Salivary immunoglobulin A (IgA) concentration increased significantly after subjects viewed a humorous videotape and did not change significantly after they viewed a didactic videotape. Scores on a questionnaire measuring the perceived use of humor as a coping skill were positively related to initial IgA concentration and inversely related to changes in IgA concentration after subjects' viewing of the humorous videotape, which implies a ceiling effect. Enhancement of the immune system may be one link between anecdotal claims of relationships between an individual's being in a positive emotional state and healing.

The primary mode of transmission of the human pathogen Helicobacter pylori is unresolved. This study examined the possibility that H. pylori is water‐borne. Because methods for the direct culture of H. pylori from water samples remain elusive, a microscopic technique was used for detection of this organism. Actively respiring micro‐organisms binding monoclonal anti‐H. pylori antibody were found in the majority of surface and shallow groundwater samples tested (n = 62), indicating that H. pylori may be present in aquatic environments in the US and supporting a water‐borne route of transmission for this organism. There was no significant correlation between the occurrence of either total coliforms or Escherichia coli in the water and the presence of H. pylori. Our results indicate that routine screening of water supplies for the presence of traditional indicator organisms may fail to protect the consumer from exposure to H. pylori.

No abstract

Helicobacter pylori was detected using molecular methods in untreated well water. The presence of H. pylori in the wells correlated with infection in consumers and with the presence of Escherichia coli, indicating fecal contamination. Consumption of untreated well water should be considered a risk factor for H. pylori infection.

The susceptibility of Helicobacter pylori to disinfectants was compared to that of Escherichia coli. H. pylori is more resistant than E. coli to chlorine and ozone but not monochloramine. H. pylori may be able to tolerate disinfectants in distribution systems and, therefore, may be transmitted by a waterborne route