DESCRIPTION OF THE IMMATURES OF WORKERS OF THE ANT CAMPONOTUS VITTATUS (HYMENOPTERA: FORMICIDAE)

Camponotus vittatus Forel is a poorly studied Neotropical ant, which is very common in Brazil. Larval descriptions are useful to systematics, as larval characters aid with genus-level differentiation, and ant larvae lie at the basis of ant social organization. This study presents the first description of the immatures of C. vittatus with the aid of light and scanning electron microscopy. There are three instars based on the frequency distribution of larval head widths. The larvae had some characteristics typical of Camponotus, specifically, a 'pogono-myrmecoid' body shape, 10 pairs of spiracles, antennae with 3 sensilla, mature larvae with pronounced labial pseudopalps, and conspicuous 'chiloscleres' on the labrum. Unique characteristics found would include the greatest diversity of body hair types recorded in an ant larva and 'camponotoid' mandibles with 6 medial denticles over the blade. The number of antennal sensilla proved variable.

Laser Phototherapy for Stevens-Johnson Syndrome: A Case Report

Background and Objective: Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) is a life-threatening dermatosis characterized by epidermal sloughing and stomatitis. We report the case of a 7-year-old boy in whom laser phototherapy (LPT) was highly effective in reversing the effects of an initial episode of SJS that had apparently developed in association with treatment with phenobarbital for a seizure disorder. The patient was first seen in the intensive care unit (ICU) of our institution with fever, cutaneous lesions on his extremities, trunk, face, and neck; mucosal involvement of his genitalia and eyes (conjunctivitis); ulcerative intraoral lesions; and swollen, crusted, and bleeding lips. He reported severe pain at the sites of his intraoral and skin lesions and was unable to eat, speak, swallow, or open his mouth. Materials and Methods: Trying to prevent and minimize secondary infections, gastric problems, pain, and other complications, the patient was given clindamycin, ranitidine, dipyrone, diphenhydramine (Benadryl) drops, and morphine. In addition, he was instructed to use bicarbonate solution and Ketoconazole (Xylogel) in the oral cavity. Because of the lack of progress of the patient, the LPT was selected. Results: At 5 days after the initial session of LPT, the patient was able to eat gelatin, and on the following day, the number and severity of his intraoral lesions and his labial crusting and swelling had diminished. By 6 days after his initial session of LPT, most of the patient's intraoral lesions had disappeared, and the few that remained were painless; the patient was able to eat solid food by himself and was removed from the ICU. Ten sessions of LPT were conducted in the hospital. The patient underwent three further and consecutive sessions at the School of Dentistry, when complete healing of his oral lesions was observed. Conclusion: The outcome in this case suggests that LPT may be a new adjuvant modality for SJS complications.

Description of the Immatures of Workers of the Weaver Ant, Camponotus textor (Hymenoptera: Formicidae)

The weaver ants Camponotus textor (Forel) (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) are native to Central and South America, where they use their larvae to build silken nests by sewing tree leaves together. Few Studies have been conducted with this species, and little is known about the morphology of their larvae. Tie present paper estimated the number of larval instars of C. textor and presents a detailed morphological description of each immature stage based on light and electron microscopic observations. The number of larval in stars was estimated as four based oil the frequency distribution of larval head widths. Tic larvae of this species presented some typical characteristics of Camponotus (Mayr) larvae: body shape `pogonomyrmecoid`, ten pairs of spiracles, antennae with three sensilla, conspicuous `chiloscleres` on the labrum, and mature larvae with pronounced labial pseudopalps. Unprecedented characteristics would include: great diversity of body hair types, and `camponotoid` mandibles but with four medial denticles. This information can aid biological and taxonomic studies with these ants, and may be useful for ant systematics.

Description of the Immatures of Workers of the Ant Linepithema micans Forel (Hymenoptera: Formicidae)

Linepithema micans Forel is a poorly studied species that is now considered a pest in vineyards in South Brazil. Larval characters have been used in a few phylogenetic studies, and their importance greatly depends in the amount of available information on different species. This study presents a complete panorama on the external morphology of the immatures of L. micans based on observations by light and scanning electron microscopy. The number of larval instars was estimated as three based on the frequency distribution of head widths of 965 larvae. Larvae of L. micans were similar to other Linepithema Mayr in the general format of body and mandibles, presenting a dorsal abdominal protuberance, nine pairs of spiracle, and unbranched hairs. On the other hand, L. micans was unique for having shorter hairs, predominantly denticulate, intraspecific variation in the number of antennal sensilla and in the types of sensilla on the labial palps were reported. Microsc. Res. Tech. 74:337-342, 2011. (C) 2010 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Olfactory eavesdropping between two competing stingless bee species

Foragers can improve search efficiency, and ultimately fitness, by using social information: cues and signals produced by other animals that indicate food location or quality. Social information use has been well studied in predator-prey systems, but its functioning within a trophic level remains poorly understood. Eavesdropping, use of signals by unintended recipients, is of particular interest because eavesdroppers may exert selective pressure on signaling systems. We provide the most complete study to date of eavesdropping between two competing social insect species by determining the glandular source and composition of a recruitment pheromone, and by examining reciprocal heterospecific responses to this signal. We tested eavesdropping between Trigona hyalinata and Trigona spinipes, two stingless bee species that compete for floral resources, exhibit a clear dominance hierarchy and recruit nestmates to high-quality food sources via pheromone trails. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry of T. hyalinata recruitment pheromone revealed six carboxylic esters, the most common of which is octyl octanoate, the major component of T. spinipes recruitment pheromone. We demonstrate heterospecific detection of recruitment pheromones, which can influence heterospecific and conspecific scout orientation. Unexpectedly, the dominant T. hyalinata avoided T. spinipes pheromone in preference tests, while the subordinate T. spinipes showed neither attraction to nor avoidance of T. hyalinata pheromone. We suggest that stingless bees may seek to avoid conflict through their eavesdropping behavior, incorporating expected costs associated with a choice into the decision-making process.

Oral lesions in lupus erythematosus-cytokines profiles of inflammatory infiltrate

Background: Lupus erythematosus (LE) is a chronic inflammatory disease. Presence of type 1 cytokines in cutaneous discoid lesions suggests that they may be critical for induction, development and maintenance of these manifestations. Type 2 cytokines in combination with local interferon gamma (INF-gamma) are thought to be related to the physiopathology of cutaneous LE. Cytokines profiles are still unknown in oral LE lesions. Materials and Methods: Expression of Th1 and Th2 cytokines (including IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, IL-10, IL-12, tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha) and INF-gamma was investigated and compared in 29 biopsies of intra-oral (sun-protected) and labial lesions (sun-exposed) of LE using immunohistochemistry. Results: Inflammatory infiltrate of LE lesions was strongly positive for IFN-gamma (97%) and TNF-alpha (90%), both Th1 type cytokines. Interleukin-10, a Th2 cytokine was also strongly expressed. Other cytokines were only mildly positive. Cytokines patterns were similar in intra-oral (sun-covered) and labial (sun-exposed) LE lesions. Conclusions: Oral LE lesions are associated with both type 1 and type 2 cytokines, characterized by stronger expression of INF-gamma, TNF-alpha and IL-10. These findings suggest that although ultraviolet (UV) light is involved in the induction of LE lesions, mechanisms of lesions formation may be similar in sun-exposed as well as sun-covered areas.

Effect of laser phototherapy on recurring herpes labialis prevention: an in vivo study

Alternative treatment for recurrent labial infection by herpes simplex virus (HSV) have been considered. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of laser phototherapy in prevention and reduction of severity of labial manifestations of herpes labialis virus. Seventy-one patients, divided into experimental (n = 41) and control (n = 30) groups were followed up for 16 months. Patients in the control group were treated topically with aciclovir and patients in the experimental group were subjected to laser phototherapy (one session per week, 10 weeks): 780 nm, 60 mW, 3.0 J/cm(2) or 4.5 J/cm(2) on healthy (no HSV-1 infection) and affected (with HSV-1 infection) tissues. Patients in the experimental group presented a significant decrease in dimension of herpes labialis lesions (P = 0.013) and inflammatory edema (P = 0.031). The reduction in pain level (P = 0.051) and monthly recurrences (P = 0.076) did not reach statistical significance. This study represents an in vivo indication that this treatment should be further considered as an effective alternative to therapeutic regimens for herpes labialis lesions.

Cheilitis glandularis: A clinicopathological study in 22 patients

Background: Cheilitis glandularis (CG) is a condition in which thick Saliva is secreted by minor labial salivary glands and adheres to a swollen lip causing discomfort to the patient. Most Publications refer to single case reports or small case series. Objective. We sought to report and to analyze clinical, pathological, and therapeutic data oil 22 patients with CG seen at the department of dermatology at our university. Method: Retrospective data about 22 patients with CG are reviewed and presented. Results: Seventeen patients were male and 5 were female. All were fair skinned, including 6 albino individuals. Several of them presented significant signs of photodamage on the lips. treatment was performed in 10 severely affected patients and consisted of I vermilionectomy followed by minor salivary gland removal. Histopathological Study revealed Various degrees of chronic sialadenitis and vermilion epithelial changes. Superficially invasive and in Situ squamous cell carcinoma of the vermilion was detected in 3 cases. Limitations: Biopsy and surgery were not performed in all patients. Conclusions: CG is strongly related to Sun sensitivity and may be more severe in albino patients. The swollen, sun-exposed lip may become more susceptible to the occurrence of squamous Cell carcinoma. (J Am Acad Dermatol 2010;62:233-8.)

Intravascular papillary endothelial hyperplasia: Report of 4 cases with immunohistochemical findings

Intravascular papillary endothelial hyperplasia (IPEH) is a benign endothelial proliferation, usually intravascular, that may mimic angiosarcoma. In this report, four new cases of IPEH involving the oral region are described. The affected sites were the lower lip, labial comissure and the submandibular region. After clinical evaluation, the complete removal of the lesions showed a circumscribed and soft mass. Histologically, the major feature was a reactive proliferation of endothelial cells composed of small papillary structures with hypocellular and hyalinized cores arising in an organized thrombus. Immunohistochemical staining for CD34 was strongly positive in endothelial cells. Vimentin and laminin immunolabelling were also consistent with a vascular origin. In order to verify the proliferative potential of the lesions, the Ki-67 antibody was used, revealing low percentage of labeled cells (<20%). No immunoreactivity for GLUT-1 was observed. Since the complete removal is curative, no additional treatment was necessary, and no signs of recurrence had been observed until now. Due to the particular features of IPEH, it is important for pathologists and clinicians to become familiar with this lesion. Additionally, the specific histological arrangement, including the absence of cellular pleomorphism, mitotic activity and necrosis, represents a guide to help in the differential diagnosis. Moreover, the vascular origin and the proliferative index should be assessed by immunohistochemistry in order to provide an accurate diagnosis.

Gingival Manifestations of Orofacial Granulomatosis

Background: Orofacial granulomatosis is a clinical entity presenting with swelling of the facial and/or oral tissues in association with histologic evidence of noncaseating granulomatous inflammation. Labial swelling is the most common finding. Compromise of the gingival and periodontal tissues may occur but has rarely been described in the literature. Our objective was to characterize granulomatous gingivitis in patients with orofacial granulomatosis. Observations: The study included 29 cases of orofacial granulomatosis seen in our clinic between January 1, 1989, and December 31, 2006. Of these 29, 5 had clinical evidence of gingival tumefaction and underwent gingival biopsy. Histologic examination of all the gingival biopsy specimens showed noncaseating granulomas, edema of the superficial lamina propria, and a chronic inflammatory infiltrate consisting predominantly of lymphocytes and multinucleated giant cells. Treatment options included anti-inflammatory therapy associated with periodontal care. Conclusion: Gingival tumefaction with histologic evidence of granulomatous inflammation may occur in orofacial granulomatosis and might be more common than reported in the literature.

Mucocele in pediatric patients: Analysis of 36 children

Mucoceles are common benign lesions of the oral cavity that develop following extravasation or retention of mucous material from major or minor salivary glands. Most series report a higher incidence of mucocele in young patients but no studies exist for this specific age group. The records of 104 patients presenting with mucocele who underwent surgery in the Oral Diseases Clinic of the Department of Dermatology of the University of Sao Paulo, Brazil, between 1991 and 2006, were reviewed. Of these, 36 (34.6%) were 15 years old or younger, the youngest being 2 years old. Twenty-six patients were girls, 10 were boys. Lesions were located on the lower labial mucosa (30 patients), tongue (three), floor of the mouth (one), buccal mucosa (one), and in one patient the location was unknown. Histopathology revealed an extravasation pattern in 35 patients and a retention pattern in one. Of the distinct subtypes of mucocele, tongue lesions (mucocele of the glands of Blandin-Nuhn) seem to be more prevalent and retention mucoceles seem to be very rare in children.

Microshear Bond Strength of Self-etching Systems Associated with a Hydrophobic Resin Layer

Purpose: To evaluate in vitro the microshear bond strength of adhesive systems applied to dentin according to manufacturers` instructions, associated or not with a hydrophobic layer of unfilled resin. Materials and Methods: Six self-etching adhesives (Clearfil SE Bond, Kuraray Medical; AdheSE, lvoclar Vivadent; Xeno III, Dentsply; I Bond, Heraeus-Kulzer; Bond Force, Tokuyama; Futurabond DC, Voco) were tested. The labial dentin of sixty bovine incisors was exposed, and the teeth were divided into two groups according to the application or not of an extra hydrophobic resin layer (Scotchbond Multi Purpose Plus, bottle 3). Six composite cylinders (Filtek Z250, 3M ESPE) were built up on each treated surface. Specimens were stored in distilled water at 37 C for 24 h and then subjected to the microshear bond strength test in a universal testing machine at a crosshead speed of 0.5 mm/min. Microshear bond strength values were analyzed by 2-way ANOVA and Tukey`s post-hoc test. Failure mode was determined using a stereomicroscope under 20X magnification. Results: The application of the hydrophobic resin layer did not affect bond strength, except for AdheSE. However, the bond strengths with the hydrophobic layer were similar among the six tested systems (Clearfil: 17.1 +/- 7.9; AdheSE: 14.5 +/- 7.1; Xeno III: 12.8 +/- 7.7; I Bond: 9.5 +/- 5.8; Bond Force: 17.5 +/- 4.1; Futurabond: 7.7 +/- 2.3). When used as recommended by the manufacturers, Bond Force presented statistically higher bond strength than AdheSE and I Bond (p < 0.05) (Clearfil 10.4 +/- 4.9; AdheSE 1.6 +/- 1.6; Xeno III: 9.0 +/- 3.8; I Bond: 3.0 +/- 1.5; Bond Force: 14 +/- 3.9; Futurabond: 8.8 +/- 3.8). Failure mode was predominantly adhesive. Conclusion: The bond strength of the self-etching systems tested was not significantly affected by the application of a hydrophobic layer, but a significant improvement was observed in AdheSE.

Roughness of Human Enamel Surface Submitted to Different Prophylaxis Methods

The purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate alterations in the surface roughness and micromorphology of human enamel submitted to three prophylaxis methods. Sixty-nine caries-free molars with exposed labial surfaces were divided into three groups. Group I was treated with a rotary instrument set at a low speed, rubber clip and a mixture of water and pumice; group II with a rotary instrument set at a low speed, rubber cup and prophylaxis paste Herjos-F (Vigodent S/A Industria e Comercio, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil); and group III with sodium bicarbonate spray Profi II Ceramic (Dabi A dante Indtistrias Medico Odontologicas Ltda, Ribeirao Preto, Brazil). All procedures were performed by the same operator for 10 s, and samples were rinsed and stored in distilled water. Pre and post-treatment surface evaluation was completed using a surface profilometer (Perthometer S8P Marh, Perthen, Germany) in 54 samples. In addition, the other samples were coated with gold and examined in a scanning electron microscope (SEM). The results of this study were statistically analyzed with the paired t-test (Student), the Kruskal-Wallis test and the Dunn (5%) test. The sodium bicarbonate spray led to significantly rougher surfaces than the pumice paste. The use of prophylaxis paste showed no statistically significant difference when compared with the other methods. Based on SEM analysis, the sodium bicarbonate spray presented an irregular surface with granular material and erosions. Based on this study, it can be concluded that there was an increased enamel stuface roughness when teeth were treated with sodium bicarbonate spray when compared with teeth treated with pumice paste.

Tooth-wear patterns in adolescents with normal occlusion and Class II Division 2 malocclusion

Introduction: In this study, we investigated tooth-wear patterns in adolescents with either normal occlusion or Class II Division 2 malocclusion. Methods: The sample consisted of dental casts from 165 subjects that were divided into 2 groups: 115 normal occlusion subjects (mean age, 14.3 years) and 50 complete Class II Division 2 subjects (mean age, 13.9 years). Dental wear was assessed by using a modified version of the tooth wear index. The 2 groups were compared with the Mann-Whitney test for the frequency and severity of wear on each surface of each group of teeth. The level of statistical significance was set at 5%. Results: The normal occlusion group statistically had greater tooth wear on the incisal surfaces of the maxillary lateral incisors and the incisal surfaces of the maxillary canines than did the Class II Division 2 malocclusion group. The malocclusion group showed statistically greater tooth wear on the labial surfaces of the mandibular lateral incisors, the occlusal surfaces of the maxillary premolars and first molars, the occlusal surfaces of the mandibular premolars, the palatal surfaces of the maxillary second premolars, and the buccal surfaces of the mandibular premolars and first molars than did the normal occlusion group. Conclusions: Subjects with normal occlusion and those with complete Class II Division 2 malocclusions have different tooth-wear patterns. Tooth wear on the malocclusion subjects should not be considered pathologic but, rather, the consequence of different interocclusal arrangements. (Am J Orthod Dentofacial Orthop 2010;137:730.e1-730.e5)

Cephalometric evaluation in different phases of Jasper jumper therapy

Introduction: The aim of this study was to evaluate the dentoskeletal and soft-tissue effects of Class II malocclusion treatment with the Jasper jumper followed by Class II elastics at the different stages of therapy. Methods: The sample comprised 24 patients of both sexes (11 boys, 13 girls) with an initial age of 12.58 years, treated for a mean period of 2.15 years. Four lateral cephalograms were obtained of each patient in these stages of orthodontic treatment: at pretreatment (T1), after leveling and alignment (T2), after the use of the Jasper jumper appliance and before the use of Class II intermaxillary elastics (T3), and at posttreatment (T4). Thus, 3 treatment phases could be evaluated: leveling and alignment (T1-T2), use of the Jasper jumper (T2-T3), and use of Class II elastics (T3-T4). Dependent analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey tests were used to compare the durations of the 3 treatment phases and for intragroup comparisons of the 4 treatment stages. Results: The alignment phase showed correction of the anteroposterior relationship, protrusion and labial inclination of the maxillary incisors, and reduction of overbite. The Jasper jumper phase demonstrated labial inclination, protrusion and intrusion of the mandibular incisors, mesialization and extrusion of the mandibular molars, reduction of overjet and overbite, molar relationship improvement, and reduction in facial convexity. The Class II elastics phase showed labial inclination of the maxillary incisors; retrusion, uprighting, and extrusion of the mandibular incisors; and overjet and overbite increases. Conclusions: The greatest amount of the Class II malocclusion anteroposterior discrepancy was corrected with the Jasper jumper appliance. Part of the correction was lost during Class II intermaxillary elastics use after use of the Jasper jumper appliance. (Am J Orthod Dentofacial Orthop 2011;140:e77-e84)