bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Laboratory diagnosis of Chagas' heart disease
Authors: Ferreira Antonio Walter , Ávila Sandra do Lago Moraes de
Published: June 2009

The laboratory diagnosis of Chagas' disease is a complex one. Factors relating to the host immune response and the antigenic variability of T. cruzi must be considered in the final interpretation of test results. Parasitologic methods for detecting T. cruzi, immunologic methods for detecting T. cruzi antigens in different biological fluids and serologic tests for detection and quantification of different classes of immunoglobulins are well standardized and used in the diagnosis of the acute or chronic phase of the disease. Xenodiagnosis is the most common parasitologic test employed, although it detects only 50% of infections in the chronic phase. Indirect immunofluorescence for detecting IgG and IgM antibodies, hemagglutination and enzyme immunoassay are the serologic tests most frequently employed for diagnosis, to screen blood donors and for seroepidemiologic studies. An important caveat to be remembered is that serologic tests provide only a probable diagnosis, which depends on the prevalence of Chagas disease, as well as on the sensitivity and specificity of the test employed. The use of well defined specific antigens, obtained through recombinant methods or chromatography, opens an important field for the development of very specific tests, without significant loss of sensitivity.
Endomyocardial biopsy in Chagas' heart disease: pathogenetic contributions
Authors: Higuchi Maria de Lourdes
Published: June 2009

Endomyocardial biopsy procedure has been performed in many centers around the world, allowing a better treatment and follow up of the patients with myocardial disease. In Chagas' disease, it has been performed in São Paulo Heart Institute since 1978 and has brought important contributions to the understanding of the disease and consequently of the patient's clinical stage. In the present work we summarize the principal findings regarding the pathogenesis of Chagas' disease obtained mainly from the studies using endomyocardial biopsy specimens. Nowadays we do not have doubts that the inflammatory infiltrate aggressing myocardial fibers has fundamental role in the progression of the myocardial damage in Chagas' disease what culminates in chronic heart failure. The parasite seems to have active participation in the maintenance of such myocardial inflammation.
Ethiological treatment of acute and chronic Chagas' heart disease
Authors: Fragata Filho Abílio Augusto , Silva Marco Aurélio Dias da , Boainain Elias
Published: June 2009

The uncertaintties in the ethiological treatment of Chagas' Disease are consequence of the lack of entire knowledge of its pathogeny and the no existence of a healing criterium. There is a consensus that antiparasite drugs should be used in the acute phase of the infection, regardless of the infection route, in new crisis, in patients under immunossuppression and in organs transplantation. There is still controversy regarding subacute, chronic or indetermined phase or cases with mild cardiac/digestive forms, not included in the situations listed above neither in a research protocol. The treatment includes oral benzonidazol 5 mg/kg/day, bid or tid for 60 days. In 71 patients monitored in this fashion, the authors have found 60% of negative xenodiagnostic at the end of treatment. It is still necessary, however, to continue to investigate and accomplishing more randomized trials to confirm the efficacy of such method, and also to try to obtain effective and less toxic agents. It is also fundamental to standardize a more reliable healing criterium.
Mandibular-Lingual Repositioning Device - MLRD: preliminary results of 8 patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome - OSAS
Authors: Barbosa Ricardo Castro , Aloe Flávio , Tavares Stella , Silva Ademir Baptista
Published: June 2009

Dental devices have been employed in the treatment of snoring and obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) of mild to moderate degrees. The authors disclose the preliminary results in 8 patients with clinically diagnosed obstructive sleep apnea polisomnographically confirmed and treated with a dental device (Mandibular-Lingual Repositioning Device - MLRD) developed by one of the authors (RCB). Cephalometrics was performed before usage of MLRD, Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) tests were conducted before and after the MLRD and a questionnaire that subjectively qualified the Overall Subjective Improvement of the patient (OSI) was filled out. The tests were repeated 4 weeks after the application of the MLRD. The average subjective overall improvement was 73.75% and the Epworth Sleepiness Scale was 13.88 (pre - MLRD) and 6.63 (post - MLRD) representing a significant statistical variation (p=0.05). The authors discuss probable factors involved in the improvement of the subjective measurements of excessive sleepiness.
Argumentações discentes e docente envolvendo aspectos ambientais em sala de aula: uma análise
Authors: Assis Alice , Teixeira Odete Pacubi Baierl
Published: June 2009

Este trabalho trata da interação entre professor e alunos mediante a utilização do texto paradidático intitulado "Nosso Universo" em aulas de Física, em uma sala de Educação de Jovens e Adultos. Neste artigo é analisado um episódio que articula Ciência, Tecnologia e Sociedade aos aspectos ambientais. Esse episódio aborda o problema do efeito estufa, do buraco na camada de ozônio e da escassez da água. Para a análise, foram elaboradas categorias referentes às argumentações discentes e docente. Os resultados envolvendo o tripé professor/aluno/texto apontam que tais interações propiciaram a motivação e a formação do aluno enquanto indivíduo crítico e reflexivo, em condições de argumentar e atuar criticamente em seu meio social.
Varenius e o conhecimento matemático do século XVII
Authors: Brito Arlete de Jesus , Schubring Gert
Published: June 2009

Neste artigo, discutimos o contexto do desenvolvimento da Geografia que, no século XVII, liberou-se do seu papel nas diferentes fés cristãs, bem como a importância da cisão dos Protestantes, em Luteranos e Calvinistas, para o processo de secularização, e o conseguinte estabelecimento da Geografia como ciência moderna. Analisamos a contribuição fundamental do luterano Bernhard Varen, cuja obra Geografia Geral apresenta o paradigma dessa nova ciência. Naquela época, a Geografia era considerada um ramo da matemática, e esta obra nos dá indícios sobre notações e conceitos matemáticos utilizados naquele século. Analisamos, particularmente, o uso da notação decimal de números não inteiros e algumas aplicações de conceitos trigonométricos, comparando a edição original com as principais reedições desta obra.
Mercury concentrations and loads in a large river system tributary to San Francisco Bay, California, USA
Authors: David Nicole , McKee Lester J. , BLACK FRANK J. , Flegal A. Russell , Conaway Christopher H. , Schoellhamer David H. , Ganju Neil K.
Published: June 2009

In order to estimate total mercury (HgT) loads entering San Francisco Bay, USA, via the Sacramento-San Joaquin River system, unfiltered water samples were collected between January 2002 and January 2006 during high flow events and analyzed for HgT. Unfiltered HgT concentrations ranged from 3.2 to 75 ng/L and showed a strong correlation (r2 = 0.8, p < 0.001, n = 78) to suspended sediment concentrations (SSC). During infrequent large floods, HgT concentrations relative to SSC were approximately twice as high as observed during smaller floods. This difference indicates the transport of more Hg-contaminated particles during high discharge events. Daily HgT loads in the Sacramento-San Joaquin River at Mallard Island ranged from below the limit of detection to 35 kg. Annual HgT loads varied from 61 ± 22 kg (n = 5) in water year (WY) 2002 to 470 ± 170 kg (n = 25) in WY 2006. The data collected will assist in understanding the long-term recovery of San Francisco Bay from Hg contamination and in implementing the Hg total maximum daily load, the long-term cleanup plan for Hg in the Bay.
Impacts of heavy metals, polyaromatic hydrocarbons, and pesticides on freeze tolerance of the earthworm Dendrobaena octaedra
Authors: Bindesbøl Anne-Mette , Bayley Mark , Damgaard Christian , Holmstrup Martin
Published: June 2009

Previous studies have shown that the interactions between chemicals and climatic stressors can lead to synergistically increased mortality. In the present study, we investigated the effect of seven common environmental contaminants on survival at −6 and 15°C as well as on reproduction at 15°C in the earthworm Dendrobaena octaedra. Three classes of chemicals were considered: Heavy metals (nickel, lead, and mercury), polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (pyrene and phenanthrene), and pesticides (abamectin and carbendazim). Phenanthrene interacted antagonistically with freezing temperatures, whereas no interaction was observed with any of the tested pesticides. Two of the three tested metals (nickel and mercury) reduced the freeze tolerance synergistically (mercury was especially potent). This suggests that traditional laboratory studies, in which organisms are exposed to increasing concentrations of a single compound under otherwise optimal conditions, may underestimate the toxicity of some metals to field populations living in cold areas.
An analytical model for non-conservative pollutants mixing in the surf zone
Authors: Ki Seo Jin , Hwang Jin Hwan , Kang Joo-Hyon , Kim Joon Ha
Published: June 2009

Accurate simulation of the surf zone is a prerequisite to improve beach management as well as to understand the fundamentals of fate and transport of contaminants. In the present study, a diagnostic model modified from a classic solute model is provided to illuminate non-conservative pollutants behavior in the surf zone. To readily understand controlling processes in the surf zone, a new dimensionless quantity is employed with index of kappa number (K, a ratio of inactivation rate to transport rate of microbial pollutant in the surf zone), which was then evaluated under different environmental frames during a week simulation period. The sensitivity analysis showed that hydrodynamics and concentration gradients in the surf zone mostly depend on n (number of rip currents), indicating that n should be carefully adjusted in the model. The simulation results reveal, furthermore, that large deviation typically occurs in the daytime, signifying inactivation of fecal indicator bacteria is the main process to control surf zone water quality during the day. Overall, the analytical model shows a good agreement between predicted and synthetic data (R2=0.51 and 0.67 for FC and ENT, respectively) for the simulated period, amplifying its potential use in the surf zone modelling. It is recommended that when the dimensionless index is much larger than 0.5, the present modified model can predict better than the conventional model, but if index is smaller than 0.5, the conventional model is more efficient with respect to time and cost.
Growth of microalgae in diluted process water of the animal wastewater treatment plant
Authors: Park Ki Young , Lim Byung-Ran , Lee Kisay
Published: June 2009

The growth of microalgae was investigated using diluted process water from an animal waste treatment plant as a substrate. Batch experiments were carried out to determine the growth characteristics of three microalgae strains: Microcystis aeruginosa, Chlorella vulgaris and Euglena gracilis. The two types of process water with different dilution rates were used for the experiments. The biokinetic parameters of each culture were estimated from the logistic growth curves for comparative analysis. In aerobic effluent, most growth parameters were significantly better than in anaerobic effluent regardless of the dilution rates. This suggests that the concentration of organic matter, such as volatile fatty acids, affects microgal growth. Euglena gracilis, which was the largest in size, had the highest growth rates among the three species in both pure and mixed cultures.
Evaluation of pollutants removal efficiency to achieve successful urban river restoration
Authors: Cha Sung Min , Ham Young Sik , Ki Seo Jin , Lee Seung Won , Cho Kyung Hwa , Park Yongeun , Kim Joon Ha
Published: June 2009

Greater efforts to provide alternative scenarios are key to successful urban stream restoration planning. In this study, we discuss two different aspects of water quality management schemes, biodegradation and human health, which are incorporated in the restoration project of original, pristine condition of urban stream at the Gwangju (GJ) Stream, Korea. For this study, monthly monitoring of biochemical oxygen demand (BOD5) and fecal indicator bacteria (FIB) data were obtained from 2003 to 2008 and for 2008, respectively, and these were evaluated to explore pollutant magnitude and variation with respect to space and time window. Ideal scenarios to reduce target pollutants were determined based on their seasonal characteristics and correlations between the concentrations at a water intake and discharge point, where we suggested an increase of environmental flow and wetland as pollutants reduction drawing for BOD5 and FIB, respectively. The scenarios were separately examined by the Qual2E model and hypothetically (but planned) constructed wetland, respectively. The results revealed that while controlling of the water quality at the intake point guaranteed the lower pollution level of BOD5 in the GJ Stream, a wetland constructed at the discharge point may be a promising strategy to mitigate mass loads of FIB. Overall, this study suggests that a combination of the two can be plausible scenarios not only to support sustainable urban water resources management, but to enhance a quality of urban stream restoration assignment.
Unit soil loss rate from various construction sites during a storm
Authors: Maniquiz Marla C. , Lee Soyoung , Lee Eunju , Kong Dong-Soo , Kim Lee-Hyung
Published: June 2009

The Korean Ministry of Environment (MOE) opts to establish an ordinance having a standard specifying an allowable soil loss rate applicable to construction projects. The predicted amount of soil loss from a construction site exceeding the standard can be used to calculate the percent reduction necessary to comply with the ordinance. This research was conducted to provide a basis to establish a standard by investigating the unit soil loss rates in the three phases of development: pre-construction, active construction and post construction based from 1,036 Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) reports within the six-year period (2000–2005). Based on the findings, several factors affect the magnitude of soil loss rates particularly storm characteristics, site slope, soil type, location from rivers, as well as the type of construction activity. In general, the unit soil loss rates during the active construction phase are extremely higher in comparison to undisturbed areas; in magnitude of 7 to 80 times larger in urban areas and 18 to 585 times in rural areas. Only between 20 to 40 percent of the soil loss rates was contributed at pre- and post- construction phases indicating that the active construction phase is the most important phase to control.
Performance and fouling characteristics of different pore-sized submerged ceramic membrane bioreactors (SCMBR)
Authors: Jin Le , Ng How Yong , Ong Say Leong
Published: June 2009

The membrane bioreactor (MBR), a combination of activated sludge process and the membrane separation system, has been widely used in wastewater treatment. However, 90% of MBR reported were employing polymeric membranes. The usage of ceramic membranes in MBR is quite rare. Four submerged ceramic membrane bioreactors (SCMBRs) with different membrane pore size were used in this study to treat sewage. The results showed that the desirable carbonaceous removal of 95% and ammonia nitrogen removal of 98% were obtained for all the SCMBRs. It was also showed that the ceramic membranes were able to reject some portions of the protein and carbohydrate, whereby the carbohydrate rejection rate was much higher than that of protein. Membrane pore size did not significantly affect the COD and TOC removal efficiencies, the composition of EPS and SMP or the membrane rejection rate, although slight differences were observed. The SCMBR with the biggest membrane pore size fouled fastest, and membrane pore size was a main contributor for the different fouling potential observed.
A new methodology for determining dispersion coefficient using ordinary and partial differential transport equations
Authors: Cho Kyung Hwa , Lee Seungwon , Ham Young Sik , Hwang Jin Hwan , Cha Sung Min , Park Yongeun , Kim Joon Ha
Published: June 2009

The present study proposes a methodology for determining the effective dispersion coefficient based on the field measurements performed in Gwangju (GJ) Creek in South Korea which is environmentally degraded by the artificial interferences such as weirs and culverts. Many previous works determining the dispersion coefficient were limited in application due to the complexity and artificial interferences in natural stream. Therefore, the sequential combination of N-Tank-In-Series (NTIS) model and Advection-Dispersion-Reaction (ADR) model was proposed for evaluating dispersion process in complex stream channel in this study. The series of water quality data were intensively monitored in the field to determine the effective dispersion coefficient of E. coli in rainy day. As a result, the suggested methodology reasonably estimates the dispersion coefficient for GJ Creek with 1.25 m2/s. Also, the sequential combined method provided Number of tank-Velocity-Dispersion coefficient (NVD) curves for convenient evaluation of dispersion coefficient of other rivers or streams. Comparing the previous studies, the present methodology is quite general and simple for determining the effective dispersion coefficients which are applicable for other rivers and streams.
Sewer exfiltration and the colmation layer
Authors: Ellis J. B. , Revitt D. M. , Vollertsen J. , Blackwood D. J.
Published: June 2009

Sewer rig studies demonstrate a rapid exponential decline in exfiltration rates from gaps and joints to establish an ultimate steady-state equilibrium varying between 10−3–10−6 l s−1, with minimum average daily rates per standardised leak area and sewer length varying between 0.02–9.0 l d−1cm−2 and 0.0002–2.0 l s−1 km−1 respectively. These loss rates are much larger than those derived from indirect monitoring/modelling studies which suggest losses between 1.4 × 10−5–0.179 l s−1 km−1. The confusion regarding conflicting definitions of the colmation, transition, bridging and biofilm layers is addressed, and the significance of these clogging layers in terms of both hydraulic and matrix potential on the exfiltration loss is evaluated. The influence of variability and instability of flow and bed turbulence on determining critical leakage conditions following the onset of equilibrium steady-state is assessed. This challenges the generally held assumption that elevated head pressure condition alone is a necessary precursor for rupture of the clogging layers.
Quantification of diffuse and concentrated pollutant loads at the watershed-scale: an Italian case study
Authors: Candela Angela , Freni Gabriele , Mannina Giorgio , Viviani Gaspare
Published: June 2009

In this study, diffuse and point source pollutant loads were evaluated using an Italian case study: the Nocella catchment, which has been subject to extensive monitoring. The Nocella catchment is located in Sicily (Italy) and has an area of about 60 km2. The river receives wastewater and stormwater from two urban areas drained by combined sewers. The two sewer systems, two wastewater treatment plants and a river reach were monitored during both dry and wet weather periods. Thereafter, an integrated catchment-scale model was applied to simulate point pollutant sources, i.e., pollution coming from the urban drainage system, and nonpoint pollutant sources, i.e., pollution coming from agricultural and wildlife activities. Different models were combined and long-term simulations were carried out in order to reconstruct the total pollutant loads discharged into the receiving water body and identify the roles of the different pollutant sources. This study demonstrates the complexity of water quality assessment in partially urbanised natural basins where neither point nor nonpoint sources can be neglected. Point sources are mainly responsible for acute oxygen demanding polluting impact during wet weather periods, and both point and nonpoint sources are responsible for the impact of nutrients on the receiving water body.
Magnetite nanoparticles for biosensor model based on bacteria fluorescence
Authors: Poiata A. , Creanga D. E. , Airinei A. , Tupu P. , Goiceanu C. , Avadanei O.
Published: June 2009

Fluorescence emission of pyoverdine – the siderophore synthesized by iron scavenger bacteria – was studied using in vitro cultures of Pseudomonas aeruginosa with the aim to design a biosensor system for liquid sample iron loading. Diluted suspensions of colloidal magnetite nanoparticles were supplied in the culture medium (10 microl/l and 100 microl/l) to simulate magnetic loading with iron oxides of either environmental waters or human body fluids. The electromagnetic exposure to radiofrequency waves of bacterial samples grown in the presence of magnetic nanoparticles was also carried out. Cell density diminution but fluorescence stimulation following 10 microl/l ferrofluid addition and simultaneous exposure to radiofrequency waves was evidenced. The inhibitory influence of 100 microl/l ferrofluid combined with RF exposure was evidenced by fluorescence data. Mathematical model was proposed to approach quantitatively the dynamics of cell density and fluorescence emission in relation with the consumption of magnetite nanoparticle supplied medium. The biosensor scheme was shaped based on the response to iron loading of bacterial sample fluorescence.
Radiation dose and incidence of new metastasis in the anterior temporal lobe structures of radiosurgically treated patients
Authors: Basina Bhuvaneswara R. , Olson Claire , Roy Dibyendu Kumar , Yen Chun-Po , Schlesinger David , Nagayama Kazuki , Sheehan Jason P.
Published: June 2009

Object

Gamma Knife surgery (GKS) is frequently used to treat patients with metastasis to the brain. Radiosurgery seeks to limit radiation to the brain tissue surrounding the metastatic deposits. In patients with such lesions, a low radiation dose to the eloquent brain may help to prevent adverse effects. In this study the authors aimed to quantify the radiosurgical dose delivered to the anterior temporal structures in cases of metastatic brain lesions. They also evaluated the incidence and timing of new metastases in the anterior temporal lobes (ATLs) in patient cohorts that underwent GKS with or without whole-brain radiation therapy (WBRT).

Methods

The authors retrospectively analyzed 100 patients with metastatic brain lesions treated with GKS at the University of Virginia Health System. The anterior 5 cm of the temporal lobes and the hippocampi within the ATLs were contoured on the Gamma Knife planning station. Using the dose-volume histogram function in GammaPlan, treatment parameters for the metastases as well as radiation doses to the contoured ATLs and hippocampi were measured. Patients had clinical and MR imaging follow-ups at 3-month intervals. The ATLs and hippocampal regions were evaluated for the formation of new metastases on follow-up imaging.

Results

The demographic data—age, sex, Karnofsky Performance Scale score, number of temporal metastases at the time of GKS, total volume of metastatic tumors per patient, and number of intracranial metastatic deposits—were similar in the 2 cohorts. In patients without an ATL metastasis at the time of GKS, the mean maximum, 50% volume, and integral doses of radiation to the anterior temporal structures were very low: 2.6 Gy, 0.6 Gy, and 36.3 mJ in the GKS cohort and 2.1 Gy, 0.6 Gy, and 40.9 mJ in the GKS+WBRT cohort, respectively. Among the ATLs that had not shown a brain metastasis at the time of GKS, 8 of 92 temporal lobes in the GKS cohort and 10 of 89 in the GKS+WBRT cohort demonstrated a new anterior temporal lesion on follow-up MR imaging.

Conclusions

Gamma Knife surgery delivered a low dose of background radiation to the ATLs and hippocampi. The incidence of a new ATL metastasis in the GKS cohort was not higher than in the GKS+WBRT cohort. Gamma Knife surgery in the management of brain metastases limits the delivery of radiation to eloquent brain tissue without evidence of an appreciable propensity to develop new metastatic disease in the ATLs or hippocampi. This therapeutic approach may help to avoid unintended neurological dysfunction due to nonspecific delivery of radiation to eloquent brain tissues.
Trends in the Molecular Pathogenesis and Clinical Therapeutics of Common Neurodegenerative Disorders
Authors: Choonara Yahya  E. , Pillay Viness , Du Toit Lisa  C. , Modi Girish , Naidoo Dinesh , Ndesendo Valence  M.K. , Sibambo Sibongile  R.
Published: June 2009

The term neurodegenerative disorders, encompasses a variety of underlying conditions, sporadic and/or familial and are characterized by the persistent loss of neuronal subtypes. These disorders can disrupt molecular pathways, synapses, neuronal subpopulations and local circuits in specific brain regions, as well as higher-order neural networks. Abnormal network activities may result in a vicious cycle, further impairing the integrity and functions of neurons and synapses, for example, through aberrant excitation or inhibition. The most common neurodegenerative disorders are Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis and Huntington’s disease. The molecular features of these disorders have been extensively researched and various unique neurotherapeutic interventions have been developed. However, there is an enormous coercion to integrate the existing knowledge in order to intensify the reliability with which neurodegenerative disorders can be diagnosed and treated. The objective of this review article is therefore to assimilate these disorders’ in terms of their neuropathology, neurogenetics, etiology, trends in pharmacological treatment, clinical management, and the use of innovative neurotherapeutic interventions.
Modeling of Aerosol Vertical Profiles Using GIS and Remote Sensing
Authors: Wong Man Sing , Nichol Janet E. , Lee Kwon Ho
Published: June 2009

The use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Remote Sensing (RS) by climatologists, environmentalists and urban planners for three dimensional modeling and visualization of the landscape is well established. However no previous study has implemented these techniques for 3D modeling of atmospheric aerosols because air quality data is traditionally measured at ground points, or from satellite images, with no vertical dimension. This study presents a prototype for modeling and visualizing aerosol vertical profiles over a 3D urban landscape in Hong Kong. The method uses a newly developed technique for the derivation of aerosol vertical profiles from AERONET sunphotometer measurements and surface visibility data, and links these to a 3D urban model. This permits automated modeling and visualization of aerosol concentrations at different atmospheric levels over the urban landscape in near-real time. Since the GIS platform permits presentation of the aerosol vertical distribution in 3D, it can be related to the built environment of the city. Examples are given of the applications of the model, including diagnosis of the relative contribution of vehicle emissions to pollution levels in the city, based on increased near-surface concentrations around weekday rush-hour times. The ability to model changes in air quality and visibility from ground level to the top of tall buildings is also demonstrated, and this has implications for energy use and environmental policies for the tall mega-cities of the future.
Continued Multidisciplinary Project-based Learning – Implementation in Health Informatics
Authors: Spreckelsen C. , Weßel C.
Published: June 2009

Objectives: Problem- and project-based learning are approved methods to train students, graduates and post-graduates in scientific and other professional skills. The students are trained on realistic scenarios in a broader context. For students specializing in health informatics we introduced continued multidisciplinary project-based learning (CM-PBL) at a department of medical informatics. The training approach addresses both students of medicine and students of computer science.

Methods: The students are full members of an ongoing research project and develop a project-related application or module, or explore or evaluate a sub-project. Two teachers guide and review the students’ work. The training on scientific work follows a workflow with defined milestones. The team acts as peer group. By participating in the research team’s work the students are trained on professional skills.

Results: A research project on a web-based information system on hospitals built the scenario for the realistic context. The research team consisted of up to 14 active members at a time, who were scientists and students of computer science and medicine. The well communicated educational approach and team policy fostered the participation of the students. Formative assessment and evaluation showed a considerable improvement of the students’ skills and a high participant satisfaction.

Conclusions: Alternative education approaches such as project-based learning empower students to acquire scientific knowledge and professional skills, especially the ability of life-long learning, multidisciplinary team work and social responsibility.
Germanium(II) Dications Stabilized by Azamacrocycles and Crown Ethers
Authors: Cheng Fei , Hector Andrew L. , Levason William , Reid Gillian , Webster Michael , Zhang Wenjian
Published: June 2009

A crown for germanium: Neutral aza‐ and oxamacrocycles enable stabilization of halide‐free germanium(II) dications (see structure, Ge teal, N blue, C gray). The resulting structures show a marked dependence upon the denticity, donor type, and ring size of the macrocycle.

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Application of time‐temperature superposition to energy limit of linear viscoelastic behavior
Authors: Starkova O. , Aniskevich A.
Published: June 2009

The energy approach for evaluation of the limits of linear viscoelastic (LVE) behavior is considered. The approach of Foux and Bruller based on the Reiner‐Weissenberg dynamic theory of strength is developed for the temperature effect. Value of the stored energy at the limit of LVE is considered as the material characteristic independent on loading conditions and temperature. Time–temperature superposition principle is extended for the energy calculations. Curves of the stored energy calculated for different temperatures are shifted to each other in the logarithmic time axes similarly as creep compliance and relaxation modulus curves in creep and tension tests, respectively. Temperature is considered as a factor that accelerates transition form linear to non‐LVE at the same stored energy threshold. This is proved by example of polyvinylchloride by comparing temperature dependences of the stress limits of LVE determined in two independent test series: tensile creep and constant strain rate tests. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2009
Nanoparticles of [Fe(NH2‐trz)3]Br2⋅3 H2O (NH2‐trz=2‐Amino‐1,2,4‐triazole) Prepared by the Reverse Micelle Technique: Influence of Particle and Coherent Domain Sizes on Spin‐Crossover Properties
Authors: Forestier Thibaut , Kaiba Abdellah , Pechev Stanislav , Denux Dominique , Guionneau Philippe , Etrillard Céline , Daro Nathalie , Freysz Eric , Létard Jean‐François
Published: June 2009

By changing the surfactant/water ratio, nanoparticles of the iron(II) spin crossover material, [Fe(NH2‐trz)3]Br2⋅3 H2O (with NH2‐trz=4‐amino‐1,2,4‐triazole), have been synthesised from 1 μm down to 30 nm (see figure). Magnetic and reflectivity experiments indicate that the critical size for observing a thermal hysteresis in this 1D polymer family is around 50 nm, and powder X‐ray diffraction shows that particles of about 30 nm are constituted by about one coherent domain.

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This paper describes the synthesis of iron(II) spin‐crossover nanoparticles prepared by the reverse micelle technique by using the non‐ionic surfactant Lauropal (Ifralan D0205) from the polyoxyethylenic family. By changing the surfactant/water ratio, the size of the particles of [Fe(NH2‐trz)3]Br2⋅3H2O (with NH2trz=4‐amino‐1,2,4‐triazole) can be controlled. On the macroscopic scale this complex exhibits cooperative thermal spin crossovers at 305 and 320 K. We find that when the size is reduced down to 50 nm, the spin transition becomes gradual and no hysteresis can be detected. For our data it seems that the critical size, for which the existence of a thermal hysteresis can be detected, is around 50 nm. Interestingly, the change of the particle size induces almost no change in the temperature of the thermal spin transition. A systematic determination of coherent domain size carried out on the nanoparticles by powder X‐ray diffraction indicates that at approximately 30 nm individual particles consist of one coherent domain.
Transcriptome analysis of the zebrafish pineal gland
Authors: Toyama Reiko , Chen Xiongfong , Jhawar Nupur , Aamar Emil , Epstein Jonathan , Reany Nir , Alon Shahar , Gothilf Yoav , Klein David C. , Dawid Igor B.
Published: June 2009

The zebrafish pineal gland (epiphysis) is a site of melatonin production, contains photoreceptor cells, and functions as a circadian clock pace maker. Here, we have used microarray technology to study the zebrafish pineal transcriptome. Analysis of gene expression at three larval and two adult stages revealed a highly dynamic transcriptional profile, revealing many genes that are highly expressed in the zebrafish pineal gland. Statistical analysis of the data based on Gene Ontology annotation indicates that many transcription factors are highly expressed during larval stages, whereas genes dedicated to phototransduction are preferentially expressed in the adult. Furthermore, several genes were identified that exhibit day/night differences in expression. Among the multiple candidate genes suggested by these data, we note the identification of a tissue‐specific form of the unc119 gene with a possible role in pineal development. Developmental Dynamics 238:1813–1826, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Flame retardant finishing of cotton fleece fabric: Part V. Phosphorus‐containing maleic acid oligomers
Authors: Cheng Xinying , Yang Charles Q.
Published: June 2009

The high flammability of cotton fleece makes it necessary to apply a flame retardant system on cotton fleece so that it can meet the federal regulation ‘Standard for the Flammability of Clothing Textiles’ (16 CFR 1610). The objective of this research was to reduce the flammability of cotton fleece using the phosphorus‐containing maleic acid oligomers (PMAO) synthesized by aqueous free radical polymerization of maleic acid. We found that PMAO can be bound to cotton fleece by esterifying with cotton cellulose with sodium hypophosphite as the catalyst. Both the 45∘ flammability and limiting oxygen index data indicated that the treatment of cotton using PMAO reduced the flammability of cotton fleece. The micro‐scale combustion calorimetric data revealed that PMAO reduced the peak heat release rate and heat release capacity of the treated cotton woven fabric. The cotton fleece treated with PMAO/NaH2PO2 passed the federal flammability test (16 CFR Part 1610) and achieved ‘Class 1’ flammability. The PMAO bound to cotton was durable to multiple home laundering cycles. The treated fleece also showed high strength retention with little change in fabric whiteness. The use of triethanolamine as an additive modestly enhanced the performance of PMAO with no significant changes in fabric physical properties. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Selective targeting of green fluorescent nanodiamond conjugates to mitochondria in HeLa cells
Authors: Mkandawire Msaukiranji , Pohl Andrea , Gubarevich Tatiana , Lapina Victoria , Appelhans Dietmar , Rödel Gerhard , Pompe Wolfgang , Schreiber Jürgen , Opitz Jörg
Published: June 2009

Fluorescent cellular biomarkers play a prominent role in biosciences. Most of the available biomarkers have some drawbacks due to either physical and optical or cytotoxic properties. In view of this, we investigated the potential of green fluorescent nanodiamonds as biomarkers in living cells. Nanodiamonds were functionalized by attaching antibodies that target intracellular structures such as actin filaments and mitochondria. Then, the nanodiamond conjugates were transfected into HeLa cells. Transfections were mediated by 4th‐generation dendrimers, cationic liposomes and protamine sulfate. Using fluorescence microscopy, we confirmed successful transfections of the nanodiamonds into HeLa cells. Nanodiamond fluorescence could be easily differentiated from cellular autofluorescence. Furthermore, nanodiamonds could be targeted selectively to intracellular structures. Therefore, nanodiamonds are a promising tool for intracellular assays. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Task‐specific training: evidence for and translation to clinical practice
Authors: Hubbard Isobel J. , Parsons Mark W. , Neilson Cheryl , Carey Leeanne M.
Published: June 2009

There is mounting evidence of the value of task‐specific training as a neuromotor intervention in neurological rehabilitation. The evidence is founded in the psychology of motor skill learning and in the neuroscience of experience‐dependent and learning‐dependent neural plastic changes in the brain in animals and humans. Further, there is growing empirical evidence for the effectiveness of task‐specific training in rehabilitation and for neural plastic changes following task‐oriented training. In this paper, we position the evidence for task‐specific training in the context of rehabilitation; review its relevance for occupation‐based neurological rehabilitation, particularly in relation to upper limb function and everyday activities; and recommend evidence‐driven strategies for its application. We recommend that task‐specific training be routinely applied by occupational therapists as a component of their neuromotor interventions, particularly in management related to post‐stroke upper limb recovery. Specifically, we propose five implementation strategies based on review of the evidence. These are: task‐specific training should be relevant to the patient/client and to the context; be randomly assigned; be repetitive and involve massed practice; aim towards reconstruction of the whole task; and be reinforced with positive and timely feedback. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Distress in women with gynecologic cancer
Authors: Johnson Rhonda L. , Gold Michael A. , Wyche Karen F.
Published: June 2009

Objective: The NCCN Distress Thermometer (DT) was administered to 143 women undergoing chemotherapy for gynecologic cancer over a two‐year period. This report describes the frequency and character of psychological distress in this population and examines the effect of disease, treatment, and demographic variables on levels of distress.

Method: The DT is a self‐administered scale for patients to rate their level of distress from 0 to 10, where 0 represents no distress and 10 represents extreme distress. Further, patients are asked to choose from among 34 items that constitute sources of distress within the last week. All women who were undergoing their first chemotherapy treatment at the outpatient clinic at the University of Oklahoma Cancer Institute for either primary disease or recurrent disease were asked by the clinical nurses to complete the assessment prior to that first infusion.

Results: Over half (57%) of women reported a score of 4 or greater on the DT and were then assessed by the oncology psychologist. Women who were younger than age 60 and single were more likely to be distressed. There were no associations between the type of cancer, stage of cancer, or insurance status.

Conclusions: A significant percentage (57%) of these women experienced distress at levels that indicate further evaluation is indicated. This study suggests that early screening and evaluation are essential in this group of cancer patients.Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Communes, Commerce and Coloni: Internal Divisions in Tuscany 1830–1860
Authors: Miller Marion S.
Published: June 2009

In recent studies of the various revolutionary attempts of 1848–9 in Italy, historians have moved away from the liberal nationalist interpretations in order to pursue analyses of social problems and class interest in particular regions, especially in Lombardy, Venetia and southern Italy. Often overlooked, however, is Tuscany, despite its strategic central location in the peninsula. An examination of Tuscan society in process of change over the three decades before Italian unification reveals internal divisions which must be assessed in terms of domestic conditions and which cannot be understood solely in the context of the nationalist movement.
Prosecutions for Sodomy in England at the Beginning of the Nineteenth Century
Authors: Harvey A. D.
Published: June 2009

During the first thirty-five years of the nineteenth century more than fifty men were hanged for sodomy in England. This was less than a seventh of the number of people executed for murder in the same period, though in one year, 1806, there were more executions for sodomy than for murder. Nevertheless, it was the case that in the first third of the nineteenth century trials and executions for sodomy were much commoner than they had been in any earlier period.
IV. The Revolution of July 1830 and the Expression ‘Bourgeoisie’
Authors: Gruner Shirley
Published: June 2009

Although there have been recently critical studies on the social forces initiating both the revolutions of 1789 and 1830 in France, they have been concerned with the question of defining the ‘bourgeoisie’ or of estimating the role played by the problem by examining the origin of the idea in the political and social theories of that time to show and why the phrase ‘bourgeois revolution’ was used, and to see whether the concept is any longer of use in terms of historical analysis.
III. Parliamentary Radicals and the Reduction of Imperial Expenditure in British North America, 1827–1834
Authors: Burroughs Peter
Published: June 2009

Although retrenchment, with its overtones of efficiency and its implied attack on corruption, is a familiar watchword of modern politics, it is difficult today to appreciate the deep ethical and constitutional significance of the issue of economy during the early nineteenth century, or the strong hold which the concept exerted over the attitudes and actions of British politicians and administrators in the decades following the Napoleonic Wars. Twenty-three years of costly war with France had increased Britain's national debt from £228 million in 1793 to £876 million in 1815, and the laborious process of eliminating this deficit at the rate of a few millions a year by means of a sinking fund was aptly described as ‘the attempt of a wooden-legged man to catch a hare’. The propertied classes in the post-war period considered themselves excessively burdened with taxation, and until the Poor Law Amendment Act of 1834 had been effectively put into operation, they were also called upon to meet the costs of an expensive and inefficient system of poor relief.
VII. The Liberal Leadership and the Lords' Veto, 1907–1910
Authors: Weston Corinne Comstock
Published: June 2009

The official biographers of H. H. Asquith believed that his sole difference of any importance with Sir Henry Campbell-Bannerman in the period when Asquith served as his principal lieutenant rose in connexion with the Trade Disputes Act of 1906. In fact, another important difference divided them in the following spring, this one rising out of their respective views on the proper mode of limiting the veto of the house of lords. That of Campbell-Bannerman is well known. He sponsored a plan of suspensory veto that could conceivably limit the period in which the lords' veto operated to little more than six months. Under its terms a bill sent up to the house of lords would go to a small conference representing each house equally when the two houses were in disagreement. Should the conference fail, the bill or another like it could be reintroduced in the house of commons after an interval of at least six months, passed under drastic closure, and sent once more to the house of lords. The impasse continuing, a second conference might be held; and a second failure at this juncture could entail a repetition of the whole process. But if a third conference proved unsuccessful, the bill could become law without the consent of the house of lords. Known subsequently as the C-B veto plan, it was made public by the Prime Minister in a speech in the house of commons, on 24 June 1007, when he also introduced and carried by a large majority a resolution asserting that the power of the house of lords to alter or reject bills should be so restricted by law as to secure that the decision of the house of commons should prevail within the limits of a single parliament.
III. The Appointment of Harley in 1704
Authors: McInnes Angus
Published: June 2009

In recent years a good deal of attention has been paid to the fall of Robert Harley in 1708.1 The purpose of the present essay is to examine the other side of the coin—Harley's appointment in 1704. This latter problem is not simply a more neglected theme. It is also more important. In the main the various studies of the Secretary's resignation have concerned themselves with the immediate occasion of his fall. The roots of the trouble—the longstanding difference between Harley and the Churchill group over Junto pressure—have not been in question. Harley's admission to Cabinet rank on the other hand poses problems on a grander scale. The reputation of key political figures is involved. So too is the entire profile of ministerial history in the first half-dozen years of Queen Anne's reign. Indeed one might even suggest that Harley's appointment has more than a little to tell us about that hoariest of problems, the Whig Interpretation of History.
V. Free Fooders, Balfourites, Whole Hoggers. Factionalism within the Unionist Party, 1906–10
Authors: Blewett Neal
Published: June 2009

The unity of the Unionist party had been destroyed by Joseph Chamberlain's momentous speech at Birmingham on 15 May 1903, a speech described by one of his disciples as ‘a challenge to free thought as direct and provocative as the theses which Luther nailed to the church door at Wittenberg’. It was a particularly apt simile. Chamberlain's speech demanded a new Reformation and men soon found themselves ‘hating Free Trade with all the intensity with which any Calvinist ever hated the Church of Rome’.
V. British War Aims and German Peace Feelers during the First World War (December 1916–November 1918)
Authors: Fest W. B.
Published: June 2009

In 1914 Britain, though hesitantly, decided to enter the war, thus fulfilling her loosely-defined obligations towards the other Entente states. After the outbreak of the war, Britain was just one partner in an alliance whose members had undertaken on 5 September 1914 not to conclude a separate peace and also not even to consider any peace-offer without previous consultations. These mutual assurances were supposed to ensure a victory settlement satisfactory to all the Allies.