bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Starch-Branching Enzyme IIa Is Required for Proper Diurnal Cycling of Starch in Leaves of Maize
Authors: Yandeau-Nelson Marna D. , Laurens Lieve , Shi Zi , Xia Huan , Smith Alison M. , Guiltinan Mark J.
Published: April 2011

Starch-branching enzyme (SBE), a glucosyl transferase, is required for the highly regular pattern of α-1,6 bonds in the amylopectin component of starch. In the absence of SBEIIa, as shown previously in the sbe2a mutant of maize (Zea mays), leaf starch has drastically reduced branching and the leaves exhibit a severe senescence-like phenotype. Detailed characterization of the maize sbe2a mutant revealed that SBEIIa is the primary active branching enzyme in the leaf and that in its absence plant growth is affected. Both seedling and mature sbe2a mutant leaves do not properly degrade starch during the night, resulting in hyperaccumulation. In mature sbe2a leaves, starch hyperaccumulation is greatest in visibly senescing regions but also observed in green tissue and is correlated to a drastic reduction in photosynthesis within the leaf. Starch granules from sbe2a leaves observed via scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy analyses are larger, irregular, and amorphous as compared with the highly regular, discoid starch granules observed in wild-type leaves. This appears to trigger premature senescence, as shown by an increased expression of genes encoding proteins known to be involved in senescence and programmed cell death processes. Together, these results indicate that SBEIIa is required for the proper diurnal cycling of transitory starch within the leaf and suggest that SBEIIa is necessary in producing an amylopectin structure amenable to degradation by starch metabolism enzymes.
Fast Neutron Induced Nuclear Counter Effect in Hamamatsu Silicon PIN Diodes and APDs
Authors: Zhang Liyuan , Mao Rihua , Zhu Ren-Yuan
Published: April 2011

Neutron induced nuclear counter effect in Hamamatsu silicon PIN diodes and APDs was measured by irradiating fast neutrons from a pair of252Cf sources directly to these devices. It was found that the entire kinetic energy of these neutrons may be converted into electron signals in these devices, leading to anomalous signals of up to a few million electrons in a single isolated calorimeter readout channel. Signals of such amplitude represent equivalent energy of several hundred GeV and a few GeV for PWO and LSO/LYSO crystals respectively assuming the corresponding light yields of 4 and 800 p.e./MeV. The overall rate of the neutron induced nuclear counter effect in APDs is found to be more than an order of magnitude less than that in PIN diodes. Increasing the APD gain was also found to reduce the neutron induced nuclear counter effect. An intelligent front-end chip capable of selecting un-contaminated signal is proposed to eliminate completely the nuclear counter effect without significant cost increase.
The biocontrol bacterium Pseudomonas fluorescens Pf29Arp strain affects the pathogenesis‐related gene expression of the take‐all fungus Gaeumannomyces graminis var. tritici on wheat roots
Authors: DAVAL STÉPHANIE , LEBRETON LIONEL , GAZENGEL KÉVIN , BOUTIN MORGANE , GUILLERM‐ERCKELBOUDT ANNE‐YVONNE , SARNIGUET ALAIN
Published: April 2011

The main effects of antagonistic rhizobacteria on plant pathogenic fungi are antibiosis, fungistasis or an indirect constraint through the induction of a plant defence response. To explore different biocontrol mechanisms, an in vitro confrontation assay was conducted with the rhizobacterium Pseudomonas fluorescens Pf29Arp as a biocontrol agent of the fungus Gaeumannomyces graminis var. tritici (Ggt) on wheat roots. In parallel with the assessment of disease extension, together with the bacterial and fungal root colonization rates, the transcript levels of candidate fungal pathogenicity and plant‐induced genes were monitored during the 10‐day infection process. The bacterial inoculation of wheat roots with the Pf29Arp strain reduced the development of Ggt‐induced disease expressed as attack frequency and necrosis length. The growth rates of Ggt and Pf29Arp, monitored through quantitative polymerase chain reaction of DNA amounts with a part of the Ggt 18S rDNA gene and a specific Pf29Arp strain detection probe, respectively, increased throughout the interactions. Bacterial antagonism and colonization had no significant effect on root colonization by Ggt. The expression of fungal and plant genes was quantified in planta by quantitative reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction during the interactions thanks to the design of specific primers and an innovative universal reference system. During the early stages of the tripartite interaction, several of the fungal genes assayed were down‐regulated by Pf29Arp, including two laccases, a β‐1,3‐exoglucanase and a mitogen‐activated protein kinase. The plant host glutathione‐S‐transferase gene was induced by Ggt alone and up‐regulated by Pf29Arp bacteria in interaction with the pathogen. We conclude that Pf29Arp antagonism acts through the alteration of fungal pathogenesis and probably through the activation of host defences.
Induction of monocyte tissue factor procoagulant activity during coronary artery bypass surgery is reduced with heparin‐coated extracorporeal circuit
Authors: Barstad R. Marius , ØVrum Eivind , Ringdal Mari‐Anne L. , ØYstese Rolf , Hamers Maria J. A. G. , Veiby Ole P. , Rolfsen Torill , Stephens Ross W. , Sakariassen Kjell S.
Published: April 2011

Summary. The possible activation of monocytes to express tissue factor procoagulant activity (TF‐PCA) during CPB (cardiopulmonary bypass) was investigated. 22 patients undergoing myocardial revascularization were randomly assigned to two groups. In group C, heparin‐coated circuits (Duraflo II) and reduced systemic heparinization (ACT > 250 s) were used. In group NC, non‐coated circuits and standard heparin administration (ACT > 480 s) were used.

Adherent monocytes retrieved from the oxygenators immediately after bypass arrest showed a 2–3‐fold increase in TF‐PCA when compared to circulating cells pre‐CPB (P < 0·01). When cell PCA was expressed as percent change from pre‐CPB (baseline) values, circulating monocytes in group NC at CPB‐arrest showed a 2‐fold increase in PCA compared to group C (P<0·05). Moreover, the percent increase in PCA of oxygenator‐retrieved monocytes was 7‐fold in group NC and 2‐fold in group C (P<0·008 and P< 0·004, respectively). Thus, heparin‐coating of the extracorporeal circuit reduced induction of adherent cell TF‐PCA by 70% (P<0·05).

Thus, monocyte TF‐PCA may cause activation of the extrinsic coagulation pathway during CPB surgery. It is apparent that heparin‐coating enhanced biocompatibility of extracorporeal circuits. Reduced systemic heparinization in group C proved to be safe. However, further reduction of heparin administration may not be advisable, since monocytes were still activated in the coated oxygenator.
A historical meta‐analysis of global terrestrial net primary productivity: are estimates converging?
Authors: ITO AKIHIKO
Published: April 2011

Net primary productivity (NPP) is one of the most important ecosystem parameters, representing vegetation activity, biogeochemical cycling, and ecosystem services. To assess how well the scientific community understands the biospheric function, a historical meta‐analysis was conducted. By surveying the literature from 1862 to 2011, I extracted 251 estimates of total terrestrial NPP at the present time (NPPT) and calculated their statistical metrics. For all the data, the mean±standard deviation and median were 56.2±14.3 and 56.4 Pg C yr–1, respectively. Even for estimates published after 2000, a substantial level of uncertainty (coefficient of variation by ±15%) was inevitable. The estimates were categorized on the basis of methodology (i.e., inventory analysis, empirical model, biogeochemical model, dynamic global vegetation model, and remote sensing) to examine the consistency among the statistical metrics of each category. Chronological analysis revealed that the present NPPT estimates were directed by extensive field surveys in the 1960s and 1970s (e.g., the International Biological Programme). A wide range of uncertainty remains in modern estimates based on advanced biogeochemical and dynamic vegetation models and remote‐sensing techniques. Several critical factors accounting for the estimation uncertainty are discussed. Ancillary analyses were performed to derive additional ecological and human‐related parameters related to NPP. For example, interannual variability, carbon‐use efficiency (a ratio of NPP to gross photosynthesis), human appropriation, and preindustrial NPPT were assessed. Finally, I discuss the importance of improving NPPT estimates in the context of current global change studies and integrated carbon cycle research.
CD11b and CD27 reflect distinct population and functional specialization in human natural killer cells
Authors: Fu Binqing , Wang Fuyan , Sun Rui , Ling Bin , Tian Zhigang , Wei Haiming
Published: April 2011

The identification of developmental stages in natural killer (NK) cells, especially in human NK cells, has lagged for decades. We characterize four novel populations defined by CD11b and CD27, which can represent the distinct stages of human NK cells from different tissues. Nearly all NK cells from peripheral blood are CD11b+ CD27− populations whereas NK cells from cord blood have CD11b+ CD27− and CD11b+ CD27+ populations. Interestingly, we have found large CD11b− CD27− populations of NK cells from deciduas. We also demonstrate that each population could be characterized by unique functional and phenotypic attributes. CD11b− CD27− NK cells display an immature phenotype and potential for differentiation. CD11b− CD27+ and CD11b+ CD27+ NK cells show the best ability to secrete cytokines. CD11b+ CD27− NK cells exhibit high cytolytic function. We demonstrate that human NK cells at different developmental stages have special functions and describe a new model of human NK cell differentiation.
Climate change, dermatology and ecosystem services; trends and trade‐offs
Authors: Muller Scott A.
Published: April 2011

Climate change is one of the defining issues for human well‐being in the 21st century. As several dermatological diseases have a high sensitivity to climate and ecologic change, dermatologists will have an increasingly important role in public health affairs. The International Society of Dermatology’s (ISD) establishment of a task force to track the impact of climate change on the incidence of dermatologic conditions is an example of scientific monitoring critical to future interdisciplinary adaptation and decision making to improve human well‐being.
Managing skin disease in resource‐poor environments – the role of community‐oriented training and control programs
Authors: Hay Roderick , Estrada Roberto , Grossmann Henning
Published: April 2011

Programs that have been devised to improve the lot of patients with skin disease, or disease presenting with skin signs and symptoms, in resource‐poor regions have focused mainly on education and training or community‐oriented control measures. However, both have in common an objective of managing disease at population level. Training has been delivered in different ways both by direct teaching for varying periods of time or by web‐based and electronic communication; control measures have been less in evidence and there is a great need for more support from funding agencies. Despite this, there is now a growing number of successful initiatives in health improvement for skin conditions that cover many parts of the world. This report describes many of these schemes as an example of what can be done to help patients.
Advancement of women in dermatology
Authors: Murrell Dedee F. , Ryan Terence J. , Bergfeld Wilma F.
Published: April 2011

This article reviews the special role that women dermatologists have played in the improvement of skin care for women and children, as well as the role of the Women’s Dermatological Society (WDS) in providing networking, mentoring and leadership opportunities for female dermatologists. Women leaders within the International League of Dermatology Societies (ILDS) have influenced WHO directives to assign higher priorities to areas of women’s health. Maria Duran and her legacy at the International Society for Dermatology (ISD) has recognized leaders in the area of dermatology education and mentorship. Volunteerism and the promotion of equal access to health care by women and children are other key activities by women dermatologists.
Efficacy and safety of Celsior preservation fluid in liver transplantation: one‐year follow up of a prospective, multicenter, non‐randomized study
Authors: Boudjema Karim , Grandadam Stéphane , Compagnon Philippe , Salamé Ephrem , Wolf Philippe , Ducerf Christian , Le Treut Patrice , Soubrane Olivier , Cherqui Daniel , Mouchel Catherine , Renault Alain , Bellissant Eric
Published: April 2011

Boudjema K, Grandadam S, Compagnon P, Salamé E, Wolf P, Ducerf C, Le Treut P, Soubrane O, Cherqui D, Mouchel C, Renault A, Bellissant E. Efficacy and safety of Celsior preservation fluid in liver transplantation: one‐year follow up of a prospective, multicenter, non‐randomized study.  Clin Transplant 2011 DOI: 10.1111/j.1399‐0012.2011.01447.x.  © 2011 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract:  The purpose of this prospective, nine‐center, non‐randomized study was to assess the efficacy and safety of Celsior preservation fluid in liver transplantation using unselected donors. As data comparing allograft outcomes following liver transplantation using Celsior and University of Wisconsin (UW) preservation fluids are limited, we also compared our cohort with matched controls selected from the European Liver Transplant Registry (ELTR) who received total liver grafts preserved with UW solution during the same period. One hundred and forty patients who received livers preserved with Celsior were included. The primary endpoint, graft loss at one‐yr post‐transplantation, was observed in 24 patients (17.1%) which was not significantly different from the 20.0% pre‐defined threshold rate (95% confidence interval [CI] 10.9, 23.4; p = 0.398). Predictive factors for graft loss on univariate analysis were moderate‐to‐severe steatosis on the donor graft (5/22 patients with graft loss vs. 8/107 patients without, p = 0.046) and duration of warm ischemia (1.4 ± 1.1 h in patients with graft loss vs. 0.9 ± 0.5 h in patients without, p = 0.034). Hepatic artery thrombosis and stenosis occurred in seven (5.0%) and six (4.3%) patients, respectively. The comparison of our patients to 420 ELTR controls showed that one‐yr graft survival rates (Celsior: 82.9%, 95% CI 75.8, 88.2; UW: 78.6%, 95% CI 74.4, 82.2) and Kaplan–Meier one‐yr graft survival distributions (p = 0.285) were similar.

Within the cold ischemia time achieved in our study, liver preservation with Celsior appeared efficient and safe. Comparison with ELTR patients suggested that liver allograft survival was similar using Celsior or UW solution for preservation of unselected donor grafts.
Transplantation of kidneys with renal artery aneurysm
Authors: Olakkengil Santosh A. , Mohan Rao M.
Published: April 2011

Olakkengil SA, Mohan Rao M. Transplantation of kidneys with renal artery aneurysm. Clin Transplant 2011: 25: E516–E519. © 2011 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract:  Background:  The use of kidneys from a select group of living and deceased donors with renal artery aneurysms (RAA) is a novel way to increase the number of organs available for transplantation. Published literature on the outcome of transplanted kidneys with correctable vascular pathology has been reviewed.

Materials and methods:  The outcome of six transplant recipients who received kidneys after the repair of RAA is presented.

Results:  Aneurysm was an incidental finding in two live donors, and two were noticed while preparing the deceased donor grafts for transplantation. Two kidneys were salvaged after nephrectomy as the choice of treatment for the aneurysm. All grafts functioned immediately with no post‐operative complications.

Conclusions:  While there is scarcity for donor kidneys, these repaired kidneys should not be overlooked. Live donor kidneys with aneurysms can be transplanted successfully after appropriate surgical corrections.
Replicated association of 17q12‐21 with susceptibility of primary biliary cirrhosis in a Japanese cohort
Authors: Tanaka A. , Invernizzi P. , Ohira H. , Kikuchi K. , Nezu S. , Kosoy R. , Seldin M. F. , Gershwin M. E. , Takikawa H.
Published: April 2011

To examine the genetics of susceptibility to primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC), genome‐wide association studies GWAS have been performed in patients of European ancestry and have shown the significant associations of IL12‐related pathways, SPIB, IRF5‐TNPO3, and 17q12‐21. We tested whether these findings could be extended to a Japanese cohort, 303 Japanese PBC and 298 controls. We failed to detect significant associations at IL12A (rs574808, rs1075498) and IL12RB2 (rs3790567). There was no genetic variance at IRF5‐TNPO3 (rs10488631) in Japanese. A single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) at SPIB (rs3745516) reached nominal significance, but the corrected P value did not reach significance. For the 17q12‐21 region, two SNPs had nominally significant associations [GSDMB (rs2305480, P = 0.022) and ZPBP2 (rs11557467, P = 0.021)] and we noted a significant P value at a SNP in IKZF3 (rs939327, P = 0.0024, Pc = 0.017) after correction for multiple comparisons. Thus, these results indicate a haplotype on 17q12‐21 with a similar association in Japanese and European PBC.
Laparoscopic fellowship training can deliver a competent laparoscopic surgeon and trainer
Authors: McArthur D. R. , Sharples A. , Ghallab M. , Dawson R. , Lengyel A. J.
Published: April 2011

Aim  The study investigated whether experience gained during a UK laparoscopic colorectal fellowship enabled the fellow subsequently to train consultant colleagues in laparoscopic surgery.

Method  In one unit a newly appointed post‐laparoscopic fellowship consultant (PFC) mentored his other two colleagues. Prospectively collected data regarding surgical outcome were compared with those of the year preceding the PFC appointment.

Results  In the preceding year 18.5% of 260 resections were attempted laparoscopically. This increased to 92.6% (of 270) in the year after (P < 0.0001). Respective conversion rates were 4.2% and 8.4% (P = 0.5524). In the first 6 months after PFC appointment, mentored consultants performed 23 supervised cases. In the second 6 months they carried out 58 procedures independently and trainees performed 38 supervised cases. There was no significant difference in anastomotic leakage and readmission and 30‐day mortality rates between the pre‐ and post‐PFC periods.

Conclusion  A laparoscopic fellowship enables the PFC to mentor consultant colleagues safely and effectively.
MARRIAGE, BMI, AND WAGES: A DOUBLE SELECTION APPROACH
Authors: Brown Heather
Published: April 2011

Obesity rates have been rising over the past decade. As more people become obese, the social stigma of obesity may be reduced. Marriage has typically been used as a positive signal to employers. If obese individuals possess other characteristics that are valued in the labour market they may no longer face a wage penalty for their physical appearance. This paper investigates the relationship between marital status, body mass index (BMI), and wages by estimating a double selection model that controls for selection into the labour and marriage markets using waves 14 and 16 (2004 and 2006) of the British Household Panel Survey. Results suggest that unobserved characteristics related to marriage and labour market participation are causing an upward bias on the BMI coefficients. The BMI coefficient is positive and significant for married men only in the double selection model. The findings provide evidence that unobserved characteristics related to success in the marriage and labour market may influence the relationship between BMI and wages.
The social stratification of tongue shape for postvocalic /r/ in Scottish English1
Authors: Lawson Eleanor , Scobbie James M. , Stuart‐Smith Jane
Published: April 2011

The sociolinguistic modelling of phonological variation and change is almost exclusively based on auditory and acoustic analyses of speech. One phenomenon which has proved elusive when considered in these ways is the variation in postvocalic /r/ in Scottish English. This study therefore shifts to speech production: we present a socioarticulatory study of variation of postvocalic /r/ in CVr (e.g. car) words, using a socially‐stratified ultrasound tongue imaging corpus of speech collected in eastern central Scotland in 2008. Our results show social stratification of /r/ at the articulatory level, with middle‐class speakers using bunched articulations, while working‐class speakers use greater proportions of tongue‐tip and tongue‐front raised variants. Unlike articulatory variation of /r/ in American English, the articulatory variants in our Scottish English corpus are both auditorily distinct from one another, and correlate with strong and weak ends of an auditory rhotic continuum, which also shows clear social stratification.
‘Composing withIntervals’: IntervallicSyntax andSerialTechnique inLateStravinsky
Authors: LOCANTO MASSIMILIANO
Published: April 2011

In Stravinsky's final serial works, the intervallic component assumed a more decisive role than in his in earlier compositions, becoming the foundational aspect of a ‘motivic’ technique, the specific aspects of which are illustrated here through several sketch‐based analyses. In Stravinsky's case, motivic‐intervallic syntax and serial procedures operate according to slightly but significantly different criteria: the first on the level of single intervals, the second on the level of pitch‐class sets. Using several specific examples drawn from compositions ranging fromAgonto theRequiem Canticles, this article demonstrates that the discrepancy provided Stravinsky with a stimulus, rather than an obstacle, to composition, and provides a guide to the interpretation of certain well‐known characteristics both of his creative process and of his serial technique. The music‐theoretical aspects of Stravinsky's intervallic syntax are illustrated, and its interaction with serial technique is observed from two conceptually different directions: from intervallic motives to rows (the initial definition of a row of pitches), and from the row to intervallic motives (the transformation of the ‘abstract’ row into concrete musical contexts).
A new skeleton of the therocephalian synapsid Olivierosuchus parringtoni from the Lower Triassic South African Karoo Basin
Authors: BOTHA‐BRINK JENNIFER , MODESTO SEAN P.
Published: April 2011

Abstract:  We provide a redescription of the therocephalian therapsid Olivierosuchus parringtoni based on a new specimen recovered from the Lower Triassic Lystrosaurus Assemblage Zone of South Africa and discuss the biostratigraphic implications of Lower Triassic South African therocephalians. The new specimen comprises a skull and articulated anterior portion of the postcranial skeleton. Olivierosuchus parringtoni can be distinguished from its akidnognathid relatives, Promoschorhynchus and Moschorhinus, by the presence of a relatively slender snout. Features that further distinguish Olivierosuchus from Promoschorhynchus include fewer upper postcanines, an obtuse angle of the transverse process of the pterygoid and an oblique alignment of the suborbital fenestra margin of the palatine. Features that further distinguish Olivierosuchus from Moschorhinus include the presence of a sharp rather than blunt crista choanalis, a spatulate posterior portion of the ectopterygoid instead of a narrow shaft, the presence of prominent pterygoid tuberosities and a narrow, elongated tabular. A reappraisal of Lower Triassic therocephalian biostratigraphy reveals that most of these taxa are restricted to the lowermost part of the Lystrosaurus Assemblage Zone revealing a high diversity, whereafter the diversity decreases dramatically in the middle of the zone. However, despite their scarcity in the middle and upper Lystrosaurus Assemblage Zone, therocephalians in the Karoo Basin remain the most diverse therapsid clade in the lowermost Triassic, which suggests that they were able to recover relatively quickly from the end‐Permian extinction event and form an important part of the postextinction earliest Triassic recovery.
Pro‐oxidant effects of Ecstasy and its metabolites in mouse brain synaptosomes
Authors: Barbosa Daniel José , Capela João Paulo , Oliveira Jorge MA , Silva Renata , Ferreira Luísa Maria , Siopa Filipa , Branco Paula Sério , Fernandes Eduarda , Duarte José Alberto , de Lourdes Bastos Maria , Carvalho Félix
Published: April 2011

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

3,4‐Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA or ‘Ecstasy’) is a worldwide major drug of abuse known to elicit neurotoxic effects. The mechanisms underlying the neurotoxic effects of MDMA are not clear at present, but the metabolism of dopamine and 5‐HT by monoamine oxidase (MAO), as well as the hepatic biotransformation of MDMA into pro‐oxidant reactive metabolites is thought to contribute to its adverse effects.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

Using mouse brain synaptosomes, we evaluated the pro‐oxidant effects of MDMA and its metabolites, α‐methyldopamine (α‐MeDA), N‐methyl‐α‐methyldopamine (N‐Me‐α‐MeDA) and 5‐(glutathion‐S‐yl)‐α‐methyldopamine [5‐(GSH)‐α‐MeDA], as well as those of 5‐HT, dopamine, l‐DOPA and 3,4‐dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC).

KEY RESULTS

5‐HT, dopamine, l‐DOPA, DOPAC and MDMA metabolites α‐MeDA, N‐Me‐α‐MeDA and 5‐(GSH)‐α‐MeDA, concentration‐ and time‐dependently increased H2O2 production, which was significantly reduced by the antioxidants N‐acetyl‐l‐cysteine (NAC), ascorbic acid and melatonin. From experiments with MAO inhibitors, it was observed that H2O2 generation induced by 5‐HT was totally dependent on MAO‐related metabolism, while for dopamine, it was a minor pathway. The MDMA metabolites, dopamine, l‐DOPA and DOPAC concentration‐dependently increased quinoproteins formation and, like 5‐HT, altered the synaptosomal glutathione status. Finally, none of the compounds modified the number of polarized mitochondria in the synaptosomal preparations, and the compounds’ pro‐oxidant effects were unaffected by prior mitochondrial depolarization, excluding a significant role for mitochondrial‐dependent mechanisms of toxicity in this experimental model.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

MDMA metabolites along with high levels of monoamine neurotransmitters can be major effectors of neurotoxicity induced by Ecstasy.
Quantitative analysis of the cellular inflammatory response against biofilm bacteria in chronic wounds
Authors: Fazli Mustafa , Bjarnsholt Thomas , Kirketerp‐Møller Klaus , Jørgensen Anne , Andersen Claus Bøgelund , Givskov Michael , Tolker‐Nielsen Tim
Published: April 2011

Chronic wounds are an important problem worldwide. These wounds are characterized by a persistent inflammatory stage associated with excessive accumulation and elevated cell activity of neutrophils, suggesting that there must be a persistent stimulus that attracts and recruits neutrophils to the wound. One such stimulus might be the presence of bacterial biofilms in chronic wounds. In the present study, biopsy specimens from chronic venous leg ulcers were investigated for the detection of bacteria using peptide nucleic acid‐based fluorescence in situ hybridization (PNA‐FISH) and confocal laser scanning microscopy. The bacteria in the wounds were often situated in large aggregates. To obtain a measure of the cellular inflammatory response against the bacteria in the chronic wounds, the amount of neutrophils accumulated at the site of infection was evaluated through differential neutrophil counting on the tissue sections from wounds containing either Pseudomonas aeruginosa or Staphylococcus aureus. The P. aeruginosa‐containing wounds had significantly higher numbers of neutrophils accumulated compared with the S. aureus‐containing wounds. These results are discussed in relation to the hypothesis that the presence of P. aeruginosa biofilms in chronic wounds may be one of the main factors leading to a persistent inflammatory response and impaired wound healing.
Particulate β‐glucan induces TNF‐α production in wound macrophages via a redox‐sensitive NF‐κβ‐dependent pathway
Authors: Roy Sashwati , Dickerson Ryan , Khanna Savita , Collard Eric , Gnyawali Urmila , Gordillo Gayle M. , Sen Chandan K.
Published: April 2011

Glucans are known to promote wound repair. Noncellulosic β‐glucans are recognized as potent immunological activators. β‐Glucans are generally safe and are known to attenuate the rate of postoperative infection. Glyc101 is a particulate β‐glucan isolated from Saccharomyces cerevisiae. In this study, the hypothesis that Glyc101 regulates wound macrophage function was tested. Glyc101 induced tumor necrosis factor (TNF) α transcription in macrophages isolated from murine wound site. Multiplex assay identified interleukin (IL)‐10 and TNFα as two cytokines that are induced by Glyc101 in human blood monocyte‐derived macrophages. Glyc101‐induced TNFα production was observed to be mediated via the TLR‐2 and dectin‐1 receptors, receptor tyrosine kinases and NFκB activation. In murine wound macrophages, Glyc101 potentiated phorbol 12‐myristate 13‐acetate‐induced respiratory burst. In vivo, implantation of Glyc101‐enriched polyvinyl alcohol‐sponges at the wound‐site induced TNFα expression in macrophages. Consistently, Glyc101 induced TNFα expression in wound‐site macrophages isolated from two patients with chronic wounds. These observations establish the translational significance of the net findings of this study. Activation of wound macrophages by Glyc101 represents one of the potential mechanisms by which this β‐glucan may benefit chronic wounds where inefficient inflammatory response is one of the underlying causes of impaired healing.
Development of a novel, highly quantitative in vivo model for the study of biofilm‐impaired cutaneous wound healing
Authors: Gurjala Anandev N. , Geringer Matthew R. , Seth Akhil K. , Hong Seok J. , Smeltzer Mark S. , Galiano Robert D. , Leung Kai P. , Mustoe Thomas A.
Published: April 2011

A growing body of evidence suggests that in addition to hypoxia, ischemia‐reperfusion injury, and intrinsic host factors, bacterial biofilms represent a fourth major pillar in chronic wound pathogenesis. Given that most studies to date rely on in vitro or observational clinical data, our aim was to develop a novel, quantitative animal model enabling further investigation of the biofilm hypothesis in vivo. Dermal punch wounds were created in New Zealand rabbit ears, and used as uninfected controls, or inoculated with green fluorescent protein‐labeled Staphylococcus aureus to form wounds with bacteria predominantly in the planktonic or biofilm phase. Epifluorescence and scanning electron microscopy revealed that S. aureus rapidly forms mature biofilm in wounds within 24 hours of inoculation, with persistence of biofilm viability over time seen through serial bacterial count measurement and laser scanning confocal imaging at different time points postwounding and inoculation. Inflammatory markers confirmed that the biofilm phenotype creates a characteristic, sustained, low‐grade inflammatory response, and that over time biofilm impairs epithelial migration and granulation tissue in‐growth, as shown histologically. We have established and validated a highly quantitative, reproducible in vivo biofilm model, while providing evidence that the biofilm phenotype specifically contributes to profound cutaneous wound healing impairment. Our model highlights the importance of bacterial biofilms in chronic wound pathogenesis, providing an in vivo platform for further inquiry into the basic biology of bacterial biofilm–host interaction and high‐throughput testing of antibiofilm therapeutics.
Evaluation of the Atrophogenic Potential of Topical Corticosteroids in Pediatric Dermatology Patients
Authors: Hong Esther , Smith Saxon , Fischer Gayle
Published: April 2011

Abstract:  We conducted a cross‐sectional observational study to determine the atrophogenic potential of TCS in children with dermatitis requiring long‐term TCS suppression. Children who were able to achieve good disease control, with a maximum Eczema Area and Severity Index score of 1.0, using TCS were examined for adverse effects of treatment. Cutaneous atrophy was assessed using a validated dermoscopic technique. Cutaneous sites exposed to TCS were compared with nonexposed sites in all patients. There was no significant atrophy in 70 TCS‐exposed and 22 TCS‐naïve children. Mild grade 1 telangiectasia of the cubital fossa was observed in 3.3% of the test group and 3.1% of the control group (p > 0.99). We conclude that routine, appropriate, long‐term use of TCS in children with dermatitis does not cause skin atrophy. These data do not support the widely held belief that routine use of TCS will “thin the skin.” Parents, pharmacists, and health practitioners should be confident about the safety of using this treatment.
Exploring Portfolio Decision‐Making Processes*
Authors: Kester Linda , Griffin Abbie , Hultink Erik Jan , Lauche Kristina
Published: April 2011

Portfolio management is the set of activities that allows a firm to select, develop, and commercialize a pipeline of new products aligned with the firm's strategy that will enable it to continue to grow profitably over the long term. To appropriately manage the firm's new product portfolio, decisions must be made about which projects to fund, to what levels, at what point in time. Previous research has investigated portfolio management decisions as individually discrete decisions. Significant streams of research have investigated both project selection and project termination decisions. This research project shows, however, that portfolio decision making may be better understood if it is considered as an integrated system of processes that considers these decisions simultaneously, along with other decisions such as those to continue a project with reduced funding. Using in‐depth data from four diverse case studies, we use a grounded theory approach to develop a general model of how firms make new product portfolio decisions. According to the findings from these cases, effective portfolio decision‐making processes produce a portfolio mindset, focus effort on the right projects, and allow agile decision making across the portfolio's set of projects. Effective portfolio decision making is the result of the interaction between three types of decision‐making processes that managers use in making decisions: evidence‐, power‐, and opinion‐based. Being able to use each of these types of processes to make decisions depends upon having the data inputs that they require. Three domain‐based decision input‐generating processes (i.e., cross‐functional collaboration, practices of critical thinking, and practices of market immersion) are associated with making evidence‐based portfolio decisions. In addition, organizational politics produces the inputs that are associated with power‐based portfolio decision making, while managerial intuition is associated with opinion‐based portfolio decision making. Firm cultural factors, including trust, collective ambition, and leadership style, are associated with how these evidence‐, power‐ and opinion‐based processes are combined into an overall portfolio decision making process, and whether the firm's processes are more rational and objectively made, or more politically and intuitively made. The article presents propositions for how the decision‐making processes interact in their associations with decision‐making effectiveness.
Encroachment Patterns of the “Best Products” from the Last Decade*
Authors: Van Orden Joseph , van der Rhee Bo , Schmidt Glen M.
Published: April 2011

Based on the examination of 239 “best products” (all those on Business Week's annual lists from the past decade), this article tests and validates a conceptual framework identifying six ways in which new products open new markets and/or encroach on original products. Three of these six scenarios involve high‐end encroachment (the new product first opens a new high‐end market, or enters at the high end of an existing market, and then diffuses down‐market), and three scenarios involve low‐end encroachment (encroachment starts at the low end, followed by diffusion up‐market). As illustrated in a 2 × 3 matrix, high‐end encroachment ensues when the new product enhances performance with regard to the market's core attribute (low‐end encroachment ensues when this performance is diminished). The three high‐end sub‐types and three low‐end sub‐types are determined by the strength of performance along an ancillary attribute dimension. If the ancillary attribute performance is week, then the encroachment of the new product on the old market is immediate (corresponding to immediate high‐end encroachment and immediate low‐end encroachment, respectively). If the ancillary performance is moderate, then the new product expands the market at the high or low end (corresponding to new‐attribute high‐end encroachment and fringe‐market low‐end encroachment, respectively). If the ancillary performance is strong, then the new product first opens an entirely new market at the high or low end (corresponding to new‐market high‐end encroachment and detached‐market low‐end encroachment, respectively). The reliability and comprehensiveness of the encroachment framework is tested by asking a panel of eight judges to categorize each of the 239 products. Results show inter‐judge reliability of 98%, with all products falling within one of the six encroachment categories. Each of the encroachment types has unique implications on product positioning and pricing, as further discussed in the paper. Thus the model helps firms identify and analyze the various possible strategies that they might choose from when introducing new products.
Franchising and the Family Firm: Creating Unique Sources of Advantage through “Familiness”
Authors: Chirico Francesco , Ireland R. Duane , Sirmon David G.
Published: April 2011

The paucity of research examining family firms engaged with franchising is surprising. We theorize about differences in franchising behavior between family and nonfamily firms and the relative advantages accruing to family firms in this context. We also explore how selection processes tend to lead to family franchisor/family franchisee matches that enable a more effective sharing of complementary resources. The theoretical framework we develop is grounded in the “familiness” of the family firm as suggested by the logic of the resource–based view. Additionally, our theoretical analysis extends and complements the frequent use of agency theory as the basis for studying franchising.
Franchise Partnership and International Expansion: A Conceptual Framework and Research Propositions
Authors: Grewal Dhruv , Iyer Gopalkrishnan R. , Javalgi Rajshekhar (Raj) G. , Radulovich Lori
Published: April 2011

Although academic research has provided tremendous insights about the organizational form of franchising, considerable work remains with regard to understanding the critical factors that enable international franchise expansion and performance. The authors advance the argument that a franchise relationship is essentially an entrepreneurial partnership, and that this partnership influences the speed, scale, and scope of franchise expansion into international markets. In the proposed conceptual model, the authors detail the links among the franchise partnership, international expansion, and franchise system performance.
Mitochondrial nutrients stimulate performance and mitochondrial biogenesis in exhaustively exercised rats
Authors: Sun M. , Qian F. , Shen W. , Tian C. , Hao J. , Sun L. , Liu J.
Published: April 2011

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of a combination of nutrients on physical performance, oxidative stress and mitochondrial biogenesis in rats subjected to exhaustive exercise. Rats were divided into sedentary control (SC), exhaustive exercise (EC) and exhaustive exercise with nutrient supplementation (EN). The nutrients include (mg/kg/day): R‐α‐lipoic acid 50, acetyl‐l‐carnitine 100, biotin 0.1, nicotinamide 15, riboflavin 6, pyridoxine 6, creatine 50, CoQ10 5, resveratrol 5 and taurine 100. Examination of running distances over the 4‐week period revealed that EN rats ran significantly longer throughout the entire duration of the exhaustive exercise period compared with the EC rats. Nutrient supplementation significantly inhibited the increase in activities of alanine transaminase, lactate dehydrogenase and creatine kinase, reversed increases in malondialdehyde, inhibited decreases in glutathione S‐transferase and total antioxidant capacity in plasma, and suppressed the elevation of reactive oxygen species and apoptosis in splenic lymphocytes. Nutrient supplementation increased the protein expression of mitochondrial complexes I, II and III, mtDNA number and transcription factors involved in mitochondrial biogenesis and fusion in skeletal muscle. These findings suggest that mitochondrial nutrient supplementation can reduce exhaustive exercise‐induced oxidative damage and mitochondrial dysfunction, thus leading to enhancement of physical performance and of fatigue recovery.
The accretion-heated crust of the transiently accreting 11-Hz X-ray pulsar in the globular cluster Terzan 5
Authors: Degenaar N. , Wijnands R.
Published: April 2011

We report on a Chandra Director’s Discretionary Time observation of the globular cluster Terzan 5, carried out ∼7 weeks after the cessation of the 2010 outburst of the newly discovered transiently accreting 11-Hz X-ray pulsar. We detect a thermal spectrum that can be fitted with a neutron star atmosphere model with a temperature for an observer at infinity of kT∞∼ 100 eV and a quiescent thermal bolometric luminosity of Lq∼ 2 × 1033 erg s-1 for an assumed distance of 5.5 kpc. The thermal emission is elevated above the quiescent base level measured in 2003 and 2009, i.e. prior to the recent accretion outburst. A likely explanation is that the neutron star crust was significantly heated during the recent accretion episode and needs to cool until it restores thermal equilibrium with the core. Although this has been observed for neutron star low-mass X-ray binaries that undergo accretion episodes of years to decades, it is the first time that evidence for crustal heating is detected for a transient system with a regular outburst duration of weeks. This opens up a new window to study heating and cooling of transiently accreting neutron stars.
Mixed signals in HRM: the HRM role of hospital line managers1
Authors: Townsend Keith , Wilkinson Adrian , Allan Cameron , Bamber Greg
Published: April 2011

Recently, Haggerty and Wright suggested that HR could be reconceptualised as signals sent to employees rather than practices. We examine this novel approach and consider how it fits in the practice. In hospitals, ward managers are intermediaries in relation to signals that are passed between upper managers and their staff. We discuss to what extent ward managers have the analytical and functional skills required to interpret and convey complex signals to the staff under their jurisdiction. We draw conclusions about the role of ward managers in the HR function of hospitals. There are theoretical and practical implications for the role of line managers more generally, beyond the hospital context.
Leptospirosis and Tularaemia in Raccoons (Procyon lotor) of Larimer Country, Colorado
Authors: Duncan C. , Krafsur G. , Podell B. , Baeten L. A. , LeVan I. , Charles B. , Ehrhart E. J.
Published: April 2011

Raccoons (Procyon lotor) are commonly implicated as carriers of many zoonotic pathogens. The purpose of this cross‐sectional study was to look for Leptospira interrogans and Francisella tularensis in opportunistically sampled, free‐ranging raccoons of Larimer Country, Colorado, USA. Sixty‐five animals were included in the study and testing consisted of gross post‐mortem examination, histopathology, and both immunohistochemistry and PCR for L. interrogans and F. tularensis. No significant gross lesions were identified and the most common histological lesions were lymphoplasmacytic interstitial nephritis and pulmonary silicosis; rare periportal hepatitis, splenic lymphoid hyperplasia and small pulmonary granulomas were also identified. Of 65 animals, 20 (30%) were positive for Leptospira on IHC but only one by PCR. Animals with inflammation in their kidneys were seven times more likely to be positive for Leptospira than animals without inflammation. The severity of inflammation was variable but often mild with minimal associated renal pathology. One animal was positive for Francisella on both IHC and PCR; IHC staining was localized to histiocytic cells within a pulmonary granuloma. In Colorado the significance and epidemiology of Leptospira is poorly understood. The high prevalence of infection in raccoons in this study population suggests that this species may be important in the regional epidemiology or could be used to estimate risk to domestic animals and humans. Identification of a single Francisella positive animal is significant as this is an uncommon disease in terrestrial animals within the state; the apparently higher prevalence in this peridomestic species implies that raccoons may be good indicators of the pathogen in the region. The results of this study suggest that raccoons may serve as effective sentinels for both Leptospira and Francisella in the state of Colorado. Further studies are needed to better characterize the prevalence and epidemiology of both organisms within the region.
Shock metamorphism investigations of quartz grains in clasts from impact breccia of the Eyreville B drill core, Chesapeake Bay impact structure, USA
Authors: BARTOSOVA Katerina , KOEBERL Christian
Published: April 2011

Abstract– The Chesapeake Bay impact structure, approximately 85 km in diameter, has been drilled in 2005–2006 at Eyreville (Virginia, USA), to a total depth of 1766 m. In the drill cores, the abundance of shock metamorphosed material is very variable with depth. Shocked mineral and lithic clasts, as well as melt particles, are most abundant in suevitic impact breccia section (1397–1451 m depth). Shocked quartz (i.e., quartz grains with planar fractures and/or planar deformation features) and melt particles, although rare, are also dispersed in the Exmore Formation unit (444–867 m depth). Other lithologies in the Eyreville drill cores show no clear evidence of shock metamorphism. Here, we report on the investigations of 40 samples from the impact breccia section. A total of more than 27,000 quartz grains were examined in about 200 clasts. The abundance of highly shocked clasts tends to decrease with increasing depth. Crystalline clasts derived from the crystalline basement are commonly only slightly shocked (contain generally <10 rel% of shocked quartz grains). The clasts of metamorphosed sediments show a low proportion of shocked quartz grains (mostly <10 rel%). Sedimentary clasts show a wide range of proportions of shocked quartz grains, with several of them being highly shocked clasts (most values between 0 and 40 rel%). Conglomerates show the highest proportion of shocked quartz grains of all types of clasts (up to 83 rel%). Polycrystalline quartz clasts are also commonly highly shocked (contain mostly between 10 and 40 rel% of shocked quartz grains). These hard nonporous clasts are possibly more liable to show evidence of shock. The investigations suggest that the intensity of shock metamorphism is the result of several parameters, such as original position in the target (both horizontal and vertical) and the properties of each lithology (e.g., grain size, porosity, and amount of matrix). According to the universal‐stage investigations, the dominant orientations of planar deformation features in quartz are , , and also .