bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deproteinized bovine bone mineral in marginal defects at implants installed immediately into extraction sockets: an experimental study in dogs
Authors: Caneva Marco , Botticelli Daniele , Pantani Fabio , Baffone Gabriele M. , Rangel Jr Idelmo Garcia , Lang Niklaus P.
Published: May 2011

Aim: To evaluate the influence of deproteinized bovine bone mineral (DBBM) particles concomitant with the placement of a collagen membrane on alveolar ridge preservation and on osseointegration of implants placed into alveolar sockets immediately after tooth extraction.

Material and methods: The pulp tissue of the mesial roots of 3P3 was removed in six Labrador dogs and the root canals were filled. Flaps were elevated in the right side of the mandible, and the buccal and lingual alveolar bony plates were exposed. The third premolar was hemi‐sectioned and the distal root was removed. A recipient site was prepared and an implant was placed lingually. After implant installation, defects of about 0.6 mm wide and 3.1 mm depth resulted at the buccal aspects of the implant, both at the test and at the control sites. The same surgical procedures and measurements were performed on the left side of the mandible. However, DBBM particles with a size of 0.25–1 mm were placed into the remaining defect concomitant with the placement of a collagen membrane.

Results: All implants were integrated into mature bone. No residual DBBM particles were detected at the test sites after 4 months of healing. Both the test and the control sites showed buccal alveolar bone resorption, 1.8±1.1 and 2.1±1 mm, respectively. The most coronal bone‐to‐implant contact at the buccal aspect was 2±1.1 an 2.8±1.3 mm, at the test and the control sites, respectively. This difference in the distance was statistically significant.

Conclusion: The application of DBBM concomitant with a collagen membrane to fill the marginal defects around implants placed into the alveolus immediately after tooth extraction contributed to improved bone regeneration in the defects. However, with regard to buccal bony crest preservation, a limited contribution of DBBM particles was achieved.

To cite this article: Caneva M, Botticelli D, Pantani F, Baffone GM, Rangel IG Jr, Lang NP. Deproteinized bovine bone mineral in marginal defects at implants installed immediately into extraction sockets: an experimental study in dogs. Clin. Oral Impl. Res. 23, 2012; 106–112. doi: 10.1111/j.1600‐0501.2011.02202.x
Relationship between the bone density estimated by cone‐beam computed tomography and the primary stability of dental implants
Authors: Isoda Kei , Ayukawa Yasunori , Tsukiyama Yoshihiro , Sogo Motofumi , Matsushita Yasuyuki , Koyano Kiyoshi
Published: May 2011

Objectives: The aims of this study were to objectively assess bone quality with density values obtained by cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT) and to determine the correlations between bone density and primary stability of dental implants.

Material and methods: Eighteen Straumann implants were inserted into 18 fresh femoral heads of swine. The bone densities of implant recipient sites were preoperatively determined by the density value using CBCT. The maximum insertion torque value of each implant was recorded using a digital torque meter. Resonance frequency, which represented a quantitative unit called the implant stability quotient (ISQ), was measured using an Osstell® Mentor immediately after the implant placement. Spearman's correlation coefficient was calculated to evaluate the correlations among density values, insertion torques, and ISQs at implant placement.

Results: The density values ranged from 98 to 902. The mean density value, insertion torque, and ISQ were 591±226, 13.4±5.2 Ncm, and 67.1±8.1, respectively. Statistically significant correlations were found between the density values and insertion torque (rs=0.796, P<0.001), density values and ISQ (rs=0.529, P=0.024), and insertion torque and ISQ (rs=0.758, P<0.001).

Conclusions: The bone quality evaluated by specific CBCT showed a high correlation with the primary stability of the implants. Hence, preoperative density value estimations by CBCT may allow clinicians to predict implant stability. Whether the density values obtained by the CBCT device used in the present study could be applied to other devices requires further elucidation.

To cite this article: Isoda K, Ayukawa Y, Tsukiyama Y, Sogo M, Matsushita Y, Koyano K. Relationship between the bone density estimated by cone‐beam computed tomography and the primary stability of dental implants.  Clin. Oral Impl. Res. 23, 2012; 832–836 doi: 10.1111/j.1600‐0501.2011.02203.x
Failure analysis of fractured dental zirconia implants
Authors: Gahlert M. , Burtscher D. , Grunert I. , Kniha H. , Steinhauser E.
Published: May 2011

Objectives: The purpose of the present study was the macroscopic and microscopic failure analysis of fractured zirconia dental implants.

Methods: Thirteen fractured one‐piece zirconia implants (Z‐Look3) out of 170 inserted implants with an average in situ period of 36.75±5.34 months (range from 20 to 56 months, median 38 months) were prepared for macroscopic and microscopic (scanning electron microscopy [SEM]) failure analysis. These 170 implants were inserted in 79 patients. The patient histories were compared with fracture incidences to identify the reasons for the failure of the implants.

Results: Twelve of these fractured implants had a diameter of 3.25 mm and one implant had a diameter of 4 mm. All fractured implants were located in the anterior side of the maxilla and mandibula. The patient with the fracture of the 4 mm diameter implant was adversely affected by strong bruxism. By failure analysis (SEM), it could be demonstrated that in all cases, mechanical overloading caused the fracture of the implants. Inhomogeneities and internal defects of the ceramic material could be excluded, but notches and scratches due to sandblasting of the surface led to local stress concentrations that led to the mentioned mechanical overloading by bending loads.

Conclusions: The present study identified a fracture rate of nearly 10% within a follow‐up period of 36.75 months after prosthetic loading. Ninety‐two per cent of the fractured implants were so‐called diameter reduced implants (diameter 3.25 mm). These diameter reduced implants cannot be recommended for further clinical use. Improvement of the ceramic material and modification of the implant geometry has to be carried out to reduce the failure rate of small‐sized ceramic implants. Nevertheless, due to the lack of appropriate laboratory testing, only clinical studies will demonstrate clearly whether and how far the failure rate can be reduced.

To cite this article: Gahlert M, Burtscher D, Grunert I, Kniha H, Steinhauser E. Failure analysis of fractured dental zirconia implants. Clin. Oral Impl. Res. 23, 2012; 287–293 doi: 10.1111/j.1600‐0501.2011.02206.x
Using species co‐occurrence networks to assess the impacts of climate change
Authors: Araújo Miguel B. , Rozenfeld Alejandro , Rahbek Carsten , Marquet Pablo A.
Published: May 2011

Viable populations of species occur in a given place if three conditions are met: the environment at the place is suitable; the species is able to colonize it; co‐occurrence is possible despite or because of interactions with other species. Studies investigating the effects of climate change on species have mainly focused on measuring changes in climate suitability. Complex interactions among species have rarely been explored in such studies. We extend network theory to the analysis of complex patterns of co‐occurrence among species. The framework is used to explore the robustness of networks under climate change. With our data, we show that networks describing the geographic pattern of co‐occurrence among species display properties shared by other complex networks, namely that most species are poorly connected to other species in the network and only a few are highly connected. In our example, species more exposed to climate change tended to be poorly connected to other species within the network, while species more connected tended to be less exposed. Such high connectance would make the co‐occurrence networks more robust to climate change. The proposed framework illustrates how network analysis could be used, together with co‐occurrence data, to help addressing the potential consequences of species interactions in studies of climate change and biodiversity. However, more research is needed to test for links between co‐occurrence and network interactions.
Macroecological drivers of alien conifer naturalizations worldwide
Authors: Essl Franz , Mang Thomas , Dullinger Stefan , Moser Dietmar , Hulme Philip E.
Published: May 2011

Understanding the factors that drive the global distribution of alien species is a pivotal issue in invasion biology. Here, we used data on naturalized conifers (Pinaceae, Cupressaceae) from sixty temperate and subtropical regions and five continents to test how environmental and socio‐economic conditions of recipient areas as well as introduction efforts affect naturalization probabilities. We collated 18 predictor variables for each region describing environmental, biogeographic and socio‐economic conditions as well as a measure of the macro‐climatic match with the species' native ranges, and the extent to which alien conifers are used in commercial forestry. Naturalization probabilities across all species and regions were then related to these predictor variables by means of generalized linear mixed models.

For both Pinaceae and Cupressaceae, naturalization probabilities were generally higher in the Southern Hemisphere, and increased with indicators of habitat diversity of the recipient region. The match in macro‐climatic conditions between the native and introduced regions was a significant predictor of conifer naturalization, but socio‐economic variables were less powerful predictors. Only for Cupressaceae did a socio‐economic variable (human population density) affect naturalization probabilities. Key attributes facilitating naturalization were related to introduction effort. Moreover, usage in commercial forestry generally fostered naturalization, although the actual size of alien conifer plantations in a region was only correlated with the naturalization of Pinaceae.

Our results suggest that climate matching, habitat diversity and introduction effort co‐determine the probability of naturalization, which additionally, is modulated by biogeographic features of the recipient area, such as incidence of natural enemies or competitors. To date, the most widely used tools for invasive plant risk assessment only account for climate match and rarely factor in other attributes of the recipient environment. Future tools should additionally consider biotic environment and introduction effort if risk assessment is to be effective.
Managerial Innovation: Conceptions, Processes and Antecedents
Authors: Damanpour Fariborz , Aravind Deepa
Published: May 2011

The expansive research on innovation in organizations has primarily followed a technological imperative, postulating that organizations organize their innovation efforts through research and development (R&D) activities. Theories of innovation are thus shaped mosdy from the studies of technology-based innovations in the manufacturing sector, yet are applied in all contexts. This article advocates research on managerial innovations - new approaches to devise strategy and structure of tasks and units, modify the organization's management processes and administrative systems, motivate and reward organizational members, and enable organizational adaptation and change. We examine the conceptual development, generation and adoption processes, antecedents, and influences of managerial innovation on organizational conduct. By increasing an understanding of managerial innovation, this article aims to complement existing theories of innovation derived from the studies of technological innovations and thus help extend and advance theory and research on innovation process and outcome in organizations.
The potential influence of far-infrared emission lines on the selection of high-redshift galaxies
Authors: Smail Ian , Swinbank A. M. , Ivison R. J. , Ibar E.
Published: May 2011

We investigate whether strong molecular and atomic emission lines at far-infrared wavelengths can influence the identification and derived properties of galaxies selected from broad-band, far-infrared or submillimetre observations. Several of these lines, for example, [C II] 158 µm, have been found to be very bright in some galaxies, with fluxes of ≳0.1–1 per cent of the total far-infrared luminosity, and may be even brighter in certain populations at high redshifts. At redshifts where these lines fall in instrument passbands, they can significantly increase the broad-band flux measurements. We estimate that the contributions from line emission could boost the apparent broad-band flux by ≳20–40 per cent in the Herschel and SCUBA-2 bands. Combined with the steep source counts in the submillimetre and far-infrared bands, line contamination has potentially significant consequences for the properties of sources detected in flux-limited continuum surveys, biasing the derived redshift distributions and bolometric luminosities. Indeed, it is possible that some z < 4 sources found in 850-µm surveys are being identified in part due to the line contamination from strong [C II] emission. These biases may be even stronger for less-luminous and lower metallicity populations at high redshifts, which are observable with the ALMA and which may have even stronger line-to-continuum ratios.
Controlled Exogenous Enzyme Imbibition and Activation in Whole Chickpea Seed Enzyme Reactor (SER)
Authors: Kliger Eynav , Fischer Lutz , Lutz‐Wahl Sabine , Saguy I. Sam
Published: May 2011

Abstract:  Chickpeas are of excellent quality (protein, vitamins, minerals, unsaturated fatty acids) and very low in phytoestrogen, making them a potentially promising source for vegetarian‐based infant formula (VBIF). However, their high starch and fiber concentration could hinder their utilization for infants. To overcome this natural shortcoming, a solid‐state “enzymation” (SSE) process was developed in which imbibition of exogenous enzyme facilitates hydrolysis within the intact chickpea seed. The process was termed seed enzyme reactor (SER). Liquid imbibition data of dry chickpeas during soaking were fitted with the Weibull distribution model. The derived Weibull shape parameter, β, value (0.77 ± 0.11) indicated that the imbibition mechanism followed Fickian diffusion. Imbibition occurred through the coat and external layers. The process was tested using green fluorescent protein (GFP) as an exogenous marker, and involved soaking, thermal treatment, peeling, microwave partial drying, rehydration in enzyme solution, and SSE at an adjusted pH, time, and temperature. Amylases, or a combination of amylases and cellulases, resulted in significant carbohydrate hydrolysis (23% and 47% of the available starch, respectively). In addition, chickpea initial raffinose and stachyose concentration was significantly reduced (91% and 92%, respectively). The process could serve as a proof of concept, requiring additional development and optimization to become a full industrial application.

Practical Application:  Chickpeas have high nutritional quality making them a potentially promising source for VBIF. However, their high starch and fiber concentration hinder their utilization. A SSE process was developed. Essentially, it turns every seed into a SER. Exogenous enzymes were transported by imbibition into the intact chickpea seed. The process consisted of: soaking and heat treatment; peeling; partial microwave drying; resoaking in enzyme solution; controlled reaction time. Commercial low‐cost enzyme(s) were used. Starch digestibility was selected as the main target due to its high concentration. The process was first tested using GFP as an exogenous marker. Amylases, and/or a combination of amylases and cellulases, resulted in significant carbohydrate hydrolysis (up to 47% of the available starch). The concentration of oligosaccharides content was also decreased. The process has the potential of circumventing relatively expensive downstream steps, such as separation spray drying, and so on.
Pomological Features, Nutritional Quality, Polyphenol Content Analysis, and Antioxidant Properties of Domesticated and 3 Wild Ecotype Forms of Raspberries (Rubus idaeus L.)
Authors: Gülçin İlhami , Topal Fevzi , Çakmakçı Ramazan , Bilsel Mine , Gören Ahmet C. , Erdogan Ummugulsum
Published: May 2011

Abstract:  The raspberry (Rubus idaeus L.) is an economically important berry crop that contains many phenolic compounds with potential health benefits. In this study, important pomological features, including nutrient content and antioxidant properties, of a domesticated and 3 wild (Yayla, Yavuzlar, and Yedigöl) raspberry fruits were evaluated. Also, the amount of total phenolics and flavonoids in lyophilized aqueous extracts of domesticated and wild ecotypes of raspberry fruits were calculated as gallic acid equivalents (GAEs) and quercetin equivalents (QE). The highest phenolic compounds were found in wild Yayla ecotype (26.66 ± 3.26 GAE/mg extract). Whilst, the highest flavonoids were determined in wild Yedigöl ecotype (6.09 ± 1.21 QA/mg extract). The antioxidant activity of lyophilized aqueous extracts of domesticated and wild ecotypes of raspberry fruits were investigated as trolox equivalents using different in vitro assays including DPPH•, ABTS•+, DMPD•+, and O•−2 radical scavenging activities, H2O2 scavenging activity, ferric (Fe3+) and cupric ions (Cu2+) reducing abilities, ferrous ions (Fe2+) chelating activity. In addition, quantitative amounts of caffeic acid, ferulic acid, syringic acid, ellagic acid, quercetin, α‐tocopherol, pyrogallol, p‐hydroxybenzoic acid, vanillin, p‐coumaric acid, gallic acid, and ascorbic acid in lyophilized aqueous extracts of domesticated and wild ecotypes of raspberry fruits were detected by high‐performance liquid chromatography and tandem mass spectrometry (LC‐MS‐MS). The results clearly show that p‐coumaric acid is the main phenolic acid responsible for the antioxidant and radical scavenging activity of lyophilized aqueous extracts of domesticated and wild ecotypes of raspberry fruits.
Tertiary bone grafting using calvarial bone transplants in patients with cleft lip and alveolus
Authors: Smolka W. , Smolka K.
Published: May 2011

Tertiary osteoplasty of alveolar cleft defects is often necessary in patients where bone resorption after secondary osteoplasty leads to an insufficient amount of bone of the alveolar crest. In most of the cases, the permanent tooth of the cleft area is missing and needs to be restored with an implant. Because of an insufficient bony support, tertiary bone grafting prior to implant insertion is necessary. Three cases of tertiary osteoplasty of alveolar cleft defects are presented. Good clinical results and low graft resorption of calvarial bone grafts after tertiary osteoplasty in patients with cleft lip and alveolus let us presume that these kinds of grafts are a promising alternative to iliac bone transplants.
Creating the Writer of the Cleric's Words
Authors: LUPTON CHRISTINA
Published: May 2011

This essay argues that, although Anglican sermons were recognised as derivative compositions, it was important to their readers that they were handwritten documents. The discussion traces the effect of handwriting as a virtual dimension of printed writings by and about the clergy, focusing on Tristram Shandy, Mansfield Park and the faux manuscript sermons of John Trusler as texts drawing attention to religious writing at the surface of the page. The article supplements the account given by literary historians of original authorship and creativity as the immaterial categories used to counteract the proliferation of writing in the age of print.
Mediating Abolition: The Collaborative Consciousness of Liverpool's William Roscoe and James Currie
Authors: KRAWCZYK SCOTT
Published: May 2011

This essay examines the collaborative relationship and networking strategies of the Liverpool abolitionists William Roscoe and James Currie. Specifically, through close readings of poetry, pamphlets and letters, the essay considers three aspects of the partnership: its logistical (networking) strategies; its rhetorical and collaborative strategies, including how individual writings mutually reinforced each other; and how collaboration fostered a deeply intimate bond between the two men. I introduce the term ‘collaborative consciousness’ to denote not only the intimacy generated by shared writing and activism but also the consciousness‐raising that occurred among and within activist networks of abolition and Dissent.
Confluence: William and Dorothy Wordsworth in 1798
Authors: NEWLYN LUCY
Published: May 2011

Dorothy Wordsworth's Alfoxden Journal exemplifies the collaborative nature of creativity in the Wordsworth household. As a kind of commonplace book, it served to record shared experiences (often connected with conversations) which could be used as a future creative resource. But it was also an expression of Dorothy's own unique way of seeing and responding to the natural world, which played a vital role in William's intellectual development. This essay traces the influence of Dorothy's prose style on William's poetry during 1798, analysing the complex interactions between observation, conversation and recollection that took place in the compositional processes of both writers.
Untranslatable Wordsworth?
Authors: FAIRLEY IAN
Published: May 2011

This essay explores Coleridge's claim that the creative ground of Wordsworth's poetry is its ‘untranslatableness in words of the same language without injury to the meaning’. Proposing that Schleiermacher's concept of Unübertragbarkeit can be understood as an analogue of Coleridge's ‘untranslatableness’, I suggest that Schleiermacher's thinking about the ethics of self‐possession can gloss a Wordsworthian hermeneutic of self‐expression. I then seek to describe the operation of translation in the Simplon Pass episode of The Prelude, and conclude by exploring the translatable or untranslatable nature of selfhood in the mother–child relationships imagined in ‘The Blind Highland Boy’ and ‘The Idiot Boy’.
The Shelleys and the Art of Suffering
Authors: DAVIES JEREMY
Published: May 2011

Mary Shelley's posthumous editions of Percy Shelley's poetry and prose have been regarded as striking examples of collaborative literary achievement, but in her editorial annotations Mary represents her husband's work as the result of his innately solitary genius. She does so in particular by associating his creative power with his constitutional ill‐health. Via a reading of Percy's Julian and Maddalo, I argue that this connection between creativity and bodily debility does not imply that his poetry annuls the social context of its writing; instead, Mary seeks to ameliorate the conflict between philanthropy and sociability that she detects in Percy's work.
The effect of MICA antigens on transplant outcomes: A systematic review
Authors: Lu Jun , Luo Lei , Guo Yingjia , Long Dan , Wei Liang , Shan Juan , Feng Li , Li Shengfu , Yang Xiaoyan , Lu Yiping , Krams Sheri , Li Youping
Published: May 2011

Background and Objective: Human major histocompatibility complex class I‐related gene A (MICA) is reportedly associated with poor transplant outcomes and a high risk of acute and chronic rejection in solid organ transplantation. However, studies on these risks have found conflicting results. In order to identify areas in which additional research is needed, we have undertaken the first systematic review of evidence concerning the risk of anti‐MICA antibodies in recipients’ sera.

Methods: We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library for original reports of clinical studies involving detection of MICA abs in transplant recipients’ sera which used survival rate, acute rejection, and/or chronic rejection as outcome measures. RevMan 5.0.15 was used to calculate relative risk (RR), odds ratios (ORs), and 95% confidence intervals (95%CIs).

Results: We found 18 relevant articles, with a total of 6,607 recipients. Follow‐up duration ranged from 1 to 15 years. In studies with more than 2 years of follow‐up, anti‐MICA abs positive in kidney recipients’ post‐transplant sera was associated with a lower graft survival rate (4 years: RR = 2.04, 95%CI 1.30 to 3.22; 3 years: OR = 3.56, 95%CI 1.47 to 8.62; 2 years: RR = 2.17, 95%CI 1.09 to 4.31) and a higher acute rejection rate (RR = 1.92, 95%CI 1.27 to 2.91), but there was no clear association with chronic rejection. Similar conclusions could not be drawn for heart or liver transplantation due to possible confounding by anti‐HLA abs and the small sample sizes of the available studies.

Conclusion: Anti‐MICA antibodies in recipients’ sera may associated with poor graft survival rates and high risk of acute and chronic rejection in solid organ transplantation, but more rigorous studies are needed to confirm or refute this relationship. Current immunosuppressive therapy may fail to suppress the harmful effect of MICA antigens.
A MODEL FOR ESTIMATING PREMIUMS TO REDUCE IRRIGATION ON FARMS
Authors: JÚDEZ LUCINIO , DE ANDRÉS ROSARIO , IBÁÑEZ MIGUEL , URZAINQUI ELVIRA
Published: May 2011

Abstract This paper aims to determine the minimum agri‐environmental premium per hectare that farmers should receive to reduce crop irrigation.

To this end, the authors develop a mixed‐integer quadratic model using a new methodology based on traditional positive mathematical programming, which allows the inclusion in the model of crop variants that are not present in the baseline situation of the farms.

What is shown is that the results obtained with this new methodology, using the cost average approach of calibration, are the same as those obtained with an empirical method, when there is no change of crop distribution after the changeover from irrigated to nonirrigated farms.

The theoretical results are compared with those obtained using the calibration with exogenous elasticities and are illustrated numerically for a representative farm of an area around Spain's Tablas de Daimiel in which the use of groundwater for crop irrigation has led to the ongoing deterioration of wetlands that depend on the same source of water, endangering the region's environmental sustainability.
Role of alkali metal adsorption and defect position on the work function of a (5, 5) capped single-walled carbon nanotube
Authors: Xu Shun-Fu , Yuan Guang , Li Chun , Mimura Hitenori
Published: May 2011

The authors used first-principles calculations to investigate the influence of alkali metal (Li/Na/Cs) adsorption and defect position on the work function of a (5, 5) armchair single-walled carbon nanotube (CNT) with a capped edge. The atomic Cs adsorption can more effectively reduce the work function of the CNT than the atomic Li/Na adsorption. Adsorption positions have a measurable impact on the work function of the CNT. Any vacancy defect on the tip can raise the work function of the CNT regardless of whether or not an alkali metal atom is absorbed. The variations of work functions are mainly attributed to the change of Fermi levels induced by charge redistributions. The alkali metal adsorption can also transform the semiconducting CNT into a metallic tube, which is significant for the CNTs as a promising field emission cold cathode material.
Transforming U.S. Agriculture
Authors: Reganold J. P. , Jackson-Smith D. , Batie S. S. , Harwood R. R. , Kornegay J. L. , Bucks D. , Flora C. B. , Hanson J. C. , Jury W. A. , Meyer D. , Schumacher A. , Sehmsdorf H. , Shennan C. , Thrupp L. A. , Willis P.
Published: May 2011

Achieving sustainable agricultural systems will require transformative changes in markets, policies, and science.
Photodetection with Active Optical Antennas
Authors: Knight Mark W. , Sobhani Heidar , Nordlander Peter , Halas Naomi J.
Published: May 2011

An active optical antenna-diode combines the functions of light-harvesting and excited-electron injection.
Single-Cell Genomics Reveals Organismal Interactions in Uncultivated Marine Protists
Authors: Yoon Hwan Su , Price Dana C. , Stepanauskas Ramunas , Rajah Veeran D. , Sieracki Michael E. , Wilson William H. , Yang Eun Chan , Duffy Siobain , Bhattacharya Debashish
Published: May 2011

Marine protist cells from the wild environment contain DNA from several viruses and bacteria, but apparently lack plastids.
Hot Electrons Cross Boundaries
Authors: Moskovits Martin
Published: May 2011

Devices based on gold nanostructures that convert absorbed light into electrical current can be used to detect near-infrared light.
Ancient Neurons Regulate Immunity
Authors: Tracey Kevin J.
Published: May 2011

The innate immune system of multicellular animals is regulated by the nervous system.
Upgraded Cobas Ampliprep-Cobas TaqMan Version 2.0 HIV-1 RNA Quantification Assay versus First Version: Correction of Underestimations
Authors: Wirden M. , Tubiana R. , Fourati S. , Thevenin M. , Simon A. , Canestri A. , Ait-Arkoub Z. , Soulie C. , Marcelin A. G. , Katlama C. , Calvez V.
Published: May 2011

The large underestimations of HIV RNA quantification observed in 17 patients with the first version of Cobas TaqMan assay have been successfully corrected in the upgraded version 2.0. In comparison with the Abbott RealTime assay, the mean difference that was 1.18 log
10
copies/ml is now zero. The discrepancies have disappeared.
Fatal Invasive Infection with Fungemia Due to Microascus cirrosus after Heart and Lung Transplantation in a Patient with Cystic Fibrosis
Authors: Miossec Charline , Morio Florent , Lepoivre Thierry , Le Pape Patrice , Garcia-Hermoso Dea , Gay-Andrieu Françoise , Haloun Alain , Treilhaud Michele , Leclair François , Miegeville Michel
Published: May 2011

Scopulariopsis
species are rarely but increasingly recognized as opportunistic pathogens in immunocompromised patients. We report on a patient suffering from cystic fibrosis who developed disseminated fungal infection due to a rare
Scopulariopsis
species,
Microascus cirrosus
, after heart and lung transplantation. Despite antifungal combination therapy with voriconazole and caspofungin, the patient died 4 weeks after transplantation. Diagnostic difficulties and optimal management of disseminated
Scopulariopsis
/
Microascus
infections are discussed.
Hematogenously Disseminated Skin Disease Caused by
Mucor velutinosus
in a Patient with Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: Sugui Janyce A. , Christensen Jesica A. , Bennett John E. , Zelazny Adrian M. , Kwon-Chung Kyung J.
Published: May 2011

We report here a case of disseminated skin infection caused by
Mucor velutinosus
, a recently described new species. We believe this to be the first published report of a clinical case of mucormycosis due to
M. velutinosus
, as well as a rare case of dissemination from a deep site to skin.
Reevaluation of the Taxonomic Status of Recently Described Species of Enterococcus: Evidence that E. thailandicus Is a Senior Subjective Synonym of “E. sanguinicola” and Confirmation of E. caccae as a Species Distinct from E. silesiacus
Authors: Shewmaker Patricia Lynn , Steigerwalt Arnold G. , Nicholson Ainsley C. , Carvalho Maria da Glória S. , Facklam Richard R. , Whitney Anne M. , Teixeira Lúcia M.
Published: May 2011

Several of the more recently proposed new species of
Enterococcus
are nearly identical based on 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis and phenotypic traits. In the present study, DNA-DNA reassociation experiments, in conjunction with sequencing of the 16S rRNA and
rpoB
genes, provided evidence that “
Enterococcus sanguinicola
” and
Enterococcus thailandicus
actually represent the same species. In contrast,
Enterococcus caccae
and
Enterococcus silesiacus
, two other species with nearly identical 16S rRNA gene sequences, were confirmed to be separate species.
Evaluation of BacT/Alert 3D Automated Unit for Detection of Nontuberculous Mycobacteria Requiring Incubation at 30°C for Optimal Growth
Authors: Alfa Michelle J. , Manickam Kanchana , Sepehri Shadi , Sitter Denise , Lenton Pat
Published: May 2011

The reliability of the BacT/Alert 3D unit for automated detection of nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) that grow optimally at 30°C was assessed. This system reliably maintained a temperature of 30°C and detected 50% of the clinical NTM strains (5
Mycobacterium marinum
and 3
Mycobacterium gordonae
strains) faster than 37°C culture.
Characterization of Genomic Island 3 and Genetic Variability of Chilean Field Strains of Brucella abortus
Authors: Céspedes Sandra , Salgado Paulina , Valenzuela Patricio , Vidal Roberto , Oñate Angel A.
Published: May 2011

One of the capabilities developed by bacteria is the ability to gain large fragments of DNA from other bacteria or to lose portions of their own genomes. Among these exchangeable fragments are the genomic islands (GIs). Nine GIs have been identified in
Brucella
, and genomic island 3 (GI-3) is shared by two pathogenic species,
B. melitensis
and
B. abortus
. GI-3 encodes mostly unknown proteins. One of the aims of this study was to perform pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) on field isolates of
B. abortus
from Chile to determine whether these isolates are clonally related. Furthermore, we focused on the characterization of GI-3, studying its organization and the genetic conservation of the GI-3 sequence using techniques such as tiling-path PCR (TP-PCR) and restriction fragment length polymorphism-PCR (RFLP-PCR). Our results, after PFGE was performed on 69 field isolates of
B. abortus
from Chile, showed that the strains were genetically homogeneous. To increase the power of genetic discrimination among these strains, we used multiple locus variable-number tandem-repeat (VNTR) analysis with 16 loci (MLVA-16). The results obtained by MLVA-16 showed that the strains of
B. abortus
were genetically heterogeneous and that most of them clustered according to their geographic origin. Of the genetic loci studied, panel 2B was the one describing the highest diversity in the analysis, as well as locus Bruce19 in panel 2A. In relation to the study of GI-3, our experimental analysis by TP-PCR identified and confirmed that GI-3 is present in all wild strains of
B. abortus
, demonstrating the high stability of gene cluster GI-3 in Chilean field strains.
Comparative Evaluation of Three Commercial Identification Systems Using Common and Rare Bloodstream Yeast Isolates
Authors: Meletiadis Joseph , Arabatzis Michael , Bompola Maria , Tsiveriotis Konstantinos , Hini Stavroula , Petinaki Efthymia , Velegraki Aristea , Zerva Loukia
Published: May 2011

The commercial yeast identification systems API ID32C, Auxacolor, and Vitek were evaluated using 251 molecularly identified bloodstream isolates and 2 reference strains, representing a total of 35 species (6 common and 29 rare). Correct identification rates were higher for common species (Auxacolor, 95%; API ID32C, 94%; Vitek, 92%) than for rare species (Auxacolor, 43%; API ID32C, 56%; Vitek, 64%). All systems performed equally among the former, and Vitek performed best among the latter.
Prospective Study of Congenital Toxoplasmosis Screening with Use of IgG Avidity and Multiplex Nested PCR Methods
Authors: Yamada Hideto , Nishikawa Akira , Yamamoto Tomohiro , Mizue Yuka , Yamada Takashi , Morizane Mayumi , Tairaku Shinya , Nishihira Jun
Published: May 2011

Acute infection with
Toxoplasma gondii
during pregnancy can cause congenital toxoplasmosis. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether screening with the use of IgG avidity and multiplex nested PCR methods was effective to detect a high-risk pregnancy. In a prospective study, serum
T. gondii
IgG avidity was measured in consecutive 146 pregnant women testing positive for
T. gondii
antibody and either positive or equivocal for IgM. Multiplex nested PCR for
T. gondii
DNA on amniotic fluid, maternal blood, and umbilical cord blood were performed with informed consent. A total of 51 (34.9%) women presented with low IgG avidity (<30%), 15 (10.3%) presented with borderline avidity (30 to 35%), and 80 (54.8%) presented with high avidity (>35%) indices. Amniotic fluid obtained at amniocentesis or birth yielded positive PCR results in nine women with low IgG avidity indices. Of these nine women, three had congenital toxoplasmosis. None of women with high or border line IgG avidity indices had a positive PCR result in the amniotic fluid or congenital toxoplasmosis. No congenital toxoplasmosis was detected in women whose amniotic fluids yielded negative PCR results. Ingestion of raw or undercooked meat was found to be the main risk factor for acute
T. gondii
infection. Congenital toxoplasmosis screening with a combination of IgG avidity in the maternal blood and multiplex nested PCR in the amniotic fluid was useful for detecting a high risk pregnancy and diagnosing congenital toxoplasmosis.
Avidity Index for Anti-HIV Antibodies: Comparison between Third- and Fourth-Generation Automated Immunoassays
Authors: Suligoi Barbara , Rodella Anna , Raimondo Mariangela , Regine Vincenza , Terlenghi Luigina , Manca Nino , Casari Salvatore , Camoni Laura , Salfa Maria Cristina , Galli Claudio
Published: May 2011

The development of assays for detecting recent HIV infections has become crucial for analyzing trends in infection in different populations, both for surveillance and prevention activities. The anti-HIV avidity index (AI), measured with third-generation immunoassays (which detect anti-HIV antibody), has been shown to be an accurate tool for discriminating recent HIV infections (<6 months) from established infections (≥6 months). We compared a third-generation immunoassay (AxSYM HIV 1/2 gO; Abbott Diagnostics) to a fourth-generation immunoassay (Architect HIV Ag/Ab Combo; Abbott Diagnostics; which detects anti-HIV antibody and p24 antigen) in terms of AI performance in distinguishing between recent and established HIV infections. A total of 142 samples from 75 HIV-infected individuals with an estimated date of seroconversion were assayed. The two assays showed the same accuracy in identifying a recent infection (91.5%), using an AI cutoff of 0.80, although Architect HIV Ag/Ab Combo was slightly more sensitive (89.4% versus 84.8%;
P
> 0.05) and yet less specific (93.4% versus 97.4%;
P
> 0.05). The correlation between assays was high (
r
= 0.87). When 20 specimens falling in the gray zone around the cutoff point (0.75 ≤ AI ≤ 0.84) were excluded, the accuracy of AI with Architect HIV Ag/Ab Combo was 94.7%, and the concordance between the two assays was 99.2%. The anti-HIV AI is a serological marker that accurately discriminates recent from established HIV infections. It can be successfully applied on fully automated fourth-generation HIV Ab/Ag immunoassays, which have several advantages, including increased throughput, high reproducibility, no need for specific technical skills, and easy comparability of results obtained in different settings.
Canine Distemper Virus Matrix Protein Influences Particle Infectivity, Particle Composition, and Envelope Distribution in Polarized Epithelial Cells and Modulates Virulence
Authors: Dietzel Erik , Anderson Danielle E. , Castan Alexandre , von Messling Veronika , Maisner Andrea
Published: May 2011

In paramyxoviruses, the matrix (M) protein mediates the interaction between the envelope and internal proteins during particle assembly and egress. In measles virus (MeV), M mutations, such as those found in subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE) strains, and differences in vaccine and wild-type M proteins can affect the strength of interaction with the envelope glycoproteins, assembly efficiency, and spread. However, the contribution of the M protein to the replication and pathogenesis of the closely related canine distemper virus (CDV) has not been characterized. To this end this, we generated a recombinant wild-type CDV carrying a vaccine strain M protein. The recombinant virus retained the parental growth phenotype in VerodogSLAMtag cells, but displayed an increased particle-to-infectivity ratio very similar to that of the vaccine strain, likely due to inefficient H protein incorporation. Even though infectious virus was released only from the apical surface, consistent with the release polarity of the wild-type CDV strain, envelope protein distribution in polarized epithelial cells reproduced the bipolar pattern seen in vaccine strain-infected cells. Most notably, the chimeric virus was completely attenuated in ferrets and caused only a mild and transient leukopenia, indicating that the differences in particle infectivity and envelope protein sorting mediated by the vaccine M protein contribute importantly to vaccine strain attenuation.
Gene-Specific Contributions to Mumps Virus Neurovirulence and Neuroattenuation
Authors: Sauder Christian J. , Zhang Cheryl X. , Ngo Laurie , Werner Kellie , Lemon Ken , Duprex W. Paul , Malik Tahir , Carbone Kathryn , Rubin Steven A.
Published: May 2011

Mumps virus (MuV) is highly neurotropic and was the leading cause of aseptic meningitis in the Western Hemisphere prior to widespread use of live attenuated MuV vaccines. Due to the absence of markers of virus neuroattenuation and neurovirulence, ensuring mumps vaccine safety has proven problematic, as demonstrated by the occurrence of aseptic meningitis in recipients of certain vaccine strains. Here we examined the genetic basis of MuV neuroattenuation and neurovirulence by generating a series of recombinant viruses consisting of combinations of genes derived from a cDNA clone of the neurovirulent wild-type 88-1961 strain (r88) and from a cDNA clone of the highly attenuated Jeryl Lynn vaccine strain (rJL). Testing of these viruses in rats demonstrated the ability of several individual rJL genes and gene combinations to significantly neuroattenuate r88, with the greatest effect imparted by the rJL nucleoprotein/matrix protein combination. Interestingly, no tested combination of r88 genes, including the nucleoprotein/matrix protein combination, was able to convert rJL into a highly neurovirulent virus, highlighting mechanistic differences between processes involved in neuroattenuation and neurovirulence.
Identification of a Novel Neuropathogenic Theiler's Murine Encephalomyelitis Virus
Authors: Buckwalter Matthew R. , Nga Phan Thi , Gouilh Meriadeg Ar , Fiette Laurence , Bureau Jean-Francois , Laird Melissa E. , Buchrieser Julian , Ozden Simona , Cheval Justine , Eloit Marc , Manuguerra Jean-Claude , Gessain Antoine , Brey Paul T. , Fontanet Arnaud , Albert Matthew L.
Published: May 2011

Theiler's murine encephalitis viruses (TMEV) are divided into two subgroups based on their neurovirulence. Persistent strains resemble Theiler's original viruses (referred to as the TO subgroup), which largely induce a subclinical polioencephalomyelitis during the acute phase of the disease and can persist in the spinal cord of susceptible animals, inducing a chronic demyelinating disease. In contrast, members of the neurovirulent subgroup cause an acute encephalitis characterized by the rapid onset of paralysis and death within days following intracranial inoculation. We report herein the characterization of a novel neurovirulent strain of TMEV, identified using pyrosequencing technology and referred to as NIHE. Complete coverage of the NIHE viral genome was obtained, and it shares <90% nucleotide sequence identity to known TMEV strains irrespective of subgroup, with the greatest sequence variability being observed in genes encoding the leader and capsid proteins. The histopathological analysis of infected brain and spinal cord demonstrate inflammatory lesions and neuronal necrosis during acute infection with no evidence of viral persistence or chronic disease. Intriguingly, genetic analysis indicates the putative expression of the L* protein, considered a hallmark of strains within the persistent subgroup. Thus, the identification and characterization of a novel neurovirulent TMEV strain sharing features previously associated with both subgroups will lead to a deeper understanding of the evolution of TMEV strains and new insights into the determinants of neurovirulence.
HIV Gag-Leucine Zipper Chimeras Form ABCE1-Containing Intermediates and RNase-Resistant Immature Capsids Similar to Those Formed by Wild-Type HIV-1 Gag
Authors: Klein Kevin C. , Reed Jonathan C. , Tanaka Motoko , Nguyen Veronica T. , Giri Samina , Lingappa Jaisri R.
Published: May 2011

During HIV-1 assembly, Gag polypeptides multimerize to form an immature capsid and also package HIV-1 genomic RNA. Assembling Gag forms immature capsids by progressing through a stepwise pathway of assembly intermediates containing the cellular ATPase ABCE1, which facilitates capsid formation. The NC domain of Gag is required for ABCE1 binding, acting either directly or indirectly. NC is also critical for Gag multimerization and RNA binding. Previous studies of GagZip chimeric proteins in which NC was replaced with a heterologous leucine zipper that promotes protein dimerization but not RNA binding established that the RNA binding properties of NC are dispensable for capsid formation
per se
. Here we utilized GagZip proteins to address the question of whether the RNA binding properties of NC are required for ABCE1 binding and for the formation of ABCE1-containing capsid assembly intermediates. We found that assembly-competent HIV-1 GagZip proteins formed ABCE1-containing intermediates, while assembly-incompetent HIV-1 GagZip proteins harboring mutations in residues critical for leucine zipper dimerization did not. Thus, these data suggest that ABCE1 does not bind to NC directly or through an RNA bridge, and they support a model in which dimerization of Gag, mediated by NC or a zipper, results in exposure of an ABCE1-binding domain located elsewhere in Gag, outside NC. Additionally, we demonstrated that immature capsids formed by GagZip proteins are insensitive to RNase A, as expected. However, unexpectedly, immature HIV-1 capsids were almost as insensitive to RNase A as GagZip capsids, suggesting that RNA is not a structural element holding together immature wild-type HIV-1 capsids.
Beta Interferon Controls West Nile Virus Infection and Pathogenesis in Mice
Authors: Lazear Helen M. , Pinto Amelia K. , Vogt Matthew R. , Gale Michael , Diamond Michael S.
Published: May 2011

Studies with mice lacking the common plasma membrane receptor for type I interferon (
IFN-αβR
−
/
−
) have revealed that IFN signaling restricts tropism, dissemination, and lethality after infection with West Nile virus (WNV) or several other pathogenic viruses. However, the specific functions of individual IFN subtypes remain uncertain. Here, using
IFN-β
−
/
−
mice, we defined the antiviral and immunomodulatory function of this IFN subtype in restricting viral infection.
IFN-β
−
/
−
mice were more vulnerable to WNV infection than wild-type mice, succumbing more quickly and with greater overall mortality, although the phenotype was less severe than that of
IFN-αβR
−
/
−
mice. The increased susceptibility of
IFN-β
−
/
−
mice was accompanied by enhanced viral replication in different tissues. Consistent with a direct role for IFN-β in control of WNV replication, viral titers in
ex vivo
cultures of macrophages, dendritic cells, fibroblasts, and cerebellar granule cell neurons, but not cortical neurons, from
IFN-β
−
/
−
mice were greater than in wild-type cells. Although detailed immunological analysis revealed no major deficits in the quality or quantity of WNV-specific antibodies or CD8
+
T cells, we observed an altered CD4
+
CD25
+
FoxP3
+
regulatory T cell response, with greater numbers after infection. Collectively, these results suggest that IFN-β controls WNV pathogenesis by restricting infection in key cell types and by modulating T cell regulatory networks.