bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CNG-Modulin: A Novel Ca-Dependent Modulator of Ligand Sensitivity in Cone Photoreceptor cGMP-Gated Ion Channels
Authors: Rebrik Tatiana I. , Botchkina Inna , Arshavsky Vadim Y. , Craft Cheryl M. , Korenbrot Juan I.
Published: March 2012

The transduction current in several different types of sensory neurons arises from the activity of cyclic nucleotide-gated (CNG) ion channels. The channels in these sensory neurons vary in structure and function, yet each one demonstrates calcium-dependent modulation of ligand sensitivity mediated by the interaction of the channel with a soluble modulator protein. In cone photoreceptors, the molecular identity of the modulator protein was previously unknown. We report the discovery and characterization of CNG-modulin, a novel 301 aa protein that interacts with the N terminus of the β subunit of the cGMP-gated channel and modulates the cGMP sensitivity of the channels in cone photoreceptors of striped bass (Morone saxatilis). Immunohistochemistry and single-cell PCR demonstrate that CNG-modulin is expressed in cone but not rod photoreceptors. Adding purified recombinant CNG-modulin to cone membrane patches containing the native CNG channels shifts the midpoint of cGMP dependence from ∼91 μmin the absence of Ca2+to ∼332 μmin the presence of 20 μmCa2+. At a fixed cGMP concentration, the midpoint of the Ca2+dependence is ∼857 nmCa2+. These restored physiological features are statistically indistinguishable from the effects of the endogenous modulator. CNG-modulin binds Ca2+with a concentration dependence that matches the calcium dependence of channel modulation. We conclude that CNG-modulin is the authentic Ca2+-dependent modulator of cone CNG channel ligand sensitivity. CNG-modulin is expressed in other tissues, such as brain, olfactory epithelium, and the inner ear, and may modulate the function of ion channels in those tissues as well.
A Candidate Mechanism Underlying the Variance of Interictal Spike Propagation
Authors: Sabolek Helen R. , Swiercz Waldemar B. , Lillis Kyle P. , Cash Sydney S. , Huberfeld Gilles , Zhao Grace , Ste. Marie Linda , Clemenceau Stéphane , Barsh Greg , Miles Richard , Staley Kevin J.
Published: March 2012

Synchronous activation of neural networks is an important physiological mechanism, and dysregulation of synchrony forms the basis of epilepsy. We analyzed the propagation of synchronous activity through chronically epileptic neural networks. Electrocorticographic recordings from epileptic patients demonstrate remarkable variance in the pathways of propagation between sequential interictal spikes (IISs). Calcium imaging in chronically epileptic slice cultures demonstrates that pathway variance depends on the presence of GABAergic inhibition and that spike propagation becomes stereotyped following GABA receptor blockade. Computer modeling suggests that GABAergic quenching of local network activations leaves behind regions of refractory neurons, whose late recruitment forms the anatomical basis of variability during subsequent network activation. Targeted path scanning of slice cultures confirmed local activations, whileex vivorecordings of human epileptic tissue confirmed the dependence of interspike variance on GABA-mediated inhibition. These data support the hypothesis that the paths by which synchronous activity spreads through an epileptic network change with each activation, based on the recent history of localized activity that has been successfully inhibited.
Modulation of Olfactory Perception by Visual Cortex Stimulation
Authors: Jadauji Jahan B. , Djordjevic Jelena , Lundström Johan N. , Pack Christopher C.
Published: March 2012

When attempting to identify an object based on smell alone, people often visualize the perceived source of the odorant. This close association between olfactory and visual functions is supported by neuroimaging studies demonstrating activation of visual cortex during performance of purely olfactory tasks. Such activation might simply reflect the correlation between olfactory percepts and the corresponding visual images, or it might reflect a causal contribution of visual processing to olfactory perception. Here we provide evidence in support of the latter possibility. Using repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation, we show that stimulating human visual cortex improves performance on a task requiring discrimination among different odor qualities. No significant improvement is found for tasks involving discrimination between intensities of the same odor, from stimulation of auditory cortex, or from “sham” stimulation. These results are thus consistent with a specific visual cortical influence on high-level olfactory perception. They also demonstrate that unimodal perceptual tasks are influenced by processing within cortical areas of other, seemingly unrelated, sensory systems.
Notch Signaling Controls Generation of Motor Neurons in the Lesioned Spinal Cord of Adult Zebrafish
Authors: Dias Tatyana B. , Yang Yu-Jie , Ogai Kazuhiro , Becker Thomas , Becker Catherina G.
Published: March 2012

In mammals, increased Notch signaling is held partly responsible for a lack of neurogenesis after a spinal injury. However, this is difficult to test in an essentially nonregenerating system. We show that in adult zebrafish, which exhibit lesion-induced neurogenesis, e.g., of motor neurons, the Notch pathway is also reactivated. Although apparently compatible with neuronal regeneration in zebrafish, forced activity of the pathway significantly decreased progenitor proliferation and motor neuron generation. Conversely, pharmacological inhibition of the pathway increased proliferation and motor neuron numbers. This demonstrates that Notch is a negative signal for regenerative neurogenesis, and, importantly, that spinal motor neuron regeneration can be augmented in an adult vertebrate by inhibiting Notch signaling.
Matrix Metalloproteinase-2-Mediated Occludin Degradation and Caveolin-1-Mediated Claudin-5 Redistribution Contribute to Blood–Brain Barrier Damage in Early Ischemic Stroke Stage
Authors: Liu Jie , Jin Xinchun , Liu Ke J. , Liu Wenlan
Published: March 2012

Blood–brain barrier (BBB) disruption occurs early enough to be within the thrombolytic time window, and this early ischemic BBB damage is closely associated with hemorrhagic transformation and thus emerging as a promising target for reducing the hemorrhagic complications of thrombolytic stroke therapy. However, the mechanisms underlying early ischemic BBB damage remain poorly understood. Here, we investigated the early molecular events of ischemic BBB damage usingin vitrooxygen–glucose deprivation (OGD) andin vivorat middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) models. Exposure of bEND3 monolayer to OGD for 2 h significantly increased its permeability to FITC-labeled dextran and promoted the secretion of metalloproteinase-2 and -9 (MMP-2/9) and cytosolic translocation of caveolin-1 (Cav-1). This same OGD treatment also led to rapid degradation of tight junction protein occludin and dissociation of claudin-5 from the cytoskeleton, which contributed to OGD-induced endothelial barrier disruption. Using selective MMP-2/9 inhibitor SB-3CT (2-[[(4-phenoxyphenyl)sulfonyl]methyl]-thiirane) or their neutralizing antibodies or Cav-1 siRNA, we found that MMP-2 was the major enzyme mediating OGD-induced occludin degradation, while Cav-1 was responsible for claudin-5 redistribution. The interaction between Cav-1 and claudin-5 was further confirmed by coimmunoprecipitation. Consistent with thesein vitrofindings, we observed fluorescence tracer extravasation, increased gelatinolytic activity, and elevated interstitial MMP-2 levels in ischemic subcortical tissue after 2 h MCAO. Moreover, occludin protein loss and claudin-5 redistribution were detected in ischemic cerebromicrovessels. These data indicate that cerebral ischemia initiates two rapid parallel processes, MMP-2-mediated occludin degradation and Cav-1-mediated claudin-5 redistribution, to cause BBB disruption at early stroke stages relevant to acute thrombolysis.
Role of Mediator in Regulating Pol II Elongation and Nucleosome Displacement in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Kremer Selena B , Kim Sunyoung , Jeon Jeong Ok , Moustafa Yara W , Chen Apeng , Zhao Jing , Gross David S
Published: March 2012

Mediator is a modular multisubunit complex that functions as a critical coregulator of RNA polymerase II (Pol II) transcription. While it is well accepted that Mediator plays important roles in the assembly and function of the preinitiation complex (PIC), less is known of its potential roles in regulating downstream steps of the transcription cycle. Here we use a combination of genetic and molecular approaches to investigate Mediator regulation of Pol II elongation in the model eukaryote, Saccharomyces cerevisiae. We find that ewe (expressionwithout heat shockelement) mutations in conserved Mediator subunits Med7, Med14, Med19, and Med21—all located within or adjacent to the middle module—severely diminish heat-shock–induced expression of the Hsf1-regulated HSP82 gene. Interestingly, these mutations do not impede Pol II recruitment to the gene’s promoter but instead impair its transit through the coding region. This implies that a normal function of Mediator is to regulate a postinitiation step at HSP82. In addition, displacement of histones from promoter and coding regions, a hallmark of activated heat-shock genes, is significantly impaired in the med14 and med21 mutants. Suggestive of a more general role, ewe mutations confer hypersensitivity to the anti-elongation drug 6-azauracil (6-AU) and one of them—med21—impairs Pol II processivity on a GAL1-regulated reporter gene. Taken together, our results suggest that yeast Mediator, acting principally through its middle module, can regulate Pol II elongation at both heat-shock and non–heat-shock genes.
Detecting Maternal-Effect Loci by Statistical Cross-Fostering
Authors: Wolf Jason , Cheverud James M
Published: March 2012

Great progress has been made in understanding the genetic architecture of phenotypic variation, but it is almost entirely focused on how the genotype of an individual affects the phenotype of that same individual. However, in many species the genotype of the mother is a major determinant of the phenotype of her offspring. Therefore, a complete picture of genetic architecture must include these maternal genetic effects, but they can be difficult to identify because maternal and offspring genotypes are correlated and therefore, partially confounded. We present a conceptual framework that overcomes this challenge to separate direct and maternal effects in intact families through an analysis that we call “statistical cross-fostering.” Our approach combines genotype data from mothers and their offspring to remove the confounding effects of the offspring’s own genotype on measures of maternal genetic effects. We formalize our approach in an orthogonal model and apply this model to an experimental population of mice. We identify a set of six maternal genetic effect loci that explain a substantial portion of variation in body size at all ages. This variation would be missed in an approach focused solely on direct genetic effects, but is clearly a major component of genetic architecture. Our approach can easily be adapted to examine maternal effects in different systems, and because it does not require experimental manipulation, it provides a framework that can be used to understand the contribution of maternal genetic effects in both natural and experimental populations.
Maximum Likelihood Estimation of Linkage Disequilibrium in Half-Sib Families
Authors: Gomez-Raya L
Published: March 2012

Maximum likelihood methods for the estimation of linkage disequilibrium between biallelic DNA-markers in half-sib families (half-sib method) are developed for single and multifamily situations. Monte Carlo computer simulations were carried out for a variety of scenarios regarding sire genotypes, linkage disequilibrium, recombination fraction, family size, and number of families. A double heterozygote sire was simulated with recombination fraction of 0.00, linkage disequilibrium among dams of δ = 0.10, and alleles at both markers segregating at intermediate frequencies for a family size of 500. The average estimates of δ were 0.17, 0.25, and 0.10 for Excoffier and Slatkin (1995), maternal informative haplotypes, and the half-sib method, respectively. A multifamily EM algorithm was tested at intermediate frequencies by computer simulation. The range of the absolute difference between estimated and simulated δ was between 0.000 and 0.008. A cattle half-sib family was genotyped with the Illumina 50K BeadChip. There were 314,730 SNP pairs for which the sire was a homo-heterozygote with average estimates of r2 of 0.115, 0.067, and 0.111 for half-sib, Excoffier and Slatkin (1995), and maternal informative haplotypes methods, respectively. There were 208,872 SNP pairs for which the sire was double heterozygote with average estimates of r2 across the genome of 0.100, 0.267, and 0.925 for half-sib, Excoffier and Slatkin (1995), and maternal informative haplotypes methods, respectively. Genome analyses for all possible sire genotypes with 829,042 tests showed that ignoring half-sib family structure leads to upward biased estimates of linkage disequilibrium. Published inferences on population structure and evolution of cattle should be revisited after accommodating existing half-sib family structure in the estimation of linkage disequilibrium.
The Role of Background Selection in Shaping Patterns of Molecular Evolution and Variation: Evidence from Variability on the Drosophila
X Chromosome
Authors: Charlesworth Brian
Published: March 2012

In the putatively ancestral population of Drosophila melanogaster, the ratio of silent DNA sequence diversity for X-linked loci to that for autosomal loci is approximately one, instead of the expected “null” value of 3/4. One possible explanation is that background selection (the hitchhiking effect of deleterious mutations) is more effective on the autosomes than on the X chromosome, because of the lack of crossing over in male Drosophila. The expected effects of background selection on neutral variability at sites in the middle of an X chromosome or an autosomal arm were calculated for different models of chromosome organization and methods of approximation, using current estimates of the deleterious mutation rate and distributions of the fitness effects of deleterious mutations. The robustness of the results to different distributions of fitness effects, dominance coefficients, mutation rates, mapping functions, and chromosome size was investigated. The predicted ratio of X-linked to autosomal variability is relatively insensitive to these variables, except for the mutation rate and map length. Provided that the deleterious mutation rate per genome is sufficiently large, it seems likely that background selection can account for the observed X to autosome ratio of variability in the ancestral population of D. melanogaster. The fact that this ratio is much less than one in D. pseudoobscura is also consistent with the model’s predictions, since this species has a high rate of crossing over. The results suggest that background selection may play a major role in shaping patterns of molecular evolution and variation.
Jaundice Due to Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase Deficiency
Authors: Bhutani Vinod K.
Published: March 2012

Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency complicates the usually benign neonatal jaundice managed by existing prenatal and postnatal screening in the United States. Estimated at ∼3.4% incidence, the condition ranges by infant race/ethnicity (12.2% in African American male infants to nearly 0% in white female infants). Oxidant stressors, sepsis, and delay in bilirubin elimination (such as co-inheritance with Gilbert's disease or persistent enterohepatic recirculation) add to total plasma or serum bilirubin (TSB) rise, need for phototherapy, and risk for exchange transfusion. Biology of G6PD deficiency, in the context of gender, race, ethnicity, enzyme concentration, and interaction with postnatal environment, affects clinical presentations. Mutation of the X-linked G6PD gene results in varying enzyme activity. A combination of clinical patterns are suggested: (1) early-onset hyperbilirubinemia (ie, TSB >75th percentile and increased bilirubin production); (2) predischarge TSB <75th percentile track exacerbated by starvation, unrecognized sepsis or late prematurity; (3) slow postnatal rise with natural decline; (4) slow postnatal rise with persistent prolonged unconjugated hyperbilirubinemia, >2 weeks age; and (5) complicated by acute-onset, dramatic hyperbilirubinemia with TSB rise >1 mg/dL per hour (“favism”). Absent G6PD deficiency diagnosis, postdischarge management for phototherapy requires expert assessment and triage for probable risk of favism. Screening as well as clinician and parental awareness of G6PD enzyme deficiency has been shown to reduce adverse neonatal consequences in several communities worldwide.
Early Experience Conducting School-located Vaccination Programs for Seasonal Influenza
Authors: Schieber Richard A. , Kennedy Allison , Kahn Emily B.
Published: March 2012

OBJECTIVES

We determined program effectiveness, feasibility, and acceptance of school-located vaccination (SLV) clinics for seasonal influenza that took place before the 2008 universal influenza vaccination recommendations.

METHODS

We surveyed program directors of 23 programs in the United States who conducted SLV clinics during the 2005 to 2006 and 2006 to 2007 influenza seasons.

RESULTS

Of 391 423 children enrolled in schools with SLV clinics, 61 463 (15.7%) were vaccinated at 499 sites (schools) in 23 programs. Of these, 22 were small- and medium-sized programs that vaccinated 32 875 (24.1%) of the 136 151 children enrolled there, averaging 31.9% of students per site. One populous county vaccinated an additional 28 588 (11.2%) of its 255 272 enrolled children, averaging 13.9% per school. Children in grades K to 6 had consistently higher mean vaccination rates (21.5%) compared with middle school children (10.3%) or high school youth (5.8%). Program acceptability was high, and no program had to forego any key public health activities; 5 hired temporary help or paid overtime. The outlook for continuing such clinics was good in 7 programs, but depended on help with vaccine purchasing (9), funding (8), or additional personnel (4), with multiple responses allowed.

CONCLUSIONS

These vaccination coverage rates provide a baseline for future performance of school-located mass vaccination clinics. Although the existence and conduct of these programs in our study was considered acceptable by leaders of public health departments and anecdotally by parents and school administrators, sustainability may require additional means to pay for vaccines or personnel beyond the usual available health department resources.
Promising Practices for School-located Vaccination Clinics—Part I: Preparation
Authors: Lott John , Johnson Jennifer
Published: March 2012

A school-located mass vaccination clinic approach can enable rapid vaccination of a large number of students while minimizing disruption of their school activities and potentially reducing missed work hours by parents. During 3 consecutive influenza seasons beginning in 2005, the Knox County Health Department conducted school-located mass vaccination clinics using live attenuated influenza vaccine. Clinics were held each year throughout the county over 4 weeks in more than 100 public and private schools for more than 65 000 students in Grades K to 12. Overall, the proportion of all students vaccinated at school each year exceeded 40%. Our experience indicated that careful and thorough planning was essential to program success. Critical planning elements included (1) initial planning with extensive lead time to find the proper lead agency and project leader and to develop sound comprehensive vaccine clinic planning; (2) developing partnerships, especially with schools; (3) communicating successfully with parents, children, school administrators and teachers, medical providers, and the community at large; and (4) educating these groups successfully, using good timing, through local media, school events, direct mailings (including parents receiving information and consent packets), and partners. We review here the details of these key planning elements.
Promising Practices for School-located Vaccination Clinics—
Authors: Lott John , Johnson Jennifer
Published: March 2012

A school-located mass vaccination program can enable rapid vaccination of a large number of students while minimizing disruption of their school activities. During 3 consecutive influenza seasons beginning in 2005, the Knox County Health Department conducted school-located mass vaccination clinics using live attenuated influenza vaccine. Overall, the proportion of elementary schoolchildren vaccinated with live attenuated influenza vaccine exceeded 40% each year. We describe key lessons learned in clinic operations, including obtaining informed consent, defining the organizational structure and roles, preparing the school, staffing, training, supplies, vaccine management, team communication, and data management. We conclude by discussing program costs and sustainability.
Successful Use of Volunteers to Conduct School-located Mass Influenza Vaccination Clinics
Authors: Cummings Ginny E. , Ruff Elizabeth , Guthrie Stephen H. , Hoffmaster Margaret A. , Leitch Larry L. , King James C.
Published: March 2012

OBJECTIVE

To determine the feasibility of using volunteers to assist in school-located mass vaccination clinics for influenza.

METHODS

A set of elementary school-based mass vaccination clinics was implemented in Carroll County, Maryland by the local health department in the 2005–2006 school year. In addition to using health department personnel, fiscal restraints necessitated using medical volunteers and lay volunteers to assist health professionals. The medical volunteers included physicians, nurses, and pharmacists, and were responsible for administering intranasal vaccine (live, attenuated influenza vaccine [LAIV]). We assessed the performance, as measured by the number of vaccinations administered, and effort expended by these volunteers.

RESULTS

A total of 5319 (44%) of the 12 090 elementary school children in the county received LAIV. Of the estimated 3547 (66%) children eligible and consenting to receive a second dose, 3124 (88%) received it. In total, 8806 doses of LAIV were administered. Health department nurses worked 42 person-days and were assisted by medical and allied health professionals volunteering 87 person-days without compensation, totaling 581 person-hours spent in this effort.

CONCLUSIONS

A mass school-located influenza vaccination program using medical and lay volunteers guided by health department nurses is feasible. Several issues were identified to improve future clinics and help make the program sustainable.
Use of the Emergency Incident Command System for School-located Mass Influenza Vaccination Clinics
Authors: Fishbane Marsha , Kist Anne , Schieber Richard A.
Published: March 2012

In Palm Beach County, Florida, the fall 2005 influenza vaccination season was interrupted by Hurricane Wilma, a particularly destructive storm that resulted in flooding, power outages, extensive property damage, and suspension of many routine community services. In its aftermath, all public health resources were immediately turned to the response and recovery process. School-located mass influenza vaccination (SLV) clinics were scheduled to begin in 1 week, but were necessarily postponed for a month. The juxtaposition of these 2 major public health events afforded the school district, health department, and other community services an opportunity to see their similarities and adopt the Incident Command System structure to manage the SLV clinics across West Palm Beach County, Florida, a geographically large county. Other lessons were learned during the hurricane concerning organizations and people, processes, and communications, and were applicable to school-located mass influenza vaccination programs, and vice versa. Those lessons are related here.
Novel Electrospun Bicomponent Scaffolds for Bone Tissue Engineering: Fabrication, Characterization and Sustained Release of Growth Factor
Authors: Wang Chong , Wang Min , Yuan Xiao-Yan
Published: March 2012

Electrospinning is a versatile technique for fabricating three-dimensional (3D) nanofibrous scaffolds and the scaffolds have been found to elicit desirable cellular behavior for tissue regeneration because the nanofibrous structures mimic the nanofibrous extracellular matrix (ECM) of biological tissues. From the material point of view, the ECM of bone is a nanofibrous nanocomposite consisting of an organic matrix (mainly collagen) and inorganic bone apatite nanoparticles. Therefore, for bone tissue engineering scaffolds, it is natural to construct nanofibrous nanocomposites having a biodegradable polymer matrix and nanosized bioactive bioceramics. Our previous studies demonstrated: (1) electrospun nanocomposite fiber loaded with calcium phosphate (Ca-P) were osteoconductive and could promote osteoblastic cell proliferation and differentiation better than pure polymer fibers; (2) The controlled release of recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein (rhBMP-2) from scaffolds provided the scaffolds with desired osteoinductivity. In the current investigation, novel bicomponent scaffolds for bone tissue engineering were produced using our established dual-source dual-power electrospinning technique to achieve both osteoconductivity and osteoinductivity. In the bicomponent scaffolds, one fibrous component was electrospun Ca-P/PLGA nanocomposite fibers and the other component was emulsion electrospun PDLLA nanofibers incorporated with rhBMP-2. Through electrospinning optimization, both fibers were evenly distributed in bicomponent scaffolds. The mass ratio of rhBMP-2/PDLLA fibers to Ca-P/PLGA fibers in bicomponent scaffolds could be controlled using multiple syringes. The structure and morphology of mono- and bicomponent scaffolds were examined. The in vitro release of rhBMP-2 from mono- and bicomponent scaffolds showed different release amount but similar release profile, exhibiting an initial burst release. Blending PDLLA with polyethylene glycol (PEG) could reduce the initial burst release of rhBMP-2.
Prospective Comparison of Prognostic Scores in Palliative Care Cancer Populations
Authors: Maltoni Marco , Scarpi Emanuela , Pittureri Cristina , Martini Francesca , Montanari Luigi , Amaducci Elena , Derni Stefania , Fabbri Laura , Rosati Marta , Amadori Dino , Nanni Oriana
Published: March 2012

Purpose.

Predicting prognosis in advanced cancer aids physicians in clinical decision making and can help patients and their families to prepare for the time ahead.

Materials and Methods.

This multicenter, observational, prospective, nonrandomized population-based study evaluated life span prediction of four prognostic scores used in palliative care: the original Palliative Prognostic Score (PaP Score), a variant of PaP Score including delirium (D-PaP Score), the Palliative Performance Scale, and the Palliative Prognostic Index.

Results.

A total of 549 patients were enrolled onto the study. Median survival of the entire group was 22 days (95% confidence intervals [95% CI] = 19–24). All four prognostic models discriminated well between groups of patients with different survival probabilities. Log-rank tests were all highly significant (p < .0001). The PaP and D-PaP scores were the most accurate, with a C index of 0.72 (95% CI = 0.70–0.73) and 0.73 (95% CI = 0.71–0.74), respectively.

Conclusion.

It can be confirmed that all four prognostic scores used in palliative care studies accurately identify classes of patients with different survival probabilities. The PaP Score has been extensively validated and shows high accuracy and reproducibility in different settings.
RESTRICTED INTERESTS AND TEACHER PRESENTATION OF ITEMS
Authors: Stocco Corey S. , Thompson Rachel H. , Rodriguez Nicole M.
Published: March 2012

Restricted and repetitive behavior (RRB) is more pervasive, prevalent, frequent, and severe in individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) than in their typical peers. One subtype of RRB is restricted interests in items or activities, which is evident in the manner in which individuals engage with items (e.g., repetitious wheel spinning), the types of items or activities they select (e.g., preoccupation with a phone book), or the range of items or activities they select (i.e., narrow range of items). We sought to describe the relation between restricted interests and teacher presentation of items. Overall, we observed 5 teachers interacting with 2 pairs of students diagnosed with an ASD. Each pair included 1 student with restricted interests. During these observations, teachers were free to present any items from an array of 4 stimuli selected by experimenters. We recorded student responses to teacher presentation of items and analyzed the data to determine the relation between teacher presentation of items and the consequences for presentation provided by the students. Teacher presentation of items corresponded with differential responses provided by students with ASD, and those with restricted preferences experienced a narrower array of items.
CALIBRATION OF OBSERVATIONAL MEASUREMENT OF RATE OF RESPONDING
Authors: Mudford Oliver C. , Zeleny Jason R. , Fisher Wayne W. , Klum Molly E. , Owen Todd M.
Published: March 2012

The quality of measurement systems used in almost all natural sciences other than behavior analysis is usually evaluated through calibration study rather than relying on interobserver agreement. We demonstrated some of the basic features of calibration using observer‐measured rates of free‐operant responding from 10 scripted 10‐min calibration samples on video. Five novice and 5 experienced observers recorded (on laptop computers) response samples with a priori determined response rates ranging from 0 to 8 responses per minute. Observer records were then compared with these predetermined reference values using linear regression and related graphical depiction. Results indicated that all of the observers recorded rates that were accurate to within ±0.4 responses per minute and 5 were accurate to within ±0.1 responses per minute, indicating that continuous recording of responding on computers can be highly accurate and precise. Additional research is recommended to investigate conditions that affect the quality of direct observational measurement of behavior.
EFFECTS OF INTERVIEWER BEHAVIOR ON ACCURACY OF CHILDREN'S RESPONSES
Authors: Sparling Jessica , Wilder David A. , Kondash Jennifer , Boyle Megan , Compton Megan
Published: March 2012

Previous research has shown that certain interviewer behaviors can evoke inaccurate answers by children. In the current study, we examined the effects of approving and disapproving statements on the accuracy of 3 children's answers to questions in an interview (Experiment 1). We then evaluated 3 questioning techniques that may be used by interviewers during a forensic interview in which a child provides eyewitness testimony (Experiment 2). All participants responded with more inaccurate answers when approving statements followed inaccurate information and disapproving statements followed accurate information in Experiment 1. During Experiment 2, 1 participant responded most inaccurately when she was requestioned after providing an initial answer, whereas the remaining 2 participants responded most inaccurately when the interviewer provided cowitness information and suggestive questions.
EFFECTS OF GENERAL‐CASE TRAINING, INSTRUCTIONS, REHEARSAL, AND FEEDBACK ON THE REDUCTION OF SIGHT‐READING ERRORS BY COMPETENT MUSICIANS
Authors: Dib Nancy Ellen , Sturmey Peter
Published: March 2012

We used general‐case training, instructions, rehearsal, and feedback to teach 3 advanced flute students to improve their sight‐reading skills. Training resulted in systematic decreases in note errors, rhythm errors, repetitions, and hesitations for each participant. The procedures and outcomes were socially validated through subjective evaluation by the participants and music teachers not involved with the study.
AN EVALUATION OF THE GOOD BEHAVIOR GAME IN KINDERGARTEN CLASSROOMS
Authors: Donaldson Jeanne M. , Vollmer Timothy R. , Krous Tangala , Downs Susan , Berard Kerri P.
Published: March 2012

The good behavior game (GBG) is a classwide group contingency that involves dividing the class into two teams, creating simple rules, and arranging contingencies for breaking or following those rules. Five kindergarten teachers and classrooms participated in this evaluation of the GBG. Disruptive behavior markedly decreased in all five classrooms as a result of the intervention. This study extends the GBG literature by systematically replicating the effects of the GBG with the youngest group of students to date.
A PARAMETRIC ANALYSIS OF ERRORS OF COMMISSION DURING DISCRETE‐TRIAL TRAINING
Authors: Reed Florence D. DiGennaro , Reed Derek D. , Baez Cynthia N. , Maguire Helena
Published: March 2012

We investigated the effects of systematic changes in levels of treatment integrity by altering errors of commission during error‐correction procedures as part of discrete‐trial training. We taught 3 students with autism receptive nonsense shapes under 3 treatment integrity conditions (0%, 50%, or 100% errors of commission). Participants exhibited higher levels of performance during perfect implementation (0% errors). For 2 of the 3 participants, performance was low and showed no differentiation in the remaining conditions. Findings suggest that 50% commission errors may be as detrimental as 100% commission errors on teaching outcomes.
USING A FLIPPED SPOON TO DECREASE PACKING IN CHILDREN WITH FEEDING DISORDERS
Authors: Volkert Valerie M. , Vaz Petula C. M. , Piazza Cathleen C. , Frese Jana , Barnett Lara
Published: March 2012

We evaluated the effects of redistribution and swallow facilitation with a flipped spoon on packing in 2 children with a feeding disorder. For both participants, packing decreased when we implemented the flipped spoon treatment package. Mechanisms responsible for behavior change and areas of future research are discussed.
THE EFFECTS OF A RECTANGULAR RAPID‐FLASHING BEACON ON VEHICLE SPEED
Authors: Vanwagner Michelle , Van Houten Ron , Betts Brian
Published: March 2012

In 2008, nearly 31% of vehicle fatalities were related to failure to adhere to safe vehicle speeds (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration [NHTSA], 2009). The current study evaluated the effect of a rectangular rapid‐flashing beacon (RRFB) triggered by excessive speed on vehicle speed using a combined alternating treatments and reversal design. The percentage of vehicles traveling above 41 mph (66 km per hour) decreased by 20%, and speed distributions showed a shift toward lower speeds during the RRFB condition.
BEHAVIORAL ASSESSMENT OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY IN OBESE PRESCHOOL CHILDREN
Authors: Hustyi Kristin M. , Normand Matthew P. , Larson Tracy A.
Published: March 2012

We measured changes in physical activity in 2 obese preschool children when a package intervention was evaluated in a reversal design. Physical activity was measured via direct observation and pedometers. Although the intervention produced only modest increases in activity, the results provide preliminary concurrent validation for the dependent measures used, in that the two measures covaried and a similar degree of change was observed with each across baseline and intervention phases.
REDUCING STIMULUS OVERSELECTIVITY THROUGH AN INCREASED OBSERVING‐RESPONSE REQUIREMENT
Authors: Doughty Adam H. , Hopkins Michelle N.
Published: March 2012

An adult with autism and a mild intellectual disability participated in a 0‐s delayed matching‐to‐sample task. In each trial, two sample stimuli were presented together until the participant completed an observing‐response requirement consisting of 1 or 10 mouse clicks in the baseline and experimental phases, respectively. One of the two sample stimuli then appeared randomly as a comparison stimulus (S+), along with two other comparison stimuli (S−). Higher levels of correct responding occurred under the larger observing‐response requirement, and the proportion of errors related to one of the two sample stimuli decreased. Thus, stimulus overselectivity was reduced without requiring differential observing responses.
Effect of sonochemical synthesized TiO2 nanoparticles and coagulation bath temperature on morphology, thermal stability and pure water flux of asymmetric cellulose acetate membranes prepared via phase inversion method
Authors: Abedini Reza , Mousavi Mahmoud , Aminzadeh Reza
Published: March 2012

In this study, asymmetric pure CA and CA/ TiO2 composite membranes were
prepared via phase inversion by dispersing TiO2 nanopaticles in the CA
casting solutions induced by immersion precipitation in water coagulation
bath. TiO2 nanoparticles, which were synthesized by the sonochemical method,
were added into the casting solution with different concentrations. Effects
of TiO2 nanoparticles concentration (0 wt. %, 5wt.%, 10wt.%, 15wt.%, 20wt.%
and 25wt.%) and coagulation bath temperature (CBT= 25?C, 50?C and 75?C) on
morphology, thermal stability and pure water flux (PWF) of the prepared
membranes were studied and discussed. Increasing TiO2 concentration in the
casting solution film along with higher CBT resulted in increasing the
membrane thickness, water content (WC), membrane porosity and pure water flux
(PWF), also these changes facilitate macrovoids formation. Thermal
gravimetric analysis (TGA) shows that thermal stability of the composite
membranes were improved by the addition of TiO2 nanopaticles. Also TGA
results indicated that increasing CBT in each TiO2 concentration leads to the
decreasing of decomposition temperature (Td) of hybrid membranes.
Clinical evaluation of a single dose of immune plasma for treatment of canine parvovirus infection
Authors: Bragg Ryan F. , Duffy Amanda L. , DeCecco Frank A. , Chung Donald K. , Green Maura T. , Veir Julia K. , Dow Steven W.
Published: March 2012

Objective—To evaluate the efficacy of administration of a single 12-mL dose of canine parvovirus (CPV)-immune plasma for treatment of CPV enteritis.

Design—Prospective, randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled clinical trial.

Animals—14 dogs with naturally occurring CPV enteritis.

Procedures—Dogs were assigned to treatment groups on the basis of randomization tables and were administered a single IV dose of CPV-immune plasma (treatment group) or an equivalent volume of saline (0.9% NaCl) solution (placebo group) within 18 hours after admission to the hospital. Treatment and outcome variables evaluated included neutrophil, monocyte, and CPV counts; number of days of hospitalization; changes in body weight; and cost of treatment.

Results—When dogs treated with CPV-immune plasma were compared with dogs treated with saline solution, there were no significant differences detected among neutrophil or monocyte counts, magnitude of viremia, weight change, number of days of hospitalization, or cost of treatment.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Administration of a single 12-mL dose of immune plasma soon after the onset of CPV enteritis in dogs was not effective in ameliorating clinical signs, reducing viremia, or hastening hematologic recovery.
A systematic review of the safety of potassium bromide in dogs
Authors: Baird-Heinz Hope E. , Van Schoick A'ndrea L. , Pelsor Francis R. , Ranivand Lauren , Hungerford Laura L.
Published: March 2012

Objective—To critically evaluate and summarize available information on the safety of potassium bromide in dogs.

Design—Systematic review.

Sample—111 references reporting safety information relevant to potassium bromide published between 1938 and 2011.

Procedures—PubMed searches without date limitations were conducted with the terms “potassium bromide” and “sodium bromide” in December 2009 and October 2011. Additional articles were identified through examination of article reference lists and book chapters on seizures in dogs and pharmacology.

Results—Reversible neurologic signs were the most consistently reported toxicoses and were generally associated with adjunctive potassium bromide treatment or high serum bromide concentrations. Dermatologic and respiratory abnormalities were rare in dogs. Insufficient information was available to assess the effects of potassium bromide on behavior or to determine the incidence of vomiting, weight gain, polyphagia, pancreatitis, polyuria, polydipsia, or reproductive abnormalities associated with potassium bromide administration. Evidence suggested that administration of potassium bromide with food may alleviate gastrointestinal irritation and that monitoring for polyphagia, thyroid hormone abnormalities, and high serum bromide concentrations may be beneficial.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggested that potassium bromide is not an appropriate choice for treatment of every dog with seizures and that practitioners should tailor therapeutic regimens and clinical monitoring to each dog. Abrupt dietary changes or fluid therapy may compromise seizure control or increase the likelihood of adverse events. Availability of an appropriately labeled, approved potassium bromide product could provide better assurance for veterinarians and their clients of the quality, safety, and effectiveness of the product for veterinary use.
Teacher-Carried Research as a Tool for Teachers' Professional Growth
Authors: Iliško Dzintra , Ignatjeva Svetlana , Mičule Ilona
Published: March 2012

Teacher-Carried Research as a Tool for Teachers' Professional Growth

Inquiry among the schoolteachers' needs to be embedded, cultivated, sustained and nurtured as a tool for a better understanding of the processes in the education and for fostering teachers' ongoing professional growth. This study explores teachers' self-evaluation of their competency to conduct research and to incorporate it in the classroom. Both qualitative and quantitative research methods were employed to seek answers about teachers' engagement with research and to explore the factors of resistance for carrying out research in the classroom setting. This study also dwells upon some mechanisms that lead teachers to carry out research. The focus group interviews which were conducted reflect on the factors that encourage teachers to become more involved in the research and point to the advantages they perceive as emanating from the research. The qualitative part of inquiry reflects teachers' narrative ways of construction and reconstruction of their personal and professional knowledge. The authors discuss the processes that foster teachers to move from the fragmentary use of research strategies to the ability to live in the inquiry, practice new behaviours in the classroom, unlearn the old ones, reflect in action and stay open to a range of new initiatives.
The required characteristics of ensiled crops used as a feedstock for biogas production: a review
Authors: Kalač Pavel
Published: March 2012

The required characteristics of ensiled crops used as a feedstock for biogas production: a review

Maize and grass silages are the main feedstock for anaerobic digestion in agricultural biogas plants. High-quality silage is necessary for high methane yields. Grasses should be cut and ensiled at leafy stages, until full heading, prior to an extensive lignification. Late ripening maize varieties should be harvested towards full ripening due to the increasing starch content in grains, and early to medium ripening varieties at the end of waxy ripeness. The substrate availability for methanogens is improved by fine chopping. Pretreatment processes of a thermal, chemical or biological nature attempting to disrupt lignocellulosic matter are economically demanding, including the application of enzyme hydrolysing structural polysaccharides. Application of lactic acid bacteria inoculants at ensiling seems to have an insignificant effect on methane yields. Some micronutrients necessary for methanogens growth are often deficient in the silages and particularly cobalt, nickel and iron should be supplemented. Maize silage has too low nitrogen content for methanogens growth. The high acidity of silage needs to be partially neutralised prior to anaerobic digestion.
A review of ascorbic acid potentialities against oxidative stress induced in plants
Authors: Khan Taqi , Mazid Mohd , Mohammad Firoz
Published: March 2012

A review of ascorbic acid potentialities against oxidative stress induced in plants

Ascorbic acid (AA) currently holds a significant position in plant physiology, mainly due to its possession of antioxidant and cellular reductant etc.properties and its diverse roles in plant growth and development and the regulation of a broad spectrum of plant cellular mechanisms against environmental stresses. Some researchers suggest that endogenous AA has been implicated in the promotion of plant growth and development by involvement in a complex and enigmatic array of phytohormone-regulated signalling networks that ties together different environmental stresses. As it is evident from the present review, recent progress on AA potentiality in the tolerance of plants to environmental stresses has been impressive. Indeed, AA plays an important role in resistance to oxidative stresses such as heavy metal, saline, ultra-violet etc. Rapidly increasing evidence indicates that AA is centrally involved in several physiological processes but there has been much disagreement regarding the mechanism(s) by which AA reduces the damaging effects of such stresses in plants. Perhaps the role of AA in mediating tolerance to abiotic stress (e.g. UV, salinity and temperature, etc.) will lead to a greater research focus in the near future. In addition, AA might provide a suitably attractive target for the enhancement of crop production.
Milk quality of the Original Valachian in a submontane region
Authors: Pešinová Petra , Vejčík Antonín , Maršálek Miroslav
Published: March 2012

Milk quality of the Original Valachian in a submontane region

The aim of this study was to evaluate the milk efficiency of Original Valachian (OV) Sheep. The flock under scrutiny is kept at pasture at an altitude of 600 m in the Novohradske Mountains, and samples were taken from morning milking roughly in four to five weekly intervals during the period from April to August. The milking was begun on average on the 50th day of lactation, and was carried out mechanically. A total of 862 samples were analysed from an average of 54 ewes over the the years 2006-09. After an evaluation of the essential components of ewe's milk from the flock of OV lambing ewes during lactation these average values were found: fat 4.90 g 100 g-1, crude protein 5.94 g 100 g-1, casein 4.40 g 100 g-1, serum protein 1.18 g 100 g-1, lactose 5.07 g 100 g-1, dry matter 16.45 g 100 g-1, solid not fat 11.63 g 100 g-1 and utilizable dry matter 10.85 g 100 g-1. OV had an average daily milk yield of 0.70 l. Fat, protein, casein, serum protein and dry matter showed rising trends during lactation. During the total period of measurement the average protein content of OVmilk did not drop below 5 g 100 g-1, in contrast to fat, which was under 3 g 100 g-1. The lactose content rose at the beginning of lactation, after it showed a degressive trend. The amounts of utilizable dry matter during our experiment showed a fluctuating trend.