bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of the effects of treatment of peri‐implant infection in animal and human studies: systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Faggion Jr Clovis Mariano , Chambrone Leandro , Gondim Valéria , Schmitter Marc , Tu Yu‐Kang
Published: November 2009

Objective: The main objective of this systematic review is to compare the effects of treatment of peri‐implant infection between animal and human studies.

Material and methods: A literature search was conducted using the Medline, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences Literature databases up to and including May 2008. In addition, bibliographies of systematic reviews on peri‐implant diseases were searched manually. Non‐surgical and surgical treatments of peri‐implantitis/mucositis in animal models or human studies were compared. Meta‐analysis was conducted to investigate the difference between the reported treatment effects in animal and human studies. Changes in probing pocket depth (PPD) and probing attachment level (PAL) from baseline measurements were used as measures of outcome. Single‐level and multilevel meta‐regression analysis was performed by taking into account the different follow‐up times of the studies included.

Results: The single‐level and multilevel random‐effects meta‐analysis showed that the difference in PPD reduction [0.31 mm, 95% confidence interval (CI): −0.27, 0.88] and in PAL gain (0.21 mm, 95% CI: −0.47, 0.88) between animal and human studies was not statistically significant. The random‐effects meta‐regression suggested that studies with longer follow‐up times revealed greater PPD reduction (0.25 mm per month, 95% CI: 0.14, 0.35). However, when the different follow‐up times were taken into account, these differences became greater. Substantial heterogeneity between studies was found in the meta‐analyses (I2=97.6% for animal studies and 99.9% for human studies).

Conclusion: There was great heterogeneity between human and animal studies in terms of study designs and treatment procedures. Therefore, the results from this meta‐analysis should be interpreted with caution. Heterogeneity between studies and its causes merit further investigations.

To cite this article:
 Faggion CM Jr, Chambrone L, Gondim V, Schmitter M, Tu Y‐K. Comparison of the effects of treatment of peri‐implant infection in animal and human studies: systematic review and meta‐analysis. Clin. Oral Impl. Res. 21, 2010; 137–147. doi: 10.1111/j.1600‐0501.2009.01753.x
The versatility of graded acoustic measures in classification of predation threats by the tufted titmouse Baeolophus bicolor: exploring a mixed framework for threat communication
Authors: Sieving Kathryn E. , Hetrick Stacia A. , Avery Michael L.
Published: November 2009

Many mammal and bird species respond to predator encounters with alarm vocalizations that generate risk‐appropriate responses in listeners. Two conceptual frameworks are typically applied to the information encoded in alarm calls and to associated anti‐predator behaviors. ‘Functionally referential’ alarm systems encode nominal classes or categories of risk in distinct call types that refer to distinct predation‐risk situations. ‘Risk‐based’ alarms encode graded or ranked threat‐levels by varying the production patterns of the same call types as the urgency of predation threat changes. Recent work suggests that viewing alarm‐response interactions as either referential or risk‐based may oversimplify how animals use information in decision‐making. Specifically, we explore whether graded alarm cues may be useful in classifying risks, supporting a referential decision‐making framework. We presented predator (hawk, owl, cat, snake) and control treatments to captive adult tufted titmice Baeolophus bicolor and recorded their vocalizations, which included ‘chick‐a‐dee’ mobbing calls (composed of chick and D notes), ‘seet’ notes, two types of contact notes (‘chip’, ‘chink’), and song. No single call type was uniquely associated with any treatment and the majority of acoustic measures varied significantly among treatments (46 of 60). The strongest models (ANOVA and classification tree analysis) grouped hawk with cat and owl, and control with snake, and were based on the number or proportion of a) chick and D notes per chick‐a‐dee call, b) chip versus chink notes produced following treatment exposure, and c) the frequency metrics of other note types. We conclude that (1) the predation‐threat information available in complex titmouse alarm calls was largely encoded in graded acoustic measures that were (2) numerous and variable across treatments and (3) could be used singly or in combinations for either ranking or classification of threats. We call attention to the potential use of mixed threat identification strategies, where risk‐based signal information may be used in referential decision‐making contexts.
Dental health behaviour in relation to caries status among medical and dental undergraduate students of Udaipur district, India
Authors: Kumar S , Motwani K , Dak N , Balasubramanyam G , Duraiswamy P , Kulkarni S
Published: November 2009

To cite this article:
 
Int J Dent Hygiene  DOI: 10.1111/j.1601‐5037.2008.00346.x Kumar S, Motwani K, Dak N, Balasubramanyam G, Duraiswamy P, Kulkarni S. Dental health behaviour in relation to caries status among medical and dental undergraduate students of Udaipur district, India.

Abstract:  Objective:  To compare the caries status and oral hygiene behaviour of dental and medical students and to assess the influence of oral hygiene behaviour on the caries status.

Methods:  A questionnaire survey was conducted to assess the knowledge, attitudes and behaviour along with clinical examination to asses the caries status. A total of 403 dental and medical students enrolled with Rajasthan University of Health Sciences of Udaipur district, India were recruited in the study.

Results:  56.4% of dental students brushed their teeth twice daily compared to 38.5% of medical students. There was no significant difference between the mean decayed components of males and females of dental stream, whereas among medical subjects, males had a higher decayed score than females (P = 0.012). The mean behaviour score obtained by dental students (19.38) was greater than that of medical students (18.34). Moreover, medical students presented a higher decayed, missing and filled teeth (DMFT) score (1.96) than dental students (1.16). Subjects who had a habit of brushing after every meal showed lower DMFT score (1.4) than those who brushed only once a day (1.64). Step‐wise linear regression analysis revealed that course of education and final behaviour score were the best predictors for the DMFT status.

Conclusion:  This study revealed significant differences between the oral hygiene behaviour and caries status of dental and medical students; furthermore, caries status was significantly influenced by the oral hygiene behaviour.
Bandage pressure measurement and training: simple interventions to improve efficacy in compression bandaging
Authors: Keller Anita , Müller Marcel L , Calow Trevis , Kern Ingrid K , Schumann Hauke
Published: November 2009

Compression bandaging is a major cornerstone in the treatment of chronic venous insufficiency. Its efficacy considerably depends on the applied pressure and it is therefore largely dependent on the individual applying the system. The sub‐bandage pressure was measured under three consecutive compression bandages applied by 21 nurses before and after training and the introduction of a pressure monitor (Kikuhime®, MediTrade, Denmark). A questionnaire was used to evaluate the self‐rating before and after the intervention. Before intervention, a questionnaire showed the confidence of the nurses in reaching sufficient sub‐bandage pressure levels. However, 34·9% of all bandages were shown to be insufficient before intervention (< 20 or ≥ 60 mmHg) and only 17·5% after intervention, representing a statistically significant improvement through intervention. Of the insufficient bandages, 77·3% were applied by nurses with more than 10 years of working experience. Furthermore, the mean sub‐bandage pressure in active standing position, a marker for the working pressure, was improved form 38·7 to 64·3 mmHg after intervention. Continuous awareness and training are necessary to maintain sufficient compression bandaging. The availability of a pressure monitor was helpful to reach this goal. Long work experience and self‐rating alone is not sufficient to maintain adequate quality in compression bandaging.
The operative treatment of pressure wounds: a 10‐year experience in flap selection
Authors: Ahluwalia Romy , Martin Daniel , Mahoney James L
Published: November 2009

This study sought to both assist in the selection of flaps for ischial pressure wound reconstruction and evaluate the overall complication rates associated with reconstruction. A retrospective medical record review was conducted for 78 patients following the surgical reconstruction of an ischial pressure sore. Records were reviewed for demographics, location of sores, methods of reconstruction and flap selection, as well as any complications and recurrences. A total of 72 wounds were reconstructed with an average of 1·4 flaps used per wound. An ischial flap complication rate of 16% was observed in flap follow‐up, with a recurrence rate of 7% recorded. The vast majority of complications went on to heal with 15% of patients requiring a second reconstruction. Our relatively large sample of ischial flaps allowed for a close comparison with previously published work. Both flap selection and site of reconstruction significantly affected the success rates for pressure sore coverage. The overall complication rates by flap and reconstructive site in this review are lower than previously published reports. Our experience with ischial reconstruction was extensive enough to suggest a posterior medial thigh fasciocutaneous flap combined with a biceps femoris muscle flap as a first choice in ischial pressure wound reconstruction.
Sacrifice of Accessory Pudendal Arteries in Normally Potent Men during Robot-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy Does Not Impact Potency
Authors: Box Geoffrey N. , Kaplan Adam G. , Rodriguez Esequiel , Skarecky Douglas W. , Osann Kathryn E. , Finley David S. , Ahlering Thomas E.
Published: November 2009

Aim

Whether or not sacrificing accessory pudendal arteries (APAs) during radical prostatectomy affects potency has been an ongoing source of concern. Herein, we present our potency results relative to sacrificing APAs in normally pre-potent men following robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP).

Methods

The distribution of APAs and clinical characteristics were prospectively recorded in 200 consecutive patients undergoing RARP with a cautery-free technique. Sexual function was assessed using the International Index of Erectile Function 5-item questionnaire (IIEF-5). All APAs were sacrificed due to stapling the dorsal vein complex

Main Outcome Measures

Postoperatively, potency was defined by an affirmative answer to the following two questions: “Were erections adequate for penetration?” and “were the erections satisfactory?” Postoperative IIEF-5 scores and quality of erections (% of preoperative firmness: 0%, 25%, 50%, 75%, 100%) were also obtained. Subgroup analysis of patients age ≤65 years with IIEF-5 score of 22–25 was performed.

Results

Eighty patients (40%) had APAs. Preoperatively, there was no association with having an APA and normal/abnormal sexual function. Preoperatively, 58/200 were ≤65 years with self-administered IIEF-5 scores of 22–25. Postoperatively, 53/58 (91%) were potent at 24 months follow-up. Nineteen of 58 patients had a sacrificed APA; 39 patients had no APA. Eighteen of 19 (95%) patients with sacrificed APAs were potent vs. 35/39 (90%) with no APA present (P = 0.53). Multivariate analysis showed no significant correlation between sacrificing an APA and time of potency recovery, quality of postoperative erections (94% vs. 90% P = 0.80) or mean IIEF-5 score (22.4 vs. 20.8, P = 0.13).

Conclusion

We found no correlation between the presence or absence of APAs and preoperative sexual function. Furthermore, after sacrificing all APAs, we found no correlation with potency return, time to return of potency, quality of erections, or mean IIEF-5 scores at 24 months.
The Evaluation of Clitoral Blood Flow and Sexual Function in Elite Female Athletes
Authors: Karatas Omer Faruk , Baltaci Gul , Ilerisoy Zeynep , Bayrak Omer , Cimentepe Ersin , Irmak Rafet , Unal Dogan
Published: November 2009

Introduction

Clitoral blood flow measurements using clitoral color Doppler ultrasound have been performed with increasing frequency either in order to assessment of female sexual function/dysfunction. The trials to evaluate the sexual function in healthy subjects, especially in the subgroup of female elite athletes, are limited.

Aim

The aim of the study was to evaluate whether elite female athletes and sedentary healthy females differ in their clitoral blood flow and sexual function as an expression of their physical fitness status.

Methods

Twenty-five female elite athletes (Group I) and healthy female subjects (Group II) were enrolled as volunteers in the study. All women were instructed to complete the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) questionnaire. Each subject underwent high definition color Doppler ultrasonography to measure the clitoral blood flow parameters.

Main Outcome Measures

The effect of physical activity on clitoral blood flow and sexual life in women.

Results

Mean age, mean age of menarche, mean marriage age, and body mass index were similar for both groups. In Group I, the mean peak systolic velocity and end-diastolic velocity were higher than those of Group II, whereas the mean RI was similar for both groups. There were statistically significant differences for total FSFI score and all domain scores, except desire domain, between both groups.

Conclusion

In elite female athletes as compared with sedentary healthy females, better clitoral blood flow and better sexual function were demonstrated. Therefore it seems superior physical fitness correlates with better sexual function.
The Distribution of Patients Who Seek Treatment for the Complaint of Ejaculating Prematurely According to the Four Premature Ejaculation Syndromes
Authors: Serefoglu Ege Can , Cimen Haci Ibrahim , Atmaca Ali Fuat , Balbay M. Derya
Published: November 2009

Introduction

In addition to “lifelong” and “acquired” premature ejaculation (PE) syndromes, two more PE syndromes have recently been proposed: “Natural variable PE” and “premature-like ejaculatory dysfunction.”

Aim

The purpose of this study was to analyze the prevalence of the four PE syndromes among patients who were admitted to a urology outpatient clinic with the complaint of ejaculating prematurely.

Methods

Between July 2008 and March 2009, patients admitted to a urology outpatient clinic with a self-reported complaint of PE were enrolled into the study. After taking a careful medical and sexual history, patients were classified as “lifelong,”“acquired,”“natural variable,” PE or “premature-like ejaculatory dysfunction.”

Main Outcome Measures

In addition to medical and sexual history, self-estimated intravaginal ejaculatory latency times (IELTs) of patients were used in the classification of patients.

Results

A total of 261 potent men with a mean age of 36.39 ± 10.45 years (range 20–70) were recruited into the study. The majority of the men was diagnosed as having lifelong PE (62.5%); the remaining men were diagnosed as having acquired (16.1%), natural variable PE (14.5%), or premature-like ejaculatory disorder (6.9%). The mean age of patients with acquired PE was significantly higher than the other groups (P = 0.001). No significant difference was observed for educational status or income level of patients in the different PE groups (P = 0.983 and P = 0.151, respectively). The mean self-estimated IELT for all subjects was 65.16 ± 83.75 seconds (2–420 seconds). Patients with lifelong PE had significantly lower mean self-reported IELT, whereas the patients with premature-like ejaculatory dysfunction had the highest mean IELT (P = 0.001): (i) life-long PE: 20.47 ± 28.90 seconds (2–120 seconds); (ii) aquired PE: 57.91 ± 38.72 seconds (90–180 seconds); (iii) natural variable PE: 144.17 ± 22.47 seconds (120–180 seconds); and (iv) premature-like ejaculatory dysfunction: 286.67 ± 69.96 seconds (180–420 seconds).

Conclusions

The majority of patients who seek treatment for the complaint of ejaculating prematurely describes lifelong PE. Further population-based studies are required to determine the actual prevalences of these four PE syndromes.
Patient Perceptions Regarding Effect of Gynecological Surgery on Sexuality
Authors: Schaffir Jonathan , Fleming Mary , Waddell Valerie
Published: November 2009

Introduction

Women undergoing surgery for benign gynecological conditions often voice concerns about how surgery will affect their sexuality. It is unclear what percentage of women shares these concerns, and how well they are addressed.

Aims

To identify what concerns women have about sexuality when they have gynecological surgery, and what factors affect these concerns.

Methods

Survey of women scheduled to undergo hysterectomy, oophorectomy, or any sterilization procedure at an academic medical center. Chi-square and Fisher’s exact tests were used to analyze the data.

Main Outcome Measure

A questionnaire was devised containing 10 statements regarding how surgery can affect sexuality and how concerns are addressed. Patients were asked to rate their agreement with each on a 5-point Likert scale.

Results

Patients undergoing oophorectomies were significantly more likely to agree that they would have less sexual desire (P = 0.01) and that they would be less able to enjoy sex (P = 0.002) than women undergoing hysterectomy or sterilization alone. Patients with a private physician were more likely to agree that their physician counseled them about sexual effects than patients of the resident clinic (P = 0.004).

Conclusions

Women undergoing oophorectomy are more likely to have concerns regarding sexuality that need to be addressed by gynecological surgeons. These concerns are less frequently addressed by resident physicians, who need to be instructed to counsel their patients about sexuality.
High incidences and similar patterns of Wolbachia infection in fig wasp communities from three different continents
Authors: Chen Lin‐Lin , Cook James M. , Xiao Hui , Hu Hao‐Yuan , Niu Li‐Ming , Huang Da‐Wei
Published: November 2009

Abstract  Wolbachia are endosymbiotic bacteria that infect numerous arthropod species. Previous studies in Panama and Australia revealed that the majority of fig wasp species harbor Wolbachia infections, but that similar patterns of incidence have evolved independently with different wasp species and Wolbachia strains on the two continents. We found Wolbachia infections in 25/47 species (53%) of fig wasp associated with 25 species of Chinese figs. Phylogenetic analyses of Wolbachia wsp sequences indicated that very similar strains are not obviously found in either closely related or ecologically linked fig wasps species. The extremely high prevalence of Wolbachia in fig wasps (over 50% of species infected) is not constrained by geographical origin and is a recurrent theme of fig wasp/Wolbachia interactions.
Effects of Boiling on the IgE‐Binding Properties of Tropomyosin of Shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei )
Authors: Liu Guang‐Ming , Cheng Hsiaopo , Nesbit Jacqueline B. , Su Wen‐Jin , Cao Min‐Jie , Maleki Soheila J.
Published: November 2009

ABSTRACT:  The thermal stability and IgE binding of raw and boiled shrimp extracts and the tropomyosins (TM) have not been reported. In this study, we compare the stability of raw and boiled shrimp TM of Litopenaeus vannamei and evaluate how boiling may alter the allergenicity of L. vannamei. Extracts were prepared from raw and boiled shrimp and analyzed by sodium dodecyl sulfate‐polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS‐PAGE) and two‐dimensional electrophoresis. The IgE‐binding of the extracts was determined by western‐blot and competitive inhibition enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (iELISA). The TM was then purified from raw and boiled shrimp, the secondary structures analyzed by circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy, and the IgE binding compared by slot blot analysis. The soluble protein content decreased and the higher molecular weight proteins increased in the extracts from boiled versus raw shrimp. Similar IgE binding characteristics were seen by extracts when using western blot analysis. Although iELISA results showed that extracts from raw shrimp bound higher IgE than extracts from boiled shrimp, dot‐blot assay demonstrates higher IgE binding to purified TM from boiled shrimp than raw shrimp. The purified TM had a typical alpha‐helical secondary structure and the stability of boiled TM was lower than that of raw TM. Extracts from boiled shrimp produce lower IgE binding than extracts from raw shrimp, which suggest that boiling can be used as a tool in attempting to reduce shrimp allergenicity. However, the purified TM from boiled shrimp, which shows enhanced IgE binding over that of raw shrimp, may be a more effective antigen in diagnosing shrimp allergy through immunoassay.
Efficacy of Aqueous and Alcohol‐Based Quaternary Ammonium Sanitizers for Reducing Salmonella in Dusts Generated in Almond Hulling and Shelling Facilities
Authors: Du Wen‐Xian , Danyluk Michelle D. , Harris Linda J.
Published: November 2009

ABSTRACT:  Large volumes of fine particulate matter or “dust” (soil, hulls, and shells) generated when hulls and shells are removed from almond kernels complicate cleaning and sanitation procedures in the huller‐sheller (HS) environment. This study evaluated the efficacy of 3 aqueous quaternary ammonium sanitizers (AQuats) and an isopropyl alcohol‐based quaternary ammonium sanitizer (IPAQuat) for reducing Salmonella in dust collected from 2 HS facilities. Dust (1 g) was thoroughly mixed with 1 to 2 mL of inoculum (1 to 5 log CFU/g) before adding 1 to 7 mL of water, an AQuat (200 or 1000 ppm), or IPAQuat (200 ppm, 58.6% isopropyl alcohol) and incubated at 15 and 30 °C for up to 21 d. At either 15 or 30 °C increases in Salmonella populations in the dust were not significantly different following addition of either water or AQuats. No significant differences were observed upon water or AQuat addition, either among the 3 AQuats tested, the concentration or volume of AQuat, or the initial level of Salmonella. When IPAQuat was added to dust inoculated at 1 to 7 log CFU/g, Salmonella levels were reduced to less than 1.3 log CFU/g after treatment and after incubation at 30 °C for 48 h. IPAQuat was an effective sanitizer compared to the AQuats, even in the presence of high levels of organic material. Recent large‐scale outbreaks of salmonellosis with low‐moisture foods have increased concerns regarding their safety. Little research or guidance is available on appropriate cleaning and sanitation programs for these food types. This research is focused on an evaluation of sanitation options for low‐moisture foods, in particular almonds. The information should be applicable and useful to the nut industry and to other low‐moisture foods.

Practical Application: Recent large‐scale outbreaks of salmonellosis with low‐moisture foods have increased concerns regarding their safety. Little research or guidance is available on appropriate cleaning and sanitation programs for these food types. This research is focused on an evaluation of sanitation options for low‐moisture foods, in particular almonds. The information should be applicable and useful to the nut industry and to other low‐moisture foods.
Using the Benchmark Dose (BMD) Methodology to Determine an Appropriate Reduction of Certain Ingredients in Food Products
Authors: Bi Jian
Published: November 2009

ABSTRACT:  As the desire to promote health increases, reductions of certain ingredients, for example, sodium, sugar, and fat in food products, are widely requested. However, the reduction is not risk free in sensory and marketing aspects. Overreduction may change the taste and influence the flavor of a product and lead to a decrease in consumer's overall liking or purchase intent for the product. This article uses the benchmark dose (BMD) methodology to determine an appropriate reduction. Calculations of BMD and one‐sided lower confidence limit of BMD are illustrated. The article also discusses how to calculate BMD and BMDL for overdispersed binary data in replicated testing based on a corrected beta‐binomial model. USEPA Benchmark Dose Software (BMDS) were used and S‐Plus programs were developed.

Practical Application: The method discussed in the article is originally used to determine an appropriate reduction of certain ingredients, for example, sodium, sugar, and fat in food products, considering both health reason and sensory or marketing risk.
Dopamine, Morphine, and Nitric Oxide: An Evolutionary Signaling Triad
Authors: Stefano George B. , Kream Richard M.
Published: November 2009

Morphine biosynthesis in relatively simple and complex integrated animal systems has been demonstrated. Key enzymes in the biosynthetic pathway have also been identified, that is, CYP2D6 and COMT. Endogenous morphine appears to exert highly selective actions via novel mu opiate receptor subtypes, that is, mu3,‐4, which are coupled to constitutive nitric oxide release, exerting general yet specific down regulatory actions in various animal tissues. The pivotal role of dopamine as a chemical intermediate in the morphine biosynthetic pathway in plants establishes a functional basis for its expansion into an essential role as the progenitor catecholamine signaling molecule underlying neural and neuroendocrine transmission across diverse animal phyla. In invertebrate neural systems, dopamine serves as the preeminent catecholamine signaling molecule, with the emergence and limited utilization of norepinephrine in newly defined adaptational chemical circuits required by a rapidly expanding set of physiological demands, that is, motor and motivational networks. In vertebrates epinephrine, emerges as the major end of the catecholamine synthetic pathway consistent with a newly incorporated regulatory modification. Given the striking similarities between the enzymatic steps in the morphine biosynthetic pathway and those driving the evolutionary adaptation of catecholamine chemical species to accommodate an expansion of interactive but distinct signaling systems, it is our overall contention that the evolutionary emergence of catecholamine systems required conservation and selective “retrofit” of specific enzyme activities, that is, COMT, drawn from cellular morphine expression. Our compelling hypothesis promises to initiate the reexamination of clinical studies, adding new information and treatment modalities in biomedicine.
Detection of Haemagglutination–Inhibiting Antibodies against Human H1 and H3 Strains of Influenza A Viruses in Pigs in Ibadan, Nigeria
Authors: Adeola O. A. , Adeniji J. A. , Olugasa B. O.
Published: November 2009

Agricultural and commercial activities have continued to bring people and pigs into regular, close contact in Ibadan, Nigeria. This study was therefore designed to investigate the transmission of human influenza viruses to pigs in Ibadan, using serological surveillance. Serum specimens were collected from ninety‐one (91/199) apparently healthy, unvaccinated Landrace pigs at three locations within Ibadan from April to June, 2008. Two strains of human influenza virus A: A/Brisbane/59/2007 (H1N1) and A/Brisbane/10/2007 (H3N2) were used in Haemagglutination‐Inhibition Assay for antibody detection. Prevalence of HI antibodies to the two subtypes was 90.1%. Antibodies to influenza A/Brisbane/59/2007 (H1N1) were significantly (P < 0.05) more prevalent (80.2%) than those of influenza A/Brisbane/10/2007 (H3N2) (51.6%). Titres of HI antibodies to influenza A/Brisbane/59/2007 [mean = 3331.5] were significantly higher (P < 0.05) than those of influenza A/Brisbane/10/2007 [mean = 2212.3]. This study shows that these pigs were exposed to human strains of influenza A(H1N1) and A(H3N2) either prior to or during this study. The implications of these high prevalence and antibody titres are discussed in relation to influenza virus infection among pig handlers in Ibadan, Nigeria. We recommend that periodic investigation of circulating strains of influenza viruses in pigs and humans who handle pigs regularly in Nigeria and molecular characterization of such isolates be carried out to ensure early detection of interspecies transmission and potential future pandemic strains.
Cluster of Cases of Salmonella enterica Serotype Rissen Infection in a General Hospital, Italy, 2007
Authors: Boschi T. , Aquilini D. , Degl’Innocenti R. , Aleo A. , Romani C. , Nicoletti P. , Buonomini M. I. , Marconi P. , Bilei S. , Mammina C. , Nastasi A.
Published: November 2009

In 2007, three strains of Salmonella enterica serotype Rissen (S. Rissen) were isolated in the laboratory of diagnostic microbiology of the General Hospital of Prato, Tuscany, Italy, over a 1 month and half interval of time. The first isolate was recovered on January 26 from an outpatient with enteritis. Then, two strains were isolated on February 16 and March 11 respectively, from central venous catheters of patients who were being hospitalized in two departments of the Hospital. An epidemiologically linked cluster of cases of salmonellosis was suspected. The three strains were submitted to single enzyme‐amplified fragment length polymorphism (SE‐AFLP) and XbaI macrorestriction and pulsed‐field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) that yielded undistinguishable profiles. Epidemiological investigations failed to identify a common source of infection within the Hospital. Moreover, the third patient had been exclusively total parenteral nutrition fed since his admission with a stomach cancer diagnosis. The first patient had a community‐acquired infection, but the source of her illness was uncertain. Twenty‐five further isolates identified in the years 2004–2007 in the same geographical area showed distinctly different PFGE and SE‐AFLP patterns. The three patients seemed to represent a cluster of epidemiologically unrelated cases caused by a previously never recognized S. Rissen strain. Rapid subtyping of isolates is essential in the early investigation of potential outbreaks, but synthesis of conventional and molecular epidemiological investigation and availability of surveillance data is often critical to prevent the initiation of time‐consuming, expensive and ineffective further investigations and control interventions.
Study of Ni2–Mn–Ga phase formation by magnetron sputtering film deposition at low temperature onto Si substrates and LaNiO3∕Pb(Ti,Zr)O3 buffer
Authors: Figueiras F. , Rauwel E. , Amaral V. S. , Vyshatko N. , Kholkin A. L. , Soyer C. , Remiens D. , Shvartsman V. V. , Borisov P. , Kleemann W.
Published: November 2009

Film deposition of Ni2MnGa phaselike alloy by radio frequency (rf) magnetron sputtering was performed onto bare Si(100) substrates and LaNiO3∕Pb(Ti,Zr)O3 (LNO/PZT) ferroelectric buffer layer near room temperature. The prepared samples were characterized using conventional x-ray diffraction (XRD), superconducting quantum interference device, and electron dispersive x-ray spectroscopy from scanning electron microscope observations. The optimized films deposited under high rf power and low argon pressure present good surface quality and highly textured phase crystallization. The positioning distance between the substrate and the target-holder axis has some limited effect on the film’s composition due to the specific diffusion behavior of each element in the sputtering plasma. Extended four pole high resolution XRD analysis allowed one to discriminate the intended Ni–Mn–Ga tetragonal martensitic phase induced by the (100) LNO/PZT oriented buffer. This low temperature process appears to be very promising, allowing separate control of the functional layer’s properties, while trying to achieve high electromagnetoelastic coupling.
Simultaneous measurement of thermal conductivity and interface thermal conductance of diamond thin film
Authors: Lee Byeonghee , Lee Joon Sik , Kim Sun Ung , Kim Kyeongtae , Kwon Ohmyoung , Lee Seungkoo , Kim Jong Hoon , Lim Dae Soon
Published: November 2009

The authors developed an experimental method that can measure the in-plane thermal conductivity of a thin film and the interface thermal conductance between the film and the metal strip, simultaneously. This technique, the in-plane 3ω method, can be applied to the films with very high thermal conductivity such as diamond films. To guarantee the reliability of the measurement, the factors causing error were analyzed rigorously. Then, the method was demonstrated on silicon dioxide and silicon nitride films and was valid in experiments performed in the open atmosphere. They also applied the method on several chemical vapor deposited diamond films of different thicknesses and pretreatment methods. The data are comparable with those from previous researches.
Reproducibility Distinguishes Conscious from Nonconscious Neural Representations
Authors: Schurger Aaron , Pereira Francisco , Treisman Anne , Cohen Jonathan D.
Published: November 2009

Consciousness and Reproducibility

What exactly does it mean for neural information to reach subjective awareness? Previous work has suggested that the intensity and the duration of activation in brain areas that encode the contents of perception determine whether or not the information contributes directly to subjective experience. Now

Schurger
et al.

(p.
97
, published online 12 November; see the Perspective by

Schwarzkopf and Rees

) describe a third property that distinguishes conscious from nonconscious neural encoding reproducibility. Spatiotemporal patterns of brain activity were recorded while subjects performed a simple visual category-discrimination task. Activation patterns corresponding to conscious information were more reproducible—i.e., more reliable, across different presentations of the same stimulus category, compared to nonconscious activation patterns coding for the same perception.
The Missing Link in Linear Alkylbenzenesulfonate Surfactant Degradation: 4-Sulfoacetophenone as a Transient Intermediate in the Degradation of 3-(4-Sulfophenyl)Butyrate by
Comamonas testosteroni
KF-1
Authors: Schleheck David , von Netzer Frederick , Fleischmann Thomas , Rentsch Daniel , Huhn Thomas , Cook Alasdair M. , Kohler Hans-Peter E.
Published: November 2009

Biodegradation of the laundry surfactant linear alkylbenzenesulfonate (LAS) involves complex bacterial communities. The known heterotrophic community has two tiers. First, all LAS congeners are oxygenated and oxidized to about 50 sulfophenylcarboxylates (SPC). Second, the SPCs are mineralized.
Comamonas testosteroni
KF-1 mineralizes 3-(4-sulfophenyl)butyrate (3-C4-SPC). During growth of strain KF-1 with 3-C4-SPC, two transient intermediates were detected in the culture medium. One intermediate was identified as 4-sulfoacetophenone (SAP) (4-acetylbenzenesulfonate) by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). The other was 4-sulfophenol (SP). This information allowed us to postulate a degradation pathway that comprises the removal of an acetyl moiety from (derivatized) 3-C4-SPC, followed by a Baeyer-Villiger monooxygenation of SAP and subsequent ester cleavage to yield SP. Inducible NADPH-dependent SAP-oxygenase was detected in crude extracts of strain KF-1. The enzyme reaction involved transient formation of 4-sulfophenol acetate (SPAc), which was completely hydrolyzed to SP and acetate. SP was subject to NADH-dependent oxygenation in crude extract, and 4-sulfocatechol (SC) was subject to oxygenolytic ring cleavage. The first complete degradative pathway for an SPC can now be depicted with 3-C4-SPC: transport, ligation to a coenzyme A (CoA) ester, and manipulation to allow abstraction of acetyl-CoA to yield SAP, Baeyer-Villiger monooxygenation to SPAc, hydrolysis of the ester to acetate and SP, monooxygenation of SP to SC, the
ortho
ring-cleavage pathway with desulfonation, and sulfite oxidation.
Active
VSG
Expression Sites in
Trypanosoma brucei
Are Depleted of Nucleosomes
Authors: Stanne Tara M. , Rudenko Gloria
Published: November 2009

African trypanosomes regulate transcription differently from other eukaryotes. Most of the trypanosome genome is constitutively transcribed by RNA polymerase II (Pol II) as large polycistronic transcription units while the genes encoding the major surface proteins are transcribed by RNA polymerase I (Pol I). In bloodstream form
Trypanosoma brucei
, the gene encoding the variant surface glycoprotein (VSG) coat is expressed in a monoallelic fashion from one of about 15
VSG
bloodstream form expression sites (BESs). Little is known about the chromatin structure of the trypanosome genome, and the chromatin state of active versus silent
VSG
BESs remains controversial. Here, we determined histone H3 occupancy within the genome of
T. brucei
, focusing on active versus silent
VSG
BESs in the bloodstream form. We found that histone H3 was most enriched in the nontranscribed 50-bp and 177-bp repeats and relatively depleted in Pol I, II, and III transcription units, with particular depletion over promoter regions. Using two isogenic
T. brucei
lines containing marker genes in different
VSG
BESs, we determined that histone H3 is 11- to 40-fold depleted from active
VSG
BESs compared with silent
VSG
BESs. Quantitative PCR analysis of fractionated micrococcal nuclease-digested chromatin revealed that the active
VSG
BES is depleted of nucleosomes. Therefore, in contrast to earlier views, nucleosome positioning appears to be involved in the monoalleleic control of
VSG
BESs in
T. brucei
. This may provide a level of epigenetic regulation enabling bloodstream form trypanosomes to efficiently pass on the transcriptional state of active and silent BESs to daughter cells.
Phylogenetic conservation of antigenic determinants in archaebacterial elongation factors (Tu proteins)
Authors: Cammarano P. , Tiboni O. , Sanangelantoni A. M.
Published: November 2009

By using affinity chromatography methods, we have purified elongation factor Tu (EF-Tu) proteins from a host of archaebacteria covering all known divisions in the archaebacterial tree except halophiles, and from such distantly related eubacteria as Thermotoga maritima and Escherichia coli. Polyclonal antibodies were raised against the Tu proteins of Sulfolobus solfataricus, Thermoproteus tenax, Thermococcus celer, Pyrococcus wosei, Archaeoglobus fulgidus, Methanococcus thermolitotrophicus, Thermoplasma acidophilum, and Thermotoga and used to probe the immunochemical relatedness of elongation factors both within and across kingdom boundaries. A selection of the results, presented here, indicates that (i) every archaebacterial EF-Tu is closer (immunochemically) to every other archaebacterial EF-Tu than to the functionally analogous proteins of eubacteria and eukaryotes, with only one possible exception concerning die recognition of eukaryotic (EF-1α) factors by Thermococcus EF-Tu antibodies, and (ii) within the archaebacteria there appears to be a correlation between EF-Tu immunochemical similarities and the phylogenetic relatedness of the organisms inferred from other (sequence) criteria. On the whole, immunochemical similarity data argue against the proposal that the archaebacterial taxon should be split and redistributed between two superkingdoms.Key words: phylogeny, archaebacteria, elongation factor Tu antibodies, eubacteria, eukaryotes.
Transfer RNA intron processing in the halophilic archaebacteria
Authors: Thompson Leo D. , Brandon Larean D. , Nieuwlandt Daniel T. , Daniels Charles J.
Published: November 2009

An in vitro assay system has been developed for the Halobacterium volcanii tRNA intron endonuclease using in vitro generated precursor RNAs. A partially purified enzyme preparation is capable of precise and accurate excision of the intron from the halobacterial tRNATrp precursor. The cleavage reaction produces products having 5′ hydroxyl and 2′,3′ cyclic phosphate termini. Processing of precursor molecules containing deletions within the exon regions indicates that the halobacterial endonuclease does not require intact mature tRNA structure in the substrate; this is in contrast to the eukaryotic endonuclease enzyme that has an absolute requirement for these structures. The large halobacterial tRNATrp intron does not appear to be a primary site for recognition by the endonuclease, however, its removal affects cleavage efficiency. Through a comparison of the structural and sequence features of the halobacterial substrates and the precursors of other archaebacterial intron-containing precursors, a common element is proposed for the recognition of substrates by intron endonuclease.Key words: archaebacteria, intron, tRNA, evolution, manipulation.
The structure and evolution of archaebacterial ribosomal RNAs
Authors: Wolters Jörn , Erdmann Volker A.
Published: November 2009

A cladistic analysis of 553 5S rRNA sequences has revealed a Ur-5S rRNA, the ancestor of all present-day 5S rRNA molecules. Previously stated characteristic differences between the eubacterial and eukaryotic molecules, namely, the length base-pairing schemes of helices D, can be used as a marker for the various archaebacterial branches. One model comprises Thermococcus, Thermoplasma, methanobacteria, and halobacteria; a second comprises the Sulfolobales; and a third is represented only by the single organism Octopus Spring species 1. A relaxed selection pressure on helix E with subsequent deletions is observed in Methanobacteriales, Methanococcales, and eubacteria. The secondary structures are supported by enzymatic digestion and chemical modification studies of the 5S rRNAs. Reconstitution of eubacterial 50S ribosomal subunits with 5S rRNA from Halobacterium and Thermoplasma has revealed 100% incorporation, while eukaryotic 5S rRNAs yielded a 50% incorporation. Relevant positions of the small-subunit rRNA are selected to answer the question of the monophyly of archaebacteria. Eight positions account for monophyly, eight for an ancestry of eubacteria with halophile methanogens and eukaryotes with eocytes (paraphyly of archaebacteria), and two for an ancestry of eubacteria with eocytes. A refinement of the neighborliness method of S. Sattath and A. Tversky resulted in a monophyly of archaebacteria when all positions are treated equally and in a paraphyly when tranversions are weighted twice over transitions.Key words: archaebacteria, ribosomal RNA, evolution, cladistic analysis.
The phylogenetic relations of DNA-dependent RNA polymerases of archaebacteria, eukaryotes, and eubacteria
Authors: Zillig Wolfram , Klenk Hans-Peter , Palm Peter , Pühler Gabriela , Gropp Felix , Garrett Roger A. , Leffers Henrik
Published: November 2009

Unrooted phylogenetic dendrograms were calculated by two independent methods, parsimony and distance matrix analysis, from an alignment of the derived amino acid sequences of the A and C subunits of the DNA-dependent RNA polymerases of the archaebacteria Sulfolobus acidocaldarius and Halobacterium halobium with 12 corresponding sequences including a further set of archaebacterial A + C subunits, eukaryotic nuclear RNA polymerases, pol I, pol II, and pol III, eubacterial β′ and chloroplast β′ and β″ subunits. They show the archaebacteria as a coherent group in close neighborhood of and sharing a bifurcation with eukaryotic pol II and (or) pol IIIA components. The most probable trees show pol IA branching off from the tree separately at a bifurcation with the eubacterial β′ lineage. The implications of these results, especially for understanding the possibly chimeric origin of the eukaryotic nuclear genome, are discussed.Key words: transcription, evolution, taxonomy, subunits, gene organization.
Origin of the eukaryotic nucleus: eukaryotes and eocytes are genotypically related
Authors: Lake James A.
Published: November 2009

The origin of the eukaryotic nucleus is difficult to reconstruct. While eukaryotic organelles (chloroplast, mitochondrion) are eubacterial endosymbionts, the source of nuclear genes has been obscured by multiple nucleotide substitutions. Using evolutionary parsimony, a newly developed rate-invariant treeing algorithm, the eukaryotic rRNA genes are shown to have evolved from the eocytes, a group of extremely thermophilic, sulfur-metabolizing, anucleate cells. The deepest bifurcation yet found separates the reconstructed tree into two taxonomic divisions. These are a proto-eukaryotic group (karyotes) and an essentially bacterial one (parkaryotes). Within the precision of the rooting procedure, the tree is not consistent with either the prokaryotic–eukaryotic or the archaebacterial–eubacterial–eukaryotic groupings. It implies that the last common ancestor of extant life, and the early ancestors of eukaryotes, very likely lacked nuclei, metabolized sulfur, and lived at near boiling temperatures.Key words: rRNA, evolution, phylogeny, sulfur metabolism.
Transformation methods for halophilic archaebacteria
Authors: Cline Steven W. , Lam Wan L. , Charlebois Robert L. , Schalkwyk Leonard C. , Doolittle W. Ford
Published: November 2009

We present a practical description of polyethylene glycol mediated spheroplast transformation of Halobacterium halobium and Halobacterium volcanii. This method has been applied to phage DNA transfection, plasmid DNA transformation, and transformation with linear fragments of high molecular weight genomic DNA. Efficient spheroplast regeneration allows uncomplicated recovery of transformed progeny. Transformations can be performed equally well using fresh or frozen cell preparations. These methods should find application in molecular cloning, genetic fine mapping, and strain construction.Key words: archaebacteria, Halobacterium, transformation methods, spheroplast.
Unusual nucleotide sequence heterogeneity of small multicopy pHSB plasmid from Halobacterium strain SB3, an archaebacterium
Authors: Kagramanova V. K. , Derckacheva N. I. , Mankin A. S.
Published: November 2009

A small multicopy plasmid, pHSB, from the Halobacterium strain SB3 is present in the cell as a population of molecules differing from each other by one or several point nucleotide substitutions. At least three sequence versions of the plasmid coexist in the cell. The pHSB primary structure heterogeneity may be a reflection of high genetic instability of the host organism.Key words: archaebacteria, plasmids, halobacteria, genome structure.
Organization of genes encoding the L11, L1, L10, and L12 equivalent ribosomal proteins in eubacteria, archaebacteria, and eucaryotes
Authors: Shimmin Lawrence C. , Newton C. Hunter , Ramirez Celia , Yee Janet , Downing Willa Lee , Louie Andrea , Matheson Alastair T. , Dennis Patrick P.
Published: November 2009

Archaebacterial and eucaryotic cytoplasmic ribosomes contain proteins equivalent to the L11, L1, L10, and L12 proteins of the eubacterium Escherichia coli. In E. coli the genes encoding these ribosomal proteins are clustered, cotranscribed, and autogenously regulated at the level of mRNA translation. Genomic restriction fragments encoding the L11e, L1e, L10e, and L12e (equivalent) proteins from two divergent archaebacteria, Halobacterium cutirubrum and Sulfolobus solfataricus, and the L10e and L12e proteins from the eucaryote Saccharomyces cerevisiae have been cloned, sequenced, and analyzed. In the archaebacteria, as in eubacteria, the four genes are clustered and the L11e, L1e, L 10e, and L12e order is maintained. The transcription pattern of the H. cutirubrum cluster is different from the E. coli pattern and the flanking genes on either side of the tetragenic clusters in E. coli, H. cutirubrum, and Sulfolobus solfataricus are all unrelated to each other. In the eucaryote Saccharomyces cerevisiae there is a single L10e gene and four separate L12e genes that are designated L12eIA, L12eIB, L12eIIA, and L12eIIB. These five genes are not closely linked and each is transcribed as a monocistronic mRNA; the L10e, L12eIA, L12eIB, and the L12eIIA genes are contiguous and uninterrupted, whereas the L12eIIB gene is interrupted by a 301 nucleotide long intron located between codons 38 and 39.Key words: archaebacteria, ribosome, Halobacterium, Sulfolobus.