bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optical generation and spatially distinct interferometric detection of ultrahigh frequency surface acoustic waves
Authors: Hurley D. H.
Published: May 2006

Generation and interferometric detection of 22GHz surface acoustic waves (SAWs) using two laterally separated absorption gratings on a Si substrate are presented. Optical phase sensitive detection of SAWs is demonstrated using a modified Sagnac interferometer. The reflection characteristics of the suboptical wavelength grating necessitate the use of only linear polarization. This is accomplished by employing a Faraday rotator to ensure path reversal of the reference and signal pulses. The enhanced sensitivity of the interferometer is exploited to measure the acoustic disturbance on an identical absorption grating at a distance of ∼4.5μm from the generation site.
Photothermal fabrication of microstructures in transparent low-melting media doped with rare earth ions as a light absorber
Authors: Takahashi Masahide , Saito Masanori , Mizuno Megumi , Kakiuchida Hiroshi , Tokuda Yomei , Yoko Toshinobu
Published: May 2006

Microstructures were fabricated by a photothermal process in a low-melting organic-inorganic hybrid material of tin silicophosphate doped with Nd3+ ion as a light absorber. The negative refractive index change of the order of 10−3 was photothermally induced inside the low-melting glass with a spatial resolution ranging from 10to100μm using a 514.5nm emission from an Ar+ laser of less than 30mW as the excitation source. The volume expansion due to the photogenerated heat at the laser focus is found to be responsible for the photothermally induced negative photorefractive index change.
Factors affecting female reproductive success and the survival of pouch young in the threatened brush-tailed rock-wallaby, Petrogale penicillata
Authors: Wynd Naomi M. , Sigg Dominique P. , Pople Anthony R. , Hazlitt Stephanie L. , Goldizen Anne W.
Published: May 2006

Knowledge of factors affecting the survival of individuals and their reproductive success is essential for threatened species management, but studies assessing these factors are lacking for many threatened rock-wallaby species. In this study we investigated the factors influencing the breeding performance of females and the survival of pouch young in a wild colony of the threatened brush-tailed rock-wallaby. Individuals were trapped between October 2000 and April 2004. More than 50% of the females in the colony were breeding below their full potential and giving birth to only one offspring per year. Most females within the colony bred in synchrony, with a substantial birth peak evident during autumn. Pouch young born in autumn left the pouch during spring and were weaned during summer and autumn when forage was most abundant. Pouch young born during the autumn birth peak or in winter had a substantially higher probability of surviving through to pouch emergence than those born during spring or summer. This study provides demographic parameters that may be used in population models and for comparison with other populations, particularly those that are small and declining. To optimise reproductive success in reintroduction programs, females in good condition and with small pouch young should be released at the end of the wettest season.
Development of mound-building in Australian brush-turkeys (Alectura lathami): the role of learning, testosterone and body mass
Authors: Göth Ann , Astheimer Lee
Published: May 2006

Australian brush-turkeys (Alectura lathami) hatch in incubation mounds of organic material and have no parental role models to learn from. When raised in outdoor aviaries, without adults, four of six males built incubation mounds at an early age of 4.5–9 months. The two males without mounds were the only ones without detectable levels of testosterone (T) at 4.5 months, whereas body mass did not explain the presence or absence of mound building. At the age of 11 months, all males had detectable T, including those without mounds. This study also investigated the development of social dominance in males kept in mixed-sex groups for 4.5 months. At this latter age, higher-ranked males tended to have higher T levels (P = 0.076), whereas dominance ranks at 4.5 months were not correlated with body mass or size, either at this age or at hatching. Overall, these results suggest that mound building develops without learning, and there is a relationship between T levels and dominance status as well as the absence or presence of mound building. These findings contribute to discussions on the role of learning in behavioural development and the role of T and body mass in avian life history.
Aurora-B/AIM-1 Regulates the Dynamic Behavior of HP1α at the G2–M Transition
Authors: Terada Yasuhiko
Published: May 2006

Heterochromatin protein 1 (HP1) plays an important role in heterochromatin formation and undergoes large-scale, progressive dissociation from heterochromatin in prophase cells. However, the mechanisms regulating the dynamic behavior of HP1 are poorly understood. In this study, the role of Aurora-B was investigated with respect to the dynamic behavior of HP1α. Mammalian Aurora-B, AIM-1, colocalizes with HP1α to the heterochromatin in G2. Depletion of Aurora-B/AIM-1 inhibited dissociation of HP1α from the chromosome arms at the G2–M transition. In addition, depletion of INCENP led to aberrant cellular localization of Aurora-B/AIM-1, but it did not affect heterochromatin targeting of HP1α. It was proposed in the binary switch hypothesis that phosphorylation of histone H3 at Ser-10 negatively regulates the binding of HP1α to the adjacent methylated Lys-9. However, Aurora-B/AIM-1-mediated phosphorylation of H3 induced dissociation of the HP1α chromodomain but not of the intact protein in vitro, indicating that the center and/or C-terminal domain of HP1α interferes with the effect of H3 phosphorylation on HP1α dissociation. Interestingly, Lys-9 methyltransferase SUV39H1 is abnormally localized together along the metaphase chromosome arms in Aurora-B/AIM-1–depleted cells. In conclusion, these results showed that Aurora-B/AIM-1 is necessary for regulated histone modifications involved in binding of HP1α by the N terminus of histone H3 during mitosis.
Shotgun proteomics of cyanobacteria—applications of experimental and data-mining techniques
Authors: Barrios-Llerena Martin E. , Chong Poh Kuan , Gan Chee Sian , Snijders Ambrosius P. L. , Reardon Kenneth F. , Wright Phillip C.
Published: May 2006

Cyanobacteria are photosynthetic bacteria notable for their ability to produce hydrogen and a variety of interesting secondary metabolites. As a result of the growing number of completed cyanobacterial genome projects, the development of post-genomics analysis for this important group has been accelerating. DNA microarrays and classical two-dimensional gel electrophoresis (2DE) were the first technologies applied in such analyses. In many other systems, ‘shotgun’ proteomics employing multi-dimensional liquid chromatography and tandem mass spectrometry has proven to be a powerful tool. However, this approach has been relatively under-utilized in cyanobacteria. This study assesses progress in cyanobacterial shotgun proteomics to date, and adds a new perspective by developing a protocol for the shotgun proteomic analysis of the filamentous cyanobacterium Anabaena variabilis ATCC 29413, a model for N2 fixation. Using approaches for enhanced protein extraction, 646 proteins were identified, which is more than double the previous results obtained using 2DE. Notably, the improved extraction method and shotgun approach resulted in a significantly higher representation of basic and hydrophobic proteins. The use of protein bioinformatics tools to further mine these shotgun data is illustrated through the application of PSORTb for localization, the grand average hydropathy (GRAVY) index for hydrophobicity, LipoP for lipoproteins and the exponentially modified protein abundance index (emPAI) for abundance. The results are compared with the most well-studied cyanobacterium, Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803. Some general issues in shotgun proteome identification and quantification are then addressed.
Allergic contact dermatitis toPlectranthus amboinicusmasquerading as chronic leg ulcer
Authors: Chang Shyue‐Luen , Chang Ya‐Ching , Yang Chin‐Hsun , Hong Hong‐Shang
Published: May 2006

This report discusses a case of a 69‐year‐old woman who developed chronic non‐healing leg ulcers after long‐term topical use ofPlectranthus amboinicus. The ulcer was proven to be allergic contact dermatitis toP. amboinicusby a patch test. The ulcer healed after discontinuation ofP. amboinicus. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first reported case of allergic contact dermatitis toP. amboinicusmasquerading as chronic leg ulcer.
Assessment of skin exposure to nickel, chromium and cobalt by acid wipe sampling and ICP‐MS
Authors: Lidén Carola , Skare Lizbet , Lind Birger , Nise Gun , Vahter Marie
Published: May 2006

There is a great need to accurately assess skin exposure to contact allergens. We have developed a technique for assessment of skin exposure to nickel, chromium and cobalt using acid wipe sampling by cellulose wipes with 1% nitric acid. Chemical analysis was performed by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP‐MS). The recovery of nickel, chromium and cobalt from arms and palms was 93%. The analytical result is expressed in terms of mass per unit area (μg/cm2). The developed acid wipe sampling technique is suitable for determination of nickel, chromium and cobalt deposited on the skin. The technique may be used in workplace studies, in studies of individuals in the general population, in dermatitis patients, in identification of risk groups, as well as in developing preventive strategies and in follow‐up after intervention.
Turning down the system: counter‐regulatory mechanisms in bone and adaptive immunity
Authors: Wein Marc N. , Jones Dallas C. , Glimcher Laurie H.
Published: May 2006

Summary:  Major advances have been made in recent years toward the identification of transcription factors that control cell‐type‐specific gene expression in the skeletal and adaptive immune systems. However, the identification of factors necessary and sufficient to drive production of effector cell proteins such as matrix components and cytokines represents the first step toward understanding how cells in bone and the adaptive system achieve their highly specialized functions. Here, we provide selected examples of counter‐regulatory mechanisms that serve to turn down cells involved in extracellular matrix biosynthesis and adaptive immunity at the level of the transcription factors Runx2 and nuclear factor for the activation of T cells.
The role of immune cells and inflammatory cytokines in Paget's disease and multiple myeloma
Authors: Ehrlich Lori A. , Roodman G. David
Published: May 2006

Summary:  The osteoclast (OCL) is the primary cell involved in the pathogenesis of Paget's disease (PD) and the destructive bone process in multiple myeloma (MM). Both of these diseases are characterized by increased numbers of OCLs actively resorbing bone, but they differ in that bone formation is greatly increased in PD and is suppressed in MM. The marrow microenvironment plays a critical role in both disease processes, through the increased expression of inflammatory cytokines that enhance osteoclastogenesis and, in the case of MM, also suppress osteoblast (OBL) activity. In addition, the OCLs in PD are intrinsically abnormal, are markedly increased in number and size, and are hyper‐responsive to inflammatory cytokines and 1,25‐(OH)2D3. This article discusses the role of immune cells and inflammatory cytokines and chemokines in the increased OCL activity in PD and MM bone disease, as well as the potential role of interleukin‐3 in the suppression of OBL activity in MM.
Interplay between interferon and other cytokine systems in bone metabolism
Authors: Takayanagi Hiroshi , Sato Kojiro , Takaoka Akinori , Taniguchi Tadatsugu
Published: May 2006

Summary:  Interferons (IFNs) play crucial roles in the regulation of a wide variety of innate and adaptive immune responses. Type I interferons (IFN‐α/β) are central to the host defense against pathogens such as viruses, whereas type II interferon (IFN‐γ) mainly contributes to the T‐cell‐mediated regulation of the immune responses. Studies of bone destruction associated with rheumatoid arthritis have highlighted the importance of the interaction between the immune and skeletal systems. Recently, a new research area, termed osteoimmunology, has been spawned by a series of studies focusing on the signaling networks between IFN and other cytokines in bone metabolisms. It has been revealed that IFN‐γ interferes with the osteoclast differentiation induced by receptor activator of nuclear factor‐κB ligand (RANKL), and this mechanism is critical for the suppression of pathological bone resorption associated with inflammation. In addition, RANKL induces the IFN‐β gene in osteoclast precursor cells, and this induction constitutes a critical aspect of the negative feedback regulation mechanisms of RANKL signaling to suppress excessive osteoclastogenesis. Furthermore, a novel function of signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 (Stat1), the essential transcription factor for both type I and type II IFN responses, was revealed in the regulation of osteoblast differentiation. Collectively, these studies unveil novel aspects of the IFN system and indicate the operation of the intricate signaling network among IFN and other cytokine systems in bone remodeling, which might offer a molecular basis for the treatment of bone diseases.
The impact of later trading hours for hotels on levels of impaired driver road crashes and driver breath alcohol levels
Authors: Chikritzhs Tanya , Stockwell Tim
Published: May 2006

Aim To examine the impact of later trading hours for licensed hotels in Perth, Western Australia on levels of associated impaired driver road crashes and driver breath alcohol levels (BALs).

Design Police data on the ‘last place of drinking’ for impaired drivers involved in road crashes and their corresponding BALs were examined to identify those associated with Perth hotels between 1 July 1990 and 30 June 1997. During this period, 43 (23%) of the 186 hotels meeting study criteria were granted an Extended Trading Permit for 1 a.m. closing (ETP hotels), while the rest continued to close at midnight (non‐ETP hotels). Time‐series analyses employing multiple linear regressions were applied to determine whether an association existed between the introduction of extended trading and (i) monthly levels of impaired driver road crashes associated with ETP hotels and (ii) driver BALs associated with ETP hotels. Trends associated with non‐ETP hotels were included as controls and possible confounders were considered.

Findings After controlling for the trend in crash rates associated with non‐ETP hotels and the introduction of mobile police breath testing stations to Perth freeways, a significant increase in monthly crash rates for ETP hotels was found. This relationship was largely accounted for by higher volumes of high‐alcohol content beer, wine and spirits purchased by ETP hotels. No relation was found between driver BALs and the introduction of ETPs.

Conclusions Late trading was associated with increased levels of impaired driver road crashes and alcohol consumption, particularly high‐risk alcoholic beverages. Greater numbers of patrons and characteristics specific to clientele of hotels which applied for late trading hours (i.e. younger age, greater propensity to drunk‐drive, preference for high‐risk beverages) were suggested as having contributed to this increase.
Reflections on the ‘discovery’ of the antimalarial qinghao
Authors: Hsu Elisabeth
Published: May 2006

Artemisinin, qinghaosu, was extracted from the traditional Chinese medical drug qinghao (the blue‐green herb) in the early 1970s. Its ‘discovery’ can thus be hailed as an achievement of research groups who were paradoxically successful, working as they were at the height of a political mass movement in communist China, known in the West as the Cultural Revolution (1966–1976), a period that was marked by chaos, cruelty and enormous suffering, particularly, but by no means only, among the intelligentsia. On the one hand, China’s cultural heritage was seen as a hindrance to progress and Mao set out to destroy it, but on the other hand he praised it as a ‘treasure house’, full of gems that, if adjusted to the demands of contemporary society, could be used ‘for serving the people’ (wei renmin fuwu). The success of the ‘task of combating malaria’ (kang nüe ren wu), sometimes known as ‘task number five hundred and twenty‐three’, depended crucially on modern scientists who took seriously knowledge that was recorded in a traditional Chinese medical text, Emergency Prescriptions Kept up one’s Sleeve by the famous physician Ge Hong (284–363).
Oral tolerance induction by mucosal administration of cholera toxin B‐coupled antigen involves T‐cell proliferation in vivo and is not affected by depletion of CD25+ T cells
Authors: George Chandy Annie , Hultkrantz Susanne , Raghavan Sukanya , Czerkinsky Cecil , Lebens Michael , Telemo Esbjörn , Holmgren Jan
Published: May 2006

Oral administration of antigens coupled to the B subunit of the cholera toxin (CTB) can dramatically reduce the amount of antigen needed for tolerance induction and has been used in several animal models to suppress conditions where the immune system overreacts to foreign and self‐antigens. In this study, the cellular events following oral administration of CTB‐coupled antigen was investigated. As a model system, limited numbers of CSFE‐labelled cells from influenza haemagglutinin peptide (HApep) T‐cell transgenic mice were transferred to wild type mice and the mice were then given CTB‐coupled HApep orally. The inductive events of CTB‐induced tolerance was characterized by extensive proliferation of HApep‐specific T cells in the mesenteric lymph nodes (MLNs) and in the spleen. The proliferating cells up‐regulated the gut homing molecule α4β7 and down‐regulated the high endothelial venule binding molecule l‐selectin. Addition of the whole cholera toxin (CT) to CTB‐HApep showed a similar pattern as CTB‐HApep feeding, with antigen‐specific proliferation in the MLN and spleen and expression of α4β7 on the proliferating cells. However, addition of CT to CTB‐HApep, produced a stronger and faster proliferative response and abrogated CTB‐HA mediated oral tolerance. Feeding of CTB‐HApep expanded CD25+ cells in the MLNs. CTB‐induced oral tolerance could, however, not be explained by CD25+ dependent regulatory activity, as oral administration of CTB‐HApep to mice depleted of CD25+ cells still gave rise to systemic tolerance. Thus, several mechanisms might co‐orchestrate the systemic tolerance seen in response to feeding with CTB‐coupled antigen.
Critical factors influencing prion inactivation by sodium hydroxide
Authors: Bauman P. A. , Lawrence L. A. , Biesert L. , Dichtelmüller H. , Fabbrizzi F. , Gajardo R. , Gröner A. , Jorquera J. I. , Kempf C. , Kreil T. R. , Von Hoegen I. , Pifat D. Y. , Petteway S. R. , Cai K.
Published: May 2006

Background and Objectives  Transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs) are fatal neurodegenerative diseases caused by aberrantly folded cellular proteins (PrPSc; prions) that are generally resistant to conventional pathogen‐inactivation techniques. To ensure effective decontamination and inactivation of prions that could be present in source material, we investigated critical factors that influence prion inactivation by NaOH.

Materials and Methods  A decrease in prion infectivity correlates with the disappearance of the protease‐resistant core of PrPSc (PrPRES) observed in biochemical assays. To model prion inactivation, hamster scrapie (strain 263K) brain homogenate (SBH) was incubated for specific periods of time in 0·1 m NaOH at 4 or 18 °C, with or without detergent. Neutralized samples were subjected to limited digestion with proteinase K (PK) and then analysed using an endpoint dilution western blot assay and antibody 3F4. Structural changes in prions exposed to NaOH were examined using differential immunoprecipitation.

Results  Treatment of SBH with 0·1 m NaOH for 15 min, in the absence of detergent, at 4 and 18 °C caused a reduction in the PrPRES signal of 3·5 and 4·0 log10 units, respectively, with some residual signal remaining. The presence of the detergent sarkosyl during a 60‐min incubation in NaOH further enhanced PrPRES reduction to ≥ 4·5 log10 units (i.e. below the limit of detection). NaOH treatment induced conformational changes in PrP that resulted in the exposure of a hidden epitope and enabled prion immunoprecipitation by antibody 3F4.

Conclusions  The use of NaOH can effectively reduce prion levels in an in vitro inactivation assay. After pretreatment of SBH with detergent, NaOH completely eliminates the PrPRES signal. Detergent may liberate lipid membrane‐protected PrPSc to improve access to NaOH, which can then inactivate PrPSc by altering its structure. In cases of unidentified exposure to PrPSc during manufacturing, sanitizing procedures combining the use of detergent and NaOH may help to ensure minimal levels of contamination carryover in products.
Changes in Semen Quality in Estonian Holstein AI Bulls at 3, 5 and 7 years of Age
Authors: Hallap T , Jaakma Ü , Rodriguez‐Martinez H
Published: May 2006

Contents

The predictability of semen quality of mature sires from measurements at an early age is not well established. The aim of the present study was to determine age‐dependent changes in the quality of bull semen from six Estonian Holstein (EHF) bulls, processed when the sires were 3, 5 and 7 years old. Fertility data such as 60‐day non‐return to oestrus rates (60d‐NRRs) were available for 3‐year‐old bulls. From each batch, semen straws were analysed immediately after thawing [i.e. post‐thaw (PT)] (controls) and after a swim‐up (SU) procedure. The analyses comprised subjective and computerized measurements of sperm motility using computer‐assisted sperm analysis (CASA) as well as estimations of sperm concentration, morphology and membrane integrity. There was a significant (p < 0.05) increase in the percentage of sperm motility (SU), membrane integrity (PT, SU) and normal tail and acrosome morphology (SU) with an increase in the age of the sires. The percentage of total motile spermatozoa PT measured by CASA correlated between 3‐ and 7‐, and between 5‐ and 7‐year‐old bulls (p < 0.05). In addition, the proportion of head abnormalities tended to correlate between all three age groups both PT and after SU (p < 0.1). The sperm parameters correlating with fertility were average path velocity (VAP) (p < 0.001), total motility as measured by CASA (p < 0.01), linearly motile spermatozoa (p < 0.05) and CASA‐assessed numbers of motile spermatozoa (p < 0.05), all after SU selection. The results showed that overall semen quality examined at 3 years of age is related to the semen parameters later in bulls’ life. Moreover, CASA‐assessed motility after SU seems to be a reliable marker for semen quality assessment as it shows correlation not only between the ages, but also to field fertility.
Comparative analysis between psychological and endoscopic profiles in patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease: A prospective study based on screening endoscopy
Authors: LEE YI‐CHIA , WANG HSIU‐PO , CHIU HAN‐MO , LIAO SHIH‐CHENG , HUANG SHIH‐PEI , LAI YO‐PING , WU MING‐SHIANG , CHEN MING‐FONG , LIN JAW‐TOWN
Published: May 2006

Background:  Associations between psychological and endoscopic profiles are not clearly validated among the heterogeneous patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The purpose of the present paper was therefore to identify any associations by means of cross‐sectional study.

Methods:  Consecutive participants in a health screening program were enrolled. Definition and severity of erosive esophagitis were assessed with Los Angeles classification. Frequency and severity of psychological symptoms were measured with a 30‐item Brief Symptom Rating Scale (BSRS) and personality traits with a short form of the Maudsley Personality Inventory (MPI). Statistic analyses were performed based on the presence of GERD symptoms or endoscopic esophagitis.

Results:  A total of 4600 participants were recruited. There were 1331 subjects (29%) with manifestations suggesting GERD, including non‐erosive reflux disease (NERD) in 488 (10.6%), symptomatic erosive esophagitis (SEE) in 164 (3.6%), and asymptomatic erosive esophagitis (AEE) in 679 (14.8%). The BSRS parameters were significantly higher in symptomatic subjects (i.e. NERD and SEE subjects; P < 0.001); neuroticism scores were also higher (P < 0.001), but extroversion scores (P < 0.001) were lower than those of asymptomatic subjects. Following logistic regression analysis, independent risk factors for GERD symptoms were female gender (odds ratio [OR]: 1.596; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.303–1.955) and higher neuroticism scores (OR: 1.046; 95%CI: 1.032–1.06). For erosive esophagitis, independent risk factors were male gender (OR: 2.943; 95%CI: 2.359–3.671) and higher body mass index scores (OR: 1.098; 95%CI: 1.069–1.127).

Conclusions:  Psychological characteristics predict likelihood of GERD symptoms but not structural state of esophagus. Male gender and obesity are risk factors for erosive esophagitis; whereas female gender and neuroticism are more likely to be associated with GERD symptoms.
Vegetation condition assessment and monitoring from sequences of satellite imagery
Authors: Wallace Jeremy , Behn Graeme , Furby Suzanne
Published: May 2006

Summary  Vegetation changes over time are important indicators of condition, and are particularly important as targets or triggers for management. Satellite image data have unique capacities to provide information on changes in vegetation. In particular, Landsat imagery has the spatial resolution and a historical archive that make it relevant to providing information for understanding and management of native vegetation at a range of scales from small remnant to region. Regional and national vegetation monitoring programs based on time series Landsat imagery are now operational in Australia. These programs and their data have huge potential to provide information for conservation and natural resource management questions. They have already found multiple applications, including applications to biodiversity assessment and planning. This paper presents some examples of the delivery and application of satellite image monitoring information in the context of vegetation management.
Landscape scenario modelling of vegetation condition
Authors: Drielsma Michael , Ferrier Simon
Published: May 2006

Summary  Landscape scenario modelling is a useful aid to planning for biodiversity conservation. Vegetation condition modelling is increasingly being integrated into such analysis. Model complexity and model uncertainty are critical factors that must be addressed when tailoring vegetation condition modelling to individual applications. We describe three approaches that we have used to compare the effects of different landscape scenarios on vegetation condition. The first is a simple land‐use–condition approach where vegetation condition is determined solely by land use. The second is a land‐use–regeneration approach that introduces transition functions to model vegetation condition dynamics associated with land use change. The third is a threat–regeneration approach, which models vegetation condition dynamics based on the interaction between regeneration and a range of mapped threats. The three approaches represent a progression towards increased refinement and realism, but also increased complexity and data requirements. We examine the relative usefulness of the three approaches and conclude that there is no single ‘silver bullet’ solution but recommend judicious matching of approaches to applications within a collaborative and adaptive setting.
The role of cerebrospinal fluid on neural cell survival in the developing chick cerebral cortex: an in vivo study
Authors: Salehi Z. , Mashayekhi F.
Published: May 2006

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is secreted by the choroid plexuses located in the lateral, third and fourth ventricles. The fluid flows through the ventricular system, passing over all the regions of germinal activity. CSF contains growth factors and other neurotrophic factors, which are important for cell survival and proliferation. It has been shown that nerve growth factor deprivation induces apoptosis in the developing cerebral cortex. In this study, disruption of normal CSF flow on neural cell survival in the developing cortex has been investigated. Draining CSF from the ventricles of the brain during development increases the number of neural cell deaths and thinning of the cerebral cortex compared with normal ones. These data from our study indicate that normal CSF circulation is important for the survival of cells in the developing cerebral cortex and thus of CSF in the normal chick cerebral cortex development.
Exploring mental status in Friedreich's ataxia: a combined neuropsychological, behavioral and neuroimaging study
Authors: Mantovan M. C. , Martinuzzi A. , Squarzanti F. , Bolla A. , Silvestri I. , Liessi G. , Macchi C. , Ruzza G. , Trevisan C. P. , Angelini C.
Published: May 2006

Despite much evidence of cognitive and affective disorders in Friedreich's ataxia (FRDA), the nature of mental status in FRDA has received little systematic attention. It has been proposed that the cerebellum may interfere indirectly with cognition through the cerebello‐cortical loops, whereas the role of pathological changes in different areas of the central nervous system is still undetermined. In the present study, 13 patients with molecularly determined FRDA and a group of matched controls were evaluated by a comprehensive battery of neuropsychological tests and the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory. A repetitive task of simple visual‐reaction times was used to investigate implicit learning in all subjects. Pathological changes in cortical areas were explored comparing cerebral activations of patients and controls during finger movements (functional MRI). The intelligence profile of FRDA patients is characterized by concrete thinking, poor capacity in concept formation and visuospatial reasoning. FRDA patients show reduced speed of information processing. The learning effect seen in controls was notably absent in patients with FRDA. The patients’ personality is characterized by some pathological aspects and reduced defensiveness. Patterns of cortical activation during finger movements are heterogeneous in patients compared to controls. Cognitive impairment, mood disorders and motor deficits in FRDA patients may be the result of the cumulative damage caused by frataxin deficiency not only in the cerebellum and spinal cord but also in other brain areas.
Risk and predictors of early epileptic seizures in acute cerebral venous and sinus thrombosis
Authors: Masuhr F. , Busch M. , Amberger N. , Ortwein H. , Weih M. , Neumann K. , Einhäupl K. , Mehraein S.
Published: May 2006

We assessed the risk and determined predictors of early epileptic seizures (ES) in patients with acute cerebral venous and sinus thrombosis (CVST). A prospective series of 194 consecutive patients with acute CVST admitted to neurological wards in two German university hospitals was analysed for frequency of ES and in‐hospital mortality. Demographic, clinical and radiological characteristics during the acute stage were retrospectively analysed for significant association with ES in univariate and multivariate analyses. During the acute stage, 19 patients (9.8%) died. Early symptomatic seizures were found in 86 patients (44.3%). Status epilepticus occurred in 11 patients (12.8%) of whom four died. Amongst patients with epileptic seizures, mortality was three times higher in those with status than in those without (36.4% and 12%, respectively). In multivariate logistic regression analysis, motor deficit [odds ratio (OR) 5.8; 95% CI 2.98–11.42; P < 0.001], intracranial haemorrhage (OR 2.8; 95% CI 1.46–5.56; P = 0.002) and cortical vein thrombosis (OR 2.9; 95% CI 1.43–5.96; P = 0.003) were independent predictors of early epileptic seizures. Status epilepticus was an important source of morbidity and early mortality in patients with CVST in this study. Patients with focal motor deficits, cortical vein thrombosis and intracranial haemorrhage carried the highest risk for ES. Prophylactic antiepileptic treatment may be an option for these patients.
Blink reflex abnormalities in children with Tourette syndrome
Authors: Raffaele R. , Rampello L. , Vecchio I. , Alvano A. , Rizzo R. , Pavone P. , Maci T. , Perciavalle V.
Published: May 2006

Tourette syndrome (TS) is a common disorder which typically occurs during childhood or early adolescence. There is no definitive diagnostic test for TS. The objective of this study was to demonstrate whether neurophysiological abnormalities of the blink reflex can be observed in children with TS. We enrolled 15 children with TS, diagnosed according to DSM IV Diagnostic Criteria, and 15 controls. The blink reflex was elicited by stimulating the supraorbital nerve in order to measure the early response (R1), homolateral and contralateral R2 (late) responses, amplitude of R1 and duration of R2. The mean duration of R2 was significantly longer in TS patients than in the controls (P < 0.001, Student's t‐test). An abnormal pattern of the blink reflex can be, even in childhood, an early neurophysiologic marker of TS, which is not related to the duration of TS or to the age of onset.
Phospholipase D2 functions as a downstream signaling molecule of MAP kinase pathway in L1‐stimulated neurite outgrowth of cerebellar granule neurons
Authors: Watanabe Hiroshi , Yamazaki Masakazu , Miyazaki Hideyuki , Arikawa Chihiro , Itoh Kouichi , Sasaki Takehiko , Maehama Tomohiko , Frohman Michael A. , Kanaho Yasunori
Published: May 2006

Stimulation of the neuronal cell adhesion molecule L1 in cerebellar granule neurons (CGNs) enhances neurite outgrowth and this response is inhibited by the primary alcohol ethanol. Because primary alcohols suppress the formation of the signaling lipid phosphatidic acid (PA) by phospholipase D (PLD), this observation prompted us to investigate whether PLD plays a role in the L1‐mediated neurite outgrowth in CGNs. In the cerebellum of postnatal day 8 mice, PLD2 protein was abundantly expressed, while PLD1 expression was not detected. The L1‐stimulated neurite outgrowth was inhibited by primary alcohols and by overexpression of lipase‐deficient PLD2. Increases in cellular PA levels by direct PA application or overexpression of wild‐type PLD2 mimicked the L1‐dependent stimulation of neurite outgrowth. Furthermore, it was found that L1 stimulation in CGNs increased PLD activity concomitantly with phosphorylation of extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK), both of which were inhibited by the MAP kinase‐ERK kinase (MEK) inhibitor. These results provide evidence that PLD2 functions as a downstream signaling molecule of ERK to mediate the L1‐dependent neurite outgrowth of CGNs, a mechanism that may be related to alcohol‐related neurodevelopmental disorders.
Aging in the rat hippocampus is associated with widespread reductions in the number of glutamate decarboxylase‐67 positive interneurons but not interneuron degeneration
Authors: Stanley Dirk P. , Shetty Ashok K.
Published: May 2006

Increased excitability of principal excitatory neurons is one of the hallmarks of aging in the hippocampus, signifying a diminution in the number and/or function of inhibitory interneurons with aging. To elucidate this, we performed comprehensive GABA‐ergic interneuron cell counts in all layers of the dentate gyrus and the CA1 and CA3 subfields, using serial sections from adult, middle‐aged and aged Fischer 344 rats. Sections were immunostained for glutamate decarboxylase‐67 (GAD‐67, a synthesizing enzyme of GABA) and GAD‐67 immunopositive interneurons were counted using an unbiased cell counting method, the optical fractionator. Substantial declines in the absolute number of GAD‐67 immunopositive interneurons were found in all hippocampal layers/subfields of middle‐aged and aged animals, in comparison with the adult animals. However, the counts were comparable between the middle‐aged and aged groups for all regions. Interestingly, determination of the absolute number of interneurons using neuron‐specific nuclear antigen (NeuN) expression in the strata oriens and radiatum of CA1 and CA3 subfields revealed an analogous number of interneurons across the three age groups. Furthermore, the ratio of GAD‐67 immunopositive and NeuN positive interneurons decreased from adult age to middle age but remained relatively static between middle age and old age. Collectively, the results underscore that aging in the hippocampus is associated with wide‐ranging decreases in the number of GAD‐67 immunopositive interneurons and most of the age‐related changes in GAD‐67 immunopositive interneuron numbers transpire by middle age. Additionally, this study provides novel evidence that age‐related reductions in hippocampal GAD‐67 immunopositive interneuron numbers are due to loss of GAD‐67 expression in interneurons rather than interneuron degeneration.
Transforming growth factor β‐1 signalling in canine hepatic diseases: new models for human fibrotic liver pathologies
Authors: Spee Bart , Arends Brigitte , Van Den Ingh Ted S. G. A. M. , Brinkhof Bas , Nederbragt Hubertus , Ijzer Jooske , Roskams Tania , Penning Louis C. , Rothuizen Jan
Published: May 2006

Abstract: Background/aims:The purpose of this study was to validate spontaneous chronic hepatitis and cirrhosis in dogs as a potential large animal model for fibrotic liver disease in humans by evaluating their molecular pathophysiology.

Methods:Transforming growth factor‐β1 (TGF‐β1) signalling was analysed in liver samples of dogs with acute hepatitis (AH), chronic hepatitis (CH), cirrhosis (CIRR), and a specific form of cirrhosis, lobular dissecting hepatitis (LDH), in comparison with human cirrhotic samples from alcohol abuse (ALC) and hepatitis C (HC).

Results:Canine samples were investigated with quantitative real‐time PCR (Q‐PCR) and Western blotting on TGF‐β1 signalling including Smad2/3 phosphorylation. Immunohistochemistry on collagens I and III was performed. Q‐PCR showed an increase in TGF‐β1 levels and downstream effector gene products in CH, LDH, and CIRR. The same fibrotic diseases also showed an increase in phosphorylated Smad2/3 and a higher deposition of collagens I and III. In contrast, in AH neither active TGF‐β1 signalling nor collagen deposition was observed. Western blot analysis on human ALC and HC indicated a high similarity with canine samples in TGF‐β1 expression and Smad2/3 phosphorylation.

Conclusions:Our results demonstrate that fibrosis in spontaneous dog liver diseases is highly comparable to their human counterparts and might serve as models for anti‐fibrotic strategies.
Chronic Ethanol Exposure Impairs Neuronal Nitric Oxide Synthase in the Rat Intestine
Authors: Krecsmarik Monika , Izbéki Ferenc , Bagyánszki Mária , Linke Nikolett , Bódi Nikolett , Kaszaki József , Katarova Zója , Szabó Áron , Fekete Éva , Wittmann Tibor
Published: May 2006

Background:Nitric oxide (NO), synthesized by neuronal (nNOS), endothelial (eNOS), and inducible (iNOS) nitric oxide synthases, plays an essential role in the physiological functions of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Chronic ethanol intake has been shown to interfere with several of these physiological functions, leading to the pathological alterations observed in alcoholic individuals. Our aim therefore was to investigate the effects of chronic ethanol consumption on NOS isoforms in different GI segments.

Methods:Rats received either 20% aqueous ethanol solution or water for 8 weeks. Tissue samples of the duodenum, jejunum, ileum, and colon of the rats were used for measurement of the NOS activity, protein content, and nNOS immunohistochemistry. Anti‐HuC/D immunohistochemistry was used to determine the total number of neurons.

Results:Measurement of the physiological constitutive NOS (cNOS) activity revealed a 20 times higher activity in the colon than in the small intestine and after chronic ethanol treatment demonstrated a significant decrease in the jejunum, ileum, and colon, while in the duodenum it remained unchanged compared with the control group. The physiological iNOS activity was higher in the ileum and colon than in the duodenum and jejunum, and these levels were not significantly affected by ethanol. Neuronal nitric oxide synthase immunohistochemistry revealed a significant decrease in the numbers of immunostained cells in all investigated intestinal segments, while the total number of myenteric neurons remained constant. The nNOS protein content measured by Western blotting indicated a significant decrease in the colon after ethanol consumption, while in other intestinal segments change was not detectable.

Conclusions:This study has demonstrated for the first time that chronic ethanol consumption has a differential effect on NOS activity, NOS protein content, and the number of nitrergic neurons in different intestinal segments, suggesting that chronic ethanol administration affects the NO pathways in the enteric nervous system.
Moderate Prenatal Alcohol Exposure and Cognitive Status of Children at Age 10
Authors: Willford Jennifer A. , Leech Sharon L. , Day Nancy L.
Published: May 2006

Background: The effects of prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE) on measures of intelligence have been well documented in children with fetal alcohol syndrome. However, deficits in general intellectual ability in children with low to moderate PAE are less well understood. The objective of this study was to assess the association between moderate PAE and cognitive ability in children at age 10 controlling for other prenatal and birth factors, maternal and child psychosocial factors, and environmental characteristics.

Methods: Data were collected as part of the Maternal Health Practices and Child Development Project, a prospective study of prenatal substance use with 636 mother–child pairs. Women were assessed during each trimester of pregnancy and with their children at birth; 8 and 18 months; and 3, 6, and 10 years. Each phase included an evaluation of growth, development, cognitive, and psychological functioning. At age 10, cognitive ability was assessed using the composite score and verbal, abstract/visual, quantitative, and short‐term memory area scores of the Stanford–Binet Intelligence Test, fourth edition. Maternal intellectual ability, maternal prenatal and current drug use, maternal and child psychosocial characteristics, demographics, and home environment were included in the analysis.

Results: A significant relation was found between alcohol exposure during the first and second trimesters and the composite score of the Stanford–Binet for African American children at age 10. Significant relations were also found for the verbal, abstract/visual, and quantitative subscales. Additional predictors of IQ at age 10 included mother's IQ, home environment, and child's report of depression.

Conclusions: There is a significant association between PAE and cognitive ability at age 10 among African American offspring. There was no relation between PAE and scores on the Stanford–Binet scales among the Caucasian offspring.
Many College Freshmen Drink at Levels Far Beyond the Binge Threshold
Authors: White Aaron M. , Kraus Courtney L. , Swartzwelder Harry Scott
Published: May 2006

Background: Binge drinking is a dichotomous variable that allows researchers to sort students into categories based upon a specific threshold of consumption, commonly 4 (females) or 5 (males) drinks. Crossing the binge threshold increases the risk of negative alcohol‐related consequences. The use of such thresholds has played a vital role in the study of college drinking. While extremely valuable, the dichotomous nature of binge drinking variables removes information about how heavily students actually drink, leaving the characterization of college drinking incomplete. The present study examined patterns of alcohol use beyond the binge threshold.

Methods: The data set consisted of self‐reported 2‐week drinking histories from 10,424 first‐semester freshmen at 14 schools across the United States during the fall of 2003. The number of students who reached the 4+/5+ binge‐drinking threshold was calculated, as was the number who reached 2 times (8+/10+ drinks) or 3 times (12+/15+ drinks) the binge threshold. Logistic regression analyses were used to explore gender differences and to assess whether frequent binge drinkers (3+ binges per 2 weeks) were more likely than infrequent binge drinkers (1–2 binges per 2 weeks) to reach high peak levels of consumption.

Results: Roughly 1 of 5 males consumed 10+ drinks and 1 of 10 females consumed 8+ drinks, twice the binge threshold, at least once in the previous 2 weeks. Gender differences were observed at every drinking level and were particularly large at higher peak levels. Frequent binge drinkers were more likely than infrequent binge drinkers to consume 2 or 3 times the binge threshold.

Discussion: A surprisingly large percentage of students, particularly males, drink at peak levels well beyond the binge threshold. Such findings suggest that schools might make additional progress in the battle against alcohol misuse by focusing on extreme drinking practices in addition to binge drinking per se.
Homogeneous ZrO2–Al2O3 Composite Prepared by Nano‐ZrO2 Particle Multilayer‐Coated Al2O3 Particles
Authors: Jia Yu , Hotta Yuji , Sato Kimiyasu , Watari Koji
Published: May 2006

ZrO2–Al2O3 nanocomposite particles were synthesized by coating nano‐ZrO2 particles on the surface of Al2O3 particles via the layer‐by‐layer (LBL) method. Polyacrylic acid (PAA) adsorption successfully modified the Al2O3 surface charge. Multilayer coating was successfully implemented, which was characterized by ξ potential, particle size. X‐ray diffraction patterns showed that the content of ZrO2 in the final powders could be well controlled by the LBL method. The powders coated with three layers of nano‐ZrO2 particles, which contained about 12 wt% ZrO2, were compacted by dry press and cold isostatically pressed methods. After sintering the compact at 1450°C for 2 h under atmosphere, a sintered body with a low pore microstructure was obtained. Scanning electron microscopy micrographs of the sintered body indicated that ZrO2 was well dispersed in the Al2O3 matrix.
Effect of Organic Binder Segregation on Sintered Strength of Dry‐Pressed Alumina
Authors: Tanaka Satoshi , Pin Chiu Chia , Uematsu Keizo
Published: May 2006

The influence of binder systems on the structure and properties of alumina ceramics was examined. Two types of binders were used to prepare alumina granules by spray drying: poly‐acrylic acid (PAA) and poly‐vinyl alcohol (PVA). PVA segregated to the surface and subsurface of the granules, whereas PAA was homogeneously distributed. Compaction tests on a single granule showed that the PAA binder provides lower yield stress of granules than PVA. In the die compaction process, the relative density of the compact body started to increase at a lower pressure, and a more homogeneous internal structure was observed in the green compact prepared with the PAA binder than PVA. The homogeneous structure resulted in a sintered body with a strength of 580 vs 485 MPa when PVA was used.