bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing the impact of organizational learning and innovation on performance in cultural organizations
Authors: Garrido M. José , Camarero Carmen
Published: September 2009

Product innovation, technological innovation and organizational innovations are the key to helping cultural organizations achieve their social mission and achieve efficiency. This innovation strategy and the outcomes depend on introducing learning orientation into the organization. The current work analyses the relationship between learning orientation, innovativeness and performance for the case of 386 British, French and Spanish museums. Findings indicate that learning orientation significantly influences both innovativeness and performance. Further, whereas technological and organizational innovations are related to economic performance, product innovations have a greater impact on social performance.

Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Removal of Pb2+ and Cd2+ ions from aqueous solutions using guanidine modified hydrogels
Authors: Yetimoğlu Ece Kök , Fırlak Melike , Kahraman Memet Vezir , Deniz Sabahattin
Published: September 2009

In this study, experimental measurements have been made on the batch adsorption of cadmium and lead ions from aqueous solutions using poly(guanidine modified 2‐acrylamido‐2‐methylpropan sulfonic acid/acrylic acid/N‐vinylpyrrolidone/2‐Hydroxyethyl methacrylate), P(AMPSG/AAc/NVP/HEMA) hydrogels. The guanidyl end group bearing AMPSG monomer was synthesized from the reaction of AMPS and guanidine. The hydrogels were prepared by UV‐curing technique. The morphology of the dry H10‐hydrogel sample was examined by SEM. The influence of the uptake conditions, such as pH, functional monomer per cent, contact time, initial feed concentration, and foreign metal ions on the metal ion binding capacity of hydrogel, was also tested. The selectivity of the hydrogel toward the different metal ions tested was Hg(II) > Pb(II) > Au(III) > Cd(II). The adsorption isotherm models were applied to the experimental data, and it was seen that the Langmuir isotherm model was the best fit for the adsorption of Cd(II) and Pb(II) ions on P(AMPSG/AAc/NVP/HEMA) hydrogel. It was found that adsorbed lead and cadmium ions on P(AMPSG/AAc/NVP/HEMA) hydrogel can be effectively desorbed by acid leaching and the regenerated P(AMPSG/AAc/NVP/HEMA) hydrogel can be reused almost five times less without any loss of adsorption capacity. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Trait BIS predicts alpha asymmetry and P300 in a Go/No‐Go task
Authors: Wacker Jan , Chavanon Mira‐Lynn , Leue Anja , Stemmler Gerhard
Published: September 2009

Inspired by the revised Behavioural Inhibition System (BIS) theory the present study probed the association between individual differences in Trait BIS and electroencephalogram indicators of conflict processing/inhibition. Sixty‐nine male participants either high or low in Trait BIS completed a Go/No‐Go task while the electroencephalogram was recorded. As expected, Trait BIS was associated with the No‐Go‐anteriorisation of the P300 event‐related potential (i.e. an index of response inhibition presumably generated in the dorsal anterior cingulate—an area implicated in conflict processing) and with No‐ Go‐related changes towards left frontal alpha activity (i.e. presumably more activity in right prefrontal cortex—an area implicated in response inhibition). These findings support the role of conflict processing attributed to BIS functioning in the revised theory. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
High Quality SiO2‐like Layers by Large Area Atmospheric Pressure Plasma Enhanced CVD: Deposition Process Studies by Surface Analysis
Authors: Premkumar Peter Antony , Starostin Sergey A. , de Vries Hindrik , Paffen Roger M. J. , Creatore Mariadriana , Eijkemans Tom J. , Koenraad Paul M. , de Sanden Mauritius C. M. van
Published: September 2009

This work reports on the main competing processes and their contribution to the properties of SiO2 layers on polymers in large area AP‐PE‐CVD from ArN2O2‐HMDSO mixtures. The detailed space resolved surface analysis on the statically deposited films showed smooth SiOx films in the vicinity of the gas injection, as deposited by HMDSO radicals. At the gas effluent, due to HMDSO depletion, non‐depositing species interact with the polymer and induce rough deposits with high carbon content. The competition of plasma–polymer surface interaction with HMDSO radicals deposition, is further confirmed from the analysis of films grown on polymers with a “protecting” layer and with reverse gas flow direction. Under web roll conditions, HMDSO radicals deposition is dominant, resulting in high quality SiOx layers along the whole electrode length.

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Understanding the Roughening and Degradation of 193 nm Photoresist during Plasma Processing: Synergistic Roles of Vacuum Ultraviolet Radiation and Ion Bombardment
Authors: Nest Dustin , Chung Ting‐Ying , Graves David B. , Engelmann Sebastian , Bruce Robert L. , Weilnboeck Florian , Oehrlein Gottlieb S. , Wang Deyan , Andes Cecily , Hudson Eric A.
Published: September 2009

We have identified a synergistic roughening mechanism of 193 nm photoresist, where simultaneous ion bombardment, vacuum ultraviolet (VUV) radiation, and moderate substrate heating in a well‐characterized beam system results in a similar level of surface roughness observed during conditions typical of plasma etching. VUV radiation (147 nm) results in bulk modification of the photoresist polymer, witnessed by the loss of carbon–oxygen bonds through transmission FTIR. Ion bombardment (150 eV) results in the formation of a densified surface layer on the order of a few nanometers in depth. We have shown that elevated levels of roughness are observed only during simultaneous exposure and that sequential exposure is not sufficient to produce surface roughness. In addition, through the use of transmission FTIR we have shown that an etching synergy does not exist and that etch rates are nearly independent of temperature. We propose that the observed roughness could be due to the drastically different mechanical properties of the ion‐modified near‐surface region and VUV‐modified bulk photoresist, where the difference is exaggerated at elevated temperatures. A more complete understanding of plasma‐induced surface roughness will require further study, resulting in the improvement of existing pattern transfer technologies and possibly novel new technologies as well.

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Recombinant human DNase in children with airway malacia and lower respiratory tract infection
Authors: Boogaard Ruben , de Jongste Johan C. , Vaessen‐Verberne Anja A.P.H. , Hop Wim C.J. , Merkus Peter J.F.M.
Published: September 2009

Background

Children with airway malacia often have protracted courses of airway infections, because dynamic airway collapse during coughing results in impaired mucociliary clearance. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of the mucolytic drug recombinant human deoxyribonuclease (rhDNase) on the recovery of respiratory symptoms in children with airway malacia and lower respiratory tract infection (LRTI).

Methods

In a randomized double‐blind controlled clinical trial, 40 children with airway malacia and LRTI were randomly assigned to receive either 2.5 mg nebulized rhDNase or placebo twice daily for 2 weeks. The primary endpoint was the change in the cough diary score (CDS) (scale 0–5) from baseline to the second week of treatment. Secondary endpoints were VAS symptom scores for cough, dyspnea, and difficulty in expectorating sputum, need for an antibiotic course, and lung function data (FVC, FEV1, FEF75, R).

Results

There was no significant difference in the mean change in CDSs from baseline between the rhDNase group and the placebo group (mean difference for daytime 0.19 (95% CI −0.53 to 0.90); for nighttime 0.38 (95% CI −0.30 to 1.05). Proportions of patients requiring antibiotics, and the mean changes in symptom scores and lung function from baseline did not significantly differ between both groups.

Conclusion

Treatment with 2 weeks of nebulized rhDNase does not enhance recovery or reduce the need for antibiotics in children with airway malacia and LRTI. (Controlled‐trials.com number, ISRCTN85366144). Pediatr Pulmonol. 2009; 44:962–969. ©2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Respiratory health in overweight and obese Chinese children
Authors: He Qi‐qiang , Wong Tze‐wai , Du Lin , Jiang Zhuo‐qin , Qiu Hong , Gao Yang , Liu Jia‐wei , Wu Jia‐gang , Yu Ignatius Tak‐sun
Published: September 2009

Objectives

Childhood obesity has been suggested to be associated with asthma and impairment of pulmonary functions, but the findings are conflicting. The aim of this study was to examine the relationship of body mass index (BMI) with asthma, asthma‐like symptoms, and lung functions in Chinese schoolchildren.

Methods

Data from a survey of 2,179 children aged 10.04 ± 0.85 years in Guangzhou, China were analyzed. Children's history of respiratory symptoms/diseases and other potential confounders were obtained by standardized questionnaires. Anthropometric and spirometry tests were performed in all subjects. Children were categorized as “normal weight,” “overweight,” and “obesity” using Chinese Obesity cut‐off points based on age‐ and gender‐specific BMI values.

Results

Being overweight was significantly associated with an increased risk of cough with cold (odds ratio, OR 1.60; 95% CI 1.01–2.55) in boys, and phlegm with cold (OR 2.46; 95% CI 1.25–4.85) and cough without cold (OR 2.91; 95% CI 1.05–8.08) in girls. Being obese was positively associated with an increased risk of phlegm with cold (OR 1.69; 95% CI 1.04–2.87) in boys, and wheezing (OR 3.82; 95% CI 1.28–11.42) and wheezing with cold in girls (OR 8.75; 95% CI 2.11–36.34). The forced vital capacity (FVC) increased with BMI in all children, overweight boys and obese girls also had significantly higher forced expiratory volume in 1 sec (FEV1) than those with normal weight.

Conclusions

Our findings demonstrate that overweight and obesity are high risks for children's respiratory symptoms and diseases. Pulmonary function was not adversely affected by obesity in schoolchildren. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2009; 44:997–1002. ©2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Pulmonary function changes in children after transcatheter closure of atrial septal defect
Authors: Lee Yu‐Sheng , Jeng Mei‐Jy , Tsao Pei‐Chen , Yang Chia‐Feng , Soong Wen‐Jue , Hwang Betau , Tang Ran‐Bin
Published: September 2009

This study was performed to assess changes in pulmonary function test (PFT) and pulmonary outcome after transcatheter closure of atrial septal defect (ASD) in pediatric patients. A total 55 pediatric patients undergoing transcatheter ASD closure received PFT at baseline (day before ASD closure), and at 3 days and 6 months after procedure. Forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expired volume in 1 sec (FEV1), FEV1 to FVC ratio (FEV1/FVC), peak expiratory flow (PEF), and mean forced expiratory flow during the middle half of FVC (FEF25–75) were measured. Individually, subjects were classified by spirometry as normal, obstructive or restrictive, to evaluate the effect of transcatheter closure on pulmonary outcome. These 55 children had significantly reduced mean PEF and FEF25–75 (84 ± 24%, P = 0.040 and 76 ± 22%, P = 0.010, respectively) at baseline, with FEF25–75 reduced significantly at 3 days and 6 months (78 ± 24%, P = 0.010 and 81 ± 24%, P = 0.040, respectively) after transcatheter closure. Six months after transcatheter closure of ASD, significant improvement was observed in mean FVC (94 ± 19% vs. 98 ± 15%, P = 0.034) and FEV1 (90 ± 20% vs. 96 ± 19%, P = 0.008). Assessed individually, better pulmonary outcome was found in patients without pulmonary hypertension (PH) (χ2 = 8.333, P = 0.044). PFT disturbance was observed in significant flow limitation in the peripheral airway of ASD patients. Improved PFT was found after transcatheter closure and better pulmonary outcome was observed in patients without PH. ASD children need monitoring pulmonary function and should receive transcatheter closure before PH develops. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2009; 44:1025–1032. ©2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Effect of Nano‐Aluminum and Fumed Silica Particles on Deflagration and Detonation of Nitromethane
Authors: Sabourin Justin L. , Yetter Richard A. , Asay Blaine W. , Lloyd Joseph M. , Sanders Victor E. , Risha Grant A. , Son Steven F.
Published: September 2009

The heterogeneous interaction between nitromethane (NM), particles of nanoscale aluminum (38 and 80 nm diameter), and fumed silica is examined in terms of the deflagration and detonation characteristics. Burning rates are quantified as functions of pressure using an optical pressure vessel up to 14.2 MPa, while detonation structure is characterized in terms of failure diameter. Nitromethane is gelled using fumed silica (CAB‐O‐SIL®), as well as by the nanoaluminum particles themselves. Use of nanoaluminum particles with fumed silica slightly increases burning rates compared to the use of larger diameter Al particles; however distinct increases in burning rates are found when CAB‐O‐SIL is removed and replaced with more energetic aluminum nanoparticles, whose high surface area allows them to also act as the gellant. Mixtures including fumed silica yield a reduced burning rate pressure exponent compared to neat NM, while mixtures of aluminum particles alone show a significant increase. Failure diameters of mixture detonations are found to vary significantly as a function of 38 nm aluminum particle loading, reducing more than 50% from that of neat nitromethane with 12.5% (by mass) aluminum loading. Failure diameter results indicate a relative minimum with respect to particle separation (% loading) which is not observed in other heterogeneous mixtures.
Structural model of ρ1 GABAC receptor based on evolutionary analysis: Testing of predicted protein–protein interactions involved in receptor assembly and function
Authors: Adamian Larisa , Gussin Hélène A. , Tseng Yan Yuan , Muni Niraj J. , Feng Feng , Qian Haohua , Pepperberg David R. , Liang Jie
Published: September 2009

The homopentameric ρ1 GABAC receptor is a ligand‐gated ion channel with a binding pocket for γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) at the interfaces of N‐terminal extracellular domains. We combined evolutionary analysis, structural modeling, and experimental testing to study determinants of GABAC receptor assembly and channel gating. We estimated the posterior probability of selection pressure at amino acid residue sites measured as ω‐values and built a comparative structural model, which identified several polar residues under strong selection pressure at the subunit interfaces that may form intersubunit hydrogen bonds or salt bridges. At three selected sites (R111, T151, and E55), mutations disrupting intersubunit interactions had strong effects on receptor folding, assembly, and function. We next examined the role of a predicted intersubunit salt bridge for residue pair R158–D204. The mutant R158D, where the positively charged residue is replaced by a negatively charged aspartate, yielded a partially degraded receptor and lacked membrane surface expression. The membrane surface expression was rescued by the double mutant R158D–D204R, where positive and negative charges are switched, although the mutant receptor was inactive. The single mutants R158A, D204R, and D204A exhibited diminished activities and altered kinetic profiles with fast recovery kinetics, suggesting that R158–D204 salt bridge perhaps stabilizes the open state of the GABAC receptor. Our results emphasize the functional importance of highly conserved polar residues at the protein–protein interfaces in GABAC ρ1 receptors and demonstrate how the integration of computational and experimental approaches can aid discovery of functionally important interactions.
Controllable protein cleavages through intein fragment complementation
Authors: Volkmann Gerrit , Sun Wenchang , Liu Xiang‐Qin
Published: September 2009

Intein‐based protein cleavages, if carried out in a controllable way, can be useful tools of recombinant protein purification, ligation, and cyclization. However, existing methods using contiguous inteins were often complicated by spontaneous cleavages, which could severely reduce the yield of the desired protein product. Here we demonstrate a new method of controllable cleavages without any spontaneous cleavage, using an artificial S1 split‐intein consisting of an 11‐aa N‐intein (IN) and a 144‐aa C‐intein (IC). In a C‐cleavage design, the IC sequence was embedded in a recombinant precursor protein, and the small IN was used as a synthetic peptide to trigger a cleavage at the C‐terminus of IC. In an N‐cleavage design, the short IN sequence was embedded in a recombinant precursor protein, and the separately produced IC protein was used to catalyze a cleavage at the N‐terminus of IN. These N‐ and C‐cleavages showed >95% efficiency, and both successfully avoided any spontaneous cleavage during expression and purification of the precursor proteins. The N‐cleavage design also revealed an unexpected and interesting structural flexibility of the IC protein. These findings significantly expand the effectiveness of intein‐based protein cleavages, and they also reveal important insights of intein structural flexibility and fragment complementation.
KING (Kinemage, Next Generation): A versatile interactive molecular and scientific visualization program
Authors: Chen Vincent B. , Davis Ian W. , Richardson David C.
Published: September 2009

Proper visualization of scientific data is important for understanding spatial relationships. Particularly in the field of structural biology, where researchers seek to gain an understanding of the structure and function of biological macromolecules, it is important to have access to visualization programs which are fast, flexible, and customizable. We present KiNG, a Java program for visualizing scientific data, with a focus on macromolecular visualization. KiNG uses the kinemage graphics format, which is tuned for macromolecular structures, but is also ideal for many other kinds of spatially embedded information. KiNG is written in cross‐platform, open‐source Java code, and can be extended by end users through simple or elaborate “plug‐in” modules. Here, we present three such applications of KiNG to problems in structural biology (protein backbone rebuilding), bioinformatics of high‐dimensional data (e.g., protein sidechain chi angles), and classroom education (molecular illustration). KiNG is a mature platform for rapidly creating and capitalizing on scientific visualizations. As a research tool, it is invaluable as a test bed for new methods of visualizing scientific data and information. It is also a powerful presentation tool, whether for structure browsing, teaching, direct 3D display on the web, or as a method for creating pictures and videos for publications. KiNG is freely available for download at http://kinemage.biochem.duke.edu.
The crystal structure of the AF2331 protein from Archaeoglobus fulgidus DSM 4304 forms an unusual interdigitated dimer with a new type of α + β fold
Authors: Wang Shuren , Kirillova Olga , Chruszcz Maksymilian , Gront Dominik , Zimmerman Matthew D. , Cymborowski Marcin T. , Shumilin Igor A. , Skarina Tatiana , Gorodichtchenskaia Elena , Savchenko Alexei , Edwards Aled M. , Minor Wladek
Published: September 2009

The structure of AF2331, a 11‐kDa orphan protein of unknown function from Archaeoglobus fulgidus, was solved by Se‐Met MAD to 2.4 Å resolution. The structure consists of an α + β fold formed by an unusual homodimer, where the two core β‐sheets are interdigitated, containing strands alternating from both subunits. The decrease in solvent‐accessible surface area upon dimerization is unusually large (3960 Å2) for a protein of its size. The percentage of the total surface area buried in the interface (41.1%) is one of the largest observed in a nonredundant set of homodimers in the PDB and is above the mean for nearly all other types of homo‐oligomers. AF2331 has no sequence homologs, and no structure similar to AF2331 could be found in the PDB using the CE, TM‐align, DALI, or SSM packages. The protein has been identified in Pfam 23.0 as the archetype of a new superfamily and is topologically dissimilar to all other proteins with the “3‐Layer (BBA) Sandwich” fold in CATH. Therefore, we propose that AF2331 forms a novel α + β fold. AF2331 contains multiple negatively charged surface clusters and is located on the same operon as the basic protein AF2330. We hypothesize that AF2331 and AF2330 may form a charge‐stabilized complex in vivo, though the role of the negatively charged surface clusters is not clear.
Development of risk‐based process safety indicators
Authors: Khan Faisal , Abunada Hasan , John David , Benmosbah Toufik
Published: September 2009

Process safety performance indicators are applied to monitor and improve the safety of process plants. One of the most important and challenging issues for process safety is the early recognition of deterioration in safety performance caused by operation, maintenance, management, organization, and safety culture factors before actual events and/or mishaps occur. Most existing safety performance indicators are “lagging” indicators meaning that they monitor events after their occurrence.

This article presents a risk‐based approach to measure process safety using a set of safety performance indicators. This approach uses a risk metric as a means to classify process safety. Risk provides a common ground to integrate the two main indicator types of leading and lagging indicators. It is important to note that lagging and leading indicators have a relationship, which is often ignored. The proposed methodology is a structured approach, which builds upon UK's Health Safety Executive recommended process safety indicator development framework. At present, work efforts have been made to develop a set of indicators with a common background to measure process safety. This article demonstrates a hierarchical risk aggregation approach which is used to aggregate indictors. This work was carried out with the help of the Loss Prevention Division of Qatargas Operating Company Limited (Qatargas), a Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) company. Finally, the applicability of the approach is demonstrated by a case study on a liquefied natural gas facility. The result of this study shows a relationship between the leading and lagging indicators which together contribute to the improvement of process safety performance. © 2009 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Process Saf Prog, 2010
The inherent flexibility of peptides and protein fragments quantitized by CD in conjunction with CCA+
Authors: Jákli Imre , Perczel András
Published: September 2009

ECD spectroscopy is traditionally used for rapid, non‐atomic level structure analysis of natural products such as peptides and proteins. Unlike globular proteins, peptides less frequently adopt a single 3D‐fold in a time average manner. Moreover, they exhibit an ensemble of conformers composed of a multitude of substantially different structures. In principle, both ECD‐ and vibrational circular dichroism (VCD)‐spectroscopy are sensitive enough to pick up structural information on these dynamic ensembles. However, the interpretation of the raw spectral data of these highly dynamic molecular systems can be cumbersome. The herein presented Convex Constraint Analysis Plus method, or CCA+ for short (http://www.chem.elte.hu/departments/protnmr/cca/), provides a unique opportunity for spectral ensemble analysis of peptides, glycopeptides, peptidomimetics, and other foldamers. The precision and accuracy of the approach is presented here through different peptide model systems. An interesting temperature and pH dependent folding and unfolding of a miniprotein (e.g. Tc5b variant) is also described. Analysis of CD spectra sets strongly affected by solvent and ion type is also introduced to account for severe environmental‐induced structure influencing effect(s). The deconvolution makes always possible the quantitative data analysis even when the interpretation of the deconvolution resulted in pure CD curves is complex. Copyright © 2009 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Lead‐free piezoelectric (Na0.5Bi0.5)0.94TiO3–Ba0.06TiO3 nanofiber by electrospinning
Authors: Chen Y. Q. , Zheng X. J. , Feng X. , Zhang D. Z. , Dai S. H.
Published: September 2009

Lead‐free (Na0.5Bi0.5)0.94TiO3–Ba0.06TiO3 (NBT‐BT6) nanofibers were synthesized by the sol–gel process and electrospinning, and a butterfly‐shaped piezoelectric response was measured by scanning force microscopy. NBT‐BT6 nanofibers with perovskite phase were formed, after being cleaned at 700 °C for 1 hour, and the diameters are in the range of 150 nm to 300 nm. The average value of the effective piezoelectric coefficient d33 is 102 pm/V. The high piezoelectricity may be attributed to the easiness for the electric field to tilt the polar vector of the domain and to the increase of the possible spontaneous polarization direction. There is a potential for the application of NBT‐BT6 nanofibers in nanoscale piezoelectric devices. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Mechanism for the gas‐phase hydrogen fluoride‐mediated decomposition of peroxyacetyl nitrate (PAN) studied by DFT method
Authors: Zhao Xiao‐Xia , Liu Feng‐Ling
Published: September 2009

Density functional theory has been used to study the mechanism of the decomposition of peroxyacetyl nitrate (CH3C(O)OONO2) in hydrogen fluoride clusters containing one to three hydrogen fluoride molecules at the B3LYP/6‐311++G(d,p) and B3LYP/6‐311+G(3df,3pd) levels. The calculations clarify some of the uncertainties in the mechanism of PAN decomposition in the gas phase. The energy barrier decreases from 30.5 kcal mol−1 (single hydrogen fluoride) to essentially 18.5 kcal mol−1 when catalyzed by three hydrogen fluoride molecules. As the size of the hydrogen fluoride cluster is increased, PAN shows increasing ionization along the ON bond, consistent with the proposed predissociation in which the electrophilicity of the nitrogen atom is enhanced. This reaction is found to proceed through an attack of a fluorine to the PAN nitrogen in concert with a proton transfer to a PAN oxygen. On the basis of our calculations, an alternative reaction mechanism for the decomposition of PAN is proposed. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2010
Modelling brown trout spatial requirements through physical habitat simulations
Authors: Ayllón D. , Almodóvar A. , Nicola G.G. , Elvira B.
Published: September 2009

Territorial behaviour is often considered the main mechanism regulating salmonid populations and territory size regarded as the proximate factor that limits abundance, being mainly determined by body size. Despite the spatial requirements of young‐of‐the‐year (YOY) brown trout,Salmo trutta, have been previously established, there is still a gap in the knowledge about the spatial needs of older individuals. Therefore, we aimed to develop an allometric territory size relationship for YOY, juvenile and adult trout. Territory size was inferred from 12‐year demographic data and physical habitat simulations performed at 10 pristine sites where populations showed high and stable densities. When compared to previous models in salmonids, results revealed not only interspecific but also intraspecific significant differences in the size of territories used by individuals of comparable size. Interestingly, the explanatory power of the derived allometric territory size relationships was similar to previous models based on individual observational data. It suggested that despite the fact that results obtained from population data cannot explicitly describe territorial behaviour of individuals, they may represent accurately their spatial requirements. Finally, results suggested that territory volume, and not territory area, scaled with body size at a rate consistent with brown trout metabolic rate, the scaling rate being highly constant at any level of simulated proportion of nonterritorial fish in the population. Consequently, if individuals must increase territories to fulfil energetic demands, the allometry of territory volume seems a better predictor of spatial requirements than territory area. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Combining meteorological radar and network of rain gauges data for space–time model development
Authors: Pastoriza V. , Núñez A. , Machado F. , Mariño P. , Fontán F. P. , Fiebig U.‐C.
Published: September 2009

Technological developments and the trend to go higher and higher in frequency give rise to the need for true space–time rain field models for testing the dynamics of fade countermeasures. There are many models that capture the spatial correlation of rain fields. Worth mentioning are those models based on cell ensembles. However, the rain rate fields created in this way need the introduction of the time variable to reproduce their dynamics. In this paper, we have concentrated on addressing the time domain effects while we have relied on existing spatial rain field models for creating initial fields, which are propagated (advected) according to proposed models and assumptions, some of which have been drawn from a combined use of a concurrent weather radar and a network of rain gauges. The dynamic modeling presented simulates the advection of a synthetically generated rain field according to dynamic, spatially correlated advection fields extracted from the analysis of weather radar images. Experimental data and model fits have been presented as well. Further ideas on how to improve the realism of the generated dynamic fields have also been presented. Furthermore, the limitations of radar data, especially those related to their limited time resolution, for the required space–time models have been pointed out. These can be overcome by using data from a network of rain gauges. However, it is important to be aware of the similarities and differences between these two sources. A comparative study of these two data sets has also been presented. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Quantitative and qualitative methods using fluorescence microscopy for the study of modified low density lipoproteins uptake
Authors: Leyva Francisco J. , Pershouse Mark A.
Published: September 2009

Atherosclerosis and heart disease are the main cause of death in United States. The development of atherosclerosis includes lipid deposition and foam cell formation in the artery wall. Scavenger Receptors A‐I and II (SRA‐I/II) have an important role of in foam cell formation and atherogenesis. Most of the SRA‐I/II studies had been performed using Iodine‐125‐radiolabeled modified low‐density lipoprotein. This report attempts to validate the use of fluorescence microscopy techniques as an alternative to obtain qualitative and quantitative information of the uptake of fluorescence‐labeled acetylated low‐density lipoprotein (AcLDL) in adherent CHO cells expressing SRA‐I/II. After verifying the protein expression of SRA‐I and II, uptake was quantified using a Laser Scan Cytometer, and images of cells containing fluorescent AcLDL were obtained. A significant increase in fluorescence was found in the cells transfected with SRA‐I/II vs. those with empty vector. When SRA‐I/II competitive ligands were used, the uptake of AcLDL was significantly decreased. In conclusion, the use of fluorescence microscopy techniques in obtaining qualitative and quantitative information of the uptake of fluorescence‐labeled AcLDL by adherent cells, such as CHO cells, is an alternative to the traditional use of radiolabeled iodine. SCANNING 31: 167–173, 2009. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Nonparametric non‐inferiority analyses in the three‐arm design with active control and placebo
Authors: Munzel Ullrich
Published: September 2009

The three‐arm design with test treatment, reference treatment and placebo offers internal assay sensitivity for a proof of non‐inferiority. In this design the relative effects known from nonparametric theory are robust tools allowing the assessment of non‐inferiority in a range of situations. An asymptotic nonparametric theory is established in the three‐arm design based on the asymptotic distribution of rank means under alternative. A rank test for non‐inferiority is derived. Fieller's formula is used to calculate a respective confidence interval. The approach is expanded to multicentre studies. The simulation studies are conducted demonstrating the accuracy of the methods and an example is discussed. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Control of the in vivo Biodistribution of Hybrid Nanoparticles with Different Poly(ethylene glycol) Coatings
Authors: Faure Anne‐Charlotte , Dufort Sandrine , Josserand Véronique , Perriat Pascal , Coll Jean‐Luc , Roux Stéphane , Tillement Olivier
Published: September 2009

Fluorescent nanoparticles containing a gadolinium oxide core are very attractive because they are able to combine both imaging (fluorescence imaging, magnetic resonance imaging) and therapy (X‐ray therapy and neutron‐capture therapy) techniques. The exploitation of these multifunctional particles for in vivo applications requires accurate control of their biodistribution. The postfunctionalization of these particles by four different poly(ethylene glycol) derivatives, which differ by chain length and end group, exerts a great influence on the ζ potential of the nanoparticles and on their biodistribution after intravenous injection to HEK‐β3‐tumor‐bearing mice. This study reveals that the behavior of PEGylated nanoparticles, which was monitored by in vivo fluorescence imaging, depends on both the chain length and the end group of the PEG chain.
Colorado State University
Authors: McKelfresh David A. , Bender Kim K.
Published: September 2009

This chapter provides a glimpse of student affairs assessment at Colorado State University including a specific example of assessment, tips to implementing assessment at your institution, and barriers encountered when implementing the process at Colorado State University.
Paradise Valley Community College
Authors: Dale Paul A.
Published: September 2009

This chapter provides a glimpse of student affairs assessment at Paradise Valley Community College including a specific example of assessment, tips to implementing assessment at your institution, and barriers encountered when implementing the process at Paradise Valley Community College.
California State University, Sacramento
Authors: Varlotta Lori E.
Published: September 2009

This chapter provides a glimpse of student affairs assessment at California State University, Sacramento, including a specific example of assessment, tips to implementing assessment at your institution, and barriers encountered when implementing the process at California State University, Sacramento.
Widener University
Authors: Valesey Brigitte , Allen Jo
Published: September 2009

This chapter provides a glimpse of student affairs assessment at Widener University including a specific example of assessment, tips to implementing assessment at your institution, and barriers encountered when implementing the process at Widener University.
Modeling the architecture and dynamics of hematopoiesis
Authors: Dingli David , Pacheco Jorge M.
Published: September 2009

Hematopoiesis is a multistep process that results in the production of a variety of blood cells with different morphologies and diverse functions. All of these cells have their origin in hematopoietic stem cells Hematopoietic Stem Cells (HSCs) that replicate slowly to self‐renew and give rise to progeny cells that proceed along the path of differentiation. The process is complex with the cells responding to a wide variety of cytokines and growth factors. We discuss a model of hematopoiesis based on stochastic cell behavior. Multiple compartments are introduced to keep track of each cell division process and increasing differentiation. Despite its simplicity, the model is able to account for the salient features of hematopoiesis and is compatible with considerable and independent experimental data. The model is applicable to hematopoiesis across mammals and can be used to understand the dynamics of various disorders both in humans and in animal models. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

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Developmental Biology > Lineages
Synthesis, Crystal Structure, and Spectrum Properties of Cobalt(II) Complexes Based on Tridentate 1,3‐Bis(benzimidazol‐2‐yl)‐2‐oxopropane Ligand and Derivative
Authors: Wu Huilu , Yun Ruirui , Wang Kaitong , Li Ke , Huang Xingcai , Sun Tao
Published: September 2009

Two new cobalt(II) complexes [Co(obb)2](pic)2·3(C2H3N) (1) and [Co(Etobb)2](pic)2·2DMF (2) were prepared by the reaction of cobalt(II) picrate with the ligands 1,3‐bis(benzimidazol‐2‐yl)‐2‐oxopropane (obb) and 1,3‐bis(1‐ethylbenzimidazol‐2‐yl)‐2‐oxopropane (Etobb), respectively. Single crystal X‐ray diffraction revealed that [Co(obb)2]2+ and [Co(Etobb)2]2+ have a different arrangement. In complex 1 the coordination sphere around cobalt(II) is distorted tetrahedral, whereas in complex 2 the coordination sphere around cobalt(II) is distorted octahedral (where the N4 equatorial plane is formed by four benzimidazoles nitrogen atoms and the axial positions are occupied by two oxygen atoms from the two ligands). The complexes were also identified by IR and UV/Vis spectroscopy.
Hydrothermal Synthesis, Crystal Structure, and Characterizations of a New Lanthanide Oxalatophosphonate with a 3D Framework Structure
Authors: Zhang Na , Huang Cui‐Ying , Sun Zhen‐Gang , Liu Lei , Hua Rui‐Nian , Lu Xin , Tong Fei , Wang Wei‐Nan
Published: September 2009

A new lanthanide oxalatophosphonate with a 3D framework, [Nd2(HL)(C2O4)2(H2O)3]·H2O (1) (H3L = HOOCC5H9NCH2PO3H2) was synthesized by hydrothermal reaction at 140 °C by using carboxyphosphonic acid as phosphonate ligand and oxalate as additional metal linker. It was structurally characterized by single‐crystal as well as powder X‐ray diffraction methods, infrared spectroscopy, elemental analysis, and thermogravimetric analysis. In compound 1, the interconnection of the neodymium(III) ions by chelating and bridging oxalate anions leads to a neodymium oxalate layer, these layers are further bridged by carboxyphosphonate ligands to form a 3D framework structure. It is interesting that the result of these connections is the formation of 20‐ and 16‐atom rings that are parallel to one another and run in the b axis direction.
Appraisal of the Imaizumi modification of the Beger procedure: the TWMU experience
Authors: Hatori Takashi , Imaizumi Toshihide , Harada Nobuhiko , Fukuda Akira , Suzuki Mamoru , Hanyu Fujio , Yamamoto Masakazu
Published: September 2009

Background/purpose

We developed the Imaizumi modification of the Beger procedure, a duodenum‐preserving pancreatic head resection. The Imaizumi modification allows for removal of more of the subtotal pancreatic head than in the conventional Beger procedure, including the intrapancreatic bile duct, for chronic pancreatitis with common bile duct stenosis. A retrospective study was performed to evaluate the efficacy of the Imaizumi modification compared to a pylorus‐preserving pancreaticoduodenectomy (PPPD), based on the early and late postoperative results.

Methods

A group of 14 patients who underwent the Beger procedure with the Imaizumi modification to treat chronic pancreatitis from November 1997 to December 2005 was investigated retrospectively. This group was compared to a group of 21 patients who underwent PPPD from November 1997 to December 2003. The median follow‐up period was 3.6 years (range 3.1–5.7 years) for the Imaizumi modification group and 4.0 years (range 3.0–8.3 years) for the PPPD group.

Results

A pancreatic fistula formed in 7% of the Imaizumi modification patients (PPPD 5%), pain relief was achieved in 92% (PPPD 94%), complete professional rehabilitation was achieved in 71% (PPPD 67%), insulin‐dependent diabetes mellitus was present in 43 versus 36% before the procedure (PPPD 62 versus 38% before the procedure), and body weight improved in 79% (PPPD 48%). No significant differences were found between the two groups for the early postoperative complications and the late postoperative outcome 3 years after the procedure. However, the Imaizumi modification group exhibited an encouraging tendency to have a lower rate of new‐onset exocrine and endocrine insufficiency than the PPPD group.

Conclusions

Our Imaizumi modification of the Beger procedure, including intrapancreatic bile duct resection, represents a useful alternative for the treatment of chronic pancreatitis with an inflammatory mass and bile duct stenosis in the pancreatic head.
Prevalence of classical phenylketonuria in mentally retarded individuals in Iran
Authors: Ghiasvand N. M. , Aledavood A. , Ghiasvand R. , Seyedin Borojeny F. , Aledavood A. R. , Seyed S. , Miner W. , Saeb Taheri G. R.
Published: September 2009

Using Guthrie Biological Inhibition Assay, 4963 mentally retarded individuals housed in 31 cities and towns across the country were screened for PKU. The average prevalence of classical PKU in the study population was 2.1%, which is higher than that reported for most mentally retarded populations in other countries prior to the implementation of a nationwide newborn screening programme for PKU. The prevalence of PKU in 1814 mentally retarded inmates housed in shelters in Tehran was 2.81%, and the prevalence of the disease in 3149 inmates sheltered in other cities and towns was 1.68%. It appears that most of the difference between the prevalence of PKU in these two populations is due to a unique PKU referral pattern in Iran. The high prevalence of PKU in the mentally retarded population in Iran could be indicative of a high incidence of the disease among Iranian neonates. This in turn appears to be positively influenced by both a high frequency of the PKU allele and a high rate of consanguinity in the country. Our finding suggests that instead of limited local screening programmes in the country, a nationwide screening programme for PKU, especially if coupled with screening for congenital hypothyroidism, would be highly cost‐effective and warranted.
Transport Properties of Two-dimensional Snowballs Below the Surface of 4He-II Under Rotation
Authors: Takahashi Daisuke , Ikegami Hiroki , Kono Kimitoshi
Published: September 2009

Kelvin-waves play an important role for the dissipation of quantum turbulence at low temperatures. Here the plasma resonance of two-dimensional (2D) snowballs trapped below the surface of rotating superfluid 4He are measured for the first time in order to examine whether 2D snowballs could be a new probe for study of vortex dynamics. Below 200 mK, a positive shift of the resonant frequency f1 and linewidth broadening are observed as small variations in the absorption spectra under rotation. Both f1 and the linewidth Δf increase linearly with the rotation speed, and the slopes of f1 and Δf against the rotation speed have no temperature dependence. The increase of Δf suggests that an additional dissipation is caused by the coupling between the snowballs and vortices. We provide a qualitative explanation for the linear increase of Δf in the context of Kelvin-waves excited by the motion of snowballs.
Nutrient relocation, hydrological functions, and soil chemistry in plantations as compared to natural forests in central Yunnan, China
Authors: Hou Xiuli , Duan Changqun , Tang Cindy Q. , Fu Denggao
Published: September 2009

The relocation of nutrients among dominant plant species, along with hydrological functions and soil chemistry in five plant communities, including Eucalyptus plantation, Pinus plantation, shrubland, semi‐natural, and natural secondary forests were investigated in central Yunnan, China. The nutrient P, N, and K accumulation in above‐ground biomass of Eucalyptus smithii (stems, barks, branches, and leaves) were the highest, followed by Pinus yunnanensis of both the Pinus plantation and the semi‐natural forest. The nutrient retranslocation efficiency (NRE) of E. smithii was the highest for nutrient P, N, and K with values of 56, 66, and 67%, respectively, among the dominant plant species of the five plant communities, while the NRE of P. yunnanensis in Pinus plantation had the second highest value of NRE for nutrient N. The nutrient content (available P, N, and soil organic matter) in the upper two soil layers under Eucalyptus and Pinus plantations was correspondingly found to be lower than that of the other forests. Moreover, under the Eucalyptus and Pinus plantations, surface runoff, soil erosion, and nutrient loss were more serious, and the water storage of litterfall and canopy interception were significantly lower than that in the other plant communities. Accordingly, we suggest that single‐species plantations cannot present the same ecological benefits as natural forests, because of their simple, uniform structures, and the characteristics of the dominant plant species.
Importance of neural mechanisms in colonic mucosal and muscular dysfunction in adult rats following neonatal colonic irritation
Authors: Chaloner A. , Rao A. , Al‐Chaer E.D. , Greenwood‐Van Meerveld B.
Published: September 2009

Previous studies have shown that early life trauma induced by maternal separation or colonic irritation leads to hypersensitivity to colorectal distension in adulthood. We tested the hypothesis that repetitive colorectal distension in neonates leads to abnormalities in colonic permeability and smooth muscle function in the adult rat. In neonatal rats, repetitive colorectal distension was performed on days 8, 10, and 12. As adults, stool consistency was graded from 0 (formed stool) to 3 (liquid stool). Colonic tissue was isolated for histology and myeloperoxidase levels. The colonic mucosa was placed in modified Ussing chambers for measurements of permeability and short‐circuit current responses to forskolin, electrical field stimulation, and carbachol. Segments of colonic musculature were placed in organ baths and contractile response to potassium chloride, electrical field stimulation, and carbachol were determined. In adult rats that experienced neonatal colonic irritation, no significant changes in colonic histology or myeloperoxidase activity were observed; however, stool consistency scores were increased. Mucosal permeability, measured as an increase in basal conductance, was significantly increased but no changes in short‐circuit current responses were observed. In adulthood, rats that underwent colorectal distension as neonates exhibited an elevated smooth muscle contractile response to potassium chloride, but no changes in response to electrical field stimulation or carbachol. In summary, neonatal colonic irritation, shown previously to produce colonic hypersensitivity, leads to significant alterations in colonic mucosal and smooth muscle function characterized by loose stools, increased mucosal permeability, and increased smooth muscle contractility in the absence of colon inflammation in adulthood.