bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The (Unknown) Providers to Other Firms' New Product Development: What's in It for Them?
Authors: Tranekjer Tina Lundø , Knudsen Mette Præst
Published: June 2012

For every inbound activity by a firm in open innovation, a reciprocal outbound activity by another firm must be generated. The reciprocal outbound activities range from transferring of knowledge and ideas to solutions delivered to other firms' new product development projects. This paper names the firms that produce the reciprocal outbound activity for “providers,” and is the first to empirically investigate such providers of ideas, solutions, and technologies for other firms' open innovation activities. The literature review shows a surprising shortage of research on who the providers are, how they engage with other firms, and not least what potential benefits can be achieved from supporting other firms' innovation activities. The paper uses a quantitative survey on Danish small and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs) carried out in 2010 to identify the providers, the role they take on, and the main benefits the providers gain. This paper finds that firms that are providers are indeed an under‐researched and important phenomenon for firms' innovation activities. Compared to receivers of knowledge, the providers are younger, have a higher R&D intensity, adopt more open innovation practices, have higher absorptive capacity, and fewer barriers toward knowledge sharing as demonstrated by the NIH and NSH syndromes. Finally, although only tentatively, the paper finds that the provider firms are more product innovative compared to nonproviders. The paper further finds that more projects, more embedded relationships, and mutual rather than one‐way exchange relationships significantly raise the probability that a firm experiences a substantial benefit from providing to other firms' new product development projects. The overall ambition of the paper at this point is to inspire other researchers to pursue the agenda on the provider perspective for future research. To support such research, the paper suggests a broadening of the research perspectives from the receiver of knowledge, in the literature on interorganizational relationships and open innovation, to include the provider, and even suggests some preliminary ideas for such research. Hence, the contribution of this paper lies not only in opening a new research topic but also in identifying some first characteristics of the phenomenon adding a substantial perspective to the literature on open innovation and interorganizational relationships. The paper formulates three indicative recommendations for managers that consider becoming a provider to other firms' NPD.
Gyrodinium moestrupii n. sp., A New Planktonic Heterotrophic Dinoflagellate from the Coastal Waters of Western Korea: Morphology and Ribosomal DNA Gene Sequence
Authors: Yoon Eun Young , Kang Nam Seon , Jeong Hae Jin
Published: June 2012

The heterotrophic dinoflagellate Gyrodinium moestrupii n. sp. is described based on live cells and cells prepared for light, scanning electron, and transmission electron microscopy. In addition, sequences of the small subunit (SSU), internal transcribed spacers (ITS1 and ITS2), 5.8S, and the large subunit (LSU) of the rDNA were analyzed. The cells have a slender, fusiform body, taper to a sharp point at both apices, and are widest in the middle. The conical episome and hyposome are equal in size. A distinct elliptical bisected apical groove (AG) is present. Gyrodinium moestrupii has longitudinal surface striations (LSS) containing 14 and 23 lines in the episome and hyposome, respectively, whereas Gyrodinium dominans, morphologically the most similar species, has 14 and 18 lines, respectively. In addition, the episome and hyposome of G. moestrupii show distinct twists to the right and left, respectively, unlike those of Gyrodinium gutrula or G. dominans, which are not markedly twisted. The cingulum is displaced by 0.3–0.4 × cell length. Length and width of cells starved for 2 d were 23.9–38.2 and 12.0–18.6 μm, respectively, whereas those of cells satiated with Alexandrium minutum were 30.1–61.4 and 20.7–35.6 μm, respectively. The cells contain a pusule system, trichocysts, a lamellar‐like structure, and a fibrous bundle, but lack chloroplasts. The SSU rDNA sequence differed by 0.2–3.9% from those of the three most closely related sequenced species for which data are currently available: G. cf. gutrula (FN669511), G. dominans (FN669510), and Gyrodinium rubrum (AB120003). The LSU rDNA was 3.2–13.9% different from G. dominans (AY571370), Gyrodinium spirale (AY571371), and G. rubrum (AY571369). The phylogenetic trees demonstrated that this novel species belongs within the Gyrodinium clade. Based on the morphological and molecular data, we propose to name it G. moestrupii n. sp.
Distribution and levels of alpha‐1‐antitrypsin in the lung and plasma in smokers and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Linja‐aho Anna , Mazur Witold , Toljamo Tuula , Nieminen Pentti , Ohlmeier Steffen , Rönty Mikko , Kinnula Vuokko L.
Published: June 2012

Our recent non‐biased proteomic screening study revealed elevated SerpinA1 i.e. alpha‐1‐antitrypsin (AAT) levels in induced sputum of smokers with Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This study was designed to further investigate the role of AAT in smokers and subjects with COPD. The expression/distribution of AAT was studied by immunohistochemistry/digital image morphometry in the lung, by Western blot in the lung and sputum, and by ELISA in the plasma at baseline (n = 349) and after a 2‐year follow‐up (n = 58). AAT was localized mainly in airway and alveolar epithelium and endothelium, especially in smokers and in those with COPD. AAT was elevated in smokers and in subjects with COPD in the lung endothelial cells. Total lung AAT immunoreactivity was elevated in subjects with moderate COPD compared with smokers and with non‐smokers. AAT showed elevated tendency in sputum of smokers with COPD compared with ‘healthy’ smokers. Plasma AAT levels were elevated in smokers with/without COPD compared with non‐smokers. In the follow‐up, plasma AAT concentrations decreased significantly after quitting smoking. Chronic smoking/COPD leads to AAT elevation especially in the endothelium of the lung periphery; these changes reflect only modestly to the AAT in sputum, while plasma AAT significantly reflects smoking‐related systemic manifestations, and decreases after smoking cessation.
Peri‐implant marginal bone level: a systematic review and meta‐analysis of studies comparing platform switching versus conventionally restored implants
Authors: Annibali Susanna , Bignozzi Isabella , Cristalli Maria Paola , Graziani Filippo , La Monaca Gerardo , Polimeni Antonella
Published: June 2012

Aim

To systematically review the literature to compare implant survival (IS) and marginal bone loss (MBL) around platform‐switched (PS) versus conventionally restored platform‐matching dental implants.

Material and Methods

Randomized, controlled human clinical trials (RCTs) comparing IS and MBL in PS and conventionally restored implants, with 12 months of follow‐up and at least 10 implants were identified through electronic and manual search. Review and meta‐analysis were performed according to PRISMA statement. Risk ratio (RR) for implant failure and mean difference (MD) for MBL, with 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated. Sources of heterogeneity among studies were also investigated by subgroup analyses.

Results

Ten RCTs involving 435 subjects and 993 implants contributed to this review. The cumulative estimated implant success rate revealed no statistically significant difference between the two groups. At a patient level, a smaller amount of MBL [MD −0.55 mm, 95%CI (−0.86; −0.24), p = 0.0006] was noted around PS implants. Subgroup analyses performed at implant level suggested less MBL when platform switching showed a larger mismatching.

Conclusion

PS technique appeared to be useful in limiting bone resorption. Nevertheless, these data should be interpreted cautiously as significant heterogeneity and possible publication bias were noted. Further research is needed to identify the factors most associated with successful outcomes.
Synthesized Pheophorbide a‐mediated photodynamic therapy induced apoptosis and autophagy in human oral squamous carcinoma cells
Authors: Ahn Mee Young , Yoon Hyo‐Eun , Kwon Seong‐Min , Lee Jun , Min Seung‐Ki , Kim Yong‐Chul , Ahn Sang‐Gun , Yoon Jung‐Hoon
Published: June 2012

Background:  Pheophorbide a (Pa) is a chlorine‐based photosensitizer derived from an ethnopharmacological herb, and our group recently synthesized Pa by the removal of a magnesium ion and a phytyl group from chlorophyll‐a. In this study, the effect of photodynamic therapy (PDT) with synthesized Pa was examined in a human oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) cells.

Methods:  Cells were treated with PDT with Pa, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) and mitochondrial membrane potential [ΔΨ (m)] were examined. Apoptosis was measured using annexin V staining and immunoblot. Autophagy was characterized by the increase in LC3B‐II and the formation of autophagosome and acidic vesicular organelles (AVOs).

Results:  Pa‐PDT inhibited the proliferation of OSCC cells in a dose‐dependent manner. Pa‐PDT increased the number of apoptotic cells by inactivating ERK pathway. Pa‐PDT also induced autophagy in OSCC cells evidenced by the increased levels of LC3 type II expression and the accumulation of AVOs. The inhibition of autophagy enhanced Pa‐PDT‐mediated cytotoxicity through an increase in necrosis.

Conclusions:  These results suggest that synthesized Pa‐PDT exerts anti‐tumor effects by inducing apoptosis and autophagy and provide novel evidence that Pa‐PDT induces autophagy, and autophagy inhibition enhances Pa‐PDT‐mediated necrosis in OSCC cells.
Nevoid basal cell carcinoma syndrome: a 40‐year study in the South African population
Authors: Titinchi Fadi , Nortje Christoffel J. , Parker Mohamed E. , van Rensburg Leon Janse
Published: June 2012

J Oral Pathol Med (2013)42: 162–165

Background:  Nevoid basal cell carcinoma syndrome (NBCCS) is a hereditary autosomal dominant syndrome presenting with a number of signs and symptoms in different population groups.

Methods:  The investigators implemented a 40‐year retrospective analysis of the clinical and radiological features of South Africans affected by NBCCS presenting at the Departments of Oral Surgery, Pathology and Radiology of two major referral hospitals. Details of age, gender, ethnic origin, clinical, and radiological findings were recorded and compared to previous reports. A list of diagnostic criteria for diagnosis of NBCCS in this population was complied. Descriptive statistics were computed, and the P value was set at 0.05 or less.

Results:  The sample was composed of 15 patients. The mean age at the time of diagnosis was 22.7 years (SD 20.9) with eight (53.3%) patients diagnosed before 20 years of age (P = 0.0001). The male: female ratio was 2:1. The most frequent major criteria were keratocystic odontogenic tumors (KCOTs) (100%), calcification of falx cerebri (40%), palmo‐plantar pits (26.7%), and basal cell carcinomas (BCCs) (20%). The most frequent minor criteria were bifid ribs (20%), skull anomalies (20%), and hypertelorism (20%).

Conclusions:  The results of this study indicate that there was a low frequency of falx cerebri calcifications, BCCs, skull, and rib anomalies in this sample compared to other population groups. These differences could be attributed to genetic, racial, and environmental factors. Future studies are needed to compile diagnostic criteria specific to different population groups.
Histological correlates of optical coherence tomography in non‐melanoma skin cancer
Authors: Coleman Andrew John , Richardson Thomas James , Orchard Guy , Uddin Ayesha , Choi Min Joo , Lacy Katie Elizabeth
Published: June 2012

Background

Non‐melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) is rarely fatal but is now the most common malignancy occurring in white populations, accounting for 70% of the cost of managing skin cancer. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) has the potential to improve diagnostic accuracy and help delineate pre‐surgical margins in NMSC. Its widespread clinical acceptance awaits the accumulation of evidence from studies of direct histological comparisons.

Method

In this study, seventy‐eight subjects presenting with skin lesions, including 28 NMSCs, were imaged using the VivoSight® OCT scanner and a biopsy taken. Haemotoxylin and eosin stained histology sections were compared with the OCT images.

Results

The depth of superficial basal cell carcinoma (BCC) lesions (<1 mm) can be measured accurately using OCT. A low‐strength OCT signal at the periphery of the cell nests seen in superficial and nodular BCC is identified as corresponding to cellular palisading. A weak inverse linear correlation (r2 = 0.3) is found between the optical attenuation coefficient measured on OCT and the nuclear‐cytoplasmic ratio (N/C) of cells determined from histology.

Conclusions

OCT has clinical value in providing accurate dimensional measurement of superficial BCC and in identifying the presence of peripheral palisading in nodular BCC.
Phenotypes of CCAAT/enhancer‐binding protein beta deficiency: hyperdontia and elongated coronoid process
Authors: Huang B , Takahashi K , Sakata‐Goto T , Kiso H , Togo Y , Saito K , Tsukamoto H , Sugai M , Akira S , Shimizu A , Bessho K
Published: June 2012

Oral Diseases (2012)

Objectives:  This investigation aimed to conduct a case–control study of mandibular morphology and dental anomalies to propose a relationship between mandibular/dental phenotypes and deficiency of CCAAT/enhancer‐binding protein beta (CEBPB).

Materials and methods:  Skulls of CEBPB−/−, CEBPB+/− and CEBPB+/+ mice were inspected with micro‐computed tomography. Mandibular morphology was assessed with a method of Euclidean distance matrix analysis.

Results:  Elongation of the coronoid process was identified in CEBPB+/− (P ≤ 0.046) and CEBPB−/− 12‐month‐olds (P ≤ 0.028) but not in 14‐day‐olds (P ≥ 0.217) and 0‐day‐olds (P ≥ 0.189) of either genotype. Formation of supernumerary teeth in CEBPB−/− adult mice was demonstrated (χ2 = 6.00, df = 1, P = 0.014).

Conclusions:  CEBPB deficiency was related to elongation of the coronoid process and formation of supernumerary teeth. The mandibular and dental phenotypes of CEBPB deficiency were unseen by the 14th day after birth. Future investigations into the influence of CEBPB on mandibular and dental development are needed.
The Effect of the Distance between Partners' Knowledge Components on Collaborative Innovation
Authors: Schulze Anja , Brojerdi Gundula Janin Christina
Published: June 2012

The alliance literature has recognized distance between partners' knowledge as important for innovation. However, theoretical reasoning as well as empirical results differ concerning the relationship of partners' knowledge base distance and innovation performance. We assume that the mixed results are caused by neglecting the role of relevant knowledge types. In this study, we examine the effect of technological and managerial knowledge distance on collaborative innovation performance. We examined 53 collaborative development projects and we find an inverse U‐shaped relationship between technological knowledge distance and innovation performance, explained by the knowledge‐based view and absorptive capacity. Our results also reveal that a short managerial knowledge distance is beneficial for innovation, which can be explained by transaction cost theory. Overall, our research helps to better explain knowledge distance's effect on collaborative innovation performance.
An intact eight‐membered water chain in drosophilid alcohol dehydrogenases is essential for optimal enzyme activity
Authors: Wuxiuer Yimingjiang , Morgunova Ekaterina , Cols Neus , Popov Alexander , Karshikoff Andrey , Sylte Ingebrigt , Gonzàlez‐Duarte Roser , Ladenstein Rudolf , Winberg Jan‐Olof
Published: June 2012

All drosophilid alcohol dehydrogenases contain an eight‐member water chain connecting the active site with the solvent at the dimer interface. A similar water chain has also been shown to exist in other short‐chain dehydrogenase/reductase (SDR) enzymes, including therapeutically important SDRs. The role of this water chain in the enzymatic reaction is unknown, but it has been proposed to be involved in a proton relay system. In the present study, a connecting link in the water chain was removed by mutating Thr114 to Val114 in Scaptodrosophila lebanonensis alcohol dehydrogenase (SlADH). This threonine is conserved in all drosophilid alcohol dehydrogenases but not in other SDRs. X‐ray crystallography of the SlADHT114V mutant revealed a broken water chain, the overall 3D structure of the binary enzyme–NAD+ complex was almost identical to the wild‐type enzyme (SlADHwt). As for the SlADHwt, steady‐state kinetic studies revealed that catalysis by the SlADHT114V mutant was consistent with a compulsory ordered reaction mechanism where the co‐enzyme binds to the free enzyme. The mutation caused a reduction of the kon velocity for NAD+ and its binding strength to the enzyme, as well as the rate of hydride transfer (k) in the ternary enzyme–NAD+–alcohol complex. Furthermore, it increased the pKa value of the group in the binary enzyme–NAD+ complex that regulates the kon velocity of alcohol and alcohol‐competitive inhibitors. Overall, the results indicate that an intact water chain is essential for optimal enzyme activity and participates in a proton relay system during catalysis.

Database
 The X‐ray crystallography data are available in under Protein Data Bank accession numbers 3RJ5 (SlADHT114V structure determined from C2 crystals) and 3RJ9 (SlADHT114V structure determined from P21 crystals)

Structured digital abstract

 SlADH T114V and SlADH T114V bind by x‐ray crystallography (View Interaction: 1, 2)
Peptides that inhibit HIV‐1 integrase by blocking its protein–protein interactions
Authors: Maes Michal , Loyter Abraham , Friedler Assaf
Published: June 2012

HIV‐1 integrase (IN) is one of the key enzymes in the viral replication cycle. It mediates the integration of viral cDNA into the host cell genome. IN activity requires interactions with several viral and cellular proteins, as well as IN oligomerization. Inhibition of IN is an important target for the development of anti‐HIV therapies, but there is currently only one anti‐HIV drug used in the clinic that targets IN. Several other small‐molecule anti‐IN drug leads are either undergoing clinical trials or in earlier stages of development. These molecules specifically inhibit one of the IN‐mediated reactions necessary for successful integration. However, small‐molecule inhibitors of protein–protein interactions are difficult to develop. In this review, we focus on peptides that inhibit IN. Peptides have advantages over small‐molecule inhibitors of protein–protein interactions: they can mimic the structures of the binding domains within proteins, and are large enough to competitively inhibit protein–protein interactions. The development of peptides that bind IN and inhibit its protein–protein interactions will increase our understanding of the IN mode of action, and lead to the development of new drug leads, such as small molecules derived from these peptides, for better anti‐HIV therapy.
Topical application of ex vivo expanded endothelial progenitor cells promotes vascularisation and wound healing in diabetic mice
Authors: Asai Jun , Takenaka Hideya , Ii Masaaki , Asahi Michio , Kishimoto Saburo , Katoh Norito , Losordo Douglas W
Published: June 2012

Impaired wound healing leading to skin ulceration is a serious complication of diabetes and may be caused by defective angiogenesis. Endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) can augment neovascularisation in the ischaemic tissue. Experiments were performed to test the hypothesis that locally administered EPCs can promote wound healing in diabetes. Full‐thickness skin wounds were created on the dorsum of diabetic mice. EPCs were obtained from bone marrow mononuclear cells (BMMNCs) and applied topically to the wound immediately after surgery. Vehicle and non‐selective BMMNCs were used as controls. Wound size was measured on days 5, 10 and 14 after treatment, followed by resection, histological analysis and quantification of vascularity. Topical application of EPCs significantly promoted wound healing, as assessed by closure rate and wound vascularity. Immunostaining revealed that transplanted EPCs induced increased expression of vascular endothelial growth factor and basic fibroblast growth factor. Few EPCs were observed in the neovasculature based on in vivo staining of the functional vasculature. Ex vivo expanded EPCs promote wound healing in diabetic mice via mechanisms involving increased local cytokine expression and enhanced neovascularisation of the wound. This strategy exploiting the therapeutic capacity of autologously derived EPCs may be a novel approach to skin repair in diabetes.
EFFECT OF SHORTENINGS ON THE RHEOLOGY OF GLUTEN‐FREE DOUGHS: STUDY OF CHESTNUT FLOUR WITH CHIA FLOUR, OLIVE AND SUNFLOWER OILS
Authors: MOREIRA R. , CHENLO F. , TORRES M.D.
Published: June 2012

Effects of chia flour (CHF, up to 7.5%), olive oil (up to 10.0%) and sunflower oil (up to 10.0%) on mixing and rheological behavior for chestnut flour (CF) doughs were studied using Mixolab device and a controlled‐stress rheometer. Steady‐shear (0.01 to 10/s) and oscillatory (1 to 70 rad/s at 0.1% strain) tests were carried out at 30C. Apparent viscosity of doughs at each shear rate and storage modulus at each angular frequency decreased with increasing additives content. Elastic properties at CHF content higher than 4.0% remained constant with increasing additive. Experimental flow curves and mechanical spectra were successfully fitted using Williamson and power models, respectively. Gelatinization temperatures increased with CHF and remained constant with oils addition.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

As celiac disease is becoming more common nowadays the consumers' demand for gluten‐free products with high nutritional and taste quality is increasing. This work deals with the study of the impact of shortenings (chia flour, olive and sunflower oils) on the rheological performance of gluten‐free doughs based on chestnut flour (CF) using different experimental techniques. Tested additives are studied over a content range of industrial interest. The effect of these additives on the CF doughs is essential in order to get formulations with a suitable technological aptitude. Finally, this study tries to provide additional economic value to seasonal products as chestnut fruit by means of the industrial manufacture of new flour products.
Dietrich Bonhoeffer: Engaging Intellect – Legendary Life
Authors: Frick Peter
Published: June 2012

This study presents the biographical and intellectual framework of the life of Dietrich Bonhoeffer. Living in the unusual time of Nazi evil, Bonhoeffer was faced with the dilemma to make sense of both his theology and the consequent actions that empowered his life as a result of his intellectual formation. This essay discusses the biographical milestones of his life and examines the theological, philosophical and ethical pillars of his thought as a whole.
Can general practice help address youth mental health? A retrospective cross‐sectional study in Dublin's south inner city
Authors: Connolly D. , Leahy D. , Bury G. , Gavin B. , McNicholas F. , Meagher D. , O'Kelly F.D. , Wiehe P. , Cullen W.
Published: June 2012

Aims: With general practice potentially having an important role in early intervention of mental and substance use disorders among young people, we aim to explore this issue by determining the prevalence of psychological problems and general practice/health service utilization among young people attending general practice.

Methods: A retrospective cross‐sectional study of patients attending three general practices in Dublin city.

Results: Among a sample of young people (mostly women, 44% general medical services (GMS) eligible), we observed considerable contact with general practice, both lifetime and for the 2 years of the study. The mean consultation rate was 3.9 consultations in 2 years and psychosocial issues (most commonly stress/anxiety and depression) were documented in 35% of cases. Identification of psychosocial issues was associated with GMS eligibility, three or more doctor consultations, and documentation of smoking and drinking status.

Conclusions: Psychosocial issues are common among young people attending general practice and more work on their epidemiology and further identification in general practice are advocated.
Treatment possibilities for individuals at clinical high risk of psychosis
Authors: Brummitt Kali , Addington Jean
Published: June 2012

Aim: The purpose of this study was to undertake a first step in trying to understand the types of treatments young people at clinical high risk of psychosis are interested in pursuing.

Methods: The sample consisted of 30 young people who were current participants in the ongoing North American Prodrome Longitudinal Study (NAPLS 2) and who met criteria for being at clinical high risk for psychosis. Participants were administered a questionnaire that asked them to identify the types of mental health problems they were currently getting help with or would like to get help with and the types of treatments they thought would be helpful and may be interested in receiving.

Results: Results showed that when individuals first began participation in NAPLS, almost half had no expectations for treatment. They wanted help but they did not really know what kind of help to be asking for. Participants had a wide range of concerns for which they wanted help. Although a majority endorsed attenuated positive symptoms as a concern, many other issues such a family and social problems were often identified. For those who were already receiving help, the general opinion was that it was beneficial.

Conclusions: The findings suggest that this population sees many different interventions as being potentially helpful. Furthermore, they are open to participating in a variety of treatments, including psychotherapeutic and psychiatric interventions as well as more general treatments addressing a range of possible deficits or difficulties.
Correlates of subjective recovery in an early intervention program for psychoses
Authors: Norman Ross M.G. , Windell Deborah , Lynch Jill , Manchanda Rahul
Published: June 2012

Aim: To examine the relative importance of symptoms and components of social support in predicting subjective recovery from psychosis.

Methods: Eighty‐four clients of a first‐episode program for psychotic disorders completed measures of subjective recovery (the Recovery Assessment Scale and the Modified Engulfment Scale) and measures of social support related to appraisal support, tangible support, general sense of belongingness and perceived relational evaluation (PRE). Measures of positive and negative symptoms of psychosis were completed by an independent assessor.

Results: Although symptoms, particularly negative symptoms, were correlated with several indices of recovery, PRE generally emerged as the most consistent and important predictor.

Conclusions: PRE appears to be a particularly important aspect of social support in predicting subjective recovery. Prospective studies of the importance of PRE are warranted.
Chronic H1‐Antihistamine Treatment Increases Seizure Susceptibility After Withdrawal by Impairing Glutamine Synthetase
Authors: Hu Wei‐Wei , Fang Qi , Xu Zheng‐Hao , Yan Hai‐Jing , He Ping , Zhong Kai , Fan Yan‐Ying , Yang Ying , Zhang Xiang‐Nan , Zhang Chun‐Yang , Ohtsu Hiroshi , Xu Tian‐Le , Chen Zhong
Published: June 2012

Aim

To investigate the effect of chronic H1‐antihistamine treatment on seizure susceptibility after drug withdrawal in nonepileptic rats and to further study its relation to glutamine synthetase (GS), which is the key enzyme for glutamate metabolism and gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) synthesis.

Methods

After drug withdrawal from a 2‐week treatment with diphenhydramine or pyrilamine, seizure susceptibility was determined by amygdaloid kindling or pentylenetetrazol model; meanwhile, the GS expression or activity was analyzed. The glutamine, glutamate, and GABA contents were measured by high‐performance liquid chromatography.

Results

Seizure susceptibility significantly increased in amygdaloid kindling and pentylenetetrazol model 10 days after drug withdrawal from a 2‐week treatment with H1‐antihistamines. Meanwhile, GS activity and expression in the cortex or hippocampus decreased simultaneously with a marked decline of glutamine and GABA content. Comparable inhibition of GS activity by methionine sulfoximine was also sufficient to increase the susceptibility, while supplementation with glutamine reversed the high susceptibility 10 days after diphenhydramine withdrawal. Moreover, the seizure susceptibility increased 10 days after diphenhydramine withdrawal in wild‐type mice but not in histidine decarboxylase knockout mice, which lack histamine.

Conclusions

Chronic H1‐antihistamine treatment produces long‐lasting increase in seizure susceptibility in nonepileptic rodents after drug withdrawal and its mechanism involves impairment of GS through blocking the action of histamine.
Foreign Banks in India: Liabilities or Assets?
Authors: Ghosh Saibal
Published: June 2012

Using data on Indian banks for 1996–2007, this article examines the impact of foreign banks on the domestic banking sector. The analysis suggests that foreign bank penetration improves profitability and asset quality, although it dampens spreads. The results are robust to alternate measures of foreign bank presence. In addition, foreign banks appear to impact the maturity of credit portfolio of domestic banks. Finally, the results also support the fact that foreign banks typically charge lower interest rates as compared to domestic banks.
Changes in levels of hepatitis B virus markers in patients positive for low‐titer hepatitis B surface antigen
Authors: Okuse Chiaki , Yotsuyanagi Hiroshi , Yamada Norie , Ikeda Hiroki , Kobayashi Minoru , Fukuda Yasunobu , Takahashi Hideaki , Matsunaga Kotaro , Matsumoto Nobuyuki , Okamoto Masaru , Ishii Toshiya , Sato Akira , Koike Kazuhiko , Suzuki Michihiro , Itoh Fumio
Published: June 2012

Aim:  Recently, patients positive for the low‐titer hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) have been found occasionally owing to the increase in the accuracy of detection methods. The aim of this study is to clarify the clinical status of acute hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection in patients positive for low‐titer HBsAg.

Method:  Eight patients, who were positive for HBsAg at low titers and diagnosed as having acute HBV infection, were enrolled in this study. Assays of HBsAg, hepatitis B core antibody (anti‐HBc), hepatitis B e‐antigen (HBeAg), hepatitis B e‐antibody (anti‐HBe), hepatitis B surface antibody (anti‐HBs) and HBV DNA, and biochemical tests were basically conducted every 4 weeks for at least 24 weeks.

Result:  The average cut‐off index of HBsAg was 8.7 ± 9.6 (range, 1.0–25.7). All the patients were negative for anti‐HBc, HBeAg, anti‐HBe and HBV DNA on their initial visit. The genotype of HBV could be determined in four patients: two were infected with genotype B/HBV, one was infected with genotype A/HBV, and the remaining patient was infected with genotype C/HBV. Although HBsAg clearance was observed within 4 months in all the patients, none of the other HBV markers seroconverted during the observation period.

Conclusion:  HBV infection terminating with seronegativity for HBV markers may occur in transient HBV infection.
Leucine‐rich repeat‐containing G protein‐coupled receptor 5 expression in ductular reactions after chemotherapy for metastatic colorectal cancer
Authors: Saigusa Susumu , Tanaka Koji , Toiyama Yuji , Matsushita Kohei , Kawamura Mikio , Okugawa Yoshinaga , Uchida Keiichi , Inoue Yasuhiro , Mohri Yasuhiko , Kusunoki Masato
Published: June 2012

Aim:  Oval cells with ductular reactions (DR) in damaged liver are referred to as “intermediate hepatobiliary cells”. In a preliminary study, we had found expression of the leucine‐rich repeat‐containing G protein‐coupled receptor 5 (LGR5) known as a potential marker for stem cells in the small intestine and colon in DR in liver damaged by chemotherapy for metastatic colorectal cancer (CRC). The aim of this study was to confirm LGR expression in DR in damaged liver after chemotherapy.

Methods:  A total of 68 liver specimens obtained after surgical resection were stained with monoclonal antibodies for cytokeratin (CK)7, neural cell adhesion molecule (NCAM; a bile ductular and liver progenitor cell marker), CD133 (a candidate stem cell marker of hepatocellular carcinoma as well as CRC) and LGR5. Additionally, these mRNA levels were investigated according to the location in damaged liver after chemotherapy using microdissected specimens.

Results:  We observed that LGR5 was expressed in DR with CD133, CK7 and NCAM expression. By contrast, LGR5, CD133 and NCAM were not expressed in mature bile ducts with CK7. In transcriptional analysis, LGR5 mRNA levels in fibrotic tissue including DR were higher compared with that in adjacent normal liver without significant difference.

Conclusion:  These findings suggest that LGR5 may be involved in maintaining DR in damaged liver.
Creep Crack Growth Behavior in Power Plant Boiler and Steam Pipe Steels
Authors: Saxena A. , Han J. , Banerji K.
Published: June 2012

One of the important ingredients in remaining creep crack growth life assessment of elevated temperature power plant components is the material creep crack growth rate data. This report summarizes the currently available data on Cr-Mo and Cr-Mo-V steels most commonly used in steam pipes and boilers. All data are correlated with the crack-tip parameter, Ct. The accompanying creep deformation data and tensile properties are also included. The influence of in-service degradation, test temperature and the welding parameters such as impurity level and post-weld heat treatment (PWHT) on the creep crack growth behavior were examined. It was shown that the influence of nominal material chemistry, service degradation and test temperature can be normalized into a single da/dt versus Ct trend for the base materials. It was also shown that the level of impurities and the PWHT can significantly influence the da/dt versus Ct behavior in weldments.
Seismic Vibration Analysis of Fluid-Structure Interaction in LMFBR Piping Systems
Authors: Hara F.
Published: June 2012

This paper is a basic study on the vibrational characteristics of an LMFBR piping system containing liquid sodium under one-dimensional seismic excitation. Using Z-shaped piping, we formulate coupled equations for the pipe’s bending vibration and pressure wave, and transform them into two-degree-of-freedom vibration equations for the first modes of the piping vibration and pressure wave. A numerical study using the vibration model shows that: 1) the coupling effect appears between piping acceleration and liquid pressure for a piping configuration having a natural frequency ratio ν = about 0.5 to 2.0; 2) the magnitude of seismically induced pressure reaches 0.7 kPa to 1 kPa per gal; and 3) the dead-mass model of liquid gives a nonconservative response depending on the pipe’s geometrical configuration, compared to that from the pressure-wave-piping-interaction model.
The Contact Stress Analysis of Pad-Reinforced Structures
Authors: Chien H. , Tu S.
Published: June 2012

The study introduces a concept of contact stress analysis to the local stress calculation of plate and shell structures in pressure vessels. A new computational method for local stresses is proposed in the light of the contact between pad and shell and the compatibility at the pad edges due to the fillet weld. Using the developed program of the contact stress analysis of plates and shells, which is based on the flexibility mixed FEM, the authors have studied the contact stresses of a saddle support model and local stresses of a suspended tower structure which cannot be achieved with old methods. The theoretical calculations coincide well with the experimental results.
Behavior of a Nuclear Steel Containment Equipment Hatch at Large Strain
Authors: Fanous F. , Greimann L.
Published: June 2012

During a severe accident, buckling of a steel containment hatch door, large deformation and ovaling of the hatch sleeve are potential causes of mismatch at the sealing surface which can result in a leakage path. A three-dimensional nonlinear finite element analysis of a typical steel containment/sleeve/hatch assembly that includes containment stiffeners, pretensioned swing bolts, and hatch door geometric imperfection is presented. The analysis was carried out to the nonlinear range up to large strains. The results indicated that the buckling load occurs at pressure, far above that which causes gross yielding of the shell plate. Although buckling of the hatch door increased the relative motions of the hatch sleeve and the hatch door, the motions remained sufficiently small to prevent leakage.
Stationary and Transient Response of Cylindrical Shells Under Random Excitation
Authors: Singh A. V.
Published: June 2012

This paper presents the random vibration analysis of a simply supported cylindrical shell under a ring load which is uniform around the circumference. The time history of the excitation is assumed to be a stationary wide-band random process. The finite element method and the condition of symmetry along the length of the cylinder are used to calculate the natural frequencies and associated mode shapes. Maximum values of the mean square displacements and velocities occur at the point of application of the load. It is seen that the transient response of the shell under wide band stationary excitation is nonstationary in the initial stages and approaches the stationary solution for large value of time.
The Rise of Chemodiversity in Plants
Authors: Weng Jing-Ke , Philippe Ryan N. , Noel Joseph P.
Published: June 2012

Plants possess multifunctional and rapidly evolving specialized metabolic enzymes. Many metabolites do not appear to be immediately required for survival; nonetheless, many may contribute to maintaining population fitness in fluctuating and geographically dispersed environments. Others may serve no contemporary function but are produced inevitably as minor products by single enzymes with varying levels of catalytic promiscuity. The dominance of the terrestrial realm by plants likely mirrored expansion of specialized metabolism originating from primary metabolic pathways. Compared with their evolutionarily constrained counterparts in primary metabolism, specialized metabolic enzymes may be more tolerant to mutations normally considered destabilizing to protein structure and function. If this is true, permissiveness may partially explain the pronounced chemodiversity of terrestrial plants.
Achieving Diversity in the Face of Constraints: Lessons from Metabolism
Authors: Milo Ron , Last Robert L.
Published: June 2012

Metabolic engineering of plants can reduce the cost and environmental impact of agriculture while providing for the needs of a growing population. Although our understanding of plant metabolism continues to increase at a rapid pace, relatively few plant metabolic engineering projects with commercial potential have emerged, in part because of a lack of principles for the rational manipulation of plant phenotype. One underexplored approach to identifying such design principles derives from analysis of the dominant constraints on plant fitness, and the evolutionary innovations in response to those constraints, that gave rise to the enormous diversity of natural plant metabolic pathways.
Incubator of Innovations
The Idea Factory
Bell Labs and the Great Age of American Innovation

by Jon Gertner

Penguin, New York, 2012. 446 pp. $29.95, £19.15. ISBN 9781594203282.
Authors: Johnson Ann
Published: June 2012

In this account of Bell Labs, Gertner considers how—as an institution and as a collection of personalities—it produced so many technological innovations.
Comment on “Global Correlations in Tropical Tree Species Richness and Abundance Reject Neutrality”
Authors: Chen Anping , Wang Shaopeng , Pacala Stephen W.
Published: June 2012

Ricklefs and Renner (Reports, 27 January 2012, p. 464) found significant correlations for abundances and species diversities of families and orders of trees on different continents, which they suggested falsifies the neutral theory of biodiversity (NTB). We argue that the correlations among families and orders and the lack of correlations among genera can be explained by the NTB.
Comment on “Global Correlations in Tropical Tree Species Richness and Abundance Reject Neutrality”
Authors: Munoz François , Couteron Pierre , Hubbell Stephen P.
Published: June 2012

Ricklefs and Renner (Reports, 27 January 2012, p. 464) have argued that the neutral theory of biodiversity and biogeography cannot explain the correlations in family abundances and species richness found between tropical forests from distinct continents. However, we show that such patterns can arise from neutral processes of diversification, migration, and drift over large spatial and temporal scales.
On the Invention of Pottery
Authors: Shelach Gideon
Published: June 2012

What was the function of early Asian pottery, which predates the invention of agriculture by about 10,000 years?
A New Start for Protein Synthesis
Authors: Dever Thomas E.
Published: June 2012

Protein synthesis that does not initiate with methionine is used by the mammalian immune system to process antigen.
Endless Rots Most Beautiful
Authors: Hittinger Chris Todd
Published: June 2012

Deep phylogenetic sampling of 31 fungal genomes, including 12 new ones, reveals how wood-decaying enzymes evolved in white rot.
Plant Gene Clusters and Opiates
Authors: DellaPenna Dean , O'Connor Sarah E.
Published: June 2012

A variety of poppy that produces high amounts of an alkaloid opiate requires a cluster of genes that encode key biosynthetic enzymes.
Environmental Science Feels Pinch in Canada's Budget
Authors: Malakoff David
Published: June 2012

As details have dribbled out on how Canada's budget will affect their fields, some Canadian researchers are slamming aspects of the plan that they say will cripple some areas of environmental research.
Cassini Spies an Ocean Inside Saturn's Icy, Gassy Moon Titan
Authors: Kerr Richard A.
Published: June 2012

Cassini scientists report online this week in
Science
that they have divined an ocean of water 100 kilometers beneath Titan's icy surface.
Antibiotic Susceptibility of Beta-Lactamase-Producing Strains of
Branhamella
(
Neisseria
)
catarrhalis
Authors: Doern Gary V. , Siebers Kathy G. , Hallick Lesley M. , Morse Stephen A.
Published: June 2012

All 11 clinically significant isolates of
Branhamella catarrhalis
examined in this study were found to produce β-lactamase. The enzyme was apparently not plasmid associated since extrachromosomal deoxyribonucleic acid was not detected in any of the strains. The β-lactamase activity of all strains was significantly depressed by the β-lactamase inhibitors clavulanic acid and CP 45899. Based on comparisons of relative susceptibility to various β-lactam antibiotics, it was inferred that the β-lactamase of
B. catarrhalis
was significantly more active against penicillin congeners than against cephalosporin congeners. Most strains were not inhibited by readily achievable serum concentrations of the pencillinase-sensitive penicillins, penicillin G, ampicillin, and amoxicillin. Methicillin was equally ineffective. With rare exceptions, most strains of
B. catarrhalis
were inhibited by achievable serum concentrations of seven cephalosporins (cephalothin, cephapirin, cephaloridine, cephalexin, cephamandole, cefaclor, and cefuroxin) and one cephamycin (cefoxitin). All strains were uniformly resistant to clindamycin but were inhibited by achievable serum concentrations of erythromycin, tetracycline, chloramphenicol, and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole. Comparison of geometric mean minimum inhibitory concentrations of all antimicrobial agents tested suggested that
B. catarrhalis
was most susceptible to cefoxitin, erythromycin, and tetracycline.
Aminoglycoside-Resistant Mutation of
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Defective in Cytochrome
c
552
and Nitrate Reductase
Authors: Bryan L. E. , Nicas Thalia , Holloway B. W. , Crowther Carol
Published: June 2012

A gentamicin-resistant mutant of
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
PAO503 was selected after ethyl methane sulfonate mutagenesis. The strain,
P. aeruginosa
PAO2401 had increased resistance to all aminoglycosides tested but exhibited no change for other antibiotics. The mutation designated
aglA
(aminoglycoside resistance) was 50% cotransducible with the 8-min
ilvB,C
marker on the
P. aeruginosa
chromosome. It showed a marked reduction in cytochrome
c
552
and nitrate reductase (Nar) and a change in terminal oxidase activity. Cytochrome
c
552
is a component of the
P. aeruginosa
Nar. No changes in succinate and reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide dehydrogenases, ubiquinone content, Mg
2+
/Ca
2+
membrane adenosine triphosphatase, and energy coupling of electron transport to adenosine 5′-triphosphate synthesis were detected. Transport of gentamicin and dihydrostreptomycin was impaired in PAO2401, but transport of proline, arginine, glutamine, glucose or the polyamine spermidine was not reduced. Ribosomes of PAO2401, and PAO503 bound dihydrostreptomycin equally well, and cell extracts did not inactivate gentamicin or dihydrostreptomycin. Strain PAO2401 is resistant to gentamicin and dihydrostreptomycin because of impaired transport of these compounds. The transport studies indicate a selective coupling of dihydrostreptomycin and gentamicin transport with terminal electron transport. This conclusion was supported by results from another mutant (PAO417-T2) with increased Nar activity, enhanced dihydrostreptomycin and gentamicin transport and a reduction in resistance to these drugs. These results are discussed in relation to a refined model for aminoglycoside transport and briefly relative to plasmid-mediated aminoglycoside resistance.
(E)-5-(2-bromovinyl)-2'-Deoxyuridine in the treatment of experimental herpes simplex keratitis
Authors: Maudgal P C , De Clercq E , Descamps J , Missotten L , De Somer P , Busson R , Vanderhaeghe H , Verhelst G , Walker R T , Jones A S
Published: June 2012

IDU (5-iodo-2'-deoxyuridine), BVDU [(E)-5-(2-bromovinyl)-2'-deoxyuridine] and placebo ointments were studied for their effects on experimental herpes simplex (type 1) keratoconjuncitivitis in rabbits. When treatment was begun 65 h after virus inoculation, both BVDU and IDU prevented development of keratitis. Both BVDU and IDU were also effective in suppressing the severity of conjunctivitis, and in this respect, BVDU proved significantly better than IDU. When treatment was started 110 h after virus inoculation, BVDU proved significantly better than IDU in promoting healing of established keratitis.
Inhibition of candidacidal activity of human neutrophil leukocytes by aminoglycoside antibiotics
Authors: Ferrari F A , Pagani A , Marconi M , Stefanoni R , Siccardi A G
Published: June 2012

We have tested the effect of five aminoglycoside antibiotics (gentamicin, sisomicin, tobramycin, ribostamycin, and amikacin) on the candidacidal activity of human neutrophils in vitro; all of them are inhibitory and can be grouped into three significantly different levels of toxicity. Gentamicin in the most toxic and sisomicin is the least toxic.