Bacteria

Virology, 1986 Apr 15, 150(1), 178 - 86
Characterization of c-myc proteins from avian bursal lymphoma cell lines; Morgan JH et al.; We have used a rabbit antiserum directed against a portion of the MC29 viral myc protein expressed in bacteria to characterize the cellular myc protein from three different avian bursal lymphoma cell lines (1104HI, 1104BI S13, BK25), and from normal chick embryo cells . The phosphorylated myc proteins immunoprecipitated from these cells varied in molecular weight from 58 to 62 kDa and localized to the cell nucleus, as shown by cell fractionation experiments . Pulse-chase experiments established that these proteins had short half-lives ranging from 12 min for the myc proteins from the 1104BI S13 cell line to 25 min for myc proteins from both the 1104HI and the BK25 cell lines . The structural relatedness of the proteins was established by comparing their partial proteolytic digestion products (Cleveland analysis) with the partial proteolytic digestion products of the MH2 viral myc protein . The anti-myc-serum also immunoprecipitated a 48-kDa protein from each of the bursal cell lines . We have identified this protein as a breakdown product of the bursal cell myc proteins . The different size and number of these bursal cell myc proteins may be a direct result of the specific site of integration as well as the orientation of the retrovirus LTR sequence relative to the adjacent cellular myc allele.

Cancer, 1986 Apr 15, 57(8 Suppl), 1648 - 56
The preclinical development of Roferon-A; Trown PW et al.; Interferon alfa-2a (Roferon-A, Hoffmann-La Roche Inc., Nutley, NJ) is identical to one of approximately 15 subtypes of interferon alpha made by human leukocytes and is produced in bacteria using recombinant DNA techniques . In its antiviral, antiproliferative, and immunomodulatory activities it is similar to leukocyte interferon alpha . These activities are species-restricted and have been demonstrable, thus far, only in humans, certain other primates, bovines, and guinea pigs or cells derived therefrom . The possibility that the toxicity of interferon alfa-2a would also be species-restricted appears to have been confirmed by results obtained thus far . Toxicological studies in rats, mice and several species of monkeys have failed to indicate the side effects that have been observed in humans . However, studies in species in which interferon alfa-2a is active and in others in which it is not, have revealed similar pharmacokinetics and elimination mechanisms.

Biochemistry, 1986 Apr 8, 25(7), 1682 - 7
NADPH-cytochrome P-450 oxidoreductase: flavin mononucleotide and flavin adenine dinucleotide domains evolved from different flavoproteins; Porter TD et al.; The FMN-binding domain of NADPH-cytochrome P-450 oxidoreductase, residues 77-228, is homologous with bacterial flavodoxins, while the FAD-binding domain, residues 267-678, shows a high degree of similarity to two FAD-containing proteins, ferredoxin-NADP+ reductase and NADH-cytochrome b5 reductase . Comparison of these proteins to glutathione reductase, a flavoprotein whose three-dimensional structure is known, has permitted tentative identification of FAD- and cofactor-binding residues in these proteins . The remarkable conservation of sequence between NADPH-cytochrome P-450 oxidoreductase and ferredoxin-NADP+ reductase, coupled with the homology of the FMN-binding domain of the oxidoreductase with the bacterial flavodoxins, implies that NADPH-cytochrome P-450 oxidoreductase arose as a result of fusion of the ancestral genes for these two functionally linked flavoproteins.

Science, 1986 Apr 4, 232(4746), 15 - 6
Larger public sector role sought on biotech; Crawford M; KIE: Increasing opposition to field tests of genetically altered organisms is causing the biotechnology industry to look to some form of government regulation as a way to calm the public's fears . Industry leaders are concerned that future developments will be subject to costly legal delays unless an efficient regulatory system is in place, although neither the federal government nor industry has been able to determine what standards are needed or what classes of products should be regulated . The two biotechnology trade associations have begun to work on their positions, regulatory legislation has been introduced in Congress, and the roles of the Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Agriculture are about to be defined . There is a divergence of opinion about federally-supported intermediate test facilities, which some industry spokesmen believe would be unnecessary .

Am J Physiol, 1986 Apr, 250(4 Pt 1), E367 - 72
Effects of local administration of GH and IGF-1 on longitudinal bone growth in rats; Isgaard J et al.; The effect of local administration of growth hormone (GH) and insulinlike growth factor 1 (IGF-1) on longitudinal bone growth was studied in the proximal tibia of hypophysectomized rats, by using the tetracycline method . Human GH (hGH) stimulated local bone growth when administered into the epiphysial growth plate, into the epiphysis through an implanted cannula, or into the knee joint intraarticularly . In contrast, hGH administration into the metaphysis did not cause such a stimulation . The effect of hGH was dose dependent, and the lowest daily dose of hGH that caused a stimulation was 50 ng . hGH produced by cloned bacteria was as effective as pituitary-derived hGH, excluding the possibility of a pituitary growth factor being the active compound . GH from other mammalian species (rat GH, ovine GH, and bacterially produced bovine GH) also stimulated local bone growth . Ovine prolactin (oPRL) stimulated local bone growth but the threshold dose of oPRL was approximately 100 times higher than that of hGH, suggesting that contamination of this preparation by GH may account for the stimulation . Reduced carboxymethylated human GH, that has a greatly reduced anabolic activity, did not stimulate local bone growth . Local administration of 5 micrograms of bacterially produced human IGF-1 per day produced a small but significant effect on unilateral bone growth . Simultaneous administration of hGH had no additive effect with, nor did it potentiate, the stimulatory effect of IGF-1 . The present study confirms and extends earlier investigations, showing that local injection of GH at the site of the epiphysial growth plate stimulates unilateral bone growth . The study also shows that local administration of IGF-1 stimulates longitudinal bone growth.

Surg Neurol, 1986 Apr, 25(4), 393 - 6
Phaeohyphomycosis complicating compound skull fracture; Biggs PJ et al.; Intracranial infection is a well-recognized complication of compound skull fractures . In most cases various bacteria are identified as the etiologic agents . Fungal infection complicating open head trauma is unusual . We describe a patient who contracted fatal meningoencephalitis due to Drechslera spicifera, a rarely pathogenic soil saprophyte, after open head trauma.

Arch Tierernahr, 1986 Apr-May, 36(4-5), 429 - 54
{Protein and amino acid metabolism in the digestive tract of growing bull calves . 5 . The amino acid flow into the duodenum}; Gabel M et al.; The flow of the individual amino acids (AA) into the duodenum was determined after the feeding of 28 different rations to young bulls supplied with duodenal re-entrant cannulae in the live weight range between 140 and 460 kg . The distribution of AA into AA of bacterial origin and AA from the feed was made by difference calculation between the AA at the duodenum (corrected by the endogenous AA quota) and the AA from the bacteria crude protein, with our own results based on a constant AA composition of the bacteria crude protein; by the regression analysis from relative values according to AAD/app . dig . org . m . = a + b AAF/app . dig . org . m . and by the regression analysis of the absolute values according to AAD = b1 app . dig . org . m . + b2 AAF showed the same results from the regression methods but deviating ones from the difference method . The calculation of the flow of the individual AA into the duodenum from the AA content of the ration and the content of app . dig . org . m . of the ration is possible . The equations derived for this purpose of the individual AA are given.

Arch Tierernahr, 1986 Apr-May, 36(4-5), 409 - 18
The effects of different sources of nitrogen supplementation on the post ruminal flows of organic matter and different nitrogenous constituents in steers; McAllan AB et al.; Friesian steers, virtually protozoa free, were equipped with simple rumen and abomasal cannulas . They were given diets consisting of approximately equal proportions of ground, pelleted alkali treated straw and a rolled barley, tapioca mixture supplemented with urea + casein (UC), soybean meal (SBM), 'normal' white fishmeal (NDF) or white fishmeal designated as being of 'low' rumen degradability (LDF) . The diets were isoenergetic (the protein sources replacing part of the tapioca) and they were given in amounts to supply sufficient metabolizable energy (ME) to support an average growth rate of 0.5 kg/d . Rumen degradable nitrogen (RDN): ME values were estimated to be 2.08, 1.40, 1.90 and 1.66 for diets UC, SBM, NDF and LDF respectively . RNA, alpha-epsilon-diaminopimelic acid and 35S (added as sulphate) were used as bacterial markers . Chromic oxide and polyethylene glycol (PEG) were given as flow markers and flows (g/24 h) at the abomasum of organic matter (OM) and nitrogenous constituents were calculated . Rumen volumes and ruminal liquid fractional outflow rates were measured using PEG . Samples of mixed rumen bacteria separated from strained rumen digesta from animals receiving diet UC contained significantly less DAP-N (0.322 g/kg DM) than those from animals receiving diets SBM, NDF or LDF (0.530 g/kg DM) . Mean rumen volume (approximately 15 l) and liquid fractional outflow rates (approximately 0.105/h) were similar on all diets but there was appreciable variation between animals . The proportion of OM intake digested in the rumen was similar on all diets . The proportional contribution of bacterial-N to the total non-ammonia-N passing the abomasum based on mean values derived from DAP and 35S as markers was 0.57, 0.47, 0.39 and 0.31 for diets UC, SBM, NDF and LDF respectively . Corresponding values based on RNA were 0.71, 0.50, 0.48 and 0.35 respectively . Bacterial-N (RNA) flows at the abomasum were 31, 25, 26 and 20 g/d for diets UC, SBM, NDF and LDF respectively . Corresponding values for 35S and DAP were 26, 24, 21 and 18 g/d respectively . Values derived from RNA flows were consistently and significantly higher (P less than 0.01) than those based on DAP or 35S . Mean estimated efficiencies of bacterial protein synthesis (g bacterial-N/kg OM truly digested) were 15, 15, 14 and 12 for diets UC, SBM, NDF and LDF respectively.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)

Jpn J Exp Med, 1986 Apr, 56(2), 51 - 60
Neuropathogenesis of Tyzzer's organism in intranasally infected mice; Okada N et al.; The neuropathogenesis of Tyzzer's organism was comparatively studied in suckling and weanling mice after intranasal inoculation . In sucklings, suppurative rhinitis was produced in 24 hr postinoculation (p.i.) and organisms were detected in olfactory as well as supporting cells of the nasal mucosa . The lesions later developed to the lamina propria and propagation of organisms was seen within basal and glandular cells . On day 3 p.i., some organisms were found along with the olfactory nerve fibers and within neurons in the olfactory bulbs . Meningoencephalitis was produced with intraneuronal growth of bacteria on day 5 p.i . or later . On day 7 p.i., the brain lesions spread multifocally to the posterior parts and bacterial antigen in the nasal mucosa disappeared . In weanlings, infection was first established in the nasal mucosa and then some necrotized lesions were produced in the olfactory bulbs though much less in severity as compared to those of sucklings . Both suckling and weanling mice had necrotizing hepatitis while hemorrhagic enteritis was seen only in some sucklings.

Int Surg, 1986 Apr-Jun, 71(2), 115 - 6
Emphysematous cholecystitis; Gerritsen GP; Emphysematous cholecystitis is an acute inflammation of the gallbladder caused by gas forming bacteria . The diagnosis is easily made on a plain abdominal X-ray showing air in the gallbladder . A fatal case is presented and some aspects of the disease are discussed.

Jikken Dobutsu, 1986 Apr, 35(2), 199 - 202
{Hygienic effect of periodical draining from auto-watering piping for laboratory animal breeding}; Takiguchi K et al.; To prevent the bacterial contamination of the drinking water, we developed a periodical draining machine system which were composed of the electromagnetic valve and the time switch . The machine system is able to replace standing water with fresh water on optional volumes and intervals . The total bacterial numbers of standing water were counted as an indicator of the bacterial contamination . The number of total bacteria were reduced to less than 5 per ml by working the machine system on 6-hour-interval with replacing twice as much as standing water, although more than 10(3) per ml of the bacteria were found when the system was not operated . It was demonstrated that the periodical draining of the machine prevented the drinking water in auto-watering piping from bacterial contamination.

Hepatogastroenterology, 1986 Apr, 33(2), 66 - 70
The role of protein metabolism in 204 liver cirrhotics with and without hepatic encephalopathy . II . Amino acids, free phenols and indoles; Muting D et al.; Toxic protein metabolites are assumed to play an important role in the multifactorial pathogenesis of hepatic encephalopathy (HE) . To investigate this, we examined the serum levels of free amino acids, free phenols and indoles in 100 healthy adults, and in 124 liver cirrhotics with HE and 80 without HE . We found a significant increase in free serum phenols and indican already in liver cirrhosis without portal hypertension (PH) and HE . In stage III and IV HE large amounts of p-hydroxy-phenyl lactic acid were detected, which was not the case in cirrhotics without HE . In HE the increase in free serum phenols and indican was much higher than that of the mother substances tyrosine and tryptophan . The quotient BCAA/AAA was decreased significantly already in PH without HE . In addition to the increased formation by intestinal bacteria, a diminished oxidative capacity of the cirrhotic liver seems to be one of the main causes of the increased serum levels of toxic protein metabolites in HE.

J Wildl Dis, 1986 Apr, 22(2), 209 - 13
Gyrodactylus salmonis (Yin and Sproston, 1948) parasitizing fry of Salvelinus fontinalis (Mitchill); Cusack R et al.; Fry of brook trout, Salvelinus fontinalis (Mitchill), were infected under controlled conditions with Gyrodactylus salmonis (Yin and Sproston, 1948) and the course of infection followed for 22 days in four groups of 40 fish and for 60 days in a group of 200 fish . Between 15 and 44% mortality occurred among infected groups compared with less than 5% in noninfected control groups . Intensely infected moribund fish were cachexic, lethargic, and often darkened in color . Histologic studies revealed that intensely infected fish had a thinner epidermis with fewer goblet cells than control fish . Internally the only obvious lesions involved the kidney where there was extensive tubular degeneration and necrosis . It is hypothesized that attachment and grazing activity by G . salmonis can lead directly to death of fry through disruption of the osmotic permeability of the epidermis . There was no evidence of secondary invasion by bacteria or fungi.

Biochem Soc Trans, 1986 Apr, 14(2), 383 - 7
Peptide derivatives as prodrugs; Thomas WA; The results quoted here suggest strongly that peptides as prodrugs are a real possibility for future forms of therapy . Pharmacokinetics and bioavailability are certainly altered by such modifications, usually in a positive sense . The possibilities in utilizing active transport permeases to direct drugs to the desired receptor are an obvious reality, and will undoubtedly lead to new methods for treating bacterial, fungal or even viral infections, and for improved ways of presenting anti-tumour agents . The number of patents appearing in this field is indicative of the interest shown in the pharmaceutical industry.

EMBO J, 1986 Apr, 5(4), 793 - 8
In vitro binding of LexA repressor to DNA: evidence for the involvement of the amino-terminal domain; Hurstel S et al.; Both the amino-terminal and the carboxy-terminal domain of the LexA repressor have been purified using the LexA protein autodigestion reaction at alkaline pH, which leads to the same specific products as the physiological RecA-catalyzed proteolysis of repressor . We show by circular dichroism (c.d) that, upon non-specific binding to DNA, the purified amino-terminal domain induces a very similar if not identical conformational change of the DNA as does the entire repressor . The positive c.d . signal increases approximately 3-fold if the DNA lattice is fully saturated with protein . Further, the amino-terminal domain of the LexA protein binds specifically to the operator of the recA gene, producing qualitatively the same effects on the methylation pattern of the guanine bases by dimethylsulfate as the entire repressor, consisting of a methylation inhibition effect at four distal operator guanines and a slight enhancement at the central bases . The spacing between these contacts suggests that LexA does not bind to the operator along the same face of the DNA helix . As shown by c.d . studies the amino-terminal domain harbours a substantial amount of residues in alpha-helical conformation, a prerequisite for DNA recognition via a helix--turn--helix structural motif as proposed for many other regulatory proteins.

Br J Surg, 1986 Apr, 73(4), 295 - 7
Incidence of bile reflux in gastric ulcer and after partial gastrectomy; Poxon V et al.; Duodenogastric bile reflux (DGBR) is reported to be increased in patients with gastric ulcer (GU) and following Billroth I partial gastrectomy (BIPG) . pH, total bacterial counts, and total and free bile acids were measured in gastric juice aspirated hourly for 24 h in 6 patients with GU, 7 patients with a BIPG performed for GU and in 8 healthy normal controls . Intragastric pH was significantly higher in the BIPG group during the day (P less than 0.001) and at night (P less than 0.001) compared with normals and the GU group . There were no differences between GUs and normal patients . Bile acid concentrations in the gastric juice were not significantly different between GU and control groups over the 24 h . Median and range values were 0.14 (0.06-0.52) mmol l-1 in GU patients and 0.14 (0.05-0.67) mmol l-1 in the normals . However total bile acid concentrations were significantly greater in the BIPG group (0.23, 0.04-0.84) compared with GU or controls . (P = 0.04, P = 0.02) . Our data do not support the role of DGBR in the pathogenesis of GU, but deoxycholic acid was detected in significantly greater amounts in BIPG subjects than controls (chi 2 = 12.94, P less than 0.001) or GU subjects (none detected) and may be important in the pathogenesis of gastric stump cancer.

Infect Control, 1986 Apr, 7(4), 223 - 6
The antiseptic efficacy of chlorxylenol-containing vs . chlorhexidine gluconate-containing surgical scrub preparations; Soulsby ME et al.; The studies described here evaluate the efficacy of the chlorxylenol-containing surgical scrub formulations against the chlorhexidine gluconate-containing formulations using the Glove Juice Test, as recommended by the FDA's panel to develop guidelines for the study of antiseptic agents . Similar reports from the literature evaluating the relative efficacies of the iodophor-containing and the hexachlorophene-containing formulations are cited . Results fail to detect any significant differences in the efficacy of these two preparations, each significantly reducing the bacterial flora on the hands as indicated by immediate post-wash colony counts, and each demonstrating the continuing ability to significantly reduce bacterial growth with continued regular use.

Arq Gastroenterol, 1986 Apr-Jun, 23(2), 70 - 5
{Prevention of infection in closure surgery in colostomies . Double-blind study with tinidazole}; Cunha JC et al.; A comparative double-blind study of tinidazole vs placebo was conducted in order to assess the prophylaxis of post-surgical abdominal infections in 40 patients undergoing closure colostomy surgery . During three days the patients were kept on a low residue diet, and underwent a colon mechanical cleansing . About 10 to 12 hours prior to surgery the patients were given placebo or tinidazole in tablets of identical appearance; the dose of tinidazole was of 2 g (4 tablets) in a single oral dose . Evaluation performed after surgery showed that in the tinidazole group occurred two surgical mild infections (10%), while in placebo group occurred nine infections (45%)--four of them severe and one very severe, showing a significative difference between the two groups (p less than 0.05) . In placebo group 21 bacteria were isolated, 3 of them were anaerobic; only two aerobic species were identified in the tinidazole group (p less than 0.001) . No adverse reactions were reported in both groups . The authors concluded that in this study, tinidazole showed a prophylactic effect on post-surgical abdominal infections in patients who underwent closure colostomy surgery.

Vet Microbiol, 1986 Apr, 11(4), 357 - 72
Studies on the purification of the leucocidin of Fusobacterium necrophorum and its neutralization by specific antisera; Emery DL et al.; Leucocidin from several strains of Fusobacterium necrophorum was partially purified by gel filtration on Fractogel HW55 (F), the majority of the activity being present in the 50 ml of filtrate collected after 1.1 void volumes had passed through the column (termed Fraction 1, or #1) . The material also contained lipopolysaccharide in 12.5% SDS-PAGE gels run under reducing conditions, but the protein did not migrate into 7.5% PAGE gels run under non-reducing conditions . Rabbit and bovine antisera to the leucocidin possessed antibodies against antigens in concentrated, washed culture supernates from toxigenic F . necrophorum and neutralized the leucocidal activity of such supernates . Absorption of the antisera with homologous, washed F . necrophorum cells reduced ELISA antibody titres by greater than 50%, but decreased neutralization titres by 15% . Absorbed rabbit IgG anti-#1 precipitated a single rocket in crossed immunoelectrophoresis and identified two proteins, of molecular weights (M.W.) 14 000 and 13 000, and 1 protein of M.W . 13 500 in immunoblots from toxigenic and non-toxigenic strains, respectively . An additional protein of M.E . 103 000 was present after SDS-PAGE separation of supernates from toxigenic but not non-toxigenic F . necrophorum and was not present in whole cell components . It was considered that the leucocidin may be present in a dimeric form in culture supernates from toxigenic strains . Antisera to leucocidins from several strains of F . necrophorum exhibited variable neutralization titres against leucocidins from heterologous bacteria.

J Clin Periodontol, 1986 Apr, 13(4), 249 - 57
Calculus revisited . A review; Mandel ID et al.; Although there is no doubt that gingivitis can develop in the absence of supragingival calculus, it is not clear to what extent the presence of mineralized deposit enhances gingival inflammation . Partial inhibition of plaque mineralization can be accomplished by chemical agents, but there has been no demonstration in humans of a reduction in gingivitis . It remains to be established what level of inhibition (if any) is required to have more than a cosmetic effect . Since the accepted scenario is that apical growth of supragingival plaque precedes the formation of subgingival calculus, there is no longer an issue of whether subgingival calculus is the cause or the result of periodontal disease . Subgingival mineralization results from the interaction of subgingival plaque with the influx of mineral salts that is part of the serum transudate and inflammatory exudate . This chronology, however, should not be the basis for relegating calculus to the ash heap . Morphologic and analytical studies point to the porosity of calculus and retention of bacterial antigens and the presence of readily available toxic stimulators of bone resorption . When coupled with the increased build up of plaque on the surface of the calculus, the combination has the potential for extending (beyond that of plaque alone) the radius of destruction and the rate of displacement of the adjacent junctional epithelium . The centrality of thorough scaling and root planing in the successful maintenance of periodontal health supports the view that subgingival calculus contributes significantly to the chronicity and progression of the disease, even if it can no longer be considered as responsible for initiation.

Antimicrob Agents Chemother, 1986 Apr, 29(4), 625 - 7
Prevention of traveler's diarrhea by the tablet form of bismuth subsalicylate; Steffen R et al.; In a randomized double-blind study, Swiss adults traveling to tropical countries for 12 to 28 days took a solid formulation of bismuth subsalicylate (1.05 or 2.1 g/day on a twice-daily regimen) or placebo . Efficacy was evaluated in 231 volunteers . Diarrheal incidence was reduced by 41% in persons taking the high dose (P = 0.007) and by 35% in those taking the low dose (P = 0.03) with excellent compliance . No serious adverse reactions occurred, but objectionable taste, constipation, and nausea were seen more frequently with active medication (P = 0.04) . Twenty patients provided stool samples: no bacteria were detected in the 8 volunteers who were on active medication, but various bacteria were found in 5 of the 12 patients who had taken placebo (P = 0.04).

J Antimicrob Chemother, 1986 Apr, 17 Suppl B, 111 - 5
Efficacy and safety of pefloxacin in the treatment of severe infections in patients hospitalized in intensive care units; Lauwers S et al.; Sixteen patients, 14 with an infection of the lower respiratory tract and two with cholangitis, were treated with pefloxacin 400 mg bid or tid . The original pathogens were eradicated in all but one patient . Pefloxacin therapy resulted in clinical cure in 11 patients, three patients were improved clinically and in two patients a clinical failure was observed . No adverse effects were noticed during or after pefloxacin administration.

J Periodontol, 1986 Apr, 57(4), 218 - 24
Effect of metronidazole on development of subgingival plaque and experimental periodontitis; Polson AM et al.; Active tissue destruction in experimental periodontitis has been positively correlated with subgingival spirochetes and total number of organisms . The present study was designed to inhibit spirochete populations and evaluate the effect upon periodontal destruction . Metronidazole was administered orally to four squirrel monkeys (100 mg/kg/bwt) for 17 days . After 3 days, marginal periodontitis was induced around bicuspids and molars by tying silk ligatures at the gingival margins . Subgingival plaque samples were taken baseline and 14 days after ligature placement . Dark-field microscopy quantitated motile forms, spirochetes, straight and curved rods, filament, cocci and fusiforms . Periodontal destruction was evaluated at 2 weeks by histometric analysis of connective tissue attachment, crestal alveolar bone and infiltrated connective tissue . Bacterial and histometric comparisons were made with experimental periodontitis data from four animals (control) which had not received metronidazole . Subgingival plaque prior to periodontitis induction was dominated by cocci, but fusiforms and straight rods were also present . Straight rods formed a greater proportion of the plaque which developed in metronidazole-receiving animals . The absence of spirochetes and motile rods contrasted with the control group where spirochetes were the predominant type . The total number of bacteria was also larger in the control animals . Histometric analysis showed that areas of infiltrated supracrestal connective tissue were similar in both groups . Loss of connective tissue attachment and alveolar bone was significantly less in experimental animals, and the latter values did not differ significantly from baseline dimensions . The results indicated that the subgingival bacterial populations which developed during metronidazole administration did not result in an experimental periodontitis.

Mol Cell Biol, 1986 Apr, 6(4), 1102 - 7
Enhanced mutagenesis of UV-irradiated simian virus 40 occurs in mitomycin C-treated host cells only at a low multiplicity of infection; Sarasin A et al.; Treatment of monkey kidney cells with mitomycin C (MMC) 24 h prior to infection with UV-irradiated simian virus 40 (SV40) enhanced both virus survival and virus mutagenesis . The use of SV40 as a biological probe has been taken as an easy method to analyse SOS response of mammalian cells to the stress caused by DNA damage or inhibition of DNA replication . The mutation assay we used was based on the reversion from a temperature-sensitive phenotype (tsA58 mutant) to a wild-type phenotype . The optimal conditions for producing enhanced survival and mutagenesis in the virus progeny were determined with regard to the multiplicity of infection (MOI) . Results showed that the level of enhanced mutagenesis observed for UV-irradiated virus grown in MMC-treated cells was an inverse function of the MOI, while enhanced survival was observed at nearly the same level regardless of the MOI . For the unirradiated virus, almost no increase in the mutation of virus progeny issued from MMC-treated cells was observed, while a small amount of enhanced virus survival was obtained . These results show that enhanced virus mutagenesis and enhanced virus survival can be dissociated under some experimental conditions . Enhanced virus mutagenesis, analogous to the error-prone replication of phages in SOS-induced bacteria, was observed, at least for SV40, only when DNA of both virus and host cells was damaged and when infection occurred with a small number of viral particles . We therefore hypothesize that an error-prone replication mode of UV-damaged templates is observed in induced monkey kidney cells.

J Bacteriol, 1986 Apr, 166(1), 349 - 52
Transposonlike elements in Caedibacter taeniospiralis; Quackenbush RL et al.; We report that the 1.5- and 7.5-kilobase-pair (kbp) transposonlike sequences present in the R-body-coding plasmids of Caedibacter taeniospiralis share homology . The R-body-coding plasmids of two new strains of C . taeniospiralis, derived from strains 169 and A30, carry the 7.5- and 1.5-kbp elements, respectively, inserted at new positions . Sequences homologous to the 7.5-kbp sequence from C . taeniospiralis 47 were detected in the chromosomes of three other strains of C . taeniospiralis.

Scand J Dent Res, 1986 Apr, 94(2), 154 - 63
Monkey pulp reactions to restorative materials; Horsted PB et al.; Deep buccal cavities in 99 teeth in eight young monkeys were filled with the following combination of materials: a light-cured microfilled composite with or without a base, a chemically cured composite with a base, a silicate cement, and a zinc oxide-eugenol cement . The acid etch technique and intermediate layer of resin was used in the composite group . Pulp reactions and presence and location of bacteria were studied after 8 days and after 90 days . In the short observation period the inflammatory reactions were more pronounced when unlined composite fillings were evaluated compared with silicate cement fillings and with lined fillings . Bacteria were seen in all unlined cavities and a significant association between presence of bacteria and moderate to severe inflammatory responses was found . The most severe inflammatory reactions were seen when bacteria were found in the dentinal tubules . After 90 days slight inflammatory changes prevailed in all groups . A significant correlation between bacteria and inflammatory reactions could still be observed.

Agents Actions, 1986 Apr, 18(1-2), 262 - 5
Collagen-derived peptides release mast cell histamine; Wize J et al.; The effect of collagen degradation products by bacterial (BCDP) and synovial fluid collagenase (SCDP) on histamine release from peritoneal mast cells of rat was estimated . Some BCDP as well as SCDP released 60-80% of mast cell histamine . In BCDP fraction the most active were BCDP II (m.wt . 13 kD) and BCDP III (m.wt . 6 kD) . The last contained the highest percentage of hydroxyproline . As compared with bradykinin, BCDP III was about 50 fold more active as histamine releaser.

J Interferon Res, 1986 Apr, 6(2), 107 - 14
Interferon inhibits the growth of Legionella micdadei in mouse L cells; Whitaker Dowling P et al.; The intracellular growth of Legionella micdadei was inhibited in mouse L cells treated with interferon (IFN) . This IFN-mediated restriction was dose-dependent and required preincubation of the L cells with high doses of IFN (1,000 U/ml) for maximal inhibition . Incubation of L . micdadei with IFN alone had no detectable effect on growth of the bacteria . The IFN-mediated growth restriction was not dependent upon tryptophan concentration in the culture medium.

Anal Biochem, 1986 Apr, 154(1), 132 - 7
Bioluminescent immunoassay for alpha-fetoprotein; Terouanne B et al.; A bioluminescent immunoassay of alpha-fetoprotein is described . It uses monoclonal antibodies labeled with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase and polyclonal antibodies coimmobilized on Sepharose with bioluminescent enzymes from marine bacteria . The bioluminescent reaction which occurs in the immunosorbent is proportional to the amount of alpha-fetoprotein in the assay . The protocol is simple and rapid, and no separation step is required to remove the excess labeled antibodies . The assay can be performed directly on 25 microliters serum and it is as sensitive as other immunometric assays.

Nucleic Acids Res, 1986 Mar 25, 14(6), 2621 - 36
The promoters of the genes for colicin production, release and immunity in the ColA plasmid: effects of convergent transcription and Lex A protein; Lloubes R et al.; The initiation sites of transcription in vivo for the three genes caa, cai and cal encoding respectively colicin A (Caa), the immunity protein (Cai) and the pColA lysis protein (Cal) have been analysed by nuclease S1 mapping . This analysis demonstrates that caa and cal form an operon . cai is located between these two genes and transcribed in the opposite direction from its own promoter . The start sites for caa and cai have also been determined in vitro . For caa, the same start site was found in vivo and in vitro . In contrast, for cai the most efficient start site in vitro was not used in vivo . LexA protein strongly repressed the in vivo and in vitro transcription of the caa-cal operon . As determined by DNase 1 protection experiments, LexA protein binds with a high affinity to an approximately 40 bp long sequence just downstream of the Pribnow box . The sequence of the binding site is composed of two overlapped "SOS boxes" . Two transcripts of the caa-cal operon were detected by blot hybridization . The longer mRNA can direct the synthesis of both Caa and Cal while the shorter one is terminated at the end of caa . When the transcription of the caa-cal operon is induced, there is a strong interference with cai transcription.

FEBS Lett, 1986 Mar 17, 198(1), 61 - 5
In vitro study of the interaction of the LexA repressor and the UvrC protein with a uvrC regulatory region; Granger-Schnarr M et al.; The in vitro interaction of the LexA repressor with a regulatory region of the uvrC gene has been studied by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis . Although the uvrC promoter region shows some homology with the canonic LexA binding site, no specific binding of the repressor to this DNA sequence could be observed, but only a cooperative nonspecific binding . By the same technique we show that the UvrC protein does not bind specifically to this regulatory DNA sequence either, although the protein is able to bind nonspecifically and cooperatively to the double-stranded DNA fragment.

Nucleic Acids Res, 1986 Mar 11, 14(5), 2269 - 85
Total reconstitution of active large ribosomal subunits of the thermoacidophilic archaebacterium Sulfolobus solfataricus; Londei P et al.; The large ribosomal subunit of the extremely thermoacidophilic archaebacterium Sulfolobus solfataricus has been reconstituted from the completely dissociated RNA and proteins by a two-step incubation procedure at high temperatures . Successful reconstitution requires a preliminary incubation of the ribosomal components for 45 min at 65 degrees C, followed by a second heat-treatment at 80 degrees C for 60 min . Structural reassembly depends upon high concentrations of K+ (300-400 mM) and Mg2+ (20-40 mM) ions . In addition, complete recovery of subunit function stringently requires the presence of a polyamine, thermine (or spermine) . The reconstituted archaebacterial subunits are essentially indistinguishable from the native ones by a number of structural and functional criteria.

JPEN J Parenter Enteral Nutr, 1986 Mar-Apr, 10(2), 184 - 7
Protective effect of vitamin E in rats with acute liver injury; Sclafani L et al.; We have previously shown that supplemental vitamin E has a cytoprotective effect in the liver of rats with chronic CCL4-induced liver cirrhosis . In this study, we hypothesized that vitamin E would have a protective effect in acute liver injury induced by D-galactosamine . D-Galactosamine-induced injury has been thought to be due to a synergistic direct toxic effect and presence of intestinal bacteria and/or endotoxins . D-Galactosamine was used to induce acute "hepatitis" (1.5-2.0 g/Kg body weight, ip) . Rats were placed on either standard chow or the same chow supplemented with vitamin E (300 mg DL-alpha-tocopherol/Kg diet) and 6 days later were given D-galactosamine . There was significantly improved early (5-day) survival and late (14-day) survival in the vitamin E-supplemented group . The vitamin E beneficial effect was manifested also by decreased liver fat and collagen content and decreased SGPT level . Because bacterial endotoxins have been implicated as playing a role in the pathogenesis of D-galactosamine hepatitis, the same experiment was carried out using germ-free and conventional rats . There was significantly improved survival in both the germ-free and conventional vitamin E-supplemented groups both at 5 and 14 days . There was no significant difference between conventional and germ-free rats with or without vitamin E supplementation . In summary (a) vitamin E improves the early fat and collagen accumulation in the liver, decreases SGPT level, and improves survival in the D-galactosamine experimental model of acute liver injury in both conventional and germ-free rats; and (b) D-galactosamine toxicity is probably not mediated through intestinal bacteria and/or endotoxins.

J Am Geriatr Soc, 1986 Mar, 34(3), 192 - 8
Correlates and consequences of eating dependency in institutionalized elderly; Siebens H et al.; Loss of independent eating capacity is a major problem for the institutionalized elderly . Few studies have examined the factors associated with loss of functional eating capacity . The authors cross-sectionally studied 240 residents of a skilled nursing facility, classified their functional eating status, identified correlated deficits, and followed these residents for six months . Information was gathered through questionnaires, chart review, and physical examinations . Residents were stratified into independent (68%, N = 164) and dependent (32%, N = 76) eating status groups according to the need for physical assistance during meals . Dependency status did not correlate with age (P = .88) or weight loss (P = .27) . Loss of independence in eating was associated with impaired mobility (P = .0001), impaired cognition (P = .0001), modified consistency diets (P = .0001), upper extremity dysfunction (P = .0001), abnormal oral-motor examinations (P = .0002), absence of teeth and dentures (P = .002), behavioral indicators of abnormal oral and pharyngeal stages of swallowing (P = .0001), and increased mortality within six months (P = .0001) . Eating dependency is therefore associated with multiple impairments and early mortality.

Obstet Gynecol, 1986 Mar, 67(3), 443 - 6
Vaginoplasty using amnion; Ashworth MF et al.; Fifteen patients with various developmental and acquired abnormalities of the vagina were treated by the application of human amnion over a mold after surgical dissection of a space for the new vagina or enlargement of an existing but strictured one . Excellent results were achieved in cases of complete and partial vaginal agenesis, and there was improvement in all of the patients with vaginal strictures.

Adv Contracept, 1986 Mar, 2(1), 37 - 54
The Ljubljana IUDs: further observations on surface morphology; Keith LG et al.; Twelve IUDs that had been worn from 8 years 10 months to 24 years were examined by SEM . Photomicrographs of selected samples are shown, and a discussion of the nature of the surface encrustations is provided . The authors are of the opinion that surface encrustations are generic to different types of IUDs and that their clinical significance is presently unknown.

J Gen Microbiol, 1986 Mar, 132 ( Pt 3), 839 - 43
Mycobactin and the competition for iron between Mycobacterium neoaurum and M . vaccae; Hall RM et al.; Two closely related species of mycobacteria, Mycobacterium vaccae and M . neoaurum, were grown under conditions of iron-deficiency (0.02-0.05 microgram Fe ml-1) and iron-sufficiency (2-4 micrograms Fe ml-1) in a simple glycerol/asparagine medium . The strain of M . vaccae used was a nonmycobactin producer whereas M . neoaurum synthesized between 6-8% of its cell biomass as the lipid-soluble siderophore when grown under iron-limitation . The role of mycobactin for iron-acquisition was examined using both pure and mixed cultures, with cell viability determined following growth at various iron concentrations . M . neoaurum, the mycobactin producer, outgrew M . vaccae when iron was readily available . When grown under conditions where iron was limiting, M . neoaurum showed a decline in viable cell number compared with its competitor, highlighting its increased requirement for the metal . Some recovery was observed following mycobactin biosynthesis, this being greatly enhanced by the addition of an iron supplement to the growing cells . Mycobactin biosynthesis allowed M . neoaurum to rapidly acquire any additional iron presented to the bacteria when growing under iron-limitation . However, M . vaccae did not synthesize the lipid-soluble siderophore with its iron-requirement satisfied by production of extracellular exochelin.

Scand J Gastroenterol, 1986 Mar, 21(2), 193 - 8
Epidemiology of polyps in the rectum and sigmoid colon . Evaluation of breath methane and predisposition for colorectal neoplasia; Hoff G et al.; The clinical significance of methanogenic bacteria in large-bowel carcinogenesis has not been established so far . As part of a screening study of a randomized population sample of 200 men and 200 women aged 50-59 years, the present breath methane study was designed to gain further information on methane excretion in relation to premalignant colorectal lesions, familial cancer disposition, and dietary fat and fiber . Testing for breath methane excretion did not contribute towards the identification of individuals with premalignant colorectal lesions and therefore should probably not be considered a screening tool.

Environ Health Perspect, 1986 Mar, 65, 351 - 61
Indirect health effects of relative humidity in indoor environments; Arundel AV et al.; A review of the health effects of relative humidity in indoor environments suggests that relative humidity can affect the incidence of respiratory infections and allergies . Experimental studies on airborne-transmitted infectious bacteria and viruses have shown that the survival or infectivity of these organisms is minimized by exposure to relative humidities between 40 and 70% . Nine epidemiological studies examined the relationship between the number of respiratory infections or absenteeism and the relative humidity of the office, residence, or school . The incidence of absenteeism or respiratory infections was found to be lower among people working or living in environments with mid-range versus low or high relative humidities . The indoor size of allergenic mite and fungal populations is directly dependent upon the relative humidity . Mite populations are minimized when the relative humidity is below 50% and reach a maximum size at 80% relative humidity . Most species of fungi cannot grow unless the relative humidity exceeds 60% . Relative humidity also affects the rate of offgassing of formaldehyde from indoor building materials, the rate of formation of acids and salts from sulfur and nitrogen dioxide, and the rate of formation of ozone . The influence of relative humidity on the abundance of allergens, pathogens, and noxious chemicals suggests that indoor relative humidity levels should be considered as a factor of indoor air quality . The majority of adverse health effects caused by relative humidity would be minimized by maintaining indoor levels between 40 and 60% . This would require humidification during winter in areas with cold winter climates . Humidification should preferably use evaporative or steam humidifiers, as cool mist humidifiers can disseminate aerosols contaminated with allergens.

Agents Actions, 1986 Mar, 17(5-6), 466 - 71
Formyl-methionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine causes bronchoconstriction in rabbits; Berend N et al.; Formyl-methionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine (FMLP) is a synthetic acylated oligopeptide related to chemotactic peptides released by bacteria . In order to determine whether FMLP causes bronchoconstriction in vivo, we studied the effects of nebulized FMLP on lung resistance (RL) in the rabbit . In fourteen rabbits baseline RL was measured and than dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) alone and 0.3, 1, 3 and 10 mg/ml FMLP in DMSO was nebulized and inhaled by the rabbits over periods of 2 min each . After each concentration the RL was re-measured and the results expressed as a % of the RL following DMSO alone . In 6 rabbits the response to serial nebulization of DMSO alone was 5.5 +/- 10.4% (mean +/- 2 SD) . In 8 rabbits receiving FMLP there was a dose dependent increase in RL of 20% or greater whereas 6 rabbits failed to respond . Since there are known receptors for FMLP on neutrophils, 10 further rabbits were rendered neutropenic using nitrogen mustard and then studied as above . Eight of these rabbits failed to respond significantly to FMLP whereas 2 had a 20% or greater increase in RL . In each bronchial specimen from 6 additional rabbits FMLP failed to induce airway contraction in vitro . We conclude that FMLP causes a variable degree of bronchoconstriction in rabbits, that this response may, in part, be mediated via the neutrophil and is unlikely to be due to direct smooth muscle contraction.

Res Vet Sci, 1986 Mar, 40(2), 219 - 24
Aetiology of food-related oral lesions in chickens; Gentle MJ; Brown Leghorn chickens fed on a mash diet developed ulcerated oral lesions with extensive epithelial erosion and large colonies of bacteria . Some birds had lesions by six weeks old and by 30 weeks oral lesions were present in all birds fed on a mash diet . These lesions occur infrequently in birds fed a pelleted diet and the relatively extensive lesions shown by birds on a mash diet heal quickly (in many cases within two weeks) when the birds are transferred to a pelleted diet . The cause of the lesion is unknown but there was no evidence for food impaction, mechanical damage to the epithelium, specific dietary constituents or blocked salivary ducts . The lesions may be due to poor oral hygiene which results from the lack of mechanical stimulation of the oral epithelium to which fine particles of mash adhere.

Int J Lepr Other Mycobact Dis, 1986 Mar, 54(1), 1 - 10
Adenosine triphosphate content of Mycobacterium leprae isolated from armadillo tissue by Percoll buoyant density centrifugation; Kvach JT et al.; A buoyant density centrifugation procedure using Percoll was developed for the isolation and purification of Mycobacterium leprae from experimentally infected armadillo liver tissue . The method separates the bacteria from host adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and tissue debris and recovers 20-25% of the bacteria within 2-2 1/2 hours under controlled conditions . The mean ATP content (585 pg/10(6} of the purified bacteria was similar to cultivable bacteria . The organisms did not leak intracellular ATP when exposed to phosphate buffer . Temperature-dependent ATP synthesis was observed within minutes and could be inhibited by 2,4-dinitrophenol . Freeze-thawing M . leprae as purified suspensions in buffer damaged the organisms, resulting in decreased ATP levels and an accelerated loss of ATP upon incubation under defined conditions . In vitro treatment with the antileprosy drug clofazimine increased the rate of ATP decay directly proportional to drug concentration.

J Clin Immunol, 1986 Mar, 6(2), 107 - 13
Clinical and laboratory features of patients with an inherited deficiency of neutrophil membrane complement receptor type 3 (CR3) and the related membrane antigens LFA-1 and p150,95; Ross GD; Over the last 3 years a group of more than 20 patients has been described worldwide who have a similar history of recurrent bacterial infections and an inherited deficiency of three related leukocyte membrane surface antigens known as CR3, LFA-1 (lymphocyte function-associated antigen type 1), and p150,95 (function unknown) . These antigens share a common beta-chain structure linked noncovalently to one of three distinct alpha-chain types . It is believed that the patients with this disease have a reduced or absent ability to synthesize the common beta subunit of the antigen family, resulting in absent or reduced expression of all three antigen family members on different leukocyte types . Neutrophils have a reduced phagocytic and respiratory burst response to bacteria and yeast as well as a reduced ability to adhere to various substrates and migrate into sites of infection . In vitro functional studies of normal neutrophils, monocytes, and lymphocytes treated with monoclonal antibodies to the individual alpha and beta chains of these antigens suggest that most of the clinical features of the patients may be due to the neutrophil and monocyte deficiency of CR3 . Although natural killer-cell activity is diminished or absent, no immune deficiency of the patients' lymphocytes attributable to the absence of LFA-1 has been detected . Diagnosis of this disease has been facilitated by the commercial availability of monoclonal antibodies specific for the alpha chains of CR3 and p150,95.

Am Fam Physician, 1986 Mar, 33(3), 195 - 202
Aspiration pneumonia: a review; Chokshi SK et al.; The damage caused by aspiration depends on the volume, nature and pH of the aspirate and the type of pathogen involved . Aspirate with a pH below 2.5 is much more likely to be toxic than less acidic material . Anaerobic organisms are common pathogens, but aerobic bacteria frequently appear in the hospital setting . Steroids may be useful if administered within minutes of the aspiration . Lavage with large amounts of alkaline fluid has not proved helpful.

Transplantation, 1986 Mar, 41(3), 301 - 10
Manipulation of graft-versus-host disease for a graft-versus-leukemia effect after allogeneic bone marrow transplantation in AKR mice with spontaneous leukemia/lymphoma; Truitt RL et al.; Graft-versus-host (GVH) disease can result in a beneficial graft-versus leukemia (GVL) effect after bone marrow transplantation in patients with malignant disease . In this report, we used bacteria-free AKR (H-2k) mice bearing advanced spontaneous T cell leukemia/lymphoma as a moel to evaluate the GVH and GVL effects of bone marrow transplantation using fully incompatible SJL (H-2s) donors . A therapeutic GVL effect, accompanied by increased leukemia-free survival, was obtained only when 0.5 X 10(6) allogeneic lymphocytes (lymph node cells) were added to the marrow inoculum . Transplantation of allogeneic bone marrow without added lymph node cells (or use of syngeneic cells) resulted in a significant increase in leukemia relapse; increasing the dose of allogeneic lymph node cells to 2.0 X 10(6) resulted in significantly higher GVH-associated mortality . Survival and therapeutic benefits were obtained only when the intensity of the GVH reaction was carefully controlled by manipulation of alloreactive lymphocytes present in the marrow . These results suggest, indirectly, that T cell depletion may abolish any GVL effect of marrow transplantation, even if the donor is mismatched with the host at the major histocompatibility complex . The frequency in the spleen of cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL) reactive against host alloantigens was estimated using limiting-dilution microcytotoxicity assays at various times after transplantation of allogeneic bone marrow with and without added lymph node cells . The average frequency of CTL was highest in mice that were given marrow plus lymph node cells and tested within the first four weeks after transplantation . The level of CTL activity measured in vitro was dependent on the dose of lymphocytes injected and correlated with both the GVL and GVH effects in vivo . Down-regulation of CTL activity against host, but not third-party, alloantigens in vitro was observed under limiting dilution assay conditions, leading to the suggestion that host-specific regulatory cells may be present in these allogeneic bone marrow chimeras.

J Clin Periodontol, 1986 Mar, 13(3), 237 - 42
The effects of a simplified mechanical oral hygiene regime plus supragingival irrigation with chlorhexidine or metronidazole on subgingival plaque; Sanders PC et al.; 23 patients with pockets greater than or equal to 4 mm and evidence of bone loss on radiographs received thorough scaling and root planing followed by instruction in Bass brushing . They refrained from routine interdental cleaning for the first 28 days . A pulsating jet irrigator was used once daily supragingivally with 0.02% chlorhexidine (CH) 0.05% metronidazole (MD) or 0.01% quinine sulphate inactive control (PL), on a randomized double blind basis . Molar sites were not irrigated and served as control sites; they were only mechanically cleaned . For each patient, subgingival plaque samples were obtained from 2 test and 1 control sites at baseline (day 0), and on days 7, 28, 56 and 84 . Plaque samples were monitored by darkfield microscopy on the basis of morphological characteristics of 4 types of bacteria: cocci, motile cells, spirochaetes and "others" (nonmotile rods, filaments and fusiforms) . The simplified oral hygiene regime of scaling, root planing and Bass toothbrushing combined with interdental supragingival pulsating jet irrigation with CH, MD or PL appeared superior to a system of simplified oral hygiene alone, particularly during the first 4 weeks . However, at most time-points, the benefits were not statistically significant except for metronidazole . By day 84, the end of the experimental period, all groups approximated baseline levels . The results indicate that supragingival pulsated jet irrigation has limited effects on the composition of subgingival plaque . More marked changes occur when the irrigation fluid contains a chemical agent such as metronidazole known to be effective against important subgingival organisms, but probably not to such an extent as to change the composition of the flora from one associated with diseased sites to one associated with healthy sites.

J Clin Periodontol, 1986 Mar, 13(3), 175 - 81
A perspective on periodontal diagnosis; Listgarten MA; Periodontal diseases are best considered as the outcome of an imperfect host-parasite interaction . In most cases, diagnosis involves labelling certain clinical manifestations without a complete understanding of the causes of the disease . Therefore, treatment based on the "diagnosis" is not necessarily logical or effective . As the causes which underly the disease become more evident, the underlying mechanisms of disease can be used to refine our diagnostic methods . For example, deficiencies in host defenses, or the presence or increased proportions of certain bacterial pathogens may be indicative of imbalances in the normal host-parasite equilibrium . For a laboratory test to be reliably applied to the diagnosis of a clinical condition, it is essential that an absolute criterion of the clinical disease first be established . Then the sensitivity and the specificity of the test can be determined using appropriate experimental designs . The demonstration of a good correlation between a test outcome and a clinical condition is, of itself, insufficient grounds to use the test for diagnostic purposes.

Microbiol Sci, 1986 Mar, 3(3), 84 - 7
Factors limiting the efficiency of cellulase enzymes; Saddler JN; The major reasons behind the low efficiency of enzymatic hydrolysis of cellulose are reviewed . The problem is a result of the heterogeneous nature of the hydrolysis reaction which involves a multicomponent soluble catalyst, an insoluble substrate and products which are both.

Yale J Biol Med, 1986 Mar-Apr, 59(2), 107 - 16
Fever: is it beneficial?
Blatteis CM.
Data obtained in lizards infected with live bacteria suggest that fever may be beneficial to their survival . An adaptive value of fever has also been inferred in mammals, but the results are equivocal . Findings that certain leukocyte functions are enhanced in vitro at high temperatures have provided a possible explanation for the alleged benefits of fever . However, serious questions exist as to whether results from experiments in ectotherms and in vitro can properly be extrapolated to in vivo endothermic conditions . Indeed, various studies have yielded results inconsistent with the survival benefits attributed to fever, and fever is not an obligatory feature of all infections under all conditions . Certainly, the widespread use of antipyretics, without apparent adverse effects on the course of disease, argues against fever having great benefit to the host . In sum, although fever is a cardinal manifestation of infection, conclusive evidence that it has survival value in mammals is still lacking.

Vestn Khir Im I I Grek, 1986 Mar, 136(3), 85 - 8
{Methods of sterilizing and preserving tendon transplants}; Savel'ev VI et al.; The authors describe three methods for making tendon transplants by using chemical sterilizing and preserving means having no unfavorable effect on their biological and plasty properties . The methods are simple, reliable and fairly suitable for a wide supply of clinical institutions with tendon transplants.

Gan No Rinsho, 1986 Mar, 32(3), 234 - 40
{Tuberculosis in patients with malignant neoplasms}; Fukushige J et al.; Out of 810 patients autopsied at our institute between 1972 and 1985, tuberculosis was demonstrated in 12 (1.5%), all between 40 and 80 years of age, regardless of cancer type . Of 4,272 patients who underwent surgery for malignant neoplasms, 481 were examined for M . tuberculosis by culture in different specimens . All of eight positive cases were with sputum or bronchial mucus specimens, regardless of the site of primary cancer . Tuberculosis complicating malignant thymoma or Hodgkin's disease was found to be generalized and severe . Remarkable growth of elongated bacteria was observed in host macrophages in these immunodeficient patients, suggesting their altered intracellular environment . These findings warrant special attention to tuberculosis in hospital care of cancer patients, who are often immunodeficient.

Biol Chem Hoppe Seyler, 1986 Mar, 367(3), 191 - 7
Quinones from archaebacteria, II . Different types of quinones from sulphur-dependent archaebacteria; Thurl S et al.; From the sulphur-dependent, anaerobically grown archaebacterium Sulfolobus ambivalens Caldariella quinone, CQ-6(12H) and the new Sulfolobus quinone SQ-6(12H), 6-(3,7,11,15,19,23-hexamethyltetracosyl)-5-methyl-benz{b}thioph en-4, 7-quinone have been isolated as main components . Lower homologues SQ-5-(10H), SQ-4(8H), SQ-3(6H), phylloquinone-like species CQ-6(10H), SQ-6(10H) and the menaquinone MK-6(12H) are present as minor components . The results are compared with those from Sulfolobus acidocaldarius . Thermococcus celer, Desulfurococcus mucosus and Desulfurococcus mobilis do not contain quinones in comparable amounts.

J Bacteriol, 1986 Mar, 165(3), 864 - 70
Regulation of nitrogenase activity by ammonium chloride in Azospirillum spp; Hartmann A et al.; Ammonium chloride (greater than or equal to 0.05 mM) effectively and reversibly inhibited the nitrogenase activity of Azospirillum brasilense, Azospirillum lipoferum and Azospirillum amazonense . The glutamine synthetase inhibitor L-methionine-DL- sulfoximine abolished this "switch-off" in A . lipoferum and A . brasilense, but not in A . amazonense . Azaserine, an inhibitor of glutamate synthase, inhibited nitrogenase activity itself . This provides further evidence for glutamine as a metabolite of regulatory importance in the NH4+ switch-off phenomenon . In A . brasilense and A . lipoferum, a transition period before the complete inhibition of nitrogenase activity after the addition of 1 mM ammonium chloride was observed . The in vitro nitrogenase activity also was decreased after treatment with ammonium . During sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, a second dinitrogenase reductase (Fe protein) subunit appeared, which migrated in coincidence with the modified subunit of the inactive Fe protein of the nitrogenase of Rhodospirillum rubrum . After the addition of ammonium 32P was incorporated into this subunit of the Fe protein of A . brasilense . In A . amazonense, the inhibition of nitrogenase activity by ammonium was only partial, and no transition period could be observed . The in vitro nitrogenase activity of ammonium-treated cells was not decreased, and no evidence for a modified Fe protein subunit was found . Nitrogenase extracts of A . amazonense were active and had an Fe protein that migrated as a close double band on sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis.

J Chir (Paris), 1986 Mar, 123(3), 188 - 96
{Free radicals}; Elkoubi P; Oxygen in absolutely necessary to life but it is also a toxic gas . 1 to 2% of molecular oxygen undergoes an univalent reduction which produces very reactive and very cytotoxic species . Against them there are different protector antioxidant systems, called scavengers . Pathologically four points are fundamental: Free radicals have a main role in inflammation and fight against bacteria . In carcinogenesis, they have a key role in promotion . The cellular ageing appears to be imputable to a defect of the scavengers . Reflow following ischemia involves toxic free radicals . To prevent the tissue injury due to reperfusion pre treatment by SOD, catalase, allopurinol are at their beginning but the first results are hopeful for skin, kidney, heart and pancreas.

Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A, 1986 Mar, 83(6), 1641 - 5
DNA supercoiling of recombinant plasmids in mammalian cells; Shen CK et al.; We have used chloroquine/agarose gel electrophoresis and a blot-hybridization technique to study the modulation of superhelicity of extrachromosomal DNA in mammalian cells . The high sensitivity of the procedure has allowed us to measure the change in the specific linking difference or superhelical density (sigma) of a plasmid, psvo alpha 1p3d, after its introduction into COS-7 cells by DNA transfection . Because the molecular weight of psvo alpha 1p3d is approximately the same as that of simian virus 40 (SV40) DNA, the latter can be used as a standard for estimating the average linking difference or number of superhelical turns (tau) of psvo alpha 1p3d after separation of the different supercoiled species on chloroquine/agarose gels . It was found that transfection of monkey cells with either fully supercoiled psvo alpha 1p3d isolated from bacteria (tau = -27 +/- 1, sigma congruent to -0.051) or its relaxed form after treatment with DNA topoisomerase I yields psvo alpha 1p3d samples of the same tau and sigma values of -20 +/- 1 and -0.038, respectively . The difference between the tau values of psvo alpha 1p3d and SV40 in COS-7 cells, in which both plasmids undergo rounds of replication, corresponds to an average difference of 5 +/- 1 superhelical turns . Plasmid psvo alpha 1p3d remains at this lower level of superhelicity for at least 72 hr . The distribution in linking numbers of the topoisomers of psvo alpha 1p3d isolated from transfected COS cells is also more heterogeneous than that of SV40 DNA . These results suggest that the regulation of DNA supercoiling and chromatin assembly may be closely associated with specific DNA sequences . The approach presented here should have a wide application in the study of the regulation and functional role(s) of DNA supercoiling of plasmids in mammalian cells.

Blood, 1986 Mar, 67(3), 657 - 65
Spontaneous tumor cytolysis mediated by inflammatory neutrophils: dependence upon divalent cations and reduced oxygen intermediates; Lichtenstein A; The role of divalent cations and reactive products of the respiratory burst were investigated in spontaneous tumor lysis mediated by inflammatory neutrophils (PMNs) . Murine peritoneal PMNs, obtained five hours after intraperitoneal injection of bacteria, conjugated and lysed teratocarcinoma cells in chromium release and single-cell cytotoxicity assays . The presence of extracellular magnesium was required and was sufficient for tumor cell binding to PMNs . Postbinding lytic events depended upon the simultaneous presence of extracellular calcium and magnesium . Catalase and superoxide dismutase inhibited postbinding lytic events, indicating that production of reduced oxygen moieties was important . Scavengers of hydroxyl radicals could inhibit tumor cell binding, but none could affect postbinding lytic events . Neither could inhibitors of myeloperoxidase decrease tumor lysis . The ability of conjugating PMNs to lyse their bound targets correlated with their reduction of nitro blue tetrazolium (NBT) . Optimal concentrations of phorbol myristate acetate (PMA) markedly increased the NBT positivity of PMNs and the killing of bound tumor cells . Even with optimal stimulation of the respiratory burst, however, there was still a significant number (19%) of bound targets that escaped lysis, suggesting active resistance to oxygen-mediated tumor cell injury.

Curr Eye Res, 1986 Mar, 5(3), 231 - 40
Induction of experimental autoimmune uveoretinitis and pinealitis by IRBP . Comparison to uveoretinitis induced by S-antigen and opsin; Broekhuyse RM et al.; Microgram quantities bovine IRBP (interphotoreceptor retinoid binding protein) injected in Freund's complete adjuvant induced severe autoimmune uveoretinitis and pinealitis in Lewis rats . At low doses the onset was accelerated and intensified by co-injection of Hemophilus pertussis bacteria . Wistar, BN and PVG rats were less susceptible, while the eyes of athymic, nude rats did not respond . The disease developed similar to but faster than S-antigen-induced uveoretinitis, while its onset was one day earlier and the reactions were slightly more severe . As distinct from these two types of uveoretinitis, opsin (in much higher doses) caused milder reactions in the anterior segment, while retinitis dominated . In each type of inflammation the photoreceptor cell layer was totally destroyed . All three ocular diseases were inhibited by cyclosporine treatment, which indicates that T cell-dependent mechanisms are essential for the development.

Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg, 1986 Mar, 94(3), 334 - 9
Defective immunoregulation in children with chronic otitis media with effusion; Bernstein JM et al.; Otitis media and middle ear effusions (MEE) are most common clinical problems in early childhood, for which an estimated one million tympanostomies are performed each year in the United States . Although many factors have been associated with MEE (age, sex, genetics, otitis media, socioeconomic status, feeding style, atopy or hypersensitivity, certain bacteria and viruses), a defective immunoregulatory mechanism in the host may also contribute to the pathogenesis . During the past 2 years, we have evaluated immune function in 90 randomly selected children who underwent repeated tympanostomy for persistent MEE . The T-cell subset ratio (OKT-4/OKT-8) was reduced (below 1.25) in 16% . In 33 children, generation of T-cell growth factor (IL-2) by peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBL) was evaluated and found to be decreased in 11 . The mitogenic response of PBL to phytohemagglutinin (PHA) and pokeweed mitogen (PWM) stimulation was abnormal in almost half of the cases . Imbalance of T-cell subsets and decreased production of IL-2 indicate defective immunoregulatory function in some of these children, which may play a role in the pathogenesis of persistent MEE.

Biochimie, 1986 Mar, 68(3), 347 - 55
{Use of chemical probes in the study of F1-ATPases}; Lunardi J; The purpose of the present review is to discuss in brief the use of chemical probes for the study of the structure and the function of F1-ATPases . Special focus is brought on probes that bind covalently to the proteins.

J Hosp Infect, 1986 Mar, 7(2), 161 - 8
A comparative study of 'Op-site' and 'Nobecutan gauze' dressings for central venous line care; Andersen PT et al.; A comparative study of 'Op-site' and 'Nobecutan-gauze' dressings for central venous lines was performed . Seventy-seven long antebrachial and 68 infraclavicular subclavian catheters were studied . A statistically significant reduction in the incidence of positive cultures from the catheter tip and from the skin puncture site was found with the 'Nobecutan-gauze' dressing . No difference in the incidence of catheter-related septicaemia was found . The theoretical advantage of being able to observe signs of inflammation when 'Op-site' was used did not reduce the incidence of local infection at the skin puncture site . In conclusion we found that a 'Nobecutan-gauze' dressing was a satisfactory alternative to an 'Op-site' dressing.

Ann Trop Paediatr, 1986 Mar, 6(1), 41 - 5
Measles pneumonia: lung puncture findings in 56 cases related to chest X-ray changes and clinical features; Morton R et al.; Fifty-six African children with pneumonia following measles were investigated . Lung puncture identified bacteria by culture or countercurrent immune electrophoresis in 38% and blood culture with blood countercurrent immune electrophoresis (CIE) identified a further 17%, a bacterial diagnosis being made in a total 55% . Pneumococcus was the most common organism found, occurring in 30% of all measles pneumonias . More severe changes on chest X-ray at presentation were associated with higher rates of bacterial identification and worse outcome at 2 weeks . Chest X-ray changes were worse and bacterial identification was more common in poorly nourished children . Pneumothoraces occurred following lung puncture in 21% and surgical drainage was needed in 11%.

Pharm Weekbl Sci, 1986 Feb 21, 8(1), 22 - 5
Quinolones: pharmacology; Verbist L; The quinolones are synthetic antibiotics chemically related to nalidixic acid . Since its introduction, several structural analogues have been synthesized . A fundamental breakthrough was the addition of a fluorine atom . The quinolones interfere with bacterial DNA transcription by inhibiting the enzyme DNA gyrase, that so far has only been found in bacteria . The nature of the activity of the quinolones on DNA gyrase makes it highly unlikely that resistance is carried on plasmids.

Nature, 1986 Feb 20-26, 319(6055), 666 - 8
A new synthetic approach to the ferritin core uncovers the soluble iron(III) oxo-hydroxo aggregate {Fe11O6(OH)6(O2CPh)15}; Gorun SM et al.; Hydrolytic polymerization of iron(III) occurs in many reactions in vivo, for example, the formation of bacterial magnetite in magnetotactic organisms, biomineralization of iron and the synthesis of the metallic core of the iron-storage protein ferritin . The ferritin core contains aggregates of up to 4,500 oxygen-bridged, octahedrally coordinated, high-spin iron(III) centres and is attached to the protein shell through carboxylate groups of amino-acid side chains . The X-ray and electron-diffraction patterns of this core resemble those of the mineral ferrihydrite, a hydrated iron oxide formed in nature, inter alia, by iron-dependent bacteria . The preparation and structural characterization of such large poly-iron aggregates has been a challenge to inorganic chemists . We have recently shown that tri- and tetranuclear iron(III) oxo complexes of the type thought to be important in ferritin-core formation can be prepared by reacting mononuclear {FeCl4}- and binuclear {Fe2OCl6}2- components in aprotic solvents (ref . 9 and S.M.G., W . H . Armstrong and S.J.L., in preparation) . Here we report the discovery of a remarkable new molecule, {Fe11O6(OH)6(O2CPh)15}, obtained by hydrolysis of the {Fe2O}4+ unit in the presence of limited amounts of water and carboxylate salts . The synthesis and properties of this soluble iron(III) oxohydroxo aggregate should help to elucidate the mechanism of formation of poly-iron centres.

J Immunol, 1986 Feb 15, 136(4), 1418 - 21
Mechanisms of immunity to rickettsial infection: characterization of a cytotoxic effector cell; Rollwagen FM et al.; Rickettsiae, as other intracellular bacteria, are relatively sequestered from the effects of antibody and local antibody-independent responses . Considering the obligate intracellular nature of rickettsia, the exact mechanisms by which lymphocytes and macrophages encounter rickettsial antigens and eliminate the infection depends upon the appropriate presentation of antigen to the immune system . We demonstrate here that cells taken from the spleens of Rickettsia typhi- or R . tsutsugamushi-infected mice are able to lyse specifically tissue culture targets infected with the homologous organism . This effect was eliminated upon treatment of the spleen cells with anti-Thy-1.2 + complement . Furthermore such T cells exhibit H-2-restricted killing when tested on infected targets of different genetic backgrounds . We propose that a T cell-mediated cytotoxic immune mechanism exists that may play an important role in the elimination of rickettsial organisms during infection.

Biochim Biophys Acta, 1986 Feb 14, 869(3), 350 - 7
Purification and characterization of ATP:AMP phosphotransferase from Mycobacterium marinum; Batra PP et al.; ATP:AMP phosphotransferase (EC 2.7.4.3) (adenylate kinase) has been purified 1746-fold from Mycobacterium marinum (ATCC 927) by successive column chromatography on DEAE-cellulose (DE-53), Reactive Blue agarose, Sephadex G-75, hydroxyapatite and, finally, DEAE-Sephadex A-50 . The final enzyme preparation had a specific activity of 576 mumol/min per mg protein with an overall yield of 51% . The preparation was homogeneous by sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis . The enzyme was estimated to have an Mr of 29500 and an isoelectric point of 6.7, properties which generally resemble those of the mitochondrial enzyme . Indeed, the two enzymes failed to separate when subjected to polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis under denaturing conditions . The extinction coefficient (at 276 nm) was calculated to be 3.114 X 10(4) M-1 X cm-1 and E1%1cm = 10.556 . Adenylate kinase was present at a concentration of 0.06 mg/g (wet weight) bacteria . Enzyme was stable for months in 60% glycerol in the freezer; at 4 degrees C, less than 5% of the activity was lost over a 7 day period.

Biochem Biophys Res Commun, 1986 Feb 13, 134(3), 1167 - 74
Extended secondary structure in 5S rRNAs from a sulphur metabolizing archaebacterium, Thermococcus celer; McDougall J et al.; While this sequence shares a significant homology with the 5S RNAs of other archaebacteria and is consistent with current models for the secondary structure of 5S RNAs, it contains three unusual features . The G + C content (72-74%) is significantly higher than other 5S RNAs; the secondary structure is distinguished by unusually stable and extended helical structures and, most important, there is evidence for sequence heterogeneity in the form of complementary base substitutions and precursor processing . This supports recent evidence (Newmann, H., Gierl, A., Tu, J., Leibrock, J., Staiger, D . and Zillig, W . (1983) Mol . Gen . Genet . 192, 66-72) that, like many of the higher eukaryotes, this group of sulphur-metabolizing bacteria may contain multiple 5S RNA genes.

J Immunol Methods, 1986 Feb 12, 86(2), 257 - 64
Affinity purification of human antibodies directed against cloned antigens of Plasmodium falciparum; Crewther PE et al.; A technique has been developed for the affinity purification of antibodies recognizing cloned antigens of the malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum expressed in bacteria . Adsorbents prepared by coupling bacterial lysates to Sepharose were used to isolate monospecific antibodies from human immune sera . Production of an abundant stable fused polypeptide by the bacteria was not a prerequisite for the success of this approach . Also the procedure permits the characterization of antigens which elicit the production of very low levels of antibodies . Affinity-purified human antibodies were used to characterized the corresponding P . falciparum antigens by immunoblotting and a number of antigens identified in this way illustrate some commonly observed features of P . falciparum antigens . Several of these antibody preparations recognized multiple bands in the electrophoretic patterns . Studies on a number of isolates of P . falciparum indicate that many antigens exhibit size polymorphisms . Production of some antigens was shown to be restricted to particular stages of the asexual blood cycle of the parasite while others appear to be specifically processed during the life cycle . Affinity-purified antibodies have also been used to locate antigens within the infected erythrocyte and to delineate subsets of antibodies recognizing different epitopes of a single antigen.

Arch Microbiol, 1986 Feb, 144(1), 96 - 101
Suboptimal growth with hyper-accurate ribosomes; Andersson DI et al.; Mutant bacteria with hyperaccurate ribosomes support their excessive accuracy of translation in vitro by dissipating 1.5 to 2.5 cognate ternary complexes per peptide bond formed . This is to be compared with a dissipation rate close to 1.1 for wild-type ribosomes . Here, we have tested the hypothesis that a corresponding loss of translational efficiency in vivo would lower the growth rate of the mutants . Such a growth inhibitory effect would explain why the lower accuracy of wild-type ribosomes is more fit . Our data show that as expected the mu of the hyperaccurate mutants is smaller than that of wild-type bacteria . In contrast, during glucose-limited growth in chemostats there is not the same simple correlation between growth yield and ribosomal efficiency for the hyperaccurate mutants.

Pediatrics, 1986 Feb, 77(2), 152 - 7
Outbreak of cryptosporidiosis in a day-care center; Alpert G et al.; An outbreak of diarrhea due to infection with Cryptosporidium occurred in a day-care center . During a period of 2 months, 23 of 53 (43%) children attending the day-care center and 15 of 104 (14%) household contacts had diarrhea . Cryptosporidium oocysts were identified in 13 of 20 (65%) symptomatic children tested compared with three of 27 (11%) asymptomatic children (chi 2 = 12.56, P less than .001) . Enteropathogenic bacteria, enteroviruses, rotavirus, and other protozoan parasites were ruled out as the cause of the diarrhea . A history of diarrhea in household contacts was associated with excretion of Cryptosporidium oocysts by the children . Human-to-human transmission of the infection was suggested by the epidemiology.

Infect Immun, 1986 Feb, 51(2), 661 - 7
Description and characterization of a surface lectin from Giardia lamblia; Farthing MJ et al.; The mechanisms by which the human enteric pathogen Giardia lamblia colonizes the proximal small intestine are poorly understood . Although the parasite possesses an attachment organelle on its ventral surface, the "sucking" disk, we considered that like many bacteria and some protozoa, G . lamblia might also have a surface membrane-associated modality for adherence to its host . Using an erythrocyte mixed-agglutination model, we demonstrated a parasite surface lectin with specificities for D-glucosyl and D-mannosyl residues . This lectin is soluble in Triton X-100, is calcium dependent, and is maximally active at pH 5.5 to 6.0 . Partial purification was achieved by serial extraction of parasites in Triton X-100 followed by Sephadex G-150 affinity chromatography . The lectin could not be surface radiolabeled with 125I-Bolton-Hunter reagent, but radiolabeling of the hapten eluate from an affinity column produced four bands of 57,000 to 78,000 Mr on sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gels under reducing conditions . The biological function of this lectin is unknown . The presence of mannosyl residues on the luminal surface of human small intestinal epithelial cells suggests that there are receptors for Giardia lectin at the site of colonization.

Environ Res, 1986 Feb, 39(1), 8 - 18
Respirable droplets from whirlpools: measurements of size distribution and estimation of disease potential; Baron PA et al.; Droplets generated from water surfaces have been implicated in a number of diseases such as Legionnaires' disease and Pontiac fever . These droplets can be inhaled by people and can deposit in the respiratory system . The physical size of the droplets is critical in determining whether the droplets can contain the bacteria, reach the breathing zone of the subject, and deposit in the respiratory tract . The present study establishes the presence of water droplets above the surface of health club whirlpools . These droplets are of the appropriate size for causing respiratory disease . Several factors including pool temperature, bubbling action during operation, and height above the water surface have been investigated . The results are related to the deposition of the droplets, and hence bacteria, in the various regions of the respiratory tract.

Nuklearmedizin, 1986 Feb, 25(1), 28 - 30
Tumor localization and biodistribution of 99mTc-muramylpolypeptide (MPP) in the rat; Schumichen C et al.; Muramylpolypeptide, extracted from Nocardia opaca bacteria and originally designed for immunotherapy of malignant tumors, proved to localize in malignant tumors, when labeled with 99mTc . In the tumor-bearing rat 99mTc-muramylpolypeptide (MPP) showed a fast turnover and optimum tumor to soft tissue ratios were obtained as early as between 30-60 min after application . The uptake mechanism in malignant tumors remains uncertain.

Ann Rheum Dis, 1986 Feb, 45(2), 144 - 8
HLA-B27 associated cross-reactive marker on the cells of New Zealand patients with ankylosing spondylitis; McGuigan LE et al.; We have previously shown that antibodies raised in rabbits to certain enteric bacteria will specifically lyse, in a 51Cr release assay, the peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBL) of 80% of HLA-B27 positive patients with ankylosing spondylitis (B27+ AS+) but not the PBL of HLA-B27 positive normal controls (B27+ AS-) . Other laboratories have been unable to reproduce these findings . This study was designed to ascertain whether this lack of reproducibility was due to a peculiarity of our B27+ AS+ patients or to technical difficulties in the complement mediated 51Cr release assay . We have shown in this blind study that the PBL of 16 out of 18 B27+ AS+ patients from a New Zealand population were lysed by our antisera but none of the PBL of 20 B27+ AS- normal controls were lysed . The phenomenon of 'cross reactivity' between certain enteric bacteria and B27+ AS+ PBL is not confined to the Sydney AS population.

J Infect Dis, 1986 Feb, 153(2), 277 - 82
Randomized study of single-dose, three-day, and seven-day treatment of cystitis in women; Greenberg RN et al.; We evaluated the following five treatment regimens for acute cystitis in nonpregnant women: cefadroxil, 1,000 mg single-dose; cefadroxil, 500 mg twice a day for three days; cefadroxil, 500 mg twice a day for seven days; trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMZ), 320-1,600 mg single-dose, and TMP-SMZ, 160-800 mg twice a day for three days . At four weeks after the end of treatment, 25%, 58%, 70%, 65%, and 88% of patients, respectively, remained cured of infection . The results indicated that three-day treatment (1) might improve cure rates (over single-dose), (2) would reduce incidence of relapse (vs . single-dose), and (3) may be as curative as seven-day treatment . The results of the antibody-coated bacteria test did not predict treatment failure or relapse.

Hinyokika Kiyo, 1986 Feb, 32(2), 303 - 9
{Treatment of nongonococcal urethritis--studies on clinical effects of ofloxacin}; Saito I et al.; Clinical effects of ofloxacin (OFLX) in the treatment of chlamydial urethritis was compared with those in the treatment of non-chlamydial urethritis . Chlamydia trachomatis was isolated from 33 (39.3%) out of 84 patients with nongonococcal urethritis . OFLX was administered at a dose of 100 mg, three times daily (300 mg) for 14 days . In 31 (93.3%) of the 33 patients with chlamydial urethritis, C . trachomatis was eliminated within 7 to 14 days after the start of administration, and, in two patients, inclusion bodies decreased in number but persisted . The subjective and objective clinical symptoms, urethral discharge, polymorphonuclear leucocyte (PMNL) in smears, and pyuria in VB1 of the patients with chlamydial urethritis, disappeared in 56.0, 57.6, and 63.0% of the cases, and improved in 24.0, 30.0 and 29.6% respectively, whereas those of the patients with non-chlamydial urethritis, urethral discharge, PMNL, and pyuria in VB1 disappeared in 57.6, 56.9 and 32.9%, and improved in 26.9, 13.7 and 37.9%, respectively . There was no significant difference in the clinical effects of OFLX between cases of chlamydial urethritis and those of non-chlamydial urethritis . Marked improvement in clinical symptoms were observed between day 7 and day 14 of medication in cases of both chlamydial and non-chlamydial urethritis . In nine out of 11 cases of non-chlamydial urethritis where OFLX was ineffective, no Ureaplasma nor aerobes, nor C . trachomatis, were isolated . In the remaining two cases where Ureaplasma and S . epidermidis were isolated respectively, these two bacteria were eradicated after medication, but urethral discharge and PMNL remained unchanged.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

J Dent Res, 1986 Feb, 65(2), 89 - 94
A theoretical analysis of the effects of plaque thickness and initial salivary sucrose concentration on diffusion of sucrose into dental plaque and its conversion to acid during salivary clearance; Dawes C et al.; A mathematical model, written in FORTRAN, has been developed to simulate the interrelated processes of salivary sucrose clearance from the mouth, diffusion of sucrose into dental plaque, and conversion of sucrose to acid and glucan . Reaction of acid with enamel is not included in the model . A total of 28 parameters can be varied by the user, and the relative importance of the different factors affecting acid formation can be assessed . The output of the program gives sucrose and acid concentrations and pH at different depths within the plaque . The initial variables studied were plaque thickness, the salivary sucrose concentration, and the duration of exposure of the plaque to sucrose . Stephan curves typical of those recorded in vivo were generated by the model . With any particular salivary sucrose concentration, there was an optimum plaque thickness at which a minimum pH was achieved at the enamel surface, with very thin or thick plaque samples producing a smaller pH fall . With thick plaque, the minimum pH was often not achieved at the inner surface but at some intermediate depth, which may explain the location of early caries lesions in fissures . The extent of the pH fall at the inner surface and the duration of the pH-minimum region of the Stephan curve were directly related to the initial salivary sucrose concentration and to the duration of exposure to sucrose prior to normal salivary clearance . Simulation of a water rinse at as short a time as two min after the beginning of normal salivary sugar clearance showed that this procedure had only a very small effect on the shape of the Stephan curve.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

J Clin Periodontol, 1986 Feb, 13(2), 97 - 102
The effect of artificial crown margins at the gingival margin on the periodontal conditions in a group of periodontally supervised patients treated with fixed bridges; Muller HP; The purpose of this investigation was to study whether or not artificial crown margins at the gingival margin are compatible with periodontal health . Periodontal conditions and the composition of subgingival plaque of 47 crowned teeth, 22 with crown margins at the gingival margin and 25 with a supragingival location of the margin, in 5 patients with extensive fixed bridgework has been examined 1 year after prosthetic treatment . Patients had been treated for periodontal disease and were recalled for prophylaxis sessions once every 2nd or 3rd month . Clinical data indicated little inflammation of the gingival tissues of crowned teeth with margins at the gingiva while a teeth with a supragingival location of the crown margin, gingival tissues showed minor or even no clinical signs of inflammation . In general, the composition of the subgingival plaque was similar to a flora regularly found to be associated with healthy conditions.

J Clin Microbiol, 1986 Feb, 23(2), 258 - 61
Comparison of quantitative and semiquantitative culture techniques for burn biopsy; Buchanan K et al.; Accurate evaluation of bacterial colonization as a predictive index for wound sepsis has relied on a quantitative culture technique that provides exact colony counts per gram of tissue by culture of five serial dilutions of biopsy tissue homogenate . The method, while useful to the physician, is both labor intensive and expensive . In this study 78 eschar biopsies were cultured by a semiquantitative technique that involved the use of 0.1- and 0.01-ml samples of inocula and by the serial dilution method . Exact colony counts from the semiquantitative culture method were available only from cultures containing 10(4) to 10(6) CFU/g of tissue . Other colony counts were reported as less than 10(4) or greater than 10(6) CFU/g . Agreement by category of colony counts between the two methods was 96% . For prediction of wound sepsis, the semiquantitative procedure had a positive predictive value of 100% and a negative predictive value of 93.7% . This method also resulted in an approximately 30% reduction of work units (as defined by the College of American Pathologists) and a 60% reduction in the amount of media for specimen processing . Therefore, this semiquantitative culture technique provides accurate information to the physician while saving both time and materials.

Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A, 1986 Feb, 83(3), 684 - 7
Irradiation-resistance conferred by superoxide dismutase: possible adaptive role of a natural polymorphism in Drosophila melanogaster; Peng TX et al.; The toxic effects of ionizing radiation to DNA are thought to be due to the generation of the superoxide radical, 02- . Superoxide dismutase (SOD), which scavenges 02-., has been invoked as a protecting enzyme against ionizing radiation in viruses, bacteria, mammalian cells in culture, and live mice . We now demonstrate that SOD is involved in the resistance of Drosophila melanogaster against irradiation . The protection is greatest when flies carry the S form of the enzyme (which exhibits highest in vitro specific activity), intermediate when they carry the F form of the enzyme, and lowest when they are homozygous for N, an allele that reduces the amount of the enzyme to 3.5% of the normal level . Natural selection experiments show that the fitness of the high-activity S allele is increased in an irradiated population relative to the nonirradiated control . These results point towards a possible adaptive function of the S/F polymorphism found in natural populations of D . melanogaster.

J Antimicrob Chemother, 1986 Feb, 17(2), 147 - 54
The identification of the aminoglycoside-phosphorylating enzymes APH(2'') and APH(3') from the characterization of their reaction products by high performance liquid chromatography; Lovering AM et al.; A method is described for the identification of the aminoglycoside-phosphorylating (APH) enzymes APH(2'') and APH(3') by the high performance liquid chromatographic (HPLC) identification of their products of reaction with kanamycin and ATP . Twelve reference strains which produce either APH(2'') or APH(3') were examined by both this method and the radioenzymatic profile method; correct enzyme identification was made with 12/12 of the strains by the HPLC method and 11/12 of the strains by the radioenzymatic profile method . Reaction products of APH(2'') or APH(3') with ATP and butirosin, geneticin, lividomycin, ribostamycin, sissomicin or tobramycin were also characterized by HPLC . Conditions for their chromatography are given.

Eur J Immunol, 1986 Feb, 16(2), 187 - 93
A protective human monoclonal IgA antibody produced in vitro: anti-pneumococcal antibody engendered by Epstein-Barr virus-immortalized cell line; Steinitz M et al.; Human lymphocytes that produce anti-pneumococcal antibodies were separated and immortalized by Epstein-Barr virus and then cloned . One clone (NAD-Sel) produces an IgA, kappa antibody which is specific for the polysaccharides of type 8 pneumococcus, while not reactive with any of the polysaccharides derived from 24 other pneumococcal strains . The antibody, which is present in the cell supernatant as monomer and polymer, binds to protein A and does not fix complement . When incubated in vitro with type 8 pneumococci, it induces direct killing and increases the opsonization of these bacteria by mouse macrophages.

Cryobiology, 1986 Feb, 23(1), 14 - 27
Pharmacology of DMSO; Jacob SW et al.; A wide range of primary pharmacological actions of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) has been documented in laboratory studies: membrane penetration, membrane transport, effects on connective tissue, anti-inflammation, nerve blockade (analgesia), bacteriostasis, diuresis, enhancement or reduction of the effectiveness of other drugs, cholinesterase inhibition, nonspecific enhancement of resistance to infection, vasodilation, muscle relaxation, antagonism to platelet aggregation, and influence on serum cholesterol in experimental hypercholesterolemia . This substance induces differentiation and function of leukemic and other malignant cells . DMSO also has prophylactic radioprotective properties and cryoprotective actions . It protects against ischemic injury.

Clin Endocrinol Metab, 1986 Feb, 15(1), 99 - 115
Paracrine action of transforming growth factors; Gol-Winkler R; Polypeptide growth factors form a class of regulatory molecules which exert their effects by binding to specific receptors present on the cell surface . Most of the time the exact role of these factors in the healthy body is unknown . Some, like PDGF and TGF beta, seem to be involved in wound healing . Others, like EGF, promote epithelial cell growth and differentiation . The site of synthesis of most polypeptide growth factors is unknown . Their target can be identified by detecting the cells which present the specific receptors at their surface . It is though that polypeptide growth factors have a paracrine mode of action . Many different cancerous cells produce polypeptide growth factors and the appropriate receptors . Thus, they are able to stimulate their own growth in an autocrine fashion . Recently, some polypeptide growth factors and receptor genes or cDNAs have been molecularly cloned . Growth factor genes and messengers are much more complex than would be expected from the size of the polypeptide . Some cDNAs have been introduced into bacterial expression vectors and large amounts of the factors have been produced by bacteria . New tools, such as molecular probes and specific antibodies, are thus now available to investigate the production of the growth factors and their receptors . The same tools will facilitate the identification and understanding of the molecular mechanism whereby cancerous cells produce the growth factors and the appropriate receptors simultaneously . The importance of growth factors and receptors in cancer is stressed by the finding that three oncogenes are in fact the genes coding for one growth factor and two receptors . Finally, the molecular probes and the specific antibodies raised against these molecules can be used to identify precisely the growth factor(s) and receptor(s) produced abnormally in cancers . Antibodies that inhibit specifically the interaction of this very growth factor with its receptor could then be developed, thus allowing human tumour cell growth to be controlled.

J Appl Physiol, 1986 Feb, 60(2), 353 - 69
The alveolar macrophage; Fels AO et al.; The alveolar macrophage is one of the few tissue macrophage populations readily accessible to study both in the human and in animals . Since harvesting of these cells by bronchoalveolar lavage was first described in 1961, alveolar macrophages have been extensively investigated . This population is the predominant cell type within the alveolus, and undoubtedly serves as the first line of host defense against inhaled organisms and soluble and particulate molecules . Early studies focussed on this endocytic role and delineated the cells' phagocytic and microbicidal capacities . More recent investigations demonstrated an extensive synthetic and secretory repertoire including lysozyme, neutral proteases, acid hydrolases and O2 metabolites . In addition, the complex immunoregulatory role of the macrophage has also been appreciated . These cells have been shown to produce a wide variety of pro- and anti-inflammatory agents including arachidonic acid metabolites of the cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase pathways, cytokines which modulate lymphocyte function and factors which promote fibroblast migration and replication.

Arch Biochem Biophys, 1986 Feb 1, 244(2), 713 - 8
Respiration-linked proton flux in Wolinella succinogenes during reduction of N-oxides; Shapleigh JP et al.; Formate uncoupled proton translocation in formate-grown Wolinella succinogenes cells supplied with N-oxides as terminal electron acceptors . In suspensions containing KSCN (but not valinomycin), H2 supported proton translocation when NO3-, NO2-, and NO were provided as oxidants . H+/N-oxide ratios were 4.77 for NO3-, 2.49 for NO2-, and 1.75 for NO . KSCN inhibits N2O reduction thus precluding use of N2O as oxidant . Repeated exposure of cells to NO inhibited their ability to translocated protons with NO as oxidant but only slightly diminished and did not eliminate their capacity for NO3(-)- or NO2(-)-dependent proton flux . Substituting reduced benzyl viologen for H2 and measuring proton uptake provided results consistent with an extramembranal location for the N- oxide reductases . The uncoupler, carbonyl cyanide m-chlorophenylhydrazone, collapsed proton gradients, permitted uptake of 2 mol H+/mol NO3- or NO2-, but unaccountably inhibited NO3- reduction by 50% while leaving H+ uptake stoichiometry of the cells unaffected.

Infect Immun, 1986 Feb, 51(2), 514 - 20
Mycobacterium leprae fails to stimulate phagocytic cell superoxide anion generation; Holzer TJ et al.; Mycobacterium leprae is an intracellular pathogen that is ingested by and proliferates within cells of the monocyte/macrophage series . Mechanisms by which intracellular pathogens resist destruction may involve failure to elicit a phagocyte "respiratory burst" or resistance to toxic oxygen derivatives and lysosomal enzymes . We have studied the ability of M . leprae and Mycobacterium bovis BCG to stimulate the generation of superoxide anion (O2-) in vitro by human blood neutrophils and monocytes and murine peritoneal macrophages . M . leprae bacteria failed to stimulate significant O2- release except at high bacteria-to-cell ratios (greater than 50:1) whether or not they were pretreated with normal serum or serum from patients with lepromatous leprosy . Either viable or irradiated BCG; on the other hand, stimulated the three cell types to release significant amounts of O2- when challenged with as few as 10 organisms per cell . Serum pretreatment enhanced the release of O2- by the three cell types . Preincubation for 18 h with viable M . leprae did not inhibit the ability of monocytes to respond with an oxidative burst to phagocytic stimuli . The failure of M . leprae to stimulate phagocyte O2- generation may be an important factor in its pathogenicity.

Genetics, 1986 Feb, 112(2), 359 - 83
The evolution of self-regulated transposition of transposable elements; Charlesworth B et al.; This paper examines the conditions under which self-regulated rates of transposition can evolve in populations of transposable elements infecting sexually reproducing hosts . Models of the evolution of both cis-acting regulation (transposition immunity) and trans-acting regulation (transposition repression) are analyzed . The potential selective advantage to regulation is assumed to be derived from the deleterious effects of mutations associated with the insertion of newly replicated elements . It is shown that both types of regulation can easily evolve in hosts with low rates of genetic recombination per generation, such as bacteria or bacterial plasmids . Conditions are much more restrictive in organisms with relatively free recombination . In haploids, the main selective force promoting regulation is the induction of lethal or sterile mutations by transposition; in diploids, a sufficiently high frequency of dominant lethal or sterile mutations associated with transpositions is required . Data from Drosophila and maize suggest that this requirement can sometimes be met . Coupling of regulatory effects across different families of elements would also aid the evolution of regulation . The selective advantages of restricting transposition to the germ line and of excising elements from somatic cells are discussed.

J Mol Biol, 1986 Jan 20, 187(2), 241 - 50
Three-dimensional structure of the regular surface layer (HPI layer) of Deinococcus radiodurans; Baumeister W et al.; The low-resolution structure of the regular surface layer of Deinococcus radiodurans has been determined from negatively stained specimens by three-dimensional electron microscopy . The layer has P6 symmetry, a lattice constant of 18 nm and a thickness of 6.5 nm . Three-dimensional reconstruction was performed by a hybrid real space/Fourier space approach that incorporates partial compensation of lattice distortions: The model obtained is discussed in the light of independent information about the surface structure of this layer, derived from metal shadowing and surface relief reconstruction . While agreement is quite satisfactory for the apparently more rigid inner surface, the outer surface shows severe flattening effects . The structure of the HPI layer is compared with other bacterial surface layers using a classification scheme that is outlined in the Appendix.

Biochim Biophys Acta, 1986 Jan 17, 869(1), 81 - 8
Studies on the spin-spin interaction between flavin and iron-sulfur cluster in an iron-sulfur flavoprotein; Stevenson RC et al.; When the di- or trimethylamine dehydrogenases (trimethylamine:(acceptor) oxidoreductase (demethylating), EC 1.5.99.7) of certain methylotrophic bacteria are reduced by two electrons with substrate unusual EPR signals arise at g = 2 and g = 4 (Steenkamp, D.J . and Beinert, H . (1982) Biochem . J . 207, 233-239; 241-252) indicative of spin-spin interaction between the FMN and iron-sulfur compounds of these enzymes . An attempt is made to understand, describe and simulate these spectra in terms of a triplet state with possible contributions from both dipolar and anisotropic exchange (J) interactions . No direct measurement of J is available, but various approaches to setting limits to J are outlined . According to these, J approximately 0.4 to 3 cm-1 or 15 to 50 cm-1 . The spectra show, in the g = 2 region, a pair of rather sharp inner and a pair of broad outer lines; the latter broaden as well as move out from the center with increasing time (after substrate addition) and substrate concentration, while there is little change of g = 4 . The best fits to such spectra were obtained by assuming distribution of D and E values, depending on substrate effects and arriving presumably from 'g-strain' . The fact that both shapes and intensities at g = 2 and g = 4 could be reproduced simultaneously at two frequencies indicates that the assumptions underlying our approaches and interpretations are permissible and reasonable, although we cannot claim their uniqueness . The distance between the centers of the spin densities of the flavin radical and the Fe-S cluster is thought to lie between the limits 3 to 5 A if the asymmetries in the spin-spin interaction are magnetic dipole-dipole in origin . Because there is an indication that the interaction is anisotropic exchange, the upper limit is less stringent.

Am J Ophthalmol, 1986 Jan 15, 101(1), 49 - 57
Microwave sterilization of hydrophilic contact lenses; Rohrer MD et al.; We used standard 2,450-MHz microwave irradiation to achieve sterilization of hydrophilic contact lenses contaminated with a variety of bacterial, fungal, and viral corneal pathogens . A three-dimensional rotisserie was used to overcome the problem of "cold spots" within the microwave oven . The contact lenses became dehydrated in approximately two minutes . Rehydration with normal saline restored their shape and appearance . The time necessary to prohibit all growth of the bacterial and fungal organisms studied ranged from 45 seconds to eight minutes . All viral contaminants were completely inactivated after four minutes of microwave exposure . Refractive properties were unaffected after 101 exposures to microwaves for ten minutes . Slit-lamp examination and scanning electron microscopy disclosed minute particles on the surface of these contact lenses but no damage to the lens matrix from irradiation.

J Biol Chem, 1986 Jan 15, 261(2), 949 - 55
Multiple red cell ferritin mRNAs, which code for an abundant protein in the embryonic cell type, analyzed by cDNA sequence and by primer extension of the 5'-untranslated regions; Didsbury JR et al.; Ferritin maintains iron in a bioavailable, nontoxic form for vertebrates and invertebrates, higher plants, fungi, and bacteria; the protein is formed from two classes of subunits (H and L) in ratios which vary in different cell types . Ferritin may be an abundant, differentiation-specific protein or a "housekeeping" protein . The red cells of embryos are specialized for iron storage and have abundant ferritin; iron regulates the synthesis of ferritin in such cells translationally by recruitment of stored, ferritin mRNA and by translational competition . To characterize mRNA regulated in such a manner, we prepared cDNA from reticulocytes of bullfrog tadpoles, a readily available source of embryonic red cells; moreover, no protein sequence information was available for nonmammalian ferritin . An almost full-length (817 base pairs) cDNA (pJD5F12) was isolated and sequenced, the 5' end was analyzed by primer extension, and the cloned DNA was used as a hybridization probe . We have shown that ferritin mRNA is stored in the cytoplasm and that the 5' end of the mRNA is heterogeneous . The 5'-untranslated region of ferritin mRNA consisted of 143 nucleotides in the major (65%) species and 146 or 152 in the minor species (approximately 17% each) . (Heterogeneity is characteristic of some other abundant mRNAs, e.g . globin, which is also translationally regulated.) Since excess iron had no detectable effect on the heterogeneity of the 5' end of ferritin mRNA, the feature is more likely associated with mRNA abundance and/or cell specialization than translational control . In the bullfrog, as in humans and rats, ferritin is encoded by multiple genomic sequences (four to eight) which specify proteins of considerable homology . For example, 75 of the 81 amino acids present in all mammalian ferritins sequenced are also present in the frog; the overall homology between frogs and humans or rats is 59-66% . Ferritin H and L subunits in humans are distinct (overall homology 56%) and appear to have diverged from a common precursor relatively recently . In contrast, ferritin H and L subunits have high homology in tadpole red cells, determined by hybrid select translation, which suggests that bullfrog red cell ferritin may be close to the primordial sequence.

Biochemistry, 1986 Jan 14, 25(1), 152 - 61
Oxygenation of carbon monoxide by bovine heart cytochrome c oxidase; Young LJ et al.; Cytochrome c oxidase (ferrocytochrome c:oxygen oxidoreductase, EC 1.9.3.1), as the terminal enzyme of the mammalian mitochondrial electron transport chain, has long been known to catalyze the reduction of dioxygen to water . We have found that when reductively activated in the presence of dioxygen, the enzyme will also catalyze the oxidation of carbon monoxide to its dioxide . Two moles of carbon dioxide is produced per mole of dioxygen, and similar rates of production are observed for 1- and 2-electron-reduced enzyme . If 13CO and O2 are used to initiate the reaction, then only 13CO2 is detected as a product . With 18O2 and 12CO, only unlabeled and singly labeled carbon dioxide are found . No direct evidence was obtained for a water-gas reaction (CO + H2O----CO2 + H2) of the oxidase with CO . The CO oxygenase activity is inhibited by cyanide, azide, and formate and is not due to the presence of bacteria . Studies with scavengers of partially reduced dioxygen show that catalase decreases the rate of CO oxygenation.

J Mol Biol, 1986 Jan 5, 187(1), 1 - 14
Transcription initiation in vitro and in vivo at a highly conserved promoter within a 16 S ribosomal RNA gene; Amemiya K et al.; Transcription initiation has been shown to occur in vitro at several sites within a cloned Caulobacter crescentus ribosomal RNA gene cluster that lacks the major promoter region 5' to the 16 S rRNA gene . The predominant transcription start site in vitro was located near the 3' end of the 16 S rRNA gene . Transcription initiation from this region was also detected in vivo, when the cloned rRNA gene cluster was present on a multi-copy plasmid . The transcription start sites in vitro and in vivo were shown to be identical by S1 nuclease mapping and were found to be located approximately 300 nucleotides upstream from the 3' end of the 16 S rRNA gene . The transcript synthesized in vitro was shown to be cleaved by C . crescentus RNase III and to release the transfer RNA genes from the downstream 16 S/23 S intergenic spacer region . Analysis of the nucleotide sequence near the internal 16 S rRNA transcription start site revealed the presence of a consensus promoter sequence followed by the beginning of an open reading frame approximately 90 nucleotides downstream . Examination of the 16 S rRNA genes from other bacterial species and chloroplasts and 18 S rRNA genes from Xenopus and yeast revealed that the nucleotide sequence of this internal 16 S rRNA promoter region was highly conserved . Although the length of these 16 S and 18 S rRNA genes is slightly variable, the distance of the conserved promoter sequence from the 3' end of these genes has been conserved.

Anat Embryol (Berl), 1986, 173(3), 317 - 22
Quantitative electron microscopic observations on Paneth cells of germfree and ex-germfree Wistar rats; Satoh Y et al.; Ultrastructural changes of Paneth cells of germfree (GF) rats which had been inoculated with bacteria-containing feces from conventionally-reared (SPF) rats were quantitatively examined . 12 and 24 h after inoculation, the Paneth cells showed a striking decrease in the number of secretory granules and the occurrence of large vacuoles . Phagosomes containing bacteria were not seen . After 4 days, the secretory granules reaccumulated and smooth-surfaced apical vesicles increased in number . It is discussed that the large vacuoles may be related to membrane-retrieval events following the massive extrusion of secretory granules whereas the apical vesicles appear to serve this function when exocytosis is not pronounced . In addition to the large secretory granules ca . 10% of Paneth cell profiles contained a few dense-cored vesicles measuring about 150 nm in diameter which resemble peptidergic neurosecretory granules.

Isr J Med Sci, 1986 Jan, 22(1), 16 - 8
Is human methane production affected by long-term occupational exposure to a methanogenic flora?
Bujanover Y, Peled Y, Gilat T.
The factors determining human methane production or nonproduction are unknown . Exposure at a young age to a methanogenic flora is thought to be of significance . We examined whether long-term occupational exposure to methanogenic flora in adult life affects methane production . Among 38 subjects who worked in a cowshed for a mean period of 14 +/- 15 years, the proportion of methane producers was identical to that found in well-matched controls . The length of work in the cowshed had no effect on methane production.

EMBO J, 1986 Jan, 5(1), 61 - 7
Selection of Dictyostelium mutants defective in cytoskeletal proteins: use of an antibody that binds to the ends of alpha-actinin rods; Wallraff E et al.; A monoclonal antibody, mAb 47-19-2, was used to study the subunit topology of the rod-shaped alpha-actinin molecules of Dictyostelium discoideum and to screen for mutants defective in the production of alpha-actinin . Electron microscopy of rotary-shadowed alpha-actinin-antibody complexes showed binding of mAb 47-19-2 to both ends of the alpha-actinin rods and cleavage of the rods into its subunits, indicating that the two subunits of alpha-actinin extend in an anti-parallel mode through the whole length of the rod . The antibody binding sites were located in close proximity to the sites responsible for actin cross-linking, which is consistent with the blocking activity of the antibody . In a mutant, HG1130, no antibody label was detected in colony blots, and by immunoblotting of mutant proteins separated by SDS-PAGE, only trace amounts of alpha-actinin were found . The mutant showed normal binding of antibodies directed against the actin-binding proteins severin and capping protein . The mutation responsible for the alpha-actinin defect was recessive and located on linkage group I of the genetic map of D . discoideum . HG1130 cells grew on bacteria at a normal rate and also axenically like cells of the parent strain AX2 . After starvation the mutant cells expressed the contact site A glycoprotein, a marker of the aggregation-competent stage, and reacted chemotactically to cyclic AMP . The aggregation patterns and fruiting bodies of the mutant appeared to be normal . Patching and capping on the surface of HG1130 cells was induced by antibodies against the contact site A glycoprotein.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Clin Plast Surg, 1986 Jan, 13(1), 39 - 47
Infection control in burn patients; Heggers JP et al.; The article primarily deals with infection control practices relating to the burn patient . Burn infections have an endogenous origin rather than an exogenous one . Infection control practices are similar to routine infection surveillance but are also distinctly different.

Zentralbl Gynakol, 1986, 108(2), 73 - 83
{Immunology of the fetomaternal interaction: immunologic significance of colostrum and breast milk}; Briese V et al.; The importance of the mammary gland as a potential immunological organ is characterized in this literature survey by the following aspects: immunoglobulins in colostrum and mother's milk, immunological active cells in colostrum and mother's milk, nonspecific factors in the mother's milk . The importance of the early nursing is emphasized from the immunological point of view.

Am J Obstet Gynecol, 1986 Jan, 154(1), 107 - 8
Is there a causal connection between motile curved rods, Mobiluncus species, and bleeding complications?
Larsson PG, Bergman BB.
Motile curved rods, Mobiluncus species, were identified in 20 women whose main complaints were sparse vaginal bleeding and/or foul-smelling discharge . After treatment with metronidazole all the women were free of symptoms and no Mobiluncus could be detected.

J Forensic Sci, 1986 Jan, 31(1), 283 - 7
Microscopic diagnosis from frozen canine tissues; Baraibar MA et al.; Frozen tissues were studied microscopically to determine their value for diagnostic purposes . Sections were taken from lung, liver, kidney, small intestine, and brain of ten diseased dogs that died or were euthanatized . Some tissues were frozen, held for two or seven days, and then formalin-fixed . Tissues that were formalin-fixed immediately served as controls . Freezing changes such as transudate, cell shrinkage, fractures, hemolysis, and hematin formation were a nuisance, but usually did not prevent making a diagnosis . Viral inclusions, microfilaria, fibrosis, and intestinal bacteria remained distinct.

J Appl Physiol, 1986 Jan, 60(1), 141 - 6
Formyl peptide-induced contraction of human airways in vitro; Armour CL et al.; Formylmethionylleucylphenylalanine (FMLP) is a synthetic analogue of bacterial chemotactic factors . We studied the contraction of human airway tissue in vitro by FMLP . FMLP induced a concentration-dependent contraction of all bronchial spiral strips studied (n = 45) . The maximum tension generated in response to FMLP was 86.6 +/- 7.0% (SE) of the maximum response to histamine . The contraction was not reduced by the histamine H1-receptor antagonist pyrilamine, the cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase inhibitors indomethacin and BW755C, the muscarinic antagonist atropine, or capsaicin which depletes stores of substance P . The concentration-response curve was shifted to the right by the polypeptide antagonist N-t-BOC-phenylalanylleucylphenylalanylleucylphenylalanine and the leukotriene antagonist FPL 55712 . When 2 successive FMLP concentration-response curves were performed the maximum response was significantly reduced from 114.8 +/- 9.1% of the histamine maximum to 39.3 +/- 6.1% . The contraction of human airways in vitro by an agent that is structurally and functionally similar to chemotactic peptides released from bacteria may have important implications in airway disease.

Dev Biol, 1986 Jan, 113(1), 218 - 27
The developmental regulation of single-cell motility in Dictyostelium discoideum; Varnum B et al.; The velocity of single amebae in the absence of a chemotactic signal has been analyzed during growth, development, rapid recapitulation, and dedifferentiation in the cellular slime mold Dictyostelium discoideum . It is demonstrated that (1) the velocity of axenically grown cells in half that of bacterially grown cells, (2) the velocity of bacterially grown cells decreased to roughly the same low level as axenically grown cells approximately 5 hr after the removal of exogeneous bacteria, (3) the velocity remains low for a 7-hr period preceding the onset of aggregation in both axenically and bacterially grown cells, (4) the velocity increases transiently at the onset of aggregation for both axenically and bacterially grown cells, (5) the velocity decreases to a very low level after the formation of loose aggregates and remains at that level at least through the early culminate I stage, (6) the velocity is not stimulated in 13-hr developing cells (finger stage) by inducing rapid recapitulation, (7) the velocity decreases after the erasure event in cultures of 7-hr developing cells (ripple stage) stimulated to undergo dedifferentiation, but the inhibition of the erasure event by the addition of 10(-4) M cAMP does not block this decrease . These results demonstrate that the basal level of single-cell motility in growing cultures is significantly influenced by the nutrient composition of the supporting medium, and that the transient increase in single-cell motility at the onset of aggregation is under the rigid control of the initial developmental program . Both rapid recapitulation and the program of dedifferentiation appear to have no influence on the basal level of single-cell motility.

Am J Perinatol, 1986 Jan, 3(1), 28 - 32
Gentamicin dosage recommendations for neonates based on half-life predictions from birthweight; Charlton CK et al.; The appropriate dosing of gentamicin in the newborn was evaluated . Gentamicin was administered intramuscularly to 151 neonates ranging in birthweight from 0.66 to 4.7 kg (gestational age, 26-42 weeks) during a 7-month period . A dosage of 2.5 mg/kg of birthweight every 12 hours was initiated at birth until gentamicin serum levels could be determined . These infants were divided into three groups based on birthweight: 1) less than or equal to 1000 gm; 2) 1001-2000 gm; 3) greater than 2000 gm . From gentamicin serum level data, these three groups had significantly different (P less than 0.05) gentamicin half-lives . Based on the desirability of maintaining a trough gentamicin serum level less than 2, 100, 95.5, and 39% of infants in groups 1, 2, and 3, respectively, required initial dosing interval adjustments . A second group of 74 infants whose birthweight ranged from 0.82 to 3.9 kg (gestational age, 26-42 weeks) required aminoglycoside therapy and were prospectively placed on gentamicin 2.5 mg/kg of birthweight on the following schedule: 1) less than or equal to 1000 gm every 24 hours; 2) 1001-2000 gm every 18 hours; 3) greater than 2000 gm every 12 hours . Using this method, only 15, 58, and 33% of infants in groups 1, 2, and 3, respectively, required dosing interval changes . We conclude that a marked reduction in undesirably high trough gentamicin serum levels can be affected by a simple change in dosing interval based on birthweight, although gentamicin serum levels are still required due to a significant number of infants with high trough levels.

Oncology, 1986, 43(1), 50 - 3
Nitrate and nitrite in normal gastric juice . Precursors of the endogenous N-nitroso compound synthesis; Mueller RL et al.; The nitrate and nitrite levels of 75 gastric juice samples from young and healthy fasting volunteers were examined . For both parameters a dependence on the specific pH value of the secretion was detected . The rise of the nitrite level from normal 0.1 ppm in the acid to 1.4 ppm in the neutral range can be explained by the activity of the bacterial flora even in the healthy stomach, which has already been demonstrated earlier . The hitherto existing theory that nitrate originates exclusively from the salivary glands, and if not reduced to nitrite by bacteria in the mouth cavity, is brought into the stomach via swallowed saliva only, does not explain the observation that there is a rise in nitrate concentration in neutral juice, too . Further investigations have to be made to see whether there are other endogenous sources of nitrate except the salivary glands in the gastrointestinal tract . The environmental pollutant nitrate must be paid more attention to in future.

J Infect Dis, 1986 Jan, 153(1), 122 - 5
An evaluation of diagnostic methods for brucellosis--the value of bone marrow culture; Gotuzzo E et al.; Fifty patients, eventually diagnosed as having brucellosis, were studied prospectively for comparison of a simple culture of bone marrow aspirate from the iliac crest (0.5-1.0 ml) with two cultures of blood (5-10 ml) taken 30-60 min apart and with a tube-agglutination test . Cultures of bone marrow and blood were positive in 92% and 70% of the patients, respectively (P less than .001) . Bacteria multiplied significantly faster in bone marrow cultures (4.32 vs . 6.65 days; P less than .001) . All isolates were identified as Brucella melitensis biotype 1 . Serological diagnosis was established in 86% of the patients . The efficacy of cultures of blood decreased significantly with chronic and subacute forms of infection, whereas that of bone marrow culture decreased only in chronic forms . Prior use of antibiotics reduced the positivity of cultures of blood but did not affect bone marrow culture . Bone marrow culture is recommended for patients with fever of unknown origin, negative serology, and unexplained articular or hematologic involvement, and patients in whom brucellosis is suspected.

Clin Chem, 1986 Jan, 32(1 Pt 1), 142 - 5
Lipids, lipoproteins, and apoproteins in serum during infection; Alvarez C et al.; We studied the alterations in the concentrations of total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglycerides, and apoproteins A and B in serum of 54 patients hospitalized for various reasons, who developed sepsis during their stay . Forty of these patients required intensive care, 14 did not . Another group of patients with the same underlying pathological conditions was used as a control . We found the following: Sepsis causes the concentrations of total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and apoproteins A and B in serum to decrease, whereas triglycerides increase . However, these changes are not related to the infectious agent, the underlying illness, or the clinical situation of the patients . The return of serum lipids to more normal concentrations parallels the recovery from sepsis . The positive correlation between the drastically decreased concentrations of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and the severe hypoalbuminemia in these patients suggests a common pathway for these two abnormalities.

Ann Biol Clin (Paris), 1986, 44(6), 656 - 61
{Theory and practice of genetic toxicology tests . Tests on eukaryotes}; Marzin D; The search for a mutation prone activity on bacteria must be completed by tests on eucaryotes, in vitro as well as in vivo . Tests on eucaryotes enable to study agents inducing gene mutations {on yeats, cultures of mammal cells (V 79, L 5278 Y), lethal recessive mutation linked to the sex chromosome, on drosophils...}, chromosomal mutations (metaphases analysis in vitro and in vivo, micronucleus, lethal dominance), the involvement of repair mechanisms of DNA (non-programmed DNA synthesis, exchange of sister chromatides...) . One must well differentiate the tests usable routinely for a screening from the tests currently validated and routine tests . It is only at the completion of a set of tests on bacteria and eucaryotes cells that the potential mutation risk of a product for human health, may be ascertained.

Tierarztl Prax, 1986, 14(4), 471 - 5
{Health problems in fallow deer for meat production}; Matzke P; Though fallow deer is considered very resistant to infectious diseases and parasites, diseases of different kind occur in enclosed pastures . Normally the diseases are the same as with wild animals or with farm ruminants . Diseases limited only to fallow deer are not known up to now . Parasitic diseases are a common problem, and prophylactic measures are necessary in all enclosed pastures to control parasites . Most losses in the enclosed pastures at the state farms of Grub and Romenthal caused by infections were due to necrobacillosis or to Coli bacteria . Because therapy is difficult or even impossible with wild animals, prophylactic measures are very important in enclosed pastures . Prophylaxis against Coli infections by improving the environment is possible only to a limited degree . Metabolic diseases and poisonings are mostly caused by wrong feeding.

Ann Pathol, 1986, 6(4-5), 287 - 91
{Hepatic, biliary and pancreatic lesions in LAV-HTLV III infection}; Marche C et al.; We believe it is important to underscore: The frequency and variety of the lesions, mainly within the liver but also of the biliary tract and the pancreas, which may reveal an inaugural complication of AIDS . The interest of the vascular lesions, mainly of the sinusoids as well as the various associated lesions due to pathogens (bacteria, viruses, fungi) and/or to toxic drugs . The physiopathology and histogenesis of the lesions are still obscure . Both the lesions of the hepatocytes and these of the sinusoids are poorly understood, and it is reasonable to discuss the role of various pathogens, such as viruses, peculiarly Epstein Barr and moreover LAV-HTLVIII viruses.

Auris Nasus Larynx, 1986, 13(2), 97 - 9
Bacteriolytic activity of lysozyme in the nasal mucosa; Tachibana M et al.; During an experiment to study the localization of the lysozyme in the nasal mucosa of humans by the protein A-gold technique, we observed the accumulation of lysozymes around bacteria possibly causing bacteriolysis . The lysozyme, therefore, seems to play a preventive role against some kind of bacterial infection in the nasal mucosa in situ.

Urol Res, 1986, 14(6), 327 - 30
Activity of phagocytic granulocytes in patients with prostatic cancer; Hofmann R et al.; Chemilumenescence (CL) occurs due to the phagocytosis of bacteria and of tumor cells by polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMN) . Levels of CL were measured in patients with prostatic cancer and from normal subjects . Patients with advanced disease (stage C, D) showed no elevated CL levels as compared to healthy individuals or patients with minimal disease (stage A, B) . Following external radiation therapy in patients with stage A-C prostatic carcinoma high levels of CL were recorded . Estrogen medication also resulted in increased CL levels, while estramustine did not affect phagocytic activity . Intradermal BCG vaccination caused increased PMN activity . Progressive prostatic cancer in hormone treated patients was associated with increased CL as compared to patients with stable or regressive disease.

Langenbecks Arch Chir, 1986, 368(3), 149 - 62
{Effects and side effects of taurolin in experimental peritonitis in the rat}; Hart H et al.; Taurolin (2%) was tested in a peritonitis in the rat . In a control group without treatment the mortality was 63% 80 h after infection . Intraperitoneal application of taurolin did not change this mortality rate but delayed the mortality by 8 h . Intravenous administration of taurolin increased mortality to 87% . In a second experimental protocol the dosis of bacteria was increased and 100% of the animals died within 16 h . Gentamicin-Piperacillin therapy reduced the mortality to 50% . With taurolin this effect of antibiotics could not be improved . In both groups taurolin was not able to reduce toxic lung edema . With these results and the knowledge of the literature taurolin cannot be recommended for clinical use.

Cytobios, 1986, 47(190-191), 187 - 210
Protein turnover during cell growth: a re-examination of the problem of linear incorporation kinetics of radioactively-labelled amino acids into protein and its relationship to growth characteristics; Wheatley DN et al.; Linear kinetics of incorporation of labelled amino acids into protein have been reported in many cell types from bacteria to mammals . Using HeLa S-3 cells as a paradigm in carefully controlled kinetic studies of this growing mammalian cell system, detailed analysis of many of the factors which are involved under steady growth state conditions indicates that linearity is more apparent than real . Quasi-linear kinetics are not primarily due to the time-scales of experiments being too short for adequate distinction between linearity and shallow exponential kinetics, nor to the fact that conventional assay procedures of biological material are too variable (although both have been taken into account), but to the highly complex pattern of protein turnover following synthesis . Synthesis is a zero-order reaction which would inevitably give exponential kinetics if it were not offset by a series of first-order degradation reactions operating at different intensities during the subsequent history of each cohort of protein molecules produced by the cell . These interactions, however, give a net result for incorporation of label into protein which closely approximates linearity, and hides the true complexity of the underlying processes . These findings on labelling kinetics are discussed throughout in relation to the growth characteristics of the cells.

Histochemistry, 1986, 85(5), 377 - 88
Lectin binding sites in Paramecium tetraurelia cells . II . Labeling analysis predominantly of non-secretory components; Luthe N et al.; All the lectin-FITC conjugates tested (ConA, RCA II, WGA) bind to the surface of Paramecium cells . Yet only WGA yields a distinct fluorescent pattern; it contours the basis of cilia and in some cells it brilliantly stains a few neighbouring rows of the regular surface fields in the anterioventral region (a region known to contain extensive fields of linear aggregates of freeze-fracture particles and to be engaged in conjugation) . Incubation in vivo with WGA-FITC resulted in the selective labeling of the cytopharyngeal region as well as of the cytoproct . On Lowicryl K4M sections, WGA-gold probes concomitantly labeled disk-shaped vesicles that are assumed in the literature to serve as shuttle vesicles between these two cell regions and, thus, to connect forming and defecating digesting vacuoles (stages DV I and DV IV) . On K4M sections WGA-Au stains also most other components of the lysosomal system . Also on K4M sections RCA II-Au labeled the walls of bacteria contained in DV I and II type digesting vacuoles (but not lysosomes identified bona fide by their size and shape and by their frequent vicinity to or continuity with digesting vacuoles) . The WGA data largely support previous conclusions on the possible functional connection of all these elements (DV I-IV, smaller lysosomes, disk-shaped vesicles etc.) of the lysosomal system in Paramecium, as proposed by Allen and his group on the basis of other lines of evidence . As shown in the accompanying paper, ConA-FITC stained ghosts (formed after massive trichocyst exocytosis) also abut into DV-like structures . The different results obtained with the three lectins tested reflect the complex sorting machinery contained in the elaborate lysosomal system of a Paramecium cell . In the cytosol, finally, there occurs a particularly intense staining with ConA-gold, applied to Lowicryl sections, that probably represents glycogen-like particles . The same procedure reveals some weak staining of secretory contents and of nuclear structures.

Acta Paediatr Hung, 1986, 27(3), 211 - 9
Characterization of cells in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid of children with recurrent obstructive bronchitis; Nagy B et al.; In children 1 to 6 years of age with recurrent obstructive bronchitis bronchoalveolar lavage was performed to obtain material to allow characterization of the cell-types present on the bronchoalveolar surface . Recurrent infections may produce a chronic mucosal inflammation which was observed bronchoscopically in the symptom-free periods, too . Two main components of the lavaged cells were alveolar and NAML macrophages with morphological, cytochemical and functional features of mononuclear phagocytes . It seemed that the persistence of bacteria in the respiratory tract induces an increased influx of macrophages without PMN accumulation . This inflammation may constitute the morphological basis of frequent relapses which sometimes occur without any sign of respiratory infection.

Acta Paediatr Hung, 1986, 27(3), 205 - 10
Immunoglobulin levels in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid of children with recurrent obstructive bronchitis; Nagy B et al.; Bronchoalveolar lavage was performed in 22 children with recurrent obstructive bronchitis and the recovered lavage fluid samples were analysed for concentration of IgA, IgG, IgM, IgE and C3 . Previously a significant influx of exudate macrophages and persistence of bacteria on the bronchoalveolar surface were detected in these patients and a severe mucosal inflammation was observed bronchoscopically . The relative lavage fluid levels of immunoglobulins to albumin were significantly higher than in serum, indicating a local production of these proteins . The elevated levels of C3 indicated a high activity of the macrophages and the complement system . It is concluded that the mucosal inflammation in patients with recurrent obstructive symptoms cannot be attributed to a deficiency of immunoglobulins either in blood or in bronchial secretions.

Ann Rech Vet, 1986, 17(2), 123 - 8
{Efficacy of disinfectants in contamination of eggs}; Maris P; Good hygiene practices are essential in livestock production . Likewise hygienic production and storage of hatching eggs contribute to improve hatchability and to obtain healthier fowls . This study was designed to compare three methods of disinfection commonly used in poultry houses: fumigation with formaldehyde, pulverization of an iodophore and synthetic phenols . By washing eggs in sterile bags to determine the bacterial contamination on shells, the best results were obtained with formaldehyde, and the smallest bacterial decrease with the iodophore.

Ital J Surg Sci, 1986, 16(2), 85 - 92
An insight into post-gastrectomy "alkaline reflux gastritis"; Bechi P et al.; One hundred and ten partially-gastrectomized patients were studied in order to assess prevalence of symptoms, entero-gastric reflux, endoscopic erythematous changes and histological gastritis and to explore some aspects of the pathogenesis of gastritis syndrome . Prevalence of symptoms (37.2% of the patients) was lower than prevalence of reflux (86.9% and 72.9% of patients with fasting bile reflux or scintigraphic assessment, respectively) endoscopic hyperaemia (72.7% of patients) and remnant chronic gastritis (88.3% of patients) . Histological appearance in the perianastomotic area was mostly identifiable as hyperplastic-regenerative . While histological findings, gastric pH, bacteria and nitrite concentration and patients' age were reciprocally correlated, symptoms, endoscopic changes, remnant chronic gastritis and gastric environmental changes were not more severe in patients with more abundant enterogastric reflux . Therefore, as far as the methods for reflux assessment used in the present study are concerned, postgastrectomy findings (symptoms, extent of erythematous changes, severity of remnant chronic gastritis) are not related to reflux . These results suggest that the term "alkaline reflux gastritis syndrome", at this stage of knowledge, should be used with caution.

Antonie Van Leeuwenhoek, 1986, 52(4), 281 - 93
Chemostat enrichment and isolation of Hyphomicrobium EG . A dimethyl-sulphide oxidizing methylotroph and reevaluation of Thiobacillus MS1; Suylen GM et al.; A stable mixed bacterial culture was obtained by chemostat enrichment using dimethyl-sulphoxide as a carbon and energy source . This culture could not only rapidly oxidize dimethyl-sulphoxide but also dimethyl-sulphide . Enzyme determinations indicated that an important part of it consisted of methylotrophs, which assimilated carbon via the serine pathway . Indeed plate counts revealed the majority of the community to be a Hyphomicrobium species . This organism, designated Hyphomicrobium EG, is an obligate methylotroph which can only grow aerobically on several different C1-compounds . Its performance on dimethyl-sulphoxide was compared with that of the community and of another recently isolated strain, Hyphomicrobium S . The mixed culture, Hyphomicrobium EG and Hyphomicrobium S had a mu max of 0.08, 0.08 and 0.014 h-1 respectively . The KS for dimethyl-sulphoxide was the same for all three cultures (3-6 microM), whereas that for dimethyl-sulphide of Hyphomicrobium EG after growth on dimethyl-sulphoxide was 3-fold higher than that of the other two cultures (48 and 16 microM respectively) . After growth on dimethyl-sulphide it improved to 3 microM . Dimethyl-sulphide respiration was maximal at a concentration of 100 microM; higher concentrations were inhibitory . One of the accompanying organisms, a pink methylotroph, was able to derive energy from the oxidation of thiosulphate . Available cultures of Thiobacillus MS1 that were reported to be able to utilize dimethyl-sulphide could no longer metabolize this compound.

Vet Med Nauki, 1986, 23(5), 47 - 52
{Sources of cattle infection with atypical mycobacteria and the frequency of their isolation from healthy slaughter animals in Cienfuegos Province, Cuba}; Dimov I et al.; Studied were a total of 322 samples of water, feed, and grass vegetation with soil from a region where there were records of unspecific tuberculin reactions with cattle . Investigations were also carried out on viscera and lymph nodes of 120 slaughtered cattle . It was found that the atypical acid-fast mycobacteria were widely spread in some regions of Cuba: 42.5% were found in grass samples, 37.5%--in soil samples, 35.0%--in water ones, and 9.6% in feed samples . Atypical mycobacteria were isolated in 35.0% of the cases with internal organs and lymph nodes of slaughtered healthy animals . Established were as many as ten species of such bacteria, prevailing being M . aquae B, M . aquae A, M . smegmatis, and M . phlei . Suggested is the preparation of an allergen from selected strains of atypical mycobacteria to carry out differential tuberculin tests where suspected tuberculin reactions were recorded in the practice.

Med Microbiol Immunol (Berl), 1986, 175(5), 299 - 306
Culturing and extraction of Coprococcus comes, absorption of serumagglutinins by soluble fractions and relation between agglutinins and antibodies in sera of patients with Crohn's disease; Hazenberg MP et al.; Agglutinating antibodies to Coprococcus comes and three other obligately anaerobic coccoid rods from the intestinal flora are used in the diagnosis of Crohn's disease . Further studies on the pathogenetic role as well as the development of more sensitive and specific methods for detecting antibodies require extraction of the antigen fractions . Culturing methods to obtain C . comes with optimal antigen presentation and isolation of soluble antigen fractions were therefore developed . Hot water extraction of whole cells and subsequent removal of proteins with trichloroacetic acid provided a fraction that absorbed serum agglutinins, was useful for an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and induced agglutinating antibodies in rats.

Int J Immunopharmacol, 1986, 8(4), 433 - 6
Broncho-Vaxom and spontaneous allergic autocytotoxicity (spACT) in bronchial asthma associated with food hypersensitivity; Podleski WK; Spontaneous allergic autocytotoxicity (spACT) of white blood cells (WBC) was assessed in six bronchial asthma patients and eighteen normal control individuals . The observed alterations of non-primed WBC membrane were revealed as an increased uptake of trypan blue exclusion dye, an indicator of death cells . The phenomenon of spACT might be associated with a lack of T suppressor cell intervention, increased refractoriness of WBC membrane leading to its increased permeability and enhanced releasability of chemical mediators of anaphylaxis, which probably bypasses IgE events . In six bronchial asthma patients, three were sensitive toward wheat, two had cow milk sensitivity, and one had corn sensitivity . When WBC of these patients were studied in the direct ACT assay, an additional augmentation of spACT effect by specific food antigens was observed . Surprisingly, Broncho-Vaxom (BX) did not inhibit or enhance spACT . However, BX has antagonistic activity toward direct ACT response in the dose-dependent concentration as previously reported . Our preliminary clinical experience leads us to believe that the spACT assay can serve as a useful clinical discriminator of potential responders versus non-responders to therapy with new agents, when WBC disintegration by autoinduction is involved.

Z Parasitenkd, 1986, 72(4), 537 - 47
Fine structure of adult Litomosoides carinii (Nematoda: Filarioidea); Franz M et al.; The fine structure of the body wall and the intestine of male and female Litomosoides carinii was studied in sections through the middle and posterior regions of the worms . In the sublateral cells of the female hypodermis the organelles are arranged in regular layers . The zone with the basal labyrinth is the most prominent layer . The intestinal epithelium of the female worm varies considerably in thickness . The cytoplasm of these cells contains many large droplets . The lateral hypodermal chords of the male worm are very narrow bands . The muscle cells of the male worm are of the circomyarian type, without an afibrillar portion . The intestinal lumen of the male worm is very narrow, and the epithelial cells contain very large droplets . In both sexes the hypodermis contains bacteria . Larger glycogen deposits were absent in the hypodermal chords and in the muscle cells of the midbody regions.

Scan Electron Microsc, 1986, (Pt 1), 157 - 64
Surface morphology of unused and used Hydromer-coated intravenous catheters; Bylock A et al.; Hydromer-coated polyurethane (Erythroflex) catheters, unused, or intravenously inserted for 2-20 days, were studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) . Both unfixed and fixed (2% glutaraldehyde in phosphate buffer), and air-or critical-point dried (CPD) specimens were investigated . The catheter segments were sputter-coated with approx . 20 nm gold and studied at an accelerating voltage of 20 kV . The specimens were examined for surface depositions, thickness and structure of the Hydromer layers, and occurrence of adhering and embedded bacteria . The outer Hydromer layer showed, in the unused specimens, scratches and fissures, as well as adhering foreign bodies . In used specimens, the layer was swollen, with cracks (like "dried earth"), and, occasionally, amorphous substances and coccoid bacteria were seen adhering . Damage to the layer, or even its total disappearance was also noted in some specimens . The inner (luminal) Hydromer layer was, in unused specimens, clean and slightly wavy . In used catheters, it was thicker, possibly swollen, with small, isolated or agglomerated protrusions, like a "lunar landscape" . Adhering platelets and amorphous substances were also occasionally seen . The results suggest that the Hydromer is a fragile material in both its dry and wet forms . Thus, the Hydromer-coated catheters should neither be stored in flexible packs, nor inserted by the Seldinger technique . The findings do not support the belief that the Hydromer-coating can prevent either thrombus formation, or intraluminal occlusion of the in-situ catheters.

Zhonghua Zhong Liu Za Zhi, 1986 Jan, 8(1), 42 - 4
{Morphology of fungi in the slides prepared from esophageal balloons}; Liu SF; 1,762 cases were selected at random from 17,000 persons screened by esophageal balloon in 4 communes of Linxian County . The morphologic appearance of fungi was studied in 4 slides of each case selected . According to the shape of clumps formed by fungi and bacteria in the slides, morphologic 4 types were seen: cotton-like, camel hair-like, hair-like and tree-branch-like . In the preliminary microscopic analysis, the following species of fungi were noted: Candida, Leptothrix, Actinomyces, Alternaria, Fusarium and Penicillium . Some of the fungi in the slides may have been taken from the oral or pharyngeal cavity, which may be due to, at least in part, the poor oral hygiene in the population examined . A positive association was shown between the quantity of fungi in the slides and the esophageal epithelial dysplasia and carcinoma, but its biological significance should be studied further.

Hybridoma, 1986 Summer, 5(2), 93 - 105
Variations in the secretion of monoclonal antibodies by human-human hybridomas; Gaffar SA et al.; A series of human-human hybridomas derived from a single fusion of UC 729-6 with lymph node lymphocytes were examined for the type and nature of macromolecules synthesized and secreted . One hybrid, VLN3G2, secreted fourfold higher IgG than that present in the cytoplasm over 4 days of growth, while the IgM distribution was opposite to that of IgG . VLN5C7, contrary to VLN3G2, contained several-fold more cytoplasmic IgG as well as IgM than the amounts secreted over the same period of time . Of the secreted IgG and IgM by both of these hybridomas, only the IgG showed immunoreactivity against target A431 cell surface antigen(s) . Another hybridoma, termed VLN1H12, secreted immunoreactive IgM against target A431 cells, but no detectable IgG . Cytoplasmic proteins prepared by repeated freeze-thaw of the hybridoma cells, membrane proteins obtained by NP-40 extraction of the cell membrane, and secreted proteins present in the supernates of the various hybridomas were assayed by an enzyme-linked immunoassay (ELISA), to understand the discrepancy observed in the immunoglobulins of the cellular and extracellular compartments . The parental UC 729-6 cell line used in these cell fusions produced only trace amounts of immunologically inactive IgM and no detectable IgG . Molecular sieving column chromatography of these hybridoma supernates suggested the presence of intact IgG and IgM molecules and the absence of free heavy chains or hybrid antibodies containing both mu and gamma heavy chains . Intrinsic labeling of VLN3G2 hybridoma cells with 35S-methionine demonstrated the presence of not only a nonimmunoglobulin protein but also a small molecular weight protein-A-binding polypeptide in the culture supernatant . 35S-methionine-incorporated IgG and IgM antibodies, isolated from spent media, cytoplasm, and cell membranes of VLN3G2, also showed binding to protein-A-bearing bacteria . In conclusion, the differences observed in the amounts of secreted MAbs by the human-human hybridomas were not due to the decreased synthesis of these molecules.

Gegenbaurs Morphol Jahrb, 1986, 132(2), 183 - 94
{Histological, ultrastructural and topochemical studies on the brood care of Symphysodon aequifasciatus Pellegrin 1903}; Bremer H et al.; In the period of brood care, the epidermis of the genus Symphysodon has a trophical function . Compartment-like filament-containing surface layer cells and secretocytes of different degree of maturity are the first nourishment for the young larvae . Because of the modifications on the outer surface, the larvae are able to take in epidermal nourishment . Epibiotical bacteria on the epidermis of the adults and other epibiotical organisms are found in the intestine of the larvae.

Arkh Patol, 1986, 48(3), 30 - 8
{Role of neutrophils and macrophages in localizing purulent infection}; Paukov VS; Early stages of bordering the focus of purulent and aseptic inflammation in man and in experimental animals are studied with a particular analysis of the role of polynuclear neutrophils (PNN) and macrophages (MP) in this process . Two variants of a purulent inflammation are studied: widespread diffuse (peritonitis) and circumscribed (abscess) . Aseptic diffuse peritonitis and circuscribed inflammation of muscles are studied as control . Methods of light and electron microscopy are used . It is shown that in a purulent and aseptic inflammation a phylogenetically predetermined reaction develops which is directed to the localization and limitation of an inflammatory focus . This response is brought about by blood cells--PNN and MP--between which an interconnection exists stipulated by their function . PNN are the first to appear in the inflammatory focus and their main function is to reveal the presence or the absence of the infection, localization and destruction of bacteria . Macrophages appear in the inflammatory focus later, their function is in the circumscription of the focus and in the stimulation of the connective tissue capsula around the purulent zone or the development of scar in the aseptic inflammation.

Skeletal Radiol, 1986, 15(3), 209 - 12
Periostitis and osteomyelitis in chronic drug addicts; Taylor CR et al.; Periostitis and osteomyelitis can occur in drug addicts not only by hematogenous dissemination of the infecting organisms, but as a result of introduction of bacteria by direct injection into periosteum or injection through infected skin and subcutaneous tissues . A spectrum of examples of osteomyelitis of the bones of the forearm in drug addicts is presented to illustrate this phenomenon . Neglect of these infections and the trauma of continued injections can lead to extensive tissue and bone loss.

Bull Soc Pathol Exot Filiales, 1986, 79(1), 114 - 22
{Epidemiologic study of acute infantile gastroenteritis in New Caledonia}; Brethes B et al.; In a test area (suburbs of Noumea), a survey on acute infantile gastro-enteritis showed an annual incidence of 2.2% and a hospitalization rate of 27.5% . The 0 to 23 months age group was the most exposed . The factors of severity were: a low age, a high frequency of liquid stool, vomits, fever and associated acute respiratory infection . The etiologic diagnosis was possible in 76% of cases: 49.5% enteropathogens (22% bacteria, 27.5% viruses), 26.5% non-intestinal infections . The asymptomatic carriers were 11.5% for bacteria and 27.4% for viruses . In regard to epidemiology, the housing hygiene, the potable water supply and the presence of suitable water closet were over 90% . On the contrary, the individual hygiene was neglected, especially the hand washing . The pathogens are transmitted by the dirty hands of asymptomatic carriers . Mass media campaigns and health education of parents and children are the recommended prophylactic measures.

Rev Argent Microbiol, 1986, 18(3-4), 97 - 103
{Plasmid content in strains of Azospirillum sp.}; Giraudo A et al.; In this work, the plasmid content of 22 strains of A . brasilense and 7 of A . lipoferum, isolated from different regions of Argentina was analyzed . Of the several methods for the extraction of plasmids, a modification of that of Kado and Liu was found to be the most appropriate for the isolation of a larger number of high molecular weight plasmids . Out of 29 strains analyzed, 26 were found to contain between one and four plasmids, all of them of high molecular weight (Figure 3, Table 1); 44% of the plasmid-containing strains showed one large plasmid of similar electrophoretic mobility and of approximately 100 Mdal.

Med Hypotheses, 1986 Jan, 19(1), 1 - 6
Primary adult lactose intolerance protects against development of inflammatory bowel disease; Nanji AA et al.; We have compared the incidence of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) to the prevalence of lactose malabsorption (LM) in several countries . Our observations indicate that IBD is rare where LM is highly prevalent . The correlation between incidence of Crohn's disease and LM is -0.93, p less than 0.01, the correlation between incidence of ulcerative colitis and LM is -0.89, p less than 0.01 . We, therefore, propose that LM results in the formation of volatile fatty acids which may inhibit multiplication of potentially pathogenic organisms.

Biosensors, 1986, 2(5), 287 - 300
Can biosensors help to protect drinking water?
Evans GP, Briers MG, Rawson DM.
A large proportion of drinking water is abstracted for treatment from lowland rivers--about 30% in the UK--and this water is at particular risk from sudden and poisonous industrial or agricultural pollution . To cover the range of potential pollutants it may be possible to use biosensors as broadband monitors for toxins . The underlying assumption is that some biological processes, when challenged with a toxin, will be affected in a way analogous to that of man, and that therefore on-line scrutiny of such processes will provide early warning of substances liable to be detrimental to human health . Suitable processes for study might involve multi-cellular organisms, whole cells or enzymes . To date, most practical work has concentrated on fish, but enzymes and single cells hold out the promise of quicker response and, possibly, easier maintenance.

Biomed Pharmacother, 1986, 40(10), 392 - 8
An original method for submacroscopic metastases visualization in cases of cancer minimal residual disease; Le Pape A et al.; Scintigraphic imaging due to its sensitivity is in many cases one of the most powerful techniques for demonstrating metastases . Severe limitations still exist in cancer when it is necessary to detect the presence of a few tumour cells in the residual minimal disease . In preliminary experiments it had been observed that an immunomodulator isolated from Nocardia bacteria (Nocardia Soluble Peptidoglycan Derivative: NSPD) electively bound to a model of activated macrophages . An hypothesis has been put forward that the enhanced detection of macrophages that are usually present in the vicinity or inside tumours should represent a polyspecific test for scintigraphy of a variety of metastases . NSPD radiolabelled with 99mTechnetium is not usable when injected intravenously due to its physiochemical properties . It has therefore been encapsulated into liposomes then administered via the respiratory tract as an aerosol . Amphiphilic properties, as well as its low molecular weight allow a rapid diffusion of NSPD in blood . Scintigraphy of metastases was possible from 1.5 to 6 hours after inhalation . The first stage of the study was carried out on 5 patients bearing known metastases (skin, lymph nodes, bone) from malignant melanoma that all were imaged with 99mTc-NSPD . The test was then applied to patients with a high risk of recurrent cancers (melanoma: 6, breast tumour: 7) based on the detection in their plasmas of high Lipid Associated Sialic Acid (LASA) concentrations . The association of these two sensitive techniques has resulted in the detection of very small metastases that were not seen using conventional scintigraphy; they were then confirmed histologically.

Toxicon, 1986, 24(11-12), 1153 - 7
A study of toxin production by Gambierdiscus toxicus in culture; Durand-Clement M; The dinoflagellate Gambierdiscus toxicus was cultivated under different environmental conditions . By an improved toxin extraction procedure the toxicity of methanol extracts was evaluated . Medium composition, temperature decrease, origin (clonal or not clonal) and culture age did not significantly modify toxin production . The discharge of trichocysts and the abundance of bacteria did not affect the toxicity of the dinoflagellate . The toxin yield of G . toxicus cultures was quite stable and a mean of 1100 cells were sufficient to kill one 20 g mouse within 24 hr.

J Free Radic Biol Med, 1986, 2(3), 155 - 73
Intracellular proteolytic systems may function as secondary antioxidant defenses: an hypothesis; Davies KJ; In recent years it has become clear that various free radicals and related oxidants can cause serious damage to intracellular enzymes and other proteins . Several investigators have shown that in extreme cases this can result in an accumulation of oxidatively damaged proteins as useless cellular debris . In other instances, proteins may undergo scission reactions with certain radicals/oxidants, resulting in the direct formation of potentially toxic peptide fragments . Data has also been gathered (recently) demonstrating that various intracellular proteolytic enzymes or systems can recognize, and preferentially degrade, oxidatively damaged proteins (to amino acids) . In this hypothesis paper I present evidence to suggest that proteolytic systems (of proteinases, proteases, and peptidases) may function to prevent the formation or accumulation of oxidatively damaged protein aggregates . Proteolytic systems can also preferentially degrade peptide fragments and may thus prevent a wide variety of potentially toxic consequences . I propose that many proteolytic enzymes may be important components of overall antioxidant defenses because they can act to ameliorate the consequences of oxidative damage . A modified terminology is suggested in which the primary antioxidants are such agents as vitamin E, beta-carotene, and uric acid and such enzymes as superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and DT-diaphorase . In this classification scheme, proteolytic systems, DNA repair systems, and certain lipolytic enzymes would be considered as secondary antioxidant defenses . As secondary antioxidant defenses, proteolytic systems may be particularly important in times of high oxidative stress, during periods of (primary) antioxidant insufficiency, or with advancing age.

Adverse Drug React Acute Poisoning Rev, 1986 Winter, 5(4), 215 - 33
Quinine toxicity; Bateman DN et al.; PIP: The currently recognized toxic effects of quinine in humans are identified and the problems of management of overdosage of quinine are discussed . Quinine, available therapeutically as sulphate or hydrochloride salts, also is widely used in tonic water, and there are several case reports of allergic reactions to the drug when a patient has consumed the drug in this way . Another unintentional source of poisoning is its use as an adulterant in heroin for "street" use . This appears to be a problem in the US . Quinine, termed a "general protoplasmic poison" is toxic to many bacteria, yeasts, and trypanosomes, as well as to malarial plasmodia . Quinine has local anesthetic action but also is an irritant . The irritant effects may be responsible in part for the nausea associated with its clinical use . In addition it has a mild antipyretic effect . Several features are common to both an acute single overdose in self-poisoning and accumulation of quinine during therapy for malaria: together they are termed cinchonism . Auditory symptoms, gastrointestinal disturbances, vasodilatation, sweating, and headache occur with moderately elevated plasma quinine concentration . As these rise, increasingly severe visual disturbances and then cardiac and neurologic features occur . Mild nausea may be the only symptom, but with large overdoses profuse vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea may occur . These result from a combination of the local irritant effect of quinine on the gut and the central effects of quinine on the chemoreceptor trigger zone . Vasodilatation and sweating are well recognized, and tinnitus is common . Visual symptoms usually are delayed, and blindness may not be discovered for a day or more . Aspirin-sensitive patients, and others, may develop angioedema by nonimmunological mechanisms in response to drugs, and quinine has been reported to produce pseudo-allergic reactions in aspirin-sensitive patients . Quinine also can cause drug-induced thrombocytopenia and purpura . In patients suffering with malaria due to "Plasmodium falciparum," anemia and acute intravascular hemolysis with renal failure are recognized complications . There appears to be little evidence in the literature in support of the folk tradition of quinine as an inducer of abortion . Quinine is known to cause deterioration in patients with myasthenia gravis and erythema multiforme, to stimulate insulin release in patients receiving treatment for falicparum malaria, and to be responsible at times for ataxia following moderate overdosage . Clinically, quinine poisoning is observed in 3 situations: self-poisoning; accidentally; and following use of quinine in excessive doses in the hope of achieving abortion . Treatment courses are reviewed .

Dig Dis, 1986, 4(1), 1 - 12
Intestinal gas formation and the use of breath measurements to monitor the influence of diet and disease; Brydon WG et al.; With the development of sophisticated physiological and biochemical analytical techniques and intestinal gas analysis, both direct, e.g . Argon washout and indirect, e.g . breath measurements of H2 and labelled CO2 derived from intestinal metabolism, greater understanding of the influence of diet on intestinal gas production and the development of diagnostic procedures for identifying causes of malabsorption have evolved . The use of stable isotopes and different probe molecules will see even greater developments in this field in the years ahead.

Arch Toxicol Suppl, 1986, 9, 225 - 36
Application, limitations and research requirements of in vitro test systems in toxicology; Greim H et al.; There is increasing application of in vitro-test systems for toxicological evaluation of chemicals, which became possible by increasing understanding of the biological endpoints present in such systems and their capability for metabolic activation and inactivation . This communication focuses on the capacities of metabolic activation and inactivation in mutagenicity test systems, using bacteria, mammalian cells in culture and isolated hepatocytes . Bacterial test procedures with S-9-fraction are specific metabolic activation systems with low inactivation capacity . Mammalian cells are either deficient in metabolic activities or contain only limited activation capacity although special cell lines derived from hepatoma cells express certain metabolic activation as well as inactivation reactions . Isolated hepatocytes contain enzymatic activities similar to those in the intact liver, which however decrease at different rates . It is the goal of present research to construct cell lines with defined and sufficient activities of these enzymes . In isolated hepatocytes chemically induced DNA repair can be readily detected when a clear discrimination between mitochondrial, semiconservative and repair synthesis is provided . In such systems genotoxicity of reactive oxygen species is decreased by physiological concentrations of alpha-keto-acids, pyruvate possessing the highest antioxidant activity . It is concluded that in vitro test systems provide a suitable tool for detecting genotoxic and toxic effects of chemicals . However, many biological parameters such as metabolic activity, degree of differentiation of the cells, cofactor requirement, and composition of the medium affect the reliability of the test system . Thus, only a detailed understanding of the biology and biochemistry of such test allow production of reliable and reproducible results.

Zentralbl Gynakol, 1986, 108(21), 1282 - 8
{Humoral aspects of mucous membrane immunity--perspectives for the female genital tract}; Briese V; Mucosal immunity of the female genital tract is a part of the "Common mucosal immunity" . It is possible to induce local antibodies in the female genital tract by means of oral immunization . From these investigations new perspectives in terms of immunoprophylaxis against bacterial, viral an parasitic infections come into consideration for clinical use . In the case of bacterial infections IgA blocks the attachment of pathogens to relevant mucosal tissues and cells . Predominant among the immune mechanisms is the occurrence of secretory antibodies in the fluids that bath mucosal membranes . Secretory IgA (S-IgA) is an 11S molecule (MW 390,000) consisting of two IgA monomers covalently bonded by joining chain (J chain) and complexed to one molecule of SC.S-IgA ist the main immunoglobulin of mucosal surface . A medically important group of bacterial pathogens produce IgA1 protease cleaving only IgA1 proteins . S-IgA is resistant to protease hydrolysis . The secretory component (SC) is an epithelial cell receptor for the transport of IgA dimers, polymers and IgM polymers . Systemic suppression after oral antigen application has been demonstrated with a variety of thymic-dependent antigens, including heterologous erythrocytes, haptens, and various soluble proteins . Tolerance is mediated by antigen specific T suppressor cells (Ts) . Suppressor cells first appear in the gut associated lymphoid tissue and subsequently migrate to systemic sites . At present immunoglobulin estimations in secretions are of clinical importance regarding supporting diagnostic tool of mucosal infections.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Respiration, 1986, 50 Suppl 1, 56 - 73
Antiproteases and antioxidants: strategies for the pharmacologic prevention of lung destruction; Hubbard RC et al.; Proteolysis and oxidation are processes which play a central role in the pathogenesis of emphysema . Hereditary factors, including alpha 1-antitrypsin deficiency, and environmental exposures, such as to cigarette smoke, coal dust and bacteria, are associated with a high risk for the development of emphysema through their interactions with proteolytic and oxidative processes within the lung . Because of the key roles of oxidation and proteolysis, reasonable strategies for the prevention of lung destruction in high-risk individuals include such therapeutic interventions as augmentation of lung levels of alpha 1-antitrypsin and the administration of antioxidants.

Eksp Onkol, 1986, 8(6), 9 - 15, 74
{Factors affecting 3H-thymidine incorporation into cells synthesizing DNA}; Kotel'nikov VM; Potential sources of errors in 3H-thymidine use in cell proliferation studies are reviewed . Many factors affect the uptake of this agent into newly synthesized DNA: predominance of denovo and salvage pathways of thymidilate biosynthesis, activity of certain enzymes, size of thymidilate and TTP endogenous pools, differences in 3H-thymidine utilization rate during S-period, its catabolism in cell and tissue culture systems, degradation by bacteria, its reutilization in vivo and in vitro, effects of the isotope activity, of the exposition time of autoradiographs and of the beta-particles absorbance in the specimen . Practical recommendations are given to avoid these errors.

Polim Med, 1986, 16(1-2), 55 - 61
{The search for an "ideal" surgical dressing}; Kleczynski S et al.; Trials of a new occlusive dressing, Op-site (Smith Nephew), were conducted on a group of patients . Op-site is a fine, transparent, elastic, self-adhesive polyurethan film . Although non-porous and therefore water- and bacteria-proof, it is permeable to gases . The existing dressings fulfil only a few of the criteria of an "ideal" dressing and in some cases actually interfere with the healthy process . The main disadvantages are: the disturbance of newly formed epithelium, when many dressings are removed, their fibres become embedded in the new tissues and cause inflammation and delayed healing . Few dressings are true bacterial barriers and the hazard of infection of the wound is always present . Recent studies of the mechanism of wound healing have indicated that a moist, not dry surrounding provides the optimum conditions for wound repair . Healing under Op-site is said to be quicker because the serous exudate permits unhindered migration of new cells across the wound bed and prevents cellular dehydration . In contrast, under dry conditions healing is delayed because the new skin cells must first cleave a path through dehydrated dermis before migrating across the wound . The Op-site wound dressing can be readily applied over the joints and allows complete freedom of movement . The skin remains dry and the wound moist, providing the ideal environment for rapid healing . The film does not adhere to the moist wound and can therefore be removed without damage to the newly formed epidermis . The adhesive is low allergic . Finally, the wound can be assessed without removing the transparent Op-site.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Scand J Gastroenterol Suppl, 1986, 122, 17 - 21
Potential hazards of hypochlorhydria in the treatment of peptic ulcer; Axon AT; The introduction of ulcer-healing drugs that do not induce hypochlorhydria--the main aim of therapy thus far--has led to the consideration of the possible disadvantages of acid secretion inhibition . Potential dangers are that micro-organisms destroyed by the normal stomach survive and proliferate in the stomach and small intestine . The incidence of gastric cancer is higher in pernicious anemia and after partial gastrectomy . It has been suggested that the intragastric bacteria may convert dietary nitrate into nitrite that may then be nitrosated to carcinogenic N-nitroso compounds . The third potential hazard is the development of stagnant loop syndrome in patients treated with H2 antagonists . In a double-blind randomised trial of colloidal bismuth subcitrate (CBS) versus cimetidine in duodenal ulcer, gastric juice was aspirated for pH measurement . There was a significant increase in the total number of bacteria isolated during cimetidine treatment (P less than 0.01) and an increase in nitrate-reducing organisms (P less than 0.05), but no change in the CBS group . It is concluded that there may be advantages in using ulcer-healing drugs that do not reduce H+ concentration.

Intensive Care Med, 1986, 12(5), 340 - 9
Plasma fibronectin: relevance for anesthesiology and intensive care; Doran JE et al.; Plasma fibronectin has been postulated to be an essential mediator of normal reticuloendothelial system (RES) function . The acute depletion of fibronectin is thought to impair RES function, whereas its repletion in states of deficiency has been reported to improve RES function . In vitro studies have documented fibronectin's ability to bind to some nonbacterial microaggregates and to promote the phagocytosis of bound targets by the RES . These properties may, however, be influenced by the in vivo milieu . There is substantial evidence for a parallelism between RES function and plasma fibronectin levels following blunt trauma in animal models; however, this association is not seen in experimentally induced intravascular coagulation, acute inflammation, and sepsis . Clinically, subnormal fibronectin levels are clearly associated with the triad of intravascular coagulation, organ failure and sepsis . Fibronectin is, however, not the only plasma protein reduced in these patients, nor is it an outstanding predictor of such complications . The therapeutic efficacy of fibronectin administration remains controversial . Whereas initial reports suggested therapeutic benefits of fibronectin-enriched cryoprecipitates, subsequent studies have produced negative results . Prospective, randomized, controlled clinical trials with purified fibronectin are needed before fibronectin should be recommended as an adjunct to the established principles of intensive care.

Acta Microbiol Hung, 1986, 33(1), 43 - 9
Immunofluorescence characterization of Legionella: narrow specificity of polyclonal immunsera to various serogroups and species; Lebrun L et al.; This study was to determine by direct fluorescent antibody staining with antibodies prepared in rabbits, the degree of cross-reactions between serogroups of Legionella pneumophila (1 to 6) and the other antigenic species of Legionella (L . bozemanii, L . dumoffii, and L . micdadei), in order to increase the accuracy of diagnosis and to allow us to reduce the number of conjugates . The polyclonal antibodies were highly species and serogroup-specific without absorption for characterization of Legionella either in patient specimens or in isolated cultures by direct fluorescent antibody staining . No cross-reaction was observed with non-legionella bacteria isolated from sputum specimens . A battery of conjugates for different serogroups and species is necessary for increasing the accuracy of diagnosis of legionellosis.

Indian J Lepr, 1986 Jan-Mar, 58(1), 29 - 37
Presence of "difficult to isolate" mycobacteria in armadillos; Dhople AM et al.; Contrary to the findings with armadillos from Louisiana and Texas, armadillos from Florida are free of natural leprosy-like infection . Examination of ear clip, nasal, blood buffy coat, liver and spleen of inoculated armadillos from Florida did not reveal the presence of any acid fast bacteria . However, using massive inocula, 6 out of 77 armadillo tissues were found to contain very negligible proportions of cultivable mycobacteria . The significance of these isolates in relation to M . leprae and also to leprosy research is discussed.

Med Cutan Ibero Lat Am, 1986, 14(3), 171 - 6
{Childhood acropustulosis . A study of 10 cases}; Lowy G et al.; Ten cases of infantile acropustulosis were studied clinically, in laboratory and histopathologically . There was no racial predominance . In most of the cases the lesions started in the first 6 months of life and were located mainly on the feet severe itching . Was a constant symptom . Laboratory studies were negative for fungus, bacteria and acarus . Atopy was found in 20% of the cases and 30% of the families . Blood eosinophiles was found in 70% of the lesions.

Med Cutan Ibero Lat Am, 1986, 14(3), 153 - 6
{Epidemiology and pathogenesis of donovanosis}; Pradinaud R; Thirty three cases of donovanosis have been observed at the Dermatology Department of Cayenne's Hospital between 1970 and 1982, only in black people . The high frequency of rectal lesions of passive homosexual patients and the vagina contamination in women without sexual intercourse postulate for the intestinal reservoir of the bacteria, and the possibility of auto-inoculation . There is probably a cellular immune deficit . Donovanosis is often associated with other diseases, and in our practice in French Guyana, with leprosy . The skin of the genitalia is the most frequently infected, the mucosa generally resistant . The intracellular life of the "Donovan bodies" "Calymmatobacterium granulomatosis"--in the cytoplasm of large mononuclear cells seems an argument for an anergic disease.

Trans Ophthalmol Soc U K, 1986, 105 ( Pt 1), 18 - 25
The defences of the ocular surface; Bron AJ et al.; Bacterial infection may be responsible for mild self-limiting disease, chronic disease or acute and devasting ocular destruction . This paper and those that follow deal with some of the clinical forms of disease which are encountered, the bacteria responsible, the mechanism of invasion and the natural defences and clinical management, including selection and delivery of antibiotics.

J Gen Microbiol, 1986 Jan, 132 ( Pt 1), 133 - 41
Surface properties of Treponema pallidum in relation to phagocytosis by human polymorphonuclear leucocytes in vitro; Cockayne A et al.; Surface charge and hydrophobicity of Treponema pallidum have been investigated in relation to phagocytosis by human polymorphonuclear leucocytes (PMNs) in vitro . The treponemal surface was relatively hydrophobic and negatively charged but despite these properties, phagocytosis, as assessed by luminol-enhanced chemiluminescence, was minimal in the absence of serum . Preopsonization of bacteria with serum reduced surface hydrophobicity but promoted phagocytosis, suggesting that specific immune mechanisms may be more important in controlling phagocytosis of T . pallidum in vitro than non-specific surface properties . T . pallidum evoked a much weaker chemiluminescence response from PMNs than the non-pathogenic treponeme Treponema phagedenis biotype Reiterii even though similar numbers of bacteria were phagocytosed, suggesting differences in the reactivity of the surface components of the two organisms toward PMNs . The reactivity of T . pallidum towards PMNs could be increased by removal of the bacterial outer membrane by Triton X-100 treatment . These observations reinforce the suggestion that the outer surface of T . pallidum is inherently inert.

Annu Rev Med, 1986, 37, 49 - 59
The role of the spleen in resistance to infection; Bohnsack JF et al.; The spleen serves two major critical functions in protecting against bloodstream bacterial infections--it is a phagocytic filter that removes bacteria from the bloodstream and it is an antibody-producing organ . Although the liver appears to remove the majority of well-opsonized bacteria from the bloodstream, the spleen plays an important role through its ability to sequester bacteria that are not as well opsonized and, thus, is of critical importance in the nonimmune host . The spleen may also be critical in the production of opsonizing antibodies, which are important for the rapid and efficient removal of bacteria from the bloodstream.

Zentralbl Chir, 1986, 111(5), 241 - 51
{Should the injured spleen be preserved?}; Wayand W et al.; Splenectomy is primarily followed by reduced defence against infection due to encapsulated bacteria, such as pneumococci . Organ preservation, therefore, has been emphasised in the treatment of traumatic rupture of the spleen, especially when it comes to patients in childhood . There are several practicable approaches to orthotopic preservation of the spleen, including conservative treatment of patients for smallest ruptures under stringent clinical control and, even more, fibrin sealing . Growth in accurate knowledge of the segmental structure of the spleen have enabled partial removal of the organ along the poorly vascularised intersegmental regions . Autologous transplantation of splenic pulp into the major omentum should be considered an alternative to splenectomy alone in strictly selected cases of massive splenic rupture.

Leuk Res, 1986, 10(4), 437 - 43
Recognition of a granulocyte-specific membrane protein by monoclonal antibodies; de Jong JG et al.; Using membranes isolated from leukemic myeloblasts as immunogen, two granulocyte specific monoclonal antibodies 38D2 and 41D2 were developed . The antibodies are positive in membrane immunofluorescence with granulocytes and bands; they give no reaction with monocytes, platelets, leukemic myeloblasts, lymphoblasts, myeloid cell lines, and immature myeloid cells from bone marrow . Both monoclonal antibodies precipitate the same membrane glycoprotein (MW: 70-78 kd, pI: 6-7), which corresponds to a membrane glycoprotein characteristic for granulocytes, as concluded from two-dimensional polyacrylamide gelelectrophoresis patterns obtained from surface labelled myeloid cells . The monoclonal antibodies did not influence the granulocyte functions tested: phagocytosis of opsonized bacteria, chemiluminiscence after stimulation with various stimuli, and chemotaxis.

Crit Rev Clin Lab Sci, 1986, 23(1), 15 - 34
Fibronectin: applications to clinical medicine; Snyder EL et al.; In summary, the role of fibronectin in clinical medicine is not yet certain . Correlation of sepsis and organ failure with decreased fibronectin levels is still to some degree questionable; controlled clinical trials are urgently needed . The risk of hepatitis, AIDS, and other transfusion-transmitted diseases must be balanced by data substantiating the clinical efficacy of fibronectin therapy . To date, no results from controlled trials using purified fibronectin have been reported . Final judgement must be reserved pending results of appropriate human studies . It is likely, however, that even if fibronectin is proven to be clinically useful, the patient population which will achieve some benefit from its use will be restricted to septic and/or critically ill patients . As noted by Mosher and Grossman however, physicians treating such patients would likely welcome any new and effective therapeutic intervention.

Semin Hematol, 1986 Jan, 23(1), 8 - 26
The role of platelets in the development and complications of atherosclerosis; Packham MA et al.; Although lipids have received most attention in relation to atherosclerosis, vessel injury also has a role in the development of atherosclerotic lesions . Thrombi that form at sites of injury can be incorporated into the wall, causing thickening, and platelets that adhere to damaged vessel walls release a growth factor (PDGF) that stimulates smooth muscle cell proliferation . The early lesions of atherosclerosis are focal and develop around vessel orifices and branches in relation to the patterns of blood flow and areas of increased permeability and endothelial cell damage . Platelets also contribute to the complications of advanced atherosclerosis caused by occlusive thrombi, thromboembolism, and spasm . The causes of vessel wall injury are not established, although there is evidence pointing to disturbed blood flow, hypertension, antigen--antibody complexes, complement, materials originating from platelets and white blood cells, bacteria, endotoxin, viruses, smoking, dietary lipids, homocystinemia, diabetes, other metabolic disorders, and stress . Platelets do not adhere to intact endothelium, but they adhere to the constituents of the subendothelium, release the contents of their granules (including PDGF), and form thromboxanes . If blood flow is disturbed, platelet--fibrin thrombi can form at sites of injury . Platelet adherence to a damaged wall does not require von Willebrand factor except under conditions of high wall shear . Repeated injury of a vessel wall leads to the development of lipid-rich atherosclerotic lesions, even in normocholesterolemic animals, but these lesions do not form if the experimental animals are made thrombocytopenic before injury is induced . Measurable changes in platelets that are associated with the clinical complications of atherosclerosis include shortened survival, release of granule contents (platelet factor 4, beta-thromboglobulin, thrombospondin), formation of thromboxanes, and decreased buoyant density . "Antiplatelet drugs" such as aspirin are proving to be beneficial in selected groups of patients, such as those with unstable angina . Thromboxane synthetase inhibitors and agents that block the thromboxane receptor on platelets are under investigation . Long term administration of "antiplatelet drugs" to affect the rate of development of atherosclerosis seems neither feasible nor desirable . Modification of dietary and smoking habits and control of hypertension are more likely to be beneficial for most individuals.

J Bone Joint Surg Br, 1986 Jan, 68(1), 151 - 3
An investigation into contamination of operative suction; Greenough CG; A study of the contamination of suckers used during total hip replacement has been undertaken . Thirty suckers used throughout the operation had their tips cultured: from 11 of these bacteria were grown . The organisms found were those which have previously been implicated in deep infection of total hip replacements . In subsequent operations a further 31 suckers were used for cleaning only the femoral shaft; of these only one was contaminated . This suggests that sucker contamination is related to how long the sucker is in use; consequently it is recommended that a new sucker be used for the preparation of the femoral shaft.

Arch Toxicol Suppl, 1986, 9, 127 - 37
The case for isogenic strains in toxicological screening; Festing MF; The fundamental principle of the controlled experiment is that treated and control groups should be identical, with minimal within-group variability . Toxicologists recognise this and control age, body weight, disease and the physical environment of the test animals . However most toxicological screening in done with genetically variable outbred stocks, even though isogenic inbred strains, F1 hybrids or identical siblings are usually available . The result is poor experiments with the inevitable genetic differences between groups resulting in increased false positive and negative results, and no indication that the response is under genetic control . It is also illogical to treat genetic variation differently from other types of variation . The argument that it is essential to use outbred animals to model outbred man is illogical . If bacteria can be used to model man (as in the Ames test), so can inbred animals . The uncontrolled variation present in an outbred stock can not be used efficiently to increase the range of phenotypes tested because it also introduces "noise" which obscures experimental effects . The use of two or more isogenic strains gives a much more efficient experimental design with low "noise" and an indication of whether the response is under genetic control . Inbred and F1 hybrid strains (but not identical siblings) have the added advantage of an immortal genotype which outlives any individual animal . Such immortal genotypes may be studied in detail to gather background information . Toxicologists should treat genetics like every other variable and control it, using several isogenic strains in cases where testing needs to be done on more than one genotype.

Swed Dent J Suppl, 1986, 39, 1 - 36
Dental pulp inflammation; experimental studies in human and monkey teeth; Warfvinge J; Data from several studies performed during the last 15 years indicate that bacteria and their products are the main etiological factor for dental pulp inflammation . The present series of investigations was conducted in order to determine the irritating effect from various oral bacterial components and restorative measures on dental pulpal tissue and to ascertain reaction patterns of inflamed pulp tissue . The different bacterial materials were tested in an experimental model where the test substance was applied and enclosed in buccal class V cavities prepared in human or monkey teeth . The pulp tissue response was evaluated from tooth specimens after both short (8 hours) and long time (150 days) challenge with the test substance . Intra and extra cellular components from pure bacterial species, cell wall material and a crude mixture of 8 bacterial species were used as representative test materials for oral bacteria associated with growth on or in dentin . Silicate cement restorations were also used as a pulp irritating restorative procedure . The degree of pulpal inflammation was classified according to a descriptive method . In order to obtain a better evaluation method for pulp tissue reactions, a stereo morphometric technique was developed . This method was used in the last study to evaluate the pulp tissue reactions to silicate cement restorations after dentin treatment with calcium hydroxide . The chemotactic effect of the different bacterial materials were also tested in wound chambers implanted in the back of rats . Results from these studies showed that components from different bacterial species had varying capacity to induce pulpal inflammation over cut dentin . The severity of the early inflammatory response was not altered after decomplementation . The tested bacterial products had a similar chemotactic effect on the pulp tissue as on ordinary connective tissue . If the pulp was challenged with bacterial products for a long time period, healing and repair were frequently found, although if the pulp tissue was primary severely inflamed . The inflammatory reactions and repair patterns in human teeth were similar to those of monkey teeth . Treatment of exposed dentin with calcium hydroxide reduced the pulp irritating effect of silicate cement restorations, but induced only limited volumes of irregular secondary dentin formation.

Avian Dis, 1986 Jan-Mar, 30(1), 24 - 7
Development and application of genetically engineered viral vaccines of poultry; Carlson JH; Recombinant DNA techniques may completely revolutionize the way vaccines are developed and used . They offer potentially purer, safer, and greater efficacy than many currently used vaccines . This paper describes the various current approaches being used to develop recombinant vaccines . Genes are being cloned into bacteria, yeast, viruses, and eukaryotic cells . Synthetic polypeptides of specific epitopes are also covered . Scientific, practical, economic, and government approval to use recombinant vaccines in the field is also discussed.

Curr Genet, 1986, 10(10), 733 - 9
The cellular level of yeast ribosomal protein L25 is controlled principally by rapid degradation of excess protein; elBaradi TT et al.; When the gene dosage for the primary rRNA-binding ribosomal protein L25 in yeast cells was raised about 50-fold, the level of mature L25 transcripts was found to increase almost proportionally . The plasmid-derived L25 transcripts were structurally indistinguishable from their genomic counterparts, freely entered polysomes in vivo and were fully translatable in a heterologous in vitro system . Nevertheless, pulse-labelling for periods varying from 3-20 min did not reveal a significant elevation of the intracellular level of L25-protein . When pulse-times were decreased to 10-45 s, however, we did detect a substantial overproduction of L25 . We conclude that, despite the strong RNA-binding capacity of the protein, accumulation of L25 is not controlled by an autogenous (pre-)mRNA-targeted mechanism similar to that operating in bacteria, but rather by extremely rapid degradation of excess protein produced.

Boll Ist Sieroter Milan, 1986, 65(6), 538 - 43
{New findings on the immunology of bronco-82}; Brugo MA et al.; The effect of Bronco-82 treatment, a bacterial polyvalent vaccine, was determined on some of the most significant parameters of the immune response, i.e . PHA-induced blastogenesis, secretory IgA levels, IL 2 receptor expression, human T-cell activation antigen (MLR 3) and gamma-interferon production . The results obtained pointed out a high immunostimulating activity of the vaccine on the parameters considered . Some aspects of the complex immunomodulating effects of Bronco-82 are discussed.

Scan Electron Microsc, 1986, (Pt 2), 687 - 702
Correlative scanning electron microscopy in the study of human gastric mucosa; Bonvicini F et al.; We studied two aspects of the human gastric mucosa: the surface morphology of mucous cells, as viewed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM); the glycosidic components of intracellular mucins, characterized by means of lectins . The latter were conjugated with fluorescein isothiocyanate and with colloidal gold-silver for the visualization of the reaction products in light microscopy (LM) and in SEM (backscattered mode) respectively . The surface morphology of mucous cells appears to be correlated to the secretory state . In gastric ulcers we found a prevalence of non-secreting cells . A decrease in glycosidic receptors for fucose-binding lectin and galactose-(1-3)-N-acetyl-galactosamine-binding lectin was also observed . This suggests the presence of an impaired mucus secretion which may play a role in the pathogenesis of gastric ulcer . Spiral bacteria, supposed to be aetiologically related to peptic ulcer and gastritis, were easily detected by SEM . Intestinal metaplasia defined "complete" in LM showed surface morphology and glycosidic components different from those of true intestinal mucosa . This implies the necessity of taking into account also these parameters when classifying this lesion . The same applies to polyps . Our data indicate that correlative SEM may contribute further information on the pathogenesis and pathology of gastric diseases.

Biosystems, 1986, 19(2), 127 - 35
Ciliates from a fresh water sulfuretum; Dyer BD et al.; Ciliates were collected from a freshwater sulfuretum, Lake Ciso, which is part of a gypsum karstic area whose main feature is Lake Banyoles (Girona, Spain) . Chromatium, Lamprocystis and Chlorobium are the major phototrophic sulfur bacteria in Lake Ciso . Blooms of a photosynthetic cryptomonad (up to 5 X 10(5) ind ml-1) were found at the metalimnion . The community of ciliates could be divided in three groups: aerobic, cosmopolitan, genera such as Stentor and Vorticella, in the epilimnion; a large population (up to 10(4) ind ml-1) of Coleps, adapted to low concentrations of both oxygen and sulfide, together with a few individuals of the equally sulfide-tolerant genus Paramecium, in the metalimnion, and anaerobic, true sulfide-loving genera such as Plagiopyla and Metopus, in the hypolimnion, where sulfide concentration was between 0.6 and 1.2 mM.

Ann N Y Acad Sci, 1986, 465, 15 - 25
Genetic control of macrophage responses; van Furth R et al.; A short review of current concepts concerning the origin and kinetics of monocytes and macrophages is given, and the humoral regulation of monocyte production by FIM, a factor synthesized and secreted by macrophages, is discussed . Genetic control of the responsiveness of monocyte precursors to FIM and that of the phagocytosis and intracellular killing of bacteria is dealt with.

J Biochem Biophys Methods, 1986 Jan, 12(1-2), 1 - 28
Methods of physical labels--a combined approach to the study of microstructure and dynamics in biological systems; Likhtenstein GI et al.; The physical principles of several new approaches to the investigation of biological and model systems are discussed, including versions of the spin label method based on relaxation measurements, and also the methods of triplet, Mossbauer, electron-scattering and radical-pair labels and probes . It is shown that all these methods make it possible to investigate molecular mobility of the medium with the correlation frequencies tau c-1 = 10(-3) -10(11) s-1, to measure the rate constants of collisions Ktr = 10(3) -10(10) M-1 s-1, to measure the distance between centers up to 100 A and finally, to evaluate the immersion depths of paramagnetic and chromophore centers in matrices up to 40 A . The combined approach is demonstrated with examples from studies of the structure of nitrogenase, the reaction centers of photosynthetic bacteria and sarcoplasmic reticulum membranes and from studies of the molecular dynamics of proteins and membranes.

Scan Electron Microsc, 1986, (Pt 2), 393 - 413
The study of biominerals by high resolution transmission electron microscopy; Mann S; This paper presents an overview of the study of the ultrastructure of biogenic inorganic solids (biominerals) using high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) . A range of biominerals have been studied including iron oxides, calcium phosphates, calcium carbonates and silica . The studies have revealed information concerning the structural complexity of these materials and have identified crystallographic order and disorder at the nanometre level . In addition, the results have aided the elucidation of the mechanisms of nucleation and growth of biogenic minerals.

Neurotoxicology, 1986 Summer, 7(2), 53 - 67
Neurotoxicity of Bordetella pertussis; Pittman M; Pertussis is a unique disease in which the harmful effects are mediated by an exotoxin that effects stimulation of the adrenergic system which is neuronally controlled . The interdependence of the growth of bacteria and toxin production, and the local colonization of the bacteria that precedes the clinical symptom of the disease reflect the nature of the disease . Pertussis toxin enzymatically alters the function of numerous regulatory cells that is demonstrable, after an interval of time, by a specific stimulus . The toxin also may act rapidly and effect action at a target tissue . The latter appears to be associated with the rapid adverse events after vaccination whereas both may occur in the disease . The pathophysiologic responses associated with specific clinical symptoms have not been clearly defined . Responses to be evaluated relative to encephalopathy are increased vascular permeability, hypoglycemia and enhanced activity of neuronal glutamate and aspartate . The intensity of responses is related to the amount of pertussis toxin available, genetic susceptibility, ethnic and allotype, and external factors . The reason for the non-linear dose response shown by the critical level between the sublethal and the lethal infection in mice is unclear . Bacterial adenylate cyclase may be a candidate . Much remains to be elucidated about the enzymatic pathways that effect the many disparate events, the identity of the neurons that effect the clinical symptoms and their CNS location, the identity of the neuronal transmitters and the pathoneuronal pharmacodynamics.

Neoplasma, 1986, 33(5), 545 - 50
Bovine leukosis virus: recloning of specific DNA fragments; Zajac V et al.; DNA fragments generated by Bam HI restriction endonuclease digestion of the provirus of bovine leukosis virus (BLV) was recloned in several plasmids . Recombinant plasmids containing X-region, env gene and a part of pol gene were prepared in pBR322, and in a plasmid containing promotor PR . Fragments env gene and a part of pol gene inserted were also into the pSV2-dhfr plasmid which has the both bacterial and eukaryotic promotors together with the gene for folic acid reductase . The expression possibility of these inserted BLV sequences either in mammalian cells after transfection or in bacteria is now tested.

Chromosoma, 1986, 93(6), 537 - 44
Human cellular sequences detectable with adenovirus probes . I . Evidence for novel repeat sequences and a possible E1a-like cellular "gene"; Braithwaite AW et al.; Previous studies suggesting homology between human cellular DNA and the DNAs from adenovirus types 2 and 5 are extended in the present paper . A clone (ChAdh), isolated from a human genomic DNA library using an adenovirus probe, hybridized to discrete regions of adenovirus 2 DNA, including part of the transforming genes E1a and E1b, as well as to repeated sequences within human DNA . The E1a and E1b genes both hybridize to the same 300 base pair Sau3AI fragment within ChAdh although there is no obvious homology between E1a and E1b . The Ad 2 E1a gene was also used as a probe to screen other cellular DNAs to determine whether repeated sequences detectable with Ad2 DNA probes were conserved over long evolutionary periods . Hybridization was detected to the genomes of man, rat, mouse and fruit fly, but not to those of yeast and bacteria . In addition to a "smear" hybridization, discrete fragments were detected in both rodent and fruit fly DNAs . The experiments reported suggest the existence of two different types of cellular sequences detected by Ad 2 DNA: (1) repeated sequences conserved in a variety of eukaryote genomes and (2) a possible unique sequence detected with an E1a probe different from that responsible for hybridization to repeated sequences . This unique sequence was detected as an EcoRI fragment in mouse DNA and had a molecular size of about 8.8 kb.

Med Biol, 1986, 64(1), 1 - 7
Free radicals and anti-inflammatory drugs; Vapaatalo H; It is widely accepted that oxygen radicals and other activated oxygen species are potent mediators or modulators of acute and chronic inflammation . They are common products of cellular metabolism, where their concentrations are controlled by different protective mechanisms such as superoxide dismutase, catalase etc . In addition to their destructive effects on various macromolecules, oxygen radicals or their products are beneficial e.g., in killing bacteria . Oxygen radicals are also closely related to arachidonic acid metabolism, prostanoids (cyclo-oxygenase pathway) and leukotrienes (lipoxygenase pathway) as well as to lipid peroxidation in general . Also, the classical mediators of inflammation, histamine and bradykinin, may be connected with the release of oxygen radicals . In addition to the earlier described inhibition of formation of prostanoids, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can inhibit production of free radicals or scavenge those already formed . Antirheumatic penicillamine and allopurinol used in the treatment of gout also act on oxygen radicals . New anti-inflammatory compounds with antioxidant properties will be developed in the near future.

Virologie, 1986 Jan-Mar, 37(1), 23 - 8
Virological investigations in adults with acute pneumonia; Paun L et al.; Virological investigations (immunofluorescence reactions and isolation attempts with pharyngeal exudate specimens, as well as serological tests) were performed in 110 adult patients with pneumonia . Viral or inframicrobial agents were involved in 70 (63.7%) of the cases, either alone (27 cases) or in association with bacteria (43 cases) . Parainfluenza and adenoviruses were most frequently encountered both in the cases with mixed (viral + bacterial) and in those with strictly viral pneumonia . Mycoplasma pneumoniae accounted for 11% of the cases; the role of chlamydial and rickettsial germs was insignificant.

Miner Electrolyte Metab, 1986, 12(1), 71 - 83
Use of cultured renal tubular cells in the study of cell injury; Wilson PD; The use of various types of cultured mammalian renal tubular epithelial cells in the study of cell injury has been reviewed . Permanent cell lines, primary explant cultures, monolayers from individually microdissected tubules, isolated cells and organ cultures have been used . In the majority of studies, cultured cells of normal tissue origin have been treated with a noxious agent and alterations in growth, morphology, biochemical and immunological properties studied . Earliest studies examined infection by parasites and bacteria and the effects of plant and bacterial toxins, carcinogens, metabolic and transport inhibitors, cytoskeletal perturbants, general inhibitors of protein, glycoprotein, DNA and RNA synthesis . More recent studies have concentrated on the effects of specific nephrotoxins, such as heavy metals and aminoglycoside antibiotics and of ischemia which have bearing on the pathogenesis of acute renal failure . An additional approach has been to culture diseased renal epithelia of cystic, diabetic or tumor origin and compare their properties with those of normal cultured tubular epithelia . Future studies using cultured renal tubular cells will be valuable in elucidating the cellular and subcellular mechanisms of renal epithelial cell injury in disease.

CRC Crit Rev Biochem, 1986, 20(1), 73 - 137
Protein translocation across and integration into membranes; Rapoport TA; This review concentrates mainly on the translocation of proteins across the endoplasmic reticulum membrane and cytoplasmic membrane in bacteria . It will start with a short historical review and will pinpoint the crucial questions in the field . Special emphasis will be given to the present knowledge on the molecular details of the first steps, i.e., on the function of the signal recognition particle and its receptor . The knowledge on the signal peptidase and the ribosome receptor(s) will also be summarized . The various models for the translocation of proteins across and the integration of proteins into membranes will be critically discussed . In particular, the function of signal, stop-transfer, and insertion sequences will be dealt with and molecular differences discussed . The cotranslational mode of membrane transfer will be compared with the post-translational transport found for mitochondria and chloroplasts . This review will conclude with open questions and an outlook.

J Cell Biol, 1986 Jan, 102(1), 298 - 305
Breakdown of self/nonself recognition in cannibalistic strains of the predatory slime mold, Dictyostelium caveatum; Waddell DR et al.; Dictyostelium caveatum amebas feed upon both bacteria and the amebas of other cellular slime molds . The capacity to feed extensively upon other cellular slime molds is unique to D . caveatum amebas . They are able to phagocytose amebas larger than themselves by nibbling pieces of the cells until they are small enough to ingest . Here we report the isolation from previously cloned stock cultures of stable, cannibalistic strains of D . caveatum in which self/nonself recognition has broken down . Because of the extensive cannibalism, amebas of these strains do not complete multicellular development, and instead wander about for long periods while feeding upon each other . Although the cannibalistic behavior resembles that exhibited by the presumably diploid giant cells in the sexual cycle of other cellular slime molds, these strains are haploid and do not form macrocysts.

Nephron, 1986, 44(3), 219 - 25
Suppressor resident peritoneal macrophages and peritonitis incidence in continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis; Lamperi S et al.; Our study was designed to see if peritoneal macrophages (PM) of continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) uremic patients, by weakening local defense, could contribute to an increase of peritonitis incidence . Coincubation of nonadherent control responding cells (NACRC) and PM from normal subjects or CAPD patients with low peritonitis incidence (LPI) did not modify blastogenic response of cells to PHA . Coincubation of NACRC and PM from CAPD patients with high peritonitis incidence (HPI) produced noticeable decrease in blastogenic response; these PM, unable to produce normal amounts of Interleukin-1 (IL-1), released large amounts of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) . CAPD patients with LPI and normal subjects produced both substances in similar amounts . PM of CAPD patients with HPI were less able to kill bacteria than those from normal subjects and CAPD patients with LPI, showing a stronger suppressor effect on local defense . This suppressor activity correlated directly to PGE2 release and inversely to IL-1 production . We can hypothesize that in some uremic patients, subpopulations of macrophages growing in response to local stimuli produce humoral substances, negatively affecting cellular-mediated defense and favoring elevated bacterial expansion in peritoneum.

J Clin Periodontol, 1986 Jan, 13(1), 6 - 10
Treatment of the periodontal component of Papillon-Lefèvre syndrome; Tinanoff N et al.; A 9-year-old girl was treated for the periodontal component of Papillon-Lefevre syndrome, an autosomal recessive disease characterized by palmarplantar hyperkeratosis and premature loss of teeth . Initially, the patient was found to have a polymorphonuclear leukocyte chemotactic dysfunction, defective leukocyte adherence, and deep periodontal pockets harboring presumptive periodontopathic bacteria . After unsuccessful treatment with combined mechanical therapy and 2 different antibiotics, all of the patient's erupted teeth were extracted in an attempt to minimize the chance of infection of teeth yet to erupt . At age 16 years, the now-erupted teeth have normal gingiva and crevice depths, radiographs show no evidence of periodontal pathology, no periodontopathic bacteria are detected in gingival crevices, and leukocyte function is normal.

Virchows Arch B Cell Pathol Incl Mol Pathol, 1986, 52(2), 169 - 76
Identification of fibronectins in peritoneal macrophages during the phagocytosis of Brucella . An immunocytochemical study by electron microscopy; Gay B et al.; Fibronectin is a high-molecular-weight molecule whose opsonic properties favor the endocytosis of bacteria and particulate material . Using immunolabeling with anti-fibronectin IgGs coupled with peroxidase, we have looked for its localization in peritoneal macrophages from antigenically stimulated and nonstimulated mice . Ultrastructural location of fibronectin in macrophages sheds light on several points . It confirms that it is synthesized and secreted by mouse peritoneal macrophages . In addition, we found significant variability among the cells of a given population, and also between populations from stimulated and nonstimulated animals . Under certain conditions macrophages secrete an extracellular matrix whose aspect varies with the physiological conditions, but which generally consist of fibronectins either on a fibrillar network connecting the macrophages to one another or in an agglutinating extracellular cement . Endocytosis of Brucella by macrophages is accompanied by secretion of fibronectin inside endocytic vacuoles; this secretion contributes to the formation of an electron-dense material closely surrounding phagocytosed bacteria.

Drugs, 1986, 32 Suppl 1, 1 - 11
Sulphasalazine: a review of 40 years' experience; Watkinson G; Sulphasalazine, devised by Dr Nana Svartz for the treatment of 'infective polyarthritis', has been used in the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease for more than 40 years . Many controlled trials have shown that sulphasalazine 4g daily will induce remissions in between one-half and three-quarters of patients with acute attacks of ulcerative colitis . When given in a dosage of 2g daily it will prevent relapses in quiescent colitis . Relapses are 5 times more likely in untreated patients . It is less effective in Crohn's disease, where it exerts only a transient benefit in patients with active colonic disease and fails to prevent relapse or recurrence . Sulphasalazine is absorbed from the small intestine, re-excreted in bile and carried to the colon, where its azo bond is split by bacteria to release sulphapyridine, which is absorbed and is responsible for most of the drug's side effects, and 5-aminosalicylic acid, which is the active therapeutic moiety of the drug and exerts a beneficial topical action on the colonic mucosa . Side effects are common but are mainly reversible and not serious . Those related to high concentrations of sulphapyridine and to poor acetylation of the drug include gastrointestinal intolerance, malaise, headache, arthralgia, drug fever, effects on red blood cells and reversible male infertility . More serious, idiosyncratic side effects are skin rashes, leucopenia and agranulocytosis . Rarely, neurotoxicity, hepatotoxicity, polyarteritis, pulmonary fibrosis, a lupus-like syndrome and haemorrhagic colitis are produced . It is possible to desensitise most patients with drug-induced skin rashes . A number of less toxic alternatives to sulphasalazine have been devised and are undergoing trial . They either convey 5-aminosalicylic acid in a coated tablet to the colon or, when conjugated to a non-toxic carrier, release 5-aminosalicylic acid by bacterial cleavage there . Sulphasalazine remains a most useful drug in the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease after 40 years of use.

Teratog Carcinog Mutagen, 1986, 6(3), 245 - 50
Uptake by cells of nucleic acids promoted by compounds sharing the pleiotropic effects of poly(ethylene glycol); Klebe RJ et al.; Poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) is a member of a group of membrane active compounds that have pleiotropic effects on cells, eg, promotion of cell fusion, induction of erythroleukemia cell differentiation, and protection of cells from freezing damage . Since PEG has recently been shown to be an efficient promoter of genetic transformation in bacteria, yeast, and mammalian cells, studies were carried out to determine whether other PEG-related compounds could also promote genetic transformation . In this study, 24 compounds, which behave like PEG in other biological systems, are shown to promote transfection of human cells with isolated poliovirus RNA . That PEG and other commercially important compounds promote transfection indicates that such compounds may represent a biohazard to man.

Dev Comp Immunol, 1986 Spring, 10(2), 269 - 72
Hormones, neurosecretions, and growth factors as signal molecules for intercellular communication; Sicard RE; Chemical signals, whether in the form of hormones, neurosecretions (neurotransmitters and neuropeptides), or growth factors and chalones are used to communicate information to cells at all stages of their life cycle . These signals inform the cells when it is time to progress through developmental change, when to change the rates of various activities (e.g . metabolism or contraction), and, in some cases, even when it is time to die . Throughout all of these interactive exchanges, the signal molecule itself carries no intrinsic message of a universal nature . The chemical identity of the signal molecule has meaning only for those cells competent to receive the signal (i.e . does it possess an appropriate receptor?) . Moreover, it is the nature of the cell receiving the signal (itself the product of innumerable previous encounters with signals from other cells) that dictates the specific response that a particular signal will evoke . The signal emitted by the communicating cell only informs the target cell that it is time to act in a manner consistent with that signal . The majority of the discussion has been from the perspective of vertebrate organisms . Moreover, of necessity, the discussion has been general and superficial . The primary objective of the preceding discussion has been to underscore major similarities and differences existing among hormones, neurosecretions (neurotransmitters and neuropeptides), and growth factors as information-bearing substances used in communication among vertebrate cells . It should be realized that similar means of communication are employed by multicellular invertebrates, by plants, and even by single-celled organisms such as the protists and bacteria.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

J Hosp Infect, 1986 Jan, 7(1), 74 - 7
A re-evaluation of the pour plate blood culture method for the detection of Candida and other septicaemias; Cross AJ et al.; Over a 1-year period the use of a pour plate in detecting significant septicaemias due to bacteria and fungi was evaluated and compared with a conventional broth blood culture system . Of 207 significant bacterial blood culture isolates only 113 (56%) were detected by the pour plate . However, three out of four candidaemias were detected by the pour plate method alone . Despite its low positivity rate, the pour plate is cheap and allows for early detection of bacteraemia and candidaemia.

Comp Biochem Physiol A, 1986, 83(2), 243 - 8
Scaling of energy metabolism in unicellular organisms: a re-analysis; Prothero J; The database used by Hemmingsen (1960) to compute energy metabolism in unicellular organisms was reassembled and submitted to linear (log-log) analysis . As Hemmingsen noted, this data set includes marine zygotes, which are not unicellular organisms . If no temperature correction factors are applied to the data the best-fit regression line has a slope of 0.698 +/- 0.024 . Application of the temperature correction factors assumed to have been used by Hemmingsen gave a slope of 0.756 +/- 0.021, identical to the value he reported . The correlation coefficient is 0.97 . The mean scatter about the regression line exceeds 100% . A revised set of temperature correction factors gave a slope of 0.730 +/- 0.021, suggesting that the value of almost exactly three-quarters obtained by Hemmingsen was probably fortuitous . The slope of the best-fit regression line is very sensitive to the inclusion of bacteria and flagellates . When the data points for these organisms are omitted from the calculation the slope decreases to 0.645 +/- 0.045 . When the data points for bacteria, flagellates and marine zygotes are omitted, the slope drops to 0.608 +/- 0.025 . The correlation coefficient (0.97), compared to the best-fit line reported by Hemmingsen, is unaffected; the mean deviation about the regression line drops to 40% and the points are evenly distributed about the regression line . Because of the small number of species for which measurements have been made, the existing database relating energy metabolism to cell size is not representative of unicellular organisms generally . It is concluded that the case for a three-quarters power rule expressing energy metabolism as a function of size in unicellular organisms generally is not at all persuasive.

Arkh Patol, 1986, 48(8), 77 - 80
{Detection of cationic proteins and peroxidase in semithin sections}; Pigarevskii VE et al.; A method of histochemical identification of cationic proteins, peroxidase, viable and killed bacteria in semithin sections of biopsy samples is suggested . The method is based on dying of araldite-embedded semithin sections with a buffered alcohol solution of fast green (pH 8.15) and on peroxidase identification with O-dianisidine . The method suggested can be used for distinguishing occult forms of infectious gastritis, evaluation of secretory and barrier function of gastric epithelium, selective dying of leucocytes in tissues, revealing of viable and non-viable bacteria in the infective foci.

Arkh Patol, 1986, 48(7), 82 - 4
{Method of staining for lysosomal cationic proteins in histological paraffin sections of biopsies}; Pigarevskii VE et al.; A method is suggested for a histochemical and immunofluorescent detection of lysosome cation proteins in the histologic paraffin sections of biopsies . The method is based on the staining of histologic sections obtained from the material fixed in glutaraldehyde buffered with an alcohol solution of a fast green (pH 8.1-8.2) and on the detection myeloperoxidase and lactoferrine by means immune serum by Coons's method . 0.25% solution of azur A (B, C) is used for staining the cell nuclei and viable bacteria.

J Cyclic Nucleotide Protein Phosphor Res, 1986, 11(2), 87 - 97
Do porins inhibit the macrophage phagocyting activity by stimulating the adenylate cyclase?
Di Donato A, Draetta GF, Illiano G, Tufano MA, Sommese L, Galdiero F.
Porins interact with macrophage membranes and inhibit their phagocyting activity . We have tested the porin effect on a biologically relevant membrane-bound enzymic activity, the adenylate cyclase system, which appears to be stimulated both in the presence of Mn2+ and Mg2+ or Mg2+ + Gpp(NH)p . Moreover, for mice macrophages incubated in the presence of porins, there is an increase in the intracellular cAMP content after 5 min of incubation, with a maximum after 15 min of incubation . The results shown suggest that the porin effects on the adenylate cyclase can represent the molecular basis of the porin-dependent inhibition of the macrophages phagocytosis . Our point of view, which proposes a cAMP role in inhibiting the phagocyting activity in macrophages, is supported also by the results of the experiments carried out in the presence of both dibutyryl-cAMP or aminophylline . The phagocyting activity is inhibited in all cases and independently of the bacteria to be phagocyted.

Biosystems, 1986, 19(2), 105 - 9
A target theory description of the chemical inactivation of membrane functions; Margineanu DG; The basic ideas of target theory (currently employed in radiobiology) are applied to describe the chemical inactivation of any biological function arising from the summation of a large number of identical individual contributions . A general equation giving the fractional survival of a biological activity as a function of the mean number of hits received by each target from the inactivating molecules and on the number of individual targets forming the functional assemblies is established . It properly accommodates phenomena as diverse as the decrease by anesthetics of the compound action potential in nerve trunks, the inhibition by protein cross-linking reagents of the active transport of sodium across epithelia and the killing of bacteria by disinfectants . This approach seems able to extract molecular level information from macroscopic data.

Exp Cell Biol, 1986, 54(2), 89 - 93
Histochemical detection of ubiquinone in neutrophil polymorphonuclear leucocyte granules; Lee JA; Neutrophil polymorphonuclear leucocytes contain a special electron transport chain which is involved in the killing of bacteria in these cells . Identified components of the chain include NADPH, a flavoprotein dehydrogenase and an unusual cytochrome b, but there has been recent disagreement in the biochemical literature as to whether or not an ubiquinone is also present . This study has looked at this question by using an independent histochemical technique for ubiquinones . The results indicate that an ubiquinone is found in association with neutrophil granules, and hence may be implicated in the radical generating system.

Crit Rev Toxicol, 1986, 16(3), 213 - 306
Toxicological aspects of cyclamate and cyclohexylamine; Bopp BA et al.; In the late 1960s the artificial sweetener cyclamate was implicated as a bladder carcinogen in rats . This finding and other concerns about its safety ultimately led to a ban on cyclamate in the U.S . and restrictions on its use in many other countries . Since that time, the carcinogenic potential of cyclamate and cyclohexylamine, its principal metabolite, has been reevaluated in a group of well-controlled, well-designed bioassays that have failed to substantiate the earlier findings . This review of the published and unpublished literature on cyclamate attempts to evaluate the carcinogenicity question and other important aspects of the toxicity of cyclamate and cyclohexylamine, including their effects on various organ systems, their genotoxic potential, and their effects on reproduction . In addition, the physiological disposition of cyclamate is reviewed, with particular attention directed toward the site and extent of its conversion to cyclohexylamine.

Biomaterials, 1986 Jan, 7(1), 67 - 72
Chemical and physical properties of a hydrogel wound dressing; Kickhofen B et al.; Geliperm hydrogel provides optimal physiological conditions for wound healing . The material is composed of two interlaced networks, one of polyacrylamide and one of agar, and contains about 96% firmly bound water . It is supplied in smooth, elastic, transparent sheets which are impermeable to bacteria but permeable to gases, salts, metabolites and proteins . Geliperm is nontoxic and has no irritative properties . Mechanical properties, water retention and diffusion of dyes and proteins are reported . Bacterial size should preclude penetration of the gel . The hydrogel in granular form represents a coherent material which could be used in deep fissured wounds and for the treatment of injuries with a large amount of exudation and contamination.

Arzneimittelforschung, 1986, 36(1), 157 - 61
Nucleic acids as analytes in laboratory diagnosis; Wulff K; The method of nucleic acid hybridization opens up new possibilities in laboratory diagnosis . This method, which enables us to assay for definite nucleic acid sequences in the specimen, has the advantage of high specificity and a strong binding force between the analyte nucleic acid and the nucleic acid probe . So far this method primarily works with radioactive labels . The development of non-radioactive detection systems suited for routine laboratories with sufficient sensitivity is still at its origin . One broad field of application for nucleic acid hybridization is the detection of the genome of certain viruses or bacteria in the specimen . Another more future oriented potential of these methods lies in the investigation and diagnosis of inborn errors of metabolism.

Mol Biol (Mosk), 1986 Jan-Feb, 20(1), 5 - 20
{Splicing . I . Splicing of tRNA, rRNA and mRNA in organelles}; Kavsan VM; Mosaic structure of genes is shown for three out of four known types of RNA: transfer, ribosomal and messenger . At least three different mechanisms are involved in maturation of transcripts from these genes . The peculiarity of tRNA splicing is connected with the possibility of existence of tRNA molecules free of ribonucleoprotein complexes . The mode of Tetrahymena pre-tRNA self-splicing may also take place during maturation of other RNAs (rRNA of protozoa, ribosomal and messenger rRNA of lower fungi, plant messenger rRNA), which share the similar structure . The third type of mechanism is involved in splicing messenger RNA in eukaryotic cell nuclei.

J Biochem Biophys Methods, 1986 Jan, 12(1-2), 73 - 80
Use of superparamagnetic particles for isolation of cells; Kronick P et al.; This report describes the preparation and characterization of synthetic ferritin-like particles produced by precipitation of magnetite from a mixture of ferrous and ferric ions in the presence of dextran . The 3-nm diameter particles, containing magnetite cores surrounded by chemisorbed dextran, had a magnetization of 46.7 emu/g of iron with Mossbauer quadrupole splitting of 2 delta = 0.76 mm/s . The application of these particles as a laboratory reagent for isolation of Legionella from other water bacteria was successfully tested . A 400-fold enrichment for Legionella was obtained.

J Clin Periodontol, 1986 Jan, 13(1), 19 - 26
Proteases and their inhibitors in chronic inflammatory periodontal disease; Sandholm L; This article reviews the current knowledge of the sources, function and interactions of proteolytic enzymes and their inhibitors in chronic inflammatory periodontal disease . Proteolytic tissue degradation is a typical phenomenon in chronic inflammatory periodontal disease . The proteolytic enzymes can be both host- and bacteria-derived . The proteases of the inflammatory cells are aimed for digestion of bacteria, enhanced locomotion through connective tissue, demarcation of the site of infection and tissue remodeling . Uncontrolled release of proteases in inflammation causes self-digestion and tissue destruction . The potential of the bacterial proteases in degradation of connective tissue is not yet known . Biochemical and immunologic mediators of inflammation are released by proteolytic reactions . Immunoglobulin-cleaving proteases present a specific mechanism in perturbation of host defenses . The 2 main protease inhibitors in serum, alpha-1-antitrypsin and alpha-2-macroglobulin, are also present in the gingival tissue fluid guarding the function of proteases . It has been suggested, although not confirmed, that deficiency in serum protease inhibiting capacity could be correlated with susceptibility to periodontal disease . Mucous secretions contain local low molecular weight protease inhibitors, but their possible role in saliva is not known . Bacteria-derived, antiproteolytic short peptides may prove to be useful in pharmacological control of tissue destruction at inflammatory sites.

J Am Vet Med Assoc, 1985 Dec 15, 187(12), 1377 - 9
Uterine rupture as a postpartum complication in two mares; Brooks DE et al.; Uterine rupture was diagnosed in 2 postpartum mares with hemorrhagic vaginal discharge . Both mares had abdominal pain, as evidenced by pawing, kicking at the abdomen, or attempting to roll . Peritoneal fluid analysis was useful in establishing a diagnosis . One mare had many RBC in the peritoneal fluid and was anemic; this mare was managed medically with oxytocin, antibiotics, and blood transfusion . The mare was able to raise her foal to weaning age . The second mare had many RBC, degenerate neutrophils, and intracellular and extracellular bacteria in peritoneal fluid . Surgical repair of the uterus was performed, and the mare was treated for peritonitis . The mare later became pregnant.

J Biol Chem, 1985 Dec 5, 260(28), 15204 - 10
The gene encoding the large subunit of human RNA polymerase II; Cho KW et al.; As a first step to approach the structural and functional analysis of DNA-dependent RNA polymerase II (EC 2.7.7.8), we have isolated genomic sequences for the large subunit of the human enzyme . The sequences homologous to Drosophila RNA polymerase II large subunit sequences are present in the genome as single copy genes, when assayed at high stringency . The polypeptide information is encoded in a mRNA of 7.35 kilobases, as determined by Northern blot analysis . In vitro translation reveals a polypeptide of 220 kDa, similar in electrophoretic mobility to the largest subunit of the enzyme . A fusion-polypeptide synthesized in bacteria contains a region that cross-reacts with anti-RNA polymerase II antiserum . Antiserum directed against the purified fusion protein reacts with the large subunit of RNA polymerase II, whether in the intact IIA (220 kDa) or in the degraded IIB (180 kDa) forms . Moreover, the antifusion protein antibody inhibits not only the purified calf thymus RNA polymerase II activity but also specific RNA polymerase II transcription in a HeLa cell extract . Thus, the DNA fragment isolated contains structural and functional domains of the human RNA polymerase II large subunit.

Biochemistry, 1985 Dec 3, 24(25), 7178 - 82
Coenzyme A biosynthesis: steric course of 4'-phosphopantothenoyl-L-cysteine decarboxylase; Aberhart DJ et al.; 4'-Phosphopantothenoyl-L-cysteine decarboxylase (PPC decarboxylase) was partially purified from rat liver . 4'-Phosphopantothenoyl{2-2H1}-L-cysteine was synthesized and converted by PPC decarboxylase to 4'-phosphol{1-2H1}pantetheine . The product was degraded by reduction with Raney nickel followed by acidic hydrolysis to {1-2H1}ethylamine . The latter was converted to the (-)-camphanamide derivative, NMR studies of which revealed that the deuterium was located in the pro-1S position . Also, unlabeled 4'-phosphopantothenoyl-L-cysteine was incubated with PPC decarboxylase in D2O, giving, after degradation, the (-)-camphanamide of (1R)-{1-2H1}ethylamine . The results show that the decarboxylation takes place with retention of configuration . These results are discussed in terms of possible mechanisms for the decarboxylation.

Zentralbl Bakteriol Mikrobiol Hyg {B}, 1985 Dec, 181(6), 513 - 24
{Effect of parting surfaces on the transmission of airborne organisms at junctions between areas of different hygienic standards}; Burchard HU et al.; Parting surfaces between areas having different standards of hygienic requirements, represent naturally the weak points in the hygienic conception of operating theatres . These boundary areas between the operation room on the one hand and the adjoining entrance lock for the staff on the other are of specific interest in this connection . While opening the connecting doors, dust particles may be whirled up due to turbulence, thermic, constructional and other effects, which are difficult to be identified and may then settle down directly on the operating area after reaching there from the entrance lock through the airways . Since bacteria are in most cases attached to particles, it may be assumed that each air flow loaded with dust particles is also a potential carrier of air-borne germs (contact germs----contaminated dust particles----air borne germs----settling germs) . Therefore, the present paper is to be understood as a contribution towards the application of methods for identifying air-borne routes of infection in the operating area and finding ways and means for their elimination . In comparison with the investigations done by Esdorn and Kanz during simulated and operating activities respectively, the experiments described in this paper have been carried out while the operating theatre was not running . It is to be assumed that even under these tranquil conditions, parting surfaces appear to act as permanent disturbing factors . Transmission of germs from the entrance lock for the staff to the operating room is only then possible, if the doors suffer functional disturbance and the entrance lock is found hygienically in objectionable condition . Functional measures regarding construction aim, therefore, at the principle of clear-cut separation of the clean side from the unclean in the design and running of operating theatres, as specified in the guidelines of the Bundesgesundheitsamt . The constructional conception of entrance lock can contribute to achieving almost automatically the necessary hygienic provisions . One of the principle purposes of air-handling systems in operating theatres is to keep a protecting pressure in areas with very high hygienic requirements in relation to those with lower standards of air cleanliness . Air-flow must always follow the direction from the clean to the less clean areas (2, 4, 9, 22, 24, 26, 30) . A British-Scandinavian multi-centre study of ultra-clean air and sepsis following total hip replacement (19) showed that the risk of nosocomial infection increases directly with the air contamination.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)

Zh Mikrobiol Epidemiol Immunobiol, 1985 Dec, (12), 27 - 30
{Gastroenteritis of a nonbacterial nature in Sverdlovsk children}; Zakirova SF et al.; The analysis of the results of the clinico-epidemiological and laboratory examination of children with clinical manifestations of acute gastroenteritis, admitted to specialized hospitals in Sverdlovsk during 1982-1983, showed that morbidity rate in Sverdlovsk was determined mainly by cases registered among children during the first 2 years of their life . Morbidity rate among children aged up to 1 year was 3-6 times higher than that among children of other age groups . Cases of gastroenteritis among children not belonging to organized groups were observed 3.9 times more frequently than in organized groups of children . Gastroenteritis of viral etiology constituted 50% of all nonbacterial enteric infections in young children, the course of gastroenteritis being more favorable in children aged up to 3 months than in older children . 54% of gastroenteritis cases in children aged up to 1 year and 71% of such cases in children aged 1-2 years proved to be of rotavirus etiology.

J Pediatr Surg, 1985 Dec, 20(6), 696 - 702
The valved conduit prevents ascending cholangitis: a follow-up; Reynolds M et al.; Reflux of bacteria-laden intestinal contents into the biliary tree can be prevented by an intussuscepted valve in an isolated segment of jejunum interposed between the porta hepatis and the duodenum . This method of bile duct reconstruction was adopted in 1979 and since then has been used in 17 children with biliary atresia and 9 with choledochal duct cysts . Those with choledochal duct cysts are well . Follow-up HIDA scans demonstrate normal bile flow, and ultrasound examinations have not revealed dilated bile ducts . Bile flow was established in 13 infants with biliary atresia and was persistent in 8 . Two expired because of unrelated problems between 2 to 6 months postoperatively . One of these children developed cholangitis, but at autopsy the nipple valve was incompetent . Six children currently have normal serum bilirubin levels and are clinically well . The average postoperative stay for these patients was 7.5 days . Three were rehospitalized for brief periods for suspected cholangitis which was not proven . Bile flow was never established in 4 babies and was present only briefly in 5 . Five of these children died of progressive liver failure and one from unrelated causes . Two have had liver transplants, and a third is awaiting transplantation.

Rhinology, 1985 Dec, 23(4), 297 - 302
Nasal hypersensitivity in wood furniture workers; Wilhelmsson B et al.; Occupational nasal allergies were studied in six wood furniture factories . The concentration of moulds, wood dust and endotoxins was registered and occasionally high values were found . Paecilomyces spec . was the most common mould . A special questionnaire showed that 16% (42/268) of the wood workers with a mean exposure time of 12 years had a history compatible with hypersensitivity in the upper airways associated to their work . Rhinomanometric investigations showed mucosal congestion in the workers with nasal discomfort and nasal clearance was pathologically slow in 54% . Histological studies revealed a high incidence of unciliated and metaplastic nasal epithelium . Skin prick tests and provocation tests with standard allergens and allergens prepared from the moulds and the wood dust in the environment showed that the wood furniture workers had an incidence of allergy to moulds in 3% and to wood dust in 2% . Most of the workers sensitive to moulds and/or woods were also skin prick sensitive to other allergens . No statistical difference concerning the presence of precipitating antibodies against mould and wood antigens could be registered between workers with discomfort and workers without symptoms.

Proc Soc Exp Biol Med, 1985 Dec, 180(3), 513 - 7
Lipolytic activity of purified pituitary and bacterially derived growth hormone on chicken adipose tissue in vitro; Campbell RM et al.; The ability of growth hormone (GH) to stimulate lipolysis was examined using chicken abdominal adipose tissue explants incubated in vitro and purified pituitary and bacterially derived chicken and bovine GH . Consistently in the fourth hour of incubation, lipolysis (as determined by glycerol release) was increased by the presence of GH (1 micrograms/ml), irrespective of pituitary or bacterial derivation or of chicken or bovine origins . This effect of GH was observed with adipose tissue originating from young (6-8 weeks old) intact and hypophysectomized chicks and adult (6-9 months old) male chickens . Glycerol release was also enhanced by lower doses of GH (10 ng/ml with tissue from young and 100 ng/ml with tissue from adult chickens).

Am J Med, 1985 Dec, 79(6), 717 - 21
D-lactate encephalopathy; Thurn JR et al.; Although D-lactate is not a product of human intermediary metabolism, absorption of D-lactate produced by abnormal intestinal bacteria can cause systemic acidosis in patients who have undergone gastrointestinal surgery, particularly jejunoileal bypass . In order to learn more about the prevalence of D-lactate encephalopathy, its occurrence in other disorders, and how well D-lactate concentration correlates with clinical symptoms, serum D-lactate levels were determined in several specific populations . D-lactate was undetectable (less than 0.5 mmol/liter) in 72 healthy volunteers and 57 obese persons . In 33 patients who had jejunoileal bypass, 16 reported symptoms consistent with D-lactate encephalopathy since surgery . Nine of these 16 had D-lactate levels greater than 0.5 mmol/liter (range 0.7 to 11.5 mmol/liter) . Levels of D-lactate fluctuated over time, and in two patients, markedly elevated levels correlated with an encephalopathy accompanied by hyperchloremic metabolic acidosis and elevated anion gap . In 470 randomly chosen hospitalized patients, D-lactate level greater than 0.5 mmol/liter was found in 13 (2.8 percent), and 60 percent of these had a history of gastrointestinal surgery or disease . It is concluded that elevated serum D-lactate levels are relatively common in patients with jejunoileal bypass, and although more rare, occur in other gastrointestinal disorders as well . The symptoms of D-lactate encephalopathy are quite sensitive, but not necessarily specific for this disorder.

Int J Oral Surg, 1985 Dec, 14(6), 526 - 32
Scanning electron microscopic observations on the inner surface of jaw cysts; Hurlen B et al.; The cavity surface of 9 jaw cysts was studied in the scanning electron microscope . The material comprised 5 radicular, 2 residual, 1 dentigerous and 1 globulomaxillary cyst . The surface morphology varied from smooth to ruffled within the same cyst, and between cysts . Interepithelial spaces, some of which contained migrating leukocytes, were frequently observed . Bacteria occurred in 1 cyst (dentigerous) only, and included rods, filaments and spirochetes . Crystals of various morphology were seen in 6 of the cysts.

Ann Surg, 1985 Dec, 202(6), 766 - 70
Septic and technical complications of central venous catheterization . A prospective study of 200 consecutive patients; Sitzmann JV et al.; The results of central venous catheterization for total parenteral nutrition were prospectively evaluated in 200 consecutive patients . All catheters were fabricated of polyurethane tubing inserted by the Seldinger technique . Two hundred sixty-three lines were inserted in 200 patients for a total of 4103 days . Major complications occurred in 2.3% patients . Twenty-four per cent of catheters were associated with suspected sepsis; of these, 52% were removed directly and 48% were changed over a guidewire . The total catheter sepsis rate was 5.7% . The incidence of sepsis correlated with the number of attempts to insert the line and with positive skin cultures . These data indicate that: use of the Seldinger technique to insert nonthrombogenic flexible catheters results in lower technical morbidity; the incidence of established infection is much lower than the incidence of suspected sepsis; guidewire change may be performed without risk to the patient or interruption of therapy; sepsis rates can be decreased by reducing the number of attempts to catheterize the subclavian vein; and sepsis rates correlate with positive skin cultures at the insertion site.

Ann Surg, 1985 Dec, 202(6), 681 - 4
The effect of parenteral nutrition on gastrointestinal immunity . The importance of enteral stimulation; Alverdy J et al.; Secretory IgA (S-IgA), an immunoglobulin present in secretions, prevents the adherence of bacteria to mucosal cells and is the principle component of the gut mucosal defense system . The purpose of this study was to determine whether the route of nutrient administration affects S-IgA . Twenty-five female Fisher rats were randomized into three groups . Groups I and II were fed an isonitrogenous, isocaloric standard hyperalimentation solution, Group I intravenously and Group II via a gastrostomy . Group III (control) was fed rat chow and water ad lib . Since bile is one of the principle sources of S-IgA, animals had biliary T-tubes placed for sampling of bile every 4 days . At day 16, Group I animals were fed rat chow and water for an additional 8 days . S-IgA was measured by the ELISA immunoassay . Results indicated at day 16 that the S-IgA level in mg/ml of Group I was 1.1 +/- 0.2, while the S-IgA in Groups II and III was 2.2 +/- 0.6 and 2.2 +/- 0.26, respectively . Furthermore, the S-IgA level in Group I after 8 days of enteral feeding rose to 1.8 +/- 0.4 . The difference in S-IgA levels between enterally and parenterally fed rats suggests that an important defense barrier is compromised during parenteral hyperalimentation . Rats fed the same nutrients by gastrostomy maintained S-IgA levels better than rats fed the same nutrients intravenously . The rapid return to normal levels after resumption of enteral feeding suggests that the intraluminal presence of foodstuffs is essential for maintenance of S-IgA.

Trop Med Parasitol, 1985 Dec, 36(4), 183 - 5
Antibodies to Bartonella bacilliformis as determined by fluorescence antibody test, indirect haemagglutination and ELISA; Knobloch J et al.; Two strains of Bartonella bacilliformis were cultured on Columbia agar supplemented with 5% defibrinated human blood . Antigens prepared from these cultures were used for determination of antibodies by fluorescence antibody test (FAT) indirect haemagglutination (IHA) and an enzyme immunoassay (ELISA) . One hundred and eighty-seven human sera from B . bacilliformis-endemic areas of Peru were tested of which 63.6% were reactive . ELISA was the most sensitive test, followed by FAT and IHA . IgM antibody was determined by FAT with the IgM fraction of test sera . It was present not only in patients with Oroya fever but also in some healthy individuals as well as in one patient with chronic bartonellosis (verruga peruana) . Substantial differences in antigenic activity between the two strains of B . bacilliformis were not observed . Cross reactivity with sera containing antibodies to bacteria other than B . bacilliformis was not noted . For identification of Oroya fever patients in the field, an eosin/thiazine stain of blood smears was found to be appropriate.

Genitourin Med, 1985 Dec, 61(6), 391 - 5
Adhesion of Gardnerella vaginalis to vaginal epithelial cells: variables affecting adhesion and inhibition by metronidazole; Peeters M et al.; Variables affecting the adherence of Gardnerella vaginalis to human vaginal epithelial cells were examined in vitro . Adherence depended on pH, with maximum attachment occurring between pH 5 and pH 6 . Preincubation of the bacteria at 56 degrees C for 30 minutes and ultraviolet irradiation resulted in a noticeable decrease in adherence . In contrast, adherence was not altered by preincubating the epithelial cells under these conditions . Periodate oxidation of the vaginal cells caused an appreciable reduction in subsequent adherence of G vaginalis . None of the 19 single carbohydrates tested inhibited adherence completely . Metronidazole at subinhibitory concentrations for G vaginalis, appreciably reduced the adhesive capacity of G vaginalis, whereas subinhibitory concentrations of ampicillin did not.

Am J Infect Control, 1985 Dec, 13(6), 259 - 68
Chlamydial infections; Larson E et al.; Chlamydiae are small bacteria that have a unique life cycle . There are two species, Chlamydia psittaci and C . trachomatis, which cause a wide spectrum of clinical disease, including neonatal conjunctivitis and pneumonia, sexually transmitted disease, psittacosis, and trachoma . The importance of chlamydial disease in public health is being increasingly recognized, and the incidence in developed countries seems to be increasing . An understanding of chlamydial disease, its prevention and treatment, is essential for the infection control practitioner, who can play a significant role in patient education.

Mol Cell Biol, 1985 Dec, 5(12), 3331 - 6
Effect of double-strand breaks on homologous recombination in mammalian cells and extracts; Song KY et al.; We examined the effect of double-strand breaks on homologous recombination between two plasmids in human cells and in nuclear extracts prepared from human and rodent cells . Two pSV2neo plasmids containing nonreverting, nonoverlapping deletions were cotransfected into cells or incubated with cell extracts . Generation of intact neo genes was monitored by the ability of the DNA to confer G418r to cells or Neor to bacteria . We show that double-strand breaks at the sites of the deletions enhanced recombination frequency, whereas breaks outside the neo gene had no effect . Examination of the plasmids obtained from experiments involving the cell extracts revealed that gene conversion events play an important role in the generation of plasmids containing intact neo genes . Studies with plasmids carrying multiple polymorphic genetic markers revealed that markers located within 1,000 base pairs could be readily coconverted . The frequency of coconversion decreased with increasing distance between the markers . The plasmids we constructed along with the in vitro system should permit a detailed analysis of homologous recombinational events mediated by mammalian enzymes.

Med Hypotheses, 1985 Dec, 18(4), 417 - 23
Mechanisms of tissue damage resulting from the use of oral water irrigation devices; Reddy NP et al.; Oral water irrigation devices (WIDs) are widely used for oral physiotherapy in homes and dental clinics throughout the world . A major area of concern in the use of WIDs has been the possibility of injury to the sulcular epithelium and underlying tissue . There are several documented clinical cases of tissue injury with the use of WIDs . The existing WIDs exert excessive pressures on the sulcular epithelium . Although it is known that the high jet impact pressures exerted by the WIDs cause the tissue damage, the underlying damage mechanisms are poorly understood . The damage to the sulcular epithelium and underlying tissue is mediated through several physiological and micromechanical processes and includes, among others, the following damage mechanisms: pressure-induced, diffusion-mediated, deposition of bacteria and toxins into the underlying tissue, damage to the collagen network integrity in the tissue, damage to the blood and lymphatic microcirculation, especially damage to the anchoring filaments attached to the terminal lymphatic wall, and direct mechanical damage due to abnormal shear forces induced by the jet . All these damage processes could lead to tissue necrosis.

Comput Methods Programs Biomed, 1985 Dec, 21(3), 221 - 6
A program for machine learning of counting criteria: empirical induction of logic-based classification rules; Spackman KA; A program has been developed which derives classification rules from empirical observations and expresses these rules in a knowledge representation format called 'counting criteria' . Decision rules derived in this format are often more comprehensible than rules derived by existing machine learning programs such as AQ11 . Use of the program is illustrated by the inference of discrimination criteria for certain types of bacteria based upon their biochemical characteristics . The program may be useful for the conceptual analysis of data and for the automatic generation of prototype knowledge bases for expert systems.

Int J Zoonoses, 1985 Dec, 12(4), 283 - 90
Demodicidosis in livestock in West Bengal (India); Chakrabarti A et al.; Of 2820 livestock, comprising 472 cattle, 294 goats, 128 pigs and 665 dogs of urban and rural areas of West Bengal (India), 89 (3.15%) were found to suffer from demodicidosis . Highest infestation rate (3.87%) was observed in dogs followed by cattle (3.11%), goats (2.44%) and pigs (1.44%) . The infestation rate did not differ significantly between urban and rural areas . Head, neck and face were the common sites of lesions followed by extremities and body surfaces . Females were infested more than males . Animals of all age groups suffered from mange infestation, though highest infestation (18.00%) was observed in 36-47 months of age and lowest (10.11%) in 72 months and above age groups . Some bacterial invaders were isolated from the demodectic lesions, which were found sensitive to a number of common antibiotics . Fungi like Trichophyton mentagrophytes could also be isolated from the lesions.

Jpn J Exp Med, 1985 Dec, 55(6), 219 - 23
Radiomodifying effect of camphor on the spermatogonia of mice; Goel HC et al.; Camphor has been reported to exhibit radiomodifying properties for bacteria and solid tumours of mice . Therefore its radiomodifying effect was evaluated in the testis which is a less vascularised and hypoxic tissue . Young adult strain 'A' male mice were taken up for these studies . Camphor was administered at the rate of 0.1 mg/g body weight intraperitoneally and whole body irradiation was done after 45 minutes under normal aerated conditions . Doses of 0.5, 1.0 and 2.0 Gy were delivered to different groups with the help of 60Co gamma cell . Testicular germ cell renewal system which seems to be a very good model system for the study of chemical radiomodifier was used for this assay . Resting primary spermatocytes (RPS) were counted at different time intervals and comparison was made among different treatment groups and controls . It was observed that RPS counts significantly declined in radiation + camphor treated groups in comparison to radiation alone or control groups . Radiomodifying effect of camphor was significantly evident during the recovery period, i.e., on day 8 after 0.5 Gy irradiation and day 6 onward after 1.0 Gy and 2.0 Gy.

J Antibiot (Tokyo), 1985 Dec, 38(12), 1781 - 7
Immunoactive peptides, FK 156 and FK 565 . IV . Activation of mouse macrophages; Watanabe Y et al.; We investigated the effects of the immunoactive peptides, FK 156 and FK 565, on functions of mouse macrophages . FK 156 and FK 565 given parenterally or orally to mice enhanced spreading of peritoneal macrophages, phagocytosis of latex particles and intracellular killing of bacteria by peritoneal macrophages . FK 156 and FK 565 also enhanced the production of superoxide anion and lysosomal enzyme activities of macrophages . The peptides also activated mouse spleen macrophages, and the kinetics of this activation differed from that of the peritoneal macrophages . In addition, both drugs directly enhanced the production of superoxide anion by mouse peritoneal macrophages treated in vitro and enhanced the functions of peritoneal macrophages of athymic nude mice . Both these phenomena suggest that direct activation might be one of the mechanisms of macrophage activation by the peptides.

Gastroenterology, 1985 Dec, 89(6), 1400 - 6
Cat scratch disease . Report of a case with hepatic lesions and a brief review of the literature; Rocco VK et al.; An unusual case of cat scratch disease with large hepatic defects is presented . We describe a previously healthy 16-yr-old black man presenting with a neck mass, hepatosplenomegaly, and systemic symptoms . Pathology of the neck mass revealed a lymph node with chronic inflammation and focal necrosis . An abnormal computed tomography scan showed large hepatic defects which were confirmed at peritoneoscopy; biopsy specimens are described . Routine and special stains for bacteria and fungi were all negative . Serologic studies were unremarkable but a cat scratch skin test was positive . Follow-up examinations revealed resolution of all findings . Cat scratch disease should be considered in the differential diagnosis of diseases causing lymphadenopathy, systemic symptoms, and hepatic (and splenic) defects.

Biochem J, 1985 Nov 15, 232(1), 281 - 4
An extended-X-ray-absorption-fine-structure (e.x.a.f.s.) study of coenzyme F430 from Methanobacterium thermoautotrophicum; Diakun GP et al.; Coenzyme F430 is a nickel porphinoid found in all methanogenic bacteria . Extended-X-ray-absorption-fine-structure (e.x.a.f.s.) spectra have been recorded above the nickel K-edge of coenzyme F430 and two model compounds, (5,10,15,20-tetramethylporphinato) nickel(II) and (5,10,15,20-tetramethylchlorinato)-nickel(II) . The results show that the four nickel-nitrogen distances in F430 are split, with two nitrogen atoms at 0.192 nm and two at 0.210 nm.

FEBS Lett, 1985 Nov 11, 192(1), 57 - 60
A restriction endonuclease SuaI from the thermoacidophilic archaebacterium Sulfolobus acidocaldarius; Prangishvili DA et al.; A type II restriction endonuclease (SuaI) has been isolated from the thermoacidophilic archaebacterium Sulfolobus acidocaldarius . The enzyme is an isoschizomer of BspRI . It does not cut S . acidocaldarius DNA, as the recognition sequence GGCC in this DNA contains modified nucleotide(s) . The enzyme is most active at 60-70 degrees C and is highly thermostable.

J Theor Biol, 1985 Nov 7, 117(1), 119 - 26
The biological significance of G-T/G-U mispairing in nucleic acid secondary structure; Muller UR et al.; We have computed the expected distribution of the potential for hairpin-like secondary structures with small loops (3-20 bases) and uninterrupted stems and compared that to the distribution observed in the complete genomes of seven DNA viruses from animals, plants and bacteria, as well as a bacterial plasmid . The formation of G-T mismatches in the stems of these structures was allowed . Furthermore we have analyzed the distribution of the potential for such structures along the genetic maps of these genomes, specifically around the start sites of known genes . Our data reveal that the potential for mismatch containing structures with stem length exceeding eight base pairs is over-represented and non-randomly distributed, but to a much lesser degree than that for perfect structures of equal size . Moreover, the potential for both types of structures is preferentially located near functional start codons . From this we deduce that in general G-T/G-U containing nucleic acid secondary structures are biologically relevant, though possibly less significant than perfect ones.

J Mol Biol, 1985 Nov 5, 186(1), 107 - 15
Transcriptional regulation of a periodically controlled flagellar gene operon in Caulobacter crescentus; Ohta N et al.; Temporal regulation of flagellar gene expression in Caulobacter crescentus has been examined by a detailed analysis of the flbG-flaJ-flbH-flaK hook operon . The approximate location of the promoter for this 4.4 X 10(3) base-pair transcriptional unit was determined by deletion mapping, and the flaK gene was shown by nucleotide sequencing to code for the hook protein . flaK messenger RNA was quantified by S1 nuclease mapping with an internal restriction fragment of the gene as the 5'-labeled DNA probe . The results of these assays provide the first direct evidence that periodic expression of a flagellar gene in the C . crescentus cell cycle is regulated at the transcriptional level . The effect of altering the time of gene duplication in the cell cycle was examined by subcloning the complete hook operon on a plasmid that replicates throughout the S phase . The normal periodicity of flaK transcription and translation was maintained in this merodiploid strain, which suggests that replication alone is not sufficient to initiate flagellar gene expression . We also show that the three adjacent transcriptional units III, IV and V are required in trans for transcription of the book operon, and we discuss the possible role of these genes in the hierarchical regulation of the flagellar gene expression.

J Mol Biol, 1985 Nov 5, 186(1), 213 - 4
Crystallization of a Fe,Zn superoxide dismutase from the archaebacterium Thermoplasma acidophilium; Morris DC et al.; The novel Fe,Zn superoxide dismutase from the archaebacterium Thermoplasma acidophilium has been crystallized in space groups P1, P2(1) and P2(1)2(1)2, with 2,4 and 1/2 of an 84,000 Mr tetramer, respectively, estimated to be in the asymmetric unit of the unit cell . The orthorhombic crystals, which have unit cell dimensions a = 84.2 A, b = 72.7 A, c = 67.8 A, diffract X-rays to at least 2.0 A and are suitable for a determination of the three-dimensional structure of the Fe,Zn superoxide dismutase.

Scand J Haematol, 1985 Nov, 35(5), 579 - 83
Labelling of granulocytes with radioindium: cell isolation and labelling parameters; Syrjala MT; A method for isolation and labelling of purified granulocytes with 111In-oxine for scintigraphy of inflammatory processes is described . The procedure, on average, yielded 27.6% of the initial granulocytes in the sample with minimal lymphocyte and platelet contamination . The mean erythrocyte/granulocyte ratio was 0.95 . In 20 experiments, 85.3% of the total radioactivity was attached to granulocytes, 8.7% to erythrocytes and 5.9% was in the plasma . The sensitivity and the specificity for the detection of acute inflammatory processes in 44 patients were 91.3% and 81.8%, respectively.

Klin Padiatr, 1985 Nov-Dec, 197(6), 453 - 7
{The septic state in infancy}; Braun F et al.; In a retrospective study it was investigated in which a course the septicemia appears during the first year of life and which laborchemical and immunological findings are typical for the specific manifestation and can be used for the diagnosis . 27 sucklings with septicemia were admitted at our hospital during 1976-1982 . As the clinical course we found: the acute septicemia with pronounced shocksymptoms (Septic-Toxic-Course, STC), the septicemia with a tardy course and hematogenous dispersion of bacteria in one organsystem, namely in the brain (Meningoencephalitis), in the bone (Osteomyelitis) and in the soft tissue (Phlegmon), the septicemia with a tardy course and forms a septicopyemia with secundary dispersion of bacteria in multiple organsystems . Only STC and septicopyemia show the symptoms which are lead back with the dispersion of bacteria . By the septicemia with a tardy course and hematogenous dispersion of bacteria in one organsystem the clinical symptoms are determined only in the infected organ . As the only course of septicemia the STZ shows laborchemically in the blood a damage to the livercells with a constant elevated levels of plasmaencyms GOT, GPT and LDH; this findings can be used for a diagnostic criterion . By septicopyemia, meningitis and osteomyelitis the findings of sepsis exist in the blood but are rare by phlegmon . By septicemia with a tardy course (2, 3) a humoral and/or cellular immundeficiency exist . This is a point of application for therapy to give biological antibody with a large spectrum.

J Biochem (Tokyo), 1985 Nov, 98(5), 1169 - 80
The specific glycosphingolipid composition of human ureteral epithelial cells; Breimer ME et al.; Total non-acid and acid glycolipid fractions were isolated from epithelial cell scrapings and the non-epithelial residue of a human upper ureter . The glycolipid fractions were structurally characterized as total mixtures by thin-layer chromatography, mass spectrometry, and proton NMR spectroscopy . Selected structural information was also obtained on binding of monoclonal antibodies and bacteria to the thin-layer chromatograms . The major epithelial cell glycolipids were Glc beta 1-1ceramide (75%), dihexosylceramide (10%) and NeuAcLacceramide (10%) . In addition, 8 minor glycolipids belonging to the blood group P, Lewis and ABO systems were identified . The major glycolipids of the non-epithelial residues were mono- and dihexosylceramides together with globotriaosyl- and globotetraosylceramides . The epithelial mono- and diglycosylceramide compounds had an unusual ceramide composition with mainly C18 and C20 trihydroxy long chain bases in combination with C22-C24 hydroxy fatty acids in contrast to the non-epithelial glycolipids which contained mainly C18 dihydroxy long chain bases in combination with C16-C24 non-hydroxy fatty acids.

Hokkaido Igaku Zasshi, 1985 Nov, 60(6), 806 - 33
{Study on the genesis of atopic dermatitis--atopic dermatitis and IgE}; Iju M; For the purpose of investigating how IgE is correlated in the genesis of Atopic dermatitis (abbreviated as AD) micronizing method of RIST (necessary serum 10 microliter) was utilized . Serum IgE obtained from 369 cases AD, age ranged from 1 month old to 52 years old were studied . In 78 cases, IgE of the objects' parents were also studied as well . Serum IgE of the healthy control, age ranging from 3 days old to 49 years old, were studied and made comparison with those of the objects . Analysis was made in accordance with the factors like age, complication, disease type and prognosis . RAST (house dust, mite, egg, milk) and SKIN TEST (Scratch test) were carried out in order to observe the correlation between serum IgE and Specific IgE or to see the possible induction of eczematous lesion by specific IgE . The following were obtained as conclusion . Serum IgE of AD will show high level in significant manner in comparison with the healthy control from the time of infantile period . Low IgE group will show high rate of improvement after 3 years period of time . High IgE of parents will more or less affect serum IgE of their child or children . Correlation between serum IgE and the severity of AD is not noted in the infantile period but significant in the adult period . In the Scratch test immediate type of reaction could not induce eczematous lesion of AD . Induction of eczematoid reaction in AD was noted with high incidence following the Scratch test of Candida antigen . From the above it is assumed that in AD, although serum IgE level is high, induction of eczematous lesion could not be made by skin invasion of specific IgE antigen to the skin, pruritus by immediate type of reaction following release of chemical mediator will bring the tearing off the skin by scratch and invasion to the epidermis of inflammation inducing materials like human dander, sweat, bacteria or mycological agents eczematous lesion will start to take place.

Biull Eksp Biol Med, 1985 Nov, 100(11), 629 - 31
{Bioluminescent method of determining antiprotease activity}; Gitel'zon II et al.; A method for antiprotease activity measurement based on the use of luminous bacteria luciferase as protein substrate of proteases is suggested . Antiprotease is incubated with protease for 1 to 2 min at 30 degrees C and then it is added to the reaction mixture containing luciferase, NADH: FMN-oxidoreductase and their substrates--myristic aldehyde, FMN and NADH . Biofluorescence is measured in a temperature-controlled cuvette for 1 min . The total time of the measurement is 3 min . The method can be applied both in fine biochemical assays and in medical rapid diagnosis.

Am Rev Respir Dis, 1985 Nov, 132(5), 1130 - 1
Stability of stored histamine diphosphate solutions . Clinically useful information; Pratter MR et al.; Histamine bronchoprovocation challenge has been shown to be extremely safe and useful as both a clinical diagnostic test and as a research tool in the study of bronchial asthma . Despite its widespread usage, information on the stability of histamine diphosphate (HDP) solutions has been lacking . We therefore studied the stability of HDP solutions as a function of time, concentration, fluorescent light exposure, and sterility . Our results indicated that HDP solutions between 2.76 and 22.10 mg/ml (histamine base, 1 to 8 mg/ml) show no evidence of degradation over a 4-month period when kept at 12 degrees C, unless gas sterilization techniques were used in preparing the solutions bacterial contamination was frequent, and at lower concentrations (i.e., between 0.08 and 0.28 mg/ml) HDP solutions that became contaminated with bacteria showed complete degradation within 9 to 11 wk of their preparation.

Am J Physiol, 1985 Nov, 249(5 Pt 1), C379 - 84
Superoxide dismutase: tissue, cellular, and subcellular distribution in adult canine heart; Spanier AM et al.; Cell-free extracts of canine myocardial tissue were found to contain two biochemically and electrophoretically distinct superoxide dismutases (SOD), an enzyme that provides defense against the deleterious effect of superoxide radicals (O2.-) . Polyacrylamide gel (7.5%) electrophoresis revealed two distinct bands of SOD activity: a slower moving band {retardation factor (Rf) = 0.4} resembling the manganese SOD found in bacteria and mitochondria (which is not inhibited by 2.5 mM cyanide) and a faster moving band (Rf = 0.75) that is sensitive to cyanide . In contrast, extracts from isolated adult canine cardiac myocytes were found to contain only the cyanide-insensitive SOD . Extracts of whole myocardium and isolated cardiac myocytes contain 22.3 +/- 1.2 and 27.0 +/- 1.5 U cyanide-insensitive SOD/mg protein, respectively . However, the activity of cyanide-sensitive SOD in these fractions is 7.9 +/- 2.0 (tissue) and 1.5 +/- 1.4 (cells) U/mg protein . Cardiac myocyte SOD activity was particulate in nature, and the major part of the SOD activity was associated with heavy mitochondrial fractions . The biologic significance of this higher activity of SOD in the heavier mitochondrial fraction remains to be elucidated.

Infect Immun, 1985 Nov, 50(2), 449 - 52
Interactions between Naegleria fowleri and Legionella pneumophila; Newsome AL et al.; Using electron microscopy we documented some of the intracellular events that occur in Naegleria fowleri suspended in Page amoeba saline after ingestion of Legionella pneumophila . Photomicrographs showed intracellular vacuoles containing bacteria in the process of binary fission that was accompanied by alignment of mitochondria and ribosome-like structures along the vacuole membrane . Although these intracellular events are remarkably similar to that seen in Legionella replication within human monocytes, we could not demonstrate an increase in the number of bacteria by CFU or dark-field microscopy . However, when the Naegleria cells were allowed to ingest Legionella cells while suspended in amoeba culture medium, the number of bacteria increased, and this was contingent upon the presence of viable amoebae.

Am J Public Health, 1985 Nov, 75(11), 1327 - 8
A three-state study of waterborne disease surveillance techniques; Harter L et al.; For a two-year period, the states of Colorado, Vermont and Washington tested the effectiveness of ten surveillance methods for identifying waterborne disease . Nine were active surveillance methods, soliciting illness reports; one was passive, relying on voluntary disease reporting . One waterborne disease outbreak was identified through use of the nine active methods, while 14 were reported through the passive surveillance method . The presence of coliform bacteria during routine water testing was not related to illness in the community.

Can J Surg, 1985 Nov, 28(6), 529 - 33
Acalculous cholecystitis: its role as a complication of major burn injury; McDermott MW et al.; The authors present four cases of acute acalculous cholecystitis complicating major burn injury and review the recent literature on acalculous cholecystitis . All patients were men and ranged in age from 22 to 40 years . The mean extent of the burn was 50% of the total body surface area, with an average 29% third-degree component . All four patients survived . Because of their severity, major burn injuries expose patients to many risks, including acute acalculous cholecystitis . Recent experimental evidence supports a vascular insult through the activation of Factor XII pathways as the initial event . A diagnosis is made on clinical grounds, supported by laboratory and ultrasonographic findings, in a patient with a burn covering more than 30% of the total body surface area and who has signs of acute cholecystitis . Cholecystectomy is the treatment of choice; tube cholecystostomy is reserved for critically ill patients.

Carcinogenesis, 1985 Nov, 6(11), 1593 - 8
Studies on the antimutagenic activity of ascorbic acid in vitro and in vivo; Norkus EP et al.; The possibility that ascorbic acid, as a nucleophile, may inhibit mutagenicity induced by electrophilic metabolites of N-nitroso compounds was examined . In vitro data are presented to show that ascorbic acid does not decrease the mutagenicity of N-methyl-N'-nitro-N-nitrosoguanidine (MNNG) in a modified Ames bacterial mutagenicity system if deionized water is used to prepare the incubation medium . However, ascorbic acid prevents the mutagenicity of MNNG in vitro if added to bacteria in a medium prepared with either sterile tap water or deionized water and Cu2+ ions and that this antimutagenic response is blocked by EDTA . Additional in vitro experiments suggest that when ascorbic acid and Cu2+ ions are mixed in aqueous solution, H2O2 and free radicals derived from H2O2 are formed and these compounds may deactivate N-nitroso compounds . In vivo data are presented to show that ascorbic acid supplementation to guinea pigs (2000 mg/kg body weight/day) has no effect on the mutagenicity of N-nitrosodimethylamine, MNNG, N-methylnitrosourea and streptozotocin using the intrahepatic host-mediated bacterial mutagenicity assay . Additional in vivo studies demonstrate that simultaneous oral administration of ascorbic acid prevents the mutagenicity that follows the intragastric nitrosation of aminopyrine by nitrite while dietary pre-treatment with ascorbic acid does not . These findings suggest that ascorbic acid can block the intragastric formation of mutagenic N-nitroso compounds but that ascorbic acid has no effect on mutagenicity of N-nitroso compounds once they are formed.

Rev Infect Dis, 1985 Nov-Dec, 7 Suppl 4, S762 - 6
Bacteriuria and excess mortality: what should the next steps be?
Kass EH.
Population studies have been reviewed that demonstrate that bacteriuria confers an increased risk of earlier death and that this risk is greater in older-age groups . Whether this relationship is due to the capacity of bacteria to infect selectively those who are already seriously ill or is a direct consequence of the presence of bacteria remains to be decided . However, studies have already demonstrated that the excess mortality associated with bacteriuria in hospitalized patients with indwelling catheters can be greatly reduced by simple devices that prevent bacteriuria and that this reduction in rates of bacteriuria is accompanied by a corresponding significant decline in associated mortality . The time is therefore right for a large-scale, controlled clinical trial of the effect on mortality of treatment of bacteriuria in older-age populations . However, such a trial cannot be conducted in the manner in which such studies have been conducted in the past--i.e., with a single course of treatment given over a brief time as the only method of therapy . Instead, more individualized treatment will be necessary if the effect of bacteriuria on mortality in the general population is to be investigated in a scientifically sound manner.

J Periodontol, 1985 Nov, 56(11 Suppl), 75 - 80
Efficacy of clindamycin hydrochloride in refractory periodontitis . 12-month results; Gordon J et al.; The purpose of this study was to evaluate the use of clindamycin hydrochloride as an adjunct to conventional periodontal therapy in the treatment of patients who had previously been unsuccessfully treated with scaling, periodontal surgery and the use of tetracycline . Thirteen patients with a history of "refractory" periodontitis were thoroughly scaled and monitored by repeated attachment level measurements for the presence of active destructive periodontitis . Disease activity was defined as a 3-mm loss in attachment from baseline measurements or the occurrence of a periodontal abscess . When active disease was detected, each patient was scaled again and placed on clindamycin hydrochloride 150 mg qid for 7 days . Following the adjunctive use of clindamycin in combination with scaling, the incidence of gingival sites demonstrating active disease in the group of 13 patients decreased from an annual rate of 10.7 to 0.5% . Each patient demonstrated a decreased incidence of active sites per unit of time . Clinical parameters such as probing depth, gingival redness, bleeding on probing and suppuration showed dramatic improvement at 12 months after clindamycin therapy . The percentage of pockets with probing depths greater than 6 mm, 4 to 6 mm and 1 to 3 mm changed from 11 to 2%, 38 to 24% and 51 to 74% respectively, following clindamycin therapy as compared to scaling alone . The percentage of sites bleeding on probing decreased from 33% after scaling alone to 8% following clindamycin and scaling . Gingival redness decreased from 36 to 1% of sites . Suppuration also decreased from 8% of buccal or lingual surfaces after scaling alone to 1% of surfaces following scaling and clindamycin.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Genetika, 1985 Nov, 21(11), 1821 - 7
{Study of the process of promutagen biotransformation by the Ames test . I . The role of conjugation with glutathione in the modification of the mutagenic activity of nitrosomorpholine, diethylnitrosamine and cyclophosphamide}; Fonshtein LM et al.; It is demonstrated that the level of the action of nitrosomorpholine (NM), diethyl nitrosoamine (DENA) and cyclophosphane (CP) promutagens on bacteria is lowered as a result of the Ames test modification by means of addition of reduced glutathione (G-SH) to the activating mixture . The data are presented on the dependence of this phenomenon on concentration of promutagens and G-SH, the period of bacteria preincubation with the compound under study and the activating mixture as well as on concentration of microsomal protein . No changes in the mutagenic effect of NM, DENA and CP were observed when G-SH was substituted for cysteine in equimolar concentration . This fact points to enzymic mechanism involved in elimination of the damaging effect of mutagenic metabolites of the compounds studied.

Mutat Res, 1985 Nov, 154(3), 183 - 204
The mouse spot test . Evaluation of its performance in identifying chemical mutagens and carcinogens; Styles JA et al.; The published results on 60 chemicals and X-rays investigated in the mouse spot test were compared with data on the same chemicals tested in the bacterial mutation assay (Ames test) and lifetime rodent bioassays . The performance of the spot test as an in vivo complementary assay to the in vitro bacterial mutagenesis test reveals that of 60 agents, 38 were positive in both systems, 6 were positive only in the spot test, 10 were positive only in the bacterial test and 6 were negative in both assays . The spot test was also considered as a predictor of carcinogenesis; 45 chemicals were carcinogenic of which 35 were detected as positive by the spot test and 3 out of 6 non-carcinogens were correctly identified as negative . If the results are regarded in sequence, i.e . that a positive result in a bacterial mutagenicity test reveals potential that may or may not be realized in vivo, then 48 chemicals were mutagenic in the bacterial mutation assay of which 38 were active in the spot test and 31 were confirmed as carcinogens in bioassays . 12 chemicals were non-mutagenic to bacteria of which 6 gave positive responses in the spot test and 5 were confirmed as carcinogens . These results provide strong evidence that the mouse coat spot test is an effective complementary test to the bacterial mutagenesis assay for the detection of genotoxic chemicals and as a confirmatory test for the identification of carcinogens . The main deficiency at present is the paucity of data from the testing of non-carcinogens . With further development and improvement of the test it is probable that the predictive performance of the assay in identifying carcinogens should improve, since many of the false negative responses may be due to inadequate testing.

Endocrinology, 1985 Nov, 117(5), 2081 - 4
Inhibitory effect of interferon on the production of insulin; Shimizu F et al.; Viral and bacterial infections may produce abnormalities in carbohydrate metabolism in normal subjects and profound changes in glucose homeostasis in insulin-dependent diabetics . Using an RIA with {125}porcine insulin, the effect of rat interferon (IFN) on the production/secretion of immunoreactive insulin (IRI) in cultured cells was investigated . We found that, after incubation of rat insulinoma cells with rat IFN, a decrease in the production of IRI was observed . The decrease correlated with the concentration of IFN and the length of the incubation . IFN also caused a decrease in the production/secretion of IRI from rat pancreatic beta-cells in primary culture . This IFN has all of the properties of IFN including species specificity, and the insulin inhibitory effect cannot be dissociated from the antiviral activity of IFN . These data suggest that one possible explanation for abnormalities in glucose metabolism associated with viral or bacterial infections is that virus-or bacteria-induced production of IFN may alter the concentration of insulin.

J Clin Periodontol, 1985 Nov, 12(10), 877 - 81
Analysis of change--are base-line measurements needed? Some statistical comments on a common experimental design; Blomqvist N et al.; In experiments where the treatment effect is defined as the change of a variable during treatment, one may, under certain circumstances, obtain a higher precision by basing the statistical analysis on the after-treatment measurements alone instead of the change during treatment . The conditions for this are derived and an empirical illustration involving bacterial counts is presented . In the case of a cross-over trial it is found in this particular case that not using the base-line measurements reduces the number of patients needed by approximately 40% . In the case of a completely randomized design, about the same precision is obtained whether or not one utilizes the base-line values.

Mol Cell Biochem, 1985 Nov, 69(1), 27 - 34
Nucleoside phosphotransferase in animal tissues . Tissue distribution and kinetic properties; Vento R et al.; Amphibian, avian and mammal tissues contain a nucleoside phosphotransferase clearly different from those previously described in vegetables and bacteria . Whatever the animal source, the enzyme showed many similar characteristics as far as substrate specificity, dependence upon Mg2+, instability at 37 degrees C, and the protecting effect of nucleotides were concerned . Moreover, when submitted to gel filtration, the enzyme behaved in all cases as a dissociable high molecular weight protein, whose degree of association was controlled by nucleotides . In amphibian and avian tissues multiple forms of the enzyme seem to be present which differ for the substrate concentration at half-maximal velocity (S0.5); the concentration of nucleotide effector which affords half-maximal protection at 37 degrees C (P0.5); and the Hill coefficient for monophosphate donor . Within each single species, the higher the interaction coefficient was, the lower S0.5 and P0.5 values were . In mammalian tissues one form of nucleoside phosphotransferase seems to prevail where cooperative interactions are almost absent and whose S0.5 as well as P0.5 values do not vary significantly from one tissue to another.

EMBO J, 1985 Nov, 4(11), 2893 - 6
Transforming p21 ras protein: flexibility in the major variable region linking the catalytic and membrane-anchoring domains; Willumsen BM et al.; The mammalian p21 ras proteins contain a 20-amino acid region that is highly divergent, in contrast to the strong sequence conservation that is common to other regions of these proteins . This major variable region is located near the C terminus just upstream from a conserved cysteine residue that is required for post-translational processing, membrane localization and transforming activity of the proteins . We have now used the viral oncogene (v-rasH) of Harvey sarcoma virus to study the major variable region by deleting or duplicating parts of the gene . Reducing this region to five amino acids or increasing it to 50 amino acids has relatively little effect on the capacity of the gene to induce morphological transformation of NIH 3T3 cells . Assays of GTP binding, GTPase and autophosphorylating activities of such mutant v-rasH-encoded proteins synthesized in bacteria indicated that the sequences that encode these biochemical activities are located upstream from the major variable region . In the context of transformation, we propose that the region of sequence heterogeneity serves principally to connect the N-terminal catalytic domain with amino acids at the C terminus that are required to anchor the protein in the membrane.

Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A, 1985 Nov, 82(21), 7350 - 4
One role for DNA methylation in vertebrate cells is strand discrimination in mismatch repair; Hare JT et al.; Although the occurrence of 5-methylcytosine (m5C) in DNA is widespread, the function of this modified base remains unclear . At some specific sites it apparently has an effect in controlling gene expression, but many sites do not appear to be involved in this regulation . Balanced against its regulatory usefulness at some sites is the mutational risk it imposes upon the cell . Deamination of m5C can lead to its replacement by thymine (T) . One possible role for excess methylation is strand discrimination in the repair of mismatches . We constructed the complementary hemimethylated single-base-pair mismatches, G T and A C, at a CG site in simian virus 40 DNA, transfected these into the host African green monkey kidney cells (CV-1), and examined DNA of the progeny for repair at this site . Hemimethylation at two Hha I sites (Gm5CGC) bracketing the mismatch directed repair to occur only on the unmethylated strand . Methylation at the multiple Cm5CATGG and Gm6ATC sites, a pattern normally seen in bacteria, also instructed repair to proceed on the unmethylated strand, although less efficiently . Hemimethylation at only one site, adjacent to the mispaired bases (Hpa II, Cm5CGG) produced repaired molecules in a ratio that may represent random repair of the A C mismatch and strand-directed repair in the complementary G T mismatch . The -mCG- -GT- mismatch could result from deamination of m5C in the most commonly methylated dinucleotide in vertebrates, CpG . Methylation may be able to compensate for the errors it causes by serving as a mechanism for strand discrimination in correcting those errors . In addition, single-strand nicks were also shown to direct repair.

Fed Proc, 1985 Nov, 44(14), 2902 - 6
Physiological and metabolic effects of dietary fiber; Anderson JW; William Beaumont noted the gastric effects of vegetable fiber and suggested that dietary fiber may provide health benefits . In the last decade investigators documented the physiological effects of fiber on gastric emptying, intestinal nutrient absorption rates, and colon function . Further clinical investigation and much more of the type of repetitive observations pioneered by Beaumont are required to definitively establish the physiological effects of fiber on gastrointestinal physiology . High-fiber intake provides well-established benefits for persons with diabetes: it lowers insulin requirements, provides better control of blood glucose, and reduces serum lipids . Foods rich in soluble fiber, such as oat or bean products, lower cholesterol significantly for persons with hypercholesterolemia and for healthy young subjects . High-fiber foods also lower serum triglycerides and blood pressure . Several studies indicate that high intake of fiber protects against coronary heart disease.

Circulation, 1985 Nov, 72(5), 1087 - 91
Uptake of hematoporphyrin derivative by valvular vegetations in experimental infective endocarditis; Spokojny AM et al.; Drugs that localize in valvular vegetations may be useful in the diagnosis and treatment of infective endocarditis . We therefore tested the hypothesis that parenterally injected hematoporphyrin derivative (HPD), which is concentrated in tumors and atherosclerotic plaques, localizes in the vegetations of experimental infective endocarditis . In 14 rabbits, various bacteria were given intra-arterially immediately after injury to the aortic valve . In 12 additional rabbits, sterile vegetations on the aortic valve were produced by the trauma caused by an indwelling catheter that had been in place over a long period . HPD, 2.5 mg/kg, was injected intravenously 1 to 2 days before the animals were killed in six rabbits with sterile vegetations and in seven rabbits with infected vegetations . In all rabbits, multiple vegetations on the aortic valve leaflets were identified . On exposure to ultraviolet light, strong porphyrin fluorescence of all vegetations, whether sterile or infected, was observed only in rabbits given HPD . In two rabbits given HPD 10 weeks after catheter implantation across the aortic valve, however, only mild fluorescence could be detected in healing endocardial vegetations . In frozen sections of HPD-laden lesions, a patchy distribution of fluorescence was observed that was similar to the pattern of HPD localization in atheromatous plaques . Since vegetations in experimental infective endocarditis selectively concentrate HPD, porphyrins could be useful in the diagnosis and treatment of infective endocarditis.

Nippon Yakurigaku Zasshi, 1985 Nov, 86(5), 329 - 40
{Effect of traxanox sodium on inflammatory response}; Terasawa M et al.; Traxanox was inactive against classic acute and subacute inflammation models such as carrageenin paw edema, UV erythema, 6-hr Evans blue-carrageenin (E-C) pleurisy and cotton pellet granuloma formation, and it failed to inhibit the production of prostaglandin E2 and a slow reacting substance from rat peritoneal leucocytes which phagocytize killed bacteria in vitro . On the other hand, traxanox inhibited the anaphylactoid reaction and decreased the pleural fluid in 24-hr E-C pleurisy . Traxanox (100 mg/kg, p.o.) also showed a tendency to suppress dextran edema and cotton pellet granuloma formation in adjuvant arthritis (AA) in rats . In experimental models of delayed type hypersensitivity (DTH), traxanox (100 mg/kg, p.o.) inhibited the accumulation of the exudate and the leucocyte migration in B . pertussis-induced pleurisy in rats . Traxanox (50 mg/kg) did not show any effect on AA in Lewis rats when administered orally for 21 days after the adjuvant inoculation, but the combined administration of traxanox with hydrocortisone (10 mg/kg, p.o.) or indomethacin (0.25 mg/kg, p.o.) resulted in a synergistic inhibition of AA . When the administration of traxanox was started 21 days before the adjuvant inoculation, it inhibited AA in a dose-dependent manner (50-100 mg/kg, p.o.) . On the other hand, traxanox (100 mg/kg, p.o.) enhanced the concanavalin A-induced DTH-like skin reaction in guinea pigs . These results indicate that the mode of action of traxanox on inflammatory responses resembles that of D-penicillamine or levamisole, so that it may prove to be clinically effective in treating rheumatoid arthritis.

Endocrinology, 1985 Nov, 117(5), 2093 - 7
Somatostatin-like material is present in flowering plants; LeRoith D et al.; Extracts of spinach contain somatostatin (SRIF)-related material (6-80 pg/g wet wt) . The SRIF-related material, when purified on HPLC, was recovered as two major mol wt forms; one that eluted with a retention time similar to that of synthetic SRIF-28 and reacted in both N- and C-terminal-specific immunoassays, and a second peak that eluted with a retention time similar to that of SRIF-14 and reacted only in the C-terminal immunoassays . The purified material was active in a sensitive bioassay, and the bioactivity was neutralized in the presence of anti-SRIF antiserum . Since we have previously described the presence of similar material in bacteria, we also tested extracts of the flowering plant Lemna gibba G3, which was grown under sterile conditions . The Lemna extracts also had SRIF-related material (3.0 pg/g wet wt) . Since plants are probably derived evolutionarily from unicellular organisms, the presence of SRIF-like material in higher plants gives support for the hypothesis that vertebrate-type peptide hormones have early evolutionary origins.

Cancer Res, 1985 Nov, 45(11 Pt 1), 5225 - 9
Rat lung macrophage tumor cytotoxin production: impairment by chronic in vivo cigarette smoke exposure; Flick DA et al.; Macrophages in the presence of bacteria-derived lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimuli produce a soluble cytotoxin which is toxic to tumor cells . In this study, we examined various parameters of cytotoxin production from pulmonary lavage cells obtained from Fisher 344 cesarean-derived rats . Cultures of macrophages were derived from pulmonary lavage cells and stimulated in vitro with LPS . Cytotoxin production was assayed in vitro using an L-929 cell target assay . Pulmonary lavage preparations contained a relatively pure population of macrophages, and adherence studies revealed that nonadherent lavage cells contributed negligible amounts of cytotoxin, indicating that macrophages were responsible for cytotoxin production . After LPS stimulation, cytotoxin production became maximal within 10 h and thereafter plateaued . Doses of LPS above 0.1 microgram/ml were optimal for production, and in the absence of LPS, no cytotoxin was detected . Because cigarette smoke is the major etiological factor in the development of lung cancers and because smoking is known to profoundly alter the function of alveolar macrophages in humans and experimental animals, subsequent experiments examined the role of chronic cigarette smoke exposure on tumoricidal activity of lung macrophages . Rats were exposed in vivo for 8 wk to either cigarette smoke or air (sham-treated controls) . When lavage cells were cultured and stimulated with LPS (1 microgram/ml), 5- to 10-fold less cytotoxin was produced by lavage cells from rats exposed to cigarette smoke . Similarly, using a direct cytotoxicity assay, lung macrophages of smoke-exposed animals also revealed marked impairment in cytotoxicity against L-929 cell targets, and this was noted over a wide range of macrophage:tumor target cell ratios . Another product of macrophages, interferon, was also decreased in rats exposed in vivo to cigarette smoke when compared to sham-treated controls . These results suggest that cigarette smoke exposure may impair pulmonary macrophage-mediated tumor defense mechanisms.

J Chromatogr, 1985 Oct 25, 347(1), 109 - 20
Modifications in the alditol acetate method for analysis of muramic acid and other neutral and amino sugars by capillary gas chromatography-mass spectrometry with selected ion monitoring; Whiton RS et al.; Two alditol acetate methods for the gas chromatographic (GC) analysis of neutral and amino sugars were compared . Following sodium borohydride reduction, one method uses methylimidazole as an acetylation catalyst without prior removal of water or borate salts and the other method uses sodium acetate after removal of borate and water . Depending on the acetylation conditions, muramic acid produced different derivatives . With methylimidazole, reliable derivatization of muramic acid was not possible, although other sugars derivatized reliably . With sodium acetate, all sugars tested were reproducibly derivatized . The utility of the sodium acetate method is shown by the trace GC-mass spectrometric analysis of muramic acid and rhamnose derived from bacterial peptidoglycan-polysaccharide complexes in mammalian tissue.

Science, 1985 Oct 25, 230(4724), 400 - 7
Multiple mechanisms of protein insertion into and across membranes; Wickner WT et al.; Protein localization in cells is initiated by the binding of characteristic leader (signal) peptides to specific receptors on the membranes of mitochondria or endoplasmic reticulum or, in bacteria, to the plasma membrane . There are differences in the timing of protein synthesis and translocation into or across the bilayer and in the requirement for a transmembrane electrochemical potential . Comparisons of protein localization in these different membranes suggest underlying common mechanisms.

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