Clustering of voltage-dependent sodium channels on axons depends on Schwann cell contact.

In myelinated nerves, segregation of voltage-dependent sodium channels to nodes of Ranvier is crucial for saltatory conduction along axons. As sodium channels associate and colocalize with ankyrin at nodes of Ranvier, one possibility is that sodium channels are recruited and immobilized at axonal sites which are specified by the subaxolemmal cytoskeleton, independent of glial cell contact. Alternatively, segregation of channels at distinct sites along the axon may depend on glial cell contact. To resolve this question, we have examined the distribution of sodium channels, ankyrin and spectrin in myelination-competent cocultures of sensory neurons and Schwann cells by immunofluorescence, using sodium channel-, ankyrin- and spectrin-specific antibodies. In the absence of Schwann cells, sodium channels, ankyrin and spectrin are homogeneously distributed on sensory axons. When Schwann cells are introduced into these cultures, the distribution of sodium channels dramatically changes so that channel clusters on axons are abundant, but ankyrin and spectrin remain homogeneously distributed. Addition of latex beads or Schwann cell membranes does not induce channel clustering. Our results suggest that segregation of sodium channels on axons is highly dependent on interactions with active Schwann cells and that continuing axon-glial interactions are necessary to organize and maintain channel distribution during differentiation of myelinated axons.     

Fitting an extended INDSCAL model to three-way proximity data

The INDSCAL individual differences scaling model is extended by assuming dimensions specific to each stimulus or other object, as well as dimensions common to all stimuli or objects. An alternating maximum likelihood procedure is used to seek maximum likelihood estimates of all parameters of this EXSCAL (Extended INDSCAL) model, including parameters of monotone splines assumed in a quasi-nonmetric approach. The rationale for and numerical details of this approach are described and discussed, and the resulting EXSCAL method is illustrated on some data on perception of musical timbres.     

Characterization and Preparation of Bimetallic Nanoparticles

1 Results Bimetallic particles in the nanometer size range are of substantial interest due to their vast applications in catalysis[1].The synthesis of bimetallic nanoparticles with definite size with a well-control over their nanostructure remains a challenging problem.Thus there exists a great demand for both synthesis and atomic level characterization of nanostructure of bimetallic nanoparticles (NPs).With the recent advent of high-intensity tunable sources of X-rays,now available at synchrotron radia...     

A History of the Action Learning,Action Research,and Process Management Association (ALARPM): From Brisbane (Australia) to the World Through Inclusion and Networks

Action Learning, Action Research, and Process Management Association (ALARPM) is an organization of volunteers dedicated to the international expansion of action learning, action research, and process management, through world congresses. It has existed for over a dozen years now, despite significant stresses and strains, and has successfully conducted five world congresses with a sixth one in 2003. This history of ALARPM shows that a small group can set out to be international and inclusive from the beginning, so long as it also develops processes to sustain itself internally.