bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The yeast acyltransferase Sct1p regulates fatty acid desaturation by competing with the desaturase Ole1p
Authors: De Smet Cedric H. , Vittone Elisa , Scherer Max , Houweling Martin , Liebisch Gerhard , Brouwers Jos F. , de Kroon Anton I.P.M.
Published: February 2012

The degree of fatty acid unsaturation, that is, the ratio of unsaturated versus saturated fatty acyl chains, determines membrane fluidity. Regulation of expression of the fatty acid desaturase Ole1p was hitherto the only known mechanism governing the degree of fatty acid unsaturation in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. We report a novel mechanism for the regulation of fatty acid desaturation that is based on competition between Ole1p and the glycerol-3-phosphate acyltransferase Sct1p/Gat2p for the common substrate C16:0-CoA. Deletion of SCT1 decreases the content of saturated fatty acids, whereas overexpression of SCT1 dramatically decreases the desaturation of fatty acids and affects phospholipid composition. Whereas overexpression of Ole1p increases desaturation, co-overexpression of Ole1p and Sct1p results in a fatty acid composition intermediate between those obtained upon overexpression of the enzymes separately. On the basis of these results, we propose that Sct1p sequesters C16:0-CoA into lipids, thereby shielding it from desaturation by Ole1p. Ta­king advantage of the growth defect conferred by overexpressing SCT1, we identified the acyltransferase Cst26p/Psi1p as a regulator of Sct1p activity by affecting the phosphorylation state and overexpression level of Sct1p. The level of Sct1p phosphorylation is increased when cells are supplemented with saturated fatty acids, demonstrating the physiological relevance of our findings.
Phosphoinositide lipid phosphatase SHIP1 and PTEN coordinate to regulate cell migration and adhesion
Authors: Mondal Subhanjan , Subramanian Kulandayan K. , Sakai Jiro , Bajrami Besnik , Luo Hongbo R.
Published: February 2012

The second messenger phosphatidylinositol(3,4,5)P3 (PtdIns(3,4,5)P3) is formed by stimulation of various receptors, including G protein–coupled receptors and integrins. The lipid phosphatases PTEN and SHIP1 are critical in regulating the level of PtdIns(3,4,5)P3 during chemotaxis. Observations that loss of PTEN had minor and loss of SHIP1 resulted in a severe chemotaxis defect in neutrophils led to the belief that SHIP1 rather than PTEN acts as a predominant phospholipid phosphatase in establishing a PtdIns(3,4,5)P3 compass. In this study, we show that SHIP1 regulates PtdIns(3,4,5)P3 production in response to cell adhesion and plays a limited role when cells are in suspension. SHIP1−/− neutrophils lose their polarity upon cell adhesion and are extremely adherent, which impairs chemotaxis. However, chemo­taxis can be restored by reducing adhesion. Loss of SHIP1 elevates Akt activation following cell adhesion due to increased PtdIns(3,4,5)P3 production. From our observations, we conclude that SHIP1 prevents formation of top-down PtdIns(3,4,5)P3 polarity to facilitate proper cell attachment and detachment during chemotaxis.
Russian Agriculture during Transition: Performance, Global Impact, and Outlook
Authors: Liefert William M. , Liefert Olga
Published: February 2012

In the 2000s, Russia emerged as a major player in world agricultural markets, on both the supply (mainly grain) and demand side. This article examines Russia's agricultural transition experience, which has resulted in a complex system of diverse producers and institutions, as well as uneven performance. Using a model of transition agriculture, the article explores how key reform policies drove systemic change and commodity restructuring, and how the ensuing changes in the production, consumption, and trade of goods have affected world markets. The article also assesses the performance of Russian agriculture during transition, and provides an outlook for the future.
A novel significance score for gene selection and ranking
Authors: Xiao Yufei , Hsiao Tzu-Hung , Suresh Uthra , Chen Hung-I Harry , Wu Xiaowu , Wolf Steven E. , Chen Yidong
Published: February 2012

Motivation: When identifying differentially expressed (DE) genes from high-throughput gene expression measurements, we would like to take both statistical significance (such as P-value) and biological relevance (such as fold change) into consideration. In gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA), a score that can combine fold change and P-value together is needed for better gene ranking.

Results: We defined a gene significance score π-value by combining expression fold change and statistical significance (P-value), and explored its statistical properties. When compared to various existing methods, π-value based approach is more robust in selecting DE genes, with the largest area under curve in its receiver operating characteristic curve. We applied π-value to GSEA and found it comparable to P-value and t-statistic based methods, with added protection against false discovery in certain situations. Finally, in a gene functional study of breast cancer profiles, we showed that using π-value helps elucidating otherwise overlooked important biological functions.

Availability:  http://gccri.uthscsa.edu/Pi_Value_Supplementary.asp

Contact:  xy@ieee.org, cheny8@uthscsa.edu

Supplementary information:  Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
The Effects of Ketorolac on Microvascular Thrombosis in Lower Extremity Reconstruction
Authors: Lee Kyeong Tae , Jeon Byung-Joon , Lim So-Young , Pyon Jai-Kyung , Bang Sa-Ik , Oh Kap-Sung , Mun Goo-Hyun
Published: February 2012

Background:

Ketorolac is commonly prescribed for relieving postoperative pain and is known to have an anticoagulation effect, though this has not been studied in a clinical series. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of ketorolac on microvascular thrombosis in lower extremity reconstruction.

Methods:

A retrospective chart review was performed for patients who underwent lower limb reconstruction with a free flap between January of 2005 and September of 2011. Patients were categorized into two groups based on the administration of ketorolac for postoperative pain relief. Complications were assessed, and the two groups were compared for vascular insufficiency, total or partial flap loss, and hematoma formation.

Results:

A total of 128 patients underwent microsurgical flap transfer, including 111 thoracodorsal artery perforator flaps, four latissimus dorsi myocutaneous flaps, seven deep inferior epigastric artery perforator flaps, and six anterolateral thigh flaps. Eighty patients were administrated ketorolac, and 48 patients were not. The nonketorolac group had significantly higher rates of vascular-related complications, and the difference remained significant after adjusting for confounding factors on multivariate logistic regression analysis. There was a correlation between the duration of ketorolac administration and complication rates, for which longer periods of ketorolac administration yielded lower complication rates.

Conclusion:

Ketorolac administration has a protective effect against the development of microvascular thrombosis and can be a preferred analgesic in free tissue transfer.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE:

Therapeutic, III.
The importance of human hydration: perceptions among healthcare professionals across Europe
Authors: Holdsworth J. E.
Published: February 2012

Summary  Attitudes of healthcare professionals to the importance of hydration for health, wellness and performance were evaluated in six European countries. These included general medical practitioners (n = 600), nurses (n = 300), pharmacists (n = 550), nutritionists (n = 265) and dietitians (n = 265), spread across France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Spain and the UK, who completed computer‐aided web or telephone interviews. The interviews assessed attitudes to the importance of hydration, how commonly they assess the hydration status of patients, and knowledge about recommended water intakes, sources of water for consumption and contribution from different beverages. All responders considered hydration an important issue and there was little difference in opinion between different healthcare providers. Responders in Mediterranean countries (particularly Italy and Spain, but also Greece to some extent) rated hydration more importantly than those in Germany and the UK (P < 0.001) and this was reflected in the higher frequency with which they reported that they assess the hydration status of patients (P < 0.001) and provide advice on the subject (P < 0.001). It was also demonstrated by a greater percentage of responders citing the necessity of optimal hydration for physical performance in these countries, compared with Germany and those in the UK and France (P < 0.001). Whether this was caused by climatic or cultural differences was not addressed by the study. The contribution of an appropriate hydration status to mental health was relatively poorly recognised, with less than 50% of responders in all countries citing this as a benefit and less than 30% of those in France and Italy citing it as a reason to provide advice. Healthcare professionals were reasonably knowledgeable about European Food Safety Authority adequate intakes for water for men and women but overestimated the contribution from food and underestimated that from beverages. The data highlight opportunities for education and improved clinical practice, especially in respect to the effects of hydration status on mental wellbeing and performance and the contribution of foods and beverages to total water intake.
UK recommendations for dietary fat: should they be reassessed in light of the recent joint FAO/WHO recommendations?
Authors: Schenker S.
Published: February 2012

In 2008, the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO)/World Health Organization (WHO) reviewed its recommendations on dietary fat and fatty acids in light of the growing evidence base on dietary fatty acids and health outcomes. These new FAO/WHO recommendations are considerably broader than the current UK recommendations, in that the FAO/WHO report makes separate recommendations for adults and children and sets ranges of intake for n‐3 and n‐6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) based, not only on prevention of deficiency, but also on their role in contributing to optimum and long‐term health. The key recommendation of this report is that saturated fatty acids (SFAs) should be limited to 10% of dietary energy intake and, compared with the UK recommendations, there is a stronger emphasis on replacing excess dietary SFAs with PUFAs (both n‐3 and n‐6) because of convincing evidence that this dietary exchange reduces low density lipoprotein cholesterol and the risk of coronary heart disease. It may therefore be timely to consider the need for a modification of the UK dietary guidelines on dietary fat and fatty acid intake to take account of the growing evidence base for the potential benefit of replacing SFAs with PUFAs.
ARE EMOTIONS PERCEPTUAL EXPERIENCES OF VALUE?
Authors: Whiting Demian
Published: February 2012

A number of emotion theorists hold that emotions are perceptions of value. In this paper I say why they are wrong. I claim that in the case of emotion there is nothing that can provide the perceptual modality that is needed if the perceptual theory is to succeed (where by ‘perceptual modality’ I mean the particular manner in which something is perceived). I argue that the five sensory modalities are not possible candidates for providing us with ‘emotional perception’. But I also say why the usual candidate offered – namely feeling or affectivity – does not give us the sought‐after perceptual modality. I conclude that as there seems to be nothing else that can provide the needed perceptual modality, we should reject the perceptual theory of emotion.1
A systematic review of the literature on the treatment of pityriasis rubra pilaris type 1 with TNF‐antagonists
Authors: Petrof G. , Almaani N. , Archer C.B. , Griffiths W.A.D. , Smith C.H.
Published: February 2012

Background  Adult pityriasis rubra pilaris (PRP) type 1 is a rare chronic papulosquamous disorder with clinical and histological parallels with psoriasis. Treatment is challenging and recent case reports suggest a potential role for tumour necrosis factor (TNF) antagonists.

Objectives  Our objective was to systematically review the literature for evidence of efficacy of TNF antagonists in the treatment of adult PRP.

Methods  We performed a systematic search of the Cochrane library, EMBASE, Pubmed and MEDLINE databases. We defined diagnosis of PRP, classified clinical response and whether this was clearly attributed to TNF‐antagonists. We also reviewed disease, treatment duration and follow up.

Results  Sixteen articles were selected for detailed review. From these, 12 articles (13 cases) met our predefined criteria and were included in the systematic review. The authors identified two more cases from their personal archive. A total of 15 evaluable cases were included for analysis. Twelve showed complete response (CR) (80%) to TNF‐antagonists with a mean time to maximal response of 5 months. In 10 of the CR cases (83%) this was clearly attributable to TNF antagonist therapy.

Conclusion  These data indicate that TNF‐antagonists may be of value in treating adult type 1 PRP refractory to other systemic agents but selective reporting bias, together with the lack of standard diagnostic criteria and established spontaneous resolution in PRP, prevent any firm recommendations on their place in management.
Dysregulated biomarkers induce distinct pathways in preterm birth
Authors: Brou L , Almli LM , Pearce BD , Bhat G , Drobek CO , Fortunato S , Menon R
Published: February 2012

Please cite this paper as: Brou L, Almli L, Pearce B, Bhat G, Drobek C, Fortunato S, Menon R. Dysregulated biomarkers induce distinct pathways in preterm birth. BJOG 2012;119:458–473.

Objective  To document racial disparity in biomarker concentrations in maternal/fetal plasma and amniotic fluid between African Americans and European Americans with spontaneous preterm birth (PTB; cases) and normal term birth (controls), and their contribution to distinct pathophysiological pathways of PTB.

Design  Nested case–control study.

Setting  The Perinatal Research Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA.

Sample  Maternal and fetal plasma and amniotic fluid samples were collected from 105 cases (59 African American and 46 European American) and 86 controls (40 African American and 46 European American).

Methods  Thirty‐six biomarkers were analysed using the protein microarray approach.

Main outcome measures  Differences in biomarker concentrations between cases and controls of different races in maternal, fetal and intra‐amniotic compartments, and the risk of PTB. Dysregulated biomarker‐induced PTB pathways associated with PTB in each race were determined using ingenuity pathway analysis (IPA).

Results  Racial disparity was observed in biomarker concentrations in each compartment between cases and controls: amniotic fluid, IL8 and MIP1α differed between case and controls in European Americans, whereas ANGPT2, Eotaxin, ICAM‐1, IL‐1β, IL1RA, RANTES and TNFα differed between case and controls in African Americans. In both races the FAS ligand, MCP‐3 and TNFR‐I differed between cases and controls. For fetal plasma, ANGPT2, Eotaxin, FGF basic, ICAM‐1, IGF‐I, IL10, IL‐1β, IL2, IP10 KGF, MCP‐3, MIP1α, PDGF‐BB, TGFα, TGFβ1, TIMP1, TNFα, TNFR‐I, TNFR‐II and VEGF differed between cases and controls in European Americans, whereas only MMP7 differed between cases and controls in African Americans. IL‐8 differed between cases and controls in both races. For maternal plasma, IL1RA, MMP7 and VEGF differed between cases and controls in European Americans, whereas ANGPT2, FGF basic, IL‐1β, IL5, IL6R, KGF, MCP‐3, MIP1α, TIMP1 and TNFα differed between cases and controls in African Americans. ANG, IL8 and TNFR‐I differed between cases and controls in both races.

Conclusions  We conclude that: (1) biomarker concentrations in maternal, fetal and intra‐amniotic compartments differ between cases and controls; (2) there is racial disparity in the biomarker profile in each of the compartments; (3) substantial numbers of dysregulated fetal plasma biomarkers contribute to PTB in European Americans, whereas maternal plasma biomarkers contribute to PTB in African Americans; and (4) both inflammation and haematological functions are associated with PTB in European Americans, but maternal proinflammatory changes dominate PTB in African Americans. Biomarker analyses document racial disparity and the distinct pathophysiological contributions from different compartments that can determine pregnancy outcome.
Clozapine, but not haloperidol, enhances glial d‐serine and L‐glutamate release in rat frontal cortex and primary cultured astrocytes
Authors: Tanahashi Shunske , Yamamura Satoshi , Nakagawa Masanori , Motomura Eishi , Okada Motohiro
Published: February 2012

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Deficient transmission at the glutamate NMDA receptor is considered a key component of the pathophysiology of schizophrenia. However, the effects of antipsychotic drugs on the release of the endogenous NMDA receptor partial agonist, d‐serine, remain to be clarified.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH We determined the interaction between antipsychotic drugs (clozapine and haloperidol) and transmission‐modulating toxins (tetanus toxin, fluorocitrate, tetrodotoxin) on the release of L‐glutamate and d‐serine in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) of freely moving rats, using microdialysis, and primary cultures of astrocytes using extreme high‐pressure liquid chromatography.

KEY RESULTS Release of L‐glutamate and d‐serine in the mPFC and in cultured astrocytes was inhibited by tetanus toxin (a synaptobrevin inhibitor) and fluorocitrate (a glial toxin), whereas tetrodotoxin (a voltage‐sensitive Na+ blocker) inhibited depolarization‐induced L‐glutamate release in the mPFC without affecting that of d‐serine. Clozapine (1 and 5 mg·kg−1), but not haloperidol (0.5 and 1 mg·kg−1), dose‐dependently increased L‐glutamate and d‐serine release from both astrocytes and mPFC. Clozapine‐induced release of L‐glutamate and d‐serine was also reduced by tetanus toxin and fluorocitrate. Tetrodotoxin reduced clozapine‐induced mPFC L‐glutamate release but not that of d‐serine. Clozapine‐induced L‐glutamate release preceded clozapine‐induced d‐serine release. MK‐801 (a NMDA receptor antagonist) inhibited the delayed clozapine‐induced L‐glutamate release without affecting that of d‐serine.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Clozapine predominantly activated glial exocytosis of d‐serine, and this clozapine‐induced d‐serine release subsequently enhances neuronal L‐glutamate release via NMDA receptor activation. The enhanced d‐serine associated glial transmission seems a novel mechanism of action of clozapine but not haloperidol.
MOLECULAR CHARACTERIZATION OF THE DIVERSITY AND POTENTIAL TOXICITY OF CYANOBACTERIAL MATS IN TWO TROPICAL LAGOONS IN THE SOUTH PACIFIC OCEAN1
Authors: Villeneuve Aurélie , Laurent Dominique , Chinain Mireille , Gugger Muriel , Humbert Jean‐François
Published: February 2012

Marine benthic cyanobacteria in tropical areas have recently been associated with several human poisoning events. To enhance the characterization of these microorganisms and their potential toxicity, benthic cyanobacterial communities were sampled in the lagoons of two islands (Raivavae and Rurutu) located in French Polynesia where human poisoning events by seafood had been reported. The morphological appearance of the mats was used to identify four types of cyanobacterial mat. By a 16S rRNA sequencing approach, it appeared that these mats were usually dominated by a restricted number of operational taxonomic units (OTUs), which were closely related to Leptolyngbya, Oscillatoria, Hydrocoleum, and Anabaena sequences, as previously reported in other tropical lagoons. Interestingly, we determined that these dominant filamentous OTUs were associated in the mats with other cyanobacteria, including unicellular species. By using a population genetic approach based on the sequencing of the internally transcribed spacer (ITS) of the rRNA operon, we found a very restricted genetic diversity in the most common OTU, which displayed a high sequence similarity with Leptolyngbya sp. In addition, there was no geographic differentiation at various spatial scales in the distribution of the different genotypes, suggesting that this species is able to spread over large distances. Finally, PCR screening of genes involved in the biosynthesis of known cyanotoxins revealed the presence of the saxitoxin gene (stxG) in two mats containing a mix of filamentous and unicellular cyanobacterial species.
A new perspective on the incentive–blood donation relationship: partnership, congruency, and affirmation of competence
Authors: Chmielewski Danielle , Bove Liliana L. , Lei Jing , Neville Ben , Nagpal Anish
Published: February 2012

BACKGROUND: The Motivation Crowding‐out Theory suggests that incentives undermine intrinsic motivation and thus blood donation behavior. While there is strong evidence showing the negative relationship between monetary incentives and blood donation, findings on the effect of nonmonetary incentives are mixed. Set in a voluntary, nonremunerated environment, this study explores aspects of the nonmonetary incentive–blood donation relationship not captured by the crowding‐out hypothesis.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: In‐depth interviews were conducted to explore donors' attitudes toward nonmonetary incentives currently used or considered by the Australian Red Cross Blood Service (Blood Service). Transcripts were analyzed using an inductive, thematic approach.

RESULTS: Of the nonmonetary incentives examined (i.e., health screening tests, branded tokens, paid time off work, recognition of key milestones, and postdonation refreshments), none were found to crowd out intrinsic motivation, although not all were viewed favorably. Donors who viewed branded tokens negatively considered the cost implications for the Blood Service, while donors who responded positively considered the public benefit of tokens in raising the profile of the Blood Service. Other nonmonetary incentives—paid time off work, postdonation refreshments, and health screening tests—were viewed positively because donors perceived them to be congruent to the effort expended in donating blood. Finally, donors expressed a preference for private over public recognition when acknowledging significant contributions.

CONCLUSION: When operating in a voluntary, nonremunerated environment, blood services should view donors as supply partners rather than customers, only consider nonmonetary incentives that are congruent with the act of donation, and provide private rather than public recognition of key milestones.
CTLA4‐Ig prevents alloantibody production and BMT rejection in response to platelet transfusions in mice
Authors: Gilson Christopher R. , Patel Seema R. , Zimring James C.
Published: February 2012

BACKGROUND: Platelet (PLT) transfusions can induce humoral and cellular alloimmunity. HLA antibodies can render patients refractory to subsequent transfusion, and both alloantibodies and cellular alloimmunity can contribute to subsequent bone marrow transplant (BMT) rejection. Currently, there are no approved therapeutic interventions to prevent alloimmunization to PLT transfusions other than leukoreduction. Targeted blockade of T‐cell costimulation has shown great promise in inhibiting alloimmunity in the setting of transplantation, but has not been explored in the context of PLT transfusion.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: We tested the hypothesis that the costimulatory blockade reagent CTLA4‐Ig would prevent alloreactivity against major and minor alloantigens on transfused PLTs. BALB/c (H‐2d) mice and C57BL/6 (H‐2b) mice were used as PLT donors and transfusion recipients, respectively. Alloantibodies were measured by indirect immunofluorescence using BALB/c PLTs and splenocytes as targets. BMTs were carried out under reduced‐intensity conditioning using BALB.B (H‐2b) donors and C57BL/6 (H‐2b) recipients to model HLA‐identical transplants. Experimental groups were given CTLA4‐Ig (before or after PLT transfusion) with control groups receiving isotype‐matched antibody.

RESULTS: CTLA4‐Ig abrogated both humoral alloimmunization (H‐2d antibodies) and transfusion‐induced BMT rejection. Whereas a single dose of CTLA4‐Ig at time of transfusion prevented alloimmunization to subsequent PLT transfusions, administration of CTLA4‐Ig after initial PLT transfusion was ineffective. Delaying treatment until after PLT transfusion failed to prevent BMT rejection.

CONCLUSIONS: These findings demonstrate a novel strategy using an FDA‐approved drug that has the potential to prevent the clinical sequelae of alloimmunization to PLT transfusions.
Blood salvage and cancer surgery: a meta‐analysis of available studies
Authors: Waters Jonathan H. , Yazer Mark , Chen Yi‐Fan , Kloke John
Published: February 2012

BACKGROUND: Intraoperative blood salvage (IBS) is a technique that is frequently used in major blood loss surgery. Classically, it is avoided during cancer surgery where a fear exists of entraining cancer cells into the shed blood. In this study, all reports of this practice were collected to determine if this fear is warranted.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: A literature search was performed including the search phrases “blood salvage,”“intraoperative blood salvage,”“cell salvage,”“cell saver,”“cell saving,”“autotransfusion,” and “autologous transfusion.” Data extracted from suitable papers included the authors' names, publication year, cancer type, exclusion criteria, sample size, length of follow‐up, and the mean patient age. The primary endpoint of this meta‐analysis was a comparison of the odds ratio (OR) for cancer recurrence or the development of metastases.

RESULTS: Eleven studies were included in the analysis. The pooled summary of the OR was 0.65 (95% confidence interval, 0.43‐0.98; p = 0.0391) using a random‐effects model. Measures of heterogeneity, Q‐statistics (p = 0.1615) and I2 (30.90%), did not indicate a high degree of between‐study variability.

CONCLUSIONS: While significant variability existed between studies, this meta‐analysis suggests that outcomes after the use of IBS are not inferior to traditional intraoperative allogeneic transfusion. An adequately powered prospective, randomized trial of IBS use is required to determine its true risk during cancer surgery.
Characteristics of thawed autologous umbilical cord blood
Authors: Rosenau Emma H. , Sugrue Michele W. , Haller Michael , Fisk Diann , Kelly Susan S. , Chang Myron , Hou Wei , Eldjerou Lamis , Slayton William , Cogle Christopher R. , Wingard John R.
Published: February 2012

BACKGROUND: Autologous umbilical cord blood (AutoUCB) has historically been cryopreserved for potential use in hematopoietic transplantation. Increasingly, private AutoUCB banking is performed for therapies unavailable today. A Phase I trial using AutoUCB treatment for early pediatric Type 1 diabetes afforded us an opportunity to analyze characteristics of AutoUCBs.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Twenty AutoUCBs from AABB‐accredited private cord blood banks (CBBs) were evaluated for collection, processing, cryopreservation, and thaw characteristics. Using a standardized thaw‐wash method, AutoUCBs were assessed for viable total nucleated cells (vTNCs), viable CD34+ (vCD34+), and colony‐forming unit–granulocyte‐macrophage counts. Postthaw %vTNC recoveries were compared against processing characteristics and analyzed according to processing method, cryopreservation volume, concentration, container, and length of storage.

RESULTS: AutoUCB collection volumes (19.9‐170 mL), cryopreserved TNC counts (7.6 × 107‐3.34 × 109), %TNC processing recoveries (39%‐100%), postthaw %vTNC recoveries (58%‐100%), and %vCD34+ recoveries (26%‐96%) varied widely. Regarding cell dose requirements, only 11% of evaluable AutoUCBs achieved the minimum TNC count of at least 9.0 × 108 to meet the National Cord Blood Inventory banking threshold, and only 50% met the minimum of 5.0 × 108 TNC count for Food and Drug Administration cord blood licensure eligibility. %vTNC recoveries correlated with %vCD34+ recoveries (R = 0.7; p = 0.03). Length of storage, cryopreservation volume, concentration, and container type did not affect postthaw %vTNC recoveries. CBB processing method, however, was associated with %vTNC postprocessing recoveries, with unmanipulated and plasma‐depleted AutoUCBs having the highest postthaw %vTNC recovery, followed by RBC‐depleted and density gradient–separated AutoUCBs.

CONCLUSION: The high variability and low counts found in AutoUCB banking suggest that further standardization of characterization, collection, and processing procedures is needed.
When Benevolence Backfires: Benevolent Sexists' Opposition to Elective and Traumatic Abortion1
Authors: OSBORNE DANNY , DAVIES PAUL G.
Published: February 2012

Though gender‐role attitudes correlate with attitudes toward abortion (Wang, 2004), past research has treated gender‐role attitudes as a unidimensional construct. The theory of ambivalent sexism (Glick & Fiske, 1996) holds that attitudes toward women form 2 distinct ideologies; namely, benevolent and hostile sexism. The current study examined the relationship between these ideologies and attitudes toward elective and traumatic abortion in a sample of Internet users (N = 529). As expected, both benevolent and hostile sexism predicted attitudes toward elective abortion, but only benevolent sexism predicted attitudes toward traumatic abortion. These results remained robust after controlling for important demographic factors. Such findings highlight the importance of differentiating between hostile and benevolent sexism when predicting attitudes toward complex issues.
Weakening Relationships We Try to Preserve: Motivated Sacrifice, Attachment, and Relationship Quality
Authors: MATTINGLY BRENT A. , CLARK EDDIE M.
Published: February 2012

Individuals' motivations for sacrificing are associated with relational outcomes, such that approach‐motivated sacrifices lead to increased satisfaction, whereas avoidance‐motivated sacrifices lead to decreased satisfaction (Impett et al., 2005). Because attachment styles are associated with relational outcomes (Feeney & Collins, 2003), the current study examined whether approach‐ and avoidance‐motivated sacrifices would mediate the association between attachment and satisfaction. Results indicated that avoidance motives did not mediate the relationship between attachment avoidance and satisfaction. However, avoidance motives mediated the relationship between attachment anxiety and satisfaction, whereas approach motives suppressed that relationship. Taken together, these findings suggest that individuals high in attachment anxiety (but not attachment avoidance) seem to unintentionally weaken the relationship for which they are making sacrifices.
Stability of voxel values from cone‐beam computed tomography for dental use in evaluating bone mineral content
Authors: Nomura Yoshikazu , Watanabe Hiroshi , Shirotsu Kazuya , Honda Eiichi , Sumi Yasunori , Kurabayshi Tohru
Published: February 2012

Objectives

The objective of this study was to investigate the stability of voxel values from cone‐beam CT (CBCT) using a flat panel detector in changing surrounding circumstances mimicking clinical situations.

Materials and methods

Seven hydroxyapatite (HA) rods (0, 40, 80, 120, 160, 199, and 239 mg Ca/cm3) were set in a 16 cm diameter water phantom and scanned with CBCT (FineCube) and also with multislice CT (MSCT) used as reference. The voxel values from CBCT were measured by the obtained images with OsiriX software (http://www.osirix-viewer.com), and compared with the CT numbers from MSCT. We examined the correlation between the voxel values and the HA contents, the variance of voxel values, and the influence of changing surrounding circumstances on the voxel values.

Results

The voxel values from CBCT were different from the CT numbers from MSCT, but there was a linear Pearson correlation between the voxel values and the HA contents. The voxel values were greatly influenced when the samples were scanned surrounded in air. However, the voxel values were not affected significantly in the existence of materials simulating oral hard tissues and/or a metal core post.

Conclusions

There was a linear correlation between the voxel values of CBCT and the contents of HA rod samples. Our study indicated that it might be possible to evaluate bone mineral content(BMC) from the voxel values of CBCT for dental implant treatment.
Mating Behavior Drives Seed Dispersal by the Long‐wattled Umbrellabird Cephalopterus penduliger
Authors: Karubian Jordan , Durães Renata , Storey Jenny L. , Smith Thomas B.
Published: February 2012

Frugivores exhibit considerable variation in the seed dispersal services they provide. Understanding what drives these differences is a key goal for ecologists because of the central role seed dispersal plays in shaping ecological and genetic diversity in plant populations. The lek‐mating system of the Long‐wattled Umbrellabird (Cephalopterus penduliger) provides a powerful lens to examine how mating behavior may impact seed dispersal outcomes. As in all lek‐breeding species, male Umbrellabirds congregate in traditional sites (leks) to display, whereas females are solitary and visit leks only rarely. This study demonstrates how differences in mating behavior between the sexes drive distinctive seed movement and deposition patterns by male vs. female Umbrellabirds. Using radio tracking and gut retention trials, we documented divergent movement patterns between the sexes that are directly attributable to mating behavior differences. These movement differences led males to disperse seeds long distances from source trees and to deposit the majority of seeds they ingested within the lek; females dispersed seeds shorter distances and more evenly across the landscape. We empirically confirmed that the density of dispersed seeds was higher in leks than in control areas outside the lek, yet found no evidence that this higher density of seeds in leks reduced probability of seedling establishment. This research not only provides a mechanistic explanation for long dispersal distances and high levels of genetic diversity previously reported for seeds in Umbrellabird leks, but also highlights the importance of explicitly considering behavior in studies of animal‐mediated seed dispersal.
Field Study of Subsurface Heterogeneity with Steady‐State Hydraulic Tomography
Authors: Berg Steven J. , Illman Walter A.
Published: February 2012

Remediation of subsurface contamination requires an understanding of the contaminant (history, source location, plume extent and concentration, etc.), and, knowledge of the spatial distribution of hydraulic conductivity (K) that governs groundwater flow and solute transport. Many methods exist for characterizing K heterogeneity, but most if not all methods require the collection of a large number of small‐scale data and its interpolation. In this study, we conduct a hydraulic tomography survey at a highly heterogeneous glaciofluvial deposit at the North Campus Research Site (NCRS) located at the University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada to sequentially interpret four pumping tests using the steady‐state form of the Sequential Successive Linear Estimator (SSLE) (Yeh and Liu 2000). The resulting three‐dimensional (3D) K distribution (or K‐tomogram) is compared against: (1) K distributions obtained through the inverse modeling of individual pumping tests using SSLE, and (2) effective hydraulic conductivity (Keff) estimates obtained by automatically calibrating a groundwater flow model while treating the medium to be homogeneous. Such a Keff is often used for designing remediation operations, and thus is used as the basis for comparison with the K‐tomogram. Our results clearly show that hydraulic tomography is superior to the inversions of single pumping tests or Keff estimates. This is particularly significant for contaminated sites where an accurate representation of the flow field is critical for simulating contaminant transport and injection of chemical and biological agents used for active remediation of contaminant source zones and plumes.
Nurse practitioners in Taiwan: Today and tomorrow
Authors: Wei Ching‐Wen , Tung Heng‐Hsin , Tsay Shiow‐Luan , Lin Che‐Wei
Published: February 2012

Abstract  Purpose: To describe the barriers that nurse practitioners (NPs) face and their hopes for the future.

Data sources: The study used a qualitative research design, with 10 certified NPs who were recruited through convenience sampling. Data were collected through a face‐to‐face semi‐structured interview, and content analysis was used to analyze the data.

Conclusions: NPs in Taiwan are challenged by a number of barriers; however, they remain positive that their circumstances will improve.

Implications for practice: The results of this study suggest that there is a need for better communication between policymakers and NPs. Additionally, as recommended by the International Council of Nursing, there is a need for NPs to earn a master's degree and to have formal training prior to beginning work as an NP. Furthermore, to evaluate the NPs’ performance, outcome studies need to be conducted. Implementing such recommendations should enable NPs to earn the respect and support of healthcare professionals and administrators.
National nursing registration in Australia: A way forward for nurse practitioner endorsement
Authors: Driscoll Andrea , Harvey Clare , Green Anna , Weatherby Robert P. , Liew Danny , Prentice David , Lord Julie , Lee Geraldine , Crellin Dianne , Dobroff Naomi , Heland Melodie
Published: February 2012

Abstract  Purpose: The move to national registration of health professionals and the creation of the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) provides both challenges and opportunities for the regulation of nurse practitioners (NPs) in Australia.

Data sources: National and state health policy documents, accessible on the Internet, concerning the regulation and endorsement processes for NPs in Australia were examined.

Conclusions: The similarities between two of the previous jurisdictional NP endorsement processes in New South Wales and Victoria provide a common ground on which to build a robust national system. However, there are also key differences between these two states. These differences were mainly in the evidence required to assess competency of NP applicants and the authority to prescribe medications. All Victorian NP applicants were required to complete an approved medication subject at a master's level.

Implications for practice: A consistent endorsement process that delivers NPs of the highest standard and allows for efficient use of their skills and expertise is vital. This needs to be performed with the aim of providing high‐quality care in a regulatory environment that protects the public and clearly articulates the level of competence expected of all NPs.
Design of Learning Spaces: Emotional and Cognitive Effects of Learning Environments in Relation to Child Development
Authors: Arndt Petra A.
Published: February 2012

The design of learning spaces is rightly gaining more and more pedagogical attention, as they influence the learning climate and learning results in multiple ways. General structural characteristics influence the willingness to learn through emotional well‐being and a sense of security. Specific structural characteristics influence cognitive processes, from visual and acoustic perceptions, via attention to the model, to processes of comprehension and reflection. Aspects of the design of the learning space also modify the interaction among students and between students and their teacher. Furthermore, the different requirements that have emerged through the development toward a learning society and the explosive increase of available information in our society require changes in the design of learning processes and thus of learning environments. Taking biological needs and neurobiological processes into account when designing learning spaces can provide a beneficial learning environment with regard to mental resources. This article will highlight relevant (neuro)biological fundamentals and try to describe resulting conclusions for the design of learning spaces.
Coming Out of the Dark: Content Analysis of Articles Pertaining to Gay, Lesbian, and Bisexual Issues in Couple and Family Therapy Journals
Authors: Hartwell Erica E. , Serovich Julianne M. , Grafsky Erika L. , Kerr Zachary Y.
Published: February 2012

The present study seeks to extend previous research regarding literature related to gay, lesbian, and bisexual (GLB) issues published in couple and family therapy (CFT)‐related journals by presenting the results from a content analysis of GLB studies in CFT‐related journals from 1996 to 2010. Results of the analysis revealed a 238.8% increase in total GLB content published since the original review. Articles pertaining to therapy with GLB clients continue to represent the largest area of publication. With one exception, all surveyed journals showed an increase in the percentage of GLB content since the first study. Emerging areas of research include studies related to supervision and training, GLB mental health and substance use, and sexual minority adolescents. A movement away from deficit‐based perspectives could open a new lens on family life.
Family Therapy Retention: An Observation of First‐Session Communication
Authors: Marchionda Daria M. , Slesnick Natasha
Published: February 2012

This study examined the relationship between communication patterns and retention among families (n = 18) receiving family therapy. Those that attended 12 sessions were labeled completers (n = 6), 4–8 sessions were middle dropouts (n = 6), and 1–3 sessions were early dropouts (n = 6). Audiotape recordings of the first therapy session were transcribed. The content (positive or negative) and total percentage of communications by the parent, adolescent, and therapist were coded. Completer and middle dropout parents (but not adolescents) showed higher talk time proportions than parents in the early dropout group. Completer families had higher percentages of therapist‐to‐parent communications, while early dropout families had higher percentages of therapist‐to‐adolescent communications. There were no significant differences between middle dropouts and completers in either content or total communications. These findings demonstrate the potential utility of examining within‐session communication patterns and suggest that within‐session processes may determine therapy retention.
Improved SWAT Model Performance With Time‐Dynamic Voronoi Tessellation of Climatic Input Data in Southern Africa1
Authors: Andersson Jafet C.M. , Zehnder Alexander J.B. , Wehrli Bernhard , Yang Hong
Published: February 2012

Andersson, Jafet C.M., Alexander J.B. Zehnder, Bernhard Wehrli, and Hong Yang, 2012. Improved SWAT Model Performance with Time‐Dynamic Voronoi Tessellation of Climatic Input Data in Southern Africa. Journal of the American Water Resources Association (JAWRA) 48(3): 480‐493. DOI: 10.1111/j.1752‐1688.2011.00627.x

Abstract:  In this study, we compared two approaches to obtain climatic time series for the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT), namely the conventional centroid method and time‐dynamic Voronoi tessellation, and assessed the performance of SWAT in simulating discharge and smallholder maize yields in Southern Africa. Climatic time series were estimated with each method. The Voronoi method utilized all available precipitation and temperature data, but the centroid method used only 14.5 and 82.5%, respectively. After centroid processing, sub‐basin time series were on average 42 and 63% incomplete, respectively. After Voronoi processing, all time series were complete. SWAT was fed with each climate dataset. Each model setup was independently calibrated and validated against discharge and maize yield. Similar model performance was obtained with both methods for yield. The root mean squared error during calibration was 0.26 and 0.27 t ha−1 for the centroid and Voronoi methods, respectively (p‐value: 0.80). However, daily discharge simulations improved significantly with the Voronoi method. The coefficient of determination increased from 0.24 to 0.39 in the calibration period (p‐value: 9.6 × 10−13) and from 0.41 to 0.48 in the validation period (p‐value: 3.1 × 10−3). The Voronoi method improved the simulation of the river flow regime. The largest improvements were obtained in data scarce situations, at high spatial and temporal resolution, and where the centroid method performed the worst.
Geochemical Records of Mantle Processes in Mantle Xenoliths from Three Cenozoic Basaltic Volcanoes in Eastern China
Authors: Congqiang LIU , Zhilong HUANG , Guanghong XIE , Akimasa MASUSDA
Published: February 2012

Abstract  Rare earth element (REE) contents, and Sr and Nd isotopic compositions were measured for three suites of mantle xenoliths from the Kuandian, Hannuoba and Huinan volcanoes in the north of the Sino‐Korean Platform. From the correlations of Yb contents with Al/Si and Ca/Si ratios, the peridotites are considered to be the residues of partial melting of the primitive mantle. The chondrite‐normalized REE compositions are diverse, varying from strongly LREE‐depleted to LREE‐enriched, with various types of REE patterns. Metasomatic alteration by small‐volume silicate melts, of mantle peridotites previously variably depleted due to fractional melting in the spinel peridotite field, can account for the diversity of REE patterns. The Sr/Ba versus La/Ba correlation indicates that the metasomatic agent was enriched in Ba over Sr and La, suggestive of its volatile‐rich signature and an origin by fluid‐triggered melting in an ancient subduction zone. The Sr and Nd isotopic compositions of these xenoliths, even from a single locality, vary widely, covering those of Cenozoic basalts in eastern China. The depleted end of the Sr‐Nd isotope correlation is characterized by clearly higher 143Nd/144Nd and a broader range of 87Sr/86Sr compared to MORB. The low‐143Nd/144Nd and high‐87Sr/86Sr data distribution at the other end of data array suggests the existence of two enriched mantle components, like EM1 and EM2. The correlations between 143Nd/144Nd and 147Sm/N4Nd ratios in these xenoliths suggest at least two mantle metasomatic events, i.e. events at 0.6–1.0 Ga and 280–400 Ma ago.
Water Self‐Softening Processes at Waterfall Sites
Authors: Jing'an CHEN , ZHANG David Dian , Shijie WANG , Tangfu XIAO
Published: February 2012

Abstract  Many rivers in tropical and subtropical karst regions are supersaturated with respect to CaCO3 and have high water hardness. After flowing through waterfall sites, river water is usually softened, accompanied by tufa formation, which is simply described as a result of water turbulence in fast‐flowing water. In this paper, a series of laboratory experiments are designed to simulate the hydrological conditions at waterfall sites. The influences of air‐water interface, water flow velocity, aeration and solid‐water interface on water softening are compared and evaluated on a quantitative basis. The results show that the enhanced inorganic CO2 outgassing due to sudden hydrological changes occurring at waterfall sites is the principal cause of water softening at waterfall sites. Both air‐water interface area and water flow velocity increase as a result of the “aeration effect”, “low pressure effect” and “jet‐flow effect” at waterfall sites, which greatly accelerates CO2 outgassing and therefore makes natural waters become highly supersaturated with respect to CaCO3, consequently resulting in much CaCO3 deposition and reduction of water hardness. Aeration, rapidly increasing air‐water interface area and water flow velocity, proves to be effective in reducing water hardness. This study may provide a cheap, safe and effective way to soften water.