bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
1H and 27Al NMR Study of Li[AlH4] + Ti Compounds in Solution
Authors: Takeuchi Shou , Senoh Hiroshi , Zhang Shu , Takeshita Hiroyuki T , Kiyobayashi Tetsu , Xu Qiang , Kuriyama Nobuhiro
Published: June 2009

A broad sextet signal in the 1H NMR spectrum of Li[AlH4] in THF-d8, centered at 2.75 ppm with J/Hz = 176, was assigned to the signal from [AlH4]−. Also investigated were the reactions of Li[AlH4] with TiCl3 or Ti(OBu)4 in THF.
How Are Non-Bonded G···Z (Z = O, S, and Se) Distances at Benzene 1,2-, Naphthalene 1,8-, and Anthracene 1,8,9-Positions Controlled? An Approach to Causality in Weak Interactions
Authors: Hayashi Satoko , Nakanishi Waro
Published: June 2009

Mechanisms operating in weak interactions are sometimes quite different from those in strong ones. Factors to control the non-bonded G···Z (Z = O, S, and Se) distances at naphthalene 1,8-positions in 8-G-1-RZC10H6 are analyzed as an example to clarify the causality of weak interactions. Structures around Z in 8-G-1-RZC10H6 are well explained by three types, A, B, and C, where the Z–CR bond is perpendicular to the naphthyl plane in A, it is placed on the plane in B, and C is intermediate between A and B. The r(Z···Z) distances in 1,8-(RZ)2C10H6 are observed to increase in an order of BB < CC < AB < AA. It seems difficult to explain the sequence based on the magnitudes of the closed-shell Z···Z interactions, since the BB interaction must not be so strong especially for Z of heavier atoms. The mechanism to control the r(Z···Z) distances is demonstrated to be the reflection from the repulsive interactions between R and H at the 2-position in 1,8-(RZ)2C10H6. Similar phenomena are also detected in the observed and calculated results at the benzene 1,2-, anthracene 1,8,9-, and anthraquinone 1,8,9-positions, which are explained based on the mechanism. Proposed idea and mechanism will help us to understand what happens in such weak interactions.
Synthesis and Structural Analysis of Triphenylmethane-Based Alkanecarboxamides and Their Assembly into Nanometer-Size Fibrous Objects
Authors: Houjou Hirohiko , Koga Tatsuya , Akiizumi Midori , Yoshikawa Isao , Araki Koji
Published: June 2009

A series of C3-symmetric trialkanecarboxamido derivatives was synthesized via a triphenylmethane derivative. The triamides with short alkyl chains (1–6 carbons) crystallized as either prisms or plates, whereas those with long alkyl chains (7–11 carbons) formed gel-like objects composed of fibrous crystals with 100-nm diameters. A discontinuity as a function of alkyl chain length was also observed for the melting points, the vibrational frequencies of the amide groups, and the powder X-ray diffraction patterns of the triamides. On the basis of analysis of the crystal structures of two of the compounds, we make some proposals about the molecular packing and the local structure of the molecular assembly. Our results suggest that there were critical differences in inter-core interactions and in the hydrogen-bonding network, depending on the length of the alkyl chains. We interpret the drastic change in morphology brought about by the tuning of the chain length as a consequence of a change in the mode of molecular assembly.
Relationships between quality of life and finding benefits in a diagnosis of colorectal cancer
Authors: Rinaldis Machelle , Pakenham Kenneth I. , Lynch Brigid M.
Published: June 2009

This longitudinal study investigated relations between benefit‐finding domains and outcome measures. Participants were 1,757 individuals diagnosed with colorectal cancer. A written questionnaire and telephone interview were completed at 5‐months (Time 1) and 12‐months post‐diagnosis (Time 2). Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses revealed three psychometrically sound factors: personal growth, interpersonal growth, and acceptance. Results of regression analyses were conducted and found that Time 1 benefit‐finding domains accounted for significant amounts of variance in Time 1 positive affect and cancer‐related quality of life (both the aggregate score and its social/family, functional, and colorectal cancer‐specific well‐being subscales). Time 1 personal growth also predicted Time 1 psychological distress. After controlling for Time 1 positive affect, personal growth continued to predict Time 2 positive affect. Results delineate the benefit‐finding domains in the context of colorectal cancer and their differential links with outcome measures cross‐sectionally, and longitudinally. These findings have implications for theory building and the measurement of benefit‐finding.
Development of metaphor and metonymy comprehension: Receptive vocabulary and conceptual knowledge
Authors: Rundblad Gabriella , Annaz Dagmara
Published: June 2009

Figurative language, such as metaphor and metonymy are common in our daily communication. This is one of the first studies to investigate metaphor and metonymy comprehension using a developmental approach. Forty‐five typically developing individuals participated in a metaphor–metonymy verbal comprehension task incorporating 20 short picture‐stories. Cross‐sectional trajectory analyses linking task performance to either chronological age or receptive vocabulary (mental age, MA) were used to compare the development of metaphor and metonymy. Results showed that development of metaphor and metonymy comprehension is strongly linked with chronological and MA, but metaphor comprehension develops at a slower rate compared to metonymy. It was also found that participants, across all ages, consistently showed around 21% better performance on metonymy. The relationship between metaphor and metonymy comprehension is discussed in terms of linguistic and cognitive models of figurative language comprehension arguing that metonymy is cognitively more basic than metaphor.
PCR-Based Methods for Detecting Single-Locus DNA Methylation Biomarkers in Cancer Diagnostics, Prognostics, and Response to Treatment
Authors: Kristensen Lasse Sommer , Hansen Lise Lotte
Published: June 2009

Background: DNA methylation is a highly characterized epigenetic modification of the human genome that is implicated in cancer. The altered DNA methylation patterns found in cancer cells include not only global hypomethylation but also discrete hypermethylation of specific genes. In particular, numerous tumor suppressor genes undergo epigenetic silencing because of hypermethylated promoter regions. Some of these genes are considered promising DNA methylation biomarkers for early cancer diagnostics, and some have been shown to be valuable for predicting prognosis or the response to therapy.

Content: PCR-based methods that use sodium bisulfite–treated DNA as a template are generally accepted as the most analytically sensitive and specific techniques for analyzing DNA methylation at single loci. A number of new methods, such as methylation-specific fluorescent amplicon generation (MS-FLAG), methylation-sensitive high-resolution melting (MS-HRM), and sensitive melting analysis after real-time methylation-specific PCR (SMART-MSP), now complement the traditional PCR-based methods and promise to be valuable diagnostic tools. In particular, the HRM technique shows great potential as a diagnostic tool because of its closed-tube format and cost-effectiveness.

Summary: Numerous traditional and new PCR-based methods have been developed for detecting DNA methylation at single loci. All have characteristic advantages and disadvantages, particularly with regard to use in clinical settings.
Screening Panels for Detection of Monoclonal Gammopathies
Authors: Katzmann Jerry A , Kyle Robert A , Benson Joanne , Larson Dirk R , Snyder Melissa R , Lust John A , Rajkumar S Vincent , Dispenzieri Angela
Published: June 2009

Background: The repertoire of serologic tests for identifying a monoclonal gammopathy includes serum and urine protein electrophoresis (PEL), serum and urine immunofixation electrophoresis (IFE), and quantitative serum free light chain (FLC). Although there are several reports on the relative diagnostic contribution of these assays, none has looked at the tests singly and in combination for the various plasma cell proliferative disorders (PCPDs).

Methods: Patients with a PCPD and all 5 assays performed within 30 days of diagnosis were included (n = 1877). The diagnoses were multiple myeloma (MM) (n = 467), smoldering multiple myeloma (SMM) (n = 191), monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) (n = 524), plasmacytoma (n = 29), extramedullary plasmacytoma (n = 10), Waldenström macroglobulinemia (WM) (n = 26), primary amyloidosis (AL) (n = 581), light chain deposition disease (LCDD) (n = 18), and POEMS syndrome (n = 31).

Results: Of the 1877 patients, 26 were negative in all assays. Omitting urine from the panel lost an additional 23 patients (15 MGUS, 6 AL, 1 plasmacytoma, 1 LCDD), whereas the omission of FLC lost 30 patients (6 MM, 23 AL, and 1 LCDD). The omission of serum IFE as well as urine lost an additional 58 patients (44 MGUS, 7 POEMS, 5 AL, 1 SMM, and 1 plasmacytoma).

Conclusions: The major impact of using a simplified screening panel of serum PEL plus FLC rather than PEL, IFE, and FLC is an 8% reduction in sensitivity for MGUS, 23% for POEMS (7 patients), 4% for plasmacytoma (1 patient), 1% for AL, and 0.5% for SMM. There is no diminution in sensitivity for detecting MM, macroglobulinemia, and LCDD.
Regulation of intracellular pH during oocyte growth and maturation in mammals
Authors: FitzHarris Greg , Baltz Jay M
Published: June 2009

Regulation of intracellular pH (pHi) is a fundamental homeostatic process essential for the survival and proliferation of virtually all cell types. The mammalian preimplantation embryo, for example, possesses Na+/H+and HCO3−/Cl−exchangers that robustly regulate against acidosis and alkalosis respectively. Inhibition of these transporters prevents pH corrections and, perhaps unsurprisingly, leads to impaired embryogenesis. However, recent studies have revealed that the role and regulation of pHiis somewhat more complex in the case of the developing and maturing oocyte. Small meiotically incompetent growing oocytes are apparently incapable of regulating their own pHi, and instead rely upon the surrounding granulosa cells to correct ooplasmic pH, until such a time that the oocyte has developed the capacity to regulate its own pHi. Later, during meiotic maturation, pHi-regulating activities that were developed during growth are inactivated, apparently under the control of MAPK signalling, until the oocyte is successfully fertilized. Here, we will discuss pH homeostasis in early mammalian development, focussing on recent developments highlighting the unusual and unexpected scenario of pH regulation during oocyte growth and maturation.
Seasonal Changes in Carbohydrate and Nitrogen Concentrations in Oregon and California Populations of Brazilian Egeria (Egeria densa)
Authors: Pennington Toni G. , Sytsma Mark D.
Published: June 2009

Total nonstructural carbohydrate (TNC) reserves support growth, formation of reproductive structures, and sprouting of plant tissues, and nitrogen (N) is essential for amino acid synthesis and photosynthetic enzyme production. Timing of weed management to periods when these critical resources are most limiting might improve efficacy. We examined seasonal changes in carbohydrate and nitrogen concentrations in Brazilian egeria (Egeria densa), a common submersed aquatic weed, from two locations in the United States. Plants were collected from a coastal Oregon reservoir and from California's Central Valley in the Sacramento–San Joaquin Delta. Starch comprised between 35 to 51% of the TNC in lower stems and root crowns. Seasonal changes in resource concentrations were not consistent between years within a population or for the same plant part between different populations. Lowest TNC concentrations were observed earlier in the growing season (March) in Disappointment Slough than in Big Creek (May to June). Conversely, highest concentrations were observed in October in Disappointment Sough and from August to March in Big Creek. Nitrogen concentrations were highest in stem tips in both populations, with more distinct seasonal changes in the California population. These data suggest western populations of E. densa might exhibit less-discernible low points in root crown and lower stem energy storage for targeting management activities to vulnerable phenological stages. Brazilian egeria has high phenological plasticity despite its low genetic diversity and lack of specialized reproductive and perennating structures, which allows the plant to invade and dominate submersed plant communities in areas with mild winters.
Functional Group Responses to Reciprocal Plant Litter Exchanges between Native and Invasive Plant Dominated Grasslands
Authors: Sheley Roger , Vasquez Edward , Hoopes Carla
Published: June 2009

Manipulating plant litter to direct successional trajectories is rarely considered as a management strategy. Our objective was to determine the influence of litter from an intact native plant community on a community dominated by an invasive species within the same habitat type as well as the influence of litter from a community dominated by an invasive species on an intact native plant community. We hypothesized that litter amount, type (source), and fragment size would influence various functional groups within a native plant community differently than within a weed-dominated plant community. We used reciprocal plant litter exchanges between native and invasive plant–dominated grasslands to gain an initial understanding of litter's influence on the density and biomass of native grasses, native forbs, common St. Johnswort, and downy brome. Common St. Johnswort was not influenced by any treatment. Native grass density increased with application of low (454 g/m2) amounts of litter where the grasses were subordinate to common St. Johnswort, and adding native plant litter to the weedy site nearly doubled native grass biomass. Low amounts of finely fragmented litter and high amounts of coarse litter induced native forbs to produce about twice the biomass as found in the non–litter-amended controls. Our study suggests that plant litter may be a component of vegetation that can be managed to shift the plant community toward those plants that are desired.
Variable Impacts of Imazapic Rate on Downy Brome (Bromus tectorum) and Seeded Species in Two Rangeland Communities
Authors: Morris Christo , Monaco Thomas A. , Rigby Craig W.
Published: June 2009

The herbicide imazapic is registered for use on rangelands and provides effective short-term control of certain invasive annual grasses. However, details about optimal application rates for downy brome and susceptibility of simultaneously seeded species are lacking. Thus, we investigated downy brome and seeded species responses to variable rates of imazapic (0, 35, 70, 105, and 140 g ai/ha) in two plant communities (salt desert shrub and Wyoming big sagebrush). In autumn 2003, plots were treated with imazapic and seeded with one of five perennial plant materials (Siberian wheatgrass [‘Vavilov’ and the experimental source Kazak]; prostrate kochia [‘Immigrant’ and the experimental source 6X], and Russian wildrye [‘Bozoisky II’]). Downy brome cover and seeded species establishment were evaluated in spring 2004 and 2006. Downy brome cover in 2004 decreased with increasing imazapic rate at both sites, although more so at the Wyoming big sagebrush site. In 2006, no difference in downy brome cover existed among herbicide rates at the Wyoming big sagebrush site. At the salt desert shrub site, the high rate of imazapic reduced downy brome cover by about 25% compared to untreated plots. ‘Vavilov’ Siberian wheatgrass was the only seeded species with lower downy brome cover in 2006 than 2004. Seeded species establishment increased with imazapic rate in the salt desert shrub community, but in the Wyoming big sagebrush community it peaked at intermediate rates and declined at higher rates. Variation in downy brome control and seeded species establishment might have been associated with differences in precipitation, soil organic matter, and disturbance history between sites. Overall, imazapic was useful for helping establish desirable perennial species, but unless downy brome is reduced below a critical threshold, favorable precipitation can return sites to pretreatment levels within two years.
Approaches for Assessing the Status of Nonnative Plants: A Comparative Analysis
Authors: Fox Alison M. , Gordon Doria R.
Published: June 2009

The magnitude of the invasive plant species problem necessitates prioritization of species for control, regulatory, and public-education programs. Many such priority lists exist but few have been developed according to specified procedures and criteria. We reviewed approaches to assessing the status of nonnative plant species currently occurring in natural areas (status assessments). We identify four generalized types of status assessments, which reflect a gradation from those that simply adopt existing lists from elsewhere (type 1), to those with relatively easy and rapid development and implementation (type 2), to those that are more time-consuming and costly but may be more robust in the face of challenges (types 3 and 4). These latter assessments explicitly have greater transparency, objectivity, and consistency than the other types. We use a matrix of assessment characteristics to distinguish the types of 17 example status assessments. We also review the factors related to assessment intent, scope, structure, content, and implementation that must be considered during the development of new status assessments so that the resulting tool and its products are appropriate for the user's purposes. These analyses should facilitate evaluation of different assessment methods and provide a basis for development of improved assessments. Identification of the relatively low percentage of nonnative plant species that are inflicting ecological and economic harm using well-understood and accepted assessment methods should facilitate a more comprehensive, collective approach to implementation of effective management efforts.
Impacts of Buffelgrass (Pennisetum ciliare) on a Forb Community in South Texas
Authors: Sands Joseph P. , Brennan Leonard A. , Hernández Fidel , Kuvlesky William P. , Gallagher James F. , Ruthven Donald C. , Pittman James E.
Published: June 2009

Since the 1950s, many south Texas rangelands have been seeded with buffelgrass, a perennial C4bunchgrass native to Africa that is believed to contribute to reductions in biodiversity. Forb species represent a critical habitat component throughout the breeding period for many wildlife species as seed (summer to fall), as green vegetative material (spring to summer), and as habitat for arthropods (spring to summer). Reductions in richness and diversity of crucial ecosystem components such as forbs and arthropods have large implications for grassland birds and other wildlife. We sampled annual and perennial forbs within 1-m2quadrats on 15 study plots (1 ha;n= 20 quadrats/plot) at Chaparral Wildlife Management Area, in LaSalle and Dimmit counties, Texas, during 2005 and 2006. Study plots were divided into five light-buffelgrass plots (0 to 5% buffelgrass canopy coverage), five moderate-buffelgrass plots (5 to 25% buffelgrass canopy coverage), and five heavy-buffelgrass plots (> 25% buffelgrass canopy coverage). Buffelgrass in study plots was composed of naturalized plants, and was not deliberately planted. During 2005 we observed that plots with > 25% buffelgrass had a 73% reduction in forb canopy of native species, a 64% reduction in native forb species richness, and a 77% reduction in native forb stem density compared to plots with 0 to 5% buffelgrass. These trends in native forb reduction (−79% native forb canopy, −65% forb species richness, −80% forb stem density) were nearly identical in 2006, even with greatly reduced rainfall. Simple linear regression revealed negative relationships between buffelgrass cover, total exotic grass cover (buffelgrass and Lehmann lovegrass), and total grass cover and the richness, coverage, and density of forbs/m2. Reductions in diversity may have larger implications regarding ecosystem function and available useable space and densities of desired bird species such as northern bobwhite.
Effect of Biological Control on Leafy Spurge (Euphorbia esula) and Diversity of Associated Grasslands Over 14 Years
Authors: Lesica Peter , Hanna Dave
Published: June 2009

Using biological control agents to restore native habitats degraded by exotic plants should decrease the abundance of the invaders but should also result in a return toward preinvasion levels of native diversity. However, there are few long-term studies documenting changes in native biological diversity with the decline of an invader. We introduced a biocontrol flea beetle into three Montana grassland sites dominated by leafy spurge and monitored changes in leafy spurge abundance and frequency of associated vascular plants in 48 permanent microplots, in a 530 or 1,960 m2 macroplot immediately before and 14 yr after the release. Density and mass of leafy spurge declined 60 and 69%, respectively, over the 14 yr of the study across the three sites. Total species richness increased by 1.2 species/microplot (21%) between 1994 and 2008 across all three sites, but the increase differed among sites. Mean richness of exotic species was virtually unchanged across the three sites over the course of the study. Graminoid species richness was virtually unchanged across the three sites over the course of the study; most of the increase in diversity was due to the increase in forb richness at all three sites. Release of the biocontrol insects and a subsequent large reduction of leafy spurge were associated with an increase in native diversity after 14 yr, although causality cannot be confidently inferred from these associations because there were no controls. The increase in native diversity was small relative to the decline in leafy spurge abundance, suggesting that significant increases of native alpha diversity in semiarid grasslands may require many decades. Our results also suggest that the response to a decline of an invading species may depend on site quality and history.
Lantana (Lantana camara) Seed Bank Dynamics: Seedling Emergence and Seed Survival
Authors: Vivian-Smith Gabrielle , Panetta F. Dane
Published: June 2009

Seed persistence is poorly quantified for invasive plants of subtropical and tropical environments and Lantana camara, one of the world's worst weeds, is no exception. We investigated germination, seedling emergence, and seed survival of two lantana biotypes (Pink and pink-edged red [PER]) in southeastern Queensland, Australia. Controlled experiments were undertaken in 2002 and repeated in 2004, with treatments comprising two differing environmental regimes (irrigated and natural rainfall) and sowing depths (0 and 2 cm). Seed survival and seedling emergence were significantly affected by all factors (time, biotype, environment, sowing depth, and cohort) (P < 0.001). Seed dormancy varied with treatment (environment, sowing depth, biotype, and cohort) (P < 0.001), but declined rapidly after 6 mo. Significant differential responses by the two biotypes to sowing depth and environment were detected for both seed survival and seedling emergence (P < 0.001). Seed mass was consistently lower in the PER biotype at the population level (P < 0.001), but this variation did not adequately explain the differential responses. Moreover, under natural rainfall the magnitude of the biotype effect was unlikely to result in ecologically significant differences. Seed survival after 36 mo under natural rainfall ranged from 6.8 to 21.3%. Best fit regression analysis of the decline in seed survival over time yielded a five-parameter exponential decay model with a lower asymptote approaching −0.38 (% seed survival = [(55 − (−0.38)) · e (k · t)] + −0.38; R2 = 88.5%; 9 df). Environmental conditions and burial affected the slope parameter or k value significantly (P < 0.01). Seed survival projections from the model were greatest for buried seeds under natural rainfall (11 yr) and least under irrigation (3 yr). Experimental data and model projections suggest that lantana has a persistent seed bank and this should be considered in management programs, particularly those aimed at eradication.
Effects of lipid-lowering pharmaceuticals bezafibrate and clofibric acid on lipid metabolism in fathead minnow (Pimephales promelas)
Authors: Weston Anna , Caminada Daniel , Galicia Hector , Fent Karl
Published: June 2009

The lipid-lowering agents bezafibrate and clofibric acid, which occur at concentrations up to 3.1 and 1.6 μL, respectively, are among the most frequently found human pharmaceuticals in the aquatic environment. In contrast to knowledge about their environmental occurrence, little is known about their effects in the environment. The aim of the present study was to analyze effects of these lipid-lowering agents in fish by focusing on their modes of action, lipid metabolism. Fathead minnows were exposed in aquaria to measured concentrations of 0.1, 1.27, 10.18, 101.56, and 106.7 mg/L bezafibrate and to 1.07, 10.75, and 108.91 mg/L clofibric acid for 14 and 21 d, respectively. After exposure, fish liver was analyzed for expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α (PPARα) by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and the PPAR-regulated enzyme fatty acyl-coenzyme-A oxidase (FAO) involved in fatty acid oxidation. Bezafibrate had no effect, either on PPARα expression or on FAO activity, at all concentrations. In contrast, clofibric acid induced FAO activity in male fathead minnows at 108.91 mg/L. No increase in expression of PPARα messenger ribonucleic acid was observed. Egg production was apparently decreased after 21 d of exposure to 108.91 mg/L clofibric acid. The present study demonstrates that bezafibrate has very little or no effect on PPARα expression and FAO activity, but clofibric acid affects FAO activity.
Modeling Integrated Fixed‐Film Activated Sludge and Moving‐Bed Biofilm Reactor Systems II: Evaluation
Authors: Boltz Joshua P. , Johnson Bruce R. , Daigger Glen T. , Sandino Julian , Elenter Deborah
Published: June 2009

A steady‐state model presented by Boltz, Johnson, Daigger, and Sandino (2009) describing integrated fixed‐film activated sludge (IFAS) and moving‐bed biofilm reactor (MBBR) systems has been demonstrated to simulate, with reasonable accuracy, four wastewater treatment configurations with published operational data. Conditions simulated include combined carbon oxidation and nitrification (both IFAS and MBBR), tertiary nitrification MBBR, and post denitrification IFAS with methanol addition as the external carbon source. Simulation results illustrate that the IFAS/MBBR model is sufficiently accurate for describing ammonia‐nitrogen reduction, nitrate/nitrite‐nitrogen reduction and production, biofilm and suspended biomass distribution, and sludge production.
Adsorption of Lead(II) from Water by Carbon Nanotubes: Equilibrium, Kinetics, and Thermodynamics
Authors: Rahbari Meysam , Goharrizi Ataallah Soltani
Published: June 2009

Adsorption of lead(II) from water on carbon nanotubes (CNTs) was investigated using a series of batch adsorption experiments. The adsorption rate was studied experimentally at various temperatures, contact times, and initial pH and lead(II) concentrations. It was observed that a considerable amount of lead(II) was adsorbed during the first 5 minutes of contact time. The pH of the solution strongly influenced the amount of adsorption, and the best results were obtained when pH value was approximately 6. For the adsorption isotherm, the experimental data were analyzed by three two‐parameter isotherms (Langmuir, Freundlich, and Temkin) and four three‐parameter isotherms (Redhich‐Peterson, Sips, Toth, and Khan). The three kinetic models used to test the experimental data were Lagergren first‐order, second‐order, and the Elovich equation. The results obtained from the study of the thermodynamic parameters showed that the adsorption of lead(II) onto CNTs was a spontaneous and endothermic process.
Teaching and Clinical Educator Competency: Bringing Two Worlds Together
Authors: Robinson Cathy P
Published: June 2009

More sessional clinical educators are being employed in educational institutions today than ever before. Also identified in the literature are issues affecting sessional clinical educators' ability to develop and maintain educator competency. Using the definition of educator competency by the National League for Nursing (NLN 2005a), explored in this paper are ways of increasing sessional clinical educator competency, such as orientation and mentorship programs to support student learning in clinical environments. Approaches in the form of theoretical models designed to evaluate clinical educator competency are examined. A new Sessional Clinical Educator Competency (SCEC) Framework is offered to provide direction for implementing strategies to develop and evaluate sessional clinical educator competency. Suggested is that the SCEC framework could be useful for educational administrators and sessional clinical educators to assess clinical educator competency.
Reproducibility of Rehabilitative Ultrasound Imaging for the Measurement of Abdominal Muscle Activity: A Systematic Review
Authors: Costa Leonardo Oliveira Pena , Maher Chris G. , Latimer Jane , Smeets Rob J.E.M.
Published: June 2009

Background

Rehabilitative ultrasound imaging (RUSI) measures of abdominal wall muscles are used to indirectly measure muscle activity. These measures are used to identify suitable patients and to monitor progress of motor control exercise treatment of people with low back pain.

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to systematically review reproducibility studies of RUSI for measuring thickness of abdominal wall muscles.

Data Sources

Eligible studies were identified via searches of MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CINAHL. The authors also searched personal files and tracked references of the retrieved studies via the Web of Science Index.

Study Selection

Studies involving any type of reliability and or agreement of any type of ultrasound measurements (B or M mode) for any of the abdominal wall muscles were selected.

Data Extraction

Two independent reviewers extracted data and assessed methodological quality.

Data Synthesis

Due to heterogeneity of the studies’ designs, pooling the data for a meta-analysis was not possible. Twenty-one studies were included, and these studies were typically of low quality and studied subjects who were healthy rather than people seeking care for low back pain. The studies reported good to excellent reliability for single measures of thickness and poor to good reliability for measures of thickness change (reflecting the muscle activity). Interestingly, no studies checked reliability of measures of the difference in thickness changes over time (representing improvement or deterioration in muscle activity).

Conclusions

The current evidence of the reproducibility of RUSI for measuring abdominal muscle activity is based mainly on studies with suboptimal designs and the study of people who were healthy. The critical question of whether RUSI provides reliable measures of improvement in abdominal muscle activity remains to be evaluated.
Catalysis by Gold: Why Size Matters
Authors: Van Bokhoven Jeroen A.
Published: June 2009

Bulk gold is the most inert metal of all, however, when gold is finely dispersed on a support, it can be a very active catalyst for oxidation and hydrogenation reactions. X-ray absorption spectroscopy showed that the smaller the gold particles are, the shorter the gold–gold bond
length is. The smaller particles also have an altered electronic structure, as they undergo less hybridization between the s, p, and d orbitals than the larger particles. The d band narrows and moves closer to the Fermi level. As a result, hydrogen, oxygen, and CO adsorb on the metal surface
and the nano-sized metal particles can become catalytic.
Biotin – The Chiral Challenge
Authors: Bonrath Werner , Karge Reinhard , Netscher Thomas , Roessler Felix , Spindler Felix
Published: June 2009

In this contribution, the first examples of the catalytic highly enantioselective reduction of cyclic meso-anhydrides to lactones and of thioanhydrides to thiolactones are described. The N-benzyl protected key building blocks in the industrial synthesis of (+)-biotin were so
far only accessible by usage of expensive reagents in multi-step procedures. In contrast, homogeneous catalytic enantioselective hydrogenation of the corresponding meso-anhydride mediated by a metal phosphane complex proceeds with high optical induction (ee >95%) and excellent
yield. The catalytic system provides a generally applicable new method for the preparation of lactones from cyclic anhydrides.
Intensity Tracking for Vibrational Spectra of Large Molecules
Authors: Kiewisch Karin , Luber Sandra , Neugebauer Johannes , Reiher Markus
Published: June 2009

We briefly review our work on theoretical vibrational spectroscopy and elaborate on a recent approach for the selective calculation of high-intensity features in vibrational spectra developed in our laboratory. Conventional methods for the determination of frequencies and intensities
describe all vibrations on the same footing, irrespectively of their intensity. This becomes increasingly demanding for larger molecules. In our intensity-driven approach the total intensity is iteratively distributed to individual distinct bands as well as to fingerprint regions so that only
the subset of vibrations that dominates the appearance of the spectrum is determined. In turn, normal mode approximations are obtained.
Histamine-3 Receptor Inverse Agonists for the Treatment of Obesity: Validation of the Target and Identification of Novel Series
Authors: Pierson Pascale David , Ullmer Christoph , Taylor Sven , Takahashi Tadakatsu , Schuler Franz , Schmitt Monique , Rodríguez Sarmiento Rosa María , Roche Olivier , Richter Hans , Raab Susanne , Plancher Jean-Marc , Nettekoven Matthias , Nakagawa Toshito , Mohr Peter , Huwyler Jörg , Hertel Cornelia , Gatti-Mac Arthur Silvia , Freichel Christian , Wiegand Ruby
Published: June 2009

Obesity is a major risk factor for the development of conditions such as hypertension, hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia, coronary artery disease and cancer. Several pieces of evidence, including data in primates, have demonstrated the beneficial effects of histamine-3 receptor (H3R)
inverse agonists in the regulation of food intake and body weight. A pharmacophore model based on selected published H3R ligands and validated by previous investigations, was used to identify the 5-oxy-2-carboxamide-indole core as a novel series of H3R inverse agonists.
Extensive structure–activity relationship (SAR) investigations were rewarded by the identification of several compounds reversing (R)-?-methyl-histamine-induced water intake increase and reducing food intake/body weight in rodent models of obesity. Among those compounds,
(4,4-difluoro-piperidin-1-yl)-[1-isopropyl-5-(1-isopropyl-piperidin-4-yloxy)-1H-indol-2-yl]-methanone, selected as a lead compound, was exhibiting a promising profile, including excellent pharmacokinetic properties, good in vitro safety profile and high efficacy in a chronic
rodent model of obesity.
Adsorption and Self-Organization of Dendrimers at Water–Solid Interfaces
Authors: Popa Ionel , Longtin Rémi , Maroni Plinio , Papastavrou Georg , Borkovec Michal
Published: June 2009

Adsorption of poly(amido amine) (PAMAM) dendrimers at water–silica interfaces and the resulting self-organization on this type of substrate is discussed. Investigations with optical reflectivity and atomic force microscopy (AFM) reveal that dendrimers form monolayers of low coverage
on such surfaces with liquid-like structure. The nearest neighbor separation distance in these layers is dictated by screened Coulomb repulsion forces between the adsorbing dendrimers. This effect rationalizes the strong increase of the adsorbed amount with the ionic strength and pH. These
layers are stable for high dendrimer generations, while they can become unstable for lower generations.
About the Electrospray Ionization Source in Mass Spectrometry: Electrochemistry and On-chip Reactions
Authors: Prudent Michel , Méndez Manuel , Roussel Christophe , Su Bin , Lion Niels , Rossier Joël S. , Girault Hubert H.
Published: June 2009

The present work shows that the electrochemical properties of electrospray ionization (ESI) can be used to add functions to the process. As example, we show how the choice of the electrode material can be used to study interactions between metal ions and biomolecules in mass spectrometry
(MS). In positive ionization MS, an electrospray device acts as anode, which implies oxidation reactions. Sacrificial electrodes (made of copper or zinc) are used to supply the electrospray current and to produce cations that are able to react on-line with compounds of interest. Thus, the
interactions between copper ions and ligands or peptides were investigated by using a copper electrode. Another example is the in situ electrogeneration of a dinuclear zinc(II) complex for the mass tagging of phosphopeptides when working with a zinc electrode. In order to perform these
reactions on the same microchip, a dual-channel microsprayer was used, where one channel was dedicated to the tag electrogeneration and the other to the infusion of a phosphopeptides solution. Finally, this dual-channel microsprayer was used to study complexation at liquid-liquid interfaces
in biphasic ESI-MS, such as thioether crowns and lead ions or peptides and phospholipids complexes. These examples illustrate the use of electrochemistry and on-chip reactions in ESI-MS analysis.
Recent Advances in Nonviral Gene Transfection – A Decade of Research into Poly-(?-amino esters)
Authors: Zumbuehl Andreas
Published: June 2009

The conjugate addition of an amine into a bis-acrylate leads to a linear poly(?-amino ester). The ease of the reaction and the availability of a wide variety of starting materials, allows the synthesis of large, chemically diverse libraries. Poly(?-amino esters) condense negatively
charged plasmid DNA into nanoparticles that may introduce exogenous genetic information into target cells. After several optimization steps, poly(?-amino esters) were found that transfect cells as efficiently as an adenovirus. The concept of conjugate addition was also expanded to the
synthesis of lipids. These 'lipidoids' were able to efficiently transport small interfering RNA into cells to enable RNA interference therapy in nonhuman primates.
MSc-FH in Life Sciences Fachgebiet Industrial Life Sciences startet im September 2009
Authors: Aebischer Jean-Nicolas , Besse Jacques , Hinderling Christian , Huber Gerda , Merseburger Tobias
Published: June 2009

The field of specialization denominated Industrial Life Sciences is one branch within the MSc in Life Sciences program of the Swiss Universities of Applied Sciences. It encompasses seven specializations, offered on four campuses and covers analytical sciences, chemistry, biotechnology,
industrial pharmacy and parts of medicinal technologies/biomedical engineering. The program aims at the development of competencies which enable graduates to take further scientific and technical as well as management responsibilities within the context of an industrial environment. The master
thesis is an essential element of the program. It is always integrated into a project of applied research and/or development which is, whenever possible, part of a collaboration with an industrial partner.
Interpreting the Evidence for Effective Interventions to Increase the Academic Performance of Students With ADHD: Relevance of the Statistical Significance Controversy
Authors: Harrison Judith , Thompson Bruce , Vannest Kimberly J.
Published: June 2009

This article reviews the literature on interventions targeting the academic performance of students with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and does so within the context of the statistical significance testing controversy. Both the arguments for and against null hypothesis statistical significance tests are reviewed. Recent standards promulgated by both the American Psychological Association and more recently by the American Educational Research Association are discussed. The ADHD literature is reviewed with respect to reporting of statistical, practical, and clinical significance and to the reporting of explicit, direct comparisons of obtained effect sizes with those in the related prior literature. It is suggested that a greater emphasis on (a) effect size reporting and (b) replicability comparisons will better enable practitioners to select evidence-based educational interventions.
Do Curricular and Cocurricular Diversity Activities Influence Racial Bias? A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Denson Nida
Published: June 2009

In response to rapidly changing demographics and increased racial tensions, institutions across the country have implemented diversity-related initiatives—to varying degrees—designed to promote positive intergroup relations. This increased interest has resulted in a growing body of research examining the impact of curricular and cocurricular diversity activities on a variety of outcomes and racial bias in particular. Whereas past reviews have highlighted the inconsistency in the research findings thus far, this study presents the first quantitative synthesis on this topic to date. The findings of this meta-analysis demonstrate that these initiatives do indeed reduce bias and that the effectiveness of this result depends on the characteristics of the program as well as the students.
Black–White Biracial Students in American Schools: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Williams Rhina Fernandes
Published: June 2009

With increasing numbers of students who identify as Black and White multi-racial and with the persistence of the Black–White test score gap, the necessity for research regarding these students’ educational experiences cannot be understated. To date, research in this area has been scarce. The purpose of this review is to synthesize the available literature related to the experiences of multiracial—Black–White biracial in particular—students in American schools and to identify areas in need of further research. This review offers a synthesis of the historical, social, and political context of biracial people, as well as a synthesis of issues relevant to biracial students, namely, psychological adjustment, home and parental influence, and school factors. Recommendations and implications for further research related to multiracial students and their schooling are offered.
Diversity: Gatekeeping Knowledge and Maintaining Inequalities
Authors: Swartz Ellen
Published: June 2009

Diversity is a highly popular and oft-used term and concept in K-12 and higher education. This literature review examines the dominant discourse on diversity—a discourse that positions difference as deficit. Although traditional schooling has been resistant to system-wide change, this review will also consider research showing teachers as well positioned to make emancipatory choices—critically engaging in and demonstrating values and classroom practices that can counteract the limited knowledge and normative practices so common in schools today. This review concludes with a discussion of an emancipatory model of education that educators can build on as part of a paradigm shift grounded in the Black Studies intellectual tradition. This model represents an alternative to the hierarchy of human worth embedded in the predominant conception of diversity. By moving past the constraints of traditional schooling, emancipatory educators can affirm the collective humanity of all students-teachers-families and the cultures and groups they represent.
Ideas and Identities: Supporting Equity in Cooperative Mathematics Learning
Authors: Esmonde Indigo
Published: June 2009

This review considers research related to mathematics education and cooperative learning, and it discusses how teachers might assist students in cooperative groups to provide equitable opportunities to learn. In this context, equity is defined as the fair distribution of opportunities to learn, and the argument is that identity-related processes are just as central to mathematical development as content learning. The link is thus considered between classroom social ecologies, the interactions and positional identities that these social ecologies make available, and student learning. The article closes by considering unresolved questions in the field and proposing directions for future research.
The influence of the relative timing of arterial and subarachnoid space pulse waves on spinal perivascular cerebrospinal fluid flow as a possible factor in syrinx development
Authors: Bilston Lynne E. , Stoodley Marcus A. , Fletcher David F.
Published: June 2009

Object

The mechanisms of syringomyelia have long puzzled neurosurgeons and researchers alike due to difficulties in identifying the driving forces behind fluid flow into a syrinx, apparently against a pressure gradient between the spinal cord and the subarachnoid space (SAS). Recently, the synchronization between CSF flow and the cardiac cycle has been postulated to affect fluid flow in the spinal cord. This study aims to determine the effect of changes in the timing of SAS pressure on perivascular flow into the spinal cord.

Methods

This study uses a computational fluid dynamics model to investigate whether the relative timing of a spinal artery cardiovascular pulse wave and fluid pressure in the spinal SAS can influence CSF flow in the perivascular spaces.

Results

The results show that the mass flow rate of CSF through a model periarterial space is strongly influenced by the relative timing of the arterial pulse wave and the SAS pressure.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that factors that might alter the timing of the pulse wave or the fluid flow in the SAS could potentially affect fluid flow into a syrinx.
Thrombolysis and angioplasty for acute occlusion of intracranial vertebrobasilar arteries
Authors: Nakayama Teiji , Tanaka Keisei , Kaneko Mitsuo , Yokoyama Tetsuo , Uemura Kenichi
Published: June 2009

✓ Three cases of intracranial vertebrobasilar occlusion were successfully treated in the acute stage by thrombolysis and angioplasty. All three patients were admitted to the hospital because of consciousness disturbance and other brainstem signs. Initial angiography revealed intracranial vertebrobasilar occlusions. At first, a microcatheter was introduced into the distal site of the occlusion and thrombolysis was attempted by using urokinase. Recanalization was achieved in all cases but severe stenosis of the intracranial vertebral and basilar arteries was found. The recanalization was followed by transluminal balloon angioplasty and the stenosis was successfully resolved. Marked neurological improvement was achieved in each case. Follow-up cerebral angiography demonstrated sufficient patency at the angioplasty site after 3 to 6 months.

Residual severe stenosis of vertebrobasilar arteries after thrombolytic therapy carries the possibility of reocclusion. Combining angioplasty with thrombolysis to avoid rethrombosis and obtain sufficient distal blood flow is of significant benefit in treating vertebrobasilar occlusion.