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Background: Intraoperative laparoscopic ultrasonography (LUS) or intraoperative cholangiography (IOC) can be used for visualisation of the biliary tract during laparoscopic cholecystectomy. The aim of this systematic review was to compare use of LUS with IOC. Methods: PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Library, and Web of Science were searched (last update: April 2024). PICO: P = patients undergoing intraoperative imaging of the biliary tree during laparoscopic cholecystectomy for gallstone disease; I = intervention: LUS; C = comparison: IOC; O = outcomes: mortality, bile duct injury, retained gallstone, conversion to open cholecystectomy, procedural failure, operation time including imaging time. Included articles were critically appraised using checklists. Conclusions were based on studies without major risk of bias. Meta-analyses were performed using random effects models. Certainty of evidence was assessed according to GRADE. Results: Sixteen non-randomised studies met the PICO. Two before/after studies (594 versus 807 patients) contributed to conclusions regarding mortality (no events; very low certainty evidence), bile duct injury (1 versus 0 events; very low certainty evidence), retained gallstone (2 versus 2 events; very low certainty evidence), and conversion to open cholecystectomy (6 versus 21 events; risk ratio: 0.38 (95% confidence interval: 0.15–0.95); I2 = 0%; low certainty evidence). Seven additional studies, using intra-individual comparisons, contributed to conclusions regarding procedural failure; risk ratio: 1.12 (95% confidence interval: 0.70–1.78; I2 = 83%; very low certainty evidence). No studies reported operation time. Mean imaging time for LUS and IOC, reported in 12 studies, was 4.8‒10.2 versus 10.9‒17.9 min (mean difference: − 7.8 min (95% confidence interval: − 9.3 to − 6.3); I2 = 95%; moderate certainty evidence). Conclusion: It is uncertain whether there is any difference in mortality/bile duct injury/retained gallstone using LUS compared with IOC, but LUS may be associated with fewer conversions to open cholecystectomy and is probably associated with shorter imaging time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective:Barrett’s esophagus (BE) is a risk factor for esophageal adenocarcinoma. In addition to its classical endocrine character known for hemodynamic regulation, the renin–angiotensin system (RAS) can be associated with inflammation, wound healing, and cancer. The aim of this study was to explore a potential expression of the RAS in BE, with or without the presence of dysplasia. Material and methods:Biopsy material was prepared for western blotting and immunohistochemistry. Non-BE patients (controls) were compared with BE patients regarding RAS in the squamous epithelium. In the columnar BE mucosa, RAS expression was studied in patients with and without dysplasia. Key components of the ‘classical’ RAS were assessed: the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) and the angiotensin II subtype 1 and 2 receptors (AT1R and AT2R). Results:The presence of RAS factors was confirmed in the esophageal mucosa of both control and BE patients. ACE protein expression was 48% lower (p = 0.001) whereas AT1R was 45% higher (p = 0.039) in the squamous epithelium of BE patients compared to epithelia from non-BE controls. In the metaplastic intestinal-like epithelium, AT1R expression was 37% higher in BE patients with confirmed dysplasia than in patients without dysplasia (p = 0.009). Immunohistochemistry showed an altered distribution of RAS proteins in BE patients with dysplasia. Conclusions:The differential RAS expression observed may prove to be useful as a biomarker or a pharmaceutical target. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Background and aims. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is associated with impaired epithelial barrier function. However, the influence of acid and/or bile acids on human esophageal epithelial barrier function and the tight junction (TJ) proteins has not been fully elucidated. The aim of the study is to investigate the esophageal barrier function and TJ expression in healthy subjects and patients with GERD. The functionality of esophageal mucosa exposed to bile salt deoxycholic acid (DCA) and trypsin has been studied in vitro. Material and methods. Endoscopic biopsies from healthy controls and patients with GERD-related symptom with endoscopic erosive signs, as well as esophageal mucosa taken from patients undergoing esophagectomy were evaluated in Ussing chambers and by western blot and immunohistochemistry. Results. The esophageal epithelium from GERD patients had lower electrical resistance and higher epithelial currents than controls. Claudin-1 and -4 were significantly decreased in GERD patients. The bile salt DCA in the low concentration of 1.5 mM and trypsin increased the resistance and claudin-1 expression, while the higher concentration of 2.5 mM DCA and trypsin decreased the resistance and the claudin-3, -4 and E-cadherin expressions. Conclusion. In addition to acidic reflux, duodenal reflux components, such as bile salts and trypsin, have the potential to disrupt the esophageal barrier function, partly by modulating the TJ proteins. However, the expression of TJ is dependent on both the refluxed material as well as the concentration of the bile salt. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. Components of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) were recently discovered in the esophagus, which could be of interest in relation to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The present study was undertaken to confirm and further investigate the expression of RAS in healthy and refluxed exposed human esophageal mucosae. Methods. Esophageal biopsies were obtained from healthy subjects ( n = 34) and individuals with erosive reflux disease (ERD, n = 28). Evaluation of general morphology and histological signs of reflux as well as investigation of gene transcript, protein expression and localization of various RAS components using RT-PCR, ELISA, western blot and immunohistochemistry were performed. Physiological effects of the AT2R were investigated in Ussing chamber experiments. Results. The study confirmed histological signs of reflux in ERD and expression of ACE, AT1R, AT2R and CatD in all examined specimens. In addition, the main effector peptide AngII, the pro-hormone AGT, the Mas receptor and the angiotensin-forming enzymes renin, CMA, CatG and NEP were present. Individuals with reflux disease had higher transcription activity of ACE and AT1R, increased protein levels of AT2R and lower levels of MasR. AT2R stimulation increased the ion currents in healthy epithelium, whereas epithelium from individuals with reflux disease exhibited no significant response. Conclusions. The study demonstrated that a local RAS is present in the human esophageal epithelium. Some RAS components were significantly altered in individuals diagnosed with ERD suggesting involvement in the pathophysiology of GERD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The temperature-dependent hydrolysis and solubility of chitosan in sulfuric acid solutions offer the possibility for chitosan extraction from zygomycetes mycelia and separation from other cellular ingredients with high purity and high recovery. In this study, Rhizomucor pusillus biomass was initially extracted with 0.5 M NaOH at 120 °C for 20 min, leaving an alkali insoluble material (AIM) rich in chitosan. Then, the AIM was subjected to two steps treatment with 72 mM sulfuric acid at (i) room temperature for 10 min followed by (ii) 120 °C for 45 min. During the first step, phosphate of the AIM was released into the acid solution and separated from the chitosan-rich residue by centrifugation. In the second step, the residual AIM was re-suspended in fresh 72 mM sulfuric acid, heated at 120 °C and hot filtered, whereby chitosan was extracted and separated from the hot alkali and acid insoluble material (HAAIM). The chitosan was recovered from the acid solution by precipitation at lowered temperature and raised pH to 8-10. The treatment resulted in 0.34 g chitosan and 0.16 g HAAIM from each gram AIM. At the start, the AIM contained at least 17% phosphate, whereas after the purification, the corresponding phosphate content of the obtained chitosan was just 1%. The purity of this chitosan was higher than 83%. The AIM subjected directly to the treatment with hot sulfuric acid (at 120 °C for 45 min) resulted in a chitosan with a phosphate impurity of 18.5%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Only few studies have been devoted to the actions of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) in the human gastrointestinal tract. The present study was undertaken to elucidate the expression and action of RAS in the human esophageal mucosa. Mucosal specimens with normal histological appearance were obtained from healthy subjects undergoing endoscopy and from patients undergoing esophagectomy due to neoplasm. Gene and protein expressions of angiotensin II (Ang H) receptor type 1 (AT1) and type 2 (AT2) and angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) were analyzed. In vivo functionality in healthy volunteers was reflected by assessing transmucosal potential difference (PD). Ussing chamber technique was used to analyze the different effects of Ang II on its AT1 and AT2 receptors. Immunoreactivity to AT1 and AT2 was localized to stratum superficiale and spinosum in the epithelium. ACE, AT1, and AT2 were found in blood vessel walls. Transmucosal PD in vivo increased following administration of the AT1 receptor antagonist candesartan. In Ussing preparations mean basal transmural PD was -6.4 mV, epithelial current (Iep) 34 μA/cm², and epithelial resistance (Rep) 321 Ω cm². Serosal exposure to Ang II increased PD as a result of increased Iep, whereas Rep was constant. Ang II given together with the selective AT1-receptor antagonist losartan, or AT2 agonist C21 given alone, resulted in a similar effect. Ang II given in presence of the AT2-receptor antagonist PD123319 did not influence PD, but Iep decreased and Rep increased. In conclusion, Ang II receptors and ACE are expressed in the human esophageal epithelium. The results suggest that AT2-receptor stimulation increases epithelial ion transport, whereas the AT1 receptor inhibits ion transport and increases Rep. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. The role of duodenal reflux in gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) containing bile salts and pancreatic enzymes (with special attention to trypsin) is still under discussion. Proteinase-activated receptors (PARs) are a novel family and PAR-2 is a unique member of this family because it is activated by trypsin. The aim of the present study was to examine the presence and the position of the PAR-2 receptor in human esophageal mucosa in different subgroups of GERD. Material and methods. Distal biopsies taken from healthy controls, patients with erosive reflux disease (ERD), patients with specialized intestinal metaplasia (SIM) and adenocarcinoma were analyzed for the PAR-2 receptor with reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), Western blotting and immunohistochemistry. Results. Gene transcripts for the PAR-2 receptor were found in all groups, with increased levels in SIM patients compared to controls. However, this visual pattern was not seen for the protein expression of the PAR-2 receptor showing no apparent quantitative differences between the groups. Immunohistochemistry revealed distinct staining for the PAR-2 receptor in the luminal part of the esophageal epithelium. Conclusions. The localization of the PAR-2 receptor indicates that the receptor can be cleaved and activated by trypsin in duodenogastric esophageal refluxate. The data thus suggest that the trypsin-PAR-2 pathway may be involved in the pathogenesis of GERD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cell walls of all medically important fungi contain a unique polyglucose compound, β(1–3) glucan. In the present study, murine monoclonal antibodies were produced against linear and β(1–6) branched β(1–3) glucans, and their specificities were characterized for reactivity to other β glucans, fungal cell wall fragments, and fungal cells. Their reactivity was also compared with that of rabbit polyclonal antibodies raised against the same immunogens. Two mouse monoclonal antibodies (AG and BG) recognized immunoreactive epitopes in β(1–3)(1–6) glucan by ELISA. In an inhibition assay of the anti-β(1–3)(1–6) activity of the monoclonals, the homologous antigen effectively inhibited the activity as expected, while β(1–3) also inhibited the assay but to a much lesser extent. No inhibition was obtained by β(1–3)(1–4) or β(1–6), while a cell wall extract of Candida albicans (PPM) effectively inhibited both monoclonals. Cell wall fragments of C. albicans (CaCW) and Cryptococcus neoformans (CnCW) inhibited the anti-β(1–3)(1–6) activity of AG, while BG was much less or not inhibited at all. Immunofluorescence confirmed the unique antibody specificity of AG by its recognition of a β(1–3)(1–6)-associated epitope on the cell surfaces of C. albicans, C. krusei, C. glabrata, and nonencapsulated C. neoformans. The epitope for the AG antibody is suggested to be present in the branching point of β(1–3)(1–6), or in the randomly coiled β(1–3) polyglucan due to the presence of branches. Thus, monoclonal antibodies to β(1–3)(1–6) glucans may have potential as tools in the laboratory diagnosis of invasive yeast infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The dimorphic filamentous fungus Mucor indicus was used as a biofilter and fermenting microorganism in a bioreactor for continuous cultivation of dilute-acid lignocellulosic hydrolyzates up to dilution rate (D) 0.3h−1. The hydrolyzate was so toxic that the fungus could not grow in traditional stirred-tank bioreactors even at D 0.1h−1. On the other hand, the fungus could be manipulated to grow as a mixture of short dispersed filaments and yeast-like cells. This morphology was suitable to create a biological filter, when attached to a specific screen located across the outlet stream. This filter was fully permeable to the liquid, but not the biomass inside the bioreactor. While the biomass concentration in the outflow was between 0.51 and 3.43g/l at dilution rates 0.3–0.1h−1, the biomass concentration inside the bioreactor was held at 8.34–9.91g/l. The cells consumed 95.7%, 94.3%, and 75.3% of hexoses and 64.5%, 25.9%, and 7.6% of xylose present in the hydrolyzate at D 0.1, 0.2, and 0.3h−1, respectively. The ethanol yields at these dilution rates were 0.37, 0.45, and 0.46g/g consumed sugars, respectively. The only important by-products were glycerol and xylitol, which at D 0.2h−1 yielded 0.036 and 0.022g/g consumed sugars, respectively. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

A new method was developed in this work for extraction of chitosan from the zygomycetes cell wall. It is based on the temperature-dependent solubility of chitosan in dilute sulfuric acid. Chitin is soluble in neither cold nor hot dilute sulfuric acid. Similarly chitosan is not soluble at room temperature but is dissolved in 1% H 2SO 4at 121 °C within 20 min. The new method was developed to measure the chitosan content of the biomass and cell wall. The procedures were investigated by measuring phosphate, protein, ash, glucuronic acid, and degree of acetylation. The cell wall derivatives of fungus Rhizomucor pusilluswere then examined by this new method. The results indicated 8% of the biomass as chitosan. After treatment with NaOH, the alkali-insoluble material (AIM) contained 45.3% chitosan. Treatment of AIM with acetic acid resulted in 16.5% acetic-acid-soluble material (AcSM) and 79.0% alkali- and acid-insoluble material (AAIM). AcSM is usually cited as pure chitosan, but the new method shows major impurities by, for example, phosphate. Furthermore, AAIM is usually considered to be the chitosan-free fraction, whereas the new method shows more than 76% of the chitosan present in AIM is found in AAIM. It might indicate the inability of acetic acid to separate chitosan from the cell wall. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. Peroxynitrite formation, as reflected by nitrotyrosine expression, is low in Helicobacter pylori-infected Mongolian gerbils despite pronounced expression of radical-forming enzymes. The aim of the present study was to investigate in vivo whether H. pylori inhibits either one or both of the nitro- and oxyradical formation pathways. Material and methods. Male Mongolian gerbils were infected with two different H. pylori strains, TN2GF4 and SS1. Six months after inoculation, direct measurement of NO and H2O2 was performed in vivo using electrochemical microsensors positioned in close proximity to the gastric mucosa. Results. In the TN2GF4-infected animals the level of NO was significantly lower than that in controls. No significant difference in NO levels was detected between the SS1-infected group and the controls. H2O2 was significantly increased in the SS1 animals compared with that in controls after 6 months. The H2O2 level in the TN2GF4 group did not differ from that in controls. Conclusions. The results indicate that H. pylori infection is associated with strain-dependent functional inhibition of both the NO and oxyradical formation pathways in the gastric mucosa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to evaluate the axial and radial distribution of histological markers including hyperplasia of the basal cell layer, elongation of the papillae and dilatation of the intercellular spaces of the squamous epithelium in patients with nonerosive reflux disease compared to controls and to relate this to the macroscopic topography in erosive reflux disease. Two different study populations were included in this report. Endoscopic esophageal biopsies were taken from 21 healthy control subjects and 21 nonerosive reflux disease patients before and after 4 weeks of esomeprazole therapy. Endoscopic still images from 50 erosive reflux disease patients were reviewed for the radial orientation of LA grade A and/or B esophagitis (Los Angeles criteria for grading of reflux esophagitis). The 3 o’clock position of the squamocolumnar junction showed significantly thicker basal cell layer ( P = 0.011) and more intercellular space dilatation ( P = 0.01) in nonerosive reflux disease patients compared to the 9 o’clock position. Only a significant difference in dilatation of the intercellular spaces ( P = 0.018) between nonerosive reflux disease patients and controls were observed in the 3 o’clock region at the squamocolumnar junction, whereas 1–2 cm orally, all three histological criteria differed significantly ( P ≤ 0.01). After treatment, on the contrary, papillary length was significantly less pronounced at the squamocolumnar junction ( P < 0.01). Endoscopically, erosions were predominantly visualized in the 3 o’clock region ( P < 0.05). Histological mucosal changes in nonerosive reflux disease patients and visible mucosal erosions in erosive reflux disease patients occur most frequently at the same position, namely in the 3 o’clock quadrant in the distal esophagus. The histological difference between nonerosive reflux disease patients and controls are more distinct 1–2 cm oral to rather than at the squamocolumnar junction. However the effect of therapy is most pronounced at the squamocolumnar junction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS: This study tested the diagnostic value of high-resolution endoscopy for the recognition of subtle diagnostic esophageal mucosal changes in nonerosive reflux disease. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Ten control subjects and eleven patients with nonerosive reflux disease confirmed by a validated questionnaire, standard endoscopy, and 24-hour pH-metry participated in the study. Still images were collected by high-resolution endoscopes from the distal esophagus in a standardized manner, incorporating iodine staining. Assessments were repeated in the patients with reflux disease after 4 weeks of esomeprazole therapy. Interobserver variability in the recognition of the proposed criteria was initially evaluated by 27 endoscopists using an Internet-based process. After optimisation of image quality the evaluation was repeated face-to-face with six expert endoscopists. RESULTS: No criterion was identified in either assessment that was sufficiently sensitive and specific to patients with reflux disease to be clinically useful. The kappa value, used to assess interobserver variation, was acceptably high only for invisibility of palisade vessels (0.59). Triangular indentations, apical mucosal breaks, and pinpoint blood vessels at the squamocolumnar junction were identified more frequently in the patients with reflux disease ( P < 0.05). These changes and the invisibility of the palisade vessels were significantly less prevalent in reflux patients after therapy ( P < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: Though some distal esophageal mucosal appearances observed with the high-resolution endoscope appeared to be related to nonerosive esophageal mucosal injury, none of these changes proved to be sufficiently sensitive and specific to justify their use as a diagnostic criterion for nonerosive reflux disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Helicobacter pyloriinfection is one of the most common gastrointestinal infections worldwide. Although the majority of the infected individuals remain asymptomatic carriers of the bacteria, approximately 15% develop peptic ulcers, which are most prevalent in the duodenum.H. pyloriinduce a vigorous immune response which, however, fails to clear the infection. Instead, the chronic inflammation that arises in the infected gastroduodenal mucosa may be involved in the development ofH. pylori-associated peptic ulcers. We have previously shown that duodenal ulcer (DU) patients have a significantly lower epithelial cytokine, e.g. IL-8, response in the duodenum than asymptomatic (AS) carriers. In this study we have further investigated the mechanisms behind this finding, i.e. whether it can be explained by bacterial factors, down-regulation of epithelial cytokine production by regulatory T cells, or an impaired ability of the duodenal epithelium in DU patients to produce cytokines. Gastric AGS, and intestinal T84 epithelial cell lines were stimulated withH. pyloristrains isolated from DU patients and AS carriers, respectively. All strains were found to induce comparable cytokine and cytokine receptor expression in epithelial cells. Regulatory T cells (CD4+ CD25high), isolated from human peripheral blood and cocultured withH. pyloristimulated AGS cells, were found to slightly suppressH. pylori-induced epithelial cytokine production. Furthermore, primary cultures of duodenal epithelial cells from DU patients were found to produce markedly lower amounts of cytokines than epithelial cells isolated from AS carriers. These results suggest that the lower epithelial cytokine responses in the duodenum of DU patients, which may be of importance for the pathogenesis ofH. pylori-induced duodenal ulcers, most likely can be explained by host factors, i.e. mainly a decreased ability of the duodenal epithelium to produce cytokines, but possibly partly also down-regulation by regulatory T cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In searching for ethanol producing microorganisms also capable of fermenting pentoses, nine zygomycetes strains including three strains of Rhizopus oryzae, Mucor corticolous, M. hiemalis, M. indicus, Rhizomucor pusillus, R. miehei, and zygomycete IT were examined. Each strain was cultivated on glucose, xylose or dilute-acid hydrolyzate (DAH) as carbon sources, and the production of ethanol, lactic acid, glycerol, xylitol, and succinic acid were investigated. Great similarities but also conspicuous differences were seen between the species, to some extent linked to the genera. All strains were capable of growing on glucose or xylose as single carbon source. With the exception of the two Rhizomucor strains, all produced ethanol. All the strains produced glycerol as by-product, while Rhizopus and Rhizomucor but not Mucor produced lactic acid in significant amounts. All Mucor and Rhizopus strains and one strain of Rhizomucor produced xylitol in the xylose medium, but no xylitol was detected after growth on DAH. All Mucor and two R. oryzae strains were capable of growing on DAH. Two Mucor species, M. hiemalis and M. indicus showed greater ethanol production than the other strains. The ethanol yields by M. hiemalis on glucose, xylose, and DAH were 0.39, 0.18, and 0.44g/g, respectively, whereas the corresponding results for M. indicus were 0.39, 0.22, and 0.44g/g. The strains also rapidly consumed hydroxymethyl furfural present in DAH. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Helicobacter pylori infection results in an active, chronic inflammation of the gastric mucosa. Previous studies have highlighted the importance of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) in diseases involving mucosal inflammation, prompting us to investigate MMP activity in H. pylori-induced gastritis. Gastric biopsies were obtained from H. pylori-infected and uninfected volunteers, and MMP activity was assessed using substrate gel electrophoresis. MMP production was also evaluated by immunohistochemistry and real time-polymerase chain reaction. In parallel, tissue inhibitors of MMPs (TIMP) levels and TIMP–MMP complexes were examined in corresponding tissues using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays and Western blotting. Finally, MMP production by gastric macrophages was determined after stimulation with H. pylori. Antral mucosa of H. pylori-infected subjects demonstrated a 19-fold higher MMP-9 activity than that of uninfected individuals. MMP-2 was present at lower levels, but was also increased in H. pylori-infected individuals, while there was no difference in the total levels of TIMP-1 and TIMP-2 between the groups of volunteers. Significant numbers of MMP-9-containing cells were only found in the H. pylori-infected antral mucosa. Tissue-resident macrophages were significantly increased in H. pylori-infected individuals, and double-staining showed MMP-9 colocalized to macrophages. Furthermore, gastric macrophages secreted MMP-9 in response to H. pylori bacteria. A corresponding 10-fold increase of gene expression of MMP-9 was seen in patients infected with H. pylori compared to uninfected individuals. Helicobacter pylori infection results in a substantial increase in MMP-9 and MMP-2 activity in the gastric mucosa, probably contributed to in large part by tissue-resident macrophages, while no changes were seen in the TIMP levels. The net increase in gastric MMP activity is likely to contribute to tissue damage during H. pylori-associated gastritis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Serological tests for diagnosis of disseminated fungal infections in the immunocompromised host are used with varying results. In the present study, the relative ability of antibodies to specifically recognize Candida albicans cell wall components was evaluated in order to find antigenic markers for serological diagnosis of candidemia. Native C. albicans cell wall fragments (CW), periodate- (CW IO4 ) and proteinase- K- (CWP) treated CW, a mildly extracted phosphopeptidomannan (PPM), and b(1- 3)(1-6)-glucan were used as antigens in ELISA with sera from rabbits immunized with C. albicans (n=10), patients with culture proven candidemia (n=8) and healthy individuals (n=8). The antibody response in rabbits consisted predominantly of anti-PPM antibodies, a finding that was substantiated by inhibition-ELISA. Consistently, periodate treatment (CW IO4 ) destroyed a major proportion of the antigenic epitopes. Low rabbit antibody levels were found against glucan, the major Candida cell wall component. These results supported the conclusion that glucan is localized mainly in the inner part of the C. albicans cell wall. In contrast to rabbits' serum IgG antibody response against PPM, which was at least tenfold higher than that raised against CW, patients with candidemia had similar IgG antibody levels against both antigens. These levels were significantly higher than those seen in healthy controls (CW, P=0.0005 and PPM, P<0.0001). Although the human anti-glucan and anti- CW IO4 IgG antibody levels were low overall, they were nonetheless significantly increased in the patient group (P=0.0159 for antiglucan and P=0.0491 for anti- CW IO4 ). In addition, a correlation was noticed between levels of these antibodies. No significant differences were found between patients and controls for IgM antibodies when CW, CW IO4 , PPM and Glu were used as antigens. In conclusion, IgG antibodies to PPM and native cell wall fragments (CW) were highly discriminatory for recognition of candidemia and these antigens are thus promising candidates for use in serodiagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Inducible NO synthase expression is upregulated in H. pylori-infected gastric mucosa, suggesting increased NO synthesis as part of a host defense reaction. This study investigates actual NO production in the human antrum in situ. Methods: Gastroscopy with antral biopsy sampling and intragastric tonometric NO assessments were performed on H. pylori-positive and-negative volunteers. The antral mucosal specimens were analyzed with regard to inducible NO synthase (Western blotting) and the presence of the endogenous NO synthase inhibitor asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) as well as L-arginine. Results: Mucosal expression of inducible NO synthase was markedly increased in H. pylori infected subjects compared to noninfected ones. The ratio between the tissue contents of Larginine and asymmetric dimethylarginine was considerably lower in the infected group. Antral output of NO was similar in the two groups during baseline conditions. Following intragastric L-arginine exposure, the antral NO production in controls was unaltered (from 442 ppb ± 104 to 286 ppb ± 94), whereas it increased (from 524 ppb ± 162 to 1066 ppb ± 274) in the infected individuals. Conclusions: The study confirms that NO synthase expression is increased in H. pylori-infected antral mucosa. However, NO synthesis is restricted owing to the presence of pathogen-induced competitive NO synthase inhibitors such as methylated arginines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In selected experiments, IgA antibodies with specificity for dinitrophenyl (DNP) groups appeared to prevent gastrointestinal passage of antigenic fragments of DNP-conjugated protein given orally to mice. The antigen did not, however, pass across the gut as an intact macromolecule even in control animals. IgA was not found to increase the blood clearance of DNP-conjugated protein given intravenously and it is concluded that IgA probably does not have any important role in mediating elimination of macromolecular antigens from the blood. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A test is described which is capable of differentiating and measuring by titration the individual classes of antibody reacting with a bacterial suspension. The serum or fluid under test is incubated with the bacteria which are then very well washed and added to indicator red cells linked with specific antiglobulin reagents. Sensitization of the bacteria by a particular class of antibody is shown by hemagglutination (passive) of the appropriate red cells. Agglutination of the bacteria themselves does not preclude an analysis. The reaction, which has been developed on a brucella system, has been designated Mixed Reverse Passive Antiglobulin Hemagglutination (or MRPAH for short). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Presents information on the retardation of the hydrolysis of the soft amphiphilic antimicrobial agent tetradecyl betainate, after its binding to and killing Salmonella typhimurium. Significance of the rate of the hydrolysis; Resuspension of the pelleted bacteria; How bacteria was exposed.

A thermophilic bacteriophage was isolated from soil. Heat inactivation of this phage, suspended in tryptone starch broth at 65°C and 70°C, was found to be a monomolecular reaction. The phage was more heat stable in tryptone broth than in tris buffer. When the tris buffer was supplemented with calcium or magnesium ions, the survival percentage increased from 0.0 to 18.0 after two hours of heating at 65°C. The addition of sodium or potassium ions to the tris buffer had no significant effect. Equimolar solutions of calcium and magnesium chloride had the same effect on the heat stability of the phage. Maximum stability was attained in 2.5 mM solutions of these salts, and a further increase in the concentration up to 10.0 mM did not increase the percentage of surviving phages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) is present in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract but remains to be fully characterized, particularly in man. The duodenum plays a role in both the upper and lower GI regulation, as well as in distant organs. The present study investigates the presence and functional potential of RAS in the human duodenal mucosa of healthy individuals. Endoscopically acquired mucosal biopsies from healthy volunteers were examined using western blot, immunohistochemistry, and ELISA. Functionality was examined by using Ussing chambers and recording duodenal transmucosal potential difference (PD) and motility in vivo. Angiotensinogen, Angiotensin II (AngII) and its receptors (AT1R, AT2R) as well as to the RAS associated enzymes renin, ACE, and neprylisin were detected in all samples of duodenal mucosa. Migrating motility complex induced elevations of transmucosal PD were significantly larger after per-oral administration of the AT1R receptor antagonist candesartan. Fasting duodenal motility per se was not influenced by candesartan. The epithelial current produced by duodenal mucosae mounted in Ussing chambers increased significantly after addition of AngII to specimens where the AT1R was blocked using losartan. The epithelial current also increased after addition of the AT2R-selective agonist C21. Immunostaining and pharmacological data demonstrate the presence of a local RAS in the human duodenal mucosa with capacity to influence epithelial ion transport by way of particulary the AT2R. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and aim:Patients with dysplasia in Barrett’s esophagus (BE) have a considerable risk of developing esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC). The mucosal expression of the pro-inflammatory angiotensin II receptor type 1 (AT1R) is elevated in these patients, suggesting a role in carcinogenesis. The purpose of this study was to determine whether interference with the renin–angiotensin system (RAS) would influence downstream markers of carcinogenesis. Methods:Endoscopic mucosal biopsies from BE patients with low-grade dysplasia (LGD) were sampled before and after a three-week period of RAS-interfering treatment. Thirty patients were randomly allocated to enalapril (ACE inhibitor, 5 mg od), candesartan (AT1R antagonist, 8 mg od), or no drug. The expression of 12 proteins known to be associated with RAS and carcinogenesis was assessed using western blot. Results:We found altered expression of several proteins after enalapril treatment (decreased: NFκB,p = .043; NLRP3,p = .050; AMACR,p = .017; and caspase 3,p = .025; increased: p53,p = .050). Candesartan treatment was associated with increased iNOS expression (p = .033). No significant changes were seen in the no-drug group. Conclusion:Interference with angiotensin II formation was associated with altered expression of inflammation- and carcinogenesis-related proteins. The present results speak in favor of involvement of angiotensin II in BE dysplasia, but the role of AT1R should be investigated further. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Abstract: Fungi of the phylum Zygomycetes fulfil all requirements for being utilized as core catalysts in biorefineries, and would be useful in creating new sustainable products. Apart from the extended use of Zygomycetes in preparing fermented foods, industrial metabolites such as lactic acid, fumaric acid, and ethanol are produced from a vast array of feedstocks with the aid of Zygomycetes. These fungi produce enzymes that facilitate their assimilation of various complex substrates, e.g., starch, cellulose, phytic acid, and proteins, which is relevant from an industrial point of view. The enzymes produced are capable of catalyzing various reactions involved in biodiesel production, preparation of corticosteroid drugs, etc. Biomass produced with the aid of Zygomycetes consists of proteins with superior amino acid composition, but also lipids and chitosan. The biomass is presently being tested for animal feed purposes, such as fish feed, as well as for lipid extraction and chitosan production. Complete or partial employment of Zygomycetes in biorefining procedures is consequently attractive, and is expected to be implemented within a near future. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The dimorphic fungus Mucor indicus was grown in different forms classified as purely filamentous, mostly filamentous, mostly yeast-like and purely yeast-like, and the relationship between morphology and metabolite production, inhibitor tolerance and the cell wall composition was investigated. Low concentrations of spores in the inoculum with subsequent aeration promoted filamentous growth, whereas higher spore concentrations and anaerobic conditions promoted yeast-like growth. Ethanol was the main metabolite with glycerol next under all conditions tested. The yields of ethanol from glucose were between 0.39 and 0.42gg−1 with productivities of 3.2–5.0gl−1 h−1. The ethanol productivity of mostly filamentous cells was increased from 3.9 to 5.0gl−1 h−1 by the presence of oxygen, whereas aeration of purely yeast-like cells showed no such effect. All growth forms were able to tolerate 4.6gl−1 furfural and 10gl−1 acetic acid and assimilate the sugars, although with different consumption rates. The cell wall content of the fungus measured as alkali insoluble materials (AIM) of the purely yeast-like cells was 26% of the biomass, compared to 8% of the pure filaments. However, the chitosan concentration of the filaments was 29% of the AIM, compared to 6% of the yeast-like cells. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Consumption of hexoses and pentoses and production of ethanol by Mucor indicus were investigated in both synthetic media and dilute-acid hydrolyzates. The fungus was able to grow in a poor medium containing only carbon, nitrogen, phosphate, potassium, and magnesium sources. However, the cultivation took more than a week and the ethanol yield was only 0.2 gg−1. Enrichment of the medium by addition of trace metals, particularly zinc and yeast extract, improved the growth rate and yield, such that the cultivation was completed in less than 24 h and the ethanol and biomass yields were increased to 0.40 and 0.20 gg−1, respectively. The fungus was able to assimilate glucose, galactose, mannose, and xylose, and produced ethanol with yields of 0.40, 0.34, 0.39, and 0.18 gg−1, respectively. However, arabinose was poorly consumed and no formation of ethanol was detected. Glycerol was the major by-product in the cultivation on the hexoses, while formation of glycerol and xylitol were detected in the cultivation of the fungus on xylose. The fungus was able to take up the sugars present in dilute-acid hydrolyzate as well as the inhibitors, acetic acid, furfural, and hydroxymethyl furfural. M. indicus was able to grow under anaerobic conditions when glucose was the sole carbon source, but not on xylose or the hydrolyzate. The yield of ethanol in anaerobic cultivation on glucose was 0.46 g g−1. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Determination of optimal routes to induce mucosal immune responses locally in the stomach and duodenum are important steps in the development of vaccines against Helicobacter pylori infection. In this study, we immunized H. pylori-infected individuals either nasally or rectally with a model antigen, i.e. cholera toxin B subunit, and compared the immune responses after these routes with the responses after oral or intrajejunal vaccination. Specific antibody levels in serum as well as specific antibody levels and antibody-secreting cells in biopsies from antrum and duodenum were determined by ELISA and ELISPOT methods. In contrast to oral vaccination, nasal and rectal vaccination did not induce significant increases in specific antibody-secreting cells either in the antrum or duodenum. Furthermore, when analyzing the antibody levels in saponin extracted biopsies, intrajejunal vaccination was superior to both nasal and rectal vaccination in inducing antigen-specific IgA levels in the stomach. We conclude that oral vaccination is the optimal route for induction of antigen-specific IgA antibody responses in the stomach and duodenum of humans, while nasal or rectal vaccination is less suitable for this purpose. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Helicobacter pylori colonize the human stomach and duodenum. The infection has been shown to induce a strong T-cell response in the stomach, whereas the response within the duodenum has been poorly characterized. Furthermore, it remains to be elucidated whether the T-cell response may contribute to ulcer formation in the host. In this study, the frequency of different T-cell subsets, their degree of activation and expression of co-stimulatory receptors in biopsies from the duodenum as well as the antrum were studied by immunohistochemistry and flow cytometry. It was also evaluated whether there are differences in the T-cell responses between duodenal ulcer patients and asymptomatic carriers that might explain why only 10–15% of the infected subjects develop duodenal ulcers. The frequencies of CD4+, CD8+ and CD45RO+, i.e. memory T-cells, were significantly increased in the antrum, and the number of CD25+ cells was considerably higher in both the antrum and duodenum of duodenal ulcer patients and asymptomatic carriers as compared to uninfected individuals. Interestingly, the levels of immunosuppressive CTLA-4+ cells were significantly higher in the duodenum of duodenal ulcer patients, as compared to the asymptomatic carriers. H. pylori cause activation of T-cells in the duodenum as well as in the stomach. Our observation of higher levels of CTLA-4+ cells in the duodenum of duodenal ulcer patients than in the asymptomatic carriers suggests that a suppressive T-cell response may be related to the development of duodenal ulcers. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background Clinical data suggest gender differences in gastrointestinal pain, but very little experimental data exist. Esophageal painful thresholds to mechanical, thermal, electric, and chemical stimuli can be measured with the esophageal multimodal pain model. The aim was to measure the effect of gender and mild esophagitis on esophageal pain perception. Methods Thirty-five healthy asymptomatic volunteers [19 men, median age 29 (22-56 years)] underwent upper GI endoscopy, 24 h pH/impedance measurement, and multimodal esophageal pain stimulation before and after sensitization with acid. Stimulus intensities at painful thresholds were recorded. Key Results Men had higher pain thresholds ( PT) to mechanical stimulation (mean volume: men 20.9 ± 10 mL vs women 15.2 ± 6.8 mL, P = 0.02) and more men tolerated the maximum acid challenge (58% vs 20%, P = 0.03). There were no differences between genders for PT to 1 thermal stimulation [mean stimulation time (men, women): heat; 20 ± 5 s vs 21 ± 6 s or cold; 33.3 ± 20.1 s vs 20.7 ± 21.4 s, P > 0.2], 2 electrical current (mean current: men 17.6 ± 9.2 mA vs women 12.9 ± 3.7 mA, P = 0.11), or 3 acid volume [median volume: men 200 (20;200) mL vs women 133 (40;200) mL, P = 0.2]. Fifteen asymptomatic subjects had mild esophagitis (10 men, all Los Angeles A). There were no differences in esophageal PT between subjects with normal endoscopy or mild esophagitis (all P > 0.3). Conclusions & Inferences The effects of gender and mild esophagitis on esophageal multimodal pain perception have been measured in asymptomatic volunteers. The study suggests that gender, not mild esophagitis, tends to influence mechanical and chemical esophageal pain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The capability of two zygomycetes strains, Mucor indicus and an isolate from tempeh (Rhizopus sp.), to grow on orange peel hydrolysate and their tolerance to its antimicrobial activity, was investigated. Both fungi, in particular M. indicus, tolerated up to 2% d-limonene in semi-synthetic media during cultivation in shake flasks, under aerobic as well as anaerobic conditions. The tolerance of M. indicus was also tested in a bioreactor, giving rise to varying results in the presence of 2% limonene. Furthermore, both strains were capable of consuming galacturonic acid, the main monomer of pectin, under aerobic conditions when no other carbon source was present. The orange peel hydrolysate was based on 12% (dry w/v) orange peels, containing d-limonene at a concentration of 0.6% (v/v), which no other microorganism has been reported to be able to ferment. However, the hydrolysate was utilised by M. indicus under aerobic conditions, resulting in production of 410 and 400mgethanol/g hexoses and 57 and 75mgfungal biomass/g sugars from cultivations in shake flasks and a bioreactor, respectively. Rhizopus sp., however, was slow to germinate aerobically, and neither of the zygomycetes was able to consistently germinate in orange peel hydrolysate, under anaerobic conditions. The zygomycetes strains used in the present study demonstrated a relatively high resistance to the antimicrobial compounds present in orange peel hydrolysate, and they were capable of producing ethanol and biomass in the presence of limonene, particularly when cultivated with air supply. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Spent sulphite liquor, the major byproduct from the sulphite pulp production process, was diluted to 50% and used for production of an edible zygomycete Rhizopus sp. The focus was on production, yield, and composition of the fungal biomass composition. The fungus grew well at 20 to 40°C, but 32°C was found to be preferable compared to 20 and 40°C in terms of biomass production and yield (maximum of 0.16 g/g sugars), protein content (0.50-0.60 g/g), alkali-insoluble material (AIM) (ca 0.15 g/g), and glucosamine content (up to 0.30 g/g of AIM). During cultivation in a pilot airlift bioreactor, the yield increased as aeration was raised from 0.15 to 1.0 vvm, indicating a high demand for oxygen. After cultivation at 1.0 vvm for 84 h, high yield and production of biomass (up to 0.34 g/g sugars), protein (0.30-0.50 g/g), lipids (0.02-0.07 g/g), AIM (0.16-0.28 g/g), and glucosamine (0.22-0.32 g/g AIM) were obtained. The fungal biomass produced from spent sulphite liquor is presently being tested as a replacement for fishmeal in feed for fish aquaculture and seems to be a potential source of nutrients and for production of glucosamine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The metabolite profiles from muscles and livers of Atlantic salmon were investigated using high resolution nuclear magnetic resonance (HR-NMR) spectroscopy of aqueous extracts and magic angle spinning (MAS) NMR spectroscopy of intact tissues. Comparison of the data showed that most small metabolites present in the aqueous extracts were also identified in the Carr–Purcell–Meiboom–Gill (CPMG) MAS NMR spectra of the intact tissues. Not only the total omega-3 fatty acid content, but also the EPA and DHA content, in the muscle and liver tissues could be calculated directly from the diffusion-edited MAS NMR spectra without the need for lipophilic extraction. The effect of replacing a normal fish meal during a period of 3months with a diet containing 20% zygomycete was also investigated by multivariate analysis of the NMR spectra. Principal component analysis (PCA) was used to study the small metabolites distribution in the aqueous extracts of liver and muscles, and revealed that the feed containing zygomycete could have an influence on the metabolites profiles of juvenile Atlantic salmon. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: The role of the renin-angiotensin system in gastric physiology and disease has as yet been sparsely explored. The first aim of the study was to investigate the baseline presence and location of angiotensin II receptors (AT1R and AT2R) in the stomach of the Mongolian gerbil. A second aim was to elucidate whether the presence of H. pylori infection is associated with changes in the expression of these receptors. Methods: H. pylori-negative and H. pylori-infected (strain SS1 or TN2GF4) male Mongolian gerbils were investigated. The stomachs were examined at six or 12 months after inoculation by the use of immunohistochemistry, western blot and microscopic morphometry. Results: AT1R and AT2R were located in a variety of cells in the gerbil gastric wall, including a subpopulation of endocrine cells in the antral mucosa and inflammatory cells infiltrating H. pylori-infected stomachs. Gerbils infected with the SS1 strain showed a significantly increased antral AT1R protein expression and an increased number of infiltrating polymorphonuclear leucocytes (PMNs) at 12 months. The AT1R protein expression correlated with the number of PMNs and the antral expression of myeloperoxidase. Conclusions: Angiotensin II receptors are present in a variety of cells in the gastric wall of the Mongolian gerbil. The results indicate an influence dependent on the H. pylori strain on the gastric AT1R expression and a relationship between gastric AT1R expression and mucosal PMNs infiltration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: We have previously demonstrated that Helicobacter pylori infection is associated with an increased number of CD4+CD25high regulatory T cells in the gastric and duodenal mucosa. In this study, we determined the number and localization of CD4+ cells expressing the regulatory T-cell-specific transcription factor FOXP3 in the antrum and duodenum of duodenal ulcer patients, asymptomatic carriers, and uninfected individuals. We also determined gene expression levels of FOXP3 as well as anti- and proinflammatory cytokines before and after H. pylori eradication. Methods: Cellular FOXP3 expression was studied by immunofluorescence and flow cytometry, and transcription levels of FOXP3, interleukin (IL)-10, transforming growth factor-β, CD4, and interferon-γ were analyzed by real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. Results: We found an increased (6-fold) frequency of CD4+FOXP3+ T cells in H. pylori-infected gastric mucosa; interestingly 26% of these cells did not co-express CD25. The increase of FOXP3-expressing T cells in the antrum of infected individuals was dependent on the presence of H. pylori, since eradication therapy resulted in 4-fold lower levels of FOXP3 and IL-10 mRNA in the antrum. Furthermore, higher numbers of CD4+FOXP3+ T cells were found in areas of duodenal gastric metaplasia in the duodenum of duodenal ulcer patients compared to duodenal gastric metaplasia of asymptomatic individuals and healthy mucosa in both patient groups. In duodenal ulcer patients, the CD4+FOXP3+ T cells were more highly associated to aggregates in the duodenal mucosa. Conclusion: The numbers of CD4+FOXP3+ T cells are increased and localized in CD4+ T-cell aggregates in areas of duodenal gastric metaplasia in duodenal ulcer patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Temporary electrodes implanted under general anaesthesia, or via an oral or percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy route have been used for testing of gastric electrical stimulation (GES). We have developed a principle for percutaneous electrode implantation. Leads were constructed so that the tip could be anchored to the gastric submucosa under gastroscopic control. Acute experiments were performed in anaesthetized pigs. Three patients referred for nausea and/or vomiting and non-established indications for GES (chronic intestinal pseudo-obstruction, functional dyspepsia without gastroparesis) were evaluated. Electrode function was tested by recording and stimulation techniques. In the pigs, a slow-wave (SW) rhythm (3 min−1) was recorded with decrease in frequency at the end of the experiments. In the patients, implantation time from start of gastroscopy to end of electrode placement was 12–20 min. Electrode distance varied from 12 to 45 mm. Gastric electromyography showed a regular SW rhythm of about 3 min−1. Antral pressure waves had intervals being multiples of the SW-to-SW time. With temporary GES for 7–9 days, weekly frequency of the referral symptoms decreased >80% in two patients and 33% in one patient. Temporary percutaneous gastric leads can easily be implanted and may be used for testing of GES and study of gastric electrophysiology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Angiotensin II (Ang II) is a well-known activator of smooth muscle in the vasculature but has been little explored with regard to intestinal wall muscular activity. This study investigates pharmacological properties of Ang II and expression of its receptors in small-intestinal smooth muscle from rats and humans. Methods: Isometric recordings were performed in vitro on small intestinal longitudinal muscle strips. Protein expressions of Ang II typ 1 (AT1R) and typ 2 (AT2R) receptors were assessed by Western blot. Results: Ang II elicited concentration-dependent contractions of rat jejunal and ileal muscle preparations. The concentration–response curve (rat ileum, EC50: 1.5 ± 0.9 × 10−8 m) was shifted to the right by the AT1R receptor antagonist losartan (10−7 m) but was unaffected by the AT2R antagonist PD123319 (10−7 m) as well as by the adrenolytic guanethidine (3 × 10−6 m) and the anticholinergic atropine (10−6 m). Human duodenal, jejunal and ileal longitudinal muscle preparations all contracted concentration-dependently in response to Ang II. The concentration–response curve (human jejunum, EC50: 1.5 ± 0.8 × 10−8 m) was shifted to the right by losartan (10−7 m) but was unaffected by PD123319 (10−7 m). Both AT1R and AT2R were detected in all segments of the rat small intestinal wall musculature, whereas only AT1R was readily detectable in the human samples. Conclusion: Ang II elicits contractions of small-intestinal longitudinal muscle preparations from the small intestine of rats and man. The pharmacological pattern and protein expression analyses indicate mediation via the AT1R. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cultivation conditions for Rhizopus oryzae grown in synthetic medium and paper pulp spent sulfite liquor (SSL) were investigated to achieve high biomass and ethanol yields using shake flasks and bioreactors. The fungus assimilated the hexoses glucose, mannose and galactose, and the pentoses xylose and arabinose as well as acetic acid which are present in SSL. The assimilation of hexoses was faster than pentoses during cultivation in a synthetic medium. However, all sugars were assimilated concomitantly during growth in SSL supplemented with ammonium, magnesium, calcium, phosphate, sulfate and trace amounts of some other metal ions (SSL-S). The medium composition had an important influence on biomass yield. The highest biomass yields, viz. 0.18 and 0.43 g biomass/g sugar were obtained, when the cells were cultivated in shake flasks with a synthetic medium containing glucose as carbon and energy source and SSL-S, respectively. The corresponding yields in a bioreactor with more efficient aeration were 0.22 and 0.55 g/g. In addition to the biomass, ethanol, lactic acid, and glycerol were important extracellular metabolites of the cultivation with maximum yields of 0.37, 0.30 and 0.09 g/g, respectively. When the source of sugars in the medium was exhausted, the fungus consumed the metabolites produced, such that the liquid medium was depleted of potential oxidizable nutrients. In general, there was a direct competition between lactic acid and ethanol among the metabolites. Poor medium compositions and cultivation conditions resulted in higher yields of lactic acid, whereas the ethanol and biomass yields were higher in rich media. SSL-S supported good growth of mycelium and a high ethanol yield. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Binding of human colostral secretory IgA (SIgA) to Salmonella typhimurium 395 MR10 decreased the liability to hydrophobic interaction of the bacteria, as analysed by hydrophobic interaction chromatography on Octyl-Sepharose and partition in an aqueous polymer two-phase system consisting of dextran, poly(ethyleneglycol) (PEG) and poly-(ethyleneglycol)-palmitate (P-PEG). SIgA also reduced the negative charge of the bacteria. Treatment of the bacteria with centrifuged but not further fractionated colostrum added positive charge to the bacteria which was removed by treatment with pepsin. Colostral SIgA reduced the in vitro phagocytosis of S. typhimurium MR10 by polymorphonuclear leucocytes. The adhesion of the bacteria to cellulose membrane filters in the absence of phagocytes was also reduced after the interaction with SIgA. It is proposed that the binding of SIgA to bacterial surfaces has hydrophilic and anti-adhesive effects, which may serve to exclude antigen from mucosal surfaces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Examines the physicochemical changes inflicted upon the cell surface of a smooth strain of Salmonella typhimurium by the binding of antibody immunoglobulin G and complement. Minimum antibody concentration for increased phagocytosis in vitro; Pepsin digestion of immunoglobulin G; Prerequisites for phagocytosis.