bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Problem of Cultural Leadership: The Lessons of the Dead Leaders Society and A New Definition of Leadership
Authors: Wren J. Thomas
Published: December 2008

This article traces the intellectual journey of a class of leadership students as they explored the relationship between culture and leadership through the analysis of historical scenarios. In particular, their study of the role elements of the popular culture played in the "adaptive work" of several subgroups of society in the 1920s challenges traditional conceptions of leadership. Can there be such a thing as "cultural leadership?" The author uses the students' work as a point of departure for a new and more expansive definition of leadership.
Leadership Vistas: An Alternative Interpretation of the "Data"
Authors: Yammarino Francis J.
Published: December 2008

The humanities offer much to the study and practice of leadership. Likewise, scholarly work in the social and behavioral sciences has advanced leadership theory and research. An inclusive approach recognizes the complementary roles of the humanities and the sciences in the pursuit of leadership theory, research, and practice.
Leadership and the Art of Feedback: Feeding the Hands that Back Us
Authors: Kunich John C. , Lester Richard I.
Published: December 2008

One of the key proficiencies a good leader must possess is the art of giving and receiving feedback. All of the other tools of leadership combined will not allow anyone to be fully effective if feedback is lacking. The vision; talents, and competencies of both the leader and the followers will not interconnect in true synergy without this vital link, this bridge, this lifeline.
Community Centered Organizational Leadership: Challenges for Practice
Authors: Kroll Kristin , Vandenberg Lela
Published: December 2008

Food for the Hungry/Kenya (FH/K), a nongovernmental development organization, has been working to establish a leaderful organizational culture characterized by shared leadership roles and responsibilities, a strong organizational identity centered in a shared vision, and a healthy sense of community. Key to their success has been the efforts of a director who expertly practices transformational and servant leadership. This paper describes the organizational characteristics and conditions that have facilitated shared leadership and community-building in FH/K, and discusses the organizational challenges that need to be met for this approach to be sustained.
Leadership in Doctrine
Authors: Keithly David M.
Published: December 2008

Doctrine comprises the shared beliefs and principles associated with the tasks of a profession. Military doctrine describes the environment within which the armed forces of a state must operate, advising methods of force employment. The purpose of military doctrine is to foster likemindedness, thereby enhancing military effectiveness. Doctrinal provisions are generalizations gleaned from past experiences about what functions well. The military requires leadership doctrine on how to lead as well as combat doctrine on how to fight. This doctrine, like all military doctrine, should not be prescriptive. Leadership doctrine is a baseline from which individual leaders depart as they build their own leadership style. Leadership, in turn, is instrumental to carrying out a vision of how to fight. "A leader," Napoleon Bonaparte said, "is a dealer in hope."
Leadership Styles for the New Millenium: Creating New Paradigms
Authors: Culp Kenneth , Cox Kathryn J.
Published: December 2008

As the second millennium draws to a close, leadership educators should examine what can be learned from the evolution of leadership as modern societies have developed, and participate in creating new leadership paradigms for the future. Changes in government, families, knowledge/technology, business, health-care, social activism and religion will necessitate new leadership approaches in Millennium 2000. To begin discussion among leadership educators in preparing for these new paradigms, this article reviews the evolution of leadership, projects changes which may occur during the next century, and proposes alternative administrative, catalytic, collegial, humanitarian/activist, innovative, religiosity, and visionary leadership paradigms which may evolve.
Leadership to Match A New Era: Democratizing Society Through Emancipatory Learning
Authors: Reed Trudie Kibbe
Published: December 2008

Leadership models operative during the industrial era were concerned primarily with the development of products. With recent dramatic societal changes, leaders have been forced to shift their focus from products to services. Given this change, many leaders are struggling to identify new directions for effective leadership. Because the goals of democracy cannot be separated from emerging critical needs of the 21 st century, this article will examine the use of a transformative learning theory to facilitate movement toward a social model of leadership. This article also identifies the importance of the role of "followers" as co-participants in a leadership praxis.

Leaders are challenged to explore ways to democratize society as a necessary condition for leader effectiveness. Because Americans are currently living through the most rapid change ever experienced in society, new levels of consciousness are needed to explore new definitions of success and progress. The Transformational Learning model is emancipatory for leaders, followers, organizations, and society at large. This critical pedagogical approach is capable of shifting values that are no longer valid. This process is facilitated through the "affective domain" of learning. Issues presented in this article support the need for leaders to respond to societal needs through their personal use of this learning process. The transformative model is entrusted to leaders who are committed to helping to shape the world toward more humanistic goals.
Ethical Followers: A Link to Ethical Leadership
Authors: Perreault Gerri
Published: December 2008

Scholars and practitioners of ethical leadership need to give attention to both leaders and followers in the leadership process. This paper conceptualizes followers as active participants in the leadership process with central roles in ethical leadership. The author uses a four-component process of ethical decision-making to provide insights into the capabilities required for in order for followers to act ethically. The paper concludes with a focus on the joint responsibility of both leaders and followers for ethical decisions.
The Forgotten Leaders: Integrating Charismatic Leadership into Leadership Development Programs
Authors: Arsenault Paul M.
Published: December 2008

Leadership development programs are proliferating throughout the country. Based on a life-long developmental perspective, the model concentrates on increasing the knowledge of students to meet the complexity and changes in society. Due to the many misconceptions of charismatic leaders such as existing only outside the organization and being mysterious, charismatic leadership seems not to fit into the model. This article presents why and how charismatic leadership can be included in a leadership development program. Special emphasis is given to the social constructive approach that avoids the traditional misconceptions of charismatic leaders and the teaching methodology of an established course.
Leadership and Attitude Change Theory
Authors: Widgery Robin N. , Tubbs Stewart L.
Published: December 2008

A consistent body of research has shown that the leader who wishes to influence the attitudes of peers and subordinates must establish and maintain his or her credibility. The role of the leader's credibility is explored in this article, along with other communication elements that determine personal influence and leadership effectiveness. As a framework for this strategy, Heider's Balance Theory is employed, examining three parts of the work environment - the supervisor (S), the employee (E), and the task (T). The perception of each of these by the employee will determine the amount of committment the employee is likely to invest in the task.
Portfolios as a Means for Promoting Continuity in Leadership Development
Authors: Woyach Robert B.
Published: December 2008

A major challenge facing leadership development programs is the discontinuity between their short-term nature and their long-term goals. This article describes a programmatic response to this problem: leadership portfolios. Developed for use in the Tri District Collaborative, a coalition of three high schools in Oakland County Michigan, the portfolio system enhances students' leadership abilities by extending the learning begun in the Tri District's year-long Student Leadership Academy. Although experience with the use of portfolios in leadership development remains in its early stages, they appear to hold considerable promise as a strategy for extending, enriching, and deepening a wide variety of leadership programs.
Moving from Individual to Relationship: A Postindustrial Paradigm of Leadership
Authors: Rost Joseph C.
Published: December 2008

In this article, Rost compares and contrasts two paradigms of leadership and reduces their central meaning to one word. The industrial paradigm of leadership has been centered on an individual--a leader. The postindustrial paradigm will be centered on a relationship of leaders and collaborators. As we enter the twenty-first century, leadership scholars and practitioners are moving from understanding leadership as an individual to viewing it as a relationship.
You Can Drag a Horse to Water but You Can't Make it Drink Unless it is Thirsty
Authors: Avolio Bruce J. , Bass Bernard M.
Published: December 2008

This paper reviews preliminary results of a field study that examined the impact of a leadership development program on pre and post ratings of the multi-factor leadership questionnaire. Emphasis in the training program was placed on developing transformational leadership. Results indicated that there were some positive effects of the training program on increasing ratings of transformational leadership.
Spinning the Leadership Relationship Web into the Twenty-First Century
Authors: Finley Norina E.
Published: December 2008

Leadership relationships in the twenty-first century will provide leaders and collaborators with the momentum to rattle at the cage of the status quo as they deal with the forces of order and chaos in an era where response times are measured in nanoseconds. During such times of creative tension, leadership relationships will seize upon this opportunity for growth and learning in an environment of trust and mutual respect. However, our organizational structures will have to change to enable those in leadership relationships to bring about intended changes for the betterment of the human condition in a global society.
Effect of beam interaction time on laser alloying with pulsed Nd–YAG laser
Authors: Vaziri A. , Shahverdi H. R. , Shabestari S. G. , Torkamany M. J.
Published: December 2008

Surface alloying of aluminium with nickel was carried out using a pulsed Nd–YAG laser. The effect of beam interaction time on laser alloying of aluminium with pulsed Nd–YAG laser has been studied. It was found that the beam interaction time of a pulsed laser has a significant effect on microstructure and properties of alloyed layers. The results indicated that with changes in the beam diameter, higher thickness of alloyed layer and higher microhardness are both obtained at a lower effective interaction time. When travel speed changes, the same conditions are obtained at a higher effective interaction time.
Hypomethylating drugs convert HA-1–negative solid tumors into targets for stem cell–based immunotherapy
Authors: Hambach Lothar , Ling Kam-Wing , Pool Jos , Aghai Zohara , Blokland Els , Tanke Hans J. , Bruijn Jan A. , Halfwerk Hans , van Boven Hester , Wieles Brigitte , Goulmy Els
Published: December 2008

Clinical responses of solid tumors after allogeneic human leukocyte antigen-matched stem cell transplantation (SCT) often coincide with severe graft-versus-host disease (GVHD). Targeting minor histocompatibility antigens (mHags) with hematopoiesis- and cancer-restricted expression, for example, HA-1, may allow boosting the antitumor effect of allogeneic SCT without risking severe GVHD. The mHag HA-1 is aberrantly expressed in cancers of most entities. However, an estimated 30% to 40% of solid tumors do not express HA-1 (ie, are HA-1neg) and cannot be targeted by HA-1–specific immunotherapy. Here, we investigated the transcriptional regulation of HA-1 gene expression in cancer. We found that DNA hypermethylation in the HA-1 promoter region is closely associated with the absence of HA-1 gene expression in solid tumor cell lines. Moreover, we detected HA-1 promoter hypermethylation in primary cancers. The hypomethylating agent 5-aza-2′-deoxycytidine induced HA-1 expression only in HA-1neg tumor cells and sensitized them for recognition by HA-1–specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes. Contrarily, the histone deacetylation inhibitor trichostatin A induced HA-1 expression both in some HA-1neg tumor cell lines and in normal nonhematopoietic cells. Our data suggest that promoter hypermethylation contributes to the HA-1 gene regulation in tumors. Hypomethylating drugs might extend the safe applicability of HA-1 as an immunotherapeutic target on solid tumors after allogeneic SCT.
Identification of a potent natural triterpenoid inhibitor of proteosome chymotrypsin-like activity and NF-κB with antimyeloma activity in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Tiedemann Rodger E. , Schmidt Jessica , Keats Jonathan J. , Shi Chang-Xin , Zhu Yuan Xiao , Palmer Stephen E. , Mao Xinliang , Schimmer Aaron D. , Stewart A. Keith
Published: December 2008

As multiple myeloma tumors universally dysregulate cyclin D genes we conducted high-throughput chemical library screens for compounds that induce suppression of cyclin D2 promoter transcription. The top-ranked compound was a natural triterpenoid, pristimerin. Strikingly, the early transcriptional response of cells treated with pristimerin closely resembles cellular responses elicited by proteosome inhibitors, with rapid induction of heat shock proteins, activating transcription factor 3 (ATF3), and CHOP. Enzymatic assays and immunoblotting confirm that pristimerin rapidly (< 90 minutes) and specifically inhibits chymotrypsin-like proteosome activity at low concentrations (< 100 nM) and causes accumulation of cellular ubiquitinated proteins. Notably, cytotoxic triterpenoids including pristimerin inhibit NF-κB activation via inhibition of IKKα or IKKβ, whereas proteosome inhibitors instead suppress NF-κB function by impairing degradation of ubiquitinated IκB. By inhibiting both IKK and the proteosome, pristimerin causes overt suppression of constitutive NF-κB activity in myeloma cells that may mediate its suppression of cyclin D. Multiple myeloma is exquisitely sensitive to proteosome or NF-κB pathway inhibition. Consistent with this, pristimerin is potently and selectively lethal to primary myeloma cells (IC50 < 100 nM), inhibits xenografted plasmacytoma tumors in mice, and is synergistically cytotoxic with bortezomib—providing the rationale for pharmaceutical development of triterpenoid dual-function proteosome/NF-κB inhibitors as therapeutics for human multiple myeloma and related malignancies.
Alterations in cell growth and signaling in ErbB3 binding protein-1 (Ebp1) deficient mice
Authors: Zhang Yuexing , Lu Yan , Zhou Hua , Lee Myounghee , Liu Zhenqiu , Hassel Bret A , Hamburger Anne W
Published: December 2008

Background

The ErbB3 binding protein-1 (Ebp1) belongs to a family of DNA/RNA binding proteins implicated in cell growth, apoptosis and differentiation. However, the physiological role of Ebp1 in the whole organism is not known. Therefore, we generatedEbp1-deficient mice carrying a gene trap insertion in intron 2 of theEbp1 (pa2g4)gene.

Results

Ebp1-/-mice were on average 30% smaller than wild type and heterozygous sex matched littermates. Growth retardation was apparent from Day 10 until Day 30. IGF-1 production and IGBP-3 and 4 protein levels were reduced in both embryo fibroblasts and adult knock-out mice. The proliferation of fibroblasts derived from Day 12.5 knock out embryos was also decreased as compared to that of wild type cells. Microarray expression analysis revealed changes in genes important in cell growth including members of the MAPK signal transduction pathway. In addition, the expression or activation of proliferation related genes such as AKT and the androgen receptor, previously demonstrated to be affected by Ebp1 expressionin vitro, was altered in adult tissues.

Conclusion

These results indicate that Ebp1 can affect growth in an animal model, but that the expression of proliferation related genes is cell and context specific. The Ebp1-/-mouse line represents a newin vivomodel to investigate Ebp1 function in the whole organism.
CLOCK expression identifies developing circadian oscillator neurons in the brains of Drosophila embryos
Authors: Houl Jerry H , Ng Fanny , Taylor Pete , Hardin Paul E
Published: December 2008

Background

TheDrosophilacircadian oscillator is composed of transcriptional feedback loops in which CLOCK-CYCLE (CLK-CYC) heterodimers activate their feedback regulatorsperiod(per) andtimeless(tim) via E-box mediated transcription. These feedback loop oscillators are present in distinct clusters of dorsal and lateral neurons in the adult brain, but how this pattern of expression is established during development is not known. Since CLK is required to initiate feedback loop function, defining the pattern of CLK expression in embryos and larvae will shed light on oscillator neuron development.

Results

A novel CLK antiserum is used to show that CLK expression in the larval CNS and adult brain is limited to circadian oscillator cells. CLK is initially expressed in presumptive small ventral lateral neurons (s-LNvs), dorsal neurons 2 s (DN2s), and dorsal neuron 1 s (DN1s) at embryonic stage (ES) 16, and this CLK expression pattern persists through larval development. PER then accumulates in all CLK-expressing cells except presumptive DN2s during late ES 16 and ES 17, consistent with the delayed accumulation of PER in adult oscillator neurons and antiphase cycling of PER in larval DN2s. PER is also expressed in non-CLK-expressing cells in the embryonic CNS starting at ES 12. Although PER expression in CLK-negative cells continues inClkJrkembryos, PER expression in cells that co-express PER and CLK is eliminated.

Conclusion

These data demonstrate that brain oscillator neurons begin development during embryogenesis, that PER expression in non-oscillator cells is CLK-independent, and that oscillator phase is an intrinsic characteristic of brain oscillator neurons. These results define the temporal and spatial coordinates of factors that initiateClkexpression, imply that circadian photoreceptors are not activated until the end of embryogenesis, and suggest that PER functions in a different capacity before oscillator cell development is initiated.
Defence reactions in the apoplastic proteome of oilseed rape (Brassica napus var. napus) attenuate Verticillium longisporumgrowth but not disease symptoms
Authors: Floerl Saskia , Druebert Christine , Majcherczyk Andrzej , Karlovsky Petr , Kües Ursula , Polle Andrea
Published: December 2008

Background

Verticillium longisporum is one of the most important pathogens of Brassicaceae that remains strictly in the xylem during most stages of its development. It has been suggested that disease symptoms are associated with clogging of xylem vessels. The aim of our study was to investigate extracellular defence reactions induced by V. longisporum in the xylem sap and leaf apoplast of Brassica napus var. napus in relation to the development of disease symptoms, photosynthesis and nutrient status.

Results

V. longisporum (strain VL43) did not overcome the hypocotyl barrier until 3 weeks after infection although the plants showed massive stunting of the stem and mild leaf chlorosis. During this initial infection phase photosynthetic carbon assimilation, transpiration rate and nutrient elements in leaves were not affected in VL43-infected compared to non-infected plants. Proteome analysis of the leaf apoplast revealed 170 spots after 2-D-protein separation, of which 12 were significantly enhanced in response to VL43-infection. LS-MS/MS analysis and data base searches revealed matches of VL43-responsive proteins to an endochitinase, a peroxidase, a PR-4 protein and a β-1,3-glucanase. In xylem sap three up-regulated proteins were found of which two were identified as PR-4 and β-1,3-glucanase. Xylem sap of infected plants inhibited the growth of V. longisporum.

Conclusion

V. longisporum infection did not result in drought stress or nutrient limitations. Stunting and mild chlorosis were, therefore, not consequences of insufficient water and nutrient supply due to VL43-caused xylem obstruction. A distinct array of extracellular PR-proteins was activated that might have limited Verticillium spreading above the hypocotyl. In silico analysis suggested that ethylene was involved in up-regulating VL43-responsive proteins.
Reliable microRNA profiling in routinely processed formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded breast cancer specimens using fluorescence labelled bead technology
Authors: Hasemeier Britta , Christgen Matthias , Kreipe Hans , Lehmann Ulrich
Published: December 2008

Background

During the last years the analysis of microRNA expression patterns has led to completely new insights into cancer biology. Furthermore, these patterns are a very promising tool for the development of new diagnostic and prognostic markers. However, most human tumour samples for which long term clinical records are available exist only as formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded specimens. Therefore, the aim of this study was to examine the feasibility of microRNA profiling studies in routinely processed formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded human breast cancer specimens using fluorescence labelled bead technology.

Results

A statistically highly significant correlation (Spearman r: 0.78 – 0.90, p < 0.0001) was observed for the expression of 319 microRNAs in routinely processed FFPE breast cancer specimens and paired fresh frozen tissue samples (n = 5). Results were confirmed in a larger series analyzing a selection of 10 microRNAs reported to be deregulated in breast cancer (n = 12). The expression pattern of 3 microRNAs was independently validated in this cohort using real-time RT-PCR technology.

Conclusion

Comprehensive microRNA expression patterns can be reliably derived from routinely processed FFPE breast cancer specimens using fluorescence labelled bead technology.
Cryptogenic hepatic insult, failing heart and advancing age: a case report
Authors: Agrawal Akansha , Soneja Manish , Goel Ashish , Pati H , Dey Aparajit B
Published: December 2008

Background

Weakness and fatigue are accepted as normal accompaniments of aging. Usually, older individuals are not investigated with much enthusiasm but a treatable cause is discernible on several occasions.

Case presentation

We had a 67 year old hypertensive lady with a mitral stenosis, presenting in ischemic or hypertensive heart failure with underlying valvular disease, without pulmonary hypertension in sinus rhythm. She had pancytopenia with severe anemia and raised liver enzymes. Bone marrow examination showed aplastic anemia. She was treated with ATG and improved subsequently to become transfusion free. However, she succumbed to an unrelated sudden cardiac death.

Conclusion

Our patient is unique in her uncommon presentation, complex management issues and a favorable outcome after a long and persevering therapeutic intervention and finally her sudden death.
A genome-wide screen for modifiers of transgene variegation identifies genes with critical roles in development
Authors: Ashe Alyson , Morgan Daniel K , Whitelaw Nadia C , Bruxner Timothy J , Vickaryous Nicola K , Cox Liza L , Butterfield Natalie C , Wicking Carol , Blewitt Marnie E , Wilkins Sarah J , Anderson Gregory J , Cox Timothy C , Whitelaw Emma
Published: December 2008

Background

Some years ago we established an N-ethyl-N-nitrosourea screen for modifiers of transgene variegation in the mouse and a preliminary description of the first six mutant lines, named MommeD1-D6, has been published. We have reported the underlying genes in three cases: MommeD1 is a mutation in SMC hinge domain containing 1 (Smchd1), a novel modifier of epigenetic gene silencing; MommeD2 is a mutation in DNA methyltransferase 1 (Dnmt1); and MommeD4 is a mutation in Smarca 5 (Snf2h), a known chromatin remodeler. The identification of Dnmt1 and Smarca5 attest to the effectiveness of the screen design.

Results

We have now extended the screen and have identified four new modifiers, MommeD7-D10. Here we show that all ten MommeDs link to unique sites in the genome, that homozygosity for the mutations is associated with severe developmental abnormalities and that heterozygosity results in phenotypic abnormalities and reduced reproductive fitness in some cases. In addition, we have now identified the underlying genes for MommeD5 and MommeD10. MommeD5 is a mutation in Hdac1, which encodes histone deacetylase 1, and MommeD10 is a mutation in Baz1b (also known as Williams syndrome transcription factor), which encodes a transcription factor containing a PHD-type zinc finger and a bromodomain. We show that reduction in the level of Baz1b in the mouse results in craniofacial features reminiscent of Williams syndrome.

Conclusions

These results demonstrate the importance of dosage-dependent epigenetic reprogramming in the development of the embryo and the power of the screen to provide mouse models to study this process.
A Protective Role for Type 3 Deiodinase, a Thyroid Hormone-Inactivating Enzyme, in Cochlear Development and Auditory Function
Authors: Ng Lily , Hernandez Arturo , He Wenxuan , Ren Tianying , Srinivas Maya , Ma Michelle , Galton Valerie A. , St. Germain Donald L. , Forrest Douglas
Published: December 2008

Thyroid hormone is necessary for cochlear development and auditory function, but the factors that control these processes are poorly understood. Previous evidence indicated that in mice, the serum supply of thyroid hormone is augmented within the cochlea itself by type 2 deiodinase, which amplifies the level of T3, the active form of thyroid hormone, before the onset of hearing. We now report that type 3 deiodinase, a thyroid hormone-inactivating enzyme encoded by Dio3, is expressed in the immature cochlea before type 2 deiodinase. Dio3−/− mice display auditory deficits and accelerated cochlear differentiation, contrasting with the retardation caused by deletion of type 2 deiodinase. The Dio3 mRNA expression pattern in the greater epithelial ridge, stria vascularis, and spiral ganglion partly overlaps with that of thyroid hormone receptor β (TRβ), the T3 receptor that is primarily responsible for auditory development. The proposal that type 3 deiodinase prevents premature stimulation of TRβ was supported by deleting TRβ, which converted the Dio3−/− cochlear phenotype from one of accelerated to one of delayed differentiation. The results indicate a protective role for type 3 deiodinase in hearing. The auditory system illustrates the considerable extent to which tissues can autoregulate their developmental response to thyroid hormone through both type 2 and 3 deiodinases.
Economic manufacturing quantity model with imperfect rework and random breakdown under abort/resume policy
Authors: Chiu Y-S P , Tseng C-Y , Liu W-C , Ting C-K
Published: December 2008

This paper studies the optimal production run time in an economic manufacturing quantity (EMQ) model with imperfect rework and Poisson machine breakdowns under abort/resume (A/R) control policy. In most realistic manufacturing processes, generation of defective items and random machine breakdowns are inevitable. In this study, a random defective rate is assumed and all defective items produced are reworked when regular production ends. The rework process is assumed to be imperfect. A proportion of reworked items fail during the reworking and become scrap. The system is subject to random breakdowns. The A/R inventory control policy is adopted when breakdowns occur, under such a policy, and the production of the interrupted lot will be immediately resumed when the machine is fixed and restored. Mathematical modelling is used and the integrated long-run average production-inventory cost per unit time is derived. Theorems on conditional convexity and on bounds of optimal production run times are proposed and proved. A recursive searching algorithm is developed for locating the optimal run time within the bounds, which minimizes the expected production-inventory costs. A numerical example with sensitivity analysis is provided to give insight into the operational planning and control of such a realistic production system.
Near Infrared Calibration Models for the Estimation of Wood Density in Pinus Taeda Using Repeated Sample Measurements
Authors: Mora Christian R. , Schimleck Laurence R. , Isik Fikret
Published: December 2008

Near infrared (NIR) diffuse reflectance was used for the estimation of air-dry density and basic density in wood radial strip samples obtained at breast height (1.4 m) from 60 Pinus taeda trees established in three progeny tests in the south-eastern United States. NIR calibration models were fitted using raw spectra and pre-processed spectra with second derivative, multiplicative scatter correction and orthogonal signal correction. Successful calibrations were obtained for both wood properties using data collected in consecutive 10 mm sections from the samples. Data pre-processing did not result in model improvements compared to the models fitted using raw data. The effects of using repeated measures were evaluated by incorporating serial correlation into the partial least squares regression algorithm. The empirical autocorrelation of the normalised residuals showed that serial dependence among residuals was successfully removed by using an autoregressive correlation structure of second order. However, because the initial dependence among observations was not strong, the predictions were similar using the modified algorithm to those obtained with the traditional approach. These results indicate that the use of repeated measurements does not represent a serious problem for the development of NIR calibration models for the prediction of wood properties using radial samples measured in 10 mm sections and that the specification of the correlation structure may not be required when the models are used only for predictive purposes.
Interpretation of near Infrared Calibration Structure for Determining the Total Aerobic Bacteria Count in Raw Milk: Interaction between Bacterial Metabolites and Water Absorptions
Authors: Saranwong Sirinnapa , Kawano Sumio
Published: December 2008

The objective of this work is to clarify the structure of the near infrared (NIR) calibration equation for predicting the total aerobic bacteria count (TBC) of raw milk which was developed in a previous article. First, an experiment on the monitoring of chemical changes in stored raw milk having different levels of TBC was conducted. Then the relation between the regression coefficient plots of the TBC calibration equation and the absorption bands of the constituents related to bacterial metabolism was investigated. Finally, the meaning of each factor used in the calibration equation was interpreted through the study of its loading weight plots. It was found that lactic acid and urea–nitrogen, the waste from lactose and from protein catabolism of bacteria, increased with the increase of TBC value. On the other hand, the decreases in lactose and protein content, the energy sources of many bacteria, were observed. The results from the investigations on the regression coefficient and the loading weight plots indicated that the TBC calibration equation utilised the information from both the absorptions of the four chemicals and the absorptions of water species. It is believed that the changes in the metabolites and energy sources influenced the species and the NIR absorptivity of water. In addition, the band assignments in the regression coefficient plots have been performed. For example, the peak at 988 nm was linked to lactic acid absorption, the peak at 1008 nm peak was identified as due to urea–nitrogen absorption, and the 1026 nm and 1032 nm peaks were identified as being due to casein–protein absorptions. As for water, the 952 nm, 962 nm, 976 nm and 998 nm were likely to represent the fluctuation of water species with 0, 1, 2 and 3 hydrogen bonds, respectively.
Measurement of the Protein Composition of Single Wheat Kernels Using near Infrared Spectroscopy
Authors: Wesley Ian J. , Osborne Brian G. , Larroque Oscar , Bekes Ferenc
Published: December 2008

Near infrared (NIR) spectroscopy of single seeds of cereal grains would allow their quality testing to be performed at earlier stages in breeding programmes than at present and for seeds of individual lines to be sorted into fractions of contrasting quality. Previous single-kernel NIR research involving cereals has been directed at traits such as protein content and seed colour for which NIR analysis is well-established. However, the development of methods for more complex traits such as wheat protein composition, which relate directly to end product performance, would be of particular use in plant breeding applications. NIR spectra of 200 single wheat seeds representing varieties with different protein composition profiles were measured using both a dispersive and a diode array instrument together with specially-designed sample accessories. The same seeds were then subjected to biochemical analysis using HPLC methods to determine their protein compositions. Predictive models were developed which showed that NIR measurements of single seeds could be used to determine the uniformity of a wheat sample, or to sort seeds, with respect to the concentrations of protein components.
Simultaneous Quantitation of Flavonol Aglycones in Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extracts Applying Moving Window Partial Least Squares Regression Models
Authors: Geng Ying , Xiang Bingren
Published: December 2008

A quantitative near infrared diffuse reflectance spectroscopy method was established for the simultaneous determination of three flavonol aglycones (quercetin, kaempferol and isorhamnetin) in Ginkgo biloba leaf extracts. Partial leat squares was applied to build the correlation models with the pre-processing methods of first derivative and multiplicative scatter correction. A moving window partial least squares method was used for variable selection. Satisfactory calibration statistics were obtained for quercetin, kaempferol and isorhamnetin with coefficients of determination 0.94, 0.90, 0.88; and root mean square error of cross-validation / prediction of 0.61 / 0.48, 0.80 / 0.94, 0.28 / 0.30, respectively. This method demonstrates the great potential of NIR spectroscopy as a non-destructive and efficient tool for quality control of Ginkgo biloba leaf extracts manufacture.
A Sugeno Fuzzy Model for Noise Induced Hearing Loss in the Mining Industry
Authors: Nanda Santosh Kumar , Tripathy D.P. , Patra Sarat Kumar
Published: December 2008

This paper describes a fuzzy system approach to modeling of noise-induced hearing loss, one of the most dangerous effects of noise in the mining industry. Hearing loss has been considered as a function of noise level, frequency, and exposure time. The model is simulated using MATLAB for Takagi-Sugeno-Kang (TSK) inference mechanism. The model results are compared with the survey findings of U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) and National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), Pittsburgh and were found to be in good agreement. The model clearly brings out the salient features of the surveys concerning the variation of hearing loss with frequency for various duration of exposure times, viz., the hearing loss is not appreciable below 2kHz. The model results closely match with the NIOSH results in 2–6 kHz at 90 dB (A) and with the EPA results in 2–8 kHz at 85 dBA. It was observed that for 0–6 years of exposure, the hearing loss as per NIOSH was between 0 – 20 dB, whereas it was between 0–25 dB (not significant) as per American Academy of Ophthalmology and Otolaryngology (AAOO). The model clearly shows that the duration of exposure can be used to infer the hearing loss for mining and industrial workers of different age groups.
Identification of glucose-regulated miRNAs from pancreatic β cells reveals a role for miR-30d in insulin transcription
Authors: Tang Xiaoqing , Muniappan Latha , Tang Guiliang , Özcan Sabire
Published: December 2008

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small noncoding ribonucleotides that bind mRNAs and function mainly as translational repressors in mammals. MicroRNAs have been implicated to play a role in many diseases, including diabetes. Several reports indicate an important function for miRNAs in insulin production as well as insulin secretion. We have recently carried out a screen in the pancreatic β-cell line MIN6 to identify miRNAs with altered abundance in response to changes in glucose concentrations. This screen resulted in identification of 61 glucose-regulated miRNAs from a total of 108 miRNAs detectable in MIN6 cells. Many of the identified miRNAs, including miR-124a, miR-107, and miR-30d were up-regulated in the presence of high glucose. Only a few of the miRNAs, including miR-296, miR-484, and miR-690 were significantly down-regulated by high glucose treatment. Interestingly, we found that overexpression of miR-30d, one of the miRNAs up-regulated by glucose, increased insulin gene expression, while inhibition of miR-30d abolished glucose-stimulated insulin gene transcription. Overexpression or inhibition of miR-30d did not have any effect on insulin secretion. These data suggest that the putative target genes of miR-30d may be negative regulators of insulin gene expression.
The MRB1 complex functions in kinetoplastid RNA processing
Authors: Acestor Nathalie , Panigrahi Aswini K. , Carnes Jason , Zíková Alena , Stuart Kenneth D.
Published: December 2008

Mitochondrial (mt) gene expression in Trypanosoma brucei entails multiple types of RNA processing, including polycistronic transcript cleavage, mRNA editing, gRNA oligouridylation, and mRNA polyadenylation, which are catalyzed by various multiprotein complexes. We examined the novel mitochondrial RNA-binding 1 (MRB1) complex that has 16 associated proteins, four of which have motifs suggesting RNA interaction. RNase treatment or the lack of kDNA in mutants resulted in lower MRB1 complex sedimentation in gradients, indicating that MRB1 complex associates with kDNA transcripts. RNAi knockdowns of expression of the Tb10.406.0050 (TbRGGm, RGG motif), Tb927.6.1680 (C2H2 zinc finger), and Tb11.02.5390 (no known motif) MRB1 proteins each inhibited in vitro growth of procyclic form parasites and resulted in cells with abnormal numbers of nuclei. Knockdown of TbRGGm, but not the other two proteins, disrupted the MRB1 complex, indicating that it, but perhaps not the other two, is required for complex assembly and/or stability. The knockdowns resulted in similar but nonidentical patterns of altered in vivo abundances of edited, pre-edited, and preprocessed mt mRNAs, but did not appreciably affect the abundances of mRNAs that do not get edited. These results indicate that MRB1 complex is critical to the processing of mt RNAs, and although its specific function is unknown, it appears essential to parasite viability.
From Association to Causation via a Potential Outcomes Approach
Authors: Mithas Sunil , Krishnan M. S.
Published: December 2008

Despite the importance of causal analysis in building a valid knowledge base and in answering managerial questions, the issue of causality rarely receives the attention it deserves in information systems (IS) and management research that uses observational data. In this paper, we discuss a potential outcomes framework for estimating causal effects and illustrate the application of the framework in the context of a phenomenon that is also of substantive interest to IS researchers. We use a matching technique based on propensity scores to estimate the causal effect of an MBA on information technology (IT) professionals' salary in the United States. We demonstrate the utility of this counterfactual or potential outcomes–based framework in providing an estimate of the sensitivity of the estimated causal effects because of selection on unobservables. We also discuss issues related to the heterogeneity of treatment effects that typically do not receive as much attention in alternative methods of estimation, and show how the potential outcomes approach can provide several new insights into who benefits the most from the interventions and treatments that are likely to be of interest to IS researchers. We discuss the usefulness of the matching technique in IS and management research and provide directions to move from establishing association to assessing causation.
Detection of Isolated Tumor Cells in Neuroblastoma by Immunohistochemical Analysis in Bone Marrow Biopsy Specimens
Authors: Krishnan Chandra , Twist Clare J. , Fu Teresa , Arber Daniel A.
Published: December 2008

Evaluation of the bone marrow is a critical component of accurate staging and surveillance for recurrent disease in neuroblastoma. The value of routine immunohistochemical analysis of otherwise histologically negative bone marrow biopsy specimens has not been adequately evaluated. By using synaptophysin, chromogranin, and β-catenin, immunohistochemical analysis performed on otherwise histologically negative bone marrow specimens identified isolated tumor cells (ITCs) in 9.1%, 5.0%, and 10.0% of 220 biopsy specimens, respectively. Overall survival, as estimated by the Kaplan-Meier method, was not significantly different between patients with and without ITCs (P = .357). Of the immunohistochemical markers evaluated, β-catenin showed the greatest sensitivity for identifying ITCs in the bone marrow and showed reactivity in primary tumor samples. We found that the presence of ITCs identified by immunohistochemical analysis may predict the persistence of disease but does not show significant overall survival differences. We also identified β-catenin as a sensitive immunohistochemical marker of primary and metastatic neuroblastoma.
Lymphangiogenesis in Esophageal Adenocarcinomas--Lymphatic Vessel Density as Prognostic Marker in Esophageal Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Saad Reda S. , Lindner Jennifer L. , Liu Yulin , Silverman Jan F.
Published: December 2008

We studied tumor lymphatic vascular density (LVD) as a predictive marker for the risk of lymph node (LN) metastasis and its relationship to other prognostic parameters and survival in 75 patients with esophageal adenocarcinoma. Samples were immunostained for D2-40, CD31, and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Microvessels were counted in densely vascular/lymphatic foci (hot spots) at ×400 field (0.17 mm2). Intensity of staining for VEGF was scored on a 2-tiered scale. CD31 microvessel counts showed significant correlation with tumor stage and patient survival (P < .01). D2-40 LVD demonstrated a significant correlation with LN metastases, lymphovascular invasion, and tumor stage (r = 0.45, r = 0.47, and r = 0.37, respectively) and with shorter disease-free survival. D2-40 detected lymphovascular invasion in 29 of 75 cases, more than with CD31 (23/75) and H&E (18/75). VEGF was expressed in 48 (64%) of 75 cases and was significantly correlated with lymphovascular invasion, LN metastases, and overall survival. Our study showed that angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis have important roles in the progression of esophageal adenocarcinoma.
External Quality Assurance of HER2 FISH and ISH Testing
Authors: Bartlett John M.S. , Ibrahim Merdol , Jasani Bharat , Morgan John M. , Ellis Ian , Kay Elaine , Connolly Yvonne , Campbell Fiona , O’Grady Anthony , Barnett Sarah , Miller Keith
Published: December 2008

The American Society of Clinical Oncology/College of American Pathologists guidelines highlighted the critical importance of quality assurance in diagnostic testing for HER2.

Unstained formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded human breast carcinoma cell line sections were circulated to scheme participants on 9 occasions. “Reference laboratories” reported results for the HER2/chromosome 17 ratio and HER2 copy number for 3 years for each cell line, including 418 sets of results (1,671 results total). The number of participants was 62 laboratories in the final analysis.

The mean and SD of results from reference laboratories demonstrated consistency during the 3-year period. The percentage of laboratories achieving “appropriate” results ranged from 45% to 88%, and the percentage achieving “inappropriate” results ranged from 5% to 29%. No consistent effect of the HER2 in situ hybridization testing method was demonstrated.

Participation in external quality assurance schemes is a valuable mechanism for demonstrating and acquiring consistency for HER2 testing by in situ hybridization. Poor performance can be corrected via assistance and advice.
Young children's ability to recognize advertisements in web page designs
Authors: Ali Moondore , Blades Mark , Oates Caroline , Blumberg Fran
Published: December 2008

Identifying what is, and what is not an advertisement is the first step in realizing that an advertisement is a marketing message. Children can distinguish television advertisements from programmes by about 5 years of age. Although previous researchers have investigated television advertising, little attention has been given to advertisements in other media, even though other media, especially the Internet, have become important channels of marketing to children. We showed children printed copies of invented web pages that included advertisements, half of which had price information, and asked the children to point to whatever they thought was an advertisement. In two experiments we tested a total of 401 children, aged 6, 8, 10 and 12 years of age, from the United Kingdom and Indonesia. Six‐year‐olds recognized a quarter of the advertisements, 8‐year‐olds recognized half the advertisements, and the 10‐ and 12‐year‐olds recognized about three‐quarters. Only the 10‐ and 12‐year‐olds were more likely to identify an advertisement when it included a price. We contrast our findings with previous results about the identification of television advertising, and discuss why children were poorer at recognizing web page advertisements. The performance of the children has implications for theories about how children develop an understanding of advertising.
Individual differences in young offender emotional behaviour
Authors: Clarbour J. , Roger D. , Miles J. N. V. , Monaghan R.
Published: December 2008

Purpose. Recent research into adolescent emotional behaviour has confirmed a three‐factor structure for emotional style in samples of children and adolescents, ranging in age from nine to nineteen years (Clarbour & Roger, 2004). This study was aimed at replicating the factor structure for the Emotional Behaviour Scale (EBS) amongst young offenders, and investigating the role of the factors in offender behaviour.

Method. Both exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were used to compare the responses of 307 male young offenders to those of 294 schoolchildren. A subsample of 264 offenders additionally completed indices of offending behaviour that were used for further validation of the EBS amongst young offenders.

Results and conclusions. The three emotional style factors obtained for schoolchildren – social anxiety, malevolent aggression and social self‐esteem – were confirmed in the young offender sample. Lower scores on malevolent aggression, and higher scores on social anxiety and social self‐esteem, were significantly associated with later first police contact. High malevolent aggression and lower social anxiety were also significantly associated with placement on Governor's report, and high malevolent aggression was associated with violent offence types. The three scales were also found to relate systematically and predictably to a range of other personality and emotional style scales.