Showing papers by "Wayne State University published in 1992"

Top Management Team Demography and Corporate Strategic Change

Abstract: This study examined the relationship between the demography of top management teams and corporate strategic change, measured as absolute change in diversification level, within a sample of Fortune ...

Identifying Organizational Identification

Abstract: Identification with a psychological group or organization (IDPG) is defined as the perception of sharing experiences of a focal group and sharing characteristics of the group's members. IDPG is conceptually distinct from the related concept of organizational commitment. In the present study with 263 employed persons, IDPG was shown to be empirically distinct from organizational commitment. In addition, IDPG was shown to have significantly less overlap than commitment with three related concepts: job satisfaction, organizational satisfaction, and job involvement.

Degradation of extracellular-matrix proteins by human cathepsin B from normal and tumour tissues.

Abstract: Our laboratory has previously demonstrated that increased malignancy of several histological types of human and animal tumours is associated with increases in their cathepsin B activity, particularly cathepsin B activity associated with plasma-membrane/endosomal vesicles or shed vesicles. Here we report that cathepsin B from normal or tumour tissues degrades purified extracellular-matrix components, type IV collagen, laminin and fibronectin, at both acid pH and neutral pH. The number and sizes of degradation products were analysed by SDS/PAGE. Cathepsin B from both sources exhibited similar activities towards, and similar patterns of cleavage of, the extracellular-matrix proteins. At neutral pH, cathepsin B from both sources appeared to undergo autodegradation, a process that was decreased in the presence of alternative substrates such as the extracellular-matrix proteins. Cathepsin B readily degraded type IV collagen at 25 degrees C, indicating activity towards native type IV collagen. Fibronectin degradation products of 100-200 kDa and of 18 and 22 kDa were observed. A single 70 kDa fragment was released from laminin under non-reducing conditions and multiple fragments ranging from 45 to 200 kDa under reducing conditions. These results suggest that cathepsin B at or near the surface of malignant tumour cells may play a functional role in the focal dissolution of extracellular matrices.

Risk of leukemia after chemotherapy and radiation treatment for breast cancer.

Abstract: Background. Few studies have evaluated the late effects of adjuvant chemotherapy for breast cancer. Moreover, the relation between the risk of leukemia and the amount of drug given and the interaction of chemotherapy with radiotherapy have not been described in detail. Methods. We conducted a case–control study in a cohort of 82,700 women given a diagnosis of breast cancer from 1973 to 1985 in five areas of the United States. Detailed information about therapy was obtained for 90 patients with leukemia and 264 matched controls. The dose of radiation to the active marrow was estimated from individual radiotherapy records (mean dose, 7.5 Gy). Results. The risk of acute nonlymphocytic leukemia was significantly increased after regional radiotherapy alone (relative risk, 2.4), alkylating agents alone (relative risk, 10.0), and combined radiation and drug therapy (relative risk, 17.4). Dose-dependent risks were observed after radiotherapy and treatment with melphalan and cyclophosphamide. Melphalan wa...

Interleukin-1α and Interleukin-1 β in Preterm and Term Human Parturition

Abstract: Interleukin-1 (IL-1) has been implicated in the mechanism of human parturition in the setting of infection. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of labor (term and preterm) and microbial invasion of the amniotic cavity on amniotic fluid (AF) concentrations IL-1 alpha and IL-1 beta. AF was retrieved by transabdominal amniocentesis from the following groups of women: midtrimester genetic amniocentesis (16 to 18 wk) (N = 15), preterm labor with intact membranes (21 to 36 wk) with or without infection (N = 72), preterm premature rupture of membranes (PROM) (N = 88), and term not in labor or in active labor with or without infection (N = 58). AF was cultured for aerobic and anaerobic bacteria as well as Mycoplasmas. IL-1 was measured with a commercially available immunoassay validated for AF (sensitivity: IL-1 alpha, 157 pg/ml; IL-1 beta, 50 pg/ml). All women at midtrimester had undetectable AF IL-1 alpha and IL-1 beta. Among women in preterm labor with positive AF cultures, IL-1 alpha and IL-1 beta were detectable in the AF in 86.6% (13/15) and 100% (15/15), respectively. In contrast, all women with negative AF cultures without labor (N = 36) had undetectable AF IL-1 alpha concentrations and 52.7% (19/36) had undetectable AF IL-1 beta concentrations. Histopathological chorioamnionitis was present in 92.8% (13/14) of patients who had positive AF cultures and detectable IL-1 in the AF. IL-1 was significantly higher in patients with preterm PROM, labor, and positive AF cultures than in the other subgroups of patients with preterm PROM.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

A more realistic look at the robustness and Type II error properties of the t test to departures from population normality.

Abstract: The Type I and II error properties of the t test were evaluated by means of a Monte Carlo study that sampled 8 real distribution shapes identified by Micceri (1986, 1989) as being representative of types encountered in psychology and education research

Effect of increased intra-abdominal pressure on mesenteric arterial and intestinal mucosal blood flow.

Abstract: The effects of increased intra-abdominal pressure (IAP) on intestinal blood flow were studied in eight anesthetized pigs. Mesenteric artery blood flow (MABF), intestinal mucosal blood flow (IMBP), tonometric intramucosal pH (pHi), mean BP (MAP), cardiac output (CO), and pulmonary artery wedge pressure (PAWP) were measured as IAP was raised to 10, 20, 30, and 40 mm Hg by infusing lactated Ringer's solution (LR) into the peritoneal cavity. The MAP was kept constant with IV LR. Cardiac output fell slightly from 5.4 +/- 1.1 at baseline to 4.0 +/- 1.2 L/min at an IAP of 40 mm Hg (p less than 0.05). An IAP of 20 mm Hg caused significant decreases in MABF (73% +/- 22% of baseline) (p less than 0.05) and IMBF (61% + 12% of baseline) (p less than 0.05). These changes became progressively greater as the IAP was increased to 40 mm Hg. The pHi fell to 6.98 +/- 0.14 at 40 mm Hg IAP (p less than 0.01), indicating severe mucosal ischemia. Thus increased IAP can cause severe intestinal ischemia, which may be more important than the cardiac, pulmonary, and renal changes usually described.

Drug screening of newborns by meconium analysis: a large-scale, prospective, epidemiologic study.

Abstract: A large-scale, prospective drug screening of newborns by meconium analysis was done to determine more accurately the prevalence and epidemiologic characteristics of drug use in a high-risk urban, obstetric population. Every other neonate delivered in a perinatal center from November 1988 to September 1989 was prospectively enrolled and their meconium was analyzed by radioimmunoassay for the metabolites of three commonly abused drugs--cocaine, morphine (opiates), and cannabinoid. In 3010 subjects studied, 44% were positive for cocaine, morphine, or cannabinoid; 31% were positive for cocaine, 21% for morphine, and 12% for cannabinoid. In contrast, only 335 (11%) mothers admitted to illicit drug use: 52% of their newborns had a positive urine drug screen and 88% had a positive meconium drug screen. Prevalence of drug use among the pregnant women varied per month. A profile of the pregnant addict in the population studied was noted (P less than .001): service patient, single, multigravid (greater than 3), and little or no prenatal care. The major problems associated with drug use during pregnancy were principally noted in the group that was exposed to cocaine and opiates and in the group where the mothers admitted to the use of illicit drugs. On the other hand, a large number of neonates who have been exposed to drugs in utero, particularly those whose mothers denied the use of drugs, appear normal at birth and may not be recognized. Improved detection of these newborns at risk can be achieved with a high index of suspicion and meconium drug analysis.

Platelets and cancer metastasis: a causal relationship?

Abstract: Cancer metastasis is a highly coordinated and dynamic multistep process in which cancer cells undergo extensive interactions with various host cells before they establish a secondary metastatic colony. Ample morphological studies have documented the close association of circulating tumor cells with host platelets. Several lines of evidence provide strong support for the concept that tumor cell-platelet interactions (i.e., TCIPA) significantly contribute to hematogenous metastasis. Clinically, cancer patients with advanced diseases are characterized by a variety of thromboembolic disorders including thrombocytosis. Pharmacologically, various anti-platelet agents/anticoagulants have demonstrated potent inhibitory effects on tumor cell-platelet interactions as well as spontaneous or experimental metastasis. Experimentally, interference with many of the intermediate steps of tumor cell-platelet interactions has resulted in diminished platelet aggregation induced by tumor cells and blocked cancer metastasis. Platelet interaction with tumor cells is a sequential process which involves two general types of mediators, i.e., membrane-bound molecules (adhesion molecules) and soluble release products. alpha IIb beta 3 integrin receptors present on both platelets as well as on tumor cells and 12(S)-HETE, a 12-lipoxygenase metabolite of arachidonic acid, are prototypical examples of each category. Mechanistically, platelets may contribute to metastasis by: (1) stabilizing tumor cell arrest in the vasculature, (2) stimulating tumor cell proliferation, (3) promoting tumor cells extravasation by potentiating tumor cell-induced endothelial cell retraction, and (4) enhancing tumor cell interaction with the extracellular matrix.

Demographic & related differences in ethical views among small businesses

Abstract: This study examines the effects of demographic characteristics on ethical perceptions. While earlier research has produced conflicting results regarding the predictive power of these variables, significant and definite insights were obtained with proper controls. The following predictors of ethical attitudes are examined: age, gender, marital status, education, dependent children status, region of the country and years in business, while controlling for job status. A nation-wide random sample of employees was used in obtaining a response rate of fifty-three percent (total n of 423). Indices of aspects of business ethical attitudes were constructed using factor analysis. Linear multiple regression analysis indicated the significant predictive variables. Age was found to be a most-significant predictor. Older workers had stricter interpretations of ethical standards. Gender and region predicted attitudes about job-discrimination practices only, with women and persons from the Midwest most strongly opposed to the practice. All the other variables proved to be unreliable ethics predictors.

Pathogenesis and Treatment of Recurrent Vulvovaginal Candidiasis

Abstract: In contrast to women who experience infrequent episodes of candidal vaginitis, patients with chronic and recurrent candidal vaginitis rarely have recognizable precipitating or causal factors. Analysis of vaginal yeast isolated from women with recurrent candidal vaginitis uncommonly reveals a higher percentage of non-albicans Candida species. There is no indication that resistance to azoles is a causal factor, and no other fungal virulence factors have been identified to explain the repeated attacks. Strain typing of sequential clinical isolates by means of molecular techniques indicate a pattern of relapse due to persistent yeast in the vagina rather than frequent vaginal reinfection. Attempts to reduce the number of attacks by treating sexual partners and suppressing a gastrointestinal tract focus have failed. Recent immunological studies suggest the possibility that an acquired Candida antigen-specific immunological deficiency results in uncontrolled vaginal Candida proliferation and hence repeated clinically evident attacks. Although no definitive cure for recurrent candidal vaginitis exists, numerous therapeutic maintenance regimens with azoles are available that effectively control symptomatic infection.

Correlates of battering during pregnancy.

Abstract: Battering during pregnancy affects the health of both pregnant women and their unborn children. The purpose of this retrospective study of 488 primarily Medicaid-eligible postpartum women was to identify the constellation of factors associated with violence. The prevalence of battering during pregnancy was 7%, similar to that found in other studies. Significant correlates of battering included anxiety, depression, housing problems, inadequate prenatal care, and drug and alcohol use. Woman battering by a partner during pregnancy was associated with a greater severity of this constellation of patterns than those experiencing abuse before pregnancy only, or those experiencing physical attack by someone other than their partner. These factors are important to recognize in nursing assessment of pregnant women.

Adhesion molecules and tumor cell interaction with endothelium and subendothelial matrix.

Abstract: Cancer metastasis poses the greatest challenge to the eradication of malignancy. The majority of clinical and experimental evidence indicates that metastasis is a non-random, organ-specific process. Tumor cell interaction with endothelium and subendothelial matrix constitutes the most crucial factor in determining the organ preference of metastasis. A plethora of cell surface adhesion molecules, which encompass four major families (i.e., integrins, cadherins, immunoglobulins and selectins) and many other unclassified molecules, mediate tumor-host interactions. Adhesion molecules and adhesion processes are involved in most, if not all, of the intermediate steps of the metastatic cascade. Decreased E-cadherin expression and increased CD44 expression are clearly correlated with the acquisition of the invasive capacity of primary tumor cells. Similarly, altered expression pattern of many other adhesion molecules such as upregulated expression of the laminin receptors and depressed expression of fibronectin receptors (α5β1) appears to be involved in tumor cell invasion into the subendothelial matrix. Tumor cell-endothelium interactions involve several well-defined sequential steps that can be analyzed by the ‘Docking and Locking’ hypothesis at the molecular level. Tumor cell-matrix interactions are determined by the repertoire of adhesion receptors of tumor cells and the unique composition of organ-specific matrices. Our experimental data, together with others', suggest that the integrin αIIbβ3 is one of the major players in these tumor-host interactions. Tumor-host interaction is a dynamic process which is constantly modulated by a host of factors including various cytokines, growth factors and arachidonate metabolites such as 12(S)-HETE. Delineation of the molecular mechanisms of tumor-host interactions may provide additional means to intervene in the metastatic process.

Grading the severity of congestive heart failure in infants.

Abstract: To determine which variables most accurately define congestive heart failure (CHF) in infants, 41 patients (median age 2.5 months) were graded by four pediatric cardiologists for the presence and severity of CHF based on the following variables: amount of formula consumed per feeding, feeding time, history of diaphoresis or tachypnea, growth parameters, respiratory and heart rates, respiratory pattern, perfusion, presence of edema, diastolic filling sounds, and hepatomegaly. There were 19 patients graded as having no CHF, nine as mild, seven moderate, and six severe CHF. The most sensitive and specific variables (p 50/min, an abnormal respiratory pattern, diastolic filling sounds, and hepatomegaly. Moderate to severe CHF was present when patients took 40 min/feed, had and abnormal respiratory pattern with a resting respiratory rate >60/min, and had a diastolic filling sound and moderate hepatomegaly. Severe CHF was accompanied by a heart rate >170/min, decreased perfusion, and severe hepatomegaly. Thus, the grading of the severity of CHF in infants should include an accurate description of these historical and clinical variables.

Role of phosphorylated metabolic intermediates in the regulation of glutamine synthetase synthesis in Escherichia coli.

Abstract: Transcription of the Ntr regulon is controlled by the two-component system consisting of the response regulator NRI (NtrC) and the kinase/phosphatase NRII (NtrB), which both phosphorylates and dephosphorylates NRI. Even though in vitro transcription from nitrogen-regulated promoters requires phosphorylated NRI, NRII-independent activation of NRI also occurs in vivo. We show here that this activation likely involves acetyl phosphate; it is eliminated by mutations that reduce synthesis of acetyl phosphate and is elevated by a mutation expected to cause accumulation of acetyl phosphate. With purified components, we investigated the mechanism by which acetyl phosphate stimulates glutamine synthetase synthesis. Acetyl phosphate, carbamyl phosphate, and phosphoramidate but not ATP or phosphoenolpyruvate acted as substrates for the autophosphorylation of NRI in vitro. Phosphorylated NRI produced by this mechanism exhibited the properties associated with NRI phosphorylated by NRII, including the activated ATPase activity of the central domain of NRI and the ability to activate transcription from the nitrogen-regulated glutamine synthetase glnAp2 promoter.

Sanctions And Sanctuary: Cultural Perspectives On The Beating Of Wives

Abstract: Bringing together evidence from 15 Western and non-Western societies - ranging from hunter-gatherers to urban Americans - this book examines wife-beating from a worldwide perspective. Cross-cultural comparison aims to give a more accurate picture of cultural influences on wife-battering and to show the commonalities and differences of the phenomenon across world cultures. The authors offer hypotheses concerning the cultural factors that facilitate or discourage wife-beating. The book is intended for scholars and students in anthropology, women's studies and disciplines such as psychology, sociology, public health, nursing and social work, where both scholarship and clinical practice are concerned with the prevention, treatment and elimination of interpersonal violence.

Do Doctoral StudentsA Financial Support Patterns Affect Their Times-to-Degree and Completion Probabilities

Abstract: Projections of forthcoming shortages of Ph.D.s abound. Part of the reason is that American college graduates are much less likely to receive doctorates today than thcy were 20 years ago. Two important factors in this decline may be the increase in the length of time necessary for doctorate students to complete their programs that occurred over the period and the low completion rates of entrants into doctoral programs. Among the policies urged to prevent future Ph.D. shortages are increasing support for graduate students. Surprisingly little empirical evidence is available on how different types of support (fellowships. research assistantships, teaching assistantships) are likely to influence times-to-degree and completion rates. Our paper uses data on all graduate students who entered Ph.D. programs in four fields during a 25-year period at a single major doctorate producing university to estimate how graduate student financial support patterns influence these outcomes. We find that completion rates and mean durations of times-to-completion are sensitive to the types of financial support the students received. Other things held constant, students who receive fellowships or research assistantships have higher completion rates and shorter times-to-degree than students who receive teaching assistantships or tuition waivers, or who are totally self-supporting. A major finding Is that the Impact of financial support patterns on the fraction of students who complete programs is much larger than its impact on mean durations of times-to-degree.

End-diastolic volume. A better indicator of preload in the critically ill.

Abstract: The relative value of pulmonary artery wedge pressure (PAWP) and right ventricular end-diastolic volume index (RVEDVI) as a reflection of the preload status of the critically ill was determined in 29 patients. Regression analysis of 131 hemodynamic studies demonstrated that cardiac index (CI) correlated better with RVEDVI (r = .61) than did PAWP (r = .42). Comparisons of PAWP and RVEDVI showed that possible misleading information concerning filling volume was provided by the PAWP at some time in 15 (52%) of these patients. In 15 patients given 22 fluid challenges, patients with a high PAWP (greater than or equal to 18 mm Hg) "responded" with a rise in CI more frequently than did patients with a low PAWP (less than 12 mm Hg). However, all eight patients with a RVEDVI less than 90 mL/m2 responded with a rise in CI, but all seven patients with a RVEDVI greater than or equal to 139 mL/m2 failed to respond. Thus, RVEDVI more accurately predicted preload recruitable increases in cardiac output.

Retaining apparatus and procedure for transseptal catheterization

Abstract: The invention comprises retaining apparatus for transseptal catheterization and a procedure for the use of same. The retaining apparatus is a selectively deployable retaining means disposed at or proximal to the tip of a transseptal catheter or sheath which is placed across a septum, such as the interatrial septum, into the left atrium. The retaining means is configured to cooperate with the distal portion of the sheath to present a uniform cylindrical circumferential periphery when the retaining means is undeployed and to present a shape generally transverse to the longitudinal axis of the sheath when deployed. In a preferred embodiment, the retaining means is a retaining balloon which, upon inflation, presents a relatively flat, disk-like shape to comprise a physical barrier preventing inadvertent retraction of the distal tip of the sheath from the left atrium during subsequent portions of the catheterization procedure. The transseptal catheterization procedure includes the steps of placing the distal tip of the transseptal sheath across a septum, deploying the retaining means for retaining the distal tip within the left atrium, completing the transseptal portion of the catheterization procedure, retracting the selectively deployable retaining means, withdrawing the distal tip from the septum and completing the procedure.