MedWorm.com provides a medical RSS filtering service. Over 6000 RSS medical sources are combined and output via different filters. This feed contains the latest items from the 'FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology' source. Thu, 09 Feb 2012 21:34:59 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5674677&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2012.00941.x AbstractCandida albicans is normally present in nearly all humans but can cause fatal diseases in immunocompromised patients. The ALS gene family of C. albicans has been suggested to be important for the biofilm formation on medical devices. Here, we cloned all ALS genes and determined the binding properties of their gene products by cell surface engineering of Saccharomyces cerevisiae. We found that most of the ALS homologues had the ability to bind polypropylene, borosilicate glass, and polyvinyl chloride, which are often used as materials in medical devices. However, ALS homologues were not able to bind polyurethane, polymethyl methacrylate, polytetrafluoroethylene, or titanium. These findings will aid in the development of biofilm‐resistant medical devices.© 2012 Federation of Europ... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5674677 Fri, 10 Feb 2012 02:08:54 +0100 5674677 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5664660&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2012.00934.x In this report, by using a variety of mutants in a mucoid P. aeruginosa background, we found that deletion of Psl‐encoding genes dramatically decreased their biofilm formation ability, indicating that Psl is also a critical matrix component of mucoid biofilms. Our data also suggest that the overproduction of alginate leads to mucoid biofilms, which occupy more space, whereas Psl‐dependent biofilms are densely packed. These data suggest that Psl polysaccharide may have significant contributions in biofilm persistence in CF patients and may be helpful for designing therapies for P. aeruginosa CF infection.© 2012 Federation of European Microbiological Societies. Published by Blackwell Publishing Ltd. All rights reserved (Source: FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology) FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5664660 Mon, 06 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5664660 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5664659&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2012.00935.x AbstractThe relative abundance of different groups of sulphate reducing bacteria (SRB) in faecal DNA collected before and after therapy from patients suffering with Crohn's disease (CD), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or ulcerative colitis (UC) has been compared with that from healthy controls. Growth tests revealed that SRB were not more abundant in samples from CD patients before treatment than in the healthy control group. For most of the 128 samples available, these preliminary results were confirmed using degenerate PCR primers that amplify the dsrAB gene. However, some samples from CD patients before treatment contained a growth inhibitor that was absent from IBS or UC samples.In‐depth sequencing of PCR‐generated dsrB fragments revealed that the diversity detected was surprisingl... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5664659 Mon, 06 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5664659 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5664658&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2012.00936.x AbstractChronic lung infection by mucoid Pseudomonas aeruginosa is one of the major pathologic features in patients with cystic fibrosis. Mucoid P. aeruginosa is notorious for its biofilm forming capability and resistance to immune attacks. In the present study, the roles of extracellular polymeric substances from biofilms formed by mucoid P. aeruginosa were investigated. Alginate is not an essential structure component for mucoid P. aeruginosa biofilms. Genetic studies revealed that Pel and Psl polysaccharides serve as essential scaffold and mediate macrocolony formation in mucoid P. aeruginosa biofilms. The Psl polysaccharide is more important than Pel polysaccharide in mucoid P. aeruginosa biofilm structure maintenance and phagocytosis resistance. The polysaccharides were further found ... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5664658 Mon, 06 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5664658 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5664657&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2012.00938.x AbstractImplant‐associated infection is caused by surface adhering bacteria persisting as biofilm. Periprosthetic joint infection is difficult to diagnose and to treat. The high susceptibility of implanted devices to infection is due to a locally acquired host defense defect, and persistence is mainly due to the rapid formation of a biofilm resistant to host defense and antimicrobial agents. Successful treatment of periprosthetic joint infection requires the optimal surgical procedure combined with long‐term antimicrobial therapy directed against surface‐adhering microorganisms. Surgical treatment according to an algorithm has been validated in several observational studies. The role of rifampin against device‐associated staphylococcal infection has been evaluated in an animal mode... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5664657 Mon, 06 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5664657 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5664656&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2012.00937.x AbstractMethicillin‐Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) poses a serious threat to worldwide health. Historically, MRSA clones have strictly been associated with hospital settings and most hospital‐associated MRSA (HA‐MRSA) disease resulted from a limited number of virulent clones. Recently, MRSA has spread into the community causing disease in otherwise healthy people with no discernible contact with healthcare environments. These community‐associated (CA‐MRSA) are phylogenetically distinct from traditional HA‐MRSA clones and CA‐MRSA strains seem to exhibit hyper virulence and more efficient host:host transmission. Consequently, CA‐MRSA clones belonging to the USA300 lineage have become dominant sources of MRSA infections in North America. The rise of this successful USA... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5664656 Mon, 06 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5664656 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5664655&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2012.00939.x In this study, we used α‐galactosylceramide (α‐Galcer), a specific ligand of NKT cells, to enhance NKT response and examine its effect on host defense against genital tract Chlamydia muridarum infection. The results showed that α‐Galcer treatment before infection led to reduced pathological changes and bacterial burden in the genital tract. Moreover, α‐Galcer‐treated mice showed greater local Th1 cytokine production (interferon γ [IFN‐γ] and interleukin 12 [IL‐12]) in local lymph node cells and genital tissues following challenge infection than untreated mice. Moreover, mice treated with α‐Galcer showed an enhanced level of IFN‐γ production by NK and T cells. In addition, NKT cell in the mice with genital tract C. muridarum infection, unlike those from naïve mice... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5664655 Mon, 06 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5664655 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5664654&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2012.00940.x AbstractBacteria Gardnerella vaginalis is considered as a substantial player in the progression of bacterial vaginosis (BV). We analysed 17 G. vaginalis strains isolated from the genital tract of women diagnosed with BV to establish a potential link between genotypes/biotypes and the expression of virulence factors, vaginolysin (VLY) and sialidase, assumed to play a substantial role in the pathogenesis of BV. Amplified ribosomal DNA restriction analysis (ARDRA) revealed two G. vaginalis genotypes. G. vaginalis isolates of genotype 2 appeared more complex as compared to genotype 1 and were subdivided into three subtypes. Biochemical typing allowed us to distinguish four different biotypes. A great diversity of VLY production level among the isolates of G. vaginalis may be related to a diffe... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5664654 Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5664654 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5636006&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2012.00933.x AbstractTannerella forsythia is an important pathogen in periodontal disease. Previously, we showed that its sialidase activity is key to utilisation of sialic acid from a range of human glycoproteins for biofilm growth and initial adhesion. Removal of terminal sialic acid residues often exposes β‐linked glucosamine or galactosamine which may also be important adhesive molecules. In turn, these residues are often removed by a group of enzymes known as β‐hexosaminidases. We show here that T. forsythia has the ability to cleave glucosamine and galactosamine from model substrates and that this activity can be inhibited by the hexosaminidase inhibitor PugNAc (O‐(2‐acetamido‐2‐deoxy‐D‐glucopyranosylidene)amino N‐phenyl carbamate). We now demonstrate for the first time that �... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5636006 Sat, 28 Jan 2012 03:22:17 +0100 5636006 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5625284&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2012.00931.x AbstractSince its initial description as a Th2‐cytokine antagonistic to interferon‐alpha and granulocyte macrophage‐colony stimulating factor, many studies have shown various anti‐inflammatory actions of interleukin‐10 (IL‐10), and its role in infection as a key regulator of innate immunity. Studies have shown that IL‐10 induced in response to microbes and their products plays a central role in shaping pathogenesis. IL‐10 appears to function as both sword and shield in the response to varied groups of microbes in its capacity to mediate protective immunity against some organisms but increase susceptibility to other infections. The nature of IL‐10 as a pleiotropic modulator of host responses to microbes is explained, in part, by its potent and varied effects on different i... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5625284 Wed, 25 Jan 2012 04:02:17 +0100 5625284 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5625285&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2012.00932.x AbstractTo tackle the loss of activity of surfaces functionalized by coating and covalently bound molecules to materials, an intermediate system implying the non covalent immobilization of active molecules in the inner cavity of grafted cyclodextrins (CDs) was investigated.The antifungal and antibiofilm activities of the most stable complexes of Anidulafungin (echinocandin) and thymol (terpen) in various cyclodextrins was demonstrated to be almost the same as the free molecules. The selected cyclodextrin was covalently bond to self‐assembled monolayers on gold surfaces. The immobilized antifungal agents reduced the number of culturable Candida albicans ATCC 3153 attached to the surface by 64 ± 8% for anidulafungin and 75 ± 15% for thymol. The inhibitory activity was persistent for thym... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5625285 Mon, 23 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5625285 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5604542&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2012.00930.x In this study, we used an in vitro infection model that resulted in a partial infection of C. trachomatis‐exposed primary‐like immortalized endocervical epithelial cells (A2EN). Using this model, we demonstrated that expression of the NK cell activating ligand, MHC class I‐related protein A (MICA), was upregulated on C. trachomatis‐infected, but not on uninfected bystander cells. MICA upregulation was concomitant with MHC class I downregulation and impacted the susceptibility of C. trachomatis‐infected cells to NK cell activity. The specificity of MICA upregulation was reflected by a higher cytolytic activity of an NK cell line (NK92MI) against C. trachomatis‐infected cells compared to uninfected control cells. Significantly, data also indicated that NK cells exerted a partial,... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5604542 Thu, 19 Jan 2012 02:58:37 +0100 5604542 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5604543&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2012.00929.x AbstractBiofilms are reported to be inherently refractory towards antimicrobial attack and therefore cause problems in industrial and medical settings. Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilms contain subpopulations that exhibit high metabolic activity and subpopulations that exhibit low metabolic activity. We have found that membrane targeting antimicrobials such as colistin, EDTA, SDS, and chlorhexidine specifically kill the inactive subpopulation in P. aeruginosa biofilms, whereas the active subpopulation survives exposure to these compounds. Because treatment of P. aeruginosa biofilms with the membrane targeting compounds colistin, EDTA, SDS, and chlorhexidine resulted in the same spatial distribution of live and dead bacteria, we investigated if tolerance to these compounds originated from the... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5604543 Tue, 17 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5604543 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5594056&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2012.00928.x AbstractThe use of bacteria as probiotics is in continuous development thanks to their capacity to maintain or restore a host's natural microbiome by interference with and/or inhibition of other microrganisms, mediated by antimicrobial peptide production such as bacteriocins. In the oral cavity, Streptococcus salivarius, a non‐pathogenic and predominant oral species, is one of the major bacteriocin producers that is able to coexist in this environment and reduce the frequency of colonization of the main pathogens involved in upper respiratory tract infections. The aim of this study was to screen oral bacteria colonizing healthy children for their use as potential oral probiotics. Eighty‐one α‐haemolytic streptococci isolated from nasal and/or pharyngeal swabs of thirty‐one healthy... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5594056 Mon, 16 Jan 2012 04:30:18 +0100 5594056 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5604544&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00927.x In this study, we used a murine model of respiratory infection with Bordetella pertussis to examine the role of Treg cells in protective immunity in the lung. We first demonstrated that CD4+FoxP3+CD25− cells are the dominant Treg population in the lung, gut and liver. Pre‐activated lung CD4+FoxP3+CD25− cells suppressed CD4+ effector T cells in vitro, which was partly mediated by IL‐10 and not dependent on cell contact. Furthermore, CD4+FoxP3+CD25−IL‐10+T cells were found in the lungs of mice at the peak of infection with B. pertussis. The rate of bacterial clearance was not affected by depletion of CD25+ cells or in IL‐10‐deficient (IL‐10−/−) mice, but was compromised in CD25‐depleted IL‐10−/− mice. Our findings suggest that IL‐10‐producing CD4+FoxP3+CD25... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5604544 Wed, 28 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5604544 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5550303&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00926.x AbstractAcinetobacter baumannii has emerged as a bacterial pathogen of considerable healthcare concern. Yet, little is known about the organism's basic biological processes and the regulatory networks that module expression of its virulence factors and antibiotic resistance. Using Affymetrix GeneChips® we comprehensively defined and compared the transcriptomes of two A. baumannii strains, ATCC17978 and 98‐37‐09, during exponential and stationary phase growth in Luria‐Bertani (LB) medium. Results revealed that in addition to expected growth phase‐associated metabolic changes, several putative virulence factors were dramatically regulated in a growth phase‐dependent manner. Because a common feature between the two most severe types of A. baumannii infection, pneumonia and septicem... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5550303 Wed, 28 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5550303 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5542493&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00924.x AbstractStaphylococcal enterotoxin A (SEA) is a leading causative toxin of staphylococcal food poisoning. However, it remains unclear how this toxin induces emesis in humans, primates, and certain experimental animals. To understand the mechanism of SEA‐induced emesis, we investigated the behavior of SEA in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract in vivo using the house musk shrew (Suncus murinus). Immunofluorescence of GI sections showed that perorally administered SEA translocated from the lumen to the interior tissues of the GI tract and rapidly accumulated in certain submucosa cells. These SEA‐binding cells in the submucosa were both tryptase‐ and FcεRIα‐positive, suggesting these SEA‐binding cells were mast cells. These SEA‐binding mast cells were 5‐hydroxytryptamine (5‐HT) ... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5542493 Fri, 23 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5542493 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5594058&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00922.x AbstractSalivary host‐defence peptides include defensins, histatins and cathelicidin. We have investigated the effects of these peptides on the microbial composition of dental plaques. Salivary consortia, established within hydroxyapatite disc models, were exposed during development to physiological levels of human neutrophil proteins (HNP) 1 and 2; human β defensins (hβD) 1, 2 and 3; histatins (His) 5 and 8; and cathelicidin (LL37). Effects on aggregation and microbial composition were determined using fluorescence microscopy; and differential culture with PCR‐DGGE, respectively. LIVE/DEAD microscopic analysis indicated that HDPs decreased total bacterial viability, whilst β defensins, paired HNPs, His 5, His 8 and the HDPs combined inhibited bacterial aggregation. According to dif... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5594058 Thu, 15 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5594058 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5513022&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00922.x AbstractSalivary host defense peptides include defensins, histatins and cathelicidin. We have investigated the effects of these peptides on the microbial composition of dental plaques. Salivary consortia, established within hydroxyapatite disc models were exposed during development to physiological levels of human neutrophil proteins (HNP) 1 and 2; human β Defensins (hβD) 1, 2 and 3; histatins (His) 5 and 8; and cathelicidin (LL37). Effects on aggregation and microbial composition were determined using fluorescence microscopy; and differential culture with PCR‐DGGE, respectively. LIVE/DEAD microscopic analysis indicated that HDPs decreased total bacterial viability, whilst β defensins, paired HNPs, His 5, His 8 and the HDPs combined inhibited bacterial aggregation. According to differ... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5513022 Thu, 15 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5513022 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5569730&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00919.x In this study, six members of the Chlamydiales were tested, including Parachlamydia acanthamoebae (two different strains), Protochlamydia naegleriophila,Waddlia chondrophila,Criblamydia sequanensis and Chlamydia trachomatis as a reference. Intracellular growth was tested in 11 different Acanthamoeba strains, demonstrating significant differences in host susceptibilities to infection depending on strains investigated. Survival of host‐free bacteria in suspension or dried onto surfaces was also explored, demonstrating that Chlamydia‐like organisms present better survival capacity than C. trachomatis. Longer survival times were observed for bacteria suspended in rich culture medium, with survivors being detected after 10 weeks incubation. We also tested susceptibility of host‐free Chl... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5569730 Mon, 05 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5569730 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5483939&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00920.x In conclusion, using HP0175, p17, p19, CagA and VacA as LB substrates significantly improves the specificity of anti‐H. pylori IgG analysis, providing a reliable tool for (i) confirmation/refutation of ELISA‐based screening results and (ii) assessment of the CagA/VacA status. (Source: FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology) FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5483939 Mon, 05 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5483939 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5483938&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00918.x This study aimed to elucidate the regulatory mechanisms affected by blocking IL‐17A responses in acute virus‐induced myocarditis (AVMC) mice. The results showed that IL‐17A and COX‐2 proteins were significantly increased in the cardiac tissue of acute myocarditis, as were Th17 cells in the spleen. Using anti‐mouse IL‐17Ab to block IL‐17A on day 7 of the viral myocarditis led to decreased expressions of cardiac TNF‐α, IL‐17A and TGF‐β in AVMC mice compared to isotype control mice. COX‐2 and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) proteins were dramatically elevated, followed by marked reductions in CVB3 replication and myocardial injury. These results hint that the Th17/IL‐17 axis is intimately associated with viral replication in acute myocarditis via induction of COX‐2 and PGE... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5483938 Mon, 05 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5483938 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5550302&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00927.x In this study we used a murine model of respiratory infection with Bordetella pertussis, to examine the role of Treg cells in protective immunity in the lung. We first demonstrated that CD4+FoxP3+CD25‐ cells are the dominant Treg population in the lung, gut and liver. Pre‐activated lung CD4 CD4+FoxP3+CD25‐ cells suppressed CD4+ effector T cells in vitro, which was partly mediated by IL‐10 and not dependent on cell contact. Furthermore, CD4+FoxP3+CD25‐IL‐10+ T cells were found in the lungs of mice at the peak of infection with B. pertussis. The rate of bacterial clearance was not affected by depletion of CD25+ cells or in IL‐10‐deficient (IL‐10‐/‐) mice, but was compromised in CD25‐depleted IL‐10‐/‐ mice. Our findings suggest that IL‐10‐producing CD4+FoxP3+... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5550302 Thu, 01 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5550302 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5542492&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00925.x In conclusion, standard culturing identifies the dominating pathogens, which seem to reside in monospecies microcolonies. The possibility of signaling between the distinct microcolonies still has to be verified and elucidated. (Source: FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology) FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5542492 Thu, 01 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5542492 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5513021&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00923.x We examined antigenemia in plasma and RNAemia in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) of children with acute diarrhea by EIA, RT‐PCR, and Southern hybridization, using primers and a probe specific to rotavirus NSP4 gene. We detected the presence of rotavirus antigen in 33.3% and almost full‐length NSP4 gene in 70.8% of the acute‐phase plasma and PBMC, respectively. In contrast, antigenemia and RNAemia were detected in 0% and 4.2% of the convalescent‐phase plasma and PBMC, respectively, which were similar to antigenemia (0%) and RNAemia (7.7%) in healthy controls. We demonstrated an increase in the proportions of activated mDC and activated pDC in acute‐phase PBMC of patients when compared to those in convalescent‐phase of patients and in PBMC of healthy controls. The activ... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5513021 Thu, 01 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5513021 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5501808&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00921.x AbstractDissemination of plasmid‐mediated quinolone resistance among pathogenic bacteria is a concern for public health due to decreased sensitivity to fluoroquinolones and increased potentials to develop high fluoroquinolone resistance. Two qnrS1‐positive isolates of Salmonella enterica, Corvallis (468) and Typhimurium (484) from imported seafood (Thailand and Vietnam) were tested for quinolone sensitivity using disk agar diffusion and the Sensititre® system. The presence of qnr genes, qnr‐carrying plasmids, and mutations in the quinolone resistance determining regions (QRDRs) were also determined. MICs of nalidixic acid for isolates 468 and 484 were 8 and 16 μg/ml, respectively, and those of ciprofloxacin were 1 and 2 μg/ml, respectively. Disk agar diffusion indicated that isola... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5501808 Thu, 01 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5501808 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5483937&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00919.x In this study, six members of the Chlamydiales were tested, including Parachlamydia acanthamoebae (two different strains), Protochlamydia naegleriophila, Waddlia chondrophila, Criblamydia sequanensis and Chlamydia trachomatis as a reference. Intracellular growth was tested in 11 different Acanthamoeba strains, demonstrating significant differences in host susceptibilities to infection depending on strains investigated. Survival of host‐free bacteria in suspension or dried onto surfaces was also explored, demonstrating that Chlamydia‐like organisms present better survival capacity than C. trachomatis. Longer survival times were observed for bacteria suspended in rich culture medium, with survivors being detected after 10 weeks incubation. We also tested susceptibility of host‐free Chl... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5483937 Thu, 01 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5483937 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5473978&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00917.x AbstractTrypanosoma cruzi, the causative agent of Chagas’ disease, is a substantial public health concern in Latin America. Laboratory mice inoculated with T. cruzi have served as important animal models of acute Chagas’ disease. Host hypoferremic responses occur during T. cruzi infection; therefore, it has been hypothesized that T. cruzi requires iron for optimal growth in host cells and, unlike extracellular pathogens, may benefit from host hypoferremic responses. Recent technological improvements of X‐ray fluorescence (XRF) are useful for diagnostics or monitoring in biomedical applications. The goal of our study was to determine whether the iron availabilities in Swiss and C57BL/6 mice differ during the acute phase of T. cruzi infection and whether the availability correlates wit... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5473978 Thu, 01 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5473978 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5465790&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00916.x AbstractEndosymbiosis is a mutualistic, parasitic or commensal symbiosis in which one symbiont is living within the body of another organism. Such symbiotic relationship with free‐living amoebae and arthropods has been reported with a large biodiversity of micro‐organisms, encompassing various bacterial clades and to a lesser extent some fungi and viruses. By contrast, current knowledge on symbionts of nematodes is still mainly restricted to Wolbachia and its interaction with filarial worms that lead to increased pathogenicity of the infected nematode. In this review article, we aim to highlight the main characteristics of symbionts in term of their ecology, host‐cell interactions, parasitism, and co‐evolution, in order to stimulate future research in a field that remains largely u... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5465790 Thu, 01 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5465790 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5447979&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00915.x (Source: FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology) FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5447979 Sat, 26 Nov 2011 15:50:21 +0100 5447979 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5501812&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00915.x (Source: FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology) FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5501812 Sat, 26 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5501812 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5437738&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00913.x AbstractBetween 2007 and 2009, a total of 2,168 E. coli strains derived from diarrheal patients, defined as putative diarrheagenic Escherichia coli (DEC), were collected from medical institutions in Akita prefecture, Japan, 35 of which lacked typical pathogenic determinants of DEC other than astA, which encodes enteroaggregative E. coli (EAggEC) heat‐stable enterotoxin 1 (EAST1). These E. coli strains are referred to as EAST1EC. Several studies have suggested the role of EAST1 in diarrhea; however, the correlation between diarrhea and the presence of astA remains inconclusive. To investigate whether EAST1EC strains derived from diarrheal patients shared pathogenic factors other than EAST1, virulence gene profiling of 12 virulence genes, including iha, lpfA, ldaG, pilS, pic, pet, irp2, da... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5437738 Wed, 23 Nov 2011 14:36:19 +0100 5437738 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5501810&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00913.x AbstractBetween 2007 and 2009, a total of 2168 Escherichia coli strains derived from diarrheal patients, defined as putative diarrheagenic E. coli (DEC), were collected from medical institutions in Akita prefecture, Japan. Thirty five of the strains lacked typical pathogenic determinants of DEC other than astA, which encodes enteroaggregative E. coli (EAggEC) heat‐stable enterotoxin 1 (EAST1). These E. coli strains are referred to as EAST1EC. Several studies have suggested a role of EAST1 in diarrhea; however, the correlation between diarrhea and the presence of astA remains inconclusive. To investigate whether EAST1EC strains derived from diarrheal patients shared pathogenic factors other than EAST1, virulence gene profiling of 12 virulence genes – iha,lpfA,ldaG,pilS,pic,pet,irp2,d... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5501810 Tue, 22 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5501810 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5437739&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00914.x AbstractThe Candida albicans ALS (agglutinin‐like sequence) family encodes large cell‐surface glycoproteins that function in adhesion of the fungus to host and abiotic surfaces. Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) specific for each Als protein were developed to study Als localization on the C. albicans surface. An anti‐Als4 mAb demonstrated that Als4 covers the surface of yeast cells, with a greater abundance of Als4 on cells grown at 30°C compared to 37°C. On germ tubes, Als4 is localized in a restricted area proximal to the mother yeast. Immunolabeling with several anti‐Als mAbs showed overlapping localization of Als1 and Als4 on yeast cells and Als1, Als3 and Als4 on germ tubes. Overlapping localization of Als proteins was also observed on yeast and hyphae recovered from mouse models... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5437739 Tue, 22 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5437739 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5501811&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00907.x AbstractWe monitored clinical samples from patients of different age groups from selected regions in Slovakia. Overall seroprevalence evaluated by immunofluorescence (IFA) using nine Bartonella, two Borrelia, six rickettsial (spotted fever and typhus group), two Coxiella, and one human granulocytic ehrlichiosis Anaplasma,Franciscella tularensis and Diplorickettsia massiliensis antigens, in rural and city populations of Slovak Republic, was found to be 32% positive for spotted fever group rickettsiae. Only five (10%) of the rickettsia‐positive cases evaluated by IFA were confirmed by polymerase chain reaction. Rickettsia helvetica,Rickettsia slovaca, and Rickettsia raoultii infection appear to be prevalent in Slovakia. Furthermore, Coxiella burnetii,Borrelia and, for the first time, Barto... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5501811 Mon, 21 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5501811 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5501809&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00911.x AbstractBordetella holmesii is a recently described human pathogen mainly isolated from blood. However, in the US and Canada, B. holmesii has also been cultured from the nasopharynx of patients with pertussis‐like symptoms. To the best of our knowledge, respiratory isolates from Europe have not been characterized. Here, we report the isolation and characterization of B. holmesii from Dutch patients with pertussis‐like illness. Species determination was confirmed by 16S rRNA gene sequencing and detection by PCR of IS481 and bhoE, a gene not found in Bordetella pertussis but present in B. holmesii. Comparative genomic hybridization (CGH) with microarrays revealed that the Dutch isolates formed a cluster distinct from isolates from the US and UK suggesting a distinct population or an e... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5501809 Mon, 21 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5501809 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5437754&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00880.x (Source: FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology) FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5437754 Mon, 21 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5437754 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5437747&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00907.x AbstractWe have monitored clinical samples from patients of different age groups from selected regions in Slovakia. Overall seroprevalence evaluated by immunofluorescence (IFA) using nine Bartonella, two Borrelia, six rickettsial (spotted fever and typhus group), two Coxiella, and one HGE Anaplasma, Franciscella tularensis, and Diplorickettsia massiliensis antigens, in rural and city populations of Slovak Republic, was found to be 32% positive for spotted fever group rickettsiae. Only 5 (10%) of the rickettsia positive cases evaluated by IFA were confirmed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). We believe on the prevalence of Rickettsia helvetica, Rickettsia slovaca, and Rickettsia raoultii infection in Slovakia. Furthermore Coxiella burnetii, Borrelia, and for the first time Bartonella elisa... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5437747 Mon, 21 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5437747 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5437746&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00906.x AbstractThe laboratory diagnosis of ricettsioses is based on serology (reference method), cell culture and/or molecular tools. However, the main drawback of serology is its incapacity to provide identification of Rickettsiae at the level of species. The aim of this study was to propose the versatile protein markers able to discriminate the patients with murine typhus from those with Mediterranean spotted fever. We have cloned and expressed 20 proteins of R. prowazekii and R. rickettsii, respectively, using GATEWAY approach. Then, these recombinant proteins were screened by ELISA with sera of infected patients with R. typhi and R. conorii, respectively. We have identified several potential markers which allowed discriminating infection due to R. typhi with those caused by R. conorii. Howeve... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5437746 Mon, 21 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5437746 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5437745&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00912.x AbstractThe discriminatory diagnosis of Q fever remains difficult because of the unspecific clinical presentations of the disease. Additionally, the diagnosis is often delayed because serodiagnosis is not sensitive enough in the early stages of the disease when the immune response is not yet efficient. Similarly, the diagnosis of Q fever endocarditis can only be performed in approximately 35%, mainly via serology, which was a criterion postulated by Duke. Due to the discriminatory diagnosis of Q fever and the high number of tests requested, we focused on expressing several proteins for ELISA studies with C. burnetii‐infected sera. Previously, we selected a list of 31 candidates (Sekeyova et al., 2009), of which we have successfully cloned and expressed 21. Finally, 15 recombinant protein... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5437745 Mon, 21 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5437745 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5437744&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00911.x AbstractBordetella holmesii is a recently described human pathogen mainly isolated from blood. However, in the US and Canada B. holmesii has also been cultured from the nasopharynx of patients with pertussis‐like symptoms. To the best of our knowledge, respiratory isolates from Europe have not been characterized. Here we report the isolation and characterization of B. holmesii from Dutch patients with pertussis‐like illness. Species determination was confirmed by 16S rRNA gene sequencing and detection by PCR of IS481 and bhoE, a gene not found in B. pertussis but present in B. holmesii. Comparative genomic hybridization (CGH) with microarrays revealed that the Dutch isolates formed a cluster distinct from isolates from the US and UK suggesting a distinct population or an epidemiologica... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5437744 Mon, 21 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5437744 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5437743&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00910.x AbstractMolecular diagnosis using real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) may allow earlier diagnosis of rickettsiosis. We developed a real‐time duplex PCR that amplifies (i) DNA of any rickettsial species and (ii) DNA of both typhus group rickettsia, i.e. R. prowazekii and R. typhi. Primers and probes were selected to amplify a segment of the 16S rRNA gene of Rickettsia spp. for the pan‐rickettsial PCR and the citrate synthase gene (gltA) for the typhus group rickettsia PCR. Analytical sensitivity was 10 copies of control plasmid DNA per reaction. No cross‐amplification was observed when testing human DNA and 22 pathogens or skin commensals. Real‐time PCR was applied to 16 clinical samples. Rickettsial DNA was detected in the skin biopsies of 3 patients. In one patient with se... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5437743 Mon, 21 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5437743 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5437742&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00909.x AbstractAnaplasma phagocytophilum causes granulocytic anaplasmosis, an acute disease in humans that is also often subclinical. However, 36% are hospitalized, 7% need intensive care, and the case fatality rate is 0.6%. The biological basis for severe disease is not understood. Despite A. phagocytophilum's mechanisms to subvert neutrophil antimicrobial responses, whether these mechanisms lead to disease is unclear. In animals, inflammatory lesions track with IFNγ and IL‐10 expression, and infection of Ifng ‐/‐ mice leads to increased pathogen load but inhibition of inflammation. Suppression of STAT signaling in horses impacts IL‐10 and IFN‐γ expression, and also suppresses disease severity. Similar inhibition of inflammation with infection of NKT‐deficient mice suggests that in... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5437742 Mon, 21 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5437742 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5437740&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00908.x In conclusion, the spleen seems to retain and filter infected erythrocytes rather than to be a sanctuary for chronic Bartonella infection. (Source: FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology) FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5437740 Mon, 21 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5437740 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5428644&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00900.x In this study, we present a simple method that combines the simplicity of conventional PCR with new technical and methodical enhancements, resulting in a fast, specific and easy method for the molecular detection of C. burnetii. A collection of C. burnetii reference strains was tested with the modified conventional gel‐based PCR approach applying a special PCR buffer (QIAGEN® Fast Cycling PCR Kit) and using a closed ready‐to‐use gel‐cassette‐system (FlashGel®, Fa. Lonza) for the visualisation of specific PCR products. The modified conventional PCR method reached nearly the speed of the LightCycler® HybProbe real‐time PCR assay (Fa. Roche) (120 min vs. 90 min) and showed equal sensitivity and specificity. The general cost per PCR run was 25% less than that for the LightCycler... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5428644 Sun, 20 Nov 2011 14:54:07 +0100 5428644 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5493033&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00900.x In this study, we present a simple method that combines the simplicity of conventional PCR with new technical and methodical enhancements, resulting in a fast, specific and easy method for the molecular detection of C. burnetii. A collection of C. burnetii reference strains was tested with the modified conventional gel‐based PCR approach applying a particluar PCR buffer (QIAGEN®Fast Cycling PCR kit) and using a closed ready‐to‐use gel‐cassette‐system (FlashGel®) for the visualization of specific PCR products. The modified conventional PCR method reached nearly the speed of the LightCycler®HybProbe real‐time PCR assay (120 vs. 90 min) and showed equal sensitivity and specificity. The general cost per PCR run was 25% less than that for the LightCycler method. These improvem... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5493033 Fri, 18 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5493033 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5428649&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00905.x We present evidence for the continuous cultivation in three cell lines of Candidatus R. andeanae isolated from an A. maculatum tick (Portsmouth,Virginia). (Source: FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology) FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5428649 Fri, 18 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5428649 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5428648&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00904.x AbstractIn a previous study, our group verified that 100% of mice survived to a lethal dose of Candida albicans following pretreatment with concanavalin‐A (Con‐A) for three days. This work proposed to investigate whether treatment could mediate an adaptative immune response involving TH17 cells. A significant increase in IL‐17 levels at 6h postinfection was observed and was maintained up to 18h in the Con‐A group, whereas in control mice, a reduction in this cytokine was verified. In addition, TH17 cells develop in the presence of TGF‐β, IL‐1 β and IL‐6 that were increased significantly 2h postinfection in Con‐A‐treated mice. Macrophages were involved in the process, engulfing greater numbers of yeast cells, and were activated through TNF‐α and Interferon‐γ produc... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5428648 Fri, 18 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5428648 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5428647&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00901.x AbstractEhrlichia ruminantium, (ER) the causative agent of heartwater on ruminants, is an obligate intracellular bacterium transmitted by ticks of the genus Amblyomma. Previous studies have shown that early stages of development may be critical for Ehrlichia pathogenicity. To gain insights into the biology of intracellular ER, we determined the genome‐wide transcriptional profile of ER replicating inside bovine aortic endothelial cells using DNA microarrays. At intermediate and late stages of infection (reticulate and elementary bodies, respectively), a total of 54 genes were differentially expressed. Among them, we measured by q‐RTPCR the over‐expression of 11 out of 14 genes. A number of genes involved in metabolism, nutrient exchange and defense mechanisms, including those involve... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5428647 Fri, 18 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5428647 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5428646&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00902.x AbstractChronic Q fever that principally manifests as endocarditis is characterized by Coxiella burnetii persistence and impaired cell‐mediated immune response. The long‐term persistence of pathogens has been associated with the expansion of regulatory T cells (Tregs), the CD4+ T cell subset that is characterized by the expression of CD25 and Foxp3. We investigated the presence of Tregs in patients with acute Q fever (n=17), known to exhibit efficient immune response, patients with Q fever endocarditis (n=54) and controls (n=27) by flow cytometry. The proportion of CD3+, CD4+ and CD8+ T cells was similar in controls and patients with Q fever. The percentage of CD4+ T cells that expressed CD25 was significantly (p<0.01) higher in patients with Q fever endocarditis than in controls an... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5428646 Fri, 18 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5428646 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5428645&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00903.x This study investigated whether heat‐killed Lactobacillus protects host animal against influenza virus infection and stimulates their immunity. Heat‐killed Lactobacillus gasseri TMC0356 was orally administered to BALB/c mice for 19 d; the mice were intranasally infected with Flu A/PR/8/34 (H1N1) on day 14, and clinical symptoms were monitored. After six days, the mice were sacrificed, and pulmonary virus titres were determined. Splenic activation of natural killer (NK) cells and the mRNA expression of cytokines and other immune molecules in the lung and Peyer's patch (PP) were analysed. Clinical symptom scores of mice orally fed TMC0356 ameliorated significantly (P < 0.01); their pulmonary virus titres decreased significantly compared with those of control mice (P < 0.05). their ... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5428645 Fri, 18 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5428645 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5397553&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00899.x We report 2 years of experience with rickettsial molecular diagnosis using real‐time PCR at the French National Reference Center. All Rickettsia genomes available were compared to discover specific sequences to design new sets of primers and probes. The specificity was verified in silico and against a panel of 30 rickettsial species. Sensitivity was determined using 10‐fold serial dilutions. Finally, primers and probes that were both specific and sensitive were routinely used for the diagnosis of rickettsial infections from clinical specimens. We retained sets of primers and probes to detect spotted fever group Rickettsia, typhus group Rickettsia, Rickettsia conorii, R. slovaca, R. africae and R. australis; 643 clinical samples were screened for the presence of RickettsiaDNA. Overall, ... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5397553 Fri, 11 Nov 2011 15:52:34 +0100 5397553 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5397554&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00898.x AbstractCoxiella burnetii is an acidophilic, intracellular bacterium that causes the human disease Q fever. In some studies it is important to distinguish between viable and non‐viable C. burnetii. We compared four methods for detecting and measuring viable C. burnetii in biological samples; growth in two different cell culture lines, infection of severe combined immunodeficient (SCID) mice (leading to death) and infection of SCID mice with detection of C. burnetii in their spleen (after euthanasia at day 50 post‐infection). Two isolates of C. burnetii were used (“Henzerling” and “Arandale”). Our in‐house qPCR assay for C. burnetiiIDNA was used as a control.SCID mouse inoculation was more sensitive than cell culture. The assay that detected C. burnetii in SCID mouse spleens w... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5397554 Fri, 11 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5397554 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5397557&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00897.x This study aimed at investigating the role of iron overload in modulating bacterial endotoxin‐induced lung inflammation. Weaning male Wistar rats were intraperitoneally injected with saline or iron sucrose (15 mg/kg body weight (bw), 3 times/week, 4 weeks). They were then intratracheally injected with Pseudomonas aeruginosa lipopolysaccharide (LPS) (5 μg/kg bw) or saline. Inflammatory indices were evaluated 4 or 18h post LPS/saline injection. At 4h, LPS‐treated groups revealed significant increases in the majority of inflammatory parameters (LPS‐binding protein (LBP), immune cell recruitment, inflammatory cytokine synthesis, myeloperoxidase activity and alteration of alveolar‐capillary permeability), as compared to control groups. At 18h, these parameters reduced strongly with exc... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5397557 Sat, 05 Nov 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5397557 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5397556&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00895.x This study demonstrated that sublingual immunization with a fusion protein, 25k‐hagA‐MBP, which consists of a 25‐kDa antigenic region of hemagglutinin A purified from Porphyromonas gingivalis fused to maltose‐binding protein (MBP) originating from Escherichia coli as an adjuvant, elicited protective immune responses. Immunization with 25k‐hagA‐MBP induced high levels of antigen‐specific serum IgG and IgA, as well as salivary IgA. High level titers of serum IgG and IgA were also induced for almost 1 year. In an IgG subclass analysis, sublingual immunization with 25k‐hagA‐MBP induced both IgG1 and IgG2b antibody responses. Additionally, numerous antigen‐specific IgA antibody‐forming cells were detected from the salivary gland 7 days after the final immunization. Mononuc... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5397556 Sat, 05 Nov 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5397556 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5397555&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00896.x AbstractBrucella abortus is a facultative intracellular bacterium that replicates within a macrophage without producing any classical virulence factors. They can get internalized to cells by zipper‐like and/or swimming internalization mechanisms. However, the bacterial proteins involved in internalization remain unclear. In order to define these bacterial proteins, random insertion mutants of B. abortus were generated by the Tn5 transposome complexes. 132 mutants were screened and cellular internalization defective mutants were selected and these genomic and envelope proteomic features were identified. The transposon insertion site was ccmC, ppk and BruAb2_0168 for the mutant C10, C29 and D7, respectively. Mutant C10 showed deficiency in internalization without any changes in expression ... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5397555 Sat, 05 Nov 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5397555 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5465792&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00889.x AbstractFor more accurate PCR‐based identification of Porphyromonas gingivalis harboring genotype II fimA, the most prevalent type in periodontitis patients, a new primer set was developed and evaluated. The previous type II primers hybridized to the DNA of P. gingivalis strains harboring type Ib as well as type II fimA, while the new primers specifically amplified only the DNA fragment of type II fimA. In the investigation using mixed bacterial culture and 155 clinical samples from peri‐implantitis patients, the new primers increased the accuracy of PCR‐based detection of type II fimA by excluding false‐negatives as well as false‐positives. (Source: FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology) FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5465792 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5465792 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5447983&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00894.x AbstractOpiate‐abusing individuals are in the top three risk‐factor groups for HIV infection. In fact, almost 30% of HIV‐infected individuals in the USA are reported to abuse opiates, highlighting the intersection of drugs of abuse with HIV/AIDS. Opiate‐abusers are cognitively impaired and suffer from neurological dysfunctions that may lead to high‐risk sexual behavior, poor adherence to antiretroviral regimens, and hepatitis‐C virus infection. Collectively, these factors may contribute to accelerated HIV central nervous system (CNS) disease progression. To understand the role of morphine in disease progression, we sought to determine whether morphine influences HIV‐induced inflammation or viral replication in human monocyte‐derived macrophages (h‐mdms) and MAGI cells inf... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5447983 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5447983 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5447982&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00892.x AbstractA study was carried out to assess the efficacy of vaccination, using a phase I Coxiella burnetii‐inactivated vaccine (Coxevac®; CEVA), within three goat herds experiencing Q fever abortions waves. The stratification of the population (n = 905) was based on parity and on infection status related to both serological and qPCR vaginal shedding results. Control (n = 443) and vaccinated (n = 462) groups were established in each farm. Vaccination was administered to does before mating and to kids after active immunity acquisition (at least 3–4 months old). The vaccine effectiveness was analyzed at subsequent farrowing on both clinical incidence and vaginal shedding at the delivery day. Among the 231 animals considered as susceptible, that is, seronegative nonshedders, about 90... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5447982 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5447982 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5437753&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00890.x AbstractDefinitively establishing a clinical diagnosis of chronic Q fever remains challenging, as the diagnostic performance of both conventional serological tests and PCR is limited. Given the importance of an early diagnosis of chronic Q fever, there is a need for a reliable diagnostic test. We developed an enzyme‐linked immunospot assay to measure Coxiella burnetii (C. burnetii)‐specific T‐cell responses (Coxiella ELISPOT) to both phase I and phase II antigens and tested convalescent Q fever patients (without chronic disease, n = 9) and patients with an established diagnosis of chronic Q fever (n = 3). The Coxiella ELISPOT adequately identified convalescent Q fever patients from healthy controls by demonstrating C. burnetii‐specific T‐cell interferon‐γ production to b... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5437753 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5437753 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5376591&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00894.x AbstractOpiate‐abusing individuals are in the top three risk‐factor groups for HIV infection. In fact, almost 30% of HIV‐infected individuals in the USA are reported to abuse opiates, highlighting the intersection of drugs of abuse with HIV/AIDS. Opiate‐abusers are cognitively impaired and suffer from neurological dysfunctions that may lead to high‐risk sexual behavior, poor adherence to antiretroviral regimens, and hepatitis‐C virus infection. Collectively, these factors may contribute to accelerated HIV CNS disease progression. To understand the role of morphine in disease progression, we sought to determine whether morphine influences HIV‐induced inflammation or viral replication in human monocyte‐derived macrophages (h‐mdms) and MAGI cells infected with HIV and expose... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5376591 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5376591 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5376590&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00889.x AbstractFor more accurate PCR‐based identification of Porphyromonas gingivalis harboring genotype IIfimA, the most prevalent type in periodontitis patients, a new primer set was developed and evaluated. The previous type II primers hybridized to the DNA of P. gingivalis strains harboring type Ib as well as type IIfimA, while the new primers specifically amplified only the DNA fragment of type IIfimA. In the investigation using mixed bacterial culture and 155 clinical samples from peri‐implantitis patients, the new primers increased the accuracy of PCR‐based detection of type IIfimA by excluding false‐negatives as well as false‐positives. (Source: FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology) FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5376590 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5376590 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5376589&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00890.x AbstractDefinitively establishing a clinical diagnosis of chronic Q fever remains challenging as the diagnostic performance of both conventional serological tests and PCR is limited. Given the importance of an early diagnosis of chronic Q fever there is a need for a reliable diagnostic test. We developed an enzyme‐linked immunospot assay to measure Coxiella burnetii (C. burnetii) specific T‐cell responses (CoxiellaELISPOT) to both phase I and phase II antigens and tested convalescent Q fever patients (without chronic disease, n=9) and patients with an established diagnosis of chronic Q fever (n=3). The CoxiellaELISPOT adequately identified convalescent Q fever patients from healthy controls by demonstrating C. burnetii specific T‐cell interferon‐γ production to both phase I and ph... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5376589 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5376589 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5376588&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00891.x AbstractAnaplasma phagocytophilum is an emerging tick‐borne pathogen. Great genetic diversity of A. phagocytophilum has been described in animals and ticks. The present study is focused on the genetic variabilty of the groESL operon of A. phagocytophilum in human patients in Slovenia. During 1996 – 2008 there were 66 serologically confirmed patients with human granulocytic anaplasmosis. Of these 46 were tested with a screening PCR for a small part of the 16SrDNA of A. phagocytophilum and 28 (60.9%) were positive. Positive samples were additionally tested with a PCR targeting the groESL operon and a larger fragment of the 16SrDNA. All amplicons were further sequenced and analyzed. The homology search and the alignment of the groESL sequences showed only one genetic variant. Sequence ana... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5376588 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5376588 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5376587&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00892.x AbstractA study was carried out in order to assess the efficacy of vaccination, using a phase I Coxiella burnetii inactivated vaccine (Coxevac®, CEVA), within three goat herds experiencing Q fever abortions waves. The stratification of the population (n=905) was based on parity and on infection status related to both serological and qPCR vaginal shedding results. Control (n=443) and vaccinated (n=462) groups were established in each farm. Vaccination was administered to does before mating and to kids after active immunity acquisition (at least 3‐4 months old). The vaccine effectiveness was analyzed at subsequent farrowing on both clinical incidence and vaginal shedding at the delivery day. Among the 231 animals considered as susceptible, ie seronegative non‐shedders, about 90% were i... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5376587 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5376587 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5376586&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00893.x This study, carried out in three goats herds, was aimed at describing individual responses to Q fever infection in an abortive context, focusing on both antibody and shedding levels. Seroprevalence of Coxiella burnetii (Cb) infection and vaginal shedding of 1083 goats were investigated using ELISA and real‐time qPCR assays, respectively. At the end of the outbreaks, a seroprevalence of 45.0% was found and vaginal shedding appeared massive with levels above 104Cb/swab in 42.3% of the whole population and above 106Cb/swab for 90.9% of aborted goats. Susceptible animals (ie seronegative non‐shedders) were unfrequent (31.2%), most of them being kids (94.7%). Seronegative females were predominant among non‐shedders and conversely seropositive ones, predominant among high shedders (above 1... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5376586 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5376586 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5376585&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00885.x AbstractDiplorickettsia massiliensis is an obligate intracellular bacterium from the Coxiellaceae family recently isolated from Ixodes ricinus ticks. The inhibitory effects of antimicrobial agents were assessed by two different methods, Immunofluorescence and Gimenez staining assay. Different markers (EEA1, Lamp‐1, capthepsin D and LysoTracker Red DND99) were used to reveal the nature of the vacuole containing the bacterium. Ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin and rifampin had MIC values of 2 μg/ml. We found that 4μg/ml of Doxycycline inhibited the growth of D. massiliensis strain. Surprisingly, D. massilensis was resistant to chloramphenicol up to the concentration of 64μg/ml. We found that Penicillin G, Ammonium chloride, Gentamycin, Omeprazole, Bafilomycin A1 and Chloroquine were not activ... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5376585 Tue, 01 Nov 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5376585 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5465791&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00886.x AbstractEnteroviral infections go usually unnoticed, even during pregnancy, yet some case histories and mouse experiments indicate that these viruses may be transmitted vertically. More frequently, however, transmission occurs by (fecal) contamination during and shortly after birth. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of maternal infection in mice (1) on gravidity outcome and (2) on subsequent challenge of the offspring with the same virus. CD1 outbred female mice were infected by the oral route with coxsackievirus B4 strain E2 or mock‐infected at days 4, 10, or 17 of gestation. Weight and signs of sickness were noted daily. Pups were infected at day 25 after birth (4 days postweaning). Organs (brain, pancreas, and heart) were analyzed for viral RNA and histopathology. W... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5465791 Mon, 31 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5465791 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5437756&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00887.x This study aims to determine the resistance rates and determinants of fusidic acid among Staphylococcus aureus isolates collected from Chinese pediatric patients with skin and soft tissue infections (SSTIs). Between 2008 and 2009, a total of 186 clinical S. aureus isolates were collected from the pediatric patients with SSTIs, abscess (44.6%) was the most common SSTI in children 0–16 years old. Four clinical isolates (4/186, 2.2%) were resistant to fusidic acid. Two of these isolates were methicillin‐resistant S. aureus (MRSA) that carry the fusC gene. The other two isolates were methicillin‐sensitive S. aureus (MSSA) that carry the fusB gene. In the two fusB‐positive clinical isolates, the fusB gene was located in a transposon‐like element that has 99% identity with a pUB101... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5437756 Mon, 31 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5437756 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5437752&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00883.x In conclusion, the high rates of multidrug‐resistance and class I integrons found among S. Enteritidis isolates in humans and poultry in Tehran suggest that efforts are needed to confine the prevalence of MDR Salmonella isolates. (Source: FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology) FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5437752 Mon, 31 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5437752 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5376596&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00883.x In conclusion, the high rates of multidrug‐resistance and class I integrons found among Salmonella Enteritidis isolates in human and poultry population in our area, suggest that efforts are needed to confine the prevalence of multidrug‐resistant Salmonella isolates. (Source: FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology) FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5376596 Mon, 31 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5376596 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5376595&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00887.x This study aims to determine the resistance rates and determinants to fusidic acid among Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) isolates collected from Chinese pediatric patients with skin and soft tissue infections (SSTIs). Between 2008 to 2009, a total of 186 clinical S. aureus isolates were collected from the pediatric patients with SSTIs, abscess (44.6%) was the most common SSTI in children 0 to 16 years old. Four clinical isolates (4/186, 2.2%) were resistant to fusidic acid. Two of these isolates were methicillin‐resistant S. aureus (MRSA) that carry the fusC gene. The other two isolates were methicillin‐sensitive S. aureus (MSSA) that carry the fusB gene. In the two fusB‐positive clinical isolates, the fusB gene was located in a transposon‐like element which has 99% identi... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5376595 Mon, 31 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5376595 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5376594&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00886.x AbstractEnteroviral infections go usually unnoticed, even during pregnancy, yet some case histories and mouse experiments indicate that these viruses may be transmitted vertically. More frequently, however, transmission occurs by (fecal) contamination during and shortly after birth. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of maternal infection in mice (i) on gravidity outcome and (ii) on subsequent challenge of the offspring with the same virus. CD1 outbred female mice were infected by the oral route with Coxsackievirus B4 strain E2 or mock infected at days 4, 10 or 17 of gestation. Weight and signs of sickness were noted daily. Pups were infected at day 25 after birth (4 days post weaning). Organs (brain, pancreas and heart) were analyzed for viral RNA and histopathology. We o... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5376594 Mon, 31 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5376594 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5376593&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00884.x Abstract:The hemagglutination‐inhibition (HI) titers of a panel of twenty‐five mouse monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) against forty‐four isolates of highly pathogenic avian influenza virus H5N1 were determined. A two‐dimensional antigenic dendrogram was constructed by hierarchical clustering of HI titers. Viruses with similar reactivity patterns were clustered horizontally, whereas MAbs were clustered vertically. In this 2‐D dendrogram, with 40% similarity as a cut‐off, four virus clusters and four MAbs clusters were identified. A phylogenetic tree based on the deduced amino acid sequence of the hemagglutinin (HA) gene of tested viruses was constructed and its topology was compared to the antigenic dendrogram. Interestingly, viruses with high genetic homology in the phylogenetic tr... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5376593 Mon, 31 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5376593 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5376592&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00888.x In conclusion, M‐CSF and its receptor are potential therapeutic targets in bacterial infection‐induced osteoclastogenesis, and anti‐c‐Fms antibody might be useful for inhibition of bacterial infection‐induced bone destruction. (Source: FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology) FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5376592 Mon, 31 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5376592 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5356043&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00881.x AbstractRecently we found that superimposition of Enterococcus faecalis (E. faecalis) infection on burn injury caused an eruption of host mortality not seen with either individual challenge. We hypothesized that the Enterococcus bacteria, and/or factors related to these organisms, aggravate burn‐induced modulations in host defense by neutrophils. Our study focuses on alterations in neutrophils’ oxidative, proteolytic, and adhesive functions and trans‐endothelial migration of neutrophils in burn rats inoculated with E. faecalis. Rats were subjected to burn (30% TBSA) and then intra‐abdominally inoculated with E. faecalis (104CFU/kg b.w). Polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMNs) were harvested from circulating/blood and tissue/peritoneal cavity at day‐2 post injury. Extracellular relea... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5356043 Fri, 28 Oct 2011 07:32:51 +0100 5356043 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5437757&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00881.x AbstractRecently we found that superimposition of Enterococcus faecalis infection on burn injury caused an eruption of host mortality not seen with either individual challenge. We hypothesized that the Enterococcus bacteria, and/or factors related to these organisms, aggravate burn‐induced modulations in host defense by neutrophils. Our study focuses on alterations in neutrophils’ oxidative, proteolytic, and adhesive functions and transendothelial migration of neutrophils in burn rats inoculated with E. faecalis. Rats were subjected to burn (30% total body surface area) and then intra‐abdominally inoculated with E. faecalis (104CFU kg−1 b.w). Polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMNs) were harvested from circulating/blood and tissue/peritoneal cavity at day‐2 post injury. Extracellu... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5437757 Thu, 27 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5437757 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5356044&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00882.x SummaryIn cell culture, Rickettsia felis grows only at low temperatures (<31°C). Therefore, its ability to enter, survive and grow in cell lines has primarily been tested in cells derived from amphibians and arthropods, which naturally grow at low temperatures, and only infrequently in mammalian cells. We subcultured R. felis in mammalian cells for more than 10 passages using media supplemented with tryptose phosphate broth (TPB) and found that TPB is critical for the optimal growth of R. felis in mammalian cells. (Source: FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology) FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5356044 Thu, 27 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5356044 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5397559&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00878.x AbstractThe capacity to identify immunogens for vaccine development by genome‐wide screening has been markedly enhanced by the availability of microbial genome sequences coupled to proteomic and bioinformatic analysis. Critical to this approach is in vivo testing in the context of a natural host–pathogen relationship, one that includes genetic diversity in the host as well as among pathogen strains. We aggregate the results of three independent genome‐wide screens using in vivo immunization and protection against Anaplasma marginale as a model for discovery of vaccine antigens for rickettsial pathogens. In silico analysis identified 62 outer membrane proteins (Omp) from the 949 predicted proteins in the A. marginale genome. These 62 Omps were reduced to 10 vaccine candidates by two ... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5397559 Tue, 25 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5397559 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5397558&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00876.x We describe the Q fever epidemic in the Netherlands with emphasis on the epidemiological characteristics of acute Q fever patients and the association with veterinary factors. Data from 3264 notifications for acute Q fever in the period from 2007 through 2009 were analysed. The patients most affected were men, smokers and persons aged 40–60 years. Pneumonia was the most common clinical presentation (62% in 2007 and 2008). Only 3.2% of the patients were working in the agriculture sector and 0.5% in the meat‐processing industry including abattoirs. Dairy goat farms with Coxiella burnetii‐induced abortion waves were mainly located in the same area where human cases occurred. Airborne transmission of contaminated dust particles from commercial dairy goat farms in densely populated areas... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5397558 Tue, 25 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5397558 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5356048&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00876.x We describe the Q fever epidemic in the Netherlands with emphasis on the epidemiological characteristics of acute Q fever patients and the association with veterinary factors. Data from 3,264 notifications for acute Q fever in the period from 2007 through 2009 were analysed. The patients most affected were men, smokers and persons aged 40‐60 years. Pneumonia was the most common clinical presentation (62% in 2007 and 2008). Only 3.2% of the patients were working in the agriculture sector and 0.5% in the meat processing industry including abattoirs. Dairy goat farms with Coxiella burnetii‐induced abortion waves were mainly located in the same area where human cases occurred. Airborne transmission of contaminated dust particles from commercial dairy goat farms in densely populated areas h... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5356048 Tue, 25 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5356048 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5356047&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00877.x This study revealed for the first time the colocalization of P. gingivalis with immune cells. Use of LCM combined with qRT‐PCR enabled quantitative analysis of bacteria in a selected area of a biopsy sample without any tissue degradation. Observation of the immune cells associated with these bacteria was also performed by immunofluorescence. (Source: FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology) FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5356047 Tue, 25 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5356047 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5356046&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00878.x AbstractThe capacity to identify immunogens for vaccine development by genome‐wide screening has been markedly enhanced by the availability of microbial genome sequences coupled to proteomic and bioinformatic analysis. Critical to this approach is in vivo testing in the context of a natural host‐pathogen relationship, one that includes genetic diversity in the host as well as among pathogen strains. We aggregate the results of three independent genome‐wide screens using in vivo immunization and protection against Anaplasma marginale as a model for discovery of vaccine antigens for rickettsial pathogens. In silico analysis identified 62 outer membrane proteins (Omp) from the 949 predicted proteins in the A. marginale genome. These 62 Omps were reduced to 10 vaccine candidates by two�... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5356046 Tue, 25 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5356046 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5356045&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00879.x AbstractThe growth kinetics of pathogenic and nonpathogenic rickettsiae were compared in order to elucidate the mechanism responsible for the pathogenicity of rickettsiae. Vero and HeLa cells derived from mammals were inoculated with a nonpathogenic species of spotted fever group rickettsia, R. montanensis, before being infected with the pathogenic species R. japonica. The mammalian cells became persistently infected with R. montanensis and produced low levels of rickettsiae. On the other hand, superinfection of the R. montanensis‐infected cells with R. japonica resulted in increased yields of R. montanensis accompanied by R. japonica growth. Both rickettsiae also grew well in the R. japonica‐infected cells subjected to superinfection with R. montanensis. Western blotting with an antib... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5356045 Tue, 25 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5356045 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5311604&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00875.x AbstractTo determine the prevalence and distribution of rickettsial pathogens around the world scientist have relied more and more upon molecular techniques in addition to serological and culture methods. The ease of use and sensitivity/specificity of molecular techniques such as quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) assays and multilocus sequence typing (MLST) have lead to an increase in reports of the detection and identification of new and old rickettsiae in previously known and in new endemic regions. These assays have been successfully used with clinical samples such as serum, blood, tissue biopsies and with environmental samples such as arthropod vectors including ticks, fleas, lice and mites, and blood and tissue specimens from small mammal collections, and from ... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5311604 Thu, 13 Oct 2011 16:11:46 +0100 5311604 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5311606&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00873.x SummaryAn emerging theme among vacuole‐adapted bacterial pathogens is the ability to hijack ubiquitin machinery to modulate host cellular processes and secure pathogen survival. Mono‐ and polyubiquitination differentially dictate the subcellular localization, activity, and fate of protein substrates. Monoubiquitination directs membrane traffic from the plasma membrane to the endosome and has been shown to promote autophagy. Anaplasma phagocytophilum is an obligate intracellular bacterium that replicates within a host cell‐derived vacuole that co‐opts membrane traffic and numerous other host cell processes. Here, we show that monoubiquitinated proteins decorate the A. phagocytophilum‐occupied vacuolar membrane (AVM) during infection of promyelocytic HL‐60 cell, endothelial RF/6A... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5311606 Tue, 11 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5311606 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5311605&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00874.x AbstractStaphylococcus aureus is a major bacterial pathogen producing a group of twenty‐one enterotoxins (SEs). These enterotoxins have two separate but related biological activities. They cause gastroenteritis, and they function as superantigens that activate large numbers of T cells. In the current study, we demonstrate that short term ex vivo exposure of primary naïve CD4+ T‐cells to SEA induces differential expression of the T cell surface receptor CD154 in a time and dose dependent manner. In addition, we show that SEA induces higher CD154 protein expression and higher splenocyte cell proliferation compared to SEB. We also demonstrate that expression of CD154 can be used for rapid detection of active SEA in milk. (Source: FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology) FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5311605 Tue, 11 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5311605 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5269802&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00869.x AbstractHemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) is characterized by acute renal failure in children and is typically complicated with thrombocytopenia and hemolytic anemia. Although mouse models of HUS have been evaluated using Shiga toxin (STx) combined with or without lipopolysaccharide (LPS), no HUS model has been tested using purified outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) from STx‐producing Escherichia coli (STEC) O157:H7. Accordingly, we investigated whether OMVs of STEC O157:H7 conveying STx2 and LPS can cause HUS‐like symptoms in mice inoculated intraperitoneally. Three types of OMVs differing in LPS acylation status and STx2 amount were used to compare their ability to induce HUS‐like symptoms. Native OMVs (nOMV) with fully hexa‐acylated LPS caused HUS‐like symptoms at 72–96 h after d... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5269802 Sat, 01 Oct 2011 01:35:54 +0100 5269802 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5282106&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00869.x AbstractHemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) is characterized by acute renal failure in children and is typically complicated with thrombocytopenia and hemolytic anemia. Although mouse models of HUS have been evaluated using Shiga toxin (STx) combined with or without lipopolysaccharide (LPS), no HUS model has been tested using purified outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) from STx‐producing Escherichia coli (STEC) O157:H7. Accordingly, we investigated whether OMVs of STEC O157:H7 conveying STx2 and LPS can cause HUS‐like symptoms in mice inoculated intraperitoneally. Three types of OMVs differing in LPS acylation status and STx2 amount were used to compare their ability to induce HUS‐like symptoms. Native OMVs (nOMV) with fully hexa‐acylated LPS caused HUS‐like symptoms at 72–96 h after ... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5282106 Wed, 28 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5282106 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5311607&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00872.x AbstractWe investigated the correlation between fecal bacteria composition in early infancy and the prevalence of allergic diseases in late infancy. The fecal microbiota in the first 2 months was profiled using the 16S rRNA V6 short‐tag sequences in the community and statistically compared between two groups of subjects who did and did not show allergic symptoms in the first 2 years (n = 11 vs. 11). In the allergic group, genus Bacteroides at 1 month and genera Propionibacterium and Klebsiella at 2 months were more abundant, and genera Acinetobacter and Clostridium at 1 month were less abundant than in the nonallergic group. Allergic infants who showed high colonization of Bacteroides and/or Klebsiella showed less colonization of Clostridium perfringens/butyricum, suggesting antag... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5311607 Tue, 27 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5311607 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5269805&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00871.x AbstractAfter inhalation of infectious particles, Cryptococcus neoformans resides in the alveolar spaces, where it can survive and replicate in the extracellular environment. This yeast has developed different mechanisms to avoid internalization by phagocytic cells, the main one being a polysaccharide capsule around the cell body, which inhibits the uptake of the yeast by macrophages. In addition, capsule‐independent mechanisms have also been described, such as the production of antiphagocytic proteins. Despite these mechanisms, phagocytosis can occur in the presence of opsonins, and once C. neoformans is internalized, multiple outcomes are possible, including pathogen killing or intracellular replication and escape from macrophages. For this reason, C. neoformans is considered a faculta... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5269805 Tue, 27 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5269805 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5269804&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00870.x AbstractEscherichia coli K1 infection is a major cause of neonatal meningitis, with high rates of mortality and disability. Despite years of research, only a small number of factors contributing to E. coli K1 virulence have been identified. The Tat (twin‐arginine translocation) protein export system is found in the cytoplasmic membrane of E. coli and is involved in the transport of folded proteins. In vivo and ex vivo models using the African migratory locust, Locusta migratoria, were employed to explore the role of Tat pathway in E. coli K1 virulence using tat‐deletion mutants. Groups of locusts were infected and mortality recorded at 24h intervals. The findings revealed that ΔtatA, ΔtatAC, and Δtat produced levels of mortality similar to wild type E. coli K1, with >78% mortalit... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5269804 Tue, 27 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5269804 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5269803&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00872.x AbstractWe investigated the correlation between fecal bacteria composition in early infancy and the prevalence of allergic diseases in late infancy. The fecal microbiota in the first 2 months was profiled using the 16S rRNA V6 short tag sequences in the community and statistically compared between 2 groups of subjects who did and did not show allergic symptoms in the first 2 years (n = 11 versus 11). In the allergic group, genus Bacteroides at 1 month and genera Propionibacterium and Klebsiella at 2 months were more abundant, and genera Acinetobacter and Clostridium at 1 month, were less abundant than in the non‐allergic group. Allergic infants who showed high colonization of Bacteroides and/or Klebsiella showed less colonization of Clostridium perfringens/butyricum, suggesting antagonis... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5269803 Tue, 27 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5269803 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5218250&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00868.x AbstractPulmonary epithelial cells produce neutrophil chemotactic activity in response to pathogenic bacterial infections, resulting in neutrophil migration to infection sites. Elicited neutrophils in the inflamed tissues were found to be dependent on bradykinin B1 receptor (B1R), which shows high affinity for the active metabolites derived from bradykinin (BK). Thus, up‐regulation of BK and B1R expression represents an important host defense response against invading microbes such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa. However, the effect of P. aeruginosa on the expression of B1R remains unclear, while P. aeruginosa infection is known to stimulate the production of BK. Here, we report that human B1R transcription is up‐regulated in host cells co‐cultured with P. aeruginosa. Components secreted ... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5218250 Wed, 14 Sep 2011 11:35:29 +0100 5218250 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5294064&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00866.x In this study, we used monophosphoryl lipid A (MPL) as a Toll‐like receptor (TLR4) agonist to induce innate immune responses before challenge with NTHi and M. catarrhalis to enhance bacterial clearance from the nasopharynx. Mice were intranasally administered 40, 10, or 1 μg of MPL and challenged with NTHi and M. catarrhalis 12 and 24 h later. At 6 and 12 h after the bacterial challenge, the mice were killed and nasal washes were collected. The numbers of NTHi, M. catarrhalis, and inflammatory cells were quantitated. Inoculation of MPL produced a significant reduction in the number of bacteria recovered from the nasopharynx at 6 and/or 12 h after the bacterial challenge, when compared with control mice. The effect was dose dependent. MPL inoculation also induced the early accumul... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5294064 Mon, 12 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5294064 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5294063&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00867.x AbstractTraversal of pathogen across the blood–brain barrier (BBB) is an essential step for central nervous system (CNS) invasion. Pathogen traversal can occur paracellularly, transcellularly, and/or in infected phagocytes (Trojan horse mechanism). To trigger the translocation processes, mainly through paracellular and transcellular ways, interactions between protein molecules of pathogen and BBB are inevitable. Simply, it takes two to tango: both host receptors and pathogen ligands. Underlying molecular basis of BBB translocation of various pathogens has been revealed in the last decade, and a plethora of experimental data on protein–protein interactions has been created. This review compiles these data and should give insights into the ligand–receptor interactions that occur during... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5294063 Mon, 12 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5294063 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5218252&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00867.x SummaryTraversal of pathogen across the blood–brain barrier (BBB) is essential step for central nervous system (CNS) invasion. Pathogen traversal can occur paracellularly, transcellularly and/or in infected phagocytes (Trojan horse mechanism). To trigger the translocation processes, mainly through paracellular and transcellular ways, interactions between protein molecules of pathogen and BBB are inevitable. Simply, it takes two to tango: both host receptors and pathogen ligands. Underlying molecular basis of BBB translocation of various pathogens has been revealed in the last decade and a plethora of experimental data on protein:protein interactions has been created. This review compiles these data and should give insights into the ligand:receptor interactions that occur during BBB trans... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5218252 Mon, 12 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5218252 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5218251&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00866.x In this study, we used monophosphoryl lipid A (MPL) as a toll‐like–receptor (TLR4) agonist to induce innate immune responses before challenge with NTHi and M. catarrhalis to enhance bacterial clearance from the nasopharynx.Mice were intranasally administered 40, 10, or 1 μg of MPL and challenged with NTHi and M. ctarrhalis 12 and 24 hours later. At 6 and 12 hours after the bacterial challenge, the mice were killed and nasal washes were collected. The numbers of NTHi, M. catarrhalis, and inflammatory cells were quantitated.Inoculation of MPL produced a significant reduction in the number of bacteria recovered from the nasopharynx at 6 and/or 12 hours after the bacterial challenge, when compared to control mice. The effect was dose‐dependent. MPL inoculation also induced the early acc... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5218251 Mon, 12 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5218251 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5204903&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00865.x AbstractHelicobacter pylori is a common human pathogen, infecting about 30% of children and 60% of adults worldwide, and is responsible for diseases such as gastritis, peptic ulcer, and gastric cancer. Treatment against H. pylori is based on the use of antibiotics, but therapy failure can be higher than 20% and is essentially due to an increase in the prevalence of antibiotic‐resistant bacteria, which has led to the search of alternative therapies. In this review, we discuss alternative therapies for H. pylori, mainly phytotherapy and probiotics. Probiotics are live organisms or produced substances that are orally administrated usually in addition to conventional antibiotic therapy. They may modulate the human microbiota and promote health, prevent antibiotic side effects, stimulate the ... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5204903 Sun, 11 Sep 2011 05:24:48 +0100 5204903 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5204905&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00863.x In conclusion, subgingival biofilms are potent inducers of prostaglandin E2 in gingival fibroblasts, providing further mechanistic insights on the association of subgingival biofilms with bone resoprtion periodontitis. (Source: FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology) FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5204905 Wed, 07 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5204905 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5204904&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00864.x In conclusion, this study has identified C. concisus proteins that are immunoreactive within Crohn's disease patients. (Source: FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology) FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5204904 Wed, 07 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5204904 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5156657&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00858.x ABSTRACTBiofilms are complex microbial communities consisting of microcolonies embedded in a matrix of self‐produced polymer substances. Biofilm cells show much greater resistance to environmental challenges including antimicrobial agents than their free‐living counterparts. The biofilm mode of life is believed to significantly contribute to successful microbial survival in hostile environments. Conventional treatment, disinfection and cleaning strategies do not proficiently deal with biofilm‐related problems such as persistent infections and contamination of food production facilities. In this review, strategies to control biofilms are discussed, including those of inhibition of microbial attachment, interference of biofilm structure development and differentiation, killing of biofi... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5156657 Tue, 23 Aug 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5156657 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5156656&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00859.x AbstractDNA from Cryptococcus neoformans activates bone marrow–derived dendritic cells (BM‐DCs) in a TLR9‐dependent manner. In the present study, we examined the effect of the culture supernatants of C. neoformans on the activation of BM‐DCs caused by its own DNA. C. neoformans supernatants suppressed IL‐12p40, IL‐6 production and CD40 expression by BM‐DCs stimulated with its own DNA, but not with CpG‐ODN and DNA from Candida albicans, Saccharomyces cerevisiae or Escherichia coli. In a confocal microscopic analysis, C. neoformans DNA was colocalized with LAMP‐1, a late endosomal marker, and TLR9. The culture supernatants did not show any apparent suppression of these responses. In a luciferase reporter assay, C. neoformans supernatants inhibited NFκB activation caused by... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5156656 Tue, 23 Aug 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5156656 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5156655&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00861.x AbstractAlthough a whole cell pertussis vaccine was introduced in Pakistan in 1980, little is known about the pertussis prevalence and circulating strains in Pakistan. The aim of this study was to analyze Bordetella parapertussis isolates circulating, between 2005 and 2009 in Pakistan and to compare them with those found in other countries during different periods. A total of 59 (7.35%) B. parapertussis isolates from 802 subjects (median age 3 years) from Pakistan, with pertussis‐like symptoms were investigated. We carried out genotyping and DNA microarray analyses on these isolates and compared them with some international isolates of B. parapertussis. We found that the allele for pertactin (prn) found in strains studied from Pakistan was identical to the predominant type found in Europ... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5156655 Tue, 23 Aug 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5156655 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5204906&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00856.x AbstractEpitheliocystis is an infectious disease affecting gills and skin of various freshwater and marine fishes, associated with high mortality and reduced growth of survivors. CandidatusPiscichlamydia salmonis and Clavochlamydia salmonicola have recently been identified as aetiological agents of epitheliocystis in Atlantic Salmon. In addition, several other members of the Chlamydiales order have been identified in other fish species. To clarify the pathogenicity of Chlamydia‐like organisms towards fishes, we investigated the permissivity of two fish cell lines, EPC‐175 (Fathead Minnow) and RTG‐2 (rainbow trout) to three Chlamydia‐related bacteria: Waddlia chondrophila, Parachlamydia acanthamoebae and Estrella lausannensis. Quantitative PCR and immunofluorescence demonstrated tha... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5204906 Wed, 17 Aug 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5204906 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5138019&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00856.x AbstractEpitheliocystis is an infectious disease affecting gills and skin of various freshwater and marine fishes, associated with high mortality and reduced growth of survivors. Candidatus Piscichlamydia salmonis and Clavochlamydia salmonicola have recently been identified as etiologic agents of epitheliocystis in Atlantic Salmon. In addition, several other members of the Chlamydiales order have been identified in other fish species.To clarify the pathogenicity of Chlamydia‐like organisms towards fishes, we investigated the permissivity of two fish cell lines, EPC175 (Fathead Minnow) and RTG‐2 (Rainbow Trout) to three strict Chlamydia‐related bacteria: Waddlia chondrophila, Parachlamydia acanthamoebae and Estrella lausannensis.Quantitative PCR and immunofluorescence demonstrated tha... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5138019 Tue, 16 Aug 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5138019 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5117875&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00852.x AbstractQ fever is a disease caused by Coxiella burnetii, an obligate intracellular bacterium. Acute Q fever is characterized by efficient immune response whereas chronic Q fever is characterized by dysregulated immune response as demonstrated by the lack of granulomas, the failure of C. burnetii to induce lymphoproliferation and interferon‐γ production. The mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway plays crucial roles in innate immune responses and control of bacterial infections. But its role in Q Fever has not been addressed; First, we investigated the activation of MAPKs p38, JNK and ERK1/2 in murine macrophages stimulated with C. burnetii. C. burnetiiNM phase I (virulent) and NM phase II (avirulent) induced the activation of JNK and ERK1/2. Avirulent C. burnetii a... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5117875 Tue, 09 Aug 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5117875 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5117874&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00854.x We examined the effects of S. epidermidisPIA on the inflammatory response with focus on complement activation. We used a human whole‐blood ex vivo model of infection and compared the effects of a PIA‐positive S. epidermidis strain (SE1457) and its PIA‐negative isogenic mutant (M10). The independent effect of purified PIA on complement activation was investigated. In glucose rich media the mutant formed a proteinacious DNA‐rich biofilm whereas SE1457 formed a thick PIA‐biofilm. In biofilm growth SE1457 induced a stronger activation of the complement system compared to M10. We verified that purified PIA was independently responsible for a strong activation of the complement system. In contrast, M10 induced higher granulocyte activation by expression of CD11b and higher secretion of... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5117874 Tue, 09 Aug 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5117874 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5117873&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00853.x AbstractPhagocytosis and intracellular processing of mycobacteria by macrophages are complex cellular processes that require spatial and temporal coordination of particle uptake, organelle movement, activation of signaling pathways, and channel‐mediated ionic flux. Recent work demonstrated that human macrophage NaV1.5, an intracellular voltage‐gated sodium channel expressed on late endosomes, enhances endosomal acidification and phagocytosis. Here, using Bacillus Camille‐ Guerin as a model of mycobacterial infection, we examined how this channel regulates phagocytosis and phagosome maturation in human macrophages. Knockdown of NaV1.5 reduced high capacity uptake of labeled BCG. BCG‐containing, NaV1.5‐expressing cells demonstrated localization of NaV1.5 and Rab‐7 positive endoso... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5117873 Tue, 09 Aug 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5117873 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5094730&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00849.x (Source: FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology) FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5094730 Wed, 03 Aug 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5094730 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5094728&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00850.x AbstractInfectious laryngotracheitis virus (ILTV) is an alphaherpesvirus that causes severe and economically significant respiratory disease in poultry worldwide. Here, the immunogenicity of two recombinant fowlpox viruses (rFPV‐gB and rFPV‐gB/IL18) containing ILTV glycoprotein B (gB) and chicken interleukin‐18 (IL‐18) were investigated in a challenge model. One‐day‐old specific‐pathogen‐free chickens were vaccinated by wing‐web puncture with the two rFPVs and challenged with the virulent ILTV CG strain. There were differences in antibody levels elicited by either rFPV‐gB/IL18 or rFPV‐gB as determined by ELISA. The ratios of CD4+ to CD8+ in chickens immunized with rFPV‐gB/IL18 were higher (P < 0.05) than in those immunized with rFPV‐gB, and the level of prolife... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5094728 Tue, 02 Aug 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5094728 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5174152&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00862.x This study illustrates the first examination of the role of AatA in aggregation and systemic infection. (Source: FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology) FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5174152 Sun, 31 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5174152 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5156654&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00860.x AbstractQ fever is a disease caused by Coxiella burnetii, an obligate intracellular bacterium. Acute Q fever is spontaneously resolutive and is characterized by an efficient immune response. In contrast, chronic Q fever is characterized by dysregulated immune response, as demonstrated by the failure of C. burnetii to induce lymphoproliferation and the lack of granulomas. Recently, it has been demonstrated that when co‐expressed in heterologous mammalian cell lines, the ligands of Numb proteins X1 and X2 (LNX1 and LNX2) regulate the level of the T cell co‐receptor CD8, which plays an essential role in T cell mediated immune response. We decided to investigate the expression of LNX1 and LNX2 genes in patients with acute or chronic Q fever. Interestingly, we found a high level of LNX1 and... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5156654 Sun, 31 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5156654 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5138018&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00857.x AbstractSepsis is common in liver cirrhosis, and animal studies have shown the gut to be the principal source of infection, through bacterial overgrowth and translocation in the small bowel. Thirty‐three patients were recruited into this study, 10 without cirrhosis and 23 with cirrhotic liver disease. Six distal duodenal biopsies were obtained and snap frozen for RNA and DNA extraction, or frozen for FISH. Peripheral venous bloods were obtained from 30 patients, including 17 chronic liver disease patients. Samples were analysed by real‐time PCR, to assess total bacteria, bifidobacteria, bacteroides, enterobacteria, staphylococci, streptococci, lactobacilli, enterococci, Helicobacter pylori and moraxella, as well as TNF‐α, IL‐8 and IL‐18. There was no evidence of bacterial overgr... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5138018 Sun, 31 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5138018 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5117872&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00855.x In conclusion, curcumin may be an alternative anti‐microbial agent against fatal bacterial infections. (Source: FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology) FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5117872 Sun, 31 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5117872 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5094727&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00851.x AbstractThe important role of interferon‐gamma (IFN‐γ) in protective immunity in mycosis is well established, except for its participation in fungal granulomas. Here, we employ immunohistochemical reactions to describe the in situ localization of IFN‐γ in granulomas of susceptible (B10.A) and resistant (A/J) mice to infection with Paracoccidioides brasiliensis (Pb). After infection with the highly virulent Pb18, IFN‐γ‐positive lymphomononuclear cells were localized mainly at the periphery of granulomas in both mouse strains. The numbers of positive cells found in compact granulomas of A/J mice increased significantly from 15 days to 120 days postinfection. At this time, significantly more positive cells were detected in the compact granulomas of resistant mice than in the loos... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5094727 Sun, 31 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5094727 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5035706&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00848.x AbstractHIV‐1 viral proteins, particularly the env protein, are homologous to 22 AIDS autoantigens, suggesting their creation by antiviral antibodies subsequently targeting human homologues. They include antibodies to T cell receptors, CD4 and CD95, complement components, IgG, TNF and other immune‐related proteins. Autoantibodies may compromise the immune system via knockdown of these key proteins, and autoimmune attack on the immune system itself, as supported by immune activation in early stages of infection and during the transition to AIDS. Over 500 human proteins contain pentapeptides or longer consensi, identical to viral peptides. Such homology explains the extensive viral/human interactome, likely related to the ability of viral homologues to compete with human counterparts as ... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5035706 Sun, 17 Jul 2011 20:18:40 +0100 5035706 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5027239&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00842.x AbstractWe characterized the profiles of virulence genes and antimicrobial susceptibility of Bacillus cereus isolates from blood cultures, as well as the risk factors for blood stream infections (BSIs). The diversity of virulence gene patterns was found to be wide among 15 B. cereus isolates from BSIs and also among 11 isolates from contaminated blood cultures. The MicroScan broth microdilution method yielded results corresponding with those of the agar dilution (reference) method for levofloxacin, linezolid and vancomycin, while the Etest results were consistent with the reference results for clindamycin, gentamicin, imipenem, levofloxacin and linezolid. Compared with the reference values, however, some isolates showed marked differences of the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) for... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5027239 Thu, 14 Jul 2011 23:15:00 +0100 5027239 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5117877&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00848.x AbstractHIV‐1 viral proteins, particularly the env protein, are homologous to 22 AIDS autoantigens, suggesting their creation by antiviral antibodies subsequently targeting human homologues. They include antibodies to T‐cell receptors, CD4 and CD95, complement components, IgG, TNF and other immune‐related proteins. Autoantibodies may compromise the immune system via knockdown of these key proteins, and autoimmune attack on the immune system itself, as supported by immune activation in early stages of infection and during the transition to AIDS. Over 500 human proteins contain pentapeptides or longer consensi, identical to viral peptides. Such homology explains the extensive viral/human interactome, likely related to the ability of viral homologues to compete with human counterparts a... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5117877 Thu, 14 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5117877 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5169213&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00845.x In this study, the potential adjuvant effect of APS on humoral and cellular immune responses to hepatitis B subunit vaccine was investigated. Coadministration of APS with recombinant hepatitis B surface antigen significantly increased antigen‐specific antibody production, T‐cell proliferation and CTL (cytotoxic T lymphocyte) activity. Production of interferon‐γ (IFN‐γ), interleukin‐2 (IL‐2) and IL‐4 in CD4+T cells and of IFN‐γ in CD8+T cells were dramatically increased. Furthermore, expression of the genes PFP, GraB, Fas L and Fas were up‐regulated; interestingly, expression of transforming growth factor β (TGF‐β) and the frequency of CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ regulatory T cells (Treg cells) were down‐regulated. Expression of Toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR4) was significantly... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5169213 Tue, 12 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5169213 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5117878&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00839.x AbstractProteus mirabilis is an opportunistic pathogen that frequently causes complicated urinary tract infections. Among a wide spectrum of potential virulence factors, outer membrane proteins (OMPs) are critical for bacterial interactions and survival in different environments. In this work, we used a proteomic approach to assess P. mirabilis in vivoOMPs expression compared to in vitro, including iron replete and iron‐restricted conditions. Three putative iron receptors, IreA, PMI0842, and PMI2596, were detected both in bacterium grown in vivo and in vitro under iron‐restricted conditions. A prophage gene product, PMI1721, was detected only on in vivo growing bacterium, suggesting a potential role yet to be disclosed on the surface of P. mirabilis. Plasminogen, a host protein, was co... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5117878 Tue, 12 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5117878 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5117876&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00843.x AbstractThe aim of the present study was to develop and validate a multitarget pyrosequencing‐based protocol for basic Chlamydia trachomatis genotyping directly from clinical samples and to characterize the distribution of genotypes among Slovenian sexually active population. The newly developed combination of assays that targets the variable domains VD‐I and VD‐IV of the C. trachomatisompA gene, was optimized and validated with 11 reference C. trachomatis strains and by comparison to complete ompA conventional sequencing. In addition, 183 clinical specimens which were previously diagnosed as C. trachomatis positive were evaluated by pyrosequencing. The pyrosequencing products showed a 100% match to corresponding sections of the respective conventional ompA sequences. Based on our re... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5117876 Tue, 12 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5117876 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5094729&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00840.x In this study, we found that WNV‐infected Vγ4+ cell‐depleted mice had lower viremia and a reduced inflammatory response in the brain. The Vγ4+ cells produced IL‐17 during WNV infection, but blocking IL‐17 signaling did not affect host susceptibility to WNV encephalitis. We also noted that there was an enhanced magnitude of protective splenic Vγ1+ cell expansion in Vγ4+ cell‐depleted mice compared to that in controls during WNV infection. In addition, Vγ4+ cells of WNV‐infected mice had a higher potential for producing TGF‐β. The γδ T cells of WNV‐infected Vγ4+ cell‐depleted mice had a higher proliferation rate than those of WNV‐infected controls upon ex vivo stimulation with anti‐CD3, and this difference was diminished in the presence of TGF‐β inhibitor. F... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5094729 Tue, 12 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5094729 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5027248&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00843.x AbstractThe aim of the present study was to develop and validate a multitarget pyrosequencing based protocol for basic Chlamydia trachomatis genotyping directly from clinical samples and to characterize the distribution of genotypes amongst Slovenian sexually active population. The newly developed combination of assays that targets the variable domains VD I and VDIV of the C. trachomatis ompA gene, was optimized and validated with 11 reference C. trachomatis strains and by comparison to complete ompA conventional sequencing. Additionally, 183 clinical specimens which were previously diagnosed as C. trachomatis positive were evaluated by pyrosequencing. The pyrosequencing products showed a 100% match to corresponding sections of the respective conventional ompA sequences. Based on our resul... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5027248 Tue, 12 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5027248 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5027247&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00844.x This study presents novel data suggesting that high concentrations of pyrrolnitrin and phenazine are cytotoxic to pancreatic β‐cells and thus possibly diabetogenic, whereas at lower concentrations these agents are non‐toxic and may be insulinotropic. The possible role of such agents in the development of cystic fibrosis related diabetes (CFRD) is discussed. (Source: FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology) FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5027247 Tue, 12 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5027247 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5027245&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00845.x In this study, the potential adjuvant effect of APS on humoral and cellular immune responses to the subunit HBV vaccination was investigated. Co‐administration of APS with recombinant hepatitis B surface antigen (rHBsAg) significantly increased the antigen specific antibody production, T cell proliferation and CTL activity. The production of IFN‐γ、IL‐2 and IL‐4 in CD4+T cells and the production of IFN‐γ in CD8+ T cells were dramatically increased. Further, the expression of PFP, GraB, Fas L and Fas were up‐regulated; interestingly, the expression of TGF‐β and the frequency of CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ Treg cells were down‐regulated. The expression of TLR4 was significantly increased by the administration of APS. Together, these results suggest that APS is a potent adjuvant for t... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5027245 Tue, 12 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5027245 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5027244&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00846.x In conclusion, sublethal doses of cell wall‐active antibiotics like vancomycin induce biofilm formation through an autolysis‐dependent mechanism in vancomycin‐non‐susceptible S. aureus. (Source: FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology) FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5027244 Tue, 12 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5027244 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5027243&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00847.x In this study, we employed a two‐tiered molecular study on 7,194 patient faecal samples received by the Microbiology Department in Cork University Hospital during the 2009 calendar year. The first step, using EntericBio® (Serosep, Limerick, Ireland), a multiplex PCR system, detected Campylobacter to the genus level. The second step, utilising Campylobacter species‐specific PCR identified to the species level. A total of 340 samples were confirmed as Campylobacter genus positive, 329 of which were identified to species level with 33 samples containing mixed Campylobacter infections. C. jejuni, present in 72.4% of samples, was the most common species detected, however, 27.4% of patient samples contained non C. jejuni/C. coli spp; C. fetus (2.4%), C. upsaliensis (1.2%), C. hyointestinali... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5027243 Tue, 12 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5027243 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5027242&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00839.x AbstractProteus mirabilis is an opportunistic pathogen that frequently causes complicated urinary tract infections. Among a wide spectrum of potential virulence factors, outer membrane proteins (OMPs) are critical for bacterial interactions and survival in different environments. In this work, we used a proteomic approach to assess P. mirabilis in vivoOMPs expression compared to in vitro, including iron replete and iron restricted conditions. Three putative iron receptors, IreA, PMI0842 and PMI2596, were detected both in bacterium grown in vivo and in vitro under iron‐restricted conditions. A prophage gene product, PMI1721, was detected only on in vivo‐growing bacterium, suggesting a potential role yet to be disclosed on the surface of P. mirabilis. Plasminogen, a host protein, was co�... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5027242 Tue, 12 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5027242 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5027241&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00840.x In this study, we found that WNV‐infected Vγ4+ cell‐depleted mice had lower viremia and a reduced inflammatory response in the brain. Vγ4+ cells produced interleukin (IL)‐17 during WNV infection, but blocking IL‐17 signaling did not affect host susceptibility to WNV encephalitis. We also noted that there was an enhanced magnitude of protective splenic Vγ1+ cell expansion in Vγ4+ cell‐depleted mice compared to that in controls during WNV infection. Additionally, Vγ4+ cells of WNV‐infected mice had a higher potential for producing transforming growth factor (TGF)‐β. γδ T cells of WNV‐infected Vγ4+ cell‐depleted mice had a higher proliferation rate than those of WNV‐infected controls upon ex vivo stimulation with anti‐CD3, and this difference was diminished in t... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5027241 Tue, 12 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5027241 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5027240&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00841.x ABSTRACTBloodstream infections are a significant cause of neonatal morbidity and death. The present work evaluated the ability of human anti‐lipopolysaccharide O6 IgM and IgG antibodies to protect mice challenged with Escherichia coli serotype O6:K2ac. Purified whole IgM‐effluent, purified whole IgG, pools of normal human serum, or phosphate‐buffered saline (control group) were injected into mice 18 h before challenges with viable O6 Escherichia coli. Interleukin 6 and Tumor necrosis factor alpha were quantified in the sera of test and control groups. All mice receiving purified whole IgM‐effluent (66.6 mg/l of anti‐lipopolysaccharide O6 IgM antibodies) and normal human serum survived. Purified whole IgG (1.1 mg/l of anti‐lipopolysaccharide O6 IgG antibodies) protected 87.5% of... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5027240 Tue, 12 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5027240 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5156658&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00838.x AbstractAlthough interferon gamma release assays (IGRAs) have been widely used for the diagnosis of latent and active tuberculosis in adults, a relative lack of validation studies in children has led to caution in their clinical interpretation. This meta‐analysis systematically evaluated two IGRAs (ELISA and ELISPOT) and the tuberculin skin test (TST). We searched databases (PubMed, MEDLINE, Ovid) between January 2000 and January 2011 using search terms of latent tuberculosis infection or tuberculosis and interferon gamma release assay, or T‐SPOT.TB test, or QuantiFERON‐TBGold, or ESAT‐6, or CFP‐10, and child, or childhood, or pediatrics. We also collected data by performing a manual search of references from relevant articles and communicating with selected authors. The meta‐a... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5156658 Sun, 10 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5156658 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5018579&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00838.x ConclusionIn the diagnosis of active TB in children, TST and IGRA tests have similar sensitivity. On the other hand, the specificity of IGRA is far greater than TST, particularly in children with previous BCG vaccination. (Source: FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology) FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5018579 Thu, 30 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5018579 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4975015&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00837.x AbstractTotal 23 strains of bifidobacteria taxonomically belonged to five species were tested for them potent immunomodulatory effect by using a combination of two methods: the NF‐κB‐reporter assay using toll‐like receptor 2‐expressing transfectant (HEKpTLR2 system) and the mitogenic assay using porcine Peyer's patches immunocompetent cells. Among the four pre‐selected strains from different immunomodulatory groups, Bifidobacterium breve MCC‐117 was able to efficiently modulate inflammatory response triggered by enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC) in a porcine intestinal epithelial (PIE) cell line. Moreover, by using PIE cells and swine Peyer's patches immunocompetent cell co‐culture system, we demonstrated that the immunoregulatory effect of B. breve MCC‐117 was relat... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4975015 Tue, 28 Jun 2011 20:16:12 +0100 4975015 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5076860&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00837.x AbstractA total of 23 strains of bifidobacteria taxonomically belonging to five species were tested for their potent immunomodulatory effect using a combination of two methods: the NF‐κB‐reporter assay using a toll‐like receptor 2‐expressing transfectant (HEKpTLR2 system) and the mitogenic assay using porcine Peyer's patches immunocompetent cells. Among the four preselected strains from different immunomodulatory groups, Bifidobacterium breve MCC‐117 was able to efficiently modulate the inflammatory response triggered by enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC) in a porcine intestinal epithelial (PIE) cell line. Moreover, using PIE cells and swine Peyer's patches immunocompetent cell co‐culture system, we demonstrated that the immunoregulatory effect of B. breve MCC‐117 was r... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5076860 Mon, 27 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5076860 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5076861&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00834.x AbstractSalmonella enterica serovar Enteritidis (S. Enteritidis) is a major food‐borne pathogen. From a transposon insertion mutant library created previously using S. Enteritidis 10/02, one of the mutants was identified to have a 50% lethal dose (LD50) at least 100 times that of the parental strain in young chicks, with an attenuation in a poorly studied gene encoding a component of pyruvate dehydrogenase, namely the aceE gene. Evaluation of the in vitro virulence characteristics of the ΔaceE∷kan mutant revealed that it was less able to invade epithelial cells, less resistant to reactive oxygen intermediate, less able to survive within a chicken macrophage cell line and had a retarded growth rate compared with the parental strain. Young chicks vaccinated with 2 × 109 CFU of the Δ... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5076861 Sun, 26 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5076861 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4975018&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00834.x AbstractSalmonella enterica serovar Enteritidis (S. Enteritidis) is a major food‐borne pathogen. From a transposon insertion mutant library created previously using S. Enteritidis 10/02, one of the mutants was identified to have a 50% lethal dose (LD50) at least 100 times that of the parental strain in young chicks, with an attenuation in a poorly studied gene encoding a component of pyruvate dehydrogenase, namely aceE gene. Evaluation of in vitro virulence characteristics of ΔaceE∷kan mutant revealed that it was less able to invade epithelial cells, less resistant to reactive oxygen intermediate (ROI), less able to survive within a chicken macrophage cell line, and had a retarded growth rate compared to parental strain. Young chicks vaccinated with 2×109 CFU of ΔaceE∷kan mutant w... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4975018 Sun, 26 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4975018 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4975017&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00835.x In this study we have used monocyte derived dendritic cells to design a screening model for selection of microorganisms with ability to suppress dendritic cell secreted IL‐12p70, a critical cytokine for induction of T‐helper cell type 1 immune responses in inflammatory conditions. By treatment of dendritic cells with cocktails containing TLR agonists and proinflammatory cytokines, the cells increased secretion of the Th1‐promoting cytokine IL‐12p70. Clinically used probiotics were tested for their IL‐10 and IL‐12p70 stimulating properties in immature dendritic cells, and showed a dose‐dependent change in the IL‐10/IL‐12p70 balance. Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM™ and the probiotic mixture VSL#3 showed a strong induction of IL‐12p70, whereas Lactobacillus salivarius Ls... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4975017 Sun, 26 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4975017 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4975016&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00836.x AbstractThe epidemiological and pathogenic relationship between Bordetella pertussis and Bordetella parapertussis, the two causes of whooping cough (pertussis), is unclear. We hypothesized that B. pertussis, due to its immunosuppressive activities, might enhance B. parapertussis infection when the two species were present in a co‐infection of the respiratory tract. The dynamics of this relationship were examined using the mouse intranasal inoculation model. Infection of the mouse respiratory tract by B. parapertussis was not only enhanced by the presence of B. pertussis, but B. parapertussis significantly outcompeted B. pertussis in this model. Staggered inoculation of the two organisms revealed that the advantage for B. parapertussis is established at an early stage of infection. Co‐a... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4975016 Sun, 26 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4975016 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5048862&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00832.x AbstractClostridium difficile is a pathogen responsible for diarrhoea and colitis, particularly after antibiotic treatment. We evaluated the C. difficile protease Cwp84, found to be associated with the S‐layer proteins, as a vaccine antigen to limit the C. difficile intestinal colonization and therefore the development of the infection in a clindamycin‐treated hamster model. First, we evaluated the immune response and the animal protection against death induced by several immunization routes: rectal, intragastric and subcutaneous. Antibody production was variable according to the immunization routes. In addition, serum Cwp84 antibody titres did not always correlate with animal protection after challenge with a toxigenic C. difficile strain. The best survival rate was observed with the ... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5048862 Thu, 23 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5048862 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4975020&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00832.x AbstractClostridium difficile is a pathogen responsible for diarrhoea and colitis, particularly after antibiotic treatment. We evaluated the C. difficile protease Cwp84, found to be associated with the S‐layer proteins, as a vaccine antigen to limit the C. difficile intestinal colonisation and therefore the development of the infection in a clindamycin‐treated hamster model. First, we evaluated the immune response and the animal death protection induced by several immunisation routes: rectal, intragastric and subcutaneous. Antibody production was variable according to the immunisation routes. In addition, serum Cwp84 antibody titres did not always correlate with animal protection after challenge with a toxigenic C. difficile strain. The best survival rate was observed with the rectal r... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4975020 Thu, 23 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4975020 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4975019&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00833.x AbstractHelicobacter pylori is a major human pathogen associated with gastric diseases such as chronic active gastritis, peptic ulcer, and gastric carcinoma. The growth factor progranulin (PGRN) is a secreted glycoprotein that functions as an important regulator of cell growth, migration, and transformation. We aimed to determine the molecular mechanisms by which H. pylori upregulates the expression of PGRN and the relationship between H. pylori infection and production of PGRN in controlling cell proliferation and migration. Levels of PGRN were examined in gastric tissues from patients and in vitro in gastric epithelial cells. Cell proliferation was measured by colony formation assay. Cell migration was monitored by wound healing migration assay. PGRN protein levels were increased in pati... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4975019 Thu, 23 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4975019 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4932912&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00829.x AbstractWe have investigated the expression of TLR2 and Dectin‐1 in retinal microglia and their involvement in Candida albicans phagocytosis by using a cytometric approach. Expression of both receptors has been demonstrated in CD11b+ retinal cells. Phagocytosis of pHrodo‐labelled C. albicans yeasts by microglial CD11b+ cells of C57BL/6 mice was inhibited both by the Dectin‐1 antagonist laminarin and anti‐Dectin‐1 antibodies, whereas phagocytosis of yeasts by retinal microglia of TLR2 KO mice was unaffected. These data indicate that phagocytosis of C. albicans yeasts by retinal microglia is mediated by Dectin‐1, whereas TLR2 does not play a significant role in this process. (Source: FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology) FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4932912 Thu, 16 Jun 2011 22:45:18 +0100 4932912 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5018580&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00830.x This study reports that several multiresistant HA‐MRSA strains differently expressed genes that may support antibiotic resistance, modify the bacterial surface and influence the pathogenic process. Genes encoding efflux pumps (norA, arsB, emrB) and the macrolide resistance gene ermA were found to be commonly expressed by HA‐MRSA strains, but not in the archetypal MRSA strain COL. At equivalent cell density, the agr system was considerably less activated in all MRSA strains (including COL) in comparison with a prototypic antibiotic‐susceptible strain. These results are in contrast to those observed in recent community‐acquired MRSA isolates and may partly explain how multiresistant HA‐MRSA persist in the hospital setting. (Source: FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology) FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5018580 Thu, 09 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5018580 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4997219&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00831.x AbstractTuberculosis remains an important global public health problem, with an estimated prevalence of 14 million individuals with tuberculosis worldwide in 2007. Because antibiotic treatment is one of the main tools for tuberculosis control, knowledge of Mycobacterium tuberculosis drug resistance is an important component for the disease control strategy. Although several gene mutations in specific loci of the M. tuberculosis genome have been reported as the basis for drug resistance, additional resistance mechanisms are now believed to exist. Efflux is a ubiquitous mechanism responsible for intrinsic and acquired drug resistance in prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. Mycobacterium tuberculosis presents one of the largest numbers of putative drug efflux pumps compared with its genome size.... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4997219 Thu, 09 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4997219 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4920472&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00830.x This study reports that several multi‐resistant HA‐MRSA strains differently expressed genes that may support antibiotic resistance, modify the bacterial surface and influence the pathogenic process. Genes encoding efflux pumps (norA, arsB, emrB) and the macrolide resistance gene ermA were found to be commonly expressed by HA‐MRSA strains, but not in the archetypal MRSA strain COL. At equivalent cell density, the agr system was considerably less activated in all MRSA strains (including COL) in comparison to a prototypic antibiotic‐susceptible strain. These results contrast to that observed in recent community acquired MRSA isolates and may partly explain how multi‐resistant HA‐MRSA persist in the hospital setting. (Source: FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology) FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4920472 Thu, 09 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4920472 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4997217&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00825.x AbstractClostridium botulinum serotype C strains produce a neurotoxin (BoNT) along with nontoxic proteins, including nontoxic nonhemagglutinin and three hemagglutinin subcomponents, HA‐70, HA‐33 and HA‐17, to form a large toxin complex (L‐TC). While L‐TCs produced by serotype C strains usually exhibit hemagglutination (HA) activity via HA‐33 binding to sialic acid on erythrocytes, serotype C strain Yoichi (C‐Yoichi) L‐TC exhibited neither HA nor binding activity towards erythrocytes, probably due to a C‐terminal truncation of the HA‐33 protein. However, here, we demonstrate that C‐Yoichi L‐TC newly showed full HA and binding activity towards neuraminidase‐treated erythrocytes that was completely inhibited in the presence of galactose (Gal) or lactose (Lac). Bindin... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4997217 Wed, 01 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4997217 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4975025&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00824.x In this study, we investigate whether the P2X7 receptor plays a role in increasing susceptibility to tuberculosis in Tunisia. We examined two 1513A/C and −762T/C polymorphisms at the P2X7 receptor in 168 patients with pulmonary TB (pTB), 55 patients with extrapulmonary TB (epTB) and 150 blood donors from Tunisia. Genotyping of 1513A/C and −762T/C polymorphisms was performed in purified genomic DNA using PCR‐restriction fragment length polymorphism and allele‐specific PCR, respectively. The 1513C, CC and AC loss‐of‐function allele and genotypes were overrepresented in the epTB group compared with the control group (45% vs. 17%, P=10−8; 24% vs. 4%, P=3 × 10−7; 42% vs. 27%, P=10−3, respectively). Additionally, they were associated with 3.83‐, 11.86‐ and 3.15‐fold risk... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4975025 Wed, 01 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4975025 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4975024&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00828.x This study provides the first data on the usefulness of HCV RT‐LAMP in the diagnosis of HCV RNA, especially in the early clinical diagnosis of acute HCV infection. (Source: FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology) FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4975024 Wed, 01 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4975024 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4891921&cid=s_33163_77_f&fid=33163&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.1111%252Fj.1574-695X.2011.00825.x AbstractClostridium botulinum serotype C strains produce a neurotoxin (BoNT) along with nontoxic proteins, including non‐toxic non‐hemagglutinin (NTNHA) and three hemagglutinin subcomponents, HA‐70, HA‐33 and HA‐17, to form a large toxin complex (L‐TC). While L‐TCs produced by serotype C strains usually exhibit hemagglutination (HA) activity via HA‐33 binding to sialic acid on erythrocytes, serotype C strain Yoichi (C‐Yoichi) L‐TC exhibited neither HA nor binding activity towards erythrocytes, probably due to a C‐terminal truncation of the HA‐33 protein. However, we demonstrate here that C‐Yoichi L‐TC newly showed full HA and binding activity towards neuraminidase‐treated erythrocytes, which was completely inhibited in the presence of galactose (Gal) or lactos... FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4891921 Wed, 01 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4891921