bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Zinc salts differentially modulate DNA damage in normal and cancer cells
Authors: Sliwinski Tomasz , Czechowska Agnieszka , Kolodziejczak Magdalena , Jajte Jolanta , Wisniewska‐Jarosinska Maria , Blasiak Janusz
Published: March 2009

Zinc plays an essential role in a wide range of cellular processes, including defense against free radicals and maintaining genomic stability. The presence of zinc in some proteins is fundamental for their functioning as transcription factors. Little is known about interaction between zinc and DNA, which can be important in light of reports on the role of zinc in cancer transformation and sometimes contradictory character of these reports. In the present study we studied cyto‐ and genotoxicity of zinc sulfate (ZnSO4) in normal human lymphocytes and human myelogenous lukemia K562 cancer cells in the presence of zinc and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). Zinc at concentrations from the range 10–1000 μM decreased the viability of cancer cells and this effect, especially for low concentrations of the element, was much more pronounced than in normal cells. Zinc did not induce DNA damage in normal cells, but did so in cancer cells. We observed a key difference between the action of zinc in normal and cancer cells in the presence of H2O2, since the element exerted a protective effect against cyto‐ and geno‐toxic action of H2O2 in the former, whereas it increased such action in the latter. Zinc inhibited the repair of DNA damage induced by H2O2 in cancer cells. The results suggest that zinc may protect normal cells against DNA‐damaging action and increase this action in cancer cells, which indicates the dual action of this element in dependency of target cells and can be useful in cancer therapy.
Induction of apoptosis by Hax‐1 siRNA in melanoma cells
Authors: Li Wen‐Bin , Feng Jie , Geng Song‐Mei , Zhang Peng‐Yu , Yan Xiao‐Ning , Hu Gang , Zhang Cai‐Qing , Shi Bing‐Jun
Published: March 2009

HS1‐associated protein X‐1 (Hax‐1) is a novel intracellular protein and recent studies suggested that it is an anti‐apoptotic factor in different tumors. Hax‐1 expression was upregulated in various metastatic tumors and cancer cell lines, including melanoma. To understand the role of Hax‐1 in melanoma development and progression, we constructed Hax‐1 short interfering RNA (siRNA) expression vectors to downregulate Hax‐1 expression in a human melanoma A375 cell line. One of the two Hax‐1 RNA interference (RNAi) constructs significantly reduced melanoma cell viability, which was due to induction of apoptosis in A375 cells. Molecularly, the induced apoptosis through downregulation of Hax‐1 expression was mediated by activation of caspase‐3 and poly‐ADP‐ribose polymerase (PARP) enzymatic activity in A375 cells. The data indicate that Hax‐1 plays a role in suppression of apoptosis and promotion of melanoma cell growth, suggesting that this Hax‐1 siRNA has a therapeutic indication in control of melanoma.
Involvement of headless myosin X in the motility of immortalized gonadotropin‐releasing hormone neuronal cells
Authors: Wang Jun‐Jie , Fu Xiu‐Qing , Guo Yu‐Guang , Yuan Lin , Gao Qian‐Qian , Yu Hua‐Li , Shi Heng‐Liang , Wang Xing‐Zhi , Xiong Wen‐Cheng , Zhu Xiao‐Juan
Published: March 2009

Myosin X (Myo X), an unconventional myosin with a tail homology 4‐band 4.1/ezrin/radixin/moesin (MyTH4‐FERM) tail, is expressed ubiquitously in various mammalian tissues. In addition to the full‐length Myo X (Myo X FL), a headless form is synthesized in the brain. So far, little is known about the function of this motor‐less Myo X. In this study, the role of the headless Myo X was investigated in immortalized gonadotropin‐releasing hormone (GnRH) neuronal cells, NLT. NLT cells overexpressing the headless Myo X formed fewer focal adhesions and spread more slowly than the wild‐type NLT cells and GFP‐expressing NLT cells. In chemomigration assays, the NLT cells overexpressing the headless Myo X migrated shorter distances and had fewer migratory cells compared with the control NLT cells.
Leptin exerts an anti‐apoptotic effect on human dendritic cells via the PI3K‐Akt signaling pathway
Authors: Mattioli Benedetta , Giordani Luciana , Quaranta Maria Giovanna , Viora Marina
Published: March 2009

Leptin is an adipocyte‐derived hormone/cytokine that modulates immune responses. It induces functional and morphological changes in human dendritic cells (DCs), licensing them towards Th1 priming and promoting DC survival. Here we found that leptin protects DCs from spontaneous, UVB and H2O2‐induced apoptosis, by triggering the activation of nuclear factor‐kappa B (NF‐kB) and a parallel up‐regulation of bcl‐2 and bcl‐XL gene expression and Akt activation. We found that leptin activates the PI3K‐Akt signaling pathway as demonstrated by the suppression of the effect of leptin on DC survival by wortmannin and API‐2, which suppress the leptin‐induced activation of Akt, NF‐kB, bcl‐2, bcl‐XL and protection from apoptosis. These results provide insights on the immunoregulatory function of leptin, supporting a potential application in immunotherapeutic approaches.
Putative role for ABC multidrug exporters in yeast quorum sensing
Authors: Hlaváček Otakar , Kučerová Helena , Harant Karel , Palková Zdena , Váchová Libuše
Published: March 2009

Pleiotropic drug resistance (PDR) transporters play essential roles in cell resistance to various toxic compounds in various organisms including bacteria, mammals and yeasts. A large group of PDR transporters have been described in yeasts so far, including those that are controlled by transcription factor Pdr1p. Here, we show that besides their role in removing extracellularly added toxic compounds, the Pdr5p and Snq2p transporters play important physiological roles and significantly influence the developmental phases and physiology of yeast populations growing in a liquid culture. They appear to be involved in population quorum sensing, which consequently influences transcription factor Pdr1p level via feedback regulation.
Adipogenic differentiation of human induced pluripotent stem cells: Comparison with that of human embryonic stem cells
Authors: Taura Daisuke , Noguchi Michio , Sone Masakatsu , Hosoda Kiminori , Mori Eisaku , Okada Yohei , Takahashi Kazutoshi , Homma Koichiro , Oyamada Naofumi , Inuzuka Megumi , Sonoyama Takuhiro , Ebihara Ken , Tamura Naohisa , Itoh Hiroshi , Suemori Hirofumi , Nakatsuji Norio , Okano Hideyuki , Yamanaka Shinya , Nakao Kazuwa
Published: March 2009

Induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells were recently established from human fibroblasts. In the present study we investigated the adipogenic differentiation properties of four human iPS cell lines and compared them with those of two human embryonic stem (ES) cell lines. After 12 days of embryoid body formation and an additional 10 days of differentiation on Poly‐l‐ornithine and fibronectin‐ coated dishes with adipogenic differentiation medium, human iPS cells exhibited lipid accumulation and transcription of adipogenesis‐related molecules such as C/EBPα, PPARγ2, leptin and aP2. These results demonstrate that human iPS cells have an adipogenic potential comparable to human ES cells.
Telomere heterogeneity: Taking advantage of stochastic events
Authors: Tomaska Lubomir , Nosek Jozef
Published: March 2009

Various means employed to solve problems associated with the ends (telomeres) of linear DNA chromosomes exhibit one common feature: generation of both intra‐ and intercellular heterogeneity of telomeres at the level of their structural and functional states. We argue that this heterogeneity is not a simple by‐product of molecular pathways mediating telomere maintenance. Instead, we propose that these mechanisms were selected because they generate heterogeneity. Similarly as noise in gene expression, stochastic events at telomeres may have an adaptive value allowing cells to sustain viable and flexible populations, with implications for fields ranging from evolutionary biology to molecular medicine.
RETRACTED: Why proteins evolve at different rates: The functional hypothesis versus the mistranslation‐induced protein misfolding hypothesis
Authors: Park Donghyun , Choi Sun Shim
Published: March 2009

One of the conditions of submission of a paper for publication is that authors declare explicitly that their work is original and has not appeared in a publication elsewhere. Re‐use of any data should be appropriately cited. As such this article represents a severe abuse of the scientific publishing system. The scientific community takes a very strong view on this matter and we apologize to readers of the journal that this was not detected during the submission process.
Swift residue‐screening identifies key N‐glycosylated asparagines sufficient for surface expression of neuroglycoprotein Lingo‐1
Authors: Zhong Xiaotian , Pocas Jennifer , Liu Yan , Wu Paul W. , Mosyak Lidia , Somers Will , Kriz Ron
Published: March 2009

Advances in genomics and proteomics have generated the needs for the efficient identification of key residues for structure and function of target proteins. Here we report the utilization of a new residue‐screening approach, which combines a mammalian high‐throughput transient expression system with a PCR‐based expression cassette, for the study of the post‐translational modification. Applying this approach results in a quick identification of essential N‐glycosylation sites of a heavily glycosylated neuroglycoprotein Lingo‐1, which are sufficient for the support of its surface expression. These key N‐glycosylated sites uniquely locate on the concave surface of the elongated arc‐shape structure of the leucine‐rich repeat domain. The swift residue‐screening approach may provide a new strategy for structural and functional analysis.
HPV infection among women in a representative rural and suburban population of the USA
Authors: Lee Sin Hang , Vigliotti Veronica S. , Pappu Suri
Published: March 2009

Objective

To study the prevalence of low‐risk and high‐risk HPV genotypes in a largely suburban, non‐Hispanic, white female population of the USA, and to determine the positive predictive value of one‐occasion HPV detection and genotyping using high‐grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (HSIL) cytology as the endpoint for clinical evaluation.

Methods

HPV DNA present in liquid‐based cytology specimens collected by gynecologists in private practice was amplified using nested polymerase chain reaction. HPV DNA was validated by signature DNA sequencing for accurate genotyping.

Results

Of 2633 specimens, 278 were positive for HPV DNA of any genotype. Among 255 single HPV infections, the most prevalent genotype was HPV‐16 (n = 50; 19.6%), followed by HPV‐52 (n = 24; 9.4%). Only 10 specimens, all positive for a high‐risk HPV, were associated with an HSIL cytology result. Among them were 6 of the 50 specimens (12%) tested positive for HPV‐16. One novel HPV‐39 variant was detected in repeat testing in a patient with persistent HPV infection.

Conclusion

DNA sequencing is a useful method for increasing the specificity of HPV genotyping as an aid to follow persistent high‐risk HPV infections to reduce excessive colposcopies in populations with low cancer prevalence.
Polymorphisms in the interleukin‐22 receptor alpha‐1 gene are associated with severe chronic rhinosinusitis
Authors: Endam Leandra Mfuna , Bossé Yohan , Filali‐Mouhim Abdelali , Cormier Chantale , Boisvert Pierre , Boulet Louis‐Philippe , Hudson Thomas J. , Desrosiers Martin
Published: March 2009

Rationale

Stimulation of interleukin‐22 receptor alpha‐1 (IL22RA1) was reported to increase the innate immune responses in inflammatory diseases. Moreover, a reduced level of IL22RA1 was found in patients with recalcitrant CRS with nasal polyps.

Objective

To explore association between single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in IL22RA1 and severe CRS.

Methods

We extracted DNA from 206 cases with severe CRS and 196 postal code–matched controls. Twenty‐three SNPs in the IL22RA1 gene were selected from the pooling‐based genome‐wide association study and from the CEU HapMap dataset and genotyped. PLINK software was used to determine association.

Results

After Bonferroni correction, three SNPs (rs4292900 P nom = 0.0006, OR = 1.757; rs4648936 P nom = 0.0011, OR = 1.716; rs16829225 P nom = 0.0014, OR = 1.977) show significant differences in allelic frequencies between cases and controls.

Conclusion

Polymorphisms in IL22RA1 are associated with severe CRS. Replication and functional studies are involved to better understand the mechanism by which these polymorphisms contribute to the pathogenesis of CRS.
Endoscopic closure of CSF rhinorrhea: 193 cases over 21 years
Authors: Banks Caroline A. , Palmer James N. , Chiu Alexander G. , O'Malley Bert W. , Woodworth Bradford A. , Kennedy David W.
Published: March 2009

Objective

Endoscopic repair of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks has become a routine approach. This study describes endoscopic closure of a large series over 21 years, focusing on management, surgical technique, and long‐term outcomes.

Study Design

Chart review.

Subjects and Methods

CSF leak patients treated by the senior author and at the University of Pennsylvania from 1987 to 2008. The data included body mass index (BMI), etiology, defect location, graft material, presence of encephalocele, lumbar drain, history of meningitis, intracranial pressure, recurrence, and follow‐up.

Results

A total of 193 cases were identified. Follow‐up ranging from 1 month to 9 years (mean 21 months) was available on 166 patients. The etiology was spontaneous in 77 patients (40%), traumatic in 109 (56%), and congenital in 7 (4%). The average BMI of spontaneous CSF leak patients (35) was greater (P < 0.001) than both traumatic (30) and congenital patients (23). Defects were most commonly located in the sphenoid (n = 62, 32%) and ethmoid (n = 60, 31%) The initial success rate was 91 percent (n = 176) and overall success rate was 98 percent (n = 190).

Conclusion

The overall success rate (98%) and low morbidity in this large series support endoscopic approach as standard of care for CSF leak closure.
Uplift and active tectonics of southern Albania inferred from incision of alluvial terraces
Authors: Carcaillet J. , Mugnier J.L. , Koçi R. , Jouanne F.
Published: March 2009

In Albania, the Osum and Vjoje rivers cross the active graben system and the active frontal thrust system of the Albanides. The effects of climatic and geodynamic forcing on the development of these two rivers were investigated by the means of field mapping, topographic surveying and absolute exposure-age dating. We established the chronology of terraces abandonment from the compilation of new dating (14C andin situproduced10Be) and previously published data. We identified nine fluvial terraces units developed since Marine Isotope Stage 6 up to historic times. From this reconstituted history, we quantified the vertical uplift on a time scale shorter than the glacial climatic cycle. Regional bulging produces an overall increase of the incision rate from the west to the east that reaches a maximum value of 2.8 m/ka in the hinterland. Local pulses of incision are generated by activation of normal faults. The most active faults have a SW–NE trend and a vertical slip rate ranging from 1.8 to 2.2 m/ka. This study outlines the geodynamic control in the development of rivers flowing through the Albanides on the scale of 103–105ka.
Stable isotopes of a subfossilTamarixtree from the Dead Sea region, Israel, and their implications for the Intermediate Bronze Age environmental crisis
Authors: Frumkin Amos
Published: March 2009

Trees growing on the Mt. Sedom salt diapir, at the southern Dead Sea shore, were swept by runoff into salt caves and subsequently deposited therein, sheltered from surface weathering. A subfossilTamarixtree trunk, found in a remote section of Sedom Cave is radiocarbon dated to between ∼ 2265 and 1930 BCE. It was sampled in 109 points across the tree rings for carbon and nitrogen isotopes. The SedomTamarixdemonstrates a few hundred years of13C and15N isotopic enrichment, culminating in extremely high δ13C and δ15N values. Calibration using modernTamarixstable isotopes in various climatic settings in Israel shows direct relationship between isotopic enrichment and climate deterioration, particularly rainfall decrease. The subfossilTamarixprobably reflects an environmental crisis during the Intermediate Bronze Age, which subsequently killed the tree ∼ 1930 BCE. This period coincides with the largest historic fall of the Dead Sea level, as well as the demise of the large regional urban center of the 3rd millennium BCE. The environmental crisis may thus explain the archaeological evidence of a shift from urban to pastoral culture during the Intermediate Bronze Age. This was apparently the most severe long-term historical drought that affected the region in the mid-late Holocene.
A natural obturator in hereditary haemorrhagic telangiectasia
Authors: Soni-Jaiswal A , Woolford T J
Published: March 2009

Objective:

Most patients with hereditary haemorrhagic telangiectasia suffer with frequent episodes of epistaxis. The aim of this case report is to highlight the effect on epistaxis, occurring in hereditary haemorrhagic telangiectasia, when nasal airflow ceases.

Case report:

We present the interesting case of a patient with hereditary haemorrhagic telangiectasia who experienced cessation of her recurrent, refractory epistaxis through the development of coexisting polyp disease. The patient's enlarged, grade three nasal polyps were behaving as physiological obturators, limiting airflow through her nose. This reduced the intranasal trauma and subsequent frequency of her nosebleeds.

Conclusion:

Epistaxis is a debilitating part of hereditary haemorrhagic telangiectasia, and poses a frequent management challenge. Our patient was more tolerant of her grade three nasal polyps than of her recurrent epistaxis. This case highlights the importance of reducing nasal airflow when treating patients with hereditary haemorrhagic telangiectasia.
EXACT DISTRIBUTION THEORY IN STRUCTURAL ESTIMATION WITH AN IDENTITY
Authors: Phillips Peter C.B.
Published: March 2009

Some exact distribution theory is developed for structural equation models with and without identities. The theory includes LIML, IV, and OLS. We relate the new results to earlier studies in the literature, including the pioneering work of Bergstrom (1962). General IV exact distribution formulas for a structural equation model without an identity are shown to apply also to models with an identity by specializing along a certain asymptotic parameter sequence. Some of the new exact results are obtained by means of a uniform asymptotic expansion. An interesting consequence of the new theory is that the uniform asymptotic approximation provides the exact distribution of the OLS estimator in the model considered by Bergstrom (1962). This example appears to be the first instance in the statistical literature of a uniform approximation delivering an exact expression for a probability density.
Sketches and computation – I: basic definitions and static evaluation
Authors: Duval Dominique , Reynaud Jean-Claude
Published: March 2009

We define a categorical framework, based on the notion of sketch, for specification and evaluation in the senses of algebraic specifications and algebraic programming. This framework goes far beyond our initial motivation, which was to specify computation with algebraic numbers. We begin by redefining sketches in order to deal explicitly with programs. Expressions and terms are carefully defined and studied, then quasi-projective sketches are introduced. We describe static evaluation in these sketches: we propose a rigorous basis for evalution in the corresponding structures. These structures admit an initial model, but are not necessarily equational. In Part II (Duval and Reynaud 1994), we study a more general process, called dynamic evaluation, for structures that may have no initial model.
The glueing construction and lax limits
Authors: Simmons Harold
Published: March 2009

Having started life as a way of reconstructing a topological space from a pair of complementary subspaces, the glueing construction has found employment in a wide range of different roles, from the construction of free distributive lattices to a supporting part in the 2-categorical analysis of types theories. In this latter role the construction appears to be a fundamental factor in the behaviour of higher order proof theory. What is going on here? Before that can be answered we need at least a less ad hoc description of the construction. In this paper I set down what is, I believe, the beginnings of a coherent account of the algebraic version of glueing. As well as the abstract theory, I give a good selection of different examples to illustrate the diverse nature of the uses of the construction.
Parametric algebraic specifications with Gentzen formulas – from quasi-freeness to free functor semantics
Authors: Löwe Michael , Wolter Uwe
Published: March 2009

Inspired by the work of S. Kaplan on positive/negative conditional rewriting, we investigate initial semantics for algebraic specifications with Gentzen formulas. Since the standard initial approach is limited to conditional equations (i.e. positive Horn formulas), the notion of semi-initial and quasi-initial algebras is introduced, and it is shown that all specifications with (positive) Gentzen formulas admit quasi-initial models.

The whole approach is generalized to the parametric case where quasi-initiality generalizes to quasi-freeness. Since quasi-free objects need not be isomorphic, the persistency requirement is added to obtain auniquesemantics for many interesting practical examples. Unique persistent quasi-free semantics can be described as a free construction if the homomorphisms of the parameter category are suitably restricted. Furthermore, it turns out that unique persistent quasi-free semantics applies especially to specifications where the Gentzen formulas can be interpreted as hierarchical positive/negative conditional equations. The data type constructor of finite function spaces is used as an example that does not admit a correct initial semantics, but does admit a correct unique persistent quasi-initial semantics. The example demonstrates that the concepts introduced in this paper might be of some importance in practical applications.
Compositionality and compatibility of parameterization and parameter passing in specification languages
Authors: Jiménez Rosa M. , Orejas Fernando , Ehrig Hartmut
Published: March 2009

In this paper we continue previous work by Sannella, Sokolowski and Tarlecki on parameterization in specification languages. Within the loose approach, we define specification and model level semantics for two kinds of parameterizations (parameterized specifications and specifications of parameterized data types) and describe, in a compositional manner, parameter passing at both levels. Moreover, the specification and the model level semantics of parameter passing are shown to be compatible. We also show that the results obtained do not only apply to the loose approach but can also be directly applicable to the initial framework, and in general to any other kind of monomorphic framework (i.e., a framework where all specifications are monomorphic). In particular, the results obtained generalize and extend previous results for the initial approach. Finally, to obtain our results, new categorical constructions of multiple pushouts, amalgamations and extensions, which generalize standard notions of pushouts, amalgamations and extensions, had to be introduced.
A note on recursive functions
Authors: Sabadini Nicoletta , Vigna Sebastiano , Walters Robert F. C.
Published: March 2009

In this paper, we propose a new and elegant definition of the class of recursive functions, which is analogous to Kleene's definition but differs in the primitives taken, thus demonstrating the computational power of the concurrent programming language introduced in Walters (1991), Walters (1992) and Khalil and Walters (1993).

The definition can be immediately rephrased for any distributive graph in a countably extensive category with products, thus allowing a wide, natural generalization of computable functions.
Fuzzy models of linear logic
Authors: Barr Michael
Published: March 2009

It is shown that the category of fuzzy relations with values in a ∗-autonomous poset gives a ∗-autonomous category. It is also shown that this construction can be generalized by replacing the ∗-autonomous poset by a ∗-autonomous category. In both cases, cofree coalgebras exist so that there is a natural! operation.
Dependence and independence results for (impredicative) calculi of dependent types
Authors: Streicher Thomas
Published: March 2009

Based on a categorical semantics for impredicative calculi of dependent types we prove several dependence and independence results. Especially we prove that there exists a model where all usual syntactical concepts can be interpreted with only one exception: in the model the strong sum of a family of propositions indexed over a proposition need not be isomorphic to a proposition again.

The method of proof consists of restricting the set of propositions in the well known PERw model due to E. Moggi. The subsets of PERw considered in this paper are inspired by the subset ExpO of PERw introduced by Freyd et al.

Finally we show that a weak and a strong notion of sub-locally-cartesian-closed-category coincide under rather mild completeness conditions.
Fibrations with indeterminates: contextual and functional completeness for polymorphic lambda calculi
Authors: Hermida Claudio , Jacobs Bart
Published: March 2009

Lambek used categories with indeterminates to capture explicit variables in simply typed λ-calculus. He observed that such categories with indeterminates can be described as Kleisli categories for suitable comonads. They account for ‘functional completeness’ for Cartesian (closed) categories.

Here we refine this analysis, by distinguishing ‘contextual’ and ‘functional’ completeness, and extend it to polymorphic λ-calculi. Since the latter are described as certain fibrations, we are lead to consider indeterminates, not only for ordinary categories, but also for fibred categories. Following a 2-categorical generalisation of Lambek's approach, such fibrations with indeterminates are presented as 'simple slices' in suitable 2-categories of fibrations; more precisely, as Kleisli objects. It allows us to establish contextual and functional completeness results for some polymorphic calculi.
On the use of PDF schemes to parameterize sub‐grid clouds
Authors: Zhu Ping , Zuidema Paquita
Published: March 2009

Using high resolution simulations of eight well‐documented cloud cases in different climate regimes, this study investigated the statistical distributions of dynamic and thermodynamic variables in the cloud layer and examined various assumptions used by the current statistical cloud schemes. It is found that dynamic and thermodynamic variables skew differently in the cloud layer of shallow cumulus, stratocumulus, and deep convective clouds. Vertical velocity is positively skewed, but the skewed dynamic structure cannot account for the large skewness of positively skewed total mixing ratio qt and negatively skewed liquid water potential temperature θl. It is, thus, not physically sound to assume that the sub‐grid variation of different variables follows the same skewed PDF. The simulations further show that the weighted standard deviations of qt and θl have the same order of magnitude in all types of clouds, indicating that the variations of temperature and moisture are the equally important factors for sub‐grid clouds. Thus, neglecting either one of them in a statistical cloud scheme may introduce significant bias in the parameterized clouds.
The Clinical Educator's Companion: The WEB-Based ASHA Scope of Practice
Authors: McCarthy Mary Pat
Published: March 2009

The purpose of this article is to encourage graduate students and practicing clinicians to review the current ASHA Web-based version of the Scope of Practice in Speech-Language Pathology. Using examples of how the Scope of Practice has been used in clinical education by the author, this article attempts to illustrate how ASHA has provided information such as position statements, technical reports, and knowledge and skills documents related to the topics that fall within our Scope of Practice. Finally, this article demonstrates that valid research regarding current practices is only a click away if the novice is directed to the ASHA Web-based Scope of Practice.
Training Graduate Student Clinicians to Use Preschool Peer Interaction Strategies
Authors: Herd Corey L.
Published: March 2009

Playing with peers is an important part of childhood—what children learn from interacting with one another has enormous impact on both their social and language development. Although many children naturally develop the ability to interact well with peers, some children have difficulty interacting with other children and may miss out on important learning opportunities as a result. Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) can target the peer interactions of young children on their caseload, assuming that they have the knowledge and skills with which to address them. SLP graduate programs have the opportunity to provide future SLPs with both knowledge and skills-based training. This study assessed a graduate program in which three graduate clinicians participated in a preschool program for children with communication disorders; peer interactions were targeted within the program. The students were observed and data was collected regarding their use of peer interaction facilitation strategies in the group sessions both prior to and after they participated in a direct training program regarding the use of such skills. Outcomes indicate that the direct training program resulted in a statistically significant increase in the students' use of different strategies to facilitate peer interactions among the children in the group.
Feedback in Supervision
Authors: Nelson Lori A.
Published: March 2009

Provision of feedback is a vital component of the supervisory process. The challenge for clinical supervisors is how to make this feedback an effective catalyst for positive change without damaging the supervisory relationship. Many professions outside of speech-language pathology have studied various forms of feedback and their effects. This paper summarizes a number of research articles drawn from the fields of communication studies, speech-language pathology, medical education and counseling. These articles provide details as to what constitutes effective or ineffective feedback along with guidelines for successful implementation of feedback in clinical supervision. Positive and negative aspects of peer feedback in the supervision process are also discussed.
A Clinical Supervision Model for Nontraditional Graduate Students in Training
Authors: Schoenbrodt Lisa , Silverman Fran , Boyd Megan
Published: March 2009

With the increasing critical shortage of qualified speech-language pathologists (SLPs) in the schools, graduate programs are charged with thinking beyond traditional programs in order to train committed candidates to serve school-aged populations in a cost-effective manner. The Department of Speech Pathology at Loyola College engaged in a partnership with the Maryland State Department of Education whereby students would be provided a scholarship for their degree, and in return would complete five years of employment upon graduation. A critical component of this program stipulated that students be employed and supervised in a local education agency. After experimenting with numerous models for clinical supervision in the school, one model emerged as effective. The college, student, and school perspective regarding effectiveness is presented.
Constructing and Maintaining Appropriate Boundaries within Clinical Supervision Relationships
Authors: Herd Corey L. , Cohn Tracy J.
Published: March 2009

Considerable literature on the relationship between supervisor and supervisee has emerged in the last decade. Much of this literature, however, has examined the relationship that occurs between psychologist and psychology supervisee. In the domain of speech-language pathology and audiology, there is a paucity of information and data. Thus, in response to the limited body of work in the field, the authors hope to first spark discussion around the topic of boundaries within the relationship between clinical supervisors and supervisees. One theoretical model, the “slippery slope,” is presented as a means to understand boundary crossing behavior in the clinical supervision context. The second objective of this article is to explore the working alliance or the working relationship that occurs between a supervisee and a supervisor. Given the multiple roles that a supervisor plays in the life of the supervisee, mentee, and finally colleague, it is likely that at some point, in one of these roles, that the supervisor and/or the supervisee will be faced with a difficult boundary situation. This article is proposed in response to the call from researchers and practitioners who have suggested that one response to addressing boundary violations and boundary crossings is a frank and open discussion.
Success Strategies: Implementing the Professional Performance Review Process for School-Based Speech-Language Pathologists
Authors: Parmenter Jill , Amaral Sheryl , Jackson Julia
Published: March 2009

The Professional Performance Review Process for School-Based Speech-Language Pathologists (PPRP) (ASHA, 2006) was developed in response to the need for a performance review tool that fits school district requirements for performance review management while addressing the specific roles and responsibilities of a school-based speech-language pathologist (ASHA, 2006). This article will examine the purpose and components of the PPRP. A description of its use as a tool for self-advocacy will be discussed. Strategies for successful implementation of the PPRP will be explained using insight from speech-language pathologists and other professionals familiar with the PPRP.
Vacancy-oxygen complexes and their optical properties in AlN epitaxial films studied by positron annihilation
Authors: Uedono A. , Ishibashi S. , Keller S. , Moe C. , Cantu P. , Katona T. M. , Kamber D. S. , Wu Y. , Letts E. , Newman S. A. , Nakamura S. , Speck J. S. , Mishra U. K. , DenBaars S. P. , Onuma T. , Chichibu S. F.
Published: March 2009

Vacancy-type defects in AlN grown by metal-organic vapor phase epitaxy (MOVPE) and lateral epitaxial overgrowth (LEO) using halide vapor phase epitaxy were probed by a monoenergetic positron beam. Doppler broadening spectra of the annihilation radiation were measured and compared to the spectra calculated using the projector augmented-wave method. For MOVPE-AlN, the concentration of vacancy-type defects was high near the interface between AlN and the GaN buffer layer, and the defect-rich region expanded from the interface toward the surface when the NH3 flow rate increased. For the sample grown on the AlN buffer layer, however, the introduction of such defects was suppressed. For LEO-AlN, distinct deep emission peaks at 3–6 eV were observed in cathodoluminescence spectra. From a comparison between Doppler broadening spectra measured for LEO-AlN and computer simulated ones, an origin of the peaks was identified as complexes of Al vacancy (VAl) and oxygen atoms substituting nitrogen sites such as VAl(ON)n (n=3 and 4).
Intervalley separation in the conduction band of InGaAs measured by terahertz excitation spectroscopy
Authors: Molis G. , Krotkus A. , Vaičaitis V.
Published: March 2009

Spectral dependencies of terahertz radiation from the femtosecond laser-illuminated surfaces of GaxIn1−xAs (x=1, 0.8, and 0.47) have been investigated experimentally at high optical fluencies and laser wavelengths ranging from 600 to 800 nm. The terahertz pulse amplitude increased with the increasing laser photon energy due to larger excess energies of photoexcited electrons and more efficient spatial separation of electrons and holes at the illuminated surface. This increase was stopped with the onset of electron transitions to subsidiary conduction band valleys. Analysis of these experiments was used for evaluating the energy positions of the X and L conduction band valleys in GaxIn1−xAs alloys as a function of their composition.
A systems evaluation of high-input management using fortified molasses for beef production in Australia's dry tropics
Authors: Fordyce Geoffry , Coates Ruth , Debney Megan , Haselton Stan , Rebgetz Robert , Laing Alan R. , Cooper Neil J. , Hall Rebecca , Holmes William E. , Doogan Vivienne J.
Published: March 2009

The potential of beef producers to profitably produce 500-kg steers at 2.5 years of age in northern Australia’s dry tropics to meet specifications of high-value markets, using a high-input management (HIM) system was examined. HIM included targeted high levels of fortified molasses supplementation, short seasonal mating and the use of growth promotants. Using herds of 300–400 females plus steer progeny at three sites, HIM was compared at a business level to prevailing best-practice, strategic low-input management (SLIM) in which there is a relatively low usage of energy concentrates to supplement pasture intake.
The data presented for each breeding-age cohort within management system at each site includes: annual pregnancy rates (range: 14–99%), time of conception, mortalities (range: 0–10%), progeny losses between confirmed pregnancy and weaning (range: 0–29%), and weaning rates (range: 14–92%) over the 2-year observation. Annual changes in weight and relative net worth were calculated for all breeding and non-breeding cohorts. Reasons for outcomes are discussed.
Compared with SLIM herds, both weaning weights and annual growth were ≥30 kg higher, enabling 86–100% of HIM steers to exceed 500 kg at 2.5 years of age. Very few contemporary SLIM steers reached this target. HIM was most profitably applied to steers. Where HIM was able to achieve high pregnancy rates in yearlings, its application was recommended in females. Well managed, appropriate HIM systems increased profits by around $15/adult equivalent at prevailing beef and supplement prices. However, a 20% supplement price rise without a commensurate increase in values for young slaughter steers would generally eliminate this advantage.
This study demonstrated the complexity of profitable application of research outcomes to commercial business, even when component research suggests that specific strategies may increase growth and reproductive efficiency and/or be more profitable. Because of the higher level of management required, higher costs and returns, and higher susceptibility to market changes and disease, HIM systems should only be applied after SLIM systems are well developed. To increase profitability, any strategy must ultimately either increase steer growth and sale values and/or enable a shift to high pregnancy rates in yearling heifers.
Weather, herbage quality and milk production in pastoral systems. 1. Temporal patterns and intra-relationships in weather variables
Authors: Roche J. R. , Turner L. R. , Lee J. M. , Edmeades D. C. , Donaghy D. J. , Macdonald K. A. , Penno J. W. , Berry D. P.
Published: March 2009

Prevailing weather conditions are one factor that influences herbage growth and quality, and therefore may have a substantial impact on animal production. Before investigating relationships between weather factors, herbage growth and quality, and animal production, it is beneficial to first quantify temporal trends in weather variables. The objective of the present study was to investigate the existence of temporal weather trends in a predominantly dairy production region of New Zealand, and to quantify the level of intra-dependency among the weather variables measured. Daily weather data across the years 1995 to 2001 were merged. Fitted sinusoidal functions demonstrated cyclic temporal trends in weather throughout the year. Air and soil temperatures, radiation, and potential evapotranspiration were highly repeatable within fortnight. Repeatability of all other weather variables was low; for example repeatability of rainfall was ≤7%. Linear relationships were also observed among all weather variables. All air and soil temperature measurements were highly positively correlated with each other (r = 0.53–0.99), and with evaporation (r = 0.40–0.68) and potential evapotranspiration (r = 0.43–0.79), while maximum air temperature was positively correlated with radiation (r = 0.61). Further investigation is required to quantify the effect of temporal weather trends on herbage growth and quality, and subsequent animal production.
Weather, herbage quality and milk production in pastoral systems. 2. Temporal patterns and intra-relationships in herbage quality and mineral concentration parameters
Authors: Roche J. R. , Turner L. R. , Lee J. M. , Edmeades D. C. , Donaghy D. J. , Macdonald K. A. , Penno J. W. , Berry D. P.
Published: March 2009

Prevailing weather conditions influence herbage growth and quality, and therefore may have a substantial impact on animal production. Before investigating relationships between weather factors, herbage quality, and animal production, it is beneficial to first quantify temporal trends in herbage quality characteristics and mineral concentrations. The objective of the present study was to investigate the existence of temporal trends in herbage quality characteristics and mineral concentrations, and to quantify the intra-dependency among these variables. Weekly herbage quality and mineral concentration data from a research farm were collected from 1995 to 2001, inclusive. Fitted sinusoidal functions demonstrated cyclic temporal trends across herbage quality variables, but there was little cyclic temporal variation in the majority of herbage mineral concentration variables. The repeatability of herbage quality measurements was low to moderate (22% for ether extract to 54% for metabolisable energy). Linear relationships were observed within all herbage quality variables and herbage mineral concentration variables. Neutral detergent fibre and acid detergent fibre concentrations were strongly positively correlated with each other (r = 0.87), and negatively correlated with herbage digestibility (r = –0.64 and –0.74, respectively), water-soluble carbohydrate concentration (r = –0.52 and –0.68, respectively) and metabolisable energy content (r = –0.60 and –0.75, respectively). The absolute correlations among most herbage minerals were poor (r <0.30). However, magnesium concentration was positively correlated with calcium (r = 0.54), copper (r = 0.56), and manganese (r = 0.37) concentrations, and negatively correlated with zinc (r = –0.56) concentration. Further investigation is required into the relationships between temporal weather and herbage quality trends, and their impact on animal production.
Weather, herbage quality and milk production in pastoral systems. 3. Inter-relationships and associations between weather variables and herbage growth rate, quality and mineral concentration
Authors: Roche J. R. , Turner L. R. , Lee J. M. , Edmeades D. C. , Donaghy D. J. , Macdonald K. A. , Penno J. W. , Berry D. P.
Published: March 2009

Prevailing weather conditions influence herbage growth and quality, and therefore may have a substantial impact on animal production. Before investigating relationships between weather factors, herbage quality and animal production, it is beneficial to first quantify interactions between herbage quality characteristics and mineral concentrations. The objective of the present study was to investigate the association between weather and herbage growth rate, quality and mineral concentration under rotational grazing systems. Daily weather data and weekly records of herbage quality and mineral concentration from a research dairy farm were available across the years 1995 to 2001, inclusive. Herbage growth rates were also recorded on a monthly basis. Results imply moderate correlations between some weather variables and herbage quality and mineral concentration. Generally, the strength of the absolute correlations between weather and herbage-related variables decreased following adjustment of the herbage-related variables for month of year and research farmlet. Negative correlations existed between rainfall and herbage water-soluble carbohydrate (r = –0.19) and organic matter digestibility concentration (r = –0.13) and metabolisable energy content (r = –0.14), independent of time of year and farmlet. Weather explained up to 14% of the variation in herbage nutrient content over and above that explained by time of year and farmlet. Significantly different correlations existed across time between some weather and herbage-related variables, indicating that the relationships may differ across seasons. Results from the present study, in conjunction with information on the effect of herbage quality and/or mineral concentration on animal production, will be valuable in improving our understanding of weather influences on herbage growth, quality and mineral concentration.
Weather, herbage quality and milk production in pastoral systems. 4. Effects on dairy cattle production
Authors: Roche J. R. , Turner L. R. , Lee J. M. , Edmeades D. C. , Donaghy D. J. , Macdonald K. A. , Penno J. W. , Berry D. P.
Published: March 2009

Prevailing weather conditions are one factor that influences herbage growth and quality, and therefore may have a substantial impact on animal production. The objective of the present study was to quantify the associations between weather, herbage quality and mineral concentration, and animal production. Daily weather data and weekly records of herbage quality and mineral concentration, as well as dairy cattle production, were available from a research farm and nearby weather station across the years 1995 to 2001, inclusive. Animal production variables of interest included individual cow milk production and composition, body condition score, and liveweight, as well as group herbage dry matter intake. Results indicate moderate relationships between some weather- and herbage-related variables and dairy cattle production variables, although most relationships appeared to be an artefact of temporal variation, as evidenced by weakening of correlations following adjustment for animal parity, stage of lactation, and week of the year at calving. Prior to adjustment for the confounding factors, the negative associations between milk yield and all temperature-related variables (r = –0.46 to –0.34) were most notable. Following adjustment for time of year, milk yield became positively associated with sunlight hours (r = 0.14). Negative relationships were demonstrated between temperature-related variables and milk protein concentration (r = –0.08), regardless of time of year. Milk protein concentration was positively associated with herbage metabolisable energy content (r = 0.06), water-soluble carbohydrate (r = 0.11), and organic matter digestibility (r = 0.06) concentrations, and negatively associated with ether extract (r = –0.07), acid detergent fibre (r = –0.06), and neutral detergent fibre (r = –0.05) concentrations. Weather, herbage quality and mineral concentration explained up to 22% more variation in dairy cattle production variables over and above farmlet and time of year, with a greater effect on dry matter intake than the other production parameters.