bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tackling the Challenge of Western Markets: The Case of Tokaj, Hungary
Authors: Lee Williams Jeremy , Pearson Brendan
Published: December 2009

The Hungarian wine industry is in a state of transition. Old methods and practices are being abandoned and new techniques are arriving from the West. Tokaj, one of the world's oldest and most famous sweet wine‐producing regions, is at the cutting edge of such developments. Examines the obstacles to be overcome in making a successful transition to the new marketing realities, surveying the approaches and progress made in Tokaj. Argues that there are three integral steps required in the formation of a competitive industry: reorganization of ownership; viticultural and oenological modernization; and Western methods of marketing. The impetus for such changes must come not only from within Tokaj, but also from collaboration with Western foreign investors.
South Africa 1992 Wine Export Survey
Authors: Garrett Peter
Published: December 2009

Describes South Africa's viticultural background to illustrate the shape of that industry's present marketing picture in the light of diminishing anctions and the country's present socio‐economic changes — being out of the international market for such a long time has had interesting effects on the whole of the South African market.
The Effect of Price and Oak Flavor on Perceived Wine Quality
Authors: Lockshin Lawrence S. , Timothy Rhodus W.
Published: December 2009

This research compared wine quality evaluations by wine consumers and wine wholesalers for the same Chardonnay wine at three price levels and four different oak levels. Consumers judged wines mainly by price, regardless of the oak level. Wholesale sales people ignored the prices and judged the wines by the oak level. Wholesalers predicted that consumers would respond based on the wholeaslers' quality judgments, and were unable to accurately predict the consumers' responses. Better targeting of consumers and better training of the wholesale representatives is recommended.
Developments in UK Pub Wine Sales: Responses to Growing Public Consumption of Wine
Authors: Van Westering Jetske
Published: December 2009

This paper examines publicans' response to the growing UK market in pub wine sales. It considers the findings of recent market surveys relating to wine sales across‐the‐bar, looks at the breweries' commitment to wine sales (research, training, consumer interest) and considers the potential of sales in this field for the breweries and independent landlords. Despite the rapid rise in popularity of wine, evidence suggests that the brewers, as yet, have still to make a full response to market growth. It appears that across‐the‐bar wine sales have been influenced little by the increase in UK wine imports and sales or changing public interests and demands. Trends indicate that there should be a significant market for wine in pubs, yet currently wine sales account for only 4% of all across‐the‐bar sales; as such this section of the pub beverage market offers brewers and publicans real potential to develop their wine sales strategies thereby increasing their sales and improving the appeal of their pubs.
French Varietals Fight Back: The Revolution in the Vin de Pay d'Oc
Authors: Lee Williams Jeremy
Published: December 2009

There has been a revolution in the winemaking and marketing of the country wines of southern France in the Languedoc‐Roussillon — the Vins de Pays d'Oc. This revolution has been founded on premium varietal wines and exploited modern techniques of vinification and marketing, which have drawn heavily on the experiences of the so‐called ‘New World.’ These new wines have successfully penetrated export markets, particularly the UK. Such developments, however, have attracted controversy, being criticised for encouraging the production of homogeneous, geographically inert, formulaic wines from well established rather than local grape varieties. However, a number of ventures are now showing increased recognition of local varieties and geographies in their winemaking and it is expected that such developments will continue. Moreover it is argued that the introduction of modern techniques in vinification and marketing, far from having a detrimental effect, have been of great benefit to the region.
Danie de Wet and His Influence on the South African Wine Industry
Authors: Garrett Peter
Published: December 2009

This is the third in a series highlighting the influence an individual can have on the South African Wine Industry. De Wet decided that the Plant Control Board's bureaucracy should be breached because he felt it was doing more harm than good to the wine industry. As a fifth generation Afrikaner he grew up steeped in wine farming and away from town life. His total dedication was strongly reinforced by his experience and graduation at Geisenheim Research Institute during the South African Sanction Years. Following this experienced Mid‐European viticulturists guided him philosophically and practically in leadership of the industry and into the noble white grape cultivars. Mistakes were made but determination and veracity brought world recognition and success to Danie de Wet and, through him, to the whole SA wine industry.
A Brand Equity Strategy for Ultra‐Premium California Wines
Authors: Thode Stephen F. , Maskulka James M.
Published: December 2009

Despite nearly universal agreement that ultra‐premium California wines have reached a quality level which is on a par with the world's best, these wines have not captured the hearts and minds of many traditional buyers of the best wines in the international marketplace. These California wines face several competitive disadvantages — the lack of a sustained track record over a long period of time; comparatively small production levels; the lack of an established pecking order; and, a less‐than‐optimal distribution system, among other factors. As a result, brand equity of California ultra‐premium wines has suffered. This paper modifies and extends the paradigms of both Aaker and Keller by specifying a brand equity model that captures the dimensions of brand equity for ultra‐premium California wine producers. Evaluating current marketing practice against the derived model, the authors suggest marketing strategies and tactics that may permit ultra‐premium California wines to overcome many of their competitive disadvantages with the objective of enhancing brand equity.
South African Wine Market Survey
Authors: Garrett Peter
Published: December 2009

This is an update of the article in Number 3 of Volume 4 of the Journal in 1992. The omnipotence of KWV backed by the Afrikaans — led government shielded wine farmers to the extent that they became complacent both before and during the world sanctions. The change of government, downfall of apartheid, and lifting of sanctions all wrought revolutionary changes including a government enquiry into KWV and the wine industry as a whole. Incidentally, export inexperience of many wineries caused errors of judgement in that field. The most widespread was resultant local shortages in spite of previous reassurances to the contrary. The recent worldwide “fruit‐forward” wine style fashion puzzled South African farmers who reacted in various ways and completely out of unison. Nor were they helped by the realisation of the fact that there was widespread vine disease in the country. Nevertheless, exporting volumes quickly surpassed expectation, and consequently the total area under vines began to increase, with many new names entering the industry. The old price control disappeared and market forces began to take control once again. One example of these is the international shortage of red wine, leading to the previously unheard of importation of low priced red wine. Summing up, it is clear that South Africa, the eighth largest of the world's producers, is firmly back in the international wine and spirit market. This is assisted by increasing tourism to the beautiful Cape.
Wine Tourism and Network Development in Australia and New Zealand: Review, Establishment and Prospects
Authors: Hall C. Michael , Cambourne Brock , Macionis Niki , Johnson Gary
Published: December 2009

Wine tourism is an area of growing interest because of its potential to contribute to regional development and employment at times of rural restructuring, particularly through the development of inter and intra industry networks. This paper provides a review of wine tourism, briefly discusses networks and their value, then analyses the development of wine tourism networks in Australia and New Zealand. The research indicates that although wine tourism network development is being actively encouraged, substantial difficulties exist because of the perception by many in the wine industry that they are not part of tourism. The paper concludes that while the development of new organisational structures to encourage wine tourism development are useful, they must be complimented by research on linkages, education of potential network members in order to close information gaps; and the development of network structures which maximise the overlap and linkages mat exists between the wine and tourism industries.
New Product Adoption Processes of UK Retailers in the Wines and Spirits Product Field
Authors: Howley Michael , Myers Hayley
Published: December 2009

This article describes a study which is being undertaken by the authors of the adoption processes used by UK retailers in the case of new wine and spirit products. Following a literature review they outline the work of earlier researchers in deducing the factors which retailers, in general, consider in deciding whether or not to stock a new product. The principal factors are found to be consumer demand, compatibility with existing merchandise, financial criteria and manufacturer's support for the product The article also highlights the increasing concentration of buyer power in the UK grocery market.
The First Australian Wine Tourism Conference
Authors: van Westering Jetske
Published: December 2009

On the initiative of Professor Ross Dowling (Edith Cowan University, W. Australia) and in cooperation with the Western Australian Tourism Commission and the Augusta‐Margaret River Tourism Association, a conference on wine tourism was held in May 1998. Both the tourism and the wine industries were very well represented at this first conference to be held on the subject of wine tourism; around 250 visitors from Australia as well as from other parts of the world met in Margaret River on the magnificent premises of Leeuwin Estate Winery, well known for its al fresco concerts.
Education in a West Australian Wine Tourism Context
Authors: Ali‐Knight Jane
Published: December 2009

Education is seen to be a key ingredient in today's wine marketing and an important tool for the winery in attracting and maintaining its consumer base in an increasingly competitive marketplace. Wine education therefore plays an important part in the health and future of the industry: ‘Wine education plays a key role in converting the occasional wine drinker into a dedicated wine appreciator.’ (The Australian Grapegrower and Winemaker, 1996). Until recently wine research has focused on the specialisms and technicalities associated with winemaking and neglected the importance of research activity into the motivations and behavioural patterns of the wine consumer. This paper will report on the findings from the initial qualitative research process. The exploratory stage involved identifying and conducting key informant interviews with owners or managers of wineries with an education focus in the Swan Valley and Margaret River wine regions. Focusing on the provision for consumer education within wineries in Western Australia, the research aims to identify current awareness levels amongst Australian winery owners into the value and importance of education to the wine tourist. Demandby wine tourists for educational provision within the winery setting was also examined.
Identifying Wine Innovators: A Test of the Domain Specific Innovativeness Scale Using Known Groups
Authors: Goldsmith Ronald E.
Published: December 2009

The purpose of the study was to evaluate the Domain Specific Innovativeness scale (DSI) for “known‐groups validity.” Data came from two groups of student volunteers: 48 students registered for a specialty class in wine in the Hospitality Administration department of a US public university and 28 students from two marketing classes at the same institution, In addition to the DSI, the questionnaire contained multi‐item scales to measure wine involvement, opinion leadership for wine, subjective and real knowledge of wine, and wine‐related behaviour. The analysis verified that the DSI was highly correlated with the other wine measures, the two groups were quite different on all the measured wine variables, and that the DSI played a significant role in discriminating between the members of the two groups. These findings strongly support the validity of the DSI and promote its use in studies of wine innovators.
Competing in the US Wine Market: Australian Imports and Tasting Scores
Authors: Eyler Robert
Published: December 2009

American wineries have taken marketing steps toward attracting consumers. They employ tasting scores to augment and solidify market share. According to Oster (1999) and Porter (1985), competitive advantage comes from either cost advantages or product differentiation. American wineries use tasting scores they receive from experts as the basis for product differentiation and raising prices. To achieve competitive advantage, the product must be seen as important and an improvement in the market, while simultaneously lacking imitation. This article looks at how tasting scores given by wine experts may affect American firms' competitive advantage, barring entry by importing rivals, such as Australian firms. If these tasting scores provide product importance and improvements, while delivering a product that lacks imitation, competitive advantage may result. If importers to the US realise this, these firms can undermine American advantages, increase competition, and gain market share through their own competitive advantages.
Positioning Wine Tourism Destinations: An Image Analysis
Authors: Williams Peter
Published: December 2009

The ability of tourism regions to attract tourists depends to a great extent on the position of these destinations in the minds of key travel markets. The projection of an appropriate image has been described as a vital element in the positioning process. This research examines the evolving character of wine tourism destination imagery as projected by wine producers and independent writers. The overriding research questions addressed in this paper are “What destination attributes are emphasised in the visual imagery of wine tourism regions, and how has the emphasis on those features varied over time?” The findings suggest that there has been a shift in wine country imagery from an emphasis on wine production processes and related facilities to move of a focus on aesthetic and experiential values associated with more leisurely recreational and tourist pursuits. Over the past decade, the wine tourism experience has become more positioned around the core attraction of a quality wine, accompanied by a set of natural landscape, culinary, educational, event hosting and cultural dimensions. The research identifies the need for a greater emphasis to be placed by wine tourism destinations on protecting rural landscapes, encouraging authentic and unique forms of development, and focusing imagery projection on those elements of the wine country experience which are central to the interests of wine tourists.
A Background to the South African Wine Industry 2001
Authors: Garrett Peter
Published: December 2009

This article sets out the state of the South African wine market at the latter end of the year 2001. Whilst it has not recovered fully from world sanctions the damage has mostly been eliminated. Extensive recent publicity including both well‐ and ill‐informed criticism suggests a bright future for the South African Wine Industry.
Chilean Wines: A Successful Image
Authors: Egan David , Bell Alison
Published: December 2009

This paper explores the massive growth in New World Wines and in particular more recently in Chilean Wines over recent years. It analyses a number of factors influencing this trend, including price, taste, distribution and so on, yet highlights one important aspect is the on‐shelf impact of New World, and in particular, Chilean Wines. This evaluation of the on‐the‐shelf impact of Chilean wines would appear to support the hypothesis that at least part of the current success of Chilean wines is concerned with image, particularly on‐the‐shelf image in an era of the global brand. As Old World Wine producers copy the modern dynamic image of the New World Wines and in particular Chilean Wines, will the Chilean Wines be identifiable on the shelf or will on‐the‐shelf image reflect price rather than country?
Unlocking the Asian Wine Market: An Exploratory Case Study
Authors: Beverland Michael
Published: December 2009

Faced with the prospect of over supply, wine exporters are increasingly focused on establishing new markets, particularly in Asia. Recent papers have suggested that relationship‐marketing approaches may be the most successful for establishing wine sales in these markets. Despite many models, evidence on the content and implementation of relationship marketing remains scarce. This research reports on the experience of one firm in Asia, and identifies the link between cultural values and the need for relationship based strategies for wine exporters to Asia. Tactical implications for wine markets are also explored.
On‐Line Wine — Strategic or Tactical?
Authors: Quinton Sarah , Harridge‐March Sally
Published: December 2009

This paper explores the use of interactive marketing by UK on‐line wine providers to discover the extent to which strategic or tactical use is made of the web‐based presence. The four principles of relationship marketing were used as an evaluative framework against which on‐line wine providers were assessed. The paper finds that most UK on‐line wine providers use interactive marketing tactically without giving sufficient consideration to maximising the potential of building relationships through Interactivity.
Measuring Success and Marketing in Small Wineries in Australia
Authors: Corkindale David R. , Welsh Anthony J.
Published: December 2009

The purpose of the research reported here was to discover what marketing approaches small wineries employ and to what degree they could be attributed to their success. The article describes how the particular issue of measuring ‘success’ and what constituted ‘marketing’ was tackled and reports on the use of this in the subsequent empirical work. Five exploratory hypotheses were derived relating to the way in which ‘success’ could be measured and the contributory factors leading to the use of marketing. For small businesses that are classified at one of three levels of success the article reports what marketing activities were conducted. Data was gathered by personal interview from small wineries in the three main wine producing states and five main regions within these. The study found that: small winery operators are able to very consistently rate themselves and each other on success. Broadly, there were three factors that were used by them to gauge success: (i) wine quality and respect for this by peers, (ii) lifestyle, and (iii) business performance. Wineries at a particular level of success tend to use similar marketing activities and these differ somewhat from level to level. Those at higher levels of success are able to more comprehensively define ‘marketing’ and their customers and engage in marketing activities in a more discriminating way.
Consumer Self‐Confidence in Wine Purchases
Authors: Olsen Janeen E. , Thompson Karen J. , Clarke T.K.
Published: December 2009

Wine marketers realise that to increase the overall size of the wine consuming population they must make wine more approachable and easier to understand. As it now stands, many consumers lack confidence in their ability to select a wine for either their own consumption or to share with others. Therefore, understanding the role played by consumer self‐confidence is especially relevant to marketers of wine, and the need to accurately measure the construct is important to scholarly research. Recently, the development of a scale to measure consumer self‐confidence has appeared in the consumer behaviour literature (Bearden, Hardesty and Rose, 2001). This study first adapts this consumer self‐confidence scale for use in wine‐related research. Next, the impact of six distinct dimensions of consumer self‐confidence on three different wine purchase situations is demonstrated. Results show the scale has the potential to inform both researchers and marketers about consumers' self‐confidence related to wine purchases.
Wine Brand Naming in China
Authors: Wilson Ian , Huang Yuelu
Published: December 2009

In international marketing the search for suitable brand names is complicated by a number of issues. One of these is the decision as to whether to standardize, localize, or use some form of intermediate adapted strategy. In the case of the PR China, the situation is more complex still, owing to a number of factors, but, particularly because of its completely different logographic language structure. This paper examines several of the key issues in wine brand naming and then reports an empirical study into Chinese consumers' reactions to live different naming strategies, each applied to a selection of wine brands. The results indicated that the original foreign brand name was the most appealing whilst a Translation plus Transliteration with Positive Connotation naming strategy was the second most appealing approach.
Generic Consumer Risk‐Reduction Strategies (RRS) in Wine‐Related Lifestyle Segments of the Australian Wine Market
Authors: Johnson Trent , Bruwer Johan
Published: December 2009

Wine is widely regarded as a ‘complicated’ product and for the majority of consumers the purchasing of wine in the retail situation evokes considerable risk. Marketers are therefore constantly and increasingly trying to demystify wine in order to reduce the perceived risk levels of consumers in the purchase situation. Most previous research in the area of perceived risk literature tended to focus on the concept of risk and its measurement rather than on risk‐reduction. This study examined the preferred risk‐reduction strategies (RRS) employed by identified wine‐related lifestyle segments in the Australian wine market and linked these strategies to the wine retail environment. Relying on favourite brands or so‐called ‘safe brand’ buying was found to rank highest as a risk reduction strategy in the commercial (under $15 per bottle) and premium‐to super‐premium ($15‐$25) price ranges while the opportunity to try before buying ranked highest in the ultra‐premium ($25) price range. The results obtained have major implications for retailers and form the foundation for a competitive advantage. It also indicates the direction for future research in this strategically important area of wine consumer behaviour.
National Competitive Advantage as the Context for Marketing Strategy: An Empirical Study of the New Zealand Wine Industry
Authors: Bretherton Phil
Published: December 2009

National competitive advantage is a model which is widely taught in business schools but there has been limited research into its usefulness for managers and policy makers in particular economies and industries. This research looks at New Zealand, and in particular its wine industry as a context for the national competitive advantage model. The literature discusses the influence that both organisational resources and national competitive advantage have on organisational performance and profitability, examining such factors as domestic demand, the factors of production, related and supporting industry, the nature of domestic rivalry and how organisations are developed and managed. The data was gathered from CEO's of wineries, plus industry and national reports on the performance of the wine industry and the New Zealand economy. The research found that New Zealand suffers from policy inconsistencies, poor performance of senior management and competitive disadvantage in research and development, licensing, value chain management, regional sales and international distribution. Also, new knowledge created in Universities and Research Centres is not being transferred adequately to new and growing firms. However, it performs well in terms of competition policy, taxation and trade liberalisation. The New Zealand wine industry has both extensive and intense competition, has limited access to venture capital and does not have effective cluster development. There is considerable work to be done by the wine industry in terms of developing human capital and innovation if it is to remain internationally competitive. Also, it is essential to work co‐operatively in international markets and to identify clearly defined target market segments.
Xenotransplantation literature update: May–October, 2009
Authors: Schneider Mårten K. J. , Seebach Jörg D.
Published: December 2009

Schneider MKJ, Seebach JD. Xenotransplantation literature update: May–October, 2009. Xenotransplantation 2009; 16: 555–562. © 2009 John Wiley & Sons A/S.
Gender‐specific association of methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase genotype and haplotype with the aggressiveness and prognosis of clear cell renal cell carcinoma in Japanese patients
Authors: Sakano Shigeru , Hinoda Yuji , Okayama Naoko , Kawai Yoshihisa , Ito Hideaki , Nagao Kazuhiro , Hara Takahiko , Matsuyama Hideyasu
Published: December 2009

OBJECTIVE

To determine if the two common polymorphisms in the methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) gene, C677T and A1298C, affect tumour aggressiveness or prognosis of clear cell renal cell carcinoma (CCRCC) in Japanese patients.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

MTHFR C677T and A1298C polymorphisms have been reported to cause decreased enzyme activity, which reduces the quantity of methyl groups available for DNA methylation and leads to mis‐incorporation of uracil into DNA, resulting in single‐strand DNA breaks. These effects might induce the accumulation of several genetic changes, leading to the development and progression of CCRCC. Therefore, we investigated the associations between MTHFR genotypes and haplotypes and the clinicopathological characteristics and survival rates in 240 Japanese patients with histopathologically confirmed CCRCC. MTHFR C677T and A1298C were genotyped and haplotypes were analysed using appropriate software.

RESULTS

The variant genotypes of MTHFR A1298C were significantly associated with some advanced characteristics of CCRCC in all patients, and these associations were stronger among men. However, among women, the variant genotypes of MTHFR C677T were associated with some advanced characteristics of CCRCC and the C677T variant genotypes or the 677T‐1298A haplotype was significantly associated with decreased overall survival (P = 0.007 and P = 0.009, respectively).

CONCLUSION

To our knowledge, this is the first report on the association between MTHFR polymorphisms and CCRCC aggressiveness or prognosis. These results suggest that the MTHFR genotypes and haplotype might be useful, in a gender‐specific manner, as predictive factors for the clinical course of CCRCC. Furthermore, these findings will contribute to the understanding of the mechanisms underlying CCRCC progression.
Adaptive and Feature‐Preserving Subdivision for High‐Quality Tetrahedral Meshes
Authors: Burkhart D. , Hamann B. , Umlauf G.
Published: December 2009

We present an adaptive subdivision scheme for unstructured tetrahedral meshes inspired by the ‐subdivision scheme for triangular meshes. Existing tetrahedral subdivision schemes do not support adaptive refinement and have traditionally been driven by the need to generate smooth three‐dimensional deformations of solids. These schemes use edge bisections to subdivide tetrahedra, which generates octahedra in addition to tetrahedra. To split octahedra into tetrahedra one routinely chooses a direction for the diagonals for the subdivision step. We propose a new topology‐based refinement operator that generates only tetrahedra and supports adaptive refinement. Our tetrahedral subdivision algorithm is motivated by the need to have one representation for the modeling, the simulation and the visualization and so to bridge the gap between CAD and CAE. Our subdivision algorithm design emphasizes on geometric quality of the tetrahedral meshes, local and adaptive refinement operations, and preservation of sharp geometric features on the boundary and in the interior of the physical domain.
Towards a social reality of dyslexia
Authors: Macdonald Stephen J.
Published: December 2009

Accessible summary

In recent years, some academics have dismissed the legitimacy of dyslexia.

This approach implies that diagnoses cannot distinguish between general reading difficulties and dyslexia and educational support is the same for both groups.

The article confronts this ‘anti‐labelling approach’ by reflecting on life experiences of people with dyslexia.

By doing this it confronts certain stereotypes associated with dyslexia to develop a meaningful response to the label of learning difficulties.

Despite recent advances in understanding dyslexia as a neurological condition, a number of academics in both the United Kingdom and United States have dismissed the validity of this impairment. The key thinking behind this approach is twofold. Firstly, individuals labelled as having dyslexia cannot be separated from individuals with general reading difficulties. Secondly, educational ‘treatment’ of dyslexia is consistent with educational support for children labelled as having general reading difficulties. Rather than expand on a psycho‐cognitive approach, this article endeavours to reflect on individual subjectivities. This is to analyse the social aspects of dyslexia and its symptoms. By discussing the life stories of people diagnosed with dyslexia, the article confronts certain stereotypes associated with this syndrome. In doing so, the study concludes by developing a meaningful response to the label of learning difficulties.
Endometrial local injury improves the pregnancy rate among recurrent implantation failure patients undergoing in vitro fertilisation/intra cytoplasmic sperm injection: A randomised clinical trial
Authors: KARIMZADEH Mohammad Ali , AYAZI ROZBAHANI Maryam , TABIBNEJAD Nasim
Published: December 2009

Background:  Implantation failure is the most important cause of recurrent in vitro fertilisation (IVF)/intra cytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) failure. It has been reported that endometrial injury using a biopsy catheter resulted in a higher pregnancy rate in following cycle of treatment. The local endometrial trauma increases the implantation rate through the release of chemical mediators such as histamine and growth factor.

Aims:  To evaluate the influence of endometrial biopsy on increasing implantation rate in patients with recurrent implantation failures.

Methods:  In a randomised control trial study, 115 women each with at least two implantation failures were randomly assigned to two groups. In the case group, endometrial biopsy was obtained from patients in the luteal phase of previous cycle, and implantation and clinical pregnancy rates were compared with those of patients in the control group.

Results:  The implantation rate was determined as 10.9% in the biopsy group compared to 3.38% in the controls. The clinical pregnancy rate was significantly higher in the case group than in controls (27.1% and 8.9% respectively).

Conclusion:  The results suggest that pregnancy outcome increases through IVF or ICSI after endometrial biopsy.
Collateral Failure? Late Mechanical Thrombectomy after Failed Intravenous Thrombolysis
Authors: Liebeskind David S. , Kim Doojin , Starkman Sidney , Changizi Kelly , Ohanian Arbi G. , Jahan Reza , Viñuela Fernando
Published: December 2009

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Collaterals may compensate for reduced blood flow in acute ischemic stroke, yet endurance and quality of collateral perfusion may vary. Collateral sustenance of penumbra may falter after initial recruitment, resulting in progressive ischemia and clinical deficits. Delayed collateral failure may extend the time window for revascularization, even after failed intravenous thrombolysis.

CASE DESCRIPTION

A 76‐year‐old woman returned to normal from National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score of 18 following intravenous thrombolysis, despite persistent occlusion of the left middle cerebral artery. Subsequent deterioration was successfully reversed with mechanical thrombectomy almost 14 hours after symptom onset.

CONCLUSIONS

Early clinical improvement or deterioration may reflect collateral perfusion, not necessarily recanalization or reocclusion. The definition of collateral failure must incorporate the expected role and endurance of collaterals. Further investigation of collateral pathophysiology may reveal predictive clinical or imaging features and disclose collateral therapeutic approaches to augment revascularization.

J Neuroimaging 2010;20:78‐82.
MRI Features of Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome in 33 Patients
Authors: Donmez Fuldem Y. , Basaran Ceyla , Kayahan Ulu Esra M. , Yildirim Mahir , Coskun Mehmet
Published: December 2009

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

We report the clinical and radiological features of posterior reversible encephalopathy and compare our findings to the literature.

METHODS

The brain magnetic resonance imaging and clinical records of 33 patients were retrospectively evaluated. Twenty‐four patients had follow‐up imaging, which confirmed the reversibility of the lesions; 9 patients were clinically followed and recovered. The clinical records were analyzed for the age, sex, gender, underlying etiology, and clinical symptoms. MR images were evaluated for the distribution of the lesions, contrast enhancement and diffusion‐weighted‐imaging (DWI) features, reversibility, and complications.

RESULTS

The most commonly involved localizations were frontal lobe in 51.5%, parietal lobe in 84.8%, occipital lobe in 72.7%, temporal lobe in 33.3%, and cerebellum in 33.3%. Nineteen patients had DWI, which showed vasogenic edema in 17 and cytotoxic edema in 2. Sixteen patients had contrast‐enhanced images; 4 of them showed focal enhancement. Nine patients had the complication of hemorrhage.

CONCLUSION

The involvement of different localizations formerly known as atypical is now commonly encountered. Intravenous contrast administration may be of use to demonstrate focal enhancement and exclude other diseases in the differential. DWI is essential to distinguish the type of edema. Repeat imaging including DWI should be performed to follow the response to therapy.

J Neuroimaging 2010;20:22‐28.
Calcium‐Sensing Receptors Induce Apoptosis in Rat Cardiomyocytes via the Endo(sarco)plasmic Reticulum Pathway during Hypoxia/Reoxygenation
Authors: Lu Fanghao , Tian Zhiliang , Zhang Weihua , Zhao Yajun , Bai Shuzhi , Ren Huan , Chen He , Yu Xue , Wang Jingxiao , Wang Lina , Li Hong , Pan Zhenwei , Tian Ye , Yang Baofeng , Wang Rui , Xu Changqing
Published: December 2009

Abstract:  The calcium‐sensing receptor (CaR) is a G protein‐coupled receptor. The CaR stimulation elicits phospholipase C‐mediated inositol triphosphate formation, leading to an elevation in the level of intracellular calcium released from endoplasmic reticulum (ER). Depletion of ER Ca2+ leads to ER stress, which is thought to induce apoptosis. Intracellular calcium overload‐induced apoptosis in cardiac myocytes during hypoxia–reoxygenation (H/Re) has been demonstrated. However, the links between CaR, ER stress and apoptosis during H/Re are unclear. This study hypothesized that the CaR could induce apoptosis in neonatal rat cardiomyocytes during H/Re via the ER stress pathway. Neonatal rat cardiomyocytes were subjected to 3 hr of hypoxia, followed by 6 hr of reoxygenation. CaR expression was elevated and the number of apoptotic cells was significantly increased, as shown by transferase‐mediated dUTP nick end‐labelling, with exposure to CaCl2, a CaR activator, during H/Re. The intracellular calcium concentration was significantly elevated and the Ca2+ concentration in the ER was dramatically decreased during H/Re with CaCl2; both intracellular and ER calcium concentrations were detected by laser confocal microscopy. Expression of GRP78 (glucose‐regulated protein 78), the cleavage products of ATF6 (activating transcription factor 6), phospho‐PERK [pancreatic ER kinase (PKR)‐like ER kinase], the activated fragments of caspase‐12, and phospho‐JNK (c‐Jun NH2‐terminal kinase) were increased following exposure to CaCl2 during H/Re. Our results confirmed that the activated CaR can induce cardiomyocyte apoptosis via ER stress‐associated apoptotic pathways during H/Re.
Extremely halophilic microbial communities in anaerobic sediments from a solar saltern
Authors: López‐López Arantxa , Yarza Pablo , Richter Michael , Suárez‐Suárez Ana , Antón Josefa , Niemann Helge , Rosselló‐Móra Ramón
Published: December 2009

The prokaryotic communities inhabiting hypersaline sediments underlying a crystallizer pond of a Mediterranean solar saltern have been studied in a polyphasic approach including 16S rRNA and dsrAB gene libraries analysis [the last encoding for dissimilatory (bi)sulfite reductase], most probable number of cultivable counts, and metabolic measurements of sulfate reduction. The samples studied here represent one of the most hypersaline anoxic environments sampled worldwide that harbour a highly diverse microbial community different from those previously reported in other hypersaline sediments. Both bacterial and archaeal types are present but, contrarily to the overlying brine system, the former dominates. Molecular analyses indicated that the bacterial fraction is highly diverse and mostly composed by groups related to sulfate‐reducing bacteria (SRB). In good agreement with this, sulfate‐reducing activity was detected in the sediment, as well as the metabolic diversity within SRB (as indicated by the use of different electron donors in enrichments). On the other hand, the archaeal fraction was phylogenetically homogeneous and, surprisingly, strongly affiliated with the MBSl‐1 candidate division, an euryarchaeotal group only reported in deep‐sea hypersaline anoxic basins of the Western Mediterranean, for which a methanogenic metabolism was hypothesized. The hypersaline studied samples constitute a valuable source of new prokaryotic types with metabolisms adapted to the prevalent in situ extreme conditions.
The Effects of Surface Elasticity on an Elastic Solid With Mode-III Crack: Complete Solution
Authors: Kim C. I. , Schiavone P. , Ru C.-Q.
Published: December 2009

We examined the effects of surface elasticity in a classical mode-III crack problem arising in the antiplane shear deformations of a linearly elastic solid. The surface mechanics are incorporated using the continuum based surface/interface model of Gurtin and Murdoch. Complex variable methods are used to obtain an exact solution valid everywhere in the domain of interest (including at the crack tip) by reducing the problem to a Cauchy singular integro-differential equation of the first order. Finally, we adapt classical collocation methods to obtain numerical solutions, which demonstrate several interesting phenomena in the case when the solid incorporates a traction-free crack face and is subjected to uniform remote loading. In particular, we note that, in contrast to the classical result from linear elastic fracture mechanics, the stresses at the (sharp) crack tip remain finite.
A New One-Sided Joining Process for Aluminum Alloys: Friction Stir Blind Riveting
Authors: Gao Dalong , Ersoy Ugur , Stevenson Robin , Wang Pei-Chung
Published: December 2009

Friction stir blind riveting is a new joining process for one-sided joining (compared with the two-sided access required for, for example, self-piercing riveting) of aluminum alloys, which eliminates the need to predrill a hole for rivet insertion. A blind rivet rotating at high speed is brought into contact with the workpieces, thereby generating frictional heat between the rivet and the workpiece, which softens the workpiece material and enables the rivet to be driven into the workpieces under reduced force. Once fully inserted, the blind rivet is upset using the internal mandrel (as in a conventional blind riveting process) to fasten the workpieces together. Our study showed that friction stir blind riveting process can be carried out over a wide range of operating parameters. The resulting joints show consistent strength under tensile load with minimal influence of changes in operating parameters. The robustness of the process against variations in operating conditions shows that the process can be carried out without high-end equipment and without requiring precise initial setup. It also suggests that the process is feasible for rapid joint fabrication in volume production. Further study revealed superior static and fatigue strength from the friction stir blind riveting process, when compared with conventional spot welding, which suggests potential for reduction in the number of joints required in a structure.
Real-Time Diagnosis of the Exhaust Recirculation in Diesel Engines Using Least-Squares Parameter Estimation
Authors: Mohammadpour Javad , Grigoriadis Karolos , Franchek Matthew , Zwissler Benjamin J.
Published: December 2009

In this paper, we present a real-time parameter identification approach for diagnosing faults in the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system of Diesel engines. The proposed diagnostics method has the ability to detect and estimate the magnitude of a leak or a restriction in the EGR valve, which are common faults in the air handling system of a Diesel engine. Real-time diagnostics is achieved using a recursive-least-squares (RLS) method, as well as, a recursive formulation of a more robust version of the RLS method referred to as recursive total-least-squares method. The method is used to identify the coefficients in a static orifice flow model of the EGR valve. The proposed approach of fault detection is successfully applied to diagnose low-flow or high-flow faults in an engine and is validated using experimental data obtained from a Diesel engine test cell and a truck.
Expression of a Synthesized Gene Encoding Cationic Peptide Cecropin B in Transgenic Tomato Plants Protects against Bacterial Diseases
Authors: Jan Pey-Shynan , Huang Hsu-Yuang , Chen Hueih-Min
Published: December 2009

The cationic lytic peptide cecropin B (CB), isolated from the giant silk moth (Hyalophora cecropia), has been shown to effectively eliminate Gram-negative and some Gram-positive bacteria. In this study, the effects of chemically synthesized CB on plant pathogens were investigated. The S50s (the peptide concentrations causing 50% survival of a pathogenic bacterium) of CB against two major pathogens of the tomato,Ralstonia solanacearumandXanthomonas campestrispv. vesicatoria, were 529.6 μg/ml and 0.29 μg/ml, respectively. The CB gene was then fused to the secretory signal peptide (sp) sequence from the barley α-amylase gene, and the new construct, pBI121-spCB, was used for the transformation of tomato plants. Integration of the CB gene into the tomato genome was confirmed by PCR, and its expression was confirmed by Western blot analyses.In vivostudies of the transgenic tomato plant demonstrated significant resistance to bacterial wilt and bacterial spot. The levels of CB expressed in transgenic tomato plants (∼0.05 μg in 50 mg of leaves) were far lower than the S50determinedin vitro. CB transgenic tomatoes could therefore be a new mode of bioprotection against these two plant diseases with significant agricultural applications.
Characterization of the
ars
Gene Cluster from Extremely Arsenic-Resistant
Microbacterium
sp. Strain A33
Authors: Achour-Rokbani Asma , Cordi Audrey , Poupin Pascal , Bauda Pascale , Billard Patrick
Published: December 2009

The arsenic resistance gene cluster of
Microbacterium
sp. A33 contains a novel pair of genes (
arsTX
) encoding a thioredoxin system that are cotranscribed with an unusual
arsRC2
fusion gene,
ACR3
, and
arsC1
in an operon divergent from
arsC3
. The whole
ars
gene cluster is required to complement an
Escherichia coli ars
mutant. ArsRC2 negatively regulates the expression of the pentacistronic operon. ArsC1 and ArsC3 are related to thioredoxin-dependent arsenate reductases; however, ArsC3 lacks the two distal catalytic cysteine residues of this class of enzymes.
Acetate Permease (ActP) Is Responsible for Tellurite (TeO
3
2−
) Uptake and Resistance in Cells of the Facultative Phototroph
Rhodobacter capsulatus
Authors: Borghese Roberto , Zannoni Davide
Published: December 2009

The highly toxic oxyanion tellurite has to enter the cytoplasm of microbial cells in order to fully express its toxicity. Here we show that in the phototroph
Rhodobacter capsulatus
, tellurite exploits acetate permease (ActP) to get into the cytoplasm and that the levels of resistance and uptake are linked.
Endovascular therapy of carotid artery stenosis: a prospective case study
Authors: Claus D , Huppert P , Bauersachs R , Diegel H , Hedtmann G
Published: December 2009

Carotid artery stenting was carried out in a prospective consecutive case study. All interventions were done by the same investigator (PH), and one type of stenting device was used. Additionally, periprocedural monitoring was carried out for at least 24 h. 190 patients were included (70±8.9 years). All had a high grade stenosis (>70% according to North American Symptomatic Carotid Endarterectomy Trial (NASCET) criteria). 140 were men and 50 were women. 104 (55%) had symptomatic stenosis and 86 (45%) had asymptomatic stenosis. A self-expanding nitinol–carotis stent was used (Cordis Precise stent; Johnson and Johnson) with an emboli capture guidewire basket system (Angioguard; Cordis). 30 day complications (infarct, hemorrhage, death due to either) were seen in 13 cases (6.8%). Disabling complications with an increase in the modified Rankin Scale by >2 points after 6 months were seen in five cases (2.6%). The rate of complications after carotid artery stenting was comparable with that after carotid endarterectomy (from the literature). No correlation was seen between complications and age, gender, diabetes, hypertension, symptomatic stenosis or plaque morphology. This may be because of the the 24 h post-procedural monitoring.