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Biomedical subjects

H Müller

Publications and source records attributed to H Müller.

At least 397 records · Page 22Linked to original sources
PubMed1991

Rhinofacial zygomycosis caused by Conidiobolus coronatus. A case report.

A case of rhinofacial zygomycosis with of years duration, caused by Conidiobolus coronatus is described. The patient, a 72-years-old woman, presented with a bilateral distortion of the subcutaneous tissue and disfigurement of the face. Treatment with ketoconazole and potassium iodide did not prevent several relapses. At present she is still under treatment with fluconazole with clinical healing. Histopathological and mycological examination confirmed the dermatological diagnosis. An increasing number of cases of zygomycosis caused by fungi of the order Entomophthorales have also been reported in the Northern and Northeastern States of Brazil.

Aged↗
PubMed1991

Experiments on the seasonality of the cesium translocation in cereals, potatoes and vegetables.

The translocation of cesium from leaves into the edible parts after foliar deposition at different stages of growth has been determined for cereals, potatoes, green beans and carrots in field experiments. For all the plant species investigated a significant seasonality of the cesium translocation was observed. The highest translocation factors were determined after foliar contamination 50 to 60 days before harvest for cereals, and 70 to 90 days and 15 days before harvest for potatoes and green beans, respectively. The variations among the different experiments can be reduced when the translocation is normalized to the yield. This facilitates the application in probabilistic models due to the implicit consideration of the relationship between translocation and yield. The seasonality of the cesium translocation can be described with gaussian functions being consistent with the physiological development of cereals and potatoes. The uncertainty of these approaches is a factor of 3 and 4 for cereals and potatoes, respectively.

Biological Transport↗
PubMed1991

Heterogeneity of the antigenic site responsible for the induction of neutralizing antibodies in infectious bursal disease virus.

Using neutralizing monoclonal antibodies, three categories of escape mutants were selected from a stock of wild-type infectious bursal disease virus (IBDV). Additional mutants were found, where alterations coexisted in two or three of these epitopes. Although each group of mutants had a distinct reaction pattern with neutralizing monoclonal antibodies, all types of mutants were neutralized by convalescent chicken sera to the same extent. In spite of the lack of homogeneity in these antigenic sites located on IBDV structural polypeptide VP2, all neutralizing monoclonal antibodies reacted with epitopes in extracts prepared from the bursa of Fabricius from animals that had died during recent outbreaks of infectious bursal disease in the F.R.G. and Africa. Since binding to VP2 of the escape mutants, demonstrable by immunoprecipitation, correlated with the neutralizing capacity of these antibodies, a combined immunoprecipitation-immunoblotting technique was established as equivalent for a neutralization assay. The results of our experiments indicate that IBDV did not undergo a major antigenic variation in these two areas of Europe and Africa. The significance of protein conformation for the interaction of VP2 with neutralizing antibodies was underlined by the finding that renatured VP2 was capable of binding neutralizing antibodies; the antibodies induced in animals by immunization with this protein, however, were not neutralizing.

Animals↗
PubMed1991

Calbindin-D-28k-like immunoreactive structures in the olfactory bulb and anterior olfactory nucleus of the human adult: distribution and cell typology--partial complementarity with parvalbumin.

Calbindin-D-28k and parvalbumin are calcium-binding proteins. The laminar distribution and morphological features of calbindin-D-28k-like immunoreactive structures were studied in 60-microns-thick sections of the human olfactory bulb. Except for the olfactory nerve layer, immunoreactive neurons were present in all layers of the olfactory bulb. They reached highest densities in the external plexiform layer and internal granule cell layer. Considerable numbers of calbindin-like nerve cells were also found in the olfactory tract and in distal portions of the anterior olfactory nucleus. When comparing the distribution of calbindin-positive structures to that of parvalbumin-positive ones a partially complementary distribution pattern was found. Calbindin-like immunoreactive portions of the anterior olfactory nucleus and olfactory tract were mirrored by immunonegative areas in adjacent sections stained for parvalbumin. Using the combined pigment-Nissl procedure we observed the presence of lipofuscin deposits in nearly 80% of all the calbindin-immunoreactive neurons analysed. Moreover, analysis of their lipofuscin deposits rendered the further differentiation of morphologically similar neuronal subpopulations possible. In contrast, all parvalbumin-like immunoreactive neurons remained free of lipofuscin granules.

Adult↗
PubMed1991

Immuno- and enzymehistochemical characterization of 'plasmacytoid T-cells' in formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissue of reactive lymph nodes.

In eight (10.4%) of 77 randomly selected cases of lymphadenitis, foci of 'plasmacytoid T-cells' (PTCs) were found. We characterized the PTCs in formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissue by immuno- and enzymehistochemical techniques. In each case the PTCs formed nodular and patchy infiltration patterns around the high endothelial venules in the paracortex of the lymph nodes. The PTCs in half of the cases were present near the intermediary peritrabecular sinuses. The PTCs were found to be positive for CD 45 (LCA), CD 45 R (4 KB 5) and CD 43 (MT 1), but not for CD 45 RO (UCHL 1), L 26 (CD 20), myeloperoxidase, naphthol AS-D chloroacetate esterase, Mac 387, alpha-1-antichymotrypsin or S 100 protein and anti-dendritic reticulum cell antibody. Some lysozyme+ PTCs were mingled in and around the foci in each case. In five cases the PTCs showed weaker positive reactions for CD 68 (EBM 11) and HLA-DR than for T-zone macrophages and sinus histiocytes. Related to the degree of desintegration of the nodular PTC-foci increasing numbers of T- and B-lymphocytes, T-zone macrophages and interdigitating reticulum cells with HLA-DR were detected in the foci. In two cases, where there was no HLA-DR expression by PTCs, small amounts of HLA-DR in secondary lymph follicles and a decrease of HLA-DR+ T-zone macrophages and interdigitating reticulum cells were observed. Our results suggest that there is a high degree of interaction between PTCs and other cellular components in the lymph node. The PTC may represent a special type of resident macrophage with secretory capacities.

Adult↗
PubMed1991

A rabies-specific human monoclonal antibody that protects mice against lethal rabies.

According to a recommendation from WHO (World Health Organisation) for prevention of a possible rabies infection, active vaccination has to be combined with application of immunoglobulin to get a fast protective effect. At present, preparations of purified human or equine rabies-specific immunoglobulin are used. We have generated a human rabies-specific monoclonal antibody (huMAb) by immortalization of human B-cells with Epstein Barr Virus (EBV), followed by fusion with a mouse myeloma cell. The resulting clone TW-1 secrets an IgG1 lambda huMAb which specifically reacts in ELISA with 5 laboratory rabies virus strains of serotype 1 and DUV3 (Duvenhage, serotype 4). Western Blot analysis revealed fine specificity for the G glycoprotein (gp67) of rabies virus. HuMAb TW-1 neutralizes rabies virus in vitro (RFFIT) as well as in vivo and protects rabies infected mice. Compared to polyclonal human rabies immunoglobulins, huMAb TW-1 is advantageous, because of its defined specificity and the very low amounts of total protein needed for therapeutic effects.

Animals↗
PubMed1991

Examination of Chinese NiTi wire by a combined clinical and laboratory approach.

Chinese NiTi wire was compared with Nitinol and stainless steel wires in a combined laboratory and clinical examination. In the laboratory test, the loading and unloading-deflection properties of the wires were determined in a three-point bending test and their surface properties were studied in a scanning electron microscope. This test attempts to simulate a common clinical situation. The NiTi material showed a non-linear force-deflection relationship. The increase in force from 1 mm deflection and onwards was very slow and the force delivered during unloading from large deflections was almost constant. This behaviour was somewhat different for smaller downward deflections of NiTi wires. Plastic deformation was insignificant. The clinical study confirmed the laboratory results obtained, characterizing a wire material much superior to stainless steel and even superior to Nitinol for alignment purposes. In clinical use, however, the rate of fractures of NiTi wires turned out to be unsatisfactorily high. This disadvantage was not predicted by the three-point bending test. Scanning electron microscopy revealed surface defects and non-metallic inclusions in fractured NiTi wires. A combination of a bending test simulating a clinical situation and surface examination is recommended when new wire materials are to be tested.

Alloys↗
PubMed1991

Interferon-alpha-2-induced stimulation of ACTH and cortisol secretion in man.

Short-term effects of interferon-alpha 2 on plasma concentrations of adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH) and cortisol were measured in man in relation to interferon absorption. Interferon-alpha 2 was given subcutaneously at a dose of 3 x 10(6) IU at 17.00 h to 2 female and 5 male patients who suffered from chronic hepatitis B infection and who had not previously been treated with interferon. Plasma levels of ACTH, cortisol and interferon-alpha were determined at 30-min intervals between 16.00 and 24.00 h. In each patient a similar cortisol, ACTH and interferon-alpha profile was determined on a day, when no interferon-alpha treatment was given. Interferon-alpha plasma levels peaked around 21.30 h, i.e. 4.7 h after injection. In each patient ACTH and cortisol levels were increased. As calculated from the areas under the curves, ACTH release was increased by an average of 332% (maxima at about 22.00 h, i.e. 5.2 h post injection); cortisol release was increased by an average of 311% (maxima at about 23.00 h, 5.8 h post injection). These actions were not related to side effects like fever or other flu-like symptoms. Our findings confirm that in man as in animals interferon-alpha 2 can act as a mediator between the immune and endocrine system.

Adrenocorticotropic Hormone↗
PubMed1991

Infectious bursal disease--B cell dependent immunodeficiency syndrome in chickens.

Infectious bursal disease of chickens can run an acute lethal course, or death can result from a B cell-dependent immunodefect due to destruction of the bursa of Fabricius following infection with infectious bursal disease virus (IBDV). This member of the Birnaviridae has been characterized, the nucleotide sequence and coding capacity of the two genomic segments of dsRNA has been determined, and the functional significance of the four structural proteins has been largely elucidated. The antigenic structure of the two main structural components permits differentiation of two serotypes; the antigenic domain responsible for the induction of neutralizing antibodies resides, in a conformation-dependent fashion, on one of these proteins. Various types of defective particles are formed and various degrees of pathogenicity appear, depending on the host cell in which the virus replicates. B cells in the bursa offer optimal conditions for virus replication. Pathogenic properties of the virus are also influenced by both genomic segments and cannot be attributed to a single gene. Many aspects of practical interest for disease control are briefly discussed.

Animals↗
PubMed1991

[The significance of the structural characteristics of the agent for the problems of immunization against blue tongue].

Bluetongue virus (BTV), an arthropod-borne virus, is transmitted primarily by biting midges of the genus Culicoides. Some insect species, which might serve as a potential vector, are prevalent in Central Europe. In sheep, bluetongue is acute and mortality is high, whereas in cattle, goats and most wild ruminants the infection is usually clinically inapparent. Viremia is of short duration in sheep, but cattle experience a prolonged viremia and provide a reservoir for the dissemination of BTV. At least 24 different BTV serotypes have been identified. Antigenic variations occur in the polypeptides of the outer viral capsid and the segmented nature of the viral genome provides the potential for evolution of the virus by a mechanism of reassortment. This renders the use of polyvalent vaccines inefficient and emphasizes the significance of import/export restrictions on ruminants from BTV endemic areas.

Animals↗
PubMed1991

[Continuous peridural application of sufentanil for postoperative analgesia].

Efficacy and side effects of a continuous infusion of sufentanil following epidural administration of a single dose of 30 micrograms of the opioid were studied in 28 patients undergoing laparotomy. Patients were divided into two groups treated with either 10 micrograms/h (n = 13) or 15 micrograms/h (n = 15) and compared with regard to sufentanil plasma levels, side effects and changes in blood gases. The analgesic effect of 15 micrograms/h was slightly better than that of 10 micrograms/h. There were few side effects during continuous administration of the high- or low-dose sufentanil: in some cases nausea (4/13 and 1/15) and vomiting (3/13 and 1/15) occurred. After the injection of a bolus of 30 micrograms sufentanil, a dose chosen according to current recommendations, a quick onset of analgesia was noted, but also sedation and respiratory depression with apneic intervals lasting up to 30 s, demonstrating both the efficacy and the possibility of unwanted and even harmful side effects associated with this kind of administration. During long-term infusion, after about 20 h PaCO2 and respiratory rate were significantly different between the two groups, which could be explained by differences in sufentanil plasma levels and a somewhat higher level of postoperative pain in the group receiving 10 micrograms/h.

Aged↗
PubMed1991

[Lymphocytes, Langerhans cells and CD68-positive monocytes/macrophages in the skin of HIV-infected patients and normal controls].

Human epidermal Langerhans cells play an important role in the immunoregulation of the skin. We measured the numbers of CD(3+)-, CD(8+)-, CD1a(+)-, HLADR(+)-, IL2R(+)-, CD(4+)- and CD68 positive cells in the skin of 8 asymptomatic HIV-infected Persons, 3 Patients with AIDS and 11 healthy volunteers by suction blister technique. Our results indicate increased numbers of CD1a+ cells and increased numbers of CD4+ cells in the epidermis in asymptomatic HIV-infection. At the same time CD68+ cells are decreased already in an early stage of HIV-Infection. The number of CD1a/CD4+ cells is related to the degree of immunodeficiency. This fact might be caused by the activation of MPS.

Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome↗
PubMed1991

[Immunohistochemical characterization of HIV-and non HIV-associated lymph node tuberculosis].

Cells of MPS and lymphatic system in lymph nodes from eighteen patients with culture proven tuberculous lymphadenitis were examined by histological and immunohistochemical technics. Ten patients suffered from symptomatic HIV-infection and eight patients were immunocompetent individuals without HIV serology. Characteristic granulomas with or without caseation were observed in the eight immunocompetent and the four HIV-infected patients with less marked lymphopenia of CD4 positive peripheral blood lymphocytes. In lymph nodes from the other HIV-infected patients with more severe depression of CD4 positive peripheral blood lymphocyte count no epitheloid cell formation was present. Instead of these cells foamy macrophages were found. The phenotype of macrophages underwent progressive changes parallel to decreasing numbers of CD4 positive peripheral blood lymphocytes. Foamy macrophages in mycobacterium avium-intracellulare infection may represent an end-stage phenotype. While many macrophages and lymphocytes expressed IL-2 receptors in cases with typical granulomas there was no such CD25 expression in cases without any epitheloid cell formation. Our results suggest that T-cell activation is necessary for epitheloid granuloma formation in human tuberculosis and preliminary in situ data support the assumption that in vivo the HIV-infection provokes an excess production of cytokines which in turn causes an exhaustion of the immune system and finally AIDS.

Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome↗
PubMed1991

[Controlled vascular training in IIb peripheral arterial occlusive disease: additive effect of intravenous PGE1 versus intravenous pentoxifylline during training].

An intensive 4-week vascular training (patients with PAOD IIb) leads to an effective amelioration of painfree walking distance (+120%). Additive i.v. Pentoxifylline was not more effective (+105%) whereas PGE1 showed a remarkable increase (+605%). After one year the results in all groups diminished: training group: +30%, Pentoxifylline group: +30%, PGE1 group: +149%.

Alprostadil↗
PubMed1991

Inactivation of retroviruses in biologicals manufactured for human use.

Human immunodeficiency virus may occur in human plasma and mammalian retroviruses in established cell lines used for the production of monoclonal antibodies or recombinant proteins. To avoid any risk of retrovirus infections being transmitted to human patients by human plasma proteins or other biologicals obtained from established cell lines, these products must be free of contaminating retroviruses. This can be achieved by excluding contaminated source material and by establishing manufacturing procedures which inactivate and eliminate retroviruses. Some methods were investigated, and it was proved that these methods not only completely inactivate retroviruses, but that they are at the same time mild enough not to destroy the biological activities of the substances to be used as therapeutics. In addition, the clearance of retroviruses by the entire manufacturing process of an immunoglobulin, human plasminogen, a murine monoclonal antibody and a recombinant human protein were studied. In each case cumulative clearance factors of greater than 10(12) were achieved for the retroviruses used in these spiking experiments. It can be concluded that these high clearance factors contribute a very high margin of safety to the biologicals manufactured.

Animals↗