bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Wild boars as sources for infectious diseases in livestock and humans
Authors: Meng X. J. , Lindsay D. S. , Sriranganathan N.
Published: August 2009

Wild boars (Sus scrofa) are indigenous in many countries in the world. These free-living swine are known reservoirs for a number of viruses, bacteria and parasites that are transmissible to domestic animals and humans. Changes of human habitation to suburban areas, increased use of lands for agricultural purposes, increased hunting activities and consumption of wild boar meat have increased the chances of exposure of wild boars to domestic animals and humans. Wild boars can act as reservoirs for many important infectious diseases in domestic animals, such as classical swine fever, brucellosis and trichinellosis, and in humans, diseases such as hepatitis E, tuberculosis, leptospirosis and trichinellosis. For examples, wild boars are reservoirs for hepatitis E virus, and cluster cases of hepatitis E have been reported in Japan of humans who consumed wild boar meat. In Canada, an outbreak of trichinellosis was linked to the consumption of wild boar meat. The incidence of tuberculosis owing toMycobacterium bovishas increased in wild boars, thus posing a potential concern for infections in livestock and humans. It has also been documented that six hunters contractedBrucella suisinfections from wild swine in Florida. This article discusses the prevalence and risk of infectious agents in wild boars and their potential transmission to livestock and humans.
Within-host variation of avian influenza viruses
Authors: Iqbal Munir , Xiao Hiaxia , Baillie Greg , Warry Andrew , Essen Steve C. , Londt Brandon , Brookes Sharon M. , Brown Ian H. , McCauley John W.
Published: August 2009

The emergence and spread of H5N1 avian influenza viruses from Asia through to Europe and Africa pose a significant animal disease problem and have raised concerns that the virus may pose a pandemic threat to humans. The epizootological factors that have influenced the wide distribution of the virus are complex, and the variety of viruses currently circulating reflects these factors. Sequence analysis of the virus genes sheds light on the H5N1 virus evolution during its emergence and spread, but the degree of virus variation at the level of an individual infected bird has been described in only a few studies. Here, we describe some results of a study in which turkeys, ducks and chickens were infected with either one of two H5N1 or one of three H7N1 viruses, and the degree of sequence variation within an individual infected avian host was examined. We developed ‘deep amplicon’ sequence analysis for this work, and the methods and results provide a background framework for application to disease outbreaks in the field.
Zoonotic helminth infections with particular emphasis on fasciolosis and other trematodiases
Authors: Robinson Mark W. , Dalton John P.
Published: August 2009

Zoonotic infections are among the most common on earth and are responsible for >60 per cent of all human infectious diseases. Some of the most important and well-known human zoonoses are caused by worm or helminth parasites, including species of nematodes (trichinellosis), cestodes (cysticercosis, echinococcosis) and trematodes (schistosomiasis). However, along with social, epidemiological and environmental changes, together with improvements in our ability to diagnose helminth infections, several neglected parasite species are now fast-becoming recognized as important zoonotic diseases of humans, e.g. anasakiasis, several fish-borne trematodiasis and fasciolosis. In the present review, we discuss the current disease status of these primary helminth zoonotic infections with particular emphasis on their diagnosis and control. Advances in molecular biology, proteomics and the release of helminth genome-sequencing project data are revolutionizing parasitology research. The use of these powerful experimental approaches, and their potential benefits to helminth biology are also discussed in relation to the future control of helminth infections of animals and humans.
Avian influenza virus,Streptococcus suisserotype 2, severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus and beyond: molecular epidemiology, ecology and the situation in China
Authors: Ma Ying , Feng Youjun , Liu Di , Gao George F.
Published: August 2009

The outbreak and spread of severe acute respiratory syndrome-associated coronavirus and the subsequent identification of its animal origin study have heightened the world's awareness of animal-borne or zoonotic pathogens. In addition to SARS, the highly pathogenic avian influenza virus (AIV), H5N1, and the lower pathogenicity H9N2 AIV have expanded their host ranges to infect human beings and other mammalian species as well as birds. Even the ‘well-known’ reservoir animals for influenza virus, migratory birds, became victims of the highly pathogenic H5N1 virus. Not only the viruses, but bacteria can also expand their host range: a new disease, streptococcal toxic shock syndrome, caused by humanStreptococcus suisserotype 2 infection, has been observed in China with 52 human fatalities in two separate outbreaks (1998 and 2005, respectively). Additionally, enterohaemorrhagicEscherichia coliO157:H7 infection has increased worldwide with severe disease. Several outbreaks and sporadic isolations of this pathogen in China have made it an important target for disease control. A new highly pathogenic variant of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) has been isolated in both China and Vietnam recently; although PRRSV is not a zoonotic human pathogen, its severe outbreaks have implications for food safety. All of these pathogens occur in Southeast Asia, including China, with severe consequences; therefore, we discuss the issues in this article by addressing the situation of the zoonotic threat in China.
Molecular insights into farm animal and zoonoticSalmonellainfections
Authors: Stevens Mark P. , Humphrey Tom J. , Maskell Duncan J.
Published: August 2009

Salmonella entericais a facultative intracellular pathogen of worldwide importance. Infections may present in a variety of ways, from asymptomatic colonization to inflammatory diarrhoea or typhoid fever depending on serovar- and host-specific factors. Human diarrhoeal infections are frequently acquiredviathe food chain and farm environment by virtue of the ability of selected non-typhoidal serovars to colonize the intestines of food-producing animals and contaminate the avian reproductive tract and egg. Colonization of reservoir hosts often occurs in the absence of clinical symptoms; however, someS. entericaserovars threaten animal health owing to their ability to cause acute enteritis or translocate from the intestines to other organs causing fever, septicaemia and abortion. Despite the availability of complete genome sequences of isolates representing several serovars, the molecular mechanisms underlyingSalmonellacolonization, pathogenesis and transmission in reservoir hosts remain ill-defined. Here we review current knowledge of the bacterial factors influencing colonization of food-producing animals bySalmonellaand the basis of host range, differential virulence and zoonotic potential.
The impacts of livestock diseases and their control on growth and development processes that are pro-poor
Authors: Perry Brian , Grace Delia
Published: August 2009

Poverty is now at the heart of development discourse; we discuss how it is measured and understood. We next consider the negative and positive impacts of livestock on pro-poor development. Taking a value-chain approach that includes keepers, users and eaters of livestock, we identify diseases that are road blocks on the ‘three livestock pathways out of poverty’. We discuss livestock impacts on poverty reduction and review attempts to prioritize the livestock diseases relevant to the poor. We make suggestions for metrics that better measure disease impact and show the benefits of more rigorous evaluation before reviewing recent attempts to measure the importance of disease to the poor. High impact of a disease does not guarantee high benefits from its control; other factors must be taken into consideration, including technical feasibility and political desirability. We conclude by considering how we might better understand and exploit the roles of livestock and improved animal health by posing three speculative questions on the impact of livestock diseases and their control on global poverty: how can understanding livestock and poverty links help disease control?; if global poverty reduction was the aim of livestock disease control, how would it differ from the current model?; and how much of the impact of livestock disease on poverty is due to disease control policy rather than disease itself?
African swine fever: how can global spread be prevented?
Authors: Costard Solenne , Wieland Barbara , de Glanville William , Jori Ferran , Rowlands Rebecca , Vosloo Wilna , Roger Francois , Pfeiffer Dirk U. , Dixon Linda K.
Published: August 2009

African swine fever (ASF) is a devastating haemorrhagic fever of pigs with mortality rates approaching 100 per cent. It causes major economic losses, threatens food security and limits pig production in affected countries. ASF is caused by a large DNA virus, African swine fever virus (ASFV). There is no vaccine against ASFV and this limits the options for disease control. ASF has been confined mainly to sub-Saharan Africa, where it is maintained in a sylvatic cycle and/or among domestic pigs. Wildlife hosts include wild suids and arthropod vectors. The relatively small numbers of incursions to other continents have proven to be very difficult to eradicate. Thus, ASF remained endemic in the Iberian peninsula until the mid-1990s following its introductions in 1957 and 1960 and the disease has remained endemic in Sardinia since its introduction in 1982. ASF has continued to spread within Africa to previously uninfected countries, including recently the Indian Ocean islands of Madagascar and Mauritius. Given the continued occurrence of ASF in sub-Saharan Africa and increasing global movements of people and products, it is not surprising that further transcontinental transmission has occurred. The introduction of ASF to Georgia in the Caucasus in 2007 and dissemination to neighbouring countries emphasizes the global threat posed by ASF and further increases the risks to other countries.

We review the mechanisms by which ASFV is maintained within wildlife and domestic pig populations and how it can be transmitted. We then consider the risks for global spread of ASFV and discuss possibilities of how disease can be prevented.
Livestock infectious diseases and zoonoses
Authors: Tomley Fiona M. , Shirley Martin W.
Published: August 2009

Infectious diseases of livestock are a major threat to global animal health and welfare and their effective control is crucial for agronomic health, for safeguarding and securing national and international food supplies and for alleviating rural poverty in developing countries. Some devastating livestock diseases are endemic in many parts of the world and threats from old and new pathogens continue to emerge, with changes to global climate, agricultural practices and demography presenting conditions that are especially favourable for the spread of arthropod-borne diseases into new geographical areas. Zoonotic infections that are transmissible either directly or indirectly between animals and humans are on the increase and pose significant additional threats to human health and the current pandemic status of new influenza A (H1N1) is a topical example of the challenge presented by zoonotic viruses. In this article, we provide a brief overview of some of the issues relating to infectious diseases of livestock, which will be discussed in more detail in the papers that follow.
15‐Lipoxygenase‐1 expression suppresses the invasive properties of colorectal carcinoma cell lines HCT‐116 and HT‐29
Authors: Çimen Ismail , Tunçay Seda , Banerjee Sreeparna
Published: August 2009

Colorectal carcinoma (CRC) is often lethal when invasion and/or metastasis occur. 15‐Lipoxygenase‐1 (15‐LO‐1), a member of the inflammatory eicosanoid pathway, oxidatively metabolizes linoleic acid and its expression is repressed in CRC. In this study, we investigated the hypothesis that the lack of 15‐LO‐1 expression in CRC cells might contribute to tumorigenesis. Therefore we introduced 15‐LO‐1 into HCT‐116 and HT‐29 cells that do not have detectable levels of 15‐LO‐1. Our data indicate that expression of 15‐LO‐1 significantly decreased cell proliferation and increased apoptosis. In addition, we observed a reduction in adhesion to fibronectin, anchorage‐independent growth on soft agar, cellular motility and ability to heal a scratch wound, and migratory and invasive capacity across Matrigel. 15‐LO‐1 expression also reduced the expression of metastasis associated protein‐1, a part of the nucleosome remodeling and histone deacetylase silencing complex. We propose that 15‐LO‐1 expression in CRC might contribute to the inhibition of metastatic capacity in vitro and can be exploited for therapeutic purposes. (Cancer Sci 2009;100: 2283–2291)
Plasmodium falciparum infection of the placenta impacts on the T helper type 1 (Th1)/Th2 balance of neonatal T cells through CD4+CD25+ forkhead box P3+ regulatory T cells and interleukin-10
Authors: Bisseye C , Van Der Sande M , Morgan W D , Holder A A , Pinder M , Ismaili J
Published: August 2009

Placental malaria infection affects the T helper type 1 (Th1)/Th2 balance in neonatal children. We investigated a potential role of regulatory T cells in this balance by comparing T cell responses of cord blood mononuclear cells (CBMC) from parasitized and non-parasitized placenta of Gambian women. CBMC were depleted of CD4+CD25+ forkhead box P3 (FoxP3)+ regulatory T cells and analysed in vitro for their ability to produce interferon (IFN)-γ, sCD30 and interleukin (IL)-10 in response to phytohaemagglutinin (PHA), live Plasmodium falciparum, schizont extracts and the recombinant P. falciparum blood stage antigen merozoite surface protein 1 (MSP119). As expected, lower IFN-γ and higher sCD30 responses were observed for the cells from the parasitized group. In addition, higher IL-10 levels were produced by CBMC from the parasitized group. Depletion of regulatory T cells decreased IL-10 production, which resulted in a restoration of IFN-γ expression in response to all stimuli. The Th2 marker sCD30 remained significantly higher in the parasitized group in response to malaria protein antigens while similar levels were recovered between both groups in response to live P. falciparum. Similar effects were observed by adding an antibody that blocks IL-10 function. These results suggest that the impact of P. falciparum infection on Th1 differentiation of neonatal T cells can be ascribed to regulatory T cells through production of IL-10.
Faster returns on ‘leaf economics’ and different biogeochemical niche in invasive compared with native plant species
Authors: PENUELAS JOSEP , SARDANS JORDI , LLUSIÀ JOAN , OWEN SUSAN M. , CARNICER JOFRE , GIAMBELLUCA THOMAS W. , REZENDE ENRICO L. , WAITE MASHURI , NIINEMETS ÜLO
Published: August 2009

Plant‐invasive success is one of the most important current global changes in the biosphere. To understand which factors explain such success, we compared the foliar traits of 41 native and 47 alien‐invasive plant species in Oahu Island (Hawaii), a location with a highly endemic flora that has evolved in isolation and is currently vulnerable to invasions by exotic plant species. Foliar traits, which in most cases presented significant phylogenetic signal, i.e. closely related species tended to resemble each other due to shared ancestry, separated invasive from native species. Invasive species had lower leaf mass per area and enhanced capacities in terms of productivity (photosynthetic capacity) and nutrient capture both of macro‐ (N, P, K) and microelements (Fe, Ni, Cu and Zn). All these differences remain highly significant after removing the effects of phylogenetic history. Alien‐invasive species did not show higher efficiency at using limiting nutrient resources, but they got faster leaf economics returns and occupied a different biogeochemical niche, which helps to explain the success of invasive plants and suggests that potential increases in soil nutrient availability might favor further invasive plant success.
Polyclonal expansion of cervical cytobrush‐derived T cells to investigate HIV‐specific responses in the female genital tract
Authors: Bere Alfred , Denny Lynette , Burgers Wendy A. , Passmore Jo‐Ann S.
Published: August 2009

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) ‐specific T‐cell responses are detectable in the female genital tract of HIV‐infected women but little is known about their frequency or the factors that influence their detection. We investigated the feasibility of polyclonal in vitro expansion of cervical cytobrush‐derived T cells to investigate HIV‐specific responses in the female genital tract in HIV‐infected women. Cytobrush‐derived cervical cells were isolated from 22 HIV‐infected women and expanded with anti‐CD3 and recombinant interleukin‐2. Cervical T‐cell lines were investigated for Gag‐specific responses by interferon‐γ ELISPOT and compared with those detected in matched blood samples. Cervical T‐cell lines were established from 16/22 (72·7%) participants. Although the absolute number of CD3± cells recovered after expansion was positively associated with the number of cells isolated ex vivo (P = 0·01; R = 0·62), we observed a significant negative correlation between fold expansion and ex vivo cell number (P = 0·004; R = −0·68). We show that both the magnitude (P = 0·002; R = 0·7) and specific Gag regions targeted by cervical T‐cell lines (P < 0·0001; R = 0·5) correlated significantly with those detected in blood. With one exception, cervical interferon‐γ T‐cell responses to Gag were detected only in HIV‐infected women with blood Gag‐specific response > 1000 spot‐forming units/106 cells. We conclude that cervical Gag‐specific T‐cell responses in expanded lines are most easily detectable in women who have corresponding high‐magnitude Gag‐specific T‐cell responses in blood.
Toll‐like receptors – sentries in the B‐cell response
Authors: Bekeredjian‐Ding Isabelle , Jego Gaetan
Published: August 2009

Toll‐like receptors (TLR) play a central role in the initiation of the innate immune response to pathogens. Upon recognition of molecular motifs specific for microbial molecules TLR mediate pro‐inflammatory cytokine secretion and enhance antigen presentation; in B cells they further promote expansion, class switch recombination and immunoglobulin secretion. As a result of their adjuvant properties, TLR ligands have become an integral component of antimicrobial vaccines. In spite of this, little is known of the direct effects of TLR engagement on B‐lymphocyte function. The scope of this review is to outline the differences in TLR expression and reactivity in murine and human B‐cell subsets and to provide an overview of the currently available literature. We will further discuss the possible roles of TLR in regulating B‐cell effector functions and shaping antibody‐mediated defence against microbial pathogens in vivo.
Administration of polysaccharides from Antrodia camphorata modulates dendritic cell function and alleviates allergen‐induced T helper type 2 responses in a mouse model of asthma
Authors: Liu Ko‐Jiunn , Leu Sy‐Jye , Su Ching‐Hua , Chiang Bor‐Luen , Chen Yi‐Lien , Lee Yueh‐Lun
Published: August 2009

Asthma is a chronic disease characterized by airway inflammation caused by the dysregulated production of cytokines secreted by allergen‐specific type 2 T helper (Th2) cells. Antrodia camphorata is a commonly used fungus in Asian folk medicine, and A. camphorata polysaccharides are reported to possess anti‐cancer activities. In this study, the immunomodulatory effects of purified fractionated polysaccharides (GF2) from A. camphorata on dendritic cells (DCs) and their potential preventive effects against ovalbumin (OVA) ‐induced asthma were investigated. In the presence of GF2, lipopolysaccharide (LPS) ‐activated DCs exhibited up‐regulated expression of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II and co‐stimulatory molecules, as well as enhanced interleukin‐10 (IL‐10) and IL‐12 production. GF2 treatment on LPS‐activated DCs suppressed naïve CD4+ T‐cell proliferation and Th2 cell polarization with IL‐10 production in an allogeneic mixed lymphocyte reaction. In animal experiments, a high dose of GF2 efficiently reduced expression levels of OVA‐specific immunoglobulin G1 (IgG1) and IgE. However, lower doses of GF2 significantly enhanced OVA‐specific IgG2a production. Our data also showed that administration of GF2 dose‐dependently inhibited the development of airway hyperresponsiveness, airway eosinophilia and Th2 responses. OVA‐specific CD4+ T cells from higher doses of GF2‐treated mice had significantly lower proliferative capacities compared with control mice. Moreover, treatment with GF2 significantly increased the high levels of IL‐10 and low levels of interferon‐γ produced by T cells. Taken together, these data indicate that administration of A. camphorata polysaccharides (GF2) may have therapeutic potential when used as an adjuvant for the immunomodulatory treatment of allergic asthma.
Contributions on cardiac physiology in Diplopoda (Myriapoda)
Authors: HERTEL WIELAND
Published: August 2009

Investigations into cardiac physiology in Myriapoda are rare, but heart beat generation is not considered to be uniform throughout this taxon. Although cardiac automatism in Chilopoda is neurogenic, superimposed onto a myogenic automatism, the present study reveals, on the basis of electrophysiological experiments including electrocardiograms and the first intracellular recordings from dorsal vessel muscle cells of Archispirostreptus gigas Peters, 1855 (Diplopoda: Spirostreptida, Spirostreptidae), that heartbeat generation in Diplopoda is clearly myogenic. Experiments with tetrodotoxin confirm this result, and also show that proctolin, acetylcholine and octopamine have no effect. The results are discussed from the perspective of comparative cardiac physiology in arthropods.
Measurements of locomotor activity in hatchlings of the migratory locust Locusta migratoria: effects of intrinsic and extrinsic factors
Authors: HARANO KEN‐ICHI , TANAKA SEIJI , WATARI YASUHIKO , SAITO OSAMU
Published: August 2009

Abstract. The effects of intrinsic and extrinsic factors on locomotor activity in crowd‐reared first‐stadium nymphs of the migratory locust Locusta migratoria are investigated under continuous light conditions using an actograph apparatus. Nymphs show monomodal or bimodal patterns of locomotor activity with respect to the time after the start of measurements, depending on the age. Locomotor activity is suppressed by the presence of grass in nymphs aged 0–2 days old but a peak of activity observed shortly after hatching is not suppressed. The results suggest that newly‐hatched nymphs may try to disperse from the hatching site. Nymphs show higher locomotor activity levels under moist conditions than under dry conditions during the first 5‐h period of measurements. This enhanced locomotor activity may constitute attempts to avoid high humidity. Under dim‐light conditions (2 × 10−2 Wm−2), locomotor activity is suppressed during the first half day and increases to a high level thereafter in both grass‐fed and unfed individuals. This increased activity might indicate a possible involvement of circadian rhythms. Background colour has no significant effect on the locomotor activity. The present study provides new aspects of behaviour in nymphs as well as baseline data for behavioural analysis of locust locomotion in relation to phase polyphenism.
A potential function for oocyte apoptosis in unmated Nauphoeta cinerea
Authors: BARRETT EMMA L.B. , MOORE ALLEN J. , MOORE PATRICIA J.
Published: August 2009

Starvation and enforced virginity induce apoptosis (programmed cell death) in the oocytes of female cockroaches of Nauphoeta cinerea, yet the life‐history outcome differs among fed and starved virgins. Consistent with the hypothesis that oocytes are absorbed to reallocate resources, apoptosis is followed by an increase in future reproduction and longevity in starved virgins. However, apoptosis induction by enforced virginity in fed females results in reduced fecundity and longevity. It is predicted that this life‐history outcome occurs because oocyte apoptosis under these conditions is not part of an adaptive reproductive strategy but simply is the result of cellular ageing and clearance to maintain reproductive synchrony. In the present study, reproductive and somatic allocation are examined over time to test whether resources are recouped by the fat body, reinvested in reproduction or lost altogether when apoptosis is associated with enforced virginity. To assay reproductive investment, the number of ovarioles is counted, apoptosis levels are analysed and the size of all oocytes within the vitellaerium is measured. To assay somatic investment, dry fat body mass is measured. In conjunction with apoptosis, the number of ovarioles declines, whereas the size of surviving oocytes increases. By contrast to the cellular ageing hypothesis, apoptosis associated with enforced virginity appears to be adaptive if resources from sacrificed oocytes are recycled into the survivors to maintain the quality of ageing oocytes. This reinvestment in current reproduction may trade‐off with future reproductive capacity.
Diapause‐inducing signals prolong nymphal development in the two‐spotted spider mite Tetranychus urticae
Authors: SUZUKI TAKESHI , TAKEDA MAKIO
Published: August 2009

Female two‐spotted spider mite Tetranychus urticae are grown under different photoperiods and the photoperiodic regulation of diapause is examined. The photoperiodic response curve for diapause induction was of the long day–short day type, with critical day lengths (CDLs) of 2 and 12.5 h; diapause was induced between these CDLs. The preimaginal period is significantly longer in diapausing females than in non‐diapausing females; moreover, a significant positive correlation is detected between diapause incidence and deutonymphal period. Diapause incidence is high when long‐night photoperiods are applied against a background of continuous darkness in the stages including the deutonymph; this stage appears to be the most sensitive to photoperiod. These observations suggest that diapause‐inducing conditions inhibit nymphal development, particularly in the deutonymphal stage when photoperiodic time measurement for determination of reproduction or diapause is carried out.
Loss of human β‐defensin 1, 2, and 3 expression in oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Joly S. , Compton L. M. , Pujol C. , Kurago Z. B. , Guthmiller J. M.
Published: August 2009

Introduction:  Human β‐defensins (HBDs) are cationic, antimicrobial peptides produced by epithelial cells and involved in various aspects of the innate and acquired immune responses. They are expressed by oral tissues as constitutive and inducible genes. Recently, single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of β‐defensins have been correlated with increased susceptibility to certain diseases. Studies have reported altered expression of β‐defensins in cancers suggesting their involvement in carcinogenesis. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the regulation of HBD‐1 (also published as DEFB1), HBD‐2 (DEFB4) and HBD‐3 (DEFB103A) (http://www.genenames.org/index.html) and HBD‐1 SNPs in oral squamous cell carcinoma cell lines (OSCC) and healthy gingival keratinocytes.

Methods:  β‐defensin expression was quantitatively assessed using real‐time polymerase chain reactions in OSCC and control cell lines after exposure to interleukin‐1β, tumor necrosis factor‐α, and interferon‐γ. Control data were obtained in a previous study. DNA from 19 OSCC cell lines and 44 control subjects were extracted and the HBD‐1 region spanning the 5′ untranslated region to the first intron was sequenced and analysed for SNP identification and distribution.

Results:  HBD‐1 and HBD‐2 basal messenger RNA expression were significantly lower in OSCC. In addition, the ability to be induced was significantly reduced in OSCC for all three β‐defensins. Four HBD‐1 SNPs were differentially distributed between cancer and control populations. Genotype distribution at the HBD‐1 locus also suggested loss of heterozygosity in OSCC.

Conclusions:  The genetic variation observed in OSCC compared with that in control cell lines may account for differences in β‐defensin expression. These results suggest a putative role for β‐defensins in carcinogenesis and indicate that β‐defensins may be useful markers of OSCC.
fimA genotypes and PFGE profile patterns in Porphyromonas gingivalis isolates from subjects with periodontitis
Authors: Perez‐Chaparro P. J. , Rouillon A. , Minet J. , Lafaurie G. I. , Bonnaure‐Mallet M.
Published: August 2009

Background and objectives:  Porphyromonas gingivalis is frequently identified to type by evaluation of fimA polymorphisms and less often by pulsed‐field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) because of the technical intricacies of PFGE. To compare these techniques, we genotyped P. gingivalis clinical isolates as to (i) their fimA type and (ii) their whole genome restriction profile (PFGE analysis).

Material and methods:  Thirty‐two P. gingivalis strains were isolated from 16 unrelated periodontitis patients. Two strains were isolated from each patient. Strains were subjected to a fimA‐typing polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay. Strains that could not be typed by PCR were submitted to sequencing of the entire fimA gene. The PFGE profiles of clinical strains were compared using bioinformatic analysis.

Results:  Seven of the 32 isolates were not typeable by PCR and so their entire fimA gene was sequenced. The sequencing identified each strain as belonging to a single fimA type. In one case, sequencing of the fimA gene did not agree with the result obtained using fimA PCR typing. With the exception of one patient, each patient presented isolates bearing the same fimA type. However, in three patients, isolates with the same fimA type presented different PFGE pulsotypes.

Conclusion:  The P. gingivalis typing using fimA PCR has limitations in typeability and discriminatory power. A typing technique for P. gingivalis that is easy to perform but that presents adequate typeability and discriminatory power is needed if we want to better understand the epidemiology of periodontal disease.
Contribution of cell surface protein antigen c of Streptococcus mutans to platelet aggregation
Authors: Matsumoto‐Nakano M. , Tsuji M. , Inagaki S. , Fujita K. , Nagayama K. , Nomura R. , Ooshima T.
Published: August 2009

Introduction:  Streptococcus mutans is considered to be one of the pathogens that cause infective endocarditis. The purpose of the present study was to examine the properties of S. mutans with regard to platelet aggregation by focusing on its high molecular protein antigen c (PAc).

Methods:  The platelet aggregation properties of six clinical strains and one isogenic mutant strain of S. mutans were analysed using an aggregometer and confocal microscopy, as well as with an inhibition assay of platelet aggregation using anti‐PAc serum.

Results:  S. mutans strains with PAc expression induced platelet aggregation, while a PAc‐deficient mutant and two clinical isolates with no PAc expression did not. When platelets were pretreated with higher amounts of anti‐PAc serum, the platelet aggregation rate was reduced in a dose‐dependent manner, indicating that PAc binds directly to platelets.

Conclusion:  S. mutans PAc is involved in human platelet aggregation and may be one of the virulence factors in the pathogenesis of infective endocarditis.
Analysis of Streptococcus mutans biofilm proteins recognized by salivary immunoglobulin A
Authors: Sanui T. , Gregory R. L.
Published: August 2009

Introduction:  The purpose of this study was to examine the Streptococcus mutans biofilm cellular proteins recognized by immunoglobulin A (IgA) in saliva from various caries‐defined populations.

Methods:  Biofilm and planktonic S. mutans UA159 cells were prepared. The proteins were extracted, separated by two‐dimensional gel electrophoresis, transferred to blotting membranes, and probed for IgA using individual saliva samples from three groups of subjects; those who developed 0 caries (no active caries), 5–9 caries (medium), or more than 10 caries (severe) over a 12‐month interval.

Results:  Several proteins were recognized by salivary IgA in all groups of saliva but spot distribution and intensity varied greatly between the groups, and some proteins were recognized more strongly in biofilm cells than in planktonic culture, and vice versa. Furthermore, 15 proteins were only recognized by saliva from the ‘no active caries’ group, and four proteins were recognized by saliva samples from subjects in all three groups. Specifically, antigen I/II was recognized less in biofilm cells by caries‐free saliva compared with planktonic cells. However, salivary IgA antibody to antigen I/II was absent in blots using saliva from the ‘medium caries’ and ‘severe caries’ groups.

Conclusion:  The bacterial molecules recognized by caries‐free saliva are significant factors for S. mutans caries formation, and their inhibition could be a therapeutic target. In addition, saliva of caries‐free subjects includes significant IgA antibody against antigen I/II of S. mutans, indicating a protective mechanism. However, microorganisms may protect themselves from host immune attack by forming biofilms and decreasing expression of antigen I/II.
Porphyromonas gingivalis mutant defective in a putative extracytoplasmic function sigma factor shows a mutator phenotype
Authors: Kikuchi Y. , Ohara N. , Ueda O. , Hirai K. , Shibata Y. , Nakayama K. , Fujimura S.
Published: August 2009

Introduction:  Porphyromonas gingivalis is implicated as a major pathogen in the development and progression of chronic periodontitis. P. gingivalis must possess the ability to tolerate stress signals outside the cytoplasmic membrane by transcriptional activation of genes encoding proteins involved in defense or repair processes. Some bacteria utilize a distinct subfamily of sigma factors to regulate extracytoplasmic function (hence termed the ECF subfamily).

Methods:  To elucidate their role in P. gingivalis, a chromosomal mutant carrying a disruption of an ECF sigma factor PG1318‐encoding gene was constructed. Hemagglutination and proteolytic activities were measured in the PG1318‐defective mutant. Reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) analysis and southern blot analysis were used to assess transcription of kgp in the PG1318‐defective mutant. Frequency of spontaneous mutation that conferred resistance to l‐trifluoromethionine was measured in the PG1318‐defective mutant.

Results:  The PG1318‐defective mutant formed non‐pigmented colonies on blood agar plates at a relatively high frequency. Arginine‐specific and lysine‐specific proteinase activities of the non‐pigmented variants were remarkably decreased compared with those of the parent strain and the pigmented variants. RT‐PCR analysis showed that kgp was not transcribed in some non‐pigmented variants and southern blot analysis revealed that there was a deletion in their kgp region. Frequency of mutation conferring resistance to l‐trifluoromethionine was significantly higher in the PG1318‐defective mutant than in the wild‐type.

Conclusion:  These results suggest that PG1318 plays a role in the regulation of mutation frequency in the bacterium.
Detection of serotype k Streptococcus mutans in Thai subjects
Authors: Lapirattanakul J. , Nakano K. , Nomura R. , Nemoto H , Kojima A , Senawongse P. , Srisatjaluk R. , Ooshima T.
Published: August 2009

Introduction:  Streptococcus mutans, known to be a pathogen of dental caries as well as bacteremia and infective endocarditis, is classified into four serotypes, c, e, f and k, based on the structures of serotype‐specific polysaccharides. Serotype k was recently designated using blood isolates from Japanese subjects and such strains are considered to be virulent in the bloodstream. The purpose of the present study was to analyse the serotype distribution of strains isolated from Thai subjects and determine whether serotype k strains were present.

Methods:  A total of 250 S. mutans strains were isolated from 50 Thai subjects, and serotypes of all strains were determined. Then, molecular and biological analyses were carried out for serotype k strains.

Results:  Immunodiffusion and polymerase chain reaction analyses showed that serotype c was the most prevalent (70%), followed by serotypes e (22.8%), f (4.4%) and k (2.8%), which indicated that serotype k S. mutans strains occurred in Thai individuals at a similar rate to that previously reported for Japanese and Finnish populations. Molecular analyses of the seven serotype k strains showed extremely low expression of rgpE, which is related to glucose side‐chain formation in serotype‐specific rhamnose‐glucose polymers, similar to previous reports for those other populations. In addition, analysis of the biological properties of the seven serotype k strains demonstrated low levels of sucrose‐dependent adhesion, cellular hydrophobicity, dextran‐binding activity and phagocytosis susceptibility by human polymorphonuclear leukocytes, which are characteristics similar to those of serotype k strains previously isolated in Japan.

Conclusion:  Our results indicate the possibility of a worldwide prevalence of serotype k strains with properties in common with those of previously reported strains.
Human cytomegalovirus in peripheral giant cell granuloma
Authors: Saygun I. , Şahin S. , Muşabak U. , Enhoş Ş. , Kubar A. , Günhan Ö. , Slots J.
Published: August 2009

Background:  The peripheral giant cell granuloma is a relatively common non‐neoplastic inflammatory lesion of gingiva, but the etiopathogeny remains unknown. This study aimed to evaluate the importance of human cytomegalovirus and Epstein–Barr virus in a peripheral giant cell granuloma of a 47‐year‐old female.

Methods:  The lesion was studied clinically, histopathologically, immunologically and virologically using established procedures.

Results:  The gingival growth was located at the mesial surface of the maxillary left canine having a vital pulp. The mass was 12 × 21 mm in size and exhibited a smooth surface with no evidence of fluctuation on palpation. An excisional biopsy revealed giant cells in a fibrohistiocytic stroma with areas of haemorrhage. Serum protein levels and lymphocyte subsets were within normal limits, except CD3+ and CD4+ cells were below normal ranges. Polymorphonuclear leukocytes expressed p150,95 (CD11c/CD18) and CXCR‐2 receptors within normal ranges, but the CXCR1 receptor showed decreased density, and CD15 were below normal range. A virological sample of the tooth surface adjacent to the gingival swelling yielded 7.6 × 103 copy‐counts of cytomegalovirus and 4.3 × 103 copy‐counts of Epstein–Barr virus.

Conclusions:  The clinical and histological findings were consistent with the diagnosis of peripheral giant cell granuloma. Cytomegalovirus has the potential to induce multinucleated giant cells, and the possibility that the virus contribute to the development of peripheral giant cell granuloma merits further study.
T‐RFLP‐based mcrA gene analysis of methanogenic archaea in association with oral infections and evidence of a novel Methanobrevibacter phylotype
Authors: Vianna M. E. , Conrads G. , Gomes B. P. F. A. , Horz H. P.
Published: August 2009

Introduction:  Increasing evidence suggests a role for methanogenic archaea (methanogens) in human health and disease via syntrophic interactions with bacteria. Here we assessed the prevalence and distribution of methanogens and possible associations with bacteria in oral biofilms.

Methods:  Forty‐four periodontal and 32 endodontic samples from necrotic teeth with radiographic evidence of apical periodontitis were analysed. Terminal restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis based on the mcrA gene, specific to methanogens, was applied. The prevalence and amounts of methanogens in endodontic samples were compared with those of Porphyromonas gingivalis, Prevotella intermedia, Tannerella forsythia, Treponema spp. and Synergistes spp. based on real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reactions.

Results:  Besides dominance of the mcrA gene corresponding to Methanobrevibacter oralis, one mcrA gene type, for which no cultivated member has been reported previously, was identified in five periodontal samples and one endodontic sample. Rates of non‐synonymous vs. synonymous nucleotide substitutions suggest that this mcrA gene type codes for a functionally active methyl‐coenzyme M reductase. Methanobrevibacter smithii, the prominent methanogen in the human gut system, was not detected. Mean proportions of methanogens were comparable to Synergistes spp. ranging from 0.5 to 1.0% of the total microbial community. Treponema spp. dominated with a mean proportion of 10%, while the mean proportions of the other endodontic pathogens were below 0.1%. A positive association between methanogens and Synergistes spp. was found.

Conclusion:  Our data provide evidence of a novel, as yet uncultured methanogenic phylotype in association with oral infections, and indicate possible interactions between methanogens and Synergistes spp., the nature of which deserves further investigation.
Cytomegalovirus‐infected inflammatory cells in dental periapical lesions
Authors: Sabeti M. , Daneshmand A. , Simon J. H. , Slots J.
Published: August 2009

Introduction:  As cytomegalovirus may be etiologically involved in periapical pathosis of endodontic origin, this study aimed to determine the cellular source of periapical cytomegalovirus.

Methods:  Periapical granulomatous tissue was collected from 15 extracted teeth with symptomatic periapical lesions. Multi‐color flow cytometry was used to identify cytomegalovirus‐infected cells.

Results:  Cytomegalovirus infection was identified in 10 of the 15 (67%) study lesions, and in periapical monocytes/macrophages (40% of lesions) and T lymphocytes (54% of lesions), but not in periapical B lymphocytes.

Conclusion:  This study and previous polymerase chain reaction‐based investigations show that cytomegalovirus is a frequent inhabitant of symptomatic periapical lesions.
Australian nursing curricula and mental health recruitment
Authors: Warelow Philip , Edward Karen‐Leigh
Published: August 2009

Debate about nursing curricula has been on the forefront of industry and academia in Australia particularly since the shift from the ‘apprenticeship style’ of training for nurses to a university‐based, comprehensive, bachelor's degree. There is the suggestion that university‐based courses are rather inflexible and take for granted that the provision of mental health nursing across what is an essentially general course will ultimately attract the numbers of quality staff members required to fill speciality positions in mental health. Recent literature advocates for a direct entry undergraduate mental health programme in Australia, similar to that in the UK. This is suggested as one of many strategies to address the growing disparity between the demand and the supply for effective mental health treatment and care. The support of preceptor staff in the clinical field in terms of workloads, supervision and professional development are also identified as areas for attention. Another strategy that this paper addresses is the increased support of student preceptors in the areas of workload, supervision and professional development, whereas they forge organizational links between the tertiary sector and industry to facilitate enhanced communication channels between the theoretical curriculum (the theory) and the clinical sites (the practice). Additionally, increasing the mental health content in current curricula to a level that reflects hospital‐based and community mental health needs is also required.
Cardiopulmonary resuscitation knowledge among nurses working in Bahrain
Authors: Marzooq Hussain , Lyneham Joy
Published: August 2009

There is a public expectation that registered nurses are competent in their skills. Nurses need to know cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) to enable them to safely and effectively provide appropriate CPR measures. The objectives of this descriptive study were (i) to investigate nurses' knowledge regarding CPR; and (ii) to identify barriers to appropriate CPR evaluation. One hundred questionnaires were distributed to nurses working in a public government hospital in Bahrain; 82 of these were returned. The results indicated that cognitive knowledge was not adequately retained. Fifty‐eight per cent of respondents perceived recalling CPR information as easy or extremely easy. Only 7% of respondents passed the knowledge test. In general, those who had less education and experience did not recall essential CPR knowledge. This study identified a significant problem with the knowledge surrounding CPR. More concerning was the lack of professional responsibility in dealing with this inadequacy.
Turnover rate among registered nurses in Jordanian hospitals: An exploratory study
Authors: Hayajneh Yaseen A , AbuAlRub Raeda F , Athamneh Aymen Z , Almakhzoomy Ibtihal K
Published: August 2009

The aim of this study is to (i) determine the turnover rate among registered nurses in Jordanian hospitals; and (ii) compare the turnover rate between (a) male and female registered nurses; (b) northern, middle and southern regions; (c) public, private and university hospitals; (d) rural and urban hospitals; and (e) general and specialized hospitals. A descriptive, cross‐sectional retrospective survey design was used. A structured interview method was utilized to collect data. A proportional random sample of 25% of the total number of Jordanian hospitals was taken. The results showed that the overall turnover rate was 36.6%. There were variations according to geographical region, health sector and place of residence. Turnover among registered nurses in Jordanian hospitals is considered a problem that requires effective strategies to deal with. Further research is required to identify the causes, and to explain the differences in the turnover rates according to the different study variables.
A qualitative study of the experience of oral cancer among Taiwanese men
Authors: Hu Tsun‐Wen , Cooke Marie , McCarthy Alexandra
Published: August 2009

The incidence and mortality of oral cancer in Taiwanese men have increased over the past decade, primarily associated with a surge in the popularity of betel quid chewing. The aim of this study was to examine the experience of six Taiwanese men with oral cancer, who were aged between 40 and 60 years, using a qualitative approach. The three major themes emerging from the data include: (i) understanding the cancer diagnosis; (ii) the challenges of cancer treatment; and (iii) adapting to difference. Increasing nurses' understanding of the experiential aspects of oral cancer in this population is required if nurses are to develop successful health promotion programmes and nursing interventions to meet these patients' needs.
Interventions to reduce psychosocial disturbance following humanitarian relief efforts involving natural disasters: An integrative review
Authors: Walsh Denise Susan
Published: August 2009

Because of the increased level of post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) reported post disaster work, it is imperative that governmental and non‐governmental agencies consider predisaster training of volunteers in not only clinical skills, but also communication and team building. When these concepts are combined with ongoing support post disaster, a decrease in the frequency and severity of PTSD has been reported. A review of 12 studies examined responses of relief workers to various disaster situations. Experiences were extracted, categorized, and a data reduction model was developed to illustrate the characteristics of the experiences and subsequent interventions that were reported. Three interventions that positively affected the responses of relief workers to disaster experiences emerged: debriefing, team building and preparation.