bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phosphoramidates: Synthesis, spectroscopy, and X‐Ray crystallography
Authors: Shariatinia Zahra , Sohrabi Marzieh , Yousefi Mohammad , Koval Tomas , Dusek Michal
Published: July 2012

A series of novel phosphoramidates with a general formula P(O)X1X2X3, where X1 = X2 = X3 = 1H‐1,2,4‐triazol (1); X1 = X2 = X3 = N‐phenylhydrazine (2); X1 = Br, X2 = X3 = N‐phenylhydrazine (3), X1 = Br, X2 = X3 = dipropylamine (4), and X1 = X2 = X3 = 1,4‐dioxa‐8‐azaspiro[4.5]decane (5) as well as [P(O)(NC4H8NH‐CH3)+3.3Cl‐] (6), were synthesized and characterized by 1H, 13C, 31P NMR, IR spectroscopy, and elemental analysis. It is interesting that the P atoms of compounds 3 and 4 are the most upfielded atoms (δ(31P) = −23.00, −21.65 ppm) among molecules 1–6. This indicates that the Br atom acts as a strong electron donor to the P atom via a resonance interaction. The 1H and 13C NMR spectra of compound 5 reveal three separate sets of peaks for the aliphatic CH2 protons of three four‐membered rings. This can be explained by different spatial orientations (conformations) of the aliphatic rings. The crystal structure of compound 6 was also determined by X‐ray crystallography. There are intermolecular NH ···Cl hydrogen bonds in this structure. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Heteroatom Chem 23:478–485, 2012; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/hc.21040
Alantolactone induces apoptosis in glioblastoma cells via GSH depletion, ROS generation, and mitochondrial dysfunction
Authors: Khan Muhammad , Yi Fei , Rasul Azhar , Li Ting , Wang Nan , Gao Hongwen , Gao Rong , Ma Tonghui
Published: July 2012

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most malignant and aggressive primary brain tumor in adults. Despite concerted efforts to improve current therapies, the prognosis of glioblastoma remains very poor. Alantolactone, a sesquiterpene lactone compound, has been reported to exhibit antifungal, antibacteria, antihelminthic, and anticancer properties. In this study, we found that alantolactone effectively inhibits growth and triggers apoptosis in glioblastoma cells in a time‐ and dose‐dependent manner. The alantolactone‐induced apoptosis was found to be associated with glutathione (GSH) depletion, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, mitochondrial transmembrane potential dissipation, cardiolipin oxidation, upregulation of p53 and Bax, downregulation of Bcl‐2, cytochrome c release, activation of caspases (caspase 9 and 3), and cleavage of poly (ADP‐ribose) polymerase. This alantolactone‐induced apoptosis and GSH depletion were effectively inhibited or abrogated by a thiol antioxidant, N‐acetyl‐L‐cysteine, whereas other antioxidant (polyethylene glycol (PEG)‐catalase and PEG‐superoxide‐dismutase) did not prevent apoptosis and GSH depletion. Alantolactone treatment inhibited the translocation of NF‐κB into nucleus; however, NF‐κB inhibitor, SN50 failed to potentiate alantolactone‐induced apoptosis indicating that alantolactone induces NF‐κB‐independent apoptosis in glioma cells. These findings suggest that the sensitivity of tumor cells to alantolactone appears to results from GSH depletion and ROS production. Furthermore, our in vivo toxicity study demonstrated that alantolactone did not induce significant hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity in mice. Therefore, alantolactone may become a potential lead compound for future development of antiglioma therapy. © © 2012 IUBMB Life, 64(9): 783–794, 2012
A randomized trial of a mailed intervention and self-scheduling to improve osteoporosis screening in postmenopausal women
Authors: Warriner Amy H , Outman Ryan C , Kitchin Elizabeth , Chen Lang , Morgan Sarah , Saag Kenneth G , Curtis Jeffrey R
Published: July 2012

Guidelines recommend bone density screening with dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) in women 65 years or older, but <30% of eligible women undergo DXA testing. There is a need to identify a systematic, effective, and generalizable way to improve osteoporosis screening. A group randomized, controlled trial of women ≥65 years old with no DXA in the past 4 years, randomized to receive intervention materials (patient osteoporosis brochure and a letter explaining how to self-schedule a DXA scan) versus usual care (control) was undertaken. Outcome of interest was DXA completion. Of 2997 women meeting inclusion criteria, 977 were randomized to the intervention group. A total of 17.3% of women in the intervention group completed a DXA, compared to 5.2% in the control group (12.1% difference, p < 0.0001). When including only those medically appropriate, we found a difference of 19% between the two groups (p < 0.0001). DXA receipt was greater in main clinic patients compared to satellite clinic patients (20.9% main clinic versus 10.1% satellite clinic). The cost to print and mail the intervention was $0.79 per patient, per mailing. The number of women to whom intervention needed to be mailed to yield one extra DXA performed was 9, at a cost of $7.11. DXA scan completion was significantly improved through use of a mailed osteoporosis brochure and the availability for patients to self-schedule. This simple approach may be an effective component of a multifaceted quality improvement program to increase rates of osteoporosis screening. © 2012 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Nuclear fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2) isoforms inhibit bone marrow stromal cell mineralization through FGF23/FGFR/MAPK in vitro
Authors: Xiao Liping , Esliger Alycia , Hurley Marja M
Published: July 2012

Fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) is responsible for phosphate wasting and the phenotypic changes observed in human diseases such as X-linked hypophosphatemia (XLH). Targeted overexpression of nuclear high–molecular weight fibroblast growth factor 2 isoforms (HMW isoforms) in osteoblasts resulted in a transgenic mouse with phenotypic changes similar to XLH, including increased FGF23, hypophosphatemia, and rickets/osteomalacia. The goal of this study was to assess whether HMW isoforms also reduced mineralized bone formation via phosphate-independent effects in bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) by modulating FGF23/FGF receptor (FGFR)/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) signaling. To determine if decreased bone formation in BMSC cultures from HMW transgenic mice could be rescued by blocking this pathway, an FGF23 neutralizing antibody, the FGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor SU5402 and the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) inhibitor PD98059 were used. FGF23 levels in the conditioned medium of HMW BMSC cultures were dramatically increased compared to BMSC from control (Vector) mice. Mineralized nodule formation was significantly decreased in HMW BMSC cultures compared with control cultures. The decreased nodule formation in HMW cultures was partially rescued by the FGF23 neutralizing antibody, SU5402 and PD98059. mRNA levels for the osteoblast-related genes, osteocalcin, Runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2), and osterix, and the osteocyte-related gene dentin matrix acidic phosphoprotein 1 (Dmp1) were significantly decreased in HMW cultures compared with control cultures, and the decreases were partially rescued by SU5402 or PD98059 treatment. Matrix-gla-protein (Mgp) mRNA was significantly higher in HMW cultures compared with control cultures, reduced by SU5402, but further increased by PD98059. Our results suggest that phosphate-independent effects of HMW isoforms in vitro may be directly mediated in part via FGF23 and that HMW isoforms signal via FGF23/FGFR/MAPK to inhibit bone formation in vitro. © 2013 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research
Natural bond orbital analysis: A critical overview of relationships to alternative bonding perspectives
Authors: Weinhold Frank
Published: July 2012

We sketch the basic principles of natural bond orbital (NBO) theory, including critical discussion of its relationship to alternative bonding concepts and selected illustrations of its application to a broad spectrum of chemical bonding motifs. Particular emphasis is placed on the close NBO connections to prequantal bonding, and electromerism concepts, as well as the deep roots in quantal eigenvalue, superposition, and Pauli exclusion concepts that are manifested in many aspects of NBO donor–acceptor analysis. With respect to leading alternative perspectives, we identify similarities and differences that distinguish NBO theory from the corresponding precepts of valence bond theory, molecular orbital theory, and Bader's quantum theory of atoms in molecules, with critical discussion of the assumptions underlying characteristic differences in each case. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
An Alternative Way to Generalize the Pentagon
Authors: Ball Simeon , Bamberg John , Devillers Alice , Stokes Klara
Published: July 2012

We introduce the concept of a pentagonal geometry as a generalization of the pentagon and the Desargues configuration, in the same vein that the generalized polygons share the fundamental properties of ordinary polygons. In short, a pentagonal geometry is a regular partial linear space in which for all points x, the points not collinear with the point x, form a line. We compute bounds on their parameters, give some constructions, obtain some nonexistence results for seemingly feasible parameters and suggest a cryptographic application related to identifying codes of partial linear spaces.
Client Predictors of Short‐Term Psychotherapy Outcomes Among Asian and White American Outpatients
Authors: Kim Jin E. , Zane Nolan W. , Blozis Shelley A.
Published: July 2012

Purpose

To examine predictors of psychotherapy outcomes, focusing on client characteristics that are especially salient for culturally diverse clients.

Method

Sixty clients (31 women; 27 White Americans, 33 Asian Americans) participated in this treatment study. Client characteristics were measured at pretreatment, and outcomes were measured postfourth session via therapist ratings of functioning and symptomatology. Regression analyses were utilized to test for predictors of outcomes, and bootstrap analyses were utilized to test for mediators.

Results

Higher levels of somatic symptoms predicted lower psychosocial functioning at posttreatment. Avoidant coping style predicted more negative symptoms and more psychological discomfort. Non‐English language preference predicted worse outcomes; this effect was mediated by an avoidant coping style.

Conclusions

Language preference, avoidant coping style, and somatic symptoms predicted treatment outcome in a culturally diverse sample. Findings suggest that race/ethnicity‐related variables may function through mediating proximal variables to affect outcomes. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Clin. Psychol. 00:1–16, 2012.
Rabbit supraspinatus motor endplates are unaffected by a rotator cuff tear
Authors: Gayton J. Christopher , Rubino L. Joseph , Rich Mark M. , Stouffer Mark H. , Wang Qingbo , Boivin Gregory P.
Published: July 2012

Rotator cuff tears are a major cause of morbidity. Following rotator cuff tears, muscle atrophy and fatty infiltration begin in the tissue, limiting repair potential and leading to a higher re‐tear rate and a worse functional outcome. We evaluated whether fatty degeneration resulting from a complete supraspinatus tear with retraction is associated with an injury to the suprascapular nerve. Four skeletally mature New Zealand white rabbits were randomized to receive an index procedure on either their right or left shoulder with the opposite shoulder serving as a control. At the index procedure, the supraspinatus tendon was transected at its insertion and allowed to retract. At 3 months, the rabbits were euthanized, and both supraspinatus muscles were harvested. The specimens were then examined with confocal microscopy and histology. Atrophy was grossly visible in all four test muscles, and fatty infiltration was confirmed with osmium tetroxide staining. In all four rabbits, the degree of denervation (p = 0.71) and partial denervation (p = 0.91) was not significantly different between control and experimental muscle. Rotator cuff tear does not affect the motor endplate or innervation status of the supraspinatus. Fatty infiltration occurs independent of denervation of the supraspinatus. © 2012 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 31:99–104, 2012
Raman spectroscopy analysis of Palaeolithic industry from Guadalteba terrace river, Campillos (Guadalteba county, Southern of Iberian Peninsula)
Authors: Hernández V. , Jorge‐Villar S. , Capel Ferrón C. , Medianero F. J. , Ramos J. , Weniger G.‐C. , Domínguez‐Bella S. , Linstaedter J. , Cantalejo P. , Espejo M. , Durán Valsero J. J.
Published: July 2012

A representative set of eight lithic tools suitably selected among the very rich Palaeolithic industry collected over the past years in different archaeological sites of the Guadalteba County (Málaga, Spain) has been nondestructively investigated by means of Raman spectroscopy using both portable and benchtop Raman spectrometers. This article reports on the first archaeometric Raman analysis of these archaeological samples with the scope of checking if these readily available, nondestructive, fast and cheap vibrational spectroscopic techniques, which in addition do not require a preliminary sample preparation, could provide any meaningful information for characterizing the mineral composition of chert artefacts and ultimately some specific arguments about their assignment to distinctive groups of raw materials of a particular provenance. On the basis of the vibrational data, it was confirmed that α‐quartz was the raw material in all the cases, although a small amount of moganite was also evidenced as a distinctive fingerprint in these chert samples. On the other hand, crusts were mainly made of calcite in all the cases, sometimes accompanied by other minerals such as barite or anatase. This first Raman spectroscopic study on chert and sandstone artefacts from the Guadalteba county reveals that there are good premises for a further and more thorough archaeometric investigation of these lithic tools based on sets of Raman measurements (Raman mapping) on each specimen rather than on single‐point Raman experiments such as in the present case, given the wide macroscopic heterogeneity of this kind of samples (colour, grain size, transparency, etc.). The Raman‐mapping archaeometric analyses of bulks and crusts would be also complemented with X‐ray diffraction and X‐ray fluorescence data. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
High prevalence of antimicrobial‐resistant Escherichia coli from animals at slaughter: a food safety risk
Authors: Ramos Sónia , Silva Nuno , Caniça Manuela , Capelo‐Martinez José Luis , Brito Francisco , Igrejas Gilberto , Poeta Patrícia
Published: July 2012

BACKGROUND: There has been concern about the increase of antimicrobial resistant bacteria and protection of animal and public health, along with food safety. In the present study, we evaluate the incidence of antimicrobial resistance among 192 strains of Escherichia coli isolated from faecal samples of healthy food‐producing animals at slaughter in Portugal.

RESULTS: Ninety‐seven % of the pig isolates, 74% from sheep and 55% from cattle were resistant to one or more antimicrobial agents, with the resistances to ampicillin, streptomycin, tetracycline and trimethoprim–sulfamethoxazole the most common phenotype detected. Genes encoding resistance to antimicrobial agents were detected in most of the resistant isolates. Ninety‐three % of the resistant isolates were included in the A or B1 phylogenetic groups, and the virulence gene fimA (alone or in association with papC or aer genes) was detected in 137 of the resistant isolates. Five isolates from pigs belonging to phylogroup B2 and D were resistant to five different antimicrobial agents.

CONCLUSION: Our data shows a high percentage of antibiotic resistance in E. coli isolates from food animals, and raises important questions in the potential impact of antibiotic use in animals and the possible transmission of resistant bacteria to humans through the food chain. © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Detection of ochratoxin A in tropical wine and grape juice from Brazil
Authors: Terra Michelle F , Prado Guilherme , Pereira Giuliano E , Ematné Hugo J , Batista Luís R
Published: July 2012

BACKGROUND: Ochratoxin A (OTA) is the main mycotoxin found in grapes, wines and grape juices and is considered one of the most harmful contaminants to human health. In this study, samples of tropical wines and grape juices from different grape varieties grown in Brazil were analysed for their OTA content by high‐performance liquid chromatography.

RESULTS: The detection and quantification limits for OTA were 0.01 and 0.03 µg L−1 respectively. OTA was detected in 13 (38.24%) of the samples analysed, with concentrations ranging from < 0.03 to 0.62 µg L−1. OTA was not detected in any of the grape juice samples. Most of the red wine samples proved to be contaminated with OTA (75%), while only one white wine sample was contaminated. However, the OTA levels detected in all samples were well below the maximum tolerable limit (2 µg L−1) in wine and grape juice established by the European Community and Brazilian legislature.

CONCLUSION: The results of this study indicate a low risk of exposure to OTA by consumption of tropical wines and grape juices from Brazil. © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Service Quality Perception and Satisfaction: Buying Behaviour Prediction in an Australian Festivalscape
Authors: Bruwer Johan
Published: July 2012

The study was conducted on 358 attendees at a major wine festival in Australia. A positive relationship between quality perception and overall satisfaction constructs exists. New insight to festivalscape knowledge is provided through the first‐time and repeat visitor dynamic as predictor of actual buying behaviour. Higher percentage of repeat visitors correlates with higher likelihood of (wine) buying. Overall satisfaction is a stronger predictor of buying behaviour than any individual service quality dimension and of these quality dimensions overall. Repeat visitors, 35 years and older, are the highest yielding visitor group from a financial viewpoint. First‐time visitors are more short‐term oriented in their planning when making the final decision to attend the event. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Abiotic, bottom‐up, and top‐down influences on recruitment of Rocky Mountain elk in Oregon: A retrospective analysis
Authors: Johnson Bruce K. , Coe Priscilla K. , Green Richard L.
Published: July 2012

Understanding the relative effects of the many factors that may influence recruitment of ungulates is fundamental to managing their populations. Over the last 4 decades, average recruitment in some populations of elk (Cervus elaphus) in Oregon, USA declined from >50 to <20 juveniles per 100 females, and several competing hypotheses address these declines. We developed a priori models and constructed covariates spanning 1977–2005 from hunter‐killed elk, elk population estimates, cougar harvest, and weather statistics to evaluate abiotic, bottom‐up, and top‐down factors that may explain annual variation and long‐term trends of pregnancy, juveniles‐at‐heel in late autumn, and recruitment of juvenile elk in spring. In models of pregnancy status, August precipitation, age, and cougar index had positive effects, whereas previous year (t − 1) winter severity or winter precipitation(t−1) and elk density had negative effects. In models of juvenile‐at‐heel in late autumn, August precipitation, August precipitation(t−1), cougar index × elk density(t−1), and age had positive effects, whereas cougar index, elk density(t−1), and winter precipitation(t−1) had negative effects. Juvenile recruitment was best explained by positive effects of August precipitation(t−1), lactation rate, and cougar index × elk density(t−1) and negative effects of cougar index and elk density(t−1). Winter severity, precipitation, and temperature were not significant in explaining variation in elk recruitment. Annual variation in pregnancy, juvenile‐at‐heel, and recruitment was most influenced by August precipitation, whereas long‐term trends in recruitment were most influenced by cougar densities with relatively weak effects of elk density. These results provide insight into causes of year‐to‐year and long‐term trends of elk recruitment and provide a basis for more rigorous evaluation of factors affecting recruitment of elk. © 2012 The Wildlife Society.
Intraindividual comparison of 1,470 nm diode laser versus carbon dioxide laser for tonsillotomy: A prospective, randomized, double blind, controlled feasibility trial
Authors: Havel Miriam , Sroka Ronald , Englert Elsa , Stelter Klaus , Leunig Andreas , Betz Christian S.
Published: July 2012

Introduction

The need for reduction of post‐tonsillectomy hemorrhage has led to promotion of tonsillotomy techniques for tonsil tissue reduction in obstructive tonsillar hypertrophy. This trial compares ablative tissue effects using 1,470 nm diode laser and carbon dioxide laser for tonsillotomy in an intraindividual design.

Methods

21 children aged 3–13 years (mean age 6.3 years) underwent laser tonsillotomy for obstructive tonsillar hypertrophy in this double blind, prospective, randomized, clinical feasibility trial. In each of the blinded patients, tonsillotomy was performed using fiber guided 1,470 nm diode laser (contact mode, 15 W power) on the one side and carbon dioxide laser (12 W power) on the other side. An independent, blinded physician documented clinical presentation and patients' symptoms preoperatively and on Days 1, 3, 7, 14, and 21 post‐operatively using standardized questionnaire including VAS for each side separately.

Results

The mean duration of operative treatment was 2.7 min using 1,470 nm laser and 4.9 min using carbon dioxide laser respectively. Intraoperative bleeding and the frequency of bipolar forceps use for intraoperative bleeding control was significantly less using 1,470 nm diode laser system. There was no difference in post‐operative pain scores between the carbon dioxide laser treated and the 1,470 nm fiber guided diode laser treated side. No infections, hemorrhages or other complications occurred in the course of the 3 weeks post‐operative period.

Conclusions

A fiber‐guided 1,470 nm diode laser system offers an efficient and safe method for tonsillotomy as treatment of obstructive tonsillar hypertrophy. Compared to our standard practice (carbon dioxide laser), 1,470 nm laser application provides comparable tissue ablation effects with less intraoperative bleeding and shorter operation time. Lasers Surg. Med. 44: 558–563, 2012. © Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Plasmid DNA Microgels for a Therapeutical Strategy Combining the Delivery of Genes and Anticancer Drugs
Authors: Costa Diana , Valente Artur J. M. , Miguel M. Graça , Queiroz João
Published: July 2012

Plasmid DNA (pDNA) is encapsulated into biocompatible microgels by an inverse microemulsion polymerization method. Plasmid DNA and doxorubicin are successfully released from pDNA microgels and their release profiles are characterized by appropriate release models. The co‐delivery of genes and drugs from the microgels is evaluated as an enhancer of clinical treatment. Moreover, the release of the encapsulated pDNA is capable of transfection in vitro resulting in the expression of p53 protein. As a whole, a novel pDNA‐based system is described that may find biomedical uses, especially in the cancer treatment through the combined action of chemotherapy and gene delivery approach.

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Macroporous Polymer Beads and Monoliths From Pickering Simple, Double, and Triple Emulsions
Authors: Dyab Amro K. F.
Published: July 2012

Various polymeric materials based on simple, double, and triple emulsions stabilized solely by dichlorodimethylsilane (DCDMS)‐modified amorphous silica nanoparticles of well‐controlled surface hydrophobicities or organo‐modified Laponite clay nanoparticles are described. Magnetic and fluorescent polymer beads having different morphologies are fabricated from double‐emulsion templates. Polymer foams based on Pickering emulsions are fabricated and functionalized using different materials such as sporopollenin and zinc metal particles. Suspension polymerization of both oil phases of a novel Pickering triple emulsion results in the formation of new porous hierarchical structures. Polymer foams and beads based on novel nonaqueous Pickering simple and double emulsions are fabricated.
Slow channel congenital myasthenic syndrome responsive to a combination of fluoxetine and salbutamol
Authors: Finlayson Sarah , Spillane Jennifer , Kullmann Dimitri M. , Howard Robin , Webster Richard , Palace Jacqueline , Beeson David
Published: July 2012

Introduction: Slow channel congenital myasthenic syndrome is a dominant disorder characterized by prolonged acetylcholine receptor ion‐channel activation. Methods: Molecular genetic techniques, electrophysiology, and binding studies in human embryonic kidney (HEK) 293 cells determined mutant function and expression levels. Patient response to treatment was measured by quantitative myasthenic gravis and Medical Research Council grade strength scores. Results: We report an unusual case due to heteroallelic mutations in CHRNE. The slow channel mutation, p.εS278del, is accompanied by a severe low‐expression mutation, p.εR217L, on the second allele. Expression studies and cosegregation of p.εS278del with the disorder in the patient's offspring demonstrate robust expression of the p.εS278del mutation. The patient showed modest benefits from standard treatment with fluoxetine, but there was dramatic improvement when salbutamol was combined with fluoxetine. Conclusions: This case suggests that salbutamol, which is beneficial in some other congenital myasthenic syndromes, might also be considered in addition to fluoxetine in slow channel syndrome. Muscle Nerve, 2013
Muscle phenotype in patients with myotonic dystrophy type 1
Authors: Andersen Grete , Ørngreen Mette C. , Preisler Nicolai , Colding‐J⊘rgensen Eskild , Clausen Torben , Duno Morten , Jeppesen Tina D. , Vissing John
Published: July 2012

Introduction: The pathogenesis of muscle involvement in patients with myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1) is not well understood. In this study, we characterized the muscle phenotype in patients with confirmed DM1. Methods: In 38 patients, muscle strength was tested by hand‐held dynamometry. Myotonia was evaluated by a handgrip test and by analyzing the decrement of the compound muscle action potential. Muscle biopsies were assessed for morphological changes and Na+‐K+ pump content. Results: Muscle strength correlated with a decline in Na+‐K+ pump content (r = 0.60, P < 0.001) and with CTG expansion. CTG expansion did not correlate with severity of myotonia, proximal histopathological changes, or Na+‐K+ pump content. Histopathologically, we found few centrally placed nuclei (range 0.2–6.9%). Conclusions: The main findings of this study are that muscle weakness correlated inversely with CTG expansion and that central nuclei are not a prominent feature of proximal muscles in DM1. Muscle Nerve 47:409‐415, 2013
EXPECTATIONS AND CAPACITY OF PERFORMANCE MEASUREMENT IN NGOs IN THE DEVELOPMENT CONTEXT
Authors: Newcomer Kathryn , Baradei Laila El , Garcia Sandra
Published: July 2012

There are many obstacles to promoting learning as an outcome of performance measurement in non‐governmental organizations (NGO) social service providers, especially in less developed countries. Building upon a conceptualization of accountability as a multifaceted set of relationships through which funders, or principals, and non‐profit providers, or agents, jointly shape organizational learning, and performance, this study expands our understanding of how accountability mechanisms affect learning within service providers. This paper explores the role that funders play in shaping performance measurement, or monitoring, practices within NGOs serving disadvantaged children in developing countries. We examined the experience of service providers in Egypt and Colombia to assess how the barriers to use of performance data and learning may be addressed. We conducted interviews using the same protocols with program managers in six non‐profit providers in each country that provide services to children, and we also interviewed major donors in the arena of children's services in the USA. We probed the NGO managers' experiences with performance measurement to identify obstacles and potential solutions to improve the use of the data to promote learning. Our findings support previous research about the potential for upward accountability mechanisms to influence internal learning. We suggest that funders should be held accountable for how the incentives and disincentives they provide to grantees affect their internal learning about how to improve their services. This notion of ‘reverse accountability’ means that funders need to be strategic and intentional when they design reporting mechanisms that affect the learning behaviours within their grantees. In line with our call for reverse accountability, we offer a model demonstrating our notion of the two‐way flow of accountability and we offer recommendations to help improve the performance reporting environment for NGOs who are addressing complex problems with less than adequate capacity. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
External Validity in Policy Evaluations That Choose Sites Purposively
Authors: Olsen Robert B. , Orr Larry L. , Bell Stephen H. , Stuart Elizabeth A.
Published: July 2012

Evaluations of the impact of social programs are often carried out in multiple sites, such as school districts, housing authorities, local TANF offices, or One‐Stop Career Centers. Most evaluations select sites purposively following a process that is nonrandom. Unfortunately, purposive site selection can produce a sample of sites that is not representative of the population of interest for the program. In this paper, we propose a conceptual model of purposive site selection. We begin with the proposition that a purposive sample of sites can usefully be conceptualized as a random sample of sites from some well‐defined population, for which the sampling probabilities are unknown and vary across sites. This proposition allows us to derive a formal, yet intuitive, mathematical expression for the bias in the pooled impact estimate when sites are selected purposively. This formula helps us to better understand the consequences of selecting sites purposively, and the factors that contribute to the bias. Additional research is needed to obtain evidence on how large the bias tends to be in actual studies that select sites purposively, and to develop methods to increase the external validity of these studies. © 2012 by the Association for Public Policy Analysis and Management.
Glow discharge techniques in the chemical analysis of photovoltaic materials
Authors: Schmitt Sebastian W. , Venzago Cornel , Hoffmann Björn , Sivakov Vladimir , Hofmann Thomas , Michler Johann , Christiansen Silke , Gamez Gerardo
Published: July 2012

The presented study gives an integrated overview on the prospects of glow discharge (GD) methods in the chemical analysis of photovoltaic materials. With a focus on recent research and important photovoltaic (PV) materials, the GD coupled analytical methods, high resolution mass spectrometry (MS), time‐of‐flight‐mass spectrometry (TOF‐MS) and optical emission spectrometry (OES) are discussed. Each exemplary study carried out will point out the most suitable GD technique for the problem at hand, at the same time showing ways to increase analytical accuracy and to overcome typical instrumental restrictions. Challenging GD‐MS analyses of thin and ultra thin films (down to 20 nm) as well as GD‐MS and GD‐OES studies of ready‐to‐use modules were carried out, showing the reader the application potential of GD methods in a PV development or production process. For the first time, novel cell concepts based on crystalline silicon on glass and silicon nanowires are analyzed by GD‐OES, revealing precise chemical information on the devices. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A comparison of class‐wide taped problems and cover, copy, and compare for enhancing mathematics fluency
Authors: Poncy Brian C. , Skinner Christopher H. , McCallum Elizabeth
Published: July 2012

An adapted alternating treatments design was used to compare the effects of class‐wide applications of Taped Problems (TP) and Cover, Copy, and Compare (CCC) procedures designed to enhance subtraction fact fluency in an intact third‐grade classroom. During the TP procedure, a tape provided an auditory prompt (i.e., the problem), followed by a 2‐second delay and then the correct answer. Students attempted to supply the correct answer before the answer was provided by the tape. During the CCC procedure, students would cover a math‐fact family triangle, attempt to write one of two possible problems and answer, write the reciprocal fact and answer, and evaluate their responses. Results show that TP caused greater increases in subtraction fact fluency than CCC or a control condition. Discussion focuses on preventing student math deficits, issues regarding alternating treatments designs, and future directions for research. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
An explanation of reading comprehension across development using models from Cattell–Horn–Carroll theory: Support for integrative models of reading
Authors: Floyd Randy , Meisinger Elizabeth , Gregg Noel , Keith Timothy
Published: July 2012

The purpose of this research was to investigate the cognitive abilities that explain reading comprehension across childhood and early adulthood. Drawing from the standardization sample of the Woodcock–Johnson III, analyses were conducted with large samples at age levels spanning early childhood to early adulthood: 5 to 6 (n = 639), 7 to 8 (n = 720), 9 to 13 (n = 1,995), 14 to 19 (n = 1,615), and 20 to 39 (n = 1,409). Using a model including factors representing general intelligence, Cattell–Horn–Carroll broad abilities, and reading decoding skills, results revealed significant direct effects for reading decoding skills and Crystallized Intelligence on reading comprehension across all age levels. Memory‐related abilities, processing speed, and auditory processing demonstrated indirect effects on reading comprehension through reading decoding skills. The magnitude of direct and indirect effects varied as a function of age. The results provide support for integrative models of reading that include both direct and indirect effects of cognitive abilities on reading comprehension and for consideration of developmental differences in the cognitive aptitudes predicting reading comprehension. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Myosin light chain isoforms retain their species‐specific electrophoretic mobility after processing, which enables differentiation between six species: 2DE analysis of minced meat and meat products made from beef, pork and poultry
Authors: Montowska Magdalena , Pospiech Edward
Published: July 2012

Investigation of protein changes as well as authentication of meat is particularly difficult in processed meat products due to their different composition, complexity and very often inhomogeneity. The aim of this study was to check if the inter‐species differences in the expression of myosin light chain (MLC) isoforms observed in raw meat were retained in meat products. MLCs from mixtures of minced meat (16 variants), frankfurters and sausages (15 products) made from cattle, pig, chicken, turkey, duck and goose were analysed by 2DE. Species‐specific patterns of MLC isoforms were observed in all the mixtures and processed meat products. Relatively small degradation was observed in the MLCs after processing. Image analysis enabled species identification of the meat in all samples when the content of meat of one species was not lower than 10%. However, it was impossible to differentiate between all the six species under investigation on the basis of individual isoform. It was possible when the combination of all the three isoforms (myosin light chain 1 fast, myosin light chain 2 fast and myosin light chain 3 fast) was analysed. The results evidenced that MLCs have potential to be used as markers in authentication of meat products made from the analysed six species.
Course and predictors of depressive symptoms among family caregivers of terminally ill cancer patients until their death
Authors: Tang Siew Tzuh , Chang Wen‐Cheng , Chen Jen‐Shi , Wang Hung‐Ming , Shen Wen Chi , Li Chung‐Yi , Liao Yen‐Chi
Published: July 2012

Objective

Few studies have investigated the impact of providing end‐of‐life care on family caregivers' depressive symptoms over time, especially until the patient's death. The purpose of this study was to identify the course and predictors of depressive symptoms in caregivers of terminally ill cancer patients until they died.

Methods

For this prospective, longitudinal study of 193 caregivers, data were collected using the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale, Symptom Distress Scale, Medical Outcomes Study Social Support Survey, and Caregiver Reaction Assessment scale. The course and predictors of depressive symptoms were analyzed using the generalized estimating equation model.

Results

Caregivers' depressive symptoms increased as the patient's death approached. Spousal or adult child family caregivers suffered more depressive symptoms if they self‐identified as lacking social support and confidence in offering substantial assistance for younger terminally ill cancer patients with higher levels of symptom distress. Caregivers were susceptible to higher levels of depressive symptoms if they were heavily burdened by caregiving, that is, experienced more disruptions in schedules, greater health deterioration, stronger sense of family abandonment, and lower caregiver esteem.

Conclusions

Psychological well‐being of caregivers of terminally ill cancer patients deteriorated in response to progression of the patient's disease and impending death. Effective interventions should be developed and provided to high‐risk caregivers as identified in our study. Increasing caregivers' strength of perceived social support, facilitating their confidence in caregiving, and alleviating their subjective burden may lessen the development of depressive symptoms in caregivers of terminally ill cancer patients throughout the dying process. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Permeation of Mineral Oil Components from Cardboard Packaging Materials through Polymer Films
Authors: Ewender Johann , Franz Roland , Welle Frank
Published: July 2012

Mineral oil migration from cardboard packaging into foodstuffs is recognized as a serious problem for the consumers. Within this study, a fast automated method for the determination of mineral oil permeation through barrier films was developed. The method is using 15 defined standard substances representing mineral oil chemistry instead of complex mineral oil mixtures. The developed method can be used for the evaluation of the barrier properties for polymer films regarding mineral oil components from paper and cardboard packaging materials. For all investigated permeants and polymer films, the logarithm of the permeation rates and the logarithm of the vapour pressure result in a linear correlation. The correlation can be used to compare the permeation properties of different barrier films. From the results of this study, it can be concluded that 12 µm oriented polyethylene terephthalate or 15 µm oriented polyamide are effective barriers towards mineral oil components. The barrier effect of pure polyolefin films is negligibly poor because the permeation is too fast and the lag time is in the range of a few hours at 40°C. As a consequence, the migration of mineral oil components from cardboard can be significantly reduced if inner layers of good barrier materials such as polyethylene terephthalate or polyamide are used. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Characterization of organic solar cell materials by G‐SIMS
Authors: Franquet A. , Conard T. , Voroshazi E. , Poleunis C. , Cheyns D. , Vandervorst W.
Published: July 2012

In this study, the gentle SIMS (G‐SIMS) method has been applied to organic solar cell materials. Various primary ion conditions were used to generate the G‐SIMS spectra; monoatomic and cluster sources with different energies were tested. It is shown that the G‐SIMS concept helps to identify both PCBM and P3HT materials through the enhancement of molecular and characteristic ions of the two molecules. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
RFS ratio of silicon in III‐V compound semi‐conductor measured with different offset voltage
Authors: Yamamoto H. , Fujimoto H. , Nishitani T. , Fujiyama N. , Sameshima J.
Published: July 2012

In SIMS analysis of III‐V compound semi‐conductors with different matrix composition multi‐layer, quantification of impurity or dopant is complex due to matrix effect. When we investigated relative sensitivity factor (RSF) of Si (n‐type dopant) in each matrix and calculated RSF ratio, it seems to vary depending on offset voltage to sample. In this paper, we have investigated RSF of Si in various III‐V compound semi‐conductor. In acquiring RSF of Si, offset voltage on sample during the measurement and reference intensity (IR) in RSF calculation were adopted as parameter. In the case of some matrix sample, energy distribution was examined, and it proved that the energy distribution of Si and V group element (P and As) is concerned in RSF ratio. RSF ratio does not depend on offset voltage if IR in RSF calculation is employed in the same matrix as that of Si. As in the case with previous study, the matrix effect of Si in InP and InGaAs reveals at the peak of energy distribution. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Coordinating and competing in ecosystems: How organizational forms shape new technology investments
Authors: Kapoor Rahul , Lee Joon Mahn
Published: July 2012

We consider firms in the context of their business ecosystems and explore how differences in the ways in which firms are organized with respect to complementary activities affect their decision to invest in new technologies. We argue that, in addition to creating differences in incentives and bureaucratic costs, firm‐complementor organizational form plays an important role in the firm's ability to coordinate accompanying changes in complementary activities so as to shape the benefits from investing early in the new technology. We test our predictions in the U.S. healthcare industry from 1995–2006. The study makes a strong case for viewing firms' competitive strategies in the context of their business ecosystems and for the existence of an important link between firms' coordination choices and their strategic investments. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Druckbeanspruchte Fachwerkstäbe mit exzentrischen Knotenblechanschlüssen – Teil 1
Authors: Dietz Horst , Wörner Markus
Published: July 2012

Im Zusammenhang mit einem schweren Baustellenunfall, bei dem die Schadensursache auf einen mit exzentrisch gestoßenen Knotenblechen angeschlossenen Fachwerkstab zurückgeführt wurde, sind im Nachgang hierzu Fragen hinsichtlich einer ausreichenden Stabilitätsbemessung mit Erfassung der wesentlichen Einflüsse aus den Anschlussbereichen aufgetreten. Dazu zählen Auswirkungen infolge Steifigkeitsabfall und Blechexzentrizitäten, Imperfektionsannahmen sowie der Ansatz der maßgebenden Biegeknickfigur. Der nachfolgende Beitrag beschäftigt sich mit grundsätzlichen Überlegungen und gibt Hinweise und Anregungen für die praktische Bemessung.

Trussed compression members with excentric junction plates. After a serious accident at a construction site, which cause was attributed to a trussed compression member jointed with excentric junction plates, questions occurred, concerning a sufficient design for stability considering effects related to the joint. Those effects include consequences due to a loss of stiffness and excentricity of junction plates, estimated imperfections and the decisive buckling mode. The following article deals with basic thoughts about the topic and gives advices and suggestions for a practical design.
Serotonin modulation of cerebral glucose metabolism: Sex and age effects
Authors: Munro Cynthia A. , Workman Clifford I. , Kramer Elisse , Hermann Carol , Ma Yilong , Dhawan Vijay , Chaly Thomas , Eidelberg David , Smith Gwenn S.
Published: July 2012

The serotonin system is implicated in a variety of psychiatric disorders whose clinical presentation and response to treatment differ between males and females, as well as with aging. However, human neurobiological studies are limited. Sex differences in the cerebral metabolic response to an increase in serotonin concentrations were measured, as well as the effect of aging, in men compared to women. Thirty‐three normal healthy individuals (14 men/19 women, age range 20–79 years) underwent two resting positron emission tomography studies with the radiotracer [18F]‐2‐deoxy‐2‐fluoro‐D‐glucose ([18F]‐FDG) after placebo and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI, citalopram) infusions on two separate days. Results indicated that women demonstrated widespread areas of increased cortical glucose metabolism with fewer areas of decrease in metabolism in response to citalopram. Men, in contrast, demonstrated several regions of decreased cortical metabolism, but no regions of increased metabolism. Age was associated with greater increases in women and greater decreases in men in most brain regions. These results support prior studies indicating that serotonin function differs in men and women across the lifespan. Future studies aimed at characterizing the influences of age and sex on the serotonin system in patients with psychiatric disorders are needed to elucidate the relationship between sex and age differences in brain chemistry and associated differences in symptom presentation and treatment response. Synapse 66:955–964, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Dynamic frame partitioning scheme for IEEE 802.16 mesh networks
Authors: Tang Yuliang , Liu Zhixiong , Huang Lianfen , Chang Yao‐Chung
Published: July 2012

The IEEE 802.16 mesh network is a promising next generation wireless backbone network. In the network, the allocation of minislots is handled by centralized scheduling and distributed scheduling, which are independently exercised. However, the standard does not specify how the frame can be partitioned among its centralized and distributed schedulers. Through efficient partitioning that dynamically adapts the partitioning based on demand, network can support more user applications. Although a dynamic frame partitioning scheme to use Markov model has been studied, the dynamic frame partitioning method has not been fully investigated. This paper proposes two novel and general dynamic frame partitioning scheme for IEEE 802.16 mesh networks so that the minislot allocation can be more flexible and the utilization is increased. The two schemes respectively use GM(1,1)‐Markov model and Grey–Verhulst–Markov model to predict efficient partitions for future frames according to the minislot utilization in current frames. Our study indicates that the two proposed schemes outperform the scheme of using Markov model. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Dinuclear Tin(II) Complex of a Bulky cis‐Oxamide: Synthesis, Characterization, Crystal Structure, and DFT Studies
Authors: Ibarra‐Rodríguez Marisol , Rasika Dias H. V. , Jiménez‐Pérez Víctor M. , Muñoz‐Flores Blanca M. , Flores‐Parra Angelina , Sánchez Sonia
Published: July 2012

The reaction of the di‐lithiated oxamide of 1 with two equivalents of SnCl2 provided the tin trans‐oxamide 3. In solution, spectroscopic analysis suggests exclusively the formation of a trans‐oxamide (trans‐3). However, the solid state shows an atypical cis‐oxamide (cis‐3), where the oxamide fragment acts as an anti‐Janus head ligand. An 119Sn‐NMR variable temperature experiment ([D8]THF) of the trans‐oxamide (trans‐3) was performed however, at lower temperature no additional signal was observed, which confirmed the absence of a dynamic equilibrium. Dispersion‐corrected density functional calculations revealed that the cis conformation of this tin(II) oxamide complex is more stable than the trans isomer by 1.4 kcal·mol–1.