bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inhibition of phosphatidylcholine‐specific phospholipase C prevents bone marrow stromal cell senescence in vitro
Authors: Sun Chunhui , Wang Nan , Huang Jie , Xin Jie , Peng Fen , Ren Yinshi , Zhang Shangli , Miao Junying
Published: July 2009

Bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) can proliferate in vitro and can be transplanted for treating many kinds of diseases. However, BMSCs become senescent with long‐term culture, which inhibits their application. To understand the mechanism underlying the senescence, we investigated the activity of phosphatidylcholine‐specific phospholipase C (PC‐PLC) and levels of integrin β4, caveolin‐1 and ROS with BMSC senescence. The activity of PC‐PLC and levels of integrin β4, caveolin‐1 and ROS increased greatly during cell senescence. Selective inhibition of increased PC‐PLC activity with D609 significantly decreased the number of senescence‐associated beta galactosidase positive cells in BMSCs. Furthermore, D609 restored proliferation of BMSCs and their differentiation into adipocytes. Moreover, D609 suppressed the elevated levels of integrin β4, caveolin‐1 and ROS. The data suggest that PC‐PLC is involved in senescence of BMSCs, and its function is associated with integrin β4, caveolin‐1 and ROS. J. Cell. Biochem. 108: 519–528, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Chromosomal rearrangements during human epidermal keratinocyte differentiation
Authors: Marella Narasimharao V. , Seifert Brandon , Nagarajan Priyadharsini , Sinha Satrajit , Berezney Ronald
Published: July 2009

Undifferentiated human epidermal keratinocytes are self‐renewing stem cells that can be induced to undergo a program of differentiation by varying the calcium chloride concentration in the culture media. We utilize this model of cell differentiation and a 3D chromosome painting technique to document significant changes in the radial arrangement, morphology, and interchromosomal associations between the gene poor chromosome 18 and the gene rich chromosome 19 territories at discrete stages during keratinocyte differentiation. We suggest that changes observed in chromosomal territorial organization provides an architectural basis for genomic function during cell differentiation and provide further support for a chromosome territory code that contributes to gene expression at the global level. J. Cell. Physiol. J. Cell. Physiol. 221: 139–146, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
CXCL14 inhibits trophoblast outgrowth via a paracrine/autocrine manner during early pregnancy in mice
Authors: Kuang Haibin , Chen Qi , Fan Xiujun , Zhang Ying , Zhang Li , Peng Hongying , Cao Yujing , Duan Enkui
Published: July 2009

CXCL14, a member of chemokine family, was previously known to participate in many pathophysiological events, such as leukocytes recruitment and tumor suppression. However, it remained largely unknown whether CXCL14 is a physiological player during early pregnancy. In this regard, our recent global gene microarray analysis has observed an implantation‐specific expression profile of CXCL14 mRNA during early pregnancy in mice, showing its higher levels at implantation sites compared to inter‐implantation sites, implicating a potential role of CXCL14 in the periimplantation events. In the present investigation, using Northern blot, in situ hybridization and immunostaining, we further demonstrated that uterine CXCL14 expression was specifically induced at embryo implantation site and expanded with subsequent decidualization process in a spatiotemporal manner. The implanting embryo also showed a highlighted expression of CXCL14 in the blastocyst trophectoderm and its derived ectoplacental cones (EPCs) during postimplantation development. In vitro functional study revealed that CXCL14 could significantly inhibit both primary and secondary trophoblast attachment and outgrowth, correlated with a stage‐dependant downregulation of MMP‐2 and/or MMP‐9 activity. Moreover, it was found that biotinylated CXCL14 could specifically bind to trophoblast cells in vitro and in vivo, suggesting trophoblast cell, perhaps expressing the unidentified CXCL14 receptor, is a bioactive target of CXCL14. Collectively, our findings provide evidences supporting the contention that CXCL14 is an important paracrine/autocrine modulator regulating trophoblast outgrowth at the maternal–fetal interface during the process of pregnancy establishment. This study is clinically related since CXCL14 is also highly expressed in human receptive endometrium and trophoblasts. J. Cell. Physiol. 221: 448–457, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Barriers to the development of small stock markets: A case study of Swaziland and Mozambique
Authors: Hearn Bruce , Piesse Jenifer
Published: July 2009

The establishment of a successful stock market in a developing economy can be a major source of economic growth if it provides development finance by channelling domestic savings and attracting foreign investment. However, this objective is not always met, particularly in very small markets where there are barriers to efficient market operations. A case study of Swaziland and Mozambique illustrates that any potential gains to the domestic investment community are limited if there is insufficient liquidity and the political economy is such that ownership is not truly dispersed but rather remains in the hands of social elites. This paper finds that potential growth of small developing markets is further severely constrained by poverty and wealth inequality and consequently the impact on development is minimal. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Quantitation of replication of the HCV genome in human livers with end‐stage cirrhosis by strand‐specific real‐time RT‐PCR assays: Methods and clinical relevance
Authors: Lin Lan , Libbrecht Louis , Verbeeck Jannick , Verslype Chris , Roskams Tania , van Pelt Jos , Van Ranst Marc , Fevery Johan
Published: July 2009

HCV replicates in liver via an intermediate negative strand RNA. To study the relevance of HCV genome replication, quantitative strand‐specific HCV real‐time RT‐PCR assays were developed and applied to livers explanted because of end‐stage cirrhosis. The assays have broad ranges of determination and a high reproducibility and accuracy. Analysis of five different samples showed an even distribution of HCV genomes in four livers. Hepatic concentrations of positive (PS)‐ and negative (NS)‐strand RNA did correlate with each other, with PS/NS ratios ranging between 3 and 340. Hepatic concentrations of HCV‐PS or ‐NS RNA did not correlate with serum HCV‐RNA levels or with genotypes. A high HCV envelope‐2 protein expression correlated with a low NS concentration. HCV‐PS and ‐NS levels, E2 protein expression and genotype did not correlate with biochemical tests or with histological changes in the explanted liver, but the ratio NS/PS, a marker of viral replication, correlated with the severity of the recurrent post‐transplant hepatitis caused by HCV. This suggests the existence of an extra‐hepatic location of HCV with comparable viral replication rate being responsible for the infection of the newly transplanted liver. J. Med. Virol. 81:1569–1575, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Detection of four human coronaviruses in respiratory infections in children: A one‐year study in Colorado
Authors: Dominguez Samuel R. , Robinson Christine C. , Holmes Kathryn V.
Published: July 2009

Lower respiratory tract infections are the leading cause of death in children worldwide. Studies on the epidemiology and clinical associations of the four human non‐SARS human coronaviruses (HCoVs) using sensitive polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays are needed to evaluate the clinical significance of HCoV infections worldwide. Pediatric respiratory specimens (1,683) submitted to a diagnostic virology laboratory over a 1‐year period (December 2004–November 2005) that were negative for seven respiratory viruses by conventional methods were tested for RNA of four HCoVs using sensitive RT‐PCR assays. Coronavirus RNAs were detected in 84 (5.0%) specimens: HCoV‐NL63 in 37 specimens, HCoV‐OC43 in 34, HCoV‐229E in 11, and HCoV‐HKU1 in 2. The majority of HCoV infections occurred during winter months, and over 62% were in previously healthy children. Twenty‐six (41%) coronavirus positive patients had evidence of a lower respiratory tract infection (LRTI), 17 (26%) presented with vomiting and/or diarrhea, and 5 (8%) presented with meningoencephalitis or seizures. Respiratory specimens from one immunocompromised patient were persistently positive for HCoV‐229E RNA for 3 months. HCoV‐NL63‐positive patients were nearly twice as likely to be hospitalized (P = 0.02) and to have a LRTI (P = 0.04) than HCoV‐OC43‐positive patients. HCoVs are associated with a small, but significant number (at least 2.4% of total samples submitted), of both upper and lower respiratory tract illnesses in children in Colorado. Our data raise the possibility that HCoV may play a role in gastrointestinal and CNS disease. Additional studies are needed to investigate the potential roles of HCoVs in these diseases. J. Med. Virol. 81:1597–1604, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Excretion of the novel polyomaviruses KI and WU in the stool of patients with hematological disorders
Authors: Babakir‐Mina Muhammed , Ciccozzi Massimo , Alteri Claudia , Polchi Paola , Picardi Alessandra , Greco Francesco , Lucarelli Guido , Arcese William , Perno Carlo Federico , Ciotti Marco
Published: July 2009

Infection with human polyomaviruses BKV and JCV is asymptomatic, and lifelong and widespread, among the general population. However, in the setting of immunosuppression, secondary to medications or viral infection, for example, with HIV, reactivation can occur and result in severe disease. In this study, stool specimens from 31 patients with hematological disorders (25 transplanted and 6 non‐transplanted) were examined prospectively to determine whether the novel polyomaviruses KIV and WUV reactivated and were excreted in the gastrointestinal tract. Reactivation was correlated with the appearance of gastrointestinal and respiratory symptoms. Of the 31 patients examined, KIV and WUV were detected in 13 transplanted patients as single infection or in combination with BKV, cytomegalovirus (CMV), and adenovirus (Adv). Because of frequent co‐infections, a clear correlation between novel polyomaviruses and clinical symptoms could not be established. There was no correlation between demographic variables and detection of KIV and WUV. Phylogenetic analysis of the small t‐antigen gene of KIV and WUV isolates showed that the novel polyomaviruses identified in feces clustered with those identified in the respiratory tract suggesting an oral–fecal transmission of these viruses. The novel polyomaviruses KI and WU may have a pathogenic role in immunocompromised patients. J. Med. Virol. 81:1668–1673, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Importance of specimen type in detecting human papillomavirus DNA from the female genital tract
Authors: Roberts Christine C. , Liaw Kai‐Li , Skjeldestad Finn Egil , Jansen Kathrin U. , Bryan Janine T.
Published: July 2009

HPV testing is a valuable tool in cervical cancer screening and efficacy assessment of HPV vaccines. Concordance of specimens from three sites for detection of HPV DNA in the female genital tract was evaluated. At a single visit, the following specimens were collected: an endo‐ecto‐cervical swab (EEC), labial/vulvar/perineal/perianal swab (LVPP) and cervicovaginal lavage (CVL). Specimens were evaluated with HPV6, HPV11, HPV16, and HPV18 type‐ and gene‐specific PCR assays. Of the 898 women evaluated at baseline, 232 were HPV PCR positive in at least one specimen. Of these, for HPV6, HPV11, HPV16, and HPV18, respectively, throughout: (a) 70.4%, 40.0%, 65.3%, and 64.1% tested three‐site positive; (b) 13.6%, 30.0%, 19.7%, and 18.8% tested two‐site positive; and (c) 16.4%, 30.0%, 15.0%, and 17.2% tested single‐site positive. For patients who tested single‐site positive for HPV6, HPV11, HPV16, or HPV18, respectively, the specimen was: LVPP in 92.3%, 33.3%, 68.2%, and 72.7%; EEC in 0.0%, 33.3%, 18.2%, and 9.1%; and CVL in 7.7%, 33.3%, 13.6%, and 18.2%. Combining results of swab specimens together increases detection of HPV6, HPV11, HPV16, and HPV 18, respectively, to 98.7%, 90.0%, 97.9%, and 96.9%. HPV DNA is detectable from all three sites using type‐specific PCR assays; most women who tested positive for a given HPV type were positive for that type in all three specimens. J. Med. Virol. 81:1620–1626, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Response to pegylated interferon alfa‐2a and ribavirin in chronic hepatitis C genotype 4
Authors: Makhzangy Hesham El , Esmat Gamal , Said Mohamed , ElRaziky Maissa , Shouman Soheir , Refai Rasha , Rekacewicz Claire , Gad Rita Raafat , Vignier Nicolas , Abdel‐Hamid Mohamed , Zalata Khaled , Bedossa Pierre , Pol Stanislas , Fontanet Arnaud , Mohamed Mostafa K.
Published: July 2009

The safety and efficacy of pegylated interferon (PEG‐IFN) alfa‐2a and ribavirin were studied among patients treated for genotype 4 chronic hepatitis C. Ninety‐five patients with chronic hepatitis C genotype 4 were treated with PEG‐IFN alfa‐2a (180 µg/week) plus ribavirin (≥11 mg/kg/day) for 48 weeks. The primary end point was sustained virological response, defined as non‐detectable levels of HCV RNA at the end of follow up (week 72). The proportion with sustained virological response was 58/95 = 61.1% (95% CI = 50.5–70.9%). Side effects were generally mild, well managed by dose reductions (in 62% of patients); in only two patients were side effects sufficiently severe to require treatment interruption. Ninety percent of patients adhered to treatment up to week 12, and their sustained virological response rate was higher compared to non‐adherent (65% vs. 22%, respectively, P = 0.012). None of the patients who failed to achieve 1 log reduction of viral load by week 8 (n = 15), or 2 log reduction by week 12 (n = 17), had a sustained virological response. In conclusion, sustained virological response in genotype 4 Egyptian patients treated with PEG‐IFN alfa‐2a and ribavirin was estimated around 60%, intermediate between sustained virological response observed in genotype 1 and genotype 2–3 patients in Western countries. The early virological response (week 4 or week 8) should be investigated as a criterion to decide whether the patient may benefit from a shorter duration of therapy. J. Med. Virol. 81:1576–1583, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Consolidation in a wildlife tourism industry: the changing impact of whale shark tourist expenditure in the Ningaloo coast region
Authors: Catlin James , Jones Tod , Norman Brad , Wood David
Published: July 2009

In this paper, we examine the expenditure of whale shark tour participants at Ningaloo Marine Park, Western Australia; the location of the world's first whale shark tourism industry, established in 1989. We demonstrate that in 2006, participants' expenditure in the region was $894 per trip, total expenditure was $6.0 million (all figures are in Australian dollars), and between $2.4 and $4.6 million would have been lost to the region if whale shark tourism did not exist. Our measure of participants' expenditure is substantially lower than the calculation of $2370 per participant from a previous study of whale shark tourists using data collected in 1995. We argue that this is consistent with a change in the types of wildlife tourists that participate in an activity as the industry reaches the point of consolidation. Our results also suggest that using old data to forecast wildlife tourists' expenditure needs to take into account the industry's stage of development. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Posttraumatic stress disorder as a risk factor for suicidal ideation in Iraq and Afghanistan War veterans
Authors: Jakupcak Matthew , Cook Jessica , Imel Zac , Fontana Alan , Rosenheck Robert , McFall Miles
Published: July 2009

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) was examined as a risk factor for suicidal ideation in Iraq and Afghanistan War veterans (N = 407) referred to Veterans Affairs mental health care. The authors also examined if risk for suicidal ideation was increased by the presence of comorbid mental disorders in veterans with PTSD. Veterans who screened positive for PTSD were more than 4 times as likely to endorse suicidal ideation relative to non‐PTSD veterans. Among veterans who screened positive for PTSD (n = 202), the risk for suicidal ideation was 5.7 times greater in veterans who screened positive for two or more comorbid disorders relative to veterans with PTSD only. Findings are relevant to identifying risk for suicide behaviors in Iraq and Afghanistan War veterans.
The role of couples' interacting world assumptions and relationship adjustment in women's postdisaster PTSD symptoms
Authors: Monson Candice M. , Gradus Jaimie L. , La Bash Heidi A. J. , Griffin Michael G. , Resick Patricia A.
Published: July 2009

This study examined 58 heterosexual couples' interacting assumptions about the world and relationship adjustment in predicting wives' posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms after severe flooding. Both partners completed the World Assumptions Scale (Janoff‐Bulman, 1989), and wives reported on their intimate relationship adjustment and PTSD symptomatology. Neither husbands' nor wives' assumptions alone predicted wives' PTSD symptoms. However, the interaction of husbands' and wives' benevolent world assumptions significantly predicted wives' PTSD symptoms. When husbands held less benevolent world assumptions, there was a negative association between wives' assumptions and PTSD symptoms. Additionally, wives' relationship adjustment predicted their PTSD symptomatology when taking into account individual and interacting self‐worth assumptions. Implications for understanding the role of intimate relationships in postdisaster mental health and interpersonally oriented prevention efforts are discussed.
Necdin: A multi functional protein with potential tumor suppressor role?
Authors: Chapman Emma J. , Knowles Margaret A.
Published: July 2009

Necdin (NDN), a member of the melanoma‐associated antigen (MAGE) family of proteins was first identified in mouse stem cells of embryonal carcinoma origin induced to differentiate by treatment with retinoic acid. The human gene maps to chromosome 15q11. This imprinted region is implicated in the pathogenesis of Prader–Willi syndrome (PWS), a neurodevelopmental disorder, where NDN is one of multiple genes silenced by deletion, maternal uniparental disomy or translocation. Due to this association, much interest has focused on the role of NDN in neuronal development and differentiation. However, a considerable number of studies have identified additional functions of NDN. Taken together these studies suggest a pleiotropic protein with diverse functions some of which may be relevant to tumorigenesis. Downregulation of NDN occurs in carcinoma cell lines and primary tumors, suggesting a tumor suppressor role. Our working hypothesis is that NDN is a worthy candidate for further studies with regard to a potential tumor suppressor role. In this article we outline the considerable evidence supporting the hypothesis that NDN has multiple functions, some of which indicate that it could be a tumor suppressor. The roles of NDN in key processes such as interaction with p53 and E2F‐1, hematopoietic stem cell quiescence, transcriptional repression, angiogenesis, differentiation and interaction with the polycomb group gene BMI1 are discussed. Confirmation of NDN as a tumor suppressor may have implications for monitoring of PWS patients and could present a novel cancer therapeutic target. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Antitubercular potential of plants: A brief account of some important molecules
Authors: Negi Arvind S. , Kumar Jonnala K. , Luqman Suaib , Saikia Dharmendra , Khanuja Suman P.S.
Published: July 2009

Mycobacterium tuberculosis is the most lethal pathogen causing tuberculosis in human. After the discovery of antitubercular drugs pyrazinamide, rifampicin, isoniazid, streptomycin, and ethambutol (PRISE), the disease was controlled for a limited period. However, over the course of their usage, the pathogen acquired resistance and evolved into multi‐drug resistant, single‐drug resistant, and extensive drug resistant forms. A good number of plant secondary metabolites are reported to have antitubercular activity comparable to the existing antitubercular drugs or sometimes even better in potency. A well‐defined strategy is required to exploit these phytomolecules as antitubercular drugs. This review gives concise up‐to‐date information regarding the chemistry and pharmacology of plant‐based leads and some insight into their structure–activity relationship. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Med Res Rev, 30, No. 4, 603–645, 2010
Recent developments in carbohydrate‐decorated targeted drug/gene delivery
Authors: Zhang Hailong , Ma Yong , Sun Xue‐Long
Published: July 2009

Targeted delivery of a drug or gene to its site of action has clear therapeutic advantages by maximizing its therapeutic efficiency and minimizing its systemic toxicity. Generally, targeted drug or gene delivery is performed by loading a macromolecular carrier with an appropriate drug or gene, and by targeting the drug/gene carrier to specific cell or tissue with the help of specific targeting ligand. The emergence of glycobiology, glycotechnology, and glycomics and their continual adaptation by pharmaceutical scientists have opened exciting avenue of medicinal applications of carbohydrates. Among them, the biocompatibility and specific receptor recognition ability confer the ability of carbohydrates as potential targeting ligands for targeted drug and gene delivery applications. This review summarizes recent progress of carbohydrate‐decorated targeted drug/gene delivery applications.  © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Med Res Rev, 30, No. 2, 270–289, 2010
DMPK protein isoforms are differentially expressed in myogenic and neural cell lineages
Authors: Oude Ophuis Ralph J. A. , Mulders Susan A. M. , van Herpen René E. M. A. , van de Vorstenbosch Rinske , Wieringa Bé , Wansink Derick G.
Published: July 2009

Myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1) is a neuromuscular disorder caused by an unstable (CTG · CAG)n segment in the 3′ untranslated region of the myotonic dystrophy protein kinase (DMPK) gene. It is commonly accepted that DMPK mRNA‐based toxicity is the main contributor to DM1 manifestations; however, not much is known about the significance of the DMPK protein. To appreciate its normal and possible pathobiological role, we analyzed the patterns of DMPK splice isoform expression in mouse tissues. Long membrane–anchored DMPK dominated in heart, diaphragm, and skeletal muscle, whereas short cytosolic isoforms were highly expressed in bladder and stomach. Both isoform types were present in diverse brain regions. DMPK protein was also detectable in cultured myoblasts, myotubes, cortical astrocytes, and related cell lines of neural or muscle origin, but not in hippocampal neurons. This work identifies DMPK as a kinase with pronounced expression in diverse muscle and neural tissues that are affected in DM1. Muscle Nerve, 2009
Group III and IV muscle afferent discharge patterns after repeated lengthening and shortening actions
Authors: Martin Vincent , Dousset Erick , Laurin Jérôme , Gondin Julien , Gautier Maxime , Decherchi Patrick
Published: July 2009

The purpose of this study was to test the hypothesis that group III and IV muscle afferent activity would differ after concentric‐ and eccentric‐type fatiguing tasks. Tibialis anterior afferent activities from adult rats were measured in three conditions: before and after a rest period (C), and after concentric (CC) or eccentric (EC) exercise. Specific activators were used to elicit increases in afferent discharge rates, i.e., electrically induced fatigue (EIF), or potassium chloride (KCl) and lactic acid (LA) injections. After the rest period (POST‐condition), the control group displayed a pattern of response to stimuli similar to that obtained in baseline condition (PRE‐condition). However, responses were significantly different in the exercise groups: afferent responses were blunted in the CC group and were almost suppressed in the EC group. These results demonstrate that the type of muscular contraction involved in the fatiguing task can affect group III and IV afferent fiber activity differently and, potentially, can differentially affect the regulation of central motor command. Muscle Nerve, 2009
Predicting the effect of muscle length on fatigue during electrical stimulation
Authors: Marion M. Susan , Wexler Anthony S. , Hull Maury L. , Binder‐Macleod Stuart A.
Published: July 2009

Mathematical models have been developed to predict fatigue during functional electrical stimulation, but the predictive accuracy at different muscle lengths is unknown. The objectives of our study were to: (1) experimentally determine the relationship between knee extension angle (20°, 40°, 65°, and 90°) and fatigue of the quadriceps muscles, and (2) predict that relationship using a mathematical model. A computer‐controlled stimulator sent trains of pulses to surface electrodes on the thighs of five subjects while forces were measured at the ankle. A two‐component mathematical model was developed. One component accounted for force, and the other accounted for fatigue. The model was fit to the data, and parameters were identified at 90°. The fitted subject‐averaged r2 value was 0.89. The model was used to predict fatigue at the remaining angles, and the subject‐averaged r2 values were >0.75. Therefore, at least 75% of the variability in the measurements was explained by the model. The force model is explicitly dependent on angle, and the fatigue model is explicitly dependent on force; therefore, the dependence of fatigue on knee angle was implicit. Muscle Nerve, 2009
Nature of “Tau” immunoreactivity in normal myonuclei and inclusion body myositis
Authors: Salajegheh Mohammad , Pinkus Jack L. , Nazareno Remedios , Amato Anthony A. , Parker Kenneth C. , Greenberg Steven A.
Published: July 2009

Sarcoplasmic accumulation of phosphorylated‐tau has been widely stated to occur in and contribute to the pathogenesis of muscle disease in inclusion body myositis. Twenty inflammatory myopathy and 10 normal muscle samples along with a range of other tissues were stained with anti‐“tau” antibodies (tau‐5, pS422, and SMI‐31). Myonuclear and sarcoplasmic fractions were prepared using differential solubilization and laser‐capture microdissection, and immunoblots were performed using pS422 and SMI‐31 antibodies. All three antibodies demonstrated anti‐tau immunoreactivity in myonuclei from normal and diseased muscle, but not in nuclei from other tissues. Western blots showed pS422 and SMI‐31 immunoreactivity against nuclear proteins outside the region expected for phosphorylated‐tau. Antibodies previously reported to indicate abnormal accumulation of phosphorylated‐tau in IBM myofibers react to normal myonuclei and recognize proteins other than tau. Normal myonuclei contain neurofilament H or other unidentified 200 kDa proteins with similar phosphorylated motifs accounting for SMI‐31 immunoreactivity. Muscle Nerve, 2009
Development of the Chinese language paediatric daily occupation scale in Taiwan
Authors: Lo Jin‐ling , Yao Grace , Wang Tien‐miau
Published: July 2009

The aim of this study was to describe the development of the paediatric daily occupation scale (PDOS) that was validated with Taiwanese children aged from birth to 72 months. Item–scale correlation coefficient was also used to select items. The psychometric properties of PDOS were examined based on the results of 957 children who participated in the study. The Chinese child development inventory (CCDI) was used as a standard to examine the concurrent validity of PDOS on two different samples.

The PDOS, completed by parents, contains 340 items with good internal consistency (Cronbach's α = 0.99), test–retest reliability (r = 0.99) and concurrent validity (r = 0.88 between PDOS and CCDI). The sensitivity of PDOS (83%) in detecting children with developmental problems was much higher than CCDI (33%).

Because the PDOS is developed and examined on children from greater Taipei area, when using the PDOS with children from different socio‐cultural environments, the results need to be interpreted cautiously. Further research of the PDOS to justify its use as a screening tool for early detecting of children with developmental problems is suggested. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Prenatal molecular diagnosis of oculocutaneous albinism (OCA) in a large cohort of Israeli families
Authors: Rosenmann Ada , Bejarano‐Achache Idit , Eli Dalia , Maftsir Genia , Mizrahi‐Meissonnier Liliana , Blumenfeld Anat
Published: July 2009

Objectives

To present our accumulated data on prenatal molecular diagnosis of oculocutaneous albinism (OCA) in a large cohort of Israeli albino families.

Methods

Albinism consists of variable phenotypes, but only families with predicted severely handicapped albino offspring, who declared their wish to terminate a pregnancy of such a fetus, are eligible for prenatal testing. Prenatal testing is not offered otherwise. Following detailed genetic investigation and counseling, molecular prenatal testing was performed using the combination of mutation screening, direct sequencing, and haplotype analysis.

Results

A total of 55 prenatal tests were performed in 37 families; in 26 families the propositus was the child, and in 11, a parent or a close relative. In 32 families tyrosinase (TYR) mutations were diagnosed. In 5 families a P gene mutation was detected. Twelve albino fetuses were diagnosed. Following further genetic counseling, all couples elected to terminate the pregnancy. Three additional pregnancies were terminated for other reasons.

Conclusions

Families with increased risk for an albino child with severe visual handicap, seek premarital and prenatal genetic counseling and testing, for the prevention of affected offspring. Our combined methods of molecular genetic testing enable a nationwide approach for prevention of albinism. The same paradigm can be applied to other populations affected with albinism. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis and two‐photon absorption properties of hyperbranched diketo‐pyrrolo‐pyrrole polymer with triphenylamine as the core
Authors: Jiang Yihua , Wang Yaochuan , Hua Jianli , Qu Sanyin , Qian Shiqiong , Tian He
Published: July 2009

A novel hyperbranched polyyne (hb‐DPP) with triphenylamine as the core, 2,5‐dioctylpyrrolo [3,4‐c]pyrrole‐1,4 (2H,5H)‐dione (DPP) as the connecting unit has been designed and synthesized by Glaser‐Hay oxidative coupling reaction, which was characterized by IR, NMR, UV‐vis, FL, and GPC. The polymer exhibits high molecular weight (Mw up to ∼6.55 × 104 Da) and is readily soluble in common organic solvents such as toluene, chloroform, tetrahydrofuran, N,N‐dimethyl formamide and so on. The one‐ and two‐photon absorption (TPA) properties have been investigated. The TPA cross section of the polymer was measured by open‐aperture Z‐scan experiment using 140 femtosecond (fs) pulse, and the TPA cross section for hb‐DPP was determined to be 579 GM per repeating unit at wavelength of 800 nm. In tetrahydrofuran, hb‐DPP exhibits intense frequency up‐converted fluorescence with the peak located at 584 nm under the excitation of 800 nm fs pulses. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 47: 4400–4408, 2009
Synthesis of high‐refractive index polyimide containing selenophene unit
Authors: You Nam‐Ho , Fukuzaki Namiko , Suzuki Yasuo , Nakamura Yasuhiro , Higashihara Tomoya , Ando Shinji , Ueda Mitsuru
Published: July 2009

A highly refractive and transparent aromatic polyimide (PI) containing a selenophene unit has been developed. The PI was prepared by a two‐step polycondensation procedure from 2,5‐bis(4‐aminophenylenesulfanyl)selenophene (APSP) and 4,4′‐[p‐thiobis(phenylenesulfanyl)]diphthalic anhydride (3SDEA), and shows high thermal stabilities, such as a relatively high‐glass transition temperature of 189 °C and 5% weight loss temperature (T5%) of 418 °C. The optical transmittance of the PI film at 450 nm is higher than 50%. The selenophene unit provides the PI with a refractive index of 1.7594, which is higher than corresponding PIs containing a thiophene or a phenyl unit because of the high polarizability per unit volume of the selenium atom. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 47: 4428–4434, 2009
Novel electromagnetic functionalized γ‐Fe2O3/polypyrrole composite nanostructures with high conductivity
Authors: Xiao Hong‐Mei , Zhang Wei‐Dong , Wan Mei‐Xiang , Fu Shao‐Yun
Published: July 2009

In general, the conductivity of polypyrrole (PPy) is reduced by addition of magnetic nanoparticles as the additives owing to insulating effect of magnetic nanoparticles. In this article, novel electromagnetic functionalized PPy composite nanostructures were prepared by a template‐free method associated with γ‐Fe2O3 nano‐needles as the hard templates in the presence of p‐toluene‐sulfonic acid (p‐TSA) and FeCl3·6H2O as the dopant and oxidant, respectively. It was found that the molar ratio of γ‐Fe2O3 to pyrrole monomer represented by [γ‐Fe2O3]/[Py] ratio strongly affected the morphology and the conductivity of the γ‐Fe2O3/PPy composite nanostructures. A growth mechanism for the composite nanostructures was proposed based on the variance of the morphology with the [γ‐Fe2O3]/[Py] ratio. Compared with previously reported γ‐Fe2O3/PPy composites, the as‐prepared novel composite nanostructures showed much higher conductivity (up to ∼50 times higher). Moreover, the synthesized γ‐Fe2O3/PPy composite nanostructures displayed ferromagnetic behavior with a high coercive force. Explanations for these interesting observations were made in terms of the magnetic interaction between ferromagnetic γ‐Fe2O3 nano‐needles and spin‐polaron of PPy nanotubes. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 47: 4446–4453, 2009
Evolutions of morphology and crystalline ordering upon annealing of quenched isotactic polypropylene
Authors: Zhao Junchai , Qiu Jie , Niu Yanhua , Wang Zhigang
Published: July 2009

Quenched mesomorphic isotactic polypropylene precursor material has been investigated as well as the material annealed at different temperatures. At room temperature, morphology and crystalline ordering of the materials have been studied by atomic force microscopy (AFM) and wide‐angle X‐ray diffraction (WAXD). The nodular morphology of the mesomorphic precursor remains constant for annealing temperatures Ta below 120 °C. Needle‐like or leaf‐like crystals form when Ta approaches the melting temperature of the precursor. WAXD data analyzed by peak‐fitting indicate that the crystalline ordering along both the chain axis and the lateral directions quickly develops during the mesomorphic‐to‐monoclinic transition, but slowly after the transition (Ta > 140 °C). Combining the AFM and WAXD results it is proposed that two decoupled structure evolution mechanisms are occurring. During the transition, only the crystalline ordering is increasing, but not the size of the nodules. After the transition, the geometry of the nodules changes considerably, whereas there is little additional increase of crystalline ordering. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 47: 1703–1712, 2009
Sleep dysfunction and psychosocial adaptation among women undergoing treatment for non‐metastatic breast cancer
Authors: Vargas Sara , Wohlgemuth William K. , Antoni Michael H. , Lechner Suzanne C. , Holley Heather A. , Carver Charles S.
Published: July 2009

Objective: The current study aimed to determine the frequency of sleep disturbances in women prior to adjuvant therapy for breast cancer (BCa), and whether greater sleep dysfunction uniquely predicts poorer functional outcomes.

Method: We assessed subjective sleep reports and associated them with multiple indicators of psychosocial adaptation in 240 women with Stage I–III BCa before they had begun adjuvant treatment.

Results: The average global score on the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) was 8.49 (SD=4.16); 54% scoring above the suggested adjusted cutoff for cancer populations of 8.0. Controlling for various medical, sociodemographic, and psychosocial covariates, multiple regression analyses revealed that higher global PSQI score was significantly associated with poorer functional well‐being, greater fatigue intensity, greater disruptions in social interactions, and lower positive states of mind. Specifically, a poorer ‘sleep efficiency’ PSQI component was associated with poorer functional quality of life and the SIP–Social Interactions subscale, while a poorer ‘sleep quality’ (SQ) PSQI component was associated with all of the outcomes except for the SIP–Recreations and Pastimes subscale.

Conclusions: Results indicate consistent associations between a clinical indicator of sleep dysfunction, particularly those subscales of the PSQI comprising the ‘SQ’ component, and multiple indicators of psychosocial adaptation among women treated for BCa, independent of anxiety and depression, and suggest the value of comprehensive psychosocial interventions that consider sleep problems. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Psychological distress related to patterns of family functioning among Japanese childhood cancer survivors and their parents
Authors: Ozono Shuichi , Saeki Toshinari , Mantani Tomoyuki , Ogata Akiko , Okamura Hitoshi , Nakagawa Shin‐ichiro , Ueda Koichiro , Inada Hiroko , Yamawaki Shigeto
Published: July 2009

Objective: Family functioning appears to be a predictor of psychological distress among childhood cancer survivors and their family members; however, relatively little is known about patterns in those families that are psychologically at‐risk. The purpose of this study was to identify distinct clusters of families that include childhood cancer survivors, and to evaluate differences between the clusters with respect to anxiety, depression, and post‐traumatic stress symptoms (PTSS).

Methods: Childhood cancer survivors and their parents (247 individuals: 88 adolescent cancer survivors, 87 mothers, and 72 fathers) completed self‐report questionnaires. Perceptions of family functioning were assessed using the Family Relationship Index and its three dimensions (cohesiveness, expressiveness, and conflict), and individuals were classified into groups via a cluster analytic approach. State‐trait anxiety, depression, and PTSS were assessed to all of the participants.

Results: The individuals were classified into three types: One cluster featured high cohesiveness, high expressiveness, and low conflict (‘Supportive‐type’, n=102); a second cluster featured low cohesiveness, low expressiveness, and high conflict (‘Conflictive‐type’, n=32); and a third cluster had moderate cohesiveness, moderate expressiveness, and moderate conflict (‘Intermediate‐type’, n=113). Among the three types, an analysis of variance revealed that ‘Conflictive‐type’ members had the highest levels of PTSS, depression, and state–trait anxiety.

Conclusions: These findings suggest that perceptions of family functioning are related to psychological distress in family members of childhood cancer survivors. A family‐focused intervention might be a useful approach to targeting emotional distress in these families, particularly for families with a ‘Conflictive‐type’ family member. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Assessment of ligand binding residue predictions in CASP8
Authors: López Gonzalo , Ezkurdia Iakes , Tress Michael L.
Published: July 2009

Here we detail the assessment process for the binding site prediction category of the eighth Critical Assessment of Protein Structure Prediction experiment (CASP8). Predictions were only evaluated for those targets that bound biologically relevant ligands and were assessed using the Matthews Correlation Coefficient. The results of the analysis clearly demonstrate that three predictors from two groups (Lee and Sternberg) stand out from the rest. A further two groups perform well over subsets of metal binding or nonmetal ligand binding targets. The best methods were able to make consistently reliable predictions based on model structures, though it was noticeable that the two targets that were not well predicted were also the hardest targets. The number of predictors that submitted new methods in this category was highly encouraging and suggests that current technology is at the level that experimental biochemists and structural biologists could benefit from what is clearly a growing field. Proteins 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The evaluation of spin‐density matrices within the graphically contracted function method
Authors: Gidofalvi Gergely , Shepard Ron
Published: July 2009

An efficient algorithm is presented to compute spin‐density matrices from wave functions expanded in a basis of graphically contracted functions (GCF). The GCFs are based on the graphical unitary group approach (GUGA), which is a “spin‐free” formulation of the electronic wave function. The spin‐density matrix elements are computed from one‐particle and two‐particle charge‐density matrix elements. The recursive algorithm allows the spin‐density matrix to be computed with O(Nωn2) total effort where NGCF is the dimension of the GCF basis and n is the dimension of the orbital basis. The scale factor ω depends on the number of electrons N and ranges from O(N0) to O(N2) depending on the complexity of the underlying Shavitt graph. Because the “spin‐free” GCF formulation eliminates the need to expand the wave function in a spin‐dependent Slater determinant basis, it is possible to treat wave functions with large numbers of electrons and orbitals. Timings are given for wave functions that correspond to determinantal expansions over 10200 in length. The implementation is applicable to arbitrary spin states and to both ground and excited electronic states. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2009
Syntheses, Structures, and Theoretical Studies of New Mercury Iodobismuthates: (Et4N)4(Bi4Hg2I20) and (nBu4N)2(Bi2HgI10)
Authors: Yuan Mao‐Wen , Li Long‐Hua , Chen Ling
Published: July 2009

The first two mercury iodobismuthates, (Et4N)4(Bi4Hg2I20) (1) and (nBu4N)2(Bi2HgI10) (2) have been synthesized by the reactions of binary BiI3 and HgI2 in a mixed solution of ethanol/acetone with the existence of different ammonia cations. The novel hexanuclear (Bi4Hg2I20)4– anion in 1 can be viewed as a dimer of the trinuclear (Bi2HgI10)2– anion in 2. The DFT calculations reveal that the band gaps of both compounds are determined only by the anionic moieties and therefore are similar, which agrees with the experimental measurements.
The Effect of Temperature onto the Crystal Structure of Thioantimonates: Solvothermal Syntheses and Crystal Structures of [Co(dien)2][Co(tren)SbS4]2·0.5H2O and {[Co(tren)]2[CoSb2S6]}·H2O
Authors: Lichte Jessica , Lühmann Henning , Näther Christian , Bensch Wolfgang
Published: July 2009

The two new compounds [Co(dien)2][Co(tren)SbS4]2·0.5H2O (1) and {[Co(tren)]2[CoSb2S6]}·H2O (2) were synthesized applying mixtures of amines as structure directing molecules (dien = diethylenediamine; tren = tris(2‐aminoethyl)amine). Compound 1 represents a pseudo‐polymorph to the compound [Co(dien)2][Co(tren)SbS4]2·4H2O. The structure consists of the two complexes [Co(2)(dien)2]2+ and [Co(1)(tren)SbS4]– with the latter containing a [Sb(V)S4]3– anion bonded to the Co2+ cation. The central and new feature of the structure is a heterometallic [CoSb2S6] core composed of two [SbIIIS3] pyramids and a [CoS4] tetrahedron. The [CoS4] tetrahedron shares two edges with two [SbIIIS3] units. The remaining sulfur atom of the [SbIIIS3] groups are bonded to two independent [Co(tren)] complexes.
Studies on Nanostructured Bi2WO6: Convenient Hydrothermal and TiO2‐Coating Pathways
Authors: Zhou Ying , Vuille Kathrin , Heel Andre , Patzke Greta R.
Published: July 2009

Bismuth tungstate is an important conductor and photocatalyst that keeps attracting research interest due to its promising catalytic activity under visible light irradiation. The 2D Aurivillius‐type structure of Bi2WO6 promotes its tendency towards the formation of nanosheets that can be converted into hierarchically structured Bi2WO6 microspheres. As their formation mechanism varies strongly with the preparative parameters and further investigations are required, we present studies on the most direct and convenient access to Bi2WO6 nano‐architectures developed hitherto. Our one‐step approach towards this key material is based on the immediate hydrothermal reaction of Bi(NO3)3·5H2O with K2WO4 that proceeds through a mechanism that differs from the previously observed routes. These insights are essential for the development of straightforward technical processes in order to produce nanomaterials without complicated parameter adjustments. The resulting Bi2WO6 nanostructures display high photocatalytic activity under visible light irradiation. For the first time, the influence of an inorganic additive, K2SO4, is investigated in the Bi(NO3)3·5H2O/K2WO4 hydrothermal system. This paved the way to the synthesis and stabilization of other bismuth oxide‐based materials at lower temperatures. Furthermore, we developed a flexible and efficient solution‐based coating process to cover the hierarchical Bi2WO6 arrangements with a thin layer of anatase TiO2 nanoparticles.
Haloperoxidase‐like Compounds: Synthesis, Structure and Properties of Two New Oxidovanadium‐Poly(pyrazolyl)borate‐Carboxylate Complexes
Authors: Li Zhang‐Peng , Xing Yong‐Heng , Wang Chun‐Guang , Li Jing , Cao Yun‐Zhu , Zeng Xiao‐Qing , Ge Mao‐Fa , Niu Shu‐Yun
Published: July 2009

Two new oxidovanadium (IV) complexes: TpVO(L1) (1) and Tp*VO(pzH*)(L2) (2) [Tp = hydrotris(pyrazolyl)borate, HL1 = 5‐methyl‐1H‐pyrazole‐3‐carboxylic acid, Tp* = hydrotris(3,5‐dimethylpyrazolyl)borate, pzH* = 3,5‐dimethylpyrazole, HL2 = 5‐phenyl‐1H‐pyrazole‐3‐carboxylic acid] have been synthesized and characterized by elemental analysis and IR spectroscopy. The single‐crystal structures of the complexes shows that the vanadium ion is in a distorted octahedral environment with a N4O2 donor set in each complex. Additionally, hydrogen bonding interaction exits in both complexes. Interestingly, the molecules of 1 are held together to form a 1D hydrogen bonded polymer along the b axis, whereas complex 2 is a hydrogen bonded dimer. In addition, the catalytic activities of complexes 1 and 2 in bromination reactions in phosphate buffer with phenol red as a trap were evaluated primary by UV/Vis spectroscopy. Furthermore, ab initio calculations of complexes 1 and 2 were performed.