bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of using the electrical muscle stimulation system ((EMS) that accompanies special exercises in developing some physical abilities by fencing on chairs)
Authors: Assistant Professor Sabah Nouri Hafez, Dyar Nasr Majeed
Published: March 2024

The problem under study tackles the weakness of the physical and technical level of the wheelchair fencers in particular. This is mainly reflected in the poor performance of the required movements due to the weakness of the back and upper limb muscles caused by their limited movement as a handicap and the inability to perform physical exercises completely. The study aims at showing the effect of the EMS on the development of the muscles and the level of performance. As far as the theoretical studies are concerned, the researcher has introduced several topics on electrical stimulation, types of muscles, special exercises, and the physical and technical abilities embraced in the study variables. Previous and similar studies have been discussed also, The experimental method of two groups design (control and experimental) has been used with pretest and posttest style to suit the nature of the problem. The community of the study has been intentionally identified to consist of 10 wheelchair fencers training with the juniors of the Iraqi Federation for Wheelchair Fencing at the Ministry of Youth and Sports in the Paralympic court. Having the experimental method applied by using the electrical stimulation with special exercises, and conducting the scientific foundations, the results were statistically processed by the statistical bag.
Building and legalizing the aiming test from jumping outside the arch is close to the performance of the players
Authors: Ali fadel Abed Alabas, Prof.Dr. Ali Sumoom AL- Fartusi
Published: March 2024

The study aimed to build and legalize the correction test from outside the bow as an approach to the playing conditions for some types of correction in youth basketball, where the researchers used the descriptive approach to its suitability to the nature of the research, and the research community included the young players in the Iraqi clubs participating in the Iraq Championship, who are (124) players As the number of clubs that were researched tests was (10) clubs represented (airlines - viewing - Baghdad oil - southern oil - northern oil - Zakho - Hilla - vigilance of Nasiriyah - specialized school), where the number of players exploratory experience (28) players It was represented by (the specialized school and the Nasiriyah team), the number of constructive players (60) and the number of technical players (80) After conducting the test construction by the two researchers on the sample, they found standard scores and levels for the tests (correction test from jumping from outside the arc) and the approach to the play conditions, which are appropriate to the capabilities of the players, the researchers recommend the need to use offensive tests that approximate the playing conditions that he performed to find out the performance of young players from Before coaches and specialists, and to assist them in developing performance as well as the need to adopt the degrees and standard levels reached by your researchers, one of the means of objective evaluation of young players in basketball
Invisible Warfare: The Psychological Impact of Biological Weapons in the Context of International Humanitarian Law
Authors: Khawaja Ishwah Abbas
Published: March 2024

This study investigates the historical and modern use of biological weapons as effective psychological warfare tools, delving into the motivations for their use as well as the catastrophic psychological effects they cause. The paper also examines examples such as Japan's use of biological weapons during World War II and the 2001 Anthrax attacks in the United States to highlight the profound psychological consequences of using biological agents in warfare. Despite their classification as weapons of mass destruction, compliance with International Humanitarian Law remains a major concern. Further, the author emphasizes humans' inherent psychological vulnerability to biological weapons threats, revealing how the fear of invisible, contagious, and potentially lethal agents can cause widespread anxiety, paranoia, and social disruption. The study uses the recent COVID-19 pandemic as a case study to highlight the effect that such threats have on an adversary's resolve and morale. It also looks into the past use of fear-mongering to win over the public to unwarranted military actions, like the "shock and awe" attack on Iraq. In summary, the paper advocates for global collaboration and awareness to prevent biological weapons from being used in psychological warfare. It calls attention to the grave dangers such acts pose to global peace and security, as well as their profound and potentially irreversible psychological effects.
DEVELOPMENT OF CHINA – US RELATIONS AND THE IMPACT OF THEIR DYNAMICS ON THE COUNTRIES OF CENTRAL AND EASTERN EUROPE
Authors: Stefanov Nako
Published: March 2024

The importance and relevance of tracking and analyzing China-US relations, which are today key global countries with a huge impact on the world, can hardly be questioned. The aims of this study are, on the one hand, to examine and understand how these relations have developed over time, especially since initially the United States and then the PRC became global powers. On the other hand, the author analyses the problem of how the dynamics of these relations affect the countries of Central and Eastern Europe, which are today mainly under the “lid” of the influence of the West.
THE THREE GORGES HYDROELECTRIC POWER PLANT IN GEOGRAPHY AND ECONOMICS TEXTBOOKS – LOCATION, CONTENT, AND SAMPLE MODELS
Authors: Draganova Tamara
Published: March 2024

The article studies the place and content of the Three Gorges HPP in geography and economics textbooks for general preparation through content analysis and situational analysis. The place of the power plant in the DOS and the curricula of geography and economics for general education and profiled preparation has been studied. A generalized content model of the Three Gorges HPP was prepared from the V-X grade Geography and economics textbooks (the study covers all variants of the Geography and economics textbooks). Exemplary content of tasks models for the Three Gorges HPP are proposed as a possibility to supplement the new Geography and economics textbooks.
CREATING A SOLID FOUNDATION FOR THE PRONUNCIATION OF THE CHINESE LANGUAGE
Authors: Shishkova Yana
Published: March 2024

The present article traces the basic building blocks of Chinese phonetics. It examines the classifications of sounds in scientific literature, presents a new look at the content of the phonetic elements, distinguishing vowel sounds as physical values and as basic elements that should be presented to students when laying the foundation of the pronunciation of the Chinese language. The article provides an author’s classification and methodical approaches to teaching initials, finals, tones
The deubiquitinase Ubp3/Usp10 constrains glucose-mediated mitochondrial repression via phosphate budgeting
Authors: Vengayil Vineeth , Niphadkar Shreyas , Adhikary Swagata , Varahan Sriram , Laxman Sunil
Published: March 2024

Many cells in high glucose repress mitochondrial respiration, as observed in the Crabtree and Warburg effects. Our understanding of biochemical constraints for mitochondrial activation is limited. Using a
Saccharomyces cerevisiae
screen, we identified the conserved deubiquitinase Ubp3 (Usp10), as necessary for mitochondrial repression. Ubp3 mutants have increased mitochondrial activity despite abundant glucose, along with decreased glycolytic enzymes, and a rewired glucose metabolic network with increased trehalose production. Utilizing
Δubp3
cells, along with orthogonal approaches, we establish that the high glycolytic flux in glucose continuously consumes free Pi. This restricts mitochondrial access to inorganic phosphate (Pi), and prevents mitochondrial activation. Contrastingly, rewired glucose metabolism with enhanced trehalose production and reduced GAPDH (as in
Δubp3
cells) restores Pi. This collectively results in increased mitochondrial Pi and derepression, while restricting mitochondrial Pi transport prevents activation. We therefore suggest that glycolytic-flux dependent intracellular Pi budgeting is a key constraint for mitochondrial repression.
Plural molecular and cellular mechanisms of pore domain KCNQ2 encephalopathy
Authors: Abreo Timothy J. , Thompson Emma C. , Madabushi Anuraag , Soh Heun , Varghese Nissi , Vanoye Carlos G. , Springer Kristen , Park Kristen L. , Johnson Jim , Sims Scotty , Ji Zhigang , Chavez Ana G. , Jankovic Miranda J. , Habte Bereket , Zuberi Aamir , Lutz Cathleen , Wang Zhao , Krishnan Vaishnav , Dudler Lisa , Einsele-Scholz Stephanie , Noebels Jeffrey L. , George Alfred L. , Maheshwari Atul , Tzingounis Anastasios V. , Cooper Edward C.
Published: March 2024

KCNQ2
variants in children with neurodevelopmental impairment are difficult to assess due to their heterogeneity and unclear pathogenic mechanisms. We describe a child with neonatal-onset epilepsy, developmental impairment of intermediate severity, and
KCNQ2
G256W heterozygosity. Analyzing prior KCNQ2 channel cryoelectron microscopy models revealed G256 as keystone of an arch-shaped non-covalent bond network linking S5, the pore turret, and the ion path. Co-expression with G256W dominantly suppressed conduction by wild-type subunits in heterologous cells. Ezogabine partly reversed this suppression. G256W/+ mice have epilepsy leading to premature deaths. Hippocampal CA1 pyramidal cells from G256W/+ brain slices showed hyperexcitability. G256W/+ pyramidal cell KCNQ2 and KCNQ3 immunolabeling was significantly shifted from axon initial segments to neuronal somata. Despite normal mRNA levels, G256W/+ mouse KCNQ2 protein levels were reduced by about 50%. Our findings indicate that G256W pathogenicity results from multiplicative effects, including reductions in intrinsic conduction, subcellular targeting, and protein stability. These studies reveal pore “turret arch” bonding as a KCNQ structural novelty and introduce a valid animal model of
KCNQ2
encephalopathy. Our results, spanning structure to behavior, may be broadly applicable because the majority of
KCNQ2
encephalopathy patients share variants near the selectivity filter.
Affinity-tagged SMAD1 and SMAD5 mouse lines reveal transcriptional reprogramming mechanisms during early pregnancy
Authors: Liao Zian , Tang Suni , Nozawa Kaori , Shimada Keisuke , Ikawa Masahito , Monsivais Diana , Matzuk Martin M.
Published: March 2024

Endometrial decidualization, a prerequisite for successful pregnancies, relies on transcriptional reprogramming driven by progesterone receptor (PR) and bone morphogenetic protein (BMP)-SMAD1/SMAD5 signaling pathways. Despite their critical roles in early pregnancy, how these pathways intersect in reprogramming the endometrium into a receptive state remains unclear. To define how SMAD1 and/or SMAD5 integrate BMP signaling in the uterus during early pregnancy, we generated two novel transgenic mouse lines with affinity tags inserted into the endogenous SMAD1 and SMAD5 loci (

Smad1
HA/HA

and

Smad5
PA/PA
)

. By profiling the genome-wide distribution of SMAD1, SMAD5, and PR in the mouse uterus, we demonstrated the unique and shared roles of SMAD1 and SMAD5 during the window of implantation. We also showed the presence of a conserved SMAD1, SMAD5, and PR genomic binding signature in the uterus during early pregnancy. To functionally characterize the translational aspects of our findings, we demonstrated that SMAD1/5 knockdown in human endometrial stromal cells suppressed expressions of canonical decidual markers (
IGFBP1, PRL, FOXO1)
and PR-responsive genes (
RORB
,
KLF15)
. Here, our studies provide novel tools to study BMP signaling pathways and highlight the fundamental roles of SMAD1/5 in mediating both BMP signaling pathways and the transcriptional response to progesterone (P4) during early pregnancy.
Meta-Research: understudied genes are lost in a leaky pipeline between genome-wide assays and reporting of results
Authors: Richardson Reese AK , Navarro Heliodoro Tejedor , Nunes Amaral Luis A , Stoeger Thomas
Published: March 2024

Present-day publications on human genes primarily feature genes that already appeared in many publications prior to completion of the Human Genome Project in 2003. These patterns persist despite the subsequent adoption of high-throughput technologies, which routinely identify novel genes associated with biological processes and disease. Although several hypotheses for bias in the selection of genes as research targets have been proposed, their explanatory powers have not yet been compared. Our analysis suggests that understudied genes are systematically abandoned in favor of better-studied genes between the completion of -omics experiments and the reporting of results. Understudied genes remain abandoned by studies that cite these -omics experiments. Conversely, we find that publications on understudied genes may even accrue a greater number of citations. Among 45 biological and experimental factors previously proposed to affect which genes are being studied, we find that 33 are significantly associated with the choice of hit genes presented in titles and abstracts of - omics studies. To promote the investigation of understudied genes we condense our insights into a tool,
find my understudied genes
(FMUG), that allows scientists to engage with potential bias during the selection of hits. We demonstrate the utility of FMUG through the identification of genes that remain understudied in vertebrate aging. FMUG is developed in Flutter and is available for download at fmug.amaral.northwestern.edu as a MacOS/Windows app.
Alteration of long and short-term hematopoietic stem cell ratio causes myeloid-biased hematopoiesis
Authors: Nishi Katsuyuki , Sakamaki Taro , Nagasaka Akiomi , Kao Kevin S , Sadaoka Kay , Asano Masahide , Yamamoto Nobuyuki , Takaori-Kondo Akifumi , Miyanishi Masanori
Published: March 2024

Myeloid-biased hematopoiesis is a well-known age-related alteration. Several possibilities, including myeloid-biased hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) clones, may explain this. However, the precise mechanisms remain controversial.Utilizing the Hoxb5 reporter system to prospectively isolate long-term HSCs (LT-HSCs) and short-term HSCs (ST-HSCs), we found that young and aged LT-HSCs co-transplanted into the same recipients demonstrated nearly equivalent myeloid lineage output, contrary to the theory of myeloid-biased HSC clones. Transcriptomics indicated no significant myeloid gene enrichment in aged LT-HSCs compared to their young counterparts. Instead, transplanting reconstituted young HSCs with the ratio of LT/ST-HSCs seen in aged mice can significantly skew the lineage output to myeloid cells. In addition, while the niche environment in the bone marrow minimally affects myeloid-biased hematopoiesis, aged thymi and spleens substantially hinder lymphoid hematopoiesis, resulting in further myeloid-domination. Thus, we demonstrate that myeloid-biased hematopoiesis in aged organisms originates due to alteration of the ratio between LT-HSCs and ST-HSCs rather than in heterogeneous HSC clones with various cell fates.
First evidence of sexual dimorphism in olfactory organs of deep-sea lanternfishes (Myctophidae)
Authors: Martin Rene P. , Smith W. Leo
Published: March 2024

Finding a mate is of the utmost importance for organisms, and the traits associated with successfully finding one can be under strong selective pressures. In habitats where biomass and population density is often low, like the enormous open spaces of the deep sea, animals have evolved many adaptations for finding mates. One convergent adaptation seen in many deep-sea fishes is sexual dimorphism in olfactory organs, where, relative to body size, males have evolved greatly enlarged olfactory organs compared to females. Females are known to give off chemical cues such as pheromones, and these chemical stimuli can traverse long distances in the stable, stratified water of the deep sea and be picked up by the olfactory organs of males. This adaptation is believed to help males in multiple lineages of fishes find mates in deep-sea habitats. In this study, we describe the first morphological evidence of sexual dimorphism in the olfactory organs of lanternfishes (Myctophidae) in the genus Loweina. Lanternfishes are one of the most abundant vertebrates in the deep sea and are hypothesized to use visual signals from bioluminescence for mate recognition or mate detection. Bioluminescent cues that are readily visible at distances as far as 10 m in the aphotic deep sea are likely important for high population density lanternfish species that have high mate encounter rates. In contrast, myctophids found in lower density environments where species encounter rates are lower, like those in Loweina, likely benefit from longer-range chemical or olfactory cues for finding and identifying mates.
Yabancı Dil Olarak Türkçe Öğretiminde İkinci Bir Öğrenme Alanı Olarak Otonom Duyusal Meridyen Tepkisi (ODMT)
Authors: BOYLU Emrah , USTABULUT Mete Yusuf , KESKİN Savaş
Published: March 2024

Çalışmada amaç, son dönemlerde YouTube’da yükselen bir fenomen olan Otonom Duyusal Meridyen Tepkisi (ODMT) kültüründeki dil öğretimine ilişkin içeriklerin, uzman öğreticilerin fenomenolojik yapısal değerlendirmeleri çerçevesinde yabancı dil olarak Türkçe öğretiminde formal bir Bilgisayar Destekli Dil Eğitimi (BDDE) uygulama ortamı olarak kullanıma uygunluğunu tartışmaktır. Çalışmanın veri tedariği yorumlayıcı fenomenolojik analiz metodunun esasları bağlamında Türkiye’de yabancı dil olarak Türkçe öğreten 13 uzman öğretici ile derinlemesine anlık mesajlaşmalı görüşme yapılması yoluyla toplanmış ve elde edilen veriler yapısal betimleme ilkeleri çerçevesinde analiz edilmiştir. ODMT ’ye ilişkin sistemik yapı yaklaşımını anlamak için belirlenen beş kategori ve alt kategorilere ilişkin bireysel ve ortak kanaatler, nitel olarak yapılandırılmış; olumsuz ve olumsal kanaatlerin gerekçeleri üzerinden sürecin anlamlandırma sistemi tespit edilmiştir. Bireysel kanaatlerin ortak görünümlerini kavramayı hedefleyen çalışmada elde edilen bulgular, deneyimlenen videolardaki aktörün kimliği, yöntemsel eksiklikler, özensizlik, amatörlük, sesletim hataları, amaçsızlık ve spesifik kültürün riskleri gibi gerekçelerin kararsızlığı tetikleyen gerekçeler olmalarına karşın genel bir olumsal ortak kanaatin varlığına işaret etmiştir. Ortak kanaat, ODMT kültüründe üretilen amatör dil öğretimi videolarının profesyonel ve iyi hazırlanmış içerikler biçiminde kurgulanmasının yabancı dil olarak Türkçe öğretim süreçlerine niteliksel katkı sağlayacak ikinci bir Bilgisayar Destekli Dil Eğitimi (BDDE) uygulama ortamı olacağı yönündedir.
Fabrication of Electrospinning‐Derived Carbon Nanofiber Webs for the Anode Material of Lithium‐Ion Secondary Batteries
Authors: Kim C. , Yang K. S. , Kojima M. , Yoshida K. , Kim Y. J. , Kim Y. A. , Endo M.
Published: October 2006

A carbon nanofiber‐based electrode, exhibiting a large accessible surface area (derived from the nanometer‐sized fiber diameter), high carbon purity (without binder), relatively high electrical conductivity, structural integrity, thin web macromorphology, a large reversible capacity (ca. 450 mA h g–1), and a relatively linearly inclined voltage profile, is fabricated by nanofiber formation via electrospinning of a polymer solution and its subsequent thermal treatment. It is envisaged that these characteristics of this novel carbon material will make it an ideal candidate for the anode material of high‐power lithium‐ion batteries (where a high current is critically needed), owing to the highly reduced lithium‐ion diffusion path within the active material.
Micropatterning of polydiacetylene based on a photoinduced chromatic transition and mechanism study
Authors: Yuan Wenfang , Jiang Guiyuan , Song Yanlin , Jiang Lei
Published: October 2006

A photoinduced chromatic transition from blue to red for the polydiacetylene 10,12‐pentacosadiynoic acid has been studied. This transition produces an obvious change in the ultraviolet–visible absorption and fluorescence emission spectra. A two‐dimensional micropattern has been realized on the basis of this change and imaged with a confocal fluorescence microscope. Detailed information on the mechanism of the chromatic transition has been obtained by the application of resonance Raman and Fourier transform infrared methods. The results indicate that the conformational change of alkyl side chains constricted by hydrogen‐bonded head groups imposes strain on the polymer backbone and finally leads to a drastic decrease in the π‐electron‐conjugation length. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 103: 942–946, 2007
Synthesis and characterization of block copolymers based on natural rubber and polypropylene oxide
Authors: Nair R. Chandrasekharan , Gopakumar S. , Nair M. R. Gopinathan
Published: October 2006

Segmented block copolymers from different grades of hydroxyl terminated liquid natural rubber (HTNR) (Mn 3000, 8800, 10,000, and 17,000) and polypropylene oxide (PPO) (Mn 1000, 2000, 3000, and 4000) have been synthesized and characterized by spectral analysis, thermal analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and mechanical testing. The glass transition temperature of NR block was found to be at about −64°C, which is independent of the PPO whose transition is around 15°C. The thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) shows that the thermal degradation of the samples proceeded in two steps characteristic of the immiscible components. The inability of PPO segments to provide physical crosslinking and the subsequent formation of hard domains is reflected in the low tensile properties and tear properties. The amorphous nature of the PPO phase and its immiscibility with NR phase are evidenced by the SEM studies. The effect of molecular weight of PPO as well as HTNR on the properties of the block copolymers has also been discussed. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. JAppl Polym Sci 103: 909–916, 2007
Effects of impregnation with imersol‐AQUA on yellow color tone of some softwoods and varnishes
Authors: Atar Musa , Keskin Hakan , Çolakoğlu Mustafa H.
Published: October 2006

This study has been performed for determining impacts of impregnation with Imersol‐AQUA (I‐AQUA) to yellow color tone of some softwoods and varnishes. For this purpose, samples of scotch pine (Pinus sylvestris L.), oriental spruce (Picea orientalis L.), and Uludağ fir (Abies bornmülleriana L.) wood, prepared according to the ASTM D 358 standards, are impregnated with I‐AQUA by short‐term (S), medium‐term (M), and long‐term (L) immersion techniques in accordance with ASTM D 1413 and producer's definition. After impregnation, surfaces have been coated by synthetic (Sv), acrylic (Ac), water‐based varnishes (Wb) and polyurethane (Pu) varnishes in accordance with ASTM D 3023 standards. According to ASTM D 2244 standards, yellow color tone value of specimens after varnishing process was determined. As a result, based on the wood material, varnish type, and impregnation period, yellow color tone was the highest in pine, medium‐term dipping, and synthetic varnish and the lowest in fir, long‐term dipping, and water‐borne varnish. Considering the interaction of wood type, period of impregnation and type of varnish, yellow color tone was the highest in fir + medium‐term of dipping + synthetic varnish and the lowest in spruce + long‐term of dipping + water‐borne varnish. So, impregnation process, impregnation period, and varnishes applied during tests showed increasing impact for yellow color tone value of wood materials. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 103: 1048–1054, 2007
A proposed novel approach to the study of the dual‐mode mechanism of dyeing nylon with acid dyes
Authors: Iijima T. , Petropoulos J. H.
Published: October 2006

Study of the dual mode mechanism of dyeing nylon with acid dyes, consisting of Langmuir‐type sorption on charged terminal amino groups, accompanied by Nernst‐type uptake, known as “overdyeing,” is subject to complications primarily (but not exclusively) because of structural nonhomogeneity of the polymeric substrate. We present here a system that combines structural simplicity with ease of manipulation of amine content; wherein the nylon substrate is replaced by a liquid phase consisting of a specially selected amine dissolved in a suitable organic solvent. This system displays the characteristic features of the aforementioned dual mode dyeing mechanism, as shown by experimental data of the uptake of C.I. Orange 7 as a function of aqueous dye concentration and amine concentration in the organic phase. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 103: 1055–1057, 2007
Synthesis, characterization and electrorheological properties of poly(o‐toluidine)/Zn conducting composites
Authors: Yilmaz Hasim , Unal Halil Ibrahim , Sari Bekir
Published: October 2006

In this study, the synthesis, characterization, and electrorheological (ER) properties of poly(o‐toluidine)/Zn, (POT/Zn), composites were investigated. Syntheses of the composites were carried out by a chemical method using ammonium persulfate, (NH4)2S2O8, (APS), as a free radical initiator. The composites were characterized by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, electrical conductivity, magnetic susceptibility, particle size measurements, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). A series of Zn‐containing composites were prepared (0.8–7.6% by mass), and their conductivities were measured to be within the range of 1.7 × 10−3–5.0 × 10−2 Scm−1. Magnetic properties of POT/Zn composites were analyzed by Gouy scale measurements; it was found that their conducting mechanisms are bipolaron. A series of particle size (13, 17, 18, 26, 83 μm) were prepared by ground milling the crude POT/Zn composites. Colloidal suspensions of POT/Zn composites were prepared in silicone oil (SO), at a series of concentrations (10–30%, m/m), and sedimentation stabilities were measured at 25°C. ER measurements showed that the POT/Zn/SO suspension system was ER active. Thus, the effects of solid particle concentration, shear rate, electric field strength, addition of polar promoters, and temperature (25–125°C) onto ER activities of suspensions were investigated. The ER activity of suspensions was increased with increasing particle concentration and electric field strength and decreasing shear rate and showing a non‐Newtonian flow behavior. τ = 1.1 kPa shear stress was reached for POT/Zn (4.1 wt %, Zn) composite under E = 2.0 kV, c = 15 (%, m/m),
$ \dot \gamma=1.0\ {\rm s}^{-1} $, and T = 25°C conditions. It was found that the ER activity was slightly decreased with increasing temperature. Further, the addition of polar promoters had no promoting effect on the ER activity of the suspensions and POT/Zn/SO system was classified as dry ER materials. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 103: 1058–1065, 2007
Eight case reports of learning recovery in children with pervasive developmental disorders after early intervention
Authors: Butter Eric M. , Mulick James A. , Metz Bernard
Published: October 2006

Early intensive behavioral intervention (EIBI) is often recommended for children with Pervasive Developmental Disorders (PDD). It is an empirically supported treatment designed to address the core symptoms of autism including language delays, social and play skills, and restricted and repetitive behaviors as well as other related deficits in cognition and adaptive behavior. Though there are a growing number of research studies supporting EIBI, many questions remain about the nature and stability of best outcomes. The current study provides case descriptions of eight children previously diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder and mental retardation who, after EIBI treatment, no longer met behavioral criteria for mental retardation or a PDD. The average gain in IQ standard scores was 34.6 ( ± 13.2) points; and, the average gain in adaptive behavior standard scores was 43 ( ± 25.3) points. Nonverbal IQ standard scores (mean = 93 ± 12.6) and academic achievement standard scores (mean = 105.3 ± 18.7) ended within the average range. Language skills remained impaired for seven children. The cases support findings of other researchers that learning recovery in autism and PDD is possible and may be related to intensive behavioral treatment. Individual differences in response to EIBI treatment are discussed. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The pillars of the scapula
Authors: Karelse Anne , Kegels Lore , De Wilde Lieven
Published: October 2006

Total shoulder replacement has been shown to provide predictable pain relief and functional improvement in patients with glenohumeral arthritis. Loosening of the glenoid component remains the most frequent indication for revision surgery at long‐term follow‐up. The component most widely used is an all‐polyethylene keeled or pegged design cemented to the glenoid cavity of the scapula. The glenoid is small and its cup‐shaped morphology allows only a restricted site for limited fixation devices. This is particularly so in revision surgery where there are often large bony defects of the glenoid. In an anatomical study, we investigated the scapula in order to identify substantial bony pillars for better component fixation. Forty cadaveric shoulders (mean age 86, range 67–101) were dissected, the glenoids were denuded from cartilage, and the subchondral and cancellous bone was removed. Two bony pillars approaching the glenoid were consistently identified in all scapulae investigated. These pillars were outlined by three cortices and orientated to the circle formed by the rim of the inferior quadrants of the glenoid. One pillar is directed inferiorly near the margo lateralis and the other pillar is directed superiorly into the spine of the scapula. We defined these pillars in length and direction, and three‐dimensionally located them in relation to the joint surface. This study demonstrated two bony pillars as important anatomical landmarks in the scapula. They were constant in presence, surgically accessible, and have not been described before. These results can be used as a guideline in the development of prosthetic designs to improve the fixation of glenoid components. Clin. Anat. 20:392–399, 2007. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Three‐dimensional analysis of the ligamentous attachments of the second through fifth carpometacarpal joints
Authors: Nanno Mitsuhiko , Buford William L. , Patterson Rita M. , Andersen Clark R. , Viegas Steven F.
Published: October 2006

The purpose of this study is to clarify, measure, and show the anatomic locations and areas of specific ligamentous attachments and paths of the second through fifth carpometacarpal (CMC) joints on a three‐dimensional (3D) surface model. Ten fresh‐frozen cadaver wrists were used to dissect and identify the second through fifth CMC ligaments. Their ligamentous attachments and whole bone surfaces were digitized three‐dimensionally and their areas calculated. The attachments of each ligament were represented in a model combining CT surfaces overlaid by a digitized 3D surface, and were also visually demonstrated with a specific color on 3D images of the bones. Nine dorsal and 11 palmar CMC ligaments and one CMC interosseous ligament were identified in the second through fifth CMC joints. An intra‐articular ligament between the third metacarpal (MC), the fourth MC, capitate, and hamate was also identified. Five dorsal and five palmar intermetacarpal ligaments and three intermetacarpal interosseous ligaments were also identified in the second through fifth intermetacarpal joints. A previously undescribed palmar intermetacarpal ligament was located between the third, fourth, and fifth MC bases. The anatomic 3D attachment sites of the second through fifth CMC ligaments were visually depicted qualitatively, and their areas quantified. This 3D information will not only afford a better understanding of the anatomy and mechanics of the second through fifth CMC joints, but will also assist in the assessment of radiographic images and treatment of various injuries. Clin. Anat. 20:530–544, 2007. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The anatomy demonstrator of the future: An examination of the role of the medically‐qualified anatomy demonstrator in the context of tomorrow's doctors and modernizing medical careers
Authors: Lockwood A.M. , Roberts A.M.
Published: October 2006

In 1993, the UK General Medical Council published Tomorrow's Doctors leading to a nationwide restructuring of undergraduate medical courses. Traditional courses with distinct pre‐clinical and clinical phases gave way to a more integrated approach to undergraduate medical education, with an emphasis on the quality and variety of teaching provided. More than a decade after Tomorrow's Doctors, postgraduate medical training is being transformed. Modernising Medical Careers is leading to the introduction of a two‐year Foundation Programme, with subsequent streamlined specialist training. In the context of these changes, we consider how the creation of posts for medically‐qualified anatomy demonstrators would present an opportunity to fulfil needs in both undergraduate education and postgraduate training. We outline the threats facing established posts, and how these problems may be resolved. We hope that this overview of the challenges facing undergraduate and postgraduate education in the UK, with particular reference to anatomy, may offer some useful insight to teachers and learners in other countries. We conclude that the role of the medically‐qualified anatomy demonstrator has proved valuable in the context of Tomorrow's Doctors, and that this role can evolve and expand as part of the 21st century “modern medical career.” Clin. Anat. 20:455–459, 2007. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A Genetically Encoded Pore for the Stochastic Detection of a Protein Kinase
Authors: Cheley Stephen , Xie Hongzhi , Bayley Hagan
Published: October 2006

Stochastic sensing is an emerging approach for the detection of a wide variety of analytes at the level of individual molecules. Detection is accomplished by observing the modulation of the current that flows through a single protein pore that has been engineered to bind an analyte of interest. Previously, protein analytes have been detected by using pores to which ligands have been appended at specific sites by targeted chemical modification. Here, we report the first genetically encoded stochastic sensor element for detecting a protein. A protein kinase inhibitor peptide sequence was incorporated into the α‐hemolysin polypeptide, which was used to form a heteroheptameric pore containing a single copy of the inhibitor sequence. With this pore, the successful detection of the catalytic subunit of protein kinase A was demonstrated. This development should greatly facilitate the detection of active kinase subunits by stochastic sensing and the rapid screening of kinase inhibitors by an approach that yields kinetic information.
Phosphorus‐Bearing Axially Chiral Biaryls by Catalytic Asymmetric Cross‐Cyclotrimerization and a First Application in Asymmetric Hydrosilylation
Authors: Heller Barbara , Gutnov Andrey , Fischer Christine , Drexler Hans‐Joachim , Spannenberg Anke , Redkin Dmitry , Sundermann Corinna , Sundermann Bernd
Published: October 2006

A novel and efficient, two‐step route to axially chiral biaryls is demonstrated. In a direct asymmetric cross‐cyclotrimerization in the presence of a chiral cobalt(I) catalyst, axially chiral biaryls bearing phosphoryl moieties have been prepared, and through indirect evidence the authors have been able to clarify the origin of the stereochemical induction and the nature of the central intermediate in the catalytic cycle. By subsequent reduction of the phosphoryl moiety to the corresponding phosphine, a very efficient and atom‐economical approach to chiral systems has been developed. These chiral systems clearly have great potential use as axially chiral monodentate P‐ or bidentate P,O‐ligands, as has been demonstrated by the employment of the novel NAPHEP as a new monodentate acting ligand in an asymmetric hydrosilylation reaction.
Sterilisation von Abfüllmaschinen: Standardisierung von Bioindikatoren, Untersuchungsmethoden und Validierungsverfahren
Authors: Muranyi P. , Wunderlich J. , Dobosz M.
Published: October 2006

Die Bewertung der Entkeimungsleistung keimarm oder steril arbeitender Abfüllanlagen im Lebensmittel‐ und Pharmabereich erfolgt praktisch durch mikrobiologische Validierungsverfahren. Grundlage bei der Validierung sind Bioindikatoren mit ausgewählten Testkeimen, deren Resistenzen je nach Anzucht variieren und maßgeblich die Abtötungseffizienz beeinflussen können. Für eine reelle Aussage über das Wirkungsspektrum von Entkeimungsvorrichtungen sind deshalb definierte Resistenzen der Testkeime unerlässlich, die im Rahmen standardisierter Untersuchungsmethoden eingesetzt werden. In Abhängigkeit der verwendeten Testmethodik sind dabei neben der erreichbaren Keimreduktion auch Aussagen über die Praxistauglichkeit und den Hygienestatus des gesamten Abfüllprozesses möglich.
Unter Druck gelöste Gase als Zerstörpotenzial für Mikroorganismen: Ein alternatives Verfahren zur Haltbarmachung von Flüssigkeiten
Authors: Klingner E. , Harting P. , Steiger H.‐J. , Wecks M. , Bönsch K.
Published: October 2006

Die Inaktivierung von Mikroorganismen ist ein unumgänglicher Schritt bei der Konservierung von Lebensmitteln. In einem neuartigen Verfahren wird unter Druck gelöstes Gas bei der nachfolgenden Entspannung zur Inaktivierung von mikrobiellen Kontaminanten genutzt. Der Prozess läuft in einem moderaten Druckbereich bis ca. 50 MPa ab und kann sowohl chargenweise als auch kontinuierlich geführt werden.
Model‐based analysis of excitatory lateral connections in the visual cortex
Authors: Buzás Péter , Kovács Krisztina , Ferecskó Alex S. , Budd Julian M.L. , Eysel Ulf T. , Kisvárday Zoltán F.
Published: October 2006

Excitatory lateral connections within the primary visual cortex are thought to link neurons with similar receptive field properties. Here we studied whether this rule can predict the distribution of excitatory connections in relation to cortical location and orientation preference in the cat visual cortex. To this end, we obtained orientation maps of areas 17 or 18 using optical imaging and injected anatomical tracers into these regions. The distribution of labeled axonal boutons originating from large populations of excitatory neurons was then analyzed and compared with that of individual pyramidal or spiny stellate cells. We demonstrate that the connection patterns of populations of nearby neurons can be reasonably predicted by Gaussian and von Mises distributions as a function of cortical location and orientation, respectively. The connections were best described by superposition of two components: a spatially extended, orientation‐specific and a local, orientation‐invariant component. We then fitted the same model to the connections of single cells. The composite pattern of nine excitatory neurons (obtained from seven different animals) was consistent with the assumptions of the model. However, model fits to single cell axonal connections were often poorer and their estimated spatial and orientation tuning functions were highly variable. We conclude that the intrinsic excitatory network is biased to similar cortical locations and orientations but it is composed of neurons showing significant deviations from the population connectivity rule. J. Comp. Neurol. 499:861–881, 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Axon behavior in the olfactory nerve reflects the involvement of catenin–cadherin mediated adhesion
Authors: Akins Michael R. , Greer Charles A.
Published: October 2006

The projection of olfactory sensory neuron (OSN) axons to the olfactory bulb (OB) is a complex but well‐regulated process. Although odorant receptor proteins, and other molecules, are implicated in this process, our understanding remains incomplete. We demonstrate that axons remain restricted to the outer olfactory nerve layer (ONLo) until they are proximal to their target glomeruli, where they enter the inner ONL (ONLi), dividing the ONL into extension and sorting zones. Sorting is likely contingent on cell:cell interactions mediated in part by cell adhesion molecules. The cadherins are a large family of adhesion molecules whose function is contingent on their intracellular binding partners, the catenins, which in turn link to the cytoskeleton. We previously demonstrated that the organization of the cytoskeleton changed as olfactory sensory neuron axons moved from the ONLo to the ONLi. To further assess the role of cadherin mediated adhesion in the developing mouse ONL, we localized α‐, β‐, γ‐, δ‐, and p120‐catenins as well as neural cadherin (N‐cadherin; CDH2) in the OB. α‐ and β‐catenins are found throughout the OB and are uniform throughout the ONL. In contrast, γ‐catenin and CDH2 are expressed predominantly in the ONLo during perinatal development, but are uniform across the ONL beginning at P7 and into adulthood. Finally, p120‐ and δ‐catenins are expressed in nonoverlapping patterns by olfactory axons and OB neuronal dendrites, respectively. We conclude that γ‐catenin‐mediated CDH2 adhesion may influence OSN targeting by restricting axons to the ONLo until they reach the appropriate domain of the OB. J. Comp. Neurol. 499:979–989, 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Androgen and estrogen receptor‐β distribution within spinal‐projecting and neurosecretory neurons in the paraventricular nucleus of the male rat
Authors: Bingham Brenda , Williamson Martin , Viau Victor
Published: October 2006

Activation of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis is initiated by neurosecretory neurons residing within the medial parvicellular part of the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN). Despite the potency by which sex steroids operate on HPA and medial parvocellular responses to stress, previous topographic and phenotypic studies suggest that gonadal steroid hormone receptors are scarcely, if at all, expressed by PVN neurons controlling anterior pituitary corticotropes. Guided by the pattern of retrograde accumulation of fluorogold, we used a direct connectional approach to define the distribution of androgen receptors (AR) and estrogen‐beta receptors (ER‐β) within populations of neurosecretory vs. nonneurosecretory neurons in the PVN. Juxtaposition of AR‐immunoreactivity (ir) and ER‐β mRNA to the pattern of intravenous fluorogold labeling showed these steroid hormone receptors to be concentrated within portions of the PVN devoid of neurosecretory neurons. Superimposing receptor profiles onto the pattern of spinal retrograde labeling confirmed a selective distribution of AR‐ir within autonomic‐related cells of the medial parvocellular division, including its dorsal, lateral, and ventral medial components. ER‐β mRNA expression was likewise concentrated within regions accumulating spinal tracer, highest within the ventral aspect of the PVN. These results indicate a direct influence of gonadal hormones on preautonomic effector neurons and remain in keeping with an indirect influence of androgens on adrenocorticotropin‐regulating neurons in the PVN. J. Comp. Neurol. 499:911–923, 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Ontogeny of hippocampal corticosteroid receptors: Effects of antenatal glucocorticoids in human and mouse
Authors: Noorlander C.W. , De Graan P.N.E. , Middeldorp J. , Van Beers J.J.B.C. , Visser G.H.A.
Published: October 2006

Women at risk for preterm delivery are treated with synthetic glucocorticoids (GCs) to enhance fetal lung maturation. GCs can bind to two intracellular receptors, the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) and the mineralocorticoid receptor (MR), which function as transcription factors. Both are highly expressed in the hippocampus. Several studies have focused on adverse side effects of antenatal GC treatment. However, relatively little is known about the ontogeny of GR and MR, especially in human. Therefore, we studied the ontogeny of both receptors in the human and mouse hippocampus and investigated the effects of antenatal dexamethasone (dex) treatment, a synthetic glucocorticoid, on MR and GR mRNA levels during hippocampal development. The results demonstrate that MR mRNA was first expressed in mouse hippocampus at embryonic day (E)15.5, at the timepoint when dex was administered. In contrast, GR mRNA expression was first observed after birth at postnatal day (P)5. However, in the human hippocampus both receptors are expressed at 24 weeks of gestation, when antenatal GCs are administered in clinical practice. Quantitative in situ hybridization demonstrated that MR mRNA levels were reduced only shortly after dex treatment at E16, but were unaffected from E18 onwards. These findings indicate that a single antenatal dex administration at E15.5 transiently affects MR mRNA levels in the mouse hippocampus. No effect of antenatal dex treatment was found on the human hippocampus at the third trimester of pregnancy. These data on the prenatal ontogeny of both corticosteroid receptors in the human hippocampus is important for understanding the significance of fetal glucocorticoid or stress exposure and its potential effects on health and disease. J. Comp. Neurol. 499:924–932, 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Zac1 promotes a Müller glial cell fate and interferes with retinal ganglion cell differentiation in Xenopus retina
Authors: Ma Lin , Hocking Jennifer C. , Hehr Carrie L. , Schuurmans Carol , McFarlane Sarah
Published: October 2006

The timing of cell cycle exit is tightly linked to cell fate specification in the developing retina. Accordingly, several tumor suppressor genes, which are key regulators of cell cycle exit in cancer cells, play critical roles in retinogenesis. Here we investigated the role of Zac1, a tumor suppressor gene encoding a zinc finger transcription factor, in retinal development. Strikingly, in gain‐of‐function assays in Xenopus, mouse Zac1 promotes proliferation and apoptosis at an intermediate stage of retinogenesis. Zac1 also influences cell fate decisions, preferentially promoting the differentiation of tumor‐like clusters of abnormal neuronal cells in the ganglion cell layer, as well as inducing the formation of supernumerary Müller glial cells at the expense of other cell types. Thus Zac1 has the capacity to influence cell cycle exit, and cell fate specification and differentiation decisions by retinal progenitors, suggesting that further functional studies will uncover new insights into how retinogenesis is regulated. Developmental Dynamics 236:192–202, 2007. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Synthesis and Characterization of Some New 22‐Membered Chalcogenoaza Macrocycles and Their CoII and NiII Complexes
Authors: Patel Upali , Singh Harkesh B. , Butcher Ray J.
Published: October 2006

The [2+2] cyclocondensation of bis(o‐formylphenyl)chalcogenides (9, 10) with trans‐1,2‐diaminocyclohexane affords novel macrocyclic ligands 11 and 12 in very good yields. Crystals of 11 are triclinic, space group P$\bar {1}$ with a = 11.4037(11), b = 11.8184(12), c = 14.6835(14) Å, Z = 4 and those of 12 are triclinic, space group P$\bar {1}$ with a = 11.2692(9), b = 12.8612(11), c = 15.2439(12) Å and Z = 2. Reduction of 11 with sodium borohydride affords macrocycle 13. The coordination chemistry of 11 has been studied with the “hard” metal ions NiII and CoII. Reaction of NiCl2·6H2O with one molar equivalent of 11 in refluxing methanol followed by addition of NH4PF6 affords NiII complex 14. The assignment of an octahedral geometry to 14 follows from its paramagnetism (μeff = 2.50 μB) and UV/Vis spectrum and was further confirmed by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction studies. The crystal structure of 14 consists of a distorted octahedral nickel center coordinated by two selenium and four nitrogen atoms. Complex 14: hexagonal, space group P61, a = 17.0747(16), b = 17.0747(16), c = 29.958(4) Å, Z = 6. CoII complexes 15 and 16 of selenaaza macrocycles were prepared by the reaction of Co(ClO4)2·6H2O with 11 and 3, respectively. Complex 16: monoclinic, space group C2, a = 17.160(2), b = 10.9660(14), c = 9.4941(12) Å, Z = 2. The cyclic voltammograms of 15 and 16 in MeCN solution show well‐behaved quasi‐reversible couples.(© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2006)