bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prediction of the Chemical Composition of Poultry Excreta by near Infrared Spectroscopy
Authors: Bastianelli Denis , Bonnal Laurent , Juin Hervé , Mignon-Grasteau Sandrine , Davrieux Fabrice , Carré Bernard
Published: February 2010

The potential of near infrared (NIR) spectroscopy for the determination of the chemical composition of poultry excreta was investigated, within the framework of studies on heritability of digestive efficiency in broilers. Samples in the calibration and validation databases (DB1 and DB2) corresponded to animals fed with a similar wheat-based diet. A second validation study was performed on excreta samples from animals fed more variable diets, including peas and maize (DB3). Excreta samples were freeze-dried and ground. Near infrared reflectance spectra were taken on a monochromator spectrometer between 400nm and 2500nm. Samples were analysed for mineral matter (MM), gross energy (GE), starch, crude fat (CFAT), total nitrogen (NTOT), uric acid nitrogen (NUA) and protein nitrogen estimated directly (PNTERP) or by difference between NTOT and NUA (PNUA). Depending on the parameters studied, 250 to 700 samples were analysed by reference methods. The standard error of cross-validation ( SECV) and R2 of calibrations were: 0.60% and 0.96 for MM, 166 kJ kg−1 and 0.99 for GE, 0.59% and 1.00 for starch, 0.44% and 0.99 for CFAT, 0.25% and 0.89 for NTOT and 0.22% and 0.97 for NUA, respectively. Calibration for PNTERP ( SECV=0.07%; R2=0.98) was much more precise than PNUA ( SECV=0.21%, R2=0.85). Validation carried out on databases DB2 and DB3 resulted in standard errors of prediction (on DB2) and extrapolation (on DB3) generally higher than SECV, while remaining relatively precise with prediction r2 values from 0.83 to 0.99 and extrapolation r2 from 0.86 to 0.98, with the exception of PNUA for which r2 was 0.22 and 0.64, respectively. For some parameters, the lower validation performance was due to biases, particularly in the case CFAT and NUA for prediction and MM, GE and NUA for extrapolation. Global calibrations made with DB1+DB2+DB3 were more precise (GE, NTOT) or equally precise (all other parameters) than with DB1 alone. These results confirmed the potential precision of calibrations for the major organic compounds in poultry excreta and suggested that their use could be extended to excreta issued from a wider range of diets without losing precision.
Using the Frequency Components of near Infrared Spectra: Optimising Calibration and Standardisation Processes
Authors: Igne Benoit , Hurburgh Charles R.
Published: February 2010

The modification of frequency components (Fourier coefficients and wavelet detail component) of near infrared spectra for the optimisation of calibration and standardisation processes was investigated. High-frequency components were smoothed and approximated to remove components most likely to represent noise and background information. Savitzky-Golay smoothing and signal correction were used for that purpose. Frequency modification methods were used in addition to wavelength domain processing techniques. Whole soybean protein and oil calibrations were developed on four instruments with their own calibration set (two Foss Infratecs and two Bruins OmegAnalyzerGs). A validation strategy with two sample sets of known and of new variability was implemented. Frequency modification methods showed improvements of the prediction precision in calibration (relative predictive determinant ( RPD) increased from 8.57 to 9.25 for protein and from 7.01 to 7.28 for oil with Fourier coefficients-based smoothing for Infratec 124.10350). Frequency based pre-processing methods were also successful when transferring prediction models in intra and inter-brand situations ( RPD of the secondary unit of 9.21 compared to original RPD of 8.45 in intra-brand for Foss network for protein; RPD of secondary unit of 9.33 compared to original RPD of 8.74 for inter-brand scenario with Foss Infratec 1241 master of Bruins units for protein). The smoothing of Fourier coefficients showed the best results. Prediction accuracies were not modified by the frequency-based modifications, except in the inter-brand scenario. An appropriate pre-processing limited the need for other standardisation methods except in inter-brand situations where a bias correction should be implemented. Frequency-based pre-treatment methods tend to specialise the calibration set to optimise predictions. This may not be suitable when the variability of the future samples is not included in the calibration set (i.e. yearly variability of agricultural products).
Hearing health-care delivery in sub-Saharan Africa – a role for tele-audiology
Authors: Swanepoel De Wet , Olusanya Bolajoko O , Mars Maurice
Published: February 2010

Hearing loss is the most prevalent chronic disability and a major contributor to the global burden of disease. Its effects are far-reaching and can lead to severely restricted developmental outcomes for children and limited vocational prospects for adults. The benefits of intervention are dramatic and can significantly improve developmental outcomes, especially in infants identified early. Hearing health-care services in developing regions such as sub-Saharan Africa are however severely limited, leaving affected individuals without access to secondary and tertiary intervention. Tele-audiology has potential for improved access to specialist hearing health services including identification, diagnosis and intervention. There has been limited experience so far with tele-audiology in industrialized countries. In the sub-Saharan region, the continued growth in Internet connectivity and general technological advances make tele-audiology an important approach to consider in the management of hearing loss. Pilot studies are warranted to investigate the potential obstacles to the widespread implementation of telehealth in the delivery of hearing health care in poorly-resourced communities, in line with World Health Organization initiatives.
Home-based speech treatment for Parkinson's disease delivered remotely: a case report
Authors: Constantinescu Gabriella A , Theodoros Deborah G , Russell Trevor G , Ward Elizabeth C , Wilson Stephen J , Wootton Richard
Published: February 2010

We investigated the validity and feasibility of online delivery of the Lee Silverman Voice Treatment (LSVT) for the treatment of the speech disorder of a patient with idiopathic Parkinson's disease. The treatment was delivered in 16 sessions to the participant's home, 90 km from the speech language pathologist. A PC-based videoconferencing system was used, operating at 128 kbit/s over the public telecommunications network. The patient achieved substantial improvements in vocal sound pressure levels during sustained vowel phonation (6.13 dB), reading (12.28 dB) and conversational monologue (11.32 dB). There were improvements in the duration of sustained vowel phonation (4 s). Improvements were also perceived in the degree of breathiness and roughness in the voice, and in overall speech intelligibility in conversation. The patient was very satisfied with the audio and video quality of the conferencing, and with the online treatment overall. He reported a preference for online sessions for the future management of his condition, rather than face-to-face treatment. Remote LSVT delivery was found to be feasible and effective.
Expert visual guidance of ultrasound for telemedicine
Authors: Sheehan Florence H , Ricci Michael A , Murtagh Cynthia , Clark Harry , Bolson Edward L
Published: February 2010

Expert visual guidance (EVG) is computer assistance that displays to the examiner how the image plane moves towards (or away from) a desired anatomical location as the ultrasound probe is manipulated over the patient's body. We tested whether EVG by a remote expert could assist inexperienced examiners in acquiring abdominal ultrasound images. The inexperienced examiners were 20 medical students, who were randomly assigned to verbal instruction alone (Group 1) or to EVG (Group 2). The examiners were tested on their ability to visualize the abdominal aorta and the right kidney. Group 2 was more successful in identifying specified anatomy in longitudinal and cross-sectional views of the aorta (95 vs. 75%, P = 0.032) and kidney (98 vs. 88%, P = 0.09). The groups succeeded equally well in obtaining a true cross-sectional view of the aorta. Kidney length was also similar when measured by the two groups. The results demonstrate that an inexperienced ultrasonographer can be significantly assisted by EVG compared to verbal instruction alone. This could be useful for tele-mentoring in rural hospitals as well as for teaching, both in person and at a remote site.
Costs and benefits of tele-endoscopy clinics in a remote location
Authors: van der Pol Marjon , McKenzie Lynda
Published: February 2010

We assessed the cost and benefits of tele-endoscopy clinics in a remote location in Scotland. Before the introduction of a tele-endoscopy service, patients whose symptoms suggested possible cancer of the airways had to travel to the mainland (to Aberdeen) to receive an endoscopy. The costs of staff, capital, disposables and travel were estimated for the tele-endoscopy clinic and for the conventional, mainland clinic. The benefits of the two types of clinic were estimated from a sample of the general public using a survey method called the discrete choice experiment. The average cost per patient was lower for the tele-endoscopy clinic (£353) than for the mainland clinic (£381). This was true if more than 27 patients were seen per year. Assuming equal waiting times, individuals preferred the tele-endoscopy clinic to the mainland clinic. The net benefits were larger for tele-endoscopy clinics as long as the additional waiting time was not longer than four weeks. Tele-endoscopy clinics in Shetland are an efficient alternative to conventional practice. The results are sensitive to both economies of scale and scope. The model can readily be applied to mainland communities outside the main population centres in Scotland.
Comparative Efficacy and Safety of Low-Dose Pitavastatin Versus Atorvastatin in Patients with Hypercholesterolemia
Authors: Sansanayudh Nakarin , Wongwiwatthananukit Supakit , Putwai Pawat , Dhumma-Upakorn Rawadee
Published: February 2010

Background:

Previous studies have shown conflicting results on low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) reduction for comparable doses of pitsvastatin and atorvastatin.

Objective:

To compare the efficacy of pitavastatin 1 mg once daily with that of atorvastatin 10 mg once daily on lipoprotein change, safety, and cost per percent LDL-C reduction.

Methods:

An 8-week, randomized, open-label, parallel trial was conducted in patients with hypercholesterolemia. One hundred patients were equally randomized to receive pitavastatin 1 mg once daily or atorvastatin 10 mg once daily; 98 completed the study. Outcomes were assessed at baseline and at the end of the study.

Results:

Pitavastatin lowered LDL-C levels from baseline by 37% compared with 46% in the atorvastatin group (p < 0.001). The reduction of total cholesterol (TC) levels from baseline was significantly different between the pitavastatin (28%) and atorvastatin (32%) groups (p = 0.005). There was no significant difference in the percentage of changes in triglyceride and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels between groups. The percentage of patients who achieved LDL-C goals according to National Cholesterol Education Program–Adult Treatment Panel III guidelines was not significantly different between the pitavastatin (74%) and atorvastatin (84%) groups (p = 0.220). In addition, both regimens were well tolerated, with no patient developing an elevation of more than 3 times the upper normal limit of alanine aminotransferase or 10 times that of creatine kinase. The monthly cost per percent LDL-C reduction in the pitavastatin group ($0.77) was about 50% lower than the cost in the atorvastatin ($1.56) group.

Conclusions:

Although pitavastatin 1 mg daily was not as effective at lowering LDL-C and TC levels as atorvastatin 10 mg daily, the number of patients achieving their LDL-C goals with pitavastatin was comparable with the number using atorvastatin. Pitavastatin 1 mg once daily may be an alternative regimen with cost-saving benefits but without a significant decrease in therapeutic benefit or increase in adverse events in patients with hypercholesterolemia.
Name and symbol of the element with atomic number 112 (IUPAC Recommendations 2010)
Authors: Tatsumi Kazuyuki , Corish John
Published: February 2010

A joint IUPAC/IUPAP Working Party (JWP) has confirmed the discovery of the element with atomic number 112. In accord with IUPAC procedures, the discoverers proposed a name, copernicium, and symbol, Cn, for the element. The IUPAC Inorganic Chemistry Division Committee recommended this proposal for acceptance, and it has now been approved by the IUPAC Bureau as delegated to act by the IUPAC Council meeting on 12 August 2007.
Cognitive Training, Conflict Resolution and Exercise: Effects on Young Adolescents' Wellbeing
Authors: Taylor Mark , Gillies Robyn M. , Ashman Adrian F.
Published: February 2010

Background: This study builds on previous studies reporting that depressive symptoms among adolescents are reduced and personal satisfactions with one's achievements and competence with peers are enhanced when students are taught strategies for engaging in more optimistic thinking (explanatory style) (Gillham, Reivich, & Freres et al., 2006) and social problem-solving (Ingoldsby, Kohl, McMahon, & Lengua, 2006). Additionally, engaging in regular exercise has also been found to be useful in reducing depressive symptoms in this age group (Bodin & Martinsen, 2004). Aim: The study investigated the effects of three interventions — explanatory style (cognitive training), conflict resolution, and exercise — known to help adolescents develop a strong sense of wellbeing. It involved 31students aged 11 to 13 years and their parents, and six class teachers from a large, metropolitan, private boys' college in Brisbane, Australia. Methods: Twenty-five boys participated in the three interventions, while six boys acted as a comparison group. A counterbalanced, multiple baseline design was implemented so that students participated in the three interventions in a different order. Results: The results showed that students in the intervention group experienced a reduction of internalising behaviours such as withdrawal and depressive symptoms following all three interventions. Collectively, the interventions were successful in reducing depressive symptoms; individually, they also significantly reduced depressive symptoms. Conclusions: The results showed that explanatory style, conflict resolution, and exercise interventions are effective in reducing depressive symptoms in adolescents.
Identifying the Learning Development of Students Who Are Refugees
Authors: Tangen Donna
Published: February 2010

Students who are refugees need understanding and support to settle successfully into mainstream Australian classrooms. Teachers not aware of students' prior learning and the process of second language acquisition may have difficulty providing the most appropriate learning environments to meet these students' needs. This study found that, with no coordination of information on students' learning backgrounds nor of their learning needs and development, students were in danger of being identified as at-risk of having a learning disability, with little support to substantiate such claims.
Part-Time Work of High School Students and Impact on Educational Outcomes
Authors: Patton Wendy , Smith Erica
Published: February 2010

While increasing numbers of young high school students engage in part-time work, there is no consensus about its impact on educational outcomes. Indeed, this field has had a dearth of research. This paper presents a review of recent research, primarily from Australia and the United States, although it is acknowledged that there are considerable contextual differences. Suggestions for school counsellors to harness students' experiences to assist in educational and career decision-making are presented.
Polyclonal antibodies against kallikrein-related peptidase 4 (KLK4): immunohistochemical assessment of KLK4 expression in healthy tissues and prostate cancer
Authors: Seiz Lina , Kotzsch Matthias , Grebenchtchikov Nicolai I. , Geurts-Moespot Anneke J. , Fuessel Susanne , Goettig Peter , Gkazepis Apostolos , Wirth Manfred P. , Schmitt Manfred , Lossnitzer Arndt , Sweep Fred C.G.J. , Magdolen Viktor
Published: February 2010

KLK4 is a member of the human kallikrein-related peptidase family of (chymo)trypsin-like serine proteases. The aim of the present study was to generate polyclonal antibodies (pAb) directed against KLK4 for the analysis of KLK4 by immunohistochemistry in human tissues. Recombinantly expressed human mature KLK4 was used for immunization of chickens. pAb 617A is an affinity-purified monospecific pAb fraction reacting with a linear epitope within a flexible surface-exposed loop of KLK4. pAb 617C is the KLK-directed pAb fraction completely depleted from pAb 617A. In healthy adult tissues, KLK4 was immunodetected by both antibody fractions in kidney, liver, and prostate, but not in other organs such as colon and lung. To evaluate protein expression of KLK4 in prostate cancer, samples of tumor tissue plus corresponding tumor-free areas of 44 prostate cancer patients, represented on a tissue microarray, were investigated. Distinct KLK4 immunostaining was observed with both antibodies in cancerous glandular epithelial cells, but not in surrounding stromal cells. KLK4 expression was lower in stage pT3+4 than in pT1+2 tumors, which was highly significant when employing pAb 617A. Thus, our results indicate that KLK4, which is expressed in the healthy prostate, is upregulated in early-stage but not late-stage prostate cancer.
Kallikrein-related peptidases: bridges between immune functions and extracellular matrix degradation
Authors: Sotiropoulou Georgia , Pampalakis Georgios
Published: February 2010

Kallikrein-related peptidases (KLKs) constitute a family of 15 highly conserved serine proteases encoded by the largest uninterrupted cluster of protease-encoding genes within the human genome. Recent studies, mostly relying onin vitroproteolysis of recombinant proteins, have suggested that KLK activities are regulated by proteolytic activation cascades that can operate in a tissue-specific manner, such as the semen liquefaction and skin desquamation cascades. The validity of KLK activation cascadesin vivolargely remains to be demonstrated. Here, we focus on recent investigations showing that KLKs represent interesting players in the broader field of immunology based on their ability to bridge their inherent ability to degrade the extracellular matrix with major functions of the immune system. More specifically, KLKs assist in the infiltration of immune cells through the skin and the blood brain barrier, whereas they catalyze the generation of antimicrobial peptides by proteolytic activation and further processing of protein precursors. In an attempt to integrate current knowledge, we propose KLK-mediated pathways that are putatively involved in inflammation associated with skin wounding and central nervous system disorders, including multiple sclerosis. Finally, we present evidence of KLK participation in autoimmune diseases and allergies.
Increased blood pressure and water intake in transgenic mice expressing rat tonin in the brain
Authors: Cardoso Cibele C. , Alenina Natalia , Ferreira Anderson J. , Qadri Fatimunnisa , Lima Mércia P. , Gross Volkmar , Todiras Mihail , Pesquero João B. , Pesquero Jorge L. , Bader Michael
Published: February 2010

Tonin is a serine proteinase of the kallikrein family that can produce angiotensin II directly from angiotensinogen. To clarify the importance of this enzyme for central nervous control of the cardiovascular system, we generated transgenic mice, TGM(rTon), that express rat tonin in astrocytes. These mice present high levels of tonin mRNA and activity specifically in the brain. As a consequence, TGM(rTon) develop increased blood pressure and water intake. Lisinopril, an ACE inhibitor, is less hypotensive for transgenic mice than for control animals. The AT1receptor antagonist candesartan equally lowers blood pressure in transgenic and in control mice. Plasma angiotensin II, but not angiotensin I, is increased in TGM(rTon) compared to the wild type, suggesting release of the peptide from the brain into the circulation. However, AT1receptors are desensitized in this transgenic model, as demonstrated by a blunted pressor response to intravenous application of angiotensin II. In conclusion, tonin in the brain may represent an alternative pathway for angiotensin II generation with effects on the cardiovascular system.
Expression of PSA-RP2, an alternatively spliced variant from the PSA gene, is increased in prostate cancer tissues but the protein is not secreted from prostate cancer cells
Authors: Whitbread Astrid K. , Veveris-Lowe Tara L. , Dong Ying , Tan Olivia L. , Gardiner Robert , Samaratunga Hema M. , Nicol David L. , Clements Judith A.
Published: February 2010

PSA-RP2 is a variant transcript expressed from the PSA gene that is conserved in gorillas, chimpanzees and humans suggesting a particular relevance for this transcript in these primates. We demonstrated by qRT-PCR that PSA-RP2 is upregulated in prostate cancer compared with benign prostatic hyperplasia tissues. The PSA-RP2 protein was not detected in seminal fluid and was cytoplasmically localised but not secreted from LNCaP or transfected PC3 prostate cells, despite secretion from transfected Cos-7 and HEK293 kidney cell lines. PSA-RP2-transfected PC3 cells showed slightly decreased proliferation and increased migration towards PC3-conditioned medium that could suggest a functional role in prostate cancer.
Übungsklausur ÖR Schwierigkeiten beim Immobilienverkauf
Authors: Shirvani Foroud
Published: February 2010

Der vorliegende Fall setzt sich mit einigen Fragen zum Amtshaftungsanspruch und zu den Ansprüchen aus enteignungsgleichem sowie enteignendem Eingriff auseinander. Dabei werden die Amtspflicht zur zügigen Sachbearbeitung, die Problematik des Organisationsverschuldens und die Pflicht zur korrekten Auskunftserteilung thematisiert. Vom Bearbeiter der Klausur wird vor allem erwartet, die verschiedenen Pflichtverletzungen herauszuarbeiten und die Haftungs- bzw. Entschädigungsansprüche aus verschiedenen Blickwinkeln zu prüfen.
Transplantation of Ciliary Neurotrophic Factor-Expressing Adult Oligodendrocyte Precursor Cells Promotes Remyelination and Functional Recovery after SpinalCord Injury
Authors: Cao Qilin , He Qian , Wang Yaping , Cheng Xiaoxin , Howard Russell M. , Zhang Yiping , DeVries William H. , Shields Christopher B. , Magnuson David S. K. , Xu Xiao-Ming , Kim Dong H. , Whittemore Scott R.
Published: February 2010

Demyelination contributes to the dysfunction after traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI). We explored whether the combination of neurotrophic factors and transplantation of adult rat spinal cord oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs) could enhance remyelination and functional recovery after SCI. Ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) was the most effective neurotrophic factor to promote oligodendrocyte (OL) differentiation and survival of OPCsin vitro. OPCs were infected with retroviruses expressing enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) or CNTF and transplanted into the contused adult thoracic spinal cord 9 d after injury. Seven weeks after transplantation, the grafted OPCs survived and integrated into the injured spinal cord. The survival of grafted CNTF-OPCs increased fourfold compared with EGFP-OPCs. The grafted OPCs differentiated into adenomatus polyposis coli (APC+) OLs, and CNTF significantly increased the percentage of APC+OLs from grafted OPCs. Immunofluorescent and immunoelectron microscopic analyses showed that the grafted OPCs formed central myelin sheaths around the axons in the injured spinal cord. The number of OL-remyelinated axons in ventrolateral funiculus (VLF) or lateral funiculus (LF) at the injured epicenter was significantly increased in animals that received CNTF-OPC grafts compared with all other groups. Importantly, 75% of rats receiving CNTF-OPC grafts recovered transcranial magnetic motor-evoked potential and magnetic interenlargement reflex responses, indicating that conduction through the demyelinated axons in VLF or LF, respectively, was partially restored. More importantly, recovery of hindlimb locomotor function was significantly enhanced in animals receiving grafts of CNTF-OPCs. Thus, combined treatment with OPC grafts expressing CNTF can enhance remyelination and facilitate functional recovery after traumatic SCI.
Temporal Cortex Neurons Encode Articulated Actions as Slow Sequences of Integrated Poses
Authors: Singer Jedediah M. , Sheinberg David L.
Published: February 2010

Form and motion processing pathways of the primate visual system are known to be interconnected, but there has been surprisingly little investigation of how they interact at the cellular level. Here we explore this issue with a series of three electrophysiology experiments designed to reveal the sources of action selectivity in monkey temporal cortex neurons. Monkeys discriminated between actions performed by complex, richly textured, rendered bipedal figures and hands. The firing patterns of neurons contained enough information to discriminate the identity of the character, the action performed, and the particular conjunction of action and character. This suggests convergence of motion and form information within single cells. Form and motion information in isolation were both sufficient to drive action discrimination within these neurons, but removing form information caused a greater disruption to the original response. Finally, we investigated the temporal window across which visual information is integrated into a single pose (or, equivalently, the timing with which poses are differentiated). Temporal cortex neurons under normal conditions represent actions as sequences of poses integrated over ∼120 ms. They receive both motion and form information, however, and can use either if the other is absent.
Lack ofMid1, the Mouse Ortholog of the Opitz Syndrome Gene, Causes Abnormal Development of the Anterior Cerebellar Vermis
Authors: Lancioni Alessio , Pizzo Mariateresa , Fontanella Bianca , Ferrentino Rosa , Napolitano Luisa M. R. , De Leonibus Elvira , Meroni Germana
Published: February 2010

Opitz G/BBB syndrome (OS) is a genetic disorder characterized by midline developmental defects. Male patients with the X-linked form of OS, caused by loss-of-function mutations in theMID1gene, show high variability of the clinical signs.MID1encodes a ubiquitin ligase that controls phosphatase 2A, but its role in the pathogenesis of the disease is still unclear. Here, we report a mouse line carrying a nonfunctional ortholog of the humanMID1gene,Mid1. Mid1-null mice show the brain anatomical defect observed in patients (i.e., hypoplasia of the anterior portion of the medial cerebellum, the vermis). We found that the presence of this defect correlates with motor coordination and procedural and nonassociative learning impairments. The defect is limited to the most anterior lobes of the vermis, the region of the developing cerebellum adjacent to the dorsal midbrain. Analyses at midgestation reveal that lack ofMid1causes the shortening of the posterior dorsal midbrain, the rostralization of the midbrain/cerebellum boundary, and the downregulation of a key player in the development of this region,Fgf17. Thus, lack ofMid1causes a misspecification of the midbrain/cerebellar boundary that results in an abnormal development of the most anterior cerebellar lobes. This animal model provides a tool for additionalin vivostudies of the physiological and pathological role of theMid1gene and a system to investigate the development and function of anterior cerebellar domains.
Dopamine-Dependent Tuning of Striatal Inhibitory Synaptogenesis
Authors: Goffin Darren , Ali Afia B. , Rampersaud Nazir , Harkavyi Alexander , Fuchs Celine , Whitton Peter S. , Nairn Angus C. , Jovanovic Jasmina N.
Published: February 2010

Dopaminergic projections to the striatum, crucial for the correct functioning of this brain region in adulthood, are known to be established early in development, but their role is currently uncharacterized. We demonstrate here that dopamine, by activating D1- and/or D2-dopamine receptors, decreases the number of functional GABAergic synapses formed between the embryonic precursors of the medium spiny neurons, the principal output neurons of the striatum, with associated changes in spontaneous synaptic activity. Activation of these receptors reduces the size of postsynaptic GABAAreceptor clusters and their overall cell-surface expression, without affecting the total number of clusters or the size or number of GABAergic nerve terminals. These changes result from an increased internalization of GABAAreceptors, and are mediated by distinct signaling pathways converging at the level of GABAAreceptors to cause a transient PP2A/PP1-dependent dephosphorylation. Thus, tonic D1- and D2-receptor activity limits the extent of collateral inhibitory synaptogenesis between medium spiny neurons, revealing a novel role of dopamine in controlling the development of intrinsic striatal microcircuits.
Prefrontal Inositol Triphosphate Is Molecular Correlate of Working Memory in Nonhuman Primates
Authors: López-Téllez Juan F. , López-Aranda Manuel F. , Navarro-Lobato Irene , Masmudi-Martín Mariam , Martín Montañez Elisa , Blanco Calvo Eduardo , Khan Zafar U.
Published: February 2010

Working memory (WM) is a process of actively maintaining information in the mind for a relatively short period of time, and prefrontal cortex (PFC) has been thought to play a central role in its function. However, our understanding of underlying molecular events that translate into WM behavior remains elusive. To shed light on this issue, we have used three distinct nonhuman primate models of WM where each model represents three WM conditions: normal control, WM-deficient, and recuperated to normal from WM deficiency. Based on the hypothesis that there is a common molecular substrate for the coding of WM behavior, we have studied the relationship of these animals' performance on a WM task with their PFC levels of molecular components associated with Gq-phospholipase C and cAMP pathways, with the idea of identifying the footprints of such biomolecules. We observed that in all of the primate models WM deficiency was strongly related to the reduced concentration of IP3in PFC, whereas recuperation of WM-deficient animals to normal condition was associated with the normalization in IP3level. However, this correlation was absent or weak for cAMP, active protein kinase A, dopamine D1receptor, and Gq protein. In addition, WM deficiency related not only to pharmacological conditions but also to aging. Thus, it is suggested that optimal IP3activity is essential for normal WM function and the maintenance of intracellular IP3-mediated Ca2+level in PFC may serve as biochemical substrate for the expression of WM behavior.
Interaction between Ephrins and mGlu5 Metabotropic Glutamate Receptors in the Induction of Long-Term Synaptic Depression in the Hippocampus
Authors: Piccinin Sonia , Cinque Carlo , Calò Laura , Molinaro Gemma , Battaglia Giuseppe , Maggi Laura , Nicoletti Ferdinando , Melchiorri Daniela , Eusebi Fabrizio , Massey Peter V. , Bashir Zafar I.
Published: February 2010

We applied the group-I metabotropic glutamate (mGlu) receptor agonist, 3,5-dihydroxyphenylglycine (DHPG), to neonatal or adult rat hippocampal slices at concentrations (10 μm) that induced a short-term depression (STD) of excitatory synaptic transmission at the Schaffer collateral/CA1 synapses. DHPG-induced STD was entirely mediated by the activation of mGlu5 receptors because it was abrogated by the mGlu5 receptor antagonist, MPEP [2-methyl-6-(phenylethynyl)pyridine], but not by the mGlu1 receptor antagonist, CPCCOEt [7-(hydroxyimino)cyclopropa[b]chromen-1a-carboxylate ethyl ester]. Knowing that ephrin-Bs functionally interact with group-I mGlu receptors (Calò et al., 2005), we examined whether pharmacological activation of ephrin-Bs could affect DHPG-induced STD. We activated ephrin-Bs using their cognate receptor, EphB1, under the form of a preclustered EphB1/Fc chimera. Addition of clustered EphB1/Fc alone to the slices induced a small but nondecremental depression of excitatory synaptic transmission, which differed from the depression induced by 10 μmDHPG. Surprisingly, EphB1/Fc-induced synaptic depression was abolished by MPEP (but not by CPCCOEt) suggesting that it required the endogenous activation of mGlu5 receptors. In addition, coapplication of DHPG and EphB1/Fc, resulted in a large and nondecremental long-term depression. The effect of clustered EphB1/Fc was specific because it was not mimicked by unclustered EphB1/Fc or clustered EphA1/Fc. These findings raise the intriguing possibility that changes in synaptic efficacy mediated by mGlu5 receptors are under the control of the ephrin/Eph receptor system, and that the neuronal actions of ephrins can be targeted by drugs that attenuate mGlu5 receptor signaling.
Notch Signaling Influences Neuroprotective and Proliferative Properties of Mature Müller Glia
Authors: Ghai Kanika , Zelinka Christopher , Fischer Andy J.
Published: February 2010

Notch signaling is known to play important roles during retinal development. Recently, Notch signaling has been shown to be active in proliferating Müller glia in acutely damaged chick retina (Hayes et al., 2007). However, the roles of Notch in mature, undamaged retina remain unknown. Thus, the purpose of this study was to determine the role of the Notch-signaling pathway in the postnatal retina. Here we show that components of the Notch-signaling pathway are expressed in most Müller glia at low levels in undamaged retina. The expression of Notch-related genes varies during early postnatal development and across regions, with higher expression in peripheral versus central retina. Blockade of Notch activity with a small molecule inhibitor before damage was protective to retinal interneurons (amacrine and bipolar cells) and projection neurons (ganglion cells). In the absence of damage, Notch is upregulated in retinas treated with insulin and FGF2; the combination of these factors is known to stimulate the proliferation and dedifferentiation of Müller glia (Fischer et al., 2002b). Inhibition of Notch signaling during FGF2 treatment reduces levels of the downstream effectors of the MAPK-signaling pathway—p38 MAPK and pCREB in Müller glia. Further, inhibition of Notch activity potently inhibits FGF2-induced proliferation of Müller glia. Together, our data indicate that Notch signaling is downstream of, and is required for, FGF2/MAPK signaling to drive the proliferation of Müller glia. In addition, our data suggest that low levels of Notch signaling in Müller glia diminish the neuroprotective activities of these glial cells.
Critical Involvement of Postsynaptic Protein Kinase Activation in Long-Term Potentiation at Hippocampal Mossy Fiber Synapses on CA3 Interneurons
Authors: Galván Emilio J. , Cosgrove Kathleen E. , Mauna Jocelyn C. , Card J. Patrick , Thiels Edda , Meriney Stephen D. , Barrionuevo Germán
Published: February 2010

Hippocampal mossy fiber (MF) synapses on area CA3 lacunosum-moleculare (L-M) interneurons are capable of undergoing a Hebbian form of NMDA receptor (NMDAR)-independent long-term potentiation (LTP) induced by the same type of high-frequency stimulation (HFS) that induces LTP at MF synapses on pyramidal cells. LTP of MF input to L-M interneurons occurs only at synapses containing mostly calcium-impermeable (CI)-AMPA receptors (AMPARs). Here, we demonstrate that HFS-induced LTP at these MF-interneuron synapses requires postsynaptic activation of protein kinase A (PKA) and protein kinase C (PKC). Brief extracellular stimulation of PKA with forskolin (FSK) alone or in combination with 1-Methyl-3-isobutylxanthine (IBMX) induced a long-lasting synaptic enhancement at MF synapses predominantly containing CI-AMPARs. However, the FSK/IBMX-induced potentiation in cells loaded with the specific PKA inhibitor peptide PKI6-22failed to be maintained. Consistent with these data, delivery of HFS to MFs synapsing onto L-M interneurons loaded with PKI6-22induced posttetanic potentiation (PTP) but not LTP. Hippocampal sections stained for the catalytic subunit of PKA revealed abundant immunoreactivity in interneurons located in strata radiatum and L-M of area CA3. We also found that extracellular activation of PKC with phorbol 12,13-diacetate induced a pharmacological potentiation of the isolated CI-AMPAR component of the MF EPSP. However, HFS delivered to MF synapses on cells loaded with the PKC inhibitor chelerythrine exhibited PTP followed by a significant depression. Together, our data indicate that MF LTP in L-M interneurons at synapses containing primarily CI-AMPARs requires some of the same signaling cascades as does LTP of glutamatergic input to CA3 or CA1 pyramidal cells.
Absence of an External Germinal Layer in Zebrafish and Shark Reveals a Distinct, Anamniote Ground Plan of Cerebellum Development
Authors: Chaplin Natalie , Tendeng Christian , Wingate Richard J. T.
Published: February 2010

The granule cell layer of the cerebellum comprises the largest population of neurons in the vertebrate CNS. In amniotes, its precursors undergo a unique phase of transit amplification, regulated by Sonic hedgehog. They do so within a prominent but transient secondary proliferative epithelium, the external germinal layer, which is formed by tangential migration of precursor cells from the rhombic lip. This behavior is a hallmark of bird and mammal cerebellum development. Despite its significance for both development and disease, it is unclear whether an external germinal layer is a requirement for granule cell production or an expedient of transit amplification. Evidence for its existence in more basal vertebrates is contradictory. We therefore examined cerebellum development in the zebrafish, specifically in relation to the expression of the basic helix–loop–helix geneAtonal 1, which definitively characterizes granule cell precursors. The expression ofAtoh1a–Atoh1c, in combination with patterns of proliferation and fate maps, define precursor pools at the rhombic lip and cerebellar midline but demonstrate that an external germinal layer is absent. Sonic hedgehog signaling is correspondingly absent in the zebrafish cerebellum. Sustained roof-plate-derived signals suggest that, in the absence of transit amplification, primary granule cell precursor pools are maintained throughout development. To determine whether this pattern is specific to zebrafish or reflects a more general anamniote organization, we examined the expression of similar genes in the dogfish,Scylliorhinus canicula. We show that these anamniotes share a common ground plan of granule cell production that does not include an external germinal layer.
Trajektorienfolgeregelung für parabolische partielle Differenzialgleichungen mit variablen ParameternTracking Control for Parabolic PDEs with Varying Parameters
Authors: Jadachowski Lukas , Meurer Thomas , Kugi Andreas
Published: February 2010

Dieser Beitrag beschäftigt sich mit dem Entwurf von Trajektorienfolgeregelungen für Systeme, die durch lineare parabolische partielle Differenzialgleichungen mit orts- und zeitvariablen Parametern und Randeingriff beschrieben werden. Der Regelungsentwurf wird mittels der so genannten Backstepping-Methodik durchgeführt, mit Hilfe derer eine exponentiell stabilisierende Zustandsrückführung ermittelt wird, die garantiert, dass sich im nominellen Fall der geschlossene Regelkreis wie ein vorgegebenes Zielsystem verhält. Für den Entwurf des Führungsverhaltens wird eine Modifikation des Zielsystems derart vorgenommen, dass ein zusätzlicher Freiheitsgrad im Zielsystem zur Verfügung steht. Dieser wird im Rahmen eines flachheitsbasierten Entwurfs als Eingangsgröße für eine Steuerung herangezogen. Da die Implementierung des Reglers die Kenntnis des vollständigen Zustandsprofils erfordert, wird zusätzlich ein Zustandsbeobachter mittels der Backstepping-Methodik entworfen.
Flachheit und Steuerbarkeit einer Klasse von Netzwerken örtlich verteilter SystemeFlatness and Controllability of a Class of Networks of Distributed Parameter Systems
Authors: Woittennek Frank , Mounier Hugues
Published: February 2010

Es werden lineare verteiltparametrische Modelle betrachtet, die sich durch die Zusammenschaltung einzelner Randwertaufgaben ergeben, in denen die partiellen Differentialgleichungen von zweiter Ordnung sind. Im Laplace-Bildbereich können diese Modelle durch lineare Gleichungssysteme beschrieben werden, deren Koeffizienten einem speziellen Ring überall holomorpher Funktionen entstammen. Mit einem von den Autoren entwickelten Divisionsalgorithmus kann gezeigt werden, dass sich in den betrachteten Ringen stets Bezout-Identitäten finden lassen. Diese Eigenschaft wird genutzt, um algebraische und trajektorienbasierte Steuerbarkeitsergebnisse abzuleiten.
Strömungsregelung mit flächiger Wandaktuation und Galerkin-MPC-SchemaFlow Control with Distributed Wall Actuation and Galerkin-MPC Scheme
Authors: Losse Nikolas , King Rudibert
Published: February 2010

Eine Möglichkeit den Strömungswiderstand eines Körpers zu reduzieren ist, die laminar-turbulente Transition zu verzögern. Dazu werden in der Grenzschicht auftretende Tollmien-Schlichting-Wellen gedämpft. Zu diesem Zweck wird ein Regelschema basierend auf einem Galerkin-Modell in Verbindung mit einer modellprädiktiven Regelung vorgeschlagen. Ein wesentlicher neuer Beitrag ist der Einbau einer lokalen Aktuationswirkung in ein globales Galerkin-Modell.
Ein Ansatz zum Vorsteuerungs-Entwurf für Transportprozesse mit örtlich verteiltem StelleingriffA Design Approach for Feedforward Control of Transport Processes with Spatially Distributed Input
Authors: Malchow Florian , Zeitz Michael , Sawodny Oliver
Published: February 2010

Betrachtet werden verteiltparametrische Systeme mit dominantem Transportverhalten, welche durch lineare partielle Differentialgleichungen erster Ordnung beschrieben werden. Es wird angenommen, dass der Stelleingriff örtlich verteilt wirkt und nur zeitlich variiert werden kann. Für diese Systemklasse wird eine Methode zum modellbasierten Entwurf einer Vorsteuerung vorgeschlagen, um die Steuertrajektorie mit Hilfe der Referenztrajektorie für den Ausgang und deren erster Zeitableitung zu bestimmen. Zusätzlich kann eine messbare Randstörung kompensiert werden. Die experimentelle Anwendung des Vorsteuerungs-Entwurfs wird für den Arbeitspunktwechsel eines gasbeheizten Speisers in der Glasindustrie gezeigt.
In situ methods to explore microstructure evolution in chemically derived oxide thin films
Authors: Aygün Seymen M. , Daniels Patrick , Borland William J. , Maria Jon-Paul
Published: February 2010

In situ residual gas analyzer techniques were used to identify process-property relationships that regulate microstructure evolution in chemical solution-deposited BaTiO3films. In situ analysis of furnace exhaust gasses enabled quantitative exploration of thermolysis and crystallization reactions and an ability to identify processing parameters that influence the temperature ranges over which they occur. The atmospheric analysis was instrumental in identifying heat treatments that produced optimally consolidated precursor gels that crystallized into BaTiO3layers with optimized structure and properties. Slow ramp rates resulted in higher porosity, larger grain size, and a dramatic drop in the capacitor yield. Fast ramp rates produced similar trends; however, the mechanisms were distinct. The effects of oxygen partial pressure were also explored. BaTiO3grain size increased with increasing pO2, whereas there was no appreciable influence on density and capacitor yield. Optimal firing parameters, i.e., 20 °C/min ramp rate at a pO2of 10−13atm, were identified as those that produced an overlap in the temperature ranges of thermolysis and crystallization reactions and thus a precursor gel with a density and compliance that supports crystallization and densification while tolerating the associated volume contraction. This in situ approach to analyze downstream furnace gas is shown to be a generically applicable means to understand synthesis methods that are complicated by simultaneous mechanisms of precursor decomposition, extraction of volatile components, and crystallization.
Investigation of defects and nanoparticles with martensitic phase transformation in surface nanostructured 316L stainless steel by slow-positron beam
Authors: Wang Xiaowei , Xiong Liangyue , Liu Xiaoguang , Liu Gang , Zhou Chunlan , Wei Long
Published: February 2010

In this article, we investigated the defects introduced by surface mechanical attrition treatment by Doppler-broadening spectroscopy of positron annihilation radiation in surface-nanostructured 316L stainless steel. Through the measurement of different thinning layers in the samples treated for 15 min, the slope of line shape parameter S versus wing parameter W curves showed three different values with depth responding to the change of defect configuration. An unusual change of S and W parameters near the surface was mainly from the effect of quantum-dot-like state caused by the formation of nanoparticles. Based on the change of S ˜ W with depth, the martensite phase transformation induced by strain could be estimated to occur within a depth of 35 μm.
Absorption and scattering of near-infrared light by dispersed lanthanum hexaboride nanoparticles for solar control filters
Authors: Adachi Kenji , Miratsu Mitsunobu , Asahi Tsuyoshi
Published: February 2010

Optical absorption and scattering behaviors of lanthanum hexaboride (LaB6) nanoparticulate dispersion coatings with various particle sizes have been investigated in the ultraviolet to near-infrared (NIR) wavelengths for application to solar control filters. Large characteristic near-infrared absorption is introduced as the decreased particle size falls into nanoscale, and its origin is discussed in terms of a localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) of conduction electrons. Optical constants of LaB6have been measured and Mie scattering theory analysis was conducted. The theory was found to generally replicate the optical characteristics, and variations of absorbed and scattered wave fractions as well as the LSPR wavelength have been discussed with varying particle size. The absorption peaks are found as shaped narrower and located at shorter wavelength in theory than in experiment, which is suggested as ascribed mainly to the nonspherical distorted shape of LaB6nanoparticles.
Reply to the comments of Y.H. Liu: Ion sputter erosion in metallic glass—A response to “Comment on: Homogeneity of Zr64.13Cu15.75Ni10.12Al10 bulk metallic glass” by L-Y. Chen, Y-W. Zeng, Q-P. Cao, B-J. Park, Y-M. Chen, K. Hono, U. Vainio, Z-L. Zhang, U. Kaiser, X-D. Wang,and J-Z Jiang [J. Mater. Res. 24, 3116 (2009)]
Authors: Chen Lian-Yi , Cao Qing-Ping , Jiang J.Z. , Deng Jing-Wei
Published: February 2010

The morphology of the dark and bright regions observed by transmission electron microscopy for the Zr64.13Cu15.75Ni10.12Al10 bulk metallic glass strongly depends on the ion beam parameters used for ion milling. This indicates that the ion beam could introduce surface fluctuation to metallic glasses during ion milling.