Int J Environ Health Res, 2002 Mar, 12(1), 41 - 52 Bacterial contamination of Japanese households and related concern about sanitation; Ojima M et al.; The bacterial contamination of Japanese homes and the attitudes of Japanese people toward sanitation were studied . By taking bacterial counts of approximately 90 places each in five homes, this study found kitchens to have the greatest degree of bacterial contamination, followed by bathing rooms . Toilets had less bacterial contamination than was expected . While concern about bacteria on highly contaminated items such as sponges, towels for wiping counters, and other reservoirs/disseminators was common, there was a relative lack of concern regarding contact surfaces such as dining tables . It is believed that an in-depth study of bacterial contamination in the home and concern about it would lead to the promotion of greater public understanding of home sanitation and help to facilitate the provision of useful information and products to the public. Biofizika, 2002 Mar-Apr, 47(2), 309 - 14 {Effect of an aqueous salt solution exposed to weak magnetic fields on the sensitivity of bacterial plasma membrane to reactive oxygen species}; Ivanov AIu et al.; It was shown by electroorientation spectroscopy that hydroxyl radicals OH* generated in a Cu(2+)-ascorbate system disturb the barrier properties of the plasma membrane in Escherichia coli K12 cells . It was also found that in water containing small additions of H+, Na+, and Cl-, preliminarily exposed to weak combined permanent (42 microT) and polyfrequency alternating (amplitude 0.06 microT and frequencies 1, 3.7, and 32.2 Hz) magnetic fields, the sensitivity of the plasma membrane to the radical attack considerably decreased, whereas dimethylsulfoxide did not protect active oxygen species in this system . It was assumed that treating the aqueous solution with magnetic fields affects the oxidation of ascorbate . Spectrophotometric measurements did reveal a decrease in the rate of oxidation of ascorbate by Cu2+ ions in a solution preliminarily treated with magnetic fields. Biofizika, 2002 Mar-Apr, 47(2), 197 - 203 {Comparative approach to correction of annotated gene starts in complete bacterial genomes}; Baitaliuk MV et al.; A method for refining the beginnings of genes and a search for shifts of the reading frame is proposed . The method is based on a comparison of nucleotide and amino acid sequences of homologous genes of related organisms . The algorithm is based on the fact that the rate of changes in the protein-coding regions of the genome is substantially lower than that of noncoding regions . A modification of the Smith-Waterman algorithm is proposed, which makes it possible to align the amino acid sequences obtained by formal translation of the starting nucleotide sequences by taking into account a possible shift of the reading frame . The algorithm has been implemented in the package of ORTOLOGATOR-GeneCorrector programs . Testing the program showed that the approach enables one to detect a wrong annotation of the beginnings in 1% of genes (even in well-studied organisms such as Escherichia coli) and identify several (approximately 10) shifts of the open reading frame . Thus, the algorithm can be used at both the initial and final stages of analysis of the genome. Akush Ginekol (Sofiia), 1999, 38(1), 76 - 8 {Current treatment of bacterial vaginosis}; Borisov I; Therapeutic options for the treatment of accurately diagnosed bacterial vaginosis are reviewed on the basis of current concepts for treatment of bacterial vaginosis . The importance for screening for bacterial vaginosis is pointed out especially before intrauterine procedures and in pregnant women at risk for premature deliveries . Treatment regimens for pregnant women are discussed as well . Emphasis is given to treatment modalities for recurrent bacterial vaginosis. Math Biosci, 2002 May-Jun, 177-178, 161 - 84 Bayesian predictiveness, exchangeability and sufficientness in bacterial taxonomy; Gyllenberg M et al.; We present a theory of classification and predictive identification of bacteria . Bacterial strains are characterized by a binary vector and the taxonomy is specified by attaching a label to each vector . The theory is developed from only two basic assumptions, viz . that the sequence of pairs of feature vectors and the attached labels is judged (infinitely) exchangeable and predictively sufficient . We derive expressions for the training error and the probability of identification error and show that latter is an affine function of the former . We prove the law of large numbers for identification matrices, which contain the fundamental information of bacterial data . We prove the Bayesian risk consistency of the predictive identification rule given by the theory and show that the training error is a consistent estimate of the generalization error. Curr Opin Infect Dis, 2001 Jun, 14(3), 257 - 63 Roles of prostaglandins and leukotrienes in acute inflammation caused by bacterial infection; Yoshikai Y; Prostanoids, including prostaglandins and thromboxanes, are generated by the phospholipase A2/cyclooxygenase pathway, and leukotrienes are generated by the 5-lipoxygenase pathway from arachidonic acid . At physiological concentrations, vasodilator prostaglandins enhance the vascular permeability effects of histamine and bradykinin, and leukotrienes are important mediators of leukocyte accumulation during acute inflammation . On the other hand, prostaglandin metabolites such as cyclopentenone prostaglandins contribute to the resolution of acute inflammation through inhibition of nuclear factor-kappaB activation . Thus, arachidonic acid oxygenation products mediate diverse effects that induce and resolve acute inflammation caused by bacterial infection. Blood, 2002 May 1, 99(9), 3427 - 31 Stimulation of toll-like receptor 4 expression in human mononuclear phagocytes by interferon-gamma: a molecular basis for priming and synergism with bacterial lipopolysaccharide; Bosisio D et al.; In human monocytes and macrophages, interferon-gamma (IFNgamma) augmented mRNA and surface expression of toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), a crucial component of the signaling receptor complex for bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) . Expression of the accessory component MD-2 and of the adapter protein MyD88 was also increased . LPS increased TLR4 mRNA levels, but concomitantly decreased its surface expression . IFNgamma counteracted the LPS-induced downregulation of TLR4 . IFNgamma-primed monocytes showed increased responsiveness to LPS in terms of phosphorylation of the interleukin-1 receptor-associated kinase (IRAK; immediately downstream of the MyD88 adapter protein), NF-kB DNA binding activity, and, accordingly, of cytokine (tumor necrosis factor alpha {TNFalpha} and interleukin-12 {IL-12}) production . These results suggest that enhanced TLR4 expression underlies the long-known priming by IFNgamma of mononuclear phagocytes for pathogen recognition and killing as well as its synergism with LPS in macrophage activation. Cell Mol Life Sci, 2002 Mar, 59(3), 426 - 33 Specialized peptidoglycan of the bacterial endospore: the inner wall of the lockbox; Popham DL; A modified peptidoglycan (PG) wall is required for maintenance of spore core dehydration and the accompanying metabolic dormancy and heat resistance . Production of the spore PG depends on the cooperative expression of gene products within both the mother cell and forespore compartments of the sporangium . Structural elements that differentiate spore PG from vegetative cell PG include the presence of the modified sugar muramic-delta-lactam and a low level of peptide cross-links between the glycan strands . Detailed analyses of PG structure in dormant spores and in developing forespores of wild-type and mutant strains are providing data on factors required for introduction of these modifications and the importance of these structural elements in determining spore properties . Muramic-delta-lactam is not required for spore core dehydration but serves as a specificity factor for spore germination lytic enzymes . Cross-linking of spore PG can vary over a relatively wide range without significantly effecting spore core dehydration but does have an influence on the rate of spore germination and outgrowth . Future studies will examine how the two cells within the sporangium coordinate the production of this unique structure between themselves and how specific spore PG structural modifications are produced and participate in determining spore resistance properties. Appl Biochem Biotechnol, 2001 Spring, 91-93, 503 - 13 Production of bacterial cellulose from alternate feedstocks; Thompson DN et al.; Production of bacterial cellulose by Acetobacter xylinum ATCC 10821 and 23770 in static cultures was tested from unamended food process effluents . Effluents included low-solids (LS) and high-solids (HS) potato effluents, cheese whey permeate (CW), or sugar beet raffinate (CSB) . Strain 23770 produced 10% less cellulose from glucose than did strain 10821 and diverted more glucose to gluconate . Unamended HS, CW, and CSB were unsuitable for cellulose production by either strain, and LS was unsuitable for production by strain 10821 . However, strain 23770 produced 17% more cellulose from LS than from glucose, indicating that unamended LS could serve as a feedstock for bacterial cellulose. Appl Biochem Biotechnol, 2001 Spring, 91-93, 155 - 60 Synthesis of bacterial magnetic particles during cell cycle of Magnetospirillum magneticum AMB-1; Yang CD et al.; We investigated the relationship between the synthesis of bacterial magnetic particles (BMPs) and the transcription of magA gene-encoding iron transport protein using synchronous culture of Magnetospirillum magneticum AMB-1 . Synchronously cultured cells were subjected to transmission electron microscopic observation and fluorescence in situ hybridization . The average number of BMPs slowly increased in the cell with increasing cell size . A sharp increase in BMPs occurred just before cell division and resulted in maximum BMP production of 30 particles/cell . The transcription of magA was regulated immediately before and after cell division. Appl Biochem Biotechnol, 2001 Spring, 91-93, 147 - 54 Isolation of Magnetospirillum magneticum AMB-1 mutants defective in bacterial magnetic particle synthesis by transposon mutagenesis; Wahyudi AT et al.; Nonmagnetic mutants of Magnetospirillum magneticum AMB-1 were recovered following mini-Tn5 transposon mutagenesis . Transconjugants with kanamycin resistance were obtained at a frequency of 2.7 x 10(-7) per recipient . Of 3327 transconjugants, 62 were defective for bacterial magnetic particle (BMP) synthesis . The frequency of independent transposition events for nonmagnetic mutants was about 1.4% in transconjugants . Further analysis of DNA sequences flanking transposon by inverted polymerase chain reaction allowed isolation of at least 10 genes or DNA sequences involved in BMP synthesis in M . magneticum AMB-1. Appl Biochem Biotechnol, 2001 Spring, 91-93, 109 - 16 Development of high-performance and rapid immunoassay for model food allergen lysozyme using antibody-conjugated bacterial magnetic particles and fully automated system; Sato R et al.; A high-performance and rapid chemiluminescence immunoassay for model food allergen lysozyme, one of the major allergenic components in egg white, using antibody-conjugated bacterial magnetic particles and a fully automated system was developed . This system contains a reaction station, tip rack, and an eight-tip pipettor that is able to attach and detach a strong magnet to the tip surface . The immunoreaction time was shortened to 5 min, and the assay was completed within 20 min . The lower detection limit for lysozyme was 10 ng/mL . This system can be used to perform 24 samples in 60 min within 10% coefficient of variation. Digestion, 2002, 65(1), 11 - 5 Relevance of underlying disease and bacterial vacA and cagA status on the efficacy of Helicobacter pylori eradication; Rudi J et al.; AIM: To study the effects of Helicobacter pylori associated diseases and the bacterial vacA and cagA statuses on the efficacy of H . pylori eradication . METHODS: A prospective study in a consecutive series of outpatients of a gastroenterological institution and of a primary practice . A series of 146 H . pylori positive patients with peptic ulcer disease (PUD; n = 40) or nonulcer dyspepsia (NUD; n = 106) were evaluated . H . pylori vacA genotpyes and cagA status were determined directly in gastric biopsy specimens by polymerase chain reaction . The patients were treated with triple-therapy regimens consisting of a proton pump inhibitor and two antibiotics twice daily for 7 days . Reevaluation of H . pylori was determined 4-5 weeks later by endoscopy or 13C urea breath test . RESULTS: 123 patients completed the study . In 8 patients, colonization with two or more H . pylori strains was found . The overall cure rate was 84.6% (104/123) . The eradication rates were significantly higher in patients with PUD (94.4%, 34/36) than in those with NUD (81.6%, 71/87; p < 0.05) . In patients with cagA-positive H . pylori strains, the eradication rate was 89.0% (73/82) as compared with 78.8% (26/33) in those with cagA-negative strains (p = 0.15) . The vacA genotype had no effect on the efficacy of H . pylori eradication . CONCLUSION: Using 1-week triple-therapy regimens, treatment of H . pylori infection is more effective in patients with PUD than in those with NUD . J Photochem Photobiol B, 2002 Apr, 66(3), 218 - 22 Effects of potassium halides on bacterial bioluminescence; Gerasimova MA et al.; The effects of potassium halides KCl, KBr and KI on NADH:FMN-oxidoreductase-luciferase bioluminescent coupled enzyme system were studied . The influence of salt additions on bioluminescence intensity and bioluminescence light yield was investigated . The inhibition and activation parameters of the salts were calculated using their dependencies on concentration of the salts . The correlation between the inhibition of bioluminescence intensity and the halide mass was demonstrated: the inhibiting ability of the salts increases with the increase of atomic weight of the anions . The inhibition parameters increase and the activation parameters decrease, accordingly. Neurol India, 2002 Mar, 50(1), 63 - 7 Dexamethasone therapy for bacterial meningitis in adults: a double blind placebo control study; Gijwani D et al.; Routine use of steroids in the treatment of bacterial meningitis remains controversial . A prospective placebo controlled double blind study of dexamethasone was carried out in 40 patients (age>10 years) of acute bacterial meningitis . The patients were randomly assigned to receive either placebo (n=20) or dexamethasone (n=20) in addition to injection ceftriaxone 100 mg/kg/day (maximum 4 gm/day) for 14 days . Dexamethasone sodium phosphate was given in dose of 0.6 mg/kg/day in 4 divided doses, for first 4 days of therapy . First dose of dexamethasone was given 15 minutes prior to first dose of ceftriaxone . Baseline demographics, clinical and laboratory features of the two groups were similar . Clinical improvement of signs of meningeal irritation was rapid in dexamethasone group than in the placebo group, but no significant difference was observed regarding resolution of fever, headache and vomiting . Secondary fever (mean+/-SD 15.00), gastrointestinal tract bleeding (mean+/-SD 15.00) and psychiatric manifestations (mean+/-SD 10.00) were more common in dexamethasone group . Neurological complications and hearing loss were more common and severe in placebo group as compared to the dexamethasone group (p<0.05) . It is concluded that dexamethasone may be beneficial in some aspects of bacterial meningitis, in adults . A study with a larger number of cases in each group is recommended. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A, 2002 Apr 16, 99(8), 5643 - 8 Gating the bacterial mechanosensitive channel MscL invivo; Batiza AF et al.; YggB and MscL are the major mechanosensitive channels in Escherichia coli, and each can rescue the double knockout mutant from osmotic downshock . However, the role of MscL in wild-type bacteria is in question, not only because cells without MscL survive severe osmotic downshocks, but because 1.8 times more suction is required to gate MscL than YggB under patch clamp . Here, we extend previous evidence {Ajouz, B., Berrier, C., Garrigues, A., Besnard, M . & Ghazi, A . (1998) J . Biol . Chem . 273, 26670-26674} to show that downshock gates MscL in vivo even in the presence of YggB . We have made this determination by engineering a channel we can structurally modify in vivo (Leu-19-->Cys MscL) . MscLs with charges in their constrictions are known to open easily and transiently to substates and stop cell growth . In this study, we use downshock to stretch this region open to allow attachment of a charged thiosulfonate reagent MTSET(+), thereby creating a toxic channel . Therefore, channel opening can be monitored by loss of colony forming units . By this measure, we find that an approximately 800 mmol/kg downshock from 1,200 mmol/kg medium opens Leu-19-->Cys MscL in the presence of YggB, but a downshock of only approximately 400 mmol/kg is required in the absence of YggB . In parallel, Leu-19-->Cys MscL, stretched open by large sustained suction in the presence of MTSET(+) in voltage-clamped patches, subsequently flickers open with little suction . These observations show that MscL opening is triggered by a specific downshock, even in the presence of YggB, that YggB buffers MscL gating in vivo, and that residue 19 becomes exposed upon channel opening. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol, 2002 May, 282(5), H1793 - 803 Expression of human smooth muscle calponin in transgenic mice revealed with a bacterial artificial chromosome; Miano JM et al.; Defining regulatory elements governing cell-restricted gene expression can be difficult because cis-elements may reside tens of kilobases away from start site(s) of transcription . Artificial chromosomes, which harbor hundreds of kilobases of genomic DNA, preserve a large sequence landscape containing most, if not all, regulatory elements controlling the expression of a particular gene . Here, we report on the use of a bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC) to begin understanding the in vivo regulation of smooth muscle calponin (SM-Calp) . Long and accurate polymerase chain reaction, sequencing, and in silico analyses facilitated the complete sequence annotation of a BAC harboring human SM-Calp (hSM-Calp) . RNase protection, in situ hybridization, Western blotting, and immunohistochemistry assays showed the BAC clone faithfully expressed hSM-Calp in both cultured cells and transgenic mice . Moreover, expression of hSM-Calp mirrored that of endogenous mouse SM-Calp suggesting that all cis-regulatory elements governing hSM-Calp expression in vivo were contained within the BAC . These BAC mice represent a new model system in which to systematically assess regulatory elements governing SM-Calp transcription in vivo. J Infect Chemother, 2002 Mar, 8(1), 76 - 80 Differentiating between bacterial and viral infection by measuring both C-reactive protein and 2'-5'-oligoadenylate synthetase as inflammatory markers; Sasaki K et al.; This study aimed to find a method to distinguish between bacterial and viral infection by measuring inflammatory markers in the early phase of the illness . We examined the activity of acute phase proteins, including C-reactive protein (CRP), serum amyloid A (SAA), and 2'-5'-oligoadenylate synthetase (2-5A synthetase), in sera obtained from children with bacterial and viral infections that were diagnosed by isolation of the pathogen or by positive serology . Increases in levels of CRP and SAA generally paralleled each other . In the acute stage of bacterial infections, CRP levels were moderately or highly increased and 2-5A synthetase levels were normal, whereas in viral infections, CRP levels were normal or slightly increased and 2-5A synthetase levels were increased . To better distinguish between bacterial and viral infection we used the ratio of CRP (mg/l) to 2-5A synthetase (pmol/dl) x10 as the differential index . The values for this index in bacterial infections ranged from 3.9 to 50, and were higher than the values in viral infections, which ranged from 0 to 0.9 . We propose that the measurement of both CRP and 2-5A synthetase during the acute phase of illness (within 5 days of onset) is of value to determine whether the infection is caused by a bacteria or virus. Med Sci Monit, 2002 Apr, 8(4), BR136 - 43 Intracerebroventricular administration of bacterial lipopolysaccharide prevents the development of acute experimental pancreatitis in the rat; Jaworek J et al.; BACKGROUND: Lipopolysaccharides (LPS) are responsible for septic shock but low doses of LPS reduce pancreatic damage produced by caerulein-induced pancreatitis (CIP) in rats . Leptin, produced by adipocytes attenuates the severity of CIP . The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) administration of LPS on CIP and plasma leptin level and to investigate the involvement of sensory nerves (SN) in the effects of LPS on CIP . MATERIAL/METHODS: CIP was produced by subcutaneous (s.c.) infusion of caerulein (25 Kg/kg) to conscious rats . SN were deactivated with capsaicin (100 mg/kg s.c.) . LPS (0.2, 2, or 20 Kg/rat) were applied to the right cerebral ventricle 30 min prior to CIP . RESULTS: CIP was manifested by an increase in plasma levels of amylase, lipase, leptin and an anti-inflammatory interleukin 10 (IL-10), (by 400%, 1000%, 700% and 50%, respectively), confirmed by histological examination and accompanied by 40% reduction in pancreatic blood flow . Pretreatment of CIP rats with i.c.v . LPS resulted in significant reduction of CIP accompanied by dose-dependent increase in plasma levels of leptin and IL-10 . Deactivation of SN, which by itself failed to affect CIP, completely reversed the beneficial effects of i.c.v . administration of LPS on CIP and reduced plasma leptin and IL-10 concentrations . CONCLUSIONS: Pretreatment with LPS given i.c.v . prevents the development of caerulein-induced pancreatitis through the activation of SN and though the release of leptin. Vnitr Lek, 2002 Feb, 48(2), 100 - 4 {Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis in the Czech Republic}; Lata J et al.; The objective of the study was to assess the prevalence and more detailed data pertaining to the incidence of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) in the Czech Republic . The authors examined 99 patients with cirrhosis of the liver and ascites . SBP was diagnosed in a high percentage--35 patients, i.e . 35.4% . It was found more frequently in patients with an alcoholic etiology of cirrhosis who had a history of subfebrile and febrile temperatures and increasing trend of ascites . For the diagnosis the increase of leucocytes in serum and C reactive protein levels may prove useful . Lower values of total protein and albumin in ascites predispose to the development of this infection . Reduction of the number of thrombocytes in the group of patients with SBP indicates the influence of portal hypertension in the etiology of this disease. Crit Care Med, 2002 Apr, 30(4), 861 - 7 Reduced rate of bacterial translocation and improved variables of natural killer cell and T-cell activity in rats surviving controlled hemorrhagic shock and treated with hypertonic saline; Hirsh M et al.; OBJECTIVE: To examine the effect of hypertonic saline on bacterial translocation and the number and function of natural killer and T cells in controlled hemorrhagic shock . DESIGN: Randomized controlled study . Duration of follow-up was 24 hrs . SETTING: University research laboratory . SUBJECTS: Adult male Sprague-Dawley rats, weighing 310-390 g . INTERVENTIONS: Controlled hemorrhagic shock was induced by blood withdrawal (mean arterial pressure, 30-40 mm Hg) and maintained for 30 mins . The animals were randomly divided into three groups: group 1 (n = 10) was sham-operated, group 2 (n = 10) was untreated, and group 3 was treated with 5 mL/kg hypertonic saline (n = 10) . The rats were killed after 24 hrs . MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: Infusion of hypertonic saline in group 3 was followed by reduced bacterial translocation rate (5.0 +/- 2.2% vs . 18.3 +/- 5.3%, p <.033) . The total mass of bacteria isolated from hypertonic saline-treated animals with bacterial translocation was 7.8- to 10.4-fold less than that from untreated rats . Controlled hemorrhagic shock resulted in a low percentage of CD4+ cells in blood (35.2 +/- 3.9%, p <.05) and lymph nodes (44.4 +/- 4.5%, p <.05) and depressed CD4 expression on blood (82 +/- 13 arbitrary units, p <.005) and lymph node (168 +/- 24 arbitrary units, p <.03) cells . A compensatory mobilization of NKR-P1+ cells from lymph nodes (8.6 +/- 2.3%, p <.05) to blood (21.2 +/- 5.2%, p <.01) with down-regulated NKR-P1 expression on blood cells (59 +/- 10 arbitrary units, p <.005) was observed . Natural killer cell-mediated cytotoxicity was decreased (67.9 +/- 9.7%, p <.05) . Hypertonic saline treatment greatly stimulated CD4 expression on blood (419 +/- 113 arbitrary units, p <.005) and lymph node (553 +/- 115 arbitrary units, p <.03) cells . Also, normalization of NKR-P1 expression (160 +/- 19 arbitrary units, p <.005) and restoration of natural killer cell-mediated cytotoxicity to near normal values (88.6 +/- 7.4%, p <.05) were demonstrated . CONCLUSION: Controlled hemorrhagic shock was accompanied by CD4+ cells suppression and excessive recruitment of natural killer cells with abnormally low NKR-P1 expression and suppressed cytolytic activity into circulation . Infusion of hypertonic saline reversed these changes and reduced bacterial translocation. Crit Care, 2002 Feb, 6(1), 24 - 9 Epub 2001 Nov 09. Clinical review: a paradigm shift: the bidirectional effect of inflammation on bacterial growth . Clinical implications for patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome; Meduri GU; Clinical studies have shown positive associations among sustained and intense inflammatory responses and the incidence of bacterial infections . We hypothesized that cytokines secreted by the host during acute respiratory distress syndrome may indeed favor the growth of bacteria and explain the association between exaggerated and protracted systemic inflammation and the frequent development of nosocomial infections . To test this hypothesis, we conducted in vitro studies evaluating the extracellular and intracellular growth response of three clinically relevant bacteria in response to graded concentrations of pro-inflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor-alpha, IL-1beta, and IL-6 . In these studies, we identified a U-shaped response of bacterial growth to pro-inflammatory cytokines . When the bacteria were exposed in vitro to a lower concentration of cytokines, extracellular and intracellular bacterial growth was not promoted and human monocytic cells were efficient in killing the ingested bacteria . Conversely, when bacteria were exposed to higher concentrations of pro-inflammatory cytokines, intracellular and extracellular bacterial growth was enhanced in a dose-dependent manner . The bidirectional effects of proinflammatory cytokines on bacterial growth may help to explain the frequent occurrence of nosocomial infections in patients with unresolving acute respiratory distress syndrome. Acta Anaesthesiol Scand, 2002 Mar, 46(3), 264 - 70 Treatment of intracranial hypertension and aspects on lumbar dural puncture in severe bacterial meningitis; Grande PO et al.; BACKGROUND: Brain stem herniation due to raised intracranial pressure (ICP) is a common cause of mortality in severe bacterial meningitis, but continuous measurements of ICP and the effects of ICP-reducing therapy in these patients have, to our knowledge, not been described . METHODS: During a four-year period, an ICP-monitoring device was implanted in patients admitted to our hospital with severe bacterial meningitis and suspected intracranial hypertension . ICP above 20 mmHg was treated using the Lund Concept, which includes antihypertensive therapy (beta1-antagonist,alpha2-agonist), normalization of the plasma colloid osmotic pressure and the blood volume, and antistress therapy . RESULTS: ICP above 20 mmHg was found in all 12 patients studied . It was effectively reduced in all but two patients, who died . Both patients had a low cerebral perfusion pressure (<10 mmHg), dilated pupils at start of therapy and were beyond recovery . Radiological signs of brain swelling were present in only five patients . Seven patients recovered fully, while mild audiological impairment was observed in two and minor neurological sequelae in one patient . Eight patients showed signs suggesting imminent brain stem herniation before start of ICP-reducing treatment, seven of whom had been subjected to diagnostic lumbar dural puncture shortly before development of the brain stem symptoms . These symptoms gradually regressed after initiation of therapy, and in one patient reversal of brain stem herniation was documented by MRI . CONCLUSIONS: Severe bacterial meningitis can be associated with increased ICP, which can be reduced using the Lund Concept . The high survival rate, the low frequency of sequelae and the reversal of signs of imminent brain stem herniation in these high-risk patients indicated beneficial effects of the intervention . The study confirms earlier observations that lumbar dural puncture is potentially hazardous in patients with intracranial hypertension, because it may trigger brain stem herniation . A normal CT brain scan does not rule out intracranial hypertension. Anal Bioanal Chem, 2002 Feb, 372(3), 444 - 7 Epub 2001 Dec 20. Effect of different extraction procedures on the yield and pattern of Se-species in bacterial samples; Michalke B et al.; Investigations are described to extract Se-species from a bacterial sample . The five extraction methods investigated were: hot water, protease, lysozyme, lysozyme-protease, and HCl hydrolysis . The extraction efficiency was determined by comparing the total amounts of selenium in the sample after pressure digestion with the amounts extracted by the different methods described . Efficiencies were found to be only 1% (hot water), ca . 8% (protease, HCl hydrolysis) or ca . 12% (lysozyme, lysozyme-protease) . The Se-peak patterns were compared after investigating the extracts with strong anion exchange chromatography-inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (SAX-ICP-MS) . Most promising were the lysozyme-assisted procedures, which showed the highest diversity of species . Here, in the protease-lysozyme approach, the protease seemed to break down species that had been extracted by lysozyme from the bacterial wall (murein sacculus) . The other approaches seemed not to extract many species . Hot water extraction was completely unsuitable, extracting only low amounts of a single, unknown species. Curr Opin Microbiol, 2002 Apr, 5(2), 216 - 22 Bacterial cell-to-cell communication: sorry, can't talk now - gone to lunch! Winzer K, Hardie KR, Williams P. The identification of novel bacterial cell-to-cell communication (quorum sensing) systems based on diffusible signal molecules, such as indole and the LuxS autoinducer-2, requires discrimination between true signalling molecules and metabolites present in culture supernatants . This depends on rigorous chemical characterisation and demonstration that the molecule controls cellular responses beyond those required to metabolise or detoxify the signal. Lippincotts Prim Care Pract, 2000 Sep-Oct, 4(5), 490 - 7 The evaluation of the client with acute bacterial rhinosinusitis; DeRaps PK; The diagnosis of acute bacterial rhinosinusitis (ABR) remains elusive . Most patients with symptoms of ABR are seen in primary care offices . This article focuses on the presentation of the patient with symptoms of ABR, accurate diagnosis, and pharmacologic treatment . The article also discusses the appropriate referrals for patients who do not respond to conventional treatment. Chem Rec, 2001, 1(6), 480 - 93 Bacterial photosynthesis begins with quantum-mechanical coherence; Sumi H; In the antenna system of photosynthetic bacteria, pigments form circular aggregates whose excitations are excitons with quantum-mechanical coherence extending over many pigments . These excitons play crucial roles in light harvesting, storage, and excitation-energy transfer (EET) . EET takes place rapidly to and/or from optically forbidden exciton states, without total transition dipole, within the antenna system and to the reaction center . Such EETs cannot be rationalized by Forster's formula, the traditional theory on EET, because it allows EET only between optically allowed states . The coherence in the excitons seems to prohibit rapid EET on this formula . The bacteria overcome this difficulty by circumventing the coherence, using the effects of the physical size of an aggregate that is larger than the shortest distance between pigments in the donor and pigments in the acceptor . The shortest-distance pair therein cannot detect whether the aggregate has a nonvanishing total transition dipole or not, since the pair see effectively only the transition dipole on the other pigment in themselves . The transition dipole facilitates rapid EET even to and/or from optically forbidden exciton states . Such EETs have enabled us to develop a general formula for the rate constant of EET . This is a formula in the weak-interaction limit, and so is Forster's formula, but it correctly takes into account the above size effect . Mol Cell, 2002 Mar, 9(3), 527 - 39 Structure of the bacterial RNA polymerase promoter specificity sigma subunit; Campbell EA et al.; The sigma subunit is the key regulator of bacterial transcription . Proteolysis of Thermus aquaticus sigma(A), which occurred in situ during crystallization, reveals three domains, sigma(2), sigma(3), and sigma(4), connected by flexible linkers . Crystal structures of each domain were determined, as well as of sigma(4) complexed with -35 element DNA . Exposed surfaces of each domain are important for RNA polymerase binding . Universally conserved residues important for -10 element recognition and melting lie on one face of sigma(2), while residues important for extended -10 recognition lie on sigma(3) . Genetic studies correctly predicted that a helix-turn-helix motif in sigma(4) recognizes the -35 element but not the details of the protein-DNA interactions . Positive control mutants in sigma(4) cluster in two regions, positioned to interact with activators bound just upstream or downstream of the -35 element. Zhonghua Kou Qiang Yi Xue Za Zhi, 2001 Nov, 36(6), 417 - 20 {Alteration of immunological properties of bacterial lipopolysaccharide by calcium hydroxide treatment}; Wang X et al.; OBJECTIVE: To study alteration of immunological properties of LPS by Ca(OH)2 treatment, and to establish an experimental model in which ThP-1 cell line was cultured in vitro to observe the alteration of immunological properties of LPS . METHODS: ThP-1 cell line was used to establish a culture model in vitro . Amount of TNF-alpha released from stimulated cells acted as the index on immunological properties of the stimuli and alteration of immunological properties of LPS by Ca(OH)2 treatment . RESULTS: Within the range of observed LPS concentrations (10 micrograms/L-10 mg/L), the original immunological properties of LPS decreased significantly after treatment by Ca(OH)2 for a week (P < 0.001) . When pH > or = 12.30, the amount of TNF-alpha excreted by monocyte did not differ significantly from the control group (P > 0.05) . CONCLUSIONS: After treatment by Ca(OH)2 for a week, the original immunological properties of LPS decreased significantly . High pH value of Ca(OH)2 played a critical role during the alteration of immunological properties of LPS. An Esp Pediatr, 2002 Apr, 56(4), 357 - 9 {Nontuberculous bacterial infection in immunocompetent children}; de Juan Martin F et al.; Nontuberculous or environmental mycobacterial disease in children has been increasingly recognized over the last decade . We present four patients who were diagnosed in the year 2000 . The children were aged between 2 and 8 years . Three patients presented involvement of the cervical lymph nodes and one presented involvement of the inguinal nodes . Three of the children were treated with a combination of surgery and chemotherapy and one was treated with chemotherapy alone . We describe the clinical characteristics, laboratory findings, therapeutic management and complications of nontuberculous mycobacterial lymphadenitis in children. Curr Infect Dis Rep, 2002 Apr, 4(2), 141 - 143 Bacterial Vaginosis Complicating Pregnancy and Gynecologic Surgery; Pumpradit W et al.; Bacterial vaginosis, the most commonly diagnosed vaginitis, has traditionally been regarded as a benign condition . However, recent evidence suggests association with preclinical miscarriage, early pregnancy loss, preterm labor, low birth weight infants, gynecologic surgical infections, and postabortal pelvic inflammatory diseases . Since studies show significant reduction in preterm labor and postabortal endometritis with treatment, it is recommended that bacterial vaginosis in high-risk women for preterm labor and women who undergo surgical abortion be treated regardless of symptoms . No treatment is recommended, however, for asymptomatic low-risk women. Curr Opin Drug Discov Devel, 2002 Mar, 5(2), 269 - 78 Bacterial toxins as versatile delivery vehicles; de Haan L et al.; An ability to deliver macromolecules into the intracellular compartments of mammalian cells offers enormous potential for development of new therapeutics directed against intracellular targets . Unfortunately, most peptides or proteins are too large to enter the cell cytosol unaided, and any uptake that does occur primarily results in their entry into lysosomes for degradation . However, one group of proteins that possesses an inherent capacity to interact with and enter mammalian cells are bacterial toxins . These are being developed as efficient vehicles for the attachment and intracellular delivery of other macromolecules, including peptides, proteins and DNA . To date, most studies have concentrated on the delivery of immunological epitopes into the endogenous major histocompatibility class I (MHC-I) pathway for development of antiviral or anticancer vaccines . However, opportunities to use toxins to modulate inflammatory autoimmune disorders and cell-specific targeting of DNA for gene therapy illustrates the versatility of toxin molecules as delivery vehicles. Ann Trop Paediatr, 2002 Mar, 22(1), 33 - 44 A revised clinical method for assessment of severity of acute bacterial meningitis; Akpede GO et al.; The aim of this study was to simplify a previously described clinical method of assessing severity of meningitis . An 8.5-point, six-item model for the risk of an abnormal course (seizures during treatment) or adverse outcome (death or recovery with neurological sequelae) was developed using a set of six bedside features: age < or = 2 yrs, 2 points; duration of illness > 7 days, 1.5 points; seizures, 2.5 points; hypovolaemic shock, 1 point; coma, 0.5 point; and abnormal muscle tone, 1 point . A high-risk score (< or = 2.5 points) was associated with a relative risk (95% CI) of 7.4 (2.4, 22.7) of seizures during treatment, and 6.3 (2.6, 17.2) for an adverse outcome (death or major or minor sequelae) . The revised model should be suitable for use where laboratory facilities are not readily available, as in many developing countries, or when contra-indications to lumbar puncture are an important consideration on admission, as in severely ill patients, as well as when there are not such limitations. J Basic Microbiol, 2002, 42(1), 19 - 36 Aerobic co-metabolism of sulfur, nitrogen and oxygen heterocycles by three marine bacterial consortia; Meade JD et al.; Bacterial samples were collected from three marine beaches in coastal Newfoundland, Canada, and enriched by growth on 1-methylnaphthalene . The most prominent bacterial cell type for each consortium was isolated in a serial dilutions test, and a substrate utilization profile was obtained for each using the Biolog MicroStation System . Each bacterial community was tested for its ability to co-metabolize sulfur heterocycles (benzothiophene: BT, 3-methylbenzothiophene: 3-MBT, and dibenzothiphene: DBT), a nitrogen heterocycle (carbazole: CARB), and an oxygen heterocycle (dibenzofuran: DBF) . Co-metabolism of the starting material was determined using gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GC-MS), and formation of products was investigated by GC-MS and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy . Bacterial growth was monitored turbidimetrically to determine the dry weight (microgram) of cells/ml . The 2-ringed heterocycles were co-metabolized faster and to a greater extent than the 3-ringed compounds . Co-metabolism of BT was not statistically different from that for 3-MBT and, likewise, a comparison of the 3-ringed heterocycles showed no significant differences in degradation rates . Statistical examination showed that no one culture demonstrated a significantly greater ability to co-metabolize the heterocycles studied . This study represents the first comprehensive investigation of the ability of local bacteria to co-metabolize a range of aromatic compounds and provides a preliminary understanding of their fate in sediments should contamination by these compounds occur. J Investig Dermatol Symp Proc, 2001 Dec, 6(3), 231 - 2 Biologic effects of bacterial superantigens in a xenogeneic transplantation model for psoriasis; Boehncke WH; Both clinical as well as experimental data support the concept of psoriasis being a T-cell-mediated immune disease possibly triggered by bacterial superantigens . Further analysis of its pathogenesis was facilitated by the generation of a xenogeneic transplantation model in which skin from psoriatic patients is grafted onto SCID mice lacking functional B and T cells . Applying this model it was demonstrated that psoriasis can be triggered by bacterial superantigens; this process depends on the presence of immunocytes . Mutated variants of the respective superantigens exhibiting no measurable affinity to HLA class II molecules can function as competitive inhibitors in vivo. East Afr Med J, 2001 Sep, 78(9), 500 - 1 Undiagnosed renal abscess presenting as acute bacterial peritonitis: case report; Sule AZ; A case of undiagnosed renal abscess complicated by intraperitoneal rupture with generalised bacterial peritonitis is presented . Prompt surgical intervention was essential for saving the patient's life . Early imaging of the kidney in unresolved renal infection is essential if renal abscess, its delayed presentation and complications are to be avoided . Most patients will be cured without operation by antibiotics and if necessary, by additional percutaneous drainage where an abscess has formed. Am J Surg, 2002 Feb, 183(2), 179 - 90 Factors predisposing to bacterial invasion and infection; Heinzelmann M et al.; BACKGROUND: Bacterial infections remain important causes of morbidity and mortality in surgical patients . Our understanding of the effects of bacteria on the host, and also the defense mechanisms available to the host, is improving all the time . Modern tools in biochemistry, immunology, and molecular biology have provided powerful methods to further our understanding of the complex interactions that contribute to our host defense response . This review reflects current thinking regarding the factors that contribute to bacterial infection and host defense response . DATA SOURCES: This review was compiled after an extensive review of the current and historical literature, and highlights a number of areas involved in the pathogenesis of bacterial infection . CONCLUSIONS: Bacteria can have a wide-ranging and deleterious effect on the host . Many different therapeutic approaches have been attempted to modulate the host response and limit the deleterious effects of bacteria . As our understanding of the underlying processes improves, these therapies should improve accordingly. Immunology, 2002 Mar, 105(3), 245 - 51 Activation of the immune system by bacterial CpG-DNA; Hacker G et al.; The past decade has seen a remarkable process of refocusing in immunology . Cells of the innate immune system, especially macrophages and dendritic cells, have been at the centre of this process . These cells had been regarded by some scientists as non-specific, sometimes perhaps even confined to the menial job of serving T cells by scavenging antigen and presenting it to the sophisticated adaptive immune system . Only over the last few years has it become unequivocally clear that cells of the innate immunity hold, by variation of context and mode of antigen presentation, the power of shaping an adaptive immune response . The innate immune response, in turn, is to a significant degree the result of stimulation by so-called pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) . One compound with high stimulatory potential for the innate immune system is bacterial DNA . Here we will review recent evidence that bacterial DNA should be ranked with other PAMPs such as lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and lipoteichoic acid . We will further review our present knowledge of DNA recognition and DNA-dependent signal transduction in cells of the immune system. Appl Environ Microbiol, 2002 Apr, 68(4), 2026 - 30 Bacterial cell surface display of organophosphorus hydrolase for selective screening of improved hydrolysis of organophosphate nerve agents; Cho CM et al.; Organophosphorus hydrolase (OPH) is a bacterial enzyme that has been shown to degrade a wide range of neurotoxic organophosphate nerve agents . However, the effectiveness of degradation varies dramatically, ranging from highly efficient with paraoxon to relatively slow with methyl parathion . Sequential cycles of DNA shuffling and screening were used to fine-tune and enhance the activity of OPH towards poorly degraded substrates . Because of the inaccessibility of these pesticides across the cell membrane, OPH variants were displayed on the surface of Escherichia coli using the truncated ice nucleation protein in order to isolate novel enzymes with truly improved substrate specificities . A solid-phase top agar method based on the detection of the yellow product p-nitrophenol was developed for the rapid prescreening of potential variants with improved hydrolysis of methyl parathion . Two rounds of DNA shuffling and screening were carried out, and several improved variants were isolated . One variant in particular, 22A11, hydrolyzes methyl parathion 25-fold faster than does the wild type . Because of the success that we achieved with directed evolution of OPH for improved hydrolysis of methyl parathion, we believe that we can easily extend this method in creating other OPH variants with improved activity against poorly degraded pesticides such as diazinon and chlorpyrifos and nerve agents such as sarin and soman. Appl Environ Microbiol, 2002 Apr, 68(4), 1854 - 63 Comparison of soil bacterial communities in rhizospheres of three plant species and the interspaces in an arid grassland; Kuske CR et al.; Soil bacteria are important contributors to primary productivity and nutrient cycling in arid land ecosystems, and their populations may be greatly affected by changes in environmental conditions . In parallel studies, the composition of the total bacterial community and of members of the Acidobacterium division were assessed in arid grassland soils using terminal restriction fragment length polymorphism (TRF, also known as T-RFLP) analysis of 16S rRNA genes amplified from soil DNA . Bacterial communities associated with the rhizospheres of the native bunchgrasses Stipa hymenoides and Hilaria jamesii, the invading annual grass Bromus tectorum, and the interspaces colonized by cyanobacterial soil crusts were compared at three depths . When used in a replicated field-scale study, TRF analysis was useful for identifying broad-scale, consistent differences in the bacterial communities in different soil locations, over the natural microscale heterogeneity of the soil . The compositions of the total bacterial community and Acidobacterium division in the soil crust interspaces were significantly different from those of the plant rhizospheres . Major differences were also observed in the rhizospheres of the three plant species and were most apparent with analysis of the Acidobacterium division . The total bacterial community and the Acidobacterium division bacteria were affected by soil depth in both the interspaces and plant rhizospheres . This study provides a baseline for monitoring bacterial community structure and dynamics with changes in plant cover and environmental conditions in the arid grasslands. Eur J Echocardiogr, 2000 Dec, 1(4), 291 - 4 Non-bacterial thrombotic endocarditis; Markides V et al.; A 63-year-old man presented with cachexia and confusion . He was found to have culture-negative endocarditis affecting his aortic valve . Despite treatment with broad-spectrum antibiotics and extensive investigation for an underlying cause, he suffered a large cerebral infarct and died . At post-mortem he was found to have non-bacterial thrombotic endocarditis and a metastatic signet-ring carcinoma. Biotechnol Appl Biochem, 2002 Apr, 35(Pt 2), 125 - 32 Cultivation of Acetobacter xylinum for bacterial cellulose production in a modified airlift reactor; Cheng HP et al.; Acetobacter xylinum for bacterial cellulose production was cultivated in a modified airlift reactor . Better results were obtained from the modified reactor than from a conventional bubble column . After 72 h of cultivation, the final concentration of bacterial cellulose was 7.72 g/l and the productivity was 0.107 g/l per h in the modified airlift reactor . The concentration of bacterial cellulose was about three times higher than that produced in the conventional bubble column . Moreover, the bacterial cellulose produced using the modified reactor formed a unique elliptical pellet (the average diameter was 10 mm), which is different from the fibrous form produced using the stirred-tank reactor . The modified airlift reactor with the suspended bacterial cellulose in pellet form had a higher volumetric oxygen-transfer coefficient and mixing capability than that with bacterial cellulose in fibrous form . The dissolved oxygen in the modified airlift reactor could be maintained above 35% throughout the cultivation. Curr Opin Obstet Gynecol, 2002 Apr, 14(2), 115 - 8 Bacterial vaginosis in pregnancy; Ugwumadu AH; Bacterial vaginosis is associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes across all gestational ages . It is linked to first and second trimester fetal loss, chorioamnionitis, preterm delivery, low-birthweight infants and maternal/neonatal infectious morbidity . Infants who survive preterm birth are at an increased risk of subsequent neurodevelopmental delays and handicap, more so if there was underlying choriomnionitis . The exact mechanisms and pathways through which bacterial vaginosis exerts these adverse effects are incompletely understood . Not surprisingly, intervention studies in bacterial vaginosis-positive pregnant women have shown conflicting results, both in women at high and low risk of preterm birth . A much better understanding of the pathobiology of bacterial vaginosis in pregnancy is required to focus the designs of intervention studies on the disturbed cellular and biochemical pathways . Such studies may address the benefits of the treatment of bacterial vaginosis before conception and during early pregnancy, to determine whether treatment in populations of pregnant women may be beneficial. Blood Coagul Fibrinolysis, 2002 Mar, 13(2), 123 - 8 Novel anticoagulant activity of polybrene: inhibition of monocytic tissue factor hypercoagulation following bacterial endotoxin induction; Chu AJ et al.; The enhanced extrinsic coagulation in response to inflammation could contribute to disseminated intravascular coagulation, often manifesting cardiovascular complications . The complex mechanism remains unclear . Nor is the effective anticoagulation well established . The search for arresting hypercoagulation is of antithrombotic relevance . The ability of polybrene (PB) to inhibit tissue factor (TF)-initiated extrinsic blood coagulation was demonstrated at the protein and cellular levels as well as in human plasma samples . In a single-stage clotting assay, PB dose-dependently offset bacterial endotoxin (lipopolysaccharide)-induced monocytic TF (mTF) hypercoagulation and inhibited rabbit brain thromboplastin (rbTF) procoagulation . Consistent with these findings, the significantly prolonged prothrombin time indicated the depressed extrinsic coagulation by PB . However, PB showed no effect on thrombin time . We dissected the extrinsic pathway to further determine the inhibitory site(s) of PB . A two-stage chromogenic assay monitoring S-2288 hydrolysis showed that PB readily blocked mTF-dependent or rbTF-dependent FVII activation, which was verified by the diminished activated factor VII (FVIIa) formation derived from the proteolytic cleavage of its zymogen factor VII on Western blotting analyses . PB had no effect on FVIIa and activated factor X amidolytic activity . Nor was the dissected TF/FVIIa-catalyzed factor X activation affected . In conclusion, the preferential downregulation of factor VII activation was responsible for the depressed extrinsic coagulation . PB could present a novel anticoagulant antagonizing the extrinsic hypercoagulation for the prevention of thrombotic complication following sepsis and inflammations. Immunity, 2002 Mar, 16(3), 391 - 402 FcgammaRI (CD64) contributes substantially to severity of arthritis, hypersensitivity responses, and protection from bacterial infection; Ioan-Facsinay A et al.; The high-affinity receptor for IgG, FcgammaRI, shares its capacity to bind IgG2a immune complexes (IgG2a-IC) with the low-affinity receptor FcgammaRIII and complement factors, hampering the definition of its biological role . Moreover, in vivo, FcgammaRI is occupied by monomeric IgG2a, reducing its accessibility to newly formed IgG2a-IC . By using a variety of FcgammaR(-/-) mice, we demonstrate that in the absence of FcgammaRI, the IgG2a-IC-induced cellular processes of phagocytosis, cytokine release, cellular cytotoxicity, and antigen presentation are impaired . FcgammaRI(-/-) mice showed impaired hypersensitivity responses, strongly reduced cartilage destruction in an arthritis model, and impaired protection from a bacterial infection . We conclude that FcgammaRI contributes substantially to a variety of IgG2a-IC-dependent immune functions and immunopathological responses. J Vet Med B Infect Dis Vet Public Health, 2002 Feb, 49(1), 31 - 6 Cloning of the genomes of equine herpesvirus type 1 (EHV-1) strains KyA and racL11 as bacterial artificial chromosomes (BAC); Rudolph J et al.; The genome of equine herpesvirus type 1 (EHV-1) strain RacL11, a highly virulent isolate obtained from an aborted foal, and that of the modified live vaccine strain KyA, were cloned as bacterial artificial chromosomes (BAC) in Eseherichia coli . Mini F plasmid sequences were inserted into the viral genomes by homologous recombination instead of the gene 71 (EUS4) open reading frame after co-transfection of viral DNA and recombinant plasmid pdelta71-pHA2 into RK13 cells . After isolation of recombinant viruses by three rounds of plaque purification, viral DNA was isolated from RK13 cells infected with RacL11 or KyA virus mutants expressing the green fluorescent protein (GFP), and electroporated into Escherichia coli DH10B cells . Several bacterial colonies were shown to contain high-molecular weight BAC DNA with a restriction enzyme fragment pattern indicative of the presence of full-length RacL11 or KyA genomes . Two selected BAC clones were analysed by restriction enzyme analysis and Southern blotting, and were eventually termed pRacLI I and pKyA . respectively . Upon transfection of pRacL11 or pKyA DNA into RK13 cells, GFP-expressing fluorescing virus plaques could be identified from day 1 after transfection . Infectivity after transfection of pRacL11 or pKyA could be readily propagated on RK13 or equine cells, indicating that infectious full-length DNA clones of strains RacL11 and KyA were successfully cloned in Escherichia coli as BACs . The glycoprotein 2-negative progeny reconstituted from pRacL11 and pKyA (L11deltagp2 and KyAdeltagp2) exhibited different growth properties . Whereas both L11deltagp2 and KyAdeltagp2 extracellular titres were reduced by 15- to 32-fold, plaque diameters were only markedly (50%) reduced in the case of KyAdeltagp2. Clin Ther, 2002 Feb, 24(2), 269 - 81 A multicenter, randomized, investigator-blinded study of 5- and 10-day gatifloxacin versus 10-day amoxicillin/clavulanate in patients with acute bacterial sinusitis; Sher LD et al.; BACKGROUND: Treatment guidelines for acute bacterial sinusitis recommend 10 to 14 days of therapy with amoxicillin/clavulanate, high-dose amoxicillin, cefpodoxime, cefuroxime, or a newer fluoroquinolone . Objective: This study compared the clinical efficacy of short-course (5-day) gatifloxacin with standard 10-day regimens of amoxicillin/clavulanate or gatifloxacin in patients with a diagnosis of acute, uncomplicated maxillary sinusitis . METHODS: This was a multicenter, investigator-blinded study in adult patients (age >18 years) with physical findings, signs and symptoms (for at least 7 days), and radiographic findings indicating acute, uncomplicated maxillary sinusitis . Patients were randomized to receive gatifloxacin 400 mg once daily for 5 days, gatifloxacin 400 mg once daily for 10 days, or amoxicillin/clavulanate 875 mg twice daily for 10 days . Clinical response was assessed once between days 3 and 5 of treatment, once I to 3 days after the completion of study treatment, once 7 to 14 days posttreatment (test-of-cure visit), and once 21 to 28 days posttreatment . Safety was assessed throughout the study . RESULTS: The study enrolled 445 patients . The treatment groups were similar in terms of history of sinusitis, presenting signs and symptoms, and radiographic findings . The most common presenting symptoms were nasal congestion, sinus tenderness, and purulent nasal discharge (>90% of patients); 99% of patients had abnormal radiographic findings . At the test-of-cure visit, clinical cure rates for clinically evaluable patients in the 3 treatment groups were 74% (102/137) for 5-day gatifloxacin, 80% (101/127) for 10-day gatifloxacin, and 72% (101/ 141) for 10-day amoxicillin/clavulanate (95% CI for the difference in cure rates: 5-day gatifloxacin vs amoxicillin/clavulanate, -7.6 to 13.2; 5- vs 10-day gatifloxacin, -15.2 to 5.1; 10-day gatifloxacin vs amoxicillin/clavulanate, -2.3 to 18.1) . The distribution and incidence of drug-related adverse events (AEs) were comparable between treatment groups, and the majority (>95%) were mild or moderate in severity . The most common drug-related AEs included vaginitis, diarrhea, and nausea . CONCLUSION: In this population of patients with acute, uncomplicated sinusitis of presumed bacterial origin, a short course (5 days) of gatifloxacin therapy was associated with comparable clinical cure rates and tolerability to those of standard 10-day therapy with gatifloxacin or amoxicillin/clavulanate. Protein Sci, 2002 Apr, 11(4), 912 - 23 Modeling the transmembrane domain of bacterial chemoreceptors; Peach ML et al.; Bacterial chemoreceptors signal across the membrane by conformational changes that traverse a four-helix transmembrane domain . High-resolution structures are available for the chemoreceptor periplasmic domain and part of the cytoplasmic domain but not for the transmembrane domain . Thus, we constructed molecular models of the transmembrane domains of chemoreceptors Trg and Tar, using coordinates of an unrelated four-helix coiled coil as a template and the X-ray structure of a chemoreceptor periplasmic domain to establish register and positioning . We tested the models using the extensive data for cross-linking propensities between cysteines introduced into adjacent transmembrane helices, and we found that many aspects of the models corresponded with experimental observations . The one striking disparity, the register of transmembrane helix 2 (TM2) relative to its partner transmembrane helix 1, could be corrected by sliding TM2 along its long axis toward the periplasm . The correction implied that axial sliding of TM2, the signaling movement indicated by a large body of data, was of greater magnitude than previously thought . The refined models were used to assess effects of inter-helical disulfides on the two ligand-induced conformational changes observed in alternative crystal structures of periplasmic domains: axial sliding within a subunit and subunit rotation . Analyses using a measure of disulfide potential energy provided strong support for the helical sliding model of transmembrane signaling but indicated that subunit rotation could be involved in other ligand-induced effects . Those analyses plus modeled distances between diagnostic cysteine pairs indicated a magnitude for TM2 sliding in transmembrane signaling of several angstroms. Biochem Cell Biol, 2002, 80(1), 81 - 90 Bacterial lactoferrin receptors: insights from characterizing the Moraxella bovis receptors; Yu RH et al.; Moraxella bovis is the causative agent of infectious conjunctivitis in cattle . Moraxella bovis isolates were shown to specifically bind bovine lactoferrin (bLf) and bovine transferrin (bTf) and to use these proteins as a source of iron to support the growth of iron-limited cells . Affinity isolation experiments with immobilized bTf yielded two proteins readily resolved by SDS-PAGE analysis, whereas only a single band of approximately 100 kDa was detected when immobilized bLf was used as the affinity ligand . Using a novel cloning strategy, regions containing the genes encoding the lactoferrin (Lf) and transferrin (Tf) receptor proteins were isolated and sequenced, demonstrating that they both consisted of two genes, with the tbpB or lbpB gene preceding the tbpA or lbpA gene . The cloned lbp genes were used to generate isogenic mutants deficient in lactoferrin binding protein A and (or) B, and the resulting strains were tested in growth and binding assays . The isogenic mutants were deficient in their use of bLf for growth and had substantially diminished bLf binding capability . The predicted amino acid sequence from the segment encoding Lf binding protein B revealed an internal amino acid homology suggesting it is a bi-lobed protein, with a C-lobe enriched in acidic amino acids, but without the evident clustering observed in Lf-binding proteins from other species. Vox Sang, 2002 Feb, 82(2), 55 - 60 Multivariate analysis of determinants of bacterial contamination of whole-blood donations; Perez P et al.; BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Introduction of bacteria into blood components at the collection stage seems to be a frequent occurrence . We therefore assessed determinants of bacterial contamination of whole-blood donations to gain insight into contamination mechanisms and direct prevention . MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study was carried out on donors accepted for whole-blood donation in four French blood banks . Each blood bank used its own two-stage procedure for phlebotomy site preparation . Contamination was identified by culturing two 15-ml samples (collected aseptically at the outset of donation) in a BacT/Alert 240 system . Determinants were assessed by logistic regression analysis . RESULTS: Bacterial contamination, mainly by skin flora, occurred in 76 (2.2%) out of 3385 donations . Significant determinants were as follows: the blood bank (odds ratio {OR} range = 3.0-5.6, P < 0.001); lack of repetition of scrub (OR = 2.7, P = 0.032); and donor age > 35 years (OR = 1.8, P = 0.036) . CONCLUSION: Systematic scrub repetition should be implemented to reduce bacterial contamination by skin flora at the collection stage . Further research is required to clarify the role of different antiseptic agents and of donor age. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A, 2002 Apr 2, 99(7), 4296 - 301 Epub 2002 Mar 19. Conformational flexibility of bacterial RNA polymerase; Darst SA et al.; The structure of Escherichia coli core RNA polymerase (RNAP) was determined by cryo-electron microscopy and image processing of helical crystals to a nominal resolution of 15 A . Because of the high sequence conservation between the core RNAP subunits, we were able to interpret the E . coli structure in relation to the high-resolution x-ray structure of Thermus aquaticus core RNAP . A very large conformational change of the T . aquaticus RNAP x-ray structure, corresponding to opening of the main DNA/RNA channel by nearly 25 A, was required to fit the E . coli map . This finding reveals, at least partially, the range of conformational flexibility of the RNAP, which is likely to have functional implications for the initiation of transcription, where the DNA template must be loaded into the channel. Artif Organs, 2001 Nov, 25(11), 866 - 9 Risk of bacterial infection in patients under intravenous iron therapy: dose versus length of treatment; Canziani ME et al.; Some studies have suggested that intravenous iron therapy may be associated with an increased risk of infection . We analyzed the incidence of bacterial infection in 111 hemodialysis patients . Group 1 (n = 39, transferrin saturation <20%) received 10 doses of 100 mg of intravenous iron saccharate, 3 doses per week (28 treatment days); Group 2 (n = 13, transferrin saturation <20%) received 20 doses, 3 doses per week (70 treatment days); and Group 3 (n = 59, transferrin saturation 20-50%) received 10 doses, 1 dose per week (70 treatment days) . The follow-up was 150 days for all groups, and all infectious episodes were recorded . Pulmonary infection was the most frequent event observed in all of the groups . In an incidence-density analysis, Group 2, which received a total of 20 doses, presented a significantly higher incidence of infection than Group 3, which received only 10 doses over the same period (0.13 versus 0.06 infections per patient per month, p = 0.04) . No difference was observed between Groups 1 and 2 suggesting that the risk of infection during iron therapy is dose dependent rather than time length dependent. Nat Prod Rep, 2002 Feb, 19(1), 70 - 99 Biosynthesis and attachment of novel bacterial polyketide synthase starter units; Moore BS et al.; The biosynthesis and mode of attachment of a wide range of polyketide synthase (PKS) starter units in bacteria are covered in this review . Natural, unnatural, and engineered starter units associated with type I and type II PKSs are reported . The literature through early 2001 is reviewed, and 240 references cited. J Biol Chem, 2002 Jun 7, 277(23), 20146 - 50 Epub 2002 Mar 18. Spectral properties of bacterial nitric-oxide reductase: resolution of pH-dependent forms of the active site heme b3; Field SJ et al.; Bacterial nitric-oxide reductase catalyzes the two electron reduction of nitric oxide to nitrous oxide . In the oxidized form the active site non-heme Fe(B) and high spin heme b(3) are mu-oxo bridged . The heme b(3) has a ligand-to-metal charge transfer band centered at 595 nm, which is insensitive to pH over the range of 6.0-8.5 . Partial reduction of nitric-oxide reductase yields a three electron-reduced state where only the heme b(3) remains oxidized . This results in a shift of the heme b(3) charge transfer band lambda(max) to longer wavelengths . At pH 6.0 the charge transfer band lambda(max) is 605 nm, whereas at pH 8.5 it is 635 nm . At pH 6.5 and 7.5 the nitric-oxide reductase ferric heme b(3) population is a mixture of both 605- and 635-nm forms . Magnetic circular dichroism spectroscopy suggests that at all pH values examined the proximal ligand to the ferric heme b(3) in the three electron-reduced form is histidine . At pH 8.5 the distal ligand is hydroxide, whereas at pH 6.0, when the enzyme is most active, it is water. Life Sci Space Res, 1972, 10, 191 - 5 Effects of simulated space vacuum on bacterial cells; Bucker H et al.; The effect of vacuum on bacterial cells is related to water desorption . Below water vapour pressure the inactivation remains constant, independent of total pressure and exposure time . In subsequent growth, the lag-phase of the survivors is delayed . Combined treatment with vacuum and radiation (X-rays or uv of 254 nm wavelength) results in synergistic effects, whereas vacuum and heat can act antagonistically . The vacuum inactivated cells (indicated as loss of colony-forming ability) are completely damaged . They do not show cellular elongation, phage production or respiration . The cellular membrane becomes permeable by vacuum exposure: biomolecules are released from the cells when re-suspended after vacuum treatment. World J Surg, 2002 Jan, 26(1), 9 - 12 Epub 2001 Nov 22. Influence of some substances on bacterial translocation in the rat; Cetinkaya Z et al.; An experimental study was planned to determine the effect of zinc, levamisole, misoprostol (prostaglandin(1) analog), and melatonin on the bacterial translocation (BT) that develops in rats after major resection of the liver . To this aim, six groups were formed, each consisting of six rats . Except for the control and sham groups, zinc solution 1 ml/day, (prepared in a way to include zinc sulfate equivalent of 5 mg pure zinc/ml) was given to the zinc groups, levamisole 25 mg/kg/day to the levamisole group, misoprostol 200 mg/kg/day to the misoprostol group, and melatonin 20 mg/kg/day to the melatonin group for 3 days before the operation . After the preoperative administration of 10(10) colony-forming units of Escherichia coli to the experimental groups, the abdomen was opened in the sham group, and only the connections around the liver were cut . In the test groups a 70% liver resection was undertaken . Laparotomy was carried out on all the rats 24 hours after the operation; blood samples were obtained for polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis and tissue samples from the terminal ileum for histopathologic examination . PCR results for BT were positive for the control and sham groups, with the difference between these two groups not significant (p > 0.05) . A statistically significant decrease was found in the BT of all the treatment groups compared to the control group (p <0.05) . The histopathologic examination of terminal ileum in the control group revealed that the inflammatory infiltration was significantly less than that in the other groups (p <0.05). J Biol Chem, 2002 May 31, 277(22), 19289 - 94 Epub 2002 Mar 15. Identification of the mitochondrial glutamate transporter . Bacterial expression, reconstitution, functional characterization, and tissue distribution of two human isoforms; Fiermonte G et al.; The mitochondrial carriers are a family of transport proteins in the inner membranes of mitochondria . They shuttle substrates, metabolites, and cofactors through this membrane and connect cytoplasm functions with others in the matrix . Glutamate is co-transported with H(+) (or exchanged for OH(-)), but no protein has ever been associated with this activity . Two human expressed sequence tags encode proteins of 323 and 315 amino acids with 63% identity that are related to the aspartate-glutamate carrier, a member of the carrier family . They have been overexpressed in Escherichia coli and reconstituted into phospholipid vesicles . Their transport properties demonstrate that the two proteins are isoforms of the glutamate/H(+) symporter described in the past in whole mitochondria . Isoform 1 is expressed at higher levels than isoform 2 in all the tissues except in brain, where the two isoforms are expressed at comparable levels . The differences in expression levels and kinetic parameters of the two isoforms suggest that isoform 2 matches the basic requirement of all tissues especially with respect to amino acid degradation, and isoform 1 becomes operative to accommodate higher demands associated with specific metabolic functions such as ureogenesis. Antimicrob Agents Chemother, 2002 Apr, 46(4), 1073 - 9 Interaction between polyamines and bacterial outer membranes as investigated with ion-selective electrodes; Katsu T et al.; We analyzed the interaction between polyamines and the outer membrane of Escherichia coli cells using potentiometric measurements with Ca(2+), tetraphenylphosphonium (TPP(+)), and K(+) electrodes . The Ca(2+) electrode was used to examine the ability of the polyamines to release Ca(2+) from the outer membrane . The TPP(+) electrode was used to examine the ability to permeabilize the outer membrane, since the uptake of TPP(+) was enhanced when the permeability barrier of the outer membrane was disrupted . The K(+) electrode was used to examine permeabilization in the cytoplasmic membrane by monitoring the efflux of K(+) in cytosol . Although Ca(2+) release was remarkably enhanced by increasing the number of amino groups in polyamines, no TPP(+) uptake was observed with polyamines of a simple structure, such as ethylenediamine, spermidine, and spermine . TPP(+) uptake was observed when appropriate lipophilic moieties were further attached to the polyamines with three or four amino groups, indicating that the existence of bulky moieties as well as the number of amino groups is important to induce outer membrane permeabilization . Thus, 1-naphthylacetylspermine and N,N'-bis{6-{{(2-methoxyphenyl)methyl}amino}hexyl}-1,8-octanediamine (methoctramine) were especially effective in increasing the permeability of the outer membrane of E . coli cells, being comparable to polymyxin B nonapeptide, a well-known cationic peptide showing such action. Environ Res, 2002 Jan, 88(1), 64 - 9 Soil contamination detected using bacterial and plant mutagenicity tests and chemical analyses; Monarca S et al.; Soil contaminants are common in industrialized countries, causing widespread contamination directly of soil and indirectly of ground water and food . Among these pollutants particular attention should be paid to soil mutagens and carcinogens due to their potentially hazardous effects on animal populations and human health . The aim of this research was to evaluate the genotoxicity of contaminated soils by means of an integrated chemical/biological approach, using a short-term bacterial mutagenicity test (Ames test), a plant genotoxicity test (Tradescantia/micronucleus test), and chemical analyses . Soil samples were collected in a highly industrialized area in the Lombardy region, in Northern Italy . Soil samples were extracted with water or with organic solvents . Water extracts of soil samples were tested using the Tradescantia genotoxicity test and organic solvent extracts were analyzed for their polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) concentrations and for their mutagenicity with the Ames test . Heavy metal concentrations were also studied . Some soil samples showed mutagenic activity with the Ames test and clastogenicity with the Tradescantia/micronucleus test . The same soils showed high concentrations of genotoxic PAH and heavy metals. J Perinatol, 2002 Mar, 22(2), 125 - 32 Risk score for antenatal bacterial vaginosis: BV PIN points; Pastore LM et al.; OBJECTIVE: Develop a clinical risk score to screen for antenatal bacterial vaginosis (BV), irrespective of symptoms . STUDY DESIGN: Cohort study of 913 pregnant women with last menstrual periods between January 30, 1995 and February 22, 1997 . BV was evaluated by Nugent-scored vaginal smears (scores of 7 to 10 considered positive) between 24 and 29 weeks' gestation . Forty-four potential risk factors were assessed . RESULTS: 17.8% of women had BV, of whom 22% were screened for BV by the usual care provider . Logistic regression-adjusted analyses found six predictors: vaginal pH>4.5 (OR=11.6, 95% confidence interval {CI} {7.8, 17.2}); black race (OR=1.9, 95% CI {1.3, 2.8}); condom use during pregnancy (OR=1.6, 95% CI {1.0, 2.5}); antenatal BV (OR=1.7, 95% CI {1.0, 2.8}); absence of sperm on smear (OR=1.7, 95% CI {1.0, 2.9}); and no history of sexually transmitted diseases (OR=1.6, 95% CI {1.0, 2.5}) . Risk score weights were 5 for an elevated vaginal pH and 1 otherwise . The sensitivity and specificity of screening women with scores > or =4 were both 77%; this would involve screening 33% of patients . CONCLUSION: Approximately 80% of our BV cases were asymptomatic, emphasizing the need for objective risk assessment . Using six factors, clinicians can identify pregnant women at risk for BV. Food Chem Toxicol, 2002 Apr, 40(4), 545 - 9 Attenuation of bacterial lipopolysaccharide-induced hepatotoxicity by betaine or taurine in rats; Kim SK et al.; The effects of betaine or taurine on hepatotoxicity induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) were examined in adult male SD rats . Rats were provided with drinking water containing either 1% betaine or taurine for 2 weeks prior to challenge with LPS (5 mg/kg, iv) . Supplementation with betaine or taurine protected the animals from induction of LPS hepatotoxicity as measured by changes in aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) activities and total bilirubin levels in serum, and hepatic glutathione contents . LPS challenge increased serum TNF-alpha and nitrate/nitrite in rats, which were reduced by betaine or taurine intake . Taurine depletion induced by supply of drinking water containing 3% beta-alanine for 7 days did not enhance the LPS-induced hepatic damage or the decrease in hepatic glutathione level . The results indicate that intake of betaine or taurine attenuates the LPS-induced hepatotoxicity resulting from activation of Kupffer cells. Cell, 2002 Mar 8, 108(5), 599 - 614 Structural organization of bacterial RNA polymerase holoenzyme and the RNA polymerase-promoter open complex; Mekler V et al.; We have used systematic fluorescence resonance energy transfer and distance-constrained docking to define the three-dimensional structures of bacterial RNA polymerase holoenzyme and the bacterial RNA polymerase-promoter open complex in solution . The structures provide a framework for understanding sigma(70)-(RNA polymerase core), sigma(70)-DNA, and sigma(70)-RNA interactions . The positions of sigma(70) regions 1.2, 2, 3, and 4 are similar in holoenzyme and open complex . In contrast, the position of sigma(70) region 1.1 differs dramatically in holoenzyme and open complex . In holoenzyme, region 1.1 is located within the active-center cleft, apparently serving as a "molecular mimic" of DNA, but, in open complex, region 1.1 is located outside the active center cleft . The approach described here should be applicable to the analysis of other nanometer-scale complexes. J Biol Chem, 2002 May 31, 277(22), 19281 - 8 Epub 2002 Mar 12. Chloroplast YidC homolog Albino3 can functionally complement the bacterial YidC depletion strain and promote membrane insertion of both bacterial and chloroplast thylakoid proteins; Jiang F et al.; A new component of the bacterial translocation machinery, YidC, has been identified that specializes in the integration of membrane proteins . YidC is homologous to the mitochondrial Oxa1p and the chloroplast Alb3, which functions in a novel pathway for the insertion of membrane proteins from the mitochondrial matrix and chloroplast stroma, respectively . We find that Alb3 can functionally complement the Escherichia coli YidC depletion strain and promote the membrane insertion of the M13 procoat and leader peptidase that were previously shown to depend on the bacterial YidC for membrane translocation . In addition, the chloroplast Alb3 that is expressed in bacteria is essential for the insertion of chloroplast cpSecE protein into the bacterial inner membrane . Surprisingly, Alb3 is not required for the insertion of cpSecE into the thylakoid membrane . These results underscore the importance of Oxa1p homologs for membrane protein insertion in bacteria and demonstrate that the requirement for Oxa1p homologs is different in the bacterial and thylakoid membrane systems. Int J Med Microbiol, 2002 Feb, 291(6-7), 537 - 44 Molecular interactions of the CcdB poison with its bacterial target, the DNA gyrase; Van Melderen L; The ccd poison/antidote system of the F plasmid encodes CcdB, a toxin targeting the essential DNA gyrase of E . coli, and CcdA, the unstable antidote that interacts with CcdB to neutralise its toxicity . Gyrase belongs to the topoisomerase II class of enzymes and is a well-validated target for efficient therapeutic drugs, i . e . the quinolones . CcdB acts on gyrase in a similar way as quinolones do, both compounds induce double-strand breaks in DNA . Interestingly, the CcdB-binding domain of gyrase is different than that of quinolones . Therefore, novel classes of therapeutic drugs could be derived from the analysis of the interaction between CcdB and gyrase. Bull Soc Pathol Exot, 2001 Dec, 94(5), 397 - 400 {Evaluation of likely antibiotherapy in bacterial-like acute pneumopathies in patients hospitalized in Africa}; Koffi N et al.; We conducted a retrospective analysis of 100 records of adult African patients hospitalised for bacterial-like acute pneumonia . The objective of the study was to evaluate the use and efficacy of probabilist antibiotherapy . The study population was made up of 57% men and 43% women . Serious clinical symptoms were found in 31% of the patients, with serious x-ray and biological anomalies for respectively 67% and 51% cases . Secondary morbidity was associated with pneumonia in 30% cases . In the first intention, the three (3) most prescribed antibiotics are beta-lactamins (84%), fluoroquinolons (25%), and aminosids (25%) . Sulfamids, macrolids and imidazols were prescribed together in 18% cases . Monotherapy was prescribed in 53% cases and concerned especially amoxicillin (39/53) and fluoroquinolons (5/53) . Double therapy was used in 42% of cases and consisted of amoxicillin + aminosid (21/42) and amoxicillin + fluoroquinolon (17/42) . Three antibiotics were noted for 5 cases . The intravenous administration was frequently used (68%), either alone (27%), either associated with other modes of drug administration (41%) . Mean duration of antibiotherapy was 12.71 days . 73% of patients improved, 22% failed to improve and 5% died . Antibiotherapy was influenced by the seriousness biological signs and by the mode of administration of antibiotherapy in monotherapy . Deaths occurred precociously and concerned HIV positive (4/5) patients presenting at least 2 factors of co-morbidity and having received beta-lactamin in monotherapy. Ostomy Wound Manage, 2000 Nov, 46(11), 14 - 22, 24-8, 30-5; quiz 36-7 Preparing the wound bed--debridement, bacterial balance, and moisture balance; Sibbald RG et al.; Successful diagnosis and treatment of patients with chronic wounds involve holistic care and a team approach . The integration of the work of an interdisciplinary care team that includes doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals with the patient, family, significant others, and caregivers offers an optimal formula for achieving wound resolution . Such an approach challenges practitioners and everyone participating in wound care to integrate data and information that arise from a number of sources and mitigating factors . In this article, the authors define the changing paradigm that links treatment of the cause and focuses on three components of local wound care: debridement, wound-friendly moist interactive dressings, and bacterial balance . The authors demonstrate that the treatment of chronic wounds can be accomplished through a series of recommendations and rationales based on the literature and their experience . These recommendations lay the groundwork for thorough assessment and evaluation of the wound. Laryngoscope, 2002 Feb, 112(2), 320 - 5 The effects of topical agents of fluticasone propionate, oxymetazoline, and 3% and 0.9% sodium chloride solutions on mucociliary clearance in the therapy of acute bacterial rhinosinusitis in vivo; Inanli S et al.; OBJECTIVES: The aims of the study were to determine: 1) how mucociliary activity in acute bacterial rhinosinusitis is affected; 2) how this activity is changed by therapy; 3) the effects of topical agents on mucociliary clearance, and 4) the most appropriate topical agent(s) to be used in the therapy of sinusitis . STUDY DESIGN: Five groups of patients with acute bacterial rhinosinusitis were studied prospectively . METHODS: All patients had 500 mg oral amoxicillin and 125 mg oral clavulanic acid preparations given three times daily for 3 weeks . According to the topical agent applications, these groups included: group I (n = 12), no topical treatment was given; group II (n = 14), two puffs for each nostril once daily of 50 microg/100 mL fluticasone propionate was given; group III (n = 9), one puff for each nostril three times daily of 0.05% oxymetazoline was given; group IV (n =12), 3% sodium chloride (NaCl) (buffered to pH 6.5-7 at room temperature) was given; and group V (n =13), 10-mL solutions of 0.9% NaCl (buffered to pH 6.5--7 at room temperature) were given for nasal irrigations three times daily . All patients had medication for 3 weeks and were controlled each week . The saccharin method was used to measure nasal mucociliary clearance . To investigate the early effects of the topical agents for groups II to V, an additional test was repeated 20 minutes after the basal mucociliary clearance recordings . The test was repeated in the first, second, and third weeks of the treatment . RESULTS: The mucociliary clearance was significantly slower in the acute bacterial rhinosinusitis group than in the control group . There was no significant difference between the basal mucociliary clearance and the 20th minute mucociliary clearance of the fluticasone propionate and 0.9% NaCl solution groups . The mean values of the basal and the 20 minute's mucociliary clearance of the oxymetazoline group were 24.72 +/- 6.16 and 15.5 +/- 7.45 minutes, respectively, which were statistically significant . The mean values of the basal and the 20th minute mucociliary clearance of the 3% NaCl solution groups were 19.45 +/- 9.35 and 15.45 +/- 8.20 minutes, respectively, which were also statistically significant . In the first group (without topical treatment), the basal mucociliary clearance became significantly shorter after the second week of treatment . In the first and second weeks of the treatment of the oxymetazoline group, the mucociliary clearance did not change significantly, but after the third week the mucociliary clearance was significantly shorter . In the 3% NaCl solution group, significant improvement began from the first week and continued through the third week . Comparing the basal and the third weeks' mucociliary clearance values among the groups, the oxymetazoline and 3% NaCl solution groups revealed more significant improvement than the other groups, but this improvement was not different from the improvement of group I . There was still a statistically significant difference in the mucociliary clearance of the post-treatment sinusitis groups from the control group . CONCLUSIONS: The oxymetazoline and 3% NaCl solution groups seemed to be more effective in mucociliary clearance, but there was no significant difference in improvement among the groups . The improvement of acute bacterial rhinosinusitis takes more than 3 weeks, according to the mucociliary clearance values of the groups. Dev Comp Immunol, 2002 May, 26(4), 325 - 34 Signaling pathways involved in the physiological response of mussel hemocytes to bacterial challenge: the role of stress-activated p38 MAP kinases; Canesi L et al.; In this work the mechanisms of transduction triggered in Mytilus galloprovincialis hemocytes by bacterial challenge were investigated in an in vitro model of infection of hemocyte monolayers with Escherichia coli . Western blot analyses of hemocyte extracts with phospho-specific anti-MAPK (Mitogen Activated Protein Kinase) antibodies indicate that E . coli induced a time dependent activation of different classes of MAPKs, mainly of the stress-activated p38 MAPK . P38 activation was confirmed by the use of the selective kinase inhibitor SB203580 . Moreover, hemocyte pretreatment with SB203580 significantly reduced bacterial killing, whereas PD98059, an inhibitor of extracellularly regulated kinase (ERK) activation, was ineffective . Interestingly, the PI3-kinase (phosphatidylinositol-3-OH-kinase) inhibitor, Wortmannin, reduced both p38 activation and bacterial killing, indicating a critical role also for this lipid kinase in the hemocyte immune response. Tissue Eng, 2002 Feb, 8(1), 53 - 62 The Th2-restricted immune response to xenogeneic small intestinal submucosa does not influence systemic protective immunity to viral and bacterial pathogens; Allman AJ et al.; Implantation of mice with xenogeneic extracellular matrix (ECM) not only results in tissue remodeling but also elicits a strong Th2 immune response . It is possible that the Th2 cytokines induced by ECM act systemically and result in immune suppression to unrelated antigens . In this case, the recipient would be predisposed to immune dysfunction and have increased susceptibility to various pathogens . The purpose of this study was to determine if ECM implantation does, in fact, influence the immune response to other antigens . Four models were examined to determine the effects of ECM implantation on systemic immunity . In the first model, mice were subcutaneously implanted with porcine small intestinal submucosa (SIS) and immunized with a T-dependent subunit vaccine against influenza virus . The antibody response and protection against lethal infection were then measured . The second model consisted of similar experiments performed using a T-independent polysaccharide vaccine against S . pneumoniae . In the third model, mice were implanted and the cell-mediated response to dinitrofluorobenzene (DNFB) challenge was determined . The fourth model involved examining the influence of SIS implantation on rejection of xenogeneic skin grafts . We found that antibody levels of mice vaccinated against influenza virus or S . pneumoniae were not affected by SIS implantation and these mice did not exhibit increased or decreased susceptibility to either infectious agent . Similarly, mice implanted with ECM showed no cell-mediated immune dysfunction upon challenge with DNFB or xenogeneic skin grafts . The results of this study demonstrate that the Th2-restricted response induced by xenogeneic ECM implantation does not cause generalized immune suppression . Therefore, SIS implantation does not increase susceptibility to viral or bacterial pathogenic agents. SADJ, 2001 Nov, 56(11), 510 - 2 Bacterial contamination of dental handpieces; Dreyer AG et al.; Bacterial contamination of water- and air-lines was investigated after artificial contamination and clinical use of dental handpieces . The effect of lubrication, disinfection and autoclaving on this contamination was also addressed . Bacterial growth was recorded in both the air- and water-lines during clinical and artificial contamination, with water-lines showing heavier contamination than air-lines . External and internal surfaces of handpieces still yielded bacterial growth after lubrication and disinfection, while heat sterilisation (autoclaving) rendered both internal and external surfaces sterile. Int J Hyg Environ Health, 2002 Feb, 204(5-6), 303 - 8 A pilot study of three methods for the reduction of bacterial contamination of dental unit water systems in routine use; Jatzwauk L et al.; Three different methods for minimizing the bacterial contamination of the water system in a SIRONA C2 type dental unit were investigated sequentially . Without any decontamination method, water from the hand piece, air-water-jet and mouthwash were continuously contaminated by 10(3) to 10(5) colony forming units (cfu) of aerobic mesophilic bacteria per milliliter . A reduction to below 100 cfu/ml was achieved by continuous adding of a chemical microbicide based on hydrogen peroxide and silver ions . However, this was only possible after rinsing the system thoroughly for at least two minutes after interruptions of the treatment . Long-lasting low counts of below 100/ml were obtained by means of an in-line bacteria filter, in connection with the provision of a thermo-chemical or thermal decontamination of the water pipes and hand pieces after the filter . The electrolyte release of chlorine from the dental unit tap water by anodic oxidation without addition of any chemical disinfectant also resulted in continuously low colony numbers of the water . In this case, regular decontamination of the end parts of the pipes and hand pieces was not necessary. Gac Med Mex, 2002 Jan-Feb, 138(1), 25 - 30 {Prevalence of bacterial vaginosis in a group of women at a family planning clinic}; Canto-de Cetina TE et al.; OBJECTIVE: To determine the prevalence of bacterial vaginosis among family planning users and the relationship between clinical symptoms and gynecologic signs . MATERIAL AND METHODS: Four hundred and fifty women were studied: they answered a detailed structured questionnaire and had a vaginal secretion sampling to make the diagnose of bacterial vaginosis according to the Amsel et al criteria . RESULTS: 85 women were excluded because they were found to have either yeast or trichomonas . 144/450 women were found to have bacterial vaginosis (32%), while 221 women without evidence of this problem served as a comparison group . We found an increased number of sexual partners, and more abortions and premature rupture of membranes in women with bacterial vaginosis than women without the problem . More than 50% of patients with bacterial vaginosis were asymptomatic of disease complaints and the only sign with significance observed in bacterial vaginosis patients was a grey vaginal discharge . Use of IUD wasn't associated with bacterial vaginosis . CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of bacterial vaginosis we found in a family planning clinic was similar to those that have been reported in developed countries whereas it seems to be higher than other national studies . We must emphasize the importance of an accurate diagnose and a suitable treatment to prevent subsequent complications. J Immunol, 2002 Mar 15, 168(6), 3033 - 41 The Helicobacter pylori blood group antigen-binding adhesin facilitates bacterial colonization and augments a nonspecific immune response; Rad R et al.; Presence of the Helicobacter pylori adherence factor blood group Ag-binding adhesin (BabA; binding to Lewis(b) (Le(b))) is associated with ulcer disease, adenocarcinoma, and precancerous lesions . The importance of BabA for bacterial colonization and the inflammatory response is unknown . A total of 141 antral biopsies from H . pylori-infected patients were assessed in regard to the degree of granulocytic (G0 degrees--G3 degrees) and lymphocytic (L1 degrees--L3 degrees) infiltration . DNA genotypes of babA2 (the transcriptionally active gene of BabA), cagA, and vacAs1/2 were determined by PCR . Colonization density and Le(b) status on gastric epithelial cells were determined by immunohistochemistry . Real-time quantitative (TaqMan) RT-PCR determined mRNA expression of IL-8, TNF -alpha, and the Th1 markers IFN-gamma and the IL-12R beta2 chain . A total of 91% of infected patients were Le(b) positive . The vacAs1(+)/cagA(+) strains harboring babA2 showed significantly higher levels of granulocytic infiltration, bacterial colonization, and IL-8 mRNA than vacAs1(+)/cagA(+) strains lacking babA2 . IL-8 mRNA and protein production by KATO III cells in vitro increased dose dependently with addition of different numbers of type 1 strains (G27 and 2808 strains, 0.1--20 bacteria/cell) . The mRNA expression of TNF-alpha, IFN-gamma, and IL-12R beta2 was higher in H . pylori-positive patients than in controls, but it did not differ significantly between patients infected with different strain types . These data suggest that BabA facilitates colonization of H . pylori and thereby increases IL-8 response, resulting in enhanced mucosal inflammation . Infection with strains harboring BabA thereby augment a nonspecific immune response, whereas the Th1 response toward H . pylori appears to be independent of BabA, cytotoxin-associated gene A, or vacuolating cytotoxin. Cytokine, 2001 Dec 21, 16(6), 210 - 9 Over-expression of hsp-70 inhibits bacterial lipopolysaccharide-induced production of cytokines in human monocyte-derived macrophages; Ding XZ et al.; Cytokines released from monocytes and macrophages are major mediators of inflammation . Heat shock significantly inhibits cytokine production from these cells . To investigate whether this inhibitory effect was mediated by heat-shock proteins (HSP), we transfected human peripheral blood monocyte-derived macrophages (MDM) with HSP-70 cDNA and examined Brucella melitensis lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced cytokine production in transfected cells . Over-expression of HSP-70 protein in the gene-transfected MDM had no effect on cytokine synthesis unless LPS was added . LPS-induced increases in production of tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha), interleukin 1beta (IL-1beta), IL-10 and IL-12 were significantly inhibited by the over-expression of HSP-70 . However, over-expression of HSP-70 did not block LPS-induced increase in IL-6 synthesis . To further confirm these results, an antisense HSP-70 DNA oligomer was used to block HSP-70 synthesis . The inhibitory effect of HSP-70 on LPS-induced cytokine production in gene- transfected cells was completely reversed after treatment of cells with 5 microM antisense HSP-70 . The same concentration of antisense HSP-70 also partially reversed heat-shock-induced inhibition of LPS-stimulated cytokine production . These results suggest that HSP-70 is involved in the regulation of LPS-induced cytokine production and that this family of proteins plays a role in mitigating adverse effects of endotoxin during infection or other pathological stresses . Ginekol Pol, 2001 Dec, 72(12), 1096 - 100 {Application of 2% clindamycin cream in the treatment of bacterial vaginosis and valuation of methylcellulose gel containing the complex of Chitosan F and PVP k-90 with lactic acid as carrier for intravaginally adhbited medicines in the cases of pregnancies with the symptoms of preterm delivery}; Hirnle L et al.; OBJECTIVES: There are many reports informing about the connection between BV and the increased risk of preterm delivery . The reason of self-concession and reversion of BV after having executed an efficient treatment has not yet been properly explained . DESIGN: The aim of this work was the clinical valuation of the 2% Clindamycin cream in the treatment of BV and of the methylcellulose gel containing the complex of Chitosan F and PVP K-90 with lactic acid as a carrier for intravaginally adhbited medicines in the cases of pregnancies with the symptoms of a preterm delivery . MATERIAL AND METHODS: The research comprised 145 pregnant between 24-34 week of pregnancy, hospitalised because of the symptoms of a preterm menace delivery . In the case of the detection of BV, a 10-day therapy using intravaginal cream containing 2% Clindamycin was executed . In the cases not qualified as BV, the methylcellulose gel containing the complex of Chitosan F and PVP K-90 with lactic acid has been intravaginally adhibited for 10 days . CONCLUSIONS: 1 . Application of 2% Clindamycin cream is an efficient method of the treatment of bacterial vaginosis . 2 . Methylcellulose gel containing lactic acid combined with the complex of Chitosan F and PVP K-90 allows a persistent maintenance of the correct pH of vagina . 3 . Methylcellulose gel, because of its physico-chemical properties similar to physiological mucus, is a universal carrier for intravaginally adhibited medicines. Ginekol Pol, 2001 Dec, 72(12), 1005 - 9 {Vagina ecosystem with taking into consideration bacterial vaginosis in particular at pregnant women to be in miscarriage and premature delivery danger}; Kaminski K et al.; The main tests of this writing was defining pregnant vagina ecosystem at hospitalized Clinic patients between 5th and 37th pregnant week . Patients was divided on two group: I-st with miscarriage danger, II-nd with premature delivery danger . Bacterial Vaginosis was recognized based into consideration Amsela criterion at 13.4% of examined patients, BV with mycosis coexisted at 3.8%, mycosis infection at 42.2% and trichomoniasis at 4.6% pregnant women . Influence occurred infection of Bacterial Vaginosis on premature delivery coming was also examined . Patients attended towards BV during the pregnant time, which gave preterm birth--21 (47.7%) compared with patients proper vagina ecosystem which also gave preterm labour premature--49 (36.6%) . No radical, statistic comparison between those two groups was noticed. Indian J Pathol Microbiol, 2001 Apr, 44(2), 113 - 6 Prevalence of bacterial vaginosis in antenatal women; Mathew R et al.; Bacterial vaginosis is an established risk factor in pregnant women for premature rupture of membranes and preterm delivery . This study was carried out to find out the prevalence of Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) in antenatal women with vaginal discharge and the effect of treatment with Metronidazole gel on pregnancy outcome . One hundred and fifty symptomatic and fifty asymptomatic women in second trimester of pregnancy in the age group of 20-30 years were included in the study . Gram stained smears of vaginal discharge were examined for evidence of BV with a scoring system by Nugent et al and was found to be positive in 38.5% in symptomatic antenatal women . Intravaginal metronidazole gel application was found to be an effective therapeutic option . Incidence of preterm labour was more in untreated cases. Acta Dermatovenerol Croat, 2001 Dec, 9(4), 279 - 81 Prevalence of bacterial vaginosis in adolescent girls; Pawlaczyk M et al.; The age-related increase in the prevalence of bacterial vaginosis was determined in adolescent virginal and sexually active girls aged 13 to 18 years . Higher rates were recorded for girls with two or more sexual partners . Considering the potential spectrum of consequences of bacterial vaginosis, preventive strategies are required in this age group, not only for bacterial vaginosis but also for other sexually transmitted diseases. Zhonghua Shao Shang Za Zhi, 2000 Apr, 16(2), 82 - 4 {The change of intestinal microcirculation blood flow and its relationship with bacterial translocation in burned rats receiving delayed fluid resuscitation}; Chen J et al.; OBJECTIVE: To investigate the change of intestinal microcirculation blood flow and its relationship with bacterial translocation in burned rats receiving delayed fluid resuscitation . METHODS: Twenty-four Wistar rats inflicted by 30% TBSA III degree followed by delayed fluid resuscitation were taken as the model . The rats were randomly divided into four groups, i.e . burn shock without resuscitation (BSNR), delayed resuscitation (fluid given from 8 hours postburn, DR), immediate resuscitation (IR), and sham operation (SO) . The incidence of bacterial translocation, intestinal microcirculation blood flow volume of intestinal wall at terminal ileum as well as the change of systemic mean arterial pressure were monitored . RESULTS: The incidence of bacterial translocation in DR group (54.2%) was significantly higher than that in IR group (P < 0.01), but no remarkable difference with that in BS group (P < 0.05) . In addition, microcirculation blood flow of intestinal wall recovered to some degree at 4 hours after delayed fluid resuscitation but far below that in IR group at the same time point . Nevertheless, the systemic mean arterial blood pressure had restored to the normal range at that time . CONCLUSION: The incidence of intestinal bacterial translocation sustained at high level after burn shock with delayed fluid resuscitation, which might be the result of delayed improvement of microcirculation blood flow of the intestinal wall. Syst Appl Microbiol, 2001 Dec, 24(4), 507 - 9 Cellular fatty acid composition from Sarcobium lyticum (Legionella lytica comb . nov.)--an intracellular bacterial pathogen of amoebae; Palusinska-Szysz M et al.; Legionella lytica comb . nov . an intracellular bacterial pathogen of small free-living amoebae was subjected to cellular fatty acid (FA) analysis employing base and acid catalyzed cleavage, gas-liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry . Both unbranched and branched (iso and anteiso) FA of chains ranging from 14 to 30 carbon atoms occurred . The presence of two long-chain FA: 27-oxo-octacosanoic acid and heptacosane-1,27-dioic acid, characteristic for legionellae, was found . Nine amide-linked 3-hydroxy-FA were revealed . The main 3-hydroxy-fatty acids comprise: 3-OH-14:0, 3-OH-16:0, 3-OH-18:0, 3-OH-i18:0, 3-OH-15:OH, 3-OH-i16:0 amd 3-OH-i17:0 . The profile of hydroxy FAs permits allocation of L . lytica to group 3 of legionellae which comprise blue-white fluorescent species. J Mol Microbiol Biotechnol, 2002 Mar, 4(2), 133 - 50 Sequence similarity as a predictor of the transmembrane topology of membrane-intrinsic subunits of bacterial respiratory chain enzymes; Rothery RA et al.; Integral membrane proteins usually have a predominantly alpha-helical secondary structure in which transmembrane segments are connected by membrane-extrinsic loops . Although a number of membrane protein structures have been reported in recent years, in most cases transmembrane topologies are initially predicted using a variety of theoretical techniques, including hydropathy analyses and the "positive inside" rule . We have explored the use of plots of the distribution of sequence similarity within families of membrane proteins comprising homeomorphic domains as a new method for the prediction/verification of the orientation of transmembrane topology models within certain families of multimeric respiratory chain enzymes . Within such proteins, analyses of sequence similarity can: i) identify heme and/or quinol binding sites; ii) identify potential electron-transfer conduits to/from prosthetic groups; and iii) locate regions defining potential subunit-subunit interactions . We mined emerging bioinformatic data for sequences of 11 families of membrane-intrinsic proteins that are part of multimeric respiratory chain complexes that also have membrane-extrinsic subunits . The sequences of each family were then aligned and the resultant alignments converted into a graphical format recording an empirical measure of the sequence similarity plotted versus residue position . In each case, this plot was compared to the predicted transmembrane topology . With one exception, there is a strong correlation between the existence Appl Environ Microbiol, 2002 Mar, 68(3), 1325 - 35 Effects of T4 lysozyme release from transgenic potato roots on bacterial rhizosphere communities are negligible relative to natural factors; Heuer H et al.; Rhizosphere bacterial communities of two transgenic potato lines which produce T4 lysozyme for protection against bacterial infections were analyzed in comparison to communities of wild-type plants and transgenic controls not harboring the lysozyme gene . Rhizosphere samples were taken from young, flowering, and senescent plants at two field sites in three consecutive years . The communities were characterized in a polyphasic approach . Cultivation-dependent methods included heterotrophic plate counts, determination of species composition and diversity based on fatty acid analysis of isolates, and community level catabolic profiling . Cultivation-independent analyses were based on denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE) of 16S rRNA gene fragments amplified from rhizosphere DNA using primers specific for Bacteria, Actinomycetales, or alpha- or beta-Proteobacteria . Several bands of the DGGE patterns were further characterized by sequence analysis . All methods revealed that environmental factors related to season, field site, or year but not to the T4 lysozyme expression of the transgenic plants influenced the rhizosphere communities . For one of the T4 lysozyme-producing cultivars, no deviation in the rhizosphere communities compared to the control lines was observed . For the other, differences were detected at some of the samplings between the rhizosphere community structure and those of one or all other cultivars which were not attributable to T4 lysozyme production but most likely to differences observed in the growth characteristics of this cultivar. Biochemistry, 2002 Mar 5, 41(9), 302