bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Power and emotion in negotiation: power moderates the interpersonal effects of anger and happiness on concession making
Authors: Van Kleef Gerben A. , De Dreu Carsten K.W. , Pietroni Davide , Manstead Antony S. R.
Published: July 2006

This paper focuses on the interactive effects of power and emotion in negotiation. Previous research has shown that negotiators concede more to angry opponents than to happy ones, and that power influences the amount of attention that is devoted to the social environment. Integrating these two lines of inquiry, we predicted that low‐power negotiators would be influenced by their opponent's emotions (conceding more to an angry opponent than to a happy one), whereas high‐power negotiators would not. Five studies using different methods (an experiment, a field simulation, and three scenario studies), different samples (students, general population, managers), and different operationalisations of power (BATNA, number of alternatives, legitimacy, support) support this hypothesis. The results are discussed in terms of a motivated information processing model of the interpersonal effects of emotions in negotiations. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
20q11.1 amplification in giant‐cell tumor of bone: Array CGH, FISH, and association with outcome
Authors: Smith Laura T. , Mayerson Joel , Nowak Norma J. , Suster David , Mohammed Nehad , Long Susan , Auer Herbert , Jones Susie , McKeegan Christina , Young Gregory , Bos Gary , Plass Christoph , Morrison Carl
Published: July 2006

The goal of this study was to identify recurrent regions of genomic gain or loss in giant‐cell tumor of bone (GCTb). Array comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH) was performed for 20 frozen tumor samples of GCTb. A separate subset of 59 GCTb with outcome data was used for validation. The most frequent region of change identified by aCGH was gain of a 1‐Mbp region at 20q11.1. In the validation arm of 59 cases the minimal common region of copy number gain at 20q11.1, seen in 54% of the samples, was BAC clone RP11‐4O9, which contained the genes TPX2 and BCL2L1. For most cases, amplification was restricted to the mononuclear component and was not present in the multinucleated giant cells. Southern blot for TPX2 and BCL2L1 identified the former as the gene with the highest level of amplification for these two proposed candidate genes of importance. Immunohistochemistry for TPX2 expression correlated with amplification, while BCL2L1 expression was not identified. Kaplan–Meier curves for progression‐free survival showed a statistically significant difference for cases with 20q11.1 amplification (P = 0.0001). Univariate analysis involving Cox proportional hazards models did not show a significant difference for initial treatment type (curettage versus resection) (P = 0.575), age (≤50 vs. >50) (P = 0.543), or sex (P = 0.268), but did correlate with 20q11.1 amplification (P = 0.001). By multivariate analysis, it was found that 20q11.1 amplification (P = 0.001) was the only factor to reach statistical significance. 20q11.1 amplification can be used as a marker of prognostic importance in GCTb. We propose TPX2 as a candidate oncogene in the core‐amplified region at 20q11.1. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
In vitro corrosion study by EIS of an equiatomic NiTi alloy and an implant quality AISI 316 stainless steel
Authors: Rondelli G. , Torricelli P. , Fini M. , Rimondini L. , Giardino R.
Published: July 2006

The electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) technique was used for the study of the electrochemical behavior of an equiatomic NiTi alloy and an implant quality AISI 316 stainless steel type ASTM F138. Experiments were carried out using four different different test solutions: phosphate buffered saline (PBS), Dulbecco minimum essential medium (MEM), MEM + fetal calf serum (FCS), and MEM + fetal calf serum + fibroblast cell (CELL). Specimens were finished to 600‐grit SiC paper and were tested in conditions that did not provoke abrupt mechanical damage of the passive film. Bode‐phase spectra showed the presence of two maxima and were fitted with an equivalent circuit characterized by two parallel combinations (R, resistance; CPE, constant phase element). The R1 and CPE1 branch was assigned to the inner compact passive film and the R2 and CPE2 branch to the external porous film. The resistance of the inner film R1, roughly corresponding to the polarization resistance (Rp), which is inversely proportional to the material's corrosion rate, increased with the immersion time and was generally greater in PBS than in other media. With the exception of FCS solution, R1 for NiTi alloy is better or similar to that of ASTM F138. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2006
Characteristic comparison of bioactive scaffolds based on polyhydroxyalkoanate/bioceramic hybrids
Authors: Zheng Yudong , Wang Yingjun , Yang Huai , Chen Xiaofeng , Chen Zhonghua
Published: July 2006

In this study, bioactive hybrid scaffolds were prepared by combining poly(β‐hydroxybutyrate‐co‐β‐hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) with three kinds of bioceramics, which are sol–gel bioglass (SGBG), tricalcium phosphate (TCP), and hydroxyaptite. The bioactivity and biodegradation of various scaffolds were analyzed with simulated experiments in vitro by immersing the scaffolds into simulated body fluid to evaluate their biomineralizing ability. The changes of the surface components and structures were determined by FTIR, XRD, and SEM analyses. Cell cultures and observation were made in vitro to assess the proliferation of osteoblast on these scaffolds. The results show that there might be ion exchanges and biodegradation reactions occurring between the hybrids and simulated body fluid solution, which result in the weight loss of the scaffolds and the pH changes in solution. An obvious biomineralized deposit layer was formed on the surface of the PHBV/SGBG and PHBV/TCP scaffolds, which was determined to be the bonelike crystalline hydroxyl‐carbonate‐apatite. The experiments on cell culture show that osteoblast could grow and proliferate on the bioactive hybrid scaffolds. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2007
The effect of nanofiller on the opacity of experimental composites
Authors: Kim Jong‐Jin , Moon Hyun‐Jung , Lim Bum‐Soon , Lee Yong‐Keun , Rhee Sang‐Hoon , Yang Heong‐Cheol
Published: July 2006

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of the nanofiller in experimental composites on opacity (contrast ratio). Thirteen experimental composites were prepared with three different sizes of fillers: barium glass minifiller (1 μm; 69–76 wt %), silica microfiller (0.04 μm; 0–6 wt %), and silica nanofiller (7 nm; 0–7 wt %). After disk‐type specimens were irradiated with a halogen light curing unit at 500 mW/cm2 for 30 s, the specimens were aged for 6 h at room conditions and were stored in deionized water for 1, 7, 14, 21, 28, 56, and 84 days. The contrast ratios of the specimens were measured as a function of aging period using a spectrophotometer. The distribution morphology of the filler particles in the resin matrix was also examined using energy‐filtering transmission electron microscopy. The experimental composites that contained more than 3% nanofiller had significantly lower contrast ratios (p < 0.05). The composites that contained 6 wt % nanofiller had contrast ratios 34–65% lower than the composite that did not contain nanofiller. The values of the contrast ratio from the composites that excluded microfiller were lower than the values from the composites that included microfiller. From the comparison with the 3 different sizes of filler, the contrast ratio of the composite that contained 70 wt % minifiller and 6 wt % microfiller was the highest, the contrast ratio of the composite that contained only 76 wt % minifiller was the median value, and the contrast ratio of the composite that contained 70 wt % minifiller and 6 wt % nanofiller was the lowest. When the microfiller content was decreased from 6 wt % to 0 wt %, the contrast ratio decreased 6–9%. Energy‐filtering transmission electron microscopy images indicated that the contrast ratio of experimental composites is related to the distribution morphology of the filler particles in the resin matrix. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2007
Fracture of titanium plates used for mandibular reconstruction following ablative tumor surgery
Authors: Martola Martta , Lindqvist Christian , Hänninen Hannu , Al‐Sukhun Jehad
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to identify reasons for fracture of titanium mandibular reconstruction plates, when used to bridge lateral mandibular defects after ablative tumor surgery.

Materials and Methods

Sixteen titanium reconstruction plates from sheep mandibles were examined to identify reasons for the plate fractures. The broken plates and the seemingly unbroken plates were examined separately. The plates were removed from the mandibular bone and inspected by dye penetrant examination, metallography, optical microscope, scanning electron microscope, and energy dispersive X‐ray spectrometer. Furthermore, axial load fatigue tests were performed in two different environments, air and physiologic salt solution, 0.9% NaCl, to compare titanium behavior in air and the human body.

Results

The site of crack initiation was the inner curvature of the reconstruction plate, and the cracks initiated as a result of stress concentration in the shoulder fillet of the plate. The cracks grew in a cyclic manner under masticatory loading of the mandible and the plate. The plate fracture occurred by means of fatigue. The corrosive environment did not affect the failure of the titanium plate, and the fracture was not caused by hydrogen embrittlement. The results revealed that the fatigue properties of the plates may have been impaired by the residual stresses generated in plate bending.

Conclusions

Adjustive bending of the plates, in the surgical operation, may thus be an important cause of fracture of the reconstruction plates, because of generated residual stresses, which affect the mean stress in fatigue loading. To make the plates function without failure the plates should match closely with the three‐dimensional shape of the mandible, to avoid any bending in the operative phase. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2007
Effects of chitosan solution concentration and incorporation of chitin and glycerol on dense chitosan membrane properties
Authors: Dallan Paula Rulf Marreco , da Luz Moreira Patrícia , Petinari Leandro , Malmonge Sônia Maria , Beppu Marisa Masumi , Genari Selma Candelária , Moraes Angela Maria
Published: July 2006

The aim of this work was to perform a systematic study about the effects induced by chitosan solution concentration and by chitin or glycerol incorporation on dense chitosan membranes with potential use as burn dressings. The membrane properties analyzed were total raw material cost, thickness, morphology, swelling ratio, tensile strength, percentage of strain at break, crystallinity, in vitro enzymatic degradation with lysozyme, and in vitro Vero cells adhesion. While the use of the most concentrated chitosan solution (2.5% w/w) increased membrane cost, it also improved the biomaterial mechanical resistance and ductility, as well as reduced membrane degradation when exposed for 2 months to lysozyme. The remaining evaluated properties were not affected by initial chitosan solution concentration. Chitin incorporation, on the other hand, reduced the membranes cost, swelling ratio, mechanical properties, and crystallinity, resulting in thicker biomaterials with irregular surface more easily degradable when exposed to lysozyme. Glycerol incorporation also reduced the membranes cost and crystallinity and increased membranes degradability after exposure to lysozyme. Strong Vero cells adhesion was not observed in any of the tested membrane formulations. The overall results indicate that the majority of the prepared membranes meet the performance requirements of temporary nonbiodegradable burn dressings (e.g. adequate values of mechanical resistance and ductility, low values of in vitro cellular adhesion on their surfaces, low extent of degradation when exposed to lysozyme solution, and high stability in aqueous solutions). © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2007
Effect of different γ‐irradiation doses on cytotoxicity and material properties of porous polyether‐urethane polymer
Authors: Haugen H. J. , Brunner M. , Pellkofer F. , Aigner J. , Will J. , Wintermantel E.
Published: July 2006

Biomaterials respond to sterilization methods differently. Steam sterilization might decrease the performance of thermoplastic polyether‐urethane (TPU); however, the effect of different γ‐radiation doses on this polymer is contradictory in present literature. The purpose of this study was to investigate the differences between irradiative doses in comparison with steam sterilization on a porous TPU scaffold produced by a new processing method. No significant differences in the surface chemical structure were found with attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR‐FTIR) analysis when comparing with the sterilization methods. The molecular weight (Mw) had a net increase from 11.5 ± 0.039 to 13.2 ± 0.072 kDa by γ‐sterilization from 10 to 60 kGy. The samples that were irradiated (>60 kGy) had also an increase in polydispersity index (PDI; 1.45 ± 0.007) in comparison with the nonsterile ones (1.31 ± 0.017), which indicate branching. Liquid chromatography/mass spectroscopy (LC/MS) analysis showed that there was a correlation between the concentration of the breakdown product, methyl dianiline, and cytotoxicity. The concentration of this compound was found to be four times higher in steam‐sterilized sample (1.3 ± 0.01 ppb) compared with that of the polymer sample γ‐sterilized at 10 kGy (0.3 ± 0.01 ppb). The cytotoxicity of TPU was found to decrease with higher radiation doses, and was significantly higher for the steam‐sterilized samples. It is recommended that TPU produced with the described foaming method should be sterilized by γ‐irradiation at 25 kGy or higher doses. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2007
Effect of biopassive and bioactive surface‐coatings on the hemocompatibility of membrane oxygenators
Authors: Zimmermann Anja K. , Weber Norbert , Aebert Hermann , Ziemer Gerhard , Wendel Hans P.
Published: July 2006

Postoperative complications associated with cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) surgery and extracorporeal circulation (ECC) procedures are still a major clinical issue. Improving the hemocompatibility of blood contacting devices used for ECC procedures may ameliorate various postpump syndromes. In a simulated CPB model using human blood, we investigated the hemocompatibility, fibrinogen adsorption, and platelet receptor (GPIIb‐IIIa) binding capacity of surface‐modified membrane oxygenators (Jostra Quadrox). Three groups were compared: (i) biopassive protein coatings (SafeLine®), (ii) bioactive heparin coatings (BioLine®), and (iii) noncoated controls. During the 2 h recirculation period, plasma concentrations of activation markers for platelets (β‐thromboglobulin), inflammation (elastase), complement (C5a), and coagulation (prothrombin fragment 1+2, thrombin–antithrombin III) were lower in the groups with biopassive and bioactive coatings compared to the noncoated group (p < 0.01). These parameters did not significantly differ between the two surface‐coated groups, except for complement activation: C5a levels were higher in the biopassive group compared to the bioactive group (p < 0.01). Moreover, surface‐coated oxygenators showed less fibrinogen adsorption, GPIIb‐IIIa binding, and platelet/leukocyte adhesion (p < 0.01). We assume that fewer fibrinogen and platelet receptor molecules bound to the surface‐coated oxygenator surfaces results in fewer platelet adhesion and activation, which will significantly contribute to the improved hemocompatibility of the biopassive and bioactive oxygenators. Our results suggest that the application of bioactive oxygenators (BioLine®) during CPB surgery may reduce postoperative complications for the patient more effectively than biopassive oxygenators (SafeLine®). © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2007
Behavior of the different implant materials in acute infection and efficacy of antibiotherapy: Experimental study in rats
Authors: Silistreli Özlem Karatas̨ , Çapar Mustafa , Ulusal Betul Gozel , Ekinci Nes̨e , Aytug Zeynep , Öztan Yücel
Published: July 2006

In this study, we propose a comparison of the behaviors of four different implant materials in case of acute infection: expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (e‐PTFE), porous high density polyethylene (PHDPE), silicone, and autogenous cartilage tissue. The efficacy of prophylactic and therapeutic antibiotic therapies was also investigated in a rat model as four groups: group A, acute infection and no antibiotic therapy (n = 24); group B, acute infection and prophylactic antibiotic therapy (n = 24); group C, acute infection and therapeutic antibiotic therapy (n = 24); and control, no infection and no antibiotic therapy (n = 24). All materials with dimensions of ∼1 × 1 cm2 diameter were implanted separately under the dorsal skin of rats. Staphylococcus aureus was used as the infectious agent and antibiotic therapy was done with seftriaxone (Desefin™, I.M., 20 mg/kg/day). Tissue specimens were obtained on postoperative days 14 and 21. Semiquantitative and qualitative alterations existing in the connective tissue neighboring the implant material (reaction zone‐capsule tissue), fixation to the host tissue, cellular ingrowth (interstice qualitatively), and infection signs were assessed either macroscopically or microscopically. In group A, all materials were affected negatively that led to continuous regression in the wound healing process. Fixation of the cartilage to the surrounding tissue was weak compared with other groups. Fibrovascular tissue ingrowth in porous implants was delayed, and no regular capsule formation was observed around silicone implants. In group B, outcomes were similar to control groups. Porous materials showed tissue ingrowth into the pores as good as the control group. Regular capsular tissue formed around the silicone implants and cartilage tissues. In group C, where silicone had been used, wound healing was not as good as in group B and the control group. In the e‐PTFE group, the granulation tissue forming through the pores did not show a good quality as the control group, and capsule formation around the material was irregular, leading to insufficient fixation. While the wound healing properties of the PHDPE group were not as good as the control group, there was no difference in terms of fixation to the wound bed. On the other hand, wound healing of the cartilage group was as satisfying as the control group. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2007
Enhanced biological treatment of spent metalworking fluids by prior removal of a polymer
Authors: Connolly Helen E , van der Gast Christopher J , Wylie Doug , Stephenson Tom , Thompson Ian P
Published: July 2006

The biological treatment of spent synthetic metalworking fluid (MWF) has been investigated in many studies, with most reporting the presence of undegraded components in the residual waste. In this study a hybrid approach to waste treatment of spent MWF, involving both physical treatment and microbial degradation, was investigated. The effect of the removal of a synthetic polymer on biological degradation was investigated in a bioreactor system. Polymer removal was found to have little effect on the degradation efficiency of the remaining components but resulted in a waste product with 14% lower chemical oxygen demand. An additional benefit of this approach is that it enables the possibility of recycling of the recovered components, with the aim of economising on future product formulation and reducing waste discharge. Copyright © 2006 Society of Chemical Industry
Anaerobic biodegradation of two‐phase olive mill solid wastes and liquid effluents: kinetic studies and process performance
Authors: Borja Rafael , Rincón Bárbara , Raposo Francisco
Published: July 2006

The new two‐phase olive oil mills produce three identifiable and separate waste streams, namely (1) the wash waters from the initial cleansing of the fruit, (2) the aqueous solid residues from the primary centrifugation and (3) the wash waters from the secondary centrifugation. As well as offering process advantages, they also consume less water. Therefore the solid residue, two‐phase olive mill solid waste (OMSW), has a high organic matter concentration, giving it an elevated polluting load, and cannot be easily handled by traditional technology which deals with the conventional three‐phase olive cake. In addition, the new two‐phase olive mill effluents (TPOME) are made up of a mixture of effluents (1) and (3), the total volume of TPOME generated being ∼0.25 dm3 kg−1 olives processed. This review aims to report the main features and characteristics of two‐phase OMSW and TPOME as compared with the classical olive cake and olive mill wastewater (OMW) derived from the three‐phase manufacturing process. The advantages and disadvantages of the two‐phase decanting process are summarised. The anaerobic digestibility of two‐phase OMSW using different influent substrate concentrations is reported. Kinetic studies of anaerobic digestion of two‐phase OMSW are also reviewed and summarised, as well as mass balances to predict the behaviour of the reactor and simplified kinetic models for studying the hydrolysis, acidogenic and methanogenic steps of one‐ and two‐stage anaerobic digestion of OMSW. The review also includes the following: assays of anaerobic digestion of wastewaters from the washing of olives, of olive oil and the two together using fluidised beds and hybrid reactors; the kinetics, performance, stability, purification efficiencies and methane yield coefficients. Copyright © 2006 Society of Chemical Industry
Use of an electric field‐assisted biosorption process in the removal of hazardous or precious ionic species from wastewater streams
Authors: Nomikou Nikolitsa , Hughes Paul , McHale Anthony P
Published: July 2006

Use of an electric field‐assisted biosorption system to remove and recover toxic or precious entities from solution is described. The biosorbent materials are housed in a membrane‐enclosed space together with an electrode and a counter electrode is placed in the external solution containing the relevant sorbate. The system is shown to be capable of removing toxic entities such as Cd, Cs, Cu and Cr from solution and additionally is shown to be capable of recovering precious species such as Ag and Pt from relatively dilute solutions. In addition, the potential diversity of application of the system is demonstrated by the efficient sequestration of hazardous organic entities such as glyphosate and phthalate from dilute solutions. Copyright © 2006 Society of Chemical Industry
Investigation of cellulose convertibility and ethanolic fermentation of sugarcane bagasse pretreated by wet oxidation and steam explosion
Authors: Martín Carlos , González Yosmel , Fernández Teresa , Thomsen Anne Belinda
Published: July 2006

Sugarcane bagasse was pretreated by wet oxidation (WO) at 195 °C for 15 min under either alkaline, neutral or acidic conditions, and by steam explosion (STEX) at 205 °C for 10 min. Alkaline WO was more favourable than neutral and acidic WO for the following enzymatic hydrolysis of cellulose, giving 792 g kg−1 glucose yield after 48 h. The enzymatic hydrolysis of the fibres in the whole slurry was inhibited by inhibitory compounds contained in the prehydrolysate in comparison with the hydrolysis of the washed solid fibres in buffer. The inhibition increased proportionally with formic acid concentration in the pretreated liquid fraction. Cellulose conversion was higher for simultaneous saccharification and fermentation (SSF) than for separate hydrolysis. The highest SSF conversion (829 g kg−1) was obtained for the material treated by alkaline WO. The fermentability of the prehydrolysates by Saccharomyces cerevisiae was evaluated. Stronger inhibition of ethanolic fermentation was observed in the prehydrolysate obtained by steam explosion. The inhibition was more noticeable for the volumetric productivity than for the ethanol yield. The volumetric productivity was reduced by 94.5 and 91.2% for STEX and WO, respectively, whereas the ethanol yield was reduced only by 45.2 and 31.0%, correspondingly, for STEX and WO. Furan aldehydes seemed to be mainly responsible for the inhibition of the fermentation. Copyright © 2006 Society of Chemical Industry
Lipase‐catalyzed dynamic hydrolytic resolution of (R,S)‐2,2,2‐trifluoroethyl α‐chlorophenyl acetate in water‐saturated isooctane
Authors: Wen Wen‐Yen , Ng I‐Sin , Tsai Shau‐Wei
Published: July 2006

The hydrolytic resolution of (R,S)‐2,2,2‐trifluoroethyl α‐chlorophenylacetate in water‐saturated isooctane containing Lipase MY(I) at 35 °C is selected as the best reaction condition for producing (R)‐α‐chlorophenyl acetic acid. The kinetic constants, and hence an enantiomeric ratio of 33.6, are estimated and employed for the modeling of time‐course conversions of both substrates by considering product inhibition and enzyme deactivation effects. A successful dynamic kinetic resolution is also achieved, giving the desired (R)‐α‐chlorophenylacetic acid of 93.0% yield and eeP = 89.5% when 80 mmol dm−3 trioctylamine acting as the racemization catalyst and enzyme activator is initially added. Copyright © 2006 Society of Chemical Industry
Gender and long‐term metabolic toxicities from antiretroviral therapy in HIV‐1 infected persons
Authors: Boulassel Mohamed‐Rachid , Morales Rosa , Murphy Tanya , Lalonde Richard G. , Klein Marina B.
Published: July 2006

Gender differences in a large population‐based cohort of HIV‐1 infected patients (245 women and 723 men) were examined with respect to the incidence of metabolic and morphologic alterations after initiation of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). Patients initiated HAART between January 1996 and December 2003. The outcome measures were the incidence of hyperglycemia, hypercholesterolemia, symptomatic lactic acidosis, treatment‐limiting lipodystrophy, and hypersensitivity reaction. Cox proportional hazards models were used to estimate the crude and adjusted hazard ratios of reaching the endpoints for exposures and covariates. Women were younger than men (35 ± 9.8 vs. 40 ± 8.2 years, P < 0.001) and more frequently from Haiti or Africa (59%), whereas 76% of men were Canadian‐born. Type of initial HAART regimen did not differ between women and men. There were no gender differences in the overall incidence of hyperglycemia, hypercholesterolemia, or treatment‐limiting lipodystrophy, even after adjusting for age, CD4 cell count, viral load, time since HIV diagnosis, history of AIDS‐defining illness and year of HAART initiation. In contrast, women had significantly higher risk of developing lactic acidosis than men (P = 0.0009). Hypersensitivity reactions were also more frequent in women than men (adjusted hazard ratio = 4.4 (95% CI: 2.1–9.3)). Collectively, these data suggest that metabolic toxicities after HAART do not differ by gender but that lactic acidosis and hypersensitivity reactions are more frequent in women than men. J. Med. Virol. 78:1158–1163, 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Phylogenetic relatedness and genetic diversity of hepatitis B virus isolates in Eastern India
Authors: Banerjee Arup , Kurbanov Fuat , Datta Sibnarayan , Chandra Partha Kumar , Tanaka Yasuhito , Mizokami Masashi , Chakravarty Runu
Published: July 2006

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) has been classified into eight genotypes, and several subgenotypes, distinctly distributed geographically. The genotypes A and D were previously reported to be predominant in India. Recent studies indicated evidence of circulation of genotype C in Eastern part of India. With the aim to confirm the phylogenetic relation and molecular genetic characteristics of the HBV circulating in Kolkata, the most populous city in Eastern India, 11 strains were isolated and the complete genome sequences were analyzed. Phylogenetic analysis determined; three genotype C (adr‐serotype) isolates closely related with C1 (Cs) subgenotype references from South East Asia, and three genotype A (adw2‐serotype) isolates, related to Asia‐variant references of subgenotype A1 (Aa). Whereas, five genotype D (ayw2, ayw3 serotype) isolates were highly divergent; one was related to subgenotype D1, two to subgenotype D3, and the remaining two clustered with a single genotype D isolate from Japan belonging to an unclassified subgenotype. Together, these two isolates differed from HBV D1–D4 subgenotypes by nucleotide differences ranging from 5.0 to 5.49%, probably indicating a new subgenotype, which we designate as D5. All serotype ayw3 of genotype D isolates had specific amino acid substitution Threonine at codon 118 and Methionine at codon 125 in antigenic determinant of surface gene that has not been reported previously in isolates from other parts of India. In conclusion; using the complete genome analyses this study has confirmed circulation of the genotype C in Eastern part of India and demonstrated considerable genotypic heterogeneity of the Indian genotype D. J. Med. Virol. 78:1164–1174, 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Identification of hepatitis B virus subgenotype A3 in rural Gabon
Authors: Makuwa Maria , Souquière Sandrine , Telfer Paul , Apetrei Cristian , Vray Muriel , Bedjabaga Issa , Mouinga‐Ondeme Augustin , Onanga Richard , Marx Preston A. , Kazanji Mirdad , Roques Pierre , Simon François
Published: July 2006

An hepatitis B virus (HBV) molecular survey was conducted in five remote villages in the equatorial forest in Gabon, Central Africa. Two hundred seventy out of 311 inhabitants (86.8%) were HBV‐infected or had evidence of past HBV infection. Chronic hepatitis corresponding to hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) positivity was suspected in 27 (8.6%) of the HBV‐infected subjects. High HBV viral loads were detected mainly in children aged 4–7 years. The pre‐S/S domains were sequenced in 13 cases and 12 strains belonged to HBV‐A genotype. In one case we found evidence for recombination between genotypes A and E. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that Gabonese HBV strains were distinct from HBV‐A subgenotypes (A1 and A2). These new HBV strains from Gabon clustered with previously reported HBV‐A3 subgenotype strains from Cameroon and Democratic Republic of Congo. The analysis of the pre‐S2 domain allowed us to determine two amino acid substitutions (N/152/S and N/174/T) specific to the Central African HBV‐A3 subgenotype strains and one amino acid substitution (P/155/Q) unique to these new Gabonese HBV‐A3 subgenotype isolates. Two full genome sequences of two new Gabonese HBV isolates are also presented and confirm the distinctive HBV‐Gab‐A3 cluster. J. Med. Virol. 78:1175–1184, 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Virus‐specific T‐cell responses associated with hepatitis C virus (HCV) persistence in the liver after apparent recovery from HCV infection
Authors: Quiroga Juan A. , Llorente Silvia , Castillo Inmaculada , Rodríguez‐Iñigo Elena , López‐Alcorocho Juan Manuel , Pardo Margarita , Carreño Vicente
Published: July 2006

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) RNA persistence in the liver has been described even after apparent resolution of HCV infection. Because T‐cell reactivity plays a role in recovery from HCV infection, virus‐specific T‐cell responses were investigated in apparently recovered individuals in whom hepatic HCV RNA persistence was documented: 15 sustained virological responders to interferon (IFN)‐treatment and 9 asymptomatic aviremic anti‐HCV carriers. HCV‐specific CD4+ T‐cell proliferative responses were detected significantly more often in apparently recovered individuals (sustained virological responders: 60%; asymptomatic anti‐HCV carriers: 66%) compared with 50 chronic hepatitis C patients (28%; P < 0.05). However, T‐cell frequencies and numbers tended to decline over time and the number of HCV proteins targeted by CD4+ T‐cell proliferative responses was limited. Interestingly, liver viral load correlated inversely with virus‐specific immune responses. Thus, CD4+ T‐cell responders showed significantly lower hepatic HCV RNA levels (P < 0.05). HCV‐specific IFN‐γ‐secreting CD4+ T‐cells were not detected in all the apparently recovered patients although they were found significantly more often compared with chronic hepatitis C patients (P < 0.05). Also, HCV NS3‐specific CD8+ T‐cells were detected in 11 HLA‐A2‐positive apparently recovered individuals (8 sustained virological responders and 3 asymptomatic anti‐HCV carriers); T‐cell frequencies tended to be greater in those patients who had lower hepatic viral levels. In conclusion, HCV‐specific T‐cells are detectable in apparently recovered individuals in whom HCV RNA can persist in the liver indicating that HCV replication may be prolonged in the face of an insufficient or inadequate virus‐specific CD4+ and CD8+ T‐cell response. J. Med. Virol. 78:1190–1197, 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Evidence of shared Epstein‐Barr viral isolates between sexual partners, and low level EBV in genital secretions
Authors: Thomas Ranjit , Macsween Karen F. , McAulay Karen , Clutterbuck Daniel , Anderson Richard , Reid Stuart , Higgins Craig D. , Swerdlow Anthony J. , Harrison Nadine , Williams Hilary , Crawford Dorothy H.
Published: July 2006

Epstein‐Barr virus is present in the saliva of most persistently infected individuals and is generally thought to be spread by close oral contact. However, there are now several reports of EBV in genital secretions, suggesting the possibility of sexual transmission between adults. The present study was undertaken to investigate the risk of sexual transmission of EBV. PCR analysis was used to examined the degree to which a group (n = 11) of patients with infectious mononucleosis (IM) shared the same viral isolates as their sexual partners, and compare this to the extent of isolate sharing among a different group (n = 18) of IM patients and their non‐sexual contacts. There was significantly more sharing of EBV isolates among the IM/sexual‐contact pairs than among the IM/non‐sexual‐contact pairs (P = 0.0012). Female cervical (n = 84), male urethral (n = 55), and semen (n = 30) samples from asymptomatic, unselected volunteers were analyzed for the presence of EBV DNA, revealing 7%, 5%, and 3% to be EBV positive, respectively. Fractionation of cervical and urethral samples into cellular and supernatant fluid components showed EBV to be mainly cell‐associated. Quantitation of EBV in these samples gave levels of below 10 EBV genomes per µg of DNA. Overall the findings support the possibility that EBV could on occasions be transmitted sexually, however, the low levels detected in genital secretions compared to saliva suggest that this is not a major transmission route. The finding of small quantities of cell‐associated virus suggests a latent infection; thus EBV is probably in the B lymphocyte rather than in the epithelial cell component of the secretions. J. Med. Virol. 78:1204–1209, 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Molecular identification of adenovirus sequences: A rapid scheme for early typing of human adenoviruses in diagnostic samples of immunocompetent and immunodeficient patients
Authors: Madisch Ijad , Wölfel Roman , Harste Gabi , Pommer Heidi , Heim Albert
Published: July 2006

Precise typing of human adenoviruses (HAdV) is fundamental for epidemiology and the detection of infection chains. As only few of the 51 adenovirus types are associated with life‐ threatening disseminated diseases in immunodeficient patients, detection of one of these types may have prognostic value and lead to immediate therapeutic intervention. A recently published molecular typing scheme consisting of two steps (sequencing of a generic PCR product closely adjacent to loop 1 of the main neutralization determinant ε, and for species HAdV‐B, ‐C, and ‐D the sequencing of loop 2 [Madisch et al., 2005]) was applied to 119 clinical samples. HAdV DNA was typed unequivocally even in cases of culture negative samples, for example in immunodeficient patients before HAdV causes high virus loads and disseminated disease. Direct typing results demonstrated the predominance of HAdV‐1, ‐2, ‐5, and ‐31 in immunodeficient patients suggesting the significance of the persistence of these viruses for the pathogenesis of disseminated disease. In contrast, HAdV‐3 predominated in immunocompetent patients and cocirculation of four subtypes was demonstrated. Typing of samples from a conjunctivitis outbreak in multiple military barracks demonstrated various HAdV types (2, 4, 8, 19) and not the suspected unique adenovirus etiology. This suggests that our molecular typing scheme will be also useful for epidemiological investigations. In conclusion, our two‐step molecular typing system will permit the precise and rapid typing of clinical HAdV isolates and even of HAdV DNA in clinical samples without the need of time‐consuming virus isolation prior to typing. J. Med. Virol. 78:1210–1217, 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Rotavirus diarrhea in children and adults in a southern city of Brazil in 2003: Distribution of G/P types and finding of a rare G12 strain
Authors: Pietruchinski Eduardo , Benati Fabrício , Lauretti Flávio , Kisielius Jonas , Ueda Marli , Volotão Eduardo M. , Soares Caroline C. , Hoshino Yasutaka , Linhares Rosa Elisa C. , Nozawa Carlos , Santos Norma
Published: July 2006

Between May and August in 2003, a total of 251 fecal samples were collected from children and adults with diarrhea (5 inpatients and 246 outpatients) at a private hospital in the city of Ponta Grossa, the state of Paraná, Brazil. Group A rotavirus was detected in 71 of 251 (28.3%) specimens: 55 (77.5%) from children under 5 years of age and 16 (22.5%) from individuals aged 6–72 years. All 71 strains exhibited a “long” RNA pattern when analyzed by PAGE. Sixty‐one positive samples that yielded enough RNA were submitted to PCR genotyping. The most frequent G/P genotype combination detected was G1P[8] (86.9%; 53/61) followed by G9P[8] (3.3%; 2/61) and G12P[9] (1.6%; 1/61). Rotaviruses with G2, G3, G4, P[4], or P[6] specificity were not detected. For three strains (4.9%) bearing G1 genotype, the VP4 specificity could no be determined, and two specimens (3.3%) remained G/P non‐typeable. One rotavirus strain (HC91) bearing G12P[9] genotype with a “long” electropherotype was isolated from an 11‐month‐old boy with diarrhea for the first time in Brazil. The cell‐culture grown HC91 strain was shown to belong to serotype G12 by neutralization. J. Med. Virol. 78:1241–1249, 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
First detection of group C rotavirus in patients with gastroenteritis in Slovenia
Authors: Steyer Andrej , Poljšak‐Prijatelj Mateja , Bufon Tatjana , Sedmak Marjeta , Vidmar Ludvik , Mijovski Janet Zimšek , Marin Jožica
Published: July 2006

Group C rotaviruses are associated with sporadic gastroenteritis and outbreaks of diarrhea in children and adults worldwide. Three cases with group C rotavirus infection are described, and the molecular characterization of the gene for the major capsid protein VP6 is reported. Patients described in this report were 10 years old or more and had mild to moderate clinical symptoms. A high nucleotide (>98%) and amino acid (100%) identity was observed among all three isolated Slovenian group C rotavirus strains. The similar identity is confirmed of Slovenian strains with other human group C rotavirus isolates, which were seen to cluster separately from the animal group C rotavirus isolates by a phylogenetic analysis. This is the first report of group C rotavirus detection in Slovenia. J. Med. Virol. 78:1250–1255, 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Frequent detection of human rhinoviruses, paramyxoviruses, coronaviruses, and bocavirus during acute respiratory tract infections
Authors: Arden Katherine E. , McErlean Peter , Nissen Michael D. , Sloots Theo P. , Mackay Ian M.
Published: July 2006

Viruses are the major cause of pediatric acute respiratory tract infection (ARTI) and yet many suspected cases of infection remain uncharacterized. We employed 17 PCR assays and retrospectively screened 315 specimens selected by season from a predominantly pediatric hospital‐based population. Before the Brisbane respiratory virus research study commenced, one or more predominantly viral pathogens had been detected in 15.2% (n = 48) of all specimens. The Brisbane study made an additional 206 viral detections, resulting in the identification of a microbe in 67.0% of specimens. After our study, the majority of microbes detected were RNA viruses (89.9%). Overall, human rhinoviruses (HRVs) were the most frequently identified target (n = 140) followed by human adenoviruses (HAdVs; n = 25), human metapneumovirus (HMPV; n = 18), human bocavirus (HBoV; n = 15), human respiratory syncytial virus (HRSV; n = 12), human coronaviruses (HCoVs; n = 11), and human herpesvirus‐6 (n = 11). HRVs were the sole microbe detected in 37.8% (n = 31) of patients with suspected lower respiratory tract infection (LRTI). Genotyping of the HRV VP4/VP2 region resulted in a proposed subdivision of HRV type A into sublineages A1 and A2. Most of the genotyped HAdV strains were found to be type C. This study describes the high microbial burden imposed by HRVs, HMPV, HRSV, HCoVs, and the newly identified virus, HBoV on a predominantly paediatric hospital population with suspected acute respiratory tract infections and proposes a new formulation of viral targets for future diagnostic research studies. J. Med. Virol. 78:1232–1240, 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Monolithic stationary phases for fast ion chromatography and capillary electrochromatography of inorganic ions
Authors: Schaller David , Hilder Emily F. , Haddad Paul R.
Published: July 2006

The focus of this review is on current developments in monolithic stationary phases for the fast analysis of inorganic ions and other small molecules in ion chromatography (IC) and capillary electrochromatography (CEC), concentrating in particular on the properties of organic (polymer) monolithic materials in comparison to inorganic (silica‐based) monoliths. The applicability of these materials for fast IC is discussed in the context of recent publications, including the range of synthesis and modification procedures described. While commercial monolithic silica columns already show promising results on current IC instrumentation, polymer‐based monolithic stationary phases are currently predominantly used in the capillary format on modified micro‐IC systems. However, they are beginning to find application in IC particularly under high pH conditions, with the potential to replace their particle‐packed counterparts.
Monopolar radiofrequency tissue tightening—how we do it in our practice
Authors: Burns A. Jay , Holden Stephanie G.
Published: July 2006

Background and Objectives

Monopolar radiofrequency has emerged as the standard for non‐surgical tissue tightening. However, its role, usefulness, and value remains unclear to many clinicians. Techniques and treatment parameters used by various practitioners can also be highly variable.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

The role of monopolar radiofrequency in our cosmetic plastic surgery practice will be defined and discussed. Our treatment algorithm will also be outlined.

Results

Treatment guidelines and reasonable expectations will be offered based on over 5 years of clinical and research experience with monopolar radiofrequency technology.

Conclusions

Monopolar radiofrequency technology plays a unique and well‐defined role in our practice. Strict patient selection in conjunction with detailed, honest, informed consent are the keys to successful treatments and patient satisfaction. Lasers Surg. Med. 38:575–579, 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Magnetic Field‐Induced Shape Transitions in Multiphase Polymer‐Liquid Crystal Blends
Authors: Das Susanta K. , Rey Alejandro D.
Published: July 2006

Summary:This paper presents a computational study of phase separation‐phase ordering‐texturing in blends of polymer coils and rod‐like nematic liquid crystals under the presence of magnetic fields, using an extended version of the Matsuyama‐Evans‐Cates model (Phys. Rev. E2000,61, 2977). This work demonstrates that demixing in these blends leads to droplet morphologies with tunable droplet shapes and director textures. In contrast to filled nematics, where solids are suspended in a nematic liquid crystal matrix, demixing in coil‐mesogenic rods blends leads to nematic emulsions, in which the deformable viscoelastic polymer drops are suspended in a nematic matrix. Under strong anchoring conditions, the imposition of a magnetic field leads to a director re‐orientation that due to strong anchoring produces a droplet shape change. Magnetic field‐induced shape transitions in these blends are shown to be second order with a finite critical field threshold that diverges as anchoring strength vanishes. A morphological‐texture diagram summarizes the magnetic field‐anchoring conditions that promote anisotropic shapes. This work presents additional material processing routes to design and control bi‐phasic morphologies in polymer‐liquid crystal blend.

Computed morphology phase diagram in terms of magnetic field strength ΛMand anchoring strength. ΛϕQ.

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Computed morphology phase diagram in terms of magnetic field strength ΛMand anchoring strength. ΛϕQ.
Generation of biologically active retro‐genes upon interaction of mouse spermatozoa with exogenous DNA
Authors: Pittoggi Carmine , Beraldi Rosanna , Sciamanna Ilaria , Barberi Laura , Giordano Roberto , Magnano Anna Rosa , Torosantucci Liliana , Pescarmona Edoardo , Spadafora Corrado
Published: July 2006

Mature spermatozoa of most animal species can spontaneously take up foreign DNA molecules which can be delivered to embryos upon fertilization. Following this procedure, transgenic animals of various species have been generated. We recently discovered a reverse transcriptase (RT) activity in mouse spermatozoa that can reverse‐transcribe exogenous RNA molecules into cDNA copies. These cDNA copies are transferred to embryos at fertilization, mosaic propagated as non‐integrated structures in tissues of founder individuals and further transmitted to F1 progeny. Reverse‐transcribed sequences behave as functional genes, being correctly expressed in tissues of F0 and F1 animals. To learn more about this mechanism and further characterize the reverse transcription step, we have now incubated spermatozoa with a plasmid harboring a green fluorescent protein (EGFP) retrotransposition cassette interrupted by an intron in the opposite orientation to the EGFP gene. We found that reverse‐transcribed spliced EGFP DNA sequences are generated in sperm cells and transmitted to embryos in IVF assays. After implantation in foster mothers, embryos developed into mice that expressed EGFP in the blood vessel endothelia of a variety of organs. The EGFP‐encoding cDNA sequences were detected in positive tissues as extrachromosomal mosaic‐propagated structures, maintained in low‐copy number (<1 copy/genome), and mosaic transmitted from founders to the F1 progeny. These results indicate that an efficient machinery is present in mature spermatozoa, which can transcribe, splice, and reverse‐transcribe exogenous DNA molecules. This mechanism is implicated in the genesis and non‐Mendelian propagation of new genetic information besides that contained in chromosomes. Mol. Reprod. Dev. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.