exposure of the neonate's intestinal mucosa to microbes and limits bacterial translocation through the gut mucosa . This may be a major reason why breastfeeding protects efficiently against neonatal septicaemia, as well as several other infections . The defence factors of the milk prevent infections already at the mucosal level . The transplacentally obtained maternal IgG antibodies protect primarily in tissues and do so at the cost of cytokine-induced clinical symptoms, tissue engagement and high energy consumption .

Vestn Otorinolaringol, 2002, (4), 15 - 7
{Pattern of ENT problems in patients with primary defects of humoral immunity}; Lopatin AS et al.; Fibroendoscopy, otomicroscopy, rhinomanometry, CT of the paranasal sinuses, examination of mucociliary transport in the nasal cavity and ENT microflora, threshold tonal audiometry, impedance audiometry were performed in 20 patients with primary immunodeficiency . The patients were found to have paranasal inflammation, slow mucociliary transport, abnormal nasal breathing, acoustic tube dysfunction, chronic inflammation or exudation in the middle ear, conductive hipoacusis, etc . The findings confirm that ENT are target organs in primary immunodeficiency.

Vestn Otorinolaringol, 2002, (4), 11 - 4
{The course of repair processes in the maxillary sinuses after radical surgery}; Vladimirova EB; 87 patients with chronic purulent hyperplastic and cystic maxillary ethmoiditis have undergone a radical surgical treatment with Caldwell-Luc operation as a surgical approach . Histopathological parameters of maxillary mucosa before and after surgery were compared . Mucociliary clearance, formation of postoperative anastomosis, changes in sinus microflora were followed up . Causes of recurrent postoperative chronic processes in the paranasal sinuses were analysed.

Sci Total Environ, 2002 Sep 16, 296(1-3), 117 - 37
Field effects of simazine at lower trophic levels--a review; Strandberg MT et al.; Simazine is a triazine herbicide used in agriculture, pot-plant and tree production . The total concentrations (dissolved + adsorbed) in soil depend on the application rate, for example an application rate of 1500 g simazine/ha will result in approximately 4 mg simazine/kg in the top 1 cm . It may be spread to adjacent areas due to drift, runoff or evaporation . In fresh water concentrations approximately 4 microg simazine/l has been recorded . In aerial fallout--rain--concentrations of 0.680 microg simazine/l has been recorded . In both soil and water, degradation studies have in most cases shown DT50 times that vary between a few days and 150 days, indicating that total or near total disappearance time may be at least three times longer . Low temperatures and drought may prolong the dissipation time by a factor of two or more . Laboratory studies indicate that the primary site of decomposition in the aquatic environment is the sediment . Field studies showed deleterious effects of simazine on terrestrial invertebrates at application rates below 2 kg simazine/ha . The direct toxicity was not confirmed by laboratory results, however, these were sparse and did not cover a broad range of soil organisms . No field studies were found dealing with invertebrates, but laboratory studies have shown deleterious effects of simazine on aquatic invertebrates at concentrations above 20 microg simazine/l . Simazine is phytotoxic to many non-target species at rates below the recommended rate . At least under some environmental conditions, simazine can remain for a long time in the active layer and still be toxic to sensitive plants 1 year after application . Despite its phytotoxicity many plant species become more and more tolerant in cases of repeated use for many years and some have become resistant . Simazine is not highly toxic to soil microflora and algae, although some species definitely are affected both in an inhibitory and a stimulatory way . Most investigations predict no long-term consequences to soil and aquatic microflora in association with recommended and appropriate use giving rise to maximum expected environmental concentrations of 5 mg simazine/kg in soil and 4 microg simazine/l in water.

Curr Opin Clin Nutr Metab Care, 2002 Nov, 5(6), 653 - 8
Bioactive components in milk; German JB et al.; Milk is the only biomaterial that evolved under the Darwinian selective pressure to nourish growing mammals . The purpose of this article is to review the scientific research that is using new techniques of integrating biological sequence, structure and function, to understand the innovative biology underlying the products of that evolutionary pressure . As it emerges that milk is actively communicating between the maternal mammary epithelia and the infant's gastrointestinal system, actively directing and educating the immune, metabolic and microflora systems within the infant, enhancing nutrient absorption and delivery, and conferring multiple means of protection, nutritionists are gaining a host of new molecular targets towards which to build scientific strategies for future foods and clinical applications . As new components and functions are being discovered in milk by using traditional methods and modern genomic tools, the complexities of demonstrating, and particularly in humans, the functional mechanisms behind milk's newly observed physiological benefits are becoming the next challenge of this rapidly growing field.

Biol Pharm Bull, 2002 Oct, 25(10), 1328 - 32
Antithrombotic and antiallergic activities of daidzein, a metabolite of puerarin and daidzin produced by human intestinal microflora; Choo MK et al.; To evaluate the antithrombotic activities of puerarin and daidzin from the rhizome of Pueraria lobata, in vitro and ex vivo inhibitory activities of these compounds and their metabolite, daidzein, were measured . These compounds inhibited ADP- and collagen-induced platelet aggregation . Daidzein was the most potent . However, when puerarin and daidzin were intraperitoneally administered, their antiaggregation activities were weaker than when these compounds were administered orally . When in vivo antithrombotic activities of these compounds against collagen and epinephrine were measured, these compounds showed significant protection from death due to pulmonary thrombosis in mice . To evaluate the antiallergic activity of puerarin, daidzin, and daidzein, their inhibitory effects on the release of beta-hexosaminidase from RBL 2H3 cells and on the passive cutaneous anaphylaxis (PCA) reaction in mice were examined . Daidzein exhibited potent inhibitory activity on the beta-hexosaminidase release induced by DNP-BSA and potently inhibited the PCA reaction in rats . Daidzein administered intraperitoneally showed the strongest inhibitory activity and significantly inhibited the PCA reaction at doses of 25 and 50mg/kg with inhibitory activity of 37 and 73%, respectively . The inhibitory activity of intraperitoneally administered daidzein was stronger than those of intraperitoneally and orally administered puerarin and daidzin . Therefore we believe that puerarin and daidzin in the rhizome of Pueraria lobata are prodrugs, which have antiallergic and antithrombotic activities, produced by intestinal microflora.

Prikl Biokhim Mikrobiol, 2002 Sep-Oct, 38(5), 509 - 12
{Study of petroleum-degrading activity of microflora from the shoreline region of the Caspian Sea}; Shkidchenko AN et al.; Soil samples from the shore of Baku Bay (Caspian Sea), were studied . The content of oil products in the samples amounted to 2.7-8.0 wt% . The total counts of microorganisms were 1.8 x 10(6) cells per g soil, which is by two orders of magnitude lower compared to soils free from oil pollution . In addition, the diversity of microflora is considerably narrower . The samples were used to isolate pure cultures of microbial degraders capable of assimilating 24 to 32% of the oil introduced into liquid nutrient medium in six days . It was demonstrated that the fraction composition of residual oil changed and both light and heavy oil fractions were degraded.

Curr Opin Crit Care, 2002 Apr, 8(2), 139 - 44
Selective decontamination of the digestive tract; Krueger WA et al.; Ventilator-associated pneumonia usually originates from the patient's oropharyngeal microflora . In selective digestive decontamination, topical antibiotics are applied to the oropharynx and stomach for prevention of pneumonia and other infections, possibly reducing infection-related mortality . Selective digestive decontamination is also used for the prevention of gut-derived infections in acute necrotizing pancreatitis and liver transplantation . Despite numerous clinical trials, selective digestive decontamination remains controversial . Reduction of the incidence of pneumonia is accepted, but the extent of reduction is debated . Mortality was not reduced in most individual trials, but this finding was calculated in meta-analyses, especially for combined use of topical and systemic antibiotics in surgical ICU patients . Some investigators reported increased resistance and a shift to Gram-positive pathogens . Today, it appears that selective means not only selective suppression of pathogenic bacteria but also selection of appropriate groups of patients for underlying diseases and severity of illness, and selection of ICUs, where the endemic resistance patterns might allow the use of selective digestive decontamination at a relatively low risk for increased selection pressure.

Infection, 2002 Oct, 30(5), 282 - 5
Effect of skin disinfection with octenidine dihydrochloride on insertion site colonization of intravascular catheters; Dettenkofer M et al.; BACKGROUND: We investigated the efficacy of two commercially available, alcohol-based antiseptic solutions in decontaminating the insertion site of central lines . One solution contained the bispyridine octenidine dihydrochloride . PATIENTS AND METHODS: Inpatients receiving either a central venous catheter (CVC) or a peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) were alternately assigned to different skin disinfection regimens at the insertion site: (A) 0.1% octendine dihydrochloride with 30% 1-propanol and 45% 2-propanol, (B) 74% ethanol with 10% 2-propanol . Quantitative skin cultures were obtained from the insertion site at predetermined intervals . RESULTS: A total of 60 patients received 12 CVCs and 47 PICCs (no significant difference with respect to gender, age and catheter type) . In total, 90 cultures were assessed in each group . The median colony-forming unit (cfu) counts per 24 cm(2) (group A vs B) were 2,270 vs 2,950 before, 20 vs 40 following and 860 vs 1,210 24 h after catheter insertion, respectively . A statistically significant difference in the efficacy of skin decontamination was seen between groups in culture set (3) and in the difference between culture sets (2) and (3) (Wilcoxon rank sum test) . CONCLUSION: Octenidine/propanol appears to be more effective than alcohol (ethanol/propanol) alone in reducing microflora of the skin at the PICC/CVC insertion site over a 24-h period.

J Food Prot, 2002 Oct, 65(10), 1535 - 40
Growth of Escherichia coli O157:H7 in raw ground beef stored at 10 degrees C and the influence of competitive bacterial flora, strain variation, and fat level; Tamplin ML; Pure-culture broth-based models of the growth of Escherichia coli O157:H7 have been used to estimate its behavior in ground beef, even though these models have not been adequately validated for this food product . This situation limits accurate estimates of the behavior of E . coli O157:H7 in ground beef and introduces uncertainties in risk assessments . In the present study, the growth of single and multiple strains of E . coli O157:H7 were measured in retail ground beef stored at 10 degrees C for up to 12 days, and the results were compared with estimates generated by the U.S . Department of Agriculture's Pathogen Modeling Program (PMP; version 5.1) . At pH 5.9, the PMP predicted a maximum population density (MPD) of 9.13 log10 CFU/g, an exponential growth rate (EGR) of 0.052 log10 CFU/h, and a lag time of 56.3 h . Similar parameter values were observed for sterilized ground beef; however, no lag phase was observed . In contrast, the mean MPD and EGR for retail ground beef were 5.09 log10 CFU/g and 0.019 log10 CFU/h, respectively, and no lag phase was observed . Both the EGR and the MPD increased with decreasing fat levels . There was low variation in the MPD and EGR parameters for the nine E . coli O157:H7 ground beef isolates . Two isolates of competitive native flora were separately added to sterilized ground beef, and the EGR and MPD decreased as the ratio of competitive flora to E . coli O157:H7 increased . For one strain, at ratios of 1:1, 10:1, and 100:1, the EGRs were 0.033, 0.025, and 0.018 log10 CFU/h, respectively, and the MPDs were 6.14, 5.08, and 4.84 log10 CFU/g, respectively . These results demonstrate that existing broth-based models for E coli O157:H7 must be validated for food and that models should consider the effects of the food matrix, the competitive microflora, and potential pathogen strain variation.

Voen Med Zh, 2002 Aug, 323(8), 50 - 4, 96
{Interactions in the parasite-host system in chronic obstructive lung diseases}; Bilev AE; The interactions in "parasite-host" system were studied in 120 patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases (COPD) living in Samara . The significant interrelation between the composition of intestinal and pneumotropic microflora was revealed . It is conditioned both by the mechanisms of cooperation between some types of bacteria and by their translocation from one organs to another . The data obtained demonstrate the complex influence of abnormal microbial ecology in lungs and intestine on formation of "parasite-host" system and the significance of its function in COPD pathogenesis . The results of investigation show the necessity to include the measures for correction of microbial ecology disorders into the general complex of COPD therapy.

Gut, 2002 Nov, 51(5), 665 - 70
PCR detection of Mycobacterium paratuberculosis in Crohn's disease granulomas isolated by laser capture microdissection; Ryan P et al.; BACKGROUND AND AIMS: The uncertainty surrounding the role of Mycobacterium avium subsp paratuberculosis (Map) in Crohn's disease has been compounded by possible contamination from Map present in the lumen microflora . This study used laser capture microdissection (LCM) and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to detect Map DNA in subepithelial granulomas, isolated from 15 surgically resected, formalin fixed specimens of granulomatous Crohn's disease and from 12 granulomatous disease controls (10 bowel, 2 non-bowel) . METHODS: The effect of amplicon size on reliability of PCR from formalin fixed samples was examined by amplifying 435 bp and 133 bp sequences of the human APC gene . After this, nested primers were designed to detect a small fragment (155 bp) of the Map specific IS900 gene in Crohn's granulomas . LCM isolated granulomas from Map culture positive bovine intestine was used as positive control . PCR product specificity was confirmed by direct DNA sequencing . RESULTS: The smaller, but not the larger, fragment of the APC gene amplified reliably in all samples . Amplification of the 155 bp fragment of the IS900 gene detected Map DNA in microdissected Crohn's granulomas in 6 of 15 cases, and in 0 of 12 disease control granulomas . CONCLUSIONS: LCM can be used to detect Map DNA in granulomas in a proportion of patients with Crohn's disease . However, formalin fixation requires that comparatively short DNA fragments of the Map specific IS900 gene be targeted, to permit consistent detection . Detection of Map DNA within granulomas might suggest an infectious aetiology in a subset of patients; alternatively, a transmissible agent may not be involved but mycobacterial DNA may influence pathogenesis by modifying the local cytokine responses.

IEEE Trans Biomed Eng, 2002 Oct, 49(10), 1077 - 85
Model intestinal microflora in computer simulation: a simulation and modeling package for host-microflora interactions; Wilkinson MH; The ecology of the human intestinal microflora and its interaction with the host are poorly understood . Though more and more data are being acquired, in part using modern molecular methods, development of a quantitative theory has not kept pace with this increase in observing power . This is in part due to the complexity of the system and to the lack of simulation environments in which to test what the ecological effect of a hypothetical mechanism of interaction would be, before resorting to laboratory experiments . The MIMICS project attempts to address this through the development of a cellular automaton for simulation of the intestinal microflora . In this paper, the design and evaluation of this simulator is discussed.

J Med Microbiol, 2002 Sep, 51(9), 764 - 70
Detection of Helicobacter pylori DNA in the oral cavity and gastroduodenal system of a Venezuelan population; Berroteran A et al.; Dental plaque has been suggested as a reservoir for Helicobacter pylori but the hypothesis that the oral microflora may be a permanent reservoir of H . pylori is still controversial . The aims of this study were to determine the presence of H . pylori DNA in the gastric antrum and dental plaque of a Venezuelan population by PCR and to investigate the relationship between this infection and the oral hygiene index . Thirty-two patients from the Hospital Universitario de Caracas, attending for routine gastroscopy, and 20 asymptomatic subjects (control group) were evaluated . The patients' gingiva and plaque were assessed by the gingival and plaque indices of Sillness and Loe . Supragingival plaque was analysed by a PCR for a specific internal urease gene . Gastric antrum biopsies were taken for histological examination and PCR . H . pylori was detected in antral samples from 24 (75%) of 32 patients, all of whom had chronic gastritis . H . pylori was also detected in dental plaque samples of 12 (37.5%) of the 32 patients . In 7 (58%) of these 12 patients, H . pylori was identified in the gastric biopsy . Seven patients with chronic gastritis carried H . pylori in dental plaque and antral samples . Of these patients, four also had dysplasia and one had metaplasia . Three subjects in the control group were positive by PCR . In the present study there was no correlation between H . pylori infection and dental hygiene, dental caries, periodontal disease or use of dentures . The oral cavity may be a reservoir for H . pylori infection and oral secretions may be an important means of transmission of this micro-organism . H . pylori in dental plaque may represent a risk factor for gastrointestinal re-infection and ulcer relapse after antibiotic therapy.

Nutrition . 2002 Sep;18(9):786.
Essential fatty acids as possible enhancers of the beneficial actions of probiotics; Das UN; I investigated whether there is a common link between essential fatty acids and probiotics, which have similar actions and benefits in atopy.I made a critical review of the literature pertaining to the actions of essential fatty acids and probiotics on immune response and the interaction between them with particular reference to atopy.Colonization of the human gastrointestinal tract occurs in the first months and years of life . Probiotics are cultures of beneficial bacteria of healthy gut microflora, which reduce dietary antigen load and thus protect against atopy . A significant reduction in the risk of childhood asthma and other atopic conditions was reported in children who were exclusively breast-fed for at least 4 mo after birth . This beneficial action can be attributed to the immunomodulatory, nutritional, or other components of human milk Human breast milk is rich in long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFAs), which have immunomodulatory actions . Probiotics and LCPUFAs modulate T-helper 1 and 2 responses, show antibioticlike actions, and alleviate changes related to allergic inflammation . LCPUFAs promote the adhesion of probiotics to mucosal surfaces, which augments the health-promoting effects of probiotics.In view of the similarity in their actions and because LCPUFAs promote the actions of probiotics, I believe that a combination of LCPUFAs and probiotics offer significant protection against atopy . It is likely that breast-feeding and probiotics are two naturally occurring, appropriate events in early human life that have significant health benefits.

J Chromatogr B Analyt Technol Biomed Life Sci, 2002 Sep 25, 777(1-2), 321 - 7
Oxidative metabolites and genotoxic potential of mammalian and plant lignans in vitro; Niemeyer HB et al.; Certain plant lignans, e.g . secoisolariciresinol and matairesinol, are converted by the intestinal microflora to the mammalian lignans enterodiol and enterolactone, which are associated with beneficial health effects in humans . The metabolism of both mammalian and plant lignans in animals and humans is poorly understood, and most studies so far have focused on the conjugation of these diphenolic compounds . However, recent studies have demonstrated that mammalian and plant lignans are good substrates for cytochrome p450-mediated reactions, leading to numerous products of aliphatic and aromatic hydroxylation with microsomes in vitro . The current knowledge of the oxidative metabolism of food-related lignans is briefly reviewed in this paper, including published as well as unpublished data from our laboratory . Moreover, data on the genotoxic potential of the mammalian and plant lignans, determined at various endpoints in cultured mammalian cells, are included in this review.

Kazan Med Zh, 1970, 4, 65 - 6
{Sensitivity to antibiotics of the microflora isolated from endometritis after infected abortion}; Sobolev VP et al.; PIP: Microflora from the endometrium of 63 women, taken after infected abortion, was studied . The material was cultured in various mediums and was subjected to the antibiotics penicillin, streptomycin, enythomycin, neomycin, levomycin, monomycin, and tetracycline . The cultures of a staphlococci were most sensitive to neomycin, monomycin, and erythromycin . They were less sensitive to levomycin, and tetracycline . The cultures also possessed an expressed sensitivity to penicillin and streptomycin . The prevailing microflora taken from these patients was staphlococci .

Tijdschr Diergeneeskd, 2002 Sep 1, 127(17), 520 - 3
{Spray-dried plasma in diets for weaned piglets: influence on growth and underlying mechanisms}; van Dijk AJ; Spray-dried animal plasma (SDAP) is a by-product of slaughter plants . The plasma obtained from slaughtered pigs or ruminants is spray-dried and used for the production of human foodstuffs and animal feeds . SDAP added to the diet of weaned piglets has considerable positive effects on the growth performance of piglets . In a meta-analysis, it was calculated from 68 comparisons between SDAP-containing diets and control diets that the SDAP-induced change in average daily gain (ADG) and average daily feed intake (ADFI) in the first 2 weeks after weaning was +26.8% and +24.5%, respectively . Two experiments demonstrated that dietary SDAP can reduce post-weaning diarrhoea . The aim of the research described in this thesis was to learn more about the mechanisms underlying the growth- and health-promoting properties of SDAP in the diet of weaned piglets . Results showed that dietary SDPP has positive effects on the post-weaning growth performance and health of piglets . These effects are more pronounced in piglets kept under suboptimal conditions and/or high infection pressure, and in piglets fed on diets lacking anti-microbial growth promoters . SDAP acts by influencing the gastrointestinal microflora: it appears to affect pathogenic bacteria rather than exert a general anti-bacterial effect leading to nutrient sparing, as has been described for anti-microbial growth promoters . SDAP has great potential as treatment for immuno-compromised mammals, such as neonates, and for animals in which antibiotic treatment is not possible, for instance when there is a ban against antibiotics or when multi-resistant bacteria are involved.

Biomed Pharmacother, 2002 Aug, 56(6), 276 - 82
Absorption and metabolism of polyphenols in the gut and impact on health; Scalbert A et al.; Polyphenols are the most abundant antioxidants in the human diet . They show a considerable structural diversity, which largely influences their bioavailability . Phenolic acids like caffeic acid are easily absorbed through the gut barrier, whereas large molecular weight polyphenols such as proanthocyanidins are very poorly absorbed . Once absorbed, polyphenols are conjugated to glucuronide, sulphate and methyl groups in the gut mucosa and inner tissues . Non-conjugated polyphenols are virtually absent in plasma . Such reactions facilitate their excretion and limit their potential toxicity . The polyphenols reaching the colon are extensively metabolised by the microflora into a wide array of low molecular weight phenolic acids . The biological properties of both conjugated derivatives and microbial metabolites have rarely been examined . Their study will be essential to better assess the health effects of dietary polyphenols . Alternatively, some health effects of polyphenols may not require their absorption through the gut barrier . Their role as iron chelators in the gut lumen is briefly discussed.

Biodegradation, 2002, 13(1), 29 - 40
Effects of agronomical measures on the microbial diversity of soils as related to the suppression of soil-borne plant pathogens; van Elsas JD et al.; The diversity of soil microbial communities can be key to the capacity of soils to suppress soil-borne plant diseases . As agricultural practice, as well as directed agronomical measures, are known to be able to affect soil microbial diversity, it is plausible that the soil microflora can be geared towards a greater suppressivity of soil-borne diseases as a result of the selection of suitable soil management regimes . In the context of a programme aimed at investigating the microbial diversity of soils under different agricultural regimes, including permanent grassland versus arable land under agricultural rotation, we assessed how soil microbial diversity is affected in relation to the suppression of the soil-borne potato pathogen Rhizoctonia solani AG3 . The diversity in the microbial communities over about a growing season was described by using cultivation-based--plating on different media--and cultivation-independent--soil DNA-based PCR followed by denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE) community fingerprinting--methods . The results showed great diversity in the soil microbiota at both the culturable and cultivation-independent detection levels . Using cultivation methods, various differences between treatments with respect to sizes of bacterial and fungal populations were detected, with highest population sizes generally found in rhizospheres . In addition, the evenness of eco-physiologically differing bacterial types was higher in grassland than in arable land under rotation . At the cultivation-independent level, clear differences in the diversities of several microbial groups between permanent grassland and arable land under rotation were apparent . Bio-assays that assessed the growth of R . solani AG3 hyphae through soil indicated a greater growth suppression in grassland than in arable land soils . Similarly, an experiment performed in the glasshouse showed clear differences in both microbial diversities and suppressiveness of R . solani growth in soil, depending on the presence of either maize or oats as the crop . The significance of these findings for designing soil management strategies is discussed.

Int J Food Microbiol, 2002 Sep 15, 78(1-2), 79 - 97
Food spoilage--interactions between food spoilage bacteria; Gram L et al.; Food spoilage is a complex process and excessive amounts of foods are lost due to microbial spoilage even with modern day preservation techniques . Despite the heterogeneity in raw materials and processing conditions, the microflora that develops during storage and in spoiling foods can be predicted based on knowledge of the origin of the food, the substrate base and a few central preservation parameters such as temperature, atmosphere, a(w) and pH . Based on such knowledge, more detailed sensory, chemical and microbiological analysis can be carried out on the individual products to determine the actual specific spoilage organism . Whilst the chemical and physical parameters are the main determining factors for selection of spoilage microorganisms, a level of refinement may be found in some products in which the interactive behavior of microorganisms may contribute to their growth and/or spoilage activity . This review gives three such examples . We describe the competitive advantage of Pseudomonas spp . due to the production of iron-chelating siderophores, the generation of substrates for spoilage reactions by one organism from another microorganism (so-called metabiosis) and the up-regulation of phenotypes potentially involved in spoilage through cell-to-cell communication . In particular, we report for the first time the widespread occurrence of N-acyl homoserine lactones (AHL) in stored and spoiling fresh foods and we discuss the potential implications for spoilage and food preservation.

Life Sci Space Res, 1971, 9, 55 - 9
The microflora of the human integument during prolonged confinement; Zaloguyev SN et al.; Under conditions of long-term isolation in a sealed environment the microbial contamination of the skin and upper respiratory tract of man was much more pronounced than under normal conditions . This intensification of the contamination went on in a series of periodic increases in the amount of micro-organisms . Every such increase in micro-organisms was much more prominent than the preceding one . The harmful nature of the rise of the level of microbial contamination of human epidermal tissues was expressed by the development of bacterial population shifts and periodic increases in the number of pathogenic microbial forms.

Life Sci Space Res, 1971, 9, 51 - 4
Changes in the colicinogenic and hemolytic activities of Escherichia isolated from man during long-term confinement; Kudlai DG et al.; The paper presents data obtained during the year-long medico-engineering experiment (in which three test subjects participated) with respect to changes in the Escherichia composition as judged by colicinogenic and hemolytic activity . At the beginning of the experiment colicinogenic E . coli (col/D and col/B) was found in one of the three test subjects (U-85%); he also showed the highest stability of intestinal microflora throughout the experiment . The two other test subjects (B and M) displayed colicinogenic micro-organisms of the same type plus an unidentified type only during and immediately after emergency situations . Hemolytically active E . coli was isolated from the subjects with unstable microflora under emergency situations and at the end of the experiment . The results obtained allowed to note the periodicity in predominance of Escherichia with antagonistic and hemolytic activity as related to the changes in the physiological state of the macro-organism and the rate of mechanical and possibly genetic exchange within the microbial associations in the human intestine.

Life Sci Space Res, 1971, 9, 35 - 41
Resistance to infections in extended space flight; Kass EH; Although much can be done to minimize the spread of micro-organisms from one individual to another, it is inevitable that an exchange of microflora will occur among individuals in an enclosed space . The chief sources of the microflora will be the respiratory tract, the gastrointestinal tract and the skin . Local care can deal with most problems of the skin, but potential problems in the respiratory and gastrointestinal tract cannot be dealt with as readily . Although many of the common pathogens can be eliminated by pre-flight procedures, the building up of normal flora represents potential hazards of substantial magnitude . The chief limitations of the effects of high concentrations of normal microbial flora are in the variety of host defensive mechanisms . Some of these have been reviewed, and it has been indicated that with respect to the bronchopulmonary defense mechanisms, the major defenses rest in the pulmonary alveolar macrophage system . This system has been shown to be adversely affected by a large variety of environmental circumstances, many of which will be operative in prolonged spaceflight . Similarly in the gastrointestinal tract, the large microbial load represents a source of micro-organisms and of waste products, which represent potential hazards . Methods for minimizing the latter effects include reducing the total microbial load or implanting a monoculture of a desired micro-organism which produces a minimum of the undesirable side effects . The solution to these problems requires sustained effort, and it is likely that solutions when found will have substantial application to medicine and public health in ground-based communities.

Life Sci Space Res, 1971, 9, 17 - 21
Normalization of the immune status of the human body during prolonged space flight; Konstantinova IV et al.; During long duration space flights a number of unfavourable situations arise due to changes in endogenous microflora and immunologic reactivity of men . It appears very important to develop procedures that can be used to normalize human resistance to infection . Methods of affecting protein synthesis in immune responsive cells are being investigated . It was found that ribonucleic acids stimulated antibody formation . Application of immunological, immunochemical, and isotopic methods confirmed that one of the main factors were ribonucleotides . Their effect is mainly to accelerate the proliferation of immunocompetent cells . Our experiments have shown that a single parenteral injection of a stimulant of such type is sufficient to sustain capacity for accelerated antibody formation for a long time . A search for non-specific stimulants is needed since they can be effectively used in cases of acute and subacute inhibition of immunity . Their use in combination with specific or non-specific activators may be required in chronic inhibition of immune reactions occurring, for instance, in qualitative and quantitative reduction of normal microflora . Our investigations have demonstrated that germ-free animals and animals with reduced microflora exhibit diminished regional lymphatic nodes, underdeveloped lymphoid tissue of Peyer's plaques and other changes . The paper discusses several methods of maintaining antigen balance.

Life Sci Space Res, 1971, 9, 11 - 6
Microbiological and immunological aspects of extended manned space flights; Nefedov YG et al.; This paper is concerned with alterations in microbial flora and immunologic response of men during exposure to long-term confinement in a sealed cabin . The above changes depend on the environmental parameters, the duration of the exposure to different environmental factors, as well as on work rest schedules . An interchange of micro-organisms between subjects and activation of some species forming the normal human microflora took place in conditions of isolation . It was demonstrated that under these conditions some significant shifts in intestinal microflora occurred, including its general "simplification" . It was found that the immunocompetent lymphoid tissue of the animals that had a simplified (reduced in number of species) intestinal microflora was significantly underdeveloped . Some ways of stimulating the immunocompetent systems of astronauts during long-term space flights were considered . Special attention should be paid to the microbiological examination as part of the selection routine for future astronauts.

Microb Ecol, 2002 Oct, 44(3), 286 - 93 Epub 2002 Sep 12.
Spatial and temporal variation of the intestinal bacterial community in commercially raised broiler chickens during growth; van der Wielen PW et al.; The objective of this study was to determine whether host, compartment, or environmental specific factors play an important role in the establishment of the intestinal microflora in broiler chickens during growth . This objective was addressed using a 16S rDNA approach . PCR-amplicons from the V6 to V8 regions of the 16S rDNA of intestinal samples were separated by denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE) . The number of bands in all intestinal compartments increased when broilers grew older, indicating that the dominant bacterial community becomes more complex when chickens age . Each chicken had a unique banding pattern for all locations in the intestinal tract, irrespective of the age of chickens . This suggests that host-related factors affect the establishment of the dominant bacterial community . Banding patterns of intestinal compartments within one chicken were different from each other for broilers older than 4 days, except for both ceca which were highly similar . In 4-day-old broilers, banding patterns from crop, duodenum, and ileum were very similar . We conclude that (unknown) host specific factors play an important role in the development of the intestinal bacterial community in each broiler chicken . Furthermore, compartment-specific factors play an important role in the bacterial development of each intestinal compartment within one chicken.

Br J Nutr, 2002 Sep, 88 Suppl 1, S29 - 37
Application of molecular biological methods for studying probiotics and the gut flora; McCartney AL; Increasingly, the microbiological scientific community is relying on molecular biology to define the complexity of the gut flora and to distinguish one organism from the next . This is particularly pertinent in the field of probiotics, and probiotic therapy, where identifying probiotics from the commensal flora is often warranted . Current techniques, including genetic fingerprinting, gene sequencing, oligonucleotide probes and specific primer selection, discriminate closely related bacteria with varying degrees of success . Additional molecular methods being employed to determine the constituents of complex microbiota in this area of research are community analysis, denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE)/temperature gradient gel electrophoresis (TGGE), fluorescent in situ hybridisation (FISH) and probe grids . Certain approaches enable specific aetiological agents to be monitored, whereas others allow the effects of dietary intervention on bacterial populations to be studied . Other approaches demonstrate diversity, but may not always enable quantification of the population . At the heart of current molecular methods is sequence information gathered from culturable organisms . However, the diversity and novelty identified when applying these methods to the gut microflora demonstrates how little is known about this ecosystem . Of greater concern is the inherent bias associated with some molecular methods . As we understand more of the complexity and dynamics of this diverse microbiota we will be in a position to develop more robust molecular-based technologies to examine it . In addition to identification of the microbiota and discrimination of probiotic strains from commensal organisms, the future of molecular biology in the field of probiotics and the gut flora will, no doubt, stretch to investigations of functionality and activity of the microflora, and/or specific fractions . The quest will be to demonstrate the roles of probiotic strains in vivo and not simply their presence or absence.

Br J Nutr, 2002 Sep, 88 Suppl 1, S19 - 27
Probiotics: on-going research on atopic individuals; Laiho K et al.; The challenge for the modern health care system is to fight against the increasing prevalence of atopic disease . The introduction of scientifically composed probiotic functional foods for prophylactic or therapeutic purposes could be one solution . Probiotics are live microbial food supplements or components of bacteria which have beneficial effects on human health . Specific strains have been demonstrated to exert powerful anti-pathogenic, anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic effects . The hygiene hypothesis suggests that atopic disease may arise from a lack of counterbalancing microbial exposure at an early age . The initial compositional development of the gut microflora is considered a key determinant of the development of both the immune responder phenotype and normal gut barrier functions . The regulatory role of probiotics in human allergic disease was first emphasised in the demonstration of a suppressive effect on lymphocyte proliferation and interleukin-4 generation in vitro . Subsequently, a significant improvement in the clinical course of atopic eczema was reported in infants given a probiotic-supplemented diet . The potential of probiotics to reduce the risk of atopic disease has recently been demonstrated in a double-blind, placebo-controlled study: probiotics administered pre- and postnatally for 6 months to at-risk subjects reduced the prevalence of atopic eczema to half of that observed in infants receiving placebo . Ongoing research is directed towards the development of novel techniques to characterise the gut microflora . Future research will clarify the mechanisms to control specific physiological processes in the evolution of atopic disease in at-risk populations or in the management of allergic diseases.

Vestn Ross Akad Med Nauk, 2002, (8), 37 - 40
{The intestinal microenvironment in healthy persons under the technogenic action of an industrial city}; Kramar' LV; The intestinal microflora was studied in 806 healthy persons residing in three different environmental areas of the city of Volgograd . The study indicated that there were qualitative and quantitative differences in its composition, the heterogenicity of microbiocenosis being due to the degree of ambient air pollution . The changed found allowed four cenotypes (normal variants) of the microflora to be identified in urban residents . As the technogenic burden was ascertained to increase on the population, there was a rise in the incidence of atypical variants of the microflora, which were detectable at a rate of 30.6% in the ecologically good central area whereas their rates were 63.3 and 74.9% in both a northern and a southern areas where the basic enterprises of chemical and metallurgic industries are located.

Reproduction, 2002 Sep, 124(3), 399 - 408
Quantification of mast cells and microflora in the vaginal cul-de-sac of the brushtail possum (Trichosurus vulpecula); Mahoney PM et al.; Mast cells are typically associated with biological responses to intracellular parasitic or bacterial invasion in gut and pulmonary tissues . Large numbers of these cells are present in the vaginal cul-de-sac, a component of the reproductive tract in female brushtail possums (Trichosurus vulpecula) . The presence of mast cells in this area may reflect microbial presence or indicate a role for mast cells in reproductive function in this marsupial . In this study, the number and spatial location of mast cells in vaginal cul-de-sac tissues at different reproductive stages was determined, and related to the presence of microflora . Vaginal cul-de-sac tissue was collected from juvenile (n = 5), lactationally anoestrous and cyclic adult brushtail possums (n = 6 per group) . Oestrous cyclicity was induced by removal of pouch young and reproductive status was confirmed by laparoscopy . Tissue was collected aseptically for microbiological procedures . The fractionator and optical disector stereological methods were used to quantify mast cell populations . In all groups, microflora populations were low (< 5 x 10(5) organisms g(-1)) . Mast cell density in epithelial tissue was highest in lactationally anoestrous and luteal phase brushtail possums and lowest in follicular phase animals . No correlation between the numbers of bacteria isolated and mast cell density was apparent . Gram stained tissue showed no evidence of bacterial invasion . Mast cell density was significantly lower in epithelial tissue from follicular phase animals, corroborating previous studies in which an increase in mast cell degranulation coincided with high oestrogen concentrations.

Altern Med Rev, 2002 Aug, 7(4), 336 - 9
Calcium-D-glucarate; The role of salivary function in modulating chemotherapy-induced oropharyngeal mucositis: a review of the literature; Department of Dentistry, Vancouver Hospital & Health Sciences Centre, 855 West 12th Avenue, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada V5Z 1R9 . jepstein@bccancer.bc.ca

Oropharyngeal mucositis is a common and significant complication of cancer chemotherapy and limits the delivery of chemotherapy, affects the quality of life, and increases the cost of care . Oral mucositis caused by cancer chemotherapy is associated with specific agents, but the origin of oral mucositis is poorly understood . These drugs may have direct toxic effects on the rapidly dividing cells of the oral mucosa and on cellular elements of the connective tissue . Microbial flora may play a role in the development of ulcerative mucositis . Chemotherapy may be directly toxic and affect the mucosa by systemic circulation and may be related to secretion of some chemotherapeutic drugs in the saliva, resulting in topical exposure to the oral environment . Other potential mechanisms include reduced saliva volume and change in saliva constituents that may affect epithelial maintenance and repair, the physiology of the oral microflora, and the interaction between the oral flora and the epithelium . Improved understanding of the mechanisms whereby specific chemotherapeutic agents cause mucositis may lead to management approaches that will reduce the incidence and severity of mucositis, improving quality of life and ensuring delivery of the necessary chemotherapy to improve cancer cure rates.

Mikrobiol Z, 2002 May-Jun, 64(3), 59 - 67
{Modeling of dynamics of microorganisms quantity in the soil polluted by heavy metals}; Iutyns'ka HO et al.; Microflora of soils polluted by heavy metals was the subject of monitoring investigations . Basing on the experimental data obtained with the use of interactive system ASTRID by the method of group accounting of arguments, mathematical models were constructed which describe the dynamics of microorganisms quantity, depending on the number of ecological factors and presence of heavy metals in the soil . The models allow one to predict the number of microorganisms in the soil under certain parameters of the environment, to determine "critical" deviations from the predicted values as well as to renew the intermediate data for obtaining uniform series of ecological researches . Prospects of the use of the inductive approach for modeling of microbiological processes in the soil have been demonstrated.

Pol J Vet Sci, 2002, 5(2), 103 - 15
Animal health and foodborne pathogens: enterohaemorrhagic O157:H7 strains and other pathogenic Escherichia coli virotypes (EPEC, ETEC, EIEC, EHEC); Gonzalez Garcia EA; The majority of interactions between microorganisms and animals are based on convenient relations for both of them . Symbiotic microorganisms, like intestinal microbiota, produce important vitamins for animals and protects them from putative pathogens . In general, for monogastric animals, the main contribution of intestinal microorganisms is to supply with growth factors the animal diet, and in some cases they are responsible for providing essential vitamins (e.g . vitamin K) . Some particular and relatively few microbes like viruses, bacteria, fungi, protozoa and algae are responsible for animal illness . Because microorganisms are easily dispersed, display physiological diversity, and tolerate extreme conditions, they are ubiquitous and may contaminate and grow in many products, including food and raw materials . Foodborne diseases are caused by consumption of contaminated food or beverages . Many different disease-causing pathogens can contaminate food, so there are many different foodborne infections . In addition, poisonous chemicals and biological toxins can cause disease if they are present in food . To know how a particular disease is spreading is an important matter to take appropriate steps to stop it . For example Escherichia coli O157:H7 infections can spread through contaminated food (meat, vegetables, cheese, etc.), contaminated drinking water or juices, contaminated swimming water and from person to person . Among foodborne pathogens, the most frequently detected are bacteria, but also parasitic protozoa and worms, viruses, natural toxins and other pathogenic agents like prions are important agents for foodborne diseases . Particular pathogenic types of E . coli, classified by their specific pathogenic mechanisms (toxins, adhesins, invasiveness, etc.) are actually known as E . coli virotypes . Enterohaemorrhagic E . coli (EHEC), which constitute the main part of this review, were also named verotoxigenic E . coli (VTEC) or Shiga toxigenic E . coli (STEC) . EHEC strains cause haemorrhagic colitis (HC), haemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) and thrombotic thrombocytopaenic purpura (TP) in humans . They synthetize shigatoxins (verotoxins) which are potent cytotoxic substances, adherence factors and enterohaemolysin . EHEC are responsible for many outbreaks of bloody diarrhoea caused by contaminated foods: beef, milk, fruits, juice, water, etc . The most important serogroups among EHEC are O26, O111 and O157, being O157:H7 the most relevant serotype in foodborne outbreaks . The normal intestinal microflora of cattle was found to be the most relevant reservoir of EHEC strains.

Histochem Cell Biol, 2002 Aug, 118(2), 149 - 61 Epub 2002 Jun 27.
Microbial-host interactions specifically control the glycosylation pattern in intestinal mouse mucosa; Freitas M et al.; The glycosylation of the intestinal cell layer is thought to control several key functions of the gut such as vectorial transports, defence against microbial agents or immunological processes . It has been assumed that the gut microflora may modulate the glycosylation pattern of the intestinal cell layer . However, there is no direct evidence for this regulatory process . The first goal of this work was to establish the germ-free mice intestinal glycosylation baseline using a histochemical approach and a panel of ten lectins with defined glycan specificities to tissue sections prepared from various cellular compartments of the small and large intestine . Using this baseline, we have studied the contribution of the gut microflora on the carbohydrate composition of glycoconjugates of intestinal cells by comparing the germ-free and conventional mice glycosylation patterns . Analysis of the germ-free mice intestinal glycosylation baseline revealed that the expression of glycans depends on the proximodistal gradient (small to large intestine) and on the cell lineage (absorptive, goblet, crypt, and Paneth cells), indicating that mice are able to create and maintain a strict topological and cell lineage-specific regulation of glycosyltransferase expression . By comparing germ-free and conventional mice, we find that the gut microflora specifically modulates the gut glycosylation pattern, quantitatively as well as qualitatively by changing the cellular and subcellular distribution of glycans . This is the first report in mice to directly demonstrate the critical contribution of microflora to intestinal glycosylation, a key characteristic of the gut.

J Am Vet Med Assoc, 2002 Aug 15, 221(4), 528 - 32, 500
Infection with Basidiobolus ranarum in two dogs; Greene CE et al.; Basidiobolus ranarum is a saprophytic fungus in the environment that also is a part of the endogenous microflora in the gastrointestinal tract of several vertebrates . These organisms may penetrate skin or muscosa of humans and other animals, causing granulomatous inflammation . Two dogs infected with B . ranarum had prolonged or repeated exposure to water or soil in their environment . One dog had progressive subcutaneous infection of all the limbs, and the other dog had recurrent coughing and dyspnea caused by tracheobronchitis . In both dogs, secondary bacterial infection of the lesions was evident . Treatment of the dog with subcutaneous infection involved cutaneous dressings and sequential use of enrofloxacin and itraconazole; however, this resulted in suspected liver damage without clinical improvement . Subsequent treatment with potassium iodide and a lipid formulation of amphotericin B was also unsuccessful, and the dog was euthanatized . The other dog was treated alternately with enrofloxacin and itraconazole . When the clinical signs and infection returned, combination treatment with both drugs was more effective; however, the dog developed liver damage . Subsequent treatment with enrofloxacin on an intermittent basis controlled the dog's coughing during a 3-year period.

Am J Clin Dermatol, 2002, 3(7), 445 - 9
Cosmetics: what is their influence on the skin microflora?
Holland KT, Bojar RA.
Human skin has a resident, transient and temporary resident microflora . This article considers the possibilities of topical products influencing the balance of the microflora . The resident micro-organisms are in a dynamic equilibrium with the host tissue and the microflora may be considered an integral component of the normal human skin . The great majority of these micro-organisms are gram-positive and reside on the skin surface and in the follicles . The host has a variety of structures, molecules and mechanisms which restrict the transient and temporary residents, as well as controlling the population and dominance of the resident group . These include local skin anatomy, hydration, nutrients and inhibitors of various types . The resident microflora is beneficial in occupying a niche and denying its access to transients, which may be harmful and infectious . Also, the residents are important in modifying the immune system . In the healthy host the microflora causes few and temporary problems . Therefore, it is of interest that topical products have little or no effect on the ecology of the microflora . A range of mechanisms by which long-term use of cosmetics may influence the microflora are considered . Although the risks associated are low, it is argued that it is necessary to monitor these changes in ecology and use technologies of modeling and bioinformatics to predict outcomes, whether good, neutral or of concern.

Forensic Sci Int, 2002 Jul 17, 127(3), 198 - 203
Diatoms in forensic expertise of drowning--a Macedonian experience; Krstic S et al.; Results obtained by examination of 22 human cases suspected for drowning, one human case of death other than drowning and several tests on laboratory rats were used as a basis for evaluation of diatom method as supportive in forensic expertise of drowning . The recovery of diatoms from various examined organs, their qualitative and quantitative composition, if properly treated without the possibility of contamination, can be a reliable proof of the time and place of drowning . The priority of organ examination (external microflora determination, lungs, brain, heart (and/or blood), stomach, liver and kidney, and finally bone marrow) is discussed and established as well as the basic future research on cases suspected of drowning, but also on non-drowned victims and laboratory animals.

Clin Oral Implants Res, 2002 Aug, 13(4), 371 - 80
Two-stage IMZ implants and ITI implants inserted in a single-stage procedure . A prospective comparative study; Heydenrijk K et al.; The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of using a two-stage implant system in a single-stage procedure and to study the impact of the microgap at crestal level and to monitor the microflora in the peri-implant area . Forty edentulous patients (Cawood & Howell class V-VI) participated in this study . After randomisation, 20 patients received two IMZ implants inserted in a single-stage procedure and 20 patients received two ITI implants . After 3 months, overdentures were fabricated, supported by a bar and clip attachment . A standardised clinical and radiographic evaluation was performed immediately after denture insertion and 6 and 12 months later . Twelve months after loading, peri-implant samples were collected with sterile paper points and analysed for the presence of putative periodontal pathogens using culture techniques . One IMZ implant was lost due to insufficient osseointegration . With regard to the clinical parameters at the 12 months evaluation, significant differences for plaque score and probing pocket depth (IMZ: mean 3.3 mm, ITI: mean 2.9 mm) were found between the two groups . The mean bone loss in the first year of functioning was 0.6 mm for both groups . Prevotella intermedia was detected more often in the ITI group (12 implants) than in the IMZ group (three implants) . Porphyromonas gingivalis was found in three patients . In one of these patients an implant showed bone loss of 1.6 mm between T0 and T12 . Some associations were found between clinical parameters and the target microorganisms in the ITI group . These associations were not present in the IMZ group . The short-term results indicate that two-stage implants inserted in a single-stage procedure may be as predictable as one-stage implants . The microgap at crestal level in nonsubmerged IMZ implants seems to have no adverse influence on the peri-implant microbiological colonisation and of crestal bone loss in the first year of functioning . The peri-implant sulcus can and does harbour potential periodontal pathogens without signs of peri-implantitis during the evaluation period of 1 year.

BMC Surg . 2002 Aug 13;2(1):6.
Microscopy of bacterial translocation during small bowel obstruction and ischemia in vivo--a new animal model; Samel S et al.; BACKGROUND: Existing animal models provide only indirect information about the pathogenesis of infections caused by indigenous gastrointestinal microflora and the kinetics of bacterial translocation . The aim of this study was to develop a novel animal model to assess bacterial translocation and intestinal barrier function in vivo . METHODS: In anaesthetized male Wistar rats, 0.5 ml of a suspension of green fluorescent protein-transfected E . coli was administered by intraluminal injection in a model of small bowel obstruction . Animals were randomly subjected to non-ischemic or ischemic bowel obstruction . Ischemia was induced by selective clamping of the terminal mesenteric vessels feeding the obstructed bowel loop . Time intervals necessary for translocation of E . coli into the submucosal stroma and the muscularis propria was assessed using intravital microscopy . RESULTS: Bacterial translocation into the submucosa and muscularis propria took a mean of 36 +/- 8 min and 80 +/- 10 min, respectively, in small bowel obstruction . Intestinal ischemia significantly accelerated bacterial translocation into the submucosa (11 +/- 5 min, p < 0.0001) and muscularis (66 +/- 7 min; p = 0.004) . Green fluorescent protein-transfected E . coli were visible in frozen sections of small bowel, mesentery, liver and spleen taken two hours after E . coli administration . CONCLUSIONS: Intravital microscopy of fluorescent bacteria is a novel approach to study bacterial translocation in vivo . We have applied this technique to define minimal bacterial transit time as a functional parameter of intestinal barrier function.

Gut, 2002 Sep, 51(3), 392 - 7
Regression of Peyer's patches in G alpha i2 deficient mice prior to colitis is associated with reduced expression of Bcl-2 and increased apoptosis; Ohman L et al.; BACKGROUND: G protein deficient (G alpha i2-/-) mice spontaneously develop an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) closely resembling ulcerative colitis . Previous studies have demonstrated that gut T cells are hyperreactive to the endogenous microflora in most IBD models . AIMS: The aim of this study was to analyse Peyer's patches (PP), the inductive sites for gut mucosal immune responses . Subjects and methods: G alpha i2-/- mice, an animal model for IBD, were analysed using immunological methods with regard to phenotype and function . RESULTS: We found significantly decreased numbers of PP in G alpha i2-/- mice . Even before the onset of colitis, G alpha i2 deficient animals exhibited diminished size of PP, as judged by histology . This involution of PP was associated with strongly increased levels of apoptotic lymphocytes, associated with decreased levels of antiapoptotic intracellular protein Bcl-2 . PP T lymphocytes showed highly elevated production of interferon gamma in response to the enteric flora compared with PP T cells from wild-type mice, which produced predominantly interleukin 10 . CONCLUSIONS: Thus even before the onset of colitis, the PP in G alpha i2 deficient mice is a Th1 dominated milieu associated with downregulated levels of Bcl-2, resulting in increased apoptosis of lymphocytes leading to regression of PP . We speculate that this Th1 dominated microenvironment in the inductive site for mucosal immune responses contributes to the development of colitis in G alpha i2 deficient mice.

J Agric Food Chem, 2002 Aug 14, 50(17), 4783 - 90
Metabolism of biochanin A and formononetin by human liver microsomes in vitro; Tolleson WH et al.; Biochanin A and formononetin are abundant in legumes . These proestrogenic isoflavones can be converted by 4'-O-demethylation to the more potent phytoestrogens genistein and daidzein . Incubation of biochanin A or formononetin with human liver microsomes resulted in 4'-O-demethylation and the production of additional metabolites . Three new hydroxylated formononetin derivatives, 6,7-dihydroxy-4'-methoxyisoflavone, 7,8-dihydroxy-4'-methoxyisoflavone, and 7,3'-dihydroxy-4'-methoxyisoflavone, were isolated and characterized . We surveyed the O-demethylase competence of cytochrome P450 isoforms found in human liver . Human cytochrome P450 isoforms 1A2, 2E1, 2C9*1, 2C19, and 2D6*1 catalyzed biochanin A consumption and genistein production . Human cytochrome P450 isoforms 1A2, 2C9*1, 2A6, 2D6*1, and 2C19 catalyzed formononetin consumption and daidzein production . These isoforms also generated other hydroxylated metabolites . Although O-demethylation of isoflavones has been attributed to metabolism by gut microflora, our study demonstrates that human hepatic microsomal enzymes can perform the same transformation and may play a key role in the conversion of 4'-O-methylated isoflavones to more potent phytoestrogens.

Environ Pollut, 2002, 119(3), 357 - 64
The adaptation of two similar soils to pyrene catabolism; Macleod CJ et al.; The development of pyrene catabolic activity was assessed in two similar soils (pasture and woodland) amended with 100 mg pyrene kg(-1) In the pasture and woodland soils, significant mineralisation of 14C-pyrene was observed after 8 and 76 weeks soil-pyrene contact times, respectively . In both soils, there were significant decreases (P<0.05) in the lag times and significant increases (P <0.05) in the maximum rates and extents of 14C-pyrene mineralised with increasing soil-pyrene contact time . A microbial inoculum was added to the woodland soil to assess if the previously added, but undegraded 14C-pyrene was bioavailable at 16 and 24 weeks . This resulted in the immediate mineralisation of the previously added 14C-pyrene, indicating that it was bioavailable but that the microbial community in the woodland soil had not developed the ability to mineralise pyrene . The relative contributions of the indigenous microflora to 14C-pyrene mineralisation were assessed by the addition of celective inhibitors, with bacteria seeming to be responsible for the mineralisation of pyrene in both soils . It is suggested that the rate of pyrene-transfer from the soil to the microorganisms was lower in the woodland soil due to its higher organic matter content.

Gerodontology, 2002 Jul, 19(1), 25 - 9
Colonization of denture plaque by respiratory pathogens in dependent elderly; Sumi Y et al.; OBJECTIVES: Recently, there has been a resurgence of interest in the interactions between oral conditions and a number of prevalent systemic diseases . The morbidity and mortality of the dependent elderly that result from aspiration pneumonia have been recognized as a major geriatric health problem . The purpose of this study was to gain more information on the microflora of plaque on dentures and to assess the existence of oral infectious pathogens potentially causing the respiratory disease in the dependent elderly . SUBJECTS AND METHODS: The denture bacterial flora of 50 dependent elderly were examined to identify microorganisms by the culture method . RESULTS: 18 species of microorganisms were detected in denture plaque in this study . A variety of pathogens with the potential to cause respiratory infection pathogens colonized on the dentures of dependent elderly . CONCLUSION: The results of the present study revealed that bacteria that commonly cause respiratory infection colonized on the dentures of dependent elderly, suggesting that denture plaque may function as a reservoir of potential respiratory pathogens to facilitate colonization on the oropharynx.

Xenobiotica, 2002 Jul, 32(7), 625 - 40
Covalent binding of PCB metabolites to lipids: route of formation and characterization; Morck A et al.; 1 . After an oral dose of (14)C-labelled 3,3',4,4'-tetrachlorobiphenyl (CB-77), the conventional germ-free and bile-duct cannulated male Sprague-Dawley rat excreted approximately 80% of the dose in faeces and/or bile within 3 days . 2 . For the germ-free and conventional rat, 15% of the dose was excreted via the faeces as metabolites covalently bound to lipids . Bile-duct-cannulated rats excreted similar amounts of lipid-bound metabolites in the bile . The lipid-bound metabolites appear to be formed in the liver and excreted via the bile, and the microflora did not seem essential for the formation of lipid-bound metabolites . 3 . The novel CB-77 metabolites had chemical and physical properties similar to those of lipids with regard to solubility and polarity, as determined by partition characteristics on various chromatographic systems . 4 . In addition to identification of hydroxylated CB-77 metabolites, several fatty acid esters of hydroxy-chlorobiphenyls were indicated and one hydroxy-tetrachlorobiphenylol palmitoate was identified, but fatty acid esters were minor metabolites . 5 . Approximately 70% of the lipid-bound metabolites were present in the fraction that contained phospholipids . The formation of lipid-bound CB-77 metabolites seems a spontaneous reaction rather than an enzymatically catalysed reaction, as indicated by the large number of different lipid-bound metabolites.

Xenobiotica, 2002 Jun, 32(6), 479 - 90
Metabolism of 4-fluoroaniline and 4-fluorobiphenyl in the earthworm Eisenia veneta characterized by high-resolution NMR spectroscopy with directly coupled HPLC-NMR and HPLC-MS; Bundy JG et al.; 1 . Little is known about metabolism of xenobiotics by earthworms, despite their importance in soil ecotoxicity testing . Normal earthworms and earthworms treated with antibiotics to ensure inhibition of gut microflora were exposed to two model xenobiotic compounds, 4-fluoroaniline and 4-fluorobiphenyl, to determine which metabolites were produced, and whether the pattern of metabolism was affected by the presence of microbial transformation ability . 2 . (19)F-NMR spectroscopy detected the number and relative proportions of metabolites and directly coupled HPLC-(1)H-NMR spectroscopy and HPLC-MS then identified the metabolites . 3 . Despite uptake, no metabolism of 4-fluorobiphenyl was observed at any stage, which appears to be a consequence of the lack of oxidative Phase I metabolic activity of the earthworms towards this substrate . In contrast, 4-fluoroaniline exhibited dose-dependent metabolism . At high doses (leading to mortality within 24 h) one predominant metabolite was observed, which was identified as the N-beta-glucoside conjugate . At lower dose levels, the predominant metabolite was the gamma-glutamyl conjugate, although the glucoside and another as yet unidentified metabolite were also detected . 4 . The inhibition of gut microflora did not have any influence on metabolism . The study represents the first evidence for glucoside and glutamyl conjugation as a pathway for xenobiotic metabolism in earthworms.

Cryobiology, 2002 Apr, 44(2), 189 - 92
The effect of antibiotic treatment on the supercooling ability of the land snail Helix aspersa (Gastropoda: Pulmonata); Ansart A et al.; The land snail Helix aspersa is a partially freezing tolerant species whose supercooling ability is limited to ca . -3 to -5 degrees C . One hundred adult snails were subjected to the following two experimental conditions: (i) a starved group, provided with water; (ii) an antibiotic-treated group that was provided with a solution containing a mixture of two antibiotics . The antibiotic group exhibited a T(c) significantly lower than the starved group (-3.94 +/- 1.32 degrees C, n = 40 and -3.07 +/- 0.99, n = 30, t test, p < 0.005) . This study showed that bacteria of the gut are likely to elevate animal supercooling points . It is also the first report in which a possible ice-nucleating activity of the gut microflora in a land snail has been suggested by the action of antibiotics on the T(c).

J Periodontol, 2002 Jul, 73(7), 797 - 812
Full-mouth therapy versus individual quadrant root planning: a critical commentary; Greenstein G; BACKGROUND: This commentary compares the abilities of full-mouth disinfection (FDIS), full-mouth root planing (FRP), and partial-mouth disinfection (PDIS) to improve periodontal health . FDIS consists of 4 quadrants of root planing completed within 24 hours with adjunctive chlorhexidine therapies (e.g., rinsing, subgingival irrigation, tongue brushing) . FRP denotes 4 quadrants of root planing performed within 24 hours, and PDIS refers to root planing individual quadrants of the dentition, spaced 2 weeks apart . A basic premise of administering full-mouth therapy (FDIS or FRP) is to eliminate or reduce bacterial reservoirs within the oral cavity that could inhibit optimal healing of treated sites or cause periodontal disease initiation or progression . METHODS: Controlled clinical trials that compared the abilities of PDIS and full-mouth root planing with and without adjunctive chlorhexidine chemotherapy to alter periodontal status were reviewed . RESULTS: Several studies conducted at one treatment center indicated that FDIS and FRP attained greater therapeutic improvements than PDIS with respect to decreasing probing depths (PD), gaining clinical attachment (CAL), diminishing bleeding upon probing, and reducing the subgingival microflora . However, the magnitude of PD reductions and gains of clinical attachment must be carefully interpreted, because initial PD measurements were usually determined after scaling and root planing, which may have caused the results to be overstated . Furthermore, in studies that addressed the utility of FDIS, it was not possible to determine if benefits induced beyond PDIS were due to FRP or administration of multifaceted intraoral chlorhexidine treatments ora combination of both therapies . One investigation that had protocol limitations indicated that similar results were attained by FRP with and without adjunctive chemotherapy . In contrast, recent studies from 2 other treatment centers indicated that there were no significant differences when the efficacy of quadrant-by-quadrant root planing was compared to FRP or FDIS with regard to PD reduction, gains of clinical attachment, and impact on the magnitude and quality of the immune response . POSSIBLE CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: Conceptually, full-mouth therapy (FRP or FDIS) could reduce the number of patient visits and facilitate more efficient use of treatment time . In addition, there appears to be no major adverse reactions to full-mouth root planing with or without adjunctive chemotherapy . However, small study populations and non-corroborating data from different treatment centers indicate that additional randomized clinical trials are needed to determine if full-mouth therapy provides clinically relevant improvements beyond PDIS.

Allergy, 2002, 57 Suppl 72, 97 - 9
Probiotics and food-allergic diseases; Paganelli R et al.; The definition of probiotics is always evolving, since it includes natural live micro-organisms, cellular subfractions, as well as genetically engineered derivatives or proteins . The scope of probiotic administration is beneficial change of the intestinal microflora, and improvement of non immune or immune resistance in the intestinal tract . Very few controlled human studies have been reported, but many in vitro and experimental animal studies point to their safety and potentially useful applications . We shall review the published reports and discuss mainly the prospective uses in the field of allergic diseases, with reference to the implication of the natural (innate) immune system as regulator of the development of abnormal responses to ingested food antigens.

Eur J Clin Nutr, 2002 Aug, 56 Suppl 3, S24 - 8
Modulation of the immune system and the response against pathogens with bovine colostrum concentrates; Solomons NW; The growth, development and health conditions for children living under deprived conditions in developing countries are so adverse that immediate public health measures to reduce morbidity and improve nutrition are urgently needed . Preventing and shortening the course of diarrhoeal episodes, eliminating protozoal colonization, and balancing intestinal microflora would all contribute to these goals . The consumption by humans of part of the colostrum produced when a dairy animal gives birth is an established tradition in many traditional societies . Recent advances in food technology in industrial dairying allow for continuous availability of stabilized bovine colostrum concentrate, both natural and hyperimmunized against specific human pathogens . This is safe for the calves of the producers themselves, for laboratory animals, and generally for humans, with the caveat of the milk-allergic . Moreover, substantial amounts of orally ingested bovine colostrum concentrate survive their passage through the stomach to remain intact and active in the lower reaches of the bowel . Studies in animals, human volunteers and naturally infected humans have demonstrated a therapeutic efficacy of oral bovine colostrum with certain infections . Similarly, attempts to prevent gastrointestinal infections in animals, exposed volunteers and at-risk populations have met with limited success with specific pathogens . It is time to begin to assess the feasibility and potential effectiveness and efficiency of employing seasonal or chronic bovine colostrum feeding in populations of deprived infantile populations to reduce the rates of recurrent gastroenteritis and decrease immunostimulation to improve vitality and nutritional status in early life.

Zh Mikrobiol Epidemiol Immunobiol, 2002 May-Jun, (3), 97 - 9
{Human pharynx microflora as the indicator of resistance of human organisms}; Lankina MV; The analysis of the results of 220 microbiological investigations of the aerobic microflora of the pharynx mucosa in males made it possible to divide the pharynx microbiocenosis of adults into normocenosis of the I, II, III orders and dysbacteriosis of the I, II, III degrees . The use of this division for the determination of the reaction of nonspecific resistance was proposed . The possibility of using it for the diagnostics of health disturbances of sportsmen-servicemen developing due to strains characteristic for modern sport and military service, was shown.

Zh Mikrobiol Epidemiol Immunobiol, 2002 May-Jun, (3), 30 - 4
{Course and outcomes of infectious endocarditis in HIV-infected patients}; Iushchuk ND et al.; 39 patients with acute infectious endocarditis were observed; of these, 28 patients had HIV infection at different stages of the disease . The specific features of the course of acute infectious endocarditis in HIV-infected patients were established . The severe course of acute septic endocarditis was observed in those patients whose parameters of the cell-mediated immune system (cells CD4+) were in the state of compensation or subcompensation . At different stages of HIV infection different clinical syndromes of infectious endocarditis prevailed . In patients with HIV infection the combined lesions of the heart valve apparatus were observed and mixed microflora was isolated from the blood more frequently . The development of acute septic endocarditis negatively affected the course of HIV infection and was manifested by a rapid decrease in the amount of CD4 lymphocytes.

J Biol Chem, 2002 Oct 4, 277(40), 37811 - 9 Epub 2002 Jul 22.
A gnotobiotic transgenic mouse model for studying interactions between small intestinal enterocytes and intraepithelial lymphocytes; Mysorekar IU et al.; The mouse intestinal epithelium undergoes continuous renewal throughout life . Intraepithelial lymphocytes (IELs) represent a significant fraction of this epithelium and play an important role in intestinal mucosal barrier function . We have generated a germ-free transgenic mouse model to examine the effects of a genetically engineered proliferative abnormality in the principal epithelial cell lineage (enterocytes) on IEL census and on IEL-enterocytic cross-talk . SV40 large T antigen (TAg(Wt)) or a mutant derivative (TAg(K107/8)) that does not bind pRB was expressed in small intestinal villus enterocytes under the control of elements from the intestinal fatty acid binding protein gene (Fabpi) . Quantitative immunohistochemical and flow cytometric analyses of conventionally raised and germ-free FVB/N Fabpi-TAg(Wt), Fabpi-TAg(K107/8), and nontransgenic mice disclosed that forced reentry of enterocytes into the cell cycle is accompanied by an influx of thymically educated alphabeta T cell receptor (TCR)(+) CD4(+) and alphabeta TCR(+) CD8alphabeta(+) IELs and a decrease in intestinally derived gammadelta TCR(+) CD8alphaalpha IELs . Real time quantitative reverse transcriptase-PCR studies of jejunal villus epithelium recovered from germ-free transgenic and normal mice by laser capture microdissection and gammadelta TCR(+) jejunal IELs purified by flow cytometry disclosed that the proliferative abnormality is accompanied by decreased expression of enterocytic interleukin-7 as well as IEL interleukin-7Ralpha and transforming growth factor beta3 . The analysis also revealed that normal villus epithelium expresses Fms-like tyrosine kinase 3 (Flt3), a known regulator of hematopoietic stem cell proliferation and neuronal cell survival, and its ligand (Flt3L) . Epithelial expression of this receptor and its ligand is reduced by the proliferative abnormality, whereas IEL expression of Flt3L remains constant . Together, these findings demonstrate that changes in the proliferative status of the intestinal epithelium affects maturation of gammadelta TCR(+) IELs and produces an influx of alphabeta TCR(+) IELs even in the absence of a microflora.

Probl Tuberk, 2002, (4), 25 - 7
{Specific features of spontaneous pneumothorax in patients with pulmonary tuberculosis}; Pis'mennyi AK et al.; To study the impact of pulmonary tuberculosis on the natural development of spontaneous pneumothorax and on the outcomes of its treatment, data on 589 patients were retrospectively analyzed . Two hundred and eighty patients had primary spontaneous pneumothorax and 170 had secondary nontuberculosis pneumothorax . Tuberculous pneumothorax was in 139 patients, of them 71 had decay cavities . The authors defined the causes of pneumothorax, the severity of respiratory diseases, assessed admission X-ray data, evaluated the efficiency of the first 24 hours of treatment, complications and mortality rates in these groups of patients . The efficiency of treatment for spontaneous pneumothorax has been ascertained to be determined by the degree of lung decay, by the adequacy of pleural cavity drainage, and by the rationality of a tactic algorithm rather than by the type of an infectious agent (Mycobacterium tuberculosis, nonspecific microflora).

Gastroenterol Clin North Am, 2002 Mar, 31(1), 41 - 62
Microbial factors in inflammatory bowel disease; Farrell RJ et al.; An unsolved puzzle in IBD research is whether germs, genes, or a combination of the two with excessive immune responses to gut-associated bacteria explains the pathogenesis of UC and CD . Whatever the answer, there is little doubt that microbial factors are involved intimately in IBD pathogenesis . Although a long search has failed to confirm a direct pathogenic role for a specific infectious agent, compelling evidence suggests that commensal enteric bacteria and their products provide a local environmental trigger that initiates and perpetuates IBD, reactivates quiescent disease, results in the frequent septic complications of CD, and contributes to the development of several extraintesinal manifestations . The most compelling evidence for involvement of the enteric flora in the pathogenesis of IBD has been generated from studies of animal models, which collectively support the view that IBD is due to genetically determined dysregulation of the mucosal immune response to luminal antigens derived from the normal bacterial flora . Although removing or dampening the dominant antigenic stimuli with antibiotics or probiotics is conceptually superior to the current array of immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory agents that nonspecifically block the inflammatory cascade, more definitive, rigorously designed, controlled trials of treatments directed at the microflora are needed . Future research investigating mechanisms of tolerance to luminal bacteria and an understanding of how probiotics can manipulate the intestinal flora beneficially will bring clinicians closer to identifying potential therapeutic targets and unraveling the bacterial connection to IBD pathogenesis.

FEMS Microbiol Lett, 2002 Jul 2, 212(2), 243 - 7
De novo synthesis of amino acids by the ruminal anaerobic fungi, Piromyces communis and Neocallimastix frontalis; Atasoglu C et al.; Anaerobic fungi are an important component of the cellulolytic ruminal microflora . Ammonia alone as N source supports growth, but amino acid mixtures are stimulatory . In order to evaluate the extent of de novo synthesis of individual amino acids in Piromyces communis and Neocallimastix frontalis, isotope enrichment in amino acids was determined during growth on (15)NH(4)Cl in different media . Most cell N (0.78 and 0.63 for P . communis and N . frontalis, respectively) and amino acid N (0.73 and 0.59) continued to be formed de novo from ammonia when 1 g l(-1) trypticase was added to the medium; this concentration approximates the peak concentration of peptides in the rumen after feeding . Higher peptide/amino acid concentrations decreased de novo synthesis . Lysine was exceptional, in that its synthesis decreased much more than other amino acids when Trypticase or amino acids were added to the medium, suggesting that lysine synthesis might limit fungal growth in the rumen.

Ann Bot (Lond), 2002 Mar, 89(3), 293 - 9
Detection of root mucilage using an anti-fucose antibody; Sinha Roy S et al.; Plant root mucilage is known to enhance soil quality by contributing towards the soil carbon pool, soil aggregation, detoxification of heavy metal ions and interactions with rhizospheric microflora . Mucilage consists of many monosaccharide units, including fucose which can be used as an indicator for plant root based polysaccharides . This is the first report of an immunological technique developed to use anti-fucose antibodies as markers for probing and localizing fucosyl residues in mucilage polysaccharide and, in turn, for localization of plant root mucilage . Fucose was complexed with bovine serum albumin to raise antibodies against fucose . A fucose-directed antibody was shown to cross-react with root cap mucilages from grasses . This antibody was used to localize root mucilage polysaccharide in maize and wheat root caps using immunogold electron microscopy . Abundant labelling could be localized on the cell wall, and in the intercellular matrix and vesicles of the peripheral root cap cells . Labelling was less intense in cells towards the centre of the root cap tissue . Control experiments confirmed that immunogold localization of fucose was specific and reliable.

Appl Environ Microbiol, 2002 Jul, 68(7), 3478 - 85
Growth in coculture stimulates metabolism of the phenylurea herbicide isoproturon by Sphingomonas sp . strain SRS2; Sorensen SR et al.; Metabolism of the phenylurea herbicide isoproturon by Sphingomonas sp . strain SRS2 was significantly enhanced when the strain was grown in coculture with a soil bacterium (designated strain SRS1) . Both members of this consortium were isolated from a highly enriched isoproturon-degrading culture derived from an agricultural soil previously treated regularly with the herbicide . Based on analysis of the 16S rRNA gene, strain SRS1 was assigned to the beta-subdivision of the proteobacteria and probably represents a new genus . Strain SRS1 was unable to degrade either isoproturon or its known metabolites 3-(4-isopropylphenyl)-1-methylurea, 3-(4-isopropylphenyl)-urea, or 4-isopropyl-aniline . Pure culture studies indicate that Sphingomonas sp . SRS2 is auxotrophic and requires components supplied by association with other soil bacteria . A specific mixture of amino acids appeared to meet these requirements, and it was shown that methionine was essential for Sphingomonas sp . SRS2 . This suggests that strain SRS1 supplies amino acids to Sphingomonas sp . SRS2, thereby leading to rapid metabolism of (14)C-labeled isoproturon to (14)CO(2) and corresponding growth of strain SRS2 . Proliferation of strain SRS1 suggests that isoproturon metabolism by Sphingomonas sp . SRS2 provides unknown metabolites or cell debris that supports growth of strain SRS1 . The role of strain SRS1 in the consortium was not ubiquitous among soil bacteria; however, the indigenous soil microflora and some strains from culture collections also stimulate isoproturon metabolism by Sphingomonas sp . strain SRS2 to a similar extent.

Br J Nutr, 2002 May, 87 Suppl 2, S301 - 3
Communicating about gut health to the consumer: presenting the BENEO Programme; Coussement PA; Providing sufficient scientific data to be able to make 'health related claims' on foods is quite a challenge . But bringing these claims successfully to the consumer is perhaps an even bigger challenge . Especially when the claims are based on the function of the intestinal tract, as this is a subject that not everybody communicates easily about . In our consumer research, we have focused on how the new consumer thinks and talks about gut health . We found out that he is aware of the existence and the importance of gut microflora . He believes that foods can influence his own flora . At the same time, our research has tested the efficiency of several ways to communicate about these aspects . The consumer reacts quite differently on different marketing concepts . He accepts that natural ingredients can help his gut flora and expects to find such active ingredients in common everyday foods and also in diet supplements . Based on this research, we have condensed the 'prebiotic' message about inulin and oligofructose into a number of simple communications . The best of these were selected for further consumer product testing . The results of this effort form the basis of the BENEO Programme: a communication platform created by ORAFTI that allows the food industry, in partnership with ORAFTI, to bring a uniform and clear message to the consumer about the health benefits of inulin and oligofructose.

Br J Nutr, 2002 May, 87 Suppl 2, S199 - 201
Molecular methods for exploring the intestinal ecosystem; Tannock GW; Molecular methods have provided renewed impetus for the analysis of the composition of the intestinal microflora in health and disease . The polymerase chain reaction coupled with denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis provides a method whereby the bacterial communities in large numbers of samples can be compared efficiently and effectively . Altered bacterial populations associated with disease states can then be targeted for further investigation . In the long-term, an 'abnormal microflora' might be rectified by the use of probiotics or prebiotics.

Br J Nutr, 2002 May, 87 Suppl 2, S139 - 43
Functional foods: concepts and application to inulin and oligofructose; Roberfroid MB; A food can be regarded as functional if it is satisfactorily demonstrated to affect beneficially one or more target functions in the body, beyond adequate nutritional effects, in a way which is relevant to either the state of well-being and health or the reduction of the risk of a disease . Health claims are expected to be authorized for functional foods based either on enhanced function (type A claim) or disease risk reduction (type B claim) . Their development is a unique opportunity to contribute to the improvement of the quality of the food offered to consumer's choice for the benefit of his well-being and health . But only a rigorous scientific approach producing sound data will guarantee its success . The functional food components that are discussed in the proceedings of the 3rd ORAFTI Research Conference are the inulin-type fructans, natural food components found in miscellaneous edible plants . They are non-digestible oligosaccharides that are classified as dietary fiber . The targets for their functional effects are the colonic microflora that use them as selective 'fertilizers'; the gastrointestinal physiology; the immune functions; the bioavailability of minerals; and the metabolism of lipids . Potential health benefits may also concern reduction of the risk of some diseases like intestinal infections, constipation, non-insulin dependent diabetes, obesity, osteoporosis or colon cancer . The present proceedings review the scientific data available and, by reference to the concepts in functional food science, they assess the scientific evidence which will be used to substantiate health claims.

Med Tr Prom Ekol, 2002, (5), 38 - 41
{Intestinal micro-biocenosis in workers engaged in oil extraction}; Khusnarizanova RF; Nearly one third of workers engaged into oil extraction suffer from gastrointestinal disorders . Stationary medical examination revealed over 70% diseased subjects among which 98% of cases demonstrated disorders of colic microbiocenose (absent or depressed normal microflora, growing pathogens, deficient Bifidum bacteria in 63% of the examinees) . These facts could be caused by environmental (including occupational) hazards resulting in decompensation of adaptive mechanisms.

Carcinogenesis, 2002 Jun, 23(6), 1009 - 16
Metabolism of sinigrin (2-propenyl glucosinolate) by the human colonic microflora in a dynamic in vitro large-intestinal model; Krul C et al.; Cruciferous vegetables, such as Brassica, which contain substantial quantities of glucosinolates, have been suggested to possess anticarcinogenic activity . Cutting and chewing of cruciferous vegetables releases the thioglucosidase enzyme myrosinase, which degrades glucosinolates to isothiocyanates and other minor metabolites . Cooking of cruciferous vegetables inactivates the myrosinase enzyme, allowing intact glucosinolates to reach the large intestine, where they can be degraded by the indigenous microflora into isothiocyanates . This local release of isothiocyanates may explain the protective effect of cruciferous vegetables on the colon epithelium . However, little is known about the amounts and identities of glucosinolate metabolites produced by the human microflora . The production of allyl isothiocyanate from sinigrin was investigated in a dynamic in vitro large-intestinal model, after inoculation with a complex microflora of human origin . Sinigrin and allyl isothiocyanate concentrations were analysed in the lumen and dialysis fluid of the model . Peak levels of allyl isothiocyanate were observed between 9 and 12 h after the addition of sinigrin . The model was first set up with a pooled and cultured human microflora, in which 1 and 4% of, respectively, 1 and 15 mM sinigrin, was converted into AITC . However, the conversion rate was remarkably higher if different individual human microflora were used . Between 10% and 30% (mean 19%) of the sinigrin was converted into allyl isothiocyanate . The results of this study suggest that allyl isothiocyanate is converted further into other, yet unknown, metabolites.

Am J Orthod Dentofacial Orthop, 2002 Jun, 121(6), 639 - 49
Periodontal concerns associated with the orthodontic treatment of impacted teeth; Frank CA et al.; Impacted teeth are common and are often treated with orthodontic eruption, but periodontal problems associated with the process can evade detection . Profound destruction of the periodontium of an impacted tooth or adjacent teeth can occur . This case report describes the orthodontic eruption of 4 impacted canines in a 19-year-old woman . An open surgical approach was used . Within 6 months of treatment, the maxillary right canine and the lateral incisor experienced severe periodontal destruction, resulting in questionable prognoses for the teeth . Plaque control, periodontal architecture, and subgingival microflora were examined as local etiologic factors of periodontal destruction associated with orthodontic eruption of impacted teeth . Plaque control measures were evaluated, and the consequences of orthodontic tooth movement in the presence of inadequate plaque control were considered . Areas of periodontal architecture made vulnerable by the surgical exposure of the impacted teeth were identified, and the effect of orthodontic force on the periodontium was explored . An increase in putative periopathogens in the subgingival microflora after orthodontic appliance placement was observed . Microbiologic monitoring for pathologic levels of periopathogens and antibiotic therapy were considered . Orthodontic treatment of impacted teeth might require additional professional and personal plaque control measures, 3-dimensional diagnostic imaging, and control of putative periopathogens to preserve the health of the periodontium.

Gut, 2002 Jul, 51 Suppl 1, i41 - 4
A role for inflammation in irritable bowel syndrome?
Barbara G, De Giorgio R, Stanghellini V, Cremon C, Corinaldesi R.
Attention has been directed to the putative role of low grade mucosal inflammation in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) on the basis of evidence showing that some patients with IBS have an increased number of inflammatory cells in the colonic and ileal mucosa . Previous episodes of infectious enteritis, genetic factors, undiagnosed food allergies, and changes in bacterial microflora may all play a role in promoting and perpetuating this low grade inflammatory process . Human and animal studies support the concept that inflammation may perturb gastrointestinal reflexes and activate the visceral sensory system even when the inflammatory response is minimal and confined to the mucosa . Thus abnormal neuroimmune interactions may contribute to the altered gastrointestinal physiology and hypersensitivity that underlies IBS . A brief review of the human and animal studies that have focused on the putative role of intestinal inflammation and infections in the pathogenesis of IBS is given.

Vet Immunol Immunopathol, 2002 Sep 10, 87(3-4), 301 - 6
Early development of immune system in pigs; Sinkora J et al.; Prenatal and early postnatal immune system development has been studied in minipigs . First leukocytes were observed in the yolk sac and fetal liver (FL) on the 17th day of gestation, the majority of them being SWC3(+) . The colonization of the thymus (TH) with leukocytes was observed 21 days later . Two waves of fetal TH colonization with pro-T cells were deduced from the frequency of thymocyte subsets . Thymic B cells and immunoglobulin-secreting cells (Ig-SC) were studied by flow cytometry and ELISPOT, respectively . When the total numbers of fetal Ig-SC were compared, the TH was identified as the main source of natural antibodies and the only site of IgA and IgG synthesis . In germ-free animals, the TH also represented the major site of IgG and IgA production and the number of Ig-SC was not influenced by colonization with microflora . FL and bone marrow were identified as primary B lymphopoietic sites . The phenotype of B precursors was characterized and pre-B II cells were shown to be the dominant mononuclear fraction between DG50 and DG105 . In the periphery, relative proportions of lymphocyte subsets were determined . Studies in gnotobiotic piglets have revealed that the appearance of CD4(+)CD8(+) T cells and CD2(-) B cells is absolutely dependent on the contact of immune system with live viruses and bacteria, respectively.

Br J Nutr, 2002 Jun, 87(6), 533 - 42
Degradation of transgenic DNA from genetically modified soya and maize in human intestinal simulations; Martin-Orue SM et al.; The inclusion of genetically modified (GM) foods in the human diet has caused considerable debate . There is concern that the transfer of plant-derived transgenes to the resident intestinal microflora could have safety implications . For these gene transfer events to occur, the nucleic acid would need to survive passage through the gastrointestinal tract . The aim of the present study was to evaluate the rate at which transgenes, contained within GM soya and maize, are degraded in gastric and small bowel simulations . The data showed that 80 % of the transgene in naked GM soya DNA was degraded in the gastric simulations, while no degradation of the transgenes contained within GM soya and maize were observed in these acidic conditions . In the small intestinal simulations, transgenes in naked soya DNA were degraded at a similar rate to the material in the soya protein . After incubation for 30 min, the transgenes remaining in soya protein and naked DNA were 52 (sem 13.1) % and 34 (sem 17.5) %, respectively, and at the completion of the experiment (3 h) these values were 5 % and 3 %, respectively . In contrast to the soya transgene, the maize nucleic acid was hydrolysed in the small intestinal simulations in a biphasic process in which approximately 85 % was rapidly degraded, while the rest of the DNA was cleaved at a rate similar to that in the soya material . Guar gum and tannic acid, molecules that are known to inhibit digestive enzymes, did not influence the rate of transgene degradation in soya protein . In contrast guar gum reduced the rate of transgene degradation in naked soya DNA in the initial stages, but the polysaccharide did not influence the amount of nucleic acid remaining at the end of the experiment . Tannic acid reduced the rate of DNA degradation throughout the small bowel simulations, with 21 (sem 5.4) % and 2 (sem 1.8) % of the naked soya DNA remaining in the presence and absence of the phenolic acid, respectively . These data indicate that some transgenes in GM foods may survive passage through the small intestine.

Quintessence Int, 2001 Apr, 32(4), 303 - 8
Generalized aggressive periodontitis in a prepubertal patient: a case report; Bodur A et al.; A 10-year-old boy presented with generalized gingival inflammation, extensive alveolar bone loss, and tooth mobility . Clinical and radiographic examination supplemented by microbiologic investigation led to a diagnosis of classically termed prepubertal periodontitis (now known as generalized aggressive periodontitis) . Other than severe periodontitis, the child was systemically healthy . Neither unusual infections nor abnormalities in neutrophil functions were detected . Microbiologic examinations by culture revealed the presence of the periodontal pathogen Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans . Treatment consisted of extraction of mobile teeth, supragingival and subgingival debridement, subgingival curettage, and root planing combined with a 1-week prescription of a combination of metronidazole and amoxicillin . Scanning electron microscopy of extracted teeth revealed hypoplastic and aplastic cementum at the periodontally exposed and intact surfaces . Clinical and microbiologic follow-up was continued over a 1-year period . No periodontal lesions have been detected, and A actinomycetemcomitans could not be isolated from the subgingival areas of the remaining teeth at the end of the first year . Since A actinomycetemcomitans was the main pathogen present in the subgingival microflora of the patient, it might play a key role in the etiology of prepubertal periodontitis.

Ceska Gynekol, 2002 Apr, 67 Suppl 1, 23 - 8
{Effect of care in a protected environment on the occurrence of nosocomial infections, mucosal colonization of pathogenic microflora and development of indicators of immunity in premature infants}; Lodinova-Zadnikova R et al.; OBJECTIVE: Prevention of hospital infections in premature infants by treatment in protected environment and intentional colonization of the intestine by oral administration of non-enteropathogenic E . coli . DESIGN: Original article . SETTING: Institute for Care of Mother and Child, Prague . METHODS: Fifty premature infants were followed at the Intensive Care Unit . Twenty five infants were treated after birth in protected environment and colonized during the first 48 hours by oral administration of a apathogenic E . coli strain (Vaccine COLINFANT, registered and produced in the Czech Republic), 25 infants were treated in conventional environment . Bacteriological examinations: stool, nose, throat, ear, stomach end other smears were taken 2-3 times during first week and further once a week and examined by aerobic cultivation . Immunological examinations: globulin levels (IgG, IgM) were estimated in blood samples by ELISA, using specific polyclonal antibodies . As early marker of infection T and B subpopulations were measured by FACS analysis using double labelling of cells . RESULTS: Birth weight, birth length, gestational age, Apgar score, were relatively equal in both groups . Time of hospitalization was 7.3 days shorter in infants treated in protected environment . Colonization with pathogens (130), number of infections (16%) and need for antibiotics (16%) were significantly lower in infants treated in protected environment than in infants treated in the conventional one (238 isolated pathogens, nosocomial infections in 40%, need for antibiotical treatment in 48% if infants) . Serum IgM levels were lower in infants treated in protected environment other immunological parameters did not differ in the two groups . CONCLUSION: Treatment of premature and high-risk infants in protected, pathogen-free environment and intentional colonization with apathogenic E . coli reduced significantly the number of isolated pathogens, number of hospital infections, need for antibiotics and shortened the time of hospitalization in comparison with infants treated in conventional environment.

Folia Microbiol (Praha), 2002, 47(2), 83 - 93
Bacterial aerobic degradation of benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene and xylene; Jindrova E et al.; Several aerobic metabolic pathways for the degradation of benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene and xylene (BTEX), which are provided by two enzymic systems (dioxygenases and monooxygenases), have been identified . The monooxygenase attacks methyl or ethyl substituents of the aromatic ring, which are subsequently transformed by several oxidations to corresponding substituted pyrocatechols or phenylglyoxal, respectively . Alternatively, one oxygen atom may be first incorporated into aromatic ring while the second atom of the oxygen molecule is used for oxidation of either aromatic ring or a methyl group to corresponding pyrocatechols or protocatechuic acid, respectively . The dioxygenase attacks aromatic ring with the formation of 2-hydroxy-substituted compounds . Intermediates of the "upper" pathway are then mineralized by either ortho- or meta-ring cleavage ("lower" pathway) . BTEX are relatively water-soluble and therefore they are often mineralized by indigenous microflora . Therefore, natural attenuation may be considered as a suitable way for the clean-up of BTEX contaminants from gasoline-contaminated soil and groundwater.

Vestn Otorinolaringol, 2002, (2), 31 - 3
{Prevalence and certain characteristics of chronic hyperplastic laryngitis}; Chumakov FI et al.; Screening for chronic hyperplastic laryngitis (CHL) has been performed among 70,000 workers and peasants of the Moscow Region . CHL was detected in 355 examinees (0.47%) . The data were analysed for 166 CHL patients (age 31-50, 87 males, 29 females) . 8 patients had laryngostenosis but tracheostoma was indicated only one of them . Malignant transformation occurred in 3 patients . Laryngeal lesions were symmetric in 36 patients, unilateral with separate inflammatory infiltrates clinically similar to tumors were seen in 45 patients . Local forms of CHL may look as separate small nodules, contact lesions in the region of vocal processes of the arytenoid cartilages, and diffuse inflammatory edema of the vocal cords . In rare cases inflammatory tumor-like laryngeal lesions in CHL depend on local flock of lymphoid elements--lymphoid hyperplasias . A cytological study in CHL is effective in identification of the signs of dystrophy, keratinization and epithelial cell atypia as well as the presence of microflora.

Appl Occup Environ Hyg, 2002 Jun, 17(6), 411 - 5
Total dust, respirable dust, and microflora toxin concentrations in Colorado corn storage facilities; Todd BE et al.; To aid in the process of characterizing corn dust exposures on farms and in elevators in northeastern Colorado, several parameters were examined . Total dust and respirable dust samples were collected and evaluated . Potentially dangerous dust components evaluated were respirable silica, endotoxin, and mycotoxin levels . Many of the total dust samples (58%) would have exceeded 8-hour time-weighted average (TWA) had sampling been conducted for 8 hours; on farms the operation takes between two and four hours . The same statement may be made for respirable dust samples collected for this project . Nearly 33 percent of the respirable dust samples collected would have exceeded the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) TWA had sampling been conducted over an 8-hour period . Respirable silica standards were exceeded at 25 percent of the sampling locations . Presence of mycotoxins at all sites was confirmed by the use of ELISA kits . The most significant finding of this study was high levels of endotoxin at several of the sampling sites . Eighty-five percent of the sampling locations had endotoxin levels above 500 EU/m3 . One location, Farm 4, had endotoxin levels of above 1.7 million EU/m3.

Vestn Khir Im I I Grek, 2002, 161(1), 72 - 5
{Experimental-clinical basis for using sporobacterin in the combined treatment of pancreonecrosis}; Tarasenko VS et al.; Experimental investigations on translocation of the intestinal microflora on the model of acute pancreatitis were performed in 54 animals (albino rats) and showed an increased bacterial dissemination of parenchymatous organs of the abdominal cavity as the inflammatory and destructive alterations increased in the pancreas . E . coli aggravated the inflammatory alterations in the pancreas while B . subtilis promoted reparative processes . Experimental substantiation is given to using sporobacterin in the complex postoperative treatment of patients with pancreatonecrosis.

Vestn Khir Im I I Grek, 2002, 161(1), 45 - 7
{Clinical forms of cholangiogenic infection in surgical practice}; Postrelov NA et al.; The acute cholangiogenic infection may have a favorable course or acquire a purulent or septic form . Chronic cholangiogenic infection often having subclinical features is sometimes septic and is responsible for the transition of bacterial cholangitis from the complication to the independent disease . Of greatest significance are septic forms of cholangiogenic infection because of high lethality . The diagnosis and treatment of cholangiogenic infection include the determination of the character of bile duct obstruction, state of immunity, character of microflora and kind of toxemia.

J Trauma, 2002 Jun, 52(6), 1178 - 85; disciussion 1185
Influence of gut microflora on mesenteric lymph cytokine production in rats with hemorrhagic shock; Guo W et al.; OBJECTIVE: The aim of the present study was to test the hypothesis that the resident gut microflora play a role in modulating gut cytokine production under normal circumstances and in response to tissue injury with or without hemorrhagic shock . METHODS: The postnodal lymph was collected from the main mesenteric lymphatic channel 1 hour before, during (1.5 hours), and hourly for 6 hours after 90 minutes of sham or actual hemorrhagic shock (30 mm Hg) in the following three groups of rats, all of which had laparotomies and vascular instrumentation: rats with a normal gut flora (NF), rats whose gut flora had been decontaminated with oral antibiotics (AD), and rats with Escherichia coli C25 intestinal overgrowth (MA) . Interleukin (IL)-6 and TNF levels in the mesenteric lymph were measured using cytokine-dependent cellular assays . Endotoxin levels and endotoxin-neutralizing capacity in the lymph were also measured . RESULTS: Mesenteric lymph IL-6 levels in the laparotomized MA-sham animals were significantly elevated compared with NF-sham animals at 2 to 4 hours (p < 0.05) and at 5 and 6 hours after sham shock (p < 0.01) . Similarly, IL-6 levels in laparotomized AD-shock animals were increased when compared with NF-shock animals 3 hours after shock (p < 0.001) . Lymph tumor necrosis factor bioactivity, although present in all surgically manipulated groups, was scarcely detectable in untouched animals . Endotoxin-neutralizing capacity was significantly impaired in shocked animals compared with untouched animals . CONCLUSION: Changes in the gut microflora modulate the gut cytokine production after tissue injury with or without hemorrhagic shock, with intestinal bacterial overgrowth leading to the greatest increase in mesenteric lymph IL-6 levels.

Nutr Rev, 2002 May, 60(5 Pt 2), S68 - 72
Development of immunocompetence: role of micronutrients and microorganisms; Cunningham-Rundles S et al.; Normal maturation of immune response at birth is both supported and stimulated by the gastrointestinal microenvironment, which provides both nutrients and antigenic microbial exposure to the developing child . Micronutrients, trace elements, and vitamins are present in the local environment and have important regulatory effects on adaptive immune cell function through effects on type of cytokine response . Congenital HIV infection is critically affected by both nutrient imbalance and alteration in gastrointestinal microflora, which may impair growth and development as well as immune response . Studies described here indicate that micronutrient deficiency is common in congenital HIV exposure even where infection has not occurred and that gastrointestinal recolonization may exert a restorative effect on both immune response and growth in children with HIV infection.

Microb Ecol, 2001 Aug, 42(2), 126 - 135
Effects of Elevated Carbon Dioxide and Nitrogen Fertilization on Mycorrhizal Fine Roots and the Soil Microbial Community in Beech-Spruce Ecosystems on Siliceous and Calcareous Soil; Wiemken V et al.; To study the responses of forests to global change, model ecosystems consisting of beech and spruce trees were maintained in open top chambers for 4 years under four conditions, namely with normal and elevated CO2 and with low and high nitrogen input, each replicated four times . Each open top chamber (height 3 m, diameter 3 m, soil depth 1.5 m) contained two separate soil compartments containing nutrient-poor siliceous and nutrient-rich calcareous soil . Here, we focus on the fine roots and the soil microbial community in these model ecosystems . At the time of planting, the fine roots were cut back according to forestry practice, and the newly formed roots were colonized by the indigenous soil microflora . After 4 years, the total biomass of fine roots, when averaged over all treatments, was almost the same in each of the two soil types; it was highest in the top 100 mm of soil (60%) and decreased sharply in deeper soil layers . Fungal biomass associated with the fine roots, consisting mainly of ectomycorrhizal fungi, was estimated using the ergosterol content as a marker . It was much higher in fine roots in the siliceous than in the calcareous soil, indicating considerably enhanced ectomycorrhiza formation in the nutrient-poor siliceous soil . Elevated atmospheric CO2 stimulated fine root production by ca . 85% and 43% in the top 100 mm of calcareous and siliceous soils respectively . Increased nitrogen input caused a slightly reduced production of fine root biomass in the calcareous soil but increased it by 33% in the siliceous soil . Marker substances for microorganisms were analyzed in the root-free soil . The amounts of carbon released by fumigation/extraction (a general marker for microbial biomass) and chitin (a marker for fungal biomass) were significantly higher in the top layer of the siliceous than of the calcareous soil, but they did not respond significantly to the treatments with elevated CO2 or the nitrogen fertilizer . The total concentration of the phospholipid fatty acids (PLFAs) and the number of the PLFAs did not differ between the two soil types . However, four of the eight most abundant PLFAs differed significantly between the two soil types . Principal component analysis revealed clearly separated clusters for the two soil types . Although analysis did not reveal any significant changes in response to the treatments, the concentration of the PLFA typical for ectomycorrhizal fungi was significantly higher under conditions of elevated CO2 in the nutrient-rich calcareous soil.

Curr Issues Intest Microbiol, 2002 Mar, 3(1), 1 - 14
Parameters and techniques to determine intestinal health of poultry as constituted by immunity, integrity, and functionality; Jeurissen SH et al.; The intestinal microflora lives in intimate contact with its surrounding intestinal wall and the bacteria can exert beneficial or deleterious effects on the host, depending on whether they are classified as probiotics or as pathogens . The interaction is determined on one hand by characteristics of the microorganisms, and on the other hand by characteristics of the intestinal wall . Together they determine the health status of the intestine . This review describes parameters and techniques (with advantages and disadvantages) available for poultry to identify the characteristics of the intestinal health, as constituted by three components: immunity, integrity, and functionality . To investigate intestinal immunity, in situ detection of various cell populations of the immune system with specific monoclonal antibodies using immunocytochemical staining is a reliable, semi-quantitative method . In vitro assays to measure functional aspects of T lymphocytes, B lymphocytes, plasma cells, natural killer cells, macrophages, and phagocytes are applicable to intestinal wall tissue . For investigation of intestinal integrity, in situ detection of villous height and crypt depth and their ratio, and villus arrangement is still an easy, routine histological method . In addition, expression levels of specific molecules, such as E-cadherin, different growth factors, and trefoil factor, seem promising parameters . To investigate functionality of the intestine, the permeability can be measured as the rate of transport of tracer molecules across the epithelial surface . Furthermore, determination of the level of mucus secretion and its composition are a valuable tool . These parameters for immunity, integrity and functionality, or a combination thereof, are indispensable to investigate the influence of intestinal microorganisms on intestinal health.

Exp Anim, 2002 Apr, 51(2), 203 - 6
A model for dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced mouse colitis: bacterial degradation of DSS does not occur after incubation with mouse cecal contents; Kitajima S et al.; Germ-free (GF) mice are highly susceptible to dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced colitis in comparison to conventionalized (CVz) mice . It is hypothesized that degradation of DSS by intestinal microflora is involved in the susceptibility to DSS-induced colitis of GF mice . This study evaluates the ability of bacteria in mouse cecal contents (CC) to degrade DSS in vitro, and provides confirmatory evidence that DSS was not degraded when incubated with CC . Our results suggest that intestinal microflora do not contribute directly to the difference in susceptibility of GF mice to DSS-induced colitis through degradation.

Br J Nutr, 2002 May, 87(5), 405 - 20
Intestinal microflora of human infants and current trends for its nutritional modulation; Mountzouris KC et al.; Diet, among other environmental and genetic factors, is currently recognised to have an important role in health and disease . There is increasing evidence that the human colonic microbiota can contribute positively towards host nutrition and health . As such, dietary modulation has been proposed as important for improved gut health, especially during the highly sensitive stage of infancy . Differences in gut microflora composition and incidence of infection occur between breast- and formula-fed infants . Human milk components that cannot be duplicated in infant formulae could possibly account for these differences . However, various functional food ingredients such as oligosaccharides, prebiotics, proteins and probiotics could effect a beneficial modification in the composition and activities of gut microflora of infants . The aim of the present review is to describe existing knowledge on the composition and metabolic activities of the gastrointestinal microflora of human infants and discuss various possibilities and opportunities for its nutritional modulation.

Indian J Pediatr, 2001 Jul, 68 Suppl 3, S8 - 18
Intestinal infections; Tomar BS; Gastrointestinal infections are the significant cause of childhood morbidity and mortality worldwide . Gastrointestinal infections reflects the balance between the intrinsic virulence factors of the enteropathogens and host mechanisms which defend against enteric infections . Host defense factors include gastric acidity, intestinal motility, the normal indigenous intestinal microflora, mucous secretion, and specific mucosal and systemic immune mechanisms . Majority of GI infections are self limited so on one hand antibiotics are not needed and on the other hand the irrational use of antibiotics produces resistant strains . Acute diarrheal diseases which are one of the important intestinal infections, in majority of the cases are viral and have short course . Antibiotics are recommended only in specific cases and in immunocompromised individuals . Gastrointestinal disease is one of the most common manifestations of HIV infection . The gastrointestinal tract contains abundant quantities of lymphoid tissue and is likely to function as a reservoir of HIV infection, a site of profound immune dysregulation, and a target for opportunistic infections . In this situation specific antibiotics are indicated.

Klin Med (Mosk), 2002, 80(3), 37 - 40
{Clinical and pathogenetic features of bronchial asthma in patients with concomitant Bauhin's valve failure}; Martynov VL et al.; Combination of bronchial asthma (BA) with Bauhin's valve failure (BVF) is characterized by exogenic form of BA, extrapulmonary allergy, digestion problems . Examination of 36 such patients using endoscopy, manometry and tube duodenography has shown frequent chronic disorder of duodenal patency and gastroesophageal reflux, dysbacteriosis of the large and small intestines . High concentration of middle mass molecular peptides reflects endogenic intoxication associated with abnormal composition of intestinal microflora . The above alterations give grounds to consider BVF as a factor of BA pathogenesis.

Ter Arkh, 2002, 74(3), 48 - 52
{Effect of halogen aerosol therapy on resistance parameters of the respiratory tract}; Chervinskaia AV et al.; AIM: Assessment of the efficacy of dry high-dispersive aerosol of sodium chloride--the main acting factor of haloaerosol therapy--on defense system of the respiratory tract . MATERIAL AND METHODS: 188 patients with respiratory disease and at risk of pulmonary pathology received course of haloaerosol therapy . 49 matched patients were given placebo . The effect of the treatment was assessed by clinicoendoscopic picture, cytomorphological and bacteriological characteristics of the bronchoalveolar lavage, contamination activity of the microflora, activity of local humoral immunity in pharyngeal brush-biopsies and saliva, rheological indices of the sputum . RESULTS: Dry aerosol of sodium chloride demonstrated antiinflammatory activity in the respiratory tract, mucoregulating action . It enhances drainage of the bronchi, activates alveolar macrophages, improves biocenosis and local humoral immunity . CONCLUSION: Haloaerosol therapy has positive effect on the defense system, improves function of the respiratory tracts.

Environ Microbiol, 2002 Feb, 4(2), 89 - 96
Persistence of Escherichia coli O157:H7 in soil and on plant roots; Gagliardi JV et al.; Soil microcosms were inoculated with Escherichia coli O157:H7 to test persistence in fallow soil, on roots of cover crops and in presence of manure . In fallow soils, E . coli O157:H7 persisted for 25-41 days, on rye roots for 47-96 days and on alfalfa roots, in a silt loam soil, for 92 days whereas on other legumes persistence ranged from 25-40 days, similar to fallow soil . Manure did not seem to affect the persistence of E . coli O157:H7 in these soils . Indigenous and manure-applied coliform populations often decreased faster when E . coli O157:H7 was applied, indicating possible competition between microflora . Coliform populations in microcosms not inoculated with E . coli O157:H7 decreased more slowly or increased . Microbial community analyses showed little effect for E . coli O157:H7 inoculation or addition of manure . Microbial community metabolic activity was enhanced from rye roots after 14 days and by 63 days from alfalfa roots . Microbial community lactose utilization increased over time on rye roots in all soils and on alfalfa roots in a silt loam soil when E . coli O157:H7 was inoculated . Lactose utilization also increased for uninoculated rye roots, soil around rye roots and in some fallow soils . Our data suggest that clay increases persistence and activity of E . coli O157:H7 and other coliforms . In frozen soil stored for over 500 days, E . coli O157:H7 was viable in 37% of tested samples . In summary, E . coli O157:H7 persisted longer and activity was enhanced with some cover crops in these soils due to plant roots, the presence of clay and freezing.

Gut, 2002 May, 50 Suppl 3, III54 - 9
Probiotics: a role in the treatment of intestinal infection and inflammation?
Isolauri E, Kirjavainen PV, Salminen S.
Probiotic therapy is based on the concept of normal healthy microflora . The development of novel means of characterising the gut microflora, in particular those based on the different levels of conservation in the ribosomal RNA sequences of different genera, have opened up new angles on the role of the gut microflora in health and disease . Components of the human intestinal microflora or organisms entering the intestine may have harmful or beneficial effects on human health . Abundant evidence implies that specific strains selected from the healthy gut microflora exhibit powerful antipathogenic and anti-inflammatory capabilities, and are consequently involved with enhanced colonisation resistance in the intestine . Realisation of this has led to the introduction of novel modes of therapeutic and prophylactic intervention based on the consumption of mono and mixed cultures of beneficial live microorganisms as probiotics.

Zh Mikrobiol Epidemiol Immunobiol, 2002 Jan-Feb, (1), 61 - 4
{Intestinal microflora and concomitant gastrointestinal diseases in patients with chronic hepatitis B and C}; Sozinov AS et al.; In chronic viral hepatitis B and C the development of intestinal dysbacteriosis and high occurrence of concomitant diseases of the gastrointestinal tract were observed . In cases of increased dysbacteriosis degree and in the presence of concomitant diseases the blood plasma of patients exhibited higher activity in reaction with the of amebocytes lysate obtained from crabs of the genus Limulus . A suggestion was made that the endotoxin of Gram negative intestinal microflora could probably play some role in the development of pathological processes in chronic viral hepatitis B and C.

Int J Cancer, 2002 May 1, 99(1), 124 - 9
Circulating enterolactone and prostate cancer risk: a Nordic nested case-control study; Stattin P et al.; Enterolactone, a phytoestrogen belonging to the class of lignans, is produced by the intestinal microflora from precursors in plant foods and has been implicated in protection against cancer . We study the effect of enterolactone on the risk of a subsequent diagnosis of prostate cancer . We conducted a longitudinal, nested case-control study by linkage of 3 biobanks to the cancer registries in Finland, Norway and Sweden, respectively . Enterolactone concentrations were measured by time-resolved fluoroimmunoassay in serum from 794 men who had a diagnosis of prostate cancer at a mean follow-up time of 14.2 years after blood collection and among 2,550 control men matched within each cohort for age (+/-2 years), date of blood collection (+/-2 months) and county . The median enterolactone concentrations did not differ between case and control subjects in the full study group (8.4 nmol/L {25th-75th percentile = 4.5-15.0} vs . 8.5 nmol/L {25th-75th percentile = 4.3-15.9}), nor in the national groups . Odds ratios of prostate cancer risk estimated by conditional logistic regression for increasing concentrations of enterolactone in quartiles in the full study group were 1.00 (referent), 1.21 (95% confidence interval {CI} = 0.96-1.52), 1.16 (95% CI = 0.91-1.47) and 1.08 (95% CI = 0.83-1.39) . The OR estimate for the highest vs . the lowest quartile of enterolactone in separate analyses of the Norwegian, Finnish and Swedish cohort was 1.21 (95% CI = 0.91-1.60), 1.02 (95% CI = 0.59-1.76) and 0.87 (95% CI = 0.45-1.67), respectively . No support for the hypothesis that high circulating enterolactone is protective against prostate cancer was found .

J Environ Health, 2001 Nov, 64(4), 15 - 20, 20
Microbiological contamination of compressed air used in dentistry: an investigation; Conte M et al.; The purpose of this preliminary investigation was twofold: 1) to examine the possibility of cross-contamination between a dental-evacuation system and the compressed air used in dental operatories and 2) to capture and identify the most common microflora in the compressed-air supply . The investigation used swab, water, and air sampling that was designed to track microorganisms from the evacuation system, through the air of the mechanical room, into the compressed-air system, and back to the patient . Samples taken in the vacuum system, the air space in the mechanical room, and the compressed-air storage tank had significantly higher total concentrations of bacteria than the outside air sampled . Samples of the compressed air returning to the operatory were found to match the outside air sample in total bacteria . It was concluded that the air dryer may have played a significant role in the elimination of microorganisms from the dental compressed-air supply.

Int J Food Microbiol, 2002 Mar, 73(2-3), 375 - 82
Application of shelf life decision system (SLDS) to marine cultured fish quality; Koutsoumanis K et al.; Growth of natural microflora of marine cultured, air-packed, sea bass (Dichentrachus labrax) was studied at isothermal conditions in the 0-15 degrees C range and kinetically modelled using the four-parameter Logistic equation . Sensory shelf life was correlated to pseudomonad population and sensory acceptability was correlated to a pseudomonad level, Ns, of 10(7) . The variability of their initial population was quantitatively shown and a conductance-based rapid method specific to sea bass pseudomonad enumeration was established as a practical means of N0 determination, required in shelf life predictions . Kinetic models, shelf life correlations and N0 data were incorporated into the shelf life decision system (SLDS) shown to be an effective tool for marine cultured sea bass chill chain management leading to optimization of quality of the fish at consumer's end.

Folia Med (Plovdiv), 2001, 43(3), 37 - 40
Study of the titer of common antibodies against superficial antigens of Pityrosporum ovale in dermatitis seborrhoides; Kantardjiev TB et al.; Pityrosporum ovale is the yeast form of the dimorphic lipophilic fungus Malassezia furfur which is part of the normal skin microflora in adults . It is suggested that Pityrosporum ovale has a primary role in the pathogenesis of Dermatitis seborrhoides . The aim of the present study was to determine the titer of the common antibodies against superficial antigens of Pityrosporum ovale in the serum of Dermatitis seborrhoides patients and compare the results with the findings of examinations of serum antibodies in healthy subjects and patients with Pityriasis simplex capitis, Pityriasis versicolor, Pityrosporum folliculitis . Indirect immunofluorescent technique was used in the study . The Pityrosporum ovale antigen was obtained using own method . The results show that Dermatitis seborrhoides patients have an antibody titer of 1:640 and above, which is a higher titer than the antibody titers of healthy subjects and patients with other forms of the infection . The study results suggest that Pityrosporum ovale yeast might be implicated in causing a humoral immune response, which is important for the developing inflammatory reactions in Dermatitis seborrhoides . The results help to elucidate the pathogenic mechanisms and supplement the therapy strategy of the disorder . The authors are the first in Bulgaria to study the immune response to Pityrosporum ovale in healthy subjects and patients suffering from different forms of the infection.

Ned Tijdschr Tandheelkd, 1996 Oct, 103(10), 386 - 9
{Antibiotic use in periodontics . Results from a research study}; Mikx FH et al.; The sensitivity of the subgingival plaque for amoxicillin, doxycycline, ofloxacin and clindamycin was estimated by agar diffusion disks and Etest in 22 periodontal patients . The sensitivity of the subgingival plaque varied per patient . Resistance of the subgingival plaque for amoxicillin was observed in 50% of the patients and was significantly related to the use of antibiotics in the previous 6 months . The resistance to clindamycin was 68% and to doxycycline 82% . The resistance of the subgingival plaque to these antibiotics could not be related to the previous use . A decision-tree was constructed including a step wise use of a microscopical spirochete test and an antibiotic sensitivity test of the subgingival microflora for the above mentioned antibiotics . The clinical implications of the observed long lasting antibiotic resistance and the practical use of a decision-tree including a spirochete test and antibiotic sensitivity tests need further investigation.

Appl Environ Microbiol, 2002 Apr, 68(4), 1846 - 53
Quantification in soil and the rhizosphere of the nematophagous fungus Verticillium chlamydosporium by competitive PCR and comparison with selective plating; Mauchline TH et al.; A competitive PCR (cPCR) assay was developed to quantify the nematophagous fungus Verticillium chlamydosporium in soil . A gamma-irradiated soil was seeded with different numbers of chlamydospores from V . chlamydosporium isolate 10, and samples were obtained at time intervals of up to 8 weeks . Samples were analyzed by cPCR and by plating onto a semiselective medium . The results suggested that saprophytic V . chlamydosporium growth did occur in soil and that the two methods detected different phases of growth . The first stage of growth, DNA replication, was demonstrated by the rapid increase in cPCR estimates, and the presumed carrying capacity (PCC) of the soil was reached after only 1 week of incubation . The second stage, an increase in fungal propagules presumably due to cell division, sporulation, and hyphal fragmentation, was indicated by a less rapid increase in CFU, and 3 weeks was required to reach the PCC . Experiments with field soil revealed that saprophytic fungal growth was limited, presumably due to competition from the indigenous soil microflora, and that the PCR results were less variable than the equivalent plate count results . In addition, the limit of detection of V . chlamydosporium in field soil was lower than that in gamma-irradiated soil, suggesting that there was a background population of the fungus in the field, although the level was below the limit of detection . Tomatoes were infected with the root knot nematode (RKN) or the potato cyst nematode (PCN) along with a PCN-derived isolate of the fungus (V . chlamydosporium isolate Jersey) . Increases in fungal growth were observed in the rhizosphere of PCN-infested plants but not in the rhizosphere of RKN-infested plants after 14 weeks using cPCR . In this paper we describe for the first time PCR-based quantification of a fungal biological control agent for nematodes in soil and the rhizosphere, and we provide evidence for nematode host specificity that is highly relevant to the biological control efficacy of this fungus.

J Hum Nutr Diet, 2001 Dec, 14(6), 423 - 33
The role of probiotics and prebiotics in the management of diarrhoea associated with enteral tube feeding; Whelan K et al.; INTRODUCTION: Diarrhoea is a common and serious complication of enteral tube feeding, and has a range of aetiologies . Manipulation of the colonic microflora may reduce the incidence of enteral tube feeding diarrhoea via suppression of enteropathogens and production of short-chain fatty acids . Probiotics and prebiotics are commonly used during enteral tube feeding to manipulate the colonic microflora; however, their efficacy is as yet uncertain . METHODS: English-language studies investigating the pathogenesis of enteral tube feeding diarrhoea and the use of probiotics and prebiotics were identified by searching the electronic databases CINAHL, EMBASE and MEDLINE from 1980 to 2001 . The bibliographies of articles obtained were searched manually . RESULTS: Only two prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials have investigated the effect of a probiotic on enteral tube feeding diarrhoea; however, results are conflicting . No prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled studies have specifically addressed the effect of a prebiotic on the incidence of enteral tube feeding diarrhoea . CONCLUSION: Theoretically, probiotics and prebiotics may be of benefit in prophylaxis against enteral tube feeding diarrhoea; however, there is currently insufficient evidence to support their routine use . Prospective, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled studies investigating their effect on diarrhoea are required . These observations are discussed with reference to the current literature.

Fundam Clin Pharmacol, 2002 Feb, 16(1), 39 - 47
5-fluorocytosine-related bone-marrow depression and conversion to fluorouracil: a pilot study; Vermes A et al.; The aim of this study is to investigate whether fluorouracil (5-FU) could be responsible for bone-marrow depression occurring in fluorocytosine (5-FC) treated patients . Six 5-FC treated patients were included in this pilot study . Toxicity was monitored by means of thrombocyte and leucocyte counts . 5-FC and 5-FU serum levels were measured using a high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) assay that allows simultaneous determination of both compounds . The amounts of 5-FU in the 34 available serum samples remained below the limit of quantitation (< 0.05 mg/L), whereas 5-FC levels could be detected in all samples . Instead, low levels of the 5-FU catabolite alpha-fluoro-beta-alanine (FBAL) were detected in several of the investigated serum samples . In case of three patients thrombocyte counts remained within the normal range during 5-FC treatment, whereas one patient developed thrombocytopenia (50 x 10(9) thrombocytes/L) during therapy . Furthermore, one patient developed leucocytopenia (2.6 x 10(9) leucocytes/L) during 5-FC therapy, whereas the remaining five patients were suffering from leucocytosis prior to 5-FC therapy . In conclusion, we found nondetectable 5-FU serum concentrations (< 0.05 mg/L) in ICU patients treated with intravenous 5-FC, making it unlikely that 5-FC-associated toxicity results from 5-FU exposure in patients receiving intravenous 5-FC therapy . These findings may be explained by the fact that our patients received 5-FC intravenously instead of orally, therefore not allowing active conversion of 5-FC to 5-FU by the human intestinal microflora.

Vestn Khir Im I I Grek, 2001, 160(6), 39 - 41
{Microbiological specifics in the course of suppurative inflammatory processes in soft tissues of patients with diabetes mellitus}; Gavrilenko VG et al.; The focal microflora of pyo-inflammatory processes has been studied in dynamics in 200 patients with diabetes mellitus . It was found that a longer and more severe course was due to the changed specific composition of causative agents and to the increased specific diversity of the latter in the process of pyo-inflammatory progressing . It was established that the usage of the method of "close" wound management with the application of oxytocin inhibited the change of the causative agents in the course of the disease, led to a more rapid elimination of microorganisms from the pyo-inflammatory focus, to the less frequency of recurrent surgical interventions and shorter duration of courses of treatment in contrast to the results obtained with the other methods of treatment.

Addict Biol, 2001 Sep, 6(4), 309 - 323
Alcohol and upper gastrointestinal tract cancer: the role of local acetaldehyde production; Homann N; Alcohol is, together with tobacco smoke, the main cause for upper GI tract cancer in industrialized countries . However, the tumour-promoting effects of alcohol intake are poorly understood and alcohol itself is not carcinogenic in the animal model . There is increasing evidence that alcohol metabolism, rather than the alcohol itself, generates carcinogenic and cell-toxic compounds . Acetaldehyde, first metabolite of ethanol, is highly toxic, mutagenic and carcinogenic . Polymorphisms in the genes coding for enzymes responsible for acetaldehyde accumulation and detoxification have been associated with an increased cancer risk . Acetaldehyde can also be produced in the mucosa and by the physiological microflora . This review summarizes the scientific evidence that alcohol intake leads to a local production of acetaldehyde . It describes the role of the oral microflora, the mucosa and the salivary glands in this process and shows that local acetaldehyde production from ethanol may contribute to the carcinogenesis of alcohol intake in the upper GI tract.

Life Sci Space Res, 1972, 10, 57 - 60
Effects of an 18-day flight on the human body; Yegorov AD et al.; During their flight on board the Soyuz 9 A.G . Nikolayev and V.I . Sevastyanov adapted to weightlessness by the 3rd-4th day and stabilized their physiological functions by the end of the mission . During flight both cosmonauts maintained normal performance, sleep and appetite; they readily developed a new stereotype of movements and exhibited no noticeable increase of the circulatory function in response to a standard physical load . In contrast to the effects of shorter term flights, this mission "used unusual and distressing feelings in the crew members aggravated by distinct changes in the major- physiological systems during the first day of recovery . In the immediate postflight hours the transition from the recumbent to the sitting position brought about circulation disorders; 24 hours later the cosmonauts still walked with uncertainty and kept the erect position at rest on account of a significant elevation of their centre of gravity . Weight losses, shifts of water and mineral metabolism, bone tissue demineralization and symptoms of orthostatic intolerance observed in this flight were similar to those resulting from earlier short-term missions . Of importance was a dysbacteriotic change in the skin and nasal microflora . Physiological changes in the Soyuz 9 crew members were functional and reversible, being on the whole in agreement with predicted effects . These results call for the development of specific measures facilitating the post-flight adaptation of space pilots in view of future long duration space flights.

Vestn Oftalmol, 2002 Jan-Feb, 118(1), 39 - 41
{Clinico-etiologic features of various types of courses of suppurative corneal ulcer}; Shaimova VA; Clinical observations of 366 patients with purulent corneal ulcers over the period of 1989-1998 helped the author distinguish two major patterns of its clinical course: acute (group 1, 164 patients) and primary chronic (group 2, 202 patients) . The acute type was characterized by a fulminant onset, rapid progress of the ulcer, high incidence of complications (23.8%); growth of bacteria from ulcer surface was mainly due to highly pathogenic microflora (65.9%) . Primary chronic type was characterized by a subacute onset, torpid course, lower incidence of complications (7.4%); the main etiological cause was opportunistic microflora (74.7%).

Folia Microbiol (Praha), 2001, 46(6), 565 - 72
The role of microflora in the development of intestinal inflammation: acute and chronic colitis induced by dextran sulfate in germ-free and conventionally reared immunocompetent and immunodeficient mice; Hudcovic T et al.; One-week dextran sulfate treatment of conventional (CV) immunodeficient (SCID) mice gave rise to acute colitis in the colon mucosa; germ-free (GF) SCID mice did not exhibit any changes in colon morphology . Dextran sulfate application to CV immunocompetent (BALB/c) mice did induce substantial changes in the colon mucosa (grade 4); GF BALB/c mice showed mild changes in the colon morphology (grade 1) only . GF SCID mice and CV SCID mice died during the second round of dextran sulfate treatment suffering from chronic colitis; GF BALB/c mice exhibited mild crypt distortion while CV BALB/c mice showed a complete loss of the surface epithelium (grade 4), accompanied by T and B lymphocyte infiltration.

Can J Appl Physiol, 2001, 26 Suppl, S130 - 40
Protein and amino acid requirements of adults: current controversies; Millward DJ; Protein intakes vary widely but costs and benefits of such variation is a long standing unresolved issue . The wide range of reported values for the minimum protein intake for N equilibrium in adults, i.e . 0.39 to 1.09 g/kg is best explained by an Adaptive Metabolic Demands model in which metabolic demands include amino acid oxidation at a rate varying with habitual protein intake and which changes slowly with dietary change . Thus within the reported data the true minimum requirement intake, the lowest values in the range at intakes approaching the Obligatory Nitrogen Loss, allows only fully adapted subjects to achieve N equilibrium . The higher values reflect incomplete adaptation . (13)C-1 leucine tracer balance studies of this model show (a) a fall with age in apparent protein requirements, (b) better than predicted efficiency of wheat protein utilization, and (c) controversially, lower lysine requirements than other workers, consistent with new evidence of de novo synthesis of lysine from urea salvaged by large bowel microflora . The main implication of the requirements model for athletes on high protein diets is increased exercise induced amino acid oxidation and risk of loss of body N when such high intakes are not maintained.

Wound Repair Regen, 2001 Sep-Oct, 9(5), 332 - 40
Use of molecular techniques to study microbial diversity in the skin: chronic wounds reevaluated; Davies CE et al.; The skin is colonized by an array of microorganisms which form its natural microflora . Disruption to the normal barrier function of the skin (due to trauma or disease) may result in invasion of the dermis by opportunistic bacteria . To date, these organisms, which may contribute to the chronicity of skin wounds, have been analyzed solely by culture methods . It is increasingly realized that standard culture methods of analysis do not accurately reflect the full diversity of complex microflora . This review discusses the limitations of traditional culture approaches and reviews recent advances in molecular microbiological techniques which facilitate a more comprehensive characterization of the microflora within clinical samples . The currently available technologies and techniques are described, as is their use in clinical practice and their potential for diagnostic screening . Chronic venous ulceration of the lower limbs is an important skin disorder in which the microflora invading the dermal tissues contribute to the observed delayed healing . Using chronic leg ulcers as a working example, we show how strict culture and molecular microbiological techniques may be employed, for the first time in combination, to definitively characterize the invading microbial community of the dermis.

J Clin Periodontol, 2002 Feb, 29(2), 168 - 76
Clinical and microbial evaluation of a histatin-containing mouthrinse in humans with experimental gingivitis: a phase-2 multi-center study; Van Dyke T et al.; OBJECTIVE: P-113, a 12 amino acid histatin-based peptide, was evaluated in a mouthrinse formulation for safety and efficacy in a phase 2 multi-center clinical study . METHOD: 294 healthy subjects abstained from oral hygiene procedures and self-administered either 0.01% P-113, 0.03% P-113 or placebo mouthrinse formulations twice daily over a 4-week treatment period . During this time, the safety, anti-gingivitis, and anti-plaque effects of P-113 were evaluated . RESULTS: There was a significant reduction in the change from baseline to Day 22 in bleeding on probing in the 0.01% P-113 treatment group of the intent to treat population (p=0.049) . Non-significant trends in the reduction of the other parameters were observed in this population (p> or =0.159) . A sub-group of subjects which developed significant levels of disease within the four-week timeframe of the study was identified based on baseline gingival index scores > or =0.75 . Significant findings were observed for bleeding on probing, gingival index and plaque index within this population (p<0.05) . There were no treatment-related adverse events, and there were no adverse shifts in supragingival microflora during the study . Significant amounts of the peptide were retained in the oral cavity following rinsing . CONCLUSION: These data suggest that P-113 mouthrinse is safe and reduces the development of gingival bleeding, gingivitis and plaque in the human experimental gingivitis model.

Nutr Metab Cardiovasc Dis, 2001 Aug, 11(4 Suppl), 82 - 6
Heterocyclic amines: human carcinogens in cooked food?
Pfau W, Knasmueller S, Glatt HR, Frandsen H, Alexander J, Murkovic M, Sontag G, Galceran T, Edenharder R, Skog K.
During the frying of meat and fish, genotoxic heterocyclic amines (HCAs) are formed . The dietary exposure to HCAs may be implicated in the aetiology of human cancer, but there may be other factors in our diet that prevent the genotoxic effects of these compounds . Within the project described here, we plan to identify regional and individual cooking habits that affect HCA-levels in our food . These are determined with a validated analytical method and the exposure to HCAs is estimated by dietary assessment . Biomarker analysis will be employed to estimate recent or long-term exposure to HCAs . In order to identify genetically determined risk factors in humans, cell lines are genetically engineered expressing allelic variants of acetyl- and sulfotransferases implicated in HCA metabolism . Species differences of metabolism and toxicity of HCAs are assessed and the influence of the intestinal microflora on HCA-induced toxicity is evaluated . Dietary constituents that may reduce the genotoxicity of HCAs are screened for potential protective effects in in vitro and in vivo model systems . Finally, we will aim at human intervention studies to investigate if these protective factors are relevant for man . The objectives of this project are to estimate and possibly reduce the exposure levels to HCAs in Europe, to identify populations highly susceptible to HCA toxicity, and to reduce the toxic effects of HCAs by protective factors.

Zh Mikrobiol Epidemiol Immunobiol, 2001 Nov-Dec, (6), 88 - 93
{Role of dysbacteriosis in the formation of chronic noninfectious pathology in children}; Voevodin DA et al.; The results of clinical observations and laboratory data make it possible to regard dysbacteriosis as an important factor in the pathogenesis of chronic noninfectious pathology in children . The adequate complex correction of intestinal dysbacteriosis on the basis of probiotic therapy facilitates the prolonged remission of the disease in children with diabetes mellitus of type 1 (DM1) and myopathy, decreases severity of late complications of DM1 . A suggestion is made on the role of dysbiotic microflora in the development of chronic non-infectious pathology in children.

Int J Pharm, 2002 Mar 20, 235(1-2), 1 - 15
Colon-specific drug delivery: new approaches and in vitro/in vivo evaluation; Yang L et al.; The necessity and advantages of colon-specific drug delivery systems have been well recognized and documented . In the past, the primary approaches to obtain colon-specific delivery achieved limited success and included prodrugs, pH- and time-dependent systems, and microflora-activated systems . Precise colon drug delivery requires that the triggering mechanism in the delivery system only respond to the physiological conditions particular to the colon . Hence, continuous efforts have been focused on designing colon-specific delivery systems with improved site specificity and versatile drug release kinetics to accommodate different therapeutic needs . Among the systems developed most recently for colon-specific delivery, four systems were unique in terms of achieving in vivo site specificity, design rationale, and feasibility of the manufacturing process (pressure-controlled colon delivery capsules (PCDCs), CODES, colonic drug delivery system based on pectin and galactomannan coating, and Azo hydrogels) . The focus of this review is to provide detailed descriptions of the four systems, in particular, and in vitro/in vivo evaluation of colon-specific drug delivery systems, in general.

Environ Sci Technol, 2002 Feb 15, 36(4), 683 - 9
Characterization of the atrazine's bound (nonextractable) residues using fractionation techniques for soil organic matter; Loiseau L et al.; Atrazine's bound residues (BR), in the range of 10-40% of the applied atrazine,were obtained by laboratory incubation (56 d) of four soils having different capacities to degrade atrazine in relation to the presence or absence of a microflora able to mineralize the triazinic ring . Soil size fractionation followed by alkaline extraction, before and after HF treatment, and then acid hydrolysis with 2 M HCl in reflux conditions was applied to the soils containing BR . Most of the BR were in the finest fraction (<20 microm) that contained the humified organic matter (from 61 to 77% of the total BR), and between 78 and 89% was made soluble during the different steps of the chemical fractionation procedure . From 20 to 50% of the BR of the fraction <20 microm was identified as the intact atrazine and its main derivatives, indicating that this proportion of the BR was probably formed by entrapment in voids of the soil organic matter . Between 13 and 30% of the BR was associated to humic acids (HA); they were not dialyzable and were released by acid hydrolysis with HCl, indicating that these BR were chemically bound to HA by an heteroatomic bond after the substitution of the chlorine atom of atrazine . Comparison of the results obtained for the four soils indicated that (i) an important activity of microorganisms able to mineralize the triazinic ring favors the formation of highly degraded products that can form BR; (ii) a soil pH <6 favors the formation and stabilization of hydroxylated derivatives of atrazine, and (iii) a high content of humic acids favors the formation of chemically bound residues.

Sci Total Environ, 2002 Feb 21, 285(1-3), 69 - 77
Influence of irrigation with lagooned urban wastewater on chemical and microbiological soil parameters in a citrus orchard under Mediterranean condition; Meli S et al.; The reduced availability of water resources in semi-arid Mediterranean regions requires an efficient use of supply sources . Urban wastewater, after treatment to minimise health hazards, may constitute an important resource for irrigation in areas characterised by intensive agriculture . These considerations have motivated an investigation (during the irrigation season 1996) of the dynamics of microbial biomass in the soil of a citrus orchard in eastern Sicily, which has been irrigated for 15 years with lagooned urban wastewater, to evaluate the effects of this practice on soil fertility . The analyses of parameters regarding soil microbial biomass (microbial carbon and microbial nitrogen, soluble carbon and nitrogen, cumulative respiration, respiratory quotient and enzymatic activity in the soil) have confirmed that the evolution of soil microflora is directly conditioned by the type of water used for irrigation and climatic conditions . Just before the beginning of the irrigation season (May), microbial biomass carbon (MBC), soluble C, cumulative respiration and enzymatic activity were significantly higher in the soil irrigated with wastewater with respect to the same soil irrigated with 'clear' water; the qCO2 was significantly lower . In June, after 1 month of irrigation, both soils showed an increase of all microbial parameters except for enzymatic activity and qCO2 which showed a significant reduction . In September, at the end of the irrigation period, there was a decrease of almost all investigated parameters in both plots, which was more evident in the soil irrigated with 'clear' water . The microbial biomass of the soil irrigated with wastewater, during the irrigation period, did not undergo any negative effects, having an evolution analogous to the plot irrigated with 'clear' water . The use of lagooned wastewater after three lustrums has shown, particularly in the dry season, an increase in quantity of easily available nutrients, with an improvement of the metabolic efficiency of soil microflora coupled with a more marked activity of total hydrolase and phosphatases . The variations of the parameters related to the soil microflora were strongly influenced by the seasonal climatic trend.

Rev Soc Bras Med Trop, 2002 Jan-Feb, 35(1), 39 - 42
{Microflora in chagasic megaesophagus}; Eduardo C et al.; Chagasic patients with megaesophagus were submitted to an endoscopy of the upper digestive tract and the samples were collected with special instruments under sterilized conditions . One of the four samples collected was from the stase liquid and the other three samples were collected from fragments of the esophageal mucosa at one, three and five centimeters from the esophageal-stomach transition (Z line) . The samples were analyzed by the Microbiology and Pathologic labs for the identification of microorganisms . After that, the results were correlated with the degree of mega esophagus according to Ferreira-Santos . We observed that the incidence of pathogenic microorganism is very high in megaesophagus, with no relation with the degree of dilatation making the surgery for the treatment of this affection potentially contaminated . There was no significant difference concerning the positivity of the culture relating to the degree of esophagus dilatation.

Zh Mikrobiol Epidemiol Immunobiol, 2001 Sep-Oct, (5), 68 - 70
{Pathogenetic role of intestinal microbiocenosis in the pathogenesis of hereditary myodystrophy}; Voevodin DA et al.; The effect of the inclusion of probiotic preparations for the correction of disturbances in normal intestinal microflora into the complex therapy of patients wish Duchenne's childhood muscular dystrophy and Becker's myopathy was analyzed . Probiotic therapy made it possible to improve the clinical state of patients, manifested by an increase in muscular strength and accompanied by positive shifts in electromyographic, immunological, biochemical, hormonal characteristics . Intestinal microbiocenosis plays seemingly a certain role in the formation of hereditary pathology.

Zh Mikrobiol Epidemiol Immunobiol, 2001 Sep-Oct, (5), 50 - 4
{Level of serum antibodies to opportunistic microflora as a marker of the secondary immunodeficiency processes in children}; Stenina MA et al.; Examination of children with different noninfectious diseases resulted in obtaining the data base on the state of health of 201 children belonging to the potential risk group of the development of secondary immunodeficiency . The children were subdivided into several groups which differed by the type of immune disturbances and accompanying metabolic shifts . The level of antibodies to one of the fragments of peptidoglycan-N-acetylmuramyldipeptide was compared with the character of changes in the immune system . Different titers of serum antibodies to peptidoglycan were found to correspond to different forms of immune disturbances . The study showed that from the group with the absence of definite signs of immunodeficiency to the group with the pronounced deficiency of T lymphocytes and monocytes expressing CD14 antigen changes in the immune system increased in parallel to a rise in the concentration of alpha 2-macroglobulin, the development of hypercholesterolemia and a decreased level of antibodies to peptidoglycan . Opportunistic microflora was seemingly an important factor in the formation of definite forms of disturbances of the immune system and accompanying metabolic shifts.

ASDC J Dent Child, 2001 Jul-Aug, 68(4), 263 - 7, 229
Dental disease indices and caries related oral microflora in children with phenylketonuria; Lucas VS et al.; The purpose of this study was to investigate the dental caries, plaque and gingivitis indices and caries related oral flora in children with classic phenylketonuria . Forty-one children at The Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children and controls were included in the study . The main findings were: No significant difference in the decayed, missing and filled surfaces of the primary and permanent teeth between the phenylketonuria children and the controls . A significantly greater mean plaque score for the control children compared with the phenylketonuria children (p < 0.01) for the permanent teeth only . A significantly greater number of white opacities in the permanent teeth of the phenylketonuria group compared with the control group (p < 0.02) . No significant differences in the caries related microflora.

Annu Rev Immunol, 2002, 20, 495 - 549 Epub 2001 Oct 04.
The immunology of mucosal models of inflammation; Strober W et al.; In recent years the status of the inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) as canonical autoimmune diseases has risen steadily with the recognition that these diseases are, at their crux, abnormalities in mucosal responses to normally harmless antigens in the mucosal microflora and therefore responses to antigens that by their proximity and persistence are equivalent to self-antigens . This new paradigm is in no small measure traceable to the advent of multiple models of mucosal inflammation whose very existence is indicative of the fact that many types of immune imbalance can lead to loss of tolerance for mucosal antigens and thus inflammation centered in the gastrointestinal tract . We analyze the immunology of the IBDs through the lens of the murine models, first by drawing attention to their common features and then by considering individual models at a level of detail necessary to reveal their individual capacities to provide insight into IBD pathogenesis . What emerges is that murine models of mucosal inflammation have given us a road map that allows us to begin to define the immunology of the IBDs in all its complexity and to find unexpected ways to treat these diseases.

Protein Expr Purif, 2002 Mar, 24(2), 202 - 11
Expression, characterization, and biochemical properties of recombinant human salivary amylase; Ragunath C et al.; Human salivary amylase, a major component of human salivary secretions, possesses multiple functions in the oral cavity . It is the only enzyme in saliva capable of degrading oligosaccharides, which are used by the oral microflora for nutritional purposes . In order to understand its role in disease processes such as caries, we have undertaken the structure-function analyses of amylase . In this regard, the nonglycosylated human salivary amylase was expressed in a baculovirus expression system . The native and the recombinant amylases exhibit similar biochemical as well as biophysical properties . Unlike recombinant human pancreatic amylase, recombinant human salivary amylase is not glycosylated when expressed in a baculovirus system as determined from the crystal structure determination of the recombinant enzyme . Therefore, this system is suitable for further structure-function work without resorting to enzymatic removal of the carbohydrate chain . Details of the expression, purification, and biophysical properties will be presented .

Acta Astronaut, 2001 Jul, 49(1), 53 - 7
Interaction peculiarities between microbial cenosis and local immunity of periodontium of humans under extreme conditions; Volozhin AI et al.; The investigations were directed at finding out the peculiarities of both periodontal microflora and local immunity under extreme conditions (spaceflight, saturation diving, antiorthostatic hypokinesia) . The obtained results revealed different kinds of interactions amongst which saturation diving resulted in the most severe decrease of commensale microflora level, decrease of local immunity and appearance of periodontal pathogens . c2001 International Astronautical Federation . Published by Elsevier Science Ltd.

Acta Astronaut, 2001 Jul, 49(1), 47 - 52
Formation of higher plant component microbial community in closed ecological system; Tirranen LS; Closed ecological systems (CES) place at the disposal of a researcher unique possibilities to study the role of microbial communities in individual components and of the entire system . The microbial community of the higher plant component has been found to form depending on specific conditions of the closed ecosystem: length of time the solution is reused, introduction of intrasystem waste water into the nutrient medium, effect of other component of the system, and system closure in terms of gas exchange . The higher plant component formed its own microbial complex different from that formed prior to closure . The microbial complex of vegetable polyculture is more diverse and stable than the monoculture of wheat . The composition of the components' microflora changed, species diversity decreased, individual species of bacteria and fungi whose numbers were not so great before the closure prevailed . Special attention should be paid to phytopathogenic and conditionally pathogenic species of microorganisms potentially hazardous to man or plants and the least controlled in CES . This situation can endanger creation of CES and make conjectural existence of preplanned components, man, specifically, and consequently, of CES as it is . c2001 International Astronautical Federation . Published by Elsevier Science Ltd.

Am J Ther, 1995 Oct, 2(10), 787 - 792
Bacteria--Mast Cell Interactions in Inflammatory Disease; Malaviya R et al.; Chronic inflammatory diseases of the gastrointestinal tract such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease are characterized by mast cell proliferation and secretion of inflammatory mediators . The determinant(s) responsible for stimulating mast cells in the intestinal mucosa is not known . We investigated the interaction of mast cells with type 1 fimbriated Escherichia coli, an opportunistic pathogen and a constituent of the normal indigenous microflora of the gut . Unlike a mutant derivative deficient in the FimH subunit of the fimbriae or nonfimbriated E . coli, type 1 fimbriated E . coli adhered avidly to mast cells . As a consequence of this interaction, the mast cells phagocytozed and killed adherent bacteria . The mast cell bactericidal activity involved generation of superoxide anion and acidification of phagocytic vacuoles . In addition, many of the mast cells had degranulated and released inflammatory mediators such as histamine . These observations have implications both for normal host defense and for the initiation and perpetuation of inappropriate inflammatory responses in the gastrointestinal tract.

J Periodontal Res, 2002 Feb, 37(1), 66 - 74
Keratinocyte growth factor (KGF)-1 and -2 protein and gene expression in human gingival fibroblasts; Sanale AR et al.; The onset and progression of periodontal disease is associated with significant changes in the epithelial component of the attachment complex . From the early to the advanced stages of periodontal disease increased epithelial cell proliferation, migration and invasion into the surrounding connective tissue takes place . Concomitantly there is a significant increase in proinflammatory cytokine expression in periodontal tissue and quantitative and qualitative changes in the subgingival microflora, including an increase in gram-negative microorganisms . One of the most significant virulence factors of these bacteria is lipopolysaccharide (LPS) connected to the outer membrane . Two important growth factors controlling epithelial behavior are Keratinocyte Growth Factor-1 (KGF-1) and -2 (KGF-2) . Connective tissue cells express these growth factors, but only epithelial cells respond to them . We studied the effect of proinflammatory cytokines and LPS on gingival fibroblast expression of KGF-1 and KGF-2 in vitro . Gingival fibroblasts were found to express KGF-1 and -2 in culture but only KGF-1 protein and gene expression was stimulated by serum, in a concentration-dependent manner by proinflammatory cytokines IL-1alpha, IL-1beta, TNF-alpha and IL-6 and LPS isolated from Porphyromonas gingivalis and Escherichia coli . The local increase in proinflammatory cytokine expression and the accumulation of LPS in disease sites may therefore stimulate gingival fibroblast expression of KGF-1 . We hypothesize that this local increase in KGF-1 expression may, via a paracrine mechanism, stimulate local epithelial cell proliferation, migration and invasion during the onset and progression of periodontitis.

Ned Tijdschr Tandheelkd, 1994 Dec, 101(12), 484 - 8
{How sensible are bacteriological tests in periodontology?}; Mikx FH et al.; Periodontitis is a mixed infection with subgingival bacteria that belong to the microflora of the host . The bacteriological tests (Microscopy, Culture, Omnigene, Affirm DP and Evalusite) are mainly aimed at spirochetes or A . actinomycetemcomitans, P . gingivalis and P . intermedia . The detection limits of the different tests vary and, therefore, the detection levels are between 0.01-10% of the subgingival microflora . However, threshold levels to distinguish between diseased and carrier state are not established and the low sensitivity and specificity of the tests limit their diagnostic usefulness . The correlation between the tested bacteria and periodontitis does not mean a causal relationship . As a result, the justification of the elimination of the tested bacteria is questionable . The tests of the subgingival plaque do not only add to the microbiological knowledge, but might also promote the overtreatment with antibiotics, such as the in the Netherlands popular combination of amoxicilline and metronidazole . The balance between host and microflora can be restored in most patients by mechanical elimination of the mainly Gram negative anaerobic subgingival plaque . In special occasions metronidazole can be empirically prescribed in order to support the subgingival debridement . In the relatively rare occasions of superinfection, a sensitivity test of the subgingival microbiota is recommended.

J Microbiol Methods, 2002 Apr, 49(2), 135 - 45
Development of a model meat system and investigation of the growth characteristics and genetic stability of Escherichia coli O157:H7, in the absence of meat microflora; McCleery DR et al.; Model meat systems were produced using both aseptically procured and irradiated raw minced beef to initially compare the growth characteristics of a three-strain mixture of Escherichia coli O157:H7 in each medium . A multiplex PCR assay (detecting VT1, VT2 and eae genes) was used to determine the proportion of individual strains recovered at each sampling time by virtue of the different combinations of these virulence factors encoded by each strain, and to investigate their genetic stability . No differences in the growth characteristics of the pathogen (P>0.05) were recorded in the meat matrices, irrespective of the preparation method, thus validating the use of irradiation to sterilise (42 kGy, in vacuo at <-5 degrees C) minced meat in the production of control meat matrices for application to further research investigations . A novel plating method, incorporating a period of catalase-induced resuscitation, was found to give significantly higher recovery of the pathogen (P<0.05) from these meat matrices when compared to conventional spread-plating on Trypticase Soy Agar (TSA) . A proportion of the recovered populations, however, was found to be failing to produce an amplicon relating to a Verotoxin (VT) gene . A further investigation demonstrated that O157:H7 strain E 90197 (VT2 and eae positive) was displaying genetic instability during growth in and recovery from meat matrices with the apparent loss of the VT2 gene . An alternative VT2 and eae positive strain (ATCC 43889) demonstrated no such genetic instability, demonstrating inter-strain variation for this phenomenon . Thus, it should be considered that an essential pre-requisite to studies relying upon the maintenance of the pathogenic potential of E . coli O157:H7 should be an evaluation of the genetic stability of proposed strains of this serotype.

Vet Parasitol, 2002 Mar 20, 104(3), 243 - 55
Effect of Ostertagia circumcincta excretory/secretory products on gastrin release in vitro; Lawton DE et al.; It has been suggested that parasite excretory/secretory (ES) products may be capable of direct stimulation of gastrin secretion and of contributing to the hypergastrinaemia typical of abomasal parasitism . Ostertagia circumcincta ES products were tested on an ovine antral mucosal preparation which had been developed for a pharmacological study of gastrin secretion in the sheep . Its responsiveness to chemical stimulation was established by stimulation with amino acids and amines: tryptophan (0.1-5 mM) and phenylalanine (10-100 mM) stimulated gastrin release (151-160 and 117-129%, respectively), whereas glycine (0.1-100 mM) was without effect; ammonium sulphate, but not sodium sulphate, stimulated gastrin release in concentrations from 1mM (122%) to 50mM (148%) . ES products were prepared by incubation of exsheathed third-stage larvae (L3) or parasites recovered on Day 8 p.i . (L4), Day 12 p.i . (10% L4, 90% immature adults), Day 21 p.i . (5% L4, 30% immature adults, 65% adults), Day 22 p.i . (20% immature adults, 80% adults), Day 30 p.i . (adults) and Day 35 p.i . (adults), or a mixed-age parasite population . Worms were recovered from agar and incubated in either distilled water or Hank's balanced salt solution (HBSS) adjusted to pH 2.5, 3.5, 4.5, 5.0 or 7.4 . HBSS pH 7.4 was also prepared with antibiotics, without glucose, and with antibiotics but without glucose . Survival of Day 21 and 35 worms and exsheathed L3 in water or in a series of HBSS adjusted to pH 2.5, 3.5, 4.5, 5.0 or 7.4 was assessed from the percentage of motile parasites . L3 slowly became immotile over several days except in HBSS pH 2.5, in which survival was reduced, whereas adult worms did not tolerate incubation at 37 degrees C in water or HBSS at pH 2.5, retained motility for about 2 days at pH 3.5, but survived well at pH 4.5 and above . Incubates prepared from all stages of O . circumcincta, both in media favourable and unfavourable for parasite survival, failed to stimulate consistently the secretion of gastrin by tissue from both parasite-naive and previously exposed sheep, whereas a considerable number of incubates were significantly inhibitory . The inhibitor may not be produced by the nematodes, but by contaminating abomasal or environmental microflora, as inhibitory activity was predominantly generated by prolonged incubation, it was less potent when glucose was omitted and was not present in media containing antibiotics . This study did not find evidence for a gastrin stimulant in O . circumcincta ES products, but did demonstrate the acid intolerance of adult worms and suggests that abomasal microbes may be capable of modulating the secretory activity of the host digestive tract.

Adv Space Res, 2001, 28(4), 701 - 6
Microflora in the basal strata at Antarctic ice core above the Vostok lake; Abyzov SS et al.; The microbiological investigations of the Antarctic ice core at the Vostok station become especially important in connection with the discovery of an subglacial lake in this region . This lake is considered by the world-wide scientific community to be an important object for searching for relict forms of life on the Earth and also as a model for solving a number of problems of exobiology--for instance for development of methods to penetrate into underice sea at Europe--Jupiter's satellite . For the first time the Antarctic ice core samples were taken from the horizons which correspond to the basal zone (3534-3541 m) and to the accreation ice zone (3555-3611 m) above the subglacial lake Vostok . As a result of the microbiological investigations it was shown that the total number of microbial cells have been in the same range of quantities as at the upper, younger horizons and varied from 1.3 x 10(2) up to 9.6 x 10(2) cl/ml . Some periodicity in the cell concentration and in their morphological diversity was revealed along the core . The maximal number and the greatest morphological variety were detected at horizons with the depth of 3534, 3555 and 3595 m . A drop in the cell concentration two or three times as much was found in ice layers under each of the above mentioned horizons . The discovered stratification is apparently connected with the periodicity of the lake water interactions with the basal ice layer and obviously depends on the complex natural events which took place in the geological history of our planet . c2001 COSPAR . Published by Elsevier Science Ltd . All rights reserved.

Cancer Radiother, 2001 Nov, 5 Suppl 1, 121s - 130s
{Management of mucositis following radiotherapy for head and neck cancers}; Lapeyre M et al.; Acute mucositis is common after radiotherapy for head and neck cancers . During the past 3 decades, there was a gradual evolution in the treatment modalities for locally advanced carcinomas (concomitant radio-chemotherapy, accelerated radiotherapy) . These new strategies are accompanied by an increase in early mucosal reactions . At the present time, there is no widely accepted prophylaxis or effective treatment . Many traditional remedies or new agents seem ineffective (Sucralfate, Chlorhexidine, GM-CSF, Silver nitrate, Prostaglandin, anti-oxidants, Benzydamine hydrochloride), while others seem promising (Povidone-iodine, nonabsorbable antibiotic lozenges and antifungals, local GM-CSF, Glutamide, Low-energy laser, corticosteroids) . Radioprotectors are controversial and should be only used in experimental protocols and not in routine practice . However, some recommendations can be proposed: general prevention and global care before cancer therapy should be systematic (oral hygiene, dental and periodontal treatment, advice to avoid the use of tobacco and alcohol); frequent oral rinsing with a bland mouthwash (Povidone-iodine or others) should be used at the start of treatment because there are significant modifications of the oral microflora increased by a disturbed salivary flow; these mouthwashes could be associated with nonabsorbable antibiotic lozenges or antifungal topicals (bicarbonates, Amphotericine B); Systematic percutaneous fluoroscopic gastrostomy should be decided before any aggressive treatments (concomitant radio-chemotherapy, accelerated radiotherapy); pain should be controlled; finally, the radiation technique should be optimized (mucosal-sparing block, conformal radiotherapy and intensity-modulated radiation therapy).

Zhongguo Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Za Zhi, 2000 Jun, 20(6), 444 - 6
{Pharmacokinetic study on absorption of stachyose}; Zheng N et al.; OBJECTIVE: To study the intestinal absorption and absorption site of stachyose, one of the oligosaccharides extracted from Rehmannia, in mice and rats . METHODS: Plasma concentration of stachyose was measured by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with postcolumn fluorescence derivatization after administration of stachyose to mice by oral or intravenous injection . The absorption of stachyose in different sections of digestive tract was evaluated using the intestine loop in situ technique . The kanamycin treated mice were used to study the metabolism of stachyose in intestine . RESULTS: Absorption of stachyose in intestine after oral administration was quick but low, the bioavailability being 3.82% . The absorption rate in stomach, duodenum, jejunum and ileum was 6.03%, 13.80%, 8.33% and 0.53% respectively, no absorption was tested in large intestine . The residual rate of stachyose in the intestine of normal mice and kanamycin treated mice was 8.6% and 93.4% respectively . CONCLUSION: The intestinal absorption rate of stachyose is low, the main absorption site is the upper portion of small intestine . The unabsorbed stachyose is metabolized by the intestinal microflora.

Lakartidningen, 2001 Dec 12, 98(50), 5753 - 5
{Probiotics restore the intestinal microflora . Modern life style has eradicated also the "good" bacteria}; Cedgard L et al.; Modern life style has lead to a reduced intake of beneficial bacteria . A healthy gastrointestinal microflora is vital to the immune system . Probiotic products could improve this balance.

Gut, 2002 Feb, 50(2), 170 - 9
Microflora reactive IL-10 producing regulatory T cells are present in the colon of IL-2 deficient mice but lack efficacious inhibition of IFN-gamma and TNF-alpha production; Waidmann M et al.; BACKGROUND: Inflammatory bowel disease in interleukin 2 (IL-2) deficient (IL-2(-/-)) mice is triggered by the intestinal microflora and mediated by CD4(+) T cells . AIMS: To determine the characteristics of microflora specific intestinal T cells, including migration and cytokine production . METHODS: Intestinal T cell populations and cytokine mRNA expression of specific pathogen free (SPF) and germ free (GF) IL-2(-/-) and IL-2(+/+) mice were compared by flow cytometry and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction . Cytokine production of intestinal mononuclear cells on stimulation with microflora antigens was assessed by ELISA . In vivo migration of T cells was assessed by adoptive transfer of (51)Cr labelled CD4(+)CD25(-)alpha beta(+) T cells . The ability of intestinal T cell lines to promote colitis was determined by adoptive transfer experiments . RESULTS: SPF IL-2(-/-) mice produced higher interferon gamma (IFN-gamma) and tumour necrosis factor alpha mRNA levels than GF IL-2(-/-) mice, which was accompanied by an increased number of CD4(+)alpha beta T cells in the colon . Tracking of (51)Cr labelled and adoptively transferred T cells revealed an increased MAdCAM-1 dependent but VCAM-1 independent recruitment of these cells into the colon of SPF IL-2(-/-) mice . Colon lamina propria lymphocytes (LPL) from SPF IL-2(-/-) mice showed increased spontaneous IFN-gamma production in vitro . On stimulation with bacterial microflora antigens, intraepithelial lymphocytes and LPL did not produce IFN-gamma, but high quantities of IL-10, which did not suppress IFN-gamma production . Bacterial antigen specific cell lines established from colon LPL of SPF IL-2(-/-) mice with colitis showed a regulatory T cell-like cytokine profile and only marginally modulated the course of colitis and survival of IL-2(-/-) mice . CONCLUSIONS: Our results suggest that microflora reactive regulatory T cells are present in the colon of SPF IL-2(-/-) mice . However, IL-10 produced by these cells did not significantly modulate a possible secondary proinflammatory CD4 Th1 cell population to produce IFN-gamma.

Adv Exp Med Biol, 2001, 501, 365 - 73
Biotherapeutic agents and disease in infants; Pickering LK; Human milk contains many factors that act synergistically or with redundancy in protecting suckling infants from infectious diseases . The rigorous application of the scientific method has shown significant beneficial effects of these specific factors . The beneficial effects of biotherapeutic agents, including prebiotics and probiotics, on the alteration of intestinal microflora and modulation of the local and systemic immune response of infants have been shown . The beneficial effects of these compounds on preventing diarrhea and possibly other infectious diseases in infants serves as a model for the development and use of biotherapeutic agents to treat and prevent infectious diseases in persons of all ages.

Ann Nutr Metab, 2001, 45(6), 235 - 54
Safety considerations of DNA in food; Jonas DA et al.; Recombinant DNA techniques are capable of introducing genetic changes into food organisms that are more predictable than those introduced through conventional breeding techniques . This review discusses whether the consumption of DNA in approved novel foods and novel food ingredients derived from genetically modified organisms (GMOs) can be regarded as being as safe as the consumption of DNA in existing foods . It concludes that DNA from GMOs is equivalent to DNA from existing food organisms that has always been consumed with human diets . Any risks associated with the consumption of DNA will remain, irrespective of its origin, because the body handles all DNA in the same way . The breakdown of DNA during food processing and passage through the gastrointestinal tract reduces the likelihood that intact genes capable of encoding foreign proteins will be transferred to gut microflora . The review does not specifically address food safety issues arising from the consumption of viable genetically modified microorganisms but it shows that the likelihood of transfer and functional integration of DNA from ingested food by gut microflora and/or human cells is minimal . Information reviewed does not indicate any safety concerns associated with the ingestion of DNA per se from GMOs resulting from the use of currently available recombinant DNA techniques in the food chain .

Microb Pathog, 2002 Jan, 32(1), 35 - 42
Increased frequency of intestinal Escherichia coli carrying genes for S fimbriae and haemolysin in IgA-deficient individuals; Friman V et al.; Persons with selective IgA deficiency carry an increased risk of coeliac disease, inflammatory bowel disease and perhaps also gastrointestinal malignancies . Inflammatory bowel disease is associated with an increased carriage of adherent and haemolytic Escherichia coli in the intestinal microflora . This study was designed to investigate whether IgA-deficient individuals carry E . coli with virulence-associated properties in their gut flora . The last free-lying colony of E . coli isolates obtained from rectal flora of 25 IgA-deficient and 20 age-matched control individuals was assayed by multiplex PCR for genes for the following adhesins or virulence determinants: P, type 1 and S fimbriae, Dr haemagglutinin, haemolysin, aerobactin and the capsular types K1 and K5 . E . coli strains from the intestinal microflora of IgA-deficient individuals more often had the gene for S fimbriae (36% of the strains compared with 0% in control subjects, P=0.003) as well as for haemolysin (40 vs 10% of the strains, P=0.040) . IgA-deficient individuals had instead lower frequencies of E . coli carrying genes for type 1 fimbriae in their microflora (68 vs 90%, P=0.14) . The results suggest that IgA-deficient individuals carry an increased frequency of E . coli with potentially inflammatogenic properties in their microflora, which may contribute to the development of gastrointestinal disorders such as inflammatory bowel diseases .

Zhonghua Kou Qiang Yi Xue Za Zhi, 2000 Jul, 35(4), 286 - 8
{Effect of fixed appliance on periodontal status of patients with malocclusion}; Zhao H et al.; OBJECTIVE: To determine if the fixed appliance will affect the periodontal health . METHODS: Sixteen patients with malocclusion were randomly selected . One week before the fixed appliance placement, plaque index (PLI), bleeding index (BI), pocket depth (PD) and subgingival plaque were assessed . The observed value was served as the baseline records . RESULTS: After the fixed appliance placement, significant differences were found in PLI, BI, PD and these values were significantly greater than the baseline . Subgingival microfloral shifted to a more disease-inducing microflora and there was a statistically significant increase in spirochetes and fusiform . CONCLUSION: Fixed appliance placement will affect the periodontal health . Therefore, it is very important to strengthen the oral hygiene instruction to the people who receive the treatment of fixed appliance.

Immunobiology, 2001 Dec, 204(4), 425 - 33
Specific antibody and immunoglobulin responses after intestinal colonization of germ-free piglets with non-pathogenic Escherichia coli O86; Cukrowska B et al.; Colonization of the gut with components of commensal microflora profoundly affects the development of the immune system . The aim of the present study was to investigate mucosal and systemic B cell responses during the first few days after intestinal association of colostrum-deprived piglets reared in germ-free (GF) conditions with non-pathogenic Escherichia coli O86 . Specific intestinal anti-E . coli antibodies (Ab), among which IgA Ab prevailed, were found 4 days after colonization (72% of standard) and their amount decreased 11 days later reaching 22% of standard . In contrast to mucosal Ab, specific serum Ab remained at the level of GF animals at day 4 (less than 10% of standard) and markedly increased 15 days after colonization (156% of standard) . In addition to the occurrence of specific Ab, increased amounts of total immunoglobulins (Ig) of all isotypes were detected in sera and intestinal washings . Using the ELISPOT method an increased number of IgM, IgG and IgA-secreting lymphocytes were found in spleen, mesenteric lymph nodes (MLN) and Peyer's patches (PP) in colonized animals as compared to GF piglets . Contrary to cells from these lymphatic organs, B cells from thymus were not affected by E . coli stimulation . Our results show that at the onset of intestinal colonization, non-pathogenic E . coli specifically and polyclonally stimulate the mucosal and systemic humoral immunity, but relatively soon after stimulation, mucosal-specific responses in gut decreases, indicating the possible beginning of inhibition mechanisms (oral tolerance).

Microbiol Res, 2001, 156(4), 337 - 41
Effect of epiphytes on the extent of necrotic injuries of resistant and susceptible poplar clones infected with Dothichiza populea; Weyman-Kaczmarkowa W et al.; Poplar cuttings of a resistant clone, Populus 'Grandis', and susceptible clones, Populus nigra 'Italica' and Populus 'Robusta', were infected with the pathogenic fungus Dothichiza populea alone, or with the pathogen and one of five strains of epiphytes antagonistic towards it (in vitro), isolated from poplar bark . The extent of injury was examined for 28 days after infection by determining the length of necrotic patches and their area as expressed in per cent of the total area of a cutting or the area of necrotic injuries caused by the pathogen alone . All the poplar cuttings of both the resistant and susceptible clones became diseased when infected with the pathogen alone . Surprisingly enough, however, the least affected clone was the susceptible P . 'Robusta', in which necrotic injuries covered 28% of the total area, as against 40% and 70% in the resistant P . 'Grandis' and the susceptible P . nigra 'Italica', respectively . When the cuttings were infected simultaneously with Dothichiza populea and its antagonistic epiphytes, the diseased area in the resistant clone diminished by as much as two-thirds, and in the susceptible P nigra 'Italica', by one-third in comparison with the area affected by the pathogen alone . In turn, in the susceptible P . 'Robusta' the introduction of three out of five epiphytes stimulated the growth of the pathogenic fungus producing on average a double increase in the necrotic area . The differences in the response of the pathogen to the presence of epiphytes recorded in the susceptible clones indicate a marked influence of the plant on the nature of interactions between its epiphytic microflora and the pathogen.

Exp Anim, 2001 Oct, 50(5), 387 - 95
Dextran sodium sulfate-induced colitis in germ-free IQI/Jic mice; Kitajima S et al.; This study presents a histological examination of dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced colitis in germ-free (GF) mice . A comparison of the pathology between GF and conventionalized mice (CVz) was made to determine the role that intestinal microflora play in DSS-induced colitis . To induce colitis, GF and CVz IQI/Jic mice were given either 5% or 1% DSS orally . Administration of 5% DSS, a common concentration used to induce colitis in mice, caused gross rectal bleeding and a marked decrease in hematocrit as early as day one in GF mice . These mice died on day three due to massive bleeding into the intestinal lumen . In contrast, CVz mice did not die during the seven-day experimental period . Histopathological examination three days after administration of 5% DSS did not reveal any colitis lesions in GF mice, but CVz mice had developed moderate colitis in the large intestine . Administration of a low concentration of DSS (1%), which only induces mild basal crypt loss in CVz mice, caused severe colitis in the distal colon in GF mice, and they died on day 14 . These data suggest that intestinal microflora are not necessary for the induction of colitis . Furthermore, DSS may be highly toxic to GF mice, and when given at a concentration of 5% it causes massive bleeding into the intestinal lumen resulting in death prior to development of colitis.

Lipids, 2001 Oct, 36(10), 1175 - 8
Trans- and cis-octadecenoic acid isomers in the hump and milk lipids from Camelus dromedarius; Wolff RL et al.; The distribution profiles of individual trans- as well as cis-18:1 isomers from the fat prepared from the hump adipose tissue and the milk from Camelus dromedarius (the single-humped Arabian species) are described . Gas-liquid chromatography on two capillary columns with different polarities and lengths were used for this purpose in combination with argentation thin-layer chromatography . A comparison of the profiles established is made with that of true ruminant fats . In the fats from the dromedarius as well as from true ruminants, the trans-18:1 isomers have their ethylenic bonds in all positions between delta4 and delta16 . The prominent trans isomer is the 11-18:1 (vaccenic) acid in all species, and the complete distribution profiles are quite similar . Concerning the cis isomers, the prominent isomer is oleic acid, followed by cis-vaccenic acid, as in true ruminant fats . Other cis isomers encompass the delta6-8 and the delta12 to delta15 isomers . Camelidae (suborder Tylopoda) and Bovidae (suborder Ruminantia) have evolved independently since the Eocene, that is for approximately 50 million years . Despite this considerable period, and the profound differences in anatomy, morphology, physiology, ecological and dietary habits between the extant species of these suborders, the rumen microflora has continued to synthesize the same trans- and cis-octadecenoic acid isomers, in comparable proportions, at least as deduced from their composition profiles . We conclude that the trans-18:1 acid profile is not intrinsically species-dependent, but it can be affected by the nature and the proportions of dietary unsaturated fatty acids that themselves depend on the feed, and that may be species-specific.

Probl Tuberk, 2001, (7), 18 - 20
{Local ozone therapy in the complex surgical treatment of pulmonary and pleural tuberculosis patients}; Dobkin VG et al.; The found bactericidal activity of ozone and oxygen mixture containing ozone, 10 mg/l, and ozoned solutions of furacilin (dilution 1:5000) and chlorohexidine (0.05%) against the nonspecific microflora and Mycobacteria tuberculosis allowed them to be used in the treatment of 55 patients with pleural empyema . Analyzing the outcomes of treatment in these patients versus 59 matched patients indicated that local ozone therapy accelerated sanitation and stimulation of reparative processes in this disease on the average by a fortnight . Local ozone therapy used in the preoperative preparation of patients with pulmonary tuberculosis and pleural empyema reduced the number of purulent postoperative complication to 17.7% versus 30.4% in the controls, enhanced the efficiency of multimodality treatment by 15.6% and reduced mortality by 9.5% . Analyzing the results of prevention of purulent bronchopleural complications after pleuropulmonectomy in 31 patients in the experimental group and in 35 in the control one showed that with local ozone therapy, complications occurred in 16.1 and 28.6%, respectively, and the efficiency of surgical management increased by 13.1% and mortality rates reduced by 9.6%.

Dev Biol (Basel), 2001, 106, 443 - 51; discussion 452-3, 465-75
Viral latency--the papillomavirus model; Broker TR et al.; To investigate the prevalence and the natural history of human papillomavirus infections, we monitored HPV DNA shedding as a consequence of immunosuppression, with the expectation that latent viral infections would reactivate and become detectable . The study populations consisted of women who were in end-stage renal failure, those who ultimately received kidney transplantations, and those who had HIV/AIDS with various degrees of immune depression at entry . For each woman, cervico-vaginal lavage to sample viral shedding from the lower genital tract was performed at approximately six month intervals, and the cohorts have been followed since 1996 . Nested polymerase chain reaction amplification of papillomavirus DNA using novel pairs of primers was followed by diagnostic restriction endonuclease cleavage or by DNA sequencing . This strategy is particularly capable of identifying single and multiple infections and determining the genotypes of any viruses present . Of the 225 women in the HIV cohort, 177 (79%) were HPV-positive and 111 (49%) shed from two up to eight different HPV types over the course of the survey . Thirty-five different mucosotropic HPV types, virtually all that have ever been described worldwide, were isolated from these 225 women, and nine additional new (provisional) types were discovered . As is always the case, HPV-6 was very common . However, all the other frequently detected HPV types (45, 52, 53, 54, 58, 74) were more prevalent than the types typically reported forthe general population (HPV-11, 16, 18, 31, 33, 35) . Notably, the 14 members of the A3 phylogenetic subgroup (HPV-61, 62, 72, 81, 83, 84, and all the new types) were by far the most frequently observed viral types in the AIDS cohort . The HPV prevalence in the cohorts of kidney transplantation candidates and recipients was only slightly lower than that in the AIDS cohort . We conclude that HPV infections are extraordinarily common and are normally held in a sub-clinical state by functional immune systems, but can be reactivated by immunosuppressive conditions . The question of how so many distinct types persist in the human population and can be repeatedly isolated from specimens collected around the world raises complex issues concerning the nature of viral transmission, reproduction, shedding, and mutational drift . These molecular epidemiological observations signal the likelihood that HPV is part of the commensal microflora of human epithelia . Their prevalence elicits a caution that latent HPV DNA may be present in primary human epithelial tissues.

Contraception, 2001 Oct, 64(4), 261 - 9
Interaction with anti-implantation and estrogen antagonistic activities of dl-ormeloxifene, a selective estrogen receptor modulator, by tetracycline in female Sprague-Dawley rats; Ghosh R et al.; Among the 10 commonly used therapeutic agents investigated, concurrent oral administration of tetracycline (140 mg/kg) twice daily on Days 1-5 post-coitum (pc) interfered with the post-coital anti-implantation activity and almost completely abolished estrogen antagonistic activity of the single anti-implantation (1.5 mg/kg, orally) dose of dl-ormeloxifene administered on Day 1 pc, resulting in the occurrence of resorbed implantations in 50% of the females . However, no such interaction was evident when tetracycline was administered intramuscularly or when ormeloxifene was administered at twice its anti-implantation dose . There was no effect of ormeloxifene and/or tetracycline treatment on serum estradiol and progesterone levels, and all animals presented apparently normal corpora lutea . Ormeloxifene administered per se inhibited aminopyrine-N-demethylase (AD), glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G-6-PDH) and glutathione-S-transferase (GST) in the liver on the day of maximal endometrial receptivity, which was prevented by tetracycline co-administration . Aniline hydroxylase and AD were not detected in small intestine or uterus in vehicle control or any of the treatment groups . There was, however, no effect of ormeloxifene plus tetracycline treatment on serum total alkaline phosphatase activity . Findings suggest that interference with anti-implantation action of ormeloxifene by tetracycline might be due primarily to the almost complete abolition of its estrogen antagonistic activity at the uterine level, effected by decreased bioavailability of ormeloxifene and/or its active metabolite(s) by altered enterohepatic recirculation because of the effect on gut microflora . This might alternatively be related to an increased rate of its metabolism and elimination from the system via prevention of ormeloxifene-induced inhibition of hepatic AD, G-6-PDH, and GST, which, by effecting a decreased rate of metabolism, might be responsible for prolonged (approximately 120 h) duration of estrogen antagonistic/anti-implantation action of ormeloxifene in this species.

Int J Circumpolar Health, 2001, 60 Suppl 2, 1 - 54
Otitis media in Greenland . Studies on historical, epidemiological, microbiological, and immunological aspects; Homoe P; This thesis describes the different aspects of otitis media (OM) in the population of Greenland viewed in a historical and modern clinical perspective . Chapter 1 outlines the addressed problems and aims while chapters 2 and 3 deal with historical studies and an evaluation of the present knowledge based on the literature . Physical anthropological studies, using skeletal samples of adult Eskimo crania from before and after the colonization of Greenland in 1721 and information about modern living Eskimos (Inuit), have shown that OM sequelae of the temporal bones were significantly less common in pre-colonization Eskimos and that the mean area size of the pneumatized cell system in the temporal bone was significantly larger in pre-colonization Eskimos . These findings indicated an increase in OM after the colonization most likely caused by the social, cultural, habitary, and dietary changes due to increased contact with the outside world . Historical reports after the colonization confirm a high prevalence of OM especially in children . Modern epidemiological studies from the 1960's to 1980's in the Arctic region of Alaska, Canada, and Greenland along with reports from visiting consultant otologists in Greenland almost uniformly mention prevalent OM problems in children as well as in adults . The aim was therefore to further describe the epidemiological pattern of the different OM disease entities (acute OM (AOM), chronic OM (COM), COM with suppuration (CSOM), secretory OM (SOM), and cholesteatoma) and investigate the potentially associated risk factors in especially Greenlandic children because these diseases are primarily established and problematical in childhood . Chapter 4 describes the definitions used in the thesis and chapter 5 describes the studies included . Section 5.1 describes a study of cholesteatoma in Greenlanders . The study revealed an almost similar incidence of hospital treated children with cholesteatoma (6.6 per 100,000) as seen in comparable studies from other parts of the world . Furthermore, childhood cholesteatomas were the most aggressive . The frequency of residuals or recurrences after otosurgical treatment was high with a trend for better results when using the extensive canal wall-down procedure . It could be concluded that these patients urgently need close follow-up for at least five years postoperatively, if not lifelong . Section 5.2 describes a hearing screening survey of 167 school children using school registration charts . A high prevalence of hearing loss (HL) was found . A total of 43% of the children had hearing thresholds exceeding 20 dB at one or more frequencies between 250-8000 Hz in one or both ears, and 19% had the same type of HL in the frequencies 500-2000 Hz . HL was significantly associated with episodes of OM . These findings were in accordance with reports from Alaska and Canada . It is therefore concluded that a hearing screening programme of school children is important and that OM seems to have an impact on hearing in school children in Greenland . In section 5.3 an epidemiological survey is described concerning the prevalence of the different OM disease entities . The survey was carried out in Nuuk and Sisimiut and involved 740 children aged 3, 4, 5, and 8 years . A total of 591 children participated and selection bias was not found when controlling for age, sex, and episodes of AOM . The survey revealed that 52% of children in Nuuk and 54% in Sisimiut had some kind of pathological affection of their middle ear . COM and CSOM were found in 9%, but more prevalent among children in Sisimiut (12%) than in Nuuk (7%) . Middle ear effusion (MEE) diagnosed by tympanometry was found in 23% in Nuuk and 28% in Sisimiut while simple tubal dysfunction (STD) was found in 13% and 8%, respectively . MEE and STD were associated with young age . Sequelae of OM was apparent in 11% in both towns . When comparing the results with a 10-year-older, almost similar survey of 142 children, it was evident that the OM situation had not changed in the period between the studies . The survey underlines the need for increased focus on the different OM entities in Greenlandic children . Section 5.4 deals with microbiological aspects . The nasopharyngeal microflora and ear discharge microflora of potential pathogens were evaluated in 54 children with AOM and in 201 control children without AOM . Very high carriage rates expressed qualitatively and semiquantitatively of potentially pathogenio bacteria were found in the nasopharynx of children with AOM (98%) but also in that of the control children (91%) and even in children denoted as being very healthy (94%) . However, the same bacterial species were cultured from the nasopharynx and ear discharge as in comparable studies world-wide . Only S . pneumoniae was carried significantly more often in the nasopharynx of AOM children compared with age matched control children . Chlamydiae, M . pneumoniae, adenovirus, respiratory syncytial virus, parainfluenza- type 1, 2, and 3 virus, and influenza- type A and B virus were not major pathogens . In contrast, entero- and rhinoviruses were detected significantly more frequent in nasopharyngeal specimens from AOM children (59%) compared with age matched controls (33%) and also in 29% of the examined ear discharge specimens . It is therefore concluded that the potentially pathogenic bacterial load is early and massive . This alone or in interplay with entero- and rhinovirus infection and occasionally with other viruses may play an important role in the high prevalence of OM among children in Greenland . Section 5.5 deals with an examination of potential risk factors for AOM, recurrent AOM (rAOM), and COM in the same 591 children as studied in section 5.3 . Early age at first AOM episode was associated with rAOM episodes (> or = 5 episodes since birth) . Thus, the relative risk of developing rAOM was eight times higher if the first episode of AOM occurred before 7 months of age than after 24 months of age . Furthermore, compared with studies elsewhere in the world, a high proportion (40%) of the children in this survey had their first AOM episode during their first year of life and 41% of these children developed rAOM . It was also found that children had an increased risk of AOM, rAOM, or COM when both parents were born in Greenland, when parents also have had OM, when living in very crowded households, and when having experienced a long period of exclusive breast feeding, or when recalling of breast feeding was not possible . Gender, type, and size of housing, insulation standard of housing, daycare, exposure to passive cigarette smoking, and dietary habits were not associated with AOM, rAOM, or COM in the surveyed children . It is concluded that early onset of AOM occurs frequently in Greenlandic children and that a high proportion of these children develop rAOM . The study confirms that AOM is a highly multifactorial disease determined by a number of genetic and environmental factors . Finally, section 5.6 is a hypothesis generating study attempting to explain the high prevalence of early episodes of AOM in community-based children in Nuuk . The hypothesis is based on a possible association between findings of mannose-binding lectin genotypes, early Epstein-Barr virus infections and episodes of AOM, rAOM, or nasopharyngeal colonization with potentially pathogenic bacteria . However, the study does not support any of this hypothesis . In chapter 6, future studies are suggested and chapter 7 presents concluding remarks.

Waste Manag Res, 2001 Aug, 19(4), 314 - 9
Inhibition of methane oxidation by volatile sulfur compounds (CH3SH and CS2) in landfill cover soils; Borjesson G; Methanethiol and carbon disulphide were investigated for their ability to inhibit methane oxidation in two landfill cover soils . Methanethiol was found to be a competitive inhibitor, and at concentrations occurring in landfills, both these VSCs (volatile sulfur compounds) had inhibitory effects on the methane oxidation rates . Analysis of the phospholipid fatty acid contents in the soils indicated that type I-methanotrophs were more affected than type II . These effects of VSCs on methane oxidation are likely to have implications both for the establishment and the selectivity of a methane oxidizing microflora in landfills.

Bull Acad Natl Med, 2001, 185(5), 943 - 57; discussion 958-62
{Current features of food allergies: the need of allergy surveillance}; Moneret-Vautrin DA; The prevalence of food allergy in European populations has been evaluated at between 1.8 and 4.4% . In the French population it is 3.24% . This frequency, as well as the gravity of some manifestations, has already led to preventive and curative measures being taken in school settings . This increase is related to multiple environmental factors: changes in intestinal microflora, early diversification of foods in children, interference of drugs favoring clinical severity in adults . Allergenicity can be modified by food industry techniques . The appearance of novel foods (exotic proteins or those derived from animal feed, and soon GMOs), the growing use of food proteins as ingredients, constitute new risks . The absence of validated experimental methods for evaluating the allergic risk of food proteins makes it necessary to implement a policy of allergy vigilance for novel foods . Studies concerning the allergic risk for lupin flour, a new ingredient used in baked goods, are given as an example . They indicate the frequency of sensitization and cross peanut-lupin flour allergy, the low reactive threshold, indicating the risk of the level of incorporation presently allowed . They make possible current screening for this allergy in the population . Allergy vigilance is a recent concept that aims to set up surveillance of food allergy risks in a manner analogous to that of pharmacovigilance for drugs . A project for creating such a structure is being discussed . Although the central structure remains at the initiative of the Agence Francaise de Securite Sanitaire de l'Alimentation (French Agency for Food Safety) and the Institut de Veille Sanitaire (Institute of Health) the authors specify what a peripheral network of allergists should be, analyze the desired content of the bi-directional flow of information, and propose envisaging an intermediate regulatory organization, specialized in the diagnosis and treatment of food allergies . The ongoing idea is that environmental pressures on the genetics of atopic disease lead to a continuum of IgE-dependent responses towards all the potential allergens in the entire population . Consequently, the creation of such a structure is advised in the name of the Precautionary Principle.

Int Immunol, 2001 Dec, 13(12), 1561 - 70
CD4 T cells monospecific to ovalbumin produced by Escherichia coli can induce colitis upon transfer to BALB/c and SCID mice; Yoshida M et al.; Although some animal models suggest an involvement of CD4 T cells reactive to luminal microbial antigen(s) for the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), direct linkage between microflora-driven clonal expansion of CD4 T cells and the development of colitis has not been well studied . Here, BALB/c and SCID mice were given CD4 T cells purified from Rag-2(-/-) mice crossed to transgenic mice expressing TCR specific to ovalbumin (OVA) then administered with antibiotic-resistant Escherichia coli producing OVA (ECOVA) or LacZ (ECLacZ) via the rectum . The ECOVA-inoculated BALB/c and SCID mice developed a subacute colitis with microscopic features of distortion of crypt architecture, loss of goblet cells, and focal infiltration by mononuclear cells in the lamina propria (LP) and submucosa . Expanding OVA-specific CD4 T cells were detected in colonic follicles of mice with ECOVA . Early in colitis, OVA-specific CD4 T cells producing IFN-gamma predominate in the LP of the colon, which was followed by an emergence of OVA-specific CD4 T cells producing IL-4 and IL-10 at a later time point . Co-transfer of an IL-10-secreting OVA-specific CD4 T cell line prevented colitis . Thus, an expansion of CD4 T cells monospecific to OVA, an antigen non-cross-reactive to colonic tissue, can mediate both induction and inhibition of the colitis which was associated with hyperplasia of lymph follicles.

J Microbiol Methods, 2001 Dec, 47(3), 273 - 9
A simple agar plate assay for screening siderophore producer yeasts; Calvente V et al.; Yeasts produce hydroxamate-type siderophores (iron-binding compounds) in response to Fe-stress conditions . Because these siderophores are important to the biocontrol of postharvest diseases of apple and pears, a method for screening siderophore producer yeast was developed.The screening method was carried out in special Petri dishes with eight or nine wells (25-mm diameter) . These wells were filled with siderophore production medium and seeded with yeasts isolated from epiphytic apple microflora . After yeasts grew (24-48 h), holes (2-mm diameter) were made in the agar of each well . Holes were filled with an acid solution of ferric perchlorate . After 10-15 min, reddish halos appeared in the bottom of the plate and their intensities were compared with standards . Standards were prepared in the same special dish with rhodotorulic acid solutions (concentrations between 0.05 and 1 g/l) plus 2% agar . When agar solidified into wells, holes were made and filled with ferric perchlorate solution . Color intensities of reddish halos were proportional to siderophore concentration and the detection limit was 0.1 g/l . It was possible to correlate the production of siderophore in solid medium with the results obtained in liquid medium . The methodology was also a useful tool for making a preliminary assessment of the influence of different factors on the siderophore production.

J Agric Food Chem, 2001 Nov, 49(11), 5679 - 84
Esterase activity able to hydrolyze dietary antioxidant hydroxycinnamates is distributed along the intestine of mammals; Andreasen MF et al.; Hydroxycinnamic acids are effective antioxidants and are abundant components of plant cell walls, especially in cereal bran . For example, wheat and rye brans are rich sources of the hydroxycinnamates ferulic acid, sinapic acid, and p-coumaric acid . These phenolics are part of human and animal diets and may contribute to the beneficial effects derived from consumption of cereal bran . However, these compounds are ester linked to the main polymers in the plant cell wall and cannot be absorbed in this complex form . The present work shows that esterases with activity toward esters of the major dietary hydroxycinnamates are distributed throughout the intestinal tract of mammals . In rats, the cinnamoyl esterase activity in the small intestine is derived mainly from the mucosa, whereas in the large intestine the esterase activity was found predominantly in the luminal microflora . Mucosa cell-free extracts obtained from human duodenum, jejunum, and ileum efficiently hydrolyzed various hydroxycinnamoyl esters, providing the first evidence of human cinnamoyl esterase(s) . This study first demonstrates the release by human colonic esterase(s) (mostly of microbial origin) of sinapic acid and p-coumaric acid from rye and wheat brans . Hydrolysis by intestinal esterase(s) is very likely the major route for release of antioxidant hydroxycinnamic acids in vivo.

Dig Dis Sci, 2001 Nov, 46(11), 2529 - 35
High prevalence of Mycoplasma pneumoniae in intestinal mucosal biopsies from patients with inflammatory bowel disease and controls; Chen W et al.; Intestinal microflora are believed to play an important role in the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) . Mycoplasma have been suggested previously as organisms of ubiquitous distribution with the potential to cause inflammatory diseases, including IBD in susceptible individuals . The aim of this study was to determine the frequency of the presence of M . pneumoniae DNA in intestinal biopsies from patients with IBD and non-IBD controls using a microplate polymerase chain reaction-hybridization assay (PCR-ELISA) . A total of 260 endoscopic biopsies (49 from 19 patients with Crohn's disease, 76 from 27 patients with ulcerative colitis, and 135 from 43 non-IBD controls) were used in this study . Overall, M . pneumoniae-specific DNA was detected in 100 endoscopic biopsy samples (38.5%) . Among them, the detection rate of M . pneumoniae DNA was significantly higher in biopsies from patients with CD (59.2%) than in those from patients with UC (26.3%) or non-IBD controls (37.7%) (chi2 = 13.65, P < or = 0.001) . The high prevalence of M . pneumoniae in both IBD patients and controls suggest this organism is ubiquitous and may persist in the intestinal mucosa . Epidemiological studies in IBD suggest acquisition of some agents early in life probably during epidemics in temperate latitudes . M . pneumoniae could be one of the ubiquitous agents implicated in the pathogenesis of IBD.

Curr Issues Intest Microbiol, 2000 Sep, 1(2), 39 - 50
Methods for analysis of the intestinal microflora; O'Sullivan DJ; The concept of probiotics has been around for about 100 years . Yet its impact on human nutrition is still an emerging concept . Lack of convincing scientific validation for the efficacy of any ingested probiotic bacterium on intestinal health, has been a major reason for the low impact of probiotics on human nutrition . Obtaining positive scientific validation requires the use of suitable probiotic strains and also the necessary tools to monitor the performance of these bacteria in the intestines of individuals . To date, selection of strains for probiotic purposes has not been based on a scientific directed approach, primarily because it is not yet fully known what specific traits a desirable probiotic strain should possess . Filling this knowledge void will depend largely on furthering our understanding of the human intestinal ecosystem and the functional role of specific bacteria for intestinal health . Traditional approaches for studying this ecosystem have provided a good foundation in this knowledge base . Complementation of the traditional approaches with the emergence of sophisticated molecular tools shows enormous promise for obtaining the necessary insight into the intestinal microflora . This review will cover the traditional methodologies which have been used to analyze the human intestinal microflora . It will also reveal the development of modern molecular approaches for studying the diversity and phylogeny of its flora, and the rapid molecular tools for monitoring the presence of specific strains in the intestine . Finally, it will address the advent of in situ analysis of individual microbial cells, which promises to provide tremendous advances in our understanding of the microflora and their metabolic activities in the human intestine.

Curr Issues Intest Microbiol, 2000 Mar, 1(1), 1 - 12
A molecular view of the intestinal ecosystem; Vaughan EE et al.; This review describes the state of the art as well as the initial results of molecular methodologies used to study the ecology of the complex microflora of the human intestinal tract . The detection and identification of many of these organisms has largely been hampered by the incomplete knowledge of their culture conditions . Many of the molecular methodologies are rooted in the use of ribosomal RNA (rRNA) and its encoding genes to describe the relationship between the bacteria in such communities and their individual identity . This approach permits the elucidation both qualitatively as well as quantitatively of the abundance of bacterial species and how their presence interacts with diet and health . Emphasis is given to the analysis of complex communities rather than detection of individual groups of bacteria . The potential of novel advances in molecular technologies such as DNA arrays for analysis of the intestinal ecosystem are also discussed.

Microbes Infect, 2001 Nov, 3(13), 1157 - 66
Microbiological and immunological strategies for treatment of inflammatory bowel disease; Steidler L; Chronic inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis, affect around 1 in every 1000 individuals in western countries . They probably result from an inappropriate reaction towards the commensal microflora and are currently treated with anti-inflammatory drugs or surgery . Novel strategies aim at blocking lymphocyte recruitment and activation, improved targeting of therapeutics and modification of gut microflora.

Infect Immun, 2001 Dec, 69(12), 7832 - 8
Comparison of genetic divergence and fitness between two subclones of Helicobacter pylori; Bjorkholm B et al.; Helicobacter pylori has a very plastic genome, reflecting its high rate of recombination and point mutation . This plasticity promotes divergence of the population by the development of subclones and presumably enhances adaptation to host niches . We have investigated the genotypic and phenotypic characteristics of two such subclones isolated from one patient as well as the genetic evolution of these isolates during experimental infection . Whole-genome genotyping of the isolates using DNA microarrays revealed that they were more similar to each other than to a panel of other genotyped strains recovered from different hosts . Nonetheless, they still showed significant differences . For example, one isolate (67:21) contained the entire Cag pathogenicity island (PAI), whereas the other (67:20) had excised the PAI . Phenotypic studies disclosed that both isolates expressed adhesins that recognized human histo-blood group Lewis(b) glycan receptors produced by gastric pit and surface mucus cells . In addition, both isolates were able to colonize, to equivalent density and with similar efficiency, germ-free transgenic mice genetically engineered to synthesize Lewis(b) glycans in their pit cells (12 to 14 mice/isolate) . Remarkably, the Cag PAI-negative isolate was unable to colonize conventionally raised Lewis(b) transgenic mice harboring a normal gastric microflora, whereas the Cag PAI-positive isolate colonized 74% of the animals (39 to 40 mice/isolate) . The genomic evolution of both isolates during the infection of conventionally raised and germ-free mice was monitored over the course of 3 months . The Cag PAI-positive isolate was also surveyed after a 10 month colonization of conventionally raised transgenic animals (n = 9 mice) . Microarray analysis of the Cag PAI and sequence analysis of the cagA, recA, and 16S rRNA genes disclosed no changes in recovered isolates . Together, these results reveal that the H . pylori population infecting one individual can undergo significant divergence, creating stable subclones with substantial genotypic and phenotypic differences.

Nippon Ishinkin Gakkai Zasshi, 2001, 42(4), 217 - 8
{Molecular analysis of malassezia microflora on the skin of atopic dermatitis patients and healthy subjects}; Sugita T et al.; We compared cutaneous colonization levels of Malassezia species in patients with AD and healthy subjects using nested PCR . Malassezia-specific DNA was detected in all 32 of the patients with AD . M . globosa and M . restricta were detected in approximately 90% of these patients, with M . furfur and M . sympodialis being detected in approximately 40% of the cases . In healthy subjects, Malassezia DNA was detected in 78% of the samples, M . globosa, M . restricta and M . sympodialis were detected at frequencies ranging from 44 to 61%, and M . furfur was found in 11% of healthy subjects . Our results suggest that M . furfur, M . globosa, M . restricta and M . sympodialis are common inhabitants of the skin of both AD patients and healthy subjects, while the skin microflora of patients with AD shows more diversity than that of healthy subjects.

Nutr Hosp, 2001 Sep-Oct, 16(5), 145 - 51
{What happens in the liver during artificial feeding?}; Moran Penco JM et al.; The livers of healthy individuals, where different products are synthesized and metabolized, carries out a series of complex metabolic functions . Furthermore, there is an important relationship with the digestive apparatus, such as for the secretion, excretion and re-circulation of bile, and also with the various hormonal systems or the bacterial microflora of the intestine . When artificial feeding (AF) is used, this may lead to changes in the functionality and structure of the liver, which may or may not be reversible depending on the base situation of the patient and the type of AF administered . This would be enough to bring about a series of changes followed by adaptive phenomena in the liver itself . The degree of hepatic damage triggered by artificial feeding will depend on the interaction of all these elements and the specific characteristics of each case.

Annu Rev Phytopathol, 2000, 38, 423 - 441
RHIZOSPHERE INTERACTIONS AND THE EXPLOITATION OF MICROBIAL AGENTS FOR THE BIOLOGICAL CONTROL OF PLANT-PARASITIC NEMATODES; Kerry BR; A range of specialist and generalist microorganisms in the rhizosphere attacks plant-parasitic nematodes . Plants have a profound effect on the impact of this microflora on the regulation of nematode populations by influencing both the dynamics of the nematode host and the structure and dynamics of the community of antagonists and parasites in the rhizosphere . In general, those organisms that have a saprophytic phase in their life cycle are most affected by environmental conditions in the rhizosphere, but effects on obligate parasites have also been recorded . Although nematodes influence the colonization of roots by pathogenic and beneficial microorganisms, little is known of such interactions with the natural enemies of nematodes in the rhizosphere . As nematodes influence the quantity and quality of root exudates, they are likely to affect the physiology of those microorganisms in the rhizosphere; such changes may be used as signals for nematode antagonists and parasites . Successful biological control strategies will depend on a thorough understanding of these interactions at the population, organismal, and molecular scale.

Pediatr Dent, 2001 Sep-Oct, 23(5), 438 - 43
Dental disease and caries related microflora in children with dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa; Harris JC et al.; PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to investigate dental caries, bacterial dental plaque, gingivitis and caries related oral microflora in children with predominantly autosomal recessive Dystrophic Epidermolysis Bullosa (DEB) . METHODS: Thirty children with DEB from The Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children and 31 control children matched for age, gender and ethnicity were included in the study . RESULTS: The main findings were: 1 . A significantly greater mean dmft in the DEB children (p < 0.05) . 2 . A significantly greater mean plaque score for the DEB children for both the primary (p < 0.001) and permanent teeth (p < 0.02) compared with the control children . 3 . A significantly greater mean gingivitis score for the DEB children for both the primary (p < 0.002) and permanent teeth (p < 0.0001) compared with the control children . 4 . A significantly greater salivary total anaerobic count for the control children compared with the DEB children (p < 0.001) . CONCLUSIONS: The results reflect the difficulties that children with DEB have with basic oral hygiene procedures combined with slow oral clearance.

Medscape Womens Health . 2001 Oct;6(5):9.
Could probiotics be an option for treating and preventing urogenital infections?
Reid G, Bruce AW.
Considering the enormity of the problem in terms of women infected per year, urogenital infections receive far too little attention from scientists, government funding agencies, and the pharmaceutical industry . A recent resurgence in interest among clinicians is a result of consumer demands for better therapies, problems resulting from drug resistance, and the prospect of new diagnostics and treatments on the horizon . It is now recognized that the intestinal and urogenital microflora are critical for the health and well-being of humans . The concept of replenishing these flora with probiotic organisms seems to be an option that has a growing scientific basis . Although few strains have been selected and targeted for urogenital applications, and none are currently available on the market, evidence shows that probiotic therapy has the potential to make an impact on women's health.

J Drug Target, 2001 Apr, 9(2), 85 - 94
The influence of a colonic microbiota on HPMA copolymer lectin conjugates binding in rodent intestine; Wroblewski S et al.; Germ-free (GF) animals lack a colonic microflora like that seen in conventional (CV) animals . Bacterial presence plays a role in the development of glycoproteins in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract; the absence of a microbiota has been seen to suppress the production of certain glycoproteins and glycolipids . Binding patterns of lectins are modified when glycoprotein structures are altered (e.g., during development or disease) . Little information on lectin binding patterns in mature GF animals is available . We examined the binding of free and N-(2-hydroxypropyl)methacrylamide (HPMA) copolymer-conjugated fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)-labeled wheat germ agglutinin (WGA) {P(HPMA)-(WGA-FITC)} and FITC-labeled peanut agglutinin (PNA) {P(HPMA)-(PNA-FITC)} in CV and GF mouse colon with and without neuraminidase pretreatment . Anti-Thomsen-Friedenreich (TF) antigen (a development and disease-related glycoprotein) antibody binding was also examined in these tissues . Subtle differences were seen in the binding patterns between CV and GF animals . CV animals showed strong P(HPMA)-(WGA-FITC) binding in goblet cells, but minimal P(HPMA)-(PNA-FITC) binding was visible . In GF animals, luminal surface binding of P(HPMA)-(WGA-FITC) was visible, and goblet cell binding of P(HPMA)-(PNA-FITC) was seen . These subtle changes suggest that altered glycoprotein expression occurred under GF conditions.

Stomatologiia (Mosk), 2001, 80(5), 34 - 6
{Bronchopulmonary function in children with cleft lip and palate}; Makhkamov ME et al.; Microflora of the bronchoalveolar zone was studied in the bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) of 65 patients with cleft lip and palate aged 3 to 25 years (54 children and 11 adults) . BAL microflora a bronchoalveolar washout almost corresponded (met) to a microflora in children correlated with the disease severity . In patients with through hiatuses of the labium and palate BAL microflora was close to that of the nasopharynx and larynx.

J Nutr, 2001 Nov, 131(11 Suppl), 3027S - 33S
Phytochemicals from cruciferous plants protect against cancer by modulating carcinogen metabolism; Talalay P et al.; Several epidemiologic studies suggest that consumption of cruciferous vegetables may be particularly effective (compared with total fruit and vegetable consumption) in reducing cancer risk at several organ sites . Crucifers that are widely consumed are especially rich in glucosinolates, which are converted by plant myrosinase and gastrointestinal microflora to isothiocyanates . A number of isothiocyanates and a limited number of glucosinolates that were examined effectively block chemical carcinogenesis in animal models . Many isothiocyanates are also potent inducers of phase 2 proteins . Substantial evidence supports the view that phase 2 enzyme induction is a highly effective strategy for reducing susceptibility to carcinogens . This conclusion has recently received strong molecular support from experiments on mice in which the specific transcription factor, nrf2, which is essential for induction of phase 2 proteins, was deleted . In these knock-out mice, the basal levels of phase 2 enzymes are very low and not inducible . Accordingly, these mice are much more susceptible than their wild-type counterparts to benzo{a}pyrene forestomach carcinogenesis and are not protected by phase 2 inducers . These experiments provide very strong evidence for a major role of phase 2 enzymes in controlling the risk of exposure to carcinogens . An increasing number of phase 2 proteins that exert a variety of protective mechanisms are being identified . Thus, in addition to detoxifying electrophiles, these proteins exercise versatile, long-lasting and catalytic antioxidant protection.

J Nutr, 2001 Nov, 131(11), 2898 - 903
Abalone, Haliotis discus hannai Ino, can synthesize myo-inositol de novo to meet physiological needs; Mai K et al.; The experiments were conducted to investigate the effects of dietary myo-inositol on the survival, growth, proximate composition and de novo synthesis of myo-inositol in abalone, Haliotis discus hannai Ino . The possible inositol-synthesizing capacity of intestinal microflora was also examined . Seven semipurified diets were formulated to provide graded levels of myo-inositol (28.7-1020.1 mg/kg diet) . A control diet, the basal diet supplemented with 4 g/kg tetracycline hydrochloride, was employed to suppress synthesis of myo-inositol by intestinal bacteria . Abalone juveniles of similar size (weight, 144.6 +/- 0.8 mg; shell length, 10.92 +/- 0.10 mm) were distributed in a flow-through system using a completely randomized design with eight treatments and three replicates per treatment . They were fed the appropriate diets once daily for 16 wk . Survival, growth, crude protein, lipid, moisture of whole soft body and visceral inositol content were independent of myo-inositol supplementation (P > 0.05) . The addition of the antibiotic also did not affect the survival, growth and whole soft body composition . It indicated that intestinal microflora contributed little to the myo-inositol nutrition in abalone . The present study, for the first time, demonstrated de novo synthesis of myo-inositol in mollusks because the visceral tissue of abalone showed high levels of myo-inositol synthetase activities (combined activities of myo-inositol-1-phosphate synthetase and inositol-1-phosphatase), ranging from 74.0 to 98.2 micromol/(h x g protein) . The enzyme activity significantly and negatively correlated with dietary myo-inositol level (r = -0.81) . Hence, dietary myo-inositol is not essential for abalone because tissue synthesis of the vitamin appears to be sufficient to support normal growth and health of this mollusk.

Lik Sprava, 2001 Jul-Aug, (4), 46 - 9
{The blood kinin system in patients with inflammatory and functional diseases of the colon}; Vizir AD et al.; The condition of the kinin system was studied in 89 patients with inflammatory and functional diseases of the colon . The relatedness has been revealed of the intestine microflora changes and of the blood kinin system activity to morphological changes in the colon mucosa.

Klin Khir, 2001 Jul, (7), 40 - 2
{Differentiated approach to the surgical treatment of diabetic foot syndrome}; Liapis MO et al.; The results of surgical treatment of 334 patients with diabetes mellitus with diabetic foot syndrome (DFS) were analyzed . The surgical intervention performance is based on analysis of pathogenetic form of affection, its depth and extension, type of microflora in the pyo-necrotic focus . We attempted to achieve surgical cleansing or partial foot amputation in every patient in order to preserve the support function of the foot . The use of differentiated approach to surgical treatment of DFS permitted to decrease the rate of high leg amputation from 17 to 7.2%, to decrease the duration of surgical treatment by 11.2 days.

Klin Khir, 2001 Jun, (6), 35 - 8
{Efficacy of application of colonic lavage for peritonitis of biliary genesis}; Karlyichuk OA et al.; The species and quantitative composition of the bile microflora, peritoneal exudate, colonic cavity and mucosa was studied in 55 patients and in experiment on 17 mongrel dogs to estimate efficacy of application of colonosanation method in treatment of an acute peritonitis of biliary origin . It was established that in occurrence of peritonitis of biliary origin the essential role play disorders of intestinal microbic landscape and his colonizing resistance . Application of elaborated method of colonosanation had permitted to a considerable extent to eliminate these disorders and to improve result of treatment of the patients.

J Clin Periodontol, 2001 Nov, 28(11), 1067 - 73
Generalized cervical root resorption associated with periodontal disease; Beertsen W et al.; BACKGROUND AND DESCRIPTION OF CASE: The etiology and pathogenesis of generalized cervical root resorptions is not well understood . In the present report, a case of severe cervical root resorption involving 24 anterior and posterior teeth is presented . The lesions developed within a period of 2 years after the patient had changed to an acid-enriched diet . They extended far into the coronal dentin and were associated with gingival inflammation and crestal bone resorption . However, no generalized clinical attachment loss had occurred . Culturing of subgingival plaque revealed the presence of several putative periodontal pathogens among which Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans and Porphyromonas gingivalis . Treatment consisted of mechanical debridement supported by systemic antibiotics (amoxycillin plus metronidazole) and dietary advice . RESULTS: Within 1 year after the onset of treatment, all resorptive lesions had repaired by ingrowth of a radio-opaque mineralized tissue . The crestal areas showed radiological evidence of bone repair . 3 years after the onset of therapy, one premolar was extracted and examined histologically . It appeared that irregularly-shaped masses of woven bone-like tissue had invaded into the domain of the resorbed coronal dentin and were bordered by thin layers of acellular cementum . CONCLUSION: It is concluded that, in this patient, the cervical resorptions were likely the result of an osteoclastic response extending into the roots because the root-protective role of the junctional epithelium did not develop . We hypothesize that this was due to the combined effects of a periodontopathogenic microflora and a dietary confounding factor.

Clin Exp Allergy, 2001 Oct, 31(10), 1583 - 93
The allergenic yeast Malassezia furfur induces maturation of human dendritic cells; Buentke E et al.; BACKGROUND: The yeast Malassezia furfur (M . furfur), present in the normal microflora of human skin, can act as an allergen that incites specific IgE reactivity and T cell proliferation in atopic dermatitis (AD) patients . The role of antigen presenting dendritic cells (DCs) in the onset and maintenance of AD is not well established . OBJECTIVE: The objective of the present study was to assess whether the interaction of M . furfur with human DCs will result in DC maturation, cytokine production and lymphocyte proliferation . METHODS: Monocyte-derived dendritic cells (MDDCs) were generated from human peripheral blood . Immature MDDCs were cultured with or without M . furfur or plastic beads, and with or without CD40L stimulation . Interaction of yeast cells by MDDCs was studied by time-lapse photography and cytokines were detected in culture supernatants with ELISA . The ability of MDDCs pre-incubated with M . furfur to induce proliferation in autologous lymphocytes was measured by {(3)H}-thymidine incorporation . RESULTS: Time-lapse photography showed that the majority of immature MDDCs internalized whole M . furfur yeast cells within 1 h . The presence of M . furfur induced maturation (CD83 expression) of MDDCs, and up-regulation of the costimulatory molecules CD80 and CD86 . Production of TNF-alpha, IL-1 beta and IL-18 by MDDCs increased significantly (P < 0.05 for TNF-alpha and IL-1 beta, and P < 0.01 for IL-18) after the addition of M . furfur, while IL-10 and IL-12p70 levels remained unaltered . The CD40L-stimulated IL12p70 production by MDDCs was decreased in the presence of M . furfur (P < 0.05) . Finally, immature MDDCs pre-incubated with M . furfur induced a proliferative response in autologous CD14-depleted peripheral blood mononuclear cells, in a dose-dependent manner . CONCLUSION: The data indicate that immature MDDCs can internalize the opportunistic yeast M . furfur . This process was associated with MDDC maturation, production of pro-inflammatory and immunoregulatory cytokines, which might favour induction of a Th2-type immune response, and a capacity to stimulate lymphocyte proliferation . This chain of events most likely contributes to the inflammatory reaction in AD.

BJU Int, 2001 Oct, 88(6), 554 - 8
Frequency and spectrum of Malassezia yeasts in the area of the prepuce and glans penis; Mayser P et al.; OBJECTIVE: To investigate the frequency and spectrum of lipophilic Malassezia yeasts within the area of the glans penis and preputial space in healthy men, most of whom were uncircumcised . SUBJECTS AND METHODS: As the glans penis and the prepuce are abundant in sebaceous glands, 130 clinically healthy men were examined for the presence of Malassezia spp . Two impression preparations each were made on modified Dixon (mDixon) and Leeming-Notman agar . The media were used with no added cycloheximide to allow the identification of the full spectrum of Candida yeasts . After 10 days of incubation at 32 degrees C Malassezia and Candida yeasts were differentiated by micromorphological and biochemical criteria . RESULTS: Malassezia spp . were found as part of the microflora of the glans penis in 49% of the men . The two media yielded comparable results for isolation frequency and spectrum: On mDixon agar, 47.6% of the isolates were identified as M . sympodialis, 42.8% as M . globosa, 4.8% as M . pachydermatis and 2.4% as M . furfur . Candida spp . (especially C . albicans) were found in 20.8% . There were no significant differences in the distribution of different Malassezia spp with age . CONCLUSIONS: Malassezia yeasts may belong to the resident microflora of the male genital region, which is supported by the finding that free sebaceous glands ('Tyson's glands') normally occur at this site . They may also be involved in pathological processes of the glans penis, e.g . balanitis, seborrheic eczema or psoriasis.

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