bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Robot Path Planning
Authors: Hsu Harry Chia‐Hung
Published: March 2009

Planning for a robot to execute a task from abstraction to concretion can be roughly divided into three stages: task planning, path planning, and motion planning. The task planning divides a complex task into several simple subtasks. For instance, for a forage robot to execute a task of grasping food back to home, this task may be divided into subtasks of searching food, moving toward the food if found, grasping the food, moving the food back to home, and putting the food at home. For executing each subtask, path planning needs to produce a path for the robot to execute. For example, for executing the subtask of moving toward the food, the robot needs to calculate executable paths from its current position to the food position and determine which route to take if multiple paths exist (generally the shortest path has the highest priority). Similarly, for executing the subtask of grasping the food, the robot needs to produce a path for its arm to hold the food. Finally, the motion planning based on the planned path to plan its kinematic and dynamic motions for the robot to execute. The main focus of this article is path planning, and part of task planning and motion planning is also mentioned as they are related.
Perspectives on Software Engineering Professionalism
Authors: Thompson J. Barrie
Published: March 2009

Global and national developments relevant to software engineering professionalism, which include those relevant to licensing and certification, are considered, along with relevant definitions, models, and frameworks. Major successes and problems are reported followed by an evaluation of recent progress and an outline of areas that require more work.
The Computing Field: Structure
Authors: Denning Peter J.
Published: March 2009

This article examines the development of the computing field. Our account considers the computing field in four stages: infancy (1935–1950), childhood (1950–1970), adolescence (1970–1990), and young adulthood (1990–2010). The computing profession is a product of the fourth stage. The relationships between computing and other fields are vitally important.
Computing Pre‐University: Secondary Level Computing Curricula
Authors: Ragonis Noa
Published: March 2009

This article reviews the teaching of computing in high schools throughout the world. Many approaches exist to teaching computing topics to high‐school students, which range from the use of basic computer applications, such as word processors and presentation software, and through the use of advanced applications, such as spread sheets, databases and the construction of basic websites, to some highly advanced computing programs that approach academic curricula.

Various agencies and countries have invested great efforts over the years in the updating of curricula following rapid developments in the domain. Deliberations are many and they are manifested in the different names given to the curricula, in the diversity of their targets and contents, and in the wide range of guidelines offered vis‐á‐vis teaching approaches. The common denominator of all such curricula emphasizes the need to prepare students for the world of tomorrow, in all that pertains to computerization. Such training must refer to principles rather than be based on mastering of one tool or programming language rather than another. The article first presents the different approaches that emerge with respect to computing curricula, and then it offers a detailed review of curricula from 19 countries worldwide. Finally, a summarizing comparison between the various curricula is presented in conclusion. It to be viewed that even in countries that have curricula in place, there is still lack in terms of the implementing it. Implementation vis‐á‐vis the general population is more extensive in the prevalent areas of information technology (IT) or information and communication technology (ICT), but it is significantly less extensive in the area of computer science. It seems that most countries are still a long way from achieving their education vision with respect to the domain of computing, and plenty of work still must be done.
Magnetic Multi‐Functional Nano Composites for Environmental Applications
Authors: Dong Jie , Xu Zhenghe , Kuznicki Steven M.
Published: March 2009

A novel concept is proposed to synthesize a new class of composites featuring magnetic, molecular sieve and metallic nanoparticle properties. These multi‐functional materials have potential applications as recyclable catalysts, disinfectants and sorbents. The magnetic property enables effective separation of the spent composites from complex multiphase systems for regeneration and recycle, safe disposal of the waste and/or recovery of loaded valuable species. The zeolite molecular sieve provides a matrix which supports a remarkably new, simple, efficient and economical method to make stable, supported silver nanoparticles by silver ion exchange and controlled thermal reduction. The silver nanoparticles generated in this way have excellent properties such as high reactivity and good thermal stability without aggregation, which act as nano reactors for desired functionality in a wide range of applications. Magnetic component (Fe3O4), molecular sieve matrix (zeolite) and silver nanoparticles generated by ion exchange followed by controlled reduction, together form this unique novel composite with designed functions. It represents a practically operational, economical, sustainable and environmentally friendly new advanced functional material. This paper focuses on the novel synthesis and characterization of the composite, with an example of applications as sorbents for the removal of vapor‐phase mercury from the flue gas of coal‐fired power plants.
The Implications of Polymer Selection in Regenerative Medicine: A Comparison of Amorphous and Semi‐Crystalline Polymer for Tissue Regeneration
Authors: Kofron Michelle D. , Griswold Allison , Kumbar Sangamesh G. , Martin Kylie , Wen Xuejun , Laurencin Cato T.
Published: March 2009

Biodegradable polymeric scaffolds are being investigated as scaffolding materials for use in regenerative medicine. While the in vivo evaluation of various three‐dimensional (3D), porous, biodegradable polymeric scaffolds has been reported, most studies are ≤3 months in duration, which is typically prior to bulk polymer degradation, a critical event that may initiate an inflammatory response and inhibit tissue formation. Here, a 6 month in vitro degradation and corresponding in vivo studies that characterized scaffold changes during complete degradation of an amorphous, 3D poly(lactide‐co‐glycolide)(3D‐PLAGA) scaffold and near‐complete degradation of a semi‐crystalline3D‐PLAGA scaffold are reported. Using sintered microsphere matrix technology, constructs were fabricated in a tubular shape, with the longitudinal axis void and a median pore size that mimicked the architecture of native bone. Long‐term quantitative measurements of molecular weight, mechanical properties, and porosity provided a basis for theorization of the scaffold degradation process. Following implantation in a critical size ulnar defect model, histological analysis and quantitative microCT indicated early solubilization of the semi‐crystalline polymer created an acidic microenvironment that inhibited mineralized tissue formation. Thus, the use of amorphous over semi‐crystalline PLAGA materials is advocated for applications in regenerative medicine.
Polypyrrole Nanotubes Conjugated with Human Olfactory Receptors: High‐Performance Transducers for FET‐Type Bioelectronic Noses
Authors: Yoon Hyeonseok , Lee Sang Hun , Kwon Oh Seok , Song Hyun Seok , Oh Eun Hae , Park Tai Hyun , Jang Jyongsik
Published: March 2009

Reingeschnuppert: Polypyrrol‐Nanoröhren, die mit dem menschlichen olfaktorischen Rezeptor (hOR) konjugiert waren, wurden in Feldeffekttransistoren integriert, um leistungsfähige bioelektronische Nasen herzustellen (siehe Bild; S=Source, D=Drain). Das Gerät kann hOR‐Geruchsstoff‐Wechselwirkungen in ein messbares Signal übertragen und zeigte hochempfindliche und spezifische Reaktionen auf einen ausgewählten Geruchsstoff.

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Effects of radio frequency magnetic fields on iron release from cage proteins
Authors: Céspedes Oscar , Ueno Shoogo
Published: March 2009

Ferritin, the iron cage protein, contains a superparamagnetic ferrihydrite nanoparticle formed from the oxidation and absorption of Fe2+ ions. This nanoparticle increases its internal energy when exposed to alternating magnetic fields due to magnetization lag. The energy is then dissipated to the surrounding proteic cage, affecting its functioning. In this article we show that the rates of iron chelation with ferrozine, an optical marker, are reduced by up to a factor of 3 in proteins previously exposed to radio frequency magnetic fields of 1 MHz and 30 µT for several hours. The effect is non‐thermal and depends on the frequency‐amplitude product of the magnetic field. Bioelectromagnetics 30:336–342, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Chaperoning stem cells: a role for heat shock proteins in the modulation of stem cell self‐renewal and differentiation?
Authors: Prinsloo Earl , Setati Mokgadi M. , Longshaw Victoria M. , Blatch Gregory L.
Published: March 2009

Self‐renewal and differentiation of stem cells are tightly regulated processes subject to intrinsic and extrinsic signals. Molecular chaperones and co‐chaperones, especially heat shock proteins (Hsp), are ubiquitous molecules involved in the modulation of protein conformational and complexation states. The function of Hsp, which are typically associated with stress response and tolerance, is well characterized in differentiated cells, while their role in stem cells remains unclear. It appears that embryonic stem cells exhibit increased stress tolerance and concomitant high levels of chaperone expression. This review critically evaluates stem cell research from a molecular chaperone perspective. Furthermore, we propose a model of chaperone‐modulated self‐renewal in mouse embryonic stem cells.
Ligand‐induced activation of the insulin receptor: a multi‐step process involving structural changes in both the ligand and the receptor
Authors: Ward Colin W. , Lawrence Michael C.
Published: March 2009

Current models of insulin binding to the insulin receptor (IR) propose (i) that there are two binding sites on the surface of insulin which engage with two binding sites on the receptor and (ii) that ligand binding involves structural changes in both the ligand and the receptor. Many of the features of insulin binding to its receptor, namely B‐chain helix interactions with the leucine‐rich repeat domain and A‐chain residue interactions with peptide loops from another part of the receptor, are also seen in models of relaxin and insulin‐like peptide 3 binding to their receptors. We show that these principles can likely be extended to the group of mimetic peptides described by Schäffer and coworkers, which are reported to have no sequence identity with insulin. This review summarizes our current understanding of ligand‐induced activation of the IR and highlights the key issues that remain to be addressed.
Structural analysis of the human cannabinoid receptor one carboxyl‐terminus identifies two amphipathic helices
Authors: Ahn Kwang H. , Pellegrini Maria , Tsomaia Natia , Yatawara Achani K. , Kendall Debra A. , Mierke Dale F.
Published: March 2009

Recent research has implicated the C‐terminus of G‐protein coupled receptors in key events such as receptor activation and subsequent intracellular sorting, yet obtaining structural information of the entire C‐tail has proven a formidable task. Here, a peptide corresponding to the full‐length C‐tail of the human CB1 receptor (residues 400–472) was expressed inE.coliand purified in a soluble form. Circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy revealed that the peptide adopts an α‐helical conformation in negatively charged and zwitterionic detergents (48–51% and 36–38%, respectively), whereas it exhibited the CD signature of unordered structure at low concentration in aqueous solution. Interestingly, 27% helicity was displayed at high peptide concentration suggesting that self‐association induces helix formation in the absence of a membrane mimetic. NMR spectroscopy of the doubly labeled (15N‐ and13C‐) C‐terminus in dodecylphosphocholine (DPC) identified two amphipathic α‐helical domains. The first domain, S401‐F412, corresponds to the helix 8 common to G protein‐coupled receptors while the second domain, A440‐M461, is a newly identified structural motif in the distal region of the carboxyl‐terminus of the receptor. Molecular modeling of the C‐tail in DPC indicates that both helices lie parallel to the plane of the membrane with their hydrophobic and hydrophilic faces poised for critical interactions. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers 91: 565–573, 2009.

This article was originally published online as an accepted preprint. The “Published Online” date corresponds to the preprint version. You can request a copy of the preprint by emailing the Biopolymers editorial office at biopolymers@wiley.com
Biophysical characterization and unfolding of LEF4 factor of RNA polymerase from AcNPV
Authors: Rasheedi Sheeba , Suragani Madhuri , Haq Soghra K. , Ghosh Sudip , Ehtesham Nasreen Z. , Hasnain Seyed E.
Published: March 2009

Late expression factor 4 (LEF4) is one of the four subunits of Autographa californica nuclear polyhedrosis virus (AcNPV) RNA polymerase. LEF4 was overexpressed in Escherichia coli and recombinant protein was subjected to structural characterization. Chemical induced unfolding of LEF4 was investigated using intrinsic fluorescence, hydrophobic dye binding, fluorescence quenching, and circular dichroism (CD) techniques. The unfolding of LEF4 was found to be a non‐two state, biphasic transition. Intermediate states of LEF4 at 2M GnHCl and 4M urea shared some common structural features and hence may lie on the same pathway of protein folding. Steady‐state fluorescence and far‐UV CD showed that while there was considerable shift in the wavelength of emission maximum (λmax), the secondary structure of LEF4 intermediates at 2M GnHCl and 4M urea remained intact. Further, temperature induced denaturation of LEF4 was monitored using far‐UV CD. This study points to the structural stability of LEF4 under the influence of denaturants like urea and temperature. Although LEF4 is an interesting model protein to study protein folding intermediates, in terms of functional significance the robust nature of this protein might reflect one of the several strategies adapted by the virus to survive under very adverse environmental and physiological conditions. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers 91: 574–582, 2009.

This article was originally published online as an accepted preprint. The “Published Online” date corresponds to the preprint version. You can request a copy of the preprint by emailing the Biopolymers editorial office at biopolymers@wiley.com
Hydrophobic interaction chromatography in dual salt system increases protein binding capacity
Authors: Senczuk Anna M. , Klinke Ralph , Arakawa Tsutomu , Vedantham Ganesh , Yigzaw Yinges
Published: March 2009

Hydrophobic interaction chromatography (HIC) uses weakly hydrophobic resins and requires a salting‐out salt to promote protein–resin interaction. The salting‐out effects increase with protein and salt concentration. Dynamic binding capacity (DBC) is dependent on the binding constant, as well as on the flow characteristics during sample loading. DBC increases with the salt concentration but decreases with increasing flow rate. Dynamic and operational binding capacity have a major raw material cost/processing time impact on commercial scale production of monoclonal antibodies. In order to maximize DBC the highest salt concentration without causing precipitation is used. We report here a novel method to maintain protein solubility while increasing the DBC by using a combination of two salting‐out salts (referred to as dual salt). In a series of experiments, we explored the dynamic capacity of a HIC resin (TosoBioscience Butyl 650M) with combinations of salts. Using a model antibody, we developed a system allowing us to increase the dynamic capacity up to twofold using the dual salt system over traditional, single salt system. We also investigated the application of this novel approach to several other proteins and salt combinations, and noted a similar protein solubility and DBC increase. The observed increase in DBC in the dual salt system was maintained at different linear flow rates and did not impact selectivity. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2009;103: 930–935. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Novel method for fabrication of skeletal muscle construct from the C2C12 myoblast cell line using serum‐free medium AIM‐V
Authors: Fujita Hideaki , Shimizu Kazunori , Nagamori Eiji
Published: March 2009

We have fabricated muscle tissue from murine myoblast cell line C2C12 by modifying the previously reported method. Fabrication of skeletal muscle tissue has been performed in many ways including the use of a biodegradable scaffold, a collagen gel‐embedded culture, or cell sheet tissue engineering, but the extent of tension generation remains low. Recently, a new skeletal muscle tissue engineering technique involving self‐dissociation of a cell sheet from a laminin‐coated polydimethylsiloxane surface was reported which mostly involved a primary cell culture or co‐culture of C2C12 and 10T1/2 cells. In this study, we succeeded in fabricating muscle tissue using C2C12 cells alone by enhancing cell–cell attachment by the use of serum‐free medium AIM‐V. C2C12 cells were seeded on to a laminin‐coated PDMS surface in a 35 mm culture dish with two silk sutures of 5 mm in length each pinned at two places 18 mm apart. Then, cells were allowed to differentiate in AIM‐V, and the cells started to dissociate in a sheet‐like manner after 5–8 days of differentiation. The cells remained attached to the silk sutures, and tissue having a cylindrical morphology was fabricated. After the cylindrical morphology had been obtained, the medium was changed to DMEM supplemented with 2% horse serum, followed by culture for an additional 5–8 days for maturation. Tissue fabricated using this method was excitable with electric pulse stimulation and the generated active tension was approximately 1.4× greater than that reported previously for a co‐culture of C2C12 and 10T1/2 cells. Immuno‐fluorescence study revealed the presence of a sarcomere structure within the fabricated tissue, and Western blotting confirmed the expression of muscle specific‐proteins. The increased active tension generation compared to that with the previously reported method is probably attributable to the increased proportion of myogenic cells in the tissue. Myooid fabricated from mono‐culture of C2C12 will be useful in the muscle study, especially in the area where gene modification is needed. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2009;103: 1034–1041. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Intergenerational linkages in antisocial behaviour
Authors: Thornberry Terence P. , Freeman‐Gallant Adrienne , Lovegrove Peter J.
Published: March 2009

Background A life‐course perspective was used to examine whether a parent's adolescent antisocial behaviour increases the chances of his or her child being involved in antisocial behaviour and, if so, the extent to which different aspects of parenting mediate this relationship.

Aim It was hypothesised that there will be significant levels of intergenerational continuity in antisocial behaviour when parents have ongoing contact with the child, and that stress from parenting and ineffective parenting styles will mediate this relationship.

Method Longitudinal data from the Rochester Intergenerational Study were used to test these issues in structural equation models for fathers and for mothers.

Results Parental antisocial behaviour is significantly related to child antisocial behaviour for mothers and for fathers who have frequent contact with the child, but not for fathers with infrequent contact. For mothers, the impact of adolescent antisocial behaviour on the child's antisocial behaviour is primarily mediated through parenting stress and effective parenting. For high‐contact fathers there are multiple mediating pathways that help explain the impact of their adolescent antisocial behaviour on their child's behaviour.

Conclusions The roots of antisocial behaviour extend back at least to the parent's adolescence, and parenting interventions need to consider these long‐term processes. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Association of criminal convictions between family members: Effects of siblings, fathers and mothers
Authors: van de Rakt Marieke , Nieuwbeerta Paul , Apel Robert
Published: March 2009

Background Crime runs in families. Previous research has shown the existence of intergenerational transmission of criminal behaviour.

Aim The aim of the present study was to investigate the extent to which variation in criminal convictions may be explained by the criminality of siblings and by the intergenerational transmission of criminal behaviour.

Method Data from the Dutch Criminal Career and Life‐course Study (CCLS) were used to analyse cross‐tabulations and to conduct multi‐level logistic regression analyses.

Results The results indicate that criminal convictions of other family members are indeed correlated with individual conviction risk. The criminal history of siblings is most strongly correlated with the convictions of focal respondents. Results furthermore show that parental convictions only account modestly for the association of criminal convictions between siblings.

Conclusions These findings indicate that a direct influence between siblings is plausible, providing support for learning or imitation theories. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Family factors in the intergenerational transmission of offending
Authors: Farrington David P. , Coid Jeremy W. , Murray Joseph
Published: March 2009

Background Convicted parents tend to have convicted children, but there have been few previous studies of transmission between three generations, especially including both records and interviews for hundreds of people.

Method In the Cambridge Study in Delinquent Development (CSDD), 411 south London males have been followed up from age 8 to age 48. These males (generation 2, G2) are compared with their fathers and mothers (generation 1, G1), and with their biological sons and daughters (generation 3, G3).

Results There was significant intergenerational transmission of convictions from G1 males to G2 males, and from G2 males to G3 males. Convictions of fathers still predicted convictions of sons after controlling for risk factors, but the predictive efficiency was reduced. Transmission was less from G1 females to G2 males, and from G2 males to G3 females. There was little evidence of intergenerational transmission from G1 to G3, except from grandmothers to granddaughters.

Conclusions The intergenerational transmission of offending may be mediated by family, socio‐economic and individual risk factors. Intervention to reduce intergenerational transmission could target these risk factors. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Carotid stent fracture: Diagnosis and management
Authors: Boehm Gernot , Gschwendtner Manfred , Schillinger Martin
Published: March 2009

With increasing numbers of carotid stent implantations, stent fractures likely will be detected in this vessel region. The authors report two cases of stent fracture: one balloon expandable and one self expandable stent fractured and caused symptoms. CT angiography identified the stent fractures. One partial stent fracture in the internal carotid artery caused a significant restenosis. One complete stent fracture in the common carotid artery caused neurological symptoms, but no significant restenosis. Computerized tomographic angiography (CTA) findings were confirmed by conventional angiography and treated by repeated stent implantation. In a 12‐month follow‐up period, both patients remained further neurologically asymptomatic and there was no restenosis in duplex sonography or CTA. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Synthesis and Plasmon‐Induced Charge‐Transfer Properties of Monodisperse Gold‐Doped Titania Microspheres
Authors: Wang Ping , Xie Teng‐Feng , Li Hai‐Yan , Peng Liang , Zhang Yu , Wu Tong‐Shun , Pang Shan , Zhao Yun‐Feng , Wang De‐Jun
Published: March 2009

Functional spheres: Monodisperse gold‐doped titania spheres with tunable sizes under high concentration of titanium precursor have been synthesized by introducing trace amounts of chloroauric acid into the reaction system. Surface photovoltage, surface photocurrent, and transient photovoltage measurements (see figure) of annealed samples reveal that gold nanodots can act as both electron acceptors and donors under the illumination of different wavelengths of light.

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Monodisperse gold‐doped titania microspheres have been synthesized under high concentration of a titanium precursor (9.34 mM) by introducing a trace amount of chloroauric acid (CA) into the reaction system; the size of the microspheres can be easily tuned (from ≈587 to ≈392 nm) by varying the amount of the CA added. The plausible formation mechanism has been discussed in detail. Chloroauric acid was found to act as the stabilizing agent to induce the formation of monodisperse colloidal spheres. Gold‐doped anatase titania spheres with ≈7 nm gold nanodots on the surface were synthesized by calcination. Interestingly, results from surface photocurrent, surface photovoltage, and transient photovoltage measurements indicate that the gold nanodots exhibit different electronic properties when the gold‐doped anatase titania spheres were illuminated by different wavelengths of light: one is an electron acceptor in the UV region, while the other is an electron donor in the visible region. Furthermore, the decay time of the injected plasmon‐induced electrons was found to be on the millisecond timescale and increased with increasing amounts of gold doped.
Star Mesogens (Hekates)—Tailor‐Made Molecules for Programming Supramolecular Functionality
Authors: Lehmann Matthias
Published: March 2009

Hekates: Modular synthesis of star‐shaped molecules affords mesogens with various functional units and incompatible peripheral chains (see figure). The supramolecular order in the complex, soft, liquid‐crystalline, functional materials can be programmed by variation of the elements of diversity at a meso‐ and nanoscale.

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This concept article focuses on the simplest branched liquid crystalline (LC) molecules—the three‐armed mesogens with arms symmetrically linked to the core. They are basic but fascinating mesogens for the exploration of self‐assembling processes into complex, functional, soft materials. Quite a large number of elements of diversity provide the possibility to synthetically program such star‐shaped molecules and to control phase formation, if aggregation processes are fully understood. Recently, ABC‐cores opened the way to non‐symmetric mesogens and, therefore, to the concept of multifunctional materials with defined nanostructures. In the article this outstanding family of mesogens is classified, their peculiar molecular structure and self‐assembly are discussed and potential applications are presented, in which this type of mesogen may be beneficial.
Synthesis of Styrenes by Palladium(II)‐Catalyzed Vinylation of Arylboronic Acids and Aryltrifluoroborates by Using Vinyl Acetate
Authors: Lindh Jonas , Sävmarker Jonas , Nilsson Peter , Sjöberg Per J. R. , Larhed Mats
Published: March 2009

One Heck of a reaction: Treatment of arylboronic acids or aryltrifluoroborates with vinyl acetate by using a palladium(II) catalyst gives the corresponding styrenes (see scheme). No palladium reoxidant is needed and the vinylation is performed under non‐inert conditions

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Reactions of aromatic and heteroaromatic boronic acids or aryltrifluoroborate salts with vinyl acetate in the presence of a palladium(II) catalyst give the corresponding styrenes in good yields. This Heck reaction proceeds with microwave heating in less than 30 min at 140 °C in the absence of base and tolerates a variety of substituents. No palladium reoxidant is needed and the vinylation is performed under non‐inert conditions. Mass spectrometry (electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESIMS) and tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS)) was used to identify cationic palladium‐containing complexes in ongoing reactions. The key intermediates that have been detected, together with experiments that used deuterated vinyl acetate, support the existence of catalytically active palladium hydride species, and that it is the arylation of ethylene, not vinyl acetate, which generates the styrene product. The mechanism of the reaction is discussed in terms of the palladium(II) intermediates mentioned above.
P2X2‐ and P2X3‐positive fibers in fungiform papillae originate from the chorda tympani but not the trigeminal nerve in rats and mice
Authors: Ishida Yusuke , Ugawa Shinya , Ueda Takashi , Yamada Takahiro , Shibata Yasuhiro , Hondoh Aki , Inoue Kiyoshi , Yu Yong , Shimada Shoichi
Published: March 2009

The subtype 2 and subtype 3 ionotropic purinergic receptors (P2X receptors) are crucial for gustation, but the distribution of these receptors in the geniculate ganglion (GG) and their colocalization in tongue papillae remain unknown. Here we investigated the expression and colocalization of P2X2 and P2X3 receptors in the GG and fungiform papillae in rats and mice by using in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry. In both species, P2X2 transcripts and immunoreactivity were detected in approximately 50–60% of GG neuronal somata, whereas those of P2X3 were observed in almost all neurons. In each fungiform papilla, immunoreactivity for both receptors was mostly colocalized and was seen in nerve fibers and their bundles concentrated in the taste buds. Because it is well known that the P2X receptors are involved in not only taste but also nociception, we determined whether the expression originated from the chorda tympani nerve (CT, gustatory) or trigeminal nerve (somatosensory) by cutting the CT in both animals. Most P2X2 and P2X3 immunoreactivity in the fungiform papillae was abolished after transection, although the nerve fiber immunoreactivity of transient receptor potential V1 (a marker of somatosensory nerve fibers) remained unchanged, indicating that most fungiform papillae nerve fibers with P2X2 and P2X3 receptors were derived from CT. Taken together, these findings suggest that most P2X2 and P2X3 receptors in fungiform papillae are used for gustation rather than somatosensation. J. Comp. Neurol. 514:131–144, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Patterns of expression of Bardet‐Biedl syndrome proteins in the mammalian cochlea suggest noncentrosomal functions
Authors: May‐Simera Helen L. , Ross Alison , Rix Suzanne , Forge Andrew , Beales Philip L. , Jagger Daniel J.
Published: March 2009

Bardet‐Biedl syndrome is a heterogeneous disorder causing a spectrum of symptoms, including visual impairment, kidney disease, and hearing impairment. Evidence suggests that BBS gene mutations cause defective ciliogenesis and/or cilium dysfunction. Cochlear development is affected by BBS gene deletion, and adult Bbs6–/– and Bbs4–/– mice are hearing impaired. This study addresses BBS protein expression in the rodent cochlea, to gain a better understanding of its function in vivo. As predicted by in vitro studies, Bbs6 immunofluorescence was localized to the basal bodies of supporting cells and sensory hair cells prior to the onset of hearing. In adult tissue, Bbs6 expression persisted in afferent neurons, including within the dendrites that innervate hair cells, implicating Bbs6 in a sensory neuronal function. Bbs2, which interacts with Bbs6, was also localized to hair cell basal bodies and stereociliary bundles. Additionally, Bbs2 was expressed in supporting cells at their intercellular boundaries, in a spatiotemporal pattern mirroring the development of the microtubule network. Bbs4 localized to cilia and developing cytoplasmic microtubule arrays. Pcm‐1, a microtubular protein that interacts with Bbs4 in vitro, showed a comparable expression. Depolymerization of microtubules in slice preparations of the living cochlea resulted in Bbs4 and Pcm‐1 mislocalization. Pcm‐1 was also mislocalized in Bbs4–/– mice. This suggests that Bbs4/Pcm‐1 interactions may be important in microtubule‐dependent cytoplasmic trafficking in vivo. In summary, our findings indicate that BBS proteins adopt a range of cellular distributions in vivo, not restricted to the centrosome or cilium, and so broaden the possible underlying pathomechanisms of the disease. J. Comp. Neurol. 514:174–188, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Birth of ophthalmic trigeminal neurons initiates early in the placodal ectoderm
Authors: McCabe Kathryn L. , Sechrist John W. , Bronner‐Fraser Marianne
Published: March 2009

The largest of the cranial ganglia, the trigeminal ganglion, relays cutaneous sensations of the head to the central nervous system. Its sensory neurons have a dual origin from both ectodermal placodes and neural crest. Here, we show that the birth of neurons derived from the chick ophthalmic trigeminal placode begins prior to their ingression (HH11), as early as HH8, and considerably earlier than previously suspected (HH16). Furthermore, cells exiting the cell cycle shortly thereafter express the ophthalmic trigeminal placode marker Pax3 (HH9). At HH11, these postmitotic Pax3+ placode cells begin to express the pan‐neuronal marker neurofilament while still in the ectoderm. Analysis of the ectodermal origin and distribution of these early postmitotic neurons reveals that the ophthalmic placode extends further rostrally than anticipated, contributing to neurons that reside in and make a significant contribution to the ophthalmic trigeminal nerve. These data redefine the timing and extent of neuron formation from the ophthalmic trigeminal placode. J. Comp. Neurol. 514:161–173, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Mps1 as a link between centrosomes and genomic instability
Authors: Kasbek Christopher , Yang Ching‐Hui , Fisk Harold A.
Published: March 2009

Centrosomes are microtubule‐organizing centers that must be precisely duplicated before mitosis. Centrosomes regulate mitotic spindle assembly, and the presence of excess centrosomes leads to the production of aberrant mitotic spindles which generate chromosome segregation errors. Many human tumors possess excess centrosomes that lead to the production of abnormal spindles in situ. In some tumors, these extra centrosomes appear before aneuploidy, suggesting that defects in centrosome duplication might promote genomic instability and tumorigenesis. The Mps1 protein kinase is required for centrosome duplication, and preventing the proteasome‐dependent degradation of Mps1 at centrosomes increases its local concentration and causes the production of excess centrosomes during a prolonged S‐phase. Here, we show that Mps1 degradation is misregulated in two tumor‐derived cell lines, and that the failure to appropriately degrade Mps1 correlates with the ability of these cells to produce extra centrosomes during a prolonged S‐phase. In the 21NT breast‐tumor derived cell line, a mutant Mps1 protein that is normally constitutively degraded can accumulate at centrosomes and perturb centrosome duplication, suggesting that these cells have a defect in the mechanisms that target Mps1 to the proteasome. In contrast, the U2OS osteosarcoma cell line expresses a nondegradable form of Mps1, which we show causes the dose‐dependent over duplication of centrioles even at very low levels of expression. Our data demonstrate that defects in Mps1 degradation can occur through multiple mechanisms, and suggest that Mps1 may provide a link between the control of centrosome duplication and genomic instability. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Stochastic search algorithms for optimal design of monitoring networks
Authors: Ruiz‐Cárdenas Ramiro , Ferreira Marco A. R. , Schmidt Alexandra M.
Published: March 2009

The design of efficient monitoring networks is critical for a better understanding of environmental, ecological, and epidemiological processes. In this paper, we develop for the optimal design of monitoring networks a new hybrid genetic algorithm (HGA) which combines the standard genetic algorithm (GA) with a local search (LS) operator. We compare the performance of our HGA with two other stochastic search algorithms, a simulated annealing (SA) algorithm and a standard GA. Specifically, we consider the reduction of pre‐existing large‐scale monitoring networks, when the optimality criterion is the maximization of the entropy of the included stations. The algorithms were tested on a set of simulated datasets of different sizes, as well as on a real application involving the downsize of a large‐scale environmental monitoring network. In each of the cases considered the HGA outperformed the other two algorithms. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Coping strategies in eating disorders
Authors: Lobera I. Jáuregui , Estébanez S. , Fernández M. J. Santiago , Bautista E. Álvarez , Garrido O.
Published: March 2009

Objective

The present article describes the coping strategies of patients with eating disorders (ED), their relation with determined personality characteristics and the specificity of strategies in comparison with a control group and a group of patients with other mental disorders.

Method

Ninety‐three patients with ED, 73 university psychology and nutrition students and 74 patients with other mental disorders were studied using the Coping Strategies Inventory (CSI) and the Inventory for the Assessment of Personality Disorders (IA‐TP).

Results

Patients with ED presented more self‐criticism, social withdrawal, inadequate emotion‐focused management and general inadequate management if they were compared to the student sample and more self‐criticism than patients with other mental disorders. Anorexic patients obtained higher scores at self‐criticism, convincing, respectful and sensitive personality while bulimic patients scored more at impulsivity. Adequate management positively correlated with a sociable personality and negatively with an introverted one. Inadequate management was associated with introverted and inhibited personalities. The cluster analysis suggested two groups of patients: the first one presented greater self‐criticism, wishful thinking, social withdrawal, inadequate emotion‐focused management and general inadequate management; the second one had greater scores at problem solving, perceived self‐efficacy, adequate problem‐focused management and general adequate management.

Discussion

Findings suggest that coping strategies can play, along with personality features, an important part in the classification of eating disorders, and also in its prognostic and treatment. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and Eating Disorders Association.
Numerical simulation of a single bubble by compressible two‐phase fluids
Authors: Müller Siegfried , Helluy Philippe , Ballmann Josef
Published: March 2009

The present work deals with the numerical investigation of a collapsing bubble in a liquid–gas fluid, which is modeled as a single compressible medium. The medium is characterized by the stiffened gas law using different material parameters for the two phases. For the discretization of the stiffened gas model, the approach of Saurel and Abgrall is employed where the flow equations, here the Euler equations, for the conserved quantities are approximated by a finite volume scheme, and an upwind discretization is used for the non‐conservative transport equations of the pressure law coefficients. The original first‐order discretization is extended to higher order applying second‐order ENO reconstruction to the primitive variables. The derivation of the non‐conservative upwind discretization for the phase indicator, here the gas fraction, is presented for arbitrary unstructured grids. The efficiency of the numerical scheme is significantly improved by employing local grid adaptation. For this purpose, multiscale‐based grid adaptation is used in combination with a multilevel time stepping strategy to avoid small time steps for coarse cells. The resulting numerical scheme is then applied to the numerical investigation of the 2‐D axisymmetric collapse of a gas bubble in a free flow field and near to a rigid wall. The numerical investigation predicts physical features such as bubble collapse, bubble splitting and the formation of a liquid jet that can be observed in experiments with laser‐induced cavitation bubbles. Opposite to the experiments, the computations reveal insight to the state inside the bubble clearly indicating that these features are caused by the acceleration of the gas due to shock wave focusing and reflection as well as wave interaction processes. While incompressible models have been used to provide useful predictions on the change of the bubble shape of a collapsing bubble near a solid boundary, we wish to study the effects of shock wave emissions into the ambient liquid on the bubble collapse, a phenomenon that may not be captured using an incompressible fluid model. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Loneliness, social support networks, mood and wellbeing in community‐dwelling elderly
Authors: Golden Jeannette , Conroy Ronán M. , Bruce Irene , Denihan Aisling , Greene Elaine , Kirby Michael , Lawlor Brian A.
Published: March 2009

Objective

Both loneliness and social networks have been linked with mood and wellbeing. However, few studies have examined these factors simultaneously in community‐dwelling participants. The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between social network, loneliness, depression, anxiety and quality of life in community dwelling older people living in Dublin.

Methods

One thousand two hundred and ninety‐nine people aged 65 and over, recruited through primary care practices, were interviewed in their own homes using the GMS‐AGECAT. Social network was assessed using Wenger's typology.

Results

35% of participants were lonely, with 9% describing it as painful and 6% as intrusive. Similarly, 34% had a non‐integrated social network. However, the two constructs were distinct: 32% of participants with an integrated social network reported being lonely. Loneliness was higher in women, the widowed and those with physical disability and increased with age, but when age‐related variables were controlled for this association was non‐significant. Wellbeing, depressed mood and hopelessness were all independently associated with both loneliness and non‐integrated social network. In particular, loneliness explained the excess risk of depression in the widowed. The population attributable risk (PAR) associated with loneliness was 61%, compared with 19% for non‐integrated social network. Taken together they had a PAR of 70%

Conclusions

Loneliness and social networks both independently affect mood and wellbeing in the elderly, underlying a very significant proportion of depressed mood. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Utilization of herbal and nutritional compounds among older adults with bipolar disorder and with major depression
Authors: Keaton Daniel , Lamkin Nathan , Cassidy Kristin A. , Meyer William J. , Ignacio Rosalinda V. , Aulakh Lakyntiew , Blow Frederic C. , Sajatovic Martha
Published: March 2009

Objectives

Herbal and nutritional compounds (HNC) are widely used among geriatric populations with depression, however little data exists on HNC use in older populations with bipolar disorder. The goal of this study was to evaluate orally‐ ingested HNC use in individuals with bipolar disorder and with major depression.

Methods

This was a cross‐sectional analysis of self‐reported factual knowledge of HNC, individual perspective on efficacy and safety of HNC, patterns of HNC use, and discussion of HNC with health care providers in 50 older adults with bipolar disorder and 50 older adults with major depression.

Results

In this sample, approximately 30% of older individuals with depression or bipolar disorder used orally‐ ingested HNC. Over 40% of older adults believed that HNC is FDA‐regulated and 14‐20% preferred to take HNC compared to physician‐prescribed psychotropic medications. Use of HNC was more common among older adults with bipolar disorder (44%) compared to older adults with major depression (16%, p = 0.003). The majority of older adults with mood disorders (64%) had not discussed use of HNC with their treating physicians.

Conclusion

Orally ingested HNC was used by nearly one in three older adults with mood disorders, and was more common among those with bipolar disorder compared to those with major depression. Most individuals did not discuss HNC use with their physicians. Clinicians need to assess for HNC use, particularly with respect to potential drug‐drug interactions. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Precursors of language ability and academic performance: an inter‐generational, longitudinal study of at‐risk children
Authors: Campisi Lisa , Serbin Lisa A. , Stack Dale M. , Schwartzman Alex E. , Ledingham Jane E.
Published: March 2009

The current investigation examined whether inter‐generational transfer of risk could be revealed through mothers' and preschool‐aged children's expressive language, and whether continuity of risk persisted in these children's academic abilities, 3 years later. Participating families were drawn from the Concordia Longitudinal Risk Project, a prospective, longitudinal investigation of French‐speaking families from low‐SES Montreal neighbourhoods. At Time 1, mothers' history of childhood social withdrawal was shown to predict mothers' child‐directed language. Mothers' language complexity was also shown to be predictive of preschoolers' expressive language and was found to mediate the relationship between maternal social withdrawal and child language. At Time 2, children's language‐related academic abilities were predicted by their expressive language at preschool age. The findings support an inter‐generational continuity of risk operating through language complexity and extending to children's performance in language‐related academic abilities at school age. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Polarized hydroxyapatite promotes spread and motility of osteoblastic cells
Authors: Nakamura Miho , Nagai Akiko , Tanaka Yumi , Sekijima Yasutaka , Yamashita Kimihiro
Published: March 2009

Osteoblast adhesion to surfaces of implant substrates is recognized as playing a fundamental role in the process of osteoconduction. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the in vitro adhesion of osteoblasts cultured on polarized hydroxyapatite (HA), which provides two kinds of surfaces; negatively charged HA (N‐HA) and positively charged HA (P‐HA). Those surfaces have been proved to enhance the osteobonding capabilities. Osteoblastic cells were seeded onto normal and polarized HA; adhesion and motility of each was observed. Polarization did not affect the percentage of the spread cells against all the adhered cells, but had a significant effect on the spreading of each cell as shown by the measured elongation of the adhered cells by fluorescence observation. The elongation of each cell was especially enhanced on the N‐HA and P‐HA, when compared with normal HA (O‐HA). In addition, the polarization affected cell motility shown by wound healing. Motility analysis showed that the same number of cells started to migrate toward the wound areas on each type of surface. However, the migration of each cell type towards the wound area was accelerated on the N‐HA and P‐HA. The charges induced on the HA surface accelerated the cytoskeleton reorganization of the adhered cells. The acceleration was appeared as cell shape, actin filament pattern such as stress fiber formation, and prolongation of cell motility distance. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2010