bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
FGF control of E-cadherin targeting in the Drosophila midgut impacts on primordial germ cell motility
Authors: Parés Guillem , Ricardo Sara
Published: November 2015

Embryo formation requires tight regulation and coordination of adhesion in multiple cell types. By imaging, 3D reconstructions and genetic analysis during posterior midgut morphogenesis in Drosophila we find a novel requirement for the conserved FGF signaling pathway in maintenance of epithelial cell adhesion, by modulation of zygotic E-cadherin. During Drosophila gastrulation, primordial germ cells (PGC) are transported with the posterior midgut while it undergoes dynamic cell shape changes. In Branchless and Breathless mutant embryos zygotic E-cadherin is not targeted to AJs causing midgut pocket collapse impacting on PGC movement. We find that the ventral midline also requires FGF signaling to maintain cell-cell adhesion. We show that FGF signaling regulates the distribution of zygotic E-cadherin during early embryonic development to maintain cell-cell adhesion in the posterior midgut and the ventral midline, a role that is likely crucial in other tissues undergoing active cell shape changes with higher adhesive needs.
Minimum Mass and Optimal Complexity of Planar Tensegrity Bridges
Authors: Carpentieri Gerardo , Skelton Robert E. , Fraternali Fernando
Published: November 2015

This paper investigates the use of the most fundamental elements; cables for tension and bars for compression, in the search for the most efficient bridges. Stable arrangements of these elements are called tensegrity structures. We show herein the minimal mass arrangement of these basic elements to satisfy both yielding and buckling constraints. We show that the minimal mass solution for a simply-supported bridge subject to buckling constraints matches Michell's 1904 paper which treats the case of only yielding constraints, even though our boundary conditions differ. The necessary and sufficient condition is given for the minimal mass bridge to lie totally above (or below) deck. Furthermore this condition depends only on material properties. If one ignores joint mass, and considers only bridges above deck level, the optimal complexity (number of elements in the bridge) tends toward infinity (producing a material continuum). If joint mass is considered then the optimal complexity is finite. The optimal (minimal mass) bridge below deck has the smallest possible complexity (and therefore cheaper to build), and under reasonable material choices, yields the smallest mass bridge.
Large Displacements and the Stiffness of a Flexible Shell
Authors: Charpentier Victor , Adriaenssens Sigrid , Baverel Olivier
Published: November 2015

The design of static thin shell structures can be carried out using analytical and numerical approaches. Recently, thin shells have been studied for their flexibility, which can be beneficial for adaptive systems. However flexible systems involve large displacements and precise kinematics. The analysis of flexible shell systems is challenging due to the nonlinearities induced by these large displacements. This study addresses the nonlinear behaviour and stress-stiffening effects caused by large displacements in a 0.80 m-long carbon fibre reinforced plastic shell consisting of two monolithically connected lobes. The structural behaviour of this system is investigated both numerically and experimentally. Following the analysis framework, the non-linear effects of the large displacements on the shell stiffness are numerically determined using eigenvalue analysis and the displacement response to external loading on deformed shell configurations. The numerical displacement results are compared with results obtained in the experimental study. In conclusion, our study shows that the stiffness of the shell system under study increases 113% during deformation. More precisely, we establish that this change in stiffness is governed by the presence of tensile stresses in the shell surface due to deployment rather than by the change of the system's geometry.
A Project-Based Approach to Learning Form Finding of Structural Surfaces
Authors: Adriaenssens Sigrid , Pauletti Ruy Marcelo Oliveira , Stockhusen Knut , Gabriele Stefano , Magrone Paola , Varano Valerio , Lochner-Aldinger Irmgard
Published: November 2015

In the last two decades, a renewed interest has arisen, both from the structural engineering and architectural field, to exploit the elegance and structural efficiency of structural surfaces. This paper discusses a project-based course aimed at graduate architecture and civil engineering students to i) develop an in-depth understanding of the basics of surface structures, ii) cultivate relevant numerical and physical form finding proficiency, iii) communicate complex technical issues with peers and iv) problem scope, brainstorm and generate design alternatives for force-modeled systems.

Because of the nature of the course and workshop objectives, the evaluation of the effectiveness is qualitative rather than quantitative. Therefore, the findings are supported by students' reactions captured in their course evaluations as well as their chosen careers paths after graduation. Since there is rarely room for the introduction of new courses in an established academic curricula, this paper also shows how the course can be adapted to project-based workshops which can vary in length from half of a day to three days. In conclusion, this paper is of interest to educators in structural engineering and architecture because it contributes to methods for effectively teaching structural surface structures.
Multiculturalism in interethnic intimate relationships
Authors: Yodanis Carrie , Lauer Sean
Published: November 2015

Interethnic intimate relationships are generally considered to be an indicator of assimilation processes, or the weakening of cultural boundaries between ethnic groups (Alba and Nee, 2003). In our research, however, we find that interethnic couples may maintain cultural boundaries and differences in their relationships. Based on interviews with people in interethnic relationships, we find that partners can use language to preserve their two distinct cultures and mutually engage in each other’s culture. We consider these dynamics to be an indicator of multiculturalism in intimate relationships – an appreciation for, interest in, and commitment to difference.
White Matter Changes Associated with Resting Sympathetic Tone in Frontotemporal Dementia vs. Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Mendez Mario F. , Karve Simantini J. , Daianu Madelaine , Jimenez Elvira , Thompson Paul
Published: November 2015

Background

Resting sympathetic tone, a measure of physiological arousal, is decreased in patients with apathy and inertia, such as those with behavioral variant frontotemporal dementia (bvFTD) and other frontally-predominant disorders.

Objective

To identify the neuroanatomical correlates of skin conductance levels (SCLs), an index of resting sympathetic tone and apathy, among patients with bvFTD, where SCLs is decreased, compared to those with Alzheimer’s disease (AD), where it is not.

Methods

This study analyzed bvFTD (n = 14) patients and a comparison group with early-onset AD (n = 19). We compared their resting SCLs with gray matter and white matter regions of interest and white matter measures of fiber integrity on magnetic resonance imaging and diffusion tensor imaging.

Results

As expected, bvFTD patients, compared to AD patients, had lower SCLs, which correlated with an apathy measure, and more gray matter loss and abnormalities of fiber integrity (fractional anisotropy and mean diffusivity) in frontal-anterior temporal regions. After controlling for group membership, the SCLs were significantly correlated with white matter volumes in the cingulum and inferior parietal region in the right hemisphere.

Conclusion

Among dementia patients, SCLs, and resting sympathetic tone, may correlate with quantity of white matter, rather than with gray matter or with white matter fiber integrity. Loss of white matter volumes, especially involving a right frontoparietal network, may reflect chronic loss of cortical axons that mediate frontal control of resting sympathetic tone, changes that could contribute to the apathy and inertia of bvFTD and related disorders.
Desenvolvimento de Competências ou Transmissão de Conhecimento: Acerca da Necessidade de Superar uma Antinomia Curricular no Ensino Universitário
Authors: Damião Maria Helena
Published: November 2015

A reorganização do ensino superior, conhecida por Processo de Bolonha, está na segunda década de implantação. Depois de um período de intensa discussão sobre os princípios adotados e caminhos seguidos, o funcionamento institucional alcançou uma certa estabilização, o que não significa a extinção de questões concetuais que se lhe associaram no que respeita, nomeadamente, à organização curricular. A antinomia que, de modo recorrente, se estabelece entre “conhecimentos” e “competências” é uma delas, interrogando, por sua vez, o lugar dos “objetivos”. No presente artigo que incide, de modo particular, no ensino universitário, debate‑se, à luz da teoria cognitivista, essa dupla questão, explorando‑se a identidade curricular de cada uma das noções e defendendo‑se a relevância das três no vocabulário curricular atual.
Compact Dual-Band Bandpass Filter Using Stubs Loaded Ring Resonator
Authors: Xu Jin
Published: November 2015

This paper presents a novel second-order dual-band bandpass filter (BPF) by using proposed stubs loaded ring resonator. The resonant behavior of proposed stubs loaded ring resonator is analyzed by even-/odd-mode method, which shows its multiple-mode resonant characteristic. Parameters sweep is done so as to give the design guidelines. As an example, a second-order dual-band BPF operating at 1.8/5.2 GHz for GSM and WLAN applications is designed, fabricated and measured. The fabricated filter has a very compact size of 0.05λg×0.15λg. Measured results also show that the proposed dual-band BPF has a better than 20 dB rejection upper stopband from 5.47 GHz to 12.56 GHz. Good agreement is shown between the simulated and measured results.
The Evaluation of the Heart Failure Patient by Echocardiography: Time to go beyond the Ejection Fraction
Authors: Dowe Jacqueline Dawson , Vilaro Juan , Hamilton Karen , Szady Anita , Aranda Juan M.
Published: November 2015

Heart failure is a complex clinical syndrome that can result from any structural or functional cardiac disorder that impairs the ability of the ventricle to fill with or eject blood. The echocardiogram is the single most performed and useful study in these patients. This article reviews the role of the echocardiogram in the evaluation of the heart failure patient, without focusing on the left ventricle. The discussion includes the use of the echocardiogram in the assessment of the right ventricle and diastolic function and in detecting hemodynamic and morphologic changes in heart failure over a period of time. In addition, we highlight some of the limitations of echocardiography in the assessment of these patients.
State Dependency of Chemosensory Coding in the Gustatory Thalamus (VPMpc) of Alert Rats
Authors: Liu Haixin , Fontanini Alfredo
Published: November 2015

The parvicellular portion of the ventroposteromedial nucleus (VPMpc) is the part of the thalamus that processes gustatory information. Anatomical evidence shows that the VPMpc receives ascending gustatory inputs from the parabrachial nucleus (PbN) in the brainstem and sends projections to the gustatory cortex (GC). Although taste processing in PbN and GC has been the subject of intense investigation in behaving rodents, much less is known on how VPMpc neurons encode gustatory information. Here we present results from single-unit recordings in the VPMpc of alert rats receiving multiple tastants. Thalamic neurons respond to taste with time-varying modulations of firing rates, consistent with those observed in GC and PbN. These responses encode taste quality as well as palatability. Comparing responses to tastants either passively delivered, or self-administered after a cue, unveiled the effects of general expectation on taste processing in VPMpc. General expectation led to an improvement of taste coding by modulating response dynamics, and single neuron ability to encode multiple tastants. Our results demonstrate that the time course of taste coding as well as single neurons' ability to encode for multiple qualities are not fixed but rather can be altered by the state of the animal. Together, the data presented here provide the first description that taste coding in VPMpc is dynamic and state-dependent.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTOver the past years, a great deal of attention has been devoted to understanding taste coding in the brainstem and cortex of alert rodents. Thanks to this research, we now know that taste coding is dynamic, distributed, and context-dependent. Alas, virtually nothing is known on how the gustatory thalamus (VPMpc) processes gustatory information in behaving rats. This manuscript investigates taste processing in the VPMpc of behaving rats. Our results show that thalamic neurons encode taste and palatability with time-varying patterns of activity and that thalamic coding of taste is modulated by general expectation. Our data will appeal not only to researchers interested in taste, but also to a broader audience of sensory and systems neuroscientists interested in the thalamocortical system.
In VivoDetection of Age- and Disease-Related Increases in Neuroinflammation by18F-GE180 TSPO MicroPET Imaging in Wild-Type and Alzheimer's Transgenic Mice
Authors: Liu Bin , Le Kevin X. , Park Mi-Ae , Wang Shuyan , Belanger Anthony P. , Dubey Shipra , Frost Jeffrey L. , Holton Peter , Reiser Vladimir , Jones Paul A. , Trigg William , Di Carli Marcelo F. , Lemere Cynthia. A.
Published: November 2015

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common cause of dementia. Neuroinflammation appears to play an important role in AD pathogenesis. Ligands of the 18 kDa translocator protein (TSPO), a marker for activated microglia, have been used as positron emission tomography (PET) tracers to reflect neuroinflammation in humans and mouse models. Here, we used the novel TSPO-targeted PET tracer18F-GE180 (flutriciclamide) to investigate differences in neuroinflammation between young and old WT and APP/PS1dE9 transgenic (Tg) mice.In vivoPET scans revealed an overt age-dependent elevation in whole-brain uptake of18F-GE180 in both WT and Tg mice, and a significant increase in whole-brain uptake of18F-GE180 (peak-uptake and retention) in old Tg mice compared with young Tg mice and all WT mice. Similarly, the18F-GE180 binding potential in hippocampus was highest to lowest in old Tg > old WT > young Tg > young WT mice using MRI coregistration.Ex vivoPET and autoradiography analysis further confirmed ourin vivoPET results: enhanced uptake and specific binding (SUV75%) of18F-GE180 in hippocampus and cortex was highest in old Tg mice followed by old WT, young Tg, and finally young WT mice.18F-GE180 specificity was confirmed by anin vivocold tracer competition study. We also examined18F-GE180 metabolites in 4-month-old WT mice and found that, although total radioactivity declined over 2 h, of the remaining radioactivity, ∼90% was due to parent18F-GE180. In conclusion,18F-GE180 PET scans may be useful for longitudinal monitoring of neuroinflammation during AD progression and treatment.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTMicroglial activation, a player in Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathogenesis, is thought to reflect neuroinflammation. Usingin vivomicroPET imaging with a novel TSPO radioligand,18F-GE180, we detected significantly enhanced neuroinflammation during normal aging in WT mice and in response to AD-associated pathology in APP/PS1dE9 Tg mice, an AD mouse model. Increased uptake and specific binding of18F-GE180 in whole brain and hippocampus were confirmed byex vivoPET and autoradiography. The binding specificity and stability of18F-GE180 was further confirmed by a cold tracer competition study and a metabolite study, respectively. Therefore,18F-GE180 PET imaging may be useful for longitudinal monitoring of neuroinflammation during AD progression and treatment and may also be useful for other neurodegenerative diseases.
Human Umbilical Tissue-Derived Cells Promote Synapse Formation and Neurite Outgrowth via Thrombospondin Family Proteins
Authors: Koh Sehwon , Kim Namsoo , Yin Henry H. , Harris Ian R. , Dejneka Nadine S. , Eroglu Cagla
Published: November 2015

Cell therapy demonstrates great potential for the treatment of neurological disorders. Human umbilical tissue-derived cells (hUTCs) were previously shown to have protective and regenerative effects in animal models of stroke and retinal degeneration, but the underlying therapeutic mechanisms are unknown. Because synaptic dysfunction, synapse loss, degeneration of neuronal processes, and neuronal death are hallmarks of neurological diseases and retinal degenerations, we tested whether hUTCs contribute to tissue repair and regeneration by stimulating synapse formation, neurite outgrowth, and neuronal survival. To do so, we used a purified rat retinal ganglion cell culture system and found that hUTCs secrete factors that strongly promote excitatory synaptic connectivity and enhance neuronal survival. Additionally, we demonstrated that hUTCs support neurite outgrowth under normal culture conditions and in the presence of the growth-inhibitory proteins chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan, myelin basic protein, or Nogo-A (reticulon 4). Furthermore, through biochemical fractionation and pharmacology, we identified the major hUTC-secreted synaptogenic factors as the thrombospondin family proteins (TSPs), TSP1, TSP2, and TSP4. Silencing TSP expression in hUTCs, using small RNA interference, eliminated both the synaptogenic function of these cells and their ability to promote neurite outgrowth. However, the majority of the prosurvival functions of hUTC-conditioned media was spared after TSP knockdown, indicating that hUTCs secrete additional neurotrophic factors. Together, our findings demonstrate that hUTCs affect multiple aspects of neuronal health and connectivity through secreted factors, and each of these paracrine effects may individually contribute to the therapeutic function of these cells.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTHuman umbilical tissue-derived cells (hUTC) are currently under clinical investigation for the treatment of geographic atrophy secondary to age-related macular degeneration. These cells show great promise for the treatment of neurological disorders; however, the therapeutic effects of these cells on CNS neurons are not fully understood. Here we provide compelling evidence that hUTCs secrete multiple factors that work synergistically to enhance synapse formation and function, and support neuronal growth and survival. Moreover, we identified thrombospondins (TSPs) as the hUTC-secreted factors that mediate the synaptogenic and growth-promoting functions of these cells. Our findings highlight novel paracrine effects of hUTC on CNS neuron health and connectivity and begin to unravel potential therapeutic mechanisms by which these cells elicit their effects.
Cortical Interneuron Subtypes Vary in Their Axonal Action Potential Properties
Authors: Casale Amanda E. , Foust Amanda J. , Bal Thierry , McCormick David A.
Published: November 2015

The role of interneurons in cortical microcircuits is strongly influenced by their passive and active electrical properties. Although different types of interneurons exhibit unique electrophysiological properties recorded at the soma, it is not yet clear whether these differences are also manifested in other neuronal compartments. To address this question, we have used voltage-sensitive dye to image the propagation of action potentials into the fine collaterals of axons and dendrites in two of the largest cortical interneuron subtypes in the mouse: fast-spiking interneurons, which are typically basket or chandelier neurons; and somatostatin containing interneurons, which are typically regular spiking Martinotti cells. We found that fast-spiking and somatostatin-expressing interneurons differed in their electrophysiological characteristics along their entire dendrosomatoaxonal extent. The action potentials generated in the somata and axons, including axon collaterals, of somatostatin-expressing interneurons are significantly broader than those generated in the same compartments of fast-spiking inhibitory interneurons. In addition, action potentials back-propagated into the dendrites of somatostatin-expressing interneurons much more readily than fast-spiking interneurons. Pharmacological investigations suggested that axonal action potential repolarization in both cell types depends critically upon Kv1 channels, whereas the axonal and somatic action potentials of somatostatin-expressing interneurons also depend on BK Ca2+-activated K+channels. These results indicate that the two broad classes of interneurons studied here have expressly different subcellular physiological properties, allowing them to perform unique computational roles in cortical circuit operations.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTNeurons in the cerebral cortex are of two major types: excitatory and inhibitory. The proper balance of excitation and inhibition in the brain is critical for its operation. Neurons contain three main compartments: dendritic, somatic, and axonal. How the neurons receive information, process it, and pass on new information depends upon how these three compartments operate. While it has long been assumed that axons are simply for conducting information from the cell body to the synapses, here we demonstrate that the axons of different types of interneurons, the inhibitory cells, possess differing electrophysiological properties. This result implies that differing types of interneurons perform different tasks in the cortex, not only through their anatomical connections, but also through how their axons operate.
Ischemic Preconditioning in White Matter: Magnitude and Mechanism
Authors: Hamner Margaret A. , Ye Zucheng , Lee Richard V. , Colman Jamie R. , Le Thu , Gong Davin C. , Ransom Bruce R. , Weinstein Jonathan R.
Published: November 2015

Ischemic preconditioning (IPC) is a robust neuroprotective phenomenon whereby brief ischemic exposure confers tolerance to a subsequent ischemic challenge. IPC has not been studied selectively in CNS white matter (WM), although stroke frequently involves WM. We determined whether IPC is present in WM and, if so, its mechanism. We delivered a briefin vivopreconditioning ischemic insult (unilateral common carotid artery ligation) to 12- to 14-week-old mice and determined WM ischemic vulnerability [oxygen–glucose deprivation (OGD)] 72 h later, using acutely isolated optic nerves (CNS WM tracts) from the preconditioned (ipsilateral) and control (contralateral) hemispheres. Functional and structural recovery was assessed by quantitative measurement of compound action potentials (CAPs) and immunofluorescent microscopy. Preconditioned mouse optic nerves (MONs) showed better functional recovery after OGD than the non-preconditioned MONs (31 ± 3 vs 17 ± 3% normalized CAP area,p< 0.01). Preconditioned MONs also showed improved axon integrity and reduced oligodendrocyte injury compared with non-preconditioned MONs. Toll-like receptor-4 (TLR4) and type 1 interferon receptor (IFNAR1), key receptors in innate immune response, are implicated in gray matter preconditioning. Strikingly, IPC-mediated WM protection was abolished in bothTLR4−/−andIFNAR1−/−mice. In addition, IPC-mediated protection in WM was also abolished inIFNAR1fl/flLysMcre, but not inIFNAR1fl/flcontrol, mice. These findings demonstrated for the first time that IPC was robust in WM, the phenomenon being intrinsic to WM itself. Furthermore, WM IPC was dependent on innate immune cell signaling pathways. Finally, these data demonstrated that microglial-specific expression of IFNAR1 plays an indispensable role in WM IPC.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTIschemic preconditioning (IPC) has been studied predominantly in gray matter, but stroke in humans frequently involves white matter (WM) as well. Here we describe a novel, combinedin vivo/ex vivomouse model to determine whether IPC occurs in WM. It does. Using genetically altered mice, we identified two innate immune cell receptors, Toll-like receptor 4 and type 1 interferon receptor (IFNAR1), that are required for IPC-mediated protection in WM. Furthermore, using microglia-targeted IFNAR1 knockdown, we demonstrate that interferon signaling specifically in microglia is essential for this protection. The discovery of IPC as an intrinsic capability of WM is novel and important. This is also the firstin vivodemonstration that cell-type-specific expression of an individual gene plays an indispensable role in IPC-mediated protection.
Defects in Synaptic Plasticity, Reduced NMDA-Receptor Transport, and Instability of Postsynaptic Density Proteins in Mice Lacking Microtubule-Associated Protein 1A
Authors: Takei Yosuke , Kikkawa Yayoi S. , Atapour Nafiseh , Hensch Takao K. , Hirokawa Nobutaka
Published: November 2015

Microtubule-associated protein 1A (MAP1A) is a member of the major non-motor microtubule-binding proteins. It has been suggested that MAP1A tethers NMDA receptors (NRs) to the cytoskeleton by binding with proteins postsynaptic density (PSD)-93 and PSD-95, although the function of MAP1Ain vivoremains elusive. The present study demonstrates that mouse MAP1A plays an essential role in maintaining synaptic plasticity through an analysis of MAP1A knock-out mice. The mice exhibited learning disabilities, which correlated with decreased long-term potentiation and long-term depression in the hippocampal neurons, as well as a concomitant reduction in the extent of NR-dependent EPSCs. Surface expression of NR2A and NR2B subunits also decreased. Enhanced activity-dependent degradation of PSD-93 and reduced transport of NR2A/2B in dendrites was likely responsible for altered receptor function in neurons lacking MAP1A. These data suggest that tethering of NR2A/2B with the cytoskeleton through MAP1A is fundamental for synaptic function.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTThis work is the first report showing the significance of non-motor microtubule-associated protein in maintaining synaptic plasticity thorough a novel mechanism: anchoring of NMDA receptors to cytoskeleton supports transport of NMDA receptors and stabilizes postsynaptic density scaffolds binding to NMDA receptors. Newly generated mutant mice lacking MAP1A exhibited learning disabilities and reduced synaptic plasticity attributable to disruptions of the anchoring machinery.
The Global Spike: Conserved Dendritic Properties Enable Unique Ca2+Spike Generation in Low-Threshold Spiking Neurons
Authors: Connelly William M. , Crunelli Vincenzo , Errington Adam C.
Published: November 2015

Low-threshold Ca2+spikes (LTS) are an indispensible signaling mechanism for neurons in areas including the cortex, cerebellum, basal ganglia, and thalamus. They have critical physiological roles and have been strongly associated with disorders including epilepsy, Parkinson's disease, and schizophrenia. However, although dendritic T-type Ca2+channels have been implicated in LTS generation, because the properties of low-threshold spiking neuron dendrites are unknown, the precise mechanism has remained elusive. Here, combining data from fluorescence-targeted dendritic recordings and Ca2+imaging from low-threshold spiking cells in rat brain slices with computational modeling, the cellular mechanism responsible for LTS generation is established. Our data demonstrate that key somatodendritic electrical conduction properties are highly conserved between glutamatergic thalamocortical neurons and GABAergic thalamic reticular nucleus neurons and that these properties are critical for LTS generation. In particular, the efficiency of soma to dendrite voltage transfer is highly asymmetric in low-threshold spiking cells, and in the somatofugal direction, these neurons are particularly electrotonically compact. Our data demonstrate that LTS have remarkably similar amplitudes and occur synchronously throughout the dendritic tree. In fact, these Ca2+spikes cannot occur locally in any part of the cell, and hence we reveal that LTS are generated by a unique whole-cell mechanism that means they always occur as spatially global spikes. This all-or-none, global electrical and biochemical signaling mechanism clearly distinguishes LTS from other signals, including backpropagating action potentials and dendritic Ca2+/NMDA spikes, and has important consequences for dendritic function in low-threshold spiking neurons.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTLow-threshold Ca2+spikes (LTS) are critical for important physiological processes, including generation of sleep-related oscillations, and are implicated in disorders including epilepsy, Parkinson's disease, and schizophrenia. However, the mechanism underlying LTS generation in neurons, which is thought to involve dendritic T-type Ca2+channels, has remained elusive due to a lack of knowledge of the dendritic properties of low-threshold spiking cells. Combining dendritic recordings, two-photon Ca2+imaging, and computational modeling, this study reveals that dendritic properties are highly conserved between two prominent low-threshold spiking neurons and that these properties underpin a whole-cell somatodendritic spike generation mechanism that makes the LTS a unique global electrical and biochemical signal in neurons.
Brain State Is a Major Factor in Preseizure Hippocampal Network Activity and Influences Success of Seizure Intervention
Authors: Ewell Laura A. , Liang Liang , Armstrong Caren , Soltész Ivan , Leutgeb Stefan , Leutgeb Jill K.
Published: November 2015

Neural dynamics preceding seizures are of interest because they may shed light on mechanisms of seizure generation and could be predictive. In healthy animals, hippocampal network activity is shaped by behavioral brain state and, in epilepsy, seizures selectively emerge during specific brain states. To determine the degree to which changes in network dynamics before seizure are pathological or reflect ongoing fluctuations in brain state, dorsal hippocampal neurons were recorded during spontaneous seizures in a rat model of temporal lobe epilepsy. Seizures emerged from all brain states, but with a greater likelihood after REM sleep, potentially due to an observed increase in baseline excitability during periods of REM compared with other brains states also characterized by sustained theta oscillations. When comparing the firing patterns of the same neurons across brain states associated with and without seizures, activity dynamics before seizures followed patterns typical of the ongoing brain state, or brain state transitions, and did not differ until the onset of the electrographic seizure. Next, we tested whether disparate activity patterns during distinct brain states would influence the effectiveness of optogenetic curtailment of hippocampal seizures in a mouse model of temporal lobe epilepsy. Optogenetic curtailment was significantly more effective for seizures preceded by non-theta states compared with seizures that emerged from theta states. Our results indicate that consideration of behavioral brain state preceding a seizure is important for the appropriate interpretation of network dynamics leading up to a seizure and for designing effective seizure intervention.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTHippocampal single-unit activity is strongly shaped by behavioral brain state, yet this relationship has been largely ignored when studying activity dynamics before spontaneous seizures in medial temporal lobe epilepsy. In light of the increased attention on using single-unit activity for the prediction of seizure onset and closed-loop seizure intervention, we show a need for monitoring brain state to interpret correctly whether changes in neural activity before seizure onset is pathological or normal. Moreover, we also find that the brain state preceding a seizure determines the success of therapeutic interventions to curtail seizure duration. Together, these findings suggest that seizure prediction and intervention will be more successful if tailored for the specific brain states from which seizures emerge.
Reptilia, Squamata, Teiidae, Tupinambis longilineus: distribution extension
Authors: Costa Henrique Caldeira , São Pedro Vinícius De Avelar , Péres Jr. Ayrton K. , Feio Renato Neves
Published: November 2015

None
Floral diversity of Baanganga Wetland, Uttarakhand, India
Authors: Adhikari Bhupendra S. , Babu Mani M.
Published: November 2015

Baanganga wetland, a 45 km long channel originates near Bishenpur and flows in Idrishpur-Chakheri forest block of Haridwar district in Uttarakhand, India represents riverine ecosystem. The study area harbors many islands, varying in shape and size, which remains underwater during the rainy season and provide a good habitat to various plant taxa, birds (resident as well as migratory) and animals mainly Swamp deer (Cervus duvauceli duvauceli), a critically endangered species and Hog deer (Axis procinus). To asses the status and distribution of flora, trips were conducted in the intensive study area. The plants were classified based on their habit and their presence was visually observed. A total of 178 plant species were recorded, of which 40 species (hydrophytes) were found in aquatic habitat, 122 species on moist shores and 117 species in upland habitat. Phragmites karka, Polygonum barbatum, Ipomoea carnea, and Typha elephantina were the most common species in all the habitats. The majority of plants (40) are from Indian oriental region. The moist shore and upland habitats had maximum similarity (64 %) followed by aquatic and moist shore (26%) habitats. The status of flora and management of Baanganga wetland ecosystem has been discussed in the paper.
American Social History through Dance: A New Course at Vanderbilt University
Authors: Kevra Susan K
Published: November 2015

In American Studies 100W at Vanderbilt University, students study American history -- not through battles or infamous uprisings, presidents or political speeches -- but through the dances danced on American soil and those who danced them, as well as those who opposed them. From Native American tribal dances, replete with spiritual significance, to the muscular in-your-face exuberance of the locking and popping of today’s hip hop street performers in South Central LA, dance can explain a great deal about America.
Marriage
Authors: Cullen Caroline Ellen
Published: November 2015

A different take on Gregory Corso's "Marriage."
Growth curve by Gompertz nonlinear regression model in female and males in tambaqui (Colossoma macropomum)
Authors: MELLO FERNANDA DE , OLIVEIRA CARLOS A.L. , RIBEIRO RICARDO P. , RESENDE EMIKO K. , POVH JAYME A. , FORNARI DARCI C. , BARRETO ROGÉRIO V. , MCMANUS CONCEPTA , STREIT JR DANILO
Published: November 2015

ABSTRACT Was evaluated the pattern of growth among females and males of tambaqui by Gompertz nonlinear regression model. Five traits of economic importance were measured on 145 animals during the three years, totaling 981 morphometric data analyzed. Different curves were adjusted between males and females for body weight, height and head length and only one curve was adjusted to the width and body length. The asymptotic weight (a) and relative growth rate to maturity (k) were different between sexes in animals with ± 5 kg; slaughter weight practiced by a specific niche market, very profitable. However, there was no difference between males and females up to ± 2 kg; slaughter weight established to supply the bigger consumer market. Females showed weight greater than males (± 280 g), which are more suitable for fish farming purposes defined for the niche market to larger animals. In general, males had lower maximum growth rate (8.66 g / day) than females (9.34 g / day), however, reached faster than females, 476 and 486 days growth rate, respectively. The height and length body are the traits that contributed most to the weight at 516 days (P <0.001).
Nitrogen topdressing and application ways of fluazifop-p-butyl + fomesafen in weed control and agronomic performance of common bean
Authors: SILVA MATHEUS G. , ARF ORIVALDO , TEODORO PAULO E.
Published: November 2015

ABSTRACT The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of interaction between nitrogen topdressing and different application ways (active ingredients) a.i. fluazifop-p-butyl + fomesafen in weed control and agronomic performance of common bean. The experiment was conducted during winter 2003 in Selvíria/MS. The experimental design used was a randomized block design with four replications in a factorial scheme 2x7. The first factor was composed by the absence or presence of nitrogen topdressing, while the second factor consisted of different application ways of fluazifop-p-butyl + fomesafen. The following variables were measured: leaf N content, dry matter of plants, yield components (number of pods plant-1, number of grains plant-1, the average number of grains pod-1 and mass of 100 grains), grain yield, phytotoxicity and weed control percentage. The nitrogen topdressing with 75 kg ha-1provided higher dry matter of plants, higher weed control and higher common bean yield of irrigated winter. In the absence of nitrogen topdressing in the application of urea before or together to fluazifop-p-butyl + fomesafen increased their effectiveness in controlling weeds without interference in the agronomic performance of common bean.
A new index for assessing the value of importance of species - VIS
Authors: NETTO SYLVIO PÉLLICO , AMARAL MAURICIO K. , CORAIOLA MARCIO
Published: November 2015

ABSTRACT Phytosociological analysis in native forests is performed considering the horizontal and vertical structure of the studied population, whose most expressive parameters are the density, dominance, frequency, value of coverage and value of importance of species. Many phytosociological studies include a value of importance of species calculated by adding density, dominance and frequency, in their relative forms, however, this estimator is a mathematical impropriety because the result is a sum of indexes and does not express the true meaning of species' value. This is because the estimator is still influenced predominantly by the density of occurrence of species and cannot capture the relevant hierarchical participation of emerging species that occur with low density in the biocoenosis. In this work, we propose a new index to characterize the value of importance of species based on the hierarchy and spatial absolute probability of the species in the biocoenosis, illustrated with data from a forest fragment of semideciduous tropical forest located in Cassia, MG, Brazil. The new index appropriately expressed the importance of species in the evaluated fragment.
Ontogenic development of kidney, thymus and spleen and phenotypic expression of CD3 and CD4 receptors on the lymphocytes of cobia (Rachycentroncanadum )
Authors: KLOSTERHOFF MARTA C. , PEREIRA JÚNIOR JOABER , RODRIGUES RICARDO V. , GUSMÃO EMELINE P. , SAMPAIO LUÍS A. , TESSER MARCELO B. , ROMANO LUIS A.
Published: November 2015

ABSTRACT In the present study was evaluated the ontogenic of immunocompetent organs of cobia up to 53 days after hatching (dah) through histology and immunohistochemistry techniques. The kidney was the first lymphohematopoietic organ to appear, at 1 dah, followed by the spleen at 5 dah and the thymus at 7 dah. The first CD3 receptors on the lymphocytes were observed in 27% of the thymic tissue at 7 dah and in 99% at 53 dah. The phenotypic expression of CD3 receptors was registered in 10% of the kidney at 8 dah and in 32% at 53 dah. CD4 receptors were observed in 5% and 63% of the thymic area at 7 and 53 dah, respectively. In the kidney, T4 lymphocytes were first observed at 13 dah in 9% of the organ and in 28% at 53 dah, defining the functional development of the specific system associated with immunological memory capacity.
What Expands in an Expanding Universe?
Authors: PACHECO JOSÉ A. DE FREITAS
Published: November 2015

ABSTRACT In the present investigation, the possible effects of the expansion of the Universe on systems bonded either by gravitational or electromagnetic forces, are reconsidered. It will be shown that the acceleration (positive or negative) of the expanding background, is the determinant factor affecting planetary orbits and atomic sizes. In the presently accepted cosmology (ΛCDM) all bonded systems are expanding at a decreasing rate that tends to be zero as the universe enters in a de Sitter phase. It is worth mentioning that the estimated expansion rates are rather small and they can be neglected for all practical purposes.
ARTE, MEMÓRIA E DIREITOS HUMANOS
Authors: Molina Fulvia
Published: November 2015

Resumo Este ensaio trata de momentos recentes da arte contemporânea em sua relação com os direitos humanos e o resgate da memória dos fatos portadores de dor. São analisadas obras selecionadas de Horst Hoheisel, Andreas Knitz, Esther Shalev-Gertz, Marcelo Brodsky e Fulvia Molina e alguns memoriais de Paris.
A integralidade na assistência à saúde da criança na visão dos cuidadores
Authors: Silva Rosane Meire Munhak da , Viera Cláudia Silveira , Toso Beatriz Rosana Gonçalves de Oliveira , Neves Eliane Tatsch , Silva-Sobrinho Reinaldo Antônio da
Published: November 2015

O artigo identifica o atributo integralidade e elementos do cuidado integral para resolução de problemas de saúde das crianças na percepção de seus cuidadores. Pesquisa qualitativa, baseada na hermenêutica-dialética, composta por 16 entrevistas e mapas falantes. Verificou-se: a assistência à saúde da criança com um olhar focado na doença, mas que o olhar para além do biológico começa a emergir; o cuidado centrado no êxito técnico em busca do sucesso prático; a inexistência de tecnologias leve-duras e duras para o cuidado. A parcialidade da integralidade levou a não resolutividade dos problemas de saúde infantil, demonstrando a necessidade de transformar o modo de pensar e fazer saúde.
A dinâmica das relações familiares de moradores de rua usuários de crack
Authors: Caravaca-Morera Jaime Alonso , Padilha Maria Itayra
Published: November 2015

Pesquisa qualitativa com abordagem sócio-histórica que objetivou analisar como se constitui a subjetividade dos indivíduos no contexto da relação família, rua e crack. Os participantes foram 15 moradores de rua da cidade de Florianópolis (SC). A coleta de dados foi realizada de fevereiro a abril de 2013. Os dados foram analisados segundo a Análise de Conteúdo de Bardin. Os resultados destacam que a ausência de regras, limites, comunicação e afeto no núcleo familiar, assim como a violência e o uso/abuso de drogas, foram fatores que colaboraram com o consumo do crack e a moradia de rua. Conclui-se que as relações familiares fragilizadas são um dos fatores de risco corresponsáveis no consumo do crack e a moradia na rua.
Influência da prática de atividade física sobre a qualidade de vida de usuários do SUS
Authors: Ferreira Joel Saraiva , Diettrich Sandra Helena Correia , Pedro Danielly Amado
Published: November 2015

O estudo objetivou verificar a influência da atividade física sobre a qualidade de vida de participantes e não participantes de um Programa de Atividade Física, atendidos nas Unidades Básicas de Saúde da Família, no município de Campo Grande (MS). A população foi constituída de 90 indivíduos com mais de 40 anos, de ambos os sexos, os quais responderam ao questionário SF-36. Os resultados demonstraram diferença estatisticamente significativa entre os grupos, com valores melhores a favor da população praticante de atividade física. Foi possível concluir que tal prática pode contribuir para a melhora da qualidade de vida em programas de promoção da saúde, como o Estratégia Saúde da Família.
Detecção de mudança de nível em séries temporais não lineares usando Descritores de Hjorth
Authors: Amorim Gabriela da Fonseca de , Balestrassi Pedro Paulo , Paiva Anderson Paulo de , Oliveira-Abans Mariângela de
Published: November 2015

Resumo O propósito deste artigo é apresentar um método de detecção de mudança de nível na dinâmica de séries temporais não lineares que consiste no uso de um gráfico de Controle Multivariado T2 de Hotelling monitorando a variação de três descritores normalizados: os Descritores de Hjorth de atividade, mobilidade e complexidade. Esta abordagem foi aplicada em diferentes séries temporais não lineares criadas artificialmente e é ilustrada neste artigo por um exemplo detalhado. Também foi feito um estudo de caso com seis séries reais do consumo de energia elétrica no meio industrial, confirmando a eficácia do método.
Acaricidal activity of Amburana cearensis on the cattle tick Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus
Authors: Dantas Anne Caroline dos Santos , Araujo Andreina de Carvalho , Pacheco Alessandra Gomes Marques , Branco Alexsandro , Sangioni Luis Antônio , Almeida Jackson Roberto Guedes da Silva , Horta Mauricio Claudio
Published: November 2015

ABSTRACT: This experiment was carried out to study the bioacaricidal activity of Amburana cearensis against engorged females of Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus. The crude ethanolic extract from the leaves of A. cearensis was submitted to partition with organic solvents (hexane, chloroform and ethyl acetate) in order of increasing polarity; and evaluated using three treatments at concentrations of 5, 10 and 25mg ml-1. To evaluate the acaricidal activity, engorged females were submitted to the adult immersion test. Parameters analyzed were the weight of females; weight of egg mass; percentage of hatch; reproductive efficiency; expected rate of reproduction; and efficacy. For each extract and concentrating fraction, tests were performed in triplicate. Among all fractions, the hexane (2.5%) achieved the best results in all parameters analyzed: 52.7% of inhibition of oviposition; 39% of hatching rate; 3,271 index of reproductive efficiency; and 67.0% effectiveness. The extract obtained gradual dose response with increasing concentration; and could be used as an aid in the control of R. (B.) microplus therapy.
Virulence of nematodes against larvae of the south-American fruit fly in laboratory using soil from Porto Amazonas, Paraná, Brazil, as substrate
Authors: Foelkel Ester , Monteiro Lino Bittencourt , Voss Marcio
Published: November 2015

ABSTRACT: Anastrepha fraterculus is an important orchard pest. Its management has been based in chemical sprays, but biological control is a growing demand. The objective of this work was to evaluate, under laboratory conditions, the virulence of eight nematode isolates to A. fraterculus in a soil collected in Porto Amazonas, Paraná, Brazil, and to estimate lethal doses (LD50 and LD90) for the more virulent isolate. Steinernema carpocapsae CB 02, three Heterorhabditis sp., two H. amazonensis and two Oscheius sp. isolates were tested in laboratory against A. fraterculus third-instar larvae using as substrate a loam Cambisol collected in an apple orchard. S. carpocapsae CB 02 isolate caused the higher percent mortality of A. fraterculus. Heterorhabditis sp. isolates and LAMIP 9 (Oscheius sp.) isolates were intermediate, while LAMIP 92 (Oscheius sp.) didn't differ from the control. S. carpocapsae CB 02 is able to kill 50% and 90% of A. fraterculus population with 96.3 and 314.7 infective juveniles per larva, respectively, in that soil. As a conclusion, CB 02 is the most virulent to A. fraterculus when the substrate is Porto Amazonas' apple orchard soil and it is able to kill 50 and 90% larval population with 96.3 and 314.7 infective juveniles per larva, respectively.