bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The 5‐HT7 receptor in learning and memory
Authors: Roberts Amanda J. , Hedlund Peter B.
Published: April 2011

The 5‐HT7 receptor is a more recently discovered G‐protein‐coupled receptor for serotonin. The functions and possible clinical relevance of this receptor are not yet fully understood. The present paper reviews to what extent the use of animal models of learning and memory and other techniques have implicated the 5‐HT7 receptor in such processes. The studies have used a combination of pharmacological and genetic tools targeting the receptor to evaluate effects on behavior and cellular mechanisms. In tests such as the Barnes maze, contextual fear conditioning and novel location recognition that involve spatial learning and memory there is a considerable amount of evidence supporting an involvement of the 5‐HT7 receptor. Supporting evidence has also been obtained in studies of mRNA expression and cellular signaling as well as in electrophysiological experiments. Especially interesting are the subtle but distinct effects observed in hippocampus‐dependent models of place learning where impairments have been described in mice lacking the 5‐HT7 receptor or after administration of a selective antagonist. While more work is required, it appears that 5‐HT7 receptors are particularly important in allocentric representation processes. In instrumental learning tasks both procognitive effects and impairments in memory have been observed using pharmacological tools targeting the 5‐HT7 receptor. In conclusion, the use of pharmacological and genetic tools in animal studies of learning and memory suggest a potentially important role for the 5‐HT7 receptor in cognitive processes. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A Concise Route to Valacyclovir Hydrochloride
Authors: Vetukuri Prasada Raju V. N. K. V. , Vedantham Ravindra , Thippannachar Mathad Vijayavitthal , Reddy Padi Pratap , Anand Ramasamy Vijaya
Published: April 2011

An efficient and concise synthesis of valacyclovir hydrochloride (4), which is a prodrug of acyclovir (3) is described. The synthesis was accomplished in two stages by coupling acyclovir with (2S)‐2‐azido‐3‐methylbutanoic acid followed by reduction (Scheme 2).
Compared performance of a conceptual and a mechanistic hydrologic models of a green roof
Authors: Palla A. , Gnecco I. , Lanza L. G.
Published: April 2011

In order to investigate the hydrologic response of a green roof system within the urban environment, a monitoring campaign is carried out at the green roof site of the University of Genova (Italy). Experimental data confirm that the green roof is able to significantly mitigate the generation of runoff with median values of retained volume and peak reduction, respectively, equal to 94 and 98%. A conceptual linear reservoir and a simple mechanistic (Hydrus‐1D) models are implemented to simulate the hydrologic behaviour of the system; each model is calibrated and validated based on experimental data collected at the green roof site. The hydrographs simulated with both hydrologic models reproduce with acceptable matching capabilities the experimental measurements, as confirmed by the Nash‐Sutcliffe Efficiency index generally greater than 0·60. Although the relative percentage differences evaluated for the selected hydrograph variables (the total effluent volume, the peak flow rate and the hydrograph centroid) demonstrate that the mechanistic model is more accurate, prediction errors of the conceptual model are generally limited when compared with the observed hydrologic performance. Results of the present comparison are useful in supporting conceptual model selection in case the hydrologic response is addressed for hydrologic performance assessment. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Storage as a Metric of Catchment Comparison
Authors: McNamara James P. , Tetzlaff Doerthe , Bishop Kevin , Soulsby Chris , Seyfried Mark , Peters Norman E. , Aulenbach Brent T. , Hooper Richard
Published: April 2011

The volume of water stored within a catchment, and its partitioning among groundwater, soil moisture, snowpack, vegetation, and surface water are the variables that ultimately characterize the state of the hydrologic system. Accordingly, storage may provide useful metrics for catchment comparison. Unfortunately, measuring and predicting the amount of water present in a catchment is seldom done; tracking the dynamics of these stores is even rarer. Storage moderates fluxes and exerts critical controls on a wide range of hydrologic and biologic functions of a catchment. While understanding runoff generation and other processes by which catchmentsreleasewater will always be central to hydrologic science, it is equally essential to understand how catchmentsretainwater. We have initiated a catchment comparison exercise to begin assessing the value of viewing catchments from the storage perspective. The exercise is based on existing data from five watersheds, no common experimental design, and no integrated modelling efforts. Rather, storage was estimated independently for each site. This briefing presents some initial results of the exercise, poses questions about the definitions and importance of storage and the storage perspective, and suggests future directions for ongoing activities. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A remote sensing contribution to hydrologic modelling in arid and inaccessible watersheds, Pishin Lora basin, Pakistan
Authors: Sagintayev Z. , Sultan M. , Khan S. D. , Khan S. A. , Mahmood K. , Yan E. , Milewski A. , Marsala P.
Published: April 2011

The lack of adequate field measurements often hampers the construction and calibration of rainfall‐runoff models over many of the world's watersheds. We adopted methodologies that rely heavily on readily available remote sensing datasets as viable alternatives for assessing, managing, and modelling of such remote and inadequately gauged regions. The Soil and Water Assessment Tool was selected for continuous (1998–2005) rainfall‐runoff modelling of one such area, the northeast part of the Pishin Lora basin (NEPL). Input to the model included satellite‐based Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission precipitation data, and modelled runoff was calibrated against satellite‐based observations, the latter included: (i) monthly estimates of the water volumes impounded by the Khushdil Khan (latitude 30°40′N, longitude 67°40′E), and the Kara Lora (latitude 30°34′N, longitude 66°52′E) reservoirs, and (ii) inferred wet versus dry conditions in streams across the NEPL. Calibrations were also conducted against observed flow reported from the Burj Aziz Khan station at the NEPL outlet (latitude 30°20′N; longitude 66°35′E). Model simulations indicate that (i) average annual precipitation (1998–2005), runoff and recharge in the NEPL are 1300 × 106 m3, 148 × 106 m3, and 361 × 106 m3, respectively; (ii) within the NEPL watershed, precipitation and runoff are high for the northeast (precipitation: 194 mm/year; runoff: 38 × 106 m3/year) and northwest (134 mm/year; 26 × 106 m3/year) basins compared to the southern basin (124 mm/year; 8 × 106 m3/year); and (3) construction of delay action dams in the northeast and northwest basins could increase recharge from 361 × 106 m3/year up to 432 × 106 m3/year and achieve sustainable extraction. The adopted methodologies are not a substitute for traditional approaches, but they could provide first‐order estimates for rainfall, runoff, and recharge in the arid and semi‐arid parts of the world that are inaccessible and/or lack adequate coverage with field data. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of changes in snow pattern and the timing of runoff on NYC water supply system
Authors: Matonse Adão H. , Pierson Donald C. , Frei Allan , Zion Mark S. , Schneiderman Elliot M. , Anandhi Aavudai , Mukundan Rajith , Pradhanang Soni M.
Published: April 2011

This study focuses on the effect of projected changes in rainfall, snow accumulation and snowmelt, and consequent changes in the timing of runoff on NYC water supply system storage and operation as simulated by the NYC reservoir system Operational Analysis and Simulation of Integrated Systems (OASIS) model. The Generalized Watershed Loading Functions—Variable Source Area (GWLF‐VSA)—watershed model is used with future climate scenarios derived from different General Circulation Models (GCMs) to simulate future inflows to reservoirs that are part of the New York City Water Supply System (NYCWSS). Future scenarios that use current system operation rules and demands, but changed reservoir inflows, suggest that changes in precipitation and snowmelt will affect regional water availability on a seasonal basis. The combined effect of projected increases in winter air temperatures, increased winter rain, and earlier snowmelt may result in more runoff during winter. This will cause reservoir storage levels, water releases and spills to increase during the winter and earlier reservoir refill in the spring. An overall increase in precipitation will result in a reduction in number of days the system is under drought conditions, despite increased evapotranspiration later in the year. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Exploration of the links among fathers' unresolved states of mind with respect to attachment, atypical paternal behavior, and disorganized infant–father attachment
Authors: Madigan Sheri , Benoit Diane , Boucher Catherine
Published: April 2011

Atypical maternal behavior has consistently been identified as a precursor of disorganized infant–mother attachment, but to date, no research has examined the role of atypical paternal behavior in the development of disorganized infant–father attachment. This study aims to enhance our understanding and conceptualization of infant–father attachment by examining the role of fathers' unresolved states of mind and the display of atypical paternal behavior in the development of disorganized infant–father attachment. Thirty‐one middle‐class couples participated in this study. Maternal and paternal Adult Attachment Interviews (C. George, N. Kaplan, & M. Main, 1996) were completed prenatally and at infant age 6 months, respectively. Infant–mother and infant–father dyads participated in the Strange Situation paradigm (M. Ainsworth, M. Blehar, E. Waters, & S. Wall, 1978) when the infants were 12 and 18 months of age, respectively. The Atypical Maternal Behavior Instrument for Assessment and Classification (E. Bronfman, E. Parsons, & K. Lyons‐Ruth, 1999) was used to assess maternal and paternal behavior during the Strange Situation. Maternal states of mind regarding attachment predicted infant–mother attachment relationships, and paternal states of mind predicted infant–father attachment relationships. Atypical maternal behavior was associated with infant–mother disorganized attachment; however, atypical paternal behavior did not predict infant–father disorganized attachment. Thus, it is possible that other factors, yet to be uncovered, might contribute to the development of infant–father disorganized attachment.
Cholesteryl ester transfer protein: The controversial relation to atherosclerosis and emerging new biological roles
Authors: Oliveira Helena C. F. , de Faria Eliana C.
Published: April 2011

Cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP) exerts a profound impact on high‐density lipoprotein (HDL) metabolism and, consequently, on the risk of atherosclerosis development and cardiovascular mortality. Here, we review the complex relationship between CETP and atherosclerosis based upon the experimental, clinical, and epidemiological studies. In addition, we discuss the recent findings that expand the functions of CETP to new areas of interest such as Alzheimer's disease, inflammation, and obesity. © 2011 IUBMB IUBMB Life, 63(4): 272–276, 2011
Layer‐by‐layer assembly of chitosan and platelet monoclonal antibody to improve biocompatibility and release character of PLLA coated stent
Authors: Luo L. L. , Wang G. X. , Li Y. L. , Yin T. Y. , Jiang T. , Ruan C. G.
Published: April 2011

The aim of this study is to construct a biocompatible coating of a drug‐eluting stent through the incorporation of chitosan with monoclonal antibody (mAb) to a platelet glycoprotein (GP) IIIa receptor, by electrostatic layer‐by‐layer (LBL) adsorption of oppositely charged polyelectrolytes and proteins. The platelet maximum aggregation rate and aggregation inhibition rate tests confirm the bioactivity of mAb in different pH assembly environments. The fluorescence spectra test and confocal laser scanning microscopy observation were used to monitor the LBL assembly process of the mAb/chitosan multilayer on the surface of the aminolyzed Poly‐L‐lactic acid (PLLA) membrane, when using Rhodamine B isothiocyanate‐labeled mAb and Fluorescein isothiocyanate‐labeled chitosan. The in vitro platelet adhesion experiment demonstrated the amicable blood compatibility of the mAb/chitosan multilayer. The endothelial cell adhesion and migration test revealed that the multilayer could improve the cytocompatibility of the PLLA matrix in terms of cell attachment, proliferation, and migration. An in vitro perfusion circuit was designed to evaluate the release rates measured by a radioisotope technique with 125I‐labeled GP IIIa mAb. The different eluting curves of the mAb/chitosan‐assembled stent and mAb physically absorbed stent showed the improvement of mAb's release character when using LBL self‐assembly technology. Our method to prepare a biocompatible stent surface with mAb/chitosan multilayers has proved to be favorable and effective in vitro, thus justifying further evaluation to improve the biocompatibility in an animal model test. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 2011.
Effects of surface wettability, flow, and protein concentration on macrophage and astrocyte adhesion in an in vitro model of central nervous system catheter obstruction
Authors: Harris Carolyn A. , Resau James H. , Hudson Eric A. , West Richard A. , Moon Candice , Black Andrew D. , McAllister James P.
Published: April 2011

While silicone devices have vastly improved an array of medical treatments, reactions at the tissue‐substrate interface often impede their functionality. Insertion of a poly(dimethyl)siloxane (PDMS) catheter into the cerebral ventricles to drain excess cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is the most common treatment of hydrocephalus, but shunting often fails because inflammatory tissue, choroid plexus cells, and debris grow into these central nervous system catheters and obstruct flow. We hypothesized that plasma oxidation of PDMS would inhibit macrophage and astrocyte adhesion under flow (0 to 0.3 mL/min) and protein (20.8 to 240 mg/dL) conditions similar to those observed in the physiological state. Oxidation (to increase wettability) had an inhibitory effect on macrophage cell binding (yielding a significant 88% change) that was generally more pronounced than the effect of flow (22% change) or protein concentration (3% change). In contrast, greater flow increased binding of astrocytes in most cases (yielding a significant 97% change); plasma oxidation (19% change), and protein concentration (60% change) had less pronounced effects. This study is the initial indicator that plasma oxidation of PDMS catheters may inhibit macrophage adhesion during CSF outflow but may not be as effective at inhibiting astrocyte binding. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 2011.
Biochemical methane potential (BMP) of solid organic substrates: evaluation of anaerobic biodegradability using data from an international interlaboratory study
Authors: Raposo F. , Fernández‐Cegrí V. , De la Rubia M.A. , Borja R. , Béline F. , Cavinato C. , Demirer G. , Fernández B. , Fernández‐Polanco M. , Frigon J.C. , Ganesh R. , Kaparaju P. , Koubova J. , Méndez R. , Menin G. , Peene A. , Scherer P. , Torrijos M. , Uellendahl H. , Wierinck I. , de Wilde V.
Published: April 2011

BACKGROUND: This paper describes results obtained for different participating research groups in an interlaboratory study related to biochemical methane potential (BMP). In this research work, all experimental conditions influencing the test such as inoculum, substrate characteristics and experimental conditions were investigated. The study was performed using four substrates: three positive control substrates (starch, cellulose and gelatine), and one raw biomass material (mung bean) at two different inoculum to substrate ratios (ISR).

RESULTS: The average methane yields for starch, cellulose, gelatine and mung bean at ISR of 2 and 1 were 350 ± 33, 350 ± 29, 380 ± 42, 370 ± 36 and 370 ± 35 mL CH4 g−1 VSadded, respectively. The percentages of biotransformation of these substrates into methane were 85 ± 8, 85 ± 7, 88 ± 9, 85 ± 8 and 85 ± 8%, respectively. On the other hand, the first‐order rate constants obtained from the experimental data were 0.24 ± 0.14, 0.23 ± 0.15, 0.27 ± 0.13, 0.31 ± 0.17 and 0.23 ± 0.13 d−1, respectively.

CONCLUSION: The influence of inocula and experimental factors was nearly insignificant with respect to the extents of the anaerobic biodegradation, while the rates differed significantly according to the experimental approaches. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
A redescription ofCarrolla craddocki(Lepospondyli: Brachystelechidae) based on high‐resolution CT, and the impacts of miniaturization and fossoriality on morphology
Authors: Maddin Hillary C. , Olori Jennifer C. , Anderson Jason S.
Published: April 2011

Some recent morphological analyses have brought into question the monophyly of Lissamphibia (frogs, salamanders, and caecilians). In these analyses, brachystelechid “microsaurs” are found to be sister group to caecilians. To test this hypothesis, the holotype specimen of the brachystelechidCarrolla craddockiwas submitted to high‐resolution X‐ray computed tomography to gain insight into the nature of the morphology supporting the potential relationship between brachystelechids and caecilians. This analysis enabled us to conduct a detailed description of the internal anatomy such as the braincase and otic capsule endocast (the first of its kind for a lepospondyl), and new information regarding the architecture of the skull. Our results suggest brachystelechid cranial morphology is strongly influenced by miniaturization (enlarged sensory organs, anterior placement of the jaw articulation, and combination of both reduced‐ and hyper‐ossifications) and burrowing habits (co‐ossified braincase with broad, sloping occipital surface, overlapping joints between skull roof bones, and well‐ossified anterior braincase). Characteristics of brachystelechids that appear unrelated to size‐reduction and burrowing are the diamond‐shaped skull and possible pedicellate dentition. We provide a revised diagnosis forCarrollaand identify possible new characters within the anatomy of the braincase and inner ear. Several characters currently uniting caecilians and “microsaurs” are among those associated with either miniaturization or burrowing, demonstrating that future efforts should continue to focus on fine details of anatomy minimally affected by these influences to contribute to the resolution of the question of the origin of caecilians. J. Morphol. 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Elevated tonic extracellular dopamine concentration and altered dopamine modulation of synaptic activity precede dopamine loss in the striatum of mice overexpressing human α‐synuclein
Authors: Lam Hoa A. , Wu Nanping , Cely Ingrid , Kelly Rachel L. , Hean Sindalana , Richter Franziska , Magen Iddo , Cepeda Carlos , Ackerson Larry C. , Walwyn Wendy , Masliah Eliezer , Chesselet Marie‐Françoise , Levine Michael S. , Maidment Nigel T.
Published: April 2011

Overexpression or mutation of α‐synuclein (α‐Syn), a protein associated with presynaptic vesicles, causes familial forms of Parkinson's disease in humans and is also associated with sporadic forms of the disease. We used in vivo microdialysis, tissue content analysis, behavioral assessment, and whole‐cell patch clamp recordings from striatal medium‐sized spiny neurons (MSSNs) in slices to examine dopamine transmission and dopaminergic modulation of corticostriatal synaptic function in mice overexpressing human wild‐type α‐Syn under the Thy1 promoter (α‐Syn mice). Tonic striatal extracellular dopamine and 3‐methoxytyramine levels were elevated in α‐Syn mice at 6 months of age, prior to any reduction in total striatal tissue content, and were accompanied by an increase in open‐field activity. Dopamine clearance and amphetamine‐induced dopamine efflux were unchanged. The frequency of MSSN spontaneous excitatory postsynaptic currents (sEPSCs) was lower in α‐Syn mice. Amphetamine reduced sEPSC frequency in wild types (WTs) but produced no effect in α‐Syn mice. Furthermore, whereas quinpirole reduced and sulpiride increased sEPSC frequency in WT mice, they produced the opposite effects in α‐Syn mice. These observations indicate that overexpression of α‐Syn alters dopamine efflux and D2 receptor modulation of corticostriatal glutamate release at a young age. At 14 months of age, the α‐Syn mice presented with significantly lower striatal tissue dopamine and tyrosine hydroxylase content relative to WT littermates, accompanied by an L‐DOPA‐reversible sensory motor deficit. Together, these data further validate this transgenic mouse line as a slowly progressing model of Parkinson's disease and provide evidence for early dopamine synaptic dysfunction prior to loss of striatal dopamine. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Decrease of calbindin‐d28k, calretinin, and parvalbumin by taurine treatment does not induce a major susceptibility to kainic acid
Authors: Junyent F. , Porquet D. , de Lemos L. , Romero R. , Utrera J. , Camins A. , Pallàs M. , Auladell C.
Published: April 2011

Taurine, 2‐aminoethanesulfonic acid, is present at high concentrations in many invertebrate and vertebrate systems, and it has several biological functions. In addition, it has been related to a neuroprotective role against several diseases, such as epilepsy. It has been reported that taurine induces a decrease of calbindin‐D28k, calretinin, and parvalbumin protein levels in the hippocampus 3 days after administration. In the present work we hypothesized that the decrease of these proteins could alter the action of kainic acid (KA) and make mice more susceptible to excitotoxicity. Therefore, we treated mice with taurine and after 3 days treated them with KA. The results showed that taurine pretreatment did not induce a major susceptibility to KA. Moreover, neurodegeneration was reduced in pretreated mice. However, astrogliosis was similar to that observed in mice treated only with KA. The immunohistochemistries for calbindin‐D28k, calretinin, and parvalbumin showed that these proteins were reduced as a consequence of KA treatment and of taurine treatment. However, mice pretreated with taurine prior to KA administration presented the same reduction in these proteins as mice treated with only taurine or only KA. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The NAD+/NADH redox state in astrocytes: Independent control of the NAD+ and NADH content
Authors: Wilhelm Franziska , Hirrlinger Johannes
Published: April 2011

The intracellular redox state is established by several redox pairs, such as NAD+/NADH and NADP+/NADPH and glutathione. This redox state is a crucial determinant of cellular metabolism and function. Astrocytes are an important cell population contributing to brain metabolism and brain energy supply, so a careful control of these redox pairs is essential for proper brain function. Despite this, little is known about control of the NAD+ and NADH content within the brain or in astrocytes. Therefore, we here analyzed the NAD+ and NADH content of mouse tissue and cultured cortical astrocytes. The NAD+/NADH ratio increased in most tissues during development from newborn to adult mice. The basal redox ratio of cultured astrocytes was about 3.8 and similar to the redox ratio of the cortex of newborn mice. Although the NADH content of these cells was highly sensitive to the concentration of energy substrates and to modulation of energy metabolism, the NAD+ content was surprisingly constant under these conditions. In contrast, application of nicotine amide or nicotinamide mononucleotide, which are precursors for NAD+ biosynthesis, slowly increased NAD+ content while leaving NADH levels unaffected. Finally, inhibiting the NAD+‐degrading enzyme poly‐(ADP‐ribose)‐polymerase increased NAD+ content slightly without affecting NADH levels, whereas inhibition of sirtuins had no effect. These results indicate that, in addition to converting NAD+ to NADH and vice versa during redox reactions, the content of both partners of this redox pair is additionally controlled by other mechanisms. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Strawberry recovers from iron chlorosis after foliar application of a grass‐clipping extract
Authors: Pestana Maribela , Domingos Irina , Gama Florinda , Dandlen Susana , Miguel Maria Graça , Castro Pinto João , de Varennes Amarilis , Correia Pedro José
Published: April 2011

Bare‐root transplants of strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa Duch. cv. Selva) were transferred to nutrient solutions with or without iron. After 35 d of growth, plants in the solution without iron became chlorotic and had morphological changes in roots typical of iron‐deficiency chlorosis (IDC). Acidification of the nutrient solution was also observed. We tested a grass‐clipping extract to correct IDC in strawberry plants by foliar application to some chlorotic plants. We also assessed the effects of this product on plant growth, Fe allocation, as well as morphological and physiological parameters related with IDC. After the second spray, leaf chlorophyll increased in the youngest expanded leaves. The total content of iron in plants increased from 1.93 mg to 2.37 mg per plant after three sprays, accounting for 80% of the total iron supplied by the extract. Newly formed roots from sprayed plants had a normal morphology (no subapical swollen zone) but a higher ferric chelate–reductase (FC‐R; EC 1.16.1.17) activity per root apex compared with roots from plants grown with iron or untreated chlorotic plants. Acidification of the nutrient solution continued in sprayed recovered plants. The results suggest an uncoupling of the regulation of morphological and physiological mechanisms related to IDC: FC‐R activity seems to be controlled by roots on their own or together with shoots, while morphological changes in roots are apparently regulated only by the level of iron in shoots.
Rapidly progressive diffuse Lewy body disease
Authors: Gaig Carles , Valldeoriola Francesc , Gelpi Ellen , Ezquerra Mario , Llufriu Sara , Buongiorno Mariateresa , Rey Maria Jesús , Martí Maria Jose , Graus Francesc , Tolosa Eduardo
Published: April 2011

Background:

Lewy body syndromes (mainly Parkinson's disease and dementia with Lewy bodies) share many clinical features and usually have a slowly progressive course. Some patients may show rapid symptoms progression.

Objective:

To evaluate clinical and neuropathological features of patients with a rapidly progressive diffuse Lewy Body disease.

Methods:

Review clinical records and pathological findings of 6 cases with diffuse Lewy Body disease and rapid disease progression (less than 18 months before death).

Results:

Mean age at disease onset was 72.5 years, and mean disease duration was 9 months. Onset consisted of delirium in 3 patients and rapidly progressive dementia in the other three. All cases presented visual hallucinations and delusions; cognitive symptoms were fluctuating in two, parkinsonism occurred in four, and myoclonus in three. Brain MRI did not show cortical or basal ganglia hyperintensities. Periodic sharp waves were absent on EEG. 14.3.3 protein in CSF was negative. Myocardial 123I‐metaiodo‐benzyl‐guanidine SPECT showed marked reduction in tracer uptake in the 2 patients tested. Neuropathological studies did not identify any particular feature that could differentiate rapidly progressive diffuse Lewy body disease from classical diffuse Lewy body disease.

Conclusions:

Diffuse Lewy body disease is a possible cause of rapidly progressive dementia and should be included in the differential diagnosis of confusional states of undetermined cause. In patients with rapidly progressive dementia, the presence of fluctuating cognition, parkinsonism, hallucinations, delusions, or severe dysautonomia, should raise the suspicion of diffuse Lewy body disease. Neuroimaging studies such as 123I‐metaiodo‐benzyl‐guanidine myocardial scintigraphy may support the clinical diagnosis of diffuse Lewy body disease. © 2011 Movement Disorder Society
Tourette syndrome: Evolving concepts
Authors: Jankovic Joseph , Kurlan Roger
Published: April 2011

Tourette syndrome is a common childhood‐onset neurobehavioral disorder characterized by multiple motor and phonic tics affecting boys more frequently than girls. Premonitory sensory urges prior to tic execution are common, and this phenomenon helps to distinguish tics from other hyperkinetic movement disorders. Tourette syndrome is commonly associated with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, obsessive‐compulsive disorder, learning difficulties, and impulse control disorder. The pathophysiology of this complex disorder is not well understood. Involvement of basal ganglia–related circuits and dopaminergic system has been suggested by various imaging and postmortem studies. Although it is considered a genetic disorder, possibly modified by environmental factors, an intense search has thus far failed to find causative genes. Symptomatic treatment of tics chiefly utilizes various alpha adrenergic agonists, antidopaminergic drugs, topiramate, botulinum toxin, and deep brain stimulation. Habit reversal therapy and other behavioral approaches may be a reasonable option for some cases. Improved understanding of Tourette syndrome should lead to better symptomatic and more effective pathogenesis‐targeted therapies. © 2011 Movement Disorder Society
Tissue–blood exchange of extravascular longitudinal magnetization with account of intracompartmental diffusion
Authors: Ureña José R. Solera , Olmos Salvador , Kiselev Valerij G.
Published: April 2011

The joint effect of both extravascular water diffusion and transcapillary water exchange on the longitudinal magnetisation is evaluated theoretically for tissues with sparse capillary networks (e.g., the brain and myocardium). The spatio‐temporal profile of the extravascular longitudinal magnetisation is calculated for the limiting case of a high blood concentration of paramagnetic tracer resulting in negligible intravascular magnetisation, hence in a net flux of magnetisation from the extravascular tissue to its contained blood. A related parameter, termed the effective extravascular depolarised volume, is derived that quantifies the ensuing attenuation of the NMR signal and affords a taxonomy of exchange regimes. It is found that the spatio‐temporal pattern of magnetisation decay may deviate strongly from that predicted by chemical exchange models when the rate of transcapillary exchange is limited by slow diffusive transport in the extravascular tissue but reproduces known results in the case of fast extravascular diffusion. Magn Reson Med, 2011. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Detection of microscopic diffusion anisotropy on a whole‐body MR system with double wave vector imaging
Authors: Lawrenz Marco , Finsterbusch Jürgen
Published: April 2011

Double‐wave‐vector diffusion‐weighting experiments can detect diffusion anisotropy on a microscopic level which, e.g., could distinguish lower fiber densities from reduced fiber coherence. The underlying signal difference between parallel and orthogonal wave vector orientations has been observed on vertical‐bore MR systems (≥500 mT m−1); however, numerical simulations reveal that it is expected to be considerably reduced for typical whole‐body MR gradient pulse durations. Here, pig spinal cord tissue and a reference fluid phantom were investigated on a 3 T clinical MR system (40 mT m−1). By averaging over different absolute wave vector orientations, signal variations caused by experimental imperfections like background gradient fields and eddy currents were minimized and a rotationally invariant anisotropy measure could be assessed. A significant microscopic anisotropy was observed in gray and white matter tissue even in the plane perpendicular to the cord which is consistent with previous vertical‐bore experiments. Thus, it is demonstrated that double‐wave‐vector experiments can investigate the microscopic anisotropy on whole‐body MR systems. Magn Reson Med, 2011. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Survival and CTG repeat expansion in adults with myotonic dystrophy type 1
Authors: Groh William J. , Groh Miriam R. , Shen Changyu , Monckton Darren G. , Bodkin Cynthia L. , Pascuzzi Robert M.
Published: April 2011

Introduction:

An association is observed between the severity of myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1) and the genetic abnormality of cytosine–thymine–guanine (CTG) repeat expansion. It is unknown whether an association exists between survival and CTG repeat expansion.

Methods:

In an adult 406‐patient DM1 cohort, the phenotype, including survival age, was evaluated in relation to CTG repeat expansion.

Results:

At study entry, age was 42 ± 12 (range 18–78) years, with a CTG repeat length of 629 ± 386 (range 54–1965). An inverse correlation was observed between CTG repeat length and the age at onset and younger DM1 phenotype. Over a follow‐up of 9.2 ± 3.1 years, 118 (29.1%) patients died, including 60 of neuromuscular respiratory failure, 41 of cardiac causes, and 17 of non‐neuromuscular, non‐cardiac causes. There was an inverse relationship between all‐cause survival and CTG length (relative risk 5.4 per log repeat, 95% confidence interval 2.9–10.2, P < 0.001).

Conclusion:

The data demonstrate a genotype–mortality association in DM1. Muscle Nerve, 2011
Single‐fiber conduction velocity test allows earlier detection of abnormalities in diabetes
Authors: Padua Luca , Stålberg Erik , Caliandro Pietro , Muscogiuri Giovanna , Pazzaglia Costanza , Sorice Gian Pio , Granata Giuseppe , Salomone Enrica , Pontecorvi Alfredo , Giaccari Andrea
Published: April 2011

Introduction

The purpose of this study was to determine whether single‐fiber conduction velocity (SF‐CV) of a small number of axons increases sensitivity for identification of motor nerve conduction alterations in patients with diabetes.

Methods

Twenty‐one consecutive diabetic patients in good metabolic control were studied. For each patient, conventional (C‐CV) and SF‐CV results were correlated with the presence of neuropathic symptoms.

Results

Nine of 21 patients reported symptoms suggestive of mild nerve impairment. Three patients had abnormal sural nerve CV, 1 of whom also had abnormal motor nerve conduction. Eighteen patients had normal findings on conventional tests, 3 of whom had slowing of SF‐CV.

Conclusions

SF‐CV is able to detect mild myelin damage with higher sensitivity than conventional tests. The use of SF‐CV may be a helpful tool in the early identification of diabetic polyneuropathy, and it may be useful for tailoring an approach to diabetic polyneuropathy. Muscle Nerve, 2011
Balance and coordination training after sciatic nerve injury
Authors: Bonetti Leandro Viçosa , Korb Arthiese , Da Silva Sandro Antunes , Ilha Jocemar , Marcuzzo Simone , Achaval Matilde , Faccioni‐Heuser Maria Cristina
Published: April 2011

Introduction: Numerous therapeutic interventions have been tested to enhance functional recovery after peripheral nerve injuries. Methods: After sciatic nerve crush in rats we tested balance and coordination and motor control training in sensorimotor tests and analyzed nerve and muscle histology. Results: The balance and coordination training group and the sham group had better results than the sedentary and motor control groups in sensorimotor tests. The sham and balance and coordination groups had a significantly larger muscle area than the other groups, and the balance and coordination group showed significantly better values than the sedentary and motor control groups for average myelin sheath thickness and g‐ratio of the distal portion of the nerve. Conclusions: The findings indicate that balance and coordination training improves sciatic nerve regeneration, suggesting that it is possible to revert and/or prevent soleus muscle atrophy and improve performance on sensorimotor tests. Muscle Nerve 44: 55–62, 2011.
Toll‐like and adenosine receptor expression in injured skeletal muscle
Authors: Warren Gordon L. , Hulderman Tracy , Liston Angie , Simeonova Petia P.
Published: April 2011

Introduction: Many aspects of skeletal muscle regeneration are now considered to be controlled by the innate immune system, specifically macrophages, but the mechanisms for activation and modulation of the innate immune system during injury are not well understood. Methods: We analyzed the expression of toll‐like receptors (TLRs) and adenosine receptors during traumatic skeletal muscle injury. mRNA expression and immunostaining of these receptors were evaluated in mouse skeletal muscle injured by freezing. Results: Expression of nearly all mammalian TLRs was induced at 1 and/or 3 days postinjury with a common trend for higher expression at day 3. Injury also elicited a dramatic increase in the expression of adenosine receptors A2B and A3 but not A1 and A2A. Conclusions: Both receptor types may be potential targets for stimulation of skeletal muscle tissue regeneration and functional restoration after injury. Muscle Nerve 44: 85–92, 2011.
Sacral neuromodulation for treating neurogenic bladder dysfunction: Clinical and urodynamic study
Authors: Chaabane Wassim , Guillotreau Julien , Castel‐lacanal Evelyne , Abu‐Anz Sami , De Boissezon Xavier , Malavaud Bernard , Marque Philippe , Sarramon Jean‐Pierre , Rischmann Pascal , Game Xavier
Published: April 2011

Purpose

The efficacy of sacral neuromodulation for treating refractory idiopathic lower urinary tract dysfunction is now well established. Nevertheless, results of this technique in neurological patients are still controversial. The aim of this retrospective study was to assess the results of sacral neuromodulation in neurogenic bladder dysfunction.

Materials and Methods

Between 1998 and 2008, a percutaneous nerve evaluation or a two‐stage technique was performed in 62 patients (mean age 50.5 ± 14.8 years) with neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction. Before and during the temporary stimulation, each patient had a urodynamic evaluation and performed a bladder diary. The test was considered positive if the clinical and urodynamic improvement was over 50% and if the symptoms reappeared after turning the stimulation off.

Results

Lower urinary tract dysfunction was detrusor overactivity in 34 cases and chronic urinary retention in 28 cases. A detrusor‐sphincter dyssynergia (DSD) was associated in nine cases. Out of the 62 patients, 41 patients (66.1%) had more than 50% improvement on urodynamic evaluation and bladder diary and 37 were implanted. With a mean follow‐up of 4.3 ± 3.7 years, results remained similar to the evaluation phase in 28 cases (75.7%), were partially altered in three cases (8.1%) and lost in six cases (16.2%). In these six cases, neuromodulation failed on average 12.0 ± 12.4 months after implantation.

Conclusion

Sacral neuromodulation seems to constitute a serious therapeutic option for patients with neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction. However, its results depend on the type of the underlying neurologic disease and in particular, whether it may progress or not. 30:547–550, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Shortening fraction of the right ventricle: a comparison between euploid and trisomy 21 fetuses at week 11 to week 13 and 6 days of gestation
Authors: Brestak Miroslav , Sonek Jiri , Tomek Viktor , McKenna David , Calda Pavel
Published: April 2011

Objectives

This study was designed to compare the first trimester shortening fraction of the right ventricle (SFRV) values between euploid fetuses and fetuses with trisomy 21.

Methods

SFRV was measured in 58 first trimester fetuses between September 2008 and February 2010. The stored M‐mode images were used to obtain the right ventricular diastolic diameter (RVDD) and right ventricular systolic diameter (RVSD) measurements offline.

Results

The SFRV values were found to be significantly greater in the 9 fetuses with trisomy 21 as compared to the group of 49 euploid fetuses (mean: 48.6 mm; range: 36–56.25 mm vs mean: 34.11 mm; range: 22.73–43.48 mm) (p < 0.0001). The RVDD measurements were also found to be significantly greater in the fetuses with trisomy 21 than in the euploid fetuses (mean: 3.08 mm; range: 2.2–4.7 mm vs mean: 2.54 mm; range: 1.9–3.6 mm) (p = 0.03).There was no difference in the RVSD measurements between the two groups [mean: 1.56 mm; range: 1.2–2.3 mm (trisomy 21 fetuses) vs mean: 1.67 mm; range: 1.3–2.4 mm (euploid fetuses)] (p = 0.17).

Conclusions

The SFRV values in fetuses with trisomy 21 appear to be significantly greater than in the euploid fetuses. The RVDD also appears to be greater in fetuses with trisomy 21 than in the euploid fetuses. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Substituent effects on thermal and photo‐alignment behavior of poly(ethylene imine)s carrying azobenzene side groups
Authors: Kamruzzaman Mohammad , Kuwahara Yutaka , Ogata Tomonari , Ujiie Seiji , Kurihara Seiji
Published: April 2011

A new class of liquid‐crystalline poly(ethylene imine)s (PEIs) having four differently substituted (CN,C4H9,OCH3 andNO2) azobenzene side‐chain groups attached through alkyl spacer groups were successfully synthesized using a solution polycondensation reaction. The synthesized polymers were characterized using differential scanning calorimetry, polarized optical microscopy and X‐ray diffraction. The photochemical, thermo‐optical and photo‐orientational behavior of the polymers were investigated in detail. Spin‐coated films of PEIs with azobenzene groups havingC4H9,OCH3 andNO2 substituents showed out‐of‐plane molecular orientation on annealing. Except for the PEI with an azobenzene group having NO2 substituent, all polymers exhibited good photoresponsive properties upon irradiation with UV and visible light. Films of PEIs with azobenzene side groups havingCN,C4H9 andOCH3 substituents showed reversible alignment behavior from random state to out‐of‐plane and from out‐of‐plane to random state on annealing and on irradiation with UV and non‐polarized visible light. The reversibility of the molecular orientation of PEIs from random state to out‐of‐plane and from out‐of‐plane to random state greatly depended on the substituent attached to the azobenzene side‐chain group. Copyright © 2010 Society of Chemical Industry
Polymeric nanostructured items electrospun on a cylindrical template: a simple procedure for their removal
Authors: Errico Cesare , Detta Nicola , Puppi Dario , Piras Anna Maria , Chiellini Federica , Chiellini Emo
Published: April 2011

Tubular structures, obtained by electrospinning on a rotating mandrel, are of interest for use as devices in medical and industrial applications. However, removal of electrospun tubes from the collecting mandrel has been a major problem and various techniques have been proposed, though having severe drawbacks. In our study, a method to safely remove electrospun tubes from a template mandrel (collector) is described. Before electrospinning, a copper wire is rolled up on the mandrel to form a helix, with the purpose of creating a gap between mandrel and electrospun tube once the wire is easily removed from the mandrel. Adopting the described methodology, uniform electrospun polymeric tubes can be easily removed from the mandrel. The procedure for fast rolling up of the wire on the rotating mandrel is also described. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
Metallocene‐mediated cationic ring‐opening polymerization of 2‐methyl‐ and 2‐phenyl‐oxazoline
Authors: Kourti Maria‐Evgenia , Vougioukalakis Georgios C. , Hadjichristidis Nikos , Pitsikalis Marinos
Published: April 2011

The cationic ring‐opening polymerization of 2‐methyl‐2‐oxazoline and 2‐phenyl‐2‐oxazoline was efficiently used using bis(η5‐cyclopentadienyl)dimethyl zirconium, Cp2ZrMe2, or bis(η5‐tert‐butyl‐cyclopentadienyl)dimethyl hafnium in combination with either tris(pentafluorophenyl)borate or tetrakis(pentafluorophenyl)borate dimethylanilinum salt as initiation systems. The evolution of polymer yield, molecular weight, and molecular weight distribution with time was examined. In addition, the influence of the initiation system and the monomer on the control of the polymerization was studied. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 000: 000–000, 2011
Unusually soft ferroelectricity in (Ba1−xSrx)TiO3 ceramics
Authors: Wang Le , Wang Xiaoli , Shi Jing , Sun Ruiting , Li Bo
Published: April 2011

Temperature evolution of polarization versus electric field of (Ba0.4Sr0.6)TiO3 and (Ba0.9Sr0.1)TiO3 ceramics was investigated. Polarization characteristics of (Ba0.9Sr0.1)TiO3 belong to ferroelectrics with diffuse phase transition (DPT), while the ones of (Ba0.4Sr0.6)TiO3 are rather different. (Ba0.4Sr0.6)TiO3 ceramics display very soft ferroelectricity and extremely high dielectric tunability. The long‐range ferroelectric ordering in (Ba0.4Sr0.6)TiO3 ceramics disappears completely below temperature Tm of maximum dielectric permittivity εm, which is different from normal DPT ferroelectrics. The special ferroelectric behavior is hypothesized to be attributed to random arrangements of the distorted TiO6 octahedra.
Spontaneous emission from GaN/AlGaN terahertz quantum cascade laser grown on GaN substrate
Authors: Terashima Wataru , Hirayama Hideki
Published: April 2011

The radiation properties of a GaN/AlGaN‐based terahertz‐quantum cascade laser (THz‐QCL) device fabricated on a high quality GaN substrate were investigated in this work. The radiant intensity from a THz‐QCL fabricated on a GaN substrate showed a value (∼20 pW) about 10 times higher than that from a THz‐QCL grown on a metal organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD)‐GaN template that we had used before. Furthermore, we observed for the first time spontaneous THz emission with a peak at 1.37 THz in the case of a THz‐QCL grown on a GaN substrate. (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Improvement in the negative bias illumination temperature stress instability of In–Ga–Zn–O thin film transistors using an Al2O3 buffer layer
Authors: Kim Jeong Hwan , Kim Un Ki , Chung Yoon Jang , Hwang Cheol Seong
Published: April 2011

The negative bias illumination temperature stress (NBITS) instability of amorphous In–Ga–Zn–O thin film transistors with SiO2 and SiO2/Al2O3 gate dielectric layers was evaluated. The introduction of a thin Al2O3 layer between the channel and SiO2 layer decreased the threshold voltage shift (ΔVth) by ∼20% after a NBITS for 1000 s. The interfacial trap density of the two samples, estimated by conductance and off‐current measurements, were almost identical. The higher valence band offset (∼0.4 eV) at the Al2O3/In–Ga–Zn–O interface compared to the SiO2/In–Ga–Zn–O interface decreased the gate leakage current and bulk trapping of holes under illumination. (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)