bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Don't dump the didactic lecture; fix it
Authors: Richardson Daniel
Published: March 2008

Numerous articles have been published on the merits of active learning, and collectively they present a body of compelling evidence that these methods do enhance learning. In presenting arguments for active learning, it is often suggested that the traditional didactic lecture is more passive in nature and less effective as a teaching tool. However, a well organized lecture remains one of the most effective ways to integrate and present information from multiple sources on complex topics, such as those encountered in the teaching of physiology. This article presents an argument for enhancing lectures by incorporating active learning activities within their framework, and it is noted that engagement of the student is a key element making active learning activities work. Finally, suggestions are provided on the basis of the author's experience of things instructors can do to make lecture-based courses more engaging to students and, hence, promote learning.
Teaching cardiac autonomic function dynamics employing the Valsalva (Valsalva-Weber) maneuver
Authors: Junqueira Luiz Fernando
Published: March 2008

In this report, a brief history of the Valsalva (Valsalva-Weber) maneuver is outlined, followed by an explanation on the use of this approach for the evaluation of cardiac autonomic function based on underlying heart rate changes. The most important methodological and interpretative aspects of the Valsalva-Weber maneuver are critically updated, and some guidelines are established for simple application of the maneuver in a teaching or research laboratory setting. These include the hemodynamic and cardiac autonomic mechanisms involved, technical aspects such as the intensity and duration of the expiratory straining, frequency of maneuver sessions, training and posture of the individuals tested, different time- and grade change-dependent indexes of heart interval variation, and clinical application of the maneuver.
Teaching calcium-induced calcium release in cardiomyocytes using a classic paper by Fabiato
Authors: Liang Willmann
Published: March 2008

This teaching paper utilizes the materials presented by Dr. Fabiato in his review article entitled “Calcium-induced release of calcium from the cardiac sarcoplasmic reticulum.” In the review, supporting evidence of calcium-induced calcium release (CICR) is presented. Data concerning potential objections to the CICR theory are discussed as well. In closing, technical issues associated with the skinned cell model are mentioned. Based on this review article, teaching and learning points are put forth in this article to highlight two concepts: 1) the regulatory mechanisms of CICR in cardiomyocytes and 2) the recognition of contradicting hypotheses and limitations in experimental design. The first concept is certainly an important one for physiology students. The second concept is universally applicable to researchers in all fields of science. It is thus the aim of this article to cultivate a rewarding teaching and learning experience for both instructors and students.
Myostatin, activin receptor IIb, and follistatin-like-3 gene expression are altered in adipose tissue and skeletal muscle of obese mice
Authors: Allen David L. , Cleary Allison S. , Speaker Kristin J. , Lindsay Sarah F. , Uyenishi Jill , Reed Jason M. , Madden Molly C. , Mehan Ryan S.
Published: March 2008

Myostatin (MSTN) is a secreted growth inhibitor expressed in muscle and adipose. We sought to determine whether expression of MSTN, its receptor activin RIIb (ActRIIb), or its binding protein follistatin-like-3 (FSTL3) are altered in subcutaneous or visceral adipose or in skeletal muscle in response to obesity. MSTN and ActRIIb mRNA levels were low in subcutaneous (SQF) and visceral fat (VF) from wild-type mice but were 50- to 100-fold higher in both SQF and VF from ob/ob compared with wild-type mice. FSTL3 mRNA levels were increased in SQF but decreased in VF in ob/ob compared with wild-type mice. Moreover, MSTN mRNA levels were twofold greater in tibialis anterior (TA) from ob/ob mice, whereas ActRIIb and FSTL3 mRNA levels were unchanged. MSTN mRNA levels were also increased in TA and SQF from mice on a high-fat diet. Injection of ob/ob mice with recombinant leptin caused FSTL3 mRNA levels to decrease in both VF and SQF in ob/ob mice; MSTN and ActRIIb mRNA levels tended to decrease only in VF. Finally, MSTN mRNA levels and promoter activity were low in adipogenic 3T3-L1 cells, but an MSTN promoter-reporter construct was activated in 3T3-L1 cells by cotransfection with the adipogenic transcription factors SREBP-1c, C/EBPα, and PPARγ. These results demonstrate that expression of MSTN and its associated binding proteins can be modulated in adipose tissue and skeletal muscle by chronic obesity and suggest that alterations in their expression may contribute to the changes in growth and metabolism of lean and fat tissues occurring during obesity.
Hemodynamic Effects of Volume Expansion in Patients With Cardiac Tamponade
Authors: Sagristà-Sauleda Jaume , Angel Juan , Sambola Antonia , Permanyer-Miralda G.
Published: March 2008

Background—

Volume expansion has been proposed as an alternative treatment for cardiac tamponade; however, the scientific evidence for this recommendation is very poor.

Methods and Results—

Forty-nine unselected patients (23 males; age 55±16 years) with large pericardial effusion and hemodynamic tamponade underwent fluid overload with intravenous administration of 500 mL of normal saline over 10 minutes. Cardiac index and intrapericardial, left ventricular end-diastolic, right atrial, and right ventricular end-diastolic pressures were measured during basal state (tamponade), after fluid overload, and after pericardiocentesis. Twenty-eight patients (57%) had physical signs of tamponade, and 10 (20%) were hypotensive. Size of pericardial effusion was 31±13 mm. Initial mean arterial pressure was 88±21 mm Hg, and cardiac index was 2.46±0.80 L · min
−1
· m
−2
. Intrapericardial pressure was 8.31±5.98 mm Hg. Volume expansion caused a significant increase in mean arterial pressure (from 88±21 to 94±23 mm Hg,
P
=0.003) and cardiac index (from 2.46±0.80 to 2.64±0.68 L · min
−1
· m
−2
,
P
=0.013), as well as in intrapericardial pressure (from 8.31±5.98 to 11.02±6.27 mm Hg,
P
=0.0001), right atrial pressure (from 9.76±5.91 to 12.82±6.34 mm Hg,
P
=0.0001), and left ventricular end-diastolic pressure (from 14.21±5.97 to 19.48±6.19 mm Hg,
P
=0.0001). Cardiac index increased by >10% in 23 patients (47%), remained unchanged in 11 (22%), and decreased in 15 (31%). No patient developed clinical complications. Predictors of this favorable response were systolic blood pressure <100 mm Hg and low cardiac index.

Conclusions—

Approximately one half of patients with cardiac tamponade develop a significant increase in cardiac output after volume overload. Low systolic blood pressure (<100 mm Hg) at baseline was the simplest clinical finding that was predictive of this favorable response.
Pediatric Antihypertensive Trial Failures
Authors: Benjamin Daniel K. , Smith P. Brian , Jadhav Pravin , Gobburu Jogarao V. , Murphy M. Dianne , Hasselblad Vic , Baker-Smith Carissa , Califf Robert M. , Li Jennifer S.
Published: March 2008

Historically, drugs prescribed for children have not been studied in pediatric populations. Since 1997, however, a 6-month extension of marketing rights is granted if manufacturers conduct Food and Drug Administration–defined pediatric trials. In nearly half of the drugs studied, there were unexpected results in dosing, safety, or efficacy compared with adult studies, including failure of half of the antihypertensive dose-response trials, which are pivotal for deriving dosing recommendations. We sought to define design elements that might have contributed to these trial failures by combining patient-level data from 6 dose-ranging antihypertensive efficacy trials completed for pediatric exclusivity and submitted to the Food and Drug Administration from 1998 to 2005. We evaluated dosing, primary end point, and other components to assess underlying reasons for failure to show efficacy in children. Of 6 trials examined, 3 showed a dose response; 3 did not. Eligibility criteria were similar across studies, as were subject demographics. Successful studies showed large differences in doses, with little or no overlap between low, medium, and high doses; failed trials used narrow dose ranges with considerable overlap. Successful trials also provided pediatric formulations and used reduction in diastolic, not systolic, blood pressure as the primary end point. Careful attention to pediatric pharmacology and selection of primary end points can improve trial performance. We found poor dose selection, lack of acknowledgement of differences between adult and pediatric populations, and lack of pediatric formulations to be associated with failures. More importantly, our ability to combine data across trials allowed us to evaluate and potentially improve trial design.
Evolving Homogeneous Neurocontrollers for a Group of Heterogeneous Robots: Coordinated Motion, Cooperation, and Acoustic Communication
Authors: Tuci Elio , Ampatzis Christos , Vicentini Federico , Dorigo Marco
Published: March 2008

This article describes a simulation model in which artificial evolution is used to design homogeneous control structures and adaptive communication protocols for a group of three autonomous simulated robots. The agents are required to cooperate in order to approach a light source while avoiding collisions. The robots are morphologically different: Two of them are equipped with infrared sensors, one with light sensors. Thus, the two morphologically identical robots should take care of obstacle avoidance; the other one should take care of phototaxis. Since all of the agents can emit and perceive sound, the group's coordination of actions is based on acoustic communication. The results of this study are a proof of concept: They show that dynamic artificial neural networks can be successfully synthesized by artificial evolution to design the neural mechanisms required to underpin the behavioral strategies and adaptive communication capabilities demanded by this task. Postevaluation analyses unveil operational aspects of the best evolved behavior. Our results suggest that the building blocks and the evolutionary machinery detailed in the article should be considered in future research work dealing with the design of homogeneous controllers for groups of heterogeneous cooperating and communicating robots.
Preparation of Nanoporous Poly(Methyl Silsesquioxanes) Films Using PS-b-P4VP as Template
Authors: Yu Yang-Yen , Yang Chang-Chung
Published: March 2008

Nanoporous poly(methyl silsesquioxane) (PMSSQ) film was prepared through the templating of an amphiphilic block copolymer, poly(styrene-4-vinyl pyridine) (PS-b-P4VP). The experimental and theoretical studies suggest that the intermolecular hydrogen bonding is existed between the PMSSQ
precursor and PS-b-P4VP. The miscible hybrid and the narrow thermal decomposition of the PS-b-P4VP lead to nanopores in the prepared films from the results of TGA, AFM, and TEM. The effects of the loading ratio on the morphology and properties of the prepared nanoporous PMSSQ films were investigated.
The TEM and AFM studies show that the uniform pore morphology with pore size 10–15 nm can be prepared from a modest porogen loading level for the optimum intermolecular hydrogen bonding. The refractive index and dielectric constant of the prepared nanoporous films decreases with an increase
in PS-b-P4VP loading. On the other hand, the porosity increases with an increasing PS-b-P4VP loading. This study demonstrates a methodology to control pore morphology and properties of the nanoporous PMSSQ films through the templating of PS-b-P4VP.
Supersensitivity of Transition-Metal Nanoparticle Formation to Initial Precursor Concentration and Reaction Temperature: Understanding Its Origins
Authors: Ott Lisa Starkey , Finke Richard G.
Published: March 2008

A supersensitivity of the formation and stabilization of transition-metal nanoclusters to the initial nanocluster concentration and temperature synthesis conditions is reported, then probed, herein for the specific case of prototype Ir(0)n nanoclusters prepared from
the organometallic precursor [Bu4N]5Na3[(1,5-COD)Ir·P2W15Nb3O62] by reduction with H2 in propylene carbonate solvent. Fully isolable, redissolvable, near-monodisperse (i.e., ≤± 15% size
distribution) and thus excellent Ir(0)n nanoclusters are formed using low temperature (22 °C) and moderate precursor concentration (1.2 mM) in propylene carbonate solvent. However, inferior, polydisperse (±40% size distribution), non-redispersable nanoclusters
are formed at the seemingly only moderately different conditions of 38 °C higher temperature (i.e., 60 °C) and 5-fold lower precursor concentration (0.24 mM). Investigation of this supersensitivity to the nanocluster synthesis conditions reveals that it derives from the dissociation
of (1,5-COD)Ir(solvent)+2 from the P2W15Nb3O9−62 polyanionic ligand/stabilizer, subsequently resulting in a too fast, kinetically uncontrolled reduction of the quickly reduced (1,5-COD)Ir(solvent)+2
as the cause of the inferior synthesis of polydisperse, non-isolable, non-redissolvable nanoclusters. The results are significant in that they illustrate that understanding the mechanism of nanocluster formation, and then performing the nanocluster synthesis under kinetically carefully controlled,
understood conditions, is necessary for the formation of superior nanoclusters in this, and by implication probably many other, cases.
Nanoparticle Fluorescence Based Technology for Biological Applications
Authors: Chen Wei
Published: March 2008

Fluorescence is widely used in biological detection and imaging. The emerging luminescent nanoparticles or quantum dots provide a new type of biological agents that can improve these applications. The advantages of luminescent nanoparticles for biological applications include their
high quantum yield, color availability, good photo-stability, large surface-to-volume ratio, surface functionality, and small size. In this review article, we first introduce quantum size confinement, photoluminescence and upconversion luminescence of nanoparticles, then describe the preparation
and conjugation of water soluble nanoparticles and introduce the applications of luminescence nanoparticles for in vitro and in vivo imaging, fluorescence resonance energy based detection, and the applications of luminescence nanoparticles for photodynamic activation.
Preparation and Luminescent Properties of YVO4:Eu3+ Nanofibers by Electrospinning
Authors: Yu Hongquan , Song Hongwei , Pan Guohui , Qin Reifei , Fan Libo , Zhang Hui , Bai Xue , Li Suwen , Zhao Haifeng , Lu Shaozhe
Published: March 2008

This paper describes a procedure based on electrospinning for generating europium-doped yttrium vanadate (YVO4:Eu3+) nanofibers with diameters ranging from 30 to 50 nm. The YVO4:Eu3+ nanofibers were obtained through calcining precursory nanofibers,
which were prepared through the electrospinning method. Suitable electrospinning parameters, such as concentration of PVP in solution, spinneret tip-to-collector plate distance (TCD), and applied voltage between spinneret and collector plate, are used to obtain thinner and more uniform precursory
nanofibers of YVO4:Eu3+, which is important for preparing smaller diameter pure YVO4:Eu3+ nanofibers. The luminescent properties of the YVO4:Eu3+ nanofibers including excitation and emission spectra and fluorescence lifetime
were studied. The excitation spectrum shows a broad band extending from 200 to 350 nm, which corresponds to the strong vanadate absorption in YVO4:Eu3+. The emission spectrum is dominated by the red 5D0 → 7F2 hypersensitive
transition of Eu3+. The fluorescence lifetime of Eu3+ 5D0 → 7F2 (619 nm) is determined to be 493 μs at room temperature, which is basically in accordance with that in the bulk (521 μs).
Preparation and Visible Emission of Er-Doped 12CaO·7Al2O3 Powder
Authors: Wang D. , Liu Y. X. , Liu Y. C. , Xu C. S. , Shao C. L. , Li X. H.
Published: March 2008

Er3+-doped 12CaO · 7Al2O3 (C12A7:Er3+) powders were prepared using the sol–gel method. X-ray diffraction, micro-Raman spectra and absorption spectra showed that C12A7:Er3+ powder had been obtained. Sharp and intense
Er3+-related emission from C12A7:Er3+ powder with different Er3+ concentrations in the visible region at room temperature was investigated by analyzing the local structure of Ca atoms in C12A7, and it revealed that cation sites with low symmetry of the host
were beneficial to the photoluminescence of Er3+ ions. The emission lines were attributed to two types of Er3+ centers, isolated Er3+ ions and complex centers formed by aggregation of Er3+ ions. The PL intensity might be affected by free oxygen species
relative to Er3+ ions formed by charge compensation. The inverse temperature dependent luminescence from the upper level of 2H11/2 state and that from the lower level of 4S3/2 state implied that the thermalization or thermal equilibrium
of electrons between the two closely emission states occurred.
Synthesis and Photophysical Properties of Core–Shell Eu(DBM)3phen/TiO2 Nanohybrids
Authors: Qin Weiping , Zhao Dan , Zhang Jisen , Zhang Jishuang , Wang Yan , Cao Chunyan , Wang Guofeng , Wei Guodong , Wang Lili , Jin Ye , Fu Lianfeng , Zhu Peifen , Lü Shaoze
Published: March 2008

The core–shell titania (TiO2) hybrid spheres embedded with tris(dibenzoylmethanato)phenanthroline [Eu-(DBM)3phen] complex clusters were fabricated by a modified Stöber method. Under ultraviolet excitation (355 nm), the hybrid spheres exhibit the characteristic
luminescence of the Eu3+ ions. The experimental results indicate that the titanic shell has different influences on the two fluorescent centers of Eu3+ ions. The emission from the centers on the complex surfaces was greatly enhanced when incorporated into titania spheres.
Environmentally Friendly Aqueous Solution Synthesis of Hierarchical CaWO4 Microspheres at Room Temperature
Authors: Wang Wenshou , Zhen Liang , Xu Chengyan , Zhang Baoyou , Shao Wenzhu
Published: March 2008

An environmentally friendly route for the synthesis of hierarchical CaWO4 microspheres with novel morphology at room temperature has been successfully developed. CaCl2 and Na2WO4 were used as reaction regents, and distilled water was used
as an environmentally friendly solvent. The products were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and photoluminescence spectroscopy. This green wet-chemical route provides a simple, one-step, low-cost approach for
the large-scale synthesis of hierarchical CaWO4 microspheres with relatively uniform diameters of 3–6 μm. The hierarchical microspheres are built up with numerous nanorods with an average diameter of 50 nm, which are radially oriented to the microsphere center. SEM
observations of different intermediates indicate the possible growth process, in which the hierarchical structure growth is from nuclei through kayak-like, rod-like, peanut-like, dumbbell-like, and peach-like structures to final microspheres, via "self-assembled preferential end growth" of
kayak-like particles in aqueous solution. The hierarchical CaWO4 micro-spheres exhibit a strong, broad blue emission peak of 412 nm.
On the Differences in Storm Rainfall from Hurricanes Isidore and Lili. Part I: Satellite Observations and Rain Potential
Authors: Jiang Haiyan , Halverson Jeffrey B. , Simpson Joanne
Published: March 2008

It has been well known for years that the heavy rain and flooding of tropical cyclones over land bear a weak relationship to the maximum wind intensity. The rainfall accumulation history and rainfall potential history of two North Atlantic hurricanes during 2002 (Isidore and Lili) are examined using a multisatellite algorithm developed for use with the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) dataset. This algorithm uses many channel microwave data sources together with high-resolution infrared data from geosynchronous satellites and is called the real-time Multisatellite Precipitation Analysis (MPA-RT). MPA-RT rainfall estimates during the landfalls of these two storms are compared with the combined U.S. Next-Generation Doppler Radar (NEXRAD) and gauge dataset: the National Centers for Environmental Prediction (NCEP) hourly stage IV multisensor precipitation estimate analysis. Isidore produced a much larger storm total volumetric rainfall as a greatly weakened tropical storm than did category 1 Hurricane Lili during landfall over the same area. However, Isidore had a history of producing a large amount of volumetric rain over the open gulf. Average rainfall potential during the 4 days before landfall for Isidore was over a factor of 2.5 higher than that for Lili. When using the TRMM-based MPA-RT rainfall estimate, results are consistent with a previous study, which analyzed just the infrared-based rain estimation; that is, the rain potential history could be used as a predictor for the storm’s potential for inland flooding 3–4 days in advance of landfall.
A Comparison of Two Tropical Cyclone Bogussing Schemes
Authors: Wang Dongliang , Liang Xudong , Zhao Ying , Wang Bin
Published: March 2008

The impact of two bogussing schemes on tropical cyclone (TC) forecasts is compared. One scheme for bogussing TCs into the initial conditions of the nonhydrostatic version of the fifth-generation Pennsylvania State University–National Center for Atmospheric Research (PSU–NCAR) Mesoscale Model (MM5) is proposed by NCAR and the Air Force Weather Agency (AFWA), and four-dimensional variational data assimilation technology is employed for the other bogus data assimilation (BDA) scheme. The initial vortex structure adjusted by the NCAR–AFWA (N–A) scheme is more physically realistic, while the BDA scheme produces an initial vortex structure that is more consistent with the model. The results from 41 forecasts of TCs occurring over the western North Pacific (WNP) in 2002 suggest that the adjustment of the initial structure in the BDA scheme produces a greater benefit to the subsequent track and intensity forecasts, and the improvements in the track and intensity forecasts are significant using the BDA scheme. It seems that when using a model with 45-km grid length, the N–A scheme has a negative impact on the track forecasts for the recurving TCs and on the intensity predictions after 24 h.
Spring and Summer Severe Weather Reports over the Midwest as a Function of Convective Mode: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Gallus William A. , Snook Nathan A. , Johnson Elise V.
Published: March 2008

Radar data during the period 1 April–31 August 2002 were used to classify all convective storms occurring in a 10-state region of the central United States into nine predominant morphologies, and the severe weather reports associated with each morphology were then analyzed. The morphologies included three types of cellular convection (individual cells, clusters of cells, and broken squall lines), five types of linear systems (bow echoes, squall lines with trailing stratiform rain, lines with leading stratiform rain, lines with parallel stratiform rain, and lines with no stratiform rain), and nonlinear systems. Because linear systems with leading and line-parallel stratiform rainfall were relatively rare in the 2002 sample of 925 events, 24 additional cases of these morphologies from 1996 and 1997 identified by Parker and Johnson were included in the sample.

All morphologies were found to pose some risk of severe weather, but substantial differences existed between the number and types of severe weather reports and the different morphologies. Normalizing results per event, nonlinear systems produced the fewest reports of hail, and were relatively inactive for all types of severe weather compared to the other morphologies. Linear systems generated large numbers of reports from all categories of severe weather. Among linear systems, the hail and tornado threat was particularly enhanced in systems having leading and line-parallel stratiform rain. Bow echoes were found to produce far more severe wind reports than any other morphology. The flooding threat was largest in broken lines and linear systems having trailing and line-parallel stratiform rain. Cellular storms, despite much smaller areal coverage, also were abundant producers of severe hail and tornadoes, particularly in broken squall lines.
Water-Blown Polyisocyanurate Foams From Vegetable Oil Polyols
Authors: Stirna U. , Cabulis U. , Beverte I.
Published: March 2008

Polyols with the hydroxyl value OHV from 290 to 318 mg KOH/g are synthesized from rapeseed, sunflower seed, flaxseed, or coconut oils by the way of their: (1) transesterification with triethanolamine or (2) amidization with diethanolamine. The influence of water as the blowing agent on the storage stability of the polyol premix system is assessed from values of the polyol premix system pH, acid value, and variations in such parameters as cream and gel time. Water-blown polyisocyanurate (PIR) foams (150 · II × 300; II—isocyanate index) characterized by good mechanical characteristics, dimensional stability at 70°C and at relative humidity RH = 95% as well as by a very low water absorbance, are obtained. The optimal physical and mechanical properties of water-blown PIR foams are achieved at the isocyanate index values 150—200. The values of the solubility parameter δ and normalized cohesion energy Ecoh.norm. for the groups and blocks, incorporated in the polymer matrix, are calculated. A detailed experimental analysis has proved that the water-blown PIR foams from vegetable oil polyols possess competitive physical and mechanical properties to those exhibited by the traditional petrochemical origin foams. The optimal physical and mechanical properties suitable for practical applications, are achieved at the isocyanate index values 150<II<200.
Residents' Views on Social Mix: Social Mix, Social Networks and Stigmatisation in Post-war Housing Estates in Europe
Authors: Musterd Sako
Published: March 2008

Social mix is one of the supposedly promising keywords in today's urban policies. Many players in the field believe that social mix enhances opportunities and the quality of life of urban dwellers. However, there are alternative views of social mix. This paper addresses questions about the relation between—perceived—levels of social mix and the strength of social networks and the reputation of the neighbourhood. In addition, residents' opinions about social mix are investigated taking individual, household and housing situations into account. The main source of information are interview data from the RESTATE project and the paper has a focus on large post-war housing estates in various European cities. It is concluded that there is a wide variety of social mix perceptions in estates built to similar designs in a similar period in different European cities and that these perceptions relate positively, albeit weakly, to the strength of social networks as well as to a good reputation of the estates. However, the context people find themselves in appears to be highly important for the opinions on social mix. People with strong social networks were more in favour of social mix if they perceived themselves living in socially mixed situations, but not if they perceived themselves living in homogeneous environments; people with negative opinions about their neighbours were more negative about social mix in general, but even more so if they had the perception of living in mixed situations themselves, and even more so if they were owner-occupiers. The paper concludes with some implications of these results for urban restructuring policies.
Short Stories at Work
Authors: McCarthy John F.
Published: March 2008

Membership patterns and tenure cycles in organizations have changed, which has resulted in significant leadership challenges. This study examined the relationship between storytelling and organizational commitment to determine whether storytelling signaled the degree of unity that organizational members built to “weather” turbulence. Stories from interviews with employees across all hierarchical levels and tenure stages at diverse locations of a global firm were analyzed and compared with dimensions of organizational commitment. Findings here illustrated that storytelling was strongly associated with organizational commitment and indicated that stories continue to play an important role in conveying values and complex messages across organizational boundaries. Along with providing a productive diagnostic capability, the research offers insight about contemporary organizational membership and surfaces valuable leadership implications.
Kids Identifying and Defeating Stroke (KIDS): Development and Implementation of a Multiethnic Health Education Intervention to Increase Stroke Awareness Among Middle School Students and Their Parents
Authors: Mullen Conley Kathleen , Juhl Majersik Jennifer , Gonzales Nicole R. , Maddox Katherine E. , Pary Jennifer K. , Brown Devin L. , Moyé Lemuel A. , Espinosa Nina , Grotta James C. , Morgenstern Lewis B.
Published: March 2008

The Kids Identifying and Defeating Stroke (KIDS) project is a 3-year prospective, randomized, controlled, multiethnic school-based intervention study. Project goals include increasing knowledge of stroke signs and treatment and intention to immediately call 911 among Mexican American (MA) and non-Hispanic White (NHW) middle school students and their parents. This article describes the design, implementation, and interim evaluation of this theory-based intervention. Intervention students received a culturally appropriate stroke education program divided into four 50-minute classes each year during the sixth, seventh, and eighth grades. Each class session also included a homework assignment that involved the students’ parents or other adult partners. Interim-test results indicate that this educational intervention was successful in improving students’ stroke symptom and treatment knowledge and intent to call 911 upon witnessing a stroke compared with controls. The authors conclude that this school-based educational intervention to reduce delay time to hospital arrival for stroke shows early promise.
An Experimental Comparison of Methods of Measuring Ethnicity
Authors: Smith Tom W.
Published: March 2008

Ethnicity is a labile construct in the United States, and the combination of complex backgrounds and low saliency contributes to variability in reporting. This is demonstrated in an experiment of the 2004 General Social Survey in which a computer-assisted personal interview—based version of a traditional paper-and-pencil interview—based item on ethnicity produced many more mentions of ethnicities.
PDGF, TGF-β, and FGF signaling is important for differentiation and growth of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs): transcriptional profiling can identify markers and signaling pathways important in differentiation of MSCs into adipogenic, chondrogenic, and osteogenic lineages
Authors: Ng Felicia , Boucher Shayne , Koh Susie , Sastry Konduru S. R. , Chase Lucas , Lakshmipathy Uma , Choong Cleo , Yang Zheng , Vemuri Mohan C. , Rao Mahendra S. , Tanavde Vivek
Published: March 2008

We compared the transcriptomes of marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) with differentiated adipocytes, osteocytes, and chondrocytes derived from these MSCs. Using global gene-expression profiling arrays to detect RNA transcripts, we have identified markers that are specific for MSCs and their differentiated progeny. Further, we have also identified pathways that MSCs use to differentiate into adipogenic, chondrogenic, and osteogenic lineages. We identified activin-mediated transforming growth factor (TGF)–β signaling, platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) signaling and fibroblast growth factor (FGF) signaling as the key pathways involved in MSC differentiation. The differentiation of MSCs into these lineages is affected when these pathways are perturbed by inhibitors of cell surface receptor function. Since growth and differentiation are tightly linked processes, we also examined the importance of these 3 pathways in MSC growth. These 3 pathways were necessary and sufficient for MSC growth. Inhibiting any of these pathways slowed MSC growth, whereas a combination of TGF-β, PDGF, and β-FGF was sufficient to grow MSCs in a serum-free medium up to 5 passages. Thus, this study illustrates it is possible to predict signaling pathways active in cellular differentiation and growth using microarray data and experimentally verify these predictions.
PARPs database: A LIMS systems for protein-protein interaction data mining or laboratory information management system
Authors: Droit Arnaud , Hunter Joanna M , Rouleau Michèle , Ethier Chantal , Picard-Cloutier Aude , Bourgais David , Poirier Guy G
Published: March 2008

Background

In the "post-genome" era, mass spectrometry (MS) has become an important method for the analysis of proteins and the rapid advancement of this technique, in combination with other proteomics methods, results in an increasing amount of proteome data. This data must be archived and analysed using specialized bioinformatics tools.

Description

We herein describe "PARPs database," a data analysis and management pipeline for liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) proteomics. PARPs database is a web-based tool whose features include experiment annotation, protein database searching, protein sequence management, as well as data-mining of the peptides and proteins identified.

Conclusion

Using this pipeline, we have successfully identified several interactions of biological significance between PARP-1 and other proteins, namely RFC-1, 2, 3, 4 and 5.
Moraxella osloensis Gene Expression in the Slug Host Deroceras reticulatum
Authors: An Ruisheng , Sreevatsan Srinand , Grewal Parwinder S
Published: March 2008

Background

The bacterium Moraxella osloensis is a mutualistic symbiont of the slug-parasitic nematode Phasmarhabditis hermaphrodita. In nature, P. hermaphrodita vectors M. osloensis into the shell cavity of the slug host Deroceras reticulatum in which the bacteria multiply and kill the slug. As M. osloensis is the main killing agent, genes expressed by M. osloensis in the slug are likely to play important roles in virulence. Studies on pathogenic interactions between bacteria and lower order hosts are few, but such studies have the potential to shed light on the evolution of bacterial virulence. Therefore, we investigated such an interaction by determining gene expression of M. osloensis in its slug host D. reticulatum by selectively capturing transcribed sequences.

Results

Thirteen M. osloensis genes were identified to be up-regulated post infection in D. reticulatum. Compared to the in vitro expressed genes in the stationary phase, we found that genes of ubiquinone synthetase (ubiS) and acyl-coA synthetase (acs) were up-regulated in both D. reticulatum and stationary phase in vitro cultures, but the remaining 11 genes were exclusively expressed in D. reticulatum and are hence infection specific. Mutational analysis on genes of protein-disulfide isomerase (dsbC) and ubiS showed that the virulence of both mutants to slugs was markedly reduced and could be complemented. Further, compared to the growth rate of wild-type M. osloensis, the dsbC and ubiS mutants showed normal and reduced growth rate in vitro, respectively.

Conclusion

We conclude that 11 out of the 13 up-regulated M. osloensis genes are infection specific. Distribution of these identified genes in various bacterial pathogens indicates that the virulence genes are conserved among different pathogen-host interactions. Mutagenesis, growth rate and virulence bioassays further confirmed that ubiS and dsbC genes play important roles in M. osloensis survival and virulence, respectively in D. reticulatum.
Rapid detection of carriers with BRCA1 and BRCA2mutations using high resolution melting analysis
Authors: Takano Elena A , Mitchell Gillian , Fox Stephen B , Dobrovic Alexander
Published: March 2008

Background

Germline inactivating mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2 underlie a major proportion of the inherited predisposition to breast and ovarian cancer. These mutations are usually detected by DNA sequencing. Cost-effective and rapid methods to screen for these mutations would enable the extension of mutation testing to a broader population. High resolution melting (HRM) analysis is a rapid screening methodology with very low false negative rates. We therefore evaluated the use of HRM as a mutation scanning tool using, as a proof of principle, the three recurrent BRCA1 and BRCA2 founder mutations in the Ashkenazi Jewish population in addition to other mutations that occur in the same regions.

Methods

We designed PCR amplicons for HRM scanning of BRCA1 exons 2 and 20 (carrying the founder mutations185delAG and 5382insC respectively) and the part of the BRCA2 exon 11 carrying the 6174delT founder mutation. The analysis was performed on an HRM-enabled real time PCR machine.

Results

We tested DNA from the peripheral blood of 29 individuals heterozygous for known mutations. All the Ashkenazi founder mutations were readily identified. Other mutations in each region that were also readily detected included the recently identified Greek founder mutation 5331G>A in exon 20 of BRCA1. Each mutation had a reproducible melting profile.

Conclusion

HRM is a simple and rapid scanning method for known and unknown BRCA1 and BRCA2 germline mutations that can dramatically reduce the amount of sequencing required and reduce the turnaround time for mutation screening and testing. In some cases, such as tracking mutations through pedigrees, sequencing may only be necessary to confirm positive results. This methodology will allow for the economical screening of founder mutations not only in people of Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry but also in other populations with founder mutations such as Central and Eastern Europeans (BRCA1 5382insC) and Greek Europeans (BRCA1 5331G>A).
Beyond satisfaction: Using the Dynamics of Care assessment to better understand patients' experiences in care
Authors: Rapkin Bruce , Weiss Elisa , Chhabra Rosy , Ryniker Laura , Patel Shilpa , Carness Jason , Adsuar Roberto , Kahalas Wendy , DeLaMarter Carol , Feldman Ira , DeLorenzo Judy , Tanner Ellen
Published: March 2008

Background

Patient perceptions of and satisfaction with care have become important indicators of the quality of services and the relationship of services to treatment outcomes. However, assessment of these indicators continues to be plagued by measurement problems, particularly the lack of variance in satisfaction data. In this article, we present a new approach to better capture patient perceptions of experiences in care, the Dynamics of Care (DoC) assessment. It is an in-depth approach to defining and assessing patients' perspectives at different junctures in care, including their decisions about whether and where to seek care, the barriers encountered, and the treatments and services received.

Methods

The purpose of this article is to describe, validate, and discuss the benefits and limitations of the DoC, which was administered as part of a longitudinal study to evaluate the New York State HIV Special Needs Plan (SNP), a Medicaid managed care model for people living with HIV/AIDS. Data are from 426 study respondents across two time points.

Results

The results demonstrate the validity and value of the DoC. Help seeking decisions and satisfaction with care appear to be situation-specific, rather than person-specific. However, barriers to care appear to be more cross-situational for respondents, and may be associated with clients' living situations or care arrangements. Inventories in this assessment that were designed to identify potential deterrents to help seeking and difficulties encountered in care demonstrated clear principal component structures, and helped to explain satisfaction with care. The problem resolution index was found to be independent from satisfaction with care and the data were more normally distributed. DoC data were also associated with subsequent utilization and change in quality of life.

Conclusion

The DoC was designed to be a flexible, integrated measure to determine individuals' salient service needs, help seeking and experiences in care. One of the many strengths of the assessment is its focus on specific problems in context, thus providing a more sensitive and informative way to understand processes in care from the patient's perspective. This approach can be used to direct new programs and resources to the patients and situations that require them.
Exposure to diesel exhaust induces changes in EEG in human volunteers
Authors: Crüts Björn , van Etten Ludo , Törnqvist Håkan , Blomberg Anders , Sandström Thomas , Mills Nicholas L , Borm Paul JA
Published: March 2008

Background

Ambient particulate matter and nanoparticles have been shown to translocate to the brain, and potentially influence the central nervous system. No data are available whether this may lead to functional changes in the brain.

Methods

We exposed 10 human volunteers to dilute diesel exhaust (DE, 300 μg/m3) as a model for ambient PM exposure and filtered air for one hour using a double blind randomized crossover design. Brain activity was monitored during and for one hour following each exposure using quantitative electroencephalography (QEEG) at 8 different sites on the scalp. The frequency spectrum of the EEG signals was used to calculate the median power frequency (MPF) and specific frequency bands of the QEEG.

Results

Our data demonstrate a significant increase in MPF in response to DE in the frontal cortex within 30 min into exposure. The increase in MPF is primarily caused by an increase in fast wave activity (β2) and continues to rise during the 1 hour post-exposure interval.

Conclusion

This study is the first to show a functional effect of DE exposure in the human brain, indicating a general cortical stress response. Further studies are required to determine whether this effect is mediated by the nanoparticles in DE and to define the precise pathways involved.
Ethnophytotherapeutical research in the high Molise region (Central-Southern Italy)
Authors: Guarrera Paolo Maria , Lucchese Fernando , Medori Simone
Published: March 2008

Background

In the years 2003–2005 research was carried out concerning ethno-medicine in the high Molise (central- southern Italy), a region that has been the object of very little investigation from the ethnobotanical point of view. Upper Molise is a continuation of the mountain profiles of the Abruzzi Appenines: a series of hills, steep slopes and deep fluvial valleys making communications difficult. Primordial traditions (e.g. harvest feasts) are typical of the region.

Methods

Field data were collected through open interviews in the field. These were conducted on both an individual and group level, fresh plants gathered from surrounding areas being displayed. In other cases, individual interviews were conducted by accompanying the person involved to the places where they perform their activities (for example, in the woods with woodcutters, kitchen gardens and fields with housewives, pastures with shepherds, etc.). In total 54 individuals were interviewed.

Results

Data of 70 taxa belonging to 39 families were gathered. Among the species, 64 are used in human therapy, 5 as insect repellents, 11 in veterinary medicine, 1 to keep eggs and cheeses and 4 for magic purposes. The most important findings in ethno-medicine relate to the lichen Lobaria pulmonaria (L.) Hoffm. (wounds) and to some vascular plant species: Asplenium trichomanes L. and Ceterach officinarum Willd. (to regularize menstruation), Cyclamen hederifolium (chilblains), Centaurium erythraea Rafn. and Pulmonaria apennina Cristof. & Puppi (bruises), while in the ethno-veterinary field, we have Valeriana officinalis L. (wounds sustained by mules). Also worthy of note, given the isolation of the area, is the number of plants used to protect foodstuffs from parasites, among which Allium sativum L. and Capsicum frutescens L.

Conclusion

The research revealed a deep-rooted and widespread habit of husbanding the family's resources. Whilst isolation and snowfalls contributed to the widespread knowledge of means of conserving foodstuffs, they also led to the use of products easily available within each home. The values of E.I. (ethnobotanicity index) for the upper Molise region are considered amongst the highest in Italian areas. Nevertheless, like the values for other areas of Italy, they are lower than those of many Spanish areas, perhaps (and not only) because of the more rapid cultural erosion experienced in Italy.
Mannose-binding lectin deficiency is associated with early onset of polyarticular juvenile rheumatoid arthritis: a cohort study
Authors: Dolman Koert M , Brouwer Nannette , Frakking Florine NJ , Flatø Berit , Tak Paul P , Kuijpers Taco W , Førre Øystein , Smerdel-Ramoya Anna
Published: March 2008

Background

Mannose-binding lectin (MBL) is an innate immune protein. The aim of our study was to determine whether genetically determined MBL deficiency is associated with susceptibility to juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA) and whether MBL2 genotypes are associated with JRA severity.

Methods

In a retrospective cohort study of 218 patients with polyarthritis (n = 67) and oligoarthritis (n = 151), clinical and laboratory disease variables were obtained by clinical examination and chart reviews. Healthy Caucasian adults (n = 194) served as control individuals. MBL2 gene mutations were determined by Taqman analysis to identify genotypes with high, medium and low expression of MBL. Functional MBL plasma concentrations were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Associations between clinical and laboratory variables and MBL2 genotypes were determined by Kruskal-Wallis and χ2 tests.

Results

MBL2 genotype frequencies were similar in polyarthritis and oligoarthritis patients as compared with control individuals. MBL plasma concentrations were associated with the high, medium and low MBL genotype expression groups (P < 0.01). In polyarthritis patients, the presence of low-expressing (deficient) MBL2 genotypes was associated with early age at onset of disease (P = 0.03). In oligoarthritis patients, patients with low-expressing MBL2 genotypes were more often in remission (81%) than patients in the medium (54%) and high (56%) genotype groups (P = 0.02). The remaining clinical and laboratory variables, such as arthritis severity index, presence of radiographic erosions and antinuclear antibody positivity, were not associated with MBL2 genotypes.

Conclusion

Genetically determined MBL deficiency does not increase susceptibility to JRA, but MBL deficiency is associated with a younger age at onset of juvenile polyarthritis. On the other hand, MBL-deficient children with juvenile oligoarthritis are more often in remission. Therefore, MBL appears to play a dual role in JRA.