bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Environmental Education in Pre-Service Teacher Training: A Literature Review of Existing Evidence
Authors: Álvarez-García Olaya , Sureda-Negre Jaume , Comas-Forgas Rubén
Published: October 2015

The importance of pre-service teacher training regarding environmental education (EE) has been vastly demonstrated. This systematic review examined the existing evidence from studies evaluating and analysing the relationship between EE, including environmental competences and pre-service primary school teacher training. The literature review performed included 24 documents (22 peer reviewed journal articles and two doctoral theses). The strategy followed consisted in locating documents by a reliable search strategy; establishing the criteria for the selection of documents to analyse from the documents located and rigorously analysing the documents selected based on clear and precise criteria and dimensions. In general terms, the literature review analysis has emphasised the lack of environmental competences amongst pre-service teacher students and the gaps in the teacher training curriculums regarding EE. The overall scarcity of research in this area, jointly with certain gaps and methodological limitations, affirms the need for strengthening the evidence base.
Vitrinite equivalent reflectance of Silurian black shales from the Holy Cross Mountains, Poland
Authors: Smolarek Justyna , Marynowski Leszek , Spunda Karol , Trela Wiesław
Published: October 2015

A number of independent methods have been used to measure the thermal maturity of Silurian rocks from the Holy Cross Mountains in Poland. Black shales are characterized by diverse TOC values varying from 0.24-7.85%. Having calculated vitrinite equivalent reflectance using three different formulas, we propose that the most applicable values for the Silurian rocks are those based on Schmidt et al. (2015) equation. Based on this formula, the values range from % 0.71 VReqvVLR (the vitrinite equivalent reflectance of the vitrinite-like macerals) to % 1.96 VReqvVLR. Alternative, complementary methods including Rock Eval pyrolysis and parameters based on organic compounds (CPI, Pr/n-C17, Ph/n-C18, MPI1, and MDR) from extracts did not prove adequate as universal thermal maturity indicators. We have confirmed previous suggestions that Llandovery shales are the most likely Silurian source rocks for the generation of hydrocarbons in the HCM.
Petrogenesis of kyanite-quartz segregations in mica schists of the Western Tatra Mountains (Slovakia)
Authors: Pyka Paulina , Gawęda Aleksandra , Szopa Krzysztof , Müller Axel , Sikorska Magdalena
Published: October 2015

In the Tatra Mountains (Slovakia) metamorphic complex, kyanite-quartz segregations with biotite-rich selvage occur in mylonitized mica schists. In this paper, the problem of fluid flow and aluminium mobility during the uplift of the crystalline massif, and the position of the segregations in the history of Western Tatra metamorphic complex, is adressed. The reaction Alm + Rt ➔ Ilm + Ky + Qtz is considered to be the result of a pressure drop from above to below 9 kbar. Ti-in-biotite geothermometry shows the temperature range to be 579-639°C that is related to heating and decompression associated with granite intrusion. Major-element mass-balance calculations show that Al remained stable in the selvage + segregation system whereas other elements (e.g. Cr, HFSE) were mobilized. The kyanite-quartz segregations formed from local fluids generated during dehydration of the metapelitic rocks during uplift. The main mechanism was likely diffusion-driven mass-transfer into extension-related cracks.
Crystal structure of di(pyrrolidin-1-yl)methane-thione, C9H16N2S
Authors: Lulama April , Betz Richard
Published: October 2015

C9H16N2S, orthorhombic, Pbca (no. 61), a = 9.1580(4) Å, b = 11.8157(4) Å, c = 18.0202(8) Å, V = 1949.9 Å3, Z = 8, Rgt(F) = 0.0293, wRref(F2) = 0.0838, T = 200 K.
Vitamin B2-sensitized degradation of the multifunctional drug Evernyl, in the presence of visible light – microbiological implications
Authors: Gambetta Carolina , Massad Walter A. , Nesci Andrea V. , García Norman A.
Published: October 2015

Taking into consideration the importance of the photooxidative effects in complex bio- environments, this paper reports on the visible-light-promoted interactions between Evernyl (methyl 2, 4-dihydroxy-3,6-dimethylbenzoate, Ev) and vitamin B2 (riboflavin, Rf). Ev is a phenolic derivative, transparent to visible light, that possesses important antimicrobial activity. This compound is the first known natural, complete and specific human androgen receptor antagonist. Ev is profusely employed in personal-care products and synthesized as a secondary metabolite by several lichen and plant species. In both sceneries, acting Ev as a cosmetic component for topic applications or as a lichen constituent, may Rf behave as a native visible-light absorber pigment. In this context, kinetic and mechanistic aspects of the Rf-sensitized photooxidation of Ev, has been studied in aqueous solution, irradiating with blue LED light (463–471 nm) and employing stationary and time resolved methods. Results indicate that Ev reacts with the photogenerated reactive oxygen species (ROS) singlet molecular oxygen with a rate constant of k
r=1.1±0.2×106 M−1s−1. In parallel Ev also quenches the electronically excited singlet and triplet excited states of Rf with rate constants close to the difussion limit. As a result the ROS superoxide radical anion and hydrogen peroxide are generated and the latter subsequently reacts with Ev. Possible implications of these photoreactions on the antimicrobial activity of Ev have been investigated employing a Candida albicans (CA) strain, isolated from human skin infection. The simultaneous presence of Rf, Ev in a sub-MIC, and blue-light irradiation produced a significant antimycotic effect, attributed to ROS photogeneration.
Impact of Oat-Based Products on Human Gastrointestinal Tract
Authors: Staka Aiga , Bodnieks Edgars , Puķītis Aldis
Published: October 2015

Oat is rich in valuable nutrients. In comparison to other cereals, oat contains more total proteins, carbohydrate, fat, non-starch fibre, as well as unique antioxidants (one of them - avenanthramides), vitamins, and minerals. One of the most often studied components of oats is β-glucan - a type of soluble dietary fibre located throughout the starch endosperm, but with highest concentration in the bran. Many studies have shown the beneficial health effects of oat β-glucan as a soluble dietary fibre. Until now, most of the studies on this nutrient have been conducted in the cardiovascular and diabetology field. This article aimed to review the literature on studies that investigated the effects of oat-based products on human gastrointestinal tract - gastrointestinal microflora, irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease as well as prevention/treatment of colorectal cancer. A literature search was conducted using PubMed database. More than 80 potential articles were identified, which were selected afterwards according to aims of our study. Studies done on human were preferred. A long-term dietary intake of oat-based products improves human intestinal microflora, could have benefits in irritable bowel syndrome, and probable effects were seen in patients with ulcerative colitis, but this remains to be proven. There are few studies regarding prevention/treatment of colorectal cancer and they do not show clear benefit nor provide recommendations.
Protein, Amino Acid and Gluten Content in Oat (Avena Sativa L.) Grown in Latvia
Authors: Vilmane Laila , Zute Sanita , Straumīte Evita , Galoburda Ruta
Published: October 2015

The rising attention globally on the use of oats and the beneficial effect of oat compounds in nutrition has also increased interest in oat production in Latvia. The aim of this study was to evaluate protein, amino acid and gluten content in husked and hulless oat grains grown in organic and conventional farming systems. Two hulless oat (Avena sativa L.) genotypes - the breeding line '33793' and the variety 'Stendes Emilija' and one husked oat variety 'Lizete' from the State Stende Cereal Breeding Institute - were cultivated in 2013 under conventional farming methods using three nitrogen (N) application rates (80, 120, and 160 kg·ha-1) and under organic farming. Protein content was determined by Kjeldahl method, amino acid composition by high-performance liquid chromatography method using Waters AccQ Tag, and gluten content by Sandwich R5 ELISA. The results showed that oat genotype had significant effect p < 0.001) on protein and gluten content, as well as on amino acid composition. The applied amount of fertiliser did not have significant effect on the studied quality parameters, but the growing system did (p < 0.001). Higher content of protein was observed in hulless oat samples, compared to that in husked oat samples. There was also a significant difference (p = 0.01) in the total amount of amino acids between husked and hulless oat samples. In hulless oat variety 'Stendes Emilija' and hulless breeding line '33793' the content of gluten was similar and two times higher than in the husked oat variety 'Lizete'. Further breeding work is necessary to obtain oats with a lower content of gluten-like proteins.
Clinical impact of post-progression survival on overall survival in patients with limited-stage disease small cell lung cancer after first-line chemoradiotherapy
Authors: Kasahara Norimitsu , Imai Hisao , Kaira Kyoichi , Mori Keita , Wakuda Kazushige , Ono Akira , Taira Tetsuhiko , Kenmotsu Hirotsugu , Harada Hideyuki , Naito Tateaki , Murakami Haruyasu , Endo Masahiro , Nakajima Takashi , Yamada Masanobu , Takahashi Toshiaki
Published: October 2015

Background. The effects of first-line chemoradiotherapy on overall survival (OS) may be confounded by subsequent lines of therapy in patients with limited-stage disease small cell lung cancer (LD-SCLC). Therefore, we aimed to determine the relationships between progression-free survival (PFS), post-progression survival (PPS) and OS after first-line chemoradiotherapy in LD-SCLC patients.

Patients and methods. We retrospectively analyzed 71 LD-SCLC patients with performance status (PS) 0-2 who received first-line chemoradiotherapy and had disease recurrence between September 2002 and March 2013 at Shizuoka Cancer Center (Shizuoka, Japan). We determined the correlation between PFS and OS and between PPS and OS at the individual level. In addition, we performed univariate and multivariate analyses to identify significant prognostic factors of PPS.

Results. OS is more strongly correlated with PPS (Spearman’s r = 0.86, R
2 = 0.72, p < 0.05) than PFS (Spearman’s r = 0.46, R
2 = 0.38, p < 0.05). In addition, the response to second-line treatments, the presence of distant metastases at recurrence and the number of additional regimens after first-line chemoradiotherapy were significant independent prognostic factors for PPS.

Conclusions. PPS has more impact on OS than PFS in recurrent LD-SCLC patients with good PS at beginning of the treatment. Moreover, treatments administered after first-line chemoradiotherapy may affect their OS. However, larger multicenter studies are needed to validate these findings.
An Attempt To Exemplify The Economic Principles In Real Property Valuation
Authors: Kucharska-Stasiak Ewa , Źróbek Sabina
Published: October 2015

The economic theory argues that the value of assets, including the value of real property, is influenced by many factors which determine the behavior of operators engaged in market transactions. The knowledge of basic principles and assumptions which underpin the development of value is essential to understanding the methods and procedures of valuation. The thesis, upon which the authors of this article based their theoretical and practical considerations, is formulated as follows: “The knowledge of economic principles of valuation improves the accuracy of valuation and allows for more appropriate interpretation of its results”. Therefore, these factors should be taken into account by appraisers estimating the value of property. Over a dozen so-called key principles of valuation have been formulated in literature. Among them are the principles of anticipation, change, substitution, supply and demand, competition, balance, highest and best use, conformity, and externalities. It is assumed that the most important principle in the valuation of property is the principle of anticipation. Some of the principles are relevant to all the traditional approaches to determining value, while others apply only to selected approaches e.g., the principle of opportunity cost, which is mainly used in valuations using the income approach. The thesis is supported by research results and an analysis of practical examples.
Tenant Participation In Social Housing Stock Management
Authors: Suszyńska Katarzyna
Published: October 2015

The aim of this paper is to present the concept, classification and significance of the involvement of tenants in the processes of managing council flats. Tenant participation is becoming an increasingly popular subject of research owing to numerous benefits in the field of social housing stock management, such as better adjustment of property managers’ services to tenants’ needs and preferences, or an increase in the efficiency and economics of management. However, the mobilization of tenants will be successful only if they can participate in the decision-making process in a relatively high degree. Our discussion focuses on social housing stock in Poland.
Scenario Analysis In The Calculation Of Investment Efficiency–The Problem Of Formulating Assumptions
Authors: Dittmann Iwona
Published: October 2015

This article concerns the problem of formulating assumptions in scenario analysis for investments which consist of the renting out of an apartment. The article attempts to indicate the foundations for the formulation of assumptions on the basis of observed retrospective regularities. It includes theoretical considerations regarding scenario design, as well as the results of studies on the formulation, in the past, of quantities which determined or were likely to bring closer estimate the value of the individual explanatory variables for a chosen measure of investment profitability (MIRRFCFE). The dynamics of and correlation between the variables were studied. The research was based on quarterly data from local residential real estate markets in Poland (in the six largest cities) in the years 2006 – 2014, as well as on data from the financial market.
Search For Dissimilarity Factors For Nominally Indiscernible Facilities
Authors: Zyga Jacek
Published: October 2015

The similarity between premises, statutorily defined as the comparability of the compiled objects, is, in practice, identified by the statement of identity or the proximity of evaluation of the selected features describing the complied objects. Independent of the nature of these features (qualitative or quantitative), as well as of the method of identifying the proximity of their prices, the quest process for similar premises ends in the compilation of these premises into a group, which continues to remain inconsistent to some extent. The inevitable heterogeneity of the prices of premises summarized in this way leads to the suspicion that other features which had not been taken into account during the current stages of analysis exist. The identification of these features can significantly improve the quality of the valuation process based on the selected premises.

The presented article discusses a method of identifying the plausible number of indiscernible factors influencing the differentiation of unitary prices in an analyzed set of premises, in the event when the collected information on these premises does not provide sufficient knowledge on the reasons behind such a differentiation. The result of the performed research can, in practice, be applied to program the procedures for the data search, and hence reduce the costs related to the acquisition of information on the premises (e.g. from the real estate market).
Entorhinal cortex: a good biomarker of mild cognitive impairment and mild Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Zhou Mengxi , Zhang Feng , Zhao Li , Qian Jin , Dong Chunbo
Published: October 2015

Entorhinal cortex (EC), thought to be the location of the earliest lesions in Alzheimer’s disease (AD), has been widely studied in recent years. With the irreversible pathological changes of AD, there is an urgent need to find biomarkers that can be used to predict the presence of the disease before it is clinically expressed. The aim of this review is to summarize and analyze recent findings that are relevant to the important role of EC in the diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and mild AD and to describe a range of neuroimaging techniques used to define the EC boundary. A comprehensive literature search for articles published up to May 2015 was performed. Our research highlights the finding that atrophy in EC reflects the early pathological changes of AD and can be a strong predictor of prodromal AD. The early changes in EC are a good imaging biomarker that can be used to discriminate individuals with MCI from normal control subjects. A larger degree of atrophy in EC predicts increased disease severity, and the right EC in patients with mild AD exhibited greater changes than the left side. In addition, the EC seems to have an obvious advantage over the hippocampus as a biomarker when predicting future conversion to AD in individuals with MCI, and it may be of help in following the course of disease progression. In this review, we also summarize the main differences observed between the hippocampus and the EC when differentiating diseases. These findings will hopefully provide an opportunity for the effective prevention and early treatment of AD.
The bridge between two worlds: psychoanalysis and fMRI
Authors: Marini Stefano , Di Tizio Laura , Dezi Sira , Armuzzi Silvia , Pelaccia Simona , Valchera Alessandro , Sepede Gianna , Girinelli Gabriella , De Berardis Domenico , Martinotti Giovanni , Gambi Francesco , Di Giannantonio Massimo
Published: October 2015

In recent years, a connection between psychoanalysis and neuroscience has been sought. The meeting point between these two branches is represented by neuropsychoanalysis. The goal of the relationship between psychoanalysis and neuroscience is to test psychoanalytic hypotheses in the human brain, using a scientific method. A literature search was conducted on May 2015. PubMed and Scopus databases were used to find studies for the inclusion in the systematic review. Common results of the studies investigated are represented by a reduction, a modulation, or a normalization of the activation patterns found after the psychoanalytic therapy. New findings in the possible and useful relationship between psychoanalysis and neuroscience could change the modalities of relating to patients for psychoanalysts and the way in which neuroscientists plan their research. Researchers should keep in mind that in any scientific research that has to do with people, neuroscience and a scientific method cannot avoid subjective interpretation.
Hydraulic Circuit of Mechanical Pruner Drive for Hops on Low Trellises
Authors: Hoffmann David , Heřmánek P. , Rybka A. , Jošt B.
Published: October 2015

A mechanical pruner serves for pruning new hopvine shoots in spring. The later yield depends on the right timing and quality of pruning. That is why hop pruning is one of the most important agrotechnical procedures. A double-disc mechanical pruner used on high trellises cannot be used on low trellises due to its large size. Abroad, for pruning hops on low trellises a specially adapted sprinkler is used (chemical pruning). With regard to the effort to minimize the chemical environmental burden, we opted for the design of the mechanical pruner. Firstly, the low trellis, mechanical pruner, and also elements used in the design of hydraulic circuit are described. Next part of the paper is devoted to the input requirements for both the hydraulic circuit and the mechanical pruner designs. Then a description of an adapted inter-axle carrier used for the experimental model of the hop mechanical pruner and of the effected field measurement follows, along with interpretation of the measured data. These data are depicted in clearly arranged graphs showing the dependency of pressure and hydraulic oil flow on the cutting disc rotational frequency.
Differences in the Financial Management of Conventional, Organic, and Biodynamic Farms
Authors: Vlašicová Eliška , Náglová Z.
Published: October 2015

The financial management of conventional, organic, and biodynamic farms was evaluated and compared. It is a highly specific issue filling in the gap namely in the area of economic research of biodynamic agriculture. Biodynamic agriculture is a less widespread concept of agriculture, the management of which meets the requirements of organic agriculture. Organic agriculture has still been gaining in importance in the Czech Republic, the number of organic farms has been growing, and availability of organic products has increased, too. Of the Czech farms receiving subsidies from the EU or state subsidies in 2007-2012, a total of 389 were selected for analysis (273 of which were conventional farms, 112 organic farms, and 4 farms were engaged in biodynamic agriculture). Subsidies, Total Costs, Operating Revenue, Profit and Gross Value Added indicators were selected for evaluation. The individual indicators within groups of companies were compared by means of a t-test. The analysis revealed significant differences in the economic indicators of individual types of farms. It was observed that organic enterprises have better economic results than conventional and biodynamic businesses. Subsidies help all types of farms achieve better results. We may hence assume dependence of these farms on subsidies.
Investigation of the ν
2 + 2ν
3 Subband in the Overtone Icosad of 13CH4 by Pulsed Supersonic Jet and Diode Laser Cavity Ring-Down Spectroscopy: Partial Rovibrational Analysis and Nuclear Spin Symmetry Conservation
Authors: Bjelobrk Zoran , Manca Tanner Carine , Quack Martin
Published: October 2015

We have investigated the ν
2 + 2ν
3 combination band of methane 13CH4 centered at
7493.15918 cm
–1 within the icosad of the overtone absorption. The jet-CRD setup combining supersonic jet
expansions and cavity ring-down spectroscopy which was already used for the reinvestigation of the same spectral region for the
main isotope of methane (12CH4) has been used to record spectra of the Q and R branches at room temperature as
well as at very low temperatures (down to 4 K). Based on our previous temperature-dependent investigations and the
present results, we provide a careful analysis and the assignment for lines involving angular momentum quantum numbers up to
J = 4. The analysis of the relative intensities in spectra taken at various rotational and effective translational temperatures
demonstrate conservation of nuclear spin symmetry for 13CH4 under the conditions of a supersonic jet expansion,
similar to our previous results regarding 12CH4 and also to further results using other techniques and covering
other spectral ranges. This is in agreement with theoretical expectation regarding very slow nuclear spin symmetry relaxation
under these conditions in supersonic jet expansions.
Cortical Low-Frequency Power and Progressive Phase Synchrony Precede Successful Memory Encoding
Authors: Haque Rafi U. , Wittig John H. , Damera Srikanth R. , Inati Sara K. , Zaghloul Kareem A.
Published: October 2015

Neural activity preceding an event can influence subsequent memory formation, yet the precise cortical dynamics underlying this activity and the associated cognitive states remain unknown. We investigate these questions here by examining intracranial EEG recordings as 28 participants with electrodes placed for seizure monitoring participated in a verbal paired-associates memory task. We found that, preceding successfully remembered word pairs, an orientation cue triggered a low-frequency 2–4 Hz phase reset in the right temporoparietal junction with concurrent increases in low-frequency power across cortical regions that included the prefrontal cortex and left temporal lobe. Regions that exhibited a significant increase in 2–4 Hz power were functionally bound together through progressive low-frequency 2–4 Hz phase synchrony. Our data suggest that the interaction between power and phase synchrony reflects the engagement of attentional networks that in large part determine the extent to which memories are successfully encoded.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTHere we investigate the spatiotemporal cortical dynamics that precede successful memory encoding. Using intracranial EEG, we observed significant changes in oscillatory power, intertrial phase consistency, and pairwise phase synchrony that predict successful encoding. Our data suggest that the interaction between power and phase synchrony reflects the engagement of attentional networks that in large part determine the extent to which memories are successfully encoded.
TASK Channels on Basal Forebrain Cholinergic Neurons Modulate Electrocortical Signatures of Arousal by Histamine
Authors: Vu Michael T. , Du Guizhi , Bayliss Douglas A. , Horner Richard L.
Published: October 2015

Basal forebrain cholinergic neurons are the main source of cortical acetylcholine, and their activation by histamine elicits cortical arousal. TWIK-like acid-sensitive K+(TASK) channels modulate neuronal excitability and are expressed on basal forebrain cholinergic neurons, but the role of TASK channels in the histamine-basal forebrain cholinergic arousal circuit is unknown. We first expressed TASK channel subunits and histamine Type 1 receptors in HEK cells. Application of histaminein vitroinhibited the acid-sensitive K+current, indicating a functionally coupled signaling mechanism. We then studied the role of TASK channels in modulating electrocortical activityin vivousing freely behaving wild-type (n= 12) and ChAT-Cre:TASKf/fmice (n= 12), the latter lacking TASK-1/3 channels on cholinergic neurons. TASK channel deletion on cholinergic neurons significantly altered endogenous electroencephalogram oscillations in multiple frequency bands. We then identified the effect of TASK channel deletion during microperfusion of histamine into the basal forebrain. In non-rapid eye movement sleep, TASK channel deletion on cholinergic neurons significantly attenuated the histamine-induced increase in 30–50 Hz activity, consistent with TASK channels contributing to histamine action on basal forebrain cholinergic neurons. In contrast, during active wakefulness, histamine significantly increased 30–50 Hz activity in ChAT-Cre:TASKf/fmice but not wild-type mice, showing that the histamine response depended upon the prevailing cortical arousal state. In summary, we identify TASK channel modulation in response to histamine receptor activationin vitro, as well as a role of TASK channels on cholinergic neurons in modulating endogenous oscillations in the electroencephalogram and the electrocortical response to histamine at the basal forebrainin vivo.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTAttentive states and cognitive function are associated with the generation of γ EEG activity. Basal forebrain cholinergic neurons are important modulators of cortical arousal and γ activity, and in this study we investigated the mechanism by which these neurons are activated by the wake-active neurotransmitter histamine. We found that histamine inhibited a class of K+leak channels called TASK channels and that deletion of TASK channels selectively on cholinergic neurons modulated baseline EEG activity as well as histamine-induced changes in γ activity. By identifying a discrete brain circuit where TASK channels can influence γ activity, these results represent new knowledge that enhances our understanding of how subcortical arousal systems may contribute to the generation of attentive states.
Reach Trajectories Characterize Tactile Localization for Sensorimotor Decision Making
Authors: Brandes Janina , Heed Tobias
Published: October 2015

Spatial target information for movement planning appears to be coded in a gaze-centered reference frame. In touch, however, location is initially coded with reference to the skin. Therefore, the tactile spatial location must be derived by integrating skin location and posture. It has been suggested that this recoding is impaired when the limb is placed in the opposite hemispace, for example, by limb crossing. Here, human participants reached toward visual and tactile targets located at uncrossed and crossed feet in a sensorimotor decision task. We characterized stimulus recoding by analyzing the timing and spatial profile of hand reaches. For tactile targets at crossed feet, skin-based information implicates the incorrect side, and only recoded information points to the correct location. Participants initiated straight reaches and redirected the hand toward a target presented in midflight. Trajectories to visual targets were unaffected by foot crossing. In contrast, trajectories to tactile targets were redirected later with crossed than uncrossed feet. Reaches to crossed feet usually continued straight until they were directed toward the correct tactile target and were not biased toward the skin-based target location. Occasional, far deflections toward the incorrect target were most likely when this target was implicated by trial history. These results are inconsistent with the suggestion that spatial transformations in touch are impaired by limb crossing, but are consistent with tactile location being recoded rapidly and efficiently, followed by integration of skin-based and external information to specify the reach target. This process may be implemented in a bounded integrator framework.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTHow do you touch yourself, for instance, to scratch an itch? The place you need to reach is defined by a sensation on the skin, but our bodies are flexible, so this skin location could be anywhere in 3D space. The movement toward the tactile sensation must therefore be specified by merging skin location and body posture. By investigating human hand reach trajectories toward tactile stimuli on the feet, we provide experimental evidence that this transformation process is quick and efficient, and that its output is integrated with the original skin location in a fashion consistent with bounded integrator decision-making frameworks.
Fast Oscillatory Commands from the Motor Cortex Can Be Decoded by the Spinal Cord for Force Control
Authors: Watanabe Renato N. , Kohn Andre F.
Published: October 2015

Oscillations in the beta and gamma bands (13–30 Hz; 35–70 Hz) have often been observed in motor cortical outputs that reach the spinal cord, acting on motoneurons and interneurons. However, the frequencies of these oscillations are above the muscle force frequency range. A current view is that the transformation of the motoneuron pool inputs into force is linear. For this reason possible roles for these oscillations are unclear, since if this transformation is linear, the high frequencies in the motoneuron inputs (e.g., 20 Hz from pyramidal tract neurons) would be filtered out by the muscle and have no effect on force control. A biologically inspired mathematical model of the neuromuscular system was used to investigate the impact of high-frequency cortical oscillatory activity on force control. The model simulation results evidenced that a typical motoneuron pool has a nonlinear behavior that enables the decoding of a high-frequency oscillatory input. An input at a single frequency (e.g., beta band) leads to an increase in the steady-state force generated by the muscle. When the input oscillation was amplitude modulated at a given low frequency, the force oscillated at this frequency. In both cases, the mechanism relies on the recruitment and derecruitment of motor units in response to the oscillatory descending drive. Therefore, the results from this study suggest a potential role in force control for cortical oscillations at frequencies at or above the beta band, despite the low-pass behavior of the muscles.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTThe role of cortical oscillations in motor control has been a long-standing question, one view being that they are an epiphenomenon. Fast oscillations are known to reach the spinal cord, and hence they have been thought to affect muscle behavior. However, experimental limitations have hampered further advances to explain how they could influence muscle force. An approach for such a challenge was adopted in the present research: to study the problem through computer simulations of an advanced biologically compatible mathematical model. Using such a model, we found that the well-known mechanism of recruitment and derecruitment of the spinal cord motoneurons can allow the muscle to respond to cortical oscillations, suggesting that these oscillations are not epiphenomena in motor control.
MaternalUbe3aLoss Disrupts Sleep Homeostasis But Leaves Circadian Rhythmicity Largely Intact
Authors: Ehlen J. Christopher , Jones Kelly A. , Pinckney Lennisha , Gray Cloe L. , Burette Susan , Weinberg Richard J. , Evans Jennifer A. , Brager Allison J. , Zylka Mark J. , Paul Ketema N. , Philpot Benjamin D. , DeBruyne Jason P.
Published: October 2015

Individuals with Angelman syndrome (AS) suffer sleep disturbances that severely impair quality of life. Whether these disturbances arise from sleep or circadian clock dysfunction is currently unknown. Here, we explored the mechanistic basis for these sleep disorders in a mouse model of Angelman syndrome (Ube3am−/p+mice). Genetic deletion of the maternalUbe3aallele practically eliminates UBE3A protein from the brain ofUbe3am−/p+mice, because the paternal allele is epigenetically silenced in most neurons. However, we found that UBE3A protein was present in many neurons of the suprachiasmatic nucleus—the site of the mammalian circadian clock—indicating thatUbe3acan be expressed from both parental alleles in this brain region in adult mice. We found that whileUbe3am−/p+mice maintained relatively normal circadian rhythms of behavior and light-resetting, these mice exhibited consolidated locomotor activity and skipped the timed rest period (siesta) present in wild-type (Ube3am+/p+) mice. Electroencephalographic analysis revealed that alterations in sleep regulation were responsible for these overt changes in activity. Specifically,Ube3am−/p+mice have a markedly reduced capacity to accumulate sleep pressure, both during their active period and in response to forced sleep deprivation. Thus, our data indicate that the siesta is governed by sleep pressure, and thatUbe3ais an important regulator of sleep homeostasis. These preclinical findings suggest that therapeutic interventions that target mechanisms of sleep homeostasis may improve sleep quality in individuals with AS.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTAngelman syndrome (AS) is a severe neurodevelopmental disorder caused by loss of expression of the maternal copy of theUBE3Agene. Individuals with AS have severe sleep dysfunction that affects their cognition and presents challenges to their caregivers. Unfortunately, current treatment strategies have limited efficacy due to a poor understanding of the mechanisms underlying sleep disruptions in AS. Here we demonstrate that abnormal sleep patterns arise from a deficit in accumulation of sleep drive, uncovering theUbe3agene as a novel genetic regulator of sleep homeostasis. Our findings encourage a re-evaluation of current treatment strategies for sleep dysfunction in AS, and suggest that interventions that promote increased sleep drive may alleviate sleep disturbances in individuals with AS.
Synaptic Connectivity between Renshaw Cells and Motoneurons in the Recurrent Inhibitory Circuit of the Spinal Cord
Authors: Moore Niall J. , Bhumbra Gardave S. , Foster Joshua D. , Beato Marco
Published: October 2015

Renshaw cells represent a fundamental component of one of the first discovered neuronal circuits, but their function in motor control has not been established. They are the only central neurons that receive collateral projections from motor outputs, yet the efficacy of the excitatory synapses from single and converging motoneurons remains unknown. Here we present the results of dual whole-cell recordings from identified, synaptically connected Renshaw cell-motoneuron pairs in the mouse lumbar spinal cord. The responses from single Renshaw cells demonstrate that motoneuron synapses elicit large excitatory conductances with few or no failures. We show that the strong excitatory input from motoneurons results from a high probability of neurotransmitter release onto multiple postsynaptic contacts. Dual current-clamp recordings confirm that single motoneuron inputs were sufficient to depolarize the Renshaw cell beyond threshold for firing. Reciprocal connectivity was observed in approximately one-third of the paired recordings tested. Ventral root stimulation was used to evoke currents from Renshaw cells or motoneurons to characterize responses of single neurons to the activation of their corresponding presynaptic cell populations. Excitatory or inhibitory synaptic inputs in the recurrent inhibitory loop induced substantial effects on the excitability of respective postsynaptic cells. Quantal analysis estimates showed a large number of converging inputs from presynaptic motoneuron and Renshaw cell populations. The combination of considerable synaptic efficacy and extensive connectivity within the recurrent circuitry indicates a role of Renshaw cells in modulating motor outputs that may be considerably more important than has been previously supposed.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTWe have recently shown that Renshaw cells mediate powerful shunt inhibition on motoneuron excitability. Here we complete a quantitative description of the recurrent circuit using recordings of excitatory synapses between identified motoneuron and Renshaw cell pairs. We show that the excitation is highly effective as a result of a high probability of neurotransmitter release onto multiple release sites and that efficient neurotransmission is maintained at physiologically relevant firing rates in motoneurons. Our results also show that both excitatory and inhibitory connections exhibit considerable convergence of inputs. Because evaluation of the determinants of synaptic strength and the extent of connectivity constitute fundamental parameters affecting the operation of the recurrent circuit, our findings are critical for informing any future models of motor control.
Persistent syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion following traumatic brain injury
Authors: Dick Michael , Catford Sarah R , Kumareswaran Kavita , Hamblin Peter Shane , Topliss Duncan J
Published: October 2015

The syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion (SIADH) can occur following traumatic brain injury (TBI), but is usually transient. There are very few case reports describing chronic SIADH and all resolved within 12 months, except for one case complicated by meningo-encephalitis. Persistent symptomatic hyponatremia due to chronic SIADH was present for 4 years following a TBI in a previously well 32-year-old man. Hyponatremia consistent with SIADH initially occurred in the immediate period following a high-speed motorbike accident in 2010. There were associated complications of post-traumatic amnesia and mild cognitive deficits. Normalization of serum sodium was achieved initially with fluid restriction. However, this was not sustained and he subsequently required a permanent 1.2 l restriction to maintain near normal sodium levels. Multiple episodes of acute symptomatic hyponatremia requiring hospitalization occurred over the following years when he repeatedly stopped the fluid restriction. Given the ongoing nature of his hyponatremia and difficulties complying with strict fluid restriction, demeclocycline was commenced in 2014. Normal sodium levels without fluid restriction have been maintained for 6 months since starting demeclocycline. This case illustrates an important long-term effect of TBI, the challenges of complying with permanent fluid restrictions and the potential role of demeclocycline in patients with chronic hyponatremia due to SIADH.

Learning points

Hyponatraemia due to SIADH commonly occurs after TBI, but is usually mild and transient.

Chronic hyponatraemia due to SIADH following TBI is a rare but important complication.

It likely results from damage to the pituitary stalk or posterior pituitary causing inappropriate non-osmotic hypersecretion of ADH.

First line management of SIADH is generally fluid restriction, but hypertonic saline may be required in severe cases. Adherence to long-term fluid restriction is challenging. Other options include oral urea, vasopressin receptor antagonists and demeclocycline.

While effective, oral urea is poorly tolerated and vasopressin receptor antagonists are currently not licensed for use in Australia or the USA beyond 30 days due to insufficient long-term safety data and specific concerns of hepatotoxicity.

Demeclocycline is an effective, well-tolerated and safe option for management of chronic hyponatraemia due to SIADH.
Iatrogenic myxoedema madness following radioactive iodine ablation for Graves' disease, with a concurrent diagnosis of primary hyperaldosteronism
Authors: Larouche V , Snell L , Morris D V
Published: October 2015

Myxoedema madness was first described as a consequence of severe hypothyroidism in 1949. Most cases were secondary to long-standing untreated primary hypothyroidism. We present the first reported case of iatrogenic myxoedema madness following radioactive iodine ablation for Graves' disease, with a second concurrent diagnosis of primary hyperaldosteronism. A 29-year-old woman presented with severe hypothyroidism, a 1-week history of psychotic behaviour and paranoid delusions 3 months after treatment with radioactive iodine ablation for Graves' disease. Her psychiatric symptoms abated with levothyroxine replacement. She was concurrently found to be hypertensive and hypokalemic. Primary hyperaldosteronism from bilateral adrenal hyperplasia was diagnosed. This case report serves as a reminder that myxoedema madness can be a complication of acute hypothyroidism following radioactive iodine ablation of Graves' disease and that primary hyperaldosteronism may be associated with autoimmune hyperthyroidism.

Learning points

Psychosis (myxoedema madness) can present as a neuropsychiatric manifestation of acute hypothyroidism following radioactive iodine ablation of Graves' disease.

Primary hyperaldosteronism may be caused by idiopathic bilateral adrenal hyperplasia even in the presence of an adrenal adenoma seen on imaging.

Adrenal vein sampling is a useful tool for differentiating between a unilateral aldosterone-producing adenoma, which is managed surgically, and an idiopathic bilateral adrenal hyperplasia, which is managed medically.

The management of autoimmune hyperthyroidism, iatrogenic hypothyroidism and primary hyperaldosteronism from bilateral idiopathic adrenal hyperplasia in patients planning pregnancy includes delaying pregnancy 6 months following radioactive iodine treatment and until patient is euthyroid for 3 months, using amiloride as opposed to spironolactone, controlling blood pressure with agents safe in pregnancy such as nifedipine and avoiding β blockers.

Autoimmune hyperthyroidism and primary hyperaldosteronism rarely coexist; any underlying mechanism associating the two is still unclear.
Analysis of Si-SiO2 Interfacial-Energy Hierarchy via Mixed-Phase Solidification of Si Films on SiO2
Authors: Wang Ying , Chahal Monica D. , Wang J. J. , Limanov A. B. , Chitu A. M. , Im James S.
Published: October 2015

We have experimentally investigated the anisotropy of Si-SiO2 interfacial energy by leveraging the mixed-phase solidification (MPS) method. By examining the microstructure evolution resulting from partial-melting-and-solidification cycles, and interpreting the changes in the surface-orientation distribution of the grains in terms of the thermodynamic model, we have identified the orientation-dependent hierarchical order of Si-SiO2 interfacial energies, σ{hkl}, as: σ{100} < σ{310} < σ{113} < σ{112} < σ{221} < σ{210}∼σ{331} < σ{111}, σ{110}.
DEVELOPMENTS IN PAPUA NEW GUINEA'S POPULAR MUSIC INDUSTRY
Authors: Philpott Malcolm
Published: October 2015

Malcolm Philpott's article surveys the principal· factors determining the establishment and current direction of the PNG music industry.
MUSIC ARCHIVE FOR THE PACIFIC
Authors: Hannan Michael
Published: October 2015

The Music Archive for the Pacific has been established at Southern Cross University in Lismore, New South Wales, Australia, through the generous donation by Malcolm Philpott of approximately three hundred commercial recordings of mainly contemporary Papua New Guinean music, and other related printed materials.
THE AMBONESE CONNECTION
Authors: Cox Peter
Published: October 2015

The opening articles in this issue address themes previously explored in Perfect Beat v2n3 'Traffic' - which examined the complexity of cultural flows between the Western Pacific region and the North Atlantic axis of Western culture. In the case of Casch, the movement was from Indonesia to Australia (as the nearest periphery of Western culture). In particular, it analyses how Casch's part in the local history of rock and roll has been 'whited out'; and again emphasises the manner in which the fertile, diverse and inventive music culture of the pre-independent Dutch East Indies was uniquely positioned to respond to the globalisation of Western rock and roll in the 1950s.
DOWN INTO THE FIRE
Authors: Fitzgerald Jon
Published: October 2015

Fitzgerald's article examines the work of session musicians and arrangers in the recording of popular music. He considers issues of music copyright as one aspect of understanding and acknowledging the musical roles and activities which take place.
AUSTRALIA'S NATIONAL INSTRUMENT?
Authors: Johnson Bruce
Published: October 2015

review essay: Grieve, R (1995) A Band in a Waistcoat Pocket: The Story of the Harmonica in Australia, Sydney: Currency Press
INDIGENISATION AND SOCIO-POLITICAL IDENTITY IN THE KANEKA MUSIC OF NEW CALEDONIA
Authors: Goldsworthy David
Published: October 2015

Dedicated to the memory of Alexis Poindipenda, lead singer of Jemaa, who died in a tragic accident in 1994. David Goldsworthy's study of the development of contemporary kaneka music in New Caledonia emphasises the manner in which, in specific local contexts, contemporary music can be created and propagated as an means of expressing contemporary cultural ·- and political-difference despite the stylistic profusion and (supposed) inclusiveness of world music/world beat as late 20th Century categories and frames of reference
GOA TRANCE
Authors: Cole Fred , Hannan Michael
Published: October 2015

Michael Hannan and Fred Cole provide an analysis of the emergence of the genre known as Goa (and/or Goa trance). Their study provides a discussion of the music's origins around the city of Goa, on the west coast of India; :its subsequent spread to Australia and Europe; and key elements of its musical style.
SITE AS SONG - SONG AS SITE
Authors: Dunbar-Hall Peter
Published: October 2015

Peter Dunbar-Hall's article on the Warumpi Band contributes to the growing body of work into Aboriginal rock music and relates its study to recent debates within the field of cultural geography, with regard to the nature of place and space and their relation to cultural product. In an important musical adoption of these concepts, Dunbar-Hall weaves together traditional Aboriginal thought and custom with western musicology and theory, producing a study that identifies the fundamental 'place~ness' of Aboriginal rock.
INSULTS, EGOS AND AGENDAS
Authors: Neuenfeldt Karl
Published: October 2015

Neuenfeldt reflects on the use of the Internet as a research source and tool.