bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Volumetric and lateralized differences in selected brain regions of chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes) and bonobos (Pan paniscus)
Authors: Hopkins William D. , Lyn Heidi , Cantalupo Claudio
Published: September 2009

The two species of Pan, bonobos and common chimpanzees, have been reported to have different social organization, cognitive and linguistic abilities and motor skill, despite their close biological relationship. Here, we examined whether bonobos and chimpanzee differ in selected brain regions that may map to these different social and cognitive abilities. Eight chimpanzees and eight bonobos matched on age, sex and rearing experiences were magnetic resonance images scanned and volumetric measures were obtained for the whole brain, cerebellum, striatum, motor‐hand area, hippocampus, inferior frontal gyrus and planum temporale. Chimpanzees had significantly larger cerebellum and borderline significantly larger hippocampus and putamen, after adjusting for brain size, compared with bonobos. Bonobos showed greater leftward asymmetries in the striatum and motor‐hand area compared with chimpanzees. No significant differences in either the volume or lateralization for the so‐called language homologs were found between species. The results suggest that the two species of Pan are quite similar neurologically, though some volumetric and lateralized differences may reflect inherent differences in social organization, cognition and motor skills. Am. J. Primatol. 71:988–997, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Chemistry as a Prism: A Review of Light‐Emitting Materials Having Tunable Emission Wavelengths
Authors: Kim Eunha , Park Seung Bum
Published: September 2009

Photoluminescent materials have been extensively applied in various fields of science because of their numerous advantages, such as excellent sensitivity, good specificity, a large linear range of analysis, ease of handling, and so on. Many strategies have been used to understand and manipulate the photophysical properties of photoluminescent materials. This Focus Review describes recent progress focused on tuning the photophysical properties, especially the emission wavelengths of π‐conjugated oligomers, photoluminescent organometallic complexes, and fluorescent organic dyes by chemical modification.
Biocatalytic asymmetric amination of carbonyl functional groups – a synthetic biology approach to organic chemistry
Authors: Zhu Dunming , Hua Ling
Published: September 2009

Transaminases catalyze amino transfer reactions from amino donors such as amino acids or amines to keto acids or ketones to give chiral amino acid or amines in optically pure form. α‐Amino acid dehydrogenases catalyze the asymmetric reductive amination of α‐keto acids using ammonia as amino donor to furnish L‐amino acids. The distinct features and synthetic application of these two enzymes are reviewed in an effort to illustrate their promising and challenging aspects in serving as approaches to the direct asymmetric synthesis of optically pure amines from the corresponding keto compounds, a formidable problem in organic chemistry.
Phosphatidylethanolamine‐Binding Proteins, Including RKIP, Exhibit Affinity for Phosphodiesterase‐5 Inhibitors
Authors: Dadvar Poupak , Kovanich Duangnapa , Folkers Gert E. , Rumpel Klaus , Raijmakers Reinout , Heck Albert J. R.
Published: September 2009

Identifying protein “interactors” of drugs is of great importance to understand their mode of action and possible cross‐reactivity to off‐target protein binders. In this study, we profile proteins that bind to PF‐3717842, a high‐affinity phosphodiesterase‐5 (PDE5) inhibitor, by using a refined affinity pulldown approach with PF‐3717842 immobilized beads. By performing these pulldowns in rat testis tissue lysate, we strongly and specifically enriched for PDE5 and a few other PDEs. In addition to these expected affinity‐enriched proteins we also detect rodent‐specific phosphatidylethanolamine‐binding protein 2 (PEBP2), as a putative binder to the PDE5 inhibitor. By using recombinant forms of the related murine mPEBP2, mPEBP1 and human hPEBP1 (also known as Raf kinase inhibitor protein or RKIP) we confirm that they all can bind strongly to immobilized as well as soluble PF‐3717842. As the phosphatidylethanolamine‐binding proteins are involved in various important signal transduction pathways, the synthetic PDE5 inhibitor used here might form a platform to synthesize enhanced binders/inhibitors of the family of PEBP proteins. Our approach shows how chemical proteomics might be used to profile the biochemical space (interactome) of small molecule inhibitors.
Heterospin Single‐Molecule Magnets Based on Terbium Ions and TCNQF4 Radicals: Interplay between Single‐Molecule Magnet and Phonon Bottleneck Phenomena Investigated by Dilution Studies
Authors: Lopez Nazario , Prosvirin Andrey V. , Zhao Hanhua , Wernsdorfer Wolfgang , Dunbar Kim R.
Published: September 2009

A series of isostructural compounds with formula [M(TCNQF4)2(H2O)6]TCNQF4⋅3 H2O (M=Tb (1), Y (2), Y:Tb (74:26) (3), and Y:Tb (97:3) (4); TCNQF4= tetrafluorotetracyanoquinodimethane) were prepared and their magnetic properties investigated. Compounds 1, 3, and 4 show the beginning of a frequency‐dependent out‐of‐phase ac signal, and decreasing intensity of the signal with decreased concentration of TbIII ions in the diluted samples is observed. No out‐of‐phase signal was observed for 2, an indication that the behavior of 1, 3, and 4 is indicative of slow paramagnetic relaxation of TbIII ions in the samples. A more detailed micro‐SQUID study at low temperature revealed an interplay between single‐molecule magnetic (SMM) behavior and a phonon bottleneck (PB) effect, and that these properties depend on the concentration of diamagnetic yttrium ions. A combination of SMM and PB phenomena was found for 1, whereby the PB effect increases with increasing dilution until eventually a pure PB effect is observed for 2. The PB behavior is interpreted as being due to the presence of a “sea of organic S=1/2 radicals” from the TCNQF4 radicals in these compounds. The present data underscore the fact that the presence of an out‐of‐phase ac signal may not, in fact, be caused by SMM behavior, particularly when magnetic metal ions are combined with organic radical ligands such as those found in the organocyanide family.
Rhodamine Spiroamides for Multicolor Single‐Molecule Switching Fluorescent Nanoscopy
Authors: Belov Vladimir N. , Bossi Mariano L. , Fölling Jonas , Boyarskiy Vadim P. , Hell Stefan W.
Published: September 2009

The design, synthesis, and evaluation of new rhodamine spiroamides are described. These molecules have applications in optical nanoscopy based on random switching of the fluorescent single molecules. The new markers may be used in (co)localization studies of various objects and their (mutual) positions and shape can be determined with a precision of a few tens of nanometers. Multicolor staining, good photoactivation, a large number of emitted photons, and selective chemical binding with amino or thiol groups were achieved due to the presence of various functional groups on the rhodamine spiroamides. Rigidized sulfonated xanthene fragment fused with six‐membered rings, N,N′‐bis(2,2,2‐trifluoroethyl) groups, and a combination of additional double bonds and sulfonic acid groups with simple aliphatic spiroamide residue provide multicolor properties and improve performance of the rhodamine spiroamides in photoactivation and bioconjugation reactions. Having both essential parts of the photoswitchable assembly—the switching and the fluorescent (reporter) groups—combined in one chemical entity make this approach attractive for further development. A series of rhodamine spiroamides is presented along with characterizations of their most relevant properties for application as fluorescent probes in single‐molecule switching and localization microscopy. Optical images with resolutions on the nanometer scale illustrate the potential of the labels in the colocalization of biological objects and the two‐photon activation technique with optical sectioning.
The Incorporation of Indigo Molecules in Sepiolite Tunnels
Authors: Ovarlez Sonia , Giulieri Françoise , Chaze Anne‐Marie , Delamare François , Raya Jesus , Hirschinger Jerome
Published: September 2009

Evidence for access of molecules the size of acetone or pyridine to the intracrystalline tunnels of nanofibre clay (sepiolite) has indicated formation of a new type of organic–inorganic nanocomposites. However, the introduction of larger molecules has been a recurring problem. It is now agreed that for indigo, the molecules are located on the external surface and at the ends of the fibres, thus blocking access to internal tunnels. We claim, however, that it is possible for indigo molecules to access the internal channels of sepiolite. FTIR and XRD analyses have provided evidence for folding of the sepiolite structure preheated at high temperature (above 350 °C). By comparison, we have shown that for indigo/sepiolite mixtures treated in the same conditions, no change in the crystalline structure of the sepiolite is observed, and that blue samples, related to Maya blue, with indigo molecules incorporated deeply enough into sepiolite to prevent folding of the tunnels, can be obtained. NMR, FTIR and thermal analysis confirm the interaction of indigo with the water coordinated to magnesium(II) and located inside the internal and external channels of sepiolite. Two other hypotheses are excluded; we show both that zeolitic water is not blocked in the tunnels by indigo, and that if thermal decomposition products of indigo can be formed, they are in a minority.
Angiotensin type‐1 receptor inhibition is neuroprotective to amacrine cells in a rat model of retinopathy of prematurity
Authors: Downie Laura E. , Hatzopoulos Kate M. , Pianta Michael J. , Vingrys Algis J. , Wilkinson‐Berka Jennifer L. , Kalloniatis Michael , Fletcher Erica L.
Published: September 2009

Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is characterized by deficits in the scotopic pathway, although the cellular locus for these deficits is not clear. Here we examined neurochemical and cellular changes that develop during oxygen‐induced retinopathy, a model of ROP. In addition, we examined whether treatment with the angiotensin II type‐1 receptor inhibitor, valsartan, prevented these changes. Newborn Sprague–Dawley rats were exposed from postnatal day (P) 0 to 11 to 80%:20% O2 (22:2 hr/day) and then room air until P18. Valsartan (40 mg/kg/day) was administered from P12–P18. Pattern recognition analysis of overlapping amino acid profiles was used to provide a statistically robust and spatially complete classification of neural elements for each experimental condition. Classification yielded 12 neuronal theme classes in controls and nine classes following ROP. ROP was associated with a reduction in the number of amacrine and bipolar cell theme classes. The reduction in theme classes was confirmed as true neuronal loss by quantifying anatomical changes and using an apoptotic marker. ROP was associated with shifts in amino acid levels across all neuronal populations except for horizontal cells. A reduction in the density of glycine‐immunoreactive amacrine cells, and particularly parvalbumin‐immunoreactive AII amacrine cells, was observed following ROP. Valsartan treatment during ROP prevented loss of theme classes and loss of AII amacrine cells. This study suggests that deficits in scotopic vision during ROP may be associated with loss of AII amacrine cells. In addition, this study highlights the potential of AT1R blockade in preventing neuronal anomalies in this condition. J. Comp. Neurol. 518:41–63, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Synaptic connections of PDF‐immunoreactive lateral neurons projecting to the dorsal protocerebrum of Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Yasuyama Kouji , Meinertzhagen Ian A.
Published: September 2009

Recent studies in Drosophila melanogaster indicate that the neuropeptide pigment‐dispersing factor (PDF) is an important output signal from a set of major clock neurons, s‐LNvs (small ventral lateral neurons), which transmit the circadian phase to subsets of other clock neurons, DNs (dorsal neurons). Both s‐LNvs and DNs have fiber projections to the dorsal protocerebrum of the brain, so that this area is a conspicuous locus for coupling between different subsets of clock neurons. To unravel the neural circuits underlying the fly's circadian rhythms, we examined the detailed subcellular morphology of the PDF‐positive fibers of the s‐LNvs in the dorsal protocerebrum, focusing on their synaptic connections, using preembedding immunoelectron microscopy. To examine the distribution of synapses, we also reconstructed the three‐dimensional morphology of PDF‐positive varicosities from fiber profiles in the dorsal protocerebrum. The varicosities contained large dense‐core vesicles (DCVs), and also numerous small clear vesicles, forming divergent output synapses onto unlabeled neurites. The DCVs apparently dock at nonsynaptic sites, suggesting their nonsynaptic release. In addition, a 3D reconstruction revealed the presence of input synapses onto the PDF‐positive fibers. These were detected less frequently than output sites. These observations suggest that the PDF‐positive clock neurons receive neural inputs directly through synaptic connections in the dorsal protocerebrum, in addition to supplying dual outputs, either synaptic or via paracrine release of the DCV contents, to unidentified target neurons. J. Comp. Neurol. 518:292–304, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Quantitative study of the developmental changes in calcium‐permeable AMPA receptor‐expressing neurons in the rat somatosensory cortex
Authors: Hsu Cheng‐I , Wang Tzu‐Chien , Hou Szu‐Yu T. , Chin Ting‐Yu , Chang Yen‐Chung
Published: September 2009

The distribution of cells expressing calcium‐permeable α‐amino‐3‐hydroxy‐5‐methyl‐4‐isoxazolepropionic acid receptors (CP‐AMPARs) in the somatosensory cortex of rats at different developmental stages was studied using a kainate‐stimulated Co2+‐labeling assay in a quantitative manner. The applicability of this assay for identifying CP‐AMPAR‐expressing cells was first verified using cultured rat cortical neurons by means of fluorescence Ca2+imaging and pharmacological tools. Cells positively identified by the Co2+‐labelinig assay resided primarily in the marginal zone and subplate of young fetuses and became more widely distributed throughout the cortex as the fetus matured. The majority, >80%, of these Co2+‐positive cells were neurons, exhibiting immunoreactivity with the neuronal marker NeuN. The proportion of neurons that were Co2+‐positive increased from ≈25% to ≈60% as the rat fetus grew into adulthood. In contrast, less than 20% of nonneuronal cells were Co2+‐positive. Of the Co2+‐positive neurons, 15%–31% exhibited GABA immunoreactivity and nonpyramidal‐shaped cell bodies; these were presumably GABAergic neurons. Most of the remaining non‐GABAergic/Co2+‐positive neurons had pyramidal‐shaped cell bodies and were presumably excitatory principle neurons. Around 70% of GABAergic neurons in the cortex were Co2+‐positive. Furthermore, in the cortex of neonatal rats the Co2+‐positive neurons were found to be more susceptible to kainate toxicity than the Co2+‐negative cells. The Co2+‐positive neurons in the subplate of neonatal rats were more vulnerable to kainate toxicity than their counterparts in the remaining cortical areas. Together, the widespread distribution and distinct susceptibility to excitotoxicity of CP‐AMPAR‐expressing neurons suggest that they play various important roles in the development and physiology of the rat cerebral cortex. J. Comp. Neurol. 518:75–91, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Ikaros‐1 couples cell cycle arrest of late striatal precursors with neurogenesis of enkephalinergic neurons
Authors: Martín‐Ibáñez Raquel , Crespo Empar , Urbán Noelia , Sergent‐Tanguy Solène , Herranz Cristina , Jaumot Montserrat , Valiente Manuel , Long Jason E. , Pineda José Ramón , Andreu Celia , Rubenstein John L.R. , Marín Óscar , Georgopoulos Katia , Mengod Guadalupe , Fariñas Isabel , Bachs Oriol , Alberch Jordi , Canals Josep M.
Published: September 2009

During central nervous system development, several transcription factors regulate the differentiation of progenitor cells to postmitotic neurons. Here we describe a novel role for Ikaros‐1 in the generation of late‐born striatal neurons. Our results show that Ikaros‐1 is expressed in the boundary of the striatal germinal zone (GZ)/mantle zone (MZ), where it induces cell cycle arrest of neural progenitors by up‐regulation of the cyclin‐dependent kinase inhibitor (CDKi) p21Cip1/Waf1. This effect is coupled with the neuronal differentiation of late precursors, which in turn is critical for the second wave of striatal neurogenesis that gives rise to matrix neurons. Consistently, Ikaros−/− mice had fewer striatal projecting neurons and, in particular, enkephalin (ENK)‐positive neurons. In addition, overexpression of Ikaros‐1 in primary striatal cultures increases the number of calbindin‐ and ENK‐positive neurons. Our results also show that Ikaros‐1 acts downstream of the Dlx family of transcription factors, insofar as its expression is lost in Dlx1/2 double knockout mice. However, we demonstrate that Ikaros‐1 and Ebf‐1 independently regulate the final determination of the two populations of striatal projection neurons of the matrix compartment, ENK‐ and substance P‐positive neurons. In conclusion, our findings identify Ikaros‐1 as a modulator of cell cycle exit of neural progenitors that gives rise to the neurogenesis of ENK‐positive striatal neurons. J. Comp. Neurol. 518:329–351, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Distinct antennal lobe phenotypes in the leaf‐cutting ant (Atta vollenweideri)
Authors: Kuebler L.S. , Kelber C. , Kleineidam C.J.
Published: September 2009

Leaf‐cutting ants (Atta vollenweideri) express a remarkable size polymorphism across the two sexual castes (queens and males) but in particular within the worker caste. Worker size is related to behavior (alloethism), separating workers into behavioral subcastes. The neuronal mechanisms underlying differences in behavior within the worker caste are still unknown. In this study, we first compared selected neuropils, in particular, the antennal lobes (AL) in males, queens, and workers. The males' ALs contain three extremely large, sex‐specific glomeruli (macroglomeruli; MGs) and in total comprise fewer glomeruli (242) than the ALs of queens (about 346 glomeruli). In contrast to males, the queen ALs contain only one large glomerulus at a lateral position. The largest number of glomeruli was found in workers (396–442). In a previous paper, we described an MG in the workers' AL, and, in the second part of this study, we show that within workers two distinct, size‐related AL phenotypes exist: the MG phenotype (containing a macroglomerulus) and the RG phenotype, with all glomeruli of regular size. This neuroanatomical polyphenism is established during pupal development and separates the worker caste into two neuroanatomical subcastes. Third, we investigate the functional significance of the MG in workers. By using calcium imaging to monitor activity of AL projection neurons, we show that the releaser component of the trail pheromone is represented in the same region as the MG. We propose that phenotypic trait variation in the organization of the ALs leads to differences in odor information processing that finally result in size‐related differences in trail‐following behavior. J. Comp. Neurol. 518:352–365, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Distribution of leptin‐sensitive cells in the postnatal and adult mouse brain
Authors: Caron Emilie , Sachot Christelle , Prevot Vincent , Bouret Sebastien G.
Published: September 2009

Leptin plays a pivotal role in the regulation of energy homeostasis and neuroendocrine functions, and increasing evidence indicates that leptin acts on the brain to mediate many of these effects. Recent data have also suggested that leptin influences brain development during early postnatal life. Here we examined the distribution of cells that express mRNA encoding the long form of the leptin receptor (LepRb) in postnatal and adult mouse brains by using in situ hybridization. In both adults and neonates, LepRb mRNA was largely restricted to regions known to control energy balance. Labeled cells were found in the arcuate, ventromedial, and dorsomedial nuclei of the hypothalamus as well as in the lateral hypothalamic area. Heavily labeled cells were also found in the median preoptic and ventral premammillary nuclei, two hypothalamic nuclei that are known to control reproduction. Moreover, during postnatal and adult life, clearly labeled cells were found in extrahypothalamic autonomic control sites such as the nucleus of the tractus solitarius. Importantly, this receptor can induce intracellular signaling because peripheral injection of leptin caused STAT3 phosphorylation in most sites in which LepRb mRNA was expressed. LepRb mRNA was also transiently elevated in certain regions of the postnatal mouse brain, such as the cortex, hippocampus, and laterodorsal nucleus of the thalamus. Taken together, these observations are consistent with the proposed roles of leptin in feeding and neuroendocrine regulation. They also identify regions where LepRb mRNA is expressed during early postnatal life and suggest new roles for leptin in the nervous system during development. J. Comp. Neurol. 518:459–476, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Neurons associated with the flip‐flop activity in the lateral accessory lobe and ventral protocerebrum of the silkworm moth brain
Authors: Iwano Masaaki , Hill Evan S. , Mori Akio , Mishima Tatsuya , Mishima Tsuneko , Ito Kei , Kanzaki Ryohei
Published: September 2009

The lateral accessory lobe (LAL) and the ventral protocerebrum (VPC) are a pair of symmetrical neural structures in the insect brain. The LAL‐VPC is regarded as the major target of olfactory responding neurons as well as the control center for olfactory‐evoked sequential zigzag turns. Previous studies of the silkworm moth Bombyx mori showed that these turns are controlled by long‐lasting anti‐phasic activities of the flip‐flopping descending neurons with dendrites in the LAL‐VPC. To elucidate the neural mechanisms underlying the generation of this alternating activity between the LAL‐VPC units of both hemispheres, we first analyzed the detailed neural architecture of the LAL‐VPC and identified five subregions. We then investigated the morphology and physiological responses of the LAL‐VPC neurons by intracellular recording and staining and morphologically identified three types of bilateral neurons and three types of unilateral neurons. Bilateral neurons showed either brief or cyclic long‐lasting responses. At least some neurons of the latter type produced γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA). Unilateral neurons linking the LAL and VPC, in contrast, showed long‐lasting or quick alternating activity. Timing analysis of the activity onset of each neural type suggests that quick reciprocal neural transmission between unilateral neurons would be responsible for the generation of long‐lasting activity in one LAL‐VPC unit, which lasts for up to a few seconds. Reciprocal inhibition and excitation by the bilateral neurons with long‐lasting activities would mediate the alternating long‐lasting activity between both LAL‐VPC units, which might last for up to 20 seconds. J. Comp. Neurol. 518:366–388, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Microglial response to light‐induced photoreceptor degeneration in the mouse retina
Authors: Santos Ana M. , Martín‐Oliva David , Ferrer‐Martín Rosa M. , Tassi Mohamed , Calvente Ruth , Sierra Ana , Carrasco Maria‐Carmen , Marín‐Teva José L. , Navascués Julio , Cuadros Miguel A.
Published: September 2009

The microglial response elicited by degeneration of retinal photoreceptor cells was characterized in BALB/c mice exposed to bright light for 7 hours and then kept in complete darkness for survival times ranging from 0 hours to 10 days. Photodegeneration resulted in extensive cell death in the retina, mainly in the outer nuclear layer (ONL), where the photoreceptor nuclei are located. Specific immunolabeling of microglial cells with anti‐CD11b, anti‐CD45, anti‐F4/80, anti‐SRA, and anti‐CD68 antibodies revealed that microglial cells were activated in light‐exposed retinas. They migrated to the ONL, changed their morphology, becoming rounded cells with short and thick processes, and, finally, showed immunophenotypic changes. Specifically, retinal microglia began to strongly express antigens recognized by anti‐CD11b, anti‐CD45, and anti‐F4/80, coincident with cell degeneration. In contrast, upregulation of the antigen recognized by anti‐SRA was not detected by immunocytochemistry until 6 hours after light exposure. Differences were also observed at 10 days after light exposure: CD11b, CD45, and F4/80 continued to be strongly expressed in retinal microglia, whereas the expression of CD68 and SRA had decreased to near‐normal values. Therefore, microglia did not return to their original state after photodegeneration and continued to show a degree of activation. The accumulation of activated microglial cells in affected regions simultaneously with photoreceptor degeneration suggests that they play some role in photodegeneration. J. Comp. Neurol. 518:477–492, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Finding order in chaos: a behavior model of the whole grid
Authors: Montes Jesús , Sánchez Alberto , Valdés Julio J. , Pérez María S. , Herrero Pilar
Published: September 2009

Over the last decade, grid computing has paved the way for a new level of large‐scale‐distributed systems. However, this new step in distributed computing comes along with a completely new level of complexity. Grid management mechanisms play a key role, and a correct analysis and understanding of the grid behavior is needed. Traditional‐distributed computing management mechanisms analyze each resource separately and adjust specific parameters of each one of them. When trying to adapt the same procedures to grid computing, the vast complexity of the system can complicate this task. But grid complexity could only be a matter of perspective. It is possible to understand the grid behavior as a single system, instead of a set of resources. This abstraction could provide a deeper understanding of the system, describing large‐scale behavior and global events that probably would not be detected while analyzing each resource separately. In this paper a specific methodology is presented and described in order to create a global behavior model of the grid, analyzing it as a single entity. Both real and simulated case studies are also presented, in order to provide a proper validation and illustrate the benefits of this approach. Copyright © 2009 Crown in the right of Canada. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Real‐Time Nanomicroscopy via Three‐Dimensional Single‐Particle Tracking
Authors: Katayama Yoshihiko , Burkacky Ondrej , Meyer Martin , Bräuchle Christoph , Gratton Enrico , Lamb Don C.
Published: September 2009

We developed a new method for real‐time, three‐dimensional tracking of fluorescent particles. The instrument is based on a laser‐scanning confocal microscope where the focus of the laser beam is scanned or orbited around the particle. Two confocal pinholes are used to simultaneously monitor regions immediately above and below the particle and a feedback loop is used to keep the orbit centered on the particle. For moderate count rates, this system can track particles with 15 nm spatial resolution in the lateral dimensions and 50 nm in the axial dimension at a temporal resolution of 32 ms. To investigate the interaction of the tracked particles with cellular components, we have combined our orbital tracking microscope with a dual‐color, wide‐field setup. Dual‐color fluorescence wide‐field images are recorded simultaneously in the same image plane as the particle being tracked. The functionality of the system was demonstrated by tracking fluorescent‐labeled artificial viruses in tubulin‐eGFP expressing HUH7 cells. The resulting trajectories can be used to investigate the microtubule network with super resolution.
Integration of electric drive vehicles in the Danish electricity network with high wind power penetration
Authors: C Divya K. , Østergaard Jacob , Larsen Esben , Kern Claus , Wittmann Tobias , Weinhold Michael
Published: September 2009

This paper presents the results of a study carried out to examine the feasibility of integrating electric drive vehicles (EDVs) in the Danish electricity network which is characterised by high wind power penetration. One of the main aims of this study was to examine the effect of EDVs on the Danish electricity network, wind power penetration and electricity market. In particular the study examined the effect of EDVs on the generation capacity constraints, load curve, cross border transmission capacity and the type of generating sources (renewable/conventional) which are likely to fuel these cars. The study was carried out considering the Danish electricity network state around 2025, when the EDV penetration levels would be significant enough to have an impact on the power system. Some of the interesting findings of this study are—EDVs have the potential to assist in integrating more wind power (by adding more market value to wind power and by improving over all power system reliability) and integration of EDV does not require major additional infrastructure (generation/transmission cross border capacities). Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Interactive Pareto‐optimal with advantage programming for solving bi‐objective capacitor planning
Authors: Kuo Cheng‐Chien
Published: September 2009

This paper proposes an interactive Pareto‐optimal with advantage (IPOA) approach for solving the general capacitor planning problems. Two main contradictory concerns which involve cost and quality properties are considered for optimization. The IPOA approach can provide a valuable advantage Pareto‐optimal solution by following the intention of decision makers (DMs). The operating and expansion constraints of distribution feeders are considered for practical needs. Also, both fixed and switched types of capacitors are included. The effectiveness and feasibility of the proposed approach are demonstrated by a real feeder study in terms of solution quality and efficiency. The simulation results show that a flexible and advantageous Pareto‐optimal solution can be obtained by following the intention of DMs through the proposed approach. Copyright ©2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Evaluation policy: An introduction and overview
Authors: Mark Melvin M. , Cooksy Leslie J. , Trochim William M. K.
Published: September 2009

Evaluation policy is of considerable importance, especially in relation to the limited amount of attention it receives as a general topic in the mainstream evaluation literature. Evaluation policies matter for several reasons, among them that they can profoundly affect evaluation practice, they underlie many recent and current controversies about evaluation, and they may be a lever for change that can have far‐reaching effects for practice. This chapter gives an overview of several issues regarding evaluation policy, including defining it, identifying possible facets of evaluation policy, describing how it is established, and outlining the potentially greater role for evaluators in shaping the evaluation policies that influence evaluation practice. © Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Two candidate tumor suppressor genes, MEOX2 and SOSTDC1, identified in a 7p21 homozygous deletion region in a Wilms tumor
Authors: Ohshima Junjiro , Haruta Masayuki , Arai Yasuhito , Kasai Fumio , Fujiwara Yuiko , Ariga Tadashi , Okita Hajime , Fukuzawa Masahiro , Hata Jun‐Ichi , Horie Hiroshi , Kaneko Yasuhiko
Published: September 2009

A SNP‐based array analysis of 100 Wilms tumors (WT) from 97 patients identified 7p alterations (hemizygous and homozygous deletions and uniparental disomy) in nine tumors. The homozygous deletion (HD) region of 7p21 found in one tumor partially overlapped with another HD region reported previously, and was narrowed down to a 2.1‐Mb region. Based on an expression analysis of 10 genes located in the HD region in 3 WT lines and previous studies on tumorigenic roles of MEOX2 and SOSTDC1, we further analyzed these two genes. Sequencing showed no mutation in MEOX2, but two missense mutations (L50F and Q129L) in SOSTDC1 in four tumors; L50F in two tumors was of germline origin. Expression levels (0, 1+ and 2+) of MEOX2 were lower in four tumors with 7p alterations than in 18 tumors with no 7p alterations (P = 0.017), and those of SOSTDC1 tended to be lower in five tumors with 7p alterations or SOSTDC1 mutation than in 17 tumors with no 7p alterations or SOSTDC1 mutation (P = 0.056). There were no significant differences in clinical characteristics between nine patients with 7p alterations and 88 patients with no 7p alterations; however, there was a difference in the status of IGF2 (uniparental disomy, loss of imprinting, or retention of imprinting) between the two patient groups (P = 0.028). Losses of MEOX2 and SOSTDC1 may accelerate angiogenesis and augment signals in the Wnt pathway, respectively. Both genes may be prime candidates for 7p tumor suppressor genes, which may have a role in the progression of Wilms tumorigenesis. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Temporal sampling strategies and uncertainty in calibrating a conceptual hydrological model for a small boreal catchment
Authors: Juston John , Seibert Jan , Johansson Per‐Olof
Published: September 2009

How much data is needed for calibration of a hydrological catchment model? In this paper we address this question by evaluating the information contained in different subsets of discharge and groundwater time series for multi‐objective calibration of a conceptual hydrological model within the framework of an uncertainty analysis. The study site was a 5·6‐km2 catchment within the Forsmark research site in central Sweden along the Baltic coast. Daily time series data were available for discharge and several groundwater wells within the catchment for a continuous 1065‐day period. The hydrological model was a site‐specific modification of the conceptual HBV model. The uncertainty analyses were based on a selective Monte Carlo procedure. Thirteen subsets of the complete time series data were investigated with the idea that these represent realistic intermittent sampling strategies. Data subsets included split‐samples and various combinations of weekly, monthly, and quarterly fixed interval subsets, as well as a 53‐day ‘informed observer’ subset that utilized once per month samples except during March and April—the months containing large and often dominant snow melt events—when sampling was once per week. Several of these subsets, including that of the informed observer, provided very similar constraints on model calibration and parameter identification as the full data record, in terms of credibility bands on simulated time series, posterior parameter distributions, and performance indices calculated to the full dataset. This result suggests that hydrological sampling designs can, at least in some cases, be optimized. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Iron depletion before HCV antiviral therapy: A pilot, randomized, controlled trial
Authors: Gentile Ivan , Viola Chiara , Paesano Luigi , D'Onofrio Marcello , D'Agostino Elio , Cerini Raimondo , Borrelli Francesco , Piazza Marcello , Borgia Guglielmo
Published: September 2009

It is not known whether iron depletion before pegylated IFN or combination treatment improves sustained virological response (SVR) rate in patients with chronic hepatitis C, despite its use in clinical practice in this setting. We aimed to investigate whether blood letting improves the efficacy (SVR) and tolerability of PEG‐IFNα2b + Ribavirin in chronic hepatitis C patients. Patients with chronic hepatitis C and ferritin >100 ng/mL were randomized to: (1) repeated phlebotomies to obtain a ferritin level <50 ng/mL followed by pegylated‐Interferon α2b + ribavirin (active arm); or (2) pegylated‐Interferon α2b + ribavirin (control arm). Primary endpoint was SVR rate, secondary endpoint was frequency of clinical and laboratory grade 3–4 adverse events. Thirty‐three patients were enrolled in the study (19 in active arm, 14 in control arm). The 19 patients in the active arm underwent a median of 5 phlebotomies (range: 1–9) to achieve the targeted ferritin (<50 ng/mL). Phlebotomies significantly reduced ferritin, iron, transferrin saturation, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, and hemoglobin levels. Platelet count significantly increased, whereas HCV‐RNA levels remained unchanged. After antiviral therapy overall SVR was 31.6% in active arm and 21.4% in control arm (P= 0.698). Considering only the 18 patients who were naive to antiviral therapy, SVR was 60% in active arm versus 25% in control arm (P= 0.188). Tolerability, drug dose reduction or withdrawal were similar in the two arms. In conclusion phlebotomies do not increase the overall efficacy of antiviral therapy. However, the strong trend to higher SVR in naive patients undergoing phlebotomies warrants further investigation. J. Clin. Apheresis 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
NASA lasers probe planets
Authors: Barnes N.P.
Published: September 2009

NASA is engaged in monitoring the health of planet Earth and exploring the other planets. For the former, global measurements of critical Earth parameters including ice sheet thickness, greenhouse gases, oxygen, wind velocity, and aerosols, are required. Highly specialized lasers, sometimes at new laser wavelengths, are needed to measure these variables. There are three approaches for this laser development being pursued by NASA. First, rather than seeking new lasers employing an empirical approach, a quantum mechanical model is used to predict better new lasers. Second, where lasers exist but the wavelength is not quite right, a technique referred to as compositional tuning was developed. Third, innovative laser designs are devised to produce laser sources at the requisite wavelengths.
Genetic reduction of circulating insulin‐like growth factor‐1 inhibits azoxymethane‐induced colon tumorigenesis in mice
Authors: Olivo‐Marston Susan E. , Hursting Stephen D. , Lavigne Jackie , Perkins Susan N. , Maarouf Rami S. , Yakar Shoshana , Harris Curtis C.
Published: September 2009

High levels of insulin‐like growth factor‐1 (IGF‐1) have been associated with a significant increase in colon cancer risk. Additionally, IGF‐1 inhibits apoptosis and stimulates proliferation of colonic epithelial cells in vitro. Unfortunately, IGF‐1 knockout mice have severe developmental abnormalities and most do not survive, making it difficult to study how genetic ablation of IGF‐1 affects colon tumorigenesis. To test the hypothesis that inhibition of IGF‐1 prevents colon tumorigenesis, we utilized a preexisting mouse model containing a deletion of the igf1 gene in the liver through a Cre/loxP system. These liver‐specific IGF‐1 deficient (LID) mice display a 50–75% reduction in circulating IGF‐1 levels. We conducted a pilot study to assess the impact of liver‐specific IGF‐1 deficiency on azoxymethane (AOM)‐induced colon tumors. LID mice had a significant inhibition of colon tumor multiplicity in the proximal area of the colon compared to their wild‐type littermates. We examined markers of proliferation and apoptosis in the colons of the LID and wild‐type mice to see if these were consistent with tumorigenesis. We observed a decrease in proliferation in the colons of the LID mice and an increase in apoptosis. Finally, we examined cytokine levels to determine whether IGF‐1 interacts with inflammatory pathways to affect colon tumorigenesis. We observed a significant reduction in the levels of 7 out of 10 cytokines that were measured in the LID mice as compared to wild‐type littermates. Results from this pilot study support the hypothesis that reductions in circulating IGF‐1 levels may prevent colon tumorigenesis and affect both proliferation and apoptosis. Future experiments will investigate downstream genes of the IGF‐1 receptor. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Cellular and molecular actions of Methylene Blue in the nervous system
Authors: Oz Murat , Lorke Dietrich E. , Hasan Mohammed , Petroianu George A.
Published: September 2009

Methylene Blue (MB), following its introduction to biology in the 19th century by Ehrlich, has found uses in various areas of medicine and biology. At present, MB is the first line of treatment in methemoglobinemias, is used frequently in the treatment of ifosfamide‐induced encephalopathy, and is routinely employed as a diagnostic tool in surgical procedures. Furthermore, recent studies suggest that MB has beneficial effects in Alzheimer's disease and memory improvement. Although the modulation of the cGMP pathway is considered the most significant effect of MB, mediating its pharmacological actions, recent studies indicate that it has multiple cellular and molecular targets. In the majority of cases, biological effects and clinical applications of MB are dictated by its unique physicochemical properties including its planar structure, redox chemistry, ionic charges, and light spectrum characteristics. In this review article, these physicochemical features and the actions of MB on multiple cellular and molecular targets are discussed with regard to their relevance to the nervous system. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Med Res Rev, 31, No. 1, 93–117, 2010
Assessment of heat treatment of dairy products by MALDI‐TOF‐MS
Authors: Meltretter Jasmin , Birlouez‐Aragon Inès , Becker Cord‐Michael , Pischetsrieder Monika
Published: September 2009

The formation of the Amadori product from lactose (protein lactosylation) is a major parameter to evaluate the quality of processed milk. Here, MALDI‐TOF‐MS was used for the relative quantification of lactose‐adducts in heated milk. Milk was heated at a temperature of 70, 80, and 100°C between 0 and 300 min, diluted, and subjected directly to MALDI‐TOF‐MS. The lactosylation rate of α‐lactalbumin increased with increasing reaction temperature and time. The results correlated well with established markers for heat treatment of milk (concentration of total soluble protein, soluble α‐lactalbumin and β‐lactoglobulin at pH 4.6, and fluorescence of advanced Maillard products and soluble tryptophan index; r=0.969–0.997). The method was also applied to examine commercially available dairy products. In severely heated products, protein pre‐purification by immobilized metal affinity chromatography improved spectra quality. Relative quantification of protein lactosylation by MALDI‐TOF‐MS proved to be a very fast and reliable method to monitor early Maillard reaction during milk processing.
Location of myofiber damage in skeletal muscle after lengthening contractions
Authors: Lovering Richard M. , McMillan Alan B. , Gullapalli Rao P.
Published: September 2009

High‐force lengthening contractions are associated with muscle damage and pain, and the muscle–tendon junction is commonly cited as the primary area where myofiber damage occurs. We induced injury in the rat tibialis anterior muscle and acquired magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) images postinjury. We also assayed membrane damage and quantified the number of centrally nucleated myofibers throughout the injured muscles. Results suggest that myofiber injury occurs primarily in the middle portion of the muscle, with interstitial edema in the middle and distal portions. Muscle Nerve, 2009
Exact and numerical solutions of a micropolar fluid in a vertical annulus
Authors: Nadeem S. , Akbar Noreen Sher , Malik M.Y.
Published: September 2009

In this article, we have analyzed the effects of heat transfer on a peristaltic flow of a micropolar fluid in a vertical annulus. The governing equations of two‐dimensional micropolar fluid are simplified by using the assumptions of long wavelength and neglecting the wave number. A close form solutions are obtained for velocity field υx and microrotation component υθ. Further, the numerical solutions of the simplified equation of υθ are computed and the results are compared with the exact solution. The influence of pertinent parameters are analyzed through graphs. Trapping phenomena is also discussed for different parameters. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Numer Methods Partial Differential Eq 2010
Thermal and mechanical properties of polymer‐nanocomposites based on ethylene methyl acrylate and multiwalled carbon nanotube
Authors: Basuli Utpal , Chaki Tapan K. , Chattopadhyay Santanu , Sabharwal Sunil
Published: September 2009

The ethylene methyl acrylate copolymer (EMA) and multiwalled carbon nanotube (MWNT) based composites were prepared by solution mixing as well as by melt processing of the films obtained after solution mixing. Field emission scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and XRD were used to characterize morphologies of various composites. MWNTs were found to be more dispersed in the composites prepared by melt process after solution process. There was no obvious agglomeration of MWNTs at lower % loading (up to 2.5%) in the polymer matrices especially the composites are prepared solution plus melt mixing and consequently better interaction between MWNTs and EMA matrix was anticipated. XRD and differential scanning calorimetry studied showed that the nanotubes affect the crystallization process and subsequently their role as a nucleating agent was established. These are reflected in the mechanical properties of the composites. Dynamic mechanical analysis showed that the storage modulus of the composites drop very sharply beyond 2.5 wt% of MWNT content with increasing % strain and it reflects the Payne effect (a substantial decrease in the storage modulus of a particle‐reinforced polymer with an increase in the amplitude of dynamic oscillations). The influence of concentration of filler was also realized by frequency sweep experiment. The incorporation of MWNTs in EMA offered a stabilizing effect since onset of degradation occurs at higher temperatures for composites. POLYM. COMPOS., 31:1168–1178, 2010. © 2009 Society of Plastics Engineers
Influence of Ion Bombardment and Annealing on the Structural and Optical Properties of TiOx Thin Films Deposited in Inductively Coupled TTIP/O2 Plasma
Authors: Granier Agnes , Begou Thomas , Makaoui K. , Soussou Akram , Bêche Bruno , Gaviot Etienne , Besland Marie‐Paule , Goullet Antoine
Published: September 2009

TiO2 films were deposited in a low‐pressure inductively coupled rf plasma in O2/titanium tetraisopropoxide (TTIP). First, depositions were realized at floating potential using nitrogen as bubbling gas. The structural and optical properties of the films were studied, before and after annealing at 450 °C under air. As expected, as‐deposited films are amorphous, with a columnar structure. A post‐annealing under flowing air allows obtaining partially crystallized films in anatase phase. Secondly, films were deposited using nitrogen and oxygen as bubbling gas. In both cases, TiO2‐like films exhibit very similar structure and optical properties. Finally, the effect of biasing the substrate was investigated. An improvement of film properties has been found for a bias voltage of −15 V at T<100 °C: deposited TiO2 film is dense (3.7) with a high refractive index (n = 2.32 at 634 nm) and partially crystallized in rutile phase.