bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electrochemically Functionalized Single‐Walled Carbon Nanotube Gas Sensor
Authors: Zhang Ting , Nix Megan B. , Yoo Bong‐Young , Deshusses Marc A. , Myung Nosang V.
Published: May 2006

We demonstrate a facile fabrication method to make chemical gas sensors using single‐walled carbon nanotubes (SWNT) electrochemically functionalized with polyaniline (PANI). The potential advantage of this method is to enable targeted functionalization with different materials to allow for creation of high‐density individually addressable nanosensor arrays. PANI‐SWNT network based sensors were tested for on‐line monitoring of ammonia gas. The results show a superior sensitivity of 2.44% ΔR/R per ppmv NH3 (which is more than 60 times higher than intrinsic SWNT based sensors), a detection limit as low as 50 ppbv, and good reproducibility upon repeated exposure to 10 ppmv NH3. The typical response time of the sensors at room temperature is on the order of minutes and the recovery time is a few hours. Higher sensitivities were observed at lower temperatures. These results indicate that electrochemical functionalization of SWNTs provides a promising new method of creating highly advanced nanosensors with improved sensitivity, detection limit, and reproducibility.
Capillary electrophoresis‐electrospray ionization‐mass spectrometry method to determine the phenolic fraction of extra‐virgin olive oil
Authors: Carrasco‐Pancorbo Alegría , Arráez‐Román David , Segura‐Carretero Antonio , Fernández‐Gutiérrez Alberto
Published: May 2006

We describe the first analytical method involving SPE and CZE coupled to ESI‐IT MS (CZE‐ESI‐MS) used to identify and characterize phenolic compounds in olive oil samples. The SPE, CZE and ESI‐MS parameters were optimized in order to maximize the number of phenolic compounds detected and the sensitivity of their determination. To this end we have devised a detailed method to find the best conditions for CE separation and the detection by MS of the phenolic compounds present in olive oil using a methanol–water extract of Picual extra‐virgin olive oil (VOO). Electrophoretic separation was carried out using an aqueous CE buffer system consisting of 60 mM NH4OAc at pH 9.5 with 5% of 2‐propanol, a sheath liquid containing 2‐propanol/water 60:40 v/v and 0.1% v/v triethylamine. This method offers to the analyst the chance to study important phenolic compounds such as phenolic alcohols (tyrosol (TY), hydroxytyrosol (HYTY) and 2‐(4‐hydroxyphenyl)ethyl acetate), lignans ((+)‐pinoresinol and (+)‐1‐acetoxypinoresinol), complex phenols (ligstroside aglycon (Lig Agl), oleuropein aglycon, their respective decarboxylated derivatives and several isomeric forms of these (dialdehydic form of oleuropein aglycon, dialdehydic form of ligstroside aglycon, dialdehydic form of decarboxymethyl elenolic acid linked to HYTY, dialdehydic form of decarboxymethyl elenolic acid linked to TY) and 10‐hydroxy‐oleuropein aglycon) and one other phenolic compound (elenolic acid) in extra‐VOO by using a simple SPE before CE‐ESI‐MS analysis.
Analysis of benzalkonium chloride by capillary electrophoresis‐tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Para Bianca Veronica , Núñez Oscar , Moyano Encarnación , Galceran Maria Teresa
Published: May 2006

Conditions for the separation and determination of benzalkonium chloride (BAC) homologues by CE with UV‐detection and CE coupled to MS (IT) using electrospray as ionization source were established. The separation was performed using fused‐silica capillaries of 50 μm id and 100 mM acetic acid–ammonium acetate buffer solution at pH 4.5 with 80% of ACN as carrier electrolyte. CE‐MS coupling parameters were optimized and methanol‐10 mM acetic acid (90:10 v/v) was selected as sheath liquid. Detection limits, based on an S/N of 3:1, were calculated, and values between 0.8 and 1.3 mg/L with CE‐ESI/MS and around 0.5 mg/L with CE‐ESI‐MS/MS, using hydrodynamic injection (15 s, 3.5 kPa), were obtained. Good run‐to‐run and day‐to‐day precisions on concentration were achieved with RSDs lower than 8%. Quantitative analysis was carried out by the internal standard method and the calibration curves showed good linearities (r2>0.98). The CE‐ESI‐MS/MS method was successfully applied to the analysis of BAC in different ophthalmic solutions, allowing the direct determination, identification and confirmation of the BAC homologues presented in these samples.
Dual agent chemoprotection by retroviral co‐expression of either MDR1 or MRP1 with the P140K mutant of O6‐methylguanine‐DNA‐methyl transferase
Authors: Southgate Thomas D. , Garside Elloise , Margison Geoffrey P. , Fairbairn Leslie J.
Published: May 2006

Tumour resistance to chemotherapeutic agents results in most chemotherapy being administered in a multi‐agent fashion that is often associated with a high level of toxicity in highly proliferative tissues such as the haematopoietic compartment. Thus, whilst many genetic manipulation strategies aim to protect normal tissue against a single component of a multi‐agent regime, it is clearly preferable to protect normal cells against all toxicities. In this study we have used retroviral gene transfer to achieve co‐expression of either p‐glycoprotein (MDR1) or multi‐drug resistance‐related protein 1 (MRP1) with the P140K mutant form of O6‐methylguanine‐DNA‐methyl transferase (MGMT) which, unlike the wild‐type protein, is insensitive to inactivation by tumour sensitisers such as O6‐benzylguanine (O6‐BeG) or PaTrin2. The combination of certain MDR1/MRP1 substrate drugs with O6‐alkylating agents (against which MGMT confers resistance) is particularly myelotoxic. We show here that haematopoietic progenitors co‐expressing mutant MGMT with an ABC‐transporter exhibit resistance to combination chemotherapy in vitro. This combination of drug transporter and DNA repair function may provide an effective in vivo protection of the haematopoietic compartment during tumour ablation using combination chemotherapy. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Crafting development in Bolivia
Authors: Eversole Robyn
Published: May 2006

In Bolivia, as elsewhere, institutions promoting economic development in both rural and urban areas frequently target artisan products, implementing programmes to ‘promote’ and ‘develop’ these products for national and international markets. This paper gives examples of three such programmes from highland Bolivia: the ASUR textile project in Sucre, Bolivia; the PROMMI microenterprise development project in six Bolivian cities; and the El‐Alto‐based Señor de Mayo Artisans' Association. These cases highlight typical patterns and issues involved in targeting artisan production as an economic development tool. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Use of evaporative light scattering detector in the detection and quantification of enantiomeric mixtures by HPLC
Authors: Zhang Tong , Nguyen Dung , Franco Pilar
Published: May 2006

Routinely used in our laboratories at analytical scale, an evaporative light scattering detector (ELSD) has proved to be versatile in the detection of enantiomeric resolution using chiral stationary phases by HPLC. Though this kind of detector has been widely used in various domains, its application in enantiomeric resolution has not been discussed in the literature and is found to have very specific features especially in the quantitative perspective. In contrast with the UV detection, the peak area from ELSD for both enantiomers of a racemic mixture may not be the same. This complicates the assessment of the enantiomeric purity of unknown samples. This current work deals with some practical aspects in the detection of enantiomers and in accurate quantitative determination of enantiomeric purity by ELSD. Effects of analyte nature (more precisely molecular weight and volatility), peak shape and peak shape difference between enantiomers on the quantitative integration by ELSD are discussed in connection with the UV‐detection results. The calibration for quantitative enantiomeric analysis and its effectiveness are demonstrated.
Dynamic HPLC on chiral stationary phases: A powerful tool for the investigation of stereomutation processes
Authors: D'Acquarica Ilaria , Gasparrini Francesco , Pierini Marco , Villani Claudio , Zappia Giovanni
Published: May 2006

Dynamic HPLC on enantioselective stationary phases has become a well‐established technique to investigate chiral molecules with internal motions that result in stereoinversion and occur on the time scale of the separation process. Kinetic parameters for the on‐column interconversion phenomena can be extracted from experimental peak profiles by computer simulation or by direct calculation methods. The technique has been used in a wide range of temperatures and is complementary in scope to dynamic NMR spectroscopy.
Trefftz, collocation, and other boundary methods—A comparison
Authors: Li Zi‐Cai , Lu Tzon‐Tzer , Huang Hung‐Tsai , Cheng Alexander H.‐D.
Published: May 2006

In this article we survey the Trefftz method (TM), the collocation method (CM), and the collocation Trefftz method (CTM). We also review the coupling techniques for the interzonal conditions, which include the indirect Trefftz method, the original Trefftz method, the penalty plus hybrid Trefftz method, and the direct Trefftz method. Other boundary methods are also briefly described. Key issues in these algorithms, including the error analysis, are addressed. New numerical results are reported. Comparisons among TMs and other numerical methods are made. It is concluded that the CTM is the simplest algorithm and provides the most accurate solution with the best numerical stability. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Numer Methods Partial Differential Eq, 2007
Photoinduced birefringence in blends of a polyurethane bearing azobenzene moieties and a poly(amide–imide)
Authors: Ceridório Lucinéia , Cardoso Marcos R , Pavinatto Felippe , Carvalho Antonio JF , Mendonça Cleber R , Balogh Débora T
Published: May 2006

A polyurethane (MDI‐DR19Cl) bearing azobenzene moieties was prepared by condensation of 4,4′‐diphenylmethylenediisocyanate and an azobenzene compound, 2‐chloro‐4‐nitro‐4′‐[bis‐(2‐hydroxyethyl)]amine‐azobenzene (DR19Cl). Blends of MDI‐DR19Cl and a poly(amide‐imide) were prepared and characterized by UV‐visible and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and by DSC. The purpose of using the blends was to overcome the lack of stability of cast films of pure MDI‐DR19Cl, which tend to crack on storage under ambient conditions. This was successfully achieved and, depending on blend proportions, flexible self‐standing films could be prepared after thermal treatment. Optical storage experiments performed with the blends and pure MDI‐DR19Cl cast films showed a decrease in the remnant values of photoinduced birefringence in the blends (60 % for the blend with 5 wt% MDI‐DR19Cl) compared to pure MDI‐DR19Cl (75%), but, taking into account the low content of MDI‐DR19Cl used, the results obtained are probably sufficient to show the viability of these blends in optical storage applications. Copyright © 2006 Society of Chemical Industry
Circular dichroism spectrum of [Co(en)3]3+ in water: A discrete solvent reaction field study
Authors: Jensen L. , Swart Marcel , van Duijnen Piet Th. , Autschbach J.
Published: May 2006

In this work we investigate the circular dichroism (CD) spectrum of [Co(en)3]3+ in water, using the discrete solvent reaction field (DRF) model. The DRF model is a polarizable quantum mechanics/molecular mechanics (QM/MM) model. The implementation of the DRF model for CD spectra calculations based on time‐dependent density functional theory (TDDFT) is presented. The combination of DRF with TDDFT allows for a computationally attractive solution for calculating chirooptical properties of molecules in solution when explicit solvent structures are of interest. Using a mixed coarse/fine‐grained parallel computation, we show that average CD spectra from snapshots of the solvent structure can be obtained routinely. Classical polarizable molecular dynamics (MD) simulations have been used to obtain the solvent structure around the [Co(en)3]3+ (en = ethyldiamine) solute. We show that the final spectrum converges quickly with respect to the number of configurations. The DRF results were compared with results obtained from the much simpler conductor‐like screening model (COSMO). Both models predicted similar blue shifts of the CD bands, but none of the models is in perfect agreement with the experiments. For instance, the calculated intensities are larger than what is found experimentally if reasonable empirical line width parameters are applied. From the DRF computations, we further show that almost all the solvent effects arise from ground‐state solvation. Thus, ignoring the dynamic solvent response is a good approximation for a system like [Co(en)3]3+, where the solute is highly charged and the solvent is very polar. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2006
Glasdach Mensa und Rektorat der Technischen Universität Dresden
Authors: Zschippang Sven , Wies Wolfgang , Weller Bernhard , Schadow Thomas
Published: May 2006

An der Technischen Universität Dresden entstand im Zuge der Modernisierung der Mensa und des Rektorats ein Glasdach eigener Prägung. Entwurf und Planung des Dachtragwerks als ungerichtete Konstruktion mit Haupt‐ und Nebenträgern aus Verbund‐Sicherheitsglas werden ausführlich dargestellt. Beschrieben werden auch die durchgeführten Bauteilprüfungen zur Erlangung der Zustimmung im Einzelfall für die Konstruktion. Weitere Schwerpunkte des Beitrags sind die Herstellung, die Produktionsüberwachung und die Montage der Glasdachkonstruktion. (© 2006 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Weitgespannte gläserne Fassaden
Authors: Burmeister Albrecht , Eitel Lutz , Reitinger Reiner
Published: May 2006

Thermalbäder erfordern nicht nur ein sehr ausgeklügeltes Konzept und einen optimierten Betrieb, um wirtschaftlich arbeiten zu können, sie erfordern auch eine Gestaltung bzw. technische Details, die für den Besucher eine angenehme Umgebung schaffen. Diese konstruktive Herausforderung wurde am Beispiel der Therme Bad Wörishofen mit Hilfe weitgespannter Fassaden und sorgfältig gestalteter Details gelöst. Um das filigrane Erscheinungsbild zu realisieren, wurden zutreffende Windlasten im Windkanal ermittelt und fortschrittliche Bemessungsstrategien angewandt.

Architektonisch anspruchsvolle Lösungen mit der hier vorgestellten Funktionalität und in den angesprochenen Dimensionen erfordern das zielorientierte und konstruktive Zusammenwirken aller Beteiligten. Auch in dieser Hinsicht gilt dem Architekten, Herrn Josef Wund , unser besonderer Dank. (© 2006 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Fügen und Verbinden mit UV‐ und lichthärtenden Acrylaten
Authors: Weller Bernhard , Prautzsch Volker , Tasche Silke , Vogt Iris , Jansen Irene
Published: May 2006

Geklebte Verbindungen für den Einsatz bei Glaskonstruktionen im Bauwesen sind zur Zeit überwiegend auf die Anwendung von Silikonen beschränkt. Dabei bieten alternative Klebstoffe viele Vorteile. Neben höherer Festigkeit mit teilweise deutlich geringeren Klebstoffdicken sind volltransparente und eingefärbte Klebfugen möglich. Erforderlich für die verbreitete Ausführung von Glasklebungen im Bauwesen ist die Berechenbarkeit des Systems.

In einem laufenden Forschungsverbundprojekt werden transparente höherfeste Klebstoffsysteme, deren Eignung für baupraktische Anwendungen nicht beschrieben werden kann, gezielt auf ihre Anwendbarkeit in Glaskonstruktionen untersucht. Typische Konstruktionen im Glasbau, die transparente, elastische und alterungsbeständige Klebungen erfordern, werden erschlossen. (© 2006 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Doppler echocardiographic and electrocardiographic atrioventricular time intervals in newborn infants: evaluation of techniques for surveillance of fetuses at risk for congenital heart block
Authors: Bergman G. , Jacobsson L.‐A. , Wahren‐Herlenius M. , Sonesson S.‐E.
Published: May 2006

Objective

To evaluate one novel and two previously reported Doppler flow velocimetric techniques to estimate atrioventricular (AV) time intervals, suggested to be useful for early identification of fetuses at risk for congenital heart block.

Methods

In 22 newborn infants, Doppler tracings were obtained from the mitral valve/aortic outflow and the superior vena cava/ascending aorta, as an ECG was recorded simultaneously. AV time intervals were measured using the onsets of the mitral A‐wave/aortic outflow (MV‐Ao), superior vena cava a‐wave/aortic flow (SVC‐Ao), and mitral A‐wave/mitral valve closure (MV) as indirect markers of electrical atrial/ventricular activation.

Results

Close positive linear relationships to the electrocardiographic PR interval were demonstrated for the MV‐Ao (r = 0.82, Sy/x = 7.4 ms), SVC‐Ao (r = 0.85, Sy/x = 6.8 ms), and MV (r = 0.92, Sy/x = 3.8 ms) approaches. Both techniques using the aortic flow to indicate ventricular activation overestimated the PR interval: the MV‐Ao by + 32 ± 7.7 ms (mean ± SD) and the SVC‐Ao approach by + 22 ± 7.0 ms. The new MV approach using mitral closure for the same purpose did not overestimate the PR interval, but there was a trend towards underestimation of the PR intervals as time intervals increased.

Conclusions

When systematic differences between echocardiographic and electrocardiographic AV time intervals are compensated for, all three techniques are useful to get indirect estimates of the PR interval. As MV recordings only need insonation of a single valve, and are thus easier to obtain, this technique may be of value as a first screening method to identify fetuses in need for further surveillance. In cases with AV time prolongation the SVC‐Ao method seems superior. Copyright © 2006 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The examiner's ultrasound experience has a significant impact on the detection rate of congenital heart defects at the second‐trimester fetal examination
Authors: Tegnander E. , Eik‐Nes S. H.
Published: May 2006

Objectives

To determine whether training and experience in performing ultrasound examinations are factors that influence the prenatal detection of congenital heart defects (CHDs) in a non‐selected population, in order to evaluate and improve the current training program.

Methods

All pregnant women who received a routine second‐trimester ultrasound scan by a sonographer/midwife and delivered at our hospital between February 1991 and December 2001 were registered prospectively. Less experienced sonographer/midwives who had performed between 200 and 2000 routine examinations were compared with experienced sonographer/midwives who had carried out more than 2000 examinations. During the first 5 years of the study the heart structures obtained were registered in detail.

Results

Of 29 035 fetuses, 35/82 (43%) major CHDs were prenatally detected at the routine examination. The experienced sonographer/midwives obtained both the four‐chamber view and the great arteries in 75%; the figure for the less experienced sonographer/midwives was 36% (P < 0.001). The differences in detecting major heart defects were 22/42 (52%) and 13/40 (32.5%), isolated CHDs 8/18 (44%) and 6/22 (27%) and CHDs with associated malformations 14/24 (58%) and 7/18 (39%), respectively. In both groups some CHDs with an abnormal four‐chamber view were missed, although the experienced sonographer/midwives recognized significantly more of the abnormal views than did the less experienced sonographer/midwives (P = 0.002).

Conclusions

Experience has a significant impact on the examination of the fetal heart and the prenatal detection rate of major CHDs. To avoid a relatively long learning curve, ultrasound education needs to intensify the teaching of the basic four‐chamber view. The great arteries should be included after additional training. Those basic views of the fetal heart must be mastered before new views and advanced technology are added to the fetal heart examination. Copyright © 2006 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
MODULI CURVES OF SUPERSINGULAR K3 SURFACES IN CHARACTERISTIC 2 WITH ARTIN INVARIANT 2
Authors: Shimada Ichiro
Published: May 2006

We construct moduli curves of polarized supersingular K3 surfaces in characteristic 2 with Artin invariant 2. As an application, we detect a ‘jump’ phenomenon in a family of automorphism groups of supersingular K3 surfaces with a constant Néron–Severi lattice.
PRESENTATION BY BOREL SUBALGEBRAS AND CHEVALLEY GENERATORS FOR QUANTUM ENVELOPING ALGEBRAS
Authors: Gavarini Fabio
Published: May 2006

We provide an alternative approach to the Faddeev–Reshetikhin–Takhtajan presentation of the quantum group $\uqg$, with $L$-operators as generators and relations ruled by an $R$-matrix. We look at $\uqg$ as being generated by the quantum Borel subalgebras $U_q(\mathfrak{b}_+)$ and $U_q(\mathfrak{b}_-)$, and use the standard presentation of the latter as quantum function algebras. When $\mathfrak{g}=\mathfrak{gl}_n$, these Borel quantum function algebras are generated by the entries of a triangular $q$-matrix. Thus, eventually, $U_q(\mathfrak{gl}_n)$ is generated by the entries of an upper triangular and a lower triangular $q$-matrix, which share the same diagonal. The same elements generate over $\Bbbk[q,q^{-1}]$ the unrestricted $\Bbbk [q,q^{-1}]$-integral form of $U_q(\mathfrak{gl}_n)$ of De Concini and Procesi, which we present explicitly, together with a neat description of the associated quantum Frobenius morphisms at roots of 1. All this holds, mutatis mutandis, for $\mathfrak{g}=\mathfrak{sl}_n$ too.
NOTE ON THE RATIONAL POINTS OF A PFAFF CURVE
Authors: Pila Jonathan
Published: May 2006

Let $X\subset\mathbb{R}^2$ be the graph of a Pfaffian function $f$ in the sense of Khovanskii. Suppose that $X$ is non-algebraic. This note gives an estimate for the number of rational points on $X$ of height less than or equal to $H$; the estimate is uniform in the order and degree of $f$.
AN EXISTENCE THEOREM FOR QUASILINEAR SYSTEMS
Authors: Wang Haiyan
Published: May 2006

This paper deals with the existence of positive radial solutions for the quasilinear system $\text{div}(|\nabla u_i|^{p-2}\nabla u_i)+\lambda f^i(u_1,\dots,u_n)=0$, $|x|\lt1$, $u_i(x)=0$, on $|x|=1$, $i=1,\dots,n$, $p\gt1$, $\lambda>0$, $x\in\mathbb{R}^N$. The $f^i$, $i=1,\dots,n$, are continuous and non-negative functions. Let $\bm{u}=(u_1,\dots,u_n)$, $\|\bm{u}\|=\sum_{i=1}^n|u_i|$,

$$ f_0^i=\lim_{\|\bm{u}\|\to0}\frac{f^i(\bm{u})}{\|\bm{u}\|^{p-1}}, $$

$i=1,\dots,n$, $\bm{f}=(f^1,\dots,f^n)$, $\bm{f}_0=\sum_{i=1}^nf_0^i$. We prove that the problem has a positive solution for sufficiently small $\lambda>0$ if $\bm{f}_0=\infty$. Our methods employ a fixed-point theorem in a cone.
THE ROLE OF FUNNELS AND PUNCTURES IN THE GROMOV HYPERBOLICITY OF RIEMANN SURFACES
Authors: Portilla Ana , Rodríguez José M. , Tourís Eva
Published: May 2006

We prove results on geodesic metric spaces which guarantee that some spaces are not hyperbolic in the Gromov sense. We use these theorems in order to study the hyperbolicity of Riemann surfaces. We obtain a criterion on the genus of a surface which implies non-hyperbolicity. We also include a characterization of the hyperbolicity of a Riemann surface $S^*$ obtained by deleting a closed set from one original surface $S$. In the particular case when the closed set is a union of continua and isolated points, the results clarify the role of punctures and funnels (and other more general ends) in the hyperbolicity of Riemann surfaces.
!THE $\aleph_1$-PRODUCT OF DG-INJECTIVE COMPLEXES
Authors: Enochs Edgar E. , Iacob Alina
Published: May 2006

Given a left Noetherian ring $R$, we give a necessary and sufficient condition in order that a complex of $R$-modules be DG-injective. Using this result we prove that if $(K_i)_{i\in I}$ is a family of DG-injective complexes of left $R$-modules and $K$ is the $\aleph_1$-product of $(K_i)_{i\in I}$ (i.e. $K\subset\prod_{i\in I}K_i$ is such that, for each $n$, $K^n\subset\prod_{i\in I}K_i^n$ consists of all $(x_i)_{i\in I}$ such that $\{i\mid x_i\neq0\}$ is at most countable), then $K$ is DG-injective.
The Relationship Between Genotype and Positive Psychological Development in National-Level Swimmers
Authors: Golby Jim , Sheard Michael
Published: May 2006

We report a preliminary study of the relationship between genotype (using a functional polymorphism of the serotonin transporter 5-HTT gene) and positive psychological development in high-achieving adolescent swimmers. Thirty-one volunteers of both genders, aged 10-24 years, completed a battery of positive psychological questionnaires measuring hardiness, mental toughness, self-esteem, self-efficacy, dispositional optimism, and positive affectivity. DNA samples were obtained via buccal swabs. The sample was initially split into three groups on the basis of 5-HTT genotype: SS, SL, and LL. Multivariate statistics revealed a discernible trend of a relationship between LL genotype and higher levels of positive psychological development. The nonsignificant overall effect is interpreted in terms of sample size and age of participants. The implications of these results are discussed relative to previous findings and in terms of psychological theory.
Psychology in Luxembourg
Authors: Steffgen Georges , Michaux Gilles
Published: May 2006

Tracing back to the early stages of scientific psychology in Luxembourg, past and recent developments in the academic and applied fields of psychology are chronicled for one of the smallest member states of the European Union. In addition, the institutionalization of psychology with regard to professional associations and in the context of the newly created University of Luxembourg is depicted. Based on survey data, the major occupational fields and the present situation of professional psychologists are described. Reflections concerning the future perspective of psychology as an academic discipline as well as a profession and an overview of the legal regulations concerning psychology in Luxembourg complete the report.
The Moderating Role of the Attitude-Subjective Norms Conflict on the Link Between Moral Norms and Intention
Authors: Hübner Gundula , Kaiser Florian G.
Published: May 2006

Within a traditional planned-behavior framework, the conditions remain ambiguous under which moral norms add to the overall intention to act. In this paper, we aim to provide insights into the circumstances that foster the impact of moral norms. Based on a minimal effort strategy, we predict that moral information is considered more strongly and, thus, is relatively more significant for people's motivation if a person's attitude is at odds with his or her subjective norms. To test our beliefs-conflict hypothesis, we conducted two surveys, one concerning organ donation (N = 639) and another concerning conservation behavior (N = 328). Structural equation analyses confirm that moral considerations have a stronger effect on a person's behavioral intention in cases of attitude-subjective norms conflicts compared to cases of harmonic attitudes and subjective norms.
New Guidelines for Developing Multiple-Choice Items
Authors: Moreno Rafael , Martínez Rafael J. , Muñiz José
Published: May 2006

The rigorous construction of items constitutes a field of great current interest for psychometric researchers and practitioners. In previous studies we have reviewed and analyzed the existing guidelines for the construction of multiple-choice items. From this review emerged a new proposal for guidelines that is now, in the present work, subjected to empirical assessment. This assessment was carried out by users of the guidelines and by experts in item construction. The results endorse the proposal for the new guidelines presented, confirming the advantages in relation to their simplicity and efficiency, as well as permitting identification of the difficulties involved in drawing up and organizing some of the guidelines. Taking into account these results, we propose a new, refined set of guidelines that constitutes a useful, simple, and structured instrument for the construction of multiple-choice items.
Poly(ADP-ribose) glycohydrolase silencing protects against H2O2-induced cell death
Authors: Blenn Christian , Althaus Felix R. , Malanga Maria
Published: May 2006

PAR [poly(ADP-ribose)] is a structural and regulatory component of multiprotein complexes in eukaryotic cells. PAR catabolism is accelerated under genotoxic stress conditions and this is largely attributable to the activity of a PARG (PAR glycohydrolase). To overcome the early embryonic lethality of parg-knockout mice and gain more insights into the biological functions of PARG, we used an RNA interference approach. We found that as little as 10% of PARG protein is sufficient to ensure basic cellular functions: PARG-silenced murine and human cells proliferated normally through several subculturing rounds and they were able to repair DNA damage induced by sublethal doses of H2O2. However, cell survival following treatment with higher concentrations of H2O2 (0.05–1 mM) was increased. In fact, PARG-silenced cells were more resistant than their wild-type counterparts to oxidant-induced apoptosis while exhibiting delayed PAR degradation and transient accumulation of ADP-ribose polymers longer than 15-mers at early stages of drug treatment. No difference was observed in response to the DNA alkylating agent N-methyl-N′-nitro-N-nitrosoguanidine, suggesting a specific involvement of PARG in the cellular response to oxidative DNA damage.
Neoliberal Governmentality in the European Union: Education, Training, and Technologies of Citizenship
Authors: Mitchell Katharyne
Published: May 2006

In this paper I argue that increasingly neoliberal forms of governmentality are evident in the educational sector of the European Commission. This is especially the case vis-α-vis the institutional philosophy of how immigrants and second-generation ‘minorities’ should be best integrated into European society. Both the policies and the programs associated with education and training are becoming more oriented towards the formation of mobile, flexible, and self-governing European laborers and less oriented towards an institutionalized affirmation of personal development and individual or group ‘difference’. This represents a fairly substantive philosophical and practical transformation over the past five to ten years, with significant implications for conceptions of European citizenship, multiculturalism, and social belonging.
The Nature That Capital Can See: Science, State, and Market in the Commodification of Ecosystem Services
Authors: Robertson Morgan M
Published: May 2006

The development of stable markets in ecosystem services is now a major neoliberal policy initiative in the United States and elsewhere. Such markets, however, require ecosystem scientists to play a new and challenging role in certifying the value of the commodities traded, which are defined using the holistic measures of ecology rather than the uncontroversial measures of weight, volume, or time. As ecosystem science increasingly serves as a metrical technology for the commodification of ecosystem services, its fine and fragile distinctions increasingly bear the weight of capital circulation. In this paper I report on fieldwork among ecosystem assessment technicians, and suggest that this new round of the commodification of nature may overwhelm the capacity of science to provide stable representations of commodity value. The methods and techniques of ecosystem assessment must describe a nature that capital can ‘see’—that has an uncontroversial measure—in order for trade to occur. However, these assessment methods currently produce unstable data that are rendered meaningful in economic terms only by dint of creative and ad hoc efforts at translation by field technicians. It is suggested that this may represent a practical limit or crisis point in the expansion of capital relations, or at least a complication in the streamlined neoliberal narratives about the commodification of ecosystem services.
Effects of Surface Markings on Judgments of Motion Direction
Authors: Bocheva Nadejda , Braunstein Myron L
Published: May 2006

The effects of surface markings on perceived motion direction were examined for a rotating sphere in a structure-from-motion display. The markings were dot patterns representing separate line segments or intersecting line segments (crosses) covering the surface of the sphere. The orientation of the surface markings and their intersection angles affected the perceived direction of motion, suggesting that the markings were not interpreted as geodesics or planar cuts on the surface. The perceived direction of motion was biased towards the mean orientation of the markings over the visible area of the surface. A similar bias was observed for translating planar stimuli covered with crosses, suggesting that the bias is not specific to curved surfaces or motion in depth. The deviation between the simulated motion direction and the external horizontal and vertical axes also affected the perceived motion direction. These results suggest that the average orientation of surface contours with respect to an external reference frame influences the perceived direction of motion.
An Information Theory Analysis of Visual Complexity and Dissimilarity
Authors: Donderi Don C
Published: May 2006

The subjective complexity of a computer-generated bitmap image can be measured by magnitude estimation scaling, and its objective complexity can be measured by its compressed file size. There is a high correlation between these measures of subjective and objective complexity over a large set of marine electronic chart and radar images. The subjective dissimilarity of a pair of bitmap images can be predicted from subjective and objective measures of the complexity of each image, and from the subjective and objective complexity of the image produced by overlaying the two simple images. In addition, the subjective complexity of the image produced by overlaying two simple images can be predicted from the subjective complexity of the simple images and the subjective dissimilarity of the image pair. The results of the experiments that generated these complexity and dissimilarity judgments are consistent with a theory, outlined here, that treats objective and subjective measures of image complexity and dissimilarity as vectors in Euclidean space.
Foreshortening, Convergence and Drawings from a Blind Adult
Authors: Kennedy John M , Juricevic Igor
Published: May 2006

Esref is a congenitally totally blind man, practiced in drawing. He was asked to draw solid and wire cubes situated in several places around his vantage point. He used foreshortening of receding sides and convergence of obliques, in approximate one-point perspective. We note that haptics provides information about the direction of objects—the basis of perspective.
Cutaneous extrarenal rhabdoid tumor with myogenic differentiation
Authors: Petitt Matthew , Doeden Katherine , Harris Alexis , Bocklage Thèrése
Published: May 2006

Background:  The rhabdoid phenotype is characterized by large epithelioid cells with abundant eosinophilic cytoplasm and paranuclear inclusions of intermediate filaments. Although originally described in tumors from pediatric kidneys, the rhabdoid phenotype has since been described in a variety of patient ages and extrarenal sites. Extraordinarily, the rhabdoid phenotype has emerged in cutaneous neoplasms, either as a pure extrarenal rhabdoid tumor or a composite phenotype coupled with another malignancy. Regardless of the clinical setting, the rhabdoid phenotype is uniformly associated with aggressive biological behavior. We report the findings from a rare and very aggressive primary extrarenal rhabdoid tumor of the skin with myogenic differentiation.

Case report:  A 53‐year‐old woman presented with an ulcerated nodule on her right medial calf and ipsilateral inguinal lymphadenopathy. Histological examination of the skin nodule as well as cytologic examination of a lymph node disclosed the characteristic rhabdoid phenotype. Electron microscopy demonstrated paranuclear globules of intermediate filaments; special stains suggested an underlying myogenic histogenesis. The patient was aggressively treated with chemotherapy but ultimately died of her disease 8 months after presentation.

Conclusions:  The rhabdoid phenotype is rarely seen in cutaneous neoplasms, but when present, portends a poor prognosis adding particular importance to its recognition.
Facial thermography is a sensitive tool to determine antihistaminic activity: comparison of levocetirizine and fexofenadine
Authors: Larbig Michael , Burtin Bernard , Martin Laurent , Stamm Holger , Luettig Birgit , Hohlfeld Jens M. , Krug Norbert
Published: May 2006

Aims

To assess the antihistaminic activity of levocetirizine and fexofenadine 2 h and 24 h after drug administration using facial thermography and to compare the results with those using well‐established parameters of antihistaminic activity in the nose and skin.

Methods

This was a randomized, double‐blind, three‐treatment, three‐period, single‐dose, cross‐over study in healthy males taking levocetirizine 5 mg, fexofenadine 120 mg or placebo. The primary endpoint was nasal skin temperature after nasal histamine challenge recorded for 20 min at 2 and 24 h after drug intake. The secondary endpoints were nasal symptoms and a histamine skin prick test.

Results

Thirty subjects were randomized. At 2 h after drug intake the inhibition of the nasal temperature increase from baseline was not significantly different between levocetirizine and fexofenadine. At 24 h it was significantly more pronounced after levocetirizine than fexofenadine (difference: least‐squares mean: −0.13 °C; P ≤ 0.024, 95% CI −0.24, −0.02). Both drugs significantly reduced (P ≤ 0.001) the mean temperature increase from baseline compared with placebo at 2 and 24 h (least‐squares mean increase and (95% CI): levocetirizine, −0.28 °C (−0.42, −0.14) and −0.32 °C (−0.43, −0.21); fexofenadine −0.35 °C (−0.49, −0.21) and −0.19 °C (−0.30, −0.08), respectively). Results of nasal symptom score and wheal and flare were consistent with the thermography results.

Conclusions

Facial thermography is an objective, non‐invasive and sensitive method to study antihistaminic activity at the nose level. Levocetirizine and fexofenadine demonstrate the same activity at 2 h after drug intake, but levocetirizine has a more sustained activity at 24 h.
Drug development in oncology: classical cytotoxics and molecularly targeted agents
Authors: Kummar Shivaani , Gutierrez Martin , Doroshow James H , Murgo Anthony J.
Published: May 2006

There is an apparent need to improve the speed and efficiency of oncological drug development. Furthermore, strategies traditionally applied to the development of standard cytotoxic chemotherapy may not be appropriate for molecularly targeted agents. This is particularly the case for exploratory Phase 1 and 2 trials. Conventional approaches to determine dose based on maximum tolerability and efficacy based on objective tumour response may not be suitable for targeted agents, since many of them have a wide therapeutic index and inhibit tumour growth without demonstrable cytotoxicity. Instead, exploratory trials of targeted agents may have to focus on other end‐points such as pharmacological effects and disease stabilization. Thus, there is an increasing interest in making the best possible use of biomarkers and pharmacogenomics in early phases of drug development.
Deep water waves in lakes
Authors: SMITH I. R. , SINCLAIR I. J.
Published: May 2006

The properties of waves on a lake surface and the influence of water depth on these properties are discussed.

The method, derived by the Beach Erosion Board, of predicting wave characteristics if the wind speed and fetch are known is outlined and the validity of the method in Loch Leven, Scotland, is confirmed.

This prediction technique is then combined with the equations of classical hydrodynamics to form a method of assessing the nature and extent of wave action in lakes without direct measurement. The value of the ratio of the wave‐mixed volume to the total lake volume as a meausre of hydraulic conditions in lakes is suggested.
Observations and experiments on the phytoplankton of Blelham Tarn, English Lake District
Authors: LACK T. J. , LUND J. W. G.
Published: May 2006

Tubes composed of butyl rubber have been placed in a small English lake in an area where the water is 11‐12 m deep. Each tube, when fully distended, contains over 18 000 m3 of water. The tubes are anchored to the shore and lake bottom. A boat can be rowed into them over a specially strengthened portion ofthe margin. The first was installed and its water isolated from that in the lake by the end of July 1970 and the second tube at the beginning of October 1970. The installation, maintenance, and performance of the tubes are described; as are suggested improvements. The temperature regime in the tubes closely follows that in the lake. If the chemical conditions are favourable, the seasonal cycle of Melosira in a tube is similar to that n i the lake. Contamination of the water in the tubes by that in the lake is slight and has a negligible effect on chemical conditions within them. Water can be lost from the tubes under certain conditions. The reverse does not happen. The phytoplankton communities in the tubes are similar in quality to those ofthe lake, even after 2‐5 years of separation. The evidence suggests that the tubes are suitable for investigations on certain factors determining the abundance and seasonal cycles of algae in lakes and for other limnological studies.
Studies of tolerance to heavy metals in the flora of the rivers Ystwyth and Clarach, Wales
Authors: McLEAN R. O. , JONES A. K.
Published: May 2006

A survey of the river Ystwyth demonstrated that it was polluted with metals especially below the areas of old lead mines. Hormidium spp. Kütz in particular Hormidium rivulare Kütz were the most tolerant filamentous green algae present. Scapania undulata (L.) Dum. was a tolerant bryophyte on the Ystwyth and Clarach rivers and was found alone in polluted sites, but was less frequent in cleaner areas. Metal extracts of this bryophyte mirrored the variation in metal concentrations of the environment to some extent. In general, lower levels of Fe, Pb and Mn were found in Scapania as compared with the less tolerant Fontinalis squamosa Hëdw. When the latter was transplanted to polluted sites an increase in its Pb, Cu, Zn and Mn content occurred within 6 weeks and the plant started to die and decay after 18 weeks. Scapania survived when it was transplanted from its natural polluted habitat to a less polluted area, and there was no marked change in its metal content. Zn65 tracing experiments, in the laboratory, demonstrated that both plants had similar uptake patterns for the metal, but that the amount taken up was slightly higher in the less tolerant Fontinalis. There was no change in the number of diatoms found upon Scapania when it was transplanted, but a reduction in numbers occurred on the transplanted Fontinalis when it started dying. The composition of these diatom floras was different in polluted sites as compared to that in the cleaner areas.
The effect of pH on the population growth of three species of duckweed: Spirodela oligorrhiza, Lemna minor and Wolffia arrhiza
Authors: McLAY C. L.
Published: May 2006

Three species of duckweed, Spirodela oligorrhiza, Lemna minor and Wolffia arrhiza were grown under aseptic conditions on both buffered and unbuffered solutions of Jacob's media. Media with manually regulated pH levels were also used.

Growth on unbuffered media is initially rapid but eventually inhibited, probably by increased pH levels. On buffered media growth is poor and effects of buffers cannot be separated out. These media give inadequate pictures of the species’ responses to changes in pH.

Growth is most successful on media with regulated pH where sustained logarithmic population increases were achieved. Spirodela and Lemna rates are symmetrical about an almost neutral, optimal pH, declining fairly rapidly away from the optimum. Wolffia has an optimum at pH 5 and growth declined with increasing pH. All three species have optima at, or below, the neutral point.

The range of tolerance of duckweeds is broader than has previously been suspected. Estimated lower limits, optimum and upper limits for each species are: Wolffia, pH 4·5–0·10, Lemna pH 4–6·2–10, Spirodela pH 3·7–0·10.

Growth rate along a pH gradient is best described by means of polynomial equations: second‐degree equations are sufficient for Spirodela and Lemna but a fifth‐degree equation is required for Wolffia. Rates of population growth are similar for all species. In decreasing order they are: Wolffia, Lemna, Spirodela. However, in biomass units Lemna grew more than six and Spirodela seventeen times faster than Wolffia.
The occurrence and distribution of actinomycetes in lakes of the English Lake District
Authors: JOHNSTON D. W. , CROSS T.
Published: May 2006

Investigation of the occurrence of mesophilic actinomycetes in the lakes of the English Lake District revealed their widespread distribution in the lacustrine environment. Although only low numbers of actinomycetes occurred in the water, high numbers were recovered from all the lake muds. Total numbers of actinomycetes in the muds correlated quite well with the lakes’ productivity status. High numbers of Micro‐monospora, Streptomyces and nocardioform actinomycetes were isolated from all the lakes sampled. Low numbers of Streptosporangium were isolated from all the muds but strains of Actinomadura, Actinoplanes, Dactylosporangium, Microbispora and Thermomonospora were only encountered occasionally. Micromonospora was the numerically dominant genus isolated from all the lakes sampled. This dominance was even more striking in deeper layers of mud and this was thought to reflect a more resistant spore stage in Micromonospora than in either of the other two main genera.
The seasonal pattern of thermal characteristics of four of the Bishoftu crater lakes, Ethiopia
Authors: WOOD R. B. , PROSSER M. V. , BAXTER R. M.
Published: May 2006

Measurements of temperature/depth profiles in four Ethiopian crater lakes were made during 1964, 1965 and 1966 at fairly regular intervals. Several more intensive diurnal studies, with observations at 3‐h intervals during periods of about 48 h, were also carried out. Results show a pattern of heating leading to thermal stratification from February to September and cooling from September to December with possible overturn at the end of that period. Thermal stability was never great and thermoclines were often poorly defined and multiple. Net daily changes in heat content during both heating and cooling can be a small fraction (c. 3%) of the diurnal heat flux and depend upon the relative magnitudes of solar radiation and evaporative heat loss. These are such that cooling may occur during periods of highest solar input and vice versa. However, meteorological conditions could easily reverse the cooling process before the December overturn so that complete mixing is by no means a predictably regular annual event.