bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chorda Tympani Nerve Terminal Field Maturation and Maintenance Is Severely Altered Following Changes to Gustatory Nerve Input to the Nucleus of the Solitary Tract
Authors: Corson Sara L. , Hill David L.
Published: May 2011

Neural competition among multiple inputs can affect the refinement and maintenance of terminal fields in sensory systems. In the rat gustatory system, the chorda tympani, greater superficial petrosal, and glossopharyngeal nerves have distinct but overlapping terminal fields in the first central relay, the nucleus of the solitary tract. This overlap is largest at early postnatal ages followed by a significant refinement and pruning of the fields over a 3 week period, suggesting that competitive mechanisms underlie the pruning. Here, we manipulated the putative competitive interactions among the three nerves by sectioning the greater superficial petrosal and glossopharyngeal nerves at postnatal day 15 (P15), P25, or at adulthood, while leaving the chorda tympani nerve intact. The terminal field of the chorda tympani nerve was assessed 35 d following nerve sections, a period before the sectioned nerves functionally regenerated. Regardless of the age when the nerves were cut, the chorda tympani nerve terminal field expanded to a volume four times larger than sham controls. Terminal field density measurements revealed that the expanded terminal field was similar to P15 control rats. Thus, it appears that the chorda tympani nerve terminal field defaults to its early postnatal field size and shape when the nerves with overlapping fields are cut, and this anatomical plasticity is retained into adulthood. These findings not only demonstrate the dramatic and lifelong plasticity in the central gustatory system, but also suggest that corresponding changes in functional and taste-related behaviors will accompany injury-induced changes in brainstem circuits.
In the Newborn Hippocampus, Neurotrophin-Dependent Survival Requires Spontaneous Activity and Integrin Signaling
Authors: Murase Sachiko , Owens David F. , McKay Ronald D.
Published: May 2011

The nervous system develops through a program that first produces neurons in excess and then eliminates as many as half in a specific period of early postnatal life. Neurotrophins are widely thought to regulate neuronal survival, but this role has not been clearly defined in the CNS. Here we show that neurotrophins promote survival of young neurons by promoting spontaneous activity. Survival of hippocampal neurons in neonatal rat requires spontaneous activity that depends on the excitatory action of GABA. Neurotrophins facilitate recruitment of cultured neurons into active networks, and it is this activity, combined with integrin receptor signaling, that controls neuronal survival.In vivo, neurotrophins require integrin signaling to control neuron number. These data are the first to link the early excitatory action of GABA to the developmental death period and to assign an essential role for activity in neurotrophin-mediated survival that establishes appropriate networks.
Statistical Traces of Long-Term Memories Stored in Strengths and Patterns of Synaptic Connections
Authors: Stepanyants Armen , Escobar Gina
Published: May 2011

Learning and long-term memory rely on plasticity of neural circuits. In adult cerebral cortex, plasticity can result from potentiation and depression of synaptic strengths and structural reorganization of circuits through growth and retraction of dendritic spines. By analyzing 166 distributions of spine head volumes and spine lengths from mouse, rat, monkey, and human brains, we determine the “generalized cost” of dendritic spines. This cost universally depends on spine shape, i.e., the dependence is the same in all the analyzed systems. We show that, in adult, synaptic strength and structural synaptic plasticity mechanisms are in statistical equilibrium, the numbers of dendritic spines in different cortical areas are nearly optimally chosen for memory storage, and the distributions of spine lengths and head volumes are governed by a single parameter—the effective temperature. We suggest that the effective temperature may be viewed as a measure of circuit stability or longevity of stored memories.
Induction of Intracellular Tau Aggregation Is Promoted by α-Synuclein Seeds and Provides Novel Insights into the Hyperphosphorylation of Tau
Authors: Waxman Elisa A. , Giasson Benoit I.
Published: May 2011

Intracytoplasmic proteinaceous inclusions, primarily composed of tau or α-synuclein (α-syn), are predominant pathological features of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD), respectively. However, the coexistence of these pathological aggregates is identified in many neurodegenerative disorders, including spectrum disorders of AD and PD. Whereas α-syn can spontaneously polymerize into amyloidogenic fibrils,in vitro, tau polymerization requires an inducing agent. The current study presents a human-derived cellular model, in which recombinant, preformed α-syn fibrils cross-seed intracellular tau to promote the formation of neurofibrillary tangle-like aggregates. These aggregates were hyperphosphorylated, Triton insoluble, and thioflavin-S positive, either comingling with endogenously expressed α-syn aggregates or induced by only exogenously applied recombinant α-syn fibrils. Furthermore, filamentous, amyloidogenic tau took over the cellular soma, displacing the nucleus and isolating or displacing organelles, likely preventing cellular function. Although a significant proportion of wild-type tau formed these cellular inclusions, the P301L mutation in tau increased aggregation propensity resulting from α-syn seeds to over 50% of total tau protein. The role of phosphorylation on the development of these tau aggregates was investigated by coexpressing glycogen synthase kinase 3 β or microtubule-associated protein/microtubule affinity-regulating kinase 2. Expression of either kinase inhibited the formation of α-syn-induced tau aggregates. Analyses of phosphorylation sites suggest that multiple complex factors may be associated with this effect and that Triton-soluble versus Triton-insoluble tau may be independently targeted by kinases. The current work not only provides an exceptional cellular model of tau pathology, but also examines α-syn-induced tau inclusion formation and provides novel insights into hyperphosphorylation observed in disease.
Stress Acts Cumulatively To Precipitate Alzheimer's Disease-Like Tau Pathology and Cognitive Deficits
Authors: Sotiropoulos Ioannis , Catania Caterina , Pinto Lucilia G. , Silva Rui , Pollerberg G. Elizabeth , Takashima Akihiko , Sousa Nuno , Almeida Osborne F. X.
Published: May 2011

Stressful life experiences are likely etiological factors in sporadic forms of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Many AD patients hypersecrete glucocorticoids (GCs), and their GC levels correlate with the rate of cognitive impairment and extent of neuronal atrophy. Severity of cognitive deficits in AD correlates strongly with levels of hyperphosphorylated forms of the cytoskeletal protein TAU, an essential mediator of the actions of amyloid β (Aβ), another molecule with a key pathogenic role in AD. Our objective was to investigate the sequential interrelationships between these various pathogenic elements, in particular with respect to the mechanisms through which stress might precipitate cognitive decline. We thus examined whether stress, through the mediation of GCs, influences TAU hyperphosphorylation, a critical and early event in the cascade of processes leading to AD pathology. Results from healthy, wild-type, middle-aged rats show that chronic stress and GC induce abnormal hyperphosphorylation of TAU in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex (PFC), with contemporaneous impairments of hippocampus- and PFC-dependent behaviors. Exogenous GC potentiated the ability of centrally infused Aβ to induce hyperphosphorylation of TAU epitopes associated with AD and cytoplasmic accumulation of TAU, while previous exposure to stress aggravated the biochemical and behavioral effects of GC in Aβ-infused animals. Thus, lifetime stress/GC exposure may have a cumulative impact on the onset and progress of AD pathology, with TAU hyperphosphorylation serving to transduce the negative effects of stress and GC on cognition.
Retinal Ganglion Cells with Distinct Directional Preferences Differ in Molecular Identity, Structure, and Central Projections
Authors: Kay Jeremy N. , De la Huerta Irina , Kim In-Jung , Zhang Yifeng , Yamagata Masahito , Chu Monica W. , Meister Markus , Sanes Joshua R.
Published: May 2011

The retina contains ganglion cells (RGCs) that respond selectively to objects moving in particular directions. Individual members of a group of ON-OFF direction-selective RGCs (ooDSGCs) detect stimuli moving in one of four directions: ventral, dorsal, nasal, or temporal. Despite this physiological diversity, little is known about subtype-specific differences in structure, molecular identity, and projections. To seek such differences, we characterized mouse transgenic lines that selectively mark ooDSGCs preferring ventral or nasal motion as well as a line that marks both ventral- and dorsal-preferring subsets. We then used the lines to identify cell surface molecules, including Cadherin 6, CollagenXXVα1, and Matrix metalloprotease 17, that are selectively expressed by distinct subsets of ooDSGCs. We also identify a neuropeptide, CART (cocaine- and amphetamine-regulated transcript), that distinguishes all ooDSGCs from other RGCs. Together, this panel of endogenous and transgenic markers distinguishes the four ooDSGC subsets. Patterns of molecular diversification occur before eye opening and are therefore experience independent. They may help to explain how the four subsets obtain distinct inputs. We also demonstrate differences among subsets in their dendritic patterns within the retina and their axonal projections to the brain. Differences in projections indicate that information about motion in different directions is sent to different destinations.
Increased Hippocampal Default Mode Synchronization during Rest in Middle-Aged and Elderly APOE ε4 Carriers: Relationships with Memory Performance
Authors: Westlye Erling T. , Lundervold Arvid , Rootwelt Helge , Lundervold Astri J. , Westlye Lars T.
Published: May 2011

The apolipoprotein (APOE) ε4 allele is a strong genetic risk factor for Alzheimer's disease (AD). Intrinsic fluctuations of brain activity measured by fMRI during rest may be sensitive to AD-related neuropathology. In particular, functional connectivity of the default-mode network (DMN) has gained recent attention as a possible biomarker of disease processes and associated memory decline in AD. Here, we tested the hypothesis of APOE-related alterations in DMN functional connectivity in 95 healthy individuals between 50 and 80 years of age, including 33 carriers of the ε4 allele. Based on previous studies, we hypothesized increased hippocampal DMN synchronization in APOE ε4 carriers. This was supported using independent component analysis in combination with a dual-regression approach for analysis of resting state data. Whole-brain analysis suggested effects also in other areas, including the posterior cingulate cortex, parietal cortex, and parahippocampal regions. DMN synchronization showed a negative correlation with performance on a test of memory functioning, suggesting a neurocognitive significance of the brain activity patterns during rest. Our findings indicate that increased genetic vulnerability for AD is reflected in increased hippocampal DMN synchronization during rest several years before clinical manifestation. We propose that the results reflect ε4-related failure in hippocampal decoupling, which might elevate the total hippocampal metabolic burden and increase the risk of cognitive decline and AD. The results provide an important confirmation of specific genotype effects on intrinsic fluctuations and support the use of functional connectivity indices as imaging-derived endophenotypes in the emerging field of imaging genetics.
Mechanisms of Rule Acquisition and Rule Following in Inductive Reasoning
Authors: Crescentini Cristiano , Seyed-Allaei Shima , De Pisapia Nicola , Jovicich Jorge , Amati Daniele , Shallice Tim
Published: May 2011

Despite the recent interest in the neuroanatomy of inductive reasoning processes, the regional specificity within prefrontal cortex (PFC) for the different mechanisms involved in induction tasks remains to be determined. In this study, we used fMRI to investigate the contribution of PFC regions to rule acquisition (rule search and rule discovery) and rule following. Twenty-six healthy young adult participants were presented with a series of images of cards, each consisting of a set of circles numbered in sequence with one colored blue. Participants had to predict the position of the blue circle on the next card. The rules that had to be acquired pertained to the relationship among succeeding stimuli. Responses given by subjects were categorized in a series of phases either tapping rule acquisition (responses given up to and including rule discovery) or rule following (correct responses after rule acquisition). Mid-dorsolateral PFC (mid-DLPFC) was active during rule search and remained active until successful rule acquisition. By contrast, rule following was associated with activation in temporal, motor, and medial/anterior prefrontal cortex. Moreover, frontopolar cortex (FPC) was active throughout the rule acquisition and rule following phases before a rule became familiar. We attributed activation in mid-DLPFC to hypothesis generation and in FPC to integration of multiple separate inferences. The present study provides evidence that brain activation during inductive reasoning involves a complex network of frontal processes and that different subregions respond during rule acquisition and rule following phases.
Relation between Presynaptic and Postsynaptic Dopaminergic Functions Measured by Positron Emission Tomography: Implication of Dopaminergic Tone
Authors: Ito Hiroshi , Kodaka Fumitoshi , Takahashi Hidehiko , Takano Harumasa , Arakawa Ryosuke , Shimada Hitoshi , Suhara Tetsuya
Published: May 2011

Both presynaptic and postsynaptic dopaminergic functions can be estimated by positron emission tomography (PET). While both presynaptic and postsynaptic dopaminergic functions would be regulated by corresponding genes and related to personality traits, the relation between presynaptic and postsynaptic functions in terms of interindividual variation has hardly been investigated. In the present study, both striatal dopamine D2receptor binding and endogenous dopamine synthesis rate were measured in the same healthy subjects using PET with [11C]raclopride andl-[β-11C]DOPA, respectively, and these two parameters were compared. Two PET studies with [11C]raclopride andl-[β-11C]DOPA were performed sequentially at rest condition on 14 healthy men. For [11C]raclopride PET, the binding potential was calculated by the reference tissue model method. Forl-[β-11C]DOPA PET, the endogenous dopamine synthesis rate was estimated by graphical analysis. A significant negative correlation was observed between the binding potential of dopamine D2receptors and endogenous dopamine synthesis rate (r= −0.66,p< 0.05). Although the interindividual variation of binding potential of [11C]raclopride would be due to both the interindividual difference in the receptor density and that in the concentration of endogenous dopamine in the synaptic cleft, the negative correlation between parameters for both presynaptic and postsynaptic functions might indicate a compensative relation between the two functions.
Dietary restriction of mice on a high-fat diet induces substrate efficiency and improves metabolic health
Authors: Duivenvoorde Loes P M , van Schothorst Evert M , Bunschoten Annelies , Keijer Jaap
Published: May 2011

High energy intake and, specifically, high dietary fat intake challenge the mammalian metabolism and correlate with many metabolic disorders such as obesity and diabetes. However, dietary restriction (DR) is known to prevent the development of metabolic disorders. The current western diets are highly enriched in fat, and it is as yet unclear whether DR on a certain high-fat (HF) diet elicits similar beneficial effects on health. In this research, we report that HF-DR improves metabolic health of mice compared with mice receiving the same diet on anad libitumbasis (HF-AL). Already after five weeks of restriction, the serum levels of cholesterol and leptin were significantly decreased in HF-DR mice, whereas their glucose sensitivity and serum adiponectin levels were increased. The body weight and measured serum parameters remained stable in the following 7 weeks of restriction, implying metabolic adaptation. To understand the molecular events associated with this adaptation, we analyzed gene expression in white adipose tissue (WAT) with whole genome microarrays. HF-DR strongly influenced gene expression in WAT; in total, 8643 genes were differentially expressed between both groups of mice, with a major role for genes involved in lipid metabolism and mitochondrial functioning. This was confirmed by quantitative real-time reverse transcription-PCR and substantiated by increase in mitochondrial density in WAT of HF-DR mice. These results provide new insights in the metabolic flexibility of dietary restricted animals and suggest the development of substrate efficiency.
Association studies in thyroid cancer susceptibility: are we on the right track?
Authors: Landa Iñigo , Robledo Mercedes
Published: May 2011

It is widely accepted that thyroid cancer is strongly determined by the individual genetic background. In this regard, it is expected that sporadic thyroid cancer is the result of multiple low- to moderate-penetrance genes interacting with each other and with the environment, thus modulating individual susceptibility. In the last years, an important number of association studies on thyroid cancer have been published, trying to determine this genetic contribution. The aim of this review is to provide a comprehensive and critical evaluation of the associations reported so far in thyroid cancer susceptibility in case–control studies performed in both non-medullary (papillary and follicular) and medullary thyroid cancers, including their potential strengths and pitfalls. We summarize the genetic variants reported to date, and stress the importance of validating the results in independent series and assessing the functional role of the associated loci.
Parameters of bed occupancy of intensive care units in Hungary
Authors: Gresz Miklós
Published: May 2011

According to the Semmelweis Plan for Saving Health Care, ”the capacity of the national network of intensive care units in Hungary is one but not the only bottleneck of emergency care at present”. Author shows on the basis of data reported to the health insurance that not on a single calendar day more than 75% of beds in intensive care units were occupied. There were about 15 to 20 thousand sick days which could be considered unnecessary because patients occupying these beds were discharged to their homes directly from the intensive care unit. The data indicate that on the whole bed capacity is not low, only in some institutions insufficient. Thus, in order to improve emergency care in Hungary, the rearrangement of existing beds, rather than an increase of bed capacity is needed. Orv. Hetil., 2011, 152, 946–950.
Reuse of hydrated mortar as partial replacement material in cement
Authors: Uygunoğlu Tayfun
Published: May 2011

In this study, the reuse of hydrated mortars obtained from concrete waste materials as an additive to replace part of the Portland cement content in different ratios by weight was investigated. The properties examined included setting time, compressive strength, flexural strength, alkali–silica reaction, apparent porosity, water absorption, ultrasonic pulse velocity and dynamic modulus of elasticity. The results showed that the compressive strength of all specimens containing hydrated mortar waste (HMW) material was lower than that of the control specimens. However, the values obtained by replacement of 10–20% of Portland cement with HMW were within acceptable limits. The HMW with replacement ratio of more than ∼40% could not be used to replace ordinary Portland cement because the 28 day compressive strength was 29% lower when ∼40% cement was replaced by HMW. Moreover, the expansion of mortars due to alkali–silica reaction was significantly reduced when more than 20% of cement was replaced by HMW. Increasing the replacement ratio of cement gave rise to a longer setting time. When all the experimental results were taken into consideration, it was concluded that ground HMW can be used as a cementitious material to partially replace Portland cement.
SELSET RESERVOIR: DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION.
Authors: KENNARD J , KENNARD M F
Published: May 2011

This Paper refers briefly to the hydrological features of the upland sources of the Tees Valley and Cleveland Water Board, and deals in some detail with certain aspects of the design and construction of the Selset Dam.

The geology and cut-off trench are touched upon and the Authors deal with the study of the foundation and refer to the subsequent settlement observations. The principal parts of the Paper deal with the construction of over 4,000 vertical sand drains for increasing the strength of the soft clay underlying the seat of the embankment, and the problems associated with the construction of an embankment 128 ft high of boulder clay, with speciraelf erence to the dissipation of porewater pressure and the effect of rainfall and temperature on the rate of progress achieved.

The presence of a slipped area on the south side of the dam adjacent to the embankment necessitated the carrying out of special protective measures, which are described, and the overflow works and control of the water are dealt with shortly.

Construction commenced in June 1955 and the reservoir first filled in July 1960. The cost of the dam was £3,200,000.
DIVING AND SALVAGE. PART 1: DIVING EQUIPMENT. PART 2: MARINE SALVAGE.
Authors: BISHOP R W , FLETT P F
Published: May 2011

The Paper falls into two parts. First, a brief description is given of the standard diving equipment, which has changed very little over a number of years, and a more detailed description is given of the compressed-air equipment which has been developed largely as a result of the 1939-45 war. The selfcontained swimmer's air breathing apparatus is now a standard issue to the Royal Navy but the surface-demand diving equipment, which is considerably lighter and consequently more mobile, is still under trial.

An indication is given of developments in underwater communications, as well as a descriptiono f underwater tools such as thaeir lift, the tunnelling lance, the submerged bolt-driving and punching gun, the air bolt, and underwater cutting and welding equipment.

The second part of the Paper deals with the technical aspects of marine salvage and gives brief descriptions of some of the practices, including underwater work, which are commonly followed in dealing with marine casualties.

The techniques are illustrated by actual examples of refloating a stranded ship, raising a wreck, dealing with an abandoned ship on fire, and identification and recovery of objects on the sea bed at depths too great for helmet divers.
Joint Modeling of HCV and HIV Infections among Injecting Drug Users in Italy Using Repeated Cross-Sectional Prevalence Data
Authors: Del Fava Emanuele , Kasim Adetayo , Usman Muhammad , Shkedy Ziv , Hens Niel , Aerts Marc , Bollaerts Kaatje , Scalia Tomba Gianpaolo , Vickerman Peter , Sutton Andrew J , Wiessing Lucas , Kretzschmar Mirjam
Published: May 2011

During their injecting career, injecting drug users (IDUs) are exposed to some infections, like hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, due to their injecting behavioral risk factors, such as sharing syringes or other paraphernalia containing infected blood, or sexual behavior risk factors. If we consider that these IDUs might belong to a social network of people where these behavioral risk factors are spread, then HCV and HIV infections might be associated at both the individual and the population level. In this paper, we study the association between HCV and HIV infection at the population level using aggregate data. Our aim is to define a hierarchy of structured models with which the association between HCV and HIV infection at population level and the time trend of prevalence can be investigated. The data analyzed in the paper are “diagnostic testing data,” which consist of repeated cross-sectional prevalence measurements from 1998 to 2006 for HCV and HIV infection, obtained from a sample of 515 drug treatment centers spread among the 20 regions in Italy, where subjects went for a serum diagnostic test. Since we do not have any individual data, it is not possible to relate these prevalence data to socio-demographic or behavioral risk data. Each region defines a cluster with repeated prevalence data for HCV and HIV infection over time. Several modeling approaches, such as generalized linear mixed models (GLMMs) and hierarchical Bayesian models are applied to the data. First, we test different covariance structures for the region-specific random effects in the GLMM context; second, a hierarchical Bayesian model is used to refit the best GLMM in order to obtain the posterior distribution for the parameters of primary interest. We found that the correlation at population level between HCV and HIV is approximately 0.68 and the prevalence of the two infections generally decreased over the years, compared to the situation in 1998.
The Epidemiology of Stroke Amongst Women in the Asia–Pacific Region
Authors: Woodward Mark , Tsukinoki-Murakami Rumi , Murakami Yoshitaka , Suh Il , Fang Xianghua , Ueshima Hirotsugu , Lam Tai Hing ,   for the Asia–Pacific Cohort Studies Collaboration
Published: May 2011

National data from the Asia–Pacific region suggest that stroke accounts for over 10% of female deaths. With general aging in the region, and longer life expectancies for women than men, action is required to maintain recent improvements in female death rates from stroke. However, local data on incidence and risk factors for stroke amongst women are scarce. Data from 214,032 women in the Asia Pacific Cohort Studies Collaboration were thus used to investigate the risk factors for stroke in the region. Raised systolic blood pressure and diabetes were found to be key risk factors for both ischemic (IS) and hemorrhagic (HS) stroke. After adjustment for other risk factors, every extra 10 mmHg systolic blood pressure increased risk of IS by 36% and HS by 69%, whilst diabetes increased risk of IS by 170% and HS by 147%. Smoking was also an important risk factor for IS and HS; risk was reduced by quitting.
Stroke- and Pregnancy-Induced Hypertensive Syndromes
Authors: Morales-Vidal Sarkis , Schneck Michael J , Flaster Murray S , Biller José
Published: May 2011

Pregnancy-induced hypertensive syndromes are an important cause of cerebrovascular diseases during pregnancy. Women with pregnancy-induced hypertensive syndromes are at an increased risk of ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes. Posterior reversible encephalopathy and reversible vasoconstriction syndromes are common. Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis may also occur. Preeclampsia and eclampsia reflect generalized endothelial dysfunction. Prompt diagnosis and identification of patients at risk allows for early therapeutic interventions and improved clinical outcomes.
The Link between Atrial Fibrillation and Stroke in Women
Authors: Madias Christopher , Trohman Richard G
Published: May 2011

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common clinically significant cardiac arrhythmia. The most serious complication of AF is thromboembolic stroke. The individual risk of stroke in the setting of AF varies. Several clinical factors have been identified as independent predictors of stroke in AF, including prior stroke, age, hypertension and diabetes. The bulk of available data identifies female gender as another independent predictor of stroke risk in AF. In this article, we review the link between AF and an elevated stroke risk in women, explore the potential pathophysiologic basis for this association and examine the data regarding the effectiveness of anticoagulation in reducing this risk.
Evaluation and Optimization of Therapeutic Footwear for Neuropathic Diabetic Foot Patients Using In-Shoe Plantar Pressure Analysis
Authors: Bus Sicco A. , Haspels Rob , Busch-Westbroek Tessa E.
Published: May 2011

OBJECTIVE

Therapeutic footwear for diabetic foot patients aims to reduce the risk of ulceration by relieving mechanical pressure on the foot. However, footwear efficacy is generally not assessed in clinical practice. The purpose of this study was to assess the value of in-shoe plantar pressure analysis to evaluate and optimize the pressure-reducing effects of diabetic therapeutic footwear.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Dynamic in-shoe plantar pressure distribution was measured in 23 neuropathic diabetic foot patients wearing fully customized footwear. Regions of interest (with peak pressure >200 kPa) were selected and targeted for pressure optimization by modifying the shoe or insole. After each of a maximum of three rounds of modifications, the effect on in-shoe plantar pressure was measured. Successful optimization was achieved with a peak pressure reduction of >25% (criterion A) or below an absolute level of 200 kPa (criterion B).

RESULTS

In 35 defined regions, mean peak pressure was significantly reduced from 303 (SD 77) to 208 (46) kPa after an average 1.6 rounds of footwear modifications (P < 0.001). This result constitutes a 30.2% pressure relief (range 18–50% across regions). All regions were successfully optimized: 16 according to criterion A, 7 to criterion B, and 12 to criterion A and B. Footwear optimization lasted on average 53 min.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that in-shoe plantar pressure analysis is an effective and efficient tool to evaluate and guide footwear modifications that significantly reduce pressure in the neuropathic diabetic foot. This result provides an objective approach to instantly improve footwear quality, which should reduce the risk for pressure-related plantar foot ulcers.
Influence of deposition temperature on amorphous structure of PECVD deposited a-Si:H thin films
Authors: Müllerová Jarmila , Fischer Marinus , Netrvalová Marie , Zeman Miro , Šutta Pavel
Published: May 2011

The effect of deposition temperature on the structural and optical properties of amorphous hydrogenated silicon (a-Si:H) thin films deposited by plasma-enhanced chemical vapour deposition (PECVD) from silane diluted with hydrogen was under study. The series of thin films deposited at the deposition temperatures of 50–200°C were inspected by XRD, Raman spectroscopy and UV Vis spectrophotometry. All samples were found to be amorphous with no presence of the crystalline phase. Ordered silicon hydride regions were proved by XRD. Raman measurement analysis substantiated the results received from XRD showing that with increasing deposition temperature silicon-silicon bond-angle fluctuation decreases. The optical characterization based on transmittance spectra in the visible region presented that the refractive index exhibits upward trend with increasing deposition temperature, which can be caused by the densification of the amorphous network. We found out that the scale factor of the Tauc plot increases with the deposition temperature. This behaviour can be attributed to the increasing ordering of silicon hydride regions. The Tauc band gap energy, the iso-absorption value their difference were not particularly influenced by the deposition temperature. Improvements of the microstructure of the Si amorphous network have been deduced from the analysis.
Solute-dependent activation of cell motility in strongly hypertonic solutions in Dictyostelium discoideum, human melanoma HTB-140 cells and walker 256 carcinosarcoma cells
Authors: Korohoda Włodzimierz , Kucia Magdalena , Wybieralska Ewa , Wianecka-Skoczeń Magdalena , Waligórska Agnieszka , Drukała Justyna , Madeja Zbigniew
Published: May 2011

Published data concerning the effects of hypertonicity on cell motility have often been controversial. The interpretation of results often rests on the premise that cell responses result from cell dehydration, i.e. osmotic effects. The results of induced hypertonicity on cell movement of Dictyostelium discoideum amoebae and human melanoma HTB-140 cells reported here show that: i) hypertonic solutions of identical osmolarity will either inhibit or stimulate cell movement depending on specific solutes (Na+ or K+, sorbitol or saccharose); ii) inhibition of cell motility by hypertonic solutions containing Na+ ions or carbohydrates can be reversed by the addition of calcium ions; iii) various cell types react differently to the same solutions, and iv) cells can adapt to hypertonic solutions. Various hypertonic solutions are now broadly used in medicine and to study modulation of gene expression. The observations reported suggest the need to examine whether the other responses of cells to hypertonicity can also be based on the solute-dependent cell responses besides cell dehydration due to the osmotic effects.
An assessment of the luminescence sensitivity of Australian quartz with respect to sediment history
Authors: Fitzsimmons Kathryn
Published: May 2011

This study provides a preliminary systematic characterisation of OSL sensitivity, with respect to sediment history, of single grains of Australian quartz from a variety of source rocks and depositional contexts. Samples from two distinct lithologies and with relatively short modern sedimentary histories were compared in an examination of the influence of rock type on OSL sensitivity. Sediments derived from weathered sandstone were found to be brighter than those from metamorphosed schists, suggesting that sensitivity may be inherited from the source rock and its earlier sedimentary history. Secondly, quartz from the same source, but different modes of deposition, was compared to assess the effect on sensitivity of nature of exposure to light during the most recent bleaching event. Quartz grain sensitivity appears not to vary depending on the mode of sediment deposition, suggesting that the nature of exposure to light during deposition is less important in the sensitisation process. This study highlights the complexity and variety of natural sedimentary quartz, demonstrating the limitations of an investigation based solely on OSL sensitivity. Further systematic investigation into the physical, geological and geomorphological characteristics of sediments is proposed to better understand the mechanisms of luminescence sensitisation in quartz.
On correctness of first and second order fast marching method
Authors: Lass Christoph
Published: May 2011

In this article we will discuss the Fast Marching Method which was introduced by James A. Sethian to solve some types of nonlinear partial differential equations efficiently. We will show that this method yields the unique solution to an upwind discretization. Furthermore we will present the correct algorithm for the second order case where existence and unicity of the solution will be proven as well.
Orchids in Rolpa district of Western Nepal: Documentation, stock, trade and conservation
Authors: Koirala PN , Pyakurel D , Gurung K
Published: May 2011

Orchids are perennial, epiphytic, terrestrial or lithophytic herbs with roots having multilayered spongy tissues. In Nepal, 363 species of orchids are organized into 97 genera. Orchids fall under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) Appendix II but do not fall under the legal protection of any existing national legislation. Habitat loss, forest destruction and degradation and over-exploitation have posed threats to the conservation of orchids in Nepal. The current study aims to document the orchids and estimate the stock of Dendrobium denudans and Dendrobium eriiflorum in a few potential locations of Rolpa district. A total of 36 species were documented in the surveyed 17 Village Development Committees (VDCs). Among them, 31 species were identified up to species level, two species up to generic level and the remaining three were unidentifed. The total stock of D. denudans was highest in Uwa VDC with 11018.08 kg followed by Seram VDC with the stock of 9982.57 kg. Similarly, D. eriiflorum stock in Seram, Siuri and Jaimakasala VDCs were 22750.01 kg, 7039.67 kg and 4933.46 kg, respectively. This study recommends a systematic research on the propagation technique; complete indexing of orchids; and inclusion of orchids in the Red Data Book on the threatened and endangered species. Orchid reserves in orchid hotspots should be established for the preservation and promotion of regeneration activities. The rare and endangered species should be preserved in botanic gardens. In addition to scientific attempts, the country should launch and implement a very firm regulation for their protection. Key words: Orchids; Dendrobium denudans; Dendrobium eriiflorum; distribution; conservation; Rolpa district DOI: 10.3126/banko.v20i2.4796 Banko Janakari Vol.20(2) 2010 pp.3-13
Forest structure in the Far Western Terai of Nepal: Implications for management
Authors: Gautam SK , Pokharel YP , Goutam KR , Khanal S , Giri RK
Published: May 2011

Forest inventory was conducted in 2009 in Kailali and Kanchanpur districts of the Far Western Development Region of Nepal. Altogether 282 circular plots were measured in 38 camp units equaling 0.02% sampling intensity. The average stocking (excluding regeneration) was 1201 number of stems per ha. The mean stem volume was 172 m3 h-1 and biomass was 186.6 tons h-1. Among the important tree species, Sal (Shorea robusta ) exhibited the highest biomass of 89.8 t h-1 and constituted 48.12% of the total stand biomass, followed by Asna (Terminalia tomentosa) 41.0 t h-1 or 21.00% of the total biomass. The biomass portions of other major species were Chirpine (Pinus roxburghii) 6.50%; Haldu (Adina cordifolia) 3.23%; and miscellaneous species 11.57%. Total air-dry biomass, including stem, branches and leaves, of the two districts was calculated at 51.88 million tons, with Kailali having 37.26 million tons and Kanchanpur 14.68 million tons. The total carbon, after conversion, in forest trees of these two districts was 35.02 million tons. Change in mean stem volume, stocking and composition from earlier assessments underscores the need for appropriate silvicultural intervention. Key words: Volume; biomass; carbon; Far Western Nepal; forest inventory DOI: 10.3126/banko.v20i2.4798 Banko Janakari Vol.20(2) 2010 pp.21-25
How Does the Preparation of Rye Porridge Affect Molecular Weight Distribution of Extractable Dietary Fibers?
Authors: Rakha Allah , Åman Per , Andersson Roger
Published: May 2011

Extractable dietary fiber (DF) plays an important role in nutrition. This study on porridge making with whole grain rye investigated the effect of rest time of flour slurries at room temperature before cooking and amount of flour and salt in the recipe on the content of DF components and molecular weight distribution of extractable fructan, mixed linkage (1→3)(1→4)-β-D-glucan (β-glucan) and arabinoxylan (AX) in the porridge. The content of total DF was increased (from about 20% to 23% of dry matter) during porridge making due to formation of insoluble resistant starch. A small but significant increase in the extractability of β-glucan (P = 0.016) and AX (P = 0.002) due to rest time was also noted. The molecular weight of extractable fructan and AX remained stable during porridge making. However, incubation of the rye flour slurries at increased temperature resulted in a significant decrease in extractable AX molecular weight. The molecular weight of extractable β-glucan decreased greatly during a rest time before cooking, most likely by the action of endogenous enzymes. The amount of salt and flour used in the recipe had small but significant effects on the molecular weight of β-glucan. These results show that whole grain rye porridge made without a rest time before cooking contains extractable DF components maintaining high molecular weights. High molecular weight is most likely of nutritional importance.
Bioactive Indole Derivatives from the South Pacific Marine Sponges Rhopaloeides odorabile and Hyrtios sp.
Authors: Longeon Arlette , Copp Brent R. , Quévrain Elodie , Roué Mélanie , Kientz Betty , Cresteil Thierry , Petek Sylvain , Debitus Cécile , Bourguet-Kondracki Marie-Lise
Published: May 2011

Indole derivatives including bromoindoles have been isolated from the South Pacific marine sponges Rhopaloeides odorabile and Hyrtios sp. Their structures were established through analysis of mass spectra and 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopic data. Their potential inhibitory phospholipase A2 (PLA2), antioxidant and cytotoxic activities were evaluated. The new derivative 5,6-dibromo-l-hypaphorine (9) isolated from Hyrtios sp. revealed a weak bee venom PLA2 inhibition (IC50 0.2 mM) and a significant antioxidant activity with an Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (ORAC) value of 0.22. The sesquiterpene aureol (4), also isolated from Hyrtios sp., showed the most potent antioxidant activity with an ORAC value of 0.29.
Halomonas sp. OKOH—A Marine Bacterium Isolated from the Bottom Sediment of Algoa Bay—Produces a Polysaccharide Bioflocculant: Partial Characterization and Biochemical Analysis of Its Properties
Authors: Mabinya Leonard V. , Cosa Sekelwa , Mkwetshana Noxolo , Okoh Anthony I.
Published: May 2011

A bioflocculant-producing bacterium isolated from seawater was identified based on 16S rRNA gene nucleotide sequence to have 99% similarity to that of Halomonas sp. Au160H and the nucleotide sequence was deposited as Halomonas sp. OKOH (Genbank accession number is HQ875722). Influences of carbon source, nitrogen source, salt ions and pH on flocculating activity were investigated. The bioflocculant was optimally produced when glucose (87% flocculating activity) and urea (88% flocculating activity) were used as sources of carbon and nitrogen, respectively. Also, initial pH of 7.0 and Ca2+ supported optimal production of the bioflocculant with flocculating activities of 87% respectively. Chemical analyses revealed the bioflocculant to be a polysaccharide.
Odor Removal Characteristics of a Laminated Film-Electrode Packed-Bed Nonthermal Plasma Reactor
Authors: Kuwahara Takuya , Okubo Masaaki , Kuroki Tomoyuki , Kametaka Hideya , Yamamoto Toshiaki
Published: May 2011

Odor control has gained importance for ensuring a comfortable living environment. In this paper, the authors report the experimental results of a study on the detailed characteristics of a laminated film-electrode and a laminated film-electrode packed-bed nonthermal plasma reactor, which are types of dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) reactor used for odor control. These plasma reactors can be potentially used for the decomposition of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and reduction of NOx. The reactor is driven by a low-cost 60-Hz neon transformer. Removal efficiencies under various experimental conditions are studied. The complete decomposition of the main odor component, namely, NH3, is achieved in a dry environment. The retention times are investigated for the complete removal of NH3 in the case of the film-electrode plasma reactor and the film-electrode packed-bed plasma reactor. The removal efficiency of the former reactor is lower than that of the latter reactor. Mixing another odor component such as CH3CHO in the gas stream has no significant effect on NH3 removal efficiency.
Toward Food System Sustainability through School Food System Change: Think&EatGreen@School and the Making of a Community-University Research Alliance
Authors: Rojas Alejandro , Valley Will , Mansfield Brent , Orrego Elena , Chapman Gwen E. , Harlap Yael
Published: May 2011

This paper describes the theoretical and conceptual framework and the research and practice model of Think&EatGreen@School, a community-based action research project aiming to foster food citizenship in the City of Vancouver and to develop a model of sustainable institutional food systems in public schools. The authors argue that educational and policy interventions at the school and school board level can drive the goals of food system sustainability, food security, and food sovereignty. The complex relationship between food systems, climate change and environmental degradation require that international initiatives promoting sustainability be vigorously complemented by local multi-stakeholder efforts to preserve or restore the capacity to produce food in a durable manner. As a step towards making the City of Vancouver green, we are currently involved in attempts to transform the food system of the local schools by mobilizing the energy of a transdisciplinary research team of twelve university researchers, over 300 undergraduate and graduate students, and twenty community-based researchers and organizations working on food, public health, environmental and sustainability education.
Microsatellite primers in Stipa purpurea (Poaceae), a dominant species of the steppe on the Qinghai–Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Liu Wensheng , Liao Hui , Zhou Yin , Zhao Yao , Song Zhiping
Published: May 2011

• Premise of the study: Microsatellite markers were developed in Stipa purpurea, a dominant species of the steppe and meadow on the Qinghai–Tibetan Plateau.

• Methods and Results: Using the combined biotin capture method, 15 microsatellite primer sets were isolated and characterized. Eleven of these markers showed polymorphism, and the number of alleles per locus ranged from two to seven across 96 individuals from four populations.

• Conclusions: These markers provide a useful tool to investigate the spatial genetic structure and mating system of Stipa purpurea.
Concurrence imparfaite et discrimination sur le marché du travail
Authors: Berson Clémence
Published: May 2011

Résumé Les modèles de discrimination sur le marché du travail reproduisent difficilement sa persistance sans faire d’hypothèses fortes. Cela conduit de surcroît à une ségrégation des travailleurs selon leurs caractéristiques non productives. Dans cet article, le modèle se sert de l’oligopsonie et de l’hétérogénéité des préfé­rences des travailleurs pour obtenir une persistance de la discrimination. Les entreprises embauchent les deux types de travailleurs et offrent un salaire plus faible aux travailleurs discriminés. Par conséquent, l’existence de discrimination sur le marché permet aux entreprises n’ayant pas de goût pour la discrimination de faire des profits non nuls. Elles n’ont donc pas d’incitation à faire sortir les entreprises discriminantes du marché.
Les déterminants individuels de l'absentéisme au travail
Authors: Chaupain-Guillot Sabine , Guillot Olivier
Published: May 2011

Résumé À partir des données de l’European Community Household Panel ( echp ), on s’intéresse aux déterminants individuels des absences au travail dans les pays européens. L’étude porte sur l’ensemble des États membres de l’ ue -15, à l’exception de la Suède. Les comportements d’absence des salariés, dans chacun de ces pays, sont analysés à l’aide de régressions sur données de panel. Les résultats des estimations montrent que les facteurs jouant sur la probabilité d’absence sont loin d’être identiques d’un pays à l’autre. L’état de santé, le degré de satisfaction au travail et, chez les femmes, la présence d’un jeune enfant sont, en effet, les seules variables qui ont un impact significatif, et de même signe, dans la quasi-totalité des pays étudiés.