bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antibody‐Binding to the 180‐kD Bullous Pemphigoid Antigens at the Lateral Cell Surface Causes Their Internalization and Inhibits Their Assembly at the Basal Cell Surface in Cultured Keratinocytes
Authors: Kitajima Yasuo , Hirako Yoshiaki , Owaribe Katsushi , Mori Shunji , Yaoita Hideo
Published: April 2015

We demonstrated the effects of monoclonal antibodies to the 180‐kD and 230‐kD BP antigens (BPA) and of BP sera on Ca++‐induced formation of hemidesmosomes in cultured human keratinocytes (a cell line, DJM‐1) by immunofluorescence microscopy. Under low Ca++ (0.07 mM) conditions, the 180‐kD and 230‐kD BPAs were distributed homogeneously on the basal plasma membrane, while they formed a peculiar concentric ring or arch (ring/arch) arrangement in high‐Ca++ (1.87 mM) medium. On the other hand, the apical‐lateral cell membrane was stained homogeneously with antibodies to the 180‐kD BPA, but not to the 230‐kD BPA, both in low and high Ca++ media. The low‐high Ca++ switch at first caused disappearance of the antigen from the basal plasma membrane and then formed the high‐Ca++ ring/arch pattern within 3 hrs. In this system, monoclonal antibodies to the 180‐kD and 230‐kD BPAs and the sera from 5 BP patients, 2 pemphigus vulgaris (PV) patients, and 4 normal volunteers were added into the culture media. The addition of anti‐180‐kD BPA antibodies or any BP serum caused the internalization of the 180‐kD BPA from the apical‐lateral cell membrane and inhibited the Ca++‐induced formation of the ring/arch pattern on the basal membrane, possibly by inhibiting the movement of the antigen from the lateral to the basal membrane to form hemidesmosomes. The internalized fluorescence dots were shown to be composed of the 180‐kD BPA and patient's IgG, but not of the 230‐kD BPA by double‐immunostaining, suggesting the internalized 180‐kD BPA was from the apical‐lateral membrane, but not from hemidesmosomes. Monoclonal antibodies to the 230‐kD BPA and normal and PV sera did not cause these effects. These results suggest that autoantibodies to the 180‐kD BPA, but not to the 230‐kD BPA, may directly bind the antigen on the cell surface and disturb the formation of hemidesmosomes.
Pharmacological Modulation of Endothelial Cell‐associated Adhesion Molecule Expression: Implications for Future Treatment of Dermatological Diseases
Authors: Foster Carolyn A. , Dreyfuss Michael , Mandak Brigitte , Meingassner Josef G. , Naegeli Hans Ulrich , Nussbaumer Alexius , Oberer Lukas , Scheel Günther , Swoboda Eva‐Maria
Published: April 2015

Skin diseases with an inflammatory component, regardless of their etiology, are characterized at some point by the extravasation and subsequent infiltration of leukocytes into the dermal and/or epidermal compartments. This trafficking pattern is determined by a complex series of events whereby the leukocytes interact with cell adhesion molecules (CAM), particularly those induced on endothelial cells following activation with various inflammatory mediators. Vascular CAMs belonging to the selectin family (i.e., P‐selectin and E‐selectin) are thought to mediate early and reversible events involving leukocyte rolling and margination along the lumenal surface of microvascular cells (post‐capillary venules). Certain members of the immunoglobulin supergene family (i.e., VCAM‐1 and ICAM‐1) regulate later and irreversible steps which lead to firm attachment and subsequent diapedesis of leukocytes.

Accumulating evidence suggests that if one blocks the ligand‐binding sites between leukocytes and endothelial cells, or inhibits vascular CAM expression, hematopoietic cell extravasation and progressive inflammatory events can be greatly diminished. To identify such inhibitors we developed a cell‐based Elisa using the human microvascular cell line HMEC‐1. As reported in the present paper, this approach yielded a naturally‐occurring, low molecular weight compound which potently inhibits cytokine‐induced adhesion molecule expression on cultured endothelial cells, without modulating “house‐keeping” proteins.
Differential Cell Surface Distribution of Adhesion Molecules Demonstrated by Immuno‐Scanning Electron Microscopy
Authors: Imayama Shuhei
Published: April 2015

Scanning electron microscopy with immuno‐gold labeling revealed that epidermal keratinocytes expressed ICAM‐1 and HLA‐DR molecules on their surfaces in patterns that differed in mycosis fungoides (MF) and lichenoid reaction (LR). ICAM‐1 molecules, visualized as deposits of gold particles, were present as clusters adjacent to the junctions interconnecting the keratinocytes of MF lesions. LFA‐1 molecules were seen as granules on the surfaces of all infiltrates, most of which also expressed ICAM‐1. HLA‐DR molecules were seen continuously along the borders of the individual keratinocytes. In LR, ICAM‐1 and HLA‐DR were expressed only sparsely on the undersurface of the epidermis, whereas the infiltrates expressed LFA‐1 molecules on their surfaces.

These findings may explain the differing histological features of MF and LR: ICAM‐1 molecules present on the intercellular junctions of MF epidermis lead the LFA‐1‐bearing cells to migrate into the interspaces of the keratinocytes, thus producing “epidermotropism”. These cells aggregate by means of co‐expressed ICAM‐1 to thus produce the appearance of a “microabscess”. In LR, on the other hand, the minimal expression of ICAM‐1 on the epidermal undersurface leaves most infiltrates within the dermis, thus producing a “band‐like infiltrate” beneath the epidermis.
Computerized Digital Image Analysis: An Aid for Melanoma Diagnosis
Authors: Sober Arthur J. , Burstein Jay M.
Published: April 2015

Both digital imaging and epiluminescence microscopy hold promise for improved early detection of cutaneous melanoma. Several centers have been actively working in these areas during the past decade. These experiences and preliminary work based on the image capture of 83 pigmented lesions at our center using a prototype digital imaging system (SKINVIEW) are described. This system is based, in part, on the analysis of lesional morphologic features, such as shape, border, and radii. Histopathologic correlation was matched against these features to assess the efficacy of diagnosis. At our center, these parameters alone were not sufficient to discriminate between benign and malignant lesions, in part, because the melanomas were, in general, early lesions and many of the nevi were sufficiently clinically atypical to require removal for discrimination from melanoma. In addition, technical improvements in the image capturing and processing mechanism are needed. Rapid progress in this area is anticipated.
Hyperthermic Isolated Limb Perfusion with Intra‐Arterial Administration of Carboplatin and/or Interferon‐β for the Treatment of Malignant Melanoma of the Leg
Authors: Nakayama Juichiro , Takeuchi Minora , Mayumi Hisanori , Nagae Shonosuke , Matsuda Kazuhisa , Yasui Hisataka , Takahashi Shosuke , Hori Yoshiaki
Published: April 2015

Our experiences of hyperthermic isolated limb perfusion with administration of carboplatin, interferon‐β or a combination of both are reported. Administration of high doses of these reagents was well tolerated by patients with melanoma without severe complications after the treatment. A total of 8 patients underwent this therapeutic modality. Remarkable clinical improvement was seen in the first patient, who was in Stage III at the time of the perfusion. Histopathological findings indicated severe damage to the melanoma cells after the operation. Prophylactic hyperthermic perfusion was performed in 6 other patients with Stage II–III melanoma of the lower limb. None of them have shown any signs of recurrence 1–10 months later. The activities of natural killer cells or T lymphocytes appeared to be increased when the perfusion was carried out with concomitant administration of both carboplatin and interferon‐β. These results suggest that hyperthermic isolated limb perfusion with carboplatin and/or interferon β administration is effective in patients with advanced stage melanoma.
Trabajadores y movimientos sociales del mundo en desarrollo. ¿Cuál es el futuro de las relaciones laborales?
Authors: SEN Ratna , LEE Chang‐Hee
Published: April 2015

En el contexto del declive de las instituciones de relaciones laborales tradicionales de las economías posfordistas, los autores examinan –centrándose en Asia– los nuevos contramovimientos en defensa de los trabajadores frente a la globalización en países en desarrollo. A partir de las luchas marxistas que identifican en China y de las variadísimas formas de protesta y representación que observan en la India, defienden un enfoque más incluyente de las relaciones laborales, tanto en la práctica como en la investigación. El futuro, afirman, dependerá de la interacción entre las reformas que introduzca el Estado y los movimientos sociales que espontáneamente llenen el vacío de representación actual.
Extreme population subdivision despite high colonization ability: contrasting regional patterns in intertidal tardigrades from the west coast of North America
Authors: Faurby Søren , Barber Paul H.
Published: April 2015

Aim

To determine whether microscopic marine organisms experience more extreme population subdivision than co‐distributed macroscopic organisms.

Location

The intertidal zone of the west coast of North America.

Methods

We used phylogenetic methods, haplotype networks and analyses of molecular variance (AMOVAs) to examine geographical subdivision in tardigrades (Echiniscoides) between the northern tip of Vancouver Island and San Diego.

Results

Analyses of 330 individuals from 19 populations revealed a genetically diverse set of tardigrades probably comprising between four and fifteen species. Southern populations displayed extreme population subdivision and contained many deeply divergent lineages that are fully or nearly restricted to single sampling sites. In contrast, northern populations exhibited lower levels of phylogeographical structure and few geographically restricted lineages. AMOVAs showed that inter‐population variation was maximized when nearly all southern populations were kept distinct and all northern populations were treated as a single population.

Main conclusions

Strong patterns of population subdivision on fine spatial scales in tardigrades stand in sharp contrast to previous studies of macroscopic organisms across this same range, suggesting that geographical subdivision in microscopic organisms is stronger than in co‐occurring macroscopic organisms.
Histological and hormonal changes in the European eel (Anguilla anguilla) after exposure to environmental cocaine concentration
Authors: Gay F , Ferrandino I , Monaco A , Cerulo M , Capasso G , Capaldo A
Published: April 2015

The aim of this study was the assessment of histological and hormonal changes induced in the European eel from environmental concentrations of cocaine. Silver eels were exposed to 20 ng L−1 of cocaine during 50 days; at the same time, control, vehicle control and two post‐exposure recovery groups (3 and 10 days) were made. The general morphology of the skin and the intestine, and the plasma levels of prolactin, cortisol and dopamine were evaluated. In the skin, cocaine decreased the number and size of mucous cells, increased the thickness of the epidermis and altered the club cells and the basal lamina. In the intestine, cocaine increased the thickness of the epithelium and the number of mucous cells and reactivated the structure of the intestine and of the intestinal musculature. Moreover, cocaine increased plasma prolactin, cortisol and dopamine levels. These results suggest that cocaine induced histological changes, directly and/or through the hormonal changes observed. Considering the complex life cycle of the eel, the changes induced by cocaine in the skin, the intestine and the endocrine system could threaten the ability of the eel to successfully migrate and reproduce.
Fishpathogens.eu/noda: a free and handy online platform for Betanodavirus targeted research and data sharing
Authors: Mikkelsen S S , Panzarin V , Jonstrup S P , Bigarré L , Baud M , Gray T , Agapow P‐M , Olesen N J
Published: April 2015

Viral nervous necrosis (VNN) is a severe neuropathological disease affecting a broad variety of finfish species worldwide. The causative agents of VNN are small viruses with a bi‐segmented RNA genome known as betanodaviruses. At least four species with distinct but yet insufficiently characterized epidemiological features are recognized. The spread of VNN to an increasing number of host species, its wide geographic extent and its economical and ecological impacts justify the importance of collating as much molecular data as possible for tracing the origin of viral isolates and highlight the need for a freely accessible tool for epidemiological and molecular data sharing and consultation. For this purpose, we established a web‐based specific database using the www.fishpathogens.eu platform, with the aim of collecting molecular and epidemiological information on VNN viruses, with relevance to their control, management and research studies.
Urban Mining's Potential to Relieve China's Coming Resource Crisis
Authors: Wen Zongguo , Zhang Chenkai , Ji Xiaoli , Xue Yanyan
Published: April 2015

China's mineral resource consumption has gone through multiple increases since 1980, resulting in the inadequacy of important strategic resources and a high level of external dependence. Some developed countries have already reduced primary resources consumption through urban mining. Can China also break through the bottleneck of the resource shortage and continue its economic and social development through strengthening of urban mining? This article selected copper (Cu), aluminum (Al), lead (Pb), and iron (Fe) as case studies and established predictive models for metal demand, recycling, and stock, based on stock analysis, material flow analysis, and a life distribution model, and then analyzed the metabolism of the four resources and compared the environmental effects of three scenarios. The study indicates that the urban mining potential of Cu, Fe, Al, and Pb will attain 8.1, 711.6, 37.0, and 12.1 million tonnes, respectively, in 2040. Compared with 2010, the substitution rate (secondary metals substituting primary metals) of Cu and Fe increase by 25.4% and 59.9%, whereas external dependence decreases by 30.8% and 25.7%. However, substitution is not obvious regarding Al and Pb. The low resource scenario decreases resources use, which will reduce external dependence in the short term, whereas the strengthened recovery scenario increases resource recovery and has a larger effect in reducing external dependence in the long term. So, in line with urban mining in the future, China should change its environment and resource strategy, further strengthen layout and construction of urban mining demonstration bases, and encourage the use of recyclable resources to provide a better foundation for urban mining.
Political Responses to Dam‐Induced Resettlement in Northern Uplands Vietnam
Authors: Dao Nga
Published: April 2015

Dam‐induced resettlers in Vietnam manifest their responses and resistances in many different ways. This is a multiple response that expresses itself at many different levels and is spatio‐temporally contingent. These actors can be individuals, families, groups of people or communities. Drawing on fieldwork in resettlement sites of the Sơn La hydropower dam in the north‐west of Vietnam, this paper explores how political responses and resistance among Sơn La's resettlers were produced through resettlement conditions. It examines intensive and violent struggles over the land and resources surrounding dam sites, and aims to understand why rural disputes in resettlement sites were often between villagers rather than with the state institutions and local authorities.
The Rise and Decline of Small‐Scale Sugarcane Production in South Africa: A Historical Perspective
Authors: Dubb Alex
Published: April 2015

South Africa's sugar industry has long been distinguished by its large number of small‐scale sugarcane growers (SSGs) farming on ‘communal’ land and its peculiar privately administered regulatory structure. In recent years, however, the numbers of small‐scale growers have declined precipitously. This paper argues that the relationship between the rise and fall of SSG production and the industry's governing regulatory structure is closer than usually appreciated. The emergence of SSG production in the late 1970s and the 1980s can be traced to industry‐subsidized initiatives, disguised as small‐scale credit, to bring commercially inalienable Bantustan land into cane production with strong miller oversight. From the late 1980s to 1990s, however, the elimination of these subsidies encouraged millers to subcontract support to farmers, while simultaneously instigating an increase in SSG numbers by removing restrictions on grower registration. Although low rainfall is a central proximal factor in the rapid decline of the SSGs in the 2000s, their rapid increase was structurally fragile.
Radiopacity for Contemporary Luting Cements Using Digital Radiography under Various Exposure Conditions
Authors: An Seo‐Young , Lee Du‐Hyeong , Lee Kyu‐Bok
Published: April 2015

Purpose

This study examined the radiopacity of contemporary luting cements using direct digital radiography under a range of exposure conditions.

Materials and Methods

Disc specimens (N = 80, n = 10 per group, ø5 mm × 1 mm) were prepared from 8 resin‐based luting cements (BisCem Clearfil SA Luting, Duolink, Maxcem Elite Multilink Speed, Panavia F 2.0, RelyX Unicem Clicker, V‐link). The specimens were radiographed using a charge‐coupled device sensor along with an 11‐step aluminum step wedge (1.5‐mm incremental steps) and 1‐mm‐thick tooth cut using five tube voltage/exposure time setups (60 kVp, 0.10/0.08 seconds; 70 kVp, 0.10/0.08/0.06 seconds) at 4 mA and 30 cm. The radiopacity of the specimens was compared with that of the aluminum step wedge and human enamel and dentin using NIH ImageJ software (available at http://rsb.info.nih.gov/ij/). A linear regression model for the aluminum step wedge was constructed, and the data were analyzed by ANOVA and Duncan post hoc test.

Results

Maxcem Elite (5.142 to 5.441) showed the highest radiopacity of all materials, followed in order by Multilink Speed (3.731 to 3.396) and V‐link (2.763 to 3.103). The radiopacity of Panavia F 2.0 (2.025 to 2.429), BisCem (1.825 to 2.218), Clearfil SA Luting (1.692 to 2.145), Duolink (1.707 to 1.993), and RelyX Unicem Clicker (1.586 to 1.979) were between enamel (2.117 to 2.330) and dentin (1.302 to 1.685). The radiopacity of 70 kVp conditions was higher than that of the 60 kVp conditions.

Conclusions

The radiopacities of the tested luting materials were greater than those of dentin or aluminum, satisfying the criteria of the International Organization for Standardization, and they differed significantly from each other in the exposure setups.
3D FEA of Hollow and Solid Design Zirconia Dental Dowels
Authors: Kayahan Mehmet Baybora , Özkurt‐Kayahan Zeynep , Yay Kubilay , Kazazoğlu Ender
Published: April 2015

Purpose

The aim of this study was to evaluate the stress distribution of hollow and solid design zirconia dowels.

Materials and Methods

Finite element analysis (FEA) was used to investigate the influence of different dowel designs on the stress distribution of zirconia dowels. The coronal diameter of the dowel was 2.2 mm, the apical diameter was 1.8 mm, and the length was 15 mm. The diameter of the hollow space was 1.2 mm. Occlusal forces (both parallel and oblique) of 100 N were applied from the wider edge of the dowels simulating loads acting on the incisor during clenching and incising. The results were expressed in terms of von Mises criteria.

Results

FEA revealed differences in stress distribution. During parallel load, the maximum tensile stress of the hollow design (89.40 MPa) was greater than the solid design (43.30 MPa). During oblique load, the maximum tensile stress of the hollow design (1437.90 MPa) was greater than the solid design (917.96 MPa). The maximum deformation was observed in the coronal part of the dowel in both designs under the two load directions.

Conclusions

FEA results showed that the hollow design zirconia dowels presented higher tensile stress.
Feed supplemented with organic acids does not affect starch digestibility, nor intestinal absorptive or secretory function in broiler chickens
Authors: Ruhnke I. , Röhe I. , Goodarzi Boroojeni F. , Knorr F. , Mader A. , Hafeez A. , Zentek J.
Published: April 2015

The current study aimed to determine the impact of acidified feed on apparent ileal starch digestibility, intestinal transport and barrier function and intestinal glucose transporter expression. The experiment included a control group and a treatment group with broilers fed a standard diet without or with 1.5% of a commercial organic acid product (64% formic acid, 25% propionic acid, 11% water). Broilers were fed with the experimental diets from hatching until days 32–35. Starch digestibility was determined using 0.2% titanium dioxide as ingestible marker. Gene expressions of the intestinal sodium glucose transporter 1 (SGLT‐1) and glucose transporter 2 (GLUT‐2) were analysed using qPCR analysis. Additionally, SGLT‐1 function and chloride secretion were analysed in Ussing chamber experiments. Jejunal samples were sequentially exposed to 10 mm glucose, 100 μm phloridzin, 100 μm histamine and 100 μm carbachol. Apparent ileal starch digestibility (±SEM) of the control group (97.5 ± 0.35%) and the acid‐treated group (97.0 ± 0.59%) did not differ (p = 0.674). The mean tissue conductance of intestinal samples obtained from the control group and the treatment group was similar [10.6 mS/cm2 (±0.68) and 9.4 mS/cm2 (±0.80) respectively (p = 0.147)]. The mean short‐circuit currents (ΔIsc) of the samples exposed to glucose, phloridzin, histamine and carbachol did not differ (p > 0.05). Additionally, no differences in the expression of SGLT‐1 and GLUT‐2 could be observed (p = 0.942, p = 0.413). Based on this study, the consumption of feed supplemented with organic acids was not associated with effects on ileal starch digestibility and functional traits of jejunal tissues, indicating that these additives have no major impact on the small intestinal function in broilers.
Root hemiparasites in productive communities should attack competitive host, and harm them to make regeneration gaps
Authors: Lepš Jan , Těšitel Jakub
Published: April 2015

Demey et al. (2015, this issue) present evidence that root hemiparasitic plants can affect their host community through selectively parasitizing the species within it (with large differences between host species within functional groups), and by promoting seedling establishment through creating gaps. The hemiparasite needs to maintain the host for its water and nutrient supply, but also limit competition for light.
Phylogenetic community ecology of soil biodiversity using mitochondrial metagenomics
Authors: Andújar Carmelo , Arribas Paula , Ruzicka Filip , Crampton‐Platt Alex , Timmermans Martijn J.T.N. , Vogler Alfried P.
Published: April 2015

High‐throughput DNA methods hold great promise for the study of taxonomically intractable mesofauna of the soil. Here, we assess species diversity and community structure in a phylogenetic framework, by sequencing total DNA from bulk specimen samples and assembly of mitochondrial genomes. The combination of mitochondrial metagenomics and DNA barcode sequencing of 1494 specimens in 69 soil samples from three geographic regions in southern Iberia revealed >300 species of soil Coleoptera (beetles) from a broad spectrum of phylogenetic lineages. A set of 214 mitochondrial sequences longer than 3000 bp was generated and used to estimate a well‐supported phylogenetic tree of the order Coleoptera. Shorter sequences, including cox1 barcodes, were placed on this mitogenomic tree. Raw Illumina reads were mapped against all available sequences to test for species present in local samples. This approach simultaneously established the species richness, phylogenetic composition and community turnover at species and phylogenetic levels. We find a strong signature of vertical structuring in soil fauna that shows high local community differentiation between deep soil and superficial horizons at phylogenetic levels. Within the two vertical layers, turnover among regions was primarily at the tip (species) level and was stronger in the deep soil than leaf litter communities, pointing to layer‐mediated drivers determining species diversification, spatial structure and evolutionary assembly of soil communities. This integrated phylogenetic framework opens the application of phylogenetic community ecology to the mesofauna of the soil, among the most diverse and least well‐understood ecosystems, and will propel both theoretical and applied soil science.
Contemporary evolution of resistance at the major insecticide target site gene Ace‐1 by mutation and copy number variation in the malaria mosquito Anopheles gambiae
Authors: Weetman David , Mitchell Sara N. , Wilding Craig S. , Birks Daniel P. , Yawson Alexander E. , Essandoh John , Mawejje Henry D. , Djogbenou Luc S. , Steen Keith , Rippon Emily J. , Clarkson Christopher S. , Field Stuart G. , Rigden Daniel J. , Donnelly Martin J.
Published: April 2015

Functionally constrained genes are ideal insecticide targets because disruption is often fatal, and resistance mutations are typically costly. Synaptic acetylcholinesterase (AChE) is an essential neurotransmission enzyme targeted by insecticides used increasingly in malaria control. In Anopheles and Culex mosquitoes, a glycine–serine substitution at codon 119 of the Ace‐1 gene confers both resistance and fitness costs, especially for 119S/S homozygotes. G119S in Anopheles gambiae from Accra (Ghana) is strongly associated with resistance, and, despite expectations of cost, resistant 119S alleles are increasing significantly in frequency. Sequencing of Accra females detected only a single Ace‐1 119S haplotype, whereas 119G diversity was high overall but very low at non‐synonymous sites, evidence of strong purifying selection driven by functional constraint. Flanking microsatellites showed reduced diversity, elevated linkage disequilibrium and high differentiation of 119S, relative to 119G homozygotes across up to two megabases of the genome. Yet these signals of selection were inconsistent and sometimes weak tens of kilobases from Ace‐1. This unexpected finding is attributable to apparently ubiquitous amplification of 119S alleles as part of a large copy number variant (CNV) far exceeding the size of the Ace‐1 gene, whereas 119G alleles were unduplicated. Ace‐1 CNV was detectable in archived samples collected when the 119S allele was rare in Ghana. Multicopy amplification of resistant alleles has not been observed previously and is likely to underpin the recent increase in 119S frequency. The large CNV compromised localization of the strong selective sweep around Ace‐1, emphasizing the need to integrate CNV analysis into genome scans for selection.
Taking Godley's Ratios Seriously
Authors: Leite Fabrício Pitombo
Published: April 2015

This article derives the three ratios employed by Wynne Godley to argue that they can express a full stock‐flow consistent model. The strategy adopted here intends to explain the theoretical consequences of including the stock of wealth in a basic Keynesian scheme. It is demonstrated that the same steady‐state level of income emerges whether we treat private investment as an exogenous variable or we treat it as totally endogenous. It is also demonstrated that stability conditions and the possible patterns of a path approaching this steady‐state level can be examined before simulations.
Molecular detection of zoonotic bartonellae (B. henselae, B. elizabethae and B. rochalimae) in fleas collected from dogs in Israel
Authors: SOFER S. , GUTIÉRREZ R. , MORICK D. , MUMCUOGLU K. Y. , HARRUS S.
Published: April 2015

Fleas represent an acknowledged burden on dogs worldwide. The characterization of flea species infesting kennel dogs from two localities in Israel (Rehovot and Jerusalem) and their molecular screening for Bartonella species (Rhizobiales: Bartonellaceae) was investigated. A total of 355 fleas were collected from 107 dogs. The fleas were morphologically classified and molecularly screened targeting the Bartonella 16S–23S internal transcribed spacer (ITS). Of the 107 dogs examined, 80 (74.8%) were infested with Ctenocephalides canis (Siphonaptera: Pulicidae), 68 (63.6%) with Ctenocephalides felis, 15 (14.0%) with Pulex irritans (Siphonaptera: Pulicidae) and one (0.9%) with Xenopsylla cheopis (Siphonaptera: Pulicidae). Fleas were grouped into 166 pools (one to nine fleas per pool) according to species and host. Thirteen of the 166 flea pools (7.8%) were found to be positive for Bartonella DNA. Detected ITS sequences were 99–100% similar to those of four Bartonella species: Bartonella henselae (six pools); Bartonella elizabethae (five pools); Bartonella rochalimae (one pool), and Bartonella bovis (one pool). The present study indicates the occurrence of a variety of flea species in dogs in Israel; these flea species are, in turn, carriers of several zoonotic Bartonella species. Physicians, veterinarians and public health workers should be aware of the presence of these pathogens in dog fleas in Israel and preventive measures should be implemented.
Accuracy of alveolar bone measurements from cone beam computed tomography acquired using varying settings
Authors: Cook V. C. , Timock A. M. , Crowe J. J. , Wang M. , Covell D. A.
Published: April 2015

Structured Abstract

Objectives

To investigate the accuracy and reliability of cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) measurements of buccal alveolar bone height (BBH) and thickness (BBT) using custom acquisition settings.

Settings and Sample Population

School of Dentistry, Oregon Health & Science University. Twelve embalmed cadavers.

Materials and Methods

Cadaver heads were imaged by CBCT (i‐CAT® 17–19, Imaging Sciences International, Hatfield, PA) using a ‘long scan’ (LS) setting with 619 projection images, 360° revolution, 26.9 s duration, and 0.2 mm voxel size, and using a ‘short scan’ (SS) setting with 169 projection images, 180° rotation, 4.8 s duration, and 0.3 mm voxel size. BBH and BBT were measured with 65 teeth, indirectly from CBCT images and directly through dissection. Comparisons were assessed using paired t‐tests (p ≤ 0.05). Level of agreement was assessed by concordance correlation coefficients, Pearson's correlation coefficients, and Bland–Altman plots.

Results

Mean differences in measurements compared to direct measurements were as follows, LS 0.17 ± 0.12 (BBH) and 0.10 ± 0.07 mm (BBT), and SS 0.41 ± 0.32 (BBH) and 0.12 ± 0.11 mm (BBT). No statistical differences were found with any of BBH or BBT measurements. Correlation coefficients and Bland–Altman plots showed agreement was high between direct and indirect measurement methods, although agreement was stronger for measurements of BBH than BBT.

Conclusions

Compared to the LS, the similarity in results with the reduced scan times and hence reduced effective radiation dose, favors use of shorter scans, unless other purposes for higher resolution imaging can be defined.
Characterization of short root anomaly in a Mexican cohort – hereditary idiopathic root malformation
Authors: Puranik C. P. , Hill A. , Henderson Jeffries K. , Harrell S. N. , Taylor R. W. , Frazier‐Bowers S. A.
Published: April 2015

Structured Abstract

Objective

The purpose of this study was to systematically characterize individuals with short root anomaly (SRA) without any history of orthodontic treatment. The long‐term objective of the study was to improve diagnosis and treatment planning and determine risk factors for developing SRA.

Setting and Sample Population

Twenty‐seven patients including two families and 16 unrelated individuals from (9–48 years) reported to orthodontic and/or dental practitioners within the USA.

Materials and Methods

Digital panoramic and periapical films were analyzed to document pattern and frequency of SRA‐affected teeth. Crown‐to‐root (CR) ratios of the affected teeth were used to characterize the extent of malformation. Pedigree analysis by inspection was completed for one family to determine pattern of inheritance.

Results

Twenty‐six of the twenty‐seven individuals were of Latino descent, and one was of Filipino descent. Hard tissues including enamel, dentin, pulp chambers and canals, and surrounding soft tissues were normal. We found that 25 of 27 individuals had localized SRA and two Latino individuals had generalized SRA. Teeth were affected bilaterally with maxillary central incisors (~63%) and mandibular second premolars most commonly involved (~33%). Affected teeth had a distinct, similar radiographic appearance; in the generalized cases, there was a more severe affection with larger (~twice) CR ratios. Ninety‐four percent of affected individuals did not show a significant difference in the CR ratios at different ages. Pedigree analysis suggests an autosomal dominant inheritance pattern in one family.

Conclusion

This is the first report to show that SRA occurs more frequently in Latino individuals and has a predilection for anterior teeth. The occurrence of SRA in two families further confirms a hereditary component and supports a distinct nosology and nomenclature, hereditary idiopathic root malformation (HIRM) and warrants further investigation.
Infield masticatory muscle activity in subjects with pain‐related temporomandibular disorders diagnoses
Authors: Khawaja S. N. , McCall W. , Dunford R. , Nickel J. C. , Iwasaki L. R. , Crow H. C. , Gonzalez Y.
Published: April 2015

Structured Abstract

Objectives

Pain‐related temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) are the most prevalent conditions among TMDs. There is contrasting evidence available for association of pain‐related TMD and masticatory muscle activity (MMA). The present investigation assesses the associations between MMA levels of masseter and temporalis muscles during awake and sleep among pain‐related TMD diagnostic groups.

Setting and Sample Population

The department of Oral Diagnostic Sciences, University at Buffalo. Twenty females and six males participated in this study.

Material and Methods

Using the diagnostic criteria for temporomandibular disorders (DC‐TMDs), participants were diagnostically categorized. Subjects used a custom monitoring system, which recorded infield muscle activities. A factorial model tested for association between independent variable (muscle, time period, MMA level, and diagnostic group) effects and the logarithm of MMA. Greenhouse–Geisser test was used to determine any statistically significant associations (p ≤ 0.003).

Results

No statistically significant association was found between four‐way, three‐way, and two‐way analyses. However, among the main effects, range of magnitudes was the only variable to be statistically significant. Although the data suggest a trend of increased masseter MMA in the pain‐related TMD diagnoses group both during awake and sleep time periods, such observation is not maintained for the temporalis muscle. In addition, temporalis MMA was found to be higher in the pain‐related TMD diagnoses group only at extreme activity levels (<25 and ≥80% ranges).

Conclusion

This data support the association between masticatory muscle hyperactivity and painful TMD conditions.
Viscoelastic shear properties of porcine temporomandibular joint disc
Authors: Wu Y. , Kuo J. , Wright G. J. , Cisewski S. E. , Wei F. , Kern M. J. , Yao H.
Published: April 2015

Structured Abstract

Objectives

To investigate the intrinsic viscoelastic shear properties in porcine TMJ discs.

Materials and methods

Twelve fresh porcine TMJ discs from young adult pigs (6–8 months) were used. Cylindrical samples (5 mm diameter) with uniform thickness (~1.2 mm) were prepared from five regions of the TMJ disc. Torsional shear tests were performed under 10% compressive strain. Dynamic shear was applied in two methods: 1) a frequency sweep test over the frequency range of 0.1–10 rad/s with a constant shear strain amplitude of 0.05 rad and 2) a strain sweep test over the range of 0.005–0.15 rad at a constant frequency of 10 rad/s. Transient stress relaxation tests were also performed to determine the equilibrium shear properties.

Results

As the frequency increased in the frequency sweep test, the dynamic shear complex modulus increased, with values ranging from 7 to 17 kPa. The phase angle, ranging from 11 to 15 degrees, displayed no pattern of regional variation as the frequency increased. The dynamic shear modulus decreased as the shear strain increased. The equilibrium shear modulus had values ranging from 2.6 to 4 kPa. The posterior region had significantly higher values for dynamic shear modulus than those in the anterior region, while no significant regional difference was found for equilibrium shear modulus.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that the intrinsic region‐dependent viscoelastic shear characteristics of TMJ disc may play a crucial role in determining the local strain of the TMJ disc under mechanical loading.
Personalized and precision orthodontic therapy
Authors: Iwasaki L. R. , Covell D. A. , Frazier‐Bowers S. A. , Kapila S. , Huja S. S. , Nickel J. C.
Published: April 2015

Structured Abstract

Objective

To bring together orthodontic stakeholders from academics, industry, and private practice for a series of thematically focused workshops to explore and develop the transfer of novel approaches into clinical orthodontic practice.

Setting and sample population

Twenty‐seven invited speakers, eight poster presenters, and participants of the Consortium for Orthodontic Advances in Science and Technology (COAST) 2014 Innovators' Workshop at the Eaglewood Resort and Spa, Itasca, Illinois, September 11–14, 2014.

Material and methods

Five themed sessions involving between 4–7 presentations followed by panel discussions were organized. The aims of the discussion sessions were to highlight important findings and consider the strength of evidence for these, indicate next steps and needed research or technological developments to move forward, and to weigh the expected benefits from these findings and steps to implement in clinical practice.

Results

Among important areas for attention identified were need for multiscale and multispecies modeling and experimentation for interspecies translation of results; large‐scale collaborative efforts within the profession to address the need for adequate sample sizes for future genetic studies of complex traits such as malocclusion; a consortium approach to improve new technologies such as intra‐oral scanning and 3D imaging by establishing standards; and harnessing the growing body of knowledge about bone biology for application in orthodontics.

Conclusions

With increased awareness of the potential of current and emerging technologies, translation of personalized and precision approaches in the field of orthodontics holds ever‐increasing promise.
Clinical findings in 10 children with H275Y influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 virus infection
Authors: Kakuya Fujio , Kinebuchi Takahiro , Fujiyasu Hiroaki , Tanaka Ryosuke , Okubo Hitoshi , Kano Hiroki
Published: April 2015

Background

Little is known about the clinical effectiveness of neuraminidase inhibitors against H275Y influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 virus. A cluster of H275Y influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 virus with cross‐resistance to oseltamivir and peramivir was detected among untreated community patients in Hokkaido, Japan, during the 2013–2014 influenza season.

Methods

This was a retrospective observational study. Specimens from nasopharyngeal swabs underwent rapid testing and single‐nucleotide polymorphism identification on real‐time polymerase chain reaction. We collected clinical data from the H275Y group and a 275H wild‐type comparison group. All children were given one of four neuraminidase inhibitors.

Results

Twenty‐eight children infected with influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 virus were analyzed. Ten viruses had the H275Y substitution, while the other 18 had wild‐type 275H. Mean fever duration after treatment and after onset was 25.3 h (95%CI: 14.1–36.5) and 48.9 h (95%CI: 34.4–63.3) in the H275Y group, respectively, and 26.1 h (95%CI: 18.7–33.6) and 46.3 h (95%CI: 35.7–56.8) in the 275H group, respectively. In the H275Y group, three patients were treated with oseltamivir, one with peramivir, five with zanamivir, and one with laninamivir. All of them had mild symptoms and received only outpatient care. Fever duration was 7.5–21.0 h and 18.0–66.0 h after treatment and after onset, respectively, in the patients treated with oseltamivir and peramivir, and 20.5–42.0 h and 42.0–88.0 h, respectively, in those treated with zanamivir and laninamivir.

Conclusion

Fever in the H275Y children treated with oseltamivir and peramivir resolved rapidly during the 2013–2014 influenza season.
Commission v. Italy: Managing Waste Management in Italy
Authors: Carević Melita
Published: April 2015

In the recently decided case C‐196/13 (Commission v. Italy), the Court of Justice of the European Union has imposed upon Italy record financial sanctions for its breach of European Union environmental law. The judgment, reached through the enforcement proceedings under Article 260.2 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, followed a 2007 infringement ruling establishing that Italy had generally and persistently failed to fulfill its waste management obligations. The present case raises several interesting questions, such as how much progress does a Member State need to make to remedy a general and persistent failure of its obligations, and how to determine the appropriate amount of financial sanctions for such a breach. This case note analyzes the factual and legal background to the case and argues that, given all the circumstances, the Court's judgment can hardly be seen to be surprising.
Anticancer Drugs in End‐Stage Kidney Disease Patients
Authors: Janus Nicolas , Launay‐Vacher Vincent
Published: April 2015

The increased incidence of malignancies in patients with chronic kidney patients and especially in end‐stage kidney disease (ESKD) patients has been discussed since the mid‐1970s. Consequently, oncologists, nephrologists, and pharmacists are increasingly facing challenging situations of cytotoxic drug handling in dialysis patients because of pharmacokinetic modifications. In these patients, two main issues must be considered. First, the absence of renal function in hemodialysis (HD) patients may necessitate drug dosage reduction. Therefore, drug prescription must be cautiously checked before administration with appropriate dosage adjustment whenever necessary to ensure efficacy while avoiding overdosage and related side effects. Second, drug clearance by dialysis session must be taken into account for appropriate chemotherapy timing administration to avoid drug removal, which may result in a loss of efficacy. These two main considerations must not be considered as a contra‐indication to chemotherapy in ESKD patients, but more as a need for an individualized prescription according to available recommendations.
The Use of Incarceration in Canada: A Test of Political and Social Threat Explanations on the Variation in Prison Admissions across Canadian Provinces, 2001–2010
Authors: Neil Roland , Carmichael Jason T.
Published: April 2015

Recent scholarship has indicated that political and ethnic threat theories—which maintain that the use of prison is not only determined by the extent of crime in society but also by various features related to power, ideology, and access to resources—provide powerful accounts as to why the use of punishment varies within and between societies. However, no study to date has tested these theories within Canada, a country in which such theories are quite plausible. This study begins to fill this void by assessing these theoretical claims using a pooled time series analysis of the variation in imprisonment rates across Canadian provinces from the years 2001 to 2010. After accounting for several measures including charge rates, the results show that Canadian incarceration rates are largely driven by ethnic threat. The size of the Aboriginal and visible minority populations across each province are the most significant determinants of the variation in punishment. Furthermore, we find a nonlinear relationship consistent with a political version of the threat hypothesis. Results, however, do not support political accounts which stress the power of right‐wing parties or a conservative public.
Serum biochemical reference intervals for free‐living Sand Tiger sharks (Carcharias taurus) from east Australian waters
Authors: Otway Nicholas M.
Published: April 2015

Background

Sharks are top‐order predators in ocean food chains and the star attractions in aquaria worldwide. Unfortunately, blood biochemistry reference intervals (RI) have been determined for few species.

Objective

The study aims to establish serum biochemical RI for free‐living Sand Tiger sharks (Carcharias taurus) off eastern Australia.

Methods

Thirty‐seven sharks were captured and their sex, length, weight, reproductive maturity, and health status were recorded. After blood collection, serum analytes were quantified using standard analytical and statistical methods. Reference intervals, means, medians, and 90% confidence intervals were generated. Physiologic data from live and necropsied sharks were used to enhance the study results.

Results

Thirty healthy sharks were included in the study. Albumin could not be detected. With the exception of ALP activity, values were unaffected by sex, length, weight, age, and life‐history stage. The means (RI) were: sodium 258 (249–267) mmol/L, potassium 5.0 (4.3–5.7) mmol/L, chloride 242 (227–257) mmol/L, inorganic phosphate 1.8 (1.7–2.0) mmol/L, total calcium 3.9 (3.3–4.4) mmol/L, magnesium 1.9 (1.6–2.2) mmol/L, glucose 2.7 (2.2–3.2) mmol/L, urea 377 (360–394) mmol/L, ALP 20 (8–31) U/L, ALT 3 U/L (no RI), AST 29 (13–45) U/L, CK 42 (5–79) U/L, total protein 30 (24–36) g/L, triglyceride 0.3 (0.1–0.6) mmol/L, cholesterol 1.4 (0.9–2.1) mmol/L, creatinine 32 μmol/L (no RI), total bilirubin 1.5 μmol/L (no RI), and osmolarity 1082 (1027–1136) mmol/L.

Conclusions

These preliminary RI will assist with the clinical evaluation and treatment of captive and free‐living Sand Tiger sharks worldwide. Studies with more animals will increase the precision of upper and lower reference limits.