bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Encoding of Probabilistic Rewarding and Aversive Events by Pallidal and Nigral Neurons
Authors: Joshua Mati , Adler Avital , Rosin Boris , Vaadia Eilon , Bergman Hagai
Published: December 2008

Previous studies have rarely tested whether the activity of high-frequency discharge (HFD) neurons of the basal ganglia (BG) is modulated by expectation, delivery, and omission of aversive events. Therefore the full value domain encoded by the BG network is still unknown. We studied the activity of HFD neurons of the globus pallidus external segment (GPe, n = 310), internal segment (GPi, n = 149), and substantia nigra pars reticulata (SNr, n = 145) in two monkeys during a classical conditioning task with cues predicting the probability of food, neutral, or airpuff outcomes. The responses of BG HFD neurons were long-lasting and diverse with coincident increases and decreases in discharge rate. The population responses to reward-related events were larger than the responses to aversive and neutral-related events. The latter responses were similar, except for the responses to actual airpuff delivery. The fraction of responding cells was larger for reward-related events, with better discrimination between rewarding and aversive trials in the responses with an increase rather than a decrease in discharge rate. GPe and GPi single units were more strongly modulated and better reflected the probability of reward- than aversive-related events. SNr neurons were less biased toward the encoding of the rewarding events, especially during the outcome epoch. Finally, the latency of SNr responses to all predictive cues was shorter than the latency of pallidal responses. These results suggest preferential activation of the BG HFD neurons by rewarding compared with aversive events.
Dynamics Behaviors of a Discrete Ratio‐Dependent Predator‐Prey System with Holling Type III Functional Response and Feedback Controls
Authors: Yang Jinghui
Published: December 2008

A ratio‐dependent predator‐prey system with Holling type III functional
response and feedback controls is proposed. By constructing a suitable Lyapunov
function and using the comparison theorem of difference equation, sufficient
conditions which ensure the permanence and global attractivity of the system are
obtained. After that, under some suitable conditions, we show that the predator
species y will be driven to extinction. Examples together with their numerical
simulations show that the main results are verifiable.
Effects of Centrifugal Buoyancy and Reynolds Number on Turbulent Heat Transfer in a Two‐Pass Angled‐RIB‐Roughened Channel with Sharp 180∘ Turns Investigated by Using Large Eddy Simulation
Authors: Murata Akira , Mochizuki Sadanari
Published: December 2008

The effects of the centrifugal buoyancy and the Reynolds number on heat transfer in a rotating two‐pass rib‐roughened channel with 180∘ sharp turns were numerically investigated by using the large eddy simulation. The effect of the Reynolds number was seen in the finer flow structure. The effect of the aiding/opposing buoyancy contributions was seen more vigorously on the pressure surface than that on the suction surface, though the details depended on the Reynolds number, the rotation number, and the existence of the ribs. As the buoyancy increased, the friction factor dominated by the pressure loss of the sharp turn decreased, and the decreasing rate is smaller for the higher rotation speed case. The Colburn′s j factor stayed almost constant irrespective of the rotation speed. As a result, the heat transfer efficiency index slightly increased by the buoyancy, and it became smaller for the higher rotation speed and higher Reynolds number cases.
The Study of the Chaotic Behavior in Retailer′s Demand Model
Authors: Ma Junhai , Feng Yun
Published: December 2008

Based on the work of domestic and foreign scholars and the application of chaotic systems theory, this paper presents an investigation simulation of retailer′s demand and stock. In simulation of the interaction, the behavior of the system exhibits deterministic chaos with consideration of system constraints. By the method of space′s reconstruction, the maximal Lyapunov exponent of retailer′s demand model was calculated. The result shows the model is chaotic. By the results of bifurcation diagram of model parameters k, r and changing initial condition, the system can be led to chaos.
Left Atrial Posterior Wall Isolation Does Not Improve the Outcome of Circumferential Pulmonary Vein Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Tamborero David , Mont Lluís , Berruezo Antonio , Matiello Maria , Benito Begoña , Sitges Marta , Vidal Barbara , de Caralt Teresa M. , Perea Rosario J. , Vatasescu Radu , Brugada Josep
Published: December 2008

Background—

Ablation of the pulmonary veins (PVs) for atrial fibrillation treatment is often combined with linear radiofrequency lesions along the left atrium (LA) to improve the success rate. The study was designed to assess the contribution of LA posterior wall isolation to the outcome of circumferential pulmonary vein ablation (CPVA).

Methods and Results—

CPVA consisted of continuous radiofrequency lesions encircling both ipsilateral PVs plus an ablation line along the mitral isthmus. Patients were then randomized into 2 groups. In the first group, superior PVs were connected by linear lesions along the LA roof (CPVA-1 group). In the second group, the LA posterior wall was isolated by adding a second line connecting the inferior aspect of the 2 inferior PVs (CPVA-2 group). The study included 120 patients (53�11 years, 77% male, 60% paroxysmal atrial fibrillation, LA of 41.3�5.4 mm, 46% with hypertension, and 22% with structural heart disease). After a single ablation procedure and a mean follow-up of 10�4 months, 24 (40%) patients of the CPVA-1 group had atrial fibrillation recurrences and 3 (5%) had new-onset LA flutter. In the CPVA-2 group, recurrences were due to atrial fibrillation episodes in 23 patients (38%) and LA flutter in 4 (7%). Freedom from arrhythmia recurrences was not statistically different in the CPVA-1 group as compared with the CPVA-2 group (log rank
P
=0.943).

Conclusion—

Isolation of the LA posterior wall did not increase the success rate of CPVA.
Stent Parameters Predict Major Adverse Clinical Events and the Response to Platelet Glycoprotein IIb/IIIa Blockade
Authors: Tcheng James E. , Lim Ing Haan , Srinivasan Shankar , Jozic Joseph , Gibson C. Michael , O'Shea J. Conor , Puma Joseph A. , Simon Daniel I.
Published: December 2008

Background—

Only limited data describe relationships between stent parameters (length and diameter), adverse events after percutaneous coronary intervention, and effects of platelet glycoprotein IIb/IIIa blockade by stent parameters.

Methods and Results—

In this post hoc analysis of the 1983 patients receiving a stent in the Enhanced Suppression of the Platelet Glycoprotein IIb/IIIa Receptor with Integrilin Therapy randomized percutaneous coronary intervention trial of eptifibatide versus placebo, rates of the major adverse cardiac event (MACE) end point (death, myocardial infarction, urgent target-vessel revascularization, or thrombotic bailout) at 48 hours and 1 year were correlated with stent parameters and then analyzed by randomization to eptifibatide versus placebo. In the placebo group, MACE increased with number of stents implanted, total stent length (by quartiles of <15, 15 to <18, 18 to <30, and ≥30 mm), and total stented vessel area (by quartiles of area <141, 141 to <188, 188 to <292, and ≥292 mm
2
). By stent parameters, MACE at 48 hours was reduced in the eptifibatide group at stent lengths of 18 to <30 mm (odds ratio [OR], 0.55; 95% CI, 0.32 to 0.94;
P
=0.030) and ≥30 mm (OR, 0.43; 95% CI, 0.25 to 0.75;
P
=0.003), stent diameters of >2.5 to <3.5 mm (OR, 0.56; 95% CI, 0.39 to 0.82;
P
=0.002), and with 2 stents implanted (OR, 0.39; 95% CI, 0.22 to 0.69;
P
=0.001). In the placebo group, near-linear relationships were observed between both increasing stent length and increasing stented vessel area and MACE at 48 hours and 1 year (all,
P
<0.001); these gradients were flattened in the eptifibatide group (
P
=0.005 for stent length).

Conclusions—

Stent parameters predict MACE after percutaneous coronary intervention. Glycoprotein IIb/IIIa blockade mitigates much of the hazard of increasing procedural complexity.
Notch and Vascular Smooth Muscle Cell Phenotype
Authors: Morrow David , Guha Shaunta , Sweeney Catherine , Birney Yvonne , Walshe Tony , O’Brien Colm , Walls Dermot , Redmond Eileen M. , Cahill Paul A.
Published: December 2008

The Notch signaling pathway is critical for cell fate determination during embryonic development, including many aspects of vascular development. An emerging paradigm suggests that the Notch gene regulatory network is often recapitulated in the context of phenotypic modulation of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC), vascular remodeling, and repair in adult vascular disease following injury. Notch ligand receptor interactions lead to cleavage of receptor, translocation of the intracellular receptor (Notch IC), activation of transcriptional CBF-1/RBP-Jκ–dependent and –independent pathways, and transduction of downstream Notch target gene expression. Hereditary mutations of Notch components are associated with congenital defects of the cardiovascular system in humans such as Alagille syndrome and cerebral autosomal dominant arteriopathy with subcortical infarcts and leukoencephalopathy (CADASIL). Recent loss- or gain-of-function studies have provided insight into novel Notch-mediated CBF-1/RBP-Jκ–dependent and –independent signaling and cross-regulation to other molecules that may play a critical role in VSMC phenotypic switching. Notch receptors are critical for controlling VSMC differentiation and dictating the phenotypic response following vascular injury through interaction with a triad of transcription factors that act synergistically to regulate VSMC differentiation. This review focuses on the role of Notch receptor ligand interactions in dictating VSMC behavior and phenotype and presents recent findings on the molecular interactions between the Notch components and VSMC-specific genes to further understand the function of Notch signaling in vascular tissue and disease.
Stand by Your Man
Authors: Vandello Joseph A. , Cohen Dov , Grandon Ruth , Franiuk Renae
Published: December 2008

Cultural values emphasizing female loyalty, sacrifice, and male honor may indirectly sanction relationship violence and reward women who remain in abusive relationships. Two studies compare participants from subcultures emphasizing honor (Latinos and southern Anglos in Study 1, Chileans in Study 2) and subcultures without strong honor traditions (northern U.S. Anglos in Study 1, Anglo-Canadians in Study 2). In Study 1, participants watch a videotape of a woman describing an abusive relationship. Participants from honor cultures are relatively more favorable to the woman if she stays in the relationship, compared to northerners. In Study 2, Chilean and Canadian students listen to audiotapes of a husband describing a violent conflict with his wife. Chileans rate the husband and his actions more positively than Canadians do when the conflict is jealousy related (perceived flirting), but no cultural differences are found when the conflict is unrelated to jealousy (spending too much money).
A Call for Integral Approaches in the Professional Identity of Rehabilitation Counseling
Authors: Stebnicki Mark A.
Published: December 2008

There are multiple indicators that suggest there is a shift in the foundational principles and practices in rehabilitation counseling that have created professional identity concerns. These concerns relate to (a) philosophical differences in the role and function of rehabilitation counseling professionals, (b) professional counselor licensure laws mandating eligibility standards for practice, (c) a variety of professional counseling associations' divergent agendas for communicating the professional counselor's identity, and (d) perceptions and observations made by our colleagues from the other counseling specialty areas about our identity.
Historical Overview and Perceptions of Racial and Terrorist Profiling in an Era of Homeland Security
Authors: Wilkins Newman Deborah , Brown Nikki-Qui D.
Published: December 2008

This study explores and compares the viewpoints of law enforcement and non-law enforcement/student populations regarding terrorist profiling. The research reveals that law enforcement subjects are more likely than non-law enforcement subjects to support the usefulness of terrorist profiling and to be more suspicious of Middle Eastern males in regard to terrorist acts similar to September 11. No significant difference is found between their beliefs regarding racial or terrorist profiling being required to effectively combat terrorism. To explain the results, the article provides the historical background of criminal, racial, and terrorist profiling. The findings provide knowledge useful for enhancing the understanding needed for more effective community policing in a homeland security era.
Studying and Facilitating Dialogue in Select Online Management Courses
Authors: Ivancevich John M. , Gilbert Jacqueline A. , Konopaske Robert
Published: December 2008

Dialogue is arguably one of the most significant elements of learning in higher education. The premise of this article is that online instructors can creatively facilitate dialogue for effectively teaching online management courses. This article presents a dialogue-focused framework for addressing significant behavioral, structural, and technological elements that involve the development and delivery of knowledge and application use (KAU) online management course content. Specifically, the proposed framework and propositions suggest how various antecedents and moderators influence the use of dialogue resources, technology, and student engagement in KAU-type management courses.
Teaching the Interactionist Model of Ethics
Authors: Tomlinson Edward C.
Published: December 2008

This article draws on the interactionist model of ethics as a framework to help students answer two key questions they will confront in their future careers: (a) How can I, as a professional manager, deter clearly unethical behavior among my subordinates? and (b) How can I avoid engaging in clearly unethical behavior myself? For each of these questions, a short case is presented as a teaching tool that illustrates the application of the interactionist model.
Module evolution and substrate specificity of fungal nonribosomal peptide synthetases involved in siderophore biosynthesis
Authors: Bushley Kathryn E , Ripoll Daniel R , Turgeon B Gillian
Published: December 2008

Background

Most filamentous ascomycete fungi produce high affinity iron chelators called siderophores, biosynthesized nonribosomally by multimodular adenylating enzymes called nonribosomal peptide synthetases (NRPSs). While genes encoding the majority of NRPSs are intermittently distributed across the fungal kingdom, those encoding ferrichrome synthetase NRPSs, responsible for biosynthesis of ferrichrome siderophores, are conserved, which offers an opportunity to trace their evolution and the genesis of their multimodular domain architecture. Furthermore, since the chemistry of many ferrichromes is known, the biochemical and structural 'rules' guiding NRPS substrate choice can be addressed using protein structural modeling and evolutionary approaches.

Results

A search of forty-nine complete fungal genome sequences revealed that, with the exception of Schizosaccharomyces pombe, none of the yeast, chytrid, or zygomycete genomes contained a candidate ferrichrome synthetase. In contrast, all filamentous ascomycetes queried contained at least one, while presence and numbers in basidiomycetes varied. Genes encoding ferrichrome synthetases were monophyletic when analyzed with other NRPSs. Phylogenetic analyses provided support for an ancestral duplication event resulting in two main lineages. They also supported the proposed hypothesis that ferrichrome synthetases derive from an ancestral hexamodular gene, likely created by tandem duplication of complete NRPS modules. Recurrent losses of individual domains or complete modules from this ancestral gene best explain the diversity of extant domain architectures observed. Key residues and regions in the adenylation domain pocket involved in substrate choice and for binding the amino and carboxy termini of the substrate were identified.

Conclusion

Iron-chelating ferrichrome synthetases appear restricted to fission yeast, filamentous ascomycetes, and basidiomycetes and fall into two main lineages. Phylogenetic analyses suggest that loss of domains or modules led to evolution of iterative biosynthetic mechanisms that allow flexibility in biosynthesis of the ferrichrome product. The 10 amino acid NRPS code, proposed earlier, failed when we tried to infer substrate preference. Instead, our analyses point to several regions of the binding pocket important in substrate choice and suggest that two positions of the code are involved in substrate anchoring, not substrate choice.
Motivation and retention of health workers in developing countries: a systematic review
Authors: Willis-Shattuck Mischa , Bidwell Posy , Thomas Steve , Wyness Laura , Blaauw Duane , Ditlopo Prudence
Published: December 2008

Background

A key constraint to achieving the MDGs is the absence of a properly trained and motivated workforce. Loss of clinical staff from low and middle-income countries is crippling already fragile health care systems. Health worker retention is critical for health system performance and a key problem is how best to motivate and retain health workers. The authors undertook a systematic review to consolidate existing evidence on the impact of financial and non-financial incentives on motivation and retention.

Methods

Four literature databases were searched together with Google Scholar and 'Human Resources for Health' on-line journal. Grey literature studies and informational papers were also captured. The inclusion criteria were: 1) article stated clear reasons for implementing specific motivations to improve health worker motivation and/or reduce medical migration, 2) the intervention recommended can be linked to motivation and 3) the study was conducted in a developing country and 4) the study used primary data.

Results

Twenty articles met the inclusion criteria. They consisted of a mixture of qualitative and quantitative studies. Seven major motivational themes were identified: financial rewards, career development, continuing education, hospital infrastructure, resource availability, hospital management and recognition/appreciation. There was some evidence to suggest that the use of initiatives to improve motivation had been effective in helping retention. There is less clear evidence on the differential response of different cadres.

Conclusion

While motivational factors are undoubtedly country specific, financial incentives, career development and management issues are core factors. Nevertheless, financial incentives alone are not enough to motivate health workers. It is clear that recognition is highly influential in health worker motivation and that adequate resources and appropriate infrastructure can improve morale significantly.
Variations in host genes encoding adhesion molecules and susceptibility to falciparum malaria in India
Authors: Sinha Swapnil , Qidwai Tabish , Kanchan Kanika , Anand Prerna , Jha Ganga N , Pati Sudhanshu S , Mohanty Sanjib , Mishra Saroj K , Tyagi Prajesh K , Sharma Surya K ,   Indian Genome Variation Consortium, Venkatesh Vimala , Habib Saman
Published: December 2008

Background

Host adhesion molecules play a significant role in the pathogenesis ofPlasmodium falciparummalaria and changes in their structure or levels in individuals can influence the outcome of infection. The aim of this study was to investigate the association of SNPs of three adhesion molecule genes,ICAM1,PECAM1andCD36, with severity of falciparum malaria in a malaria-endemic and a non-endemic region of India.

Methods

The frequency distribution of seven selected SNPs ofICAM1,PECAM1andCD36was determined in 552 individuals drawn from 24 populations across India. SNP-disease association was analysed in a case-control study format. Genotyping of the population panel was performed by Sequenom mass spectroscopy and patient/control samples were genotyped by SNaPshot method. Haplotypes and linkage disequilibrium (LD) plots were generated using PHASE and Haploview, respectively. Odds-ratio (OR) for risk assessment was estimated using EpiInfo™ version 3.4.

Results

Association of the ICAM1 rs5498 (exon 6) G allele and the CD36 exon 1a A allele with increased risk of severe malaria was observed (severe versus control, OR = 1.91 and 2.66, P = 0.02 and 0.0012, respectively). The CD36 rs1334512 (-53) T allele as well as the TT genotype associated with protection from severe disease (severe versus control, TT versus GG, OR = 0.37, P = 0.004). Interestingly, a SNP of thePECAM1gene (rs668, exon 3, C/G) with low minor allele frequency in populations of the endemic region compared to the non-endemic region exhibited differential association with disease in these regions; the G allele was a risk factor for malaria in the endemic region, but exhibited significant association with protection from disease in the non-endemic region.

Conclusion

The data highlights the significance of variations in theICAM1,PECAM1andCD36genes in the manifestation of falciparum malaria in India. ThePECAM1exon 3 SNP exhibits altered association with disease in the endemic and non-endemic region.
Sample size requirements to detect the effect of a group of genetic variants in case-control studies
Authors: Moonesinghe Ramal , Yang Quanhe , Khoury Muin J
Published: December 2008

Background

Because common diseases are caused by complex interactions among many genetic variants along with environmental risk factors, very large sample sizes are usually needed to detect such effects in case-control studies. Nevertheless, many genetic variants act in well defined biologic systems or metabolic pathways. Therefore, a reasonable first step may be to detect the effect of a group of genetic variants before assessing specific variants.

Methods

We present a simple method for determining approximate sample sizes required to detect the average joint effect of a group of genetic variants in a case-control study for multiplicative models.

Results

For a range of reasonable numbers of genetic variants, the sample size requirements for the test statistic proposed here are generally not larger than those needed for assessing marginal effects of individual variants and actually decline with increasing number of genetic variants in many situations considered in the group.

Conclusion

When a significant effect of the group of genetic variants is detected, subsequent multiple tests could be conducted to detect which individual genetic variants and their combinations are associated with disease risk. When testing for an effect size in a group of genetic variants, one can use our global test described in this paper, because the sample size required to detect an effect size in the group is comparatively small. Our method could be viewed as a screening tool for assessing groups of genetic variants involved in pathogenesis and etiology of common complex human diseases.
Reporting of noninferiority and equivalence randomized trials for major prostaglandins: A systematic survey of the ophthalmology literature
Authors: Eyawo Oghenowede , Lee Chia-Wen , Rachlis Beth , Mills Edward J
Published: December 2008

Background

Standards for reporting clinical trials have improved the transparency of patient-important research. The Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials (CONSORT) published an extension to address noninferiority and equivalence trials. We aimed to determine the reporting quality of prostaglandin noninferiority and equivalence trials in the treatment of glaucoma.

Methods

We searched, independently and in duplicate, 6 electronic databases for eligible trials evaluating prostaglandins. We abstracted data on reporting of methodological criteria, including reporting of per-protocol [PP] and intention-to-treat [ITT] analysis, sample size estimation with margins, type of statistical analysis conducted, efficacy summaries, and use of hyperemia measures.

Results

Trials involving the four major prostaglandin groups (latanoprost, travoprost, bimatoprost, unoprostone) were analyzed. We included 36 noninferiority and 11 equivalence trials. Seventeen out of the included 47 trials (36%, 95% Confidence Intervals [CI]: 24–51) were crossover designs. Only 3 studies (6%, 95% CI: 2–17) reported a presented results of both ITT and PP populations. Twelve studies (26%, 95% CI: 15–39) presented only ITT results but mentioned that PP population had similar results. Thirteen trials (28%, 95% CI: 17–42) presented only PP results with no mention of ITT population results while 17 studies (36%, 95% CI: 24–51) presented only ITT results with no mention of PP population results. Thirty-four (72%, 95% CI: 58–83) of studies adequately described their margin of noninferiority/equivalence. Sequence generation was reported in 22/47 trials (47%, 95% CI: 33–61). Allocation concealment was reported in only 10/47 (21%, 95% CI: 12–35) of the trials. Thirty-five studies (74%, 95% CI: 60–85) employed masking of at least two groups, 4/47 (9%, 95% CI: 3–20) masked only patients and 8/47 (17%, 95% CI: 9–30) were open label studies. Eight (17%, 95% CI: 9–30) of the 47 trials employed a combined test of noninferiority and superiority. We also found 6 differing methods of evaluating hyperemia.

Conclusion

The quality of reporting noninferiority/equivalency trials in the field of glaucoma is markedly heterogeneous. The adoption of the extended CONSORT statement by journals will potentially improve the transparency of this field.
Study Protocol: effects of acupuncture on hot flushes in perimenopausal and postmenopausal women – a multicenter randomized clinical trial
Authors: Kim Kun-Hyung , Kang Kyung-Won , Jung Hee-Jung , Park Ji-Eun , Jung So-Young , Choi Jun-Yong , Choi Sun-Mi
Published: December 2008

Background

Hot flushes are the most frequent climacteric symptom and a major cause of suffering among menopausal women. The condition negatively influences many aspects of women's lives. To date, conventional hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is considered the most effective treatment for hot flushes. However, HRT is associated with a host of negative side effects. Complementary and alternative medical (CAM) approaches have been employed to relieve symptoms and to avoid these side effects. Acupuncture is one of the most strongly preferred CAM treatments for many diseases, causing few serious adverse effects, and is frequently used in Korea.

We aim to evaluate the effectiveness of Traditional Korean Acupuncture (TKA) in conjunction with usual care, compared to usual care alone, on hot flushes in perimenopausal and postmenopausal women in Korea.

Methods

This study consists of a multi-center randomized controlled trial with 2 parallel arms. Participants included in the study will meet the following criteria: 1) a documented daily average hot flush score ≥ 10 for one week prior to the screening visit 2) not taking HRT and other pharmaceutical therapies which might affect hot flushes or other vasomotor symptoms.

While maintaining usual care, the treatment group will receive acupuncture 3 times a week, for a total of 12 sessions over 4 weeks. The control group will receive usual care alone during the same period. Post-treatment follow-up will be performed one month after completing 12 sessions of acupuncture.

Discussion

This trial will provide evidence for the effectiveness of acupuncture as a treatment for hot flushes. The primary endpoint in both groups is a change in hot flush score from baseline to week 4 and/or week 8. As the secondary endpoint, we will employ the Menopause Rating Scale (MRS), a health-related quality of life questionnaire. Further analysis will examine the frequency, severity and difference in symptoms for daytime vs. nighttime hot flushes, sub-domain analysis of MRS, and participants' expectations of acupuncture treatment.

Trial registration

Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN49335612
Drosophila olfactory local interneurons and projection neurons derive from a common neuroblast lineage specified by the empty spiracles gene
Authors: Das Abhijit , Sen Sonia , Lichtneckert Robert , Okada Ryuichi , Ito Kei , Rodrigues Veronica , Reichert Heinrich
Published: December 2008

Background

Encoding of olfactory information in insects occurs in the antennal lobe where the olfactory receptor neurons interact with projection neurons and local interneurons in a complex sensory processing circuitry. While several studies have addressed the developmental mechanisms involved in specification and connectivity of olfactory receptor neurons and projection neurons in Drosophila, the local interneurons are far less well understood.

Results

In this study, we use genetic marking techniques combined with antibody labelling and neuroblast ablation to analyse lineage specific aspects of local interneuron development. We find that a large set of local interneurons labelled by the GAL4-LN1 (NP1227) and GAL4-LN2 (NP2426) lines arise from the lateral neuroblast, which has also been shown to generate uniglomerular projection neurons. Moreover, we find that a remarkable diversity of local interneuron cell types with different glomerular innervation patterns and neurotransmitter expression derives from this lineage. We analyse the birth order of these two distinct neuronal types by generating MARCM (mosaic analysis with a repressible cell marker) clones at different times during larval life. This analysis shows that local interneurons arise throughout the proliferative cycle of the lateral neuroblast beginning in the embryo, while uniglomerular projection neurons arise later during the second larval instar. The lateral neuroblast requires the function of the cephalic gap gene empty spiracles for the development of olfactory interneurons. In empty spiracles null mutant clones, most of the local interneurons and lateral projection neurons are lacking. These findings reveal similarities in the development of local interneurons and projection neurons in the olfactory system of Drosophila.

Conclusion

We find that the lateral neuroblast of the deutocerebrum gives rise to a large and remarkably diverse set of local interneurons as well as to projection neurons in the antennal lobe. Moreover, we show that specific combinations of these two neuron types are produced in specific time windows in this neuroblast lineage. The development of both these cell types in this lineage requires the function of the empty spiracles gene.
Multi-organ damage induced by anabolic steroid supplements: a case report and literature review
Authors: Samaha Ali A , Nasser-Eddine Walid , Shatila Elizabeth , Haddad John J , Wazne Jaafar , Eid Ali H
Published: December 2008

Introduction

The use of anabolic supplements and other related drugs for body building and to enhance athletic performance is nowadays widespread and acutely pervasive all around the world. This alarming increase in the use of anabolic and amino acid supplements has been linked to a diverse array of pathologies. As previously reported, the abuse of androgenic steroids is not without severe physiological, psychiatric and physical costs. The case we report here describes multi-organ damage resulting from the abuse and uncontrolled use of anabolic steroid supplements, mainly testosterone.

Case presentation

A 24-year-old white man presented with abdominal pain concomitant with nausea and vomiting. Laboratory analysis revealed hypercalcemia, elevated liver enzymes and high levels of amylase, lipase and creatine protein kinase.

Conclusion

Amino acid as well as anabolic supplements may lead to abnormal functioning of many organs, which could be fatal in some instances. This mandates worldwide and concerted efforts to educate the public, especially the youth, about the dangers of these increasingly abused drugs.
alpha-Actinin interacts with rapsyn in agrin-stimulated AChR clustering
Authors: Dobbins G Clement , Luo Shiwen , Yang Zhihua , Xiong Wen C , Mei Lin
Published: December 2008

AChR is concentrated at the postjunctional membrane at the neuromuscular junction. However, the underlying mechanism is unclear. We show that α-actinin, a protein known to cross-link F-actin, interacts with rapsyn, a scaffold protein essential for neuromuscular junction formation. α-Actinin, rapsyn, and surface AChR form a ternary complex. Moreover, the rapsyn-α-actinin interaction is increased by agrin, a factor known to stimulate AChR clustering. Downregulation of α-actinin expression inhibits agrin-mediated AChR clustering. Furthermore, the rapsyn-α-actinin interaction can be disrupted by inhibiting Abl and by cholinergic stimulation. Together these results indicate a role for α-actinin in AChR clustering.
Aqueous fish extract increases survival in the mouse model of cytostatic toxicity
Authors: Omerovic Elmir , Linbom Malin , Råmunddal Truls , Lindgård Ann , Undeland Ingrid , Sandberg Ann-Sofie , Soussi Bassam
Published: December 2008

Background

Treatment of cancer patients with anthracycline antibiotic doxorubicin (DOX) may be complicated by development of acute and chronic congestive heart failure (CHF), malignant arrhythmias and death. The aim of this study was to test whether an aqueous low molecular weight (LMW) extract from cod muscle decreases acute mortality in the mouse model of acute CHF caused by DOX.

Methods

A LMW fraction (<500 Da) of the aqueous phase of cod light muscle (AOX) was used for treatment of male BALB/c mice (~25 g, n = 70). The animals were divided into four groups, DOX + AOX (n = 20), DOX + saline (NaCl) (n = 30), NaCl + AOX (n = 10) and NaCl only (n = 10). Echocardiography was performed in the separate subgroups (DOX treated n = 6 and controls n = 6) to verify the presence and the grade of acute CHF. The cod extract was delivered by subcutaneously implanted osmotic minipumps over the period of 2 weeks. High-dose injection of DOX was administered to randomly selected animals. The animals received single intraperitoneal injection of DOX (25 mg/kg) and were followed over two weeks for mortality.

Results

Mortality rate was 68% lower (p < 0.05) in the mice treated with the extract. The analyses of cod extract have shown strong antioxidative effect in vitro.

Conclusion

The aqueous LMW cod muscles extract decreases mortality in the mouse model of DOX induced acute CHF. This effect may be mediated by cardioprotection through antioxidative mechanisms.
Reactor Dosimetry: Standardization of Procedures and Considerations on Further Development for LWR PV Surveillance in the Federal Republic of Germany
Authors: Alberts WG , Schneider W
Published: December 2008

This paper combines a report on standardization in the field of reactor dosimetry in the Federal Republic of Germany with an outline of considerations regarding its relationship to the major application, the surveillance of light-water reactor pressure vessels. The paper discusses the interaction between research in the field of reactor dosimetry and the standardization of methods together with the impact of this standardization on practical applications. Part of the work in this field can be considered as being at such a stage that the developed methods can now be applied on a routine basis, relying then on the consequent standardization of successful procedures.
Récente amélioration en dosimétrie de surveillance des cuves dans les réacteurs en construction de l'Electricité de France
Authors: Bevilacqua A , Brillaud C , DuQuesne H , Hedin F , Lloret R
Published: December 2008

In the vessel surveillance program of each French pressurized water reactor, four to eight in-reactor irradiation capsules are equipped with activation and fission dosimeters. Analysis of the first capsules irradiated has brought considerable data on the dosimetry process used. This experience comes from more than fifteen 900 MWe reactors of electricité de France.

In this paper, problems encountered after dismantling of the capsule are examined: activity measurements, data corrections, inconsistency in the results, etc. From these experimental results, proposals are made to improve accuracy, availability, and ease of use, for both short and long term applications. This analysis has led to better specification of the material composition with respect to impurities and, as a result, to changes in the number, design, and materials, both of the fissile dosimeter box and of the neutron filter. Moreover, niobium dosimetry has been added to the process.
Interactions Between Fluence Variations and Material Properties Data for Large Surveillance Capsules
Authors: Lowe AL , Snidow NL
Published: December 2008

The Integrated Reactor Vessel Materials Surveillance Program of the Babcock & Wilcox Owners Group 177-fuel assembly reactor vessels uses a number of capsules that are significantly larger than those used in most surveillance programs. The larger cross section poses a problem because the specimens are grouped and cause a significant attenuation of the neutron flux through each set of specimens. In the region containing the Charpy specimens, arranged in a 4 × 4 matrix, the attenuation is approximately 40%. To minimize the attenuation, the specimens were grouped so that each row or stack was made up of specimens from one material. The specimen data were compared with unirradiated data to determine the sensitivity of the material properties to fluence variation. The arrangement of the large compact specimens permits fracture testing to propagate the crack into regions of increased embrittlement. The small amount of material involved in the testing, a result of the short distance the crack is propagated, reduces the importance of fluence attenuation. The results imply that highly accurate fluence values may not be essential to evaluating irradiated mechanical properties data.
Description of the Babcock & Wilcox Owners Group Cavity Dosimetry Benchmark Experiment
Authors: King SQ
Published: December 2008

The Babcock & Wilcox Owners Group (B&WOG) Cavity Dosimetry Benchmark experiment is the first step in the B&WOG program to develop measurement-based methodology for use in monitoring vessel fluence in the post-Reactor Vessel Surveillance Program timeframe. Ex-vessel dosimetry has been chosen as the vehicle to provide fluence measurements for use in this measurement-based methodology. (Fluence is measured indirectly by first measuring a relatable quantity and then applying the known correspondence between the measured quantity and the fluence, [e.g., Cs137 activity of a fission foil or tracks on an SSTR].) The results of the In-Out Experiment will be used in refining the analytical models and benchmarking the final methodology. The experiment will provide neutron and gamma fluence measurements, at points both inside and outside the reactor vessel, through the use of numerous fluence measuring devices. Four different categories of ex-vessel monitors have been specified, three for measuring neutron fluence and the fourth for measuring gamma fluence. The placement of the ex-vessel detectors was based on the need to obtain measurements of fluence variations in the azimuthal, radial, and axial directions. The invessel fluence will be measured using an unirradiated, standard B&W reactor vessel surveillance capsule that will be installed in a spare holder tube at the same azimuthal position as the main ex-vessel dosimetry stringer. This paper presents a detailed description of the experiment.
Neutron Sensitivity of LiF Chip Gamma Dosimeters at Megagray Doses
Authors: Gilliam DM , Hocken DG , Humphreys JC , Lamaze GP
Published: December 2008

A lithium fluoride “chip” gamma dosimeter has been tested for neutron sensitivity by irradiation in the cavity fission neutron field at the NBS reactor. Previous neutron sensitivity tests of these crystals had been made only for the F color center, which saturates at gamma doses of about 0.1 MGy. The present work extends these neutron sensitivity checks to the M, R, and N color centers which are useful for gamma doses in the 0.1 to 10 MGy range. The useful range of these centers was extended by reducing the thickness of the crystal to 1 mm. All irradiations in the 60Co calibration irradiator were made using the same encapsulation as will be employed in ex-vessel cavity exposures at power plants.
Nuclear Data for the Use of Niobium as Neutron Fluence Monitor
Authors: Alberts WG , Schötzig U , Siegert H
Published: December 2008

The 93Nb(n,ń)93Nbm reaction is frequently used for neutron fluence determination in nuclear reactors. The suitability of the niobium monitor depends very much on knowledge of the reaction cross section and the decay data of the generated isomer state 93Nbm. Results of recent developments at various institutes concerning these data are reviewed.

The reaction cross section averaged over the 252Cf fission neutron spectrum has been remeasured, resulting in a value of (145 ± 5) mb. This is compared with values measured in the NBSR 235U standard fission neutron field and with results from other experiments.
Development of the Be(d,n) Neutron Source for Cross-Section Investigations in the Few-MeV Energy Range
Authors: Smith DL , Meadows JW , Guenther PT , Greenwood LR
Published: December 2008

Bombardment of thick Be-metal targets with several-MeV deuterons produces continuum-neutron fields which offer considerable potential for the development and validation of neutron-reaction cross sections. A facility based on this concept has been installed at the Argonne National Laboratory Fast Neutron Generator accelerator. A description is provided of this facility and of the research studies which have been initiated to exploit its capabilities. Some technical considerations in the utilization of accelerator-produced continuum-neutron fields for reaction cross-section investigations are discussed. Results from several recent neutron-spectrum and integral cross-section measurements are also presented.
Integral Test of Cross Sections for 54Fe(n,p)54Mn Reaction in JENDL-3T
Authors: Sakurai K
Published: December 2008

Cross sections of the 54Fe(n,p)54Mn reaction for JENDL-3T are calculated using the GNASH code. Fission spectrum averaged cross sections of the reaction in ENDF/B-4 and -5 and JENDL-2 and -3T are calculated. The calculated/experiment ratios are 1.03, 1.03, 0.94, and 1.04 for ENDF/B-4 and -5 and JENDL-2 and -3T, respectively. The cross sections for JENDL-3T are as reliable as the cross sections of ENDF/B-4 and -5.
Diffusion Theory Calculations for the Pin-Wise Power Distribution in VENUS-I and VENUS-II
Authors: Williams ML , Marshall GM , Chowdhury P , Kam FBK
Published: December 2008

“Standard” pressurized water reactor (PWR) calculation procedures based on two-group diffusion theory are used to compute the relative pin-power distribution in the VENUS-I and VENUS-II benchmark configurations. These two critical lattices simulate PWR cores which have fresh (UO2) and uranium/plutonium (MO2) pins on the core periphery, respectively.

The purpose of the study is to establish the accuracy of these methods, which are used to obtain the core source distribution for RPV fluence calculations, by comparing the calculated with the experimentally determined relative power variation. Special consideration is given to the core periphery region, which contributes most heavily to the RPV fluence.

It is found that the diffusion calculations agree to within 5 to 10% of the measurements for both the uranium and MO2 cores. It is estimated that this order of source discrepancy will cause only about 5% uncertainty in the computed RPV fluence.
Experience In the Design of Irradiation Rigs for the Harwell D20 Moderated Materials Testing Reactors
Authors: Constantine G
Published: December 2008

The Harwell MTR’s DIDO and PLUTO have jointly accumulated 60 years'’ operation and much expertise has been amassed in designing irradiation rigs and loops to achieve target fuel ratings, neutron flux levels and spectra. For design purposes our modelling philosophy is based on a variety of calculational routes including Monte Carlo and collision probability methods.

The paper describes the development of the PAT (Pluto AGR Test) Loop currently being commissioned for transient testing of advanced gas-cooled reactor (AGR) fuel pins. The inreactor section of the loop, located in the D2O reflector close to the PLUTO core, includes fixed and variable density absorbers (silver and 3 He respectively) to counteract the flux tilt in the reflector and for inducing rating transients. During both steady operation and the transients the fuel pin rating distributions will be obtained from a combination of collision probability calculation flux solutions normalized to measured instantaneous flux values obtainedfrom online self-powered neutron detectors.
Neutron Spectrum Adjustment with SANDII Using Arbitrary Trial Functions
Authors: Kelly JG
Published: December 2008

A procedure has been developed to use the SANDII spectrum adjustment code to generate satisfactory neutron spectra in a manner that does not require initial trial functions that approximate the real spectra. Thus a spectrum can be determined primarily by a set of foil activation data, and a priori calculations of a trial spectrum or detailed knowledge about the experiment environment are not required. The reduction in the amount of information required facilitates interlaboratory comparisons and the efficiency of the spectrum generation process. Examples are provided, and a discussion is included that considers conditions under which the procedure can be expected to yield acceptable results.
Dosimetry for a Radiation Damage Experiment in a Spallation Neutron Source
Authors: Cesana A , Dierckx R , Sangiust V , Terrani M
Published: December 2008

An irradiation is executed in a spallation neutron spectrum at the beam stop of LAMPF (Los Alamos). This neutron spectrum is much harder than a fission spectrum; a few percent of the neutrons have energies above 10 MeV and up to some hundreds of MeV. The irradiation took place from October 1982 to February 1983 and reached a fluence of 2.2 × 1019 n/cm2. Temperature during irradiation was 120°C. The neutron spectrum is monitored by seven sets of monitor foils. From the foil activities the spectrum is deduced by unfolding codes. On some foils total He production measurements are executed. It is concluded that the spallation neutrons are accompanied by a few percent of high energy protons.
Design and Use of the Embrittlement Data Base (EDB)
Authors: Stallmann FW
Published: December 2008

The architecture of the Embrittlement Data Base (EDB) is described. This database contains a comprehensive collection of experimental data related to irradiations of reactor pressure vessel steels in surveillance capsules and test reactors. Software is being developed for easy retrieval and analysis of the data. Data and software will be made available to interested parties on a cooperative basis.