bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structural organization of the presynaptic density at identified synapses in the locust central nervous system
Authors: Leitinger Gerd , Masich Sergej , Neumüller Josef , Pabst Maria Anna , Pavelka Margit , Rind F. Claire , Shupliakov Oleg , Simmons Peter J. , Kolb Dagmar
Published: August 2011

In a synaptic active zone, vesicles aggregate around a densely staining structure called the presynaptic density. We focus on its three‐dimensional architecture and a major molecular component in the locust. We used electron tomography to study the presynaptic density in synapses made in the brain by identified second‐order neuron of the ocelli. Here, vesicles close to the active zone are organized in two rows on either side of the presynaptic density, a level of organization not previously reported in insect central synapses. The row of vesicles that is closest to the density's base includes vesicles docked with the presynaptic membrane and thus presumably ready for release, whereas the outer row of vesicles does not include any that are docked. We show that a locust ortholog of the Drosophila protein Bruchpilot is localized to the presynaptic density, both in the ocellar pathway and compound eye visual neurons. An antibody recognizing the C‐terminus of the Bruchpilot ortholog selectively labels filamentous extensions of the presynaptic density that reach out toward vesicles. Previous studies on Bruchpilot have focused on its role in neuromuscular junctions in Drosophila, and our study shows it is also a major functional component of presynaptic densities in the central nervous system of an evolutionarily distant insect. Our study thus reveals Bruchpilot executes similar functions in synapses that can sustain transmission of small graded potentials as well as those relaying large, spike‐evoked signals. J. Comp. Neurol. 520:384–400, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Toward a single‐cell‐based analysis of neuropeptide expression in Periplaneta americana antennal lobe neurons
Authors: Neupert Susanne , Fusca Debora , Schachtner Joachim , Kloppenburg Peter , Predel Reinhard
Published: August 2011

A multitude of potential neurotransmitters and neuromodulators, including peptides, have been detected in the antennal lobe (AL), the first synaptic relay of the central olfactory pathway in the insect brain. However, the functional role of neuropeptides in this system has yet to be revealed. An important prerequisite to understanding the role of neuropeptides is to match the functionally different cell types in the AL with their peptide profiles by using electrophysiological recordings combined with immunocytochemical studies and/or single‐cell mass spectrometry. The olfactory system of Periplaneta americana is particularly well suited to accomplish this goal because several physiologically distinct neuron types can be unequivocally identified. With the aim to analyze the neuropeptide inventory of the P. americana AL, this study is an essential step in this direction. First, we systematically analyzed different parts of the AL by matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time of flight (MALDI‐TOF) mass spectrometry to obtain the complete set of neuropeptides present. Altogether, 56 ion signals could be assigned to products of 10 neuropeptide genes (allatostatins A, B, C, SIFamide, allatotropin, FMRFamide‐related peptides [myosuppressin, short neuropeptides F, extended FMRFamides], crustacean cardioactive peptide, tachykinin‐related peptides). In a second step, a combination of immunocytochemistry and mass spectrometric profiling of defined AL compartments was used to reveal the spatial distribution of neuropeptide‐containing cells. Finally, we demonstrated the feasibility of MALDI‐TOF mass spectrometric profiling of single AL neurons, which is an important precondition for combining electrophysiology with peptide profiling at the single‐cell level. J. Comp. Neurol., 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Variability and asymmetry of the sulcal contours defining Broca's area homologue in the chimpanzee brain
Authors: Keller Simon S. , Deppe Michael , Herbin Marc , Gilissen Emmanuel
Published: August 2011

There has been recent motivation to search for neuroanatomical asymmetries in nonhuman primates in order to provide comparative information on how the human brain is structurally organized to support specific cognitive capabilities, such as language functions. We took the opportunity to study Broca's area homologue in a novel sample of 80 preserved postmortem chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes) cerebral hemispheres. Consistent with the only prior study documenting the morphology of Broca's area homologue in the chimpanzee (Sherwood et al. [2003] Anat Rec 271:276–285), we report great interindividual variation in the structure and connections of the sulci investigated, most notably a left‐sided bias in the bifurcation of the inferior precentral sulcus, an anatomical feature that occurs much more frequently in chimpanzees relative to humans. Consistent with our recent neuroimaging report (Keller et al. [2009b] J Neurosci 29:14607–14616), no population‐based interhemispheric asymmetries of sulcal length existed that could be considered markers of the size of Broca's area homologue. With strict anatomical guidelines, we report that the diagonal sulcus was present in 25% left and 20% right chimpanzee hemispheres studied, which is substantially less that the general prevalence in humans. Through the presentation of schematic drawings, photographs, morphological recordings and sulcal length metrics, our data illustrate the interindividual variability of Broca's area homologue in the chimpanzee and support the notion of no macroscopic asymmetry of this important homologous language brain region in one of the closest evolutionary ancestor to modern humans J. Comp. Neurol. 520:1165–1180, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Effect of PIP2 on Bilayer Structure and Phase Behavior of DOPC: An X‐ray Scattering Study
Authors: Ghosh Sajal Kumar , Aeffner Sebastian , Salditt Tim
Published: August 2011

Phosphatidylinositol 4,5‐bis‐phosphate (PIP2) is an important lipid in regulation of several cellular processes, particularly membrane fusion. We use X‐ray diffraction from solid‐supported multilamellar 1,2‐dioleoyl‐sn‐glycero‐3‐phosphocholine (DOPC)/PIP2 samples to study changes in bilayer structure and the lyotropic phase behavior induced by physiologically relevant concentrations of PIP2. Electron‐density profiles reconstructed from X‐ray reflectivity measurements indicate that PIP2 strongly affects structural parameters such as lipid head‐group width, bilayer thickness, and lamellar repeat spacing of DOPC bilayer stacks. In addition, at lower degrees of hydration, a few molar per cent of PIP2 facilitates stalk‐phase formation and also leads to formation of a hexagonal phase, which is not observed in pure DOPC. These results indicate that the role of PIP2 in membrane fusion could be, in part, due to its effect on the properties of the lipid bilayer matrix. Furthermore, coexistence of two lamellar phases with different lattice constants is observed in single‐component PIP2 samples.
Carbogenic Nanodots: Photoluminescence and Room‐Temperature Ferromagnetism
Authors: Srivastava Sachchidanand , Gajbhiye Namdeo S.
Published: August 2011

Herein, blue fluorescent carbogenic nanodots (CNDs) with room‐temperature ferromagnetism were synthesized by thermal decomposition of organic precursors at different temperatures. Photoluminescence (PL) studies show excitation‐wavelength‐dependent emission properties and PL excitation (PLE) studies confirm the triplet ground state of carbene at the zigzag edge as the fluorescent center. Room‐temperature magnetic studies reveal the ferromagnetic nature of CNDs and temperature‐dependent studies show the presence of an antiferromagnetic phase along with a ferromagnetic phase below 50 K. EPR studies reveal the presence of conduction electrons and localized spins with different g factors. Localized spins at zigzag edges are the origin of the unconventional magnetic behavior, whereas exchange coupling between conduction and localized spins are responsible for long‐range magnetic ordering.
Reformer and Membrane Modules for Methane Conversion: Experimental Assessment and Perspectives of an Innovative Architecture
Authors: De Falco Marcello , Salladini Annarita , Iaquaniello Gaetano
Published: August 2011

An innovative concept for steam methane reforming (SMR), based on reformer and membrane modules (RMMs), has been developed and tested to investigate its performance, in terms of feed conversion, on an industrial scale. A major benefit of the proposed RMM configuration is a shift of the chemical equilibrium of SMR reactions, achieved by removing the hydrogen produced at high temperature through the integration of highly selective palladium‐based membranes, which enhances the yield of product. In this manner the process can operate at temperatures as low as 600–650 °C, compared to the 850–880 °C range used in conventional plants, and allows for the use of a low‐temperature heat source. This Full Paper discusses experimental data on feed conversion at different operating parameters, gathered during 1000 h of testing, and processes these data to optimize the overall architecture, defining the maximum achievable feed conversion. An overall conversion of 59 % is achieved with two‐step reactions at a reforming temperature of 620 °C. A conversion as high as 90 % can be obtained with a three‐step architecture at 650 °C by properly extending the design parameters within reasonable limits.
Link stability‐aware reliable packet transmitting mechanism in mobile ad hoc network
Authors: Wu Dapeng , Wang Ruyan , Zhen Yan
Published: August 2011

To guarantee the QoS of multimedia applications in a mobile ad hoc network (MANET), a reliable packet transmitting mechanism in MANET is proposed. In this paper, we introduce an effective link lifetime estimation scheme. According to the current network topology and corresponding estimated link lifetime, the end‐to‐end connection is established adaptively in the best effort manner. Consequently, utilizing the network coding method the relay node combines and forwards the packets on the working path. Furthermore, to keep the balance between the gain in reliability and the amount of redundant packets, the time for sending the redundant packets on the backup path is determined for the link stability intelligently. Simulations show that our mechanisms can provide reliable transmissions for data packets and enhance the performance of the entire network, such as the packet delivery ratio, the end‐to‐end delay and the number of control messages. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Verklebung von Planziegelmauerwerk mit Polyurethanklebern
Authors: Jäger Andreas , Habian Erich , Kasa Martin , Kuhlemann Clemens , Lu Suikai
Published: August 2011

Es wurde eine neuartige Mauerwerkskonstruktion von Wienerberger entwickelt, die auf der Verklebung von Planziegeln mit einem Einkomponenten‐Polyurethankleber basiert. Dieser Mauerwerkskleber wird direkt auf die Lagerfugen der Planziegel aufgebracht und stellt nach Aushärtung eine dauerhafte und feste Verbindung unter den Ziegeln her. Die Vorteile des neuen Systems können wie folgt zusammengefasst werden:

– einfache Anwendung

– Zeitersparnis im Vergleich zu mit konventionellem oder Dünnbettmörtel hergestelltem Mauerwerk

– Verlängerung der Bauperiode in den Winter hinein (die Verklebung wurde auch zur Verwendung bei Temperaturen unter Null optimiert und geprüft)

– saubere Baustelle und geringerer Aufwand für Logistik

– Reduktion des erforderlichen Lagerplatzes

In dieser Publikation werden exemplarisch die wichtigsten Versuche und Versuchsergebnisse dargestellt, die im Zuge der Forschung und Entwicklung und für die Erlangung der technischen Zulassungen erforderlich waren. Dabei werden unter anderem mechanische, ökologische, bauphysikalische, biologische, chemische, gesundheitliche, ökonomische und Aspekte zur Dauerhaftigkeit angesprochen. Es wird die neue Technologie der Planziegelverklebung mit Einkomponenten‐Polyurethanklebern beschrieben, und dem Leser soll ein Überblick über das vielseitige Versuchsprogramm gegeben werden.

Gluing of plane ground block masonry with polyurethane adhesives. A novel type of masonry has been developed which is based on gluing of plane ground blocks with one‐component polyurethane adhesive. This masonry adhesive is applied directly on the bed joint of plane ground blocks and ensures a durable and strong bond between bricks. The advantages of the new system can be summarized as follows:

– easy application

– time efficiency compared to thin‐layer and general purpose mortar

– extension of construction period until winter time (adhesive is tested and optimized for use at temperatures below zero)

– clean construction site and reduced effort in logistics

– reduced need of storage area

In this publication the most relevant experiments and experimental results, which have been carried out in the course of research and development and for obtaining the technical approvals, are presented. Among others, mechanical, ecological, structural‐physical, biological, chemical, hygienic, economical and aspects concerning durability are addressed. The novel technology of gluing plane ground blocks with one‐component polyurethane adhesives is described and the reader should get an overview of the wide‐ranging test program.
Neue Systemvarianten für KS‐QUADRO THERM und KS‐QUADRO ETRONIC
Authors: Hobbie André , Zapf Wolfgang
Published: August 2011

Die Marktanforderungen an den Baustoff Mauerwerk sind vielseitiger denn je und erfordern eine stetige Weiterentwicklung. KS‐QUADRO Bausysteme, Durmersheim, gehen mit ihren gewerkeübergreifenden Systemen, der Wandtemperierung KS‐QUADRO THERM wie auch der Elektroinstallation KS‐QUADRO ETRONIC bereits seit Jahren erfolgreich neue Wege, dem Mauerwerksbau neue Impulse zu geben, die weit über seine traditionellen Aufgaben hinausgehen [1]. Beide Systeme sind ab sofort mit zahlreichen völlig neuen Komponenten und Innovationen ausgestattet. In dem Beitrag werden die Neuerungen, deren Handhabung und wirtschaftliche wie auch konstruktive Vorteile detailliert sowie praxisgerecht dargestellt.
PD solutions: New and old
Authors: Diaz‐Buxo Jose A. , Sawin Dixie‐Ann , Himmele Rainer
Published: August 2011

Peritoneal dialysis (PD) solutions have evolved since Boen described the appropriate composition of a suitable fluid comprising an osmotic agent, electrolytes, and buffer substance in 1969. New solutions introducing alternative osmotic agents and bicarbonate as an alternative to lactate‐buffered solutions have been developed. These so‐called biocompatible solutions belong to a very heterogeneous group of PD fluids that share some features but are distinct in other aspects. All biocompatible solutions have a substantially reduced level of toxic glucose degradation products (GDPs). However, the new solutions differ in their absolute GDP content, osmotic agent, buffer substance, and pH. The differences from the conventional solutions and the characteristics of the distinct new solutions are presented in this review together with a discussion of their potential clinical benefits and implications. Dial. Transplant. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Invasion of dwarf bamboo into alpine snow‐meadows in northern Japan: pattern of expansion and impact on species diversity
Authors: Kudo Gaku , Amagai Yukihiro , Hoshino Buho , Kaneko Masami
Published: August 2011

Recently, a dwarf bamboo species, Sasa kurilensis; Poaceae, has invaded into alpine snow‐meadows in the wilderness area of the Taisetsu Mountains, northern Japan. This dwarf bamboo species has a wide distribution range from lowland to alpine sites of snowy regions. Because of the formation of dense evergreen culms and an extensive rhizome system, other plants are excluded following invasion by this dwarf bamboo, resulting in low species diversity. Dwarf bamboo originally inhabited the leeward slopes of alpine dwarf pine (Pinus pumila) clumps in alpine regions. During the last 32 years, however, dwarf bamboo has expanded its distribution area by up to 47% toward snow‐meadows, especially on southeastern facing slopes. This rapid change may be related to the decrease in soil moisture and expansion of the annual growing period caused by the recent acceleration of snowmelt time. A multiyear census revealed that the density of bamboo culms increased 30–150% during 2 years, and the annual expansion of bamboo rhizomes was 39 cm on average. In addition to the expansion of bamboo clumps by vegetative growth, the possibility of migration by seed dispersal was also suggested by a genet analysis. With the increase in culm density, the species richness of snow‐meadow vegetation decreased to less than one‐quarter of the original level due to intense shading by dwarf bamboo. The rapid vegetation change in these almost pristine alpine environments isolated from the human activity implies that global climate change already influences the alpine ecosystem.
The Diastereoselective Formation of Tetraalkoxy[4]resorcinarenes Derived from (–)‐(2R)‐2‐Methoxy‐2‐phenylethanol and Proof of Absolute Configurations
Authors: Bulman Page Philip C. , Chan Yohan , Heaney Harry , McGrath Matthew J. , Moreno Eduardo
Published: August 2011

The preparation of optically pure (–)‐3‐[(2R)‐2‐methoxy‐2‐phenylethoxy]phenol from resorcinol monobenzoate and its conversion into diastereoisomeric tetraalkoxyresorcin[4]arenes together with proof of the absolute configurations of the products is reported. The results of the study indicate that diastereoselective ring closure of linear tetrameric intermediates is controlled by the steric demand of the alkyl group in the precursor 3‐alkoxyphenol.
Ruthenium‐Catalyzed Oxidative Dearomatization of Phenols to 4‐(tert‐Butylperoxy)cyclohexadienones: Synthesis of 2‐Substituted Quinones from p‐Substituted Phenols
Authors: Murahashi Shun‐Ichi , Miyaguchi Noriko , Noda Shinji , Naota Takeshi , Fujii Akiko , Inubushi Yasutaka , Komiya Naruyoshi
Published: August 2011

The ruthenium‐catalyzed oxidation of phenols with tert‐butylhydroperoxide efficiently gives the corresponding 4‐(tert‐butylperoxy)cyclohexadienones. The oxidation proceeds selectively because of ruthenium's ability for rapid single‐electron transfer. This biomimetic oxidation reaction is highly useful to obtain the metabolic compounds desired for confirming the safety of medicines and related compounds. Typically, the first metabolic compound of the female hormone estrone is readily obtained by this biomimetic oxidation reaction. The resulting 4‐(tert‐butylperoxy)cyclohexadienones are versatile synthetic intermediates, which can be transformed into 2‐substituted 1,4‐benzoquinones by treatment with acid catalysts. Acid‐promoted rearrangement followed by a Diels–Alder reaction provides a new strategy for the synthesis of fused cyclic compounds, such as naphthoquinone and anthraquinone derivatives, from readily available phenols. The nonnatural 1,4‐diacetoxy steroidal skeleton is obtained by the oxidation of estrone followed by zinc‐mediated migration. Vitamin K3 is synthesized selectively from p‐cresol in an overall 79 % yield in 4 steps, and the synthesis includes the ruthenium‐catalyzed oxidation.
Double‐layer polarization of a non‐conducting particle in an alternating current field with applications to dielectrophoresis
Authors: Zhao Hui
Published: August 2011

Dielectrophoresis is becoming one of the most important techniques in particle manipulation including particle separation, particle assembly, and biomolecule characterization. Understanding dielectrophoretic properties of particles is a key step toward effective and efficient particle manipulation. Theoretical studies of polarization of a particle can help to understand experimental observations and also go beyond to develop a predictive theory to guide the experimental design. This article discusses recent theoretical advances in the polarization of a dielectric particle, in particular, the polarization of the electric double layer. The double‐layer polarization is critical to determine particle dynamics in dielectrophoresis. The dipole moment characterizing the strength of this polarization depends on the double‐layer thickness, the electric field frequency, the particle's surface charge, and other surface's properties (Pohl, H. A., Dielectrophoresis, Cambridge University Press, New York 1978). After a brief review of the mathematical model, the focus is on the following problems: (i) the polarization of a spherical particle; (ii) the polarization of an elongated cylindrical particle; (iii) the effect of the slip on the polarization of a particle. The double‐layer polarization is examined here in the context of high‐frequency and low‐frequency dispersions induced by surface conduction and diffusion, respectively.
Cascade and staggered dielectrophoretic cell sorters
Authors: Yang Fang , Yang Xiaoming , Jiang Hong , Wang Guiren
Published: August 2011

We have developed two new microfluidic cell sorters based on conventional negative dielectrophoresis (DEP) for continuous flow operations. The first is a cascade configuration sorter designed to increase purity of isolated target cell. The second has two staggered side channels in opposite side walls to increase sample throughput without compromising enrichment factor. Particles (carboxylate microspheres) of different sizes were first used to demonstrate the feasibility of the present DEP sorters for cell isolation. Then biological cells, i.e. human prostate cancer cell line LNCaP and human colorectal cancer cell line HCT116 were used to test the performance of the DEP sorters. In the present work, applied voltage was in the range of 0–20 Vp‐p, and frequency was from 0 to 10 MHz. Comparing to a single side channel DEP cell sorter, the isolation purity was improved from 80 to 96% by a single cascade sorter and the sample throughput was increased from 0.2 to 0.65 μL/min by a single staggered side channel sorter. In this article, we report the cell sorter designs, cell separation and enrichment factors.
Monitoring humans for somatic mutation in the endogenous pig‐a gene using red blood cells
Authors: Dobrovolsky Vasily N. , Elespuru Rosalie K. , Bigger C. Anita H. , Robison Timothy W. , Heflich Robert H.
Published: August 2011

The endogenous X‐linked PIG‐A gene is involved in the synthesis of glycosyl phosphatidyl inositol (GPI) anchors that tether specific protein markers to the exterior of mammalian cell cytoplasmic membranes. Earlier studies in rodent models indicate that Pig‐a mutant red blood cells (RBCs) can be induced in animals treated with genotoxic agents, and that flow cytometry can be used to identify rare RBCs deficient in the GPI‐anchored protein, CD59, as a marker of Pig‐a gene mutation. We investigated if a similar approach could be used for detecting gene mutation in humans. We first determined the frequency of spontaneous CD59‐deficient RBCs (presumed PIG‐A mutants) in 97 self‐identified healthy volunteers. For most subjects, the frequency of CD59‐deficient RBCs was low (average of 5.1 ± 4.9 × 10−6; median of 3.8 × 10−6 and mutant frequency less than 8 × 10−6 for 75% of subjects), with a statistically significant difference in median mutant frequencies between males and females. PIG‐A RBC mutant frequency displayed poor correlation with the age and no correlation with the smoking status of the subjects. Also, two individuals had markedly increased CD59‐deficient RBC frequencies of ∼300 × 10−6 and ∼100 × 10−6. We then monitored PIG‐A mutation in 10 newly diagnosed cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy with known genotoxic drugs. The frequency of CD59‐deficient RBCs in the blood of the patients was measured before the start of chemotherapy and three times over a period of ∼6 months while on/after chemotherapy. Responses were generally weak, most observations being less than the median mutant frequency for both males and females; the greatest response was an approximate three‐fold increase in the frequency of CD59‐deficient RBCs in one patient treated with a combination of cisplatin and etoposide. These results suggest that the RBC PIG‐A assay can be adopted to measuring somatic cell mutation in humans. Further research is necessary to determine the assay's sensitivity in detecting mutations induced by genotoxic agents acting via different mechanisms. Environ. Mol. Mutagen., 2011. Published 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Practical applications of multi‐agent systems in electric power systems
Authors: Catterson Victoria M. , Davidson Euan M. , McArthur Stephen D. J.
Published: August 2011

The transformation of energy networks from passive to active systems requires the embedding of intelligence within the network. One suitable approach to integrating distributed intelligent systems is multi‐agent systems technology, where components of functionality run as autonomous agents capable of interaction through messaging. This provides loose coupling between components that can benefit the complex systems envisioned for the smart grid. This paper reviews the key milestones of demonstrated agent systems in the power industry and considers which aspects of agent design must still be addressed for widespread application of agent technology to occur. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Restless legs syndrome in older people: a community‐based study on its prevalence and association with major depressive disorder in older Korean adults
Authors: Kim Won‐Hyoung , Kim Byung‐Soo , Kim Shyn‐Kyum , Chang Sung‐Man , Lee Dong‐Woo , Cho Maeng‐Je , Bae Jae Nam
Published: August 2011

Objective

The prevalence of restless legs syndrome (RLS) and its relationship with the demographic variables in an older Korean population were examined.

Methods

A face‐to‐face household survey was conducted in five different regions of Korea from June 2008 to August 2008. Among a total of 3074 individuals who were aged more than 65, 1990 participants were interviewed, and the response rate was 64.7%. The diagnosis of RLS was made using an RLS questionnaire. The medical review of systems was assessed by a self‐report questionnaire containing 15 items. Depression was diagnosed with the diagnostic section of depressive disorder of the Korean version of the Composite International Diagnostic Interview (CIDI) and the short form of the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS).

Results

The prevalence of RLS in the older Korean population was 9.5% (men, 7.1%; women, 11.3%). RLS had a significant association with anemia (odds ratio (OR), 1.66; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.29–2.12; P < 0.001) and renal diseases (OR, 2.57; 95% CI, 1.95–3.38; P < 0.001). RLS seemed to have a significant relationship with depression by using the CIDI (adjusted OR 2.01; 95% CI, 1.45–2.79. P < 0.001) and GDS (adjusted OR, 1.62; 95% CI, 1.34–1.94; P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Restless legs syndrome might be a risk factor for major depressive disorder in older Koreans. Future investigations should focus on the causality and mechanism underlying the relationship between RLS and major depressive disorder. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A group music intervention using percussion instruments with familiar music to reduce anxiety and agitation of institutionalized older adults with dementia
Authors: Sung Huei‐chuan , Lee Wen‐li , Li Tzai‐li , Watson Roger
Published: August 2011

Objective

This experimental study aimed to evaluate the effects of a group music intervention on anxiety and agitation of institutionalized older adults with dementia.

Methods

A total of 60 participants were randomly assigned to an experimental or a control group. The experimental group received a 30‐min music intervention using percussion instruments with familiar music in a group setting in mid afternoon twice weekly for 6 weeks, whereas the control group received usual care with no music intervention. The Rating of Anxiety in Dementia scale was used to assess anxiety, and Cohen‐Mansfield Agitation Inventory was used to assess agitation at baseline, week 4 and week 6.

Results

Repeated measures analysis of covariance indicated that older adults who received a group music intervention had a significantly lower anxiety score than those in the control group while controlling for pre‐test score and cognitive level (F = 8.98, p = 0.004). However, the reduction of agitation between two groups was not significantly different.

Conclusions

Anxiety and agitation are common in older adults with dementia and have been reported by caregivers as challenging care problems. An innovative group music intervention using percussion instruments with familiar music as a cost‐effective approach has the potential to reduce anxiety and improve psychological well‐being of those with dementia. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Functional MRI assessment of orofacial articulators: Neural correlates of lip, jaw, larynx, and tongue movements
Authors: Grabski Krystyna , Lamalle Laurent , Vilain Coriandre , Schwartz Jean‐Luc , Vallée Nathalie , Tropres Irène , Baciu Monica , Le Bas Jean‐François , Sato Marc
Published: August 2011

Compared with complex coordinated orofacial actions, few neuroimaging studies have attempted to determine the shared and distinct neural substrates of supralaryngeal and laryngeal articulatory movements when performed independently. To determine cortical and subcortical regions associated with supralaryngeal motor control, participants produced lip, tongue and jaw movements while undergoing functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). For laryngeal motor activity, participants produced the steady‐state/i/vowel. A sparse temporal sampling acquisition method was used to minimize movement‐related artifacts. Three main findings were observed. First, the four tasks activated a set of largely overlapping, common brain areas: the sensorimotor and premotor cortices, the right inferior frontal gyrus, the supplementary motor area, the left parietal operculum and the adjacent inferior parietal lobule, the basal ganglia and the cerebellum. Second, differences between tasks were restricted to the bilateral auditory cortices and to the left ventrolateral sensorimotor cortex, with greater signal intensity for vowel vocalization. Finally, a dorso‐ventral somatotopic organization of lip, jaw, vocalic/laryngeal, and tongue movements was observed within the primary motor and somatosensory cortices using individual region‐of‐interest (ROI) analyses. These results provide evidence for a core neural network involved in laryngeal and supralaryngeal motor control and further refine the sensorimotor somatotopic organization of orofacial articulators. Hum Brain Mapp 33:2306–2321, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Effects of rapid eye movement sleep deprivation on fear extinction recall and prediction error signaling
Authors: Spoormaker Victor I. , Schröter Manuel S. , Andrade Kátia C. , Dresler Martin , Kiem Sara A. , Goya‐Maldonado Roberto , Wetter Thomas C. , Holsboer Florian , Sämann Philipp G. , Czisch Michael
Published: August 2011

In a temporal difference learning approach of classical conditioning, a theoretical error signal shifts from outcome deliverance to the onset of the conditioned stimulus. Omission of an expected outcome results in a negative prediction error signal, which is the initial step towards successful extinction and may therefore be relevant for fear extinction recall. As studies in rodents have observed a bidirectional relationship between fear extinction and rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, we aimed to test the hypothesis that REM sleep deprivation impairs recall of fear extinction through prediction error signaling in humans. In a three‐day design with polysomnographically controlled REM sleep deprivation, 18 young, healthy subjects performed a fear conditioning, extinction and recall of extinction task with visual stimuli, and mild electrical shocks during combined functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and skin conductance response (SCR) measurements. Compared to the control group, the REM sleep deprivation group had increased SCR scores to a previously extinguished stimulus at early recall of extinction trials, which was associated with an altered fMRI time‐course in the left middle temporal gyrus. Post‐hoc contrasts corrected for measures of NREM sleep variability also revealed between‐group differences primarily in the temporal lobe. Our results demonstrate altered prediction error signaling during recall of fear extinction after REM sleep deprivation, which may further our understanding of anxiety disorders in which disturbed sleep and impaired fear extinction learning coincide. Moreover, our findings are indicative of REM sleep related plasticity in regions that also show an increase in activity during REM sleep. Hum Brain Mapp 33:2362–2376, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Dissociable neural correlates of contour completion and contour representation in illusory contour perception
Authors: Wu Xiang , He Sheng , Bushara Khalaf , Zeng Feiyan , Liu Ying , Zhang Daren
Published: August 2011

Object recognition occurs even when environmental information is incomplete. Illusory contours (ICs), in which a contour is perceived though the contour edges are incomplete, have been extensively studied as an example of such a visual completion phenomenon. Despite the neural activity in response to ICs in visual cortical areas from low (V1 and V2) to high (LOC: the lateral occipital cortex) levels, the details of the neural processing underlying IC perception are largely not clarified. For example, how do the visual areas function in IC perception and how do they interact to archive the coherent contour perception? IC perception involves the process of completing the local discrete contour edges (contour completion) and the process of representing the global completed contour information (contour representation). Here, functional magnetic resonance imaging was used to dissociate contour completion and contour representation by varying each in opposite directions. The results show that the neural activity was stronger to stimuli with more contour completion than to stimuli with more contour representation in V1 and V2, which was the reverse of that in the LOC. When inspecting the neural activity change across the visual pathway, the activation remained high for the stimuli with more contour completion and increased for the stimuli with more contour representation. These results suggest distinct neural correlates of contour completion and contour representation, and the possible collaboration between the two processes during IC perception, indicating a neural connection between the discrete retinal input and the coherent visual percept. Hum Brain Mapp 33:2407–2414, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Seasonal variation in the patient diagnosis of primary biliary cirrhosis: Further evidence for an environmental component to etiology
Authors: McNally Richard J.Q. , James Peter W. , Ducker Samantha , James Oliver F.W.
Published: August 2011

The etiology of primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) is far from clear. Both genetic and environmental factors are likely to be involved. We have previously reported evidence of space-time clustering, suggesting that a transient environmental agent may be involved in etiology. To further examine whether a seasonally varying environmental agent may contribute to the etiology of PBC, we have analyzed seasonal variation with respect to month of diagnosis using population-based data from northeast England over a defined period (1987-2003). Date of diagnosis was defined as the earliest date at which the patient was found to have fulfilled any two of three diagnostic criteria (i.e., antimitochondrial antibody–positive titer ≥1 in 40, cholestatic liver blood tests, diagnostic or compatible liver histology). Monthly expected (E) numbers of cases were calculated under an assumption of a uniform distribution throughout the year. Observed counts (O) were compared with the expected numbers. The chi-squared heterogeneity test was used to test for overall nonuniform variation and also for individual months. Poisson regression analysis was used to fit a sinusoidal (i.e., harmonic) model to the data, using month of diagnosis as a covariate in the model. There was a marked peak for diagnoses in the month of June (O = 115, E = 84.7, O/E = 1.36;

P

= 0.001). Furthermore, there was evidence of a sinusoidal pattern with a June peak (

P

= 0.012).

Conclusion:

These highly novel results provide further evidence for the involvement of a seasonally varying environmental agent in the etiology of PBC. (Hepatology 2011)
An essential role for monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 in alcoholic liver injury: Regulation of proinflammatory cytokines and hepatic steatosis in mice
Authors: Mandrekar Pranoti , Ambade Aditya , Lim Arlene , Szabo Gyongyi , Catalano Donna
Published: August 2011

The importance of chemokines in alcoholic liver injury has been implicated. The role of the chemokine, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), elevated in patients with alcoholic liver disease is not yet understood. Here, we evaluated the pathophysiological significance of MCP-1 and its receptor, chemokine (C-C motif) receptor 2 (CCR2), in alcoholic liver injury. The Leiber-DeCarli diet containing alcohol or isocaloric control diets were fed to wild-type (WT) and MCP-1-deficient knockout (KO) mice for 6 weeks.

In vivo

and

in vitro

assays were performed to study the role of MCP-1 in alcoholic liver injury. MCP-1 was increased in Kupffer cells (KCs) as well as hepatocytes of alcohol-fed mice. Alcohol feeding increased serum alanine aminotransferase in WT and CCR2KO, but not MCP-1KO, mice. Alcohol-induced liver steatosis and triglyceride were attenuated in alcohol-fed MCP-1KO, but high in CCR2KO mice, compared to WT, whereas serum endotoxin was high in alcohol-fed WT and MCP-1KO mice. Expression of liver proinflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor alpha, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, KC/IL-8, intercellular adhesion molecule 1, and cluster of differentiation 68 was induced in alcohol-fed WT, but inhibited in MCP-1KO, mice independent of nuclear factor kappa light-chain enhancer of activated B cell activation in KCs. Oxidative stress, but not cytochrome P450 2E1, was prevented in chronic alcohol-fed MCP-1KO mice, compared to WT. Increased expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)α and PPARγ was accompanied by nuclear translocation, DNA binding, and induction of fatty acid metabolism genes acyl coenzyme A oxidase and carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1A in livers of alcohol-fed MCP-1KO mice, compared to WT controls.

In vitro

assays uncovered an inhibitory effect of recombinant MCP-1 on PPARα messenger RNA and peroxisome proliferator response element binding in hepatocytes independent of CCR2.

Conclusion:

Deficiency of MCP-1 protects mice against alcoholic liver injury, independent of CCR2, by inhibition of proinflammatory cytokines and induction of genes related to fatty acid oxidation, linking chemokines to hepatic lipid metabolism. (Hepatology 2011)
Impact of treatment approach on maternal and neonatal outcome in pregnant opioid‐maintained women
Authors: Metz Verena , Jagsch Reinhold , Ebner Nina , Würzl Johanna , Pribasnig Anna , Aschauer Constantin , Fischer Gabriele
Published: August 2011

Objective

The objective of this study is to compare maternal and neonatal outcome of opioid‐dependent women maintained on buprenorphine or methadone throughout pregnancy in a randomized double‐blind double‐dummy clinical trial (CT) with a comparison group undergoing a structured standard protocol (SP) at the Medical University of Vienna, Austria.

Methods

One hundred and fourteen subjects were included in the analysis, with 77 in SP (n = 51 methadone, n = 26 buprenorphine), and 37 in CT (n = 19 methadone, n = 18 buprenorphine), comparing maternal concomitant consumption during third trimester, demographic birth data, duration of treatment for neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS), morphine dose for NAS treatment and length of hospital stay (LOS).

Results

Both study groups yielded healthy neonates with no significant demographic differences and equivalently low rates of positive maternal urine toxicologies. However, NAS parameters were significantly better in CT regarding total medication dose administered to neonates (p = 0.014) and LOS (p = 0.015). Superior results were achieved in buprenorphine compared with methadone‐exposed neonates regarding gestational age at birth (p = 0.003), birth weight (p = 0.011), total morphine dose administered (p = 0.008), NAS treatment duration (p = 0.008) and LOS (p = 0.001).

Conclusions

Comparably favorable outcome for mothers and infants and efficacy and safety of opioid medications were shown in both treatment approaches. Neonatal care could benefit from transferring successful CT procedures into clinical practice. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The antitumor effect of a novel angiogenesis inhibitor (an octahydronaphthalene derivative) targeting both VEGF receptor and NF‐κB pathway
Authors: Watari Kosuke , Nakamura Mamiyo , Fukunaga Yuichi , Furuno Ayana , Shibata Tomohiro , Kawahara Akihiko , Hosoi Fumihito , Kuwano Takashi , Kuwano Michihiko , Ono Mayumi
Published: August 2011

Development of a novel type of angiogenesis inhibitor will be essential for further improvement of therapeutics against cancer patients. We examined whether an octahydronaphthalene derivative, AMF‐26, which was screened as an inhibitor of intercellular adhesion molecule‐1 (ICAM‐1) production stimulated by inflammatory stimuli in vascular endothelial cells, could block angiogenesis in response to vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and/or inflammatory cytokines. Low dose AMF‐26 effectively inhibited the tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α)‐ or the interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β)‐induced production of ICAM‐1 in human umbilical vascular endothelial cells (HUVECs). We found that the TNF‐α‐induced phosphorylation of nuclear factor of kappa light polypeptide gene enhancer in B‐cells inhibitor, alpha (IκBα) and nuclear translocation of p65 were impaired by AMF‐26 in both endothelial cells and cancer cells. AMF‐26 was found to inhibit the phosphorylation of VEGF receptor 1 (VEGFR1), VEGFR2 and the downstream signaling molecules Akt, extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK)1/2 stimulated by VEGF in HUVECs. Therefore, the VEGF‐induced proliferation, migration and tube formation of vascular endothelial cells was highly susceptible to inhibition by AMF‐26. Oral administration of AMF‐26 significantly blocked VEGF‐ or IL‐1β‐induced angiogenesis in the mouse cornea, and also tumor angiogenesis and growth. Together, our results indicate that AMF‐26 inhibits angiogenesis through suppression of both VEGFR1/2 and nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB) signaling pathways when stimulated by VEGF or inflammatory cytokines. AMF‐26 could be a promising novel candidate drug for cancer treatments.
Cavitand‐Based Coordination Cages: Achievements and Current Challenges
Authors: Pinalli Roberta , Boccini Francesca , Dalcanale Enrico
Published: August 2011

The research results obtained in the self‐assembly of cavitand‐based coordination cages are presented. Cavitands are ideal multidentate ligands for the creation of coordination cages due to their structural rigidity, concave structure, and great versatility in terms of synthetic modularity. The introduction of the ligand moieties on the resorcinarene building block proceeds at the upper rim of the cavity, to take full advantage of the structural rigidity of the cavitand scaffold. Two different synthetic strategies are employed for the formation of multidentate cavitand ligands: (a) functionalization at the apical positions and (b) introduction of the ligands as bridging units. The key features to control the cage self‐assembly process emerging from this overview are the preorganization, for the cavitands, and kinetic versus thermodynamic stability of the resulting complexes, for the connecting metal. The versatility of this class of coordination cages is demonstrated by the formation of their heterotopic and heteronuclear versions, as well as their self‐assembly on gold and silicon surfaces. Desymmetrization of the cages is appealing because of the resulting differentiation of the inner cavities in terms of shape and interactivity, while surface self‐assembly represents an important opportunity to expand the application range of these objects.
The pathophysiology of early-stage chronic kidney disease–mineral bone disorder (CKD-MBD) and response to phosphate binders in the rat
Authors: Moe Sharon M , Radcliffe J Scott , White Kenneth E , Gattone Vincent H , Seifert Mark F , Chen Xianming , Aldridge Blaire , Chen Neal X
Published: August 2011

Chronic kidney disease–mineral bone disorder (CKD-MBD) is a systemic disorder that describes the complex bone and mineral abnormalities that occur in CKD. To understand the pathophysiology of CKD-MBD and determine whether the early use of phosphate binders would alter this physiology, we used a naturally occurring, slowly progressive model of CKD-MBD, the Cy/+ rat. Male Cy/+ rats were compared with their normal littermates at 20 weeks of age after 1 week of no phosphate binder, calcium carbonate, or sevelamer carbonate. The Cy/+ rat had renal function that was 50% of that of normal littermates, elevated parathyroid hormone (PTH) and fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23), decreased 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 [1,25(OH)2D3] levels, but normal calcium and phosphorus levels. There was a significant positive correlation of blood FGF23 and phosphorus levels and blood FGF23 and urine phosphorus levels. There was an inverse correlation between FGF23 and calcium levels. mRNA from the kidney demonstrated 50% reduction in klotho and Npt2a expression but no difference in CYP27B1. In the intestine, CKD animals had reduced active phosphate absorption in the jejunum using modified Ussing chambers and a reduction in Npt2b expression throughout the small intestine compared with normal littermates. In bone, mRNA expression of FGF23 was reduced (driven by lowering with phosphate binders), and TRAP expression was increased in CKD. By histology, there was increased osteoclast activity and number, and there were reductions in some measures of femoral neck mechanical strength. One week of phosphate binders reduced intestinal phosphate flux, serum phosphorus levels, and urinary phosphate excretion. These results demonstrate marked abnormalities in kidney, intestine, and bone in early CKD-MBD. While phosphate binders were effective in lowering urine phosphorus, they had little effect on end organs after 1 week of administration. © 2011 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research