bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ratings of Violin and Viola Vibrato Performance in Audio-Only and Audiovisual Presentations
Authors: Gillespie Robert
Published: June 2006

In this study, the researcher compared the ratings assigned to audio and videotaped vibrato performances of inexperienced and experienced violinists and violists. Thirty-three inexperienced players and 28 experienced players were videotaped white performing vibrato. A panel of experts rated the videotaped performances and then 6 months later rated the audio-only portion of the performances on five vibrato factors: width, speed, evenness, pitch stability, and overall sound. Experienced players' vibrato was rated higher for all factors, regardless of mode of presentation. In addition, results revealed significantly higher audiovisual ratings for pitch stability, evenness, and overall sound for inexperienced players, and for pitch stability for experienced players. Results suggest that string teachers need to occasionally listen to their students' vibrato without watching them since visual cues may inadvertently influence their evaluation of student achievement.
Nonmusic Majors' Cognitive and Affective Responses to Performance and Programmatic Music Videos
Authors: Geringer John M. , Cassidy Jane W. , Byo James L.
Published: June 2006

This study was designed to compare the effects of different kinds of visual presentations and music alone on university nonmusic students' affective and cognitive responses to music. Four groups of participants were presented with excerpts from the first and fourth movements of Beethoven's Symphony No. 6 in F major (“Pastoral”). Two groups heard music excerpts only, one interpretation conducted by Stowkowski and one by Bernstein. One of the video groups viewed corresponding excerpts from the movie Fantasia while listening to the Stowkowski recording. A second group viewed and listened to a performance video of the Vienna Philharmonic filmed during the Bernstein recording. All students (N = 128) completed cognitive listening tests based on the excerpts, rated the music on Likert-type affective scales, and responded to two open-ended questions. Significant effects of presentation condition were found. Cognitive scores were higher for the performance video than the music plus animation video on both movements. Scores for the two music-only presentations were not significantly different from each other or the two video presentations. Although affective ratings were not significantly different in magnitude between the presentation groups, the animation video (Fantasia.) presentation ranked consistently higher in affect than the other presentations. Implications of these results regarding the effects of different types of visual information presented to music listeners are discussed.
Student Personality and Instrumental Participation, Continuation, and Choice
Authors: Cutietta Robert A. , McAllister Peter A.
Published: June 2006

The Junior Eysenck Personality (Questionnaire was administered to 668 instrumental students in Grades 7 through 12 from eight different schools to determine whether (1) there is a propensity for certain personality types to begin instrumental study in the schools, (2) certain personality types are more likely to continue in instrumental music, (3) there is a trend toward homogeneity of personality type among students who choose to continue in instrumental music across grade levels, and (4) there is a relationship between personality type and continuation on a specific musical instrument. Results revealed that instrumental students are very similar to their noninstrumental counterparts on the personality variables measured across all grades, but some minor differences can be found. Educational implications are drawn and discussed.
Music Education and Rural Reform, 1900-1925
Authors: Lee William R.
Published: June 2006

Between 1900 and the early 1920s, music began to be viewed as an important social tool by Progressive Era reformers. One aspect of reform was inspired by the Country Life Movement. With over half the children in the United States still living in rural areas, reformers focused on improving the economic and social conditions of rural people. Rural reformers expanded university offerings in music and campaigned for the legal and educational framework for music education. Ideas for mass music education were explored, including efforts based on agricultural extension models. New approaches were tried that are now standard. A social rationale for music was expounded, giving importance to the Community Music Movement and the Pageant Movement. Rural reform contributed to a wider acceptance of music as an important aspect of education and promoted music as a social necessity.
A Comparison of Preference Responses of White and African-American Students to Musical versus Musical/Visual Stimuli
Authors: Morrison Steven J.
Published: June 2006

The purpose of this study was to examine the role of same- and other-group identification in musical preference decision-making. Subjects were African-American (n = 189) and white (n = 280) music students in Grades 6, 7, and 8. Each subject responded along a 9-point Likert scale to 10 instrumental music excerpts, five performed by African-American jazz artists and five performed by white jazz artists. Examples were presented according to one of three conditions: (1) music only, (2) music accompanied by a photograph of the performers, or (3) music accompanied by a photograph of different performers representing a different ethnicity. Results indicated that white subjects preferred examples by white performers regardless of presentation condition. African-American subjects preferred examples by white performers when presented with music alone, but preferred examples believed to be by African-American performers under the musical/visual conditions.
Charles Faulkner Bryan's Legacy for General Music
Authors: Livingston Carolyn
Published: June 2006

Charles Faulkner Bryan (1911-1955), music educator and ethnomusicologist, was best known as a composer who was influenced by Appalachian folk music. This study focuses on his ideas about general music and the qualities of exemplary music teachers. Bryans own general music curriculum and his teaching attributes are also examined. Bryan believed in solid planning for instruction and maintained that the general music curriculum should be eclectic, experiential, community-oriented, founded on local culture and student interests, and include both vernacular and art music. Bryan valued adaptability, resourcefulness, and creativity in music educators. He believed that a teacher should demonstrate thorough musical knowledge, strong technical skill, an attractive personality, good work habits, and positive attitudes. By all accounts, he displayed these qualities in his own teaching. Bryan designed and taught a general music course that included multicultural music and curriculum integration. His work may have influenced present practices and curricula.
An Empirical Study Concerning Terminology Relating to Aesthetic Response to Music
Authors: Lychner John A.
Published: June 2006

This study was designed to determine if a relationship exists among the terms “aesthetic response, ” “felt emotional response, ” and “perceived tension ” when used by individuals to describe their personal response to music. Subject groups, music majors (n = 128) and nonmusic majors (n = 128), were randomly divided into three experimental groups, one for each term, and one control group for free response. Data were gathered as subjects manipulated the dial of the Continuous Response Digital Interface (CRDI) to indicate the magnitude of their response to the musk heard during four taped listening segments. Written responses were collected following each segment in a packet provided to each subject. The four pieces heard were “Nessun dorma” from Turandot by Giacomo Puccini, “Fugue” from Toccata and Fugue in D minor by J. S. Bach, “Scherzo” from Symphony No. 3 (“Eroica”) by Ludwig van Beethoven, and “The Stars and Stripes Forever” by John Philip Sousa. These selections were presented in four different orders in an attempt to control for a possible order effect. An analysis of variance (ANOVA) indicated no significant difference between the responses of music majors and nonmusic majors. However, a significant difference was found among the terms. Analysis of group graphs indicated a strong similarity between aesthetic-response and felt-emotional-response conditions. Surprisingly, the free-response condition, where subjects were given no instructions except to move the dial, demonstrated a remarkable similarity to the aesthetic-response and felt-emotional-response conditions. The perceived-tension condition showed marked differences to the other three conditions.
Effect of Knowledge of Directional Mistunings on the Tuning Accuracy of Beginning and Intermediate Wind Players
Authors: Yarbrough Cornelia , Karrick Brant , Morrison Steven J.
Published: June 2006

The purpose of this research was to study the effect of knowledge of directional mis-tunings on the tuning accuracy of beginning and intermediate wind players. Subjects (N = 197) were instrumental wind players who tuned to either an For a B-flat with both their own instrument—a performance task—and the tuning knob of a variable-pitch keyboard—a perception task. The subjects were randomly assigned to one of three treatment groups: Group 1 knew that their instruments and the tuning knob were mis-tuned in the sharp direction; Group 2 knew that their instruments and the tuning knob were mistuned in the flat direction; and Group 3 had no information regarding direction of mistunings. Data demonstrated that only years of instruction significantly affected subjects' tuning accuracy. There were no significant differences due to treatment, instrument type, or tuning pitch. There were only 6 in-tune performance responses and 12 in-tune perception responses. Approaching the target pitch from above resulted in more sharp responses; approaching it from below resulted in more flat responses; and having no knowledge of direction of mistuning resulted in an equal number of sharp and flat responses. There were a greater number of flat responses in the first year of instruction and a greater number of sharp responses in the fourth year. Finally, there was consistent improvement from the first to the fourth year in both perception and performance tuning tasks.
An Examination of District-Sponsored Beginning Music Teacher Mentor Practices
Authors: Conway Colleen M.
Published: June 2006

The purpose of this inquiry was to examine the beginning music teacher mentor practices in 13 school districts in mid-Michigan. Data included beginning teacher interviews, teacher journals, focus-group meetings, mentor interviews, administrator interviews, and the principal investigators log. Profiles of the teachers show a lack of consistency in the types of mentor programs in the schools and varying degrees of teacher satisfaction with the programs. The lack of consistency is discussed in relation to the type of school, the teaching responsibility and classroom setting, the type of mentor assigned, and the degree to which that mentor was paid or trained. Teacher perceptions of the value of the program are discussed in relation to the degree and type of contact with the assigned mentor. The content of mentor interactions included administrative duties, classroom management, parent interaction, building and district policies, and personal issues. The need for music mentors is discussed, and the article concludes with general suggestions for mentor practices, including early identification of mentor, scheduling so mentors can observe, and opportunities for mentors and mentees to get to know each other.
Mutual Learning and Democratic Action in Instrumental Music Education
Authors: Allsup Randall Everett
Published: June 2006

This ethnography is an investigation of the notion of democracy as community-in-the-making. The researcher and nine band students came together to create music that was meaningful and self-reflective. The participants elected to split into two distinct ensembles. Group 1 chose not to compose on their primary band instruments, opting for electric guitar, bass, synthesized piano, and drums. Group 2 chose to create music using traditional concert band instruments. Choosing a genre and working with the traditions governing its creative processes seemed to be the largest determinant of a groups culture. The group members and researcher saw classical music as unproductive for group composing or community-making. Composing in a jazz or popular style was conceived of as fun, nonobligatory, self-directed, and personally meaningful. In such settings, there was an emphasis on interpersonal relationships, peer learning and peer critique, as well as an expectation that members will take care of each other.
Julius Eichberg: String and Vocal Instruction in Nineteenth-Century Boston
Authors: Howe Sondra Wieland
Published: June 2006

Julius Eichberg (1824-1893) made valuable contributions to the development of music education through his string and vocal instruction in Boston. Educated in Europe, Eichberg was a violin professor in Geneva before immigrating to the United States in 1857. He directed the Boston Museum Concerts 1859-1866 and composed four operas. In 1867, he founded the Boston Conservatory, developed its string department, and published string method books and chamber music. In the Boston public schools, Eichberg taught high school vocal music, supervised music for the entire school system, and taught teacher-training courses. Boston s school system became a model for other school systems. The annual Music Festivals in Boston, with Eichberg conducting choruses and orchestras, brought the schools positive publicity. Eichberg also composed choral works for his school choruses and edited music textbooks. Eichbergs work in string education and high school choral music laid foundations for programs in the twentieth century.
Effects of Score Study Style on Beginning Conductors' Error-Detection Abilities
Authors: Crowe Don R.
Published: June 2006

In this study, I investigated the effects of four score study styles—-no score study, study with score alone, study with score and correct aural example, and score study at the keyboard—on the pitch and rhythm error-detection abilities of beginning conducting students. Four computer-assisted tests were developed, each with 31 examples using sampled sounds and ranging from one to eight parts. A counterbalanced design was used to control for effects of presentation order as to score study style and individual test. Score study with a correct aural example was found to be significantly more effective than study with the score alone. No significant difference was found between score study at the keyboard and any other score study style. There were significant differences in test scores attributable to the number of parts in examples. Generally, error detection became more difficult as the number of parts increased.
Effects of Competency-Based Methods of Instruction and Self-Observation on Ensemble Directors' Use of Sequential Patterns
Authors: Arnold James A.
Published: June 2006

The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of competency-based self-analysis of videotape rehearsals by practicing music teachers on the use of complete and correct sequential patterns of instruction and their components. Complete patterns follow the cyclical pattern of task presentation, student response, and immediate teacher feedback. Correct patterns require that task presentation include academic material and that feedback be specific and related to the task. Twelve teachers of sixth-grade choral and instrumental classes were matched in pairs, placed in experimental or contact-control groups, and videotaped during four rehearsals of the same class at 2-week intervals. Subjects reviewed Tapes 2 and 3 of their own rehearsals, with experimental teachers using operational definitions and self-analysis of typed transcripts, and contact-control teachers using unfocused observation instructions. Results indicate that research-based teaching techniques were effective in significantly increasing experimental teachers' use of complete sequential patterns and percentages of time spent in music activities.
Perceptions of Beginning Teachers, Their Mentors, and Administrators Regarding Preservice Music Teacher Preparation
Authors: Conway Colleen
Published: June 2006

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the preservice music teacher preparation program at a large midwestem university (in this article called “BTU” for “Big Ten University”) through an examination of the perceptions of beginning teachers and their mentors and administrators. Primary research participants included seven first-year teachers from BTU's class of 1999 and seven first-year teachers from the class of 2000. Data from these participants included individual interviews, focus group interviews, teacher journals, classroom observations by the researcher, mentor interviews, administrator interviews, and responses on an open-ended “End-of-Year Questionnaire.”In addition, secondary participants (n = 11) completed the End-of Year Questionnaire regarding their first-year experiences and the teacher preparation program. Results and discussion include descriptions of the perceptions regarding the most valuable parts of preparation and the least valuable parts of preparation, as well as suggestions for preservice teacher preparation made by teachers, mentors, administrators, and the researcher. Issues of validity of results and transferability of findings to other settings are discussed in addition to possible implications for teacher education and music education program evaluation research.
Contextual Condition and Sightsinging Achievement of Middle School Choral Students
Authors: Lucas Keitha V.
Published: June 2006

The purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of harmonic context on the sightsinging skill of middle school choral music students. A nonrandomized control-group pretest-posttest design with one between-group (treatment method) and two within-group (trial and test context) factors was used. The treatment method used three harmonic contexts: (a) melody only, (b) piano harmony, and (c) vocal harmony. The trial condition had two levels (pretest and posttest), and the test context condition had four levels: (a) melody-only, (b) piano-harmony, (c) vocal harmony/upper with the melody in the higher of two voices, and (d) vocal harmony/lower with the melody in the lower of two voices. A repeated measures ANOVA revealed significant differences for the test context and trial main effects and for the trial by treatment group interaction; subjects obtained the highest sightsinging scores when tested in a melody-only context. Because of the significant interaction between trial and treatment group, one-way ANOVAs were used to test for simple main effects in both trial conditions (pretest and posttest). Although no significant differences were detected in the pretest ANOVA, the posttest ANOVA revealed significant differences among treatment groups. Post hoc analysis indicated that subjects in the melody-only treatment group showed more improvement in sightsinging skill than did subjects in the vocal-harmony treatment group. No difference was revealed, however, between the melody-only treatment group and the piano-harmony treatment group.
MENC 2000 National Biennial In-Service Conference: A Content Analysis
Authors: Price Harry E. , Orman Evelyn K.
Published: June 2006

The 413 sessions of the 2000 MENC National Biennial In-Service Conference were classified according to category, which included educational sessions, concerts and sessions that included performances, and general sessions. They were also grouped according to subject areas, including general music, performance, administration, research, technology, industry and exceptionalities. By far the largest proportionate category of sessions was education (65%), followed distantly by sessions including performances (17%). Promotion of industry products dominated, accounting for 29% of all sessions and 40% of the content of educational sessions. Technology sessions represented 25% of all subjects and 71%) of industry sessions. Performance-focused sessions comprised just over 20%). A continuation of trends of high industry representation and increasing technology, along with decreasing performances and performance-oriented sessions, was found. A single session on inclusion resulted in the exceptionalities category forming 0.4% of total conference offerings.
Using Creativity Assessment Experience to Nurture and Predict Compositional Creativity
Authors: Priest Thomas
Published: June 2006

The purpose of this inquiry was to examine students' assessments of musical creativity in relation to their ability to function creatively as composers. Compositions collected from 54 nonmusic majors enrolled in music fundamentals classes were used as a measure of compositional creativity. Independent judges reached acceptable levels of agreement in assessing musical creativity and other dimensions allowing students to be placed into high-, middle-, and low-creativity groups. Additionally, students completed Creativity and Craftsmanship Assessments (CCA) by listening to sets of 5 exemplary compositions produced by students previously enrolled in the course. Students' verbal descriptions of creativity and craftsmanship from the CCA were categorized. A chi-square analysis of the students' descriptions yielded statistically significant differences between high-, middle-, and low- creativity groups. Students in the high-creativity group were more likely to cite temporal factors as contributing to creativity and craftsmanship than were students in the middle- or low-creativity groups (p < .01); students in the low- and middle-creativity groups were more likely to use metaphors than were students in the high-creativity group (p < .05).
Preservice Music Teachers' Conceptions of Teaching Effectiveness, Microteaching Experiences, and Teaching Performance
Authors: Butler Abby
Published: June 2006

Fifteen undergraduate music education majors who were enrolled in an introductory music education course constructed concept maps on the topic of “teacher effectiveness” prior to and following two microteachings. The Survey of Teaching Effectiveness (STE) and a time sampling procedure based on criteria from teacher-intensity (TI) research measured teaching performance. Conceptions of teaching effectiveness were examined from two perspectives: cognitive structure, measured by map scores, and conceptual understanding, based on qualitative data from maps, self-evaluations, and interviews. Quantitative results indicate that participants' cognitive structure did not change, nor did it correlate with their teaching performance. Qualitative results provide insight into how preservice teachers acquire conceptions of teaching effectiveness and suggest that microteachings in conjunction with concept mapping may help shape preservice music education teachers' understanding of what it means to teach.
On “American Music for American Children”: The Contribution of Charles L. Seeger
Authors: McCarthy Marie
Published: June 2006

The distinguished music scholar Charles L. Seeger (1886–1979) viewed music education as playing a critical role in the development of American musical life. During his long career, he made an important contribution to the history, philosophy, and sociology of music education. The purpose of this study was to identify a primary aspect of Seeger's contribution by exploring one of his ongoing professional concerns— American music for American children. The study progresses from a profile of Seeger the music educator to his approach to music in American culture, his plan for revitalizing music in American education, and, finally, an appraisal of his criticisms and recommendations. Music in American education, he believed, would better serve American society if some vital connections with school music were activated or renewed. The writer identifies these as the child's own music, American vernacular music in general, other music professionals (and particularly musicologists), and the cultural-political context in which music and education function. Seeger played a significant role in introducing vernacular music into the schools, in extending the definition of American music in the curriculum, in presenting music as a cultural subject, and in assisting music educators in dealing with musical diversity in the classroom.
The Relationship Between Observers' Recorded Teacher Behavior and Evaluation of Music Instruction
Authors: Duke Robert A. , Blackmail Mary Dave
Published: June 2006

Using four teaching evaluation variables selected from the Texas Teacher Appraisal System Teacher Orientation Manual (Texas Education Agency, 1986), 100 music education majors and 100 nonmusic, education majors evaluated a 12-minute videotaped segment of a fifth-grade music class. Each subject was assigned one of four different tasks to be performed during the observation period.

Ratings given by nonmusic majors were significantly higher than were ratings given by music majors for the variables Reinforces Correct Responses, Gives Corrective Academic Feedback, and Reinforces Appropriate Behavior. There was no significant difference in evaluation ratings among the four observation task conditions. Only among observers who were directed both to record teacher feedback during the observation and to calculate the total numbers of teacher approvals and disapprovals was there any significant relationship between the teacher behavior recorded and subjects' evaluation ratings. The correlations between teacher behavior and evaluation ratings in this condition, although statistically significant, were relatively low.
Passing the Cultural Torch: Musical Experience and Musical Parenting of Infants
Authors: Custodero Lori A. , Johnson-Green Elissa A.
Published: June 2006

Using a regionally focused national survey of parents with 4–6-month-olds (N = 2, 250), we addressed associations between musical experience and the frequency and content of playing music and singing for infants. The possible mediation of a classical CD distribution to new parents in hospitals was also investigated. Five variables of experience were considered: (1) respondents' recollections of their mother or (2) father singing to them, (3) playing an instrument, (4) singing in a choir, and (5) taking music lessons. Chi-square analyses indicated that musical experience was highly associated with increased frequency of playing and singing. The content of what was played and sung was less uniformly linked, and revealed individual profiles for each mode of formal experience. Differences were found between those who did and those who did not receive the CD. Results support a systems view of the child in the context of families and society, and have implications about indirect effects of music education.
“It's a Metamorphosis”: Guiding the Voice Change at the American Boychoir School
Authors: Kennedy Mary Copland
Published: June 2006

The purpose of the study was to describe and interpret a particular culture of boys with changing voices at the American Boy choir School by means of an ethnography. Themes that emerged were (1) the boys' own perceptions of the voice change process, (2) healthy strategies for singing through the change, and (3) psychological issues. Informants were 27 students, 2 music directors, and 10 staff members. Data-collection techniques included interviews, observation, participant observation, and the examination of material culture. Analysis involved preparation of field notes and interview transcripts, document analysis, and study of the field notes and interviews. Evidence from the data, while supporting documented patterns of the male voice-change process, pointed to the uniqueness of each boy s experience. Boys were musically skilled, vocally knowledgeable, and benefitted from group vocal instruction in addition to choral rehearsals. Boys were taught how to use all available notes in their ranges safely. Instilling confidence and the “light approach” were two strategies used to assist boys negotiating the voice change.
The Repertoire Selection Practices of High School Choral Directors
Authors: Forbes Guy W.
Published: June 2006

The purpose of this study was to research the repertoire selection practices of high school choral directors. The 104 directors who participated in the study were selected from two groups: (a) directors identified as outstanding and (b) directors selected from the remaining population. Interviews, a written survey, and solicited programs were used to collect the data. Results suggest that the repertoire selection practices used by directors are not structured. Although directors consider a wide variety of criteria to be influential in the selection process, criteria do not seem to be consistently or systematically applied. The relative influence of individual criteria varies depending on the style of repertoire under consideration. Furthermore, demographic characteristics such as teaching experience, program size, and the socioeconomic composition of the school may also influence repertoire selection practices. Although similarities among directors regarding the selection process were identified, there were differences between the selection practices of “outstanding” directors and directors not so identified with respect to the balance of repertoire that directors believe students should sing and the relative importance and use of selection criteria.
Relationships among Selected Variables in the South Dakota All-State Band Auditions
Authors: Lien Joelle L. , Humphreys Jere T.
Published: June 2006

The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of school enrollment, distance to audition site, sex of auditionees, and instrument type on the results of the 1992–97 South Dakota all-state band auditions. Results include the following: (1) total audition scores were better for students from larger schools and for those who traveled a shorter distance to the audition; (2) female students' scores were significantly better than those of male students, but there was no significant difference in the percentages of successful auditions between males and females; (3) scores differed significantly between instrument groups, with flutes and double reeds receiving the best scores, followed by saxophones, trumpets and French horns, low brass and string basses, and clarinets; and (4) the variables of distance to audition site, instrument group, and sex accounted for 11% of the variance in total audition scores.
Molecular screening for hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer in Bulgaria
Authors: Kadiyska Tanya , Goranova Teodora , Dineva Ganka , Nedin Dimitar , Alexandrova Alexandrina , Gegova Antonina , Kaneva Radka , Damyanov Damyan , Kremensky Ivo , Mitev Vanio
Published: June 2006

Hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC) is an autosomal dominant disease, caused by germline mutations in DNA mismatch-repair genes (MMR). These mutations lead to microsatellite instability (MSI). It has been found that the MSI is not confined to the setting of hereditary disease and may be seen in approximately 12-17% of the sporadic CRCs. In 1998 a National Registry for CRC was instituted in Queen Giovanna Hospital, Sofia. A total of 150 patients have been selected for MSI analysis and 25 tumors showed to be unstable, 14 with loss of heterozygosity (LOH). These tumors were further analyzed for MLH1 promoter hypermethylation and a significant association between this epigenetic change and MSI/LOH sporadic cases. We proposed this method as a step that follows the analysis for MSI and prior to the screening for MMR mutations. The mutation screening detected four known and two novel mutations, one unpublished and four known intronic polymorphisms in both hMLH1 and hMSH2 genes. The use of IHC analysis has been found effective in the investigation of some unclear molecular variations.

We developed an efficient diagnostic strategy for HNPCC testing and the mutation status of 80% MSI HNPCC cases could be detected.
A clinical comparison of the Laryngeal Tube™ and the Laryngeal Mask™ in spontaneously breathing anesthetized patients
Authors: Albert Johanna , Kindlund Leif , Nilvér Barbro , Gożdzik Waldemar
Published: June 2006

Abstract: Background: The laryngeal mask airway (LMA) can be used in general anaesthesia without neuromuscular block. The laryngeal tube (LT) is a new airway device with similar airway features as LMA. LT is provided with a distal cuff to prevent regurgitation. In this study we compared the LMA and LT concerning patient and user aspects.

Methods: Sixty patients with ASA (American Society of Anestesiologists) score 1–2 scheduled for minor surgery were randomized to be ventilated either through LMA or LT. After insertion, the number of insertion attempts, and “positioning” and “airway-assessment” was evaluated. The patients reported on “sore throat” after 30 and 60 minutes and the day after anaesthesia.

Results: Gender and mean age were equal in both groups. The first insertion attempt was successful in 25 of 28 patients randomised to LMA and in 23 of 27 patients randomised to LT. LMA was evaluated to be easier in “positioning” whereas no difference in “sore throat” was reported.

Conclusion: We found no difference between the LMA and the LT in terms user and patient friendliness and safety.
Abnormal ECG patterns during the acute phase of subarachnoid hemorrhage in patients without previous heart disease
Authors: Atanassova Penka , Tokmakova Maria , Djurkova Albena , Naydenov Vulcho , Chalakova Nedka , Dimitrov Borislav
Published: June 2006

Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) occurs primarily during early to mid-adulthood; approximately 30% of individuals with SAH die within 2 weeks, and mortality is 30% to 45%. SAH happens suddenly, without patients being aware of previous heart abnormalities. Here, we performed a pilot single cohort (historical) study to examine the hypothesis that early abnormal electrocardiographic (ECG) changes may reveal unknown but “silent” heart pathologies in SAH patients without previous heart disease (PHD). Data were collected retrospectively on 56 consecutive patients during the acute phase of SAH (29 men, 27 women; mean age 49.0 ± 6.2 years) with different degrees of neurologic deficit (Hunt-Hess scale assessment) in a 2-year period single-cohort study. Repolarization abnormalities were most frequent (p<0.05) and were independent of a history of PHD, although it corresponded to a higher risk for such abnormalities (odds ratio OR=3.21; CI95%=1.01–10.22). ECG changes in patients without PHD were similar to those in PHD patients, confirming the hypothesis that SAH is associated with previously “silent” heart pathology. The increased frequency of ECG changes in PHD patients and their high incidence in no-PHD patients suggested a neurogenic form of myocardial dysfunction following SAH. Notably, repolarization changes were more frequent in patients with less severe deficit (p<0.05), whereas rhythm and conductive abnormalities were more frequent in patients with more severe neurologic deficit.
Parent Practices in Facilitating Self-Determination Skills: The Influences of Culture, Socioeconomic Status, and Children's Special Education Status
Authors: Zhang Dalun
Published: June 2006

This survey study investigated the influences of culture, socioeconomic status, and children's special education status on parents' engagement in fostering self-determination behaviors. Major findings included (a) children from Caucasian families were more involved in personal independence activities than Asian and African American children; (b) Asian and immigrant parents did not believe in exercising parental authority or emphasize family priorities as expected; and (c) parents with college degrees gave their children more opportunities to express their interests, make daily decisions that have important impacts on their life, and set personal goals than parents without college degrees. Similarly, parents of higher-income families were more likely to engage in practices that fostered their children's self-determination skills. Parents of students with disabilities, however, were less likely to engage in these practices. The implications of these findings are discussed.
Towards the Directed Evolution of Hybrid Catalysts
Authors: Reetz Manfred T. , Rentzsch Martin , Pletsch Andreas , Maywald Matthias
Published: June 2006

The first step in applying the recently proposed concept concerning the application of directed evolution to the creation of selective hybrid catalysts is described, specifically the covalent attachment of Mn-salen moieties and of Cu-, Pd-, and Rh-complexes of dipyridine derivatives
as well as the implantation of a diphosphine moiety in a protein, future steps being cycles of mutagenesis/screening.
Bioorganic Chemistry of Rigid-Rod Molecules: Adventures with p-Oligophenyls
Authors: Baudry Yoann , Baumeister Bodo , Das Gopal , Gerard David , Matile Stefan , Sakai Naomi , Som Abhigyan , Sordé Nathalie , Talukdar Pinaki
Published: June 2006

Studies on the usefulness of rigid-rod molecules to address pertinent questions of biological relevance are summarized. Emphasis is placed on (a) the supramolecular functional plasticity of p-octiphenyl ?-barrels expressed in molecular recognition (adaptable synthetic hosts),
molecular translocation (adaptable synthetic ion channels) and molecular transformation (esterases, RNases), (b) molecular recognition of polarized membranes by rigid push-pull rods, as well as (c) the synthetic organic chemistry of rigid-rod molecules.
Miniaturization of Heterogeneous Catalytic Reactors: Prospects for New Developments in Catalysis and Process Engineering
Authors: Schouten Jaap C. , Rebrov Evgeny V. , De Croon Mart H.J.M.
Published: June 2006

This paper gives an overview of the research done since 1999 at Eindhoven University of Technology in the Netherlands in the field of miniaturization of heterogeneous catalytic reactors. It is described that different incentives exist for the development of these microstructured reaction
systems. These include the need for efficient research instruments in catalyst development and screening, the need for small-scale reactor devices for hydrogen production for low-power electricity generation with fuel cells, and the recent quest for intensified processing equipment and novel
process architectures (as in the fine chemicals sector). It is demonstrated that also in microreaction engineering, catalytic engineering and reactor design go hand-in-hand. This is illustrated by the design of an integrated microreactor and heat-exchanger for optimum performance of a highly
exothermic catalytic reaction, viz. ammonia oxidation. It is argued that future developments in catalytic microreaction technology will depend on the availability of very active catalysts (and catalyst coating techniques) for which microreactors may become the natural housing.
Single Molecule Imaging and Manipulation
Authors: Hegner Martin , Engel Andreas
Published: June 2006

The atomic force microscope (AFM) and optical tweezers are tools that allow single biomolecules to be imaged and manipulated. Progress in instrumentation, sample preparation, and image acquisition conditions make novel applications of these tools possible. Biological membranes can be
imaged in their native state at a lateral resolution of 0.4–1 nm and a vertical resolution of 0.1–0.2 nm. Function-related conformational changes are resolved to a similar resolution, complementing atomic structure data acquired by other methods. The unique capability of the AFM
to observe single proteins directly allows the interaction of proteins forming functional assemblies to be assessed. Single molecule force spectroscopy combined with single molecule imaging provides unprecedented possibilities to analyze intra- and intermolecular forces. Optical tweezers expand
the range of measurable forces to those produced by molecular motors. Combined with fluorescence measurements, optical tools give insights into fundamental biological processes such as the molecular conversion of chemical into mechanical energy.
Advantages of Nanotechnology at the Solid–Liquid Interface
Authors: Stemmer Andreas , Mesquida Patrick , Naujoks Nicola
Published: June 2006

Nanotechnology at the solid–liquid interface offers attractive prospects but also poses formidable challenges. Nature has evolved a vast range of functional nanostructures operating in the liquid environment of cells. Such natural nanostructures might be employed as building blocks
for artificial nanodevices. To this end novel strategies for nanofabrication need to be developed by taking advantage of basic principles underlying nano-assembly in nature. Here we discuss one such technique, the electrostatically guided attachment of nanoparticles and proteins to localized
charges deposited at the solid–liquid interface.
Nanotribology
Authors: Gnecco Enrico , Bennewitz Roland , Meyer Ernst
Published: June 2006

The study of friction and wear processes on the nanometer scale is related to the development of the atomic force microscope, where laser beams and piezoelectric elements are used to detect the motion of a micro tip across a surface in a controlled way. Friction on the nanometer scale
has peculiar characteristics which are not revealed by macroscopic tools. Well-known concepts such as the coefficient of friction and the independence of friction from the scan velocity must be modified. The load dependence of friction is based on the non-linear relation f ? F?N;
the velocity dependence is determined by thermally activated processes. The environment plays also an important role and different humidity conditions may lead to different friction, due to the formation of capillary necks in the contact area. A practical use of the atomic force microscope
is to check the quality of surface preparation by comparing the responses of materials under different friction and wear conditions. Interesting applications are given by magnetic storage devices and micro-electromechanical systems.
X-ray Photoelectron Diffraction: Probing Atom Positions and Molecular Orientation at Surfaces
Authors: Fasel Roman , Aebi Philipp
Published: June 2006

With the growing need to gain control over atomic scale objects in nanosciences new tools have to be developed. Quantitative structural information is fundamental to the understanding of the physical properties, e.g. for the interpretation of spectroscopic results or as a starting
point for theoretical calculations. This review will focus on the angle-resolved photoemission experiment to probe the geometrical structure on the atomic scale. Using soft X-rays shallow core levels can be excited for a chemical analysis of the surface. Photoelectrons emitted from a particular
atom are mapped as a function of emission angle in the so-called photoelectron diffraction experiment. From the interference between the photoelectron wave directly reaching the detector and the waves scattered from the neighboring atoms we obtain very direct knowledge of the local real-space
environment of the emitting atom. Photoelectron diffraction is able to determine atom positions at surfaces, to distinguish between different crystallographic surface structures, to identify impurity or dopant site positions or to unravel molecular orientation.
Polymer Nanocontainers
Authors: Meier Wolfgang
Published: June 2006

Amphiphilic block copolymers and polyelectrolytes are used to prepare stimuli-sensitive nanocontainers that can be regarded as model systems for host–guest encapsulation and controlled release. Interestingly it is possible to incorporate functional membrane proteins into the walls
of these artificial polymer containers. This method can be used to control the exchange of substrates and products of encapsulated enzymes with the external solution, to control virus-assisted loading of the containers with DNA, to apply them as confined reaction vessels for biomimetic mineralization,
as nanometer-sized batteries or as molecular motor-driven actuators. This is documented by some representative examples.
The Role of Analytical Chemistry in Agricultural Research: Main goals, Challenges, Demands
Authors: Bachmann Hans Jörg , Bucheli Thomas , Paul Jean , Stünzi Hans , Bosshard Hans-Ruedi
Published: June 2006

Analytical chemistry has always played an important role in agricultural research, but its objectives and contributions have changed over time. In this paper a description of the historical development is given. Particularities of agricultural analytical chemistry are characterised
and the currently used methods for inorganic and organic trace analysis as well as examples of their applications are reported.
Residual Printing Solvents in Packaging Materials
Authors: Louvier Didier , Martine Eric
Published: June 2006

Analysis of residual printing solvents in packaging materials. The aim was to define an analytical method based on the static headspace gas chromatography (HS-GC) method with a mass spectrometric detector (MSD) to qualify and quantify residual printing solvents. The quantitations are
compared for mono headspace extraction and multi headspace extraction (MHE).
Overview of Some R&D at the University of Applied Sciences Wädenswil
Authors: Bachmann Marco
Published: June 2006

An overview is given by several authors on various activities in research and development at the University of Applied Sciences Wädenswil.
Continuous Evolved Gas Analysis and Thermal Analysis in Micro-scale Roasting of Foods
Authors: Perren Rainer , Künzli Roland , Escher Felix
Published: June 2006

In roasting processes of foods, non-enzymatic browning reactions lead to the formation of water and carbon dioxide. Continuous monitoring of the evolution of moisture and carbon dioxide would offer an interesting tool for determining reaction kinetics of non-enzymatic browning and optimising
roasting processes. Isothermal and dynamic heating of small specimens of hazelnuts in a differential scanning calorimeter which was linked to a non-dispersive IR gas analyser presents a possibility to simulate roasting processes on a micro-scale. Formation of water and carbon dioxide was dependant
on the initial moisture content of the hazelnuts, heating rate and composition of gas atmosphere (nitrogen vs. oxygen). Depending on the heating conditions, evolution of carbon dioxide is not only caused by degradation of amino acids and sugars but also by lipid oxidation.
The Swiss Food Net
Authors: Villettaz Jean-Claude
Published: June 2006

The Swiss Food Net was created on March 12, 1999. This national network, to serve the Swiss food industry, unites all institutions of higher education of the food and nutrition sector as well as the main national institutions active in fundamental and applied research. It also incorporates
production and processing industry, national scientific communities as well as three federal offices directly concerned with the food sector.
UV Degradation of Sesquiterpene Lactones in Chicory Extract: Kinetics and Identification of Reaction Products by HPLC-MS
Authors: Frey Urban , Claude Johanna , Crelier Simon , Juillerat Marcel-Alexandre
Published: June 2006

Inulin, a valuable food ingredient, can be extracted from chicory roots (Cichorium intybus L.). However, the direct use of this material is limited, because of the presence of extremely bitter, co-extracted sesquiterpene lactones. Lactucin, a major component, has been degraded
by UV irradiation, a process which showed neither temperature (293– 313 K) nor initial concentration dependence. An overall half life time of ca. 45 min was determined. The degradation product was identified by HPLC-MS and 1H NMR and was the result of the addition of
a water molecule on the lactucin C(1)–C(10) double bond, with the OH group located at the C(10) position.