bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
No reduction in complication rate by stay in the intensive care unit for patients undergoing surgery for head and neck cancer and microvascular reconstruction
Authors: Nkenke Emeka , Vairaktaris Elefterios , Stelzle Florian , Neukam Friedrich W. , St. Pierre Michael
Published: April 2009

Background.

The aim of this prospective cohort study was to determine whether an immediate postoperative period of deep sedation and artificial respiration in an intensive care unit (ICU) leads to fewer complications and a reduced failure rate of microvascular flaps compared with a situation in which patients are allowed to breathe spontaneously without sedation in a recovery room.

Methods.

Each group comprised 50 patients. General medical complications and flap donor and recipient site complications were documented.

Results.

Significantly, more patients had problems with weaning from ventilation in the ICU group (p = .022). More cases of respiratory insufficiency (p = .240) and pneumonia (p = .081) occurred in the ICU group compared with the recovery room group without statistically significant differences. The number of flaps lost was comparable in both groups (p = .646).

Conclusions.

Admission to an ICU did not reduce complications after microvascular reconstruction and, therefore, has only to be considered for selected cases. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2009
‘By papers and pens, you can only do so much’: views about accountability and human resource management from Indian government health administrators and workers
Authors: George Asha
Published: April 2009

Although accountability drives in the Indian health sector sporadically highlight egregious behaviour of individual health providers, accountability needs to be understood more broadly. From a managerial perspective, while accountability functions as a control mechanism that involves reviews and sanctions, it also has a constructive side that encourages learning from errors and discretion to support innovation. This points to social relationships: how formal rules and hierarchies combine with informal norms and processes and more fundamentally how power relations are negotiated. Drawing from this conceptual background and based on qualitative research, this article analyses the views of government primary health care administrators and workers from Koppal district, northern Karnataka, India. In particular, the article details how these actors view two management functions concerned with internal accountability: supervision and disciplinary action. A number of disjunctures are revealed. Although extensive information systems exist, they do not guide responsiveness or planning. While supportive supervision efforts are acknowledged and practiced, implicit quid‐pro‐quo bargains that justify poor service delivery performance are more prevalent. Despite the enactment of numerous disciplinary measures, little discipline is observed. These disjunctures reflect nuanced and layered relationships between health administrators and workers, as well as how power is negotiated through corruption and elected representatives within the broader political economy context of health systems in northern Karnataka, India. These various dimensions of accountability need to be addressed if it is to be used more equitably and effectively. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The relationship between wage growth and wage levels
Authors: Gladden Tricia , Taber Christopher
Published: April 2009

We estimate the covariance between the permanent component of wages and a random coefficient on experience in models both with potential experience and with actual experience. Actual experience is allowed to be arbitrarily correlated with both the permanent component of wages and the random component on experience. We find no evidence that workers of higher ability experience faster wage growth. Our point estimates suggest that a worker with a one standard deviation higher level of permanent ability would have a return to annual potential experience that is 0.61 of a percentage point lower. The analogous point estimate for actual experience is 0.87 of a point lower. Contrary to the popular perception, wage growth among low‐skill workers appears to be at least as high as that for a medium‐skilled worker. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The 4th dimension and adult stem cells: Can timing be everything?
Authors: Gimble Jeffrey M. , Floyd Z. Elizabeth , Bunnell Bruce A.
Published: April 2009

The rotation of the earth on its axis influences the physiology of all organisms. A highly conserved set of genes encoding the core circadian regulatory proteins (CCRP) has evolved across species. The CCRP acts through transcriptional and post‐transcriptional mechanisms to direct the oscillatory expression of genes essential for key metabolic events. In addition to the light:dark cycle, the CCRP expression can be entrained by changes in feeding and physical activity patterns. While mammalian CCRP were originally associated with the central clock located within the suprachiasmatic nucleus of the brain, there is a growing body of evidence documenting the presence of the CCRP in peripheral tissues. It is now evident that the CCRP play a role in regulating the proliferation, differentiation, and function of adult stem cells in multiple organs. This concise review highlights findings concerning the role of the CCRP in modulating the adult stem cell activities. Although the manuscript focuses on hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs), bone marrow‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs), adipose‐derived stem cells (ASCs) and cancer stem cells, it is likely that the contribution of the CCRP merits consideration and evaluation in all stem cell pathways. J. Cell. Biochem. 107: 569–578, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
If we build it, they might come: an empirical investigation of supply and demand in the recruitment of rural psychologists
Authors: Jameson John Paul , Blank Michael B. , Chambless Dianne L.
Published: April 2009

Past research has established that practicing doctoral level psychologists tend to cluster in metropolitan areas, leaving the rural population gravely underserved. Discussions of this problem have assumed that psychologists hold negative attitudes toward rural work for many reasons, leading to a supply shortage. The present study attempts to examine the accuracy of this hypothesis by examining attitudes of current doctoral students in clinical psychology. Eight hundred eighty‐four students responded to an online survey. Results indicate that attitudes toward rural practice were not overwhelmingly negative as predicted. Additionally, a significant number of respondents endorsed positive attitudes toward rural practice. A follow‐up study was conducted to determine if the shortage of rural psychologists might be attributed to a lack of demand from rural employers. A search of three popular job resources revealed that few rural jobs were advertised, indicating weak demand for psychologists in rural areas. Results indicate that efforts to recruit psychologists to rural areas should be rethought, and increasing the visibility of available opportunities for psychologists should be made a priority. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Psychol 65: 1–13, 2009.
Relationship of p21‐activated kinase (PAK) and filopodia to persistence and oncogenic transformation
Authors: Heckman Carol A. , Demuth John G. , Deters Donald , Malwade Santosh R. , Cayer Marilyn L. , Monfries Clinton , Mamais Adamantios
Published: April 2009

Previously, we found that oncogenically transformed cells had fewer filopodia and more large, p21‐activated kinase (PAK)‐dependent features than normal cells. These large protrusions (LPs) were increased in cells expressing RhoAN19 with Cdc42‐associated kinase (ACK). Here, we determine how GTPase‐mediated mechanisms of focal contact (FC) regulation affect these protrusions. Constructs encoding various proteins were introduced into cells which were then studied by microscopy and computerized image processing and analysis. Constructs that prevented PAK recruitment by PAK‐interacting exchange factor (PIX) or restricted PAK residence time on FCs decreased both protrusions. Thus, filopodia were also PAK‐dependent. A comparison of FC distribution in cells expressing PAK in the presence or absence of PAK kinase inhibitor domain (KID) suggested that PAK enlarged FCs without affecting the prevalence of either protrusion. KID or Nck expression increased LPs but not filopodia. Nck failed to synergize with KID or ACK and RhoAN19 in enhancing LPs. Nck and KID synergistically enhanced filopodia, possibly because Nck recruited PAK to FCs while KID prevented their dissociation by PAK‐mediated autophosphorylation. Coexpression of Nck, ACK, and RhoAN19 abrogated filopodia and replicated the transformed phenotype. Since Nck recruitment of PAK is implicated in persistence of directional movement, we studied the PAK–Nck interface. Filopodia were eliminated by the Nck PAK‐binding domain and LPs by the PAK Nck‐binding domain. The results suggested that filopodia formation has more stringent requirements than LP formation, and Nck and PAK are used differently in the protrusions. Loss of filopodia in transformed cells may reflect defective regulation of GTPase mechanisms. J. Cell. Physiol. 220: 576–585, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Intra‐articular gene delivery and expression of interleukin‐1Ra mediated by self‐complementary adeno‐associated virus
Authors: Kay Jesse D. , Gouze Elvire , Oligino Thomas J. , Gouze Jean‐Noel , Watson Rachael S. , Levings Padraic P. , Bush Marsha L. , Dacanay Anthony , Nickerson David M. , Robbins Paul D. , Evans Christopher H. , Ghivizzani Steven C.
Published: April 2009

Background

The adeno‐associated virus (AAV) has many safety features that favor its use in the treatment of arthritic conditions; however, the conventional, single‐stranded vector is inefficient for gene delivery to fibroblastic cells that primarily populate articular tissues. This has been attributed to the inability of these cells to convert the vector to a double‐stranded form. To overcome this, we evaluated double‐stranded self‐complementary (sc) AAV as a vehicle for intra‐articular gene delivery.

Methods

Conventional and scAAV vectors were used to infect lapine articular fibroblasts in culture to determine transduction efficiency, transgene expression levels, and nuclear trafficking. scAAV containing the cDNA for interleukin (IL)‐1 receptor antagonist (Ra) was delivered to the joints of naïve rabbits and those with IL‐1β‐induced arthritis. From lavage of the joint space, levels of transgenic expression and persistence were measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Infiltrating leukocytes were quantified using a hemocytometer.

Results

Transgene expression from scAAV had an earlier onset and was approximately 25‐fold greater than conventional AAV despite the presence of similar numbers of viral genomes in the nuclei of infected cells. Fibroblasts transduced with scAAV produced amounts of IL1‐Ra comparable to those transduced with adenoviral and lentiviral vectors. IL1‐Ra was present in lavage fluid of most animals for 2 weeks in sufficient quantities to inhibit inflammation of the IL‐1β‐driven model. Once lost, neither subsequent inflammatory events, nor re‐administration of the virus could re‐establish transgene expression.

Conclusions

scAAV‐mediated intra‐articular gene transfer is robust and similarly efficient in both normal and inflamed joints; the resulting transgenic expression is sufficient to achieve biological relevance in joints of human proportion. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
DNA, oligosaccharides, and mononucleotides stimulate oligomerization of human lactoferrin
Authors: Nevinskii Alexander G. , Soboleva Svetlana E. , Tuzikov Fedor V. , Buneva Valentina N. , Nevinsky Georgy A.
Published: April 2009

Using small‐angle X‐ray scattering (SAXS), light scattering (LS), and soft laser ablation we have shown that lactoferrin (LF) in solution at neutral pH is oligomerized in the absence of salt or at physiological salt concentrations. The level of oligomerization depends on the concentration of LF, KCl or NaCl, and on the duration of the protein storage in solution. At the concentrations comparable with those in human milk (1 ÷ 6 mg/ml), the average radius of gyration (Rg) values of LF can attain 400 ÷ 480 Å´, while fresh solution of previously lyophylized LF demonstrate a lower average Rg (50 ÷ 100 Å´), and Rg value characterizing the LF monomer formed at 1 M NaCl is 26.7 Å´. The addition of oligonucleotides, oligosaccharides, or mononucleotides to LF in the presence or in the absence of KCl with different level of initial oligomerization accelerates the oligomerization rate and increases the Rg values up to ∼600 ÷ 700 Å´, which correspond to associates containing ten or more protein molecules. During gel filtration on Sepharose 4B, high‐degree LF oligomers dissociate nearly completely forming different degraded complexes, but in some cases it is possible to reveal small amount of a decamer. A possible role for oligomerization of LF, a highly polyfunctional protein, for its different biological activities is discussed. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Flavonoid–matrix cluster ions in MALDI mass spectrometry
Authors: Madeira Paulo J. Amorim , Florêncio M. Helena
Published: April 2009

The behaviour of 2,5‐dihydroxybenzoic acid (2,5‐DHB) matrix under matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionisation (MALDI) conditions was investigated, and the formation of 2,5‐DHB cluster ions, mainly dehydrated 2,5‐DHB ions, is reported. Interestingly, in the mass spectra of this compound, besides dimers and trimers, protonated tetramers, pentamers, hexamers and heptamers were also found with significant abundance.

The MALDI behaviour of four flavonoids, quercetin, myricetin, luteolin and kaempferol, using 2,5‐DHB as matrix, was also investigated. The mass spectra of the flavonoids studied revealed a number of flavonoid–2,5‐DHB cluster ions (mainly with the dehydrated 2,5‐DHB). The number of clusters formed is dependent on the structure of the analyte. For luteolin and kaempferol, in particular, evidence was found for the formation of cluster ions involving retro Diels Alder fragments and intact flavonoids molecules, as well as the corresponding protonated retro Diels Alder fragments with dehydrated DHB molecules. All ion compositions were attributed taking into account high accuracy mass measurements and tandem mass spectrometry experiments. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Modified adult measles in outbreaks in Japan, 2007–2008
Authors: Nagai Makoto , Xin Ji Yi , Yoshida Naoko , Miyata Akiko , Fujino Motoko , Ihara Toshiaki , Yoshikawa Tetsushi , Asano Yoshizo , Nakayama Tetsuo
Published: April 2009

Different genotypes of C1, D3, D5, and H1 were isolated in outbreaks of 1984, 1987–1988, 1991–1993, and 2001, respectively, when the previous circulating genotype was replaced successively by a new genotype, through molecular studies of measles since 1984 in Japan. In March 2007, several patients with measles were observed in outpatient clinics, who were all young adolescents in high school and university students. The outbreak expanded subsequently throughout Japanese districts in May and is still ongoing in 2008. Reverse transcription loop‐mediated isothermal amplification (RT‐LAMP) was used to detect the measles genome from 18 clinical samples obtained from patients suspected of modified measles infection with a very mild febrile illness. The measles genome was detected in nine patients by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) and in 12 patients by RT‐LAMP. Six measles strains were isolated in the 2007–2008 outbreak and identified as the D5 genotype (MVi/Bangkok.THA/93 type) different from the D5 sub‐cluster (MVi/Palau.BLA/93 type) isolated in 1990–2005. Similar Bangkok type D5 strains were isolated in Phnom Penh in 2002 and in Taiwan in 2003, suggesting that the D5 strains might have been introduced via South East Asia, rather than resulting from the accumulation of mutations in the D5 strains of 1990–2005. One D9 strain was isolated from a sporadic case in Aichi in 2006. There was no difference in the antigenicity of the D9 and D5 strains in comparison with the vaccine strain. Infrastructure of systematic laboratory‐based surveillance system should be established in order to confirm measles virus infection in Japan. J. Med. Virol. 81:1094–1101, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Surveillance of pathogens in outpatients with gastroenteritis and characterization of sapovirus strains between 2002 and 2007 in Kumamoto Prefecture, Japan
Authors: Harada Seiya , Okada Mineyuki , Yahiro Shunsuke , Nishimura Koichi , Matsuo Shigeru , Miyasaka Jiro , Nakashima Ryuichi , Shimada Yasushi , Ueno Takehiko , Ikezawa Shigeru , Shinozaki Kuniko , Katayama Kazuhiko , Wakita Takaji , Takeda Naokazu , Oka Tomoichiro
Published: April 2009

Infectious acute gastroenteritis is an important public health problem worldwide. A total of 639 stool specimens were tested for the presence of diarrhea pathogens. The specimens were from outpatients with acute gastroenteritis who consulted the pediatric clinic in Kumamoto Prefecture, Japan, from June 2002 to December 2007. Of these, 421 (65.9%) were positive for diarrhea pathogens. Among them were norovirus (NoV) in 260 (61.8%), sapovirus (SaV) in 81 (19.2%), rotavirus in 49 (11.6%), adenovirus in 19 (4.5%), enterovirus in 13 (3.1%), astrovirus in 9 (2.1%), kobuvirus in 1 (0.2%), and bacterial pathogens in 11 (2.6%). Mixed infection (co‐infection of viruses) was found in 22 (5.2%) of the 421 pathogen‐positive stool samples. NoV was the most prevalent pathogen throughout the study period; however, the SaV detection rate was unexpectedly high and was found to be the secondary pathogen from 2005 to 2007. Genetic analysis of SaV with 81 strains demonstrated that SaV strains belonging to genogroup IV emerged in 2007, and dynamic genogroup changes occurred in a restricted geographic area. This study showed that SaV infection is not as rare as thought previously. J. Med. Virol. 81:1117–1127, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Hepatitis E in Qatar imported by expatriate workers from Nepal: Epidemiological characteristics and clinical manifestations
Authors: Ibrahim Abdulsalam Saif , Alkhal Abdulatif , Jacob Joyal , Ghadban Wisam , Almarri Ajayeb
Published: April 2009

Prompted by cases of acute hepatitis in expatriate workers presenting at Alkhor Hospital, Qatar, a limited prospective observational study was conducted from July 2005 to June 2006 to determine the epidemiological and clinical features of patients (predominantly Nepalese) presenting with acute hepatitis. Countrywide during that period samples from 86 Nepalese presenting at different centers were found to be anti‐HEV IgG positive and 50 of these were also positive for anti‐HEV IgM. Fifty‐eight of those Nepalese were seen and treated at Alkhor Hospital and of them 43 were confirmed as cases of acute HEV, being positive for both anti‐HEV IgM and IgG. The remaining 15 were diagnosed as probable cases of acute HEV on the basis of clinical and epidemiological similarity. It seems likely that transit in Kathmandu in reportedly unsanitary conditions was the focus of infection. In some of those examined at Alkhor, ultrasound detected a thickened gallbladder wall in 30 of 39 (76.9%) with two cases having clinical acalcular cholecystitis. Higher levels of alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase were associated with severe disease and derangement in coagulation. On the available evidence hepatitis E was imported by expatriate workers and it is clear that medical screening of these workers pre‐ and post‐arrival must be improved to prevent further outbreaks. It is also essential that health care workers in Qatar are made aware of this ongoing problem of imported HEV and understand the variable presentation of the condition. J. Med. Virol. 81:1047–1051, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A new isolate of hepatitis B virus from the Philippines possibly representing a new subgenotype C6
Authors: Cavinta Lolita , Sun Jianguang , May Anja , Yin Jianhua , von Meltzer Markus , Radtke Monika , Barzaga Nina G. , Cao Guangwen , Schaefer Stephan
Published: April 2009

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) genotypes and subgenotypes show distinct geographical prevalence. A genotyping analysis of 28 samples from asymptomatic HBV carriers from the Philippines gave a distribution of HBV genotypes as expected from a previous study: 54% B (15/28), C5 18% (5/28), 14% D (4/28), 7% A1 (2/28). In addition, 7% (2/28) of the samples showed a double infection with genotypes B and D. One of the isolates sequenced completely, ph105, did not group into one of the known subgenotypes after phylogenetic analysis. Ph105 formed a separate clade in genotype C. With a genome length of 3,215 nt. and a serological subtype adr, ph105 exhibited the main features of most genotype C strains. However, ph105 differed by 4.1–7.2% from HBV subgenotypes C1 to C5 when comparing the nucleotide sequence of whole genomes. With only 4.1% difference ph105 was most closely related to subgenotype C2. SimPlot analysis gave no indication for recombination with known HBV genotypes. Ph105 fulfils all criteria for a new subgenotype C6. J. Med. Virol. 81:983–987, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Validation of a sensitive and specific real‐time PCR for detection and quantitation of hepatitis B virus covalently closed circular DNA in plasma of chronic hepatitis B patients
Authors: Takkenberg R.B. , Zaaijer H.L. , Molenkamp R. , Menting S. , Terpstra V. , Weegink C.J. , Dijkgraaf M.G.W. , Jansen P.L.M. , Reesink H.W. , Beld M.G.H.M.
Published: April 2009

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) serves as a template for viral replication and plays a role in persistence of HBV infection. The origin and significance of cccDNA in plasma however, is not well understood. A sensitive, specific, and reproducible real‐time PCR for detection and quantitation of cccDNA in plasma of chronic hepatitis B patients was developed and validated. Four HBV DNA reference panels, and 96 plasma samples of chronic hepatitis B patients were analyzed. Results were compared with total HBV DNA levels, individual ALT levels and the Histology Activity Index (HAI). This cccDNA assay had a lower limit of detection at 15 copies/PCR, a lower limit of quantitation at 91 copies/PCR and a correlation coefficient (R) of 0.98 (P < 0.0001). cccDNA was detected in two of four international panels. Significant correlation was found between cccDNA and total HBV DNA levels in both panels (R = 0.96, and R = 0.43) and in samples of the chronic hepatitis B patients (R = 0.88, P < 0.0001). In 57% of these samples cccDNA was detectable. Mean level of cccDNA was 0.16% of total HBV load. Plasma cccDNA levels were higher in HBeAg positive samples than in HBeAg negative samples (4.91 log copies/ml vs. 3.88 log copies/ml, P < 0.0001). Levels of total HBV DNA and HBV genotype did not influence cccDNA detection. ALT levels and HAI‐score were not correlated with plasma cccDNA levels. These findings suggest that cccDNA levels in plasma are not the result of increased hepatocyte degeneration, but indicate that other mechanisms might be responsible. J. Med. Virol. 81:988–995, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Association of IL‐4 589 C/T promoter and IL‐4RαI50V receptor polymorphism with susceptibility to HIV‐1 infection in North Indians
Authors: Chatterjee Animesh , Rathore Anurag , Dhole Tapan N.
Published: April 2009

The clinical course and outcome of HIV‐1 infection are highly variable among individuals. Interleukin 4 (IL‐4) is a key T helper 2 cytokine with various immune‐modulating functions including induction of immunoglobulin E (IgE) production in B cells, downregulation of CCR5 and upregulation of CXCR4, the main co‐receptors for HIV. Our objective is to investigate whether single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the IL‐4 promoter 589 C/T and IL‐4 Rα I50V affect the susceptibility to HIV infection and its progression to AIDS in North Indian individuals. The study population consisted of 180 HIV‐1 seropositive (HSP) stratified on the basis of disease severity (stage I, II, III), 50 HIV‐1 exposed seronegative (HES), and 305 HIV‐1 seronegative (HSN) individuals. The subjects were genotyped for IL‐4 589 C/T promoter polymorphism and IL‐4 Rα I50V by polymerase chain reaction restriction fragment length polymorphism. The results showed that IL‐4 589 C/T was not associated with the risk of HIV infection and disease progression. However, the IL‐4Rα I50 allele and genotype was significantly increased in HSP compared to HSN and HSP and was associated with risk of HIV infection. The frequency of IL‐4Rα I50 allele in the HSP group was higher than in HSN (76.11 vs. 64.75%; P = 0.000; OR = 1.734) and HES (76.11% vs. 62.00%; P = 0.007; OR = 1.953). Homozygous IL‐4Rα I50I genotype was significantly increased in HSP group compared with HSN (58.88% vs. 44.26%; P = 0.002; OR = 1.804) and HES (58.88% vs. 42.00%; P = 0.038; OR = 1.978). The present study for the first time suggests an association of IL‐4Rα I50 allele with increased likelihood of HIV‐1 infection in North Indian population. Further studies are required to confirm these findings and understand the effect of IL‐4Rα polymorphism on the outcome of HIV‐1 infection. J. Med. Virol. 81:959–965, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Serological evidence for long‐term epstein–barr virus reactivation in children living in a holoendemic malaria region of Kenya
Authors: Piriou Erwan , Kimmel Rhonda , Chelimo Kiprotich , Middeldorp Jaap M. , Odada Peter Sumba , Ploutz‐Snyder Robert , Moormann Ann M. , Rochford Rosemary
Published: April 2009

To study the long term the effects of chronic exposure to P. falciparum malaria on Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) reactivation in children, EBV‐specific antibody levels were measured in a cross‐sectional survey of two groups of Kenyan children with divergent malaria exposure, varying in age from 1 to 14 years. A total of 169 children were analyzed within three age groups (1–4 years, 5–9 years and 10–14 years). Using a Luminex assay, elevated levels of IgG to EBV lytic and latent antigens were observed in children from the holoendemic malaria area; these remained elevated for each age group studied. In comparison, children from the sporadic malaria area had lower levels of EBV‐specific IgG antibodies and these levels declined across age groups. These data suggest that chronic exposure to malaria may lead to long‐term EBV reactivation. J. Med. Virol. 81:1088–1093, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Frequent detection of hepatitis B virus DNA in hepatocellular carcinoma of patients with sustained virologic response for hepatitis C virus
Authors: Tamori Akihiro , Hayashi Takehiro , Shinzaki Mayumi , Kobayashi Sawako , Iwai Shuji , Enomoto Masaru , Morikawa Hiroyasu , Sakaguchi Hiroki , Shiomi Susumu , Takemura Shigekazu , Kubo Shoji , Kawada Norifumi
Published: April 2009

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) develops several years after the eradication of hepatitis C virus (HCV) by interferon therapy. Risk factors for the development of HCC are only partly understood. To elucidate the role of occult hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection in hepatocarcinogenesis in patients with sustained virologic response, the prevalences of HBV‐related makers were examined. Study group comprised 16 patients with sustained virologic response (group A) and 50 with HCV (group B). Anti‐HBc and anti‐HBs in serum were examined by enzyme‐linked immunoassay. HBV DNA in liver was examined by nested polymerase chain reaction, using primers specific for genes encoding for HBx, HBsAg, HBcAg, and HBV cccDNA. Sequence of the amplified HBV DNA for ‘a’ determinant of HBsAg was determined in HCC. Anti‐HBc was positive in 10 of 16 in group A and 25 of 50 in group B. HBV DNA in liver was detected in 12 of 16 in group A and 21 of 50 in group B (P = 0.044). In group A, HBV DNA in liver was detected frequently in patients without cirrhosis and in those with a longer period from the time of HCV eradication to the development of HCC. Mutation in ‘a’ determinant of HBsAg was found in three HCC of group A. Occult HBV infection may be one of the most important risk factors in hepatocarcinogenesis of Japanese patients with sustained virologic response. J. Med. Virol. 81:1009–1014, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Case report: Clearance of hepatitis C virus after changing the HAART regimen in a patient infected with hepatitis C virus and the human immunodeficiency virus
Authors: Endo Tomoyuki , Fujimoto Katsuya , Nishio Mitsufumi , Yamamoto Satoshi , Obara Masato , Sato Norihiro , Koike Takao
Published: April 2009

The effect of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) on hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection remains uncertain. This report describes the case of a man with hemophilia with HIV–HCV coinfection with persistent disappearance of HCV RNA after changing the HAART regimen. He had been treated with zidovudine, lamivudine, and indinavir for initial HAART and the HIV RNA level had been undetectable for more than 8 years. He had suffered from chronic active hepatitis. The HAART regimen was changed to emtricitabine/tenofovir, atazanavir, and ritonavir because the patient preferred a once daily regimen. The HCV RNA level fell immediately and thereafter became undetectable by quantitative and qualitative assay at 5 and 7 months after the change of the HAART regimen, respectively. In contrast to other reported cases, he experienced neither increase of CD4+ T cells count nor ALT flare‐ups before HCV RNA clearance. The HCV RNA disappearance in this case may be due to the direct effect of HAART against HCV rather than restoration of cellular immunity to HCV. J. Med. Virol. 81:979–982, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Sequence‐specific detection method for reverse transcription, loop‐mediated isothermal amplification of HIV‐1
Authors: Curtis Kelly A. , Rudolph Donna L. , Owen S. Michele
Published: April 2009

HIV diagnosis at the point‐of‐care or in resource‐limited settings poses considerable challenges due to time and cost limitations. Currently, nucleic acid‐based tests are the only reliable method for diagnosing recent infections during the window period post‐infection and pre‐seroconversion, but these tests are only suitable for well‐equipped laboratory settings. The reverse transcription loop‐mediated isothermal amplification (RT‐LAMP) technology exhibits characteristics that are ideal for the development of a rapid, cost‐effective nucleic acid‐based test for detection of HIV DNA and RNA. In this study, a sequence‐specific detection method was developed for immediate, naked‐eye visualization of RT‐LAMP products with high sensitivity and specificity. The rapid detection method was incorporated into the HIV‐1‐specific RT‐LAMP assay and validated using minute volumes of whole blood from HIV‐1‐infected individuals. Together with the minimal sample preparation time and one‐step, isothermal amplification reaction, the sequence‐specific detection method adds to the overall versatility of the RT‐LAMP assay and enhances the applicability for use at point‐of‐care or resource‐limited sites. J. Med. Virol. 81:966–972, 2009. Published 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Loop‐mediated isothermal amplification‐based diagnostic assay for monkeypox virus infections
Authors: Iizuka Itoe , Saijo Masayuki , Shiota Tomoyuki , Ami Yasushi , Suzaki Yuriko , Nagata Noriyo , Hasegawa Hideki , Sakai Kouji , Fukushi Shuetsu , Mizutani Tetsuya , Ogata Momoko , Nakauchi Mina , Kurane Ichiro , Mizuguchi Masashi , Morikawa Shigeru
Published: April 2009

Monkeypox virus (MPXV) causes a smallpox‐like disease in non‐human primates and humans. This infection is endemic to central and western Africa. MPXV is divided into two genetically different groups, Congo Basin and West African MPXV, with the former being the more virulent. A real‐time quantitative MPXV genome amplification system was developed for the diagnosis of MPXV infections using loop‐mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) technology. Primers used for genome amplification of Congo Basin (C‐LAMP), West African (W‐LAMP), and both Congo Basin and West African (COM‐LAMP) MPXV by LAMP were designed according to the nucleotide sequences of the Congo Basin‐specific D14L gene, the West African‐specific partial ATI gene, and the partial ATI gene that is shared by both groups, respectively. The sensitivity and specificity of the LAMP were evaluated with nested PCR using peripheral blood and throat swab specimens collected from Congo Basin MPXV or West African MPXV‐infected monkeys. The sensitivity and specificity of COM‐LAMP, C‐LAMP, and W‐LAMP were 80% (45/56) and 100% (64/64); 79% (19/24) and 100% (24/24); and 72% (23/32) and 100% (40/40), respectively. The viremia level determined by LAMP assays increased with increases in the severity of the monkeypox‐associated symptoms. The newly developed LAMP assay was confirmed to be a rapid, quantifiable, and highly sensitive and specific system effective in the diagnosis of MPXV infections. The LAMP assays made it possible to discriminate between Congo Basin and West African MPXV. The LAMP developed in this study is useful not only for diagnosis of but also for the assessment of MPXV infections. J. Med. Virol. 81:1102–1108, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Molecular epidemiology of hepatitis E virus in Hong Kong
Authors: Tai Amy L.S. , Cheng Peter K.C. , Ip S.M. , Wong Rebecca M.C. , Lim Wilina W.L.
Published: April 2009

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is one of the major causes of acute and self‐limiting hepatitis in human. In Hong Kong, the number of notifications increased from 26 to 62 from year 2001 to 2007. This study describes the molecular epidemiology of HEV in Hong Kong in order to determine the movement and distribution of HEV. HEV in 171 serum samples from HEV IgM positive cases from year 2001 to 2007 were amplified using RT‐PCR and subjected to nucleotide sequencing. Phylogenetic analysis showed 162 of 171 HEV detected cases (94.7%) belonged to genotype IV and 8 (4.7%) to genotype I. Interestingly, a cluster of 10 cases in year 2007 that had the same sequence of HEV was identified. Epidemiological data however did not detect any relationship between these cases. Since zoonotic transmission is a well known route of HEV infection, close monitoring of the circulating HEV strains in human and food source animals may help to provide additional information on the transmission of HEV and possible source of infection in Hong Kong. J. Med. Virol. 81:1062–1068, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
HCV genotypes in Sicily: Is there any evidence of a shift?
Authors: Pizzillo Paola , Almasio Piero Luigi , Ferraro Donatella , Craxì Antonio , Di Stefano Rosa
Published: April 2009

The distribution of HCV strains in any area is characterized by a relative prevalence of one genotype, and a number of less prevalent types. In some Western countries a change from the prevalent HCV genotype 1 to genotypes 3 and 4 has been reported in the last decade. In order to assess possible variations of the distribution of HCV genotypes in Sicily, a southern region of Italy, a hospital‐based cohort, collected prospectively, of 3,209 subjects with chronic HCV infection was surveyed, comparing the distribution of HCV genotypes during two consecutive periods, from 1997 to 2002 and from 2003 to 2007, according to age and gender. The results show that genotype 1b, which has been historically the most prevalent in Sicily, is still predominant, followed more distantly by genotypes 2 and 3a. However, a cohort effect for these genotypes was seen when comparing the two time periods. Genotype 1b decreased slowly over the last decade, due to the death of the people infected, leading to a proportional increase of the other genotypes. No evidence was found in support of a major increase in the prevalence of other genotypes, such as genotype 4, in relation to migration patterns. J. Med. Virol. 81:1040–1046, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Specific mutations in the enhancer II/core promoter/precore regions of hepatitis B virus subgenotype C2 in Korean patients with hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Kim Ja Kyung , Chang Hye Young , Lee Jung Min , Baatarkhuu Oidov , Yoon Young Joon , Park Jun Yong , Kim Do Young , Han Kwang‐Hyub , Chon Chae Yoon , Ahn Sang Hoon
Published: April 2009

Recently, hepatitis B virus (HBV) genotypes and mutations have been reported to be related to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This cross‐sectional case–control study examined the relationship between HCC and mutations in the enhancer II/core promoter and precore regions of HBV by comparing 135 Korean HCC patients infected with HBV genotype C2 (HBV/C2; HCC group) with 135 age‐, sex‐, and hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg) status‐matched patients without HCC (non‐ HCC group). Age and sex were also matched between HBeAg‐positive and ‐negative patients. The prevalence of T1653, A1689, V1753, T1762/A1764, T1846, A1850, C1858, and A1896 mutations was evaluated in this population. The prevalence of the T1653 mutation in the box α region, the A1689 mutation in between the box α and β regions, and the T1762/A1764 mutations in the basal core promoter region was significantly higher in the HCC group compared to the non‐HCC group (8.9% vs. 2.2%, P = 0.017; 19.3% vs. 4.4%, P < 0.001; and 60.7% vs. 22.2%; P < 0.001). Among HBeAg‐negative patients, the frequency of the T1653 mutation was higher in the HCC group. Regardless of HBeAg status, the prevalence of the A1689, and T1762/A1764 mutations was higher in the HCC group than in the non‐HCC group. However, no association was observed between mutations in the precore region and HCC. Upon multivariate analysis, the presence of the T1653, A1689, and T1762/A1764 mutations was an independent predictive factor for HCC. The addition of the T1653 or A1689 mutation to T1762/A1764 increased the risk of HCC. In conclusion, the T1653, A1689, and/or T1762/A1764 mutations were associated with the development of HCC in Korean patients infected with HBV/C2. J. Med. Virol. 81:1002–1008, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
ABCB1 is predominantly expressed in human fetal neural stem/progenitor cells at an early development stage
Authors: Yamamoto Atsuyo , Shofuda Tomoko , Islam Mohammed Omedul , Nakamura Yasuhiro , Yamasaki Mami , Okano Hideyuki , Kanemura Yonehiro
Published: April 2009

ABCB1 is a human ABC transporter originally characterized by its ability to cause resistance to chemotherapy drugs in cancer cells, and later found to be functionally expressed in human neural stem/progenitor cells (NSPCs) in vitro. Here, we performed a detailed examination of ABCB1's expression on human NSPCs in vitro and in human fetal brain tissues, and analyzed the cellular properties of the human NSPCs expressing ABCB1. We confirmed that ABCB1 was expressed on the surface of human NSPCs, and its level correlated well with those of Nestin and CD133. The population of fluorescence‐activated cell sorter–sorted human NSPCs expressing high levels of ABCB1 showed enrichment of proliferating cells, higher expression of 246 genes (e.g., RGS6, IGFBP7, GFAP, TNC, Hes1), and lower expression of 71 genes (e.g., STMN2, DLX5, BASP1, DCX, CD24) compared with human NSPCs expressing low or no ABCB1. In situ, ABCB1 was selectively expressed in cells in the ventricular or subventricular regions of lateral ventricles that expressed Nestin in human development. These findings suggest that ABCB1 is predominantly expressed in immature human fetal NSPCs in vitro and at early developmental stages in vivo, and that it may be a useful marker for human NSPCs. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
GC/MS analysis and antimicrobial and antioxidant activities of essential oil of Eucalyptus radiata
Authors: Bendaoud Houcine , Bouajila Jalloul , Rhouma Ali , Savagnac Arlette , Romdhane Mehrez
Published: April 2009

BACKGROUND: The essential oil from Eucalyptus radiata leaves collected in Tunisia was extracted by steam distillation and analysed by gas chromatography/flame ionisation detection and gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. Its antioxidant and antiradical properties were evaluated by the 1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2′‐azinobis(3‐ethylbenzothiazoline‐6‐sulfonic acid) (ABTS) assays. The antimicrobial activity of the oil was examined in vitro against two plant‐pathogenic bacteria (four strains each of Agrobacterium tumefaciens and Pseudomonas savastanoi pv. savastanoi) and two plant‐pathogenic fungi (Fusarium solani and Rhizoctonia solani).

RESULTS: Thirty‐five compounds were identified and quantified in the essential oil, the major ones being 1,8‐cineole (69.53%), α‐pinene (11.94%) and trans‐pinocarveol (4.81%). Medium antioxidant activity was found in the ABTS assay (IC50 = 484.3 ± 17.3 mg L−1), whereas no significant free radical‐scavenging activity was detected in the DPPH assay (IC50 > 10 000 mg L−1). The antimicrobial assays showed that the oil exhibited a high level of activity against A. tumefaciens and R. solani, with minimum inhibitory concentrations ranging between 750 and 1000 µL L−1. However, it was less efficient against P. savastanoi pv. savastanoi and F. solani.

CONCLUSION: The results indicate that the essential oil of E. radiata, with a high content of terpenic compounds, exhibits significant antimicrobial activity against strains of A. tumefaciens and the fungus R. solani and may therefore be useful for their control. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry
Chemical composition and physical characteristics of water caltrop during growth
Authors: Chiang Po‐Yuan , Li Po‐Hsien , Huang Chien‐Chun , Wang Chiun R
Published: April 2009

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to monitor the chemical composition and physical and morphological characteristics of two varieties of water caltrop during growth in order to determine the optimal harvesting time.

RESULTS: The dry matter, starch and amylose contents and α‐amylase activity of fruits of both water caltrop varieties increased during the growth period. Mature fruits contained 142–156 g starch kg−1 fresh sample and provided 684–697 kcal total energy kg−1 fresh sample. Dry matter content and bulk density increased significantly from 67 to 207 g kg−1 and from 0.57 to 1.58 g ml−1 respectively as growth progressed. Morphological analysis showed that the size and number of starch granules increased as growth progressed. Moreover, both varieties contained substantial amounts of essential amino acids, most of which appeared to be superior to the FAO/WHO reference pattern.

CONCLUSION: According to the chemical composition and physical characteristics of water caltrop determined in this study, the optimal harvesting time is 42 days after fruit development. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry
Survival, growth characteristics and bioactive potential of Lactobacillus acidophilus in a soy‐based cream cheese
Authors: Liong Min‐Tze , Easa Azhar Mat , Lim Poh‐Tuan , Kang June‐Yan
Published: April 2009

BACKGROUND: Soy‐based products have received much attention lately as dairy replacers and carriers for probiotics, without the cholesterol and lactose intolerance factors. We have previously developed a soy cream cheese product and would like to evaluate its suitability as a carrier for probiotic microorganisms. Soy cream cheese is commercially uncommon, while a probiotic soy cream cheese is yet to be available in the market.

RESULTS: Five strains of probiotics were screened for their α‐galactosidase activity. Lactobacillus acidophilus FTCC 0291 showed the highest α‐galactosidase‐specific activity and was incorporated into soy cream cheese for a storage study of 20 days at 25 and 4 °C. L. acidophilus FTCC 0291 in soy cream cheese at both storage temperatures maintained a viability exceeding 107 CFU g−1 over storage. Oligosaccharide and reducing sugar analyses indicated that L. acidophilus FTCC 0291 was capable of utilizing the existing reducing sugars in soymilk and concurrently hydrolyzing the oligosaccharides into simpler sugars for growth. L. acidophilus FTCC 0291 also produced organic acids, leading to decreased pH. Under low pH and high organic acid concentration, the growth of total aerobes and anaerobes was significantly (P < 0.05) suppressed compared to the control. The hydrolysis of protein in soymilk produced essential growth factors such as peptides and amino acids that may have promoted the growth of L. acidophilus FTCC 0291 and the release of bioactive peptides with in vitro angiotensin I‐converting enzyme inhibitory activity.

CONCLUSION: This study showed that soy cream cheese could be used as a carrier for probiotic bacteria, with potential antihypertensive property. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry
Osteosarcoma in the elderly over 60 years: A multicenter study by the Japanese musculoskeletal oncology group
Authors: Nishida Yoshihiro , Isu Kazuo , Ueda Takafumi , Nishimoto Yutaka , Tsuchiya Hiroyuki , Wada Takuro , Sato Keiji , Tsukushi Satoshi , Sugiura Hideshi
Published: April 2009

Background

Few studies have described the characteristics and prognostic factors of osteosarcoma patients aged over 60 years.

Methods

The Japanese Musculoskeletal Oncology Group (JMOG) carried out a retrospective review of patients over the age of 60 years with osteosarcoma.

Results

Only 12 patients had secondary osteosarcoma, with none associated with Paget's disease. The primary disease sites were the extremities in 63% and trunk in 33%. The overall survival was 42.8% and disease‐free survival was 40.8% at 5 years in the high grade group. An univariate analysis indicated that significant poor prognostic factors for overall survival were axial location, lung metastasis at initial presentation, and absence of surgical treatment. Multivariate analysis revealed that a significant poor prognostic factor for overall survival was the absence of surgical treatment. Secondary osteosarcoma did not lower the overall or the disease‐free survival in any group.

Conclusions

The current study indicates that the number of osteosarcoma patients over 60 years is increasing. The number of cases with secondary osteosarcoma over 60 years is relatively small in Japan, with no patients having osteosarcomas related to Paget's disease. Although there is a predilection for axial localization, surgical treatment has a significant impact on patient's prognosis. J. Surg. Oncol. 2009;100:48–54. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Invasive intraductal papillary‐mucinous neoplasm of the pancreas: Comparison with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Murakami Yoshiaki , Uemura Kenichiro , Sudo Takeshi , Hayashidani Yasuo , Hashimoto Yasushi , Nakashima Akira , Sueda Taijiro
Published: April 2009

Background and Objectives

The aim of this study was to clarify the clinicopathological differences between patients with invasive intraductal papillary‐mucinous neoplasm (IPMN) of the pancreas and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma.

Methods

The medical records of 16 patients with invasive IPMN and 106 patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, who underwent surgical resection, were retrospectively reviewed, and the clinicopathological factors and survival were compared between the two groups.

Results

The presence of retroperitoneal tissue invasion, portal or splenic vein invasion, nodal involvement, and positive surgical margins were significantly lower in patients with invasive IPMN than in those with ductal adenocarcinoma (P < 0.05). The actuarial 5‐year overall survival rates in patients with invasive IPMN and ductal carcinoma were 40% and 18%, respectively (P = 0.008). However, the actuarial 5‐year survival rate of patients with invasive IPMN was only 27% for UICC stage II disease, although this was significantly higher than that of patients with UICC stage II ductal adenocarcinoma (P = 0.049).

Conclusions

Invasive IPMN has a favorable prognosis compared with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma that is likely due to the less aggressive nature of the disease. However, the prognosis for cases of advanced invasive IPMN is not always favorable despite complete tumor resection. J. Surg. Oncol. 2009;100:13–18. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.