Experientia, 1993 Mar 15, 49(3), 201 - 9 Evaluating the fate of genetically modified microorganisms in the environment: are they inherently less fit? Lenski RE. Genetically modified microorganisms hold great promise for environmental applications . Nonetheless, some may have unintended adverse effects . Of particular concern for risk assessment is the simple fact that microorganisms are self-replicating entities, so that it may be impossible to control an adverse effect simply by discontinuing further releases of the organism . It has been suggested, however, that genetically modified microorganisms will be poor competitors and therefore unable to persist in the wild due to energetic inefficiency, disruption of genomic coadaptation, or domestication . Many studies support the hypothesis that genetically modified microorganisms are less fit than their progenitors, but there are a few noteworthy counter-examples in which genetic modifications unexpectedly enhance competitive fitness . Furthermore, subsequent evolution may eliminate the maladaptive effects of some genes, increasing the likelihood that a modified organism or its engineered genes will persist . Evaluating the likelihood that a genetically modified microorganism or its engineered genes will persist is a complex ecological and evolutionary problem . Therefore, an efficient regulatory framework would require such evaluations only when there are plausible scenarios for significant adverse environmental effects. Med J Aust, 1993 Mar 15, 158(6), 390 - 4 Microsporidia in the small intestine of HIV-infected patients . A new diagnostic technique and a new species; Field AS et al.; OBJECTIVES: To determine whether microsporidian infections occur in Australian patients infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), to assess the incidence, and to discuss microscopic detection methods . DESIGN AND PATIENTS: 180 consecutive HIV-infected patients (109 with chronic diarrhoea and 71 with other indications) underwent upper gastrointestinal tract endoscopy and pinch biopsies of the second part of the duodenum . The biopsies were handled by a protocol: four levels, with haematoxylin and eosin stain (H&E) at each level, periodic acid Schiff reagent after diastase (DiPAS) and auramine stain at the second level, and Warthin-Starry (WS) stain and cytomegalovirus early antigen immunoperoxidase study at the third level . Electron microscopy was carried out on samples from the first 95 patients, and thereafter from selected patients . SETTING: The patients came from the HIV Medicine Unit of a teaching hospital and from the practice of a gastroenterologist . MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Diagnosis of microsporidia was to based on the H&E stain, with electron microscopy as the definitive test because the microsporidia are often difficult to see with H&E . Empirically, the WS stain was found to stain the microorganisms and it replaced electron microscopy during the study as the screening diagnostic test . RESULTS: Microsporidia were present in 36 of the 109 patients with diarrhoea (33%) and one of 71 patients without diarrhoea . The WS stain in all cases showed developing spores in the enterocytes and in four cases in macrophages as well . The H&E stain showed non-specific duodenitis and was not diagnostic in some cases . Electron microscopy on samples from the first 95 consecutive patients showed 100% concordance with the WS stain . In 33 cases, electron microscopy showed the multinucleated plasmodia and the spores of Enterocytozoon bieneusi and in the four cases confirmed the spores in macrophages and showed a new Encephalitozoon-like species with a septate parasitophorous vacuole . Other causes of duodenal infection were cytomegalovirus (11 cases), mycobacteria (8), cryptosporidia (8) and Giardia lamblia (5) . CONCLUSION: E . bieneusi was the commonest microorganism found in our series of 180 consecutive patients . The actual prevalence of the two microsporidia species within the HIV-positive population and general community awaits further study . The WS stain provides a sensitive diagnostic test for the presence of E . bieneusi and the new Encephalitozoon-like species, avoiding the cost and potential sampling error of electron microscopy . The detailed ultrastructure and taxonomy of the new species requires further study. J Biol Chem, 1993 Mar 15, 268(8), 5879 - 85 Human gastric mucin . Identification of a unique species by expression cloning; Toribara NW et al.; Gastric mucin is a large glycoprotein which is thought to play a major role in the protection of the gastrointestinal tract from acid, proteases, pathogenic microorganisms, and mechanical trauma . In this paper we describe the isolation by expression cloning and characterization of cDNAs which code for human gastric mucin . The cDNA sequence is characterized by a tandem repeat region whose individual repeat unit is 507 base pairs (169 amino acids) long . The translated sequence is rich in threonine, serine, and proline (31, 18, and 15%, respectively) and contains a relatively large amount of histidine (7.1%) and alanine (5.6%) . RNA blot analysis shows a polydisperse pattern which is characteristic of mucins . Expression of this gene is highest in the stomach and gall bladder, with weaker expression in the terminal ileum and right colon . This expression pattern is different from other human mucins and indicates that this gene codes for a unique mucin . Fluorescence in situ hybridization techniques have localized this gene to chromosome 11p15.4-11p15.5 . This is the third mucin to be localized to the 11p15 region and suggests a clustering of secretory mucin genes . We propose that this gene for human gastric mucin be called MUC6. Ital J Neurol Sci, 1993 Mar, 14(2), 153 - 64 Monocyte chemotactic and phagocytic responses in migraine and tension-type headache patients; Gallai V et al.; Monocyte chemotactic and phagocytic responses were assessed in two groups of migraine patients (with and without aura) and in two groups of tension-type headache patients (episodic and chronic) . The chemotactic but not the phagocytic response, assessed interictally, is significantly lower in migraine patients (p < 0.006) and in episodic tension-type headache patients, though not so significantly in the latter (p < 0.05), than in the control individuals . The chemotactic response tends to increase significantly during attack in migraine patients both with and without aura (p < 0.008 and p < 0.007 respectively) . The same was evident for the phagocytic response in both migraine patient groups (p < 0.007 and 0.0004) . No modifications of monocyte functions were found during attacks neither in episodic nor chronic tension-type headache patients . These findings suggest that one or more mediators of neurogenic inflammation having phagocytic and chemotactic enhancing properties (substance P, prostaglandin E and thromboxane A2 etc.) are implicated in the modification of monocyte function . The demonstration of a defect in monocyte function during the interictal period in migraine patients confirms the results of recent research which evidenced reduced capacity of monocyte to phagocyte and kill microorganisms in the course of migraine. Histochemistry, 1993 Mar, 99(3), 201 - 11 Cathepsin E in follicle associated epithelium of intestine and tonsils: localization to M cells and possible role in antigen processing; Finzi G et al.; A specific rabbit anti-human serum was used selectively to localize the aspartic proteinase cathepsin E to follicle associated epithelium (FAE) of human and rat intestine, including jejunum, ileum, appendix, colon and rectum, as well as of human palatine, pharyngeal and lingual tonsils . Coexpression of class II histocompatibility antigen HLA-DR antigen has been observed in some of the cathepsin E-positive epithelial cells . In addition, cathepsin E has been detected in a few mononuclear cells of intestinal lymphoid structures and tonsils resembling interdigitating reticulum cells of lymph nodes . Another aspartic proteinase, cathepsin D, has been found to be poorly represented in FAE and intensely expressed by macrophages . Electron immunocytochemistry localized cathepsin E to endosomal vesicles and endoplasmic reticulum of M cells in rat and human ileum as well as of M-like cells in human palatine tonsil . The results suggest a possible role of endosomal cathepsin E in the processing of macromolecules and microorganisms transported by M cells and related epithelial cells to mucosal associated lymphoid tissue (MALT). Bioorg Khim, 1993 Mar, 19(3), 327 - 36 {Structure of the repeating link of the acid polysaccharide of Alteromonas haloplanktis KMM 156}; Gorshkova RP et al.; An acidic capsular and an O-specific polysaccharide were isolated from the marine microorganism Alteromonas haloplanktis KMM 156 . Both polysaccharides have the identical structure and are built up of tetrasaccharide repeating units, containing two residues of L-rhamnose as well as a 2-acetamido-2-deoxy-D-glucose and a 3-O-{(R)-1-carboxyethyl}-D-glucose (Glc3Lac) residue . On the basis of methylation studies, 1H- and 13C-NMR-spectroscopy including nuclear Overhauser effect and two-dimensional heteronuclear 13C/1H correlation spectroscopy, the following structure was suggested for the polysaccharide repeating unit: {formula: see text} Prikl Biokhim Mikrobiol, 1993 Mar-Apr, 29(2), 292 - 8 {The stimulation and inhibition of the secondary growth of microorganisms by metals}; Aitkhozhina NA et al.; A selective (inhibitory and stimulatory) effect of metal salts on secondary growth of representatives of 5 genera of actinomycetes and 5 genera of fungi was established . The effect of metal salts on the growth of procaryotes and eucaryotes have both common and specific features . Differences in the biosorption of metals (Mo, Mn, Cu, Zn) by cells of primary and secondary growth were revealed . The possibility of enhancing the sorption capacities of cells in secondary colonies of mycelial microorganisms should be taken into account as selecting cultures for the purification of environment from heavy metals. J Antimicrob Chemother, 1993 Mar, 31(3), 385 - 92 Interference by antimalarial drugs with the in-vitro production of reactive nitrogen intermediates by murine macrophages; Kremsner PG et al.; The production of reactive oxygen intermediates (ROI) by host macrophages has long been recognized as an important defense mechanism against microorganisms . More recently, reactive nitrogen intermediates (RNI), also produced by activated macrophages, have been shown to be part of the host's first line of defense against malaria . In the present in-vitro study we have investigated the effects of antimalarial drugs on RNI production by murine macrophages stimulated by interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) and/or malaria antigen, and on ROI production induced by phorbol myristate acetate . At concentrations exceeding the peak serum levels achieved with therapeutic dosages, chloroquine, in a dose-dependent manner, inhibited IFN-gamma- and malaria antigen-induced RNI production . Quinine, at a concentration of 10 mg/L also caused a significant reduction in IFN-gamma and malaria antigen-induced RNI synthesis; this concentration was well within the therapeutic range . High concentrations of artelinate significantly inhibited IFN-gamma-induced RNI production but clindamycin had no effect on RNI synthesis . In contrast, halofantrine, in concentrations attainable with therapeutic dosages, significantly enhanced IFN-gamma-induced RNI production . ROI production by murine macrophages was unaffected by the antimalarial drugs over the same concentration ranges . It remains to be determined whether these in-vitro effects of antimalarial drugs on RNI production also influence the clinical and parasitological response in patients with malaria. Cesk Epidemiol Mikrobiol Imunol, 1993 Mar, 42(1), 16 - 21 {Antigens for the ELISA test for serodiagnosis of Helicobacter pylori infection}; Buchvald D et al.; Semipurified urease and outer membranes of Helicobacter pylori were isolated and used as antigens for the construction of new ELISA tests for the serodiagnosis of infections caused by this microorganism . The highest discriminating capacity between infected and not infected subjects was obtained by the test detection of IgG antibodies against the urease antigen which reached a 100% sensitivity, 90% specificity, a 100% negative and 91% positive predictive value . Examination of sera of healthy children and blood donors revealed the possibility of asymptomatic infection and an increase of specific antibody levels with age. Monatsschr Kinderheilkd, 1993 Mar, 141(3), 178 - 200 {Treatment of secondary infections in symptomatic HIV-infections in childhood}; Wahn V et al.; Treatment of secondary infections in HIV infected children represents a problem of increasing importance in several children's hospitals . As it is unlikely that the AIDS-problem will be solved by itself within the next years it seems reasonable to summarize our current knowledge about opportunistic infections in order to establish standards for therapy . We will mainly focus on microorganisms endemic in Germany. FEMS Microbiol Lett, 1993 Mar 1, 107(2-3), 321 - 6 Artificial neural network analysis of pyrolysis mass spectrometric data in the identification of Streptomyces strains; Chun J et al.; Sixteen representatives of three morphologically distinct groups of streptomycetes were recovered from soil using selective isolation procedures . Duplicated batches of the test strains were examined by Curie-point pyrolysis mass spectrometry and the first data set used for conventional multivariate statistical analyses and as a training set for an artificial neural network . The second set of data was used for 'operational fingerprinting' and for testing the artificial neural network . All of the test strains were correctly identified using the artificial neural network whereas only fifteen of the sixteen strains were assigned to the correct group using the conventional operational fingerprinting procedure . Artificial neural network analysis of pyrolysis mass spectrometric data provides a rapid, cost-effective and reproducible way of identifying and typing large numbers of microorganisms. J Lipid Res, 1993 Mar, 34(3), 429 - 35 Metabolism of sulfonate analogs of ursodeoxycholic acid and their effects on biliary bile acid composition in hamsters; Mikami T et al.; The metabolism of sodium 3 alpha,7 beta-dihydroxy-5 beta-cholane-24-sulfonate and sodium 3 alpha,7 beta-dihydroxy-24-nor-5 beta-cholane-23-sulfonate was studied in hamsters . In bile fistula animals these sulfonate analogs of ursodeoxycholic acid were absorbed mainly from the terminal ileum and secreted rapidly into the bile without biotransformation or conjugation . After oral administration, the sulfonate analogs were excreted in the feces at the same rate as chenodeoxycholic acid and its metabolic products . The intestinal microorganisms transformed chenodeoxycholic acid largely into lithocholic acid; the sulfonate analogs were completely resistant to biotransformation . After a 2-week feeding period, the sulfonate analogs of ursodeoxycholic acid accounted for 24.0% and 16.9% of total biliary bile acids . These sulfonates did not affect the proportions of the natural bile acids in the bile, and the ratio of glycine-conjugated bile acids to taurine-conjugated bile acids was not altered by feeding the sulfonates . In contrast, when ursodeoxycholic acid was fed, the proportions of the natural bile acids and the glycine/taurine ratio were changed . These results suggest that the sulfonate analogs had no profound effect on endogenous bile acid metabolism and did not cause a depletion of the hepatic taurine pool during enterohepatic circulation . The sulfonates had no effect on intestinal cholesterol absorption and serum cholesterol levels. Infect Dis Clin North Am, 1993 Mar, 7(1), 21 - 36 Adherence events in the pathogenesis of infective endocarditis; Johnson CM; Infective endocarditis begins with adherence of microorganisms to cardiac tissues . These tissues have often been previously damaged, creating a thrombotic lesion consisting of platelets and fibrin . Circulating microorganisms localize to this lesion . The tissue specificity of endocarditis likely results from interactions between cell-surface determinants on the endocardium, platelet, and microorganism . Interference with these binding events may offer a means of modifying the course of the infection. J Clin Microbiol, 1993 Mar, 31(3), 569 - 71 Septicemia and meningitis caused by Helicobacter cinaedi in a neonate; Orlicek SL et al.; Helicobacter cinaedi has been most frequently isolated from rectal swabs of homosexual men with proctocolitis . The microorganism is a normal intestinal inhabitant of hamsters . We report a case of septicemia and meningitis by H . cinaedi in a neonate whose mother cared for pet hamsters during the first two trimesters of her pregnancy . The isolate was detected after 3 days of incubation in a Bact/Alert pediatric blood culture vial and an enrichment broth culture of the cerebrospinal fluid . H . cinaedi should be added to the list of unusual fastidious organisms that cause sepsis and meningitis in the newborn. J Am Acad Dermatol, 1993 Mar, 28(3), 443 - 8 The Demodex mite population in rosacea; Bonnar E et al.; BACKGROUND: The cause of rosacea is unknown; among other factors a causative role has been postulated for the hair follicle mites Demodex folliculorum and Demodex brevis . OBJECTIVE: Our purpose was to compare the population density of Demodex mites in facial skin of defined categories of patients with rosacea with control subjects . We also assessed the impact of tetracycline therapy on the mite population . METHODS: The population density and distribution of Demodex mites were studied in the facial skin of 42 patients with rosacea and 42 age- and sex-matched control subjects . Mites were counted in measured skin surface biopsy specimens obtained from six standard facial sites with cyanoacrylate glue . RESULTS: The mean mite count was 49.8 (range 2 to 158) in patients with rosacea and 10.8 (range up to 97) in control subjects (p < 0.001); the highest density of mites was found on the cheeks . A statistically significant increase in mites was found in all subgroups of rosacea, being most marked in those with steroid-induced rosacea . Mite counts in patients with rosacea before and after a 1-month course of oral tetracycline showed no significant difference . CONCLUSION: Increased mites may play a part in the pathogenesis of rosacea by provoking inflammatory or allergic reactions, by mechanical blockage of follicles, or by acting as vectors for microorganisms. Arch Surg, 1993 Mar, 128(3), 284 - 8 Long-term follow-up of positive cultures in 500 abdominal aortic aneurysms; Farkas JC et al.; Routine aneurysm culture is frequently performed as it is thought that a positive culture could be a risk factor for secondary graft infection . Five hundred aneurysms, in a series of 796 patients, had microbiologic examination of the thrombus and/or aneurysm wall . Cultures were positive in 185 cases (37%), mostly due to normal skin flora microorganisms (80%), whereas 16 patients (3.2%) had infectious aortitis . Gram-stained smears were positive in nine of these 16 patients compared with two of the other 169 . Of the 185 patients with positive culture, after a mean length of follow-up of 35 months, only one had a graft infection that occurred 6 years later and was not due to the same microorganism . Graft sepsis was diagnosed in six of the 296 patients who did not have a positive culture, and was related to clinically obvious locoregional or systemic foci . In this series, positive cultures from aneurysm without rupture or signs of infection were not a risk factor for secondary graft sepsis . Therefore, in cases of asymptomatic unruptured aneurysm, routine culturing is not necessary as a positive result has no pathogenic significance or therapeutic implication. J Nucl Med, 1993 Mar, 34(3), 458 - 61 Gallium-67-citrate and bone scintigraphy in disseminated North American blastomycosis; Even-Sapir E et al.; We present a patient with North American blastomycosis involving lung and bone . Chest radiographs and CT scan showed a mass in the lung . Bone scintigraphy detected a photon-deficient area in the sternum and 67Ga SPECT showed uptake in the right upper lung and in the sternum . A diagnostic thoracotomy and needle biopsy from the sternal lesion revealed granulomatous infection due to Blastomyces dermatitidis . After 3 mo of antifungal therapy, the follow-up 67Ga study showed no evidence of the original lesions but demonstrated a new, asymptomatic, unsuspected lesion in the left infraspinatous muscle . This case illustrates that North American blastomycosis should be included in the differential diagnosis in cases of atypical pulmonary disease with bone involvement, even in geographic regions that are not considered endemic for this microorganism . Gallium-67 and bone scintigraphy may be useful in determining the extent of dissemination, in detecting occult lesions and in the follow-up of response to therapy. Clin Obstet Gynecol, 1993 Mar, 36(1), 107 - 21 Vaginal flora in health and disease; Larsen B; This chapter has portrayed the normal vaginal flora as a range of microbial species that associates in a stable way with human vaginal epithelium . The human vagina provides these microorganisms with the physical and chemical environment that allows them to use this tissue as a normal habitat . Because the relationship of the normal flora to the underlying tissue is that of an ecosystem, the components of this system are in dynamic equilibrium . Consequently, a change in the environmental conditions provided by the vaginal epithelium will result in changes in the population density or the species composition of the normal flora . Although the microbial flora appears to provide a benefit to the host by reducing the probability of colonization by exogenous microorganisms, it may participate in various undesirable symptoms, including various types of vaginitis or postoperative, postabortion, and post-Caesarean section infections, and upper tract invasion after lower tract infection . All future attempts to understand vaginitis in all its manifestations necessarily must include recognition of the importance of the normal flora because all types of vaginitis are superimposed on an existing endogenous microbial flora. J Infect Dis, 1993 Mar, 167 Suppl 1, S8 - 12 Conventional versus interferon-gamma therapy in chronic granulomatous disease; Curnutte JT; Chronic granulomatous disease is a rare, genetically heterogeneous group of disorders in which NADPH oxidase deficiency severely hampers the ability of phagocytes to kill ingested microorganisms . Characterized by recurrent pyogenic infections with granuloma and abscess formation, the disease appears in childhood and may be fatal . Conventional therapy consists of prophylactic trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole and aggressive infection control measures . Interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) has been shown in vitro and in vivo to correct alterations of oxidative metabolism . In the most recent multicenter study, IFN-gamma was efficacious in reducing the frequency of severe infections; however, at odds with previous results, this effect appeared to be due to some mechanism other than improvement in respiratory burst function . Although further studies are needed to elucidate the mechanisms of IFN-gamma's action, it appears to have potential application in many infectious diseases. Eur J Morphol, 1993 Mar-Jun, 31(1-2), 103 - 6 Microorganisms found in secondary cataract material of ECCE patients, a study with SEM and TEM; Kalicharan D et al.; Globular secondary cataract material, removed from 24 patients with ECCE after ophthalmic cleaning of the anterior capsule, were investigated with SEM and TEM . Besides spherical, somewhat oval shaped bodies of various shape and size comparable with those found in cataractous lenses, (an)aerobic bacteria and yeast cells were found in approximately 70% of the cases, all of them in eyes without intra-ocular inflammation . Probably these bacteria have been transferred from the conjunctiva during IOL.-implantation and were encapsulated without starting an inflammation. FEMS Immunol Med Microbiol, 1993 Mar, 6(2-3), 195 - 8 Occurrence of Porphyromonas gingivalis with Prevotella intermedia in periodontal samples; Torkko H et al.; To further examine the previously suggested inverse relationship between Porphyromonas gingivalis and Prevotella intermedia in periodontal disease, 1016 samples taken from single or multiple (pooled) subgingival sites were cultured anaerobically and examined for the simultaneous occurrence of the microorganisms . P . gingivalis was isolated from 297 (29%) and Pr . intermedia from 501 (49%) samples . P . gingivalis was found as frequently with (14%) as without (15%) Pr . intermedia . The type of sampling had no effect on the occurrence of P . gingivalis with Pr . intermedia . However, female subjects harboured them in combination more frequently than male subjects . The mean proportions of P . gingivalis in the cultivable flora appeared to be lower when found with than without Pr . intermedia . Whether the detection of the combination, or P . gingivalis alone, has clinical relevance needs further clarification. Mol Biol Cell, 1993 Mar, 4(3), 261 - 9 Requirement for posttranslational processing of Rac GTP-binding proteins for activation of human neutrophil NADPH oxidase; Heyworth PG et al.; Rac1 and Rac2 are closely related, low molecular weight GTP-binding proteins that have both been implicated in regulation of phagocyte NADPH oxidase . This enzyme system is composed of multiple membrane-bound and cytosolic subunits and when activated catalyzes the one-electron reduction of oxygen to superoxide . Superoxide and its highly reactive derivatives are essential for killing microorganisms . Rac proteins undergo posttranslational processing, primarily the addition of an isoprenyl group to a carboxyl-terminal cysteine residue . We directly compared recombinant Rac1 and Rac2 in a human neutrophil cell-free NADPH oxidase system in which cytosol was replaced by purified recombinant cytosolic components (p47-phox and p67-phox) . Processed Rac1 and Rac2 were both highly active in this system and supported comparable rates of superoxide production . Under different cell-free conditions, however, in which suboptimal amounts of cytosol were present in the assay mixture, processed Rac2 worked much better than Rac1 at all but the lowest concentrations . This suggests that a factor in the cytosol may suppress the activity of Rac1 but not of Rac2 . Unprocessed Rac proteins were only weakly able to support superoxide generation in either system, but preloading of Rac1 or Rac2 with guanosine 5'-O-(3-thio-triphosphate) (GTP gamma S) restored activity . These results indicate that processing is required for nucleotide exchange but not for interaction with oxidase components. Mycoses, 1993 Mar-Apr, 36(3-4), 131 - 4 Clinical efficacy and tolerability of saperconazole for tinea of glabrous skin . A report on four cases; Zienicke H et al.; In a randomized controlled trial three different treatment protocols with the new broad-spectrum peroral antifungal saperconazole were evaluated . The treatment regimens were as follows: 100 mg per day for 7 days, 200 mg per day for 7 days, 100 mg per day for 14 days . Of four assessable cases of dermatophytosis of glabrous skin treated with one of these three therapeutic regimens, one was cured . In this patient, however, the dermatophytosis relapsed after the end of the observation period, but due to a different microorganism . While partial improvement was seen in the other cases definite cure was not obtained . No adverse events were recorded. Microb Pathog, 1993 Mar, 14(3), 229 - 38 Inability to detect mycobactin in mycobacteria-infected tissues suggests an alternative iron acquisition mechanism by mycobacteria in vivo; Lambrecht RS et al.; Although most species of mycobacterium are capable of producing mycobactin, it is not known if conditions within the host allow for mycobactin synthesis or whether it even plays a role in iron acquisition in vivo . We employed the mycobactin-auxotroph, Mycobacterium paratuberculosis, in a bioassay to examine tissues from animals infected with either Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Mycobacterium avium or M . paratuberculosis for the presence of mycobactin or compounds which demonstrate mycobactin-like activity . Other iron-binding compounds, including purified siderophores from unrelated organisms and host iron-binding proteins were also evaluated in the bioassay for growth induction of M . paratuberculosis in the absence of mycobactin . Although mycobactin could be easily demonstrated in tissues artificially seeded with mycobacteria, no mycobactin could be detected in heavily infected tissues . None of the purified siderophores from unrelated microorganisms were found to support growth of M . paratuberculosis in the absence of mycobactin . Host iron-binding proteins (transferrin, lactoferrin, ferritin, hemin) also failed to induce growth in the bioassay at pH 6.8, however, when the pH was adjusted between 5-6.2, transferrin and lactoferrin promoted growth of M . paratuberculosis without mycobactin, probably as a result of the dissociation of iron rather than a specific interaction . We confirm that mycobacteria are incapable of iron uptake when iron is chelated to siderophores from unrelated organisms and conclude that mycobactin-mediated mechanisms of iron-acquisition by mycobacteria do not appear to have as significant a role in vivo as in vitro . In addition, evidence is presented that suggests iron-containing transferrin and lactoferrin at low pH may circumvent the need for mycobactin by M . paratuberculosis. Acta Med Port, 1993 Mar-Apr, 6(3-4), 157 - 63 {Cerebral toxoplasmosis in a kidney transplant patient . A clinical case and review of the literature}; da Cunha S et al.; Infection caused by Toxoplasma gondii is a frequent event in Portugal . When this occurs in immunocompetent individuals it is rarely a matter of concern; the contrary occurs with immunosuppressed patients or in pregnancy . Transplant patients are treated with immunosuppressive drugs which mainly disturb their mechanisms of cellular immunity, and that opens the way to infections by opportunistic intracellular microorganisms . We recently treated a renal transplant patient who suffered from cerebral toxoplasmosis, and this provided an opportunity for a review of the other 20 patients reported in medical literature to date. Rev Inst Med Trop Sao Paulo, 1993 Mar-Apr, 35(2), 117 - 21 Chronic gastritis and Helicobacter pylori in digestive form of Chagas' disease; Barbosa AJ et al.; Patients with the digestive form of Chagas' disease frequently present chronic gastritis . As the microorganism Helicobacter pylori is now accepted as the most common cause of human chronic gastritis, the present work was undertaken to verify a possible relationship between the presence of this bacterium and inflammatory changes of antral mucosa in chagasic patients . Seventeen chagasics, with megaesophagus and or megacolon were studied . Fragments from two different regions of antral mucosa were obtained by endoscopy, fixed in 4% neutral formaldehyde and embedded in paraffin . The sections were stained by haematoxylin and eosin for histology analysis, and by carbolfuchsin for H . pylori identification . H . pylori was found in 16 (94.1%) chagasic patients, all of them presenting chronic gastritis . Superficial gastritis was seen in 9 (52.9%) while atrophic gastritis was present in 8 (47.1%) patients . H . pylori was present on gastric mucosa of 8 (100%) patients with atrophic gastritis and of 8 (88.8%) patients with superficial gastritis . We concluded that the microorganism H . pylori should be considered a possible factor connected with the etiopathogenesis of chronic superficial and atrophic gastritis frequently observed in patients with the digestive form of Chagas' disease. Zh Mikrobiol Epidemiol Immunobiol, 1993 Mar-Apr, (2), 23 - 7 {The possibility of using a bacteriological peptone from whole blood as the nutrient base for growing microorganisms}; Zhurbenko RS et al.; Study of some parameters of the process of hydrolysis in addition to other experiments has made it possible to develop a method for obtaining a nutrient base for the cultivation of microorganisms with the use of cattle whole blood as protein substrate and papain as a hydrolyzing agent . The product thus obtained is characterized by high levels of amino and total nitrogen (4% and 14% respectively) . Biological studies with the use of this product in different culture media and observations on the growth and characteristics of many microbial strains have shown the possibility of its use for the diagnosis of infectious diseases, for the control of the quality of foodstuffs and water. Endeavour, 1993 Mar, 17(1), 21 - 6 Plasmid replication and maintenance in binary fissile microorganisms; Dunn A et al.; The mechanisms of nonconjugative plasmid replication (in the single cell) and maintenance (at the population level) are of concern to the microbiologist and to the genetic engineer who wishes to exploit their ability to express cloned genes . This article concentrates mainly on Escherichia coli as the host organism and examines the mechanisms by which both naturally occurring and genetically engineered plasmids persist in populations during periods of growth . Additional strategies to ensure high yields of recombinant product are briefly considered. Mutat Res, 1993 Mar, 293(3), 249 - 57 Induction of the adaptive response of Escherichia coli to alkylation damage by the environmental mutagen, methyl chloride; Vaughan P et al.; Methyl chloride (MeCl) is an abundant environmental mutagen and carcinogen and may be one of several environmental alkylating agents against which the protection of an adaptive response is required in microorganisms . Both MeCl and methyl iodide (MeI), at micromolar concentrations, induced the adaptive response to alkylation damage in Escherichia coli . This response is regulated by the Ada protein which is converted into a transcriptional activator by self-methylation on repair of methylphosphotriesters in methylated DNA . However, using high amounts of Ada protein, activation of Ada occurred in vitro following direct protein methylation by both MeI (in agreement with previously published data) and MeCl . Activation was enhanced when methyl halide treatments were performed in the presence of DNA . An unadapted E . coli cell contains only 2 to 4 molecules of Ada protein, and presents an extremely small target of 2 to 4 specific cysteine residues per cell for activation of Ada by direct protein methylation in vivo . Thus, it is proposed that induction of the adaptive response in vivo initially occurs via efficient repair by the Ada protein of a low number of methylphosphotriesters in DNA . When the cellular Ada protein level has substantially increased, a greater probability of direct methylation and activation of Ada at cysteine-69 by MeCl may sustain and further increase induction of the adaptive response. Gene, 1993 Feb 28, 124(2), 191 - 7 The dhod gene and deduced structure of mitochondrial dihydroorotate dehydrogenase in Drosophila melanogaster; Rawls J et al.; We have carried out experiments to determine the structural organization of dhod and its apparent dihydroorotate dehydrogenase (DHOdehase) product . Germline transformation with dhod genomic DNA sequences permitted assignment of the functional limits of the gene to a 5-kb region, providing an experimental system for detailed analysis of this gene, as well as the DHO dehase protein . As expressed in embryos, the gene is a simple transcriptional unit containing two exons totalling 1347 nucleotides (nt) and a single small 5' intron of 54 nt . Compared to the enzyme from microorganisms, the deduced DHOdehase protein of 405 amino acids shows strong similarities within the presumptive catalytic portions of the protein . However, the N-terminal portions of these proteins are highly dissimilar, presumably reflecting diversity in the intracellular localization of DHOdehase in the different organisms . The Drosophila melanogaster protein contains N-terminal sequences that are typical of other mitochondrial intermembrane space proteins in animal cells. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci, 1993 Feb 27, 339(1288), 139 - 46 Genetic maps; Goodfellow PN et al.; The same genetic principles are common to all animals, plants and microorganisms . One consequence of the generality of genetic principles is that methods developed in one organism can often be used in other species . Recent advances in mammalian molecular genetics, genome analysis, and gene mapping have been found to be directly applicable to other animals and even plants . This is facilitating the rapid construction of detailed genetic maps in a wide variety of species . Similar advances are being made in the development of manipulation techniques, which allow the genomic deletion and addition of specific genes as well as more subtle alterations . Armed with detailed maps and precise manipulation techniques it is possible to associate genes with phenotypes, test the function of genes and to unravel complex traits that depend on the interaction of different genes. Tidsskr Nor Laegeforen, 1993 Feb 10, 113(4), 465 - 9 {Optimal use of acid-inhibitors in acid-related diseases . Physiological and physiopathological considerations with implications on therapeutic choice}; Waldum HL; Most animal species produce gastric acid . This acid denaturates the proteins in the food and thus makes them accessible to the proteolytic enzymes . The main function of the gastric acid is probably to kill swallowed microorganisms . However, the gastric acid plays an essential role in the pathogenesis of common and important diseases like peptic ulcer and reflux oesophagitis . Drugs that inhibit the secretion of gastric acid suppress both symptoms as well as lesions in patients with peptic ulcer or reflux oesophagitis . However, both reflux oesophagitis and peptic ulcer tend to recur when the acid-inhibitory treatment is stopped . In this overview the author warns against long-term profound inhibition of acid, since, in the long term, both the reduced killing of microorganisms as well as the secondary hypergastrinemia may induce increased risk of gastric cancer . In this context the role of the enterochromaffin-like (ECL) cell in gastric carcinogenesis is thoroughly discussed . There is probably a spectrum of neuroendocrine tumours in the stomach as like in the lungs, which also are foregut derived . Gastrin regulates the function (release of histamine) as well as the growth of the ECL cell, and a maximal trophic effect seems to be reached at a lower gastrin concentration than previously realized. J Biol Chem, 1993 Feb 5, 268(4), 2976 - 83 Genomic organization of human surfactant protein D (SP-D) . SP-D is encoded on chromosome 10q22.2-23.1; Crouch E et al.; Surfactant protein D (SP-D) is a member of the family of mammalian C-type lectins . SP-D is secreted into the pulmonary airspaces by lung epithelial cells and is believed to contribute to the lung's defense against inhaled microorganisms . We have previously characterized cDNAs specific for human SP-D (hSP-D) . We now describe the partial characterization of genomic clones for hSP-D and present evidence for an SP-D gene with coding sequences spanning > 11 kilobases on the long arm of chromosome 10 . Genomic sequencing demonstrated that the signal peptide/amino-terminal domain, the carbohydrate recognition domain, and the linking sequence between the collagen domain, and carbohydrate recognition domain are each encoded by a single exon, as for surfactant protein A and the mannose-binding protein C . However, sequencing also demonstrated a unique intron-exon structure for the collagen domain which is encoded on five exons, including four tandem exons of 117 bp . The latter exons show marked conservation in the predicted distribution of hydrophilic amino acids, consistent with tandem replication of this collagen gene sequence during evolution . Segregation analysis of HindIII digests of genomic DNA using specific cDNA probes demonstrated selective hybridization of radiolabeled hSP-D cDNA to chromosome 10- and 10q-containing human/hamster somatic hybrids . The presence of SP-D gene sequences was confirmed by DNA amplification using oligomers specific for sequences within the collagen domain of the hSP-D gene . Fluorescence in situ hybridization of metaphase chromosomes using genomic probes gave selective labeling of 10q22.2-23.1 . We speculate that SP-D is encoded at a locus on 10q that includes the genes for surfactant protein A. Rinsho Ketsueki, 1993 Feb, 34(2), 183 - 9 {Idiopathic interstitial pneumonitis possibly associated with chronic graft-versus-host disease}; Gondo H et al.; We described two cases of idiopathic interstitial pneumonitis (IP) after allogeneic bone marrow transplantation (BMT), who were successfully treated with prednisolone (PSL) . A 40-year-old male with AML (M3) in the first remission (case 1) and a 36-year-old male with CML in chronic phase (case 2) were treated with BMT from HLA genotypically identical female siblings . Both patients were conditioned with busulfan (16mg/kg) and cyclophosphamide (120mg/kg), and given a combination of cyclosporin A and methotrexate to prevent acute GVHD (aGVHD) . Engraftment of donor marrow was documented in both cases . Grade I of aGVHE developed in case 1 and no aGVHD in case 2 . Both patients had clinical manifestations of chronic GVHD (cGVHD), which were followed by dyspnea and cough without fever 120 days (case 1) or 100 days (case 2) after BMT . Abnormal lung function tests and radiographic infiltrates indicated that patients developed IP, but causative microorganisms could not be detected in the bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) specimens . Subjective symptoms disappeared in a few days after administering PSL (1mg/kg/day) . Laboratory data also improved thereafter . These observations, including the development of radiographic infiltrates along with clinical manifestations of cGVHD, absence of febrile episodes, absence of causative microorganisms in the BAL specimens, and effectiveness of immunosuppressive drugs, suggested that idiopathic IP observed in our cases might be a manifestation of cGVHD. Cesk Pediatr, 1993 Feb, 48(2), 109 - 11 {Neonatal sepsis--still a real problem}; Zibolen M et al.; Neonatal sepsis is characterized by bacteraemia and clinical symptoms caused by microorganisms or their toxic products . The authors pay attention to epidemiological and predisposing factors, to the aetiology, pathogenesis, clinical signs and conditions for assessment of the diagnosis of neonatal sepsis as well as its therapy and prognosis. Acta Paediatr, 1993 Feb, 82(2), 198 - 201 Chronic lung disease of preterm infants in Finland is not associated with Ureaplasma urealyticum colonization; Saxen H et al.; The occurrence of Ureaplasma urealyticum and Mycoplasma hominis in the airways and the association of these microorganisms with chronic lung disease was studied in preterm infants with a gestational age less than 30 weeks . Tracheal aspirates from 49 preterm infants were cultured; 14 (29%) infants were positive for U . urealyticum, and 1 (2%) was positive for M . hominis . Of the 16 patients who developed lung disease, 6 (38%) were positive for U . urealyticum, while the expected number of Ureaplasma-positive patients in this group, based on the overall incidence of Ureaplasma, was 4.6 . On the other hand, 8 patients were positive for U . urealyticum but did not develop chronic lung disease, nor did samples taken from 10 patients with chronic lung disease show any Ureaplasma growth . From these data we conclude that colonization of the airways with U . urealyticum has no significant role in the development of chronic lung disease in preterm infants in the Finnish (Caucasian) population. Nippon Shokakibyo Gakkai Zasshi, 1993 Feb, 90(2), 97 - 104 {An efficient method for quantification of Helicobacter pylori in biopsy specimen using PCR}; Negishi M et al.; A procedure for the detection and quantification of Helicobacter pylori in gastrointestinal tissue biopsy specimens by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is presented . This method provides an accurate quantitative and sensitive measurement of the amount of H . pylori in the gastrointestinal tract without cultivation of this microorganism . We have used 30 cycles of PCR in the presence of 3.5mM Mg++ and demonstrated that the DNA content of one H . pylori cell is 0.0076pg . Using this approach, we analyzed samples of gastrointestinal tissue biopsies from 10 patients with various gastrointestinal disorder . Each of these patients had detectable H . pylori at levels ranging from 0.10 to 60.61 cells for each tissue cell . This new technique thus provides a useful way to detect H . pylori in gastrointestinal tissue biopsy specimens. Dtsch Tierarztl Wochenschr, 1993 Feb, 100(2), 79 - 81 {Legal protection of industry and animal welfare--legal and ethical problems}; Krausslich H; The first animal patent for the so called "Harvard-onco-mouse" has been widely discussed in the media and in public respectively . The opinion of veterinarians on animal patents should be based as far as possible on objective information, such as the legal situation and consideration of ethical discussion . The paper contains information on the following subjects: definition, aim and purpose of patents, patentability of microorganisms and genes, animal patents, animal rights and patents, ethics and animal patents. Am J Trop Med Hyg, 1993 Feb, 48(2), 216 - 21 Mortality and sequelae due to cerebral malaria in African children in Brazzaville, Congo; Carme B et al.; This study was carried out on 170 children admitted to the University Hospital of Brazzaville (Congo) for cerebral malaria between January 1, 1988 and June 30, 1989 . The selection criteria were 1) unarousable coma, cerebrospinal fluid without microorganisms or a marked cellular reaction, and the absence of other causes, and 2) that the children lived in Brazzaville . The case fatality rate was 15% . In 75% of the cases, death occurred within the first 48 hr . The prognosis worsened with the stage of the coma and a younger age . At discharge from the hospital, 9% of the cases presented with sequelae . The postcerebral malaria mortality was high; indeed, death occurred in six (7%) of 90 children discharged from the hospital whose parents were contacted between nine and 27 months later . Two deaths were directly related to neurologic sequelae . Among the 58 children examined under satisfactory conditions between nine and 27 months (mean 16.9 months) after discharge, 50% (3 of 6) still presented with attenuated forms of the sequelae observed immediately after the episode of cerebral malaria (cortical blindness had regressed completely, unlike ataxia and loss of balance) . Disorders that may have been related to the episode of cerebral malaria were observed in 31% of these 58 cases. Neth J Med, 1993 Feb, 42(1-2), 73 - 9 The role of Helicobacter pylori in non-ulcer dyspepsia and gastritis; Loffeld RJ et al.; A review is presented on the relationship between Helicobacter pylori infection and gastritis and its possible significance in non-ulcer dyspepsia . Although there is consensus about the pathogenetic role of H . pylori in gastritis, the correlation between H . pylori and gastritis does not appear to be qualitative, as generally thought and accepted, but rather quantitative . It is not a black and white relationship; in other words the microorganism is present in large quantities in inflamed tissue but is also present in normal healthy mucosa in low numbers . The hypothesis is proposed of an equilibrium between virulence of H . pylori on the one hand and mucosal defence mechanism on the other hand . Distortion could lead to an attack of gastritis . The present view is that the bacterium is neither commensal nor pathogen, but is able to change its role depending on the local and momentary situation . Given the presence of H . pylori infection in patients with non-ulcer dyspepsia, with or without gastritis, the significance of the infection is probably greater than thought. Am J Obstet Gynecol, 1993 Feb, 168(2), 514 - 9 Sexual intercourse during pregnancy and preterm delivery: effects of vaginal microorganisms . The Vaginal Infections and Prematurity Study Group; Read JS et al.; OBJECTIVE: Our aim was to investigate the influence of vaginal colonization with specific microorganisms on the relationship between sexual intercourse during pregnancy and preterm delivery . STUDY DESIGN: As part of a multicenter, prospective study interviews and physical examinations were conducted with and genital cultures were obtained from women seeking prenatal care from 23 to 26 weeks' gestation . At 31 to 36 weeks interviews were conducted with a randomly selected sample of these patients . RESULTS: Frequent intercourse (defined a priori as once per week or more) at 23 to 26 weeks was associated with a significantly reduced risk of subsequent preterm delivery in women without Trichomonas vaginalis, Mycoplasma hominis, or bacterial vaginosis, possibly because of the relative health and lack of complications in the pregnancies of those women engaging in sexual intercourse . Frequent intercourse was not significantly associated with preterm delivery in women with T . vaginalis, M . hominis, or bacterial vaginosis . Neither T . vaginalis, M . hominis, nor bacterial vaginosis was associated with preterm delivery among women with infrequent intercourse at 23 to 26 weeks . However, T . vaginalis and M . hominis were risk factors for preterm delivery among those with frequent intercourse . CONCLUSIONS: Frequent sexual intercourse by itself is not associated with an increased risk of preterm birth . However, women who are colonized with specific microorganisms and who engage in frequent intercourse are at increased risk of preterm delivery. J Am Acad Dermatol, 1993 Feb, 28(2 Pt 2), 336 - 40 Primary lymphocutaneous nocardiosis caused by an unusual species of Nocardia: Nocardia transvalensis; Schiff TA et al.; We present the first case of lymphocutaneous nocardiosis caused by Nocardia transvalensis and the seventh report of infection caused by this microorganism . The patient was allergic to sulfonamides but responded to amikacin and cefotaxime and later to erythromycin . The treatment and criteria for differentiation of cutaneous Nocardia species infection are discussed. Eur J Biochem, 1993 Feb 1, 211(3), 635 - 41 Reduction and mobilization of iron by a NAD(P)H:flavin oxidoreductase from Escherichia coli; Coves J et al.; Iron is an essential element in all living cells . Solubilization, uptake and transport of iron by microorganisms is controlled by highly efficient and specific Fe(3+)-chelating agents named siderophores . However, mechanisms of mobilization of iron from ferrisiderophores are still enigmatic . Here, we demonstrate that Escherichia coli contains a powerful enzymatic system for the reduction of ferrisiderophores . Siderophores have a much lower affinity for ferrous iron, which then can be liberated . This system has been previously purified and characterized as a NAD(P)H:flavin oxidoreductase {Fontecave, M., Eliasson, R . and Reichard, P . (1987) J . Biol . Chem . 262, 12,325-12,331)} . It catalyzes the reduction of free flavins, FMN, FAD or riboflavin by NADH or NADPH . Reduced flavins, in turn, transfer their electrons to physiological ferric complexes: ferrisiderophores, ferric citrate and ferritins . The reaction is inhibited by molecular oxygen and greatly stimulated by Fe(2+)-acceptors such as ferrozine or the iron-free form of ribonucleotide reductase subunit R2 . We suggest that the reduction and the mobilization of iron from ferrisiderophores in the cell might be regulated by the presence of physiological ferrous traps such as apoproteins. Appl Environ Microbiol, 1993 Feb, 59(2), 594 - 8 Survival differences among freeze-dried genetically engineered and wild-type bacteria; Israeli E et al.; Because the death mechanisms of freeze-dried and air-dried bacteria are thought to be similar, freeze-drying was used to investigate the survival differences between potentially airborne genetically engineered microorganisms and their wild types . To this end, engineered strains of Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas syringae were freeze-dried and exposed to air, visible light, or both . The death rates of all engineered strains were significantly higher than those of their parental strains . Light and air exposure were found to increase the death rates of all strains . Application of death rate models to freeze-dried engineered bacteria to be released into the environment is discussed. Vet Hum Toxicol, 1993 Feb, 35(1), 15 - 8 Resistance of ruminal microorganisms to supermethrin; Javorsky P et al.; The effect of the pyrethroid insecticide supermethrin on the growth and cyanogenic activity of 8 ruminal bacterial species (S bovis A0 24/85, S xylosus 310, E faecium 2, L plantarum, M elsdenii 4MJ, S ruminantium A17, B succinogenes 16J and B ruminicola 3/3) in pure culture was examined . Bacteria grown in 0.66 and 6.6 mg supermethrin/ml had similar growth rates and resistance to supermethrin . Production of cyanide from supermethrin occurred by all examined strains of ruminal bacteria, but the enzyme activity varied considerably with species and with the supermethrin concentrations. J Clin Microbiol, 1993 Feb, 31(2), 221 - 6 Detection of Pneumocystis carinii DNA in sputum and bronchoalveolar lavage samples by polymerase chain reaction; Olsson M et al.; A polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based assay was developed for the detection of Pneumocystis carinii DNA in induced sputum and bronchoscopic alveolar lavage samples . The primer pair was selected from the published sequence of the thymidylate synthase gene of P . carinii derived from infected rats . The amplified DNA fragment of 403 bp was detected by agarose gel electrophoresis and by Southern and slot blot hybridization . No positive reaction was seen with DNA from different microorganisms typically found in the respiratory tract . P . carinii DNA was demonstrated in 30 of 42 sputum samples from immunosuppressed patients, whereas 21 of 42 sputum samples were positive by indirect immunofluorescence (IFL) . Among the 42 patients, 14 were receiving prophylactic chemotherapy . In that group, PCR detected P . carinii in nine sputum samples, whereas IFL detected P . carinii in only four sputum samples . A positive PCR result was also seen in 5 of 43 IFL-negative bronchoscopic alveolar lavage samples from patients with respiratory symptoms . The PCR assay detected 10 copies of the target DNA, which corresponds to 10(-18) g of the specific P . carinii sequence . The results indicate that PCR amplification in combination with DNA hybridization is specific and is a more sensitive diagnostic method than IFL for the detection of P . carinii. J Oral Maxillofac Surg, 1993 Feb, 51(2), 174 - 6 Treatment of mammalian bite wounds of the maxillofacial region; Ruskin JD et al.; Infected human bites may result in devastating consequences . Failure to recognize the destructive potential of infections of bone, tendons, joints, and soft tissue caused by oral microorganisms can lead to serious loss of intrinsic functions . Rapid prevention or resolution of infection by appropriate use of antibiotics and surgical treatment continues to be a therapeutic challenge. J Infect Dis, 1993 Feb, 167(2), 487 - 90 A prospective study of the catheter hub as the portal of entry for microorganisms causing catheter-related sepsis in neonates; Salzman MB et al.; The hypothesis that catheter-related sepsis (CRS) may be preceded by contamination of the catheter hub was tested in neonates with central venous catheters . Cultures of the catheter hub were obtained three times per week . One hundred thirteen catheters were placed in 88 patients . Of 35 episodes of sepsis, 28 were catheter-related, for a catheter sepsis rate of 1.03/100 catheter-days . CRS occurred in 26 (23%) of 113 catheters . In 10 of 28 episodes, the infecting microorganism was cultured from the hub before its culture from blood obtained at the time of clinical sepsis . In an additional 5 cases, a culture of the catheter hub at the time of clinical sepsis yielded the same isolate as the blood culture . Thus, 54% of episodes of CRS were preceded by or coincided with contamination of the hub . The catheter hub may be a major portal of entry for microorganisms causing sepsis in a neonatal intensive care unit. Zhonghua Jie He He Hu Xi Za Zhi, 1993 Feb, 16(1), 24 - 5, 62 {Renal transplantation with pulmonary infection}; Wang ZG et al.; Ten cases of renal transplantations with pulmonary infection are reported . Nine cases were diagnosed by autopsy, one case clinically . Because of compromised immunological function, in these cases the causative microorganism, clinical manifestations, courses of the disease, therapies and result of the disease were different from those of ordinary pneumonia . The causative microorganisms were mainly opportunistic bacteria including virus, protozoa and fungus . During infection, symptoms were insidious and the disease disseminated rapidly, the mortality rate was high . Therefore in any case when the cause of the fever is unknown and no abnormal signs in the chest is find, it is necessary to take chest X-ray film immediately and repeatedly . Once diagnosis of pulmonary infection is established, series of bronchoscopic examination and lung biopsy are needed to find out the causative organism in order to treat the disease specifically, then the life of the patient can be saved. Immunol Rev, 1993 Feb, 131, 79 - 92 The bacterial and mouse mammary tumor virus superantigens; two different families of proteins with the same functions; Marrack P et al.; In conclusion, the bacterial toxins are completely unlike the MTV superantigens in primary sequence and structure . The former are soluble globular proteins which do not have to be proteolytically cleaved before they act . The latter are synthesized as type II membrane proteins and may be clipped before they reach the cell surface and act to stimulate T cells . Table III summarizes the similarities and differences between the two sets of superantigens . The most notable quality of these molecules is that both sets of families have developed strategies whereby they bind to Class II and engage V beta . As far as the microorganisms which produce them are concerned, these two properties appear to be essential since they are absolutely conserved over proteins of a number of different structures . Several questions can now be addressed as follows . a . Why do all known superantigens bind to Class II? For the microorganism which produces them, the function of superantigens appears to be T-cell and perhaps directly or indirectly B-cell and macrophage stimulation . Activation of virgin T cells requires engagement with antigen plus MHC on professional antigen-presenting cells . Unlike other cell surface proteins, for example Class I, most Class II in animals is expressed on such cells . Therefore it is likely that superantigens have evolved to engage Class II because presentation to T cells by Class II-bearing cells offers the superantigen the best chance of activating its target T cells . b . Why do superantigens engage TCR V beta and not V alpha or CD3? It is possible that superantigens bind to the V beta portion of the TCR rather than V alpha because the latter does not have a consistently well exposed face for engagement . The fact that it is perhaps relatively easier to produce anti-V beta rather than anti-V alpha antibodies supports this idea . We have shown that N-glycosylation of V beta can interfere with recognition by vSAGs (Pullen et al . 1991), perhaps glycosylation of V alpha tends to conceal otherwise available sites . As far as C beta, C alpha or CD3 engagement is concerned, this may be just too dangerous for MTVs . The role of MTVs SAgs in the life history of the virus seems to be to stimulate T cells in the suckling recipient and thereby create a pool of activated lymphocytes in which the virus may survive until the mouse gives birth and transmits the virus to her own progeny (Hainaut et al . 1990, Golovkina et al . 1992).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) Acta Virol, 1993 Feb, 37(1), 11 - 20 A rickettsia-like organism from Ixodes uriae ticks collected on the Kerguelen Islands (French Subantarctic Territories); Chastel C et al.; A rickettsia-like microorganism was isolated in suckling mice from Ixodes uriae ticks collected from penguins breeding on Mayes Island, Kerguelen Archipelago, French Subantarctic Territories . At isolation, this agent mimicked a tick-borne arbovirus . Finally, electron microscopy studies of infected suckling mouse livers showed the presence of inclusions filled with pleomorphic microorganism in the cytoplasm of some hepatocytes, sometimes dividing by binary fission and thus of obviously non-viral nature . No firm serological relationship was demonstrated with Chlamydia psittaci, C . trachomatis, C . pneumoniae, Coxiella burnetti, Cowdria ruminentium, Ehrlichia canis, E . phagocytophila, E . risticii or the WSU/1044 agent . The exact taxonomic position of the "Mayes" agent remains to be clarified. Endosc Surg Allied Technol, 1993 Feb, 1(1), 57 - 8 Sterrad Sterilization System: a new technology for instrument sterilization; Jacobs P et al.; The Sterrad Sterilization System by Advanced Sterilization Products (ASP) exploits the synergism between peroxide and low temperature gas plasma (an excited or ionized gas) to rapidly destroy microorganisms (Figure 1) . At the completion of the sterilization process based on this technology, no toxic residues remain on the sterilized items . The technology is particularly suited to the sterilization of heat and moisture sensitive instruments since process temperatures do not exceeded about 50 degrees C (140 degrees F) and sterilization occurs in a low moisture environment . Total process time is about one hour . The efficacy of the process has been demonstrated against a broad spectrum or microorganisms and on a large number of substrates used in medical instruments. Mol Ecol, 1993 Feb, 2(1), 17 - 26 Typing method for N2-fixing bacteria based on PCR-RFLP--application to the characterization of Frankia strains; Jamann S et al.; DNA sequences of an intergenic spacer (IGS) and parts of genes in the nif cluster were amplified by the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) using two primers derived from nifD- and nifK-conserved sequences . The PCR products were cleaved by ten 4-base cutting restriction enzymes and the restriction patterns were used as fingerprints to type Frankia strains . The feasability of this PCR-RFLP method for typing Frankia strains was investigated on Frankia reference strains belonging mainly to the Elaeagnaceae infectivity group but also on new Frankia isolates and on other N2-fixing microorganisms . By modulating the stringency of the amplifications, we showed the method allowed to target either Frankia strains or the whole N2-fixing microbial community . DNA digestion patterns were used to estimate the sequence divergence between the Frankia nifD-K fragment . The estimated relationships deduced from these genotypic data correlated well with established Frankia taxonomic schemes. Enzyme Microb Technol, 1993 Feb, 15(2), 90 - 99 The Trichoderma cellulase regulatory puzzle: from the interior life of a secretory fungus; Kubicek CP et al.; Novel applications for cellulases have reinitiated interest in the regulation of production of these enzymes by the soft rot fungus Trichoderma reesei and related species . This paper reviews the current state of knowledge concerning the question "How can insoluble molecules like cellulose initiate their own breakdown by a microorganism?" The evidence available--based on biochemical as well as molecular biological approaches--favors a model in which conidial bound cellobiohydrolases carry out a first exo-exo-wise attack on the cellulose molecule . The disaccharides so formed (cellobiose, alpha-cellobiono-1,5-lactone) are then taken up by the mycelia and promote further cellulase biosynthesis . Evidence available suggests that they are further metabolized to, rather than being, the "true" inducer . Speculations on the nature of the inducer are presented . The roles of the beta-glucosidases of Trichoderma in this process are discussed . The pathway of cellulase secretion is discussed on the basis of electron microscopical as well as gene sequence information. J Calif Dent Assoc, 1993 Feb, 21(2), 34 - 44 Antibiotics for acute orofacial infections; Pallasch TJ; By virtue of their activity against common and microbial pathogens, three antibiotic groups have real or potential application in the routine management of acute orofacial infections: beta-lactams (penicillins and cephalosporins), macrolides (erythromycin and congeners) and the lincosamides (clindamycin) . The beta-lactam agents, principally the penicillins, remain drugs of choice . The macrolides have gained a resurgence in popularity due to their low toxicity, improved pharmacokinetics with azithromycin and clarithromycin, and the ability to penetrate into white blood cells to attack intracellular microorganisms . Clindamycin may be useful in penicillin-allergic patients and when directed by culture and sensitivity tests. Microbiologia, 1993 Feb, 9 Spec No, 96 - 103 {Informatics in food microbiology: applications for the identification of microorganisms}; Prieto Maradona M; Recent progress in analytical procedures (chemotaxonomy, molecular biology) and its contribution to the development of microbial Systematics and Identification have been examined . The benefit that these techniques have gained from the technological progression experienced by computer hardware and software (artificial intelligence and numerical taxonomy) and the improvement in tools for the study of characteristics and interrelationships between microorganism are also reported. Biochim Biophys Acta, 1993 Jan 15, 1161(1), 47 - 51 Actinomycins as proteinase inhibitors; Betzel C et al.; A novel actinomycin (Act SG3) from a strain of Streptomyces galbus var . C-72, as well as actinomycin D (Act D) were found to act as competitive inhibitors of serine proteinases from microorganisms . The inhibitory properties of Act SG3 and Act D are compared with these of other peptide antibiotics, namely bacitracin A (Bac A) and gramicidin S (Gr S) . The last compound has only a weak inhibitory effect . The following order of affinity for the four peptide antibiotics towards subtilisin DY and proteinase K was observed: Bac A > Act D > Act SG3 = Gr S . The affinity towards thermitase changes as follows: Act SG3 = Act D > Bac A > Gr S. Nature, 1993 Jan 7, 361(6407), 66 - 8 Molecular identification of microorganisms associated with parthenogenesis; Stouthamer R et al.; Cytoplasmically interited microorganisms are widespread in insects and have been implicated as causes of female parthenogenesis (females developing from unfertilized eggs) and cytoplasmic incompatibility . Normal sexual reproduction can be restored by treatment with antibiotics . Sequence analysis of the DNA encoding 16S ribosomal RNA has shown that cytoplasmic incompatibility bacteria from diverse insect taxa are closely related (they share >95% sequence sililarity) and belong to the alpha subdivision of Proteobacteria . Here we show that parthenogenesis-associated bacteria from parasitoid Hymenoptera also fall into this bacterial group, having up to 99% sequence similarity to some incompatibility microorganisms . Both incompatibility and parthenogenesis microorganisms alter host chromosome behaviour during early mitotic divisions of the egg . Incompatibility bacteria act by interfering with paternal chromosome incorporation in fertilized eggs, whereas parthenogenesis bacteria prevent segregation of chromosomes in unfertilized eggs . These traits are adaptive for the microorganisms . On the basis of their sequence similarities, we conclude that parthenogenesis bacteria and cytoplasmic incompatibility bacteria form a monophyletic group of microorganisms that 'specialize' in manipulating chromosome behaviour and reproduction of insects. J Biol Chem, 1993 Jan 5, 268(1), 399 - 404 Structural requirements for high affinity binding of complex ligands by the macrophage mannose receptor; Taylor ME et al.; The mannose receptor of macrophage and hepatic endothelial cells discriminates between endogenous and exogenous sugar-bearing structures . Previous competition studies have indicated that the receptor binds the monosaccharides mannose, fucose, and N-acetylglucosamine but displays much higher affinity for multivalent oligosaccharides, such as those found on the surface of potentially pathogenic microorganisms . The hydrodynamic properties of the receptor have been examined, revealing that the receptor is a monomer . This result suggests that multiple carbohydrate recognition domains (CRDs) in the extracellular domain of a single receptor polypeptide cooperate to achieve high affinity binding of complex ligands . In order to determine the importance of individual CRDs, properties of receptor segments containing groups of CRDs expressed in insect cells have been examined . The results indicate that two of the CRDs (4 and 5) form a protease-resistant, ligand-binding core but that five CRDs in tandem (4-8) are required to match the affinity of the intact receptor for yeast mannan . A consequence of the organization of the receptor is that both valency and geometry of glycoconjugates are important determinants of binding affinity. J Biol Chem, 1993 Jan 5, 268(1), 252 - 61 Limulus hemocyte transglutaminase . Its purification and characterization, and identification of the intracellular substrates; Tokunaga F et al.; To investigate further the molecular events of the intracellular coagulation cascade in limulus hemocytes, a transglutaminase (TGase), which may be involved in the formation of a stabilized gel, was purified and characterized . Through the purification procedures consisting of six steps, 1.6 mg of TGase with a specific activity of 940 amine incorporation unit/mg was obtained from 32.4 g of Tachypleus tridentatus hemocytes . The purified TGase gave a single band on SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis with a molecular mass of 86 kDa, and demonstrated mammalian-type II TGase-like enzymatic properties . The TGase activity was Ca(2+)-dependent and was inhibited by primary amines, EDTA, and SH-reagents . Moreover, two major potential substrates for TGase were identified in the hemocyte lysate by using dansylcadaverine (DCA) incorporation in the presence of 10 mM CaCl2 and 10 mM dithiothreitol . Of these protein substrates, an 80-kDa protein contained a large number of proline residues, amounting to about 22% of the total amino acids . On the other hand, an 8.6-kDa protein abundantly present in the hemocytes was characterized as a Cys-rich protein consisting of 81 amino acid residues and a calculated molecular mass of 8,671 . The entire amino acid sequence of this protein was established . Also, the 8.6-kDa protein was readily cross-linked intermolecularly by TGase, forming multimers as large as pentamers . We speculate that like plasma factor XIIIa, limulus TGase and its two protein substrates in the hemocytes may play an important role in the defense of this animal against invading microorganisms. Ugeskr Laeger, 1993 Jan 4, 155(1), 25 - 9 {Deficiency of mannan-binding protein--a recently discovered complement defect syndrome}; Garred P et al.; Mannan-binding protein (MBP) is a newly discovered serum protein which activates the complement system by the classical pathway by binding to mannose-rich surfaces on microorganisms . MBP deficiency predisposes to infection in infancy . MBP is a C-type lectin with collagen structure, a so-called collection . The paper discusses the structure and physiological functions of MBP . MBP may be an important parameter in the investigation of immunodeficiencies in children. J Anim Sci, 1993, 71 Suppl 3, 34 - 40 Patents for genetically modified animals; O'Connor KW; Should genetically engineered animals be patented? This issue has been one of the most contentious as lawmakers have grappled with how best to protect intellectual property . Since the 1980 case of Diamond v . Chakrabarty, in which the U.S . Supreme Court ruled that a living microorganism is patentable, the U.S . Patent and Trademark Office has determined that plants and nonhuman animals can be patented . These policy decisions have led to congressional debate on whether animals should be patentable subject matter . Patenting of living organisms is unique for three reasons: the invention itself is alive; the invention in some instances can reproduce itself; and the invention sometimes cannot be adequately described for patent specification purposes, leading to the need for deposit of the invention for patent purposes. Gastroenterol Clin Biol, 1993, 17(2), 98 - 102 {Validation and clinical and epidemiological use of a serologic test recommended in the diagnosis of Helicobacter pylori infection}; Debongnie JC et al.; A commercial serologic test using purified antigens of Helicobacter pylori has been evaluated in the diagnosis of this infection . In a series of 250 patients undergoing endoscopy with antral biopsies for cytology, histology and culture, serology was positive in 68 of 71 patients with a positive culture (sensitivity: 96%) and negative in 67 of 69 patients with a normal mucosa and no microorganisms on biopsy (specificity: 97%) . In the entire series, serology was positive in 33 patients with no infection on biopsies (13%) . In a group of 205 blood donors, we confirmed an increasing prevalence with age, ranging from 13% in subjects less than 30 years old to 38% in subjects more than 60 years old. Eur J Cardiothorac Surg, 1993, 7(4), 193 - 9 Alterations of cell-mediated immune response following cardiac surgery; Markewitz A et al.; Nosocomial infections in patients following cardiac surgery are frequently associated with opportunistic microorganisms indicating a dysregulation of cell-mediated immune response . The objective of this prospective randomized trial, therefore, was to investigate the mechanisms of dysregulation and the counterregulatory effects of immunomodulation . Twenty patients underwent conventional postoperative therapy, another 20 patients received indomethacin, which inhibits synthesis of the down-regulating mediator prostaglandin E2, and a further 20 patients were given thymopentin in addition to indomethacin, thereby augmenting activation and differentiation of the T-lymphocytes . The immunologic parameters studied included T-lymphocytes and monocytes as well as interleucin (IL)-1 and IL-6 synthesis by monocytes, and IL-2 and IL-6 synthesis by T-lymphocytes . Following cardiac surgery a significant, persistent reduction of T-lymphocytes and IL-2 synthesis as well as significant monocytosis could be observed . Indomethacin treatment resulted in a normalization of the cellular imbalance at the end of the first postoperative week, but IL-2 synthesis remained significantly reduced during the entire observation period . Conversely, with combined indomethacin and thymopentin treatment restoration of cellular distribution as well as protection of IL-2 synthesis could be achieved . These results indicate a quantitative and functional impairment of the forward regulation of cell-mediated immunity . It was shown for the first time that combined indomethacin and thymopentin treatment could successfully counteract these immunomechanistic alterations. Annu Rev Immunol, 1993, 11, 637 - 85 Gamma/delta cells; Haas W et al.; Before TCR rearrangements, T cell progenitors are committed not only to the alpha beta and gamma delta T cell lineage but also to various subsets of both lineages . In the mouse, distinct gamma delta T cell subsets can develop in the fetal thymus, the adult thymus, or independently of a thymus, probably in intestinal epithelia . The two subsets that develop in the fetal thymus home to and are maintained throughout adult life in the skin and the mucosa of the uterus, vagina, and tongue . They are monospecific . This unusual restriction in receptor repertoires is the result of severe limitations in the generation of diversity in the fetal progenitors of these subsets and the thymic selection . After birth, one gamma delta T cell subset appears in the blood, spleen, and lymph nodes and one in the intestinal epithelia . The receptor repertoires of these subsets are characterized by the preferential usage of particular V gamma gene segments and extensive junctional diversity . Several murine and human gamma delta T cell clones have been shown to recognize classical MHC class I and class II proteins or MHC class I-like proteins, and in very few cases the presented peptides are known . We suspect that the various murine gamma delta T cell subsets interact with different antigen presenting cells which utilize different antigen presenting proteins and reside in different tissues . The function of gamma delta T cells remains unknown . Preliminary results of experiments with gene knock out mice which lack either alpha beta T cells or gamma delta T cells or both suggest that gamma delta T cells do not function as helper cells in humoral immune responses but may complement alpha beta T cells in the defense against various microorganisms. Acta Otorrinolaringol Esp, 1993 Jan-Feb, 44(1), 51 - 2 {Eikenella corrodens as a pathogen of lateral cervical abscess}; Fresnillo Cuesta M et al.; We show a case of right neck abscess, in which the Eikenella corrodens, acted as pathogen together which other microorganism . We call attention to this germ that has a slow growing in culture and generally intervene in infections in which it is assumed the presence of anaerobic germs (intrathoracic abscess, neck abscess, etc.) and the are habitually treated with clindamycin, antibiotic which Eikenella corrodens is systematically resistant (to this antibiotic). Z Naturforsch {C}, 1993 Jan-Feb, 48(1-2), 52 - 7 Microbial reduction of aromatic carboxylic acids; Arfmann HA et al.; Several benzoic, cinnamic and phenylacetic acid derivatives were screened with 20 micro-organisms, mainly fungi, for the reduction of their carboxylic function . For all organisms several compounds were reduced in fairly good yields up to 80% to the corresponding alcohol . No general rule could be established, concerning the substitution pattern, as to which compounds were transformed to the alcohol . Generally the reactions were accomplished within 48-70 h . Only minor, if any, side products were detected . Dicarboxylic acids, such as phthalic or phenylglutaric acids and similar compounds could not be reduced by the microorganisms tested. West J Med, 1993 Jan, 158(1), 56 - 63 Epidemiology of health and safety risks in agriculture and related industries . Practical applications for rural physicians; Zejda JE et al.; Epidemiologic studies document that work in the agricultural sector is associated with many occupational health hazards . Exposure to organic dusts and airborne microorganisms and their toxins may lead to respiratory disorders . The burden of exposure-related chronic bronchitis, asthma, hypersensitivity pneumonitis, organic-dust toxic syndrome, and chronic airflow limitation can be diminished by appropriate preventive measures . The contribution of exposures to agricultural chemicals to cancers and neurodegenerative disorders is being investigated . Some studies document that farmers and those in related industries are at higher risk for the development of cancer of the stomach, soft tissue sarcoma, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, and multiple myeloma . Chronic encephalopathy and Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases are being studied in relation to agricultural chemicals . The possible carcinogenicity and neurotoxicity of pesticides emphasize the need to promote the safe use of chemicals . Another area for health promotion programs is disabling injuries and traumatic deaths . Farm accidents are important because of their frequent occurrence among young people and disturbing fatality rates . Other health issues of concern in these industries include skin diseases, hearing loss, and stress. New Microbiol, 1993 Jan, 16(1), 43 - 9 Adherence of Borrelia burgdorferi and Borrelia hermsii to mammalian cells in vitro; Sambri V et al.; This study investigated the ability of Borrelia burgdorferi and Borrelia hermsii to attach the surface of several types of in vitro-cultured mammalian cells . Borreliae showed different adhesion efficiencies depending on cell type and temperature . Temperatures both lower and higher than 33 degrees and 37 degrees C respectively, decreased the adhesion of borreliae which preferentially adhere to human fibroblast-like cells . The adhesion process, mediated by structures exposed onto the surface of the microorganisms, also proved to be sensitive to the treatment of mammalian cells with hyaluronidase and sialidase, confirming that carbohydrate receptors are involved in the adhesion of borreliae to eukaryotic cells. Mikrobiol Zh, 1993 Jan-Feb, 55(1), 101 - 11 {Biosensors in biotechnology and medicine}; Krivoshein IuS et al.; The work is a review of the state-of-art of research in the field of biological sensors . The enzymatic and immune biosensors are described . Problems concerning application of microorganisms as biosensors have been reported in detail . The use of luminescent bacteria and luciferase sensors is under discussion . The principles of operation of fibrous-optic and semiconducting biosensors are stated. Comp Immunol Microbiol Infect Dis, 1993 Jan, 16(1), 1 - 10 Principles of paramunization . Option and limits in veterinary medicine; Buttner M; The so-called primitive immune system has not changed during evolution . Even in primates it plays the most important role in first line defence against invading microorganisms . Cellular components such as macrophages, granulocytes, Natural Killer cells and gamma delta-T cells and soluble humoral factors--the cytokines--are the representatives of the primitive immune system . An interlocking communicative network regulates flexible response of effector cells towards "non-self" antigens . It also ensures close connection with the repertoire of specific immune response, e.g . antibody formation . Multifactorial diseases, nosocomial infections, tumour diseases and various forms of immuno-suppression initiated alternative methods in immunotherapy . Immunostimulation at the non-specific defense level has first been noticed as "side effects" of vaccination . Today it should be differentiated between substitution of the immune system with cytokines and induction of the non-specific defense repertoire mimicking natural antigen contact that is called paramunization . Advantages and disadvantages of both methods are discussed . In vitro as well as in vivo experiments with poxviruses document safety and efficacy of purified and inactivated virus particles in paramunization protocols . The main stimulative components of the poxvirus particles are located in the envelope of the virions . Poxvirus-induced stimulation of non-specific defense reactions is likely to have remote effects on the quality of further antigen processing . Besides the induction of a high short-term alertness in the primitive immune system paramunization may efficiently influence ongoing specific responses, e.g . immunoglobulin isotype selection . Therefore the term paramunization should not be used to characterize a separate part of the immune system, however, for didactic reasons it will facilitate the understanding of principles of the immune system. Appl Environ Microbiol, 1993 Jan, 59(1), 219 - 26 Monitoring airborne fungal spores in an experimental indoor environment to evaluate sampling methods and the effects of human activity on air sampling; Buttner MP et al.; Aerobiological monitoring was conducted in an experimental room to aid in the development of standardized sampling protocols for airborne microorganisms in the indoor environment . The objectives of this research were to evaluate the relative efficiencies of selected sampling methods for the retrieval of airborne fungal spores and to determine the effect of human activity on air sampling . Dry aerosols containing known concentrations of Penicillium chrysogenum spores were generated, and air samples were taken by using Andersen six-stage, Surface Air System, Burkard, and depositional samplers . The Andersen and Burkard samplers retrieved the highest numbers of spores compared with the measurement standard, an aerodynamic particle sizer located inside the room . Data from paired samplers demonstrated that the Andersen sampler had the highest levels of sensitivity and repeatability . With a carpet as the source of P . chrysogenum spores, the effects of human activity (walking or vacuuming near the sampling site) on air sampling were also examined . Air samples were taken under undisturbed conditions and after human activity in the room . Human activity resulted in retrieval of significantly higher concentrations of airborne spores . Surface sampling of the carpet revealed moderate to heavy contamination despite relatively low airborne counts . Therefore, in certain situations, air sampling without concomitant surface sampling may not adequately reflect the level of microbial contamination in indoor environments. Mol Gen Genet, 1993 Jan, 236(2-3), 347 - 54 Effects of protein kinase inhibitors on in vitro protein phosphorylation and cellular differentiation of Streptomyces griseus; Hong SK et al.; In vitro phosphorylation reactions using extracts of Streptomyces griseus cells and gamma-{32P}ATP revealed the presence of multiple phosphorylated proteins . Most of the phosphorylations were distinctly inhibited by staurosporine and K-252a which are known to be eukaryotic protein kinase inhibitors . The in vitro experiments also showed that phosphorylation was greatly enhanced by manganese and inhibition of phosphorylation by staurosporine and K-252a was partially circumvented by 10 mM manganese . A calcium-activated protein kinase(s) was little affected by these inhibitors . Herbimycin and radicicol, known to be tyrosine kinase inhibitors, completely inhibited the phosphorylation of one protein . Consistent with their in vitro effects the protein kinase inhibitors inhibited aerial mycelium formation and pigment production by S . griseus . All these data suggest that S . griseus possesses several protein kinases of eukaryotic type which are essential for morphogenesis and secondary metabolism . In vitro phosphorylation of some proteins in a staurosporine-producing Streptomyces sp . was also inhibited by staurosporine, K-252a and herbimycin, which suggests the presence of a mechanism for self-protection in this microorganism. J Antibiot (Tokyo), 1993 Jan, 46(1), 131 - 4 Microbial hydroxylation and glucuronidation of the angiotensin II (AII) receptor antagonist MK 954; Chen TS et al.; The microbial metabolism of MK 954 (Fig . 1), a novel nonpeptide angiotensin II receptor antagonist, was investigated using 40 microorganisms in an initial screen for cultures that will produce metabolites similar to those produced in the mammalian liver . The microbial transformation occurred under aerobic conditions in shake flasks incubated at 27 degrees C . Three metabolites of MK 954 were isolated and identified as the 1'-hydroxy M2, 3'-hydroxy M1, and glucuronic acid conjugated M3 derivatives . The structures of the metabolites were established by UV, 1H-NMR spectroscopy and FAB-MS spectrometry and are identical to metabolites produced by incubation of MK 954 with mammalian liver slices. J Leukoc Biol, 1993 Jan, 53(1), 112 - 6 Immunotherapy of tularemia: characterization of a monoclonal antibody reactive with Francisella tularensis; Narayanan RB et al.; An IgM monoclonal antibody (mAb) recognized surface antigens specific to Francisella tularensis wild-type (Schu4) and live vaccine strain (LVS), and reacted with both in ELISA and slide agglutination tests . This mAb also reacted with LVS microorganisms in tissues of infected mice as assessed by an indirect fluorescence technique . Western blot analysis showed the mAb to react with antigens associated with F . tularensis LPS. Diagn Microbiol Infect Dis, 1993 Jan, 16(1), 31 - 4 Recovery of clinically important microorganisms from the BacT/Alert blood culture system does not require testing for seven days; Wilson ML et al.; Recently, we published a comparison of the BacT/Alert blood culture system with the BACTEC 660/730 nonradiometric blood culture system using blood inocula of 5 ml per bottle . By reanalyzing data collected during that study, we found that, for true-positive isolates causing bacteremia or fungemia, 363 (97.6%) of 376 and 341 (97.7%) of 349 isolates were recovered by the end of day 5 of testing, and 364 (97.9%) of 376 and 343 (98.3%) of 349 isolates were recovered by the end of day 6 of testing for aerobic and anaerobic bottles, respectively . Most isolates recovered on days 6 (24 of 27) and 7 (20 of 25) of testing were either contaminants or indeterminate as a cause of sepsis . When used as recommended by the manufacturer, only six (1.3%) of 464 clinically important isolates recovered on test days 6-7 would have gone undetected had testing been limited to 5 days and four (0.9%) of 464 had testing been limited to 6 days . We conclude that BacT/Alert bottles can be tested for as few as 5 days and then discarded with minimal loss of true-positive isolates and maximal reduction of contaminants. Am Rev Respir Dis, 1993 Jan, 147(1), 211 - 4 Diagnosis of pneumonia in mechanically ventilated patients . Repeatability of the protected specimen brush; Marquette CH et al.; The repeatability (i.e., the variation in repeated measurements of the same quantity) of the protected specimen brush (PSB) with quantitative cultures was assessed in 22 consecutive mechanically ventilated (MV) patients with suspected nosocomial pneumonia . Five PSB samples were collected in the same lung area during the same bronchoscopic procedure and processed for bacteriologic identification and quantitative culture . A laboratory control was also performed in order to assess the in vitro repeatability of the quantitative culture technique . The five PSB always recovered the same microorganisms, indicating a 100% qualitative repeatability for the PSB . Conversely, the quantitative repeatability was somewhat lower since in 59% of the patients the quantitative results varied by more than one log10, which is the minimal precision affordable with quantitative cultures . The distinction between presence or absence of infection based on the 10(3) cfu/ml recommended diagnostic threshold was, however, only moderately affected by the variability of the quantitative results since only three of 22 patients (13.6%) displayed results spread out on each side of the 10(3) cfu/ml break point . Intrasubject variability of quantitative results was not explained by problems with the quantitative culture technique, which proved excellent repeatability in the laboratory . This study indicated that, although the PSB technique with quantitative cultures displays an acceptable level of repeatability, caution is advisable when interpreting PSB results in critically ill patients with suspected pneumonia, especially if one refers to the 10(3) cfu/ml recommended diagnostic threshold and if a decision to treat or to abstain from treating is to be made. Chest, 1993 Jan, 103(1), 236 - 42 A reappraisal of blind bronchial sampling in the microbiologic diagnosis of nosocomial bronchopneumonia . A comparative study in ventilated patients; Papazian L et al.; STUDY OBJECTIVE: To assess the usefulness of fiberscopy for microbiologic diagnosis of nosocomial bronchopneumonia (NBP) in ventilated patients . DESIGN: Data were collected prospectively . We compared the results of semiquantitative cultures obtained by protected specimen brush (PSB), bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) and blind bronchial sampling (BBS) . Positive thresholds were 10(3) CFU ml-1 for PSB and BAL and 10(4) CFU ml-1 for BBS . We also evaluated the diagnostic performance of direct examination of samples obtained by BAL and BBS . PATIENTS: We carried out this study in 64 ventilated patients admitted to a medico-surgical ICU . RESULTS: During the study, 85 sets of samplings were obtained . The concordance between the results of specimen cultures obtained with the three techniques was 87 percent . The concordance between BBS and PSB or between BBS and BAL was 91.8 percent . In two of seven patients with discordant results between BBS and PSB, the microorganisms isolated from blood cultures were found on BBS, but not on PSB samples . As for direct examination, the thresholds for the diagnosis of NBP using BBS were as follows: > or = 10 polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMN)/high-power field (HPF), > or = 1 bacteria/oil immersion field (OIF), presence of intracellular bacterial inclusions . Using BAL, the thresholds were as follows: > or = 1 PMN/HPF, presence of bacteria/OIF, presence of intracellular bacterial inclusions . The specificity of the presence of bacterial inclusions was excellent regardless of the sampling technique, but the sensitivity of this criteria was mediocre (30.8 percent with BBS and 19.2 percent with BAL) . Except for the number of PMN on BBS, all the other diagnostic criteria (PMN count on BAL, bacterial count, count of cells exhibiting inclusions) provide a similar prediction of NBP (correctly classified: 61.2 to 81.2 percent) . No combination of criteria enabled significantly better classification regardless of the sampling technique . CONCLUSIONS: In view of these findings and the high cost and morbidity of fiberscopy, it is arguably better to use a simple, repeatable, and risk-free technique for obtaining culture specimens from mechanically ventilated patients . Obviously, protected brushing techniques remain the most effective for nonintubated patients. Microbios, 1993, 75(303), 125 - 9 A simple DNA polymerase chain reaction method to locate and define orientation of specific sequences in cloned bacterial genomic fragments; Skinner DD et al.; A simple DNA polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method, to rapidly locate and define the orientation of a particular sequence within a cloned bacterial genomic fragment several kilobases (kb) long, is described . The technique is particularly useful when cloning (by DNA PCR amplification) a specific sequence of a conserved gene from several microorganisms following an homology probing approach . The method requires two universal primers derived from the vector, two specific primers derived from each end of the specific sequence in inverted tail-to-tail directions, and a single round of PCR . In addition, PCR conditions applicable to DNA inserts having a G + C content up to 75% (e.g . Pseudomonas and actinomycete genomic fragments), and allowing efficient amplification of DNA fragments up to 7 kb long, are described and discussed. Curr Opin Periodontol . 1993;:28-42. Current concepts in juvenile periodontitis; Wisner-Lynch LA et al.; Juvenile periodontitis is one of the more debilitating periodontal diseases . The disease entity includes two manifestations of aggressive bone destruction, a localized and a generalized form, which affect adolescents at puberty . Recent studies have defined the prevalence of the disease with regard to locale, gender, and ethnicity . In addition, significant advances have been made in evaluating host response effects in juvenile periodontitis . Studies have identified changes in cell surface receptors on neutrophils, which appear to be related to both receptor density and structure . Various molecular techniques, including restriction fragment length polymorphism, have enabled researchers to identify clonal variants of Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans--the microorganism most closely associated with the disease . This may prove to be very useful in identifying virulence factors that have a role in disease initiation and progression . Treatment modalities using debridement, surgery, and anti-infective therapy have been proposed for management of the disease. Biomater Artif Cells Immobilization Biotechnol, 1993, 21(3), 383 - 9 Bioencapsulation revisited; Saucedo JE et al.; Methods to encapsulate biological materials are now widely used . Sometimes bioencapsulation is considered as a universal technique conducting to identical results independently on the biological material used . For instance, a similar behavior is frequently waited for different strains of immobilized microorganisms without taking into account substantial differences in its physiological and morphological characteristics . Often interactions with the matrix support are also neglected . Thus, some concepts developed throughout all these years working in bioencapsulation merits to be revisited. Vet Med (Praha), 1993, 38(4), 193 - 202 {Detection of bovine herpesvirus-1 using the dot-blot hybridization method}; Vilcek S et al.; With the development of molecular biology in the 1980s methods of microorganism detection start to innovate . One of the main advantages of the molecular-genetic methods, namely hybridization of nucleic acids and PCR methods, is the detection of genome of microorganism without the need for cellular cultivation . To detect BHV-1 (etiological agens IBR-IPV) the dot-blot hybridization method on nitrocellulose filters was used together with different types of DNA probes (two-fiber recombinant plasmids, one-fiber recombinant phages M 13 and 40 bp synthetic oligonucleotide) . Genome DNA BHV-1 was isolated from samples (virions, infested cells, nasal smears and secretions by phenol extraction) . The highest sensitivity of detection was achieved with 32P-pUR-1 probe (1.8kb random EcoRI-Hind III fragment ligated into plasmid pUC 9) which detected genome BHV-1 in 5 x 10(3) infested MDBK cells . This probe did not respond with herpetic viruses BHV-2, BHV-3, BHV-4 and the virus of Aujeszky's disease . The quality of pUR-1 probe was further tested for IBR diagnostics in animals experimentally infested with the virus BHV-1 (intranasal infection) . BHV-1 could be detected in nasal smears and secretions in experimentally infested calves as early as on the first day following infection, while the agens amount reached its peak on the days 2-3 and on the days 6-7 the occurrence of virus fell markedly . When digoxigenin-pUR-1, i.e . non-radioactively marked probe, the virus presence was confirmed only on the days 2-3, in the time of the highest occurrence of infection agens . To detect the virus through the dot-blot hybridization nasal secretions were confirmed as better compared with nasal smears . The technology of virus isolation on cell cultures confirmed also the occurrence of agens as soon as on the first day from infection, with maximum on the days 2-5, but much more reliably it detected the virus on the days observed from the day 3 and their peak was obtained on the day 6 from infection . Experiments, comparing classical methods of IBR diagnostics (detection of specific antibodies, the method of isolation on cellular cultures) with the dot-blot hybridization using the samples obtained from farms with natural occurrence of IBM, are under progress. J Antimicrob Chemother, 1993 Jan, 31 Suppl A, 79 - 85 A randomized multicenter trial of piperacillin/tazobactam versus imipenem/cilastatin in the treatment of severe intra-abdominal infections . Swedish Study Group; Eklund AE et al.; The efficacy and safety of piperacillin plus tazobactam and of imipenem plus cilastatin were compared in an open randomized multicentre study . In the piperacillin/tazobactam group, 40 men and 29 women (mean age 53 years, range 18-92) received 4 g piperacillin with 500 mg tazobactam every 8 h; in the imipenem/cilastatin group 40 men and 25 women (mean age 54 years, range 16-91) received 500 mg imipenem with 500 mg cilastatin, also every 8 h . Antibiotics were administered intravenously for at least three days and for not more than 14 days . Infections were verified by culture of material obtained at laparotomy or by puncture of an abscess before the start of therapy . Fifty of 55 evaluable patients in the piperacillin/tazobactam group (91%) and 40 of 58 evaluable patients in the imipenem/cilastatin group (69%) were clinically cured . Four relapses or failures were recorded in the piperacillin/tazobactam group and 18 in the imipenem/cilastatin group (P < 0.005) . Eradication of the microorganisms isolated were similar in both groups . Adverse reactions in both groups were mild and dominated by nausea and diarrhoea . At the dosage used piperacillin/tazobactam was as safe as, and statistically more effective than, imipenem/cilastatin in the treatment of intra-abdominal infections caused by sensitive organisms. Infect Immun, 1993 Jan, 61(1), 204 - 12 Genetic structure of populations of Porphyromonas gingivalis associated with periodontitis and other oral infections; Loos BG et al.; One hundred isolates of the oral pathogenic bacterium Porphyromonas gingivalis were genetically characterized by determining the electrophoretic mobilities of 16 metabolic enzymes and the presence or absence of catalase activity . A total of 78 distinct electrophoretic types (ETs), representing multilocus genotypes, were identified, and cluster analysis placed them in three major phylogenetic divisions . Division I (71 ETs) included all 88 human isolates examined, most of which had been recovered from patients with periodontitis, together with 4 monkey isolates . The strains in division II (four ETs) and division III (three ETs) are strongly differentiated from those in division I and apparently represent two previously unclassified (cryptic) species . The mean genetic diversity per enzyme locus among the 92 isolates of division I (P . gingivalis, strict sense) was 0.321, and the strains were distributed among 14 phylogenetic clusters and single-ET lineages . The population structure is basically clonal, with some clonal genotypes being widespread, and even global, in distribution . There was no evidence of association between specific genetic lineages or clusters of ETs and the type of disease (periodontitis or root canal infections), invasive potential, serogroup, or fimbrial restriction fragment length polymorphism group . The finding that dental patients are infected by strains of a wide variety of chromosomal genotypes suggests that interstrain variation in pathogenicity is small . On the basis of the observed genetic structure of natural populations of P . gingivalis, we hypothesize that the role of this microorganism in the pathogenesis of periodontitis and other dental infections is largely opportunistic. Folia Microbiol (Praha), 1993, 38(2), 159 - 60 Chitinase and changes of microbial community in soil; Hanzlikova A et al.; Enrichment of soil with chitin (0.6%) significantly stimulated growth of chitinolytic microorganisms (the relative proportion was increased from 1.7 to 26.5%) and the formation of chitinase in soil . In a soil enriched with chitin and glucose (0.6%), the proportion of chitinolytic microorganisms remained similar to that in the nonenriched soil (1.4%), the enzyme formation was negatively affected. Scand J Infect Dis, 1993, 25(3), 305 - 9 The C-reactive protein responses in HIV-infected patients with pneumonia; Storgaard M et al.; The acute phase C-reactive protein (CRP) was measured in serum of HIV-infected patients suffering from Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia (PCP) (32 patients), bacterial pneumonia (10 patients), and in 19 immunocompetent patients with bacterial pneumonia . The HIV-infected patients with bacterial pneumonia had a significantly lower CRP level than the immunocompetent patients (50% versus 95% had an s-CRP level > 80 mg/l) . No significant difference was found in the CRP response to P . carinii or bacteria in HIV-infected patients with pneumonia due to these microorganisms (20% versus 50% had s-CRP > 80 mg/l) . In the group of PCP patients, a significantly lower CRP level was found in those with CD4 positive lymphocyte counts below 50 x 10(6)/l . There was no correlation between the CRP response and the severity of the PCP as estimated by the degree of hypoxia . We conclude that the CRP level cannot be used to discriminate between PCP and bacterial pneumonia in HIV-infected patients. Digestion, 1993, 54(3), 160 - 2 Congestive gastropathy versus chronic gastritis: a comparison of some pathophysiological aspects; Guslandi M et al.; In order to investigate some pathophysiological aspects of the two diseases, 15 patients with congestive gastropathy and 15 with chronic gastritis have been studied and compared with 15 healthy controls . Gastric blood flow as determined during endoscopy by means of laser Doppler flowmetry was found to be significantly increased (p < 0.001) in congestive gastropathy, whereas a significant reduction (p < 0.001) was noted in chronic gastritis . On the other hand, Helicobacter pylori was detected in 80% of cases in chronic gastritis, while the prevalence of the microorganism in congestive gastritis was similar to that in healthy controls . It is concluded that chronic gastritis and congestive gastropathy are related to different pathogenetic factors and require different therapeutic approaches. Crit Rev Microbiol, 1993, 19(2), 83 - 97 Calcium and microorganisms; Youatt J; This review followed from experiments suggesting that some fungi do not require calcium . It was found that many studies of a calcium requirement in microorganisms had assumed specificity for chelation agents such as EGTA and A23187, which the reagents did not possess . Early studies still cited today often preceded the recognition that microorganisms required manganese and zinc . As a result of both of these misunderstandings, there was rarely any attempt to replace calcium by other important trace elements . In some studies that seem to have been overlooked, the apparent requirement for calcium depended on the growth conditions used . Escherichia coli, Neurospora crassa, and Saccharomyces cerevisiae were then selected for detailed consideration and it is concluded that further experiments are needed before the involvement of calcium is proved. Riv Inferm, 1993 Jan-Mar, 12(1), 22 - 8 {A window on the past: lay nurses and nun nurses in hospital modernization at the start of the 20th century}; Dimonte V; The presence of nuns in Italian hospitals raised hot debates since the beginning of the century . Though recognised by a large majority as ideal nurses, for the devotion and the amount of time spent working in the hospital, physicians, feminist movements and nursing leagues expressed much criticism against nuns, for several reasons: a . nuns were more liable to the Mother Superior than to the hospital administration, therefore could not be neither controlled nor sanctioned; b . misplaced "religious" behaviors and beliefs (i.e . the body as an occasion of sin; suffering means spiritual salvation) which may threaten proper care for patients; c . nuns could not act as educators or role model for nurses because they were mainly involved in organizational and management activities and not in direct patient care; d . among other problems, the way of dressing, with large hats and long sleeves was a source of transport of microorganisms) . Lack of properly educated and trained lay nurses, able to substitute nuns, some improvement in nuns' education, strongly promoted by Pope Pio X and the dissolution of nursing leagues put an end to the fight for the secularization of hospitals. Chirality, 1993, 5(8), 596 - 601 Microbial metabolism of 2-arylpropionic acids: chiral inversion of ibuprofen and 2-phenylpropionic acid; Hutt AJ et al.; The metabolism of (R,S)-ibuprofen has been investigated in 24 microbial cultures . Of these Cunninghamella elegans, Mucor hiemalis, and Verticillium lecanii catalyzed the oxidation of the drug to 2-{4-(2-hydroxy-2-methylpropyl)phenyl}propionic acid, a known mammalian metabolite . The extent of metabolism was greatest with V . lecanii, with some 47% of the substrate being consumed over a 7-day incubation period . Enantiomeric analysis indicated stereoselective metabolism of (R)-ibuprofen, the enantiomeric composition of the residual substrate being R/S = 0.25 . Following a preparative scale incubation of (R,S)-ibuprofen with V . lecanii, in which the reaction was allowed to go to completion, the metabolite was found to be predominantly of the S-configuration (S/R = 2.1), suggesting that chiral inversion of either the drug and/or the metabolite had taken place . Analysis of extracts following incubation of (R,S)-, (R)-, and (S)-2-phenylpropionic acid with V . lecanii, for 21 days, indicated that chiral inversion of the (R)-enantiomer to its optical antipode had taken place . The results of these investigations indicate that microorganisms, in addition to mammals, are able to mediate the chiral inversion of 2-arylpropionic acids . This observation may have implications for the preparation of optically pure 2-arylpropionic acids. Ann Epidemiol, 1993 Jan, 3(1), 78 - 85 The severity of fetal membrane infection and pregnancy complications; Krohn MA et al.; The purpose of this report is to examine the association of histologic chorioamnionitis with microorganisms isolated from the fetal membranes and to evaluate whether microorganisms with or without inflammation are associated with labor characteristics and with pregnancy complications . Inflammation was more common among membranes that yielded pathogenic bacteria (47%, P = 0.002) or Urea-plasma urealyticum (34%, P = 0.03) than among membranes that yielded no growth or nonpathogenic bacteria (20%) . Prolonged membrane rupture (P = 0.0001), infant birth weight less than 2500 g (P = 0.02), and intraamniotic infection (P = 0.001) occurred more frequently among