bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Aten—An application for the creation, editing, and visualization of coordinates for glasses, liquids, crystals, and molecules
Authors: Youngs T. G. A.
Published: June 2009

Aten is a tool for Linux, Mac, and Windows platforms to ease the creation, editing, and visualization of coordinates for use in, for example, molecular dynamics simulations. The code handles gas‐phase molecules in addition to crystals, surfaces, and liquids, providing standard tools to edit “by the atom” along with specific “by the box” methods suited to periodic systems, including full crystallographic spacegroup packing definitions. Visualization of systems encompasses the standard drawing styles and may be mixed with an arbitrary number of other basic objects, such as arrows and geometric objects allowing creation of scenes involving vector fields, coarse‐grained particles, etc. Standard molecular mechanics forcefields can be read in, edited, applied to molecules using the built‐in chemical typing language, and subsequently used to calculate energies and forces, minimize energies with respect to coordinates, decompose energies into contribution by molecule type, etc. Monte Carlo methods are available with which to generate random configurations of N‐component systems, or solvate around molecules or in specific regions within existing configurations. Supported file formats are governed by user‐defined “filters,” which provide flexibility of input/output as well as the ability to define custom or extended formats of traditional files. Forcefield descriptions for loaded systems can be output and formatted for use as input to common codes. All features can be accessed by a comprehensive GUI and scripting language based on the C syntax.
Chloride ion conduction without water coordination in the pore of ClC protein
Authors: Ko Youn Jo , Jo Won Ho
Published: June 2009

In the present work, we have found by an atomistic molecular dynamics simulation that hydrogen atoms originating from the residues of a prokaryotic ClC protein (EcClC) stabilize the chloride ion without water molecules in the pore of ClC protein. When the chloride ion conduction is simulated by pulling a chloride ion along the pore axis, the free energy barrier for chloride ion conduction is calculated to be low (4 kcal/mol), although the chloride ion is stripped of its hydration shell as it passes through the dehydrated pore region. The calculation of the number of hydrogen atoms surrounding the chloride ion reveals that water molecules hydrating the chloride ion are replaced by polar and non‐polar hydrogen atoms protruding from the protein residues. From the analysis of the pair interaction energy between the chloride ion and these hydrogen atoms, it is realized that the hydrogen atoms from the protein residues stabilize the chloride ion at the dehydrated region instead of water molecules, by which the energetic penalty for detaching water molecules from the permeating ion is compensated. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comput Chem, 2010
Maximal resolvable packings and minimal resolvable coverings of triples by quadruples
Authors: Zhang Xiande , Ge Gennian
Published: June 2009

Determination of maximal resolvable packing number and minimal resolvable covering number is a fundamental problem in designs theory. In this article, we investigate the existence of maximal resolvable packings of triples by quadruples of order v (MRPQS(v)) and minimal resolvable coverings of triples by quadruples of order v (MRCQS(v)). We show that an MRPQS(v) (MRCQS(v)) with the number of blocks meeting the upper (lower) bound exists if and only if v≡0 (mod 4). As a byproduct, we also show that a uniformly resolvable Steiner system URS(3, {4, 6}, {r4, r6}, v) with r6≤1 exists if and only if v≡0 (mod 4). All of these results are obtained by the approach of establishing a new existence result on RH(62n) for all n≥2. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Combin Designs 18: 209–223, 2010
Behavioral treatment of substance abuse in schizophrenia
Authors: Tenhula Wendy N. , Bennett Melanie E. , Strong Kinnaman Joanna E.
Published: June 2009

Co‐occurring substance use disorders are highly prevalent among individuals with schizophrenia and other serious and persistent mental illnesses (SPMI) and are associated with clinically significant consequences. A multifaceted behavioral treatment called Behavioral Treatment for Substance Abuse in Serious and Persistent Mental Illness (BTSAS) can reduce substance abuse in persons with SPMI. The key treatment strategies in BTSAS include a urinalysis contingency, short‐term goal setting, training in drug refusal skills, psychoeducation about the impact of drug use, and relapse prevention training. A case example illustrating the application of BTSAS is presented and relevant clinical issues are discussed. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Psychol: In Session 65: 1–11, 2009.
Do molecular signals from the conceptus influence endometrium decidualization in rodents?
Authors: Herington Jennifer L. , Bany Brent M.
Published: June 2009

A critical period in establishing pregnancy occurs after the onset of implantation but before placental development. Evidence strongly suggests that abnormalities occurring during this period can result in pregnancy termination or in pre‐eclampsia; the latter may lead to small‐for‐gestational‐weight offspring that are likely to be unhealthy. Clearly, events occurring in the endometrium during the implantation process are crucial for proper fetal development and for optimal offspring health. In several mammalian species bi‐directional communication between the conceptus and endometrium during implantation is required for successful pregnancy. Although different implantation and placentation modes occur in different mammalian species, common aspects of this bi‐directional signaling may exist. The molecular signals from the trophoblast cells of the conceptus, which direct endometrial changes during implantation progression, are well known in some nonrodent species. Currently, we know little about such signaling in rodents during implantation progression, when the endometrium undergoes decidualization. This review focuses on data that support the hypothesis that paracrine signals from the rodent conceptus influence decidualization. Where possible, these findings are compared and contrasted with information currently known in other species that exhibit different implantation modes. J. Exp. Zool. (Mol. Dev. Evol.) 312B:797–816, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Antifibrotic effect through the regulation of transcription factor using ring type‐Sp1 decoy oligodeoxynucleotide in carbon tetrachloride‐induced liver fibrosis
Authors: Park Ji‐Hyun , Jo Ji‐Ho , Kim Kyung‐Hyun , Kim Soo‐Jung , Lee Woo‐Ram , Park Kwan‐Kyu , Park Jae‐Bok
Published: June 2009

Background

Liver fibrosis is characterized by the excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM). Recent advances in the knowledge about the cellular, molecular and genetic aspects of fibrosis have opened a new era of research on liver cirrhosis. A transcription factor, Sp1, originally described as a ubiquitous transcription factor, is involved in the basal expression of ECM genes and may be important in the fibrotic processes.

Methods

The chronic hepatic damage received intraperitoneal injection of carbon tetrachloride (2 mg/kg) dissolved in corn oil (1 : 3 ratio) three times a weekly for 8 weeks. The delivery of decoy oligodeoxynucleotide (ODN) was performed by injection of 10 µg of scrambled decoy ODN or 10 µg of ring type (R)‐Sp1 decoy ODN through the mouse tail vein. All animals of each group were sacrificed, DNA binding activity, expression of cytokines and histological analysis were measured.

Results

We have generated a R‐Sp1 decoy ODN that effectively blocks Sp1 binding to the promoter region for transcription regulation of transforming growth factor (TGF)‐β1. The expression of fibrotic cytokines and inflammatory cytokines was decreased by using the R‐Sp1 decoy ODN in liver cirrhosis.

Conclusions

The present study demonstrates that the R‐Sp1 decoy ODN inhibits TGF‐β1 expression in liver cirrhosis. These results indicate that targeting Sp1 can efficiently block ECM expression, and suggest that such an approach may represent an interesting therapeutic alternative towards the treatment of cirrhosis. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Bipartite vectors for co‐expression of a growth factor cDNA and short hairpin RNA against an apoptotic gene
Authors: Li Feng , Mahato Ram I.
Published: June 2009

Background

Although human islet transplantation is a promising approach for treating type I diabetes, its success is limited as a result of the poor survival rate of transplanted islets. Expression of a growth factor gene to promote revascularization and silencing of pro‐apoptotic genes before transplantation may improve the outcome of islet transplantation.

Methods

In the present study, we constructed bipartite plasmid vectors to co‐express a vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) cDNA and short hairpin (sh)RNA targeting inducible NO synthase (iNOS) gene. First, we screened shRNA sequences against human iNOS by transfecting plasmids encoding shRNA targeting different start sites of human iNOS. Then, the effect of different promoters [such as H1, U6 and cytomegalovirus (CMV)] and micro RNA backbones on gene silencing was determined.

Results

No statistical difference in iNOS gene silencing was observed for the shRNA with H1, U6 and CMV promoters. In addition, a conventional shRNA showed better silencing of the iNOS gene compared to shRNA containing mir375 and mir30 backbones. A bipartite plasmid was also constructed with mir30‐shRNA and a VEGF cDNA controlled by a single CMV promoter. This plasmid showed a better silencing effect compared to plasmid without VEGF cDNA.

Conclusions

In the present study, we have successfully constructed bipartite vectors co‐expressing a VEGF cDNA and a shRNA against the iNOS gene. These vectors could be attractive candidates for improving the survival of transplanted islets. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Combining angiogenic gene and stem cell therapies for myocardial infarction
Authors: Pons Jennifer , Huang Yu , Takagawa Junya , Arakawa‐Hoyt Janice , Ye Jianqin , Grossman William , Kan Yuet Wai , Su Hua
Published: June 2009

Background

Transplantation of stem cells from various sources into infarcted hearts has the potential to promote myocardial regeneration. However, the regenerative capacity is limited partly as a result of the low survival rate of the transplanted cells in the ischemic myocardium. In the present study, we tested the hypothesis that combining cell and angiogenic gene therapies would provide additive therapeutic effects via co‐injection of bone marrow‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) with an adeno‐associated viral vector (AAV), MLCVEGF, which expresses vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in a cardiac‐specific and hypoxia‐inducible manner.

Methods

MSCs isolated from transgenic mice expressing green fluorescent protein and MLCVEGF packaged in AAV serotype 1 capsid were injected into mouse hearts at the border of ischemic area, immediately after occlusion of the left anterior descending coronary, individually or together. Engrafted cells were detected and quantified by real‐time polymerase chain reaction and immunostaining. Angiogenesis and infarct size were analyzed on histological and immunohistochemical stained sections. Cardiac function was analyzed by echocardiography.

Results

We found that co‐injection of AAV1‐MLCVEGF with MSCs reduced cell loss. Although injection of MSCs and AAV1‐MLCVEGF individually improved cardiac function and reduced infarct size, co‐injection of MSC and AAV1‐MLCVEGF resulted in the best improvement in cardiac function as well as the smallest infarct among all groups. Moreover, injection of AAV1‐MLCVEGF induced neovasculatures. Nonetheless, injection of MSCs attracted endogenous stem cell homing and increased scar thickness.

Conclusions

Co‐injection of MLCVEGF and MSCs in ischemic hearts can result in better cardiac function and MSC survival, compared to their individual injections, as a result of the additive effects of each therapy. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Making poverty reduction inclusive: Experiences from Cambodia, Tanzania and Vietnam
Authors: Fritz Dominic , Miller Ursula , Gude Andreas , Pruisken Andreas , Rischewski Dorothea
Published: June 2009

Poverty reduction strategy (PRS) processes have often failed to address the needs and interests of persons with disabilities. Without their inclusion, however, developmental strategies are unlikely to meet their goals. Three projects in Cambodia, Tanzania and Vietnam have fostered participation of persons with disabilities and their organisations in the PRS of their respective countries. This study examines the inclusive dimension of PRS processes and reviews the relationship between poverty and disability. It then describes the three projects and analyses their successes and challenges. While all projects have shown good results in terms of capacity development, few real impacts could be achieved regarding the implementation of PRSPs on a larger scale. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Including persons with disabilities in social cash transfer programmes in developing countries
Authors: Gooding Kate , Marriot Anna
Published: June 2009

This paper discusses inclusion of persons with disabilities in social cash transfer programmes in developing countries. Drawing on material from literature reviews and interviews, it considers potential challenges in the design of these programmes, particularly barriers to access and the complexities of assessment, and the impact of transfers for persons with disabilities. The paper identifies some key principles for including persons with disabilities in social transfer schemes, specifically: strong legal foundations; participation of persons with disabilities in programme design, implementation and evaluation; and embedding transfers within a wider framework of action to tackle discrimination and empower persons with disabilities. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis of stable isotopes of auxinic herbicides 4‐amino‐3,5,6‐trichloropicolinic acid and 4‐amino‐3,6‐dichloropicolinic acid
Authors: Johnson Peter L. , Pearson Norman R. , Schuster Bert , Cobb Jeremy
Published: June 2009

Pentachloropyridine serves as a key intermediate in the synthesis of 4‐amino‐3,5,6‐trichloropicolinic acid (picloram) and 4‐amino‐3,6‐dichloropicolinic acid (aminopyralid). An M+3 stable isotope of pentachloropyridine (1, pentachloropyridine‐1‐15N‐2,6‐13C2) was prepared from K13C15N. Isotopically labeled pentachloropyridine was then carried through a seven‐step synthesis to give an M+3 stable isotope of 4‐amino‐3,5,6‐trichloropicolinic acid (2, picloram‐1‐15N‐2,6‐13C2) in an overall yield of 42%. The chlorine atom in the 5‐position of 2 was selectively removed via electrochemical reduction. Carrying out the electrochemical reduction in water provided an M+3 stable isotope of 4‐amino‐3,6‐dichloropicolinic acid (3, aminopyralid‐1‐15N‐2,6‐13C2), whereas conducting the reduction in deuterium oxide produced an M+4 stable isotope (4, aminopyralid‐1‐15N‐2,6‐13C2‐5‐2H). Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Utility of commercial radiosynthetic modules in captive solvent [11C]‐methylation reactions
Authors: Wilson Alan A. , Garcia Armando , Houle Sylvain , Vasdev Neil
Published: June 2009

The utility of commercial radiosynthetic modules to prepare [11C]‐radiotracers using the captive solvent ‘LOOP’ method is demonstrated with the common radiosynthons [11C]‐iodomethane and [11C]‐methyl triflate. Several widely utilized radiotracers are prepared by this technique to demonstrate the versatility of the method. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Histology and ultrastructure of the placental membranes of the viviparous brown snake, Storeria dekayi (Colubridae: Natricinae)
Authors: Blackburn Daniel G. , Anderson Kristie E. , Johnson Amy R. , Knight Siobhan R. , Gavelis Gregory S.
Published: June 2009

The placental membranes of the viviparous brown snake Storeria dekayi were examined following mid‐gestation by means of light microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy to reveal their structural organization and cytological composition. By Zehr stage 32, the chorioallantoic placenta (allantoplacenta) is established around much of the egg, and a well‐developed omphalallantoic placenta occurs in the abembryonic hemisphere. The allantoplacenta exhibits multiple features that enhance interhemal exchange: the uterus and allantois are well vascularized, the chorionic and uterine epithelia are attenuated, and the shell membrane is vestigial and has begun to degenerate. In the omphalallantoic placenta, the uterine epithelium is enlarged and appears to be secretory. The omphalopleure contains two distinct populations of cells, and shows cytological evidence for absorption. In intermediate areas, regions of omphalallantoic placenta are being transformed into allantoplacenta, through depletion of the isolated yolk mass and reduction in epithelial height of both uterus and omphalopleure. Morphological evidence suggests that the allantoplacenta is specialized for gas exchange, and the omphalallantoic placenta, for maternal secretion and fetal absorption. On the basis of the available evidence, we postulate that this pattern is characteristic of the thamnophine radiation of snakes. J. Morphol., 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Development of cardiac form and function in ectothermic sauropsids
Authors: Crossley Dane A. , Burggren Warren W.
Published: June 2009

Evolutionary morphologists and physiologists have long recognized the phylogenetic significance of the ectothermic sauropsids. Sauropids have been classically considered to bridge between early tetrapods, ectotherms, and the evolution of endotherms. This transition has been associated with many modifications in cardiovascular form and function, which have changed dramatically during the course of vertebrate evolution. Most cardiovascular studies have focused upon adults, leaving the development of this critical system largely unexplored. In this essay, we attempt a synthesis of sauropsid cardiovascular development based on the limited literature and indicate fertile regions for future studies. Early morphological cardiovascular development, i.e., the basic formation of the tube heart and the major pulmonary and systemic vessels, is similar across tetrapods. Subsequent cardiac chamber development, however, varies considerably between developing chelonians, squamates, crocodilians, and birds, reflected in the diversity of adult ventricular structure across these taxa. The details of how these differences in morphology develop, including the molecular regulation of cardiac and vascular growth and differentiation, are still poorly understood. In terms of the functional maturation of the cardiovascular system, reflected in physiological mechanisms for regulating heart rate and cardiac output, recent work has illustrated that changes during ontogeny in parameters such as heart rate and arterial blood pressure are somewhat species‐dependent. However, there are commonalities, such as a β‐adrenergic receptor tone on the embryonic heart appearing prior to 60% of development. Differential gross morphological responses to environmental stressors (oxygen, hydration, temperature) have been investigated interspecifically, revealing that cardiac development is relatively plastic, especially, with respect to change in heart growth. Collectively, the data assembled here reflects the current limited morphological and physiological understanding of cardiovascular development in sauropsids and identifies key areas for future studies of this diverse vertebrate lineage. J. Morphol., 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Modified electrophoretic and digestion conditions allow a simplified mass spectrometric evaluation of disulfide bonds
Authors: Pompach Petr , Man Petr , Kavan Daniel , Hofbauerová Kateřina , Kumar Vinay , Bezouška Karel , Havlíček Vladimír , Novák Petr
Published: June 2009

Proper formation of disulfide bonds in proteins is a prerequisite to their stability and function. Information on disulfide pattern may therefore serve as an indication of the proper folding of recombinant proteins, and can also be used in protein homology modeling for the purpose of structure refinement. Protein handling and digestion at basic pH leads to disulfide bond scrambling. That is why the samples are usually treated and digested at low pH where no scrambling occurs. Unfortunately, the specific proteases used in protein research are active at high pH values. Here, we present a complete sample handling protocol, which allows processing of disulfide containing proteins at basic pH. We modified the standard SDS gel electrophoresis and protein digestion conditions by the addition of an oxidative agent, cystamine. This modification prevented disulfide scrambling, which we otherwise observed in the samples handled according to the general protocol. Lysozyme from hen egg was used as a model protein for the development of the method. We then applied our protocol to human leukocyte antigen CD69, for which the disulfide bonding is known, but only for its monomeric form. In addition, the disulfide arrangement was then ‘de novo’ identified in the recombinant murine leukocyte receptor NKR‐P1A and in the larger glycosylated proteins β‐N‐acetylhexosaminidases fromAspergillus oryzaeandPenicillium oxalicum. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Molecular detection of hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and torque teno viruses in drug users in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alzahrani Alhusain J. , Cruz Damian M. Dela , Obeid Obeid E. , Bukhari Huda A. , Al‐Qahtani Ahmed A. , Al‐Ahdal Mohammed N.
Published: June 2009

Injecting drug users are at increased risk of infection with hepatitis viruses and blood‐borne pathogens. The aim of this study was to examine HBV, HCV, HDV, and TTV infections in Saudi drug users (N = 344). Extraction of nucleic acid from serum, reverse‐transcription, amplification of viral nucleic acids, and HBV and HCV genotyping were done using established techniques. Of the analyzed samples, 41 (12%) contained detectable HBV DNA, 131 (38%) contained detectable HCV RNA, and 174 (51%) had detectable TTV DNA. The predominant HBV genotype was found to be genotype D and the predominant HCV genotype was found to be genotype 1b. All the samples were negative for HDV. Twelve samples (3.5%) were found to contain mixed HBV and HCV genomes, 24 samples (7%) were found to contain mixed HBV and TTV genomes, 82 samples (24%) were found to contain mixed HCV and TTV genomes, and 9 samples (2.6%) were found to contain mixed HBV, HCV, and TTV genomes. Identification of various infections in drug users will help the control of these infections in this group as well as in the community. J. Med. Virol. 81:1343–1347, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Low rate of oral human papillomavirus (HPV) infection in women screened for cervical HPV infection in Southern Italy: A cross‐sectional study of 140 immunocompetent subjects
Authors: Termine Nicoletta , Giovannelli Lucia , Matranga Domenica , Perino Antonio , Panzarella Vera , Ammatuna Pietro , D'Angelo Matteo , Campisi Giuseppina
Published: June 2009

Even though the natural history of cervical and oral human papillomavirus (HPV) infection has been investigated intensely, the possibility that HPV may infect both sites in the same subject is not well documented. This study investigated the frequency of concurrent oral and cervical HPV infection in southern Italian women, in the light of some selected socio‐behavioral variables. One hundred forty women (mean age: 36 years), with known cervical HPV status, were analyzed for oral HPV. Age, smoking/drinking habits, clinical and socio‐behavioral history were assessed by personal interviews. Oral mucosal cells were collected by oral brushing and HPV DNA was sought by the use of nested PCR amplification followed by direct DNA sequencing and the commercial assay INNOLiPA HPV Genotyping (Innogenetics N.V., Ghent, Belgium). The data were analyzed by using the chi‐square test and a logistic regression (logit) model (P < 0.05 statistically significant). Oral HPV infection was detected in 2/140 (1.4%) cases, being present in 2/76 (2.6%) women with cervical HPV infection and 0/64 uninfected women (P = 0.19). A lack of type‐specific concordance in the two patients with concurrent infection was observed. In the sample of population examined, HPV cervical infection does not seem to predispose to oral transmission, even in the presence of oral–genital sexual habits, thus suggesting the independence of infection at the two mucosal sites. J. Med. Virol. 81:1438–1443, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Genomic mutations of viral protein 1 and BK virus nephropathy in kidney transplant recipients
Authors: Boldorini Renzo , Allegrini Sara , Miglio Umberto , Paganotti Alessia , Veggiani Claudia , Mischitelli Monica , Monga Guido , Pietropaolo Valeria
Published: June 2009

Genomic variability in the viral protein 1 region of BK polyomavirus (BKV) may change the ability of the virus to replicate. The significance of such changes was studied in clinical samples taken from kidney transplant patients with and without BKV nephropathy. A 94 base‐pair fragment of viral protein 1 was amplified from 68 urine, 28 blood, and 12 renal biopsy samples from eight patients with BKV nephropathy, and from 100 urine samples, 17 blood and three renal biopsy samples from 41 of 218 controls. The DNA was sequenced and the amino acid changes were predicted by the Expert Protein Analysis System program (ExPASy, Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, Geneva, Switzerland). Single base‐pair mutations were detected more frequently in the samples from the BKV nephropathy patients than in the controls, and this was the only statistically significant finding of the study (P < 0.05), thus suggesting a greater genetic instability in BKV nephropathy associated strains. The amino acid changes were distributed at random in both BKV nephropathy patients and controls. However, one aspartic acid‐to‐asparagine substitution at residue 75 was detected in all samples of the one patient with BKV‐associated nephropathy, who developed disease progression confirmed by histology, and not in any of the other patient or control samples. Whether this specific amino acid change plays a role in disease deserves further study. J. Med. Virol. 81:1385–1393, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Shared and persistent asymptomatic cutaneous human papillomavirus infections in healthy skin
Authors: Hsu J.Y.‐C. , Chen A.C.‐H. , Keleher A. , McMillan N.A.J. , Antonsson A.
Published: June 2009

Cutaneous human papillomavirus (HPV) types are commonly found in normal skin, and some of them have been suspected to play a role in the development of non‐melanoma skin cancer. This present study is divided into three sections, the aims of this study were to examine if certain HPV‐types persist over time and if HPV‐types are shared within families. From the first part of the study, swab samples from foreheads were collected for three longitudinal studies from one family with a newborn baby. Five specific HPV‐types were isolated from the family with a newborn, with HPV‐5 and FA67 being found at various time points and prevalence rates in all four members of the family. Part 2 consisted of a followed up study from two families with a 6 years interval. Six of the family members were found to have at least one of the HPV‐types identified in the family 6 years earlier. Many of the HPV‐types identified were shared within the families studied. Part 3 of this study involved weekly samples from four healthy females for 4 months. Among the four healthy individuals, 11%, 65%, and 56% of the weekly samples were HPV‐DNA positive with one individual HPV‐negative. All specimens were tested for HPV‐DNA by PCR using the broad range HPV‐type primer pair FAP59/64. The positive samples were HPV‐type determined by cloning and sequencing. Specific cutaneous HPV‐types persist over long periods of time in healthy skin in most individuals investigated and certain HPVs are shared between family members. J. Med. Virol. 81:1444–1449, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Influenza A virus in Taiwan, 1980–2006: Phylogenetic and antigenic characteristics of the hemagglutinin gene
Authors: Wang Sheng‐Fan , Lee Yuan‐Ming , Chan Yu‐Jiun , Liu Hsin‐Fu , Yen Yung‐Fong , Liu Wu‐Tse , Huang Jason C. , Chen Yi‐Ming Arthur
Published: June 2009

Limited amount of information is available in Taiwan on the genetic or antigenic characteristics of influenza A virus prior to the establishment of a Taiwan surveillance network in 2000. Isolates of H1N1 and H3N2 viruses in Taiwan between 1980 and 2006 were studied, and part of the hemagglutinin gene was analyzed due to its importance in terms of viral infection and antibody neutralization. Results from a phylogenetic analysis indicate continuous evolutionary topology in H3N2 isolates, and two distinct H1N1 lineages. Many genetic relationships between vaccine strains and epidemic isolates appearing in Taiwan before other global locations were also observed and recorded in addition to a gradual increase in the number of N‐linked glycosylation sites on partial HA1 proteins since 1980. The results from pairwise comparisons of HA1 nucleotide and deduced amino acid sequences indicate shared identities within groups organized according to their bootstrap and P‐values of approximately 95.5–100% and 95.7–100% in H1N1 and 94.5–100% and 93.2–100% in H3N2 viruses, respectively. Comparisons of amino acid substitutions in the five antigenic regions reveal highly non‐synonymous changes occurring in the Sb region of H1N1 and in the B region of H3N2. The results of an antigenic analysis using a hemagglutinin inhibition (HI) test indicate the presence of some epidemic strains 1–2 years earlier in Taiwan than in other parts of the world, as well as higher vaccine mismatch rates. This information supports the need for continuous surveillance of emerging influenza viruses in Taiwan, which will be useful for making global vaccine decisions. J. Med. Virol. 81:1457–1470, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A novel genotype of hepatitis E virus prevalent among farmed rabbits in China
Authors: Zhao Chenyan , Ma Zhongren , Harrison Tim J. , Feng Ruofei , Zhang Chuntao , Qiao Zilin , Fan Jinping , Ma Hongxia , Li Mingsheng , Song Aijing , Wang Youchun
Published: June 2009

In total, 335 serum samples were collected from rabbits from two farms in Gansu province, China, and tested for anti‐hepatitis E virus (HEV) antibody using EIA and for HEV RNA using nested RT‐ PCR with ORF2 primers. The overall prevalence of anti‐HEV antibody and HEV RNA was 57.0% (191/335) and 7.5% (25/335), respectively. The positivity rate of HEV RNA in the anti‐HEV antibody negative group (7.6% (11/144)) did not differ significantly from that in the positive group (7.3% (14/191)). The concordance between HEV RNA and anti‐HEV antibody was 43.3% with no significant correlation (P < 0.05). All 25 amplicons from the ORF2 region were cloned and sequenced. On the basis of nucleotide sequence comparison, they had 84–99% identity to each other and 73–77%, 70–76%, 75–82%, 71–77%, and 53–65% with the corresponding regions of genotypes 1, 2, 3, 4, and avian HEV, respectively. Samples that were positive with the ORF2 primers were amplified using ORF1 region primers; 17 were positive and shared 71–78%, 73–76%, 74–82%, 72–78%, and 39–58% identity with the corresponding regions of genotypes 1, 2, 3, 4, and avian HEV, respectively, at the nucleotide level. Two representative full‐length sequences were determined. These two sequences shared 85% identity with each other and had 74%, 73%, 78–79%, 74–75%, and 46–47% identity to full‐length genotypes 1, 2, 3, 4, and avian HEV, respectively. Thus, the sequences isolated from the rabbits represent a novel genotype of HEV. This study provides novel information about HEV genotypes infecting rabbits as well as evidence of a new mammalian genotype of HEV. J. Med. Virol. 81:1371–1379, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Molecular analysis of transmission of hepatitis C virus in a nurse who acquired acute hepatitis C after caring for a viremic patient with epistaxis
Authors: Toda Takayuki , Mitsui Takehiro , Tsukamoto Yukie , Ebara Takeshi , Hirose Akinori , Masuko Kazuo , Nagashima Shigeo , Takahashi Masaharu , Okamoto Hiroaki
Published: June 2009

A 23‐year‐old nurse (HC‐IP) developed acute hepatitis C. Intrafamilial transmission of hepatitis C virus (HCV) was suspected initially because her parents were carriers of HCV of the same genotype (1b) as that of Patient HC‐IP. However, the HCV isolate from Patient HC‐IP and those from her parents shared identities of only 92.4–92.7% in the 1,087‐nucleotide (nt) sequence within the NS5B region. It was then suspected that she contracted HCV infection during medical practice. Sixteen patients with antibodies to HCV (anti‐HCV) were hospitalized 1–3 months before she became positive for anti‐HCV. Upon analysis of stored serum samples, 14 of the 16 patients were found to be positive for HCV RNA, and 9 of the 14 viremic patients had genotype 1b HCV. Although the shared identities between the HCV isolate from Patient HC‐IP and those from eight of the nine patients were merely 90.6–93.9% within the 1,087‐nt NS5B sequence, the HCV isolate from the remaining one patient (HC‐P12) was 99.7% identical to that from Patient HC‐IP. Upon analysis of the E1 and E2 junctional region including hypervariable region 1 (283 nt), there was a close relationship (99.3–100%) between clones obtained from Patients HC‐IP and HC‐P12. Although the nurse HC‐IP had a finger injury, she took care of Patient HC‐P12, a 70‐year‐old man with HCV‐related cirrhosis and recurrent epistaxis, occasionally without wearing protective gloves. This study indicates the occurrence of HCV transmission by exposure of nonintact skin to blood in health care settings. J. Med. Virol. 81:1363–1370, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Development of real‐time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction methods for human rabies diagnosis
Authors: Nadin‐Davis Susan A. , Sheen Mary , Wandeler Alexander I.
Published: June 2009

To improve timely ante‐mortem human rabies diagnosis, methods to detect viral RNA by TaqMan‐based quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reactions (qRT‐PCRs) have been developed. Three sets of two primers and one internal dual‐labeled probe for each primer set that target distinct conserved regions of the rabies virus N gene were designed and evaluated. Using a collection of 203 isolates representative of the world‐wide diversity of rabies virus, all three primers/probe sets were shown to detect a wide range of rabies virus strains with very few detection failures; the RABVD1 set in particular was the most broadly reactive. These qRT‐PCR assays were shown to be quantitative over a wide range of viral titer and were 100–1,000 times more sensitive than nested RT‐PCR; however, both the standard and real‐time PCR methods yielded concordant results when used to test a collection of archived human suspect samples. The qRT‐PCR assay was employed to monitor virus load in the saliva of a rabies virus‐infected patient undergoing the Milwaukee treatment protocol. However in this case it would appear that reduction of the viral load in the patient's saliva over time did not appear to correlate well with clearance of viral components from the brain. J. Med. Virol. 81:1484–1497, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Correlation of rhinovirus load in the respiratory tract and clinical symptoms in hospitalized immunocompetent and immunocompromised patients
Authors: Gerna G. , Piralla A. , Rovida F. , Rognoni V. , Marchi A. , Locatelli F. , Meloni F.
Published: June 2009

While human rhinoviruses (HRVs) are well accepted as a major cause of common cold syndromes (rhinitis), their role in the etiology of lower respiratory tract infections is still controversial, and their detection in asymptomatic patients is relatively common. The HRV pathogenic role in four groups of hospitalized patients (pediatric immunocompetent and immunocompromised patients, and adult immunocompetent and immunocompromised patients) was investigated by quantifying HRV load in nasopharyngeal aspirates or bronchoalveolar lavage samples by real‐time reverse transcription PCR (RT‐PCR). Real‐time RT‐PCR was performed in duplicate on all respiratory samples resulting positive by qualitative RT‐PCR. In addition, molecular typing allowed detection of all known HRV species (A, B, and C). In immunocompetent pediatric patients HRVs were mostly associated with lower respiratory tract infections (in the absence of other viral agents) and wheezing, when viral load was ≥106 RNA copies/ml. In young immunocompromised patients (stem cell transplantation recipients), an inverse correlation between HRV persistence over time and time at which the infection occurred after transplantation was observed, whereas in adult immunocompromised patients (lung transplant recipients) HRVs could be detected at a medium–low level (<105 RNA copies/ml) in bronchoalveolar lavage samples taken routinely from asymptomatic patients. In conclusion, when detected at high viral load, HRVs may cause severe upper and lower respiratory tract infections, whereas when detected at a medium–low viral load, an event more frequent in immunocompromised subjects, they may represent only bystander viruses. J. Med. Virol. 81:1498–1507, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Seroprevalence of Kaposi's sarcoma‐associated herpesvirus and risk factors in Xinjiang, China
Authors: Fu Bishi , Sun Feng , Li Baolin , Yang Lei , Zeng Yan , Sun Xiulian , Xu Fanhong , Rayner Simon , Guadalupe Moraima , Gao Shou‐Jiang , Wang Linding
Published: June 2009

Xinjiang, China is an endemic area for Kaposi's sarcoma (KS) but the seroprevalence of Kaposi's sarcoma‐associated herpesvirus (KSHV) and risk factors remain undefined. In this study, antibodies to one KSHV latent protein (ORF73) and two KSHV lytic proteins (ORF65 and ORF‐K8.1) were examined in 2,228 subjects from the general population and 37 subjects infected with HIV‐1 in Xinjiang, and 560 subjects from the general population in Hubei, a low KS incidence region. The serostatus of a serum sample was defined based on positive results in any one of the three serologic assays. The seroprevalence of KSHV in the general population was higher in Xinjiang than in Hubei (19.2% vs. 9.5%; odds ratios [OR], 2.28; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.68–3.08; P < 0.001). Among the ethnic groups in Xinjiang, 68 (15.8%) Han, 182 (20.7%) Uygur, 140 (19.9%) Hazakh, 9 (33.3%) Xibo, and 29 (16.8%) Hui were KSHV‐seropositive, respectively. Compared to the Han, the latter groups had an increase in the risk of KSHV of 62.2%, 63.8%, 180.1%, and 30.2% (P = 0.003, 0.004, 0.018, and 0.286, respectively). Subjects aged <20, 20–50, and >50 had a seroprevalence of KSHV of 11.8%, 17.9%, and 24.6%, respectively. Compared to subjects aged <20, the latter groups had an increase in the risk of KSHV of 63.3% and 144.5% (P = 0.009 and <0.001, respectively). Subjects infected with HIV‐1 in Xinjiang had a seroprevalence of KSHV of 43.2%, and a 220% increase in the risk of KSHV compared to the general population (P < 0.001). Similar results were obtained when the seroprevalence of KSHV was analyzed with any single or two of the three serologic assays alone. Genotyping identified three unique sequences clustered in the A clade. This study indicates that Xinjiang has a high seroprevalence of KSHV. Geographic location, ethnicity, age and HIV‐1 infection are risk factors. Serologic and genotyping results suggest the introduction of KSHV into Xinjiang by specific ethnic groups. J. Med. Virol. 81:1422–1431, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Perceived support in a dual organizational environment: Union participation in a university setting
Authors: Goeddeke Francis Xavier , Kammeyer‐Mueller John Daniel
Published: June 2009

There is extensive research on employee attitudes regarding employers and unions, but these studies have underemphasized social and affective forces. Most studies also examine attitudes toward either the union or the employer without considering how these attitudes might relate to one another. The present study of faculty (N = 306) at a large public research university demonstrated that perceptions of union support were positively related to union participation and perceptions of administration support were negatively related to union participation. Subjective norms and general union attitudes were related to perceptions of union support, and subjective norms were related to perceived organizational support. Taken together, an individual's participation in a union recognition effort depends not only on union instrumentality, but also upon social relationships with the union and administration. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
In situ degradability of conventional and unconventional starch sources for ruminants, and factors determining their washable fraction: methodological implications
Authors: González‐García Eliel , Alexandrine Yann , Silou‐Etienne Tatiana , Archimède Harry
Published: June 2009

BACKGROUND: The in situ technique (IS) is used for characterising, screening and evaluating feedstuffs in ruminants. However, it is often not adapted to the particular characteristics of feeds (i.e. kinetics of starchy feeds with a standard framework used in forage). This may lead to potential biases in the final conclusions. In two successive experiments, we evaluated the degradative characteristics of conventional (CON) and unconventional (UNC) starchy feedstuffs (ING) and factors affecting their washable fractions (WF). The suitability of IS was then assessed.

RESULTS: Two well‐defined ruminal fermentation patterns (CON and UNC) were observed. The WF and insoluble washable (ISWF) fractions were affected by ING, state of presentation [WAY, fresh (F) or pre‐dried (D)], particle size (PSI) and their interactions. The UNC and F feeds had greater WF and ISWF than CON and D, respectively. Increasing PSI linearly reduced WF and its proportion of ISWF.

CONCLUSION: The PSI and WAY are critical factors to consider when designing experiments for the evaluation of starchy feedstuffs for ruminants using IS. It is still very risky to propose ‘standard’ parameters as this will always depend on the particular ING evaluated. Conducting pre‐evaluation tests before implementing each research protocol could help to refine the procedure. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry
Growth and egg production of layer pullets can be affected by the method of supplying energy and protein sources
Authors: Ocak Nuh , Sungu Murat
Published: June 2009

BACKGROUND: The effects of different methods of offering energy (ES) and protein (PS) sources on growth and egg production of layer pullets were assessed. From 9 to 22 weeks of age, 320 layer chickens (Isa Brown) were allocated to four treatments: 1, control (balanced diet); 2, E60:P40 (ES and PS in balanced diet sequentially during 60 and 40% of daily photoperiod respectively); 3, E40:P60 (ES and PS in balanced diet sequentially during 40 and 60% of daily photoperiod respectively); 4, EPFC (free choice between ES and PS in separate troughs).

RESULTS: Sequential or free choice feeding between ES and PS to point of lay decreased feed intake and delayed onset of egg production (P < 0.05). Control pullets had higher body weight at first egg than E60:P40 and E40:P60 birds (P < 0.05). Pullets in the E40:P60 group consumed less ES and more PS than those in other groups (P < 0.05). During the laying period, E40:P60 birds had higher egg production and egg mass than E60:P40 birds. EPFC pullets had lower feed efficiency than control and E40:P60 pullets.

CONCLUSION: Offering PS during 60% of the photoperiod to point of lay may decrease feed intake without affecting egg production. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry
Modifications of mechanical characteristics and phenolic composition in berry skins and seeds of Mondeuse winegrapes throughout the on‐vine drying process
Authors: Rolle Luca , Torchio Fabrizio , Giacosa Simone , Gerbi Vincenzo
Published: June 2009

BACKGROUND: Among several common drying systems used in the enological sector the dry‐on‐vine (DOV) method assumes particular importance because famous wines such as Sauternes, Tokay and Ice Wines are produced by grapes dried using this system. Knowledge about trends in mechanical properties and phenolic composition during on‐vine grape drying is scarce. The objective of this current study is therefore to increase the knowledge on these aspects.

RESULTS: Berry skin break energy (+0.10 N) and berry skin thickness (+69 µm) values increase during grape dehydration, while the peduncle detach force decreases (−0.86 N). Large reductions in the anthocyanin content have also been observed (−40%), but their profile does not show significant changes. Seed hardness (−7.10 N, −1.40 mJ) decreases during the withering, and higher seed springiness has been observed. Seed proanthocyanidins (+2050 mg kg berry−1) and flavanols vanillin assay (+670 mg kg berry−1) increase progressively throughout the withering. In contrast, a distinct lowering of these substances in the skins was noted.

CONCLUSION: Many modifications in the chemical–physical characteristics of berries of Mondeuse winegrapes throughout the DOV process were found. The mechanical characteristics of grapes, in particular the peduncle detachment force, are important parameters in assessing their suitability for the drying‐on‐plant process. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry
Doubly tethered tertiary amide linked and ionically bonded diproline chiral stationary phases
Authors: Lao Wenjian , Gan Jay
Published: June 2009

Oligoproline chiral stationary phase (CSP) is a new class peptide chiral stationary phase. Many proline chiral stationary phases with different proline chain lengths and linkers have been prepared and evaluated. However, the doubly tethered and ionic type linkers have not been adequately investigated. In this study, covalently and ionically bonded chiral stationary phases with doubly tethered linker were prepared and characterized. The new covalently bonded doubly tethered diproline CSP was applied successfully to resolve various enantiomers of acidic, basic, and neutral compounds with phenyl, naphthyl, anthryl, or similarly sized groups. The enantiorecognition performances of singly and doubly tethered diproline CSPs were comparable. Variation of the type and content of organic modifiers in hexane or heptane mobile phase showed that the branch alcohols such as 2‐propanol and 2‐butanol, 1,2‐dichloroethane, methyl tert‐butyl ether, and ethyl acetate in the mobile phase enhanced chiral separation. End‐capping on doubly tethered diproline CSP did not always improve the separation factor and resolution. Due to the rigid structure of the double tether, the enantioseparation ability of ionically bonded diproline CSP was well expressed to some analytes.
Solid‐phase extraction and residue determination of glyphosate in apple by ion‐pairing reverse‐phase liquid chromatography with pre‐column derivatization
Authors: Qian Kun , Tang Tao , Shi Tianyu , Li Pingliang , Li Jianqiang , Cao Yongsong
Published: June 2009

A new method for glyphosate residue determination in apple has been developed. A SPE cartridge was used to clean up the samples before derivatization. Glyphosate was derivatized with 4‐chloro‐3,5‐dinitrobenzotrifluoride (CNBF) and quantified by reverse ion‐pair liquid chromatography using cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) as ion‐pair reagent. In pH 9.5 H3BO3–Na2B4O7 medium, the reaction of glyphosate with CNBF was complete after 30 min at 60°C. The stability of the derivative on exposure to light at room temperature in methanol–water was demonstrated. The labeled glyphosate was separated on a Kromasil C18 column (250×4.6 mm, 5 μm) at room temperature and UV detection was applied at 360 nm. Separation was achieved within 15 min in gradient elution mode. The correlation coefficient for the method was 0.9998 at concentrations ranging from 0.1 to 50 μg/g. The calculated recoveries for glyphosate in apple were from 86.00 to 99.55%, and the relative standard deviations (n = 6) were from 1.43 to 6.32. The limit of detection was 0.01 μg/g for glyphosate in apple.