Am Rev Respir Dis, 1989 Aug, 140(2), 306 - 10 Diagnostic value of quantitative cultures of bronchoalveolar lavage and telescoping plugged catheters in mechanically ventilated patients with bacterial pneumonia; Torres A et al.; We compared the diagnostic value of quantitative cultures of bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) and telescoping plugged catheter (TPC) samples in 34 nonimmunocompromised, mechanically ventilated (MV) patients with suspected bacterial pneumonia . A control group of seven "noninfected" MV patients was also studied . In 92% of patients with bacterial pneumonia (32 of 34), simple endotracheal aspiration samples recovered one or more microorganisms . Both BAL and TPC samples cultured colony-forming units (cfu) greater than or equal to 10(3)/ml of one or more microorganisms in 56% (19 of 34) of patients . TPC and BAL culture results agreed on 88.5% (54 of 61) of the recovered microorganisms . Sterile TPC and BAL cultures agreed on 80% (4 of 5) of the cases . Microorganisms cultured from blood samples were also cultured from BAL and TPC specimens . Culture results from the two techniques completely disagreed in only one case (3%) . In the control group, one TPC and two BAL cultures yielded microorganisms in cfu greater than or equal to 10(3)/ml . Specificities of BAL and TPC were 71 and 86%, respectively, whereas specificity of endotracheal aspiration was only 14% . Both the bacterial index obtained by TPC and BAL, as well as the quantitative cultures, correlated moderately well (r = 0.78 and 0.72, respectively, p less than 0.001 for both correlations) . BAL and TPC results caused changes of antibiotic treatment in 11 of 23 survivors . Neither BAL nor TPC caused complications . Our results demonstrate that BAL and TPC diagnose bacterial pneumonia in MV patients with similar accuracy . Culture results from both techniques showed excellent qualitative and reasonable quantitative agreement. Am J Reprod Immunol, 1989 Aug, 20(4), 140 - 6 Present status of tumor immunology in clinical gynecology; Barber HR; The function of the immune system is to protect the body from damage caused by invading microorganisms, that is, bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites . The humoral mechanism functions through plasma cells producing antibodies that control bacterial infections . Viruses, fungi and parasites are controlled through the thymus dependent T lymphocytes . It is now clear that cancers also invoke immunologic reactions in their hosts . Cancer cells, like bacteria and viruses have their own characteristic antigens . An antigen is defined as a substance, usually a protein or polysaccharide, that the body recognizes as foreign, and to whose presence it reacts by forming antibodies . Antigenic differences represent the first known qualitative distinction between cancer cells and their normal counterparts . These qualitative differences between normal and cancer cells had escaped other methods of investigation, but were revealed by immunological techniques that take advantage of the extraordinary power of discrimination of the immune defense mechanism itself . This mechanism is capable of distinguishing even minute differences between protein molecules, probably one different amino acid in a chain of several thousand . Burnet's clonal selection theory has become the central dogma of immunology . It can be summarized by saying that lymphocytes have been destined from time immemorial to identify a specific antigen . When the lymphocyte encounters that antigen it becomes a sensitized lymphocyte, and on contact with similar antigens again produces an immune response including the production of very potent pharmacologic agents called lymphokines . Immunodeficiency diseases are identified by increased frequency of infections in patients . The impaired immunity decreases the patient's protection against developing a malignancy . Autoimmunity is the reaction of the immune system against the body's own tissue.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) Anasth Intensivther Notfallmed, 1989 Aug, 24(4), 206 - 11 {Infection as a cause of multiple organ failure . Definition, pathophysiology and diagnostic parameters}; Schuster HP; DEFINITION: Several clinical observations support the hypothesis that bacterial sepsis is the main aetiological factor in at least half of the patients developing multiple organ failure . Sepsis is defined as the pathophysiological alterations and life-threatening clinical consequences of the action of microorganisms or their products invading the blood stream from a focus of infection . The clinical course of sepsis is highlighted by initial multiorgan insufficiency progressing to severe multiple system organ failure . PATHOPHYSIOLOGY: Pathogenetic bacteria and bacterial toxins arise from the septic focus, overcome the defence mechanisms of the body, continuously invade the blood stream, activate the biological cascade systems and initiate release of mediators from blood and tissue cells . Endotoxin and activated mediators cause endothelial and organ cell dysfunction and cell damage by at least three mechanisms: maldistribution of blood flow; cytotoxia; direct inhibition of oxygen-utilising cell enzymes . CLINICAL PICTURE: The septic disease begins with unspecific signs caused by invasion of bacteria, followed by alterations of the circulatory system, the blood clotting system, the metabolism, initiating vital organ dysfunctions and finally acute respiratory, renal, gastrointestinal, hepatic failure and septic encephalopathy . DIAGNOSIS: The clinical diagnosis of sepsis is based on the finding of an obvious septic focus with the presence of at least four of the following 5 criteria: (I) fever above 38.8 degrees C or hypothermia below 35.5 degrees C; (II) tachypnoea (greater than 24/min) or hypocapnia (PaCO2 less than 32 mmHg); (III) tachycardia (greater than 100 Bpm), (IV) leucocytosis (greater than or equal to 15.000/mm3) or leucopenia (greater than 5.000/mm3); (V) presence of at least one indicator for inadequate organ perfusion like mental alterations, hypoxaemia (PaCO2 less than 75 mmHg while breathing room air), hyperlactataemia (greater than 1,6 mmol/l), diuresis below 30 ml/h, drop in systolic blood pressure below 100 mmHg . A positive blood culture or a positive limulus test are frequent but are not considered to be obligatory for the diagnosis of sepsis. Semin Diagn Pathol, 1989 Aug, 6(3), 287 - 99 Pneumocystis carinii infection in the acquired immune deficiency syndrome; Gal AA et al.; The acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) pandemic has focused attention on Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia (PCP) . Of special significance are the following key issues . (1) PCP in the AIDS patient can be clinically different than in the non-AIDS patient . (2) The morphologic expressions of PCP in both AIDS and non-AIDS patients are considerably more diverse than previously believed . (3) Rapid diagnostic methods that unequivocally demonstrate the PC microorganisms in the tissue and secretions are crucial to patient care . The clinical manifestations of PCP overlap with those of other pulmonary disorders so that its diagnosis requires at least bronchoscopy, if not an open lung biopsy . In biopsy specimens, typical and atypical histologic features allow the recognition of PCP under microscopic examination . The sensitivities of transbronchial biopsies and bronchoalveolar lavage are comparable, and their combination offers the greatest diagnostic yield . This article discusses the clinical and pathologic features of PCP in the AIDS patient, and explores the advantages and pitfalls of the various diagnostic methods for the identification of PC. Appl Environ Microbiol, 1989 Aug, 55(8), 2017 - 24 Influence of osmoregulation processes on starvation survival of Escherichia coli in seawater; Munro PM et al.; The adaptation of enteric bacteria in seawater has previously been described in terms of nutrient starvation . In the present paper, we bring experimental arguments suggesting that survival of these microorganisms could also depend on their ability to overcome the effects of osmotic stress . We analyzed the influence of osmoregulatory mechanisms (potassium transport, transport and accumulation of organic osmolytes) on the survival of Escherichia coli in seawater microcosms by using mutants lacking components of the osmotic stress response . Long-term protection was afforded to cells by growth in a medium whose osmotic pressure was increased by either NaCl, LiCl, or saccharose . Achievement of the protection state depended at least partly on osmoregulatory mechanisms, but differed when these were activated or induced during prior growth or in resting cells suspended in phosphate buffer or in seawater . When achieved during growth, K+ transport, glycine-betaine (GBT) synthesis or transport, and trehalose synthesis helped increase the ability to survive in seawater . Protection by GBT was also obtained with resting cells in a phosphate buffer at high osmotic pressure . However, when added only to the seawater, GBT did not change the survival ability of cells no matter what their osmoregulation potential . These results showed that the survival of E . coli cells in seawater depends, at least partly, on whether they possess certain genes which enable them to regulate osmotic pressure and whether they can be stimulated to express those genes before or after their release into the environment . This expression requires nutrients as the substrates from which the corresponding gene products are made. J Otolaryngol, 1989 Aug, 18(5), 245 - 50 Osteoradionecrosis of the mandible: a review; Balogh JM et al.; Osteoradionecrosis (ORN) is a complex metabolic and tissue homeostatic deficiency created by radiation-induced tissue injury . Although infection was initially felt to play an important role in its pathogenesis, the role of microorganisms has been relegated to that of a contaminant . Trauma in some cases may provide a possible initiating factor for the process, or in the case of spontaneous ORN, the use of radioactive implants and the higher doses of radiation therapy as practised in the megavoltage era, may have an influence . The role of prevention cannot be over-emphasized . Dental evaluation is an important part of the initial patient assessment . Preservation of good or average teeth is recommended with subsequent regular follow-up and dental care . Post-treatment dental extraction should be minimized and delayed if possible until at least nine-12 months after completion of radiation therapy . Management of ORN requires assessment of the extent, both clinically and radiologically . Conservative management is recommended unless the disease is advanced or progressive . Radiologic evidence of fracture requires surgery . Modern surgical techniques offer satisfactory reconstruction . The role of hyperbaric oxygen remains controversial and limited to centers where hyperbaric techniques exist . The treatment is complex and time-consuming and results are confounded by the concurrent use of local antiseptic/antibiotic measures and surgery. Exp Cell Res, 1989 Aug, 183(2), 353 - 60 Long-term culturing of TPA-induced differentiated HL-60 cells results in increased levels of lytic enzymes; Ackerman JJ et al.; After exposure to 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA), cells of the promyelocytic leukemia cell line, HL-60, differentiate into macrophage-like cells . Within 24 h the cells adhere to the surface of the culture flask and increase production of nonspecific esterases . The intracellular concentration of the serine proteases increases two- to threefold within 4 days and continues to increase as the cells develop into mature macrophages . The acid hydrolases, lysozyme and beta-glucuronidase, were secreted by the differentiated cells . Both the intracellular and extracellular concentrations of these enzymes continued to increase as the cells matured . The fully differentiated cells readily phagocytized opsonized yeast cells . Phagocytosis had little effect on the secretion of acid hydrolases, while intracellular proteases increased significantly . The fully differentiated HL-60 cells resembled normal macrophages regarding all parameters studied . Viability of the differentiated cells exceeded 50% when cultured for 30 days . Therefore, these cells should prove to be a useful tool for the study of macrophage function with respect to microorganisms that are resistant to destruction by phagocytic cells. Cancer Res, 1989 Aug 1, 49(15), 4216 - 24 Modification of host antitumor defense mechanisms in mice by progressively growing tumor; Maccubbin DL et al.; The EL4 lymphoma in C57BL/6 mice was used as a model to examine the effect of progressive tumor growth on a variety of cell mediated cytolytic effector functions which have been shown in other systems to have antitumor potential . The functions examined were those of cytolytic T-lymphocyte, lymphokine activated killer cells, natural killer cells, and tumoricidal macrophage (MO) . The kinetics of each function displayed a unique pattern as a consequence of tumor growth, but all were inhibited in animals bearing large tumors (late tumor bearers) . In cell mixing experiments it was shown that spleen cells from individual late tumor bearers were suppressive for cytotoxic T-lymphocytes, lymphokine activated killer cells, and splenic MO but not peritoneal MO or splenic natural killer cells . The suppression was nonspecific and was mediated primarily by nonadherent cells and/or their soluble products . Suppression appeared to be mediated, in part, by tumor cells in the spleen since the degree of suppressor activity associated with a particular spleen cell preparation correlated with the number of tumor cells present . Furthermore, the direct addition of viable ascites EL4 cells to response cultures or assays had similar suppressive effects as late TBM spleen cells, i.e., inhibited cytotoxic T-lymphocytes, lymphokine activated killer cells, and splenic MO but had no effect on natural killer cells or peritoneal MO . The mechanism of suppression by ascites EL4 was not determined but it was mediated by viable cells only and not due to contaminating viruses or other microorganisms. Appl Environ Microbiol, 1989 Aug, 55(8), 2082 - 5 Electrode system for determination of microbial cell populations in polluted water; Maoyu Y et al.; Microbial cell populations in polluted water were determined by using a fuel cell-type electrode . The electrode was composed of a Pt anode, a Pt-K3Fe(CN)6-K4Fe(CN)6 cathode, and a cation-exchange membrane for separating two electrode compartments . The principle of microbial cell number determination is based on sensing a redox dye reduced by microorganisms with the electrode . Sample solutions containing microorganisms, a redox dye (thionine), and peptone were purged with oxygen-free nitrogen during the determination . A linear relationship was obtained between the increasing rate of current and the number of microbial cells measured by the colony count method above 10(4) cells per ml . The determination time varied with the number of microbial cells determined from 20 to 60 min for 3.6 x 10(6) and 3.6 x 10(4) cells per ml, respectively. Shigaku, 1989 Aug, 77(2), 472 - 86 {Indole production in human whole saliva}; Yoshida M et al.; It is known that between saliva and oral microorganisms there are close relations . To investigate the salivary factors that influence the metabolism of oral microorganisms, the production and degradation of indole were studied in several salivary supernatants or salivary ultrafiltrates . Washed salivary sediments were mixed with the supernatants or the ultrafiltrates containing tryptophan or indole . After incubation at 37 degrees C for 48 hours, the indole was extracted by petroleum ether and determined spectrophotometrically . The results obtained were as follows: 1) The amount of indole produced in the raw supernatants was generally greater than that produced in the heated supernatants . 2) The production and the degradation of indole in the ultrafiltrates varied according to the saliva samples . 3) Only a small amount of indole was produced when tryptophan was not added to the ultrafiltrates . 4) When the ultrafiltrate was preheated at 98 degrees C, the indole production slightly decreased for only ten minutes . 5) The optimum pH for indole production in the ultrafiltrate was within the range from 7.0 to 8.5 in the presence of 20mM of Good's buffer (MES, MOPS, TAPS) . 6) The highest indole production was observed when MOPS (pH7.7) was added at the concentration of 20mM to the ultrafiltrate . 7) The amount of indole production was mainly influenced by salivary sediment, and it was also affected by the ultrafiltrate. Ann Intern Med, 1989 Jul 15, 111(2), 168 - 78 Clinical ecology . American College of Physicians. {Microbiologic characteristics of a trisectional horizontal biogas tank running on cow manure} Kuznetsov LE, Nozhevnikova AN, Nekrasova VK, Slobodkin AI, Siman'kova MV, Vedenina IIa. The methanogenic activity of manure destructors was investigated at different stages of cattle manure utilization at 35 degrees in a three-section horizontal methane tank manufactured by "Enbom" company (Finland) . The association of microorganisms was found to have the highest activity at the last stage of the process, while the least activity was observed in case of fresh manure . A considerable increase of the methanogenic activity in the methane tank was proved by the radioisotopic method and by calculation of the population size of microorganisms from different groups by the series dilution method . Acetic and propionic acids were absent in samples from the third section of the methane tank, while the maximum concentration of the acids was found in the manure storage and in the first section of the methane tank . A significant part of active methanogenic microorganisms was removed with the effluent . Therefore, partial recirculation of the biomass should be used to increase the efficiency of the methane tank. Nihon Kyobu Shikkan Gakkai Zasshi, 1989 Jul, 27(7), 829 - 36 {A case of bronchiolitis obliterans organizing pneumonia (BOOP) showing spontaneous regression after an open lung biopsy}; Imai H et al.; The patient was a 57-year-old Japanese male with dry cough, exertional dyspnea of 6 weeks' duration and bilateral basal pulmonary infiltrates, before a left thoracotomy for lung biopsy was performed in August 1984 . Because the symptoms of the patient were not severe, he could be followed up without corticosteroid hormone treatment for 3.5 years, during which a spontaneous regression of both symptoms and objective findings were recognized, following the open lung biopsy . The primary pathological diagnosis of the case was an unclassified type of interstitial pneumonia, because the two lobes of the left lung showed diffuse alveolar septal fibrotic and inflammatory changes . However, granulation tissues in respiratory bronchioles were noted in tissue from the lingular segment and, after more careful observation, from the lower lobe (segment 8) (Fig . 9) . Bacteriological cultures from fresh lung tissues were negative for microorganisms . From these clinical and pathological findings, this patient's pulmonary lesions were determined to be idiopathic BOOP. Taiwan Yi Xue Hui Za Zhi, 1989 Jul, 88(7), 747 - 51 {Cutaneous protothecosis: first case in Taiwan}; Kuan YZ et al.; In November 1985, a 5-year-old Chinese girl presented to the Dermatological Department of Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taipei, having scaly erythematous plaque with mild itching on her right upper eyelid . Skin biopsy and fungal cultures were performed after failure of initial topical steroid therapy . The histopathology revealed many acute and chronic inflammatory cells infiltrating the dermis and H & E stain revealed some foamy vacuolated spores; P.A.S . and Gomori's methenamine stain also showed many spores and sporangia containing endospores . Lactophenol cotton blue and methylene blue wet mount preparations were made from the colony growing on Sabouraud's agar . Microscopically, these showed many round or oval spores and endospore-containing sporangia, corresponding with the histopathology . This microorganism grew as a milky white yeast-like colony on Sabouraud's dextrose agar, blood agar, EMB, Tween 80 cornmeal agar, chocolate agar, MacConkey agar and brain heart infusion with sheep RBC agar . On Pagano-Levin medium, the colony became deep red in color and in the thioglycollate broth tube culture, it was suspended on the upper layer as a whitish ring-form of granules . The microorganism showed no urease activity . In the assimilation tests, there were positive reactions to glucose, galactose, trehalose, fructose, mannose and glycerol, and negative reactions to maltose, xylose, raffinose, sucrose, lactose, cellabiose, n-propanol, etc . The electronmicroscopic examination of the colony revealed sporangium containing spores and characteristic dense body and plastids in the spores.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) Acta Cytol, 1989 Jul-Aug, 33(4), 523 - 6 Penicillium marneffei in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid; Chan JK et al.; Penicillium marneffei is a rare human pathogen that may infect either healthy or immunocompromised hosts . In methenamine silver-stained preparations of bronchoalveolar lavage fluid from a patient with dermatomyositis on steroid treatment, round-to-oval intracellular and extracellular microorganisms were found . The finding of occasional septate and elongated forms established the microorganism as probably P marneffei, which was confirmed on culture . Distinguishing this rare fungus from Pneumocystis carinii is important because these two diseases require different forms of treatment. J Clin Microbiol, 1989 Jul, 27(7), 1431 - 3 Limited usefulness of quantitative culture of blood drawn through the device for diagnosis of intravascular-device-related bacteremia; Paya CV et al.; The use of a differential quantitative blood culture technique (Isolator) to diagnose intravascular-device-related bacteremia (IDRB) was studied prospectively . During septic episodes in 44 patients, blood was obtained simultaneously through the suspected infected device and from a peripheral venipuncture . The blood samples were processed by the Isolator technique, which enables easy quantification of microorganisms . The cannula was removed, and its tip was cultured semiquantitatively . Of the 52 cannulas studied, 15 were the cause of IDRB, but only 7 of these showed a significantly higher bacterial count in blood obtained through the device compared with peripheral blood . The bacterial count was higher in blood drawn through the device than in peripheral blood in four of six cases that did not fulfill the definition of IDRB . Some blood cultures obtained through the device were positive despite negative cultures of peripheral blood and cannula tips (six cannulas) . Quantitative blood cultures were not useful in diagnosing IDRB in this study. J Am Dent Assoc, 1989 Jul, 119(1), 141 - 4 The efficacy of the rubber dam as a barrier to the spread of microorganisms during dental treatment; Cochran MA et al.; This study evaluated the rubber dam as an infection control barrier during standard restorative procedures . Microbial collection was performed during preparation and placement of amalgam and composite resin restorations with and without the rubber dam, and during handpiece and air-water syringe spraying with and without the rubber dam . The results showed a significant reduction in microorganisms with the use of the rubber dam--70% to 88% and 95% to 99%, respectively; and 90% to 98% when all data were combined . These results indicate that using the rubber dam is a method of reducing microbial contamination at the primary source . Used with gloves, mask, and protective eyewear, the rubber dam provides an excellent barrier to the potential spread of infectious disease in the dental office. AORN J, 1989 Jul, 50(1), 103 - 4, 106-7, 109-10 Perioperative blood glucose levels . A study to determine the effect of surgery; Keith KS et al.; Blood glucose monitoring may be a crucial, additional role for the circulating nurse . Blood glucose levels can be determined quickly and easily by using a puncture device and reagent pads . Blood glucose meters vary from $130 to $480 and have been reported to be reliable . These monitors decrease the need for additional people in the operative environment to take specimens, thus decreasing the microorganisms in the room from additional personnel and movement . The blood glucose value may determine when additional insulin is needed, thus enhancing the diabetic physiologic state during the surgical experience . Blood glucose monitoring in the operative environment may help the surgical team maintain safe blood glucose levels for the patient with diabetes and prevent postoperative fluid and electrolyte abnormalities . Intraoperative blood glucose monitoring by the circulating nurse has the potential to enhance the physiologic environment, health, and possible early discharge of the person with diabetes. Ukr Biokhim Zh, 1989 Jul-Aug, 61(4), 16 - 30 {The use of soft-ionization mass-spectrometry in biochemistry}; Sukhodub LF; Basic principles of mass spectrometry (MS) and methods of ionization are described . Methodological aspects of field ionization (FI) and field desorption (FD) MS are considered in detail . Examples are given demonstrating application of FI and FD MS as an analytical tool for structure analysis and identification of mono-, di- and oligosaccharides, nucleic acid bases, nucleosides, nucleotides, oligonucleotides, biomacromolecules (DNA, polysaccharides), microorganisms, metals in biological tissues and liquids, drugs (in particular, organophosphoric compounds) and their metabolites . The possibilities of fast atom bombardment MS in the investigation of dGuo and DNA alkylation by thiophosphamide are demonstrated. Monatsschr Kinderheilkd, 1989 Jul, 137(7), 390 - 5 {The monocyte-macrophage system in the human}; Speer CP et al.; The mononuclear-phagocyte system includes promonocytes and their precursors in the bone marrow, monocytes in circulation and macrophages in tissues . After maturation in the bone marrow newly formed monocytes enter the circulation and migrate into different tissues; the half-life of monocytes in the blood stream is approximately three days . Once in the tissue monocytes undergo transformation into tissue macrophages with functional properties that are characteristic for the environment in which they reside . Macrophages play a central role in the immune regulation by presenting antigen to T-lymphocytes; they participate in ingestion and killing of various invading microorganisms . In addition, macrophages synthesize a great number of substances involved in host defense and inflammation i.e . complement components, prostaglandins, IL-1, tumor necrosis factor-alpha and others . During infection, macrophages have the capacity to become "activated" by lymphokines and different bacterial products; "activated" macrophages have an increased tumoricidal and microbicidal activity against various microorganisms, synthesis and secretion of immune mediators is enhanced . Monocyte-macrophage dysfunctions have been described in various disorders: defective chemotaxis (corticosteroids, drug induced immunosuppression, AIDS, diabetes), defective phagocytosis (lupus erythematosus, deficiency of a membrane glycoprotein), microbicidal defect (chronic granulomatous disease), decreased cytotoxicity (Wiskott-Aldrich-Syndrome), deficiencies in the clearance of physiologic substrates in lysosomal diseases. J Clin Pathol, 1989 Jul, 42(7), 759 - 62 Improved sensitivity of an enzyme immunoassay IDEIA for detecting Chlamydia trachomatis; Thomas BJ et al.; In tests on 375 genital tract specimens a commercially available enzyme immunoassay for Chlamydia trachomatis (IDEIA; Boots-Celltech) was found to have sensitivity values of 62% for men and 74% for women, and a specificity of 97% for both groups, relative to the results obtained by a fluorescence assay (Micro Trak; Syva) . The positive predictive value and the negative predictive value of the immunoassay were 91% and 87%, respectively . Collection of samples for IDEIA in transport medium in plastic phials, as opposed to glass phials recommended by the manufacturer, had no effect on these values . Tests of the sensitivity of IDEIA using laboratory strains of C trachomatis showed that the assay detected chlamydial elementary bodies only at dilutions at least 10-fold lower than those at which they could be detected by Micro Trak . Tests of the specificity of the assay with microorganisms found in the genital tract, other than chlamydiae, showed that reactions occurred with a number of these . Testing three cervical swabs from the same patient, with the material taken into a single phial of transport medium, increased the sensitivity of IDEIA from 74% to 96%, without reducing the specificity which remained at 97% . It is concluded that this approach enchances the value of the test in a sexually transmitted disease clinic population and may do so in a population with a low prevalence of chlamydiae. Rev Cubana Estomatol, 1989 Jul-Sep, 26(3), 228 - 34 {Function of antiseptics in reducing post-extraction bacteremia}; Diaz Fernandez JM et al.; A descriptive, transversal, prospective and comparative study was carried out, during six months, at the Department of Maxillofacial Surgery, "Saturnino Lora" Teaching Provincial Hospital, Santiago de Cuba, in order to detect effect of irrigating the gingival sulcus region with 1% chlorhexidine and povidone-iodine on incidence of bacteremia in comparison with control solution (saline solution) . It is proved that the irrigation of gingival sulcus with an antiseptic solution is a useful element as complement of antibiotic prophylaxis in patient with risk of undergoing bacterial endocarditis . The 92 microorganisms isolated post-exodontia were examined against eight antibiotics and produced results supporting the use of penicillin and macrolides in the prophylaxis of infectious endocarditis. Rev Inst Med Trop Sao Paulo, 1989 Jul-Aug, 31(4), 235 - 41 {Glycoproteins from Leptospira interrogans serogroup icterohaemorrhagiae: distribution in the liver and kidney of experimentally infected guinea pigs}; Santos RT et al.; Tissue damage in leptospirosis has been ascribed to direct effect of the microorganisms and/or their virulence, including products synthetized by leptospires or released during their lysis . This study aimed at chemical extraction of the glycolipoprotein (GLP) from virulent leptospires, production of a rabbit anti-GLP and analysis of its distribution in liver and kidney of inoculated guinea-pigs, sacrificed sequentially from the 1st to 6th day of infection, covering the whole, spectrum of acute leptospirosis . The comparison of GLP expression to local injuries aimed at new pathogenetic data . GLP was detected in liver and kidney in 2 out of 6 guinea-pigs on the 5th day and in all 6 animals on the 6th day of infection . Granular forms were seen in the cytoplasm of macrophages, free in interstitium or adhered to endothelial and parenchymal cell membranes, especially in the most damaged sites . These findings lead us to the hypothesis of GLP as a toxic factor resulting from leptospiral lysis by macrophages . Although it was not proved as a promoter of initial lesions, it seems to be related to the enhancement of tissue damage late in the course of the disease. Nutrition, 1989 Jul-Aug, 5(4), 241 - 2 Central venous catheter replacement with the aid of wire introducer in patients receiving total parenteral nutrition: short report; Stavropoulos M et al.; During a 1-year period, 24 of 71 patients receiving total parenteral nutrition, underwent replacement of their central venous catheter (CVC) for presumed CVC sepsis or catheter malposition with the use of a wire inducer, according to the Seldinger technique . Catheters were defined as sterile when cultures of both the catheter tip and the peripheral blood were negative, contaminated when culture of the tip was positive whereas the peripheral blood culture(s) was either sterile or positive with different bacteria than those obtained from the tip culture, and septic when cultures from the catheter tip and peripheral blood grew identical microorganisms . Among 19 catheters with suspected sepsis, six were sterile, ten contaminated and three septic . Guidewire catheter replacement was easily and safely performed, and succeeded in sterilizing all contaminated catheters but only one of three septic catheters. Hell Stomatol Chron, 1989 Jul-Sep, 33(3), 185 - 9 {Indications and contraindications of the administration of antibiotics in oral and maxillofacial surgery}; Stavrou E et al.; It's well known that antibiotics are among the most widely used drugs in medicine . The administration of antibiotics in oral surgery offers a great deal, as far as the prevention of post-operative complications as well as the cure of infections diseases are concerned . Antibiotics, as all other drugs, in cases of improper use can cause harmful effects on the body . Antibiotics are used irrationally in dentistry and even more so in oral surgery for the cure of diseases which are not indicative or for the prevention of probable . As a result, there has been an increase in the frequency of their toxic side-effects plus the prevalence of resistant microorganisms . This paper describes the indications and side-effects of antibiotics in oral and maxillofacial surgery. Biotechniques, 1989 Jul-Aug, 7(7), 762 - 9 Optimization strategies for the polymerase chain reaction; Williams JF; The GeneAmp polymerase chain reaction (PCR) process has now become a key procedure in molecular biology research laboratories . The PCR technique is an in vitro method in which genomic or cloned target sequences are specifically enzymatically amplified as directed by a pair of oligonucleotide primers . This technique has been quite robust in the hands of the majority of researchers and is extremely flexible, as evidenced by the increasing number of related PCR formats (i.e., inverse PCR, anchored PCR, asymmetric PCR, labeled primer PCR and RNA-PCR) . Today's applications include direct sequencing, genomic cloning, DNA typing, detection of infectious microorganisms, site-directed mutagenesis, prenatal genetic disease research, and analysis of allelic sequence variations . Scientists at Cetus and Perkin-Elmer have collaborated for several years to better understand the interacting biochemical and biophysical parameters which affect PCR optimization . Following are many of the current recommendations, offered with the caveat that our understanding of the PCR process is continually evolving. Biochim Biophys Acta, 1989 Jun 13, 996(1-2), 70 - 5 Interconversion of Tetrahymena pyriformis ornithine decarboxylase from inactive to active form by phosphorylation; Lougovoi CP et al.; A protein kinase and an acidic phosphoprotein phosphatase were purified from Tetrahymena pyriformis which phosphorylate and dephosphorylate the purified ornithine decarboxylase (ODC) of this microorganism . The protein kinase and the phosphoprotein phosphatase are copurified with ODC and can be separated in three distinct peaks only by a hydrophobic column of phenyl-Sepharose . The purified kinase is not dependent on cAMP, requires Mg2+ for its catalytic activity and has a molecule mass of 45 kDa . Incubation of {32P}ODC with the purified phosphoprotein phosphatase results in a complete loss of 32P and its catalytic activity . Phosphorylation of the inactive phosphatase-treated ODC by endogenous kinase or rat liver casein kinase-2 results in 100 or 40% reactivation of the initial untreated ODC activity, respectively. J Periodontol, 1989 Jun, 60(6), 352 - 7 Periodontitis in a patient with chronic neutropenia; Carrassi A et al.; The aim of this investigation was to obtain information about the composition and the morphology of the microorganisms that inhabit the root surface of a patient with chronic neutropenia and severe and progressive periodontitis . In addition, gingival biopsies were studied by both scanning and transmission electron microscopy (SEM and TEM) to look for bacteria within the gingiva . Dark field microscopy (DFM) revealed 50% spirochetes, 30% motile rods, and 20% coccoid forms . Fourteen extracted teeth studied by SEM showed that the distribution of different bacterial morphotypes varies along the root surface and spirochetes are the prevailing bacteria on the most apically located plaque . TEM analyses of gingival tissue revealed no bacterial invasion within the gingiva . This study suggests that spirochetes may play an important role in the etiology of periodontitis associated with chronic neutropenia . In spite of neutropenic status, there was no bacterial invasion into the gingiva, suggesting that host reaction to dental plaque has not been abolished in this condition. Bratisl Lek Listy, 1989 Jun, 90(6), 426 - 30 {Intracranial abscesses}; Sulla I et al.; The authors report on their experiences in treating 21 patients with intracranial abscesses admitted to the Neurosurgical Department of the Teaching Hospital in Kosice in the years 1982-1987 . Suppurative inflammation of the middle ear or of the paranasal sinuses was the most frequent source of infection . Six patients died, five of them in association with the intracranial infection, one female patient died of hemorrhagic necrosis of the pancreas . Two of the survivors suffer from epilepsy, in further three motor derangement of mild or medium degree has persisted on the contralateral side . Therapeutic measures which proved effective were trepanopuncture with pus aspiration, also repeatedly performed if necessary, and administration of antibiotics according to sensitivity of the microorganisms involved . In chronic abscesses with a solid capsule and in intracranial suppuration due to foreign bodies the whole focus as well as the capsule have to be extirpated. Anasth Intensivther Notfallmed, 1989 Jun, 24(3), 143 - 6 {The effectiveness of intratracheal antibiotic administration . Clinical, microbiologic and pharmacologic results}; Kleinschmidt R et al.; In 199 artificially ventilated patients of an internal intensive care unit clinical, bacteriological and pharmacological effects of endotracheally administered gentamicin were investigated . The dose schedule was 2-4 x 40 mg gentamicin/day . The incidence of secondary achieved pneumonia was reduced from 70% to 18% . The endotracheal colonization of pathogenic microorganisms reached 29.6% concerning bacterial microorganisms and 61% concerning fungi, 51.8% of all specimen were sterile . During 4 years of investigation there were found 19 secondary resistances of different bacteria, 12 persisted . Serum concentrations of gentamicin under endotracheal administration of 40 mg in 6-h-intervals didn't reach therapeutic values . In case of renal disorder the dose interval should be prolonged to twelve hours. J Antibiot (Tokyo), 1989 Jun, 42(6), 883 - 9 Mannostatins A and B: new inhibitors of alpha-D-mannosidase, produced by Streptoverticillium verticillus var . quintum ME3-AG3: taxonomy, production, isolation, physico-chemical properties and biological activities; Aoyagi T et al.; Mannostatins have been isolated as part of a program designed to find microorganism-produced inhibitors of alpha-D-mannosidase from Streptoverticillium verticillus var . quintum . They were purified by sequential use of active carbon and Dowex resins and then isolated as colorless powders . Mannostatins A and B have the molecular formula, C6H13NO3S and C6H13NO4S, respectively . They were competitive with the substrate, and the inhibition constants (Ki) of mannostatins A and B were 4.8 x 10(-8) M. Arch Surg, 1989 Jun, 124(6), 699 - 701 Simple intestinal obstruction causes bacterial translocation in man; Deitch EA; Indirect clinical evidence has accumulated indicating that the gut may be a reservoir for microorganisms causing systemic infection in man . Our experimental results, in a variety of animal models, demonstrate that bacteria can translocate across the mucosal barrier and cause systemic infections . To determine directly whether bacterial translocation occurs in man, we cultured mesenteric lymph nodes (MLNs) obtained at laparotomy from 42 patients, none of whom were clinically infected . Ten (59%) of 17 patients with intestinal obstruction (none of whom had necrotic bowel) had bacteria in their MLNs, in contrast to one (4%) of 25 patients operated on for other reasons . The most common bacteria cultured from the MLNs was Escherichia coli . Thus, it appeared that simple intestinal obstruction of the colon or small bowel in the absence of necrotic bowel was associated with bacterial translocation. Arch Surg, 1989 Jun, 124(6), 689 - 92 Small-bowel perforation complicating the open treatment of generalized peritonitis; Mastboom WJ et al.; Fourteen patients were found to have developed 53 small-bowel perforations in the absence of pathogenic factors during "open abdominal treatment" for generalized peritonitis . They occurred after three to 17 laparotomies, on average at the eighth postoperative day (one to 120 days) . Forty-nine lesions were located superficially . A relation with organ system failure, routine blood tests, type of nutrition, or microorganisms could not be demonstrated . The etiology of the lesions remains uncertain, but the open abdominal treatment must play some important role in its pathophysiology . Five patients survived . The therapy of choice appears to be mobilization of the bowel with resection of the affected part and primary anastomosis. Chest, 1989 Jun, 95(6), 1355 - 7 Fatal pericarditis due to Mycobacterium avium-intracellulare in acquired immunodeficiency syndrome; Woods GL et al.; A 27-year-old white male homosexual with AIDS presented 19 months after the initial diagnosis with persistent fever, marked dyspnea at rest, and severe substernal pain in the chest . A pericardial friction rub was auscultated, and an effusion was demonstrated echocardiographically . Pericardiocentesis yielded 220 ml of serosanguinous fluid . Special stains of the fluid for microorganisms were negative . A mycobacterial infection was suspected, and therapy with multiple antimycobacterial agents was initiated . Cultures of the fluid eventually yielded MAI . Despite therapy, cardiac function declined, and the patient died two months after presentation . Autopsy confirmed the diagnosis of chronic pericarditis due to MAI . Pericarditis due to MAI should be included in the differential diagnosis of cardiac dysfunction in patients with AIDS. Semin Respir Infect, 1989 Jun, 4(2), 75 - 84 Effects of human immunodeficiency virus on pulmonary host defenses; Beck JM et al.; The ability of a microorganism to establish pulmonary infection depends not only upon its pathogenicity, but also on its ability to overcome host defense mechanisms . The frequency of pulmonary infections in patients with the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) suggests that pulmonary host defenses are compromised . The defense capabilities of the upper and lower airways, which prevent the majority of infectious organisms from reaching the lungs in healthy individuals, are not well characterized in AIDS . In the lower respiratory tract, direct infection of pulmonary alveolar macrophages by the human immunodeficiency virus may alter clearance of microorganisms . It is also likely that soluble signals required to activate alveolar macrophages are deficient in AIDS . Peripheral T and B lymphocytes from AIDS patients do not respond to antigen normally, and the resultant defects in cellular and humoral immunity may impair defenses against a variety of pulmonary pathogens . The defective microbicidal function of polymorphonuclear leukocytes from AIDS patients, and reduced migration of blood leukocytes into the lungs, may result in an insufficient cellular response to an infectious challenge . As the multiple defects in pulmonary host defenses associated with AIDS become characterized more fully, effective interventions for prevention and treatment of AIDS-related pulmonary infections can be developed. Nippon Shishubyo Gakkai Kaishi, 1989 Jun, 31(2), 724 - 35 {Histopathological and clinical studies of acute necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis and evaluation of treatment}; Ueda M et al.; We report the clinical data, light and electron microscopic findings, therapy and clinical course of three cases treated for acute necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis . The following results were obtained . 1 . An ulcerous lesion was observed in the gingiva of all three cases, with case I also showing a depressed lesion in the ulcerous region . 2 . In all three cases, the gingival sections displayed ulceration and showed fibrin deposition and neutrophil infiltration on the surface of the ulcerous region . Congested blood vessels and neutrophil infiltration also were observed in the connective tissue beneath the ulcerous region . 3 . Many microorganisms, fibrin, cell debris, and enlarged intercellular spaces of the epithelium were seen on the surface on the ulcerous region . 4 . Localized treatment, mainly plaque control, was found to be effective clinically and histopathologically. Nor Tannlaegeforen Tid, 1989 Jun, 99(10), 378 - 83 {Prerequisites for bacterial invasion of the periodontal tissues}; Olsvik B et al.; Bacterial invasion of the periodontium has recently been described by several authors . The conditions necessary for this to occur in vivo are being discussed . The anatomical relations of the periodontal pocket are described macroscopically and microscopically as well as the postulated mechanisms for colonization, adhesion and penetration . It is necessary for the microorganisms to colonize and adhere in order to be able to invade tissues . The possibility of establishment of microorganisms in the tissues and the importance of the immune system are also being described . The conclusion is that there is a possibility of bacterial invasion of the periodontal connective tissue . However, the human body with help from the immune system will in most cases be able to neutralize and get rid of these microorganisms. Taiwan Yi Xue Hui Za Zhi, 1989 Jun, 88(6), 639 - 42, 629 {Mosquito bite allergies terminating as hemophagocytic histiocytosis: report of a case}; Tsai WC et al.; A 21-year-old woman had suffered from repeated vasculitis and panniculitis with fever and chills after following mosquito bites since age 7 . These manifestations were confirmed with a direct mosquito bite test during her admission to another hospital at age 17 . The patient presented to our hospital with progressive dyspnea, productive cough and intermittent fever for one week . In addition to the bilateral infiltrative lesions on chest roentgenography, hepatosplenomegaly with an abnormal liver function test, pancytopenia, and elevated IgE were also detected . Blood and sputum cultures grew no microorganisms . Epstein-Barr virus-IgM, Cytomegalovirus-IgM and Mycoplasma pneumonia antibodies were all negative . Bone marrow aspiration and biopsy revealed histiocytosis with hemophagocytosis . No atypical histiocyte was found . The patient was put on dexamethasone treatment with improvement . Unfortunately, symptoms relapsed two weeks later . A repeated bone marrow aspiration and biopsy revealed a picture similar to the previous one . Despite antibiotic administration and ventilator support, a rapidly deteriorated course terminated in the patient's death by respiratory failure . Mosquito bite allergies were reported to be associated with malignant histiocytosis in Japan . However, atypical histiocytes were not found in our case upon repeated bone marrow aspirations, biopsies and skin biopsies . Mature histiocytes with hemophagocytosis were prominent instead . Reactive histiocytosis was thus favored rather than malignant histiocytosis . Although opportunistic infection cannot be excluded, we propose that a mosquito bite allergy with consequent histiocytic activation by antigen, immune complex or IgE is the possible pathogenetic mechanism for hemophagocytic histiocytosis in this patient. Microbiol Rev, 1989 Jun, 53(2), 210 - 30 Common themes in microbial pathogenicity; Finlay BB et al.; A bacterial pathogen is a highly adapted microorganism which has the capacity to cause disease . The mechanisms used by pathogenic bacteria to cause infection and disease usually include an interactive group of virulence determinants, sometimes coregulated, which are suited for the interaction of a particular microorganism with a specific host . Because pathogens must overcome similar host barriers, common themes in microbial pathogenesis have evolved . However, these mechanisms are diverse between species and not necessarily conserved; instead, convergent evolution has developed several different mechanisms to overcome host barriers . The success of a bacterial pathogen can be measured by the degree with which it replicates after entering the host and reaching its specific niche . Successful microbial infection reflects persistence within a host and avoidance or neutralization of the specific and nonspecific defense mechanisms of the host . The degree of success of a pathogen is dependent upon the status of the host . As pathogens pass through a host, they are exposed to new environments . Highly adapted pathogenic organisms have developed biochemical sensors exquisitely designed to measure and respond to such environmental stimuli and accordingly to regulate a cascade of virulence determinants essential for life within the host . The pathogenic state is the product of dynamic selective pressures on microbial populations. J Cell Physiol, 1989 Jun, 139(3), 610 - 6 Regulation of levels of IL-1 mRNA in human fibroblasts; Yamato K et al.; Interleukin-1 (IL-1) has a crucial role in host defenses, inflammatory processes, and tissue homeostasis . A wide variety of cells produce this protein in response to a number of extracellular stimuli including microorganisms, antigenic stimuli, and products from other cells . Regulation of IL-1 production at the molecular level is poorly understood . We studied expression, intracellular signals, and posttranscriptional regulation of IL-1 mRNA in human mesenchymal cells by using Northern blot analysis . Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF alpha) and activators of protein kinase C including 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA) and teleocidin induced the accumulation of IL-1 beta mRNA in human fibroblasts (WI-38) . Effect of TNF alpha was not blocked by inhibitors of either protein synthesis (cycloheximide) or protein kinase C activity . Accumulation of IL-1 beta mRNA was also increased by a calcium ionophore (A23187) and an inhibitor of the Na+/K+ pump (ouabain); both compounds are known to increase cytoplasmic levels of Ca++ . Stability of IL-1 beta mRNA in fibroblasts exposed to TPA was more than fourfold greater than after fibroblasts were exposed to either TNF alpha or cycloheximide . This suggests that posttranscriptional stabilization of IL-1 beta mRNA is a major mechanism leading to accumulation of IL-1 beta mRNA after activation of PKC in fibroblasts . Fibroblasts did not express IL-1 alpha mRNA after exposure to stimuli which induced the accumulation of IL-1 beta mRNA . In summary, several different pathways regulate levels of IL-1 beta mRNA in human mesenchymal cells. J Microsc, 1989 Jun, 154 ( Pt 3), 267 - 72 An improved method for collecting and staining microorganisms for enumeration by fluorescence light microscopy; Williamson FA et al.; A rapid, robust method for the enumeration of total and viable microorganisms is described . A method using specific stains for viable and total cells and fluorescence light microscopy on membrane filters had been previously developed, but was suboptimal in that some non-specific staining of the filters occurred and the filters were not flat enough for automatic image analysis methods to be employed, because not all cells in a field of view were in focus simultaneously . A new membrane filter has recently become available: the Anopore membrane was described by the manufacturers as having a number of properties which would overcome these limitations . These include inorganic construction (giving resistance to solvents), high porosity (giving high flow rates), low surface adsorption (giving low background staining) and inherent hydrophilicity (simplifying wetting with aqueous solutions) . Anopore membrane filters were found to produce very high contrast images of bacteria stained with ethidium bromide . Even with a relatively low power (magnification = 40) dry objective, these images could be easily thresholded for image analysis using only grey-level information . The methods developed here are considered to be a suitable basis for a fully automated procedure for the enumeration of total microbial populations. Science, 1989 May 12, 244(4905), 713 - 6 Activation of gamma delta T cells in the primary immune response to Mycobacterium tuberculosis; Janis EM et al.; Although the immunologic role of T cells bearing the conventional alpha beta T cell receptor (TCR) has been well characterized, little is known about the function of the population of T cells bearing the gamma delta TCR . Therefore, the role of gamma delta T cells in the immune response to Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MT) was investigated . The number of TCR gamma delta cells in the draining lymph nodes of mice immunized with MT was greatly increased in comparison with the number of TCR alpha beta cells . Three biochemically distinct gamma delta TCRs were detected . Analyses of cell cycle, of interleukin-2 receptor expression, and of interleukin-2 responsiveness showed that a large proportion of the gamma delta T cells were activated in vivo . TCR gamma delta cells responded to solubilized MT antigens in vitro but, in contrast to MT-specific alpha beta T cells, the response of gamma delta T cells to MT did not require major histocompatability complex class II recognition . These results provide an example of antigen-specific activation of gamma delta T cells in vivo and indicate that gamma delta T cells may have a distinct role in generating a primary immune response to certain microorganisms. Mikrobiol Zh, 1989 May-Jun, 51(3), 13 - 6 {Theoretical estimation of the transmembrane difference of the electrochemical potential of ions as an energy depot in microorganisms}; Ivanov VN; The energy role of changes in the ionic homeostasis of cells is estimated theoretically . Changes in the intracellular pH or potassium concentration do not affect the energy balance of the cell viability, but perform only a regulatory function. Jpn J Surg, 1989 May, 19(3), 255 - 61 Postoperative infection prophylaxis for upper gastrointestinal tract surgery--a prospective and comparative randomized study of cefoxitin and ceftizoxime; Fukui T et al.; A prospective and randomized clinical study was conducted in order to compare cefoxitin (CFX) and ceftizoxime (CZX) as prophylactic antibiotics . Two hundred and three consecutive cases of elective upper gastrointestinal tract surgery, performed at our institute between January, 1983, and March, 1986, were entered in the trial . The patients were assigned randomly, before surgery, to the CFX or to the CZX group . Two grams of the assigned antibiotic was first administered during surgery and then continued at a dose of 1 gram, every 8 hrs for a total of 4 days . One patient was withdrawn from the study due to an allergic reaction . Both groups were comparable in sex, age, underlying disease, diagnosis, operation, and preoperative laboratory data . There were 18 infections related to the operation in the CFX group, while there were only 3 in the CZX group (p less than 0.001) . The number of unrelated infections in each group was 6 and 6 respectively (NS) . No special differences were found between the two groups regarding the kinds of microorganisms isolated, and no significant differences were seen in the adverse effects of either antibiotic . Our study demonstrated that ceftizoxime was more efficient than cefoxitin in preventing postoperative infection, following upper gastrointestinal tract surgery. Soud Lek, 1989 May, 34(2), 22 - 5 {Detection of group characteristics and contamination with microorganisms}; Strejc P et al.; Evidence of group properties in traces and residues of human origin may be very difficult; very frequently in the same individual controversial results are obtained in different tissues but also in the same samples during repeated examinations . This was revealed by examinations of reliets from prehistorical findings as well as in remains of Czech historical personalities and contemporary important forensic cases, using different methods of detection, incl . the absorption elution test . The author discusses the condition of investigated residues and traces, the degree of decomposition of tissues due to the possible action of microorganisms with regard to assessment of group properties . The investigation revealed that in addition to the anticipated action of some microorganisms contaminating examined tissues, different transformation of group properties of the sample, and panaglutinability or disintegration of the entire ABO system, a possible effect of the organism's own serological activity of microorganisms on results must be also taken into account . Examination of different tissues of the individual, and if the results are controversial, examination of group properties of cultivated microorganisms makes it possible to eliminate to a certain extent the artificial component of results and makes the conclusions more accurate and helps to explain the interpretation of results. Arch Environ Health, 1989 May-Jun, 44(3), 164 - 70 Respiratory disease and lung function in a tobacco industry; Kjaergaard SK et al.; In a field study, 75 workers from a cheroot factory were compared with 50 reference workers from a large telephone company . Questionnaire responses revealed higher prevalences of cough and shortness of breath on exercise among the tobacco workers than controls . Cigarette smoking was the same in the two groups, but tobacco workers also smoked cheroots . Significantly decreased values (p less than .01) of forced expiratory volume in 1 sec (FEV1.0) and forced vital capacity (FVC) were found among tobacco workers compared to referents . After adjusting for number of cigarettes and cheroots smoked, there remained no significant differences . There was a suggestion (p less than .10) of decreased FEV1.0 among light or nonsmoking tobacco workers . When cigarette consumption only was considered, this difference was significant (p less than .01) . Lung function values were not associated with the very low measured dust exposures . Bronchial reactivity to inhaled histamine, diurnal and weekly changes in FEV1.0, skin-prick tests with tobacco extracts, and precipitating serum antibodies to tobacco extracts and extracts of microorganisms were similar to that expected in a nonexposed population . Differences in lung function between the two groups may result from excess cheroot consumption and higher previous exposure to tobacco dust among the tobacco workers. J Clin Microbiol, 1989 May, 27(5), 1139 - 41 Extensive colonization of the porcine colonic epithelium by a spirochete similar to Treponema innocens; Jacques M et al.; Specimens of colonic mucosa from two pigs with diarrhea were examined by light and electron microscopy . The epithelial surfaces of both pigs were extensively colonized by large spirochetes morphologically compatible with Treponema hyodysenteriae or Treponema innocens . The microorganisms were intimately attached end-on to the luminal cells . A weakly beta-hemolytic spirochete similar to T . innocens was isolated from the colon of one of the pigs. J Parenter Sci Technol, 1989 May-Jun, 43(3), 104 - 8 Quantitative and mechanistic measurements of container/closure integrity . Bubble, liquid, and microbial leakage tests; Morton DK et al.; The parenteral vial/closure seal interface is tested for leakage of gas, liquids, and microorganisms . Gas leakage is determined using a bubble test, liquid leakage is detected by atomic absorption of a copper ion tracer solution, and microbial leakage is verified using a liquid-borne microbial suspension challenge test . Leakage performance by these methods is compared to gaseous leakage rates quantitatively determined for the same package systems . The establishment of leakage rate specifications based on these results is discussed. Acta Cytol, 1989 May-Jun, 33(3), 309 - 13 Evaluation of proposed cytomorphologic criteria for the diagnosis of Chlamydia trachomatis in Papanicolaou smears; Bernal JN et al.; To evaluate the proposed cytomorphologic criteria for the cervical cytologic diagnosis of Chlamydia trachomatis infection, a study was made of 171 endocervical smears . All cytomorphologic elements that could be ascribed to Chlamydia trachomatis infection were correlated with the diagnostic confirmation of this microorganism by monoclonal antibody (MAb) staining . The presence of Chlamydia trachomatis was detected in 21 samples (12.28%) by MAb staining . Comparing the cytomorphologic results with the MAb results, the sensitivities and specificities of the Papanicolaou smear diagnoses were 19% and 86% using the cytologic criteria proposed by Gupta and coworkers, 38% and 87% using the criteria proposed by Kiviat and coworkers and 23% and 91% using the criteria proposed by Shiina . In view of (1) its low sensitivity, (2) the subjective elements and individual variations in the proposed cytologic criteria, (3) the similarity with Trichomonas vaginalis-produced exudates and (4) the implications of a misdiagnosis of a sexually transmitted disease, it is concluded that cervical cytology is not useful for ascertaining the presence of Chlamydia trachomatis. Acta Cytol, 1989 May-Jun, 33(3), 298 - 300 Association of amoebae and actinomyces in an intrauterine contraceptive device user; Arroyo G et al.; A patient wearing an intrauterine contraceptive device (IUD) was diagnosed as being colonized by Actinomyces and amoebae by examination of a routine Papanicolaou smear . The patient received vaginal treatment with metronidazole, which temporarily eliminated the protozoa; however, it was necessary to remove the IUD to definitively eradicate the microorganisms . Follow-up Papanicolaou smears taken after removal of the IUD have been normal and free of both microorganisms. ASDC J Dent Child, 1989 May-Jun, 56(3), 201 - 4 Residual contamination of toothbrushes by microorganisms; Kozai K et al.; Procedures for maintaining the cleanliness of oral cleaning instruments have been discussed infrequently . S . mutans and pathogenic microorganisms can be transferred readily when a toothbrush is used, increasing the risk of dental caries and infectious diseases . It is suggested that sterilization equipment or specific detergents be used. Infect Immun, 1989 May, 57(5), 1629 - 31 Comparison of the genomes of pathogenic treponemes of human and animal origin; de Wergifosse P et al.; The aim of this study was to compare the genomes of two strains of intestinal treponemes, which were isolated from patients suffering from intestinal disorders, with that of Treponema hyodysenteriae, the known etiological agent of swine dysentery (bloody scours) . The guanine-plus-cytosine contents of the three DNAs were found to be 28.5 to 30.0% . DNA-DNA hybridization in liquid phase indicated a high degree of homology (56 to 95%) among the human strains and with T . hyodysenteriae . One of the human strains in particular displayed a very high homology (91 to 95%) with T . hyodysenteriae . The overall conclusion is that treponemal strains pathogenic for humans and animals are clustered within the same species (we propose T . hyodysenteriae), which suggests the possibility of exchange of pathogenic microorganisms between domestic animals and humans. Clin Prev Dent, 1989 May-Jun, 11(3), 21 - 7 Direct plaque removal by a pre-brushing dental rinse; Bailey L; A study was conducted to evaluate the ability of a dental rinse to remove dental plaque . The hypothesis was tested that plaque, as a complex soil comprising microorganisms, cell debris, salivary deposits and other ill-defined organic and inorganic components, would be susceptible to removal by a rinse with high detersive action . A rinse was prepared based on the principles applied to formulation of products for cleansing biologic surfaces, including anionic and nonionic surfactants, sodium benzoate, and auxiliary cleansing agents . Subjects randomly selected from a dental clinic population were scored for plaque area on the lingual and buccal surfaces of the Ramfjord teeth using the Turesky modification of the Quigley-Hein Index . The subjects then rinsed 30 seconds with 15 ml of product, and stainable plaque area was scored again . The rinsing reduced average plaque scores by an average of 13-20%, a very high level of significance . A placebo rinse and a conventional mouthwash removed 2.0% and 1.3% stainable plaque, respectively . The experimental rinse substantially increased the number of surfaces that were totally free of plaque. J Antimicrob Chemother, 1989 May, 23(5), 773 - 83 A multicentric study of netilmicin once daily versus thrice daily in patients with appendicitis and other intra-abdominal infections; Hollender LF et al.; This multicentric, randomized, double-blind trial compared the efficacy and safety of netilmicin, 4.5 mg/kg od and 1.5 mg/kg tid, in patients with intra-abdominal infections . Of 114 patients enrolled, 57 patients (mean age 40.3 years) in the od group and 55 (mean age 36.8 years) in the tid group were evaluated for efficacy; 58 and 56 patients in corresponding groups were evaluated for safety . Among those evaluated for efficacy were 12 od-treated and 11 tid-treated patients with documented septicaemia, and 32 and 30 patients of respective groups with polymicrobial infections . Initially, 86 and 81 netilmicin-susceptible causative microorganisms were isolated in corresponding groups . Of these pathogens, 55% in the od group and 62% in the tid group were Escherichia coli . Daily dosage of netilmicin ranged from 3.70 to 4.71 mg/kg (mean 4.50) for the od group and from 3.06 to 4.76 mg/kg (mean 4.46) for the tid group . Duration of netilmicin therapy ranged from six to 13 days (mean 8.7 days) for od-treated patients and from seven to 16 days (mean 8.8 days) for tid-treated patients . Concomitant metronidazole was administered to 41 patients of the od group and 34 of the tid group; one patient in the tid group received clindamycin . Clinical and bacteriological responses were assessed, and peak and trough serum netilmicin levels were measured periodically, during therapy . Laboratory tests, including determinations of serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen values, were performed throughout the trial . A clinical cure was achieved in 57/57 od-treated patients and 54/55 tid-treated patients; treatment failed in one tid-treated patient (1/55) . In od and tid groups, 86/86 and 80/81 netilmicin-susceptible pathogens initially isolated were considered to be eliminated, respectively; one isolate (Esch . coli) persisted in the tid group . Mean peak serum netilmicin concentration in the od group was approximately two-fold greater than that in the tid group; mean trough serum netilmicin concentrations were similar for the two groups . Adverse reactions were limited to mild pain at the site of netilmicin administration in several patients in each treatment group . Netilmicin od and tid (alone or in combination with metronidazole) were similarly efficacious in the treatment of patients with appendicitis and other intra-abdominal infections caused by netilmicin-susceptible pathogens . Both dosage regimens of netilmicin were safe and well tolerated. Appl Environ Microbiol, 1989 May, 55(5), 1301 - 4 Novel method for monitoring genetically engineered microorganisms in the environment; Chaudhry GR et al.; A method has been devised for directly detecting and monitoring genetically engineered microorganisms (GEMs) by using in vitro amplification of the target DNAs by a polymerase chain reaction and then hybridizing the DNAs with a specific oligonucleotide or DNA probe . A cloned 0.3-kilobase napier grass (Pennisetum purpureum) genomic DNA that did not hybridize to DNAs isolated from various microorganisms, soil sediments, and aquatic environments was inserted into a derivative of a 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid-degradative plasmid, pRC10, and transferred into Escherichia coli . This genetically altered microorganism, seeded into filter-sterilized lake and sewage water samples (10(4)/ml), was detected by a plate count method in decreasing numbers for 6 and 10 days of sample incubation, respectively . The new method detected the amplified unique marker (0.3-kilobase DNA) of the GEM even after 10 to 14 days of incubation . This method is highly sensitive (it requires only picogram amounts of DNA) and has an advantage over the plate count technique, which can detect only culturable microorganisms . The method may be useful for monitoring GEMs in complex environments, where discrimination between GEMs and indigenous microorganisms is either difficult or requires time-consuming tests. J Dairy Sci, 1989 May, 72(5), 1313 - 27 Function and regulation of lymphocyte-mediated immune responses: relevance to bovine mastitis; Nonnecke BJ et al.; Bovine mastitis is one of the most costly diseases to the dairy industry . Prospects for effective vaccines are limited by the variety of microorganisms capable of causing mastitis . An understanding of the physiologic and immunologic factors controlling the susceptibility of the cow to disease will lead to more rational approaches to prevention and control . In this paper, we describe the basic components of the immune system, drawing upon information derived from studies with rodents and humans . Some of these findings have been confirmed in the bovine and other domestic species, and it is likely that further study will reveal additional similarities between the immune systems of laboratory animals, humans, and domestic animals . Some important differences have already been identified, such as altered lymphocyte circulation patterns in ruminant versus non-ruminant species . These differences are discussed . We describe the structural and functional properties of major histocompatibility complex antigens and their role in regulation of immune responses . Finally, we discuss the consequences of antigen-induced activation of T-lymphocytes and the role of these cells in response to disease-causing microorganisms. APMIS, 1989 May, 97(5), 383 - 94 Novel cellular interactions and networks involving the intestinal immune system and its microenvironment; Marshall JS et al.; The interactions we have described enable the intestine to respond appropriately to antigenic challenge in an effective and coordinated way . This is of vital importance when one considers the dual role of the intestine as a first line of defence against harmful microorganisms and as the route by which the animal obtains nutrition . Under normal circumstances, these interactions select for an appropriate cell phenotype by providing a network of interactions that contribute to intestinal homeostasis . If there is dysfunction of any component, then other cells will be affected . For example, if down-regulation of the mucosal immune response is not effective, damage to the epithelium, nerves and muscle may occur during an inflammatory response . Similarly, if the integrity of the epithelium is disrupted, damage to the elements of the mucosal immune system may occur . This model would suggest that these interactions must be considered if one wishes to adequately explain diseases such as IBD and design innovative therapeutic regimens . Future interdisciplinary research will shed light on the web of interactions occurring in the intestinal environment and provide a novel view of the respective contributions of the immune system and its local environment to cell differentiation, function and regulation. Lab Invest, 1989 May, 60(5), 659 - 66 Binding of human extracellular-superoxide dismutase C to cultured cell lines and to blood cells; Karlsson K et al.; The high heparin-affinity subtype C of the secretory enzyme extracellular-superoxide dismutase (EC-SOD) was found to bind to cultured mammalian cells, forming an equilibrium between the cells and the medium . To anchorage-dependent cell lines, binding apparently occurred both to the glycocalyx of the cell surfaces and to the sub- and intercellular matrix produced by the cells . Heparan sulfate proteoglycan appeared to be the principal binding substance . The binding capacities of anchorage-dependent cultures were very high, and at maximal binding the amount of EC-SOD C activity associated with the exterior of the cells was several-fold higher than the endogenous intracellular SOD activity . Half-maximal binding occurred at about 8 micrograms/ml EC-SOD C . At low, nonsaturating, physiologic EC-SOD C concentrations, the enzyme concentration in the glycocalyx of cells may be several thousand times higher than in the medium . All 14 investigated anchorage-dependent cell lines, including endothelial cells, bound EC-SOD C avidly . The 10 suspension-growing cell lines were all weaker binders . Blood monomorphonuclear leukocytes and platelets bound little EC-SOD C, whereas no significant binding to neutrophil leukocytes, to erythrocytes and to E . coli could be demonstrated . The findings are compatible with the notion that EC-SOD C in the vasculature forms an equilibrium between plasma and heparan sulfate in the glycocalyx of the endothelium . Furthermore, tissue EC-SOD is probably distributed between heparan sulfate on the surface of most cell types in the organs and in the interstitial matrix . The binding pattern suggests that EC-SOD C has the potential to protect most normal cells in the body and the interstitial matrix, without protecting microorganisms lacking affinity, and without interfering with superoxide radicals produced at the surface of activated neutrophil leukocytes. Ankara Univ Hekim Fak Derg, 1989 May, 16(1), 65 - 70 {Effect of disinfection on linear and dimensional stability of impression materials}; Can G et al.; Given the potential for transfer of pathogenic microorganisms from dental impressions, a method for surface disinfection of impressions is needed to prevent spread of infection by way of impressions and casts made from them . The effects of disinfectant solutions on the impression materials linear and dimensional stability to prevent viral infections are investigated in this article . For this purpose, irreversible hydrokolloid and silicon rubber base impression materials and five disinfectant solutions were used . No apparent linear and dimensional change could be detected after 30 minute immersion in any of the disinfectants tested. Pathol Res Pract, 1989 May, 184(5), 498 - 506 Inflammatory fibrous histiocytoma presenting leukemoid reaction; Takahashi K et al.; A case of inflammatory fibrous histiocytoma presenting leukemoid reaction is reported . A tumor had developed at the right scapular region 10 years ago and recurred twice with fever and leukocytosis, and finally with leukemoid reaction . Besides the histopathological features typical of malignant fibrous histiocytoma, this tumor showed prominent and diffuse infiltration of neutrophilic leukocytes . Hematologic examination of the bone marrow aspirates disclosed myeloid hyperplasia . Bacteriological examination revealed no pathogenic microorganisms in the tumor tissue . Chemotactic activity of the neutrophilic leukocytes was demonstrated in the extract obtained from the tumor, and subcutaneous injection of the extract into rats induced myeloid hyperplasia in the bone marrow and neutrophil infiltration in the liver and spleen of the animals . These results suggest the possibility of the case as a colony-stimulating factor-producing tumor. Mol Gen Mikrobiol Virusol, 1989 May, (5), 3 - 7 {Current approaches to the search for new restriction endonucleases}; Sokolov NN; The main methodological approaches to the search of new restriction endonucleases are reviewed . These methods include obtaining acellular extracts by ultrasonic desintegration of microbial cells, osmotic shock effects, the effects of organic solvents, mechanical disruption of bacterial cells, biphase division after Albertson and others . The resolving power of any method discussed depends mainly on the level of restriction endonuclease activity, the presence of nonspecific endonucleases in the biomass, the presence of exonucleases and the taxonomy of the used microorganisms. J Cell Biol, 1989 May, 108(5), 1673 - 85 Binding and transepithelial transport of immunoglobulins by intestinal M cells: demonstration using monoclonal IgA antibodies against enteric viral proteins; Weltzin R et al.; M cells of intestinal epithelia overlying lymphoid follicles endocytose luminal macromolecules and microorganisms and deliver them to underlying lymphoid tissue . The effect of luminal secretory IgA antibodies on adherence and transepithelial transport of antigens and microorganisms by M cells is unknown . We have studied the interaction of monoclonal IgA antibodies directed against specific enteric viruses, or the hapten trinitrophenyl (TNP), with M cells . To produce monospecific IgA antibodies against mouse mammary tumor virus (MMTV) and reovirus type 1, Peyer's patch cells from mucosally immunized mice were fused with myeloma cells, generating hybridomas that secreted virus-specific IgA antibodies in monomeric and polymeric forms . One of two anti-MMTV IgA antibodies specifically bound the viral surface glycoprotein gp52, and 3 of 10 antireovirus IgA antibodies immunoprecipitated sigma 3 and mu lc surface proteins . 35S-labeled IgA antibodies injected intravenously into rats were recovered in bile as higher molecular weight species, suggesting that secretory component had been added on passage through the liver . Radiolabeled or colloidal gold-conjugated mouse IgA was injected into mouse, rat, and rabbit intestinal loops containing Peyer's patches . Light microscopic autoradiography and EM showed that all IgA antibodies (antivirus or anti-TNP) bound to M cell luminal membranes and were transported in vesicles across M cells . IgA-gold binding was inhibited by excess unlabeled IgA, indicating that binding was specific . IgG-gold also adhered to M cells and excess unlabeled IgG inhibited IgA-gold binding; thus binding was not isotype-specific . Immune complexes consisting of monoclonal anti-TNP IgA and TNP-ferritin adhered selectively to M cell membranes, while TNP-ferritin alone did not . These results suggest that selective adherence of luminal antibody to M cells may facilitate delivery of virus-antibody complexes to mucosal lymphoid tissue, enhancing subsequent secretory immune responses or facilitating viral invasion. J Leukoc Biol, 1989 May, 45(5), 401 - 9 Lead inhibits intracellular killing of Leishmania parasites and extracellular cytolysis of target cells by macrophages exposed to macrophage activating factor; Mauel J et al.; Activation of Leishmania enriettii-infected mouse macrophages in vitro by treatment with macrophage activating factor (MAF)-rich media supplemented with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) leads to rapid killing of the microorganism . When exposed to MAF + LPS in the presence of 30-100 microM lead acetate, however, macrophages failed to destroy the parasites . This effect was not due to lead toxicity for macrophages . Decreased microbicidal activity correlated with depressed respiratory burst as determined by measurements of glucose oxidation through the hexose monophosphate shunt (HMPS) . Lead had little effect on intracellular parasite killing induced by exposure of macrophages to the electron carrier methylene blue; HMPS in such cells was similarly little affected, indicating that chemical triggering of this pathway bypassed the lead-imposed blockade . Lead also abolished macrophage activation measured by the lysis of tumor target cells in vitro . The metal failed, however, to interfere with target-cell lysis by macrophages activated in lead-free medium, suggesting that lead inhibited the acquisition of the activated state rather than the functional expression of such state . Lead did not prevent the binding of radiolabelled interferon-gamma to macrophages; it did, however, slow down receptor turnover and degradation of bound interferon . Lead also inhibited the LPS-triggered cytotoxicity in macrophages previously exposed to interferon-gamma in lead-free medium, suggesting that depressed intracellular killing might result from an effect on both the priming (interferon or MAF-dependent) and the triggering (LPS-dependent) steps of activation. Ann Ig, 1989 May-Aug, 1(3-4), 629 - 36 {Levels of anti-Legionella antibodies in a healthy Neapolitan population}; Romano F et al.; Legionella pneumophila was firstly recognized as the causative agent of a serious pneumonia about a decade ago . Since then a number of studies was carried out in order to define the epidemiological and clinical features of the microorganism . So far a high variability of the geographic distribution of the infection has been reported, with prevalences up to 50% of healthy populations . Therefore, a seroepidemiological survey was carried out on prevalence of Legionella pneumophila infections among healthy people in Naples . 562 serum specimens were randomly collected and examined by the indirect fluorescent antibody technique for antibodies against serogroups 1 to 6 of Legionella pneumophila, using 1:256 as the cut off titer . An overall prevalence of 23% was observed among the 562 persons tested . 24.5% among males and 21.9% among females had antibodies against Legionella pneumophila . There were no significant differences associated with sex and age, even though an apparent increase with age was observed . The highest prevalence was found for antibodies against serogroup 3 (9.4%) . This finding was confirmed in all the age-sex groups, but among males aging between 21 and 40 years and among elderly people, 12.1% of persons tested had antibodies against only one serogroup of Legionella pneumophila, whilst 5.3%, 3.4% and 2.1% of subjects had antibodies against 2, 3 and 4 serogroups respectively . No serologic cross reactivity of Legionella pneumophila groups was found among seropositivities to different serogroups. Ann Ig, 1989 May-Aug, 1(3-4), 459 - 80 {Pollution of confined air in non-industrial environments}; Melino C et al.; Indoor atmospheric pollution includes a lot of pollutants coming partly from outdoors and produced partly by internal sources . Concerns about potential public health problems are based on evidence that urban residents typically spend more than 90 percent of their time indoors and concentrations of some contaminants are higher indoors than outdoors . Adverse effects of indoor air pollution are obviously dependent on the type of pollutant; among the more important indoor contaminants are passive tobacco smoke, radon decay products, carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, formaldehyde, asbestos fibers, microorganisms and allergens . Efforts to assess health risks associated with indoor air pollution are limited by insufficient information about the number of people exposed, the pattern and severity of exposures and the health consequences of exposures . An overall strategy should be developed to control sources, dilute indoor contaminants and promulgate specific regulations. J Burn Care Rehabil, 1989 May-Jun, 10(3), 195 - 202 Precise diagnosis of infection in burn wound biopsy specimens . Combination of histologic technique, acridine orange staining, and culture; Mitchell V et al.; This study developed a rapid manual histologic technique on burn wound biopsy specimens for an early diagnosis of infection . A total of 86 biopsy specimens were processed using this rapid manual method, acridine orange fluorescent staining for the detection of microorganisms, and a quantitative culture for the identification and counting of bacteria in adjacent homogenized biopsy specimens . Use of these three techniques has shown their complementarity for the evaluation of sepsis in burn wound patients . The histologic study allowed a classification of the depth of bacterial involvement 4 hours after specimen collection, whereas the acridine orange fluorescent staining was useful for quantitative evaluation of infection in the same delay . Thus a rapid therapeutic decision can be made while waiting for the results of quantitative culture and sensitivity tests, which require 24 to 48 hours . We propose routine monitoring of burned patients consisting of these three tests performed simultaneously on each biopsy specimen. Rev Rhum Mal Osteoartic, 1989 Apr 30, 56(5 Pt 2), 8 - 11 {Inflammation in spondylarthropathies}; Amor B; The inflammation seen in spondyloarthropathy has very distinctive features; it is preferentially located at the sites of attachment of muscle or ligament to bone, where ectopic ossification occurs; it particularly affects men, and usually starts after growth has ended; phagocytes clearly predominate over lymphocytes at sites of inflammation; microorganisms come into play when there is a favorable genetic predisposition; and, lastly, the inflammation of spondyloarthropathy is highly sensitive to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents . A better comprehension of the mechanisms of inflammation would help in understanding the pathogenesis of spondyloarthropathy. Ugeskr Laeger, 1989 Apr 17, 151(16), 976 - 8 {Inflammation and free oxygen radicals}; Nielsen OH et al.; When mammalian phagocytes encounter appropriate stimuli, highly reactive oxygen derived free radicals (superoxide and hydroxyl) and related species (hydrogen peroxide and hypochlorous acid) may be produced as a normal mechanism in the defence of the host against invading microorganisms . These radicals are destructive to most biological molecules and are responsible for much of the damage inflicted by phagocytes on both microorganisms and surrounding tissues at sites of infection or inflammation . Increasing evidence suggests that the generation of oxygen metabolites plays an important role not only for perpetuation of chronic inflammation, but also for the etiology of other health problems i.e . ageing, cancer, ischemia, and radiationinduced injuries . The extent of tissue damage in inflammation may partly be the result of the balance between free radicals generated and the antioxidant/radical scavenger protective defence systems . The implication of oxygen free radicals in inflammation and future directions are briefly discussed in the present overview. Wei Sheng Wu Xue Bao, 1989 Apr, 29(2), 149 - 51 {Determination of thermograms of bacterial growth}; Xie CL et al.; The fundamental growth thermograms of bacteria have been determined by using the microcalorimetric method . These perfect thermogram curves reflect the changes of bacterial growth patterns (including the lag phase of growth, log growth, stationary phase and the decline phase of growth) . In our experiments, highly characteristic and reproducible growth patterns are observed under the same condition, therefore one can use these thermograms as "finger print" to discriminate bacteria . On the other hand, there thermogram curves contain ample information, which are very significant for the studies on microorganism metabolism, bio-thermokinetic and clinical fields. Shigaku, 1989 Apr, 76(7), 1492 - 500 {The effect of mouthwash on oral malodour production}; Yaegaki K et al.; Volatile sulphur compounds (VSC), hydrogen sulphide, methyl mercaptan and dimethyl sulphide are by-products derived in oral cavity through putrefactive activity of microorganisms . VSC are the principal cause of physiological oral malodour . There are indications that these compounds are cytotoxic to oral tissues . Hence, it has been considered that the prevention of oral malodour has an important role in preventive dentistry . The objective of this study is to ascertain the effect of two mouthwashes, sodium azulenesulphonic acid and povidone-iodine, which are frequently used in dental clinics, on concentration of VSC in mouth air . The VSC were analyzed using VSC analysis system . VSC were determined at immediately after rince and at one, two and three hours after rince . The results indicated that neither mouthwash was very effective in controlling VSC production . No reduction in VSC was observed at one and two hour post-rinsing with sodium azulenesulphonic acid mouthwash, and only 39% reduction of total sulphur of VSC was observed at one hour following the use of the povidone-iodine containing products . However, this effect was lost within two hours post-rinsing. FEMS Microbiol Lett, 1989 Apr, 49(2-3), 305 - 8 Catabolism of homophthalic acid by a soil bacterium; Karegoudar TB et al.; A microorganism capable of degrading homophthalic acid as a sole source of carbon was isolated from soil . The strain was tentatively identified as Pseudomonas sp . Oxygen uptake studies were carried out with possible intermediates . Assays for several different enzymes were performed . Homophthalic acid may be metabolized by this bacterium via p-hydroxyphenyl acetic acid and homogentisic acid intermediates. J Med Assoc Thai, 1989 Apr, 72(4), 193 - 7 Red rubber bulb, cheap and effective vacuum drainage; Vatanasapt V et al.; Red rubber bulbs have been used for vacuum drainage in head, neck, breast and several other operations by the authors since 1975 quite effectively without any major problems . The vacuum pressure of the red rubber bulbs was found to be higher than the expensive commercially available vacuum wound drainage device . The question of remaining old blood and infective microorganisms inside the reservoir for the reused ones were tested by the manual cleaning process and the standard sterile technique using steam under increased pressure (autoclave) . The result is quite satisfactory . We encourage the use of this cheap and effective (made in Thailand) vacuum wound drainage in Thai hospitals and Thai medical schools. Ecotoxicol Environ Saf, 1989 Apr, 17(2), 216 - 20 Biodegradability of chlorophenols and mixtures of chlorophenols in seawater; Lindgaard-Jorgensen P; Laboratory studies using chemical concentrations comparable to those found in nature have provided considerable knowledge of microbial transformations in nature . Although the number of studies performed is increasing rapidly, the effects of low substrate levels on growth, enzyme induction, enzyme activity, and the use of mixtures of substrates have not yet been clarified . Likewise, studies at low concentrations in seawater are lacking . This paper describes a study of the rates of degradation of chlorophenols 4-chlor-2-methylphenol, 2,4-dichlorophenol (2,4-DCP), and 2,4,6-trichlorophenol at concentrations ranging from 2 to 18 micrograms/liter . The compounds were tested separately, in a mixture, and in waste water containing other organics . The obtained rates of 2,4-DCP in seawater were comparable to those found in fresh water . Also, the rates were in general agreement with a kinetic model proposed for degradation of chlorophenols . The rates of degradation of chlorophenols in the mixture were comparable to those found when tested separately . In the waste, very low rates were observed . It is suggested that this might be explained by a toxic effect, caused by other substances in the waste water, on the microorganisms considered to be active in degrading the chlorophenols at low concentrations. Antonie Van Leeuwenhoek, 1989 Apr, 55(4), 341 - 8 Direct differential counting compared with testing of isolates as means of assessing hydrolytic capacities of natural microbial populations; Gustafsson K et al.; The abundance of microorganisms with characteristic, physiological activities in aquatic sediment communities can be estimated either by direct differential counting on selective media or by making isolations followed by testing of the isolates . The two methods have been compared with regard to microorganisms performing hydrolyses of different compounds . The first method was used to examine the effect of a model ecocontaminant on the hydrolytic activities of the sediment population. South Med J, 1989 Apr, 82(4), 433 - 7 Ticarcillin-clavulanate therapy for infections with ticarcillin-resistant microorganisms; Gelfand MS et al.; In a prospective study, 46 episodes of serious infection with ticarcillin-resistant microorganisms were treated with the combination ticarcillin disodium and clavulanate potassium (Timentin) . Clinical cure was achieved in 35 of the 46 episodes (76%), and microbiologic eradication was achieved in 30 (65%) . We found no development of resistance to ticarcillin-clavulanate and observed no serious side effects. Immunol Today, 1989 Apr, 10(4), 132 - 8 Why peptides? Their possible role in the evolution of MHC-restricted T-cell recognition; Nagy ZA et al.; The peptide-presenting function of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecules permits pathogenic microorganisms to evade the host's immune system in two different ways: first, by escape of pathogen-derived antigenic peptides from presentation, and second, by molecular mimicry, that is resemblance between MHC-bound self and foreign peptides . These two mechanisms could have served as selective pressures in the evolution of the MHC . In this article, Zoltan Nagy and colleagues propose that escape from presentation selects for one or a few MHC molecules with the capacity to bind a broad range of different peptides . In contrast, molecular mimicry is considered to be the driving force for MHC diversification, that is it increases the number (polymorphism) and selectivity of peptide-binding sites. Morphol Igazsagugyi Orv Sz, 1989 Apr, 29(2), 98 - 105 {Immunohistochemical, immunocytochemical and electron microscope studies in experimental E . coli pyelonephritis}; Ivanyi B et al.; Authors have studied in apostematous pyelonephritis induced by the ligation of the ureter and the intravenous injection of E coli bacteria the localization and elimination with time of the pathogen . The pathogen was demonstrated by light and electron microscopy, its parietel antigen was localized with the light microscopic peroxidase antiperoxidase and post-embedding electron microscopic immunogold techniques . Two days after inoculation the suppurative inflammation of tubulo-interstitial foci was observed; in the capillaries, interstitium, and tubuli, free and phagocyted bacteria were encountered . In the interstitium, in the proximal tubuli and in the capillary space of some glomeruli bacterial groups were observed . Intracapillary bacteria were attached by their outer wall to the surface of endothelial cells . In the tubuli this adherence occurred with pili or with the outer layer of bacterial wall . From the seventh day after inoculation macrophages containing PAS-positive globuli appeared in the interstitium . Under the electron microscope these globuli proved to be features composed of myelin figures of phagolysosomal origin . Globuli and the myelin figures possessed an E . coli antigenicity . Thirteen weeks after inoculation E . coli antigen positivity was found in the cytoplasm of inflammatory cells in the tubular walls and in the suppurative cylinders, The organism was apparently unable to eliminate the materials derived from the pathogenic microorganisms. Appl Environ Microbiol, 1989 Apr, 55(4), 788 - 93 Survival and detection of bacteria in an aquatic environment; Amy PS et al.; A genetically engineered plasmid, pPSA131, was used as a DNA probe to detect homologous DNA in Escherichia coli HB101(pPSA131) after it was mixed with aquatic microorganisms from Lake Mead, Nevada, water samples . An isolate from the pLAFR1 chromosomal library of Pseudomonas syringae Cit 7 was used to detect parent P . syringae Cit 7 that had been mixed with Lake Mead water . E . coli(pPSA131) was kept in variously treated samples of lake water or buffer, and its survival was measured by viable cell counting on modified Luria-Bertani (LB) agar . Full-strength LB agar proved better than 0.1 x LB agar at recovering E . coli(pPSA131) after survival in low-nutrient environments . Survival of E . coli(pPSA131) remained high in filtered (0.22-micron pore size) lake water and salts buffer on both selective and nonselective agars but was lower in untreated lake water or lake water filtered with a 0.8-micron-pore-size membrane . Total recoverable colonies grown on LB agar were higher when lake water was filter treated (0.8-micron pore size) than when lake water was untreated . Microorganisms recovered from lake water alone grew rapidly on nonselective media, probably because of the "bottle effect." After being mixed with Lake Mead water, E . coli(pPSA131) and P . syringae were detected by colony blotting with non-radioactively labeled DNA probes . E . coli(pPSA131) were recovered at three times during 48 h from variously treated samples of lake water and from a mixture with Lake Mead water organisms . Colonies were supported on either nonselective or selective agar for comparison.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) Ther Umsch, 1989 Apr, 46(4), 234 - 40 {Indications and interpretation of serologic studies in reactive arthritis}; Mosimann J; The big number of microorganisms known to cause arthritis following infections and also her biological variety make culture methods for the etiologic diagnosis difficult if not impossible in the individual case . Diagnostic possibilities offered by serology are practically unlimited . The search for the etiology can easily be adapted to the history and the clinical picture presented by the patient . Arthritis is usually accompanied by high antibody titers, which may be explained by a strong immunological reaction of the organism and the relatively long duration of the disease . The conditions required for a satisfactory interpretation of the results are discussed . Examples of real cases will illustrate the possibilities of diagnostic serology. Cell Immunol, 1989 Apr 1, 119(2), 279 - 85 B-cell-mediated depression of the granulomatous response to BCG in mice; Campa M et al.; The depression of the granulomatous response to Mycobacterium bovis strain BCG in mice infected intravenously with 2 x 10(7) CFU of the microorganism turned out to be mediated by various types of cells arising at different times after infection . Anti-PPD B lymphocytes were found to play a major role at Day 1 after infection and to be no longer effective 4 days later . At this time the depression was mediated by anti-idiotype B lymphocytes, whereas T lymphocytes proved to be involved in later phases of the infectious process . These results show that B lymphocytes may be of critical importance in the regulation of cell-mediated immune reactions to this facultative intracellular parasite. J Virol Methods, 1989 Apr-May, 24(1-2), 123 - 30 Filter in situ hybridisation: an evaluation of the FISH technique for HPV detection in cervical swabs; Hording U et al.; The filter in situ hybridisation (FISH) method for detection of HPV in cervical swabs was evaluated against the Southern blot technique on concomitant cervical biopsies . Of 73 biopsies, HPV 16 DNA sequences were found in 26 biopsies and HPV 18 sequences in 2 biopsies . Analysis by FISH of the corresponding smears detected 58 and 100% of these, respectively . Of the smears corresponding to the HPV-negative biopsies, 17% were HPV 16-positive and 3% were HPV-18 positive by FISH . Re-hybridisation with cold plasmid added for competition did not change these results . To estimate the risk of spurious hybridisation between vector remnants in the probe and bacterial DNA sequences present in smears, we have hybridised by FISH to preparations of the 19 most common vaginal microorganisms . Of these, E . coli, which is present in about 10% of cervical smears, hybridised strongly with a probe of the plasmid vector pBR322 and may be a significant cause of false positive FISH results . None of the bacteria hybridised with probes of purified HPV when cold, denatured plasmid was added for competition . Analysis by FISH with probes of purified pBR322 to 167 smears of a patient control group resulted in 6% positive reactions . In hybridisations with probes of HPV 16 and 18 to 2 or 3 different filter preparations of the same smear, identical results were obtained in 18 of 19 smears, indicating a good reproducibility by the FISH method . The high percentage of HPV negative smears is equivalent to the rates known from cytology and may reflect sampling errors. Offentl Gesundheitswes, 1989 Apr, 51(4), 195 - 200 {Disposable gloves for use in medicine, quality requirements--quality control}; Kampf WD; The general fear of catching HIV infection during surgery, medical examination, patient care or emergency care has prompted a discussion and some research regarding the quality of throwaway gloves . Technical regulations regarding the demands to be made on most gloves made of latex that are packed individually and sterilised, is already in force, but this does not apply to other types of gloves used in medical care and offered in bulk packing; such gloves are usually made of vinyl, sometimes also of latex, and are not sterilised before sale . In the Federal Republic of Germany, however, official legislation is entirely lacking for both types of throwaway gloves . Among the test methods published so far, it seems that examination for liquid-proof density also ensures that no microorganisms bigger than 0.5 micron can penetrate . The article reports on relevant comparative studies. Infect Immun, 1989 Apr, 57(4), 1285 - 9 Sialo-oligosaccharide receptors for Mycoplasma pneumoniae and related oligosaccharides of poly-N-acetyllactosamine series are polarized at the cilia and apical-microvillar domains of the ciliated cells in human bronchial epithelium; Loveless RW et al.; The occurrence and distribution of the sialo-oligosaccharide receptors (sialosyl-I and sialosyl-i) for Mycoplasma pneumoniae as well as other related oligosaccharide structures of poly-N-acetyllactosamine type, and their short-chain analogs based on galactose linked beta 1-4 or beta 1-3 to N-acetylglucosamine (Gal beta 1-4GlcNAc or Gal beta 1-3GlcNAc, respectively) were investigated in the human bronchial epithelium by histochemistry by using sequence-specific monoclonal antibodies and lectins . Among the mature epithelial cells, only ciliated cells were found to express the long-chain antigens, whereas mucus-secreting cells contained the short-chain antigens associated with mucus globules . The long-chain oligosaccharides were found to be highly polarized at the luminal aspects of the ciliated cells where the branched structures (I and sialosyl-I antigens) were detected both at the apical-microvillar border and on the cilia, but the linear structures (i, sialosyl-i, and VIM-2 antigens) were detected exclusively at the apical-microvillar border . These observations provide the first in situ visualization of the receptor structures for M . pneumoniae at the primary site of infection . The lack of sialo-oligosaccharide receptors in secretory cells and the mucus they produce provides a biochemical basis for evasion by this microorganism of the secreted mucus barrier. J Healthc Mater Manage, 1989 Apr, 7(3), 46 - 8, 50 Ultrasonic cleaning in the hospital; Detwiler MS; Ultrasonic cleaning can prolong the life of expensive instruments . In the past, many fine instruments were discarded due to stiffening hinges and box locks, or sticking plungers . Hand scrubbing and spray washing could not thoroughly clean these areas . Ultrasonic cleaners effectively remove dried and baked blood, serums and medications from these instruments . Also, hinged instruments and syringes operate more smoothly during use in surgery when cleaned using ultrasonics . In addition, the use of ultrasonics alleviates the necessity for hand scrubbing of contaminated surgical instruments and laboratory apparatus, a procedure which could lead to injury or infection . The superb cleaning powers of ultrasonic cleaners, their speed and simplicity of operation, and their ability to remove blood, tissue, bacteria and microorganisms within minutes, makes them a valuable addition to any operating room suite, central service department, or emergency room . Their cost-effectiveness is considerable for the small hospital, and compelling for the large hospital. Arch Dermatol, 1989 Mar, 125(3), 380 - 3 Characteristic cutaneous lesions in patients with brucellosis; Ariza J et al.; Among 436 cases of brucellosis included in a 12-year prospective protocol, we identified 27 patients (6%) with cutaneous lesions (13 men and 14 women; mean age, 35.1 +/- 16.5 years) . Twenty-one patients had positive blood cultures for Brucella melitensis . A disseminated violet-erythematous, papulonodular eruption (20 cases) and erythema nodosum-like lesions (three cases) were the most frequent eruptions observed, appearing during the initial episode of the disease or in relapse . Histologic findings were a dermal inflammatory infiltrate of lymphocytes and histiocytes in a perivascular and periadnexal arrangement, with a focally granulomatous appearance, and occasional extension to subcutaneous fat . Skin cultures were positive for B melitensis in two of four cases . Our results suggest that there are characteristic clinical and histologic cutaneous findings in patients with brucellosis and that hematogenous spread of the microorganism can be the most important pathogenic mechanism of these lesions. Mikrobiol Zh, 1989 Mar-Apr, 51(2), 103 - 6 {Predicting the effectiveness of antibiotic therapy in the treatment of gonorrhea}; Stepanenko VI et al.; A complex method is suggested to prognosticate the efficiency of treating gonorrheal urethritis in men with allowance for a preliminary determination of the cell respiration activity in agents . In the case of low indices of these processes, it is possible to stimulate aerobic processes in gonococci if applying for 4 days before the specific treatment daily subcutaneous injections of plasmol (a biostimulator) by the ascending scheme and local irrigation of the urethra by oxygen cocktails through irrigators of special design . The developed method has the author certificate (A . c . 1107867 USSR) . Application of the method shortens significantly the terms of treatment, the number of the infection recurrences being considerably decreased . To accelerate the determination of the sensitivity to antibiotics the procedure of genococcus microcultivation in special chambers is applied which permits observing the growth and reproduction of microorganisms in the phase-contrast microscope. Br Poult Sci, 1989 Mar, 30(1), 23 - 37 Air hygiene in a broiler house: comparison of deep litter with raised netting floors; Madelin TM et al.; 1 . Deep litter and raised netting flooring systems in broiler houses were compared for their effects on air quality and bird health during an 8-week growing period . 2 . Weekly measurements were taken of respirable dust, numbers of airborne microorganisms and concentrations of gaseous pollutants . Airborne fungi and bacteria were identified to species . 3 . At the end of the experimental period, randomly sampled bird lungs were examined for the presence of viable microorganisms and for pathological changes . Bird health and performance were monitored throughout the 8 weeks . 4 . Respirable dust concentrations and numbers of airborne microorganisms were significantly higher in the litter rooms . The type of floor had no effect on concentrations of gaseous ammonia . 5 . Floor type had no significant effect on bird mortality but birds on litter had a slightly better gain:food ratio . However, birds on litter were observed to have a higher incidence of lung damage and more of the birds on litter had viable microorganisms present in the lungs at necropsy. Zh Mikrobiol Epidemiol Immunobiol, 1989 Mar, (3), 59 - 63 {Quantitative patterns of the thermal inactivation of microorganisms as a basis for obtaining high-quality vaccinal preparations}; Dzhindoian LS et al.; The model of the thermal inactivation of microorganisms is presented . This model permits the explanation of all existing kinetic dependencies relating to the death of microorganisms, the restoration of sublethal damages, the influence of the medium and the temperature of incubation on the process of the production and control of vaccinal preparations. Z Ernahrungswiss, 1989 Mar, 28(1), 36 - 48 {The transformation of gamma-tocopherol to alpha-tocopherol in the animal organism; a generational study in rats}; Elmadfa I et al.; The biosynthesis of alpha-tocopherol, the most effective vitamer among the vitamin E-group, is found only in higher plants and microorganisms . Due to the lack of the shikimate pathway, animals are not able to synthesize alpha-tocopherol . Also not found is a whole enteral synthesis; only the conversion of dimethyletocol to trimethyletocol seems to be possible . Using four generations of rats, we sought to determine: Is a transformation of gamma-tocopherol to alpha-tocopherol in the animal body possible? Are there any differences in the transformation rates in organs, tissues, or in the entire body along the generations? Does gut flora play any role in the conversion of gamma-tocopherol? Is it possible to increase the efficiency of the transformation by supplying additional CH3-groups? Wistar rats were fed a semisynthetic basal diet, supplemented with 78.8 mg DL-gamma-tocopherol/kg in the first three generations (F1-F3) . In the fourth generation (F4), some of the animals were fed a vitamin E-free diet and gamma-tocopherol (approx . 1.5 mg on alternate days) was injected s.c . Two other groups of animals received the basal diet containing additional methionine (0.25%) or choline (0.45%), as well as gamma-tocopherol (as in F1-F3) . alpha- and gamma-tocopherol were analyzed by HPTLC in the whole body and in serum, liver, heart, lung, gut, gonads, and feces . The ratio of alpha-/gamma-tocopher