bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Congenital Amegakaryocytic Thrombocytopenia: A Brief Review of the Literature
Authors: Al-Qahtani Fatma S.
Published: December 2010

Congenital amegakaryocytic thrombocytopenia (CAMT) is a rare inherited autosomal recessive disorder that presents with thrombocytopenia and absence of megakaryocytes. It presents with bleeding recognized on day 1 of life or at least within the first month. The cause for this disorder appears to be a mutation in the gene for the thrombopoeitin (TPO) receptor, c-Mpl, despite high levels of serum TPO. Patients with severe Type I-CAMT carry nonsense Mpl mutations which causes a complete loss of the TPO receptor whereas those with Type II CAMT carry missense mutations in the Mpl gene affecting the extracellular domain of the TPO receptor. Differential diagnosis for severe CAMT includes thrombocytopenia with absent radii (TAR) and Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome (WAS). The primary treatment for CAMT is bone marrow transplantation. Bone Marrow/Stem Cell Transplant (HSCT) is the only thing that ultimately cures this genetic disease. Newer modalities are on the way, such as TPO-mimetics for binding towards partially functioning c-Mpl receptors and gene therapy. Prognosis of CAMT patients is poor, because all develop in childhood a tri-linear marrow aplasia that is always fatal when untreated. Thirty percent of patients with CAMT die due to bleeding complications and 20% -due to HSCT if it has been done.
Taxes and Pensions
Authors: Diamond Peter
Published: December 2010

Pension benefit rules depend on individual history far more than taxes do, and age plays a much larger role in pension determination than in tax determination. Apart from some simulation studies, theoretical studies of optimal tax design typically contain neither a mandatory pension system nor the behavioral dimensions that lie behind justifications commonly offered for mandatory pensions. Conversely, optimizing models of pension design typically do not include annual taxation of labor and capital incomes. After spelling out this contrast and reviewing (and rejecting) zero taxation of capital income based on the Atkinson‐Stiglitz and Chamley‐Judd results, this article raises the issue of tax‐favored retirement savings, a topic where the two subjects come together.
35,000 Principles of Economics Students: Some Lessons Learned
Authors: Elzinga Kenneth G. , Melaugh Daniel O.
Published: December 2010

The principles of economics course is the most common entry point for economic education and commands more attention among researchers than any other college‐level course in the discipline. Over a period of 40 years, the senior author of this paper (K.G.E.) has taught this course to over 35,000 students at the University of Virginia. Using his teaching records, we have compiled a database of unusual size and continuity for a study of this kind. We examine conventional topics, such as the role of gender, race, and year of study, in predicting class performance. We also explore relatively unexamined territory, such as comparisons between “legacy students,” athletes, transfer students, and the general student population. Contrary to earlier findings, we find that math SAT scores are the best predictor of success in the principles course, and, consistent with earlier studies, we find a male grade premium (at the highest grade levels).
An Experimental Study of the Holdout Problem in a Multilateral Bargaining Game
Authors: Cadigan John , Schmitt Pamela , Shupp Robert , Swope Kurtis
Published: December 2010

When an economic exchange requires agreement by multiple independent parties, the potential exists for an individual to strategically delay agreement in an attempt to capture a greater share of the surplus created by the exchange. This “holdout problem” is a common feature of the land‐assembly literature because development frequently requires the assembly of multiple parcels of land. We use experimental methods to examine holdout behavior in a laboratory bargaining game that involves multi‐person groups, complementary exchanges, and holdout externalities. The results of six treatments that vary the bargaining institution, number of bargaining periods, and cost of delay demonstrate that holdout is common across institutions and is, on average, a payoff‐improving strategy for responders. Both proposers and responders take a more aggressive initial bargaining stance in multi‐period bargaining treatments relative to single‐period treatments, but take a less aggressive bargaining stance when delay is costly. Nearly all exchanges eventually occur in our multi‐period treatments, leading to higher overall efficiency relative to the single‐period treatments, both with and without delay costs.
Public Subsidies and the Location and Pricing of Sports
Authors: Porter Philip K. , Thomas Christopher R.
Published: December 2010

Using public choice analysis, we determine how government subsidies affect location and pricing decisions of sports teams. We explain how voter referendums can create suboptimal outcomes for local communities and identify winners and losers in sport team subsidies. Subsidy bidding leads to higher subsidies and fewer sport franchises but does not alter team location. Sport subsidies generate additional revenue for owners and players at taxpayer expense, and non‐fan taxpayers subsidize both the team and fans. To increase political support for subsidies, teams lower ticket prices below the apparent profit‐maximizing level, which may cause inelastic ticket prices and ticket shortages.
Finance and Inequality: The Case of India
Authors: Ang James B.
Published: December 2010

Although theory emphasizes the role of financial market frictions in explaining income inequality, there is little empirical research exploring how financial development and financial sector reforms influence the evolution of income inequality. This article examines how finance impacts income inequality in India using annual time series data for over half a century. The results indicate that while financial development helps reduce income inequality, financial liberalization seems to exacerbate it. The results are robust to the use of different measures for financial development and financial liberalization.
In‐Group versus Out‐Group Trust: The Impact of Income Inequality
Authors: Lei Vivian , Vesely Filip
Published: December 2010

In this article, we adopt a variant of the trust game by Berg, Dickhaut, and McCabe (1995) and the dictator game by Cox (2004) to determine if income inequality can activate in‐group favoritism and, if so, whether such a bias is strong enough to survive the removal of income inequality. We find evidence of in‐group favoritism only on the part of rich first movers. Rich first movers trust their in‐group members significantly more in the presence of income inequality not only before but also after they gain enough experience. Poor first movers, in contrast, do not exhibit such in‐group bias. They do not discriminate between in‐group and out‐group at the very outset of the experiment, and once they become experienced, they behave with significantly more trust toward the rich than toward the poor. We also find that in‐group and out‐group favoritism established in the past can be alleviated, but not completely removed, by an equal income distribution.
The Impact of State Government Subsidies and Tax Credits in an Emerging Industry: Ethanol Production 1980–2007
Authors: Cotti Chad , Skidmore Mark
Published: December 2010

This article examines the effects of state economic development incentives in the emerging ethanol industry. We compiled data on ethanol production capacity and subsidies/tax credits for all states for the years 1980–2007, a period that covers the complete emergence of the biofuel industry in the United States. Importantly, this time period was characterized by the passage of several state‐level subsidies and tax breaks aimed at increasing ethanol production. Hence, this panel documents a substantial amount of within‐state variation in policies from which to identify an effect. We find that some incentives directed at ethanol production have a significant effect on a state's production capacity.
Expert Analysis and Insider Information in Horse Race Betting: Regulating Informed Market Behavior
Authors: Peirson John , Smith Michael A.
Published: December 2010

We present a new model analyzing the effect of uncertainty faced by bookmakers. It is shown that bettors with inside information or expert analysis decrease the odds set by profit‐maximizing bookmakers. Data on previously unraced 2‐year‐old horses and those that have raced previously are used to examine the impact of the greater possibility of insider information on odds bias in relation to unraced horses. The probability of an unraced 2‐year‐old winning is found to be on average 16% higher than that of a raced 2‐year‐old horse with the same odds. This effect decreases as the probability of winning increases. The latter effect indicates a possible contribution to the favorite‐longshot bias, and the former shows the importance of insider information in the setting of market odds. The regulation of the use of insider information is discussed in light of the similar impact of insider information and expert analysis on bookmaker odds.
The Effect of Pension Plan Type on Retirement Age: Distinguishing Plan Incentives from Career Length Preferences
Authors: Manchester Colleen Flaherty
Published: December 2010

This study uses the Retirement Confidence Survey of College and University Faculty, 2005,to examine the impact of pension plan incentives on retirement age and to understand how the widespread transition from defined benefit (DB) to defined contribution (DC) plans has affected workers. Incentives stemming from differences in pension wealth accrual patterns between DB and DC plans directly induce up to a one‐year difference in expected retirement age and are indirectly responsible for up to a two‐year difference due to workers sorting into plans based on preferences over career length. The results imply that failing to account for worker sorting leads to an overestimation of the transition's effect on the average retirement age of Americans. In addition, the findings suggest that individuals choose retirement plans to diversify retirement income, which has implications for Social Security reform.
LEADERSHIP SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES FOR EXTENSION DIRECTORS AND ADMINISTRATORS
Authors: Moore Lori L. , Rudd Rick D.
Published: December 2010

The primary purpose of this study was to identify the major leadership skill areas and specific leadership competencies within each skill area needed by Extension leaders. A purposive sample of administrative heads of agriculture from 1862 and 1890 land-grant institutions was selected to participate in qualitative interviews. Seven individuals participated in long interviews (Creswell, 1998; McCracken, 1988) designed to identify leadership skills necessary to be a leader within the CSREES. Participants identified six major leadership skill areas needed by Extension leaders: human, conceptual, technical, communication, emotional intelligence, and industry knowledge skills. A total of 80 specific leadership competencies were developed and clustered under one of the six leadership skill areas.
EDUCATIONAL INTERESTS OF SECONDARY AGRICULTURAL EDUCATION TEACHERS IN GEORGIA: IMPLICATIONS FOR THE DELIVERY OF EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMMING AT A DISTANCE
Authors: Edwards M. Craig , McLucas Bryan , Briers Gary E. , Rohs Fredrick R.
Published: December 2010

This study described the interests of agricultural education teachers in receiving educational programming at a distance, and identified selected factors related to their interests with implications for program delivery. The survey population included all secondary agricultural education teachers in Georgia. Data collection involved a mixed mail/Internet approach. Responses were received from 148 teachers (43.5% response rate). Subjects responded to 13 items, including rating selected items: “3” = “Very Interested,” “2” = “Somewhat Interested,” and “1” = “Marginally Interested.” Nearly two-thirds of the teachers expressed an interest in pursuing additional education at a distance. Level of interest for receiving programming leading to a graduate degree exceeded the midway point between “somewhat” and “very interested.” A moderate, positive relationship existed for teachers between one’s interest in pursuing a graduate degree or a certificate program at a distance and one’s readiness to enroll. A college-wide, “coherent” distance education program should be developed to address the expressed interests of this audience.
EFFECTS OF THINKING ALOUD PAIR PROBLEM SOLVING ON THE TROUBLESHOOTING PERFORMANCE OF UNDERGRADUATE AGRICULTURE STUDENTS IN A POWER TECHNOLOGY COURSE
Authors: Pate Michael L. , Wardlow George W. , Johnson Donald M.
Published: December 2010

A randomized, post-test only control group experimental design with a counter-balanced internal replication was used to determine the effects of thinking aloud pair problem solving (TAPPS) on the troubleshooting performance of college students in a power technology course. The experimental results were stable across two troubleshooting tasks. Students who participated in TAPPS groups were assigned a listening partner and verbalized their thought processes. They were significantly more successful (p < .05) at troubleshooting engine faults than were students in the work alone control groups. Among students who successfully completed the troubleshooting tasks across both groups, there were no significant differences in time required for completion. These findings indicate that the use of thinking aloud pair problem solving may be an important step in the development of metacognitive skills among students in technological troubleshooting.
FACTORS RELATED TO THE INTENT OF PROFESSIONALS IN AGRICULTURAL AND EXTENSION EDUCATION TO ENROLL IN AN ON-LINE MASTER’S DEGREE PROGRAM
Authors: Wilson Elizabeth , Moore Gary
Published: December 2010

“Build it and they will come” appears to be the stance of many in distance education. Yet marketing experts contend that a market analysis and needs assessment should be conducted first. This study examines the need for an on-line Master’s degree program in Agricultural and Extension Education. The researchers also sought to identify predictors of intent to enroll in such a program. Finally the researchers sought to learn more about the technology availability and characteristics of potential students. It was found there is a strong demand for an on-line Master’s program in Agricultural and Extension Education. A model was also developed that identified potential enrollees as those who had more years of professional experience. There were major differences between extension agents and agricultural teachers on computer operating systems used at work, CD-ROM availability, web browser use and software preferences.
Unethical Practices Observed At Youth Livestock Exhibitions By Ohio Secondary Agricultural Educators
Authors: Connors James J. , Dever Janice E.
Published: December 2010

During the past decade, there have been numerous cases of youth who have been found to have engaged in unethical practices at livestock exhibitions in Ohio. The purpose of this study was to determine the frequency of unethical practices that were observed by secondary agriculture teachers at youth livestock exhibitions. The objectives for the study were to identify the unethical practices observed at youth livestock exhibitions, to rate the unethical practices according to the frequency of their occurrence, and to compare differences in the observed unethical practices by gender, agricultural education district and years of experience with youth livestock exhibitions. Results found that issues related to adult involvement were the most frequently observed unethical practices at youth livestock exhibitions.
National FFA Officer Candidate Preparation: Developing Future Leaders For Society
Authors: Hoover Tracy S. , Atwater Deborah F.
Published: December 2010

Based on a descriptive and exploratory research design, the researchers discovered that several factors were important in the preparation of youth for election to National Office in FFA. Information on National Officer Candidate preparation protocol was obtained from 44 of the 51 states and territories contacted. The objectives were to: identify the postsecondary education enrollment status of National Officer Candidates (NOC); determine the level and type of interview preparation for the NOC selection process; identify how states help NOC prepare for the written exercises and examination component of the selection process; determine how states prepare NOC for communication and public speaking activities; seek trends associated with NOC preparation protocol and election to a national office; and determine how states develop their NOC's professional behavior and presence for the selection process. The results indicate possible preparation in skill and knowledge-based areas that can enhance a candidate's potential for election to national office.
The Aspirations Of Farm Parents And Pre-Adolescent Children For Generational Succession Of The Family Farm
Authors: Ball Anna L. , Wiley Angela
Published: December 2010

The continued vitality and sustainability of the agricultural sector and of the communities that support it require that qualified individuals devote themselves to farming and rural life. As such, the purpose of the study was to explore the aspirations of parents and pre-adolescents in regard to succession on the family farm. Fifty farm families throughout Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, and Wisconsin served as the sample for this descriptive correlational study. More children than parents indicated that they had no plans to pursue farming as a career choice. There was a marginally significant relationship between parental and children's aspirations to succeed the family farm. Parental strategies for encouraging and discouraging farming are presented, and implications are discussed.
The Relationships Between Selected Demographic Factors And The Level Of Job Satisfaction Of Extension Agents
Authors: Scott Meagan , Swortzel Kirk A. , Taylor Walter N.
Published: December 2010

The purpose of this study was to determine what demographic factors were related to the level of job satisfaction of Extension agents. The study followed a descriptive correlational design. A modified version of the Job Diagnostic Survey developed by Hackman and Oldham was sent to 195 Extension agents. Based on 143 usable responses, significant relationships existed between the job satisfaction constructs and the demographic factors of gender and race. When considering Extension agents' current positions, a significant difference (p < .05) was found between area agents and 4-H agents regarding how each group rated satisfaction with coworker relations.
Process And Product Variables For The Study Of Reading In Secondary Agriscience
Authors: Park Travis D. , Osborne Ed
Published: December 2010

Secondary agriscience, along with all education, is facing pressure to document and contribute to student achievement in math, science, and reading. Agriscience teachers often expect their students to enter the classroom with adequate skills for reading and comprehension, yet the vocabulary, concepts, and structure of secondary agriscience is foreign to many students. Agriscience teachers may be able to enhance students' reading performance through implementation of reading strategies in secondary agriscience. While similarities exist between reading in other content areas and secondary agriscience, differences exist in the products of reading in agriculture. This study reviews research related to content area reading to develop research questions and a model for studying reading in secondary agriscience. Building on Dunkin and Biddle's (1974) model of the study of teaching, this research proposes areas of inquiry regarding process and product variables associated with reading. Research in process variables includes setting purpose, strategy instruction, use of strategies, monitoring reading, discussion, and question generation. Research in product variables includes comprehension, agricultural literacy, motivation to read, creating lifelong readers, critical thinking, and communication of ideas.
Master's Level Agricultural Communications Curriculum: A National Delphi Study
Authors: Simon Leslie A. , Haygood Jacqui D. , Akers Cindy L. , Doerfert David L. , Davis Chad S.
Published: December 2010

The major purpose of this study was to identify what topics and curricular areas a master's level agricultural communications curriculum should include. Identification of the topic and curricular areas came from industry representatives and university faculty. A three-round Delphi technique was the principle procedure used to conduct the study with a total of 30 individuals participating in round one. In the first round, the panel identified 23 topics that should be included in a master's level agricultural communications curriculum: (1) Advertising, (2) Electives Pertaining to Major, (3) Emerging Issues and Trends in Agriculture, (4) Emerging Technology, (5) Graphic Design, (6) History and Philosophy, (7) Internship, (8) Legislative Issues, (9) Management, (10) Marketing, (11) Mass Communications, (12) Photography, (13) Professional Seminars, (14) Public Relations, (15) Publications, (16) Research, (17) Risk Communications, (18) Speech Communication, (19) Overview Courses, (20) Thesis, (21) Video and Broadcast, (22) Web Classes, and (23) Writing. Subsequent rounds produced 90 curricular areas within the 23 topic areas that were identified as potential material in a master's curriculum.
An Examination Of The Food Safety Information Sources And Channels Utilized And Trusted By Residents Of Lubbock, Texas
Authors: Whatley Kamy Williams , Doerfert David L. , Kistler Mark , Thompson Leslie
Published: December 2010

The United States' food supply is among the safest in the world; yet, consumers are becoming increasingly concerned with the safety of the food supply as the number of food recalls and the related media coverage has increased. The purpose of this study was to determine the preferred food safety information sources and delivery channels of Lubbock, Texas residents. A random sample of Lubbock's residents received a mailed survey instrument with 203 (52.9%) responding to the study. Results revealed that print information (including cookbooks), friends and family members and Internet websites were the most likely sources/channels that respondents would use to gain food safety information. None of the information sources studied were completely trusted by the respondents with significant differences found on the demographic variables of age, level of education, presence of children in the home, and ethnicity. Recommendations included a further examination of trust as a factor in food safety information and education.
Authenticated Writing Competence Of Agricultural Education Graduate Students: A Comparison Of Distance And On-Campus Students
Authors: Murphy Tim H. , Lindner James R. , Kelsey Kathleen D. , Wingenbach Gary J.
Published: December 2010

The quality of graduate student writing was examined in two different courses offered both on and off the campuses of Texas A&M, Texas Tech, and Oklahoma State Universities. In all, 19 on-campus and 25 off-campus students participated. A neutral third-party designed the instrument and used content analysis techniques to analyze writing samples. Data from the content analysis were summarized by the authors using descriptive and inferential statistical techniques. The location of the student, whether on- or off-campus, was not significant in explaining writing ability. Of the students sampled, 7% were able to demonstrate adequate writing; 34% achieved a score that suggested that their writing ability may be adequate; and 60% either suggested or demonstrated inadequacy in their writing ability. When given this structured writing task, and using this single measure, 93% of graduate students in this sample were unable to demonstrate complete proficiency in writing.
A Case Study Comparison Between Web-Based And Traditional Graduate Level Academic Leadership Instruction
Authors: Koch Shari , Townsend Christine D. , Dooley Kim E.
Published: December 2010

Traditional leadership education instructors provide an interactive setting to promote communication skills, team building, and problem-solving skills. Simultaneously, the use of distance technology is also well documented. However, no specific research studies comparing distance education and traditional delivery methods in the area of leadership education were discovered in the course of this inquiry. Therefore, this study was initiated to begin an investigation of the plausibility of delivering leadership education courses using distance education technology. A case study method was employed and results indicated that in most instances students enrolled in both distance and traditional classes had the same perceptions of their leadership competencies and usage. This study found no significant differences between the traditional students and the Web-based students' scores on any of the five LSI scales, the Leadership Learning Scale, the Leadership Use Scale, or the Leadership Remember Scale. These results suggest that a graduate level academic leadership course can be taught as effectively as a Web-based course.
On the impact of the Bimodal Oscillating System (BiOS) on the biogeochemistry and biology of the Adriatic and Ionian Seas (Eastern Mediterranean)
Authors: Civitarese G. , Gačić M. , Lipizer M. , Eusebi Borzelli G. L.
Published: December 2010

Abstract. Analysis of 20-year time-series of the vertically averaged salinity and nutrient data in the Southern Adriatic shows that the two parameters are subject to strong decadal variability. In addition, it is documented that nutrient and salinity variations are out of phase. Nutrients in the Ionian and in the Adriatic vary in parallel except that generally the nutrient content in the Adriatic is lower than in the Ionian, a fact that has been attributed to primary producer consumption following the winter convective mixing. As shown earlier, North Ionian Gyre (NIG) changes its circulation sense on a decadal scale due to the Bimodal Oscillating System, i.e. the feedback mechanism between the Adriatic and Ionian. Cyclonic circulation causes a downwelling of the nitracline along the borders of the NIG and a decrease in the nutrient content of the water flowing into the Adriatic across the Otranto Strait, and vice versa. In addition, the highly oligotrophic central area of the Ionian shows annual blooms only during cyclonic NIG circulation. Inversion of the sense of the NIG results in the advection of Modified Atlantic Water or of the Levantine/Eastern Mediterranean waters in the Adriatic. Here, we show that the presence of allochtonous organisms from Atlantic/Western Mediterranean and Eastern Mediterranean/temperate zone in the Adriatic are concurrent with the anticyclonic and cyclonic circulations of the NIG, respectively. On the basis of the results presented, a revision of the theory of Adriatic ingressions formulated in the early 1950s is proposed.
Cheilitis Glandularis: Two Case Reports of Asian-Japanese Men and Literature Review of Japanese Cases
Authors: Yanagawa Toru , Yamaguchi Akira , Harada Hiroyuki , Yamagata Kenji , Ishibashi Naomi , Noguchi Masayuki , Onizawa Kojiro , Bukawa Hiroki
Published: December 2010

Cheilitis glandularis (CG) is a rare disorder characterized by swelling of the lip with hyperplasia of the labial salivary glands. CG is most frequently encountered in the lower lip, in middle-aged to older Caucasian men; however Asian cases were rarely reported. In this paper we present two cases of CG in Asian-Japanese men. One was a 23-year-old male with CG of the superficial suppurative type. The other was a 54-year-old male with deep suppurative type. We also reviewed the Japanese cases of CG in the literature and discussed about clinical feature of Japanese CG.
Modelling Adopter Behaviour Based on the Navier Stokes Equation
Authors: Shinohara Kazunori , Georgescu Serban
Published: December 2010

Aiming to improve the current models describing the diffusion of innovation, a method based on an analogy with a physical system is presented. In particular, we model the movement of adopters of a particular innovation as a flow and the diffusion of the innovation as heat diffusion, thus making use of mathematical tools such as the Navier-Stokes equation. Building on our previous work, in this study we focus on the movement of adopters in the simulation domain, which we refer to as convection. As an application to modeling the convection phenomenon, we simulate the flow of people in a real building floor, the Tokyo Aquarium. Besides being a necessary part when simulating diffusion of innovations, such a modeling approach may also prove useful in different fields, such as deciding layout of public spaces or evacuation policies.
Human CytosolicX‐Prolyl Aminopeptidase
Authors: Li Xin , Bartlam Mark , Rao Zihe
Published: December 2010

X‐prolyl aminopeptidases catalyze the removal of a penultimate prolyl residue from the N‐termini of peptides. Mammalian X‐prolyl aminopeptidases are responsible for the degradation of bradykinin, a blood pressure regulator peptide, and have been linked to myocardial infarction. The X‐ray crystal structure of human cytosolic X‐prolyl aminopeptidase (XPNPEP1) reveals a dimer with a unique three‐domain organization in each subunit, rather than the two domains common to all other known structures of X‐prolyl aminopeptidases and prolidases. The C‐terminal catalytic domain of XPNPEP1 coordinates two metal ions and shares a similar fold with other prolyl aminopeptidases. Metal content analysis and activity assays confirm that the enzyme is double Mn(II) dependent for its activity, which contrasts with the previous notion that each XPNPEP1 subunit contains only one Mn(II) ion.
Regeneration of Organs and Appendages in Zebrafish: A Window into Underlying Control Mechanisms
Authors: Antos Christopher L , Brand Michael
Published: December 2010

The ability to regenerate organs and appendages is not universal among animals. Humans have a rather limited capacity to regenerate after injury, while other vertebrates such as the zebrafish are capable of regenerating many anatomical structures. Research with the zebrafish indicates that different structures use different regeneration strategies: fin regeneration involves the formation specialised epidermis and the accumulation of blastemal cells at the amputation site. Regeneration of nervous system tissues utilises the activation of resident stem cells, whereas the regeneration of heart muscle appears to employ the proliferation of differentiated cardiomyocytes. This article details how zebrafish appendages, nervous tissues and heart regenerate and how current cell and molecular discoveries from these regenerating fish structures contribute to our understanding of general principles of regenerative biology.

Key Concepts:

The zebrafish is a remarkablein vivomodel to understand the cell biology and molecular mechanisms required for appendage and organ regeneration.

Studying how the zebrafish regenerates its fins, its nervous system and heart will provide information on how endogenous cell populations (whether fully differentiated or stem cells) are reprogrammed to form progenitor cell populations that concertedly regenerate compound structures.
Clinical Laboratory Informatics
Authors: Baron Jason M. , Dighe Anand S.
Published: December 2010

Over 70% of clinical decisions are based on laboratory data, according to some surveys. Given the critical role that laboratory information plays in patient care, it is imperative that laboratories have effective systems for collecting, managing, storing, analyzing, and distributing this data. This article first provides a general overview of the flow of information to and from the laboratory and the steps involved in laboratory testing. Next, it describes the key role that information systems play in each of these steps. Subsequent sections describe some of the “behind‐the‐scenes” aspects of laboratory informatics, providing an outline of the data structures and standards that support laboratory information management, as well as providing an overview of exciting emerging technologies, including medical language processing and digital image analysis.
Two‐dimensional Optical Spectroscopy: Theory and Experiment
Authors: Jeon Jonggu , Park Sungnam , Cho Minhaeng
Published: December 2010

Two‐dimensional (2D) optical spectroscopy, despite its short history, has emerged as a promising technique to study the structure and dynamics of complex molecular systems in condensed phases. This article reviews the basic principles, implementation, and application of this spectroscopic technique. 2D optical spectroscopy employs multiple femtosecond laser pulses in the infrared (IR) or visible frequency range to induce multiple quantum transitions and displays the detected signal in a 2D frequency space. This enables a natural resolution of congested and averaged spectral features often found in condensed‐phase 1D spectra. Coupled multichromophore systems exhibit off‐diagonal cross peaks reflecting their coupling strengths, which can be monitored in time to extract information on the system dynamics. To provide a perspective on the development of 2D optical spectroscopy, we discuss its brief history. Since 2D spectroscopic features arise from multiple nonlinear optical transitions, their interpretation requires the knowledge of nonlinear response properties of molecular systems. This theoretical background is presented in some detail together with working formulas for two of the most popular techniques, 2D pump‐probe and 2D photon echo spectroscopy. Technically, 2D optical spectroscopy has been made possible by the availability of ultrafast femtosecond laser pulses and the spectral interferometric detection method to detect weak signals. The experimental setup of 2D spectrometer is, therefore, described with brief introductions to recent technological developments in instrumentation. Computational methods to simulate 2D optical spectra are also described, which play a vital role in the interpretation of the experimental spectra. General features of 2D spectra and their relations to underlying physical processes are important for proper application of the technique and they are discussed separately. 2D optical spectroscopy has the unique advantage of ultrafast time resolution in addition to spectral resolution in 2D frequency space. It will therefore continue to evolve with technical refinement and provide incisive analytical means to study structure and dynamics of chemical and biological systems.
Generation of Volatile Compounds for Analytical Atomic Spectroscopy
Authors: Dȩdina Jiří
Published: December 2010

The generation of volatile compounds (VCs) is a technique employed for gaseous‐phase sampling as an alternative to the conventional liquid‐phase sampling in all methods of analytical atomic spectroscopy. The technique is currently not only applicable for the determination of mercury and “classical” hydride‐forming elements (arsenic, antimony, bismuth, germanium, lead, selenium, tellurium, and tin) but also for a wide range of other elements including a long list of transition metals. There are several approaches employed for the generation of analytically useful VCs. Generation of VCs involves separation of the analyte from the sample matrix together with high efficiency of analyte transport to the detector which results in exceptional detection power of the method. It offers other important benefits: simple analyte preconcentration and an extension of application to elemental speciation analysis. A brief description of theory, instrumentation, methodology, interferences and approaches to speciation analysis is presented in this article together with a critical discussion of advantages and limitations of the technique.
Non‐size‐exclusion Chromatography Analysis of Synthetic Polymers
Authors: Lee Wonmok , Chang Taihyun
Published: December 2010

While nature is capable of producing uniform macromolecules as found in complex biosystems, man‐made polymers are hardly homogeneous. They exhibit inherent distributions at least in molecular weight, and often come with multivariate distributions in chemical composition, functionality microstructure, chain architecture, and so on. Size‐exclusion chromatography (SEC) has been the most widely employed chromatographic technique for the characterization of molecular weight and its distribution of synthetic polymers since its inception about half a century ago. Compared to conventional molecular weight characterization methods, SEC is an excellent method with regard to precision, analysis speed, required amount of samples, etc. Nonetheless, SEC separates the polymer molecules in terms of their chain size, which is not only a function of molecular weight but also depends on other molecular characteristics such as composition, branching, and microstructure. Therefore, SEC cannot characterize nonlinear polymers or copolymers effectively. In contrast to SEC, in which the different pore accessibility of the macromolecules is the major separation mechanism, interaction chromatography (IC) fractionates the polymer sample by enthalpic interaction between the polymer solutes and the stationary phase. As a result, IC is sensitive to the chemical nature as well as the molecular weight of the polymers, whereas it is less sensitive to long‐chain branching than SEC. By judiciously selecting the IC separation condition, one can characterize specific molecular properties of polymers with much higher resolution than SEC. Furthermore, one can access the chromatographic critical condition (CC) for a given polymer system by adjusting the solute interaction strength with the stationary phase until the exclusion and interaction contributions to the solute retention are exactly compensated. Liquid chromatography at the critical condition (LCCC) can be used as a unique tool for the characterization of polymers. Of late, 2D liquid chromatography (LC) separations by a rational combination of SEC, IC, and LCCC has become more and more popular for the characterization of multivariate polymers. In this article, recent advances in non‐SEC analysis methods of a variety of synthetic polymers are reviewed.
Infrared Sensors
Authors: Lucena Rafael
Published: December 2010

This article provides a general overview of infrared‐based sensors following a top‐down model. The importance of sensors in analytical chemistry is firstly outlined. Later on, a general description of sensors is developed, paying special attention to their classification, which can be used as a conceptual map for the reader. After an introduction of the main concepts in optical sensing, the use of infrared spectroscopy (IR) in the development of sensing devices is finally explored.
Dispersive Liquid–Liquid Microextraction
Authors: Cruz‐Vera Marta
Published: December 2010

Dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction (DLLME) is a new microextraction technique with a high potential in sample pretreatment. This article presents the state of the art and discusses the prospects of DLLME. A contextual description of sample pretreatment techniques ranging from liquid–liquid extraction to microextraction is provided for the readers to gain a better understanding of the topic. General and specific concepts of the fundamental theory of DLLME that are required to understand and implement the technique are described, and examples of recent innovations and applications are provided to illustrate its potential for the determination of a wide range of compounds in various types of matrices. Finally, its combined use with other pretreatment approaches, and separation and detection techniques, is also discussed.
Supramolecular Analytical Chemistry in Separation Techniques
Authors: Ballesteros‐Gómez Ana , Dolores Sicilia María , Rubio Soledad
Published: December 2010

Supramolecular analytical chemistry is an emergent science covering the study and application of supramolecular systems (host molecules and molecular aggregates) in analytical processes. This article covers the progress on both theoretical and practical aspects related to the use of supramolecular systems in separation techniques reported over the last decade. Principles of supramolecular chemistry that allow a better understanding of the mechanisms of formation of the supramolecular entities and solubilization of solutes are outlined. Developments related to the use of supramolecular solvents and hemimicellar or admicellar sorbents in analytical extractions are critically discussed. Advances in the use of micelles in liquid chromatography (LC) and electrophoresis as well as developments in chiral chromatography and electrophoresis based on the use of cyclodextrins (CDs) and their derivatives are presented. Emphasis is placed on the strategies developed to make these techniques compatible with mass spectrometry (MS). The capability of supramolecular systems to effectively solubilize solutes in a wide polarity range is highlighted.
Perception of Brand Equity
Authors: Raggio Randle D.
Published: December 2010

Brand equity is the perception that a brand delivers on its promise of benefits. It exists in the hearts and minds of consumers; it moderates the impact of brand‐related information and can produce positive marketplace outcomes. Brand equity is built by developing strong, positive, and unique associations for a brand.
Competitive Analysis
Authors: Shankar Venkatesh
Published: December 2010

Competitive analysis refers to the evaluation of strategies relating to a focal brand, product, strategic business unit (SBU), or firm relative to current and potential competitors in its market or industry. Competitive analysis is undertaken before the formulation and development of positioning strategy, value propositions, and marketing mix strategies. It is also undertaken for a new brand or product, in particular, prior to its launch in a new market. Competitive analysis can be performed using game theoretic models. Competitive analysis in a new‐product entry context involves a solid understanding of a framework that comprises the determinants of new‐product entry strategy, its interrelationship with competitor response, and the drivers of competitor response. Research on competitive analysis in the new‐product context offers important frameworks and insights. Competitive analysis can be enriched by including competitive benchmarking, convergence analysis, and coopetition analysis.
Thinking Deeper about Customer Experience
Authors: Olson Jerry , Zaltman Gerald
Published: December 2010

We describe three ways that customer experience has been conceptualized and measured. “True experience” is a customer's personal interpretation of “what happened.” Because significant aspects of customers' interpretations are unconscious, they cannot be revealed by traditional measures. The Zaltman Metaphor Elicitation Technique (ZMET) is capable of uncovering the unconscious interpretations of customers. We provide a brief example of the deeper and rich understanding of customer experience that a ZMET analysis can provide.
Customer Lifetime Value (
CLV
)
Authors: Lemon Katherine N. , Lemon Loren J.
Published: December 2010

Customer lifetime value (CLV) is defined as the net profit from a customer (customer margin less the costs of acquiring and serving the customer) over the lifetime of the customer's relationship with the firm, discounted to the present. While the terminology may vary from model to model, the essential elements of CLV estimation consist of the following: acquisition cost, time interval, net profit, retention rate, and discount rate. CLV estimations can be made for a specific customer, specific customer segment, or a generalized calculation based on the firm's generalized experience for its customers. CLV is useful in assisting a firm in making a determination of whether any new initiatives by the firm are worthwhile. For example, initiatives focusing on acquiring new customers can be evaluated to determine whether the costs of such new initiates may be worth it given the potential expected future profits from such customers. Initiatives focusing on current customer (either to increase the revenues from existing customer or improving the retention rate for such customers) can be evaluated by first estimating the CLV for such customers prior to the initiative and then reestimating the expected CLV with the new initiatives.
Direct and Interactive Marketing
Authors: Mulhern Frank J.
Published: December 2010

Direct marketing consists of marketing communications that use direct media technologies such as direct mail and print catalogs. Interactive marketing is an extension of direct marketing into media technologies that allow two‐way communications between a buyer and a seller. Examples of interactive marketing are e‐mail, online ads that can be clicked through, and e‐commerce web sites. The advantages of direct and interactive marketing include the ability to precisely communicate to individuals with addressable messages that can be customized in ways that make messages more relevant to consumers.

Direct and interactive marketing techniques typically include a response mechanism that allows consumers to respond directly to a communication and potentially make a purchase. Compared to mass media communications, direct and interactive marketing is much more precise and measurable. The ability to measure direct and interactive marketing effects allows marketers to design communication programs that target consumers based on recency – the amount of time since last purchase, frequency – the number of previous purchases, and monetary value – the total expenditures a customer makes over time. The strategies, methods, and metrics of direct and interactive marketing are becoming more central to marketing strategy as digital technologies allow interactive marketing communications to take place through television and mobile devices.
Marketing Channel Strategy
Authors: Coughlan Anne T.
Published: December 2010

Marketing channel strategy – one of the “Four P's” of the marketing mix (“place,” along with product, price, and promotion) – comprises the set of decisions made, and structures created, that help move a manufacturer's product or service from its place of manufacturer to the ultimate end‐user. Channel design and management involves long‐term attention to end‐users' demands not only for the firm's products, but also for the services the channel can offer; the necessity to manage the significant costs that distribution inflicts on the company, through judicious allocation of responsibility for channel flow performance to the chosen members of the channel; and the ability to maintain channel partners' positive incentives and motivations to execute on the specified channel design. Unlike the other three “P's,” it inherently involves collaboration and interaction among multiple corporate entities, all in the pursuit of a single goal: profitable end‐user sales. This article lays out the key elements of effective channel design and channel management.