bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Risk of marginalization in the process of internationalization
Authors: Ma Zhenzhong , Yang Zhenning
Published: February 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the process of internationalization and its associated risk of marginalization for the emerging Chinese multinationals; also to examine typical strategies emerging Chinese multinationals employ to deal with this challenge in order to provide insights for Chinese firms that are planning to enter the global market.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a sample of Chinese multinationals that are listed in the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, this study conducts a multiple‐case analysis on three different Chinese multinationals to explore their experiences in the process of internationalization and their unique approaches to the risk of marginalization.

Findings

The results show that internationalized Chinese firms are strengthening their control over core businesses, designing effective corporate governance policy and adjusting their capital structure to increase their actual control in order to minimize the risk of marginalization accompanying their internationalization process.

Originality/value

While an increasing number of Chinese firms are on a fast track of internationalization to enter the global market, the risk of marginalization has become a prominent concern for emerging multinationals and many newly internationalized Chinese firms are faced with a crisis of identity, and consequently they may be marginalized, with the risk of losing control over their own companies and being excluded from major government projects or significant R&D funding opportunities in China. This paper explores Chinese firms' risk of marginalization in their internationalization process and their approaches to dealing with this risk. The paper's findings will provide important insights for Chinese firms that plan to go international and will make an important contribution to the literature and enrich our understanding of Chinese multinationals and their strategic expansion in the era of globalization.
Developing high relational support services for individuals with long term mental health needs: scheme description and service evaluation
Authors: Davies Jason , Hopkins Mark , Campisi Mark , Maggs Richard G.
Published: February 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe a not‐for‐profit (third sector) social care facility designed to provide tenancy and high‐relational support and report an initial multi‐method evaluation of service inputs (what staff provide/facilitate); tenant outcomes; and views of the service.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were gathered using routine information collected on a daily basis over the course of a year, semi‐structured interviews and pre‐post testing.

Findings

Support needs vary over time and across tenants, with almost all support provided during waking hours. With appropriate support the health and wellbeing, personal and community safety, independence and social integration of all the tenants was maintained or enhanced using this social care model. The service was well received and would benefit from being replicated.

Research limitations/implications

This paper is based on data from a small number of individuals and relates to a single setting.

Originality/value

High‐relational support delivered by not‐for‐profit social care providers can be effective, sustainable and cost efficient for those with complex, enduring and severe mental health problems. This paper shows that such services can significantly improve the social inclusion experienced by individuals within them.
Signpost – a model of self‐directed support and a framework for brokerage
Authors: Hammond Jacky
Published: February 2012

Purpose

This paper aims to provide a review of the Signposts programme which facilitates individuals in developing self‐directed support, and seeks to share learning from development of this programme across the mental health sector.

Design/methodology/approach

Information for the review has been collected through anecdotal reports from individuals in receipt of Signpost services – this has included individuals who have used mental health services, their carers and professionals. The paper frames its work within the national context of government policy and research.

Findings

The complexities of self assessment and self navigation within existing mental health systems are difficult for many individuals to overcome. Based on principles of control and choice, the Signpost system allows individuals to take control of their lives and purchase the care and support they need. It has been important to develop a bespoke quality framework to enable protection of the public purse as well as the individual; Signpost UK has achieved this with its Quality Brokerage Framework.

Originality/value

This paper describes a highly innovative framework delivery of mental health self‐directed support within the personalisation agenda. Through partnership working, the framework not only provides a bespoke provision for mental health clients, but also an adaptable programme across all client groups which enhances principles of choice and control.
Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DOLS) – a survey exploring the views of psychiatrists
Authors: Varghese Susan , Gormez Aynur , Andrews Tim , Griffiths Rachel , Stephenson Matthew
Published: February 2012

Purpose

Psychiatrists are among the front‐line professionals involved in the implementation of Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DOLS). This paper aims to explore how the safeguards are perceived and practised amongst psychiatrists.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors carried out a postal survey among 519 psychiatrists on their views and experiences on DOLS.

Findings

A total of 171 psychiatrists (36 per cent) responded to the survey. Nearly three‐quarters of the participants had received DOLS training and 81 per cent of individuals who had training believed that DOLS would protect the rights of vulnerable people. Almost half of both groups agreed that DOLS make a valuable contribution to the provision of necessary care in the least restrictive way possible. The most common concern raised was possible increase in bureaucratic process. Interface between the existing legislations continues to be a grey area for many practitioners with difficulties in interpreting the relevant Code of Practice. In total, 50 per cent of the participants felt DOLS should extend to community placement provisions.

Originality/value

The views and concerns expressed by psychiatrists in this paper are relevant to all professionals working with adults who lack capacity to consent to their care or treatment in any setting. As the process continues to widen, it is important to recognise the issues, encourage use of DOLS process to protect human rights, and to address key gaps in training.
Psychosis in polycystic ovary syndrome – dilemmas in management
Authors: Gumber Rohit , Hobbs Tracy , Cryer‐Rolley Bridget , Biswas Asit
Published: February 2012

Purpose

Mental health problems, particularly psychotic symptoms, are associated with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) which may be linked to oestrogen signalling cascade following a period of sustained high oestrogen and dysregulation of cortisol. This case report aims to demonstrate a potential link and improvement following the use of Metformin.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper describes a case of a female with intellectual disability who presents with psychosis coinciding with PCOS and the aetiology of this association.

Findings

The case highlights some key points and complexities encountered in diagnosing and managing an individual with mental and physical health issues and an underlay of family dynamics and insecure attachment. A treatment approach involving recommendations from and joint working between professional groups including endocrinology, is highlighted.

Originality/value

There are very few studies to date that link PCOS to psychosis and only a single case report describes the use of Metformin. In a patient presenting with psychosis and PCOS, the consideration of an association with hormonal changes should be made, especially in patients with changing severity of psychosis and poor response to psychiatric medication. A “multimodal” intervention package needs to be considered for optimum benefit.
Establishing a database for proactive screening of adults with Down's syndrome: when services work together
Authors: Hobson Ben , Webb Diane , Sprague Lynda , Grizzell Moni , Hawkins Cliff , Benbow Susan M.
Published: February 2012

Purpose

This paper describes a service improvement project with two aims: to identify and screen all adults with Down's syndrome aged over 30 years in a defined locality using a standardised instrument to establish functional baselines; and to set up a database to facilitate early diagnosis of dementia in this population.

Design/methodology/approach

An assistant psychologist used a standardised instrument to screen participants who were identified through contact with health, social, and third sector, and housing services.

Findings

Eligible people were identified and screened using an informant‐based measure. Three groups were identified: group 1 showed no significant change; group 2 showed significant change but no signs of dementia; and group 3 showed significant change plus signs of dementia. People with suspected dementia were referred on for further investigation/assessment and supportive services.

Practical implications

Terminology is important in engaging families in a screening project, as is the opportunity to provide information. A proactive screening project can be established by employing working partnerships between intellectual disability and older adult services to aid diagnosis.

Originality/value

Adults with Down's syndrome aged over 30 years in a defined locality can be identified through contact with health, social, and third sector, and housing services. Those identified can be screened using a standardised instrument and a database of screening results established in order to establish baselines against which future re‐screening can be conducted. Partnership working between older adult mental health services and intellectual disability services can improve the diagnostic service to adults with Down's syndrome.
E-commerce capabilities of a Ghanaian used car retailer
Authors: Boateng Richard , Budu Joseph , Okai Sheena
Published: February 2012

Subject area

Enterprise, Strategy.

Study level/applicability

This case study is about a used car retailer in an African country, specifically Ghana. Lessons drawn from the case could be applied in societies which are highly socialised; not individualistic.

Case overview

Ghana is one of the first African countries to be hooked up to the internet. However, there has been a very slow uptake of “traditional” e-commerce applications due to a number of critical factors including a legal framework, and electronic payment system. Despite these challenges, some firms are making strides to use the power of the internet to enhance their operations. For example, the case firm uses social relationships to sell its first stock of cars and to re-design its website. Other findings and lessons from this case could be applied to similar contexts.

Expected learning outcomes

An understanding of how society influences business operations, especially in an African or Ghanaian context. Learners can also draw lessons that could be applicable to enhancing and growing the e-commerce capabilities of offline firms.

Supplementary materials

Teaching notes.
Cytocompatibility of the ready‐to‐use bioceramic putty repair cement iRoot BP Plus with primary human osteoblasts
Authors: De‐Deus G. , Canabarro A. , Alves G. G. , Marins J. R. , Linhares A. B. R. , Granjeiro J. M.
Published: February 2012

De‐Deus G, Canabarro A, Alves GG, Marins JR, Linhares ABR, Granjeiro JM. Cytocompatibility of the ready‐to‐use bioceramic putty repair cement iRoot BP Plus with primary human osteoblasts. International Endodontic Journal, 45, 508–513, 2012.

Aim  To verify the in vitro cytocompatibility of iRoot BP Plus (iRoot) and to compare it with White ProRoot MTA (MTA).

Methodology  Thirty‐six human maxillary incisor root canals were prepared using a step‐back flaring technique. The apical 3 mm was resected perpendicular to the long axis at the roots, and root‐end cavities were prepared with the aid of an ultrasonic device plus a diamond retrotip with continuous irrigation using water, producing standardized preparations. After that, the root‐end cavities were filled with iRoot or MTA, and each root was exposed to cell culture media for 24 or 48 h. Human osteoblast cells were exposed to the extracts thus obtained, and a multiparametric cell viability assay was performed, evaluating mitochondrial activity, membrane integrity and cell density. The results were analysed by one‐way analysis of variance, complemented with the Duncan post‐test (P < 0.05).

Results  Cells exposed to MTA revealed a cytocompatibility pattern similar to the untreated cells (negative control), at both experimental times (P > 0.05). iRoot, however, promoted a significantly poorer viability than MTA and the control, after 48 h of exposure (P < 0.001). Nevertheless, iRoot did not induce critical cytotoxic effects because cell viability remained higher than 70% of the control group in most tests performed.

Conclusion  iRoot and MTA were biocompatible and did not induce critical cytotoxic effects.
Living with coeliac disease: survey results from the USA
Authors: Lee A. R. , Ng D. L. , Diamond B. , Ciaccio E. J. , Green P. H. R.
Published: February 2012

How to cite this article: Lee A.R., Ng D.L., Diamond B., Ciaccio E.J. & Green P.H.R. (2012) Living with coeliac disease: survey results from the USA. J Hum Nutr Diet. 25, 233–238

Background:  The only treatment for coeliac disease is lifelong adherence to a rigorous gluten‐free diet. The present study aimed to evaluate the influence of coeliac disease on the social aspects of daily life of individuals in the USA.

Methods:  The present study used a self‐administered survey including the standard Quality of Life questionnaire (12‐item short‐form) with validated disease‐specific questions. sas statistical software 2010 (SAS Institute, Cary, NC, USA) was used to calculate the mean (SD).

Results:  Individuals with coeliac disease overall had a low positive health perception. Validated diet and disease‐specific questions revealed a significant negative impact on quality of life in social settings. Specifically, the areas of travel, dining out and family life are most affected. The negative impact of diet significantly decreased over time, although it did not resolve for the domains of dining out of the home and travel. Those diagnosed in childhood and maintained on the diet had less of an impact on the quality of life as an adult.

Conclusions:  Individuals with coeliac disease in the USA have a diminished quality of life, especially in the social aspects of life.
IL1A‐889 C/T gene polymorphism in irritant contact dermatitis
Authors: Landeck L. , Visser M. , Kezic S. , John S.M.
Published: February 2012

Background  Upon skin contact to irritants, interleukin‐1 alpha (IL‐1α) is released in the stratum corneum as a primary step of skin inflammation. Variations in the IL‐1A gene have been shown to alter the expression of IL‐1α. This may influence the susceptibility to skin inflammation and the development of irritant contact dermatitis (ICD).

Objective  To determine effects of an IL1A‐889 C/T polymorphism in view of susceptibility to develop irritant contact dermatitis.

Methods  In a case–control study, 478 Caucasian patients with occupational ICD of the hands were genotyped for an IL1A‐889 C/T polymorphism. Results were compared to 393 apprentices from the same high risk occupations (controls).

Results  Trends of a protective effect of the C→T transition at position IL1A‐889 were seen (OR = 0.81; 95% CI: 0.65–1.00). The genotype distribution for IL1A‐889 was 52.2% wild type (C/C), 39.2% heterozygous (C/T) and 8.6% homozygous for variant allele (T/T) in patients and 46.0%, 42.7% and 11.4% in controls. Subgroup analysis, which took into account atopy status and exposure, did not reveal a significant effect of this polymorphism for an aberrant risk to acquire for ICD.

Conclusion  Our study indicates a possible protective effect of the IL1A‐889 C/T polymorphism regarding the development of ICD.
Effects of 420‐nm intense pulsed light in an acne animal model
Authors: Fan X. , Xing Y.‐Z. , Liu L.‐H. , Liu C. , Wang D.‐D. , Yang R.‐Y. , Lapidoth M.
Published: February 2012

Background  Blue light in the 400–420 nm range has been shown to reduce the levels of Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) in the skin. P. acnes has been postulated to be a critical trigger for inflammatory acne. Thus, treatment with 420 nm‐intense pulsed light should reduce inflammatory activity in acne.

Aim  To evaluate the clinical and histological effects of 420 nm‐intense pulsed light treatment on acne in animal model.

Method  Inflammation acne animal model was constructed by intradermal injection of P. acnes of rat auricular. Levels of tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF‐α) and matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP‐2), markers of inflammation implicated in acne, were assessed in treated and untreated animals by immunohistochemistry and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

Result  Treatment with 420 nm intense pulsed light led to marked improvement after 6 biweekly treatments. Immunohistochemistry and PCR showed that TNF‐α and MMP‐2 levels correlated with the extent of acneiform activity and were reduced by treatment with 420 nm light.

Conclusion  A 420‐nm intense pulsed light may exert its beneficial effects on inflammatory acne by reducing the levels of P. acnes and secondarily reducing inflammation induced by the bacteria.
Probing the Interaction Between Fluorophores and DNA Nucleotides by Fluorescence Correlation Spectroscopy and Fluorescence Quenching†
Authors: Ranjit Suman , Levitus Marcia
Published: February 2012

We have investigated the association interactions between the fluorescent dyes TAMRA, Cy3B and Alexa‐546 and the DNA deoxynucleoside monophosphates by means of fluorescence quenching and fluorescence correlation spectroscopy (FCS). The interactions of Cy3B and TAMRA with the nucleotides produce a decrease in the apparent diffusion coefficient of the dyes, which result in a shift toward longer times in the FCS autocorrelation decays. Our results with Cy3B demonstrate the existence of Cy3B‐nucleotide interactions that do not affect the fluorescence intensity or lifetime of the dye significantly. The same is true for TAMRA in the presence of dAMP, dCMP and dTMP. In contrast, the diffusion coefficient of Alexa 546 remains practically unchanged even at high concentrations of nucleotide. These results demonstrate that interactions between this dye and the four dNMPs are not significant. The presence of the negatively charged sulfonates and the bulky chlorine atoms in the phenyl group of Alexa 546 possibly prevent strong interactions that are otherwise possible for TAMRA. The characterization of dye–DNA interactions is important in biophysical research because they play an important role in the interpretation of energy transfer experiments, and because they can potentially affect the structure and dynamics of the DNA.
A New Luminescent Terbium 4‐methylsalicylate Complex as a Novel Sensor for Detecting the Purity of Methanol
Authors: Zeng Cheng‐Hui , Yang Yang‐Yi , Zhu Yi‐Min , Wang Hong‐Ming , Chu Tian‐Shu , Ng Seik Weng
Published: February 2012

A new dinuclear terbium complex [Tb2(4‐msal)6(H2O)4]·6H2O (1) (4‐msal = 4‐methylsalcylate) was synthesized. Its structure was determined by single crystal X‐ray diffraction, and the complex was characterized by PXRD, FT‐IR, fluorescence, TGA and DTA. Complex 1 exists as discrete molecules that are linked by extensive O–H … O hydrogen bonds into a 3D network. The luminescence lifetimes of 3 μm methanol solution and solid sample of 1 are 1.321 and 1.009 ms, respectively. The quantum yield of solid sample is 6.0%. The luminescence quenched more than 50% when 3% (vol/vol) different impurities (acetone, acetonitrile, chloroform, dichloromethane, dioxane, DMF, DMSO, ethanol, ether, ethyl acetate, glycol, H2O, hexane, TEA, THF and toluene or their mixture) were added. The inverse linear relationship between the Lg value of fluorescence intensity and the volume ratio of the minor component (to a maximum of 20%) is interpreted in terms of LgI = a−bX (I: luminescence intensity; X: volume ratio of impurities in methanol; a, b are constants). So 1 is a potential luminescent sensor for analyzing the purity of methanol.
Acute adenosine increases cardiac vagal and reduces sympathetic efferent nerve activities in rats
Authors: Dias da Silva Valdo Jose , Gnecchi‐Ruscone Tomaso , Bellina Valentina , Oliveira Mauro , Maciel Leonardo , Campos de Carvalho Antonio Carlos , Cesar Salgado Helio , Bergamaschi Cassia M. , Tobaldini Eleonora , Porta Alberto , Montano Nicola
Published: February 2012

Adenosine is the first drug of choice in the treatment of supraventricular arrhythmias. While the effects of adenosine on sympathetic nerve activity (SNA) have been investigated, no information is available on the effects on cardiac vagal nerve activity (VNA). We assessed in rats the responses of cardiac VNA, SNA and cardiovascular variables to intravenous bolus administration of adenosine. In 34 urethane‐anaesthetized rats, cardiac VNA or cervical preganglionic sympathetic fibres were recorded together with ECG, arterial pressure and ventilation, before and after administration of three doses of adenosine (100, 500 and 1000 μg kg−1). The effects of adenosine were also assessed in isolated perfused hearts (n= 5). Adenosine induced marked bradycardia and hypotension, associated with a significant dose‐dependent increase in VNA (+204 ± 56%, P < 0.01; +275 ± 120%, P < 0.01; and +372 ± 78%, P < 0.01, for the three doses, respectively; n= 7). Muscarinic blockade by atropine (5 mg kg−1, i.v.) significantly blunted the adenosine‐induced bradycardia (−56.0 ± 4.5%, P < 0.05; −86.2 ± 10.5%, P < 0.01; and −34.3 ± 9.7%, P < 0.01, respectively). Likewise, adenosine‐induced bradycardia was markedly less in isolated heart preparations. Previous barodenervation did not modify the effects of adenosine on VNA. On the SNA side, adenosine administration was associated with a dose‐dependent biphasic response, including overactivation in the first few seconds followed by a later profound SNA reduction. Earliest sympathetic activation was abolished by barodenervation, while subsequent sympathetic withdrawal was affected neither by baro‐ nor by chemodenervation. This is the first demonstration that acute adenosine is able to activate cardiac VNA, possibly through a central action. This increase in vagal outflow could make an important contribution to the antiarrhythmic action of this substance.
Microbial Scout Hypothesis and Microbial Discovery
Authors: Buerger S. , Spoering A. , Gavrish E. , Leslin C. , Ling L. , Epstein S. S.
Published: February 2012

In this study, we examine the temporal pattern of colony appearance during cultivation experiments, and whether this pattern could inform on optimizing the process of microbial discovery. In a series of long-term cultivation experiments, we observed an expected gradual increase over time of the total number of microbial isolates, culminating in a 700-fold colony count increase at 18 months. Conventional thought suggests that long-term incubations result in a culture collection enriched with species that are slow growing or rare, may be unavailable from short-term experiments, and likely are novel. However, after we examined the phylogenetic novelty of the isolates as a function of the time of their isolation, we found no correlation between the two. The probability of discovering either a new or rare species late in the incubation matched that of species isolated earlier. These outcomes are especially notable because of their generality: observations were essentially identical for marine and soil bacteria as well as for spore formers and non-spore formers. These findings are consistent with the idea of the stochastic awakening of dormant cells, thus lending support to the scout model. The process of microbial discovery is central to the study of environmental microorganisms and the human microbiome. While long-term incubation does not appear to increase the probability of discovering novel species, the technology enabling such incubations, i.e., single-cell cultivation, may still be the method of choice. While it does not necessarily allow more species to grow from a given inoculum, it minimizes the overall isolation effort and supplies needed.
Fusion of a Novel Genetically Engineered Chitosan Affinity Protein and Green Fluorescent Protein for Specific Detection of Chitosan
In Vitro
and
In Situ
Authors: Nampally Malathi , Moerschbacher Bruno Maria , Kolkenbrock Stephan
Published: February 2012

Chitin is the second most abundant polysaccharide, present, e.g., in insect and arthropod exoskeletons and fungal cell walls. In some species or under specific conditions, chitin appears to be enzymatically de-N-acetylated to chitosan—e.g., when pathogenic fungi invade their host tissues. Here, the deacetylation of chitin is assumed to represent a pathogenicity mechanism protecting the fungus from the host's chitin-driven immune response. While highly specific chitin binding lectins are well known and easily available, this is not the case for chitosan-specific probes. This is partly due to the poor antigenicity of chitosan so that producing high-affinity, specific antibodies is difficult. Also, lectins with specificity to chitosan have been described but are not commercially available, and our attempts to reproduce the findings were not successful. We have, therefore, generated a fusion protein between a chitosanase inactivated by site-directed mutagenesis, the green fluorescent protein (GFP), and StrepII, as well as His
6
tags for purification and detection. The recombinant chitosan affinity protein (CAP) expressed in
Escherichia coli
was shown to specifically bind to chitosan, but not to chitin, and the affinity increased with decreasing degree of acetylation.
In vitro
, CAP detection was possible either based on GFP fluorescence or using Strep-Tactin conjugates or anti-His
5
antibodies. CAP fluorescence microscopy revealed binding to the chitosan exposing endophytic infection structures of the wheat stem rust fungus, but not the chitin exposing ectophytic infection structures, verifying its suitability for
in situ
chitosan staining.
Concentration of Norovirus during Wastewater Treatment and Its Impact on Oyster Contamination
Authors: Flannery John , Keaveney Sinéad , Rajko-Nenow Paulina , O'Flaherty Vincent , Doré William
Published: February 2012

The concentrations of
Escherichia coli
, F-specific RNA bacteriophage (FRNA bacteriophage), and norovirus genogroup I (NoV GI) and norovirus genogroup II (NoV GII) in wastewater were monitored weekly over a 1-year period at a wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) providing secondary wastewater treatment. A total of 49 samples of influent wastewater and wastewater that had been treated by primary and secondary wastewater treatment processes (primary and secondary treated wastewater) were analyzed. Using a real-time reverse transcription-quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR), the mean NoV GI and NoV GII concentrations detected in effluent wastewater were 2.53 and 2.63 log
10
virus genome copies 100 ml
−1
, respectively. The mean NoV concentrations in wastewater during the winter period (January to March) (
n
= 12) were 0.82 (NoV GI) and 1.41 (NoV GII) log units greater than the mean concentrations for the rest of the year (
n
= 37). The mean reductions of NoV GI and GII during treatment were 0.80 and 0.92 log units, respectively, with no significant difference detected in the extent of NoV reductions due to season. No seasonal trend was detected in the concentrations of
E. coli
or FRNA bacteriophage in wastewater influent and showed mean reductions of 1.49 and 2.13 log units, respectively. Mean concentrations of 3.56 and 3.72 log
10
virus genome copies 100 ml
−1
for NoV GI and GII, respectively, were detected in oysters sampled adjacent to the WWTP discharge. A strong seasonal trend was observed, and the concentrations of NoV GI and GII detected in oysters were correlated with concentrations detected in the wastewater effluent. No seasonal difference was detected in concentrations of
E. coli
or FRNA bacteriophage detected in oysters.
Characterization of Bioaerosols from Dairy Barns: Reconstructing the Puzzle of Occupational Respiratory Diseases by Using Molecular Approaches
Authors: Blais Lecours Pascale , Veillette Marc , Marsolais David , Duchaine Caroline
Published: February 2012

To understand the etiology of exposure-related diseases and to establish standards for reducing the risks associated with working in contaminated environments, the exact nature of the bioaerosol components must be defined. Molecular biology tools were used to evaluate airborne bacterial and, for the first time, archaeal content of dairy barns. Three air samplers were tested in each of the 13 barns sampled. Up to 10
6
archaeal and 10
8
bacterial 16S rRNA genes per m
3
of air were detected. Archaeal methanogens, mainly
Methanobrevibacter
species, were represented.
Saccharopolyspora rectivirgula
, the causative agent of farmer's lung, was quantified to up to 10
7
16S rRNA genes per m
3
of air. In addition, a wide variety of bacterial agents were present in our air samples within the high airborne bioaerosol concentration range. Despite recommendations regarding hay preservation and baling conditions, farmers still develop an
S. rectivirgula
-specific humoral immune response, suggesting intense and continuous exposure. Our results demonstrate the complexity of bioaerosol components in dairy barns which could play a role in occupational respiratory diseases.
Purification and Characterization of a Novel Subtype A3 Botulinum Neurotoxin
Authors: Tepp William H. , Lin Guangyun , Johnson Eric A.
Published: February 2012

Botulinum neurotoxins (BoNTs) produced by
Clostridium botulinum
are of considerable importance due to their being the cause of human and animal botulism, their potential as bioterrorism agents, and their utility as important pharmaceuticals. Type A is prominent due to its high toxicity and long duration of action. Five subtypes of type A BoNT are currently recognized; BoNT/A1, -/A2, and -/A5 have been purified, and their properties have been studied. BoNT/A3 is intriguing because it is not effectively neutralized by polyclonal anti-BoNT/A1 antibodies, and thus, it may potentially replace BoNT/A1 for patients who have become refractive to treatment with BoNT/A1 due to antibody formation or other modes of resistance. Purification of BoNT/A3 has been challenging because of its low levels of production in culture and the need for innovative purification procedures. In this study, modified Mueller-Miller medium was used in place of traditional toxin production medium (TPM) to culture
C. botulinum
A3 (CDC strain) and boost toxin production. BoNT/A3 titers were at least 10-fold higher than those produced in TPM. A purification method was developed to obtain greater than 95% pure BoNT/A3. The specific toxicity of BoNT/A3 as determined by mouse bioassay was 5.8 × 10
7
50% lethal doses (LD
50
)/mg. Neutralization of BoNT/A3 toxicity by a polyclonal anti-BoNT/A1 antibody was approximately 10-fold less than the neutralization of BoNT/A1 toxicity. In addition, differences in symptoms were observed between mice that were injected with BoNT/A3 and those that were injected with BoNT/A1. These results indicate that BoNT/A3 has novel biochemical and pharmacological properties compared to those of other subtype A toxins.
Physiological and Proteomic Adaptation of “Aromatoleum aromaticum” EbN1 to Low Growth Rates in Benzoate-Limited, Anoxic Chemostats
Authors: Trautwein Kathleen , Lahme Sven , Wöhlbrand Lars , Feenders Christoph , Mangelsdorf Kai , Harder Jens , Steinbüchel Alexander , Blasius Bernd , Reinhardt Richard , Rabus Ralf
Published: February 2012

“
Aromatoleum aromaticum
” EbN1 was cultivated at different growth rates in benzoate-limited chemostats under nitrate-reducing conditions. Physiological characteristics, proteome dynamics, phospholipid-linked fatty acid (PLFA) composition, and poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) (PHB) content were analyzed in steady-state cells at low (μ
low
) (0.036 h
−1
), medium (μ
med
) (0.108 h
−1
), and high (μ
high
) (0.180 h
−1
) growth rates. A positive correlation to growth rate was observed for cellular parameters (cell size, and DNA and protein contents). The free energy consumed for biomass formation steadily increased with growth rate. In contrast, the energy demand for maintenance increased only from μ
low
to μ
med
and then remained constant until μ
high
. The most comprehensive proteomic changes were observed at μ
low
compared to μ
high
. Uniformly decreased abundances of protein components of the anaerobic benzoyl coenzyme A (benzoyl-CoA) pathway, central carbon metabolism, and information processing agree with a general deceleration of benzoate metabolism and cellular processes in response to slow growth. In contrast, increased abundances were observed at μ
low
for diverse catabolic proteins and components of uptake systems in the absence of the respective substrate (aromatic or aliphatic compounds) and for proteins involved in stress responses. This potential catabolic versatility and stress defense during slow growth may be interpreted as preparation for future needs.
Mammalian-Transmissible H5N1 Influenza: Facts and Perspective
Authors: Osterholm Michael T. , Kelley Nicholas S.
Published: February 2012

Two recently submitted (but as yet unpublished) studies describe success in creating mutant isolates of H5N1 influenza A virus that can be transmitted via the respiratory route between ferrets; concern has been raised regarding human-to-human transmissibility of these or similar laboratory-generated influenza viruses. Furthermore, the potential release of methods used in these studies has engendered a great deal of controversy around publishing potential dual-use data and also has served as a catalyst for debates around the true case-fatality rate of H5N1 influenza and the capability of influenza vaccines and antivirals to impact any future unintentional or intentional release of H5N1 virus. In this report, we review available seroepidemiology data for H5N1 infection and discuss how case-finding strategies may influence the overall case-fatality rate reported by the WHO. We also provide information supporting the position that if an H5N1 influenza pandemic occurred, available medical countermeasures would have limited impact on the associated morbidity and mortality.
Decreased prevalence of diabetes in marijuana users: cross-sectional data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) III
Authors: Rajavashisth Tripathi B , Shaheen Magda , Norris Keith C , Pan Deyu , Sinha Satyesh K , Ortega Juan , Friedman Theodore C
Published: February 2012

Objective

To determine the association between diabetes mellitus (DM) and marijuana use.

Design

Cross-sectional study.

Setting

Data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES III, 1988–1994) conducted by the National Center for Health Statistics of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Participants

The study included participants of the NHANES III, a nationally representative sample of the US population. The total analytic sample was 10 896 adults. The study included four groups (n=10 896): non-marijuana users (61.0%), past marijuana users (30.7%), light (one to four times/month) (5.0%) and heavy (more than five times/month) current marijuana users (3.3%). DM was defined based on self-report or abnormal glycaemic parameters. We analysed data related to demographics, body mass index, smoking status, alcohol use, total serum cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein, triglyceride, serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D, plasma haemoglobin A1c, fasting plasma glucose level and the serum levels of C reactive protein and four additional inflammatory markers as related to marijuana use.

Main outcome measures

OR for DM associated with marijuana use adjusted for potential confounding variables (ie, odds of DM in marijuana users compared with non-marijuana users).

Results

Marijuana users had a lower age-adjusted prevalence of DM compared to non-marijuana users (OR 0.42, 95% CI 0.33 to 0.55; p<0.0001). The prevalence of elevated C reactive protein (>0.5 mg/dl) was significantly higher (p<0.0001) among non-marijuana users (18.9%) than among past (12.7%) or current light (15.8%) or heavy (9.2%) users. In a robust multivariate model controlling for socio-demographic factors, laboratory values and comorbidity, the lower odds of DM among marijuana users was significant (adjusted OR 0.36, 95% CI 0.24 to 0.55; p<0.0001).

Conclusions

Marijuana use was independently associated with a lower prevalence of DM. Further studies are needed to show a direct effect of marijuana on DM.
Role of the human erythrocyte in generation and storage of asymmetric dimethylarginine
Authors: Davids Mariska , van Hell Albert J. , Visser Marlieke , Nijveldt Robert J. , van Leeuwen Paul A. M. , Teerlink Tom
Published: February 2012

Proteolytic activity in whole blood may lead to release of the endogenous nitric oxide synthase inhibitor asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA). We investigated the role of the human erythrocyte in storage and generation of ADMA in healthy controls ( n = 36) and critically ill patients ( n = 38). Both free and total (sum of free and protein-incorporated) ADMA were measured. Upon incubation of intact erythrocytes with extracellular ADMA (0 to 40 μmol/l), equilibrium between intra- and extracellular ADMA was reached within 3 h. Compared with controls, patients had significantly higher basal concentrations of ADMA in plasma (0.88 ± 0.75 vs. 0.41 ± 0.07 μmol/l) and erythrocytes (1.28 ± 0.55 vs. 0.57 ± 0.14 μmol/l). Intracellular and plasma ADMA were significantly correlated in the patient group only ( r = 0.834). Upon lysis, followed by incubation at 37°C for 2 h, free ADMA increased sevenfold (to 8.60 ± 3.61 μmol/l in patients and 3.90 ± 0.78 μmol/l in controls). In lysates of controls, free ADMA increased further to 9.85 ± 1.35 μmol/l after 18 h. Total ADMA was 15.43 ± 2.44 μmol/l and did not change during incubation. The increase of free ADMA during incubation corresponded to substantial release of ADMA from the erythrocytic protein-incorporated pool (21.9 ± 4.6% at 2 h and 60.8 ± 7.6% at 18 h). ADMA was released from proteins other than hemoglobin, which only occurred after complete lysis and was blocked by combined inhibition of proteasomal and protease activity. Neither intact nor lysed erythrocytes mediated degradation of free ADMA. We conclude that intact erythrocytes play an important role in storage of ADMA, whereas upon erythrocyte lysis large amounts of free ADMA are generated by proteolysis of methylated proteins, which may affect plasma levels in hemolysis-associated diseases.
Sequences of a hairpin structure in the 3′-untranslated region mediate regulation of human pulmonary surfactant protein B mRNA stability
Authors: Huang Helen W. , Payne David E. , Bi Weizhen , Pan Su , Bruce Shirley R. , Alcorn Joseph L.
Published: February 2012

The ability of pulmonary surfactant to reduce alveolar surface tension requires adequate expression of surfactant protein B (SP-B). Dexamethasone (DEX, 10−7M) increases human SP-B mRNA stability by a mechanism that requires a 126-nt-long segment (the 7.6S region) of the 3′-untranslated region (3′-UTR). The objective of this study was to identify sequences in the 7.6S region that mediate regulation of SP-B mRNA stability. The 7.6S region was found to be sufficient for DEX-mediated stabilization of mRNA. Sequential substitution mutagenesis of the 7.6S region indicates that a 90-nt region is required for DEX-mediated stabilization and maintenance of intrinsic stability. In this region, one 30-nt-long element (002), predicted to form a stem-loop structure, is sufficient for DEX-mediated stabilization of mRNA and intrinsic mRNA stability. Cytosolic proteins specifically bind element 002, and binding activity is unaffected whether proteins are isolated from cells incubated in the absence or presence of DEX. While loop sequences of element 002 have no role in regulation of SP-B mRNA stability, the proximal stem sequences are required for DEX-mediated stabilization and specific binding of proteins. Mutation of the sequences that comprise the proximal or distal arm of the stem negates the destabilizing activity of element 002 on intrinsic SP-B mRNA stability. These results indicate that cytosolic proteins bind a single hairpin structure that mediates intrinsic and hormonal regulation of SP-B mRNA stability via mechanisms that involve sequences of the stems of the hairpin structure.
Homogeneity Property of Besov and Triebel-Lizorkin Spaces
Authors: Schneider Cornelia , Vybíral Jan
Published: February 2012

We consider the classical Besov and Triebel-Lizorkin spaces defined via differences and prove a homogeneity property for functions with bounded support in the frame of these spaces. As the proof is based on compact embeddings between the studied function spaces, we present also some results on the entropy numbers of these embeddings. Moreover, we derive some applications in terms of pointwise multipliers.
The Photon-Baryon Governed Universe
Authors: Marosi Laszlo A.
Published: February 2012

In a previous paper we postulated that the repulsive force responsible for the universal expansion is associated with the excitation of the empty space (quantum vacuum) and the excitation energy is represented by the energy of the cosmic microwave background (CMB). In this paper, we show that the concept of the repulsive space expanding photon field (i) can successfully be applied to explain the local velocity anomaly of the Milky Way Galaxy as shown by Faber and Burstein (1998) and Tully (1998), (ii) offers a convincing explanation of the still disputed question of the cosmological expansion on local and intergalactic scales discussed by Cooperstock et al. (1998), and (iii) explains the redshift (RS) of the CMB in accordance with the law of energy conservation without the need for dark matter (DM) and dark energy (DE). Probably the most remarkable result of this model (abbreviated as photon/baryon: PB model in the following discussion) is that the individual voids building up the soup-bubble- (SB-) like galaxy distribution are the governing dynamical components of the universal expansion. Further consequence implies that the universe is considerably older than the interpretation of the Hubble constant as expansion velocity suggests.
Nanocrosses with Highly Tunable Double Resonances for Near-Infrared Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering
Authors: Jian Ye , Pol VanDorpe
Published: February 2012

We present asymmetric gold nanocrosses with highly tunable double resonances for the near-infrared (NIR) surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS), optimizing electric field enhancement at both the excitation and Stokes Raman wavelengths. The calculated largest SERS enhancement factor can reach a value as large as1.0×1010. We have found that the peak separation, the resonance position, and peak intensity ratio of the double-resonance gold nanocrosses can be tuned by changing the structural dimensions or the light polarization.
A Potent Vaccination Strategy That Circumvents Lymphodepletion for Effective Antitumor Adoptive T-cell Therapy
Authors: Cho Hyun-Il , Reyes-Vargas Eduardo , Delgado Julio C. , Celis Esteban
Published: February 2012

Adoptive cell therapy using tumor-reactive T lymphocytes is a promising approach for treating advanced cancer. Successful tumor eradication depends primarily on the expansion and survival of the adoptively transferred T cells. Lymphodepletion using total body irradiation (TBI) and administering high-dose interleukin (IL)-2 have been used with adoptive cell therapy to promote T-cell expansion and survival to achieve maximal therapeutic effects. However, TBI and high-dose IL-2 increase the risk for major complications that impact overall survival. Here we describe an alternative approach to TBI and high-dose IL-2 for optimizing adoptive cell therapy, resulting in dramatic therapeutic effects against established melanomas in mice. Administration of a potent, noninfectious peptide vaccine after adoptive cell therapy dramatically increased antigen-specific T-cell numbers leading to enhancement in the survival of melanoma-bearing mice. Furthermore, combinations of peptide vaccination with PD1 blockade or IL-2/anti-IL-2 antibody complexes led to complete disease eradication and long-term survival in mice with large tumors receiving adoptive cell therapy. Our results indicate that PD1 blockade and IL-2/anti-IL-2 complexes enhance both the quantitative and qualitative aspects of the T-cell responses induced by peptide vaccination after adoptive cell therapy. These findings could be useful for the optimization of adoptive cell therapy in cancer patients without the need of toxic adjunct procedures. Cancer Res; 72(8); 1986–95. ©2012 AACR.
Molecular Pathways: Digoxin Use and Estrogen-Sensitive Cancers—Risks and Possible Therapeutic Implications
Authors: Biggar Robert J.
Published: February 2012

Digoxin, a phyto-estrogen, binds with estrogen receptors (ER) and can cause gynecomastia. Among women currently using digoxin, breast and uterus cancer incidences are significantly increased (approximate risk ratios, 1.3–1.5). Both cancers are often estrogen sensitive. In contrast, ovary and cervix cancers are relatively estrogen insensitive, and incidence is unaffected by digoxin exposure. When digoxin use stops, incidence rapidly reverts to that in nonusers. These patterns parallel those of estrogen, suggesting that digoxin works via ER-stimulated proliferation of ductal and/or acinar cells, accelerating the growth of nascent cancers. Also consistent with an estrogenic effect, men using digoxin have a small but significant reduction in prostate cancer (risk ratio, 0.76). Other estrogen-like drugs, particularly spironolactone, should be investigated for similar effects. The effect of digoxin use in women being treated for breast cancer or in survivors is unknown. Women with estrogen-sensitive cancers on adjuvant therapy may take tamoxifen, which blocks ERs. However, postmenopausal patients may use aromatase inhibitors, which block estrogen production while leaving ERs susceptible to digoxin. If adverse effects are found, tamoxifen may be preferred over aromatase inhibitors in patients receiving estrogen-mimicking drugs. Alternatively, other cardiotropic drugs might be considered in women with or at high risk of developing estrogen-sensitive cancers. Clin Cancer Res; 18(8); 2133–7. ©2012 AACR.
A comparison study on creep behavior of wood–plastic composite, solid wood, and polypropylene
Authors: Kazemi-Najafi Saeed , Nikray Seyed Jalal , Ebrahimi Ghanbar
Published: February 2012

In this study, creep/recovery behavior of wood flour/polypropylene (PP) composite was compared with solid wood and PP. Wood flour–PP composite samples (strips with 10 mm thickness and 70 mm width) were made using a laboratory twin-screw extruder. Short-term flexural creep tests at 30% of ultimate bending load were performed using flexural creep equipment. Total time to complete every test was 120 min (60 min creep and 60 min recovery). Creep parameters (relative creep, fractional deflection, creep rate, etc.) were measured for all creep test samples. The result showed that the relative creep in wood–plastic composite (WPCs, with or without coupling agent) is significantly higher than solid wood and lower than PP. Also, it was observed that the creep rate in WPC (with or without coupling agent) is significantly lower than plastic, but is approximately equal to solid wood. The use of coupling agent decreased relative creep and fractional deflection in wood flour–PP composite panels. Findley creep model predicted creep strain with a high acceptable accuracy for studied materials.