bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Idiopathic Ventricular Fibrillation in a 10‐Year‐Old Boy: Technical Aspects of Radiofrequency Ablation and Utility of Antiarrhythmic Therapy
Authors: SABA MAGDI M. , SALIM MUBADDA , HOOD ROBERT E. , DICKFELD TIMM‐MICHAEL , SHOROFSKY STEPHEN R.
Published: June 2010

Idiopathic ventricular fibrillation (VF) is defined as spontaneous VF in the absence of structural heart disease. No prior reports exist addressing the technical aspects of idiopathic VF ablation in a child. We present the case of a 10‐year‐old boy with idiopathic VF, who presented a unique management challenge, particularly as regards the technical aspects of the ablation procedure. Ablation of idiopathic VF is feasible in a 10‐year‐old boy and oral quinidine seems more effective than other antiarrhythmic drugs in this condition. (PACE 2011; 34:e85–e89)
Too close for comfort: effect of trap spacing distance and pattern on statistical inference of behavioral choice tests in the field
Authors: McMahon Matthew D. , Raffa Kenneth F. , Nordheim Erik V. , Aukema Brian H.
Published: June 2010

Behavioral choice tests provide a powerful and commonly used technique for evaluating the biological activity of chemical signals. Despite the widespread application of this approach, relatively few studies have evaluated a key assumption, that is, relative independence among treatments. Previous work has demonstrated that both the number of choices and their physical arrangement can affect the results of choice tests with leaf‐feeding insects in laboratory assays. Here, we consider another spatial component, the distance between treatments, in a field assay, using a bark beetle as our model. We used three geometries of trap arrangements, two spacing levels, and both ‘low activity’ lures and a ‘high activity’ lure in our behavioral assays. We found that proximity to an attractive treatment generated unexpectedly high trap catches at relatively non‐attractive treatments, even in the presence of a uniform treatment effect and relatively constant insect population size. Increases in traps baited with ‘low activity’ lures proximate to a highly attractive treatment ranged from 4 to 7× the catch observed in configurations with traps spaced wider apart. Moreover, even in the absence of ‘high activity’ lures, a lure catching less than one insect per day on average could obscure the effect of a control trap at proximate spacing. In our example, a spacing distance of 15 m appears to provide independence among traps used to sample the bark beetle Ips pini (Say) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Scolytinae), but 3 m does not. Our broader intent is to provide a useful approach to the design and evaluation of behavioral choice experiments in the field.
Reproductive success of Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) mature male parr in a small river, the Nivelle: influence of shelters
Authors: Grimardias D. , Merchermek N. , Manicki A. , Garnier J. , Gaudin P. , Jarry M. , Beall E.
Published: June 2010

Grimardias D, Merchermek N, Manicki A, Garnier J, Gaudin P, Jarry M, Beall E. Reproductive success of Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) mature male parr in a small river, the Nivelle: influence of shelters.  Ecology of Freshwater Fish 2010: 19: 510–519. © 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S

Abstract –  The breeding activity of a small population of Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar L.) was monitored on the Nivelle River in southwest France to estimate the overall contribution of mature male parr and the numbers involved in egg fertilisation. In the twelve redds sampled, 563 eggs were collected for parental assignment and the physical habitat was characterised to investigate the possible relationship between parr reproductive success and habitat complexity. The overall contribution of mature male parr was particularly high (87%, one of the highest estimates ever reported). Concerning habitat complexity, granulometry and shelter diversity were correlated with the number of parr breeders contributing to egg fertilisation in each redd. A complex habitat increased multiple paternity, which could affect the effective size and genetic variability of small salmon populations.
Killing of Fusobacterium nucleaturn, Porphyromonas gingivalis and Prevotella intermedia by protegrins
Authors: Miyasaki Kenneth T. , Iofel Rina , Oren Ami , Huynh Thuc , Lehrer Robert I.
Published: June 2010

Protegrins are broad spectrum antibiotic peptides isolated from porcine leukocytes. In this study, we (i) examine the sensitivity of Gram‐negative, anaerobic periodontal pathogens to synthetic protegrins; (ii) determine the relative potencies of protegrin congeners against these bacteria; and (iii) compare the potency of protegrins with other antibiotic peptides, including magainin MSI‐78, tachyplesin I, cecropin P1, human defensins HNP‐1‐3, and clavanin A. Synthetic l‐ and d‐enantiomers of protegrin 1 (PG‐1 and D‐PG‐1, respectively), and L‐enantiomers of protegrins 2, 3 and 5 (PG‐2, PG‐3 and PG‐5) were tested against Fusobacteriurn nucleatum, and black‐pigmented organisms including Porphyromonas gingivalis and Prevotella intermedia. Strains of both F. nucleatum and the black‐pigmented organisms were sensitive to PG‐1, and exhibited mean ED99 of 2.2‐2.3 μg/ml and 3.4‐9.9 μg/ml, respectively. The D‐form was statistically more potent than the L‐form against these oral anaerobes, and although this difference in potency is unlikely to be of decisive therapeutic significance, the d‐form may be of value given ability to resist microbial and host‐derived proteases. PG‐1 was more potent than magainin, tachyplesin, cecropin, defensins and clavanin under test conditions. Hypertonic saIt concentrations and heat‐inactivated serum were found to be inhibitory to the bactericidal activity of PG‐1. PG‐1 was found to induce morphologic alterations in the ultrastructural appearance of F. nucleatum consistent with damage to the bacterial membranes. We conclude that protegrins may be useful antimicrobial agents in therapy against Gram‐negative anaerobic bacteria believed to be involved in chronic, adult forms of periodontal infections.
Inhibitory effects of YM175, a bisphosphonate, on the progression of experimental periodontitis in beagle dogs
Authors: O'uchi Naoto , Nishikawa Haruko , Yoshino Taiji , Kanoh Hiroyuki , Motoie Hiroyuki , Nishimori Emi , Shimaoka Toshio , Abe Tetsushi , Shikama Hisataka , Fujikura Takashi , Matsue Miyoko , Matsue Ichiro
Published: June 2010

This study examined the efficacy of YM175 [disodium dihydrogen (cycloheptylamino) methylene‐1,1‐bisphosphonate] in reducing alveolar bone loss caused by experimental periodontitis in beagle dogs. Thirty‐six dogs were used and divided into 6 groups. Periodontitis was induced in 30 dogs (groups 2‐6) by ligating the bilateral mandibular third and fourth premolar teeth with silk ligatures and by feeding a soft diet. Six dogs were sham‐operated (group 1). Saline (placebo), flurbiprofen (0.02mg/kg) and YM175 (0.01, 0.1 and 1.0 mg/kg) were administered to the dogs (groups 2‐6) 5 d/wk for 25 wk. Radiographic and morphometric analyses were performed. In placebo‐treated animals (group 2), the ligation caused a significant decrease in the alveolar bone height by 0.57 and 1.91 mm at 2 and 25 wk, respectively. YM175 (1.0 mg/kg) prevented the decrease in bone height by 47 and 31% at 2 and 25 wk. YM175 (0.1 mg/kg) and flurbiprofen tended to prevent bone loss after 15 wk. Although the ligation elicited no significant change in bone mineral density, it significantly decreased bone volume. YM175 (1.0 mg/kg) and flurbiprofen tended to increase the bone volume. The number of formative or resorptive Haversian canals and the bone turnover through the periosteal bone surface were increased by the ligation, indicating the increased turnover of the cortical bone. YM175 (1.0 mg/kg) reduced the increased bone turnover. The gingival index was maximally increased at 2 wk and was suppressed by YM175. These results suggest that YM175 prevents alveolar bone loss by reducing the increased alveolar bone turnover in dogs with periodontitis.
Fluid dynamics of gingival tissues
Authors: Fabbro Massimo Del , Galardi Elena , Weinstein Roberto , Bulfamante Gaetano , Miserocchi Giuseppe
Published: June 2010

Gingival hydraulic interstitial pressure was measured with glass micropipettes in 18 anesthetized rabbits at the level of the free gingiva, attached gingiva and oral mucosa facing the incisors and molar teeth. Samples of gingival interstitial tissue fluid were also collected by inserting nylon wicks in the subepithelial layer of the oral mucosa. Colloid osmotic pressure of interstitial fluid samples was measured with an osmometer whose membrane had a molecular cutoff of 30 kD. Hydraulic interstitial pressure from the free gingiva, at an average distance of 300 μm from sulcular space, was ‐ 1.3 ± 0.9 (SD) cmH2O. Mean colloid osmotic pressure of gingival tissues interstitial fluid was 13.1 cmH2O, corresponding to a protein concentration of 2.8 g/dl. The thickness of the sulcular epithelium and of the oral gingival epithelium (data from 2 rabbits) were ∼ 100 μm; the minimal distance of microvessels from the surface of the sulcular epithelium was ∼150 μum. Based on hydraulic and colloid osmotic data, the Starling balance of pressures causes fluid filtration from gingival capillaries to gingival interstitium; however, across the sulcular epithelium, the pressure gradient sustains fluid absorption from the sulcus into the gingival interstitium. Plasma proteins may leak from microvessels into gingival interstitium, down convective bulk flow and via a concentration dependent diffusive component. At sulcular level, proteins may leak into the sulcus down a concentration gradient. Thus, at sulcular level a peculiar condition occurs in that there is an absorption gradient for water but a filtration gradient for plasma proteins.
In vitro modulation of human gingival epithelial cell attachment and migration by minocycline‐HCI
Authors: Vanheusden A. , Nusgens B. , Goffinet G. , Zahedi S. , Lapidre C. M. , Rompen E.
Published: June 2010

Although the influence of tetracyclines on periodontal connective tissue cells has been the topic of many in vitro and in vivo studies, data regarding their effects on gingival epithelial cells are scarce. The present in vitro study was designed to examine the influence of minocycline, a semi‐synthetic analog of tetracycline, on human gingival keratinocyte (HGK) attachment and migration. Attachment tests were performed with HGK prelabeled by tritiated amino‐acids. Increasing concentrations of minocycline (10, 50, 100μg/ml) in the medium produced no significant modification of cell adhesion kinetics compared to control conditions, except for 100 μg/ml which statistically significantly (p<0.05) reduced the number of attached cells beyond 6 h. A 24‐h cell preincubation in 10 μg/ml of minocycline did not alter the kinetics of HGK attachment. Scanning electron microscopic observations of attached HGK showed that the presence of 10 μg/ml of minocyline in the “attachment medium” induced the production of multiple filopodial extensions. Migration tests in Boyden chambers for 40 h demonstrated that HGK preincubation for 24 h in a 10 μg/ml minocycline‐HCI solution increased significantly (p<0.005) cell migation towards a gradient of fetal calf serum. The presence of 10 μg/ml of minocycline in contact with the keratinocytes in the upper compartment of the migration chambers also produced a significant (p<0.005) result. In contrast, the presence of minocycline in the lower compartments did not produce any chemoattractive effect. Within the limits of their significance, these results suggest that, at concentrations not beyond 50 μg/ml, minocycline could fasten the periodontal wound coverage by epithelial cells and allow the normal reformation of a junctional epithelium.
Mechanical forces alter extracellular matrix synthesis by human periodontal ligament fibroblasts
Authors: Howard Pamela S. , Kucich Umberto , Taliwal Rita , Korostoff Jonathan M.
Published: June 2010

Periodontal ligament fibroblasts (PDLFs) are a heterogeneous population of cells that are involved in the normal maintenance, repair and regeneration of both the ligament and adjacent hard tissues. Additionally, the ability of these cells to respond to mechanical stimulation suggests that they have a central role in mediating the osseous remodeling that underlies physiological and orthodontic tooth movement. To characterize their role further in this process, the current study evaluated the effect of tensional stress on the biosynthesis of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins by human PDLFs. Cell strains were established from extracted human premolars and third molars. Cells exposed to 5% biaxial deformation (strain) at a frequency of 30 times/min for 24 hr exhibited statistically significant increases in type I collagen and fibronectin synthesis, and a statistically signficant decrease in tropoelastin production relative to unstretched controls. Cells exposed to 10% strain exhibited similar responses for fibronectin and tropoelastin while the amount of type I collagen synthesized by stretched cells did not differ from control levels. These results indicate that mechanical stimulation of PDLFs alters type I collagen, tropoelastin and fibronectin production and that these cells are differentially responsive to varying levels of mechanical stress. The ability of these cells to alter ECM protein synthesis in response to specific magnitudes of tensional stress may in part explain how PDLFs regulate ligament and hard tissue remodeling.
Involvement of prostaglandin E2 and interleukin‐1α in the differentiation and survival of osteoclasts induced by lipopolysaccharide from Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans Y4
Authors: Ueda N. , Koide M. , Ohguchi M. , Ishihara Y. , Noguchi T. , Okahashi N. , Nishihara T.
Published: June 2010

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is a bacterial cell component that plays multifunctional roles in inflammatory reactions. LPS from various periodontal pathogens is supposed to be a major virulence factor of periodontal diseases. In the present study, we demonstrated that LPS from periodontopathic bacterium Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans Y4 (Y4 LPS) stimulated osteoclast formation in mouse bone marrow culture systems. Addition of anti‐interleukin‐lα (IL‐lα) antibody or indomethacin in the marrow cultures resulted in the suppression of osteoclast differentiation. Quantitative analyses revealed that Y4 LPS stimulated the production of IL‐lα and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) by bone marrow cells. Furthermore, an immunoblot analysis showed that Y4 LPS stimulated bone marrow cells to upregulate the expression of cyclooxygenase‐2, a rate‐limiting enzyme for the conversion of arachidonic acid to prostanoids. These findings suggest that both IL‐lα and PGE2 are involved in the LPS‐mediated osteoclast differentiation. In addition, we found that Y4 LPS supported the survival of osteoclasts. Addition of anti‐IL‐lα antibody in the osteoclast culture resulted in a reduction of osteoclast survival. Indomethacin, however, showed no effect on osteoclast survival. These findings suggest that the increased PGE2 and IL‐lα synthesis by bone marrow cells may play an important role in the differentiation and survival of osteoclasts induced by A. actinomycetemcomitans LPS.
Is there any relationship between cytokine spectrum of breast milk and occurence of eosinophilic colitis?
Authors: Durilova Marianna , Stechova Katerina , Petruzelkova Lenka , Stavikova Vendula , Ulmannova Tereza , Nevoral Jiri
Published: June 2010

Aim:  The aim of our study was to analyse cytokine composition of human milk and its relationship to the development of eosinophilic colitis (EC).

Methods:  Cytokines were measured by ELISA method in breast milk of 20 mothers of infants who developed EC and 20 controls.

Results:  We found significantly higher concentrations of interferon‐gamma (IFN‐gamma) (Th1 cytokine) in breast milk received by EC infants compared to controls (p = 0.0004). In contrary, IL‐18 (Th1‐inducing cytokine) was significantly higher in breast milk received by healthy infants comparing to EC infants (p = 0.001). Regulatory cytokine transforming growth factor beta1 (TGF‐beta1) showed higher concentrations in breast milk received by healthy infants, although the difference from EC group was not significant (p = 0.072).

Conclusion:  The results of our study showed that infants with EC were receiving breast milk with a possibly risky cytokine pattern indicating cytokine imbalance, impaired immunoregulation and the early Th1 shift.
Role of bilevel positive airway pressure in the management of preterm newborns who have received surfactant
Authors: Ancora Gina , Maranella Eugenia , Grandi Sara , Pierantoni Luca , Guglielmi Mariangela , Faldella Giacomo
Published: June 2010

Aim:  Surfactant given during brief intubation followed by immediate extubation on nasal continuous positive airway pressure [Intubation‐Surfactant‐Extubation (InSurE) approach] is used to treat respiratory distress syndrome in newborns. Our aim was to evaluate whether bilevel positive airway pressure (BiPAP) after InSurE failure is able to prevent the need for mechanical ventilation (MV).

Methods:  Chart data of infants with a birth weight <1500 gr or GA <32 weeks undergoing InSurE in the period 2002–2008 in an Italian Tertiary Neonatal Intensive Care Unit were reviewed retrospectively. InSurE failure was defined as follows: FiO2 >0.4, respiratory acidosis or intractable apnoea within 1 week. After InSurE failure, newborns born before the implementation of BiPAP (historical control group) received MV, whereas those born after BiPAP implementation (BiPAP group) received BiPAP and underwent MV only if failure criteria persisted. The two groups were compared to evaluate whether BiPAP reduced the need for MV in the 7 days after InSurE failure.

Results:  Six of twenty‐two (27%) and 14 of the 38 (37%) infants failed InSurE in the two groups, respectively (p > 0.05). Need for MV was 27% in the historical control group versus 0% in the BiPAP group (risk estimate, 3.38; 95% CI, 2.24, 5.09; p = 0.001).

Conclusions:  BiPAP reduced the need for MV after InSurE failure.
Field‐Scale Evaluation of Bioaugmentation Dosage for Treating Chlorinated Ethenes
Authors: Schaefer Charles E. , Lippincott David R. , Steffan Robert J.
Published: June 2010

A field demonstration was performed to evaluate the impacts of bioaugmentation dosage for treatment of chlorinated ethenes in a sandy‐to‐silty shallow aquifer. Specifically, bioaugmentation using a commercially available Dehalococcoides (DHC)‐containing culture was performed in three separate groundwater recirculation loops, with one loop bioaugmented with 3.9 × 1011 DHC, the second loop bioaugmented with 3.9 × 1012 DHC, and the third loop bioaugmented with 3.9 × 1013 DHC. Groundwater monitoring was performed to evaluate DHC growth and migration, dechlorination rates, and aquifer geochemistry. The loop inoculated with 3.9 × 1012 DHC showed slower dechlorination rates and DHC migration/growth compared with the other loops. This relatively poor performance was attributed to low pH conditions. Results for the loops inoculated with 3.9 × 1011 and 3.9 × 1013 DHC showed similar timeframes for dechlorination, as evaluated at a monitoring well approximately 10 feet downgradient of the DHC injection well. Application of a recently developed one‐dimensional bioaugmentation fate and transport screening model provided a reasonable prediction of the data in these two loops. Overall, these results suggest that increasing bioaugmentation dosage does not necessarily result in decreased dechlorination timeframes in the field. The ability to predict results suggests that modeling potentially can serve as an effective tool for determining bioaugmentation dosage and predicting overall remedial timeframes.
Feasibility of elementary school children’s use of hand gel and facemasks during influenza season
Authors: Allison Mandy A. , Guest‐Warnick Ginger , Nelson Douglas , Pavia Andrew T. , Srivastava Rajendu , Gesteland Per H. , Rolfs Robert T. , Andersen Shannon , Calame Lynne , Young Paul , Byington Carrie L.
Published: June 2010

Please cite this paper as: Allison et al. (2010) Feasibility of elementary school children’s use of hand gel and facemasks during influenza season. Influenza and Other Respiratory Viruses 4(4), 223–229.

Background  The feasibility of non‐pharmacologic interventions to prevent influenza’s spread in schools is not well known.

Objectives  To determine the acceptability of, adherence with, and barriers to the use of hand gel and facemasks in elementary schools.

Patients and Methods  Intervention: We provided hand gel and facemasks to 20 teachers and their students over 4 weeks. Gel use was promoted for the first 2 weeks; mask use was promoted for the second 2 weeks. Outcomes: Acceptability, adherence, and barriers were measured by teachers’ responses on weekly surveys. Mask use was also measured by observation.

Results  The weekly survey response rate ranged from 70% to 100%. Averaged over 2 weeks, 89% of teachers thought gel use was not disruptive (week 1 – 17/20, week 2 – 16/17), 95% would use gel next winter (week 1 – 19/20, week 2 – 16/17), and 97% would use gel in a pandemic (week 1 – 20/20, week 2 – 16/17). Averaged over 2 weeks, 39% thought mask use was not disruptive (week 1 – 6/17, week 2 – 6/14), 35% would use masks next winter (week 1 – 5/17, week 2 – 6/14), and 97% would use masks in a pandemic (week 1 – 16/17, week 2 – 14/14). About 70% estimated that their students used hand gel ≥4×/day for both weeks (week 1 – 14/20, week 2 – 13/17). Students’ mask use declined over time with 59% of teachers (10/17) estimating regular mask use during week 1 and 29% (4/14) during week 2. By observation, 30% of students wore masks in week 1, while 15% wore masks in week 2. Few barriers to gel use were identified; barriers to mask use were difficulty reading facial expressions and physical discomfort.

Conclusions  Hand gel use is a feasible strategy in elementary schools. Acceptability and adherence with facemasks was low, but some students and teachers did use facemasks for 2 weeks, and most teachers would use masks in their classroom in a pandemic.
The Photostabilization of Hemoglobin in Triton X‐100 Aqueous Solution and Triton X‐100/n‐C5H11OH/H2O Microemulsion
Authors: Liu Wenjie , Guo Rong
Published: June 2010

The influence of UV‐irradiation on the interaction of hemoglobin (Hb) with Triton X‐100 is investigated by UV–Vis absorption spectroscopy, fluorescence spectroscopy and freeze‐fractured transmission electron microscopy. It is found that in Triton X‐100/H2O systems Hb can convert to hemichrome but heme is not present, whereas in Triton X‐100/n‐C5H11OH/H2O microemulsion Hb can convert to hemichrome and then induce the heme monomer to leave the hydrophobic cavity of Hb. UV‐irradiation can also convert Hb to hemichrome, and subsequently make heme to be photodegraded, in which the conversion rate depends on the structure of the surfactant aggregates. Furthermore, in order to understand the mechanism of photostabilization of Hb in Triton X‐100 systems, the photostabilization of heme in the Triton X‐100 aqueous solutions and Triton X‐100/n‐C5H11OH/H2O microemulsions has been studied.
Taxol, a Microtubule Stabilizer, Improves Cardiac Functional Recovery during Postischemic Reperfusion in Rat in Vitro
Authors: Xiao Junjie , Liang Dandan , Liu Ying , Zhang Hong , Liu Yi , Zhao Hong , Li Jun , Peng Luying , Zhou Zhaonian , Chen Yi‐Han
Published: June 2010

Aims: Microtubule disruption contributes to cellular and organic dysfunction, and is implicated in ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury. The purpose of this study was to explore the effects of taxol, a microtubule stabilizer, on cardiac functional recovery during reperfusion. Methods: Left ventricular developed pressure, left ventricular end‐diastolic pressure, maximal time derivatives of pressure and the severity of ventricular arrhythmias were analyzed in isolated rat heart. Microtubule structure was immunohistochemically measured. Apoptosis and necrosis was identified with TUNEL or TTC staining, respectively. Mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP) mRNA expression was examined by real‐time polymerase chain reactions. mPTP opening, reactive oxygen species (ROS), and oxidative enzyme activities were measured with fluorometric or spectrophotometric techniques. Intracellular calcium concentration ([Ca2+]i) and Ca2+ transients were examined by Fura‐2‐AM and Fluo‐3‐AM, respectively. Cytosolic cytochrome c, sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+‐ATPase (SERCA2), ryanodine receptors (RyR), phospholamban (PLB), and PLB phosphorylation were analyzed by Western blot. Effective refractory period (ERP) and afterpotential‐mediated activity were detected using microelectrode. Results: Taxol improved the functional recovery of post‐I/R. Taxol preserved the intact microtubule structure in reperfusion. mPTP mRNA expression was unchanged while the mPTP opening was reduced by taxol, and this effect was accompanied by the decreased ROS level caused by oxidative enzymes activities’ changes. Taxol reduced apoptosis and the level of cytosolic cytochrome c in reperfusion. Taxol also promoted rapid recovery of [Ca2+]i, prevented reduction of the amplitude of Ca2+ transients and shortened the decay time of Ca2+ transients. The protein expression of SERCA2, RyR, and PLB remained unchanged in reperfusion. Taxol prevented the increase of Phospho‐Thr17‐PLB and Phospho‐Ser16‐PLB in reperfusion. In addition, taxol facilitated rapid recovery of ERP and counter‐acted afterpotential‐mediated activity. Conclusion: Taxol may effectively improve cardiac functional recovery during reperfusion via inhibiting mPTP opening, ameliorating abnormal calcium homeostasis, and reducing the substrates associated with arrhythmias.
Apoptosis‐Inducing Factor and Cyclophilin A Cotranslocate to the Motor Neuronal Nuclei in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Model Mice
Authors: Tanaka Hirotaka , Shimazaki Hiroki , Kimura Masataka , Izuta Hiroshi , Tsuruma Kazuhiro , Shimazawa Masamitsu , Hara Hideaki
Published: June 2010

Aims:Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal motor neuron disease whose mechanism is not understood. Recently, it was reported that apoptosis‐inducing factor (AIF) was involved in motor neuronal cell death in ALS model mice, and AIF‐induced neuronal cell death by interacting with cyclophilin A (CypA). However, it is unknown whether the CypA and AIF‐complex induces chromatinolysis in ALS. Therefore, in the present study, we investigated the process of motor neuron degeneration as the disease progresses and to determine whether the CypA‐AIF complex would play a role in inducing motor neuronal cell death in mutant superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1)G93AALS model mice.Methodology:We prepared the nuclear fractions of spinal cords and demonstrated the nuclear translocation of CypA with AIF in SOD1G93Amice by immunoprecipitation. The localization of CypA and AIF in the spinal cords was assessed by immunohistochemistry.Results:In the spinal cords of SOD1G93Amice, the expressions of CypA and AIF were detected in the motor neurons, and CypA and AIF cotranslocated to the motor neuronal nuclei with CypA. Furthermore, the expression of CypA was detected in GFAP‐positive astrocytes, but not in CD11b‐positive microglial cells. On the other hand, these findings were not detected in the spinal cords of wild‐type mice.Conclusions:From these results, we suggest that CypA and AIF may play cooperative and pivotal roles in motor neuronal death in the murine ALS model.
Subclinical coronary artery disease in Asian rheumatoid arthritis patients who were in remission: a pilot study
Authors: MA N. Hanim , TEH C.L. , RAPAEE A. , LAU K.B. , FONG Alan Y.Y. , HI Sithy , CHANG B.C. , YEW K.L. , LIEW H.B. , ANG C.K. , ONG T.K. , CHUA S.K. , CHIN Rowland W.M. , SIM K.H.
Published: June 2010

Introduction:  Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients who have active disease with longer disease duration have been reported to have increased risk of cardiovascular events compared to the normal population.

Objective:  The primary aim of our study is to ascertain the prevalence of significant asymptomatic coronary artery disease (CAD) in Asian RA patients who are in remission using multi‐detector computed tomography (MDCT). The secondary aims of our study are the usage of pulse wave velocity and the biomarkers N‐terminal pro‐brain natriuretic peptide (NT‐proBNP) and high‐senstivity C‐reactive protein (hs‐CRP) to detect subclinical atherosclerosis in RA patients.

Methods:  We performed a comparative cross‐sectional study of 47 RA patients who were in remission with a control group of non‐RA patients with a history of atypical chest pain in Sarawak General Hospital from November 2008 to February 2009. All patients underwent 64‐slice MDCT, assessment of arterial stiffness using the SphygmoCor test and blood analysis for NT‐proBNP and hsCRP.

Results:  There were 94 patients in our study with a mean age of 50 ± 8.8 years. The RA and control patients in each group were matched in terms of traditional CV risk factors. Our RA patients had a median disease duration of 3 years (IQR 5.5). MDCT showed evidence of CAD in nine (19.1%) RA patients and three (6.4%) control patients (P = 0.06). There was no significant association between pulse wave velocity (PWV) and presence of CAD in our RA group. There was no significant correlation between PWV with levels of proBNP or hsCRP in our RA patients.

Conclusions:  In our current pilot study with the limitation of small sample size, RA was not associated with an increased risk of CAD in our RA patients who were in remission. Larger studies of CAD in Asian RA patients are needed to confirm our current finding.
Anomalies in the Oversight of Australian Auditors
Authors: Wines Graeme L. , Houghton Keith A.
Published: June 2010

This commentary identifies and comments on anomalies in the oversight of Australian auditors and audit firms. Regulatory and professional oversight and inspection of Australian auditors and audit firms arise from a number of sources, highlighting its multi‐faceted nature. This makes it impossible to identify a single body with ultimate responsibility for auditor oversight. Three recent Australian reviews commissioned by the Financial Reporting Council, together with an evaluation of the roles of the various regulatory and professional bodies, are used in this commentary as a platform from which to identify a number of significant anomalies in oversight processes. Major anomalies highlighted arise from the overlapping nature of the duties and functions of the various bodies and the variation in oversight across different categories of audit service providers. Policymakers should closely examine the issues raised in the paper if auditor oversight is to be undertaken in an effective and efficient manner.
Voluntary Disclosures as a Mechanism for Defining Entity Status in Australian Not‐for‐Profit Organisations
Authors: Cummings Lorne , Dyball Maria , Chen Jessica (Jin Hua)
Published: June 2010

This study examines managerial efforts to portray an entity's not‐for‐profit (NFP) status based on voluntary disclosure practices. The annual report text of 61 NFPs are analysed in accordance with Salamon and Anheier's (1997) NFP definitional framework. Results indicate a predominant application of the structural‐operational definition. Furthermore, the ‘organised’ attribute of this definition prevails over the ‘non‐profit‐distributing’ criterion that has been advocated by various parties. Standard‐setting bodies may want to consider: (1) NFP management perspectives in any revised NFP definition; and (2) greater clarity in conceptual framework and standard‐setting arrangements to improve overall transparency in NFP reporting practices.
Commentary: Business Black Swans and the Use and Abuse of a Notion
Authors: Dean Graeme , Clarke Frank
Published: June 2010

Historical enquiry reveals how ideas mutate. This paper traces how ideas and practices underpinning initial understandings of fair value accounting (FVA) have changed as the concept drifted from the utility rate‐setting context to that of corporate financial reporting. The recall of history for the purpose of ‘learning lessons from the past’ has frequently resulted in misunderstandings of the historical record and misapplication of so‐called lessons. A more fruitful approach to recalling history is to gain insights into the development of the ideas (good and bad) that have contributed to current predicaments.

Initially fair value was the basis for specific pricing calculations related to companies with a highly restricted scope of operations. Later, more by accident than design, the concept became a general purpose application used in the financial statements of highly and freely adaptive companies. The mark‐to‐market (MtM) dispute emerging in the global financial crisis (GFC) has given rise to a further mutation of the use of FVA. Discarding MtM contradicts what history tells us was the purpose of adopting fair value into accounting for adaptive companies. This analysis also highlights how conducive accounting theory and practice are subject to politicisation. Accounting is an apparently unresisting victim of interested parties’ special pleading, resulting in the corruption of its technical function – in this case primarily because it is inconvenient to have accounting data tell it how it is.
Noble gas study of the Saratov L4 chondrite
Authors: MATSUDA Jun‐ichi , TSUKAMOTO Hidetomo , MIYAKAWA Chie , AMARI Sachiko
Published: June 2010

Abstract– We have determined the elemental abundances and the isotopic compositions of noble gases in a bulk sample and an HF/HCl residue of the Saratov (L4) chondrite using stepwise heating. The Ar, Kr, and Xe concentrations in the HF/HCl residue are two orders of magnitude higher than those in the bulk sample, while He and Ne concentrations from both are comparable. The residue contains only a portion of the trapped heavy noble gases in Saratov; 40 ± 9% for 36Ar, 58 ± 12% for 84Kr, and 48 ± 10% for 132Xe, respectively. The heavy noble gas elemental pattern in the dissolved fraction is similar to that in the residue but has high release temperatures. Xenon isotopic ratios of the HF/HCl residue indicate that there is no Xe‐HL in Saratov, but Ne isotopic ratios in the HF/HCl residue lie on a straight line connecting the cosmogenic component and a composition between Ne‐Q and Ne‐HL. This implies that the Ne isotopic composition of Q has been changed by incorporating Ne‐HL (Huss et al. 1996) or by being mass fractionated during the thermal metamorphism. However, it is most likely that the Ne‐Q in Saratov is intrinsically different from this component in other meteorites. The evidence of this is a lack of correlation between the isotopic ratio of Ne‐Q and petrologic types of meteorites (Busemann et al. 2000). A neutron capture effect was observed in the Kr isotopes, and this process also affected the 128Xe/132Xe ratio. The 3He and 21Ne exposure ages for the bulk sample are 33 and 35 Ma, respectively.
Assessment and control of organic and other contaminants associated with the Stardust sample return from comet 81P/Wild 2
Authors: SANDFORD Scott A. , BAJT Saša , CLEMETT Simon J. , CODY George D. , COOPER George , DEGREGORIO Bradley T. , De VERA Vanessa , DWORKIN Jason P. , ELSILA Jamie E. , FLYNN George J. , GLAVIN Daniel P. , LANZIROTTI Antonio , LIMERO Thomas , MARTIN Mildred P. , SNEAD Christopher J. , SPENCER Maegan K. , STEPHAN Thomas , WESTPHAL Andrew , WIRICK Sue , ZARE Richard N. , ZOLENSKY Michael E.
Published: June 2010

Abstract– Numerous potential sources of organic contaminants could have greatly complicated the interpretation of the organic portions of the samples returned from comet 81P/Wild 2 by the Stardust spacecraft. Measures were taken to control and assess potential organic (and other) contaminants during the design, construction, and flight of the spacecraft, and during and after recovery of the sample return capsule. Studies of controls and the returned samples suggest that many of these potential sources did not contribute any significant material to the collectors. In particular, contamination from soils at the recovery site and materials associated with the ablation of the heatshield do not appear to be significant problems. The largest source of concern is associated with the C present in the original aerogel. The relative abundance of this carbon can vary between aerogel tiles and even within individual tiles. This C was fortunately not distributed among a complex mixture of organics, but was instead largely present in a few simple forms (mostly as Si‐CH3 groups). In most cases, the signature of returned cometary organics can be readily distinguished from contaminants through their different compositions, nonterrestrial isotopic ratios, and/or association with other cometary materials. However, some conversion of the carbon indigenous to the flight aerogel appears to have happened during particle impact, and some open issues remain regarding how this C may be processed into new forms during the hypervelocity impact collection of the comet dust.
Mixing It Up: Maytag and Fitch Innovate Kitchen Products and Best Practices
Authors: Rollins Nita
Published: June 2010

A recent survey of business executives confirms that investment in innovation is essential to competitiveness. But spending on innovation doesn't guarantee success. Nita Rollins identifies six attributes of corporate culture that together help ensure innovation practices and structures are effective and pay off with competitive edge. Putting the attributes to the test, she narrates Maytag's recent foray into premium small kitchen appliances—the first in the appliance giant's 110‐year history.
Understanding Digital Futures
Authors: Andrews Anton , Bevolo Marco
Published: June 2010

An innovative scenario in the digital world is co‐creative, participatory design. By involving individuals who are normally outside the design process, these experiences are better tied to each user's needs and cultural context. Anton Andrews and Marco Bevolo examine the tools that facilitate this strategy and—using two case studies on identity and interior design—ponder the impact on design, designers, and ultimately business models.
Design Experience: Transforming Fragile Ideas Into Innovative Products
Authors: Wood Bruce , Pougy Geraldo , Raulik Gisele
Published: June 2010

Transplanting a Scottish model, in 2001 the Centro de Design do Paraná, in Brazil, initiated grants to underwrite the hiring of industrial designers. Bruce Wood, Geraldo Pougy, and Gisele Raulik describe how the goal was, within an 18‐month timeframe, to exhibit 20 promising production prototypes. By August 2002, there were 41 prototypes on display and 40 local companies that could literally see the potential of design to improve business.
The English patient: Recovery through design in the medical sector
Authors: Smart Kirsty , Phillips Mark , Press Mike
Published: June 2010

Facing stiff competition, the challenge at Mediplan was straightforward—innovate or die. Partnering with an industrial design team from a local university, Kirsty Smart, Mark Phillips, and Mike Press tell how the company staked its future on developing a new nurse‐call hand unit. Ultimately, however, this story is not about product design, but rather about design as it can transform and revitalize a moribund corporate culture.
Creating and communicating value(s)
Authors: Sametz Roger , Maydoney Andrew
Published: June 2010

By affecting how people think and act and by connecting an organization to its constituents' values, design can enhance performance. Roger Sametz and Andrew Maydoney present a model of design that articulates these outcomes and how best to leverage them. Their discussion is about communications design, but their insights are applicable across a range of design arenas.
Design: Strategic Partner with a Point of View
Authors: Richardson Adam , Roy Jojo
Published: June 2010

Expanding a client relationship so that it embraces a long‐term vision, as well as commissions for individual projects, offers benefits to both customer and designer. Adam Richardson and Jojo Roy spell out these advantages. More significantly, they outline and illustrate key dimensions of consulting—including recommendations on hiring talent, project types, and alternative methods of compensation—that support this broader collaboration.
Leveraging Design's Core Competencies
Authors: Conley Chris
Published: June 2010

In a triptych of intriguing anecdotes, Chris Conley points out aspects of designing that add value to the spectrum of activities within the business enterprise—the ability to engage the context to and reframe problems, to work abstractly, to visualize, to use form to embody and communicate ideas, to discover critical relationships, and to generate meaningful alternatives.
Joining People & Brands
Authors: Eckersley Michael
Published: June 2010

As the focus of relationships that customers honor with pride and loyalty, strong brands don't just happen; they are designed and nurtured. In this endeavor, it is crucial that companies know their customers intimately. To get beyond the superficial, Michael Eckersley proposes—and Bill O'Connor illustrates—a “deep dive” research methodology that unveils the kind of thorough understanding essential to building powerful brands.
Design and Economic Development at Umpqua Bank: An Interview with Ray Davis
Authors: McCallion Steve
Published: June 2010

Umpqua Bank is different. Even as it has grown, it has maintained a distinctive commitment to service and a community‐focused culture. What is more, it takes advantage of design to celebrate this uniqueness. As CEO Ray Davis explains in this conversation with creative director Steve McCallion, Umpqua's “store” environments and personable staff make themselves essential to their neighborhoods and to local consumers and businesses.
Responsible Design Leadership: The Initiatives of Professional Organizations in Europe and the US
Authors: Eisermann Richard , Gloppen Judith , Eikhaug Onny , White Philip
Published: June 2010

Around the globe, responsible design has become a critical priority among businesses and design professionals. Reflecting this trend, the Executive Perspective becomes an opportunity to look at three major programs: the Design Council in the United Kingdom, the Norwegian Design Council, and IDSA in the United States.
When “Good” Design Means Responsible Design
Authors: Kusz JohnPaul
Published: June 2010

The horizons of responsible design continue to expand. JohnPaul Kusz thoroughly summarizes these trends, which range from a discussion on judging good design to an overview of the activities of international environmental groups related to product development and trade. Most valuably, he explores the intersection of responsible design themes with innovative business strategies and the changing profile of the corporation.
Design for Stress
Authors: Formosa Daniel
Published: June 2010

It happens all too often. Poorly designed products and interfaces cause anger and stress, or worse, are misunderstood and misused when people are under stress. Daniel Formosa reveals the sources of these problems and analyzes how, when professionals expand their understanding of design and emotion to include stress, problems are reduced at the same time that safety and reliability are enhanced.
Responsible Products: Selecting Design and Materials
Authors: Ljungberg Lennart Y.
Published: June 2010

With numerous illustrations, Lennart Ljungberg comments on the broad range of topics related to sustainable product development, including lifecycle analysis, resource utilization, and pollution. He enumerates important concerns in this endeavor and offers a list of processes—modular design, design for disassembly, design for energy recovery, and others—that help minimize any negative environmental impact.
Sustainable Responsible Design: Insights from Wales (UK)
Authors: O'Connor Frank , Cox Iain
Published: June 2010

As Frank O'Connor and Iain Cox share two cases to illustrate what Design Wales is doing to promote responsible design among SMEs, it is evident that several elements are needed to implement what turns out to be a complex mandate. Governments must support the agenda with appropriate policy. Companies must make the commitment to value‐based brands. Designers have to contribute relevant expertise, and consumers must to be willing to buy.
Educating a Nation: The Swedish National Design Program
Authors: Johansson Ulla , Persson Patrik
Published: June 2010

Understanding design is a matter of policy in Sweden. Ulla Johansson and Patrik Persson describe government projects ranging from promoting innovations in medical technology and funding packaging and service design to enhancing the competitiveness of automotive suppliers. These pay off financially and convince the CEOs of many small and medium‐size firms that design is an underutilized strategic asset.
Managing the Business of Design
Authors: Onesirosan‐Martinez Christina
Published: June 2010

The Chartered Society of Designers, in the United Kingdom, is moving forward on two education fronts. First, it now accredits design firms and corporate design groups for establishing best practices in the “design of the business” and the “business of design.” Second, it is creating a 12‐module Diploma in Design Business Management. Details are presented by Christina Onesirosan‐Martinez.
Launching the Dual Degree: Creating Business‐Savvy Designers
Authors: Alexis Jeremy , Hassan M. Zia
Published: June 2010

In this program at the Illinois Institute of Technology, students earn both a Master of Design degree and a Master of Business Administration degree. Jeremy Alexis and Zia Hassan elaborate on how this combination generates unique leadership and problem‐solving abilities, benefits both schools, and qualifies graduates for an extensive range of management opportunities in corporations and design firms.
Design Management Education at the Delft University of Technology
Authors: Buijs Jan
Published: June 2010

Attracting an international student body, these programs–including a rigorous master's in strategic product design–prepare managers and executives to take the lead in leveraging a company's design resources. As explained by Jan Buijs, the goals, the coursework, and the achievements of this institute and its talented students emerge from a philosophy that integrates teaching with the dilemmas of corporate decision‐making.
Teaching Business Design
Authors: Lanzone Giovanni
Published: June 2010

Since the 1950s, design has been a hallmark of Italian businesses. Founded in 1982, Milan's Domus Academy has responded to the country's leadership in this area with specialized postgraduate programs, as well as with, research and consulting activities. Here, Giovanni Lanzone outlines the Master's of Business Design, an initiative that blends a focus on innovation and creativity with hands‐on corporate experience.
Learning to Work in Teams
Authors: Vice Christopher
Published: June 2010

The concept of design as interdisciplinary collaboration is an easy sell. Putting it into practice is another matter. A diverse group of people can simultaneously work on the same problem, but that can be quite different from working together. In a university setting, Christopher Vice shares the tactics and strategies he finds stimulate creative options and nurture the cooperative development and implementation of outcomes.
Truth Designed: Transformation Through Design Integration and Transparency
Authors: Liu Ying , Summers David , Hill Bill
Published: June 2010

The availability of increasingly interactive and robust technologies is unleashing new approaches to business and problem‐solving. Ying Liu, David Summers, and Bill Hill–with compelling examples from politics, healthcare, and product development–highlight how the core of today's most powerful and disruptive applications is a deeper transparency that delivers facts and information to facilitate the exchange of ideas and decision‐making.
The New Design Imperative: To Satisfy and Delight
Authors: Davison Jo
Published: June 2010

Websites are corporate resources. Jo Davison's insights have to do with making them resources that generate real value in terms of brand, customer relationships, and sales. Design is the key to achieving these goals and, with illustrations from an industrial products company, a retailer, and a professional services firm, Davison details the elements of sites that are approachable, beautiful, and hard‐working.