bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Macrophage Function Disorders
Authors: Bowdish Dawn ME , Gordon Siamon
Published: March 2009

Macrophages respond to alterations in their microenvironment by producing a wide variety of products that mediate inflammation, immunity and tissue homeostasis or injury. Macrophage recognize pathogen‐associated molecular patterns (e.g. bacterial products) and endogenous ligands (e.g. apoptotic cells) through a broad and adaptable range of pattern‐recognition receptors. The consequence of this recognition is generally effective clearance via phagocytosis; however, when this is not effective macrophages may become inappropriately activated and initiate an inappropriate inflammatory response. Although primary deficiencies of macrophage function in human disease are relatively uncommon, there is increasing evidence that even subtle genetic changes in macrophage function contribute to altered responses to both acute infections and in many major acquired disease processes such as autoimmunity, inflammatory diseases and cancer.
Disorders with Synuclein Pathology and Parkinsonism
Authors: Kilarski Laura L , Buchman Vladimir L , Morris Huw R
Published: March 2009

A variety of neurodegenerative disorders are classified as synucleinopathies based on the presence of prominent
α‐synuclein
pathology. These diseases include Parkinson disease (PD) and dementia with Lewy bodies (with neuronal Lewy body formation) and multiple system atrophy (with glial cytoplasmic inclusions). The normal function of
α‐synuclein
includes regulation of pre‐synaptic vesicles. Autosomal dominant PD can be due to coding mutations or multiplications of the
α‐synuclein
gene (
SNCA
). The coding mutations are thought to lead to a gain of function, in particular acceleration of the formation of proto‐fibrils. Duplications and triplications of
SNCA
lead to autosomal dominant PD with a gene dosage effect on age of onset and clinical severity; variants in the
SNCA
promoter which lead to an upregulation of
SNCA
expression are associated with an increased risk of sporadic PD.

Key concepts

αhyphen;Synuclein is deposited in the common neurodegenerative conditions Parkinson disease (PD), and dementia with Lewy bodies as neuronal cytoplasmic inclusions (Lewy bodies).

The normal function of αhyphen;synuclein is incompletely understood but is likely to involve interaction with, and regulation of synaptic vesicles.

There is some evidence that αhyphen;synuclein may have a role as a cellular chaperone and in interacting with the proteasome.

Mendelian coding mutations in the αhyphen;synuclein gene (SNCA) can lead to autosomal dominant PD and dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB).

SNCA mutations lead to an enhancement of protofibril formation as well as affecting normal
αhyphen;synuclein
function.

SNCA duplications and triplications lead to autosomal dominant PD: an increase in the transcription of normal sequence SNCA can lead to disease.

Promoter variation at the SNCA is associated with PD; in vitro evidence suggests that protective promoter alleles lead to a downregulation of SNCA expression.
Modelling of Plant Growth and Development
Authors: Rolland‐Lagan Anne‐Gaëlle
Published: March 2009

The development of an organism results from complex interactions between biophysical and biochemical processes and is very dynamic. Therefore the mechanisms at play are best studied using computer simulations. The large amount of molecular data on multiple aspects of plant development and advances in plant imaging make it possible to use simulation modelling as a tool to complement experimental studies. For instance, models of gene regulation networks can predict genetic interactions, which can later be tested experimentally. Models of pattern formation in the root and the shoot based on the transport of the plant hormone auxin can simulate the localization of proteins involved in auxin efflux as well as generating realistic profiles of auxin distribution. Models are also starting to incorporate growth and the role of mechanical forces in development, which should provide a link between molecular biology studies and biophysics.

Key concepts

Plant development is highly dynamic as pattern formation and growth occur concurrently.

Modelling studies which can account for observed experimental data suggest genetic interactions in space can generate spatial patterns during plant development in a similar way to reaction‐diffusion mechanisms initially postulated in the middle of the twentieth century.

Models of the relation between auxin gradient and root growth suggests the plant hormone auxin acts similarly to a morphogen. In the case of auxin the response to the morphogen may affect the morphogen gradient. This feedback mechanism can generate patterns similar to reaction diffusion and may account for phyllotaxis and leaf vein pattern formation. Experimental data is still needed to link models of auxin‐regulated pattern formation with gene regulatory networks.

Mechanical forces affect growth and pattern formation. Methodologies are being developed to model the biomechanics of growth and integrate patterning through chemical and physical processes at various scales of organization.
Plant Innate Immunity
Authors: Staal Jens , Dixelius Christina
Published: March 2009

The ability to discriminate between self‐ and nonself‐molecules is characteristic of all living organisms. This feature forms the basis for the activation of innate immune responses upon microbial attack. If microbes bypass the external physical barrier, plants have evolved two classes of immune receptors to detect nonself‐molecules to prevent further pathogen progress. One class consists of membrane‐resident pattern‐recognition receptors that sense molecules from microbes, the so‐called microbe‐associated molecular patterns (MAMPs). The second class consists of plant resistance (R) proteins that have capacity to detect directly or indirectly isolate‐specific pathogen effectors encoded by avirulence genes. These receptors are mainly intracellular. An alternative route is effector molecules that act as transcription factors. Signal transduction cascades link recognition and defence responses through second messengers, transcription factors and crosstalk between plant hormones to fine‐tune the overall response.
Biological Impacts of Climate Change
Authors: McCarty John P , Wolfenbarger L LaReesa , Wilson James A
Published: March 2009

Climate has far reaching impacts on biological systems. Survival and reproduction depend on how well adapted individuals are to local climate patterns. Climate change can disrupt the match between organisms and their local environment, reducing survival and reproduction and causing subsequent impacts on populations or species’ distributions across geographic regions. Climate change may benefit some species and cause extinction for others. Cumulatively, it will alter biological communities and the functioning of ecosystems. The Earth is already experiencing sufficient climate change to affect biological systems; well‐documented changes in plant and animal populations are related to recent climate change. Predicting future biological impacts of climate change remains a formidable challenge for science.

Key concepts

Climate has a pervasive influence on individual plants and animals, populations, communities and entire ecosystems.

Changes in climate will have far reaching effects on all aspects of biology.

Changes in climate over the past several decades have already produced measurable changes in biological systems worldwide.

Species can respond to climate change by moving to areas where climate is favourable, by evolving to cope with the challenges posed by new environmental conditions, or, if climate changes too rapidly, by going extinct.

Analysing recent trends give us certainty that changes will occur in biological systems valued by humans. Many of those changes will have negative impacts on human well‐being but there will also be changes that benefit people.

Scientists try to predict how biological systems will change by analysing past changes in response to climate change, by conducting experiments and by constructing models.

Uncertainty in predictions of biological change comes both from uncertainty about the rate of future climate change and from uncertainty about the direct and indirect effects of climate change on biological systems.
Mitochondria as a Key Determinant of Aging
Authors: Walter Ludivine , Lee Siu Sylvia
Published: March 2009

For a long time, mitochondria have been considered as primary targets of the aging process, notably through accumulation of oxidative damage and mitochondrial deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) mutations that lead to gradual decline of mitochondrial function. Recent investigations in various model organisms have revealed conserved molecular pathways that can impact longevity. Intriguingly, some of these longevity pathways involve proteins with key functions in the mitochondria. Furthermore, a growing number of studies indicate that signals emanated from mitochondria can directly impact the longevity of the whole organism. Thus, the mitochondrion organelle likely plays an active and causal role in longevity determination. This renders mitochondria a key determinant in the complex network of physiological signals that modulates longevity.
Phylogenetic Methods in Ecology
Authors: Ackerly David D
Published: March 2009

Phylogenetic comparative methods, incorporating patterns of similarity among close relatives, are an important tool in the ecological research. In tests of adaptive hypotheses, examining interspecific correlations between traits and environmental conditions, independent contrasts and related methods address the statistical nonindependence among species due to common ancestry. In community ecology, patterns of co‐occurence among related species provide insights into community assembly processes. In conservation biology, phylogenetic diversity can be an important assessment tool to prioritize species assemblages. Developments in phyloinformatics and improved phylogenies for different groups will promote expanded use of comparative methods in many areas of ecology.

Key concepts

Comparative biology focuses on similarities and differences among species to test hypotheses in ecology, evolutionary biology and related fields.

Closely related species tend to be ecologically similar, reflecting their descent from a common ancestor. This similarity must be considered in tests of adaptive correlations between organismal traits and environmental conditions, as it can create statistical nonindependence among species.

The method of phylogenetic independent contrasts, which compares trait values of related species across a phylogeny, provides a robust method to address the nonindependence of species and is widely used in ecology.

A variety of processes influence the assembly of ecological communities. Communities may be composed of species that are ecologically similar, reflecting shared adaptations to the environment (known as environmental filtering), or species that are ecologically distinct, as predicted if biotic interactions such as competition or facilitation play an important role.

The study of phylogenetic community structure – the degree of relatedness of co‐occurring species – provides insight into the processes influencing community assembly. Co‐occurrence of close relatives is likely caused by environmental filtering, whereas a variety of processes may lead to co‐occurrence of more distant relatives, including competition, facilitation and convergent evolution.

Phylogenetic diversity – which can be measured as the sum of the branch lengths in a phylogeny – provides a valuable tool in conservation biology. Targeting areas with high phylogenetic diversity may be an efficient means to maximize conservation of taxa with high diversity of ecological and economic features.

Phylogenetic approaches are an important tool to integrate ecological and evolutionary processes across a range of temporal and spatial scales.
Population Genetics of Plant Pathogens
Authors: Zhan Jiasui
Published: March 2009

Population genetics of plant pathogens considers the origin, maintenance and distribution of genetic variation under the influence of mutation, gene flow, recombination, genetic drift and selection. Intensive monoculture in modern agriculture creates a best environment for pathogens to colonize, reproduce and transmit. Global trade of agricultural products and germplasm exchange for breeding programme may also facilitate the evolution of plant pathogens. Sustainable disease management programmes need to integrate host resistance, fungicide application, resistance gene deployment and other strategies, such as good sanitation and efficient quarantine.
Fungicides for Plant Diseases
Authors: Hollomon Derek W
Published: March 2009

Fungicides are essential for maintaining healthy crops, and consistent yields of high quality produce. This is unlikely to change in the foreseeable future. Protectant fungicides prevent infection, are phytotoxic so remain on leaf surfaces protecting only foliage existing when treatments are applied. Eradicant (curative) fungicides control existing infections, are not phytotoxic and xylem mobile so protect new foliage appearing after treatment. Protectant fungicides are usually multi‐site inhibitors whereas eradicants only inhibit one step in a metabolic pathway. A major constraint is loss of fungicides through resistance. Mixtures or alternation of low‐risk multi‐site inhibitors and high‐risk single‐site inhibitors underpins resistance management strategies. Examples are given for modes of action and resistance mechanisms for key active ingredients. Fungicide chemistry has provided increasingly active, but environmentally safe, compounds allowing lower dose rates. This trend is likely to continue through inhibition of regulatory rather than metabolic pathways.

Key concepts:

Differences between protectant and eradicant fungicides.

Differences between multi‐site and single‐site inhibitors.

Fungicide modes of action.

Management of fungicide resistance.
The Molecular Genetics of Schwannomatosis
Authors: Hulsebos Theo JM
Published: March 2009

Schwannomatosis is characterized by the development of multiple schwannomas, but without the involvement of vestibular schwannomas. Presence of the latter is the hallmark of neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2). Recent studies in families with schwannomatosis have excluded the

NF2

gene on chromosome 22 as the germline‐transmissible schwannomatosis gene. However, this gene was found to be somatically inactivated in schwannomas of the patients. In 2007, the

INI1/SMARCB1

gene on chromosome 22 was identified as a strong candidate for the schwannomatosis‐predisposing gene. Subsequent studies have confirmed the involvement of this tumour suppressor gene in 40–50% of familial and about 10% of sporadic cases.

INI1/SMARCB1

had earlier been found to be implicated in the development of malignant rhabdoid tumours, which are aggressive tumours of early childhood. It remains to be explained how

INI1/SMARCB1

can be involved in the development of benign schwannomas and of malignant rhabdoid tumours as well.

Key concepts

Schwannomatosis is characterized by the development of multiple schwannomas but no vestibular schwannomas, which are diagnostic of neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2).

INI1/SMARCB1

on chromosome 22 is a schwannomatosis‐predisposing gene. Constitutional mutations in this gene are found in 40–50% of familial cases and about 10% of sporadic cases.

INI1/SMARCB1

is a tumour suppressor gene of which the second wild‐type copy is found to be inactivated in the schwannomas of these patients.

Inactivating mutations in the

NF2

gene are also found in the schwannomas of schwannomatosis patients, but these are only somatically acquired.

The INI1/SMARCB1 protein is a core subunit of the SWI/SNF complex. The SWI/SNF complex is involved in chromatin‐remodelling and in cancer development.

INI1/SMARCB1

is also implicated in the development of malignant rhabdoid tumours, which are aggressive tumours of early childhood. Patients with rhabdoid tumour predisposition syndrome (RTPS) carry a constitutionally mutated

INI1/SMARCB1

gene and may develop more than one rhabdoid tumour.

It remains to be clarified how

INI1/SMARCB1

can be involved in the development of two tumour types, schwannomas and rhabdoid tumours, with very different histologies and malignancy grades.
Smith–Magenis Syndrome
Authors: Elsea Sarah H , Finucane Brenda
Published: March 2009

Smith–Magenis syndrome (SMS) is a complex neurobehavioural disorder caused by haploinsufficiency of theRAI1gene on chromosome 17p11.2. Key clinical features include intellectual disability, self‐injurious behaviours, sleep disturbance and craniofacial and skeletal anomalies. Diagnostic strategies are focused towards identification of a 17p11.2 microdeletion encompassingRAI1or a mutation ofRAI1. G‐banding and fluorescentin situhybridization are classical methods used to detect the SMS deletions, whereas multiplex ligation‐dependent probe amplification, comparative genomic hybridization and real‐time quantitative PCR (polymerase chain reaction) are the newer technologies. Most SMS features are due toRAI1haploinsufficiency, whereas variability and severity are modified by other genes in the 17p11.2 region. The functional role forRAI1is not completely understood, but it is likely involved in transcription and functions in several different biological pathways. Management of SMS is a multidisciplinary approach and involves treatment for sleep disturbance, speech and occupational therapies, minor medical interventions and management of behaviours.

Synonyms: SMS, del(17)(p11.2), del(17)(p11.2p11.2),RAI1mutation

Key concepts

Smith–Magenis syndrome (SMS) is a multiple congenital anomalies disorder caused by an interstitial deletion of chromosome 17p11.2 containing theretinoic acid induced 1(RAI1) gene or by mutation ofRAI1.

Typically a sporadic genomic disorder with an estimated prevalence of 1:15 000–25 000.

Individuals with SMS have intellectual disability, distinctive behavioural features, craniofacial and skeletal anomalies, speech and developmental delay and sleep disturbance.

Hypotonia, hearing loss and chronic ear infections, eye abnormalities, cardiac and renal defects, and occasionally, cleft lip and/or palates are also observed.

Approximately 90% of SMS cases have a FISH detectable 17p11.2 microdeletion (ranging from 650 kb to 9 Mb), whereas the remaining 10% have a mutation inRAI1.

Haploinsufficiency ofRAI1results in most features of SMS, but variabliity and severity are modified by other genes in the 17p11.2 deletion region.

RAI1 is a putative transcription factor functioning in multiple biological pathways resulting in the pleiotropic effects seen in SMS.

Management includes therapy for sleep disturbance, early childhood intervention programmes, special education and vocational training, and multidisciplinary evaluation for behavioural and systemic manifestations.

Recurrence risk for sibs of the proband, if the parental chromosome/gene analyses are normal, is less than 1%. Risk increases if a parent of the proband carries a balanced chromosomal rearrangement or if mosaicism for either a deletion orRAI1mutation is present in either parent. Mosaicism in a parent of an affected child is estimated at 3–5%.
Delay‐dependent non‐synchronized robust ℋ∞state estimation for discrete‐time piecewise linear delay systems
Authors: Qiu Jianbin , Feng Gang , Yang Jie
Published: March 2009

This paper investigates the problem of delay‐dependent robust ℋ∞filtering design for a class of uncertain discrete‐time piecewise linear state‐delayed systems where state space instead of measurable output space partitions are assumed so that filter implementation may not be synchronized with plant state trajectory transitions. The state delay is assumed to be time‐varying and of an interval‐like type. The uncertainties are assumed to have a structured linear fractional form. The objective is to design a piecewise linear state estimator guaranteeing the asymptotic stability of the resulting filtering error system with robust ℋ∞performance γ. Based on a new delay‐dependent piecewise Lyapunov‐Krasovskii functional combined with Finsler's Lemma, a novel delay‐dependent robust ℋ∞performance analysis result is first presented and the filter synthesis is then developed. It is shown that the filter gains can be obtained by solving a set of linear matrix inequalities, which are numerically efficient with commercially available software. Finally, a numerical example is provided to illustrate the effectiveness and less conservatism of the proposed approach. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Robust detection of a weak signal with redescending M‐estimators: A comparative study
Authors: Shevlyakov Georgy , Lee Jae Won , Lee Kyung Min , Shin Vladimir , Kim Kiseon
Published: March 2009

On finite samples redescending M‐estimators outperform linear bounded Huber's M‐estimators. To provide stable detection of a weak signal of arbitrary shape, robust Neyman–Pearson detection rules based on redescending M‐estimators of location are introduced and studied. It is shown that, on the whole, robust detectors based on redescending M‐estimators outperform conventional Huber's linear bounded detectors rules under light‐ and heavy‐tailed noise distributions both on large and small samples. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Open‐ and closed‐loop algebraic identification method for adaptive control of DC motors
Authors: Mamani G. , Becedas J. , Feliu‐Batlle V. , Sira‐Ramírez H.
Published: March 2009

In this article an adaptive position control scheme for a DC motor based on an on‐line closed‐loop continuous‐time identification method is proposed. A fast, non‐asymptotic, algebraic identification method is used to estimate the unknown system parameters and to update the controller. The method is suitable for simultaneously identifying both the viscous friction coefficient and the inertia of the motor. The adaptive controller and the identification algorithm have been verified by simulation and experiments. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Accurate numerical prediction of acoustic wave propagation
Authors: Tsuru Hideo , Iwatsu Reima
Published: March 2009

In the marine engineering field, a sound wave is often utilized to visualize objects. In such a sensing method, an accurate numerical prediction of sound propagation is an important issue for theoretical considerations. Recently, a finite difference method in time domain (FDTD) is often applied to wave propagation. However, an existing FDTD sometimes fails to match the accuracy to be required. In the present paper, strategies to improve conventional methods are presented: the application of the compact finite difference on staggered grid with adjusted coefficients and the usage of optimized multistep time integration. It is shown that through these tactics, a highly accurate simulation is attainable. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An Optically Active Polythiophene Exhibiting Electrochemically Driven Light‐Interference Modulation
Authors: Goto Hiromasa
Published: March 2009

Optically active polythiophene (PT*) is successfully prepared by electrochemical polymerization using a cholesteric liquid crystal (CLC) electrolyte solution. Polarizing optical microscopy observations of the polymer reveal a well‐resolved fingerprint texture similar to the optical texture of the CLC. Circular dichroism measurements indicate a Cotton effect. The PT* film produced by the asymmetric polymerization in CLC exhibits a variable diffraction function, electrochemically driven refractive index modulation, and electrochromism originating from the periodic dielectric structure, representing a form of structural electrochromism.
Magnetic‐Field Effects in Organic Semiconducting Materials and Devices
Authors: Hu Bin , Yan Liang , Shao Ming
Published: March 2009

It has been experimentally discovered that a low magnetic field (less than 500 mT) can substantially change the electroluminescence, photoluminescence, photocurrent, and electrical‐injection current in nonmagnetic organic semiconducting materials, leading to magnetic‐field effects (MFEs). Recently, there has been significant driving force in understanding the fundamental mechanisms of magnetic responses from nonmagnetic organic materials because of two potential impacts. First, MFEs can be powerful experimental tools in revealing and elucidating useful and non‐useful excited processes occurring in organic electronic, optical, and optoelectronic devices. Second, MFEs can lead to the development of new multifunctional organic devices with integrated electronic, optical, and magnetic properties for energy conversion, optical communication, and sensing technologies. This progress report discusses magnetically sensitive excited states and charge‐transport processes involved in MFEs. The discussions focus on both fundamental theories and tuning mechanisms of MFEs in nonmagnetic organic semiconducting materials.
Radical Polymers for Organic Electronic Devices: A Radical Departure from Conjugated Polymers?
Authors: Oyaizu Kenichi , Nishide Hiroyuki
Published: March 2009

Radical polymers are aliphatic or nonconjugated polymers bearing organic robust radicals as pendant groups per repeating unit. A large population of the radical redox sites allows the efficient redox gradient‐driven electron transport through the polymer layer by outer‐sphere self‐exchange reactions in electrolyte solutions. The radical polymers are emerging as a new class of electroactive materials useful for various kinds of wet‐type energy storage, transport, and conversion devices. Electric‐field‐driven charge transport by hopping between the densely populated radical sites is also a remarkable aspect of the radical polymers in the solid state, which leads to many dry‐type devices such as organic memories, diodes, and switches.
Childhood, adolescence, and longevity: A multilevel model of the evolution of reserve capacity in human life history
Authors: Bogin Barry
Published: March 2009

The grandmother hypothesis (GH) of Hawkes et al. ([1998]: Proc Natl Acad Sci USA 95: 1336–1339) finds that selection for lower adult mortality and greater longevity allow for the evolution of prolonged growth in human beings. In contrast, other researchers propose that the evolution of the human childhood and adolescent stages of life history prolonged the growth period and allowed for greater biological resilience and longevity compared with apes. In this article, the GH model is reanalyzed using new values for some of its key variables. The original GH set the age at human feeding independence at 2.8 years of age (weaning) and used demographic data from living foragers to estimate average adult lifespan after first birth at 32.9 years. The reanalysis of the GH uses age 7.0 years (end of the childhood stage) as the minimum for human feeding independence and uses data from healthier populations, rather than foragers, to derive an estimate of 48.9 years for average adult life span. Doing so finds that selection operated to first shorten the infancy stage (wean early compared with apes), then prolong the growth period, and finally result in greater longevity. The reanalysis provides a test of the reserve capacity hypothesis as part of a multilevel model of human life history evolution. Am. J. Hum. Biol. 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Activation of metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 improves recovery after spinal cord injury in rodents
Authors: Byrnes Kimberly R. , Stoica Bogdan , Riccio Angela , Pajoohesh‐Ganji Ahdeah , Loane David J. , Faden Alan I.
Published: March 2009

Objective

Activation of metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 (mGluR5) has neuroprotective properties in vitro and has been reported to limit postischemic lesion volume in vivo. Previously, mGluR5 has been identified on microglia in vitro, but the effects of mGluR5 activation on inflammation in vivo or on recovery after spinal cord injury is unknown.

Methods

Rats received intrathecal infusion of the selective mGluR5 agonist (RS)‐2‐chloro‐5‐hydroxyphenylglycine (CHPG) for 7 days after moderate impact spinal cord injury at T9. Complementary studies examined CHPG effects on activated spinal microglia cultures.

Results

Functional motor recovery was significantly increased by CHPG treatment up to 28 days after injury, with improvements in weight bearing, step taking, and coordination of stepping behavior. CHPG treatment significantly reduced lesion volume and increased white matter sparing at 28 days after injury. Administration of CHPG attenuated microglial‐associated inflammatory responses in a dose‐dependent fashion, including expression of ED1, Iba‐1, Galectin‐3, NADPH oxidase components, tumor necrosis factor‐α, and inducible nitric oxide synthase. Because mGluR5 is expressed by microglial cells in the rat spinal cord, such effects may be mediated by direct action on microglial cells. mGluR5 stimulation also reduced microglial activation and decreased microglial‐induced neurotoxicity in spinal cord microglia cultures; the latter effects were blocked by the selective mGluR5 antagonist MTEP.

Interpretation

These data demonstrate that mGluR5 activation can reduce microglial‐associated inflammation, suggesting that the protective effects of mGluR5 agonists may reflect this action. Ann Neurol 2009;66:63–74
Postischemic treatment of neonatal cerebral ischemia should target autophagy
Authors: Puyal Julien , Vaslin Anne , Mottier Vincent , Clarke Peter G.H.
Published: March 2009

Objective

To evaluate the contributions of autophagic, necrotic, and apoptotic cell death mechanisms after neonatal cerebral ischemia and hence define the most appropriate neuroprotective approach for postischemic therapy.

Methods

Rats were exposed to transient focal cerebral ischemia on postnatal day 12. Some rats were treated by postischemic administration of pan‐caspase or autophagy inhibitors. The ischemic brain tissue was studied histologically, biochemically, and ultrastructurally for autophagic, apoptotic, and necrotic markers.

Results

Lysosomal and autophagic activities were increased in neurons in the ischemic area from 6 to 24 hours postinjury, as shown by immunohistochemistry against lysosomal‐associated membrane protein 1 and cathepsin D, by acid phosphatase histochemistry, by increased expression of autophagosome‐specific LC3‐II and by punctate LC3 staining. Electron microscopy confirmed the presence of large autolysosomes and putative autophagosomes in neurons. The increases in lysosomal activity and autophagosome formation together demonstrate increased autophagy, which occurred mainly in the border of the lesion, suggesting its involvement in delayed cell death. We also provide evidence for necrosis near the center of the lesion and apoptotic‐like cell death in its border, but in nonautophagic cells. Postischemic intracerebroventricular injections of autophagy inhibitor 3‐methyladenine strongly reduced the lesion volume (by 46%) even when given >4 hours after the beginning of the ischemia, whereas pan‐caspase inhibitors, carbobenzoxy‐valyl‐alanyl‐aspartyl(OMe)‐fluoromethylketone and quinoline‐val‐asp(OMe)‐Ch2‐O‐phenoxy, provided no protection.

Interpretation

The prominence of autophagic neuronal death in the ischemic penumbra and the neuroprotective efficacy of postischemic autophagy inhibition indicate that autophagy should be a primary target in the treatment of neonatal cerebral ischemia. Ann Neurol 2009
Dopamine D2receptor knockout mice develop features of Parkinson disease
Authors: Tinsley Rogan B. , Bye Chris R. , Parish Clare L. , Tziotis‐Vais Angela , George Sonia , Culvenor Janetta G. , Li Qiao‐Xin , Masters Colin L. , Finkelstein David I. , Horne Malcolm K.
Published: March 2009

Objective

This study questions whether increased dopamine (DA) turnover in nigral neurons leads to formation of Lewy bodies (LBs), the characteristic α‐synuclein–containing cytoplasmic inclusion of Parkinson disease (PD).

Methods

Mice with targeted deletion of the dopamine D2receptor gene (D2R[−/−]) have higher striatal and nigral dopamine turnover and elevated oxidative stress. These mice were examined for evidence of histological, biochemical, and gene expression changes consistent with a synucleinopathy.

Results

LB‐like cytoplasmic inclusions containing α‐synuclein and ubiquitin were present in substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc) neurons of older D2R(−/−) mice, and were also occasionally seen in aged wild‐type mice. These inclusions displaced the nucleus of affected cells and were eosinophilic. Diffuse cytosolic α‐synuclein immunoreactivity in SNpc neurons increased with age in both wild‐type and D2R(−/−) mice, most likely because of redistribution of α‐synuclein from striatal terminals to SNpc cell bodies. Gene and protein expression studies indicated endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and changes in trafficking and autophagic pathways in D2R(−/−) SNpc. These changes were accompanied by a loss of DA terminals in the dorsal striatum, although there was no evidence of progressive cell death in the SNpc.

Interpretation

Increased sprouting and DA turnover, as observed in PD and D2R(−/−) mice, augments LB‐like inclusions and axonal degeneration of dopaminergic neurons. These changes are associated with ER stress and autophagy. Ann Neurol 2009;66:472–484
Reformer and membrane modules plant to optimize natural gas conversion to hydrogen
Authors: De Falco M. , Barba D. , Cosenza S. , Iaquaniello G. , Farace A. , Giacobbe F. G.
Published: March 2009

Membrane technology may play a crucial role in the efficient production of hydrogen from natural gas and heavy hydrocarbons. The present work assesses the performance of a hydrogen production plant utilizing by reformer and membrane modules (RMM), by which the hydrogen produced in reaction units is separated by Pd‐based membranes. A major advantage of RMM architecture is the shift of chemical equilibria favoring hydrogen production due to the removal of hydrogen through membranes at each reaction step, thus improving hydrogen yield while simultaneously allowing methane conversion at temperatures below 650 °C. Lower operating temperatures allow location of the modules downstream of a gas turbine, achieving an efficient hybrid system producing electric power and hydrogen with a significant reduction in energy consumption of approximately 10% relative to conventional systems.

Fundamental concepts are analyzed and integrated into a process scheme. Effects of variables including reactor temperature outlet, steam‐to‐carbon ratio and recycle ratio throughout pinch and sensitivity analysis are described. Copyright © 2009 Curtin University of Technology and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Growth and reproduction of threatened native crucian carp Carassius carassius in small ponds of Epping Forest, south‐east England
Authors: Tarkan Ali Serhan , Copp Gordon H. , Zięba Grzegorz , Godard Michael J. , Cucherousset Julien
Published: March 2009

The crucian carp Carassius carassius is a species of cyprinid fish native to south‐east England, but few studies exist on its growth and reproduction in England, and the species is threatened by introductions of its Asiatic congener, goldfish Carassius auratus. To increase knowledge of the crucian carp as a means of aiding its conservation, the present study assesses the growth (back‐calculated length at age, body condition) and reproduction (fecundity, egg size, length and age at maturity) of crucian carp in small ponds of Epping Forest (north‐east London, England).

Evaluation of growth and reproduction data with published data for populations from northern Europe (i.e. latitude ⩾50°) suggest that growth is very variable, even within the same area, and that data on reproductive indices, in particular length and age at maturity, are scarce. In England, the length at age trajectory of crucian carp living in sympatry with feral goldfish Carassius auratus did not differ significantly from allopatric crucian carp populations, but crucian carp body condition and relative fecundity (eggs per body weight) were highest, and mean age and standard length at maturity were lowest in sympatry with goldfish.

These data suggest that somatic growth and reproductive output may be maximized in crucian carp when confronted by coexistence with feral goldfish. However, the potential impact of goldfish introductions on crucian carp growth and reproduction requires further study, involving a much larger number of crucian carp populations, both in allopatry and sympatry with feral goldfish populations.

© Crown copyright 2009. Reproduced with the permission of Her Majesty's stationery Office. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Novel clustering of items from the Autism Diagnostic Interview‐Revised to define phenotypes within autism spectrum disorders
Authors: Hu Valerie W. , Steinberg Mara E.
Published: March 2009

Heterogeneity in phenotypic presentation of Autism spectrum disorders has been cited as one explanation for the difficulty in pinpointing specific genes involved in autism. Recent studies have attempted to reduce the “noise” in genetic and other biological data by reducing the phenotypic heterogeneity of the sample population. The current study employs multiple clustering algorithms on 123 item scores from the Autism Diagnostic Interview—Revised (ADI‐R) diagnostic instrument of nearly 2,000 autistic individuals to identify subgroups of autistic probands with clinically relevant behavioral phenotypes in order to isolate more homogeneous groups of subjects for gene expression analyses. Our combined cluster analyses suggest optimal division of the autistic probands into four phenotypic clusters based on similarity of symptom severity across the 123 selected item scores. One cluster is characterized by severe language deficits, while another exhibits milder symptoms across the domains. A third group possesses a higher frequency of savant skills while the fourth group exhibited intermediate severity across all domains. Grouping autistic individuals by multivariate cluster analysis of ADI‐R scores reveals meaningful phenotypes of subgroups within the autistic spectrum, which we show, in a related (accompanying) study, to be associated with distinct gene expression profiles.
Simulation games in engineering education: A state‐of‐the‐art review
Authors: Deshpande Amit A. , Huang Samuel H.
Published: March 2009

Globalization and advances in information technology has prompted a need to change traditional lecture‐based passive learning methodology to an active multi‐sensory experiential learning methodology. This article presents a state‐of‐the‐art review of extant applications of simulation games in engineering education. It was concluded that proper application of simulation games in engineering education would maximize the student's transferability of academic knowledge to the industry. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Comput Appl Eng Educ 19: 399–410, 2011
Exact internet accessible computation of paths of points in planar linkages and diagrams
Authors: Botana Francisco , Abánades Miguel A. , Escribano Jesús
Published: March 2009

Dynamic Geometry, also known as Interactive Geometry, refers to computer programs where accurate construction of (generally) planar drawings can be made. The key characteristic of this software is that, when dragging certain elements of the configuration, the geometric properties of the construction are preserved. In this paper, we describe an educational web‐based application that complements standard dynamic geometry programs in a mathematically sound manner. We put the focus on computing the geometric locus of distinguished points in linkages and other geometric constrained configurations, since knowing the equations of such loci is a typical engineering task. The tool is located at http://nash.sip.ucm.es/LAD/LADucation.html. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Comput Appl Eng Educ 19: 835–841, 2011
Proliferation‐ and migration‐enhancing effects of ginseng and ginsenoside Rg1 through IGF‐I‐ and FGF‐2‐signaling pathways on RSC96 Schwann cells
Authors: Lu Ming‐Chin , Lai Tung‐Yuan , Hwang Jin‐Ming , Chen Hsien‐Te , Chang Sheng‐Huang , Tsai Fuu‐Jen , Wang Hwai‐Lee , Lin Chien‐Chung , Kuo Wei‐Wen , Huang Chih‐Yang
Published: March 2009

The aim of the present study is to evaluate the proliferation‐ and migration‐enhancing effects of ginseng and its component, ginsenoside (Rg1) on RSC96 Schwann cells. We investigated the molecular signaling pathways, which include: (1) survival signaling, IGFs‐IGFIR‐Akt‐Bcl2 and proliferative signaling, cell cycle factors and mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways, (2) migrating and anti‐scar signaling, FGF‐2‐uPA‐MMPs.We treated RSC96 cells with different concentrations (100, 200, 300, 400, 500 µg ml−1) of ginseng and its constituent, Rg1 (5, 10, 15, 20, 25 µg ml−1). We observed a proliferative effect in a dose‐dependent manner by PCNA western blotting assay, MTT assay, and wound healing test. Furthermore, we also found in the results of western blotting assay, ginseng and Rg1 enhance protein expression of IGF‐I pathway regulators, cell cycle controlling proteins, and MAPK signaling pathways to promote the cell proliferation. In addition, ginseng and Rg1 also stimulated the FGF‐2‐uPA‐MMP 9 migrating pathway to enhance the migration of RSC96 Schwann cells. Using MAPK chemical inhibitors, U0126, SB203580, and SP600125, the proliferative effects of ginseng and Rg1 on RSC96 cells were identified to be MAPK signaling‐dependent. On the basis of the results, applying appropriate doses of ginseng and Rg1 with biomedical materials would be a potential approach for enhancing neuron regeneration. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
New Insights into the Role of Amines in the Synthesis of Molecular Sieves in Ionic Liquids
Authors: Xu Renshun , Zhang Weiping , Guan Jing , Xu Yunpeng , Wang Lei , Ma Huaijun , Tian Zhijian , Han Xiuwen , Lin Liwu , Bao Xinhe
Published: March 2009

In a new direction: In situ NMR spectroscopy and DFT calculation studies demonstrate that the hybrid of imidazolium ionic liquids with morpholine can be formed by means of hydrogen bonds during the crystallization of molecular sieves (see graphic; T=Al or P), which drastically alters the structure‐directing property.

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A combination of state‐of‐the art in situ one‐ and two‐dimensional NMR spectroscopy and density functional theory (DFT) calculations have been employed for the first time to investigate the role of amines in the synthesis of aluminophosphate molecular sieves in ionic liquids (ILs). In situ rotating‐frame nuclear Overhauser effect spectroscopy (ROESY) was used to demonstrate that the hybrid of imidazolium ionic liquids with organic amines, such as morpholine, connected through a hydrogen bond can be formed in the gel during the crystallization of molecular sieves. By combining the characterizations of the final solid products obtained by using XRD analyses, solid‐state NMR spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, and DFT calculation results, it was verified that the hybrid between morpholine and the imidazolium cation in the initial preparation stage can act as the structure‐directing agent (SDA) for the synthesis of AFI‐structured aluminophosphate molecular sieves. Our findings may suggest a synthesis mechanism of molecular sieves in ionic liquids in which the IL–organic amine hybrid is required in the nucleation step, whereas the crystal growth occurs through the occlusion of ionic liquids in the zeolite channels.
Cover Picture: Cyclometalated Platinum(II) Complexes as Highly Sensitive Luminescent Switch‐On Probes for Practical Application in Protein Staining and Cell Imaging (Chem. Eur. J. 15/2009)
Authors: Wu Peng , Wong Ella Lai‐Ming , Ma Dik‐Lung , Tong Glenna So‐Ming , Ng Kwan‐Ming , Che Chi‐Ming
Published: March 2009

Photoluminescent cyclometalated platinum(II) complexes can bind non‐covalently and non‐specifically towards various proteins and such bonding is accompanied by a dramatic increase in the intensity of photoluminescence in the visible spectral region. It can be practically applied for staining protein mixtures in 1D and 2D SDS‐PAGE, giving emissive gel images directly under UV light without any de‐staining procedures. For more information see the Communication by C.‐M. Che et al. on page 3652 ff. (SDS‐PAGE=sodium dodecyl sulfate polyarcylamide gel electrophoresis).

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ChemInform Abstract: The Crystal Structure of Ni21Sn2P6.
Authors: Schmetterer Clemens , Wildner Manfred , Giester Gerald , Richter Klaus W. , Ipser Herbert
Published: March 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Structural and Raman Spectroscopic Investigations of K4BaSi3O9 and K4CaSi3O9.
Authors: Arroyabe Erik , Kaindl Reinhard , Kahlenberg Volker
Published: March 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Electronic Structure, Chemical Bonding, and Solid‐State NMR Spectroscopy of the Digallides of Ca, Sr, and Ba.
Authors: Haarmann Frank , Koch Katrin , Gruener Daniel , Schnelle Walter , Pecher Oliver , Cardoso‐Gil Raul , Borrmann Horst , Rosner Helge , Grin Yuri
Published: March 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Oxygen Permeation of a Dense/Porous Asymmetric Membrane Using La0.6Ca0.4CoO3‐δ —BaFe0.975Zr0.025O3‐δ System.
Authors: Watanabe Ken , Yuasa Masayoshi , Kida Tetsuya , Shimanoe Kengo , Teraoka Yasutake , Yamazoe Noboru
Published: March 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Luminescent Properties in Relation to Controllable Phase and Morphology of LuBO3:Eu3+ Nano/Microcrystals Synthesized by Hydrothermal Approach.
Authors: Li Yanping , Zhang Jiahua , Zhang Xia , Luo Yongshi , Lu Shaozhe , Ren Xinguang , Wang Xiaojun , Sun Lingdong , Yan Chunhua
Published: March 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Nearly Isotropic Superconductivity in (Ba,K)Fe2As2.
Authors: Yuan H. Q. , Singleton J. , Balakirev F. F. , Baily S. A. , Chen G. F. , Luo J. L. , Wang N. L.
Published: March 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Mechanochemical Synthesis of Ternary Potassium Transition Metal Chlorides.
Authors: Pawelke Roland H. , Felderhoff Michael , Weidenthaler Claudia , Bogdanovic Borislav , Schueth Ferdi
Published: March 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.