bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Olfactory‐learning abilities are correlated with the rate by which intrinsic neuronal excitability is modulated in the piriform cortex
Authors: Cohen‐Matsliah Sivan I. , Rosenblum Kobi , Barkai Edi 
Published: September 2009

AbstractLong‐lasting modulation of intrinsic neuronal excitability in cortical neurons underlies distinct stages of skill learning. However, whether individual differences in learning capabilities are dependent on the rate by which such learning‐induced modifications occur has yet to be explored. Here we show that training rats in a simple olfactory‐discrimination task results in the same enhanced excitability in piriform cortex neurons as previously shown after training in a much more complex olfactory‐discrimination task. Based on their learning capabilities in the simple task, rats could be divided to two groups: fast performers and slow performers. The rate at which rats accomplished the skill to perform the simple task was correlated with the time course at which piriform cortex neurons increased their repetitive spike firing. Twelve hours after learning, neurons from fast performers had reduced spike frequency adaptation as compared with neurons from slow performers and controls. Three days after learning, spike frequency adaptation was reduced in neurons from SP, while neurons from fast performers increased their spike firing adaptation to the level of controls. Accordingly, the post‐burst AHP was reduced in neurons from fast performers 12 h after learning and in neurons from slow performers 3 days after learning. Moreover, the differences in learning capabilities between fast performers and slow performers were maintained when examined in a different, complex olfactory‐discrimination task. We suggest that the rate at which neuronal excitability is modified during learning may affect the behavioral flexibility of the animal.
Remote facilitation of supraspinal motor excitability depends on the level of effort
Authors: Tazoe Toshiki , Sakamoto Masanori , Nakajima Tsuyoshi , Endoh Takashi , Shiozawa Shinichiro , Komiyama Tomoyoshi 
Published: September 2009

AbstractStretch reflexes and motor‐evoked potentials (MEPs) of a muscle are facilitated when performing intensive contraction of muscles located in a different segment (remote effect). We investigated to what extent the remote effect on MEPs in the flexor carpi radialis (FCR) in humans is modulated during sustained maximal and submaximal voluntary contractions of the ipsilateral quadriceps (remote muscle). We found that even when the force of maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) of the remote muscle declined during sustained MVC, the magnitude of the remote effect on MEPs remained constant. Maximal electrical stimulation of the remote muscle and transcranial magnetic stimulation of the corresponding motor cortex revealed that the level of voluntary activation gradually decreased during the sustained MVC. The motor response in the FCR following magnetic stimulation at the level of the foramen magnum, which preferentially elicits muscle response as a direct response of the corticospinal tract, was not modified by the remote effect during the sustained MVC. This finding suggested that the excitability of the spinal motoneuron pool remained constant. In contrast to the sustained MVC, during sustained submaximal contraction of the remote muscle, the magnitude of the remote effect on MEPs gradually increased as muscle fatigue developed. These findings suggest that the remote effect on MEPs was dependent on the level of effort driving the remote muscle, but not on the actual level of force output of the remote muscle, and that the origin of the remote effect was supraspinal, putatively upstream of the primary motor cortex.
Keeping the Wheels Turning: The Dynamics of Managing Networks of Practice
Authors: Agterberg Marlous , Van Den Hooff Bart , Huysman Marleen , Soekijad Maura 
Published: September 2009

abstractIntra‐organizational networks of practice (NOPs) confront managers with a dilemma: they must manage NOPs to reap benefits from integrating geographically dispersed knowledge, but the inherently emergent nature of NOPs implies that management control may frustrate practice‐related knowledge to be shared. Based on a case study of 22 NOPs in a geographically dispersed development organization (‘TDO’), we develop a model that disentangles the dynamics underlying this dilemma, helping to better understand it. Specifically, four dynamic relationships are interrelated and involve four kinds of embeddedness (organizational, in practice, relational, and structural) that relate dynamically to knowledge sharing in NOPs. Interventions in both the content shared in the network and the connections among network members can influence each of these relations. This study contributes to theoretical and practical understanding of how to manage NOPs without killing them.
Semi‐Uniform Adaptive Patch Tessellation
Authors: Dyken C. , Reimers M. , Seland J. 
Published: September 2009

Abstract We present an adaptive tessellation scheme for surfaces consisting of parametric patches. The resulting tessellations are topologically uniform, yet consistent and watertight across boundaries of patches with different tessellation levels. Our scheme is simple to implement, requires little memory and is well suited for instancing, a feature available on current Graphical Processing Units that allows a substantial performance increase. We describe how the scheme can be implemented efficiently and give performance benchmarks comparing it to some other approaches.
Best Practice in Temporary Labour Migration for Development: A Perspective from Asia and the Pacific
Authors: Hugo Graeme 
Published: September 2009

AbstractThe dominant mode of international migration in Asia and the Pacific is temporary contract migration of low‐skilled workers. The potential for such migration to deliver significant development dividends to origin communities is substantial because of its large scale and the fact that most migrant workers return to their home community. However, there are a number of barriers that are intervening to dampen these potential positive effects, such as high transaction costs, high costs of sending remittances, and the fact that some areas of origin lack the infrastructure and potential for productive investment. Moreover, destination countries have been very welcoming of high skill temporary migrants but highly restrictive in their attitudes toward their low skill counterparts.This paper discusses the lessons of best practice in temporary labour migration programmes in the region, which can help to overcome these obstacles reducing the positive development impacts of migration. It assesses, in turn, best practice separately for each stage of the labour migration process ‐‐ recruitment and selection, and pre‐departure preparation ‐‐ at the destination and on return. In conclusion, a number of the barriers which impinge on Asian Pacific countries’ ability to introduce and sustain best practice are discussed. These include the need for capacity building, lack of cooperation between origin and destination countries, lack of data, poor governance of labour migration a failure among governments to recognise the significance of migration and the need for more “development friendly” migration policies in destinations.
Time‐related Histopathologic Changes in Fresh Frozen Carotid Xenografts in a Pig‐to‐Goat Implantation Model
Authors: Chang Ji M. , Kim Won G. 
Published: September 2009

AbstractWe performed an animal experiment with an emphasis on time‐related histopathologic changes to evaluate the clinical feasibility of immunologically nontreated xenogenic vascular grafts. Bilateral porcine carotid arteries were harvested, and then, after short‐term freezing at −70°C, interposed into goats' carotid arteries. An antiplatelet agent was administered orally for 3 months postoperatively. The goats were randomly assigned to five periods of observation (1 week, and 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after implantation); two animals were observed at each of these times. Doppler ultrasonography was performed periodically during the observation period. At predetermined times, grafts were explanted and examined using hematoxylin and eosin, and Masson's trichrome stains. Immunohistochemical evaluations were conducted with T‐lymphocyte indicator and von Willebrand factor. Two goats died prematurely, one from respiratory problems related to anesthesia and the other from pneumonia. A total of 16 grafts from the remaining eight animals were evaluated. Grafts were all patent except one at 3 months after transplantation. Histologically, xenogenic arterial grafts showed early endothelial cell loss at 1 week. This was followed by a progressive spread of recipient endothelial cells from the anastomotic site, and re‐endothelialization was complete at 1 month. The degree of neointimal and medial thickening increased until 3 months, and then decreased. At 12 months, no additional growth of the intimal or medial layers was observed. Adventitial inflammation became severe at 3 months, but was reduced at 6–12 months. The proportions of CD3‐positive T‐lymphocytes among inflammatory cell infiltrations were very low. Fresh frozen xenogenic arterial grafts showed acceptable patency throughout the 12‐month period and showed no evidence of being unduly influenced by rejection reactions.
Teaching Basic Environmental Health in Universities Utilizing an Interdisciplinary Holistic Approach and Interactive Learning Methods
Authors: Yassi Annalee , Kjellstrom Tord , Kok Theo De , Weinger Merri 
Published: September 2009

ABSTRACTThe need to transcend disciplinary boundaries in the teaching of environmental studies has become increasingly obvious. It has been particularly recognized that the relationship between environmental factors and human health needs to be taught much more broadly at universities. An international collaborative effort was begun to develop a course to teach core knowledge in environmental health to health professionals as well as others from a wide variety of disciplinary backgrounds. The course utilizes interactive learning methods and takes a holistic approach to the subject matter, linking the macro socioeconomic issues with the physical, chemical, biological, mechanical, and psychological hazards, as well as with the human health effects. It also aims to build skills in risk assessment, management, and communication. Several meetings (with representatives from the World Health Organization, the United National Environment Programme, the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organisation, and the Council of Rectors of European Universities), a survey completed by 120 universities, a 3‐day workshop (with teachers from across the globe), and three 2‐week train‐the‐trainer courses (one in the Baltic, one in the Danube region, and one in South Africa) led to the conclusion that interdisciplinary, interactive teaching materials were highly desired, feasible to develop through international collaboration, and conducive to conveying the basic principles and methodologies needed to address environmental health problems.
Successful treatment of a large hemangioma with propranolol
Authors: Mousa Waseem , Kues Kirsten , Haas Ellen , Lauerer Peter , Pavlakovic Helena , Schön Michael P. , Zutt Markus 
Published: September 2009

SummaryHemangiomas are the most common vascular tumors in children. They occur in 8–12% of all infants and in 22% of premature infants (female: male = 3: 1). Hemangiomas are usually sporadic; their etiology is unknown [1].A premature female infant, born at 28 weeks of gestation, presented with a large hemangioma of the right thoracic wall. Within the first few weeks, the hemangioma showed rapid horizontal and vertical growth as well as ulceration, which led us to initiate systemic therapy.The effectiveness of propranolol (non‐selective ß‐blocker) in the management of severe cases of hemangioma has been shown in a recent series of cases [2]. We began oral propranolol treatment, in close interdisciplinary cooperation. After a few days of therapy, the tumor had stopped expanding. After 18 weeks, there has been marked regression but the therapy is still being continued. We propose that propranolol may be an effective and relatively well tolerable alternative in the management of selected cases of severe hemangiomas in infancy, providing interdisciplinary cooperation between dermatologists and pediatricians is available.
QUALITY CHARACTERISTICS OF MEAT FROM WILD RED DEER (CERVUS ELAPHUS L.) HINDS AND STAGS
Authors: DASZKIEWICZ T. , JANISZEWSKI P. , WAJDA S. 
Published: September 2009

ABSTRACT The objective of the present study was to determine the chemical composition as well as physicochemical and sensory properties of meat (musculus longissimus lumborum) from red deer (Cervus elaphus L.) hinds and stags harvested in forests of north‐eastern Poland. Red deer meat was found to have a low fat content and a high content of total protein and water‐soluble nitrogen in relation to total nitrogen. The total collagen content of meat was relatively low. Meat from hinds contained larger amounts of the above components (except for collagen). Meat from both hinds and stags had physical properties typical of venison, i.e., a dark color and a low pH level. Meat from hinds was characterized by better water‐holding capacity. The relatively high TBARS value indicated lipid susceptibility to oxidation. The analyzed red deer meat had specific, but very good eating attributes (aroma, taste, juiciness, tenderness). Meat from stags was rated higher for taste and shear force.PRACTICAL APPLICATIONMeat from animals raised under natural conditions has enjoyed a rise in popularity among consumers in recent years. The condition of “naturalness” is met by venison, which at the same time is known for its very high nutritive value and specific, but highly desirable, sensory properties. However, the nutritional and sensory qualities of venison should be analyzed in view of their great variation resulting from the impact of genetic and environmental factors, which remains insufficiently investigated, particularly with regard to wild populations.
Orexins (hypocretins) actions on the GHRH/somatostatin‐GH axis
Authors: López M. , Nogueiras R. , Tena‐Sempere M. , Diéguez C. 
Published: September 2009

AbstractThe secretion of growth hormone (GH) is regulated through a complex neuroendocrine control system that includes two major hypothalamic regulators, namely GH‐releasing hormone (GHRH) and somatostatin (SST) that stimulate and inhibit, respectively, GH release. Classical experiments involving damage and electrical stimulation suggested that the lateral hypothalamic area (LHA) modulated the somatotropic axis, but the responsible molecular mechanisms were unclear. Evidence obtained during the last decade has demonstrated that orexins/hypocretins, a family of peptides expressed in the LHA controlling feeding and sleep, play an important regulatory role on GH, by inhibiting its secretion modulating GHRH and SST neurones. Considering that GH release is closely linked to the sleep–wake cycle and feeding state, understanding orexin/hypocretin physiology could open new therapeutic possibilities in the treatment of sleep, energy homeostasis and GH‐related pathologies, such as GH deficiency.
Attitudes of Egyptian nursing home residents towards staying in a nursing home: a qualitative study
Authors: Boggatz Thomas , Farid Tamer , Mohammedin Ahmed , Dassen Theo 
Published: September 2009

Aim.  The aim of this study was to identify the attitudes of Egyptian nursing home residents towards staying in a nursing home and to differentiate between various types of these attitudes.Background.  The number of older persons in Egypt who require nursing care is increasing. In response, nursing homes in bigger cities like Cairo were founded, although family care seems to be the prevalent norm.Methods.  Semi‐structured guideline interviews were performed with 21 residents from four different nursing homes in Cairo. Interviews were analyzed using qualitative content analysis.Findings.  One category of resident was those who were sent to the nursing home by persons closely related to them. Another category made their own decision to move to a nursing home. Relationships with social networks and self‐help abilities are factors of importance in influencing decision‐making.Conclusion.  Nursing homes in Egypt fulfil different functions for different types of older persons. Charitable institutions are a last resort for those with no income and a disrupted social network. For better‐off older persons, nursing homes may provide the benefits of socialising with peers and receiving medical treatment.
Mapping the American Buddhist Terrain: Paths Taken and Possible Itineraries
Authors: Wilson Jeff 
Published: September 2009

AbstractMany different approaches have been taken to the task of analyzing how many kinds of Buddhism exist within the United States. A topographical approach which draws on Thomas Tweed’s crossing and dwelling theory of religion provides a useful interpretative tool to understand the many Buddhisms in America. While ‘maps’ such as two Buddhisms, three Buddhisms, night‐stand Buddhists, and others will likely continue to prove useful, they are also incomplete and further approaches are needed. One important area that has been overlooked is regionalism within American Buddhism, a lens that comes into focus when Tweed’s sense of mapping religion and theoretical itineraries is applied.
Impact of Morphology, MIB‐1, p53 and MGMT on Outcome in Pilocytic Astrocytomas
Authors: Horbinski Craig , Hamilton Ronald L. , Lovell Colleen , Burnham Judith , Pollack Ian F. 
Published: September 2009

AbstractPilocytic astrocytoma (PA) is the most common glioma in the pediatric population. PAs can exhibit variable behavior that does not always correlate with location, yet at present there is no way to predict which tumors will be more aggressive. To address this problem, an institutional cohort of 147 PAs (118 with outcome data) from both cerebellar and noncerebellar locations (spine, diencephalon, midbrain, brainstem and cortex) was utilized. Parameters included quantification of characteristic morphologic variables as well as genes previously shown to be of relevance in high‐grade gliomas, including MIB‐1, p53 and MGMT. In this cohort, the classic biphasic appearance was most common in cerebellar tumors, whereas noncerebellar tumors were predominantly microcystic. Associations with outcome suggest that the presence of degenerative atypia may be a favorable factor in PAs. Oligodendroglial morphology and the absence of leptomeningeal invasion are adverse histologic factors, but only in cerebellar tumors. Conversely, MIB‐1 proliferation index and p53 and MGMT expression do not correlate with outcome. Morphologic biomarkers thus do exist for PAs, but the utility of each biomarker varies according to location. These results suggest that PAs differ fundamentally according to location; therefore, biological behavior may not simply depend on extent of resection.
Hilbert modular forms and p-adic Hodge theory
Authors: Saito Takeshi 
Published: September 2009

AbstractFor the p-adic Galois representation associated to a Hilbert modular form, Carayol has shown that, under a certain assumption, its restriction to the local Galois group at a finite place not dividing p is compatible with the local Langlands correspondence. Under the same assumption, we show that the same is true for the places dividing p, in the sense of p-adic Hodge theory, as is shown for an elliptic modular form. We also prove that the monodromy-weight conjecture holds for such representations.
Occupational physical activities, working hours and outcome of pregnancy: findings from the Southampton Women’s Survey
Authors: Bonzini M , Coggon D , Godfrey K , Inskip H , Crozier S , Palmer K T 
Published: September 2009

Objectives:To investigate risks of physical activity at work by pregnancy trimester, including the effects on head and abdominal circumference.Method:At 34 weeks of gestation we interviewed 1327 mothers from the prospective Southampton Women’s Survey (SWS); we asked about their activities (working hours, standing/walking, kneeling/squatting, trunk bending, lifting and night shifts) in jobs held at each of 11, 19 and 34 weeks of gestation, and subsequently ascertained four birth outcomes (preterm delivery, small for gestational age (SGA) and reduced head or abdominal circumference) blinded to employment history.Results:Risk of preterm delivery was elevated nearly threefold in women whose work at 34 weeks entailed trunk bending for >1 h/day. Small head circumference was more common in babies born to women who worked for >40 h/week. However, no statistically significant associations were found with SGA or small abdominal circumference, and preterm delivery showed little association with long working hours, lifting, standing or shift work.Conclusions:There is a need for more research on trunk bending late in pregnancy, and on the relationship of work to reduced head circumference. Our findings on several other occupational exposures common among pregnant workers are reassuring.
Surface Wind Regionalization over Complex Terrain: Evaluation and Analysis of a High-Resolution WRF Simulation
Authors: Jiménez Pedro A. , González-Rouco J. Fidel , García-Bustamante Elena , Navarro Jorge , Montávez Juan P. , de Arellano Jordi Vilà-Guerau , Dudhia Jimy , Muñoz-Roldan Antonio 
Published: September 2009

AbstractThis study analyzes the daily-mean surface wind variability over an area characterized by complex topography through comparing observations and a 2-km-spatial-resolution simulation performed with the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model for the period 1992–2005. The evaluation focuses on the performance of the simulation to reproduce the wind variability within subregions identified from observations over the 1999–2002 period in a previous study. By comparing with wind observations, the model results show the ability of the WRF dynamical downscaling over a region of complex terrain. The higher spatiotemporal resolution of the WRF simulation is used to evaluate the extent to which the length of the observational period and the limited spatial coverage of observations condition one’s understanding of the wind variability over the area. The subregions identified with the simulation during the 1992–2005 period are similar to those identified with observations (1999–2002). In addition, the reduced number of stations reasonably represents the spatial wind variability over the area. However, the analysis of the full spatial dimension simulated by the model suggests that observational coverage could be improved in some subregions. The approach adopted here can have a direct application to the design of observational networks.