bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Small population size and extremely low levels of genetic diversity in island populations of the platypus, Ornithorhynchus anatinus
Authors: Furlan Elise , Stoklosa J. , Griffiths J. , Gust N. , Ellis R. , Huggins R. M. , Weeks A. R.
Published: March 2012

Genetic diversity generally underpins population resilience and persistence. Reductions in population size and absence of gene flow can lead to reductions in genetic diversity, reproductive fitness, and a limited ability to adapt to environmental change increasing the risk of extinction. Island populations are typically small and isolated, and as a result, inbreeding and reduced genetic diversity elevate their extinction risk. Two island populations of the platypus, Ornithorhynchus anatinus, exist; a naturally occurring population on King Island in Bass Strait and a recently introduced population on Kangaroo Island off the coast of South Australia. Here we assessed the genetic diversity within these two island populations and contrasted these patterns with genetic diversity estimates in areas from which the populations are likely to have been founded. On Kangaroo Island, we also modeled live capture data to determine estimates of population size. Levels of genetic diversity in King Island platypuses are perilously low, with eight of 13 microsatellite loci fixed, likely reflecting their small population size and prolonged isolation. Estimates of heterozygosity detected by microsatellites (HE= 0.032) are among the lowest level of genetic diversity recorded by this method in a naturally outbreeding vertebrate population. In contrast, estimates of genetic diversity on Kangaroo Island are somewhat higher. However, estimates of small population size and the limited founders combined with genetic isolation are likely to lead to further losses of genetic diversity through time for the Kangaroo Island platypus population. Implications for the future of these and similarly isolated or genetically depauperate populations are discussed.
Aeolian process effects on vegetation communities in an arid grassland ecosystem
Authors: Alvarez Lorelei J. , Epstein Howard E. , Li Junran , Okin Gregory S.
Published: March 2012

Many arid grassland communities are changing from grass dominance to shrub dominance, but the mechanisms involved in this conversion process are not completely understood. Aeolian processes likely contribute to this conversion from grassland to shrubland. The purpose of this research is to provide information regarding how vegetation changes occur in an arid grassland as a result of aeolian sediment transport. The experimental design included three treatment blocks, each with a 25 × 50 m area where all grasses, semi‐shrubs, and perennial forbs were hand removed, a 25 × 50 m control area with no manipulation of vegetation cover, and two 10 × 25 m plots immediately downwind of the grass‐removal and control areas in the prevailing wind direction, 19° north of east, for measuring vegetation cover. Aeolian sediment flux, soil nutrients, and soil seed bank were monitored on each treatment area and downwind plot. Grass and shrub cover were measured on each grass‐removal, control, and downwind plot along continuous line transects as well as on 5 × 10 m subplots within each downwind area over four years following grass removal. On grass‐removal areas, sediment flux increased significantly, soil nutrients and seed bank were depleted, and Prosopis glandulosa shrub cover increased compared to controls. Additionally, differential changes for grass and shrub cover were observed for plots downwind of vegetation‐removal and control areas. Grass cover on plots downwind of vegetation‐removal areas decreased over time (2004–2007) despite above average rainfall throughout the period of observation, while grass cover increased downwind of control areas; P. glandulosa cover increased on plots downwind of vegetation‐removal areas, while decreasing on plots downwind of control areas. The relationships between vegetation changes and aeolian sediment flux were significant and were best described by a logarithmic function, with decreases in grass cover and increases in shrub cover occurring with small increases in aeolian sediment flux.
Early stages of divergence: phylogeography, climate modeling, and morphological differentiation in the South American lizard Liolaemus petrophilus (Squamata: Liolaemidae)
Authors: Fontanella Frank M. , Feltrin Natalia , Avila Luciano J. , Sites Jack W. , Morando Mariana
Published: March 2012

This study examines the phylogeographic structure within the Patagonian lizard Liolaemus petrophilus and tests for patterns of between‐clade morphological divergence and sexual dimorphism, as well as demographic and niche changes associated with Pleistocene climate changes. We inferred intraspecific relationships, tested hypotheses for historical patterns of population expansion, and incorporated ecological niche modeling (ENM) with standard morphological and geometric morphometric analyses to examine between‐clade divergence as indirect evidence for adaptation to different niches. The two inferred haploclades diverged during the early Pleistocene with the Southern clade depicting the genetic signature of a recent population increase associated with expanding niche envelope, whereas the Northern clade shows stable populations in a shrinking niche envelope. The combination of molecular evidence for postisolation demographic change and ENM, suggest that the two haploclades have responded differently to Pleistocene climatic events.
Enrichment of frying oils with plant phenolic extracts to extend the usage life
Authors: Aydeniz Buket , Yilmaz Emin
Published: March 2012

The aim of this research was to evaluate the efficacy of extracts prepared from olive leaf (OLVL), hazelnut leaf (HAZL), and hazelnut green leafy cover (HGLC) in frying conditions. The extracts were added into canola oil at 200 ppm phenolic equivalence level and fried for seven consecutive days and analyzed. Generally, the lowest phenolic content and antioxidant capacity value were measured in HGLC extract, although, the best performance during frying was with HGLC extract. There were significant differences among the free acidity, conjugated dienoic acids, and total polar materials (TPM). The oil enriched with HGLC extract did not exceed the limit TPM value at the end of seventh day. Also the remaining antioxidant capacities in the frying oil samples were highest in HGLC enriched samples. The viscosity and turbidity values of the oils enriched with OLVL and HAZL extract were a little higher than a control sample. Generally trans‐fatty acid formation was lower in the enriched oil samples. Also significant decreases in the level of unsaturated fatty acids during frying period were observed. This study shows that enriching oils with easily found and cheap natural plant extracts can extend their usage life.

Practical applications: The results of this study have shown that liquid frying oils can successfully be enriched with plant phenolic extract to enhance thermo‐oxidative stability. Addition of phenolic extract up to 200 ppm level have not created any problem in sensory quality of either the oil or fried dough. The HGLC and OLVL extract were found very suitable for this purpose. These materials are common agro‐food by‐products and can be produced very easily with low cost. Also, this type of enrichment may aid consumers to get some beneficial phenolic compounds through fried food consumption. In addition, these types of applications may open another area for marketing the named plant extracts.
The impact of individualistic and collectivistic orientation on the judgment of self‐presentation
Authors: Chen Fang Fang , Jing Yiming
Published: March 2012

The aims of this paper are two‐fold: (i) to examine the impact of audience individualism and collectivism orientation on the judgment of strategic self‐presentations and (ii) to test whether audience individualism and collectivism orientation would affect the importance of likeability and competence in determining social outcomes. In two studies, participants evaluated modest and boastful presentations in an achievement context. It was found that the more collectivistic the audience was, the more likely the modest presenter was to be rated as likable, competent, and deserving of a desirable social outcome. In contrast, the more individualistic the audience was, the more likely the boastful presenter was to be rated as likeable, competent, and deserving of a desirable social outcome. The importance of likeability and competence in predicting the final social outcome was moderated by audience individualism and collectivism orientation. Likeability was more important in deciding the social outcome for those who were more collectivistic than for those who were less so (Study 1). Competence was more important in determining the social outcome for those who were more individualistic (Study 2). These studies build a potential theoretical bridge between social influence and social perception/social judgment literature. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Amplitude‐phase constraints based blind and semi‐blind channel estimation for OFDM systems
Authors: Chen Wei , Liu Guang‐hui , Zhu Wei‐le
Published: March 2012

In this paper, a new blind channel estimation method for orthogonal frequency division multiplexing systems is presented. The proposed approach based on the amplitude‐phase constraints of the channel frequency response first estimates the channel amplitude‐frequency response, and then calculates the channel‐frequency response of the equivalent minimum phase system by its amplitude‐frequency response. The zeros of the actual system and its equivalent minimum phase system are symmetric about the unit circle, and the symmetric relationships are easily determined according to the finite alphabet property of information symbols. A semi‐blind estimation method based on the blind estimation method is also proposed in this paper, and it greatly reduces the numerical complexity of the blind method. Unlike existing statistical blind channel estimators, the proposed method requires short data records especially for phase‐shift keying modulation. Compared with the existing finite alphabet based method, the proposed method has a lower numerical complexity. Comparison of the proposed method with training based estimation method, which is presented by computer simulations, show the effectiveness of the proposed method. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A simple SPH algorithm for multi‐fluid flow with high density ratios
Authors: Monaghan J. J. , Rafiee Ashkan
Published: March 2012

In this paper, we describe an SPH algorithm for multi‐fluid flow, which is efficient, simple and robust. We derive the inviscid equations of motion from a Lagrangian together with the constraint provided by the continuity equation. The viscous flow equations then follow by adding a viscous term. Rigid boundaries are simulated using boundary force particles in a manner similar to the immersed boundary method. Each fluid is approximated as weakly compressible with a speed of sound sufficiently large to guarantee that the relative density variations are typically 1%. When the SPH force interaction is between two particles of different fluids, we increase the pressure terms. This simple procedure stabilizes the interface between the fluids. The equations of motion are integrated using a time stepping rule based on a second‐order symplectic integrator. When linear and angular momentum should be conserved exactly, they are conserved to within round‐off errors. We test the algorithm by simulating a variety of problems involving fluids with a density ratio in the range 1–1000. The first of these is a free surface problem with no rigid boundaries. It involves the flow of an elliptical distribution with one fluid inside the other. We show that the simulations converge as the particle spacing decreases, and the results are in good agreement with the exact inviscid, incompressible theory. The second test is similar to the first but involves the nonlinear oscillation of the fluids. As in the first test, the agreement with theory is very good, and the method converges. The third test is the simulation of waves at the interface between two fluids. The method is shown to converge, and the agreement with theory is satisfactory. The fourth test is the Rayleigh–Taylor instability for a configuration considered by other authors. Key parameters are shown to converge, and the agreement with other authors is good. The fifth and final test is how well the SPH method simulates gravity currents with density ratios in the range 2–30. The results of these simulations are in very good agreement with those of other authors and in satisfactory agreement with experimental results.Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Joint Analysis of Binary and Quantitative Traits With Data Sharing and Outcome‐Dependent Sampling
Authors: Zheng Gang , Wu Colin O. , Kwak Minjung , Jiang Wenhua , Joo Jungnam , Lima Joao A.C.
Published: March 2012

We study the analysis of a joint association between a genetic marker with both binary (case‐control) and quantitative (continuous) traits, where the quantitative trait values are only available for the cases due to data sharing and outcome‐dependent sampling. Data sharing becomes common in genetic association studies, and the outcome‐dependent sampling is the consequence of data sharing, under which a phenotype of interest is not measured for some subgroup. The trend test (or Pearson's test) and F‐test are often, respectively, used to analyze the binary and quantitative traits. Because of the outcome‐dependent sampling, the usual F‐test can be applied using the subgroup with the observed quantitative traits. We propose a modified F‐test by also incorporating the genotype frequencies of the subgroup whose traits are not observed. Further, a combination of this modified F‐test and Pearson's test is proposed by Fisher's combination of their P‐values as a joint analysis. Because of the correlation of the two analyses, we propose to use a Gamma (scaled chi‐squared) distribution to fit the asymptotic null distribution for the joint analysis. The proposed modified F‐test and the joint analysis can also be applied to test single trait association (either binary or quantitative trait). Through simulations, we identify the situations under which the proposed tests are more powerful than the existing ones. Application to a real dataset of rheumatoid arthritis is presented.
A qualitative study of HIV testing and referral practices of private hospital doctors treating patients with TB in Chennai, India
Authors: Miller Rosalind , Parkhurst Justin O. , Peckham Stephen , Singh Raj B.
Published: March 2012

Objective

In India, 50%–80% of patients with tuberculosis (TB) seek private care. This study set out to explore HIV testing and referral practices of private hospital doctors treating patients with TB.

Methods

Interviews were conducted with private hospital doctors (n = 15). Interviews covered HIV testing, linking HIV‐positive patients with TB to HIV care, and coordination of care for co‐infected patients.

Results

Doctors did not routinely refer patients with TB to government HIV testing facilities as per national policy guidance. If deemed appropriate, then testing was conducted privately. Testing was more common when a facility guideline mandated testing or a public–private initiative for TB management was in place. Otherwise, testing was based on doctors' judgement. Patients accustomed to private care who could not afford treatment were reportedly reluctant to shift to public facilities. A lack of communication between public and private doctors was found to undermine co‐management.

Conclusions

In this sample, private provider practices were influenced by both the social and the health systems contexts in which they operated. An understanding of patient perceptions of HIV, private doctors concerns for retaining patients, and the contrasting philosophies of private medicine versus public health objectives was found to be critical to explain HIV testing and referral behaviours. The government has proposed to scale up HIV testing and treatment among patients with TB, yet operationalising this will require engagement with the realities of a large, diverse private sector. It will also require considering what role government policies can have on shaping private practice and how to potentially integrate public and private care. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Job Satisfaction Researches of 1959
Authors: ROBINSON H. ALAN , CONNORS RALPH P.
Published: April 2012

This is the eighteenth in a series. It covers reports published in 1959, plus earlier reports which have just come to the attention of the writers. Earlier summaries will be found in Job Satisfaction by Robert Hoppock (Harper & Bros., 1935) and in the following issues of Occupations: April, 1938; October, 1940; February, 1943; April, 1945; April, 1948; December, 1948; December, 1949; October, 1950; May, 1951; May, 1952. The most recent summaries will be found in the following issues of the Personnel and Guidance Journal: September, 1953; September, 1954; May, 1955; May, 1956; September, 1957; September, 1958; May, 1959. Readers are invited to notify the authors of researches appropriate for review in future articles.—Ed.
TRIP-1: A regulator of osteoblast function
Authors: Metz-Estrella Diana , Jonason Jennifer H , Sheu Tzong-Jen , Mroczek-Johnston Rachel M , Puzas J Edward
Published: March 2012

Transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) receptor interacting protein-1 (TRIP-1) is an intracellular protein expressed in osteoblasts with high affinity for type 5b tartrate resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP). It is suggested that through this interaction, TRIP-1 serves as a positive regulator of TGFβ signaling and osteoblast differentiation during bone remodeling. We show here that TRIP-1 is abundant in osteoblasts in vivo and in vitro. TRIP-1 mRNA and protein expression were increased at early stages and decreased at later stages during osteoblast differentiation, suggesting a predominant role during early maturation. To investigate a role during bone remodeling, primary osteoblasts were treated with different hormones and factors that are known to affect remodeling. TRIP-1 levels were decreased with dexamethasone and increased with vitamin D3, dihydrotestosterone (DHT), TGFβ1, and bone morphogenic protein 2 (BMP-2). Treatment with parathyroid hormone (PTH) and β-estradiol did not affect TRIP-1 levels. Transfected small interfering RNA (siRNA) against TRIP-1 inhibited osteoblast differentiation as characterized by a decrease in alkaline phosphatase staining and enzyme activity, and decrease in the expression of collagen I, alkaline phosphatase, Runx2, osteopontin, and osteocalcin. The proliferation of osteoblasts was also affected by TRIP-1 siRNA. This particular effect was defined by decreased cell number, marked reduction of cyclin D1, a 38% decrease of cells in S phase (p < 0.001) and a 97% increase of cells in the G2/M phase (p < 0.01) of the cell cycle. However, TRIP-1 siRNA did not induce an effect in apoptosis. Using a TGFβ luciferase reporter we found that knocking down TRIP-1 decreased the activation of TGFβ signaling by 40% percent (p < 0.001). In conclusion, our characterization of TRIP-1 in osteoblasts provides the first evidence of its key role as a positive regulator of osteoblast function. © 2012 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Therapeutic effects of intrabone and systemic mesenchymal stem cell cytotherapy on myeloma bone disease and tumor growth
Authors: Li Xin , Ling Wen , Khan Sharmin , Yaccoby Shmuel
Published: March 2012

The cytotherapeutic potential of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) has been evaluated in various disorders including those involving inflammation, autoimmunity, bone regeneration, and cancer. Multiple myeloma (MM) is a systemic malignancy associated with induction of osteolytic lesions that often are not repaired even after prolonged remission. The aims of this study were to evaluate the effects of intrabone and systemic injections of MSCs on MM bone disease, tumor growth, and tumor regrowth in the severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID)-rab model and to shed light on the exact localization of systemically injected MSCs. Intrabone injection of MSCs, but not hematopoietic stem cells, into myelomatous bones prevented MM-induced bone disease, promoted bone formation, and inhibited MM growth. After remission was induced with melphalan treatment, intrabone-injected MSCs promoted bone formation and delayed myeloma cell regrowth in bone. Most intrabone or systemically injected MSCs were undetected 2 to 4 weeks after injection. The bone-building effects of MSCs were mediated through activation of endogenous osteoblasts and suppression of osteoclast activity. Although a single intravenous injection of MSCs had no effect on MM, sequential weekly intravenous injections of MSCs prevented MM-induced bone disease but had no effect on tumor burden. MSCs expressed high levels of anti-inflammatory (eg, HMOX1) and bone-remodeling (eg, Decorin, CYR61) mediators. In vitro, MSCs promoted osteoblast maturation and suppressed osteoclast formation, and these effects were partially prevented by blocking decorin. A subset of intravenously or intracardially injected MSCs trafficked to myelomatous bone in SCID-rab mice. Although the majority of intravenously injected MSCs were trapped in lungs, intracardially injected MSCs were mainly localized in draining mesenteric lymph nodes. This study shows that exogenous MSCs act as bystander cells to inhibit MM-induced bone disease and tumor growth and that systemically injected MSCs are attracted to bone by myeloma cells or conditions induced by MM and inhibit bone disease. © 2012 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Reference Intervals and Factors Contributing to Serum Cystatin C Levels in a Chinese Population
Authors: Li Dong‐Dong , Zou Meng‐Na , Hu Xin , Zhang Mei , Jia Cheng‐Yao , Tao Chuan‐Min , Wang Lan‐Lan , Ying Bin‐Wu
Published: March 2012

Background

Serum cystatin C (Cys‐C), an inhibitor of cysteine proteases, has been suggested as an ideal biomarker of glomerular filtration rate (GFR).

Objectives

The objective of this study was to describe the reference intervals of serum Cys‐C and identify factors associated with serum Cys‐C or its variability, including age, gender, creatinine (Crea), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and uric acid (UA).

Design and Methods

Serum Cys‐C, Crea, BUN, and UA were measured in 4,517 healthy participants aged 8–89 years attending our hospital. Serum Cys‐C was analyzed using a latex‐enhanced immunoturbidimetric method. Crea were tested by picric acid jaffe method, BUN, and UA by kinetic UV assays.

Results

The predominant characteristic of Cys‐C distribution was that Cys‐C concentration in age ≥60 years group was the highest (P < 0.05). The differences of Cys‐C concentration between males and females existed for subjects aged from 30 to 59 years (P < 0.05). In a multiple model adjusted only for gender and age, gender (β = 0.007) has stronger effect on Cys‐C levels, compared with age (β = 0.003). The clinical variables, comprised of age, gender, Crea, BUN, and UA, involved in the fully adjusted equation accounted for 37.6% of variation of Cys‐C.

Conclusions

Ninety‐five percent reference intervals for healthy population were partitioned into three categories only by age, 0.59–1.07 mg/L for subjects aged 19–59 years; 0.74–1.14 mg/L for the older aged ≥60 years; and 0.63–1.11 mg/L for children aged ≤18 years. Serum Cys‐C is significantly related to gender, age, UA, Crea, and BUN. Besides, there are still other factors contributing to variation of Cys‐C levels.
Bone Turnover Markers Failed to Predict the Occurrence of Osteonecrosis of the Femoral Head—A Preliminary Study
Authors: Floerkemeier Thilo , Hirsch Stefanie , Budde Stefan , Radtke Kerstin , Thorey Fritz , Windhagen Henning , von Lewinski Gabriela
Published: March 2012

Background: The early detection of osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) is difficult, but important for prevention of destruction of the femoral head. The objective of this study was to determine whether the occurrence of osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) correlates with changes in bone turnover markers.

Methods: In 40 patients undergoing primary total hip arthroplasty (THA), different bone turnover markers and hormones (bone specific alkaline phosphatase, osteocalcin, beta cross‐laps, 25‐hydroxy‐cholecalciferol, and parathormone) gained from blood were determined on the morning of the surgery. Twenty‐two patients needed a THA due to progressed ONFH. In 18 cases blood was gained from patients with the indication for a THA given due to advanced osteoarthritis (AO) of the hip.

Results: Bone specific alkaline phosphatase, osteocalcin, beta cross‐laps, and parathormone did not show any deviation from standard values, neither for the group of osteonecrosis nor for the osteoarthritis group. 25‐Hydroxy‐cholecalciferol revealed on average decreased values without significant differences between both groups (P < 0.05).

The tested bone turnover markers and hormones failed to predict the occurrence of ONFH. Thus, the focus has to be put on different parameters to find a specific parameter that possibly predicts the risk of ostenecrosis and that is suited to follow up ONFH.
Effect of Pneumatic Tube Delivery System Rate and Distance on Hemolysis of Blood Specimens
Authors: Evliyaoğlu Osman , Toprak Gülten , Tekin Alicem , Başarali Mustafa Kemal , Kilinç Cumhur , Çolpan Leyla
Published: March 2012

Background

We evaluated the effects of pneumatic tube system (PTS) transport rates and distances on routine hematology and coagulation analysis. PTS effects on centrifuged blood samples were also examined.

Method

The study was completed at Dicle University Hospital, which has the longest pneumatic tube system in Turkey. Blood samples were collected at three different locations within the hospital and an emergency department, and delivered to the central laboratory by the PTS or a human carrier. Samples were transported at different rates and over varying distances. Each specimen's potassium (K) and lactic dehydrogenase (LDH) levels, in both the serum and plasma, were tracked to monitor hemolysis. Measurements of LDH and K were obtained using heparin or citrate.

Result

A positive correlation was observed between distance and hemolysis in serum samples transported at 4.2 m/sec, and at 3.1 m/sec for more than 2200 m (r = 0.774 and r = 0.766, respectively). Distance and hemolysis were also correlated in non‐centrifuged samples (r = 0.871). The alterations in plasma LDH and K levels at different rates and PTS lengths were not statistically significant.

Conclusion

The rate of hemolysis in PTS transported samples, dependent on PTS length and rate, may seriously affect routine tests of non‐centrifuged samples.
Comparative Evaluation of Serum C‐Reactive Protein (CRP) Levels in the Different Histological Subtypes of Esophageal Cancer (Squamous Cell Carcinoma and Adenocarcinoma of Esophagus)
Authors: Łukaszewicz‐Zając Marta , Mroczko Barbara , Kozłowski Mirosław , Nikliński Jacek , Laudański Jerzy , Siewko Maria , Szmitkowski Maciej
Published: March 2012

Elevated C‐reactive protein (CRP) levels have been found in patients with several malignancies. The aim of the present study was to analyze the diagnostic and prognostic values of CRP levels measurement in esophageal cancer (EC) patients in relation to its different histological subtypes (squamous cell carcinoma—ESCC and adenocarcinoma—AC of esophagus) and compared them with classic tumor markers—carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) and squamous cell cancer antigen (SCC‐Ag). The diagnostic sensitivity, specificity, and the areas under receiver operating characteristic curves (AUC) for all the proteins tested were defined. Serum CRP levels were statistically higher in EC, ESCC, and AC patients compared to healthy subjects and significantly increased in EC and ESCC patients with the presence of lymph node and distant metastases. The percentage of elevated CRP results in all the analyzed subgroups (EC, ESCC, and AC) was higher than CEA and SCC‐Ag, similarly as AUC for CRP in comparison to SCC‐Ag. Serum CRP level was a significant predictor of EC and ESCC patients’ survival in univariate analysis. In conclusion, these results indicate that CRP can be used as an adjunct in evaluating the tumor markers—CEA and SCC‐Ag and may improve the clinical diagnosis and follow‐up of EC patients, especially for ESCC subgroup.
Expression of Urokinase‐Type Plasminogen Activator (uPA), its Receptor (uPAR), and Inhibitor (PAI‐1) in Human Breast Carcinomas and Their Clinical Relevance
Authors: Andres Sarah A. , Edwards Angelena B. , Wittliff James L.
Published: March 2012

Serine proteases convert plasminogen to plasmin which is involved in tissue remodeling under physiologic and pathophysiologic conditions, including breast carcinoma invasion and progression. Both urokinase‐type plasminogen activator (uPA) and pro‐uPA associate with uPA receptor (uPAR) on target cells, where plasminogen activator inhibitors (e.g., PAI‐1) may modulate their activities. Expression levels of these factors were compared in breast carcinomas relative to patient characteristics, carcinoma features, and clinical outcome. uPA, uPAR, and PAI‐1 were quantified by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) in extracts of 226 biopsies while estrogen receptor (ER) and progestin receptor (PR) were determined by enzyme immunoassay (EIA) or radio‐ligand binding. Each set of assays contained a novel reference specimen with known quantities of each of these five analytes. Levels in ng/mg protein of these biomarkers exhibited ranges: uPA (0–12.3); uPAR (0–19.5); PAI‐1 (0–91.2). When considered independently, expression of uPA, uPAR, or PAI‐1 was unrelated to patient age or menopausal status. Although no correlation was observed between each analyte with stage, grade, or ER/PR status, levels appeared to differ with pathology and nodal status. A dendrogram from hierarchical clustering of uPA, uPAR, and PAI‐1 levels in 106 specimens revealed three clusters of breast cancer patients. Kaplan–Meier analyses of uPA, uPAR, and PAI‐1 indicated a correlation with overall survival (OS), suggesting collective examination of these biomarkers is useful in predicting clinical outcome of breast cancer.
RHD Allelic Identification Among D−Brazilian Blood Donors as a Routine Test Using Pools of DNA
Authors: Mota Mariza , Dezan M. , Valgueiro M.C. , Sakashita A.M. , Kutner J.M. , Castilho L.
Published: March 2012

Background

RHD alleles leading to a reduced expression of D antigen of the red blood cell (RBC) surface may be erroneously typed as D− by serology and may cause anti‐D immunizations when transfused to recipients.

Methods

To determine the occurrence of such alleles among apparent D− blood donors, molecular typing was implemented as a routine test using a pool of DNA. A total of 2,450 pretyped D− samples were tested in pools of 10 for the RHD‐specific polymorphism in intron 4 and exon 7. Samples in polymer chain reaction (PCR) positive pools were individually reevaluated by exon‐specific PCRs, sequencing, and serologic methods.

Results

Among 2,450 serologically D− blood donor samples tested, 101 (4.1%) carried the RHD gene. Nonfunctional RHD (RHDψ, RHD*CE(2–9)‐D, and RHD*CE(3–7)‐D), different weak D alleles such as RHD*weak D type 1, RHD*weak D type 4.3, RHD*weak D type 5, RHD*weak D type 38, and RHD*DEL were identified.

Conclusion

We employed a PCR‐based assay for RHD as a routine test using pools of ten DNA blood donor samples. The integration of RHD genotyping into the routine screening program using pools of DNA samples was straightforward. As a consequence, 19 (0.8%) blood donors carrying a weak D and Del phenotypes with the potential of causing anti‐D immunizations in recipients were reclassified as D+. For each population, it would be necessary to adapt the RHD genotyping strategy to the spectrum of prevalent alleles.
Visfatin Levels in Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Authors: Akbal Erdem , Koçak Erdem , Taş Adnan , Yüksel Enver , Köklü Seyfettin
Published: March 2012

Purpose

Recently, role of adipokin in the pathogenesis of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has been suggested. Among adipokins, role of leptin and adiponectin is rather well known; however, there are only a few data concerning visfatin.

Material and Methods

NAFLD is confirmed in 30 patients by ultrasonography. As a control group, patients without fatty liver or other liver diseases were included. Viral hepatitis, metabolic liver diseases, and autoimmune hepatitis and consumption of alcohol were excluded in all patients. Fasting serum level of visfatin was determined by ELISA method.

Results

Serum visfatin concentration in the NAFLD group (14.7 ± 8.1 ng/ml) was significantly higher than in controls (9.4 ± 1.6 ng/ml) (P < 0.001). There were no correlations between visfatin and anthropometric parameters, transaminases, lipids, and homeostasis model assessment‐estimated insulin resistance (HOMA‐IR).

Conclusion

Serum visfatin concentration increases in patients with NAFLD.
On the acceleration of the numerical solution of partial differential equations using radial basis functions and graphics processing units
Authors: Elliott Hutchcraft W. , Woolsey Maxwell , Gordon Richard K.
Published: March 2012

General purpose computation on graphics processing units is becoming very important as a means for speeding up numerical computations. In this research, nVidia's Compute Unified Device Architecture (CUDA) language is used along with a graphics processing unit to accelerate the generation of the system matrix for the numerical solution of a partial differential equation employing radial basis functions. Details of the CUDA implementation as well as speedup curves using several different graphics processing units will be discussed. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Transient analysis of printed lines using finite‐difference time‐domain method
Authors: Ahmed Shahid
Published: March 2012

Comprehensive studies of ultra‐wideband pulses and electromagnetic coupling on printed coupled lines have been performed using full‐wave 3D finite‐difference time‐domain analysis. Effects of unequal phase velocities of coupled modes, coupling between line traces, and the frequency dispersion on the waveform fidelity and crosstalk have been investigated in detail. To discriminate the contributions of different mechanisms into pulse evolution, single and coupled microstrip lines without (ϵr = 1) and with (ϵr > 1) dielectric substrates have been examined. To consistently compare the performance of the coupled lines with substrates of different permittivities and transients of different characteristic times, a generic metric similar to the electrical wavelength has been introduced. The features of pulse propagation on coupled lines with layered and pedestal substrates and on the irregular traces have been explored. Physical interpretations of the simulation results are discussed in the paper. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Etiologic causes of late osteocutaneous free flap failures in oral cavity cancer reconstruction
Authors: Zender Chad A. , Mehta Vikas , Pittman Amy L. , Feustel Paul J. , Jaber James J.
Published: March 2012

Objectives/Hypothesis:

To evaluate perioperative complications in a homogeneous cohort undergoing microvascular osteocutaneous free flap (OCFF) reconstruction following segmental mandibulectomy for advanced oral cancer and to identify the causes of late OCFF failures.

Study Design:

Retrospective chart review.

Methods:

The records of 65 adults who underwent a segmental mandibulectomy for primary oral cavity cancer followed by single‐stage reconstruction OCFF were reviewed. Early and late complications were identified and their associations to patients' independent variables and to each other were analyzed to assess etiologic causes of late OCFF failure.

Results:

The incidence of early and late complications mirrored each another at 29%, and a 95% early‐success rate was achieved. An early complication did predict an early infection (odds ratio [OR], 63.3; 95% confidence interval [CI], 6.8‐585.3). Furthermore, an early perioperative infection impacted the incidence of late complications (OR, 4.8; 95% CI, 1.3‐18.3), and moreover severely impacted the incidence of osteomyelitis/osteoradionecrosis (OR, 8.8; 95% CI, 1.8‐41.9) and late failures (OR, 12.8; 95% CI, 1.9‐84.5).

Conclusions:

Mandibular reconstruction following segmental mandibulectomy provides immediate restoration but is often plagued with perioperative complications that are difficult to predict. Early perioperative infections impact patient long‐term morbidity by increasing the risk of late graft failure by almost 13‐fold. Consequently, it is felt that early aggressive treatment of these infections may reduce the incidence and severity of late complications and improve patient outcomes. Laryngoscope, 2012
Consumer Decision Making Regarding a “Green” Everyday Product
Authors: Thøgersen John , Jørgensen Anne‐Katrine , Sandager Sara
Published: March 2012

One of the techniques marketers use to convert low‐involvement products into high‐involvement ones is adding an important product feature. A case in point is the common practice of adding a “green” or environmentally friendly product feature to an everyday product, something which is often assumed to elevate consumer involvement in the choice of the product. However, there is a lack of research investigating whether adding such a “green” product attribute actually makes any difference to how consumers make choices. Does the way in which consumers make decisions about groceries change when both “green” and conventional alternatives are available? Does it make them deliberate more or do they just develop another, simple choice heuristic? Based on observation and follow‐up interviews of consumers at the milk counter in two supermarkets which stock both organic (a “green” attribute) and conventional milk, it is concluded that, rather than changing the way consumers make decisions when buying this type of product, the availability of a “green” alternative seems to make “green” consumers develop a new, simple choice heuristic that allows them to do their shopping as effortless and time‐efficient as consumers buying conventional products.
How the Temporal Framing of Energy Savings Influences Consumer Product Evaluations and Choice
Authors: Tangari Andrea Heintz , Smith Ronn J.
Published: March 2012

Consumer interest in behavior that is good for the environment is increasing, but actual behavior consistent with this objective has not risen accordingly. This may in part be due to consumers not realizing that their environmentally protective behaviors may have tangible future benefits for them. These studies examine the influence of message frames and a consumer's propensity to think about the future for products that have future benefits. More specifically, these studies examine how consumers respond to temporal frames of savings on product packaging for energy efficient products. Two studies suggest that the temporal framing of savings can influence product choice, purchase intentions, attitudes, and perceptions of savings. The results indicate that future‐oriented consumers are likely to have more positive evaluations when savings are framed in the distant future compared to the near future. In addition, there is a mediating effect of perception of savings. These experiments provide information of interest to marketers and researchers regarding the influence of temporal frames and a consumer's temporal orientation on products that have future benefits.
Asymmetric Effects of Regulatory Focus on Expected Desirability and Feasibility of Embracing Self‐Service Technologies
Authors: Jia He (Michael) , Wang Yonggui , Ge Lin , Shi Guicheng , Yao Shanji
Published: March 2012

This research draws on regulatory focus theory to examine the asymmetric effects of regulatory focus (promotion focus versus prevention focus) on expected desirability and feasibility of using self‐service technologies (SSTs) in a retail setting. To study consumers’ SST trial intention from the perspective of regulatory focus theory, this research first integrates the attributes of SSTs explored in prior studies into a desirability–feasibility framework. The proposed asymmetric effects of regulatory focus (promotion focus versus prevention focus) lie in both scope (on desirability, feasibility, versus both desirability and feasibility) and valence (positive versus negative): The promotion focus facilitates consumers to recognize both desirability (consumption value) and feasibility of using SSTs, whereas the prevention focus inhibits consumers from understanding the feasibility‐related attributes of SSTs. In addition, it is proposed that the promotion focus contributes to the easement of consumers’ technology anxiety, whereas the prevention focus has a reverse effect. Furthermore, expected desirability (consumption value) and feasibility both positively influence consumers’ intention to adopt SSTs, whereas technology anxiety negatively affects consumers’ trial intention. Structural equation modeling is used to test the overall model, and the results support the hypotheses in general.
Understanding Consumer Response to Sponsorship Information: A Resource‐Matching Approach
Authors: Deitz George D. , Myers Susan W. , Stafford Marla R.
Published: March 2012

Sponsorship of sporting teams and events has become an increasingly popular form of corporate and brand communication. Despite the continued growth of sponsorship spending, the corresponding literature base is highly fragmented and little agreement exists related to the psychological mechanisms underlying response. This paper integrates several prominent sponsorship research streams in promoting a “resource‐matching” perspective of cognitive elaboration and attitude change. This research holds that in the absence of clear functional fit between sponsor and event, identifying a basis for sponsor–event fit is likely to require some degree of cognitive effort. The results indicate stronger social identification with the sponsored event influences the favorability they attribute to sponsor motives and promotes stronger perceptions of fit between the sponsor and the sponsored activity. Further, the results indicate fit perceptions mediate the relationship between attribution and sponsorship response. Consistent with ELM theory, when cognitive resources are insufficient for the complexity of the fit‐matching task, social identification may still act as a peripheral cue in driving a positive affective response to sponsorship information.
Investigating Customer Resistance to Change in Transaction Relationship with anInternet Vendor
Authors: Kim Hee‐Woong , Gupta Sumeet
Published: March 2012

Many academics and practitioners have reiterated the importance of online customer retention to ensure long‐term profitability. Consequently, a number of studies have identified various means of customer retention. These studies lay significant emphasis on creating customer loyalty. However, retaining customers, especially in the context ofInternet shopping, is very difficult because of the low costs in comparison and switching. Most of the loyalty programs have also shown disappointing results. This study suggests that by tapping on an individual customer's inclination to resist changes in a transaction relationship, anInternet vendor can achieve customer retention. Using status quo bias theory, this study examines customer resistance to change (CRC) as a means of retaining customers in a transaction relationship with theInternet vendor. The empirical study of anInternet bookstore reveals that trust, relative attractiveness, and switching costs together influenceCRC. The empirical results also show thatCRCand switching costs have positive effects on willingness to pay more. Implications for theory and practice are discussed.
Evaluating Advice: Self‐Presentational Biases between High and Low Self‐Monitors
Authors: Harnish Richard J. , Bridges K. Robert , Krajci Matthew D.
Published: March 2012

Previous research has demonstrated that high and low self‐monitors sought advice from others who shared their underlying motivational dispositions. Here, three studies extend the prior research by exploring how consumers’ underlying motives direct the type of advice offered and how it is evaluated. In Study 1, high and low self‐monitors were asked to evaluate the advice they gave others. As predicted, high self‐monitors rated their advice more favorably than did low self‐monitors. The underlying motivation that caused high self‐monitors to evaluate their advice more positively was investigated in Study 2. Results indicated that high self‐monitors rated their advice higher because it appeared to be meeting a social‐adjustive function (i.e., self‐presentational needs). In Study 3, high and low self‐monitors created an advertisement that featured their advice on dating for a fictitious online matchmaking service. As expected, advertisements created by high self‐monitors contained advice that addressed social‐adjustive needs while those created by low self‐monitors contained advice that addressed value‐expressive needs. The results of these studies suggest that underlying motivations of the individual play an active role in how advice is crafted and evaluated.
Does Private Label Quality Influence Consumers’ Decision on Where to Shop?
Authors: Nies Salome , Natter Martin
Published: March 2012

When consumers decide where to shop, they take several criteria into account. It is not yet clear whether private label (PL) quality is one of these criteria. It is the intention of this study to shed light on this issue because many retailers have invested heavily into the quality of their PLs. They assume that PLs differentiate a store's assortment and image, which should attract customers to the store. This study examines this assumption by use of a simultaneous equation model that links PL‐specific quality evaluations to perceptions of the image of the associated store as well as to the category‐specific share of store visits. Empirical results for 10 product categories show that PL quality positively affects store image perception, and influences consumers in the decision of where to shop.
Broadband excitation pulses for high‐field solid‐state nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy
Authors: Loening Nikolaus M. , van Rossum Barth‐Jan , Oschkinat Hartmut
Published: March 2012

In nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, experimental limits due to the radiofrequency transmitter and/or coil means that conventional radiofrequency pulses (“hard pulses”) are sometimes not sufficiently powerful to excite magnetization uniformly over a desired range of frequencies. Effects due to nonuniform excitation are most frequently encountered at high magnetic fields for nuclei with a large range of chemical shifts. Using optimal control theory, we have designed broadband excitation pulses that are suitable for solid‐state samples under magic‐angle‐spinning conditions. These pulses are easy to implement, robust to spinning frequency variations, and radiofrequency inhomogeneities, and only four times as long as a corresponding hard pulse. The utility of these pulses for uniformly exciting 13C nuclei is demonstrated on a 900 MHz (21.1 T) spectrometer. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.