cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Intracellular response of neurons of the caudate nucleus and putamen to intrastriatal stimulation in cat

Abstract The purpose of this research was to determine if the different functional areas of the striatum, as defined by corticostriate connections, have excitatory and/or inhibitory interconnections. In cats anesthetized with barbiturates, an intracellular recording electrode was angled at 45° such that it (1) crossed all functional areas of the striatum in a single pass and (2) traversed perpendicular to intrastriatal axonal bundles and their terminal fields. > 95% of the neurons recorded intracellularly in the head of the caudate (Cd) nucleus responded to stimulation of teh rostromedial striatum (limbic area) producing an initial excitatory response in all cases. Membrane hyperpolarization and inhibition followed the initial excitatory response in approximately half of the responsive neurons. As the recording electrode approached the stimulating electrode, latencies to response onset decreased and amplitudes of the initial excitatory responses increased. Stimulation of a single site produced responses in neurons found in all functional areas of the Cd nucleus. Based on the known topography of afferents to the striatum, these results cannot be explained by stimulation of fibersen passant. Therefore, we conclude that the limbic striatum is connected to other functional areas of the Cd nucleus by intrinsic excitatory and inhibitory circuits. We speculate that intrinsic circuits are a hidden layer of organization providing connectional plasticity by which the influence of an input on striatal neurons may be expanded or contracted beyond the anatomical limits of the afferent terminal field.
Doing technology, doing gender: Teaching gendered technoculture

This article explores the intersection between gender and technology in a Women's and Gender Studies course. It explores the pedagogical methodologies of the course, as well as the ways in which students engage in the process of learning how society genders technology and then uses these gender roles to create a technological hierarchy.
Parents forced to surrender custody of children with neurobiological disorders.

In many states, competent, caring parents must declare themselves “unfit,” often before a judge, and surrender custody of their child with a neurobiological disorder so that their child can receive state-funded medical care, which the parents cannot afford.
Nucleic Acid Aptamers as Potential Therapeutic and Diagnostic Agents for Lymphoma

Lymphomas are cancers that arise from white blood cells and usually present as solid tumors. Treatment of lymphoma often involves chemotherapy, and can also include radiotherapy and/or bone marrow transplantation. There is an unquestioned need for more effective therapies and diagnostic tool for lymphoma. Aptamers are single stranded DNA or RNA oligonucleotides whose three-dimensional structures are dictated by their sequences. The immense diversity in function and structure of nucleic acids enable numerous aptamers to be generated through an iterative in vitro selection technique known as Systematic Evolution of Ligands by EXponential enrichment (SELEX). Aptamers have several biochemical properties that make them attractive tools for use as potential diagnostic and pharmacologic agents. Isolated aptamers may directly inhibit the function of target proteins, or they can also be formulated for use as delivery agents for other therapeutic or imaging cargoes. More complex aptamer identification methods, using whole cancer cells (Cell-SELEX), may identify novel targets and aptamers to affect them. This review focuses on recent advances in the use of nucleic acid aptamers as diagnostic and therapeutic agents and as targeted delivery carriers that are relevant to lymphoma. Some representative examples are also discussed.
The positive definite completion problem relative to a subspace

Abstract We consider the problem of completing a partial real symmetric matrix so that its quadratic from is positive (semi-)definite on a subspace, presented as the null space of a given matrix. Under the appropriate definition of “partial positive definite” the classical result regarding chordal patterns is extended to this setting. However, unlike the classical setting, there are differences between the positive semi-definite and positive definite completion problems.
Lowe's syndrome. Absence of amino acid transport defect in cultured fibroblasts.

SUMMARY Transport of lysine and glycine was studied in cultured fibroblasts of a patient with Lowe's oculocerebrorenal syndrome. Although patients with this syndrome demonstrate renal and intestinal amino acid transport defects, no abnormality was found in our study.
A study of deformed and recovered aluminum crystals by a new x-ray technique

Abstract By the use of a Soller slit in the primary beam and a line source of X-rays, the focusing Laue method of Guinier and Tennevin has been extended to allow the detection and measurement of torsional strain in a crystal lattice. Focused reflections from planes other than those considered by Guinier and Tennevin may also be obtained under these conditions. In deformed single crystals of aluminum, torsionally strained regions of the lattice are found to occur quite generally. Deformation is found to be highly inhomogeneous when an extended region of a deformed crystal is examined. The reversibility of plastic deformation is shown. Polygonization of bent specimens is confirmed and it is shown that crystals deformed by torsion may recover by partial untwisting rather than by polygonization.
Synthesis of [5,6-3H2]CP-88,818 (β-[5,6-3H2]tigogenin cellobioside)

CP-88,818 (β-tigogenin cellobioside) is a novel hypocholesterolemic and anti-atherosclerosis agent which acts by inhibiting the absorption of dietary and biliary cholesterol. While the exact mechanism of this inhibition is unclear, CP-88,818 is believed to block cholesterol absorption without entering the body. In order to prove this hypothesis, radiolabelled CP-88,818 was needed. Herein, we report the stereoselective synthesis of [5,6-3H2]CP-88,818 in four steps from diosgenin acetate.
Thermorheological Properties Near the Glass Transition of Oligomeric Poly(methyl methacrylate) Blended with Acrylic Polyhedral Oligomeric Silsesquioxane Nanocages

Two distinct oligomeric species of similar mass and chemical functionality (M w≈2,000 g/mol), one a linear methyl methacrylate oligomer (radius of gyration R g≈1.1 nm) and the other a hybrid organic–inorganic polyhedral silsesquioxane nanocage (methacryl-POSS, r≈1.0 nm), were subjected to thermal and rheological tests to compare the behaviors of these geometrically dissimilar molecules over the entire composition range. The glass transition temperatures of the blends varied monotonically between the glass transition temperatures of the pure oligomer (T g=−47.3°C) and the pure POSS (T g=−61.0°C). Blends containing high POSS contents (with volume fraction φ POSS≥0.90) exhibited enhanced enthalpy relaxation in differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) measurements, and the degree of enthalpy relaxation was used to calculate the kinetic fragility indices m of the oligomeric MMA (m=59) and the POSS (m=74). The temperature dependences of the viscosities were fitted by the free-volume based Williams–Landel–Ferry (WLF) and Vogel–Fulcher–Tammann (VFT) framework and a dynamic scaling relation. The calculated values of the fragility from the WLF–VFT fits were similar for the POSS (m=82) and for the oligomer (m=76), and the dynamic scaling exponent was similar for the oligomeric MMA and the POSS. Within the range of known fragilities for glass-forming liquids, the temperature dependence of the viscosity was found to be similarly fragile for the two species. The difference in shape of the nanocages and oligomer chains is unimportant in controlling the glass-forming properties of the blends at low volume fractions (φ POSS<0.20). However, at higher volume fractions, adjacent POSS cages begin to crowd each other, leading to an increase in the fractional free volume at the glass transition temperature and the observed enhanced enthalpy relaxation in DSC.
How smart are our environments? An updated look at the state of the art

In this paper we take a look at the state of the art in smart environments research. The survey is motivated by the recent dramatic increase of activity in the field, and summarizes work in a variety of supporting disciplines. We also discuss the application of smart environments research to health monitoring and assistance, followed by ongoing challenges for continued research.
The managerial revolution revisited: the moderating impact of top managers’ social class position:

This article draws on early sociological critiques of the managerialist thesis to develop a new conceptualization of corporate ownership and control which is used here to inform an analysis of the ...
TASKILLAN II - Pilot strategies for workload management

This study focused on the strategies used by pilots in managing their workload level, and their subsequent task performance. Sixteen licensed pilots flew 42 missions on a helicopter simulation, and were evaluated on their performance of the overall mission, as well as individual tasks. Pilots were divided in four groups, defined by the presence or absence of scheduling control over tasks and the availability of intelligence concerning the type and stage of difficulties imposed during the flight. Results suggest that intelligence supported strategies that yielded significant higher performance levels, while scheduling control seemed to have no impact on performance. Both difficulty type and the stage of difficulty impacted performance significantly, with strongest effects for time stresss and difficulties imposed late in the flight.
Relevance of endocavitary structures in ablation procedures for ventricular tachycardia.

Endocavitary Structures and Ventricular Tachycardia Ablation. Background: Radiofrequency (RF) ablation for ventricular tachycardia (VT) has high failure rates. Whether endocavitary structures (ECS) such as the papillary muscles (PMs), moderator bands (MBs), or false tendons (FTs) impact VT ablation is unknown. Methods and Results: We retrospectively reviewed records of 190 consecutive patients presenting for VT ablation and identified 46 (24%) where ECS affected ablation. In 31 of 46 patients (67%), the ECS created difficulty with catheter manipulation (n = 20), interpretation of pace map data (n = 7), or with accurately defining a scar (n = 4). In 15 of 46 (33%), specific mapping and RF energy delivery targeting the ECS itself was necessary to eliminate the arrhythmia. Detailed electroanatomic mapping was performed in 11 of 15 (73%), noncontact mapping in 3 of 15 (20%), multielectrode catheter mapping in 1 of 15 (7%), and intracardiac ultrasound in 14 of 15 (93%) patients. The ablated ECS was a PM in 5 of 15, the MB in 7 of 15, and an FT in 3 of 15. The arrhythmogenic substrate on the ECS was a focus of automatic tachycardia in 9 of 15 and the slow zone responsible for reentrant arrhythmia in the remaining 6 of 15. Successful elimination of tachycardia without recurrence was obtained in all 15 cases. There was no evidence of valvular damage or disruption of the valvular apparatus. Conclusion: During VT ablation procedures, ECS should be considered for specific mapping and targeted ablation. Once recognized, these structures can be successfully targeted for ablation without valve damage. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 21, pp. 245–254, March 2010)
On the design of environmentally benign refrigerant mixtures : a mathematical programming approach

Abstract Chlorofluorocarbon (CFC)-based refrigerants (such as CFC12) have found widespread uses in home refrigerators and automotive air conditioners primarily due to their non-toxic, non-flammable nature and their high overall thermodynamic efficiency. However, CFC and hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC) refrigerants with intermediate to high ozone depletion potentials (ODPs) will be banned during the next two decades. The outcome of replacing CFCs in the vapor recompression cycle and various other processes is vital to several industries. Feasible solutions appear to include mixtures of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) which have the potential for matching thermodynamic properties of current working fluids while meeting several criteria for ozone depletion potential, flammability, toxicity, materials compatibility and cost. In this paper, a proof-of-concept study is made to show that mathematical programming can be used effectively to identify a small set of alternative refrigerant mixtures which then can be evaluated experimentally. In the mathematical programming model, binary variables specify the type and number of single component refrigerants that exist in a mixture and continuous variables specify the mixture properties, in addition to the proportion in which the single component refrigerants are blended to form the mixture. The environmental issue has been addressed partially by incorporating the ODP, a quantitative measure of the ozone depleting capability of a compound, into the mathematical programming framework. The results indicate the viability of the approach.
Photoelectron spectroscopy of poly(p-phenylene vinylene)

Abstract The electronic structure of neutral and electrochemically doped poly(p-phenylene vinylene) (PPV) has been examined by using XPS spectroscopy. The interpretation of the C(1s) core level spectra has been assisted by theoretical MO studies on low molecular weight model compounds. The valence-level spectra of neutral polymer are discussed in conjunction with states derived from tight binding model of conjugated chain. The signal detected from the top-most electronic states is reduced after doping and neither arsenic 4d orbitals nor fluorine 2s orbitals contribute detectable to the doped polymer valence band.
INFORMATION EXCHANGE, TOUGHNESS, AND INTEGRATIVE BARGAINING: THE ROLES OF EXPLICIT CUES AND PERSPECTIVE‐TAKING

Information exchange is a significant factor in the achievement of integrative agreements in negotiation. However, it is not clear what factors govern information exchange. While tutoring negotiators in information exchange has clearly been shown to be effective, the experiment reported here was concerned with less directive interventions. Negotiators were either (a) alerted to the possibility that the other party's issue priorities were not the same as their own—and hence the problem not fixed pie in nature—(Priority condition); or (b) made aware of the need to look at problems from another's perspective (Perspective condition). Interest was in how these interventions would effect negotiators' spontaneous exchange of potential outcome information, their understanding of the integrative nature of the problem, and their joint outcome from their negotiated agreement, as compared with a control condition. In addition, the role of negotiator firmness in the achievement of integrative agreements was examined. It was found that Priority negotiators engaged in more information exchange, tended to be more accurate in their understanding of the nature of the bargaining problem, and achieved higher joint profits in their agreements than did control negotiators. Pairs whose summed perspective‐taking ability was higher made agreements with higher joint profits than those with lower perspective‐taking ability. Negotiator firmness was higher for the Priority condition than for the control condition. It was concluded that (a) spontaneous exchange of outcome information does occur when negotiators are cued to doubt the fixed pie hypothesis about possible outcomes of negotiation; (b) this exchange is associated with higher joint profits, i.e., with more integrative bargaining; but (c) firmness as well as information exchange appears to play an important role in integrative bargaining; in addition, (d) perspective‐taking does seem to encourage integrative bargaining, but it is difficult to induce, and how it operates is unclear.
Accuracy of Neural Network Approximators in Simulation-Optimization

Heuristic search techniques are highly flexible but computationally intensive optimization methods that require hundreds, sometimes thousands, of evaluations of the objective function to reach termination criteria in common water resources optimization applications. One way to make these techniques more tractable when the objective function depends on a time-consuming flow and transport model is to employ an empirical approximation of the model. The current study examines the impact of employing artificial neural networks (ANNs) and linear approximators (LAs) on the quality and quantity of solutions obtained from simulated annealing-driven searches on two different ground-water remediation problems. The quality of results obtained when ANNs served as substitutes for the full model was consistently comparable to that of results obtained when the full model itself was called in the course of the search. The effect on quality of results of substituting an LA for the full model was more variable.
Prescribing Zeros and Poles on a Compact Riemann Surface for a Gravitationally Coupled Abelian Gauge Field Theory

In this paper, we study the existence of prescribed cosmic strings and antistrings realized as the static solutions with prescribed zeros and poles of the Einstein equations coupled with the classical sigma model and an Abelian gauge field over a compact Riemann surface. We show that the equations of motion are equivalent to a system of self-dual equations and the presence of string defects are necessary and sufficient for gravitation which implies the equivalence of topology and geometry in the model. More precisely, we prove that the absence of a solution with zeros and poles implies that the underlying Riemann surface S must be a flat 2-torus and that the existence of a solution with zeros and poles implies that S must be a 2-sphere. Furthermore, we develop an existence theory for solutions with prescribed zeros and poles. We also obtain some nonexistence results.
The Bayes/Non-Bayes Compromise and the Multinomial Distribution

Abstract Compromises between Bayesian and non-Bayesian significance testing are exemplified by examining distributions of criteria for multinominal equiprobability. They include Pearson's X2, the likelihood-ratio, the Bayes factor F, and a statistic G that previously arose from a Bayesian model by “Type II Maximum Likelihood.” Its asymptotic distribution, implied by the theory of the “Type II Likelihood Ratio,” is remarkably accurate into the extreme tail. F too can be treated as a non-Bayesian criterion and is almost equivalent to G. The relationship between F and its own tail area sheds further light on the relationship between Bayesian and “Fisherian” significance.
Monte Carlo Simulations of Systems With Fermions

We present results of a Monte Carlo evaluation of the path integral for two-dimensional theories with fermions. These include fermions coupled to scalar fields and fermions coupled to Abelian gauge bosons. On a 10 by 10 lattice we have computed expectation values of local operators and correlation functions, from which we have estimated mass gaps. In the case of the coupled gauge-fermion system we find dynamical mass generation for both fermions and gauge bosons. We discuss the phase diagram and the continuum limit of the theory.
Defect production and electronic stopping for light ions in metals

Abstract A method for determining effective electronic stopping powers in metals is presented. The method involves measuring damage rates in thin films as a function of ion energy. The experimental results are compared with predictions based on Monte Carlo computer simulations. Results are presented for H, D, He, and Li projectiles on Cu, Ag, and Ni. The implication of these results for defect production is discussed.
Partitions and Conditionals

The literature on conditionals is rife with alternate formulations of the abstract semantics of conditional logic. Each formulation has its own advantages in terms of applications and generalizations; nevertheless, they are for the most part equivalent, in the sense that they underwrite the same range of logical systems. The purpose of the present note is to bring under this umbrella the partition semantics introduced by Brian Skyrms in (Skyrms, 1984).
Rhizome Growth Dynamics of Native and Exotic Haplotypes of Phragmites australis (Common Reed)

Phragmites australis (common reed), a clonal grass, has expanded from a minor component of the mid-Atlantic wetlands to a dominant species. It has been suggested that invasive populations ofPhragmites are an exotic haplotype responsible for the dramatic increase in the distribution of the species. We used field observations and measurements and a greenhouse assay to compare native (haplotype F) and exotic (haplotype M) populations, growing adjacent to one another in a brackish marsh near Odessa, Delaware. In the marsh, shoots of the exotic strain emerged from the rhizomes earlier than those of the native and by March there was an order of magnitude more new shoots of the exotic strain than the native. In August, the exotic strain was 30% taller than the native, had twice the leaf biomass, and twice the total biomass. Nine of ten morphological and biomass characteristics measured differed significantly between the native and exotic strains. A greenhouse assay was conducted by planting rhizomes collected in March in shallow trays and growing them for 70 d followed by shoot harvest (Harvest 1). Rhizomes were measured, replanted, and grown for 35 d after which time they were measured and shoots were harvested (Harvest 2). At Harvest 1, shoot height was approximately 80% greater in the exotic strain, shoot biomass was three times higher, aboveground to belowground biomass ratio was twice as high, and rhizome internode length was 50% greater in the exotic strain than the native. These traits, in addition to number of shoots, were also greater in the exotic strain at Harvest 2. The number of rhizome buds at Harvest 1 was three times greater in the native than in the exotic strain. The greater number of rhizome buds in the native would seem to be an advantage, but it did not result in more shoot production. Buds were maintained in an inactive state that does not allow this strain to compete well in a wetland environment inhabited by a more efficient spreader. The earlier emergence of new shoots from the rhizomes, the greater aboveground structure, the greater rhizome internode length, and the quick transition of rhizome buds to shoot or rhizome explain in part the exotic strain's advantage over the native and the mechanisms for its invasive nature.
On-line culture fluorescence measurement during the batch cultivation of poly-β-hydroxybutyrate producing Alcaligenes eutrophus

Abstract Estimation of biomass concentration by on-line fluorimetry was examined during batch cultivations of Alcaligenes eutrophus ATCC 17697, a poly-β-hydroxybutyric acid (PHB) producer. The results obtained revealed a linear correlation between total culture fluorescence and total biomass concentration. The total fluorescence level was attributed to cellular fluorescence and to the fluorescence of compounds presumably produced by the cells and secreted into the culture medium. An increase in the specific cellular fluorescence during the course of the experiments indicated a shift in metabolism that favored the production of PHB.
Sphincters in pulmonary veins. An anatomic study in rats.

To better understand blood flow and edema formation in the lung, anatomic evidence for venous sphincters was sought by a scanning electron microscopic investigation of vascular casts in the rat. In the first study, indentations in the casts of veins and arteries were compared. Casts of the pulmonary veins had narrow (1 to 3 µm) circumferential constrictions about every 30 µm in length (range 20 to 50 µm) and before and after accepting tributaries. Most arteries had no constriction. Infrequently, arterial narrowing occurred over long distances (> 30 µm). To determine if these indentations could be altered by a neural stimulus, a second study tried to cast the pulmonary microcirculation after the rats were given a blow to the head, but was unsuccessful. In a third study, the pulmonary vasculature of anesthetized rats was cleared and cast. As the resin began to harden and the animals' circulation ceased, half the animals were given a sharp blow on the head. The casts of the veins in the animals that received...
Transformation of Cryptomelane-Type Manganese Oxides to Oxygen Deficient Systems by Microwave-Induced Oxygen Evolution

Cryptomelane, a one-dimensional tunnel manganese oxide, is a good microwave absorber due to the effective coupling of MnO2 with microwave irradiation. Transformations of cryptomelane were studied under microwave heating conditions at a frequency of 2.45 GHz. Microwave-induced oxygen evolution is fast and uniform, leading to the formation of oxygen deficient products. Microwave products in contrast to conventional heated products exhibited a strong tendency to adsorb water, and recombine with oxygen. The water adsorbed on the surface of materials is highly ordered. Oxygen recombination led to a recovery of the cryptomelane structure and a decrease in the level of the oxygen deficient phase. A reversible process during microwave-induced oxygen evolution and subsequent oxygen recombination is proposed.
Electrochemical studies of the redox behavior of α-tocopherylquinone and a related model quinone

Abstract The electrochemical reduction of α-tocopherylquinone and the model quinone, 2,3,5-trimethyl-6-(3′-methyl-3′-hydroxybutyl)quinone, has been studied in an aprotic, nonaqueous solvent. In the absence of a proton donor, the quinones, Q, are reduced reversibly in two one-electron steps to the dianion, Q 2− . Addition of ethyl malonate to the system causes protonation of the dianion and the formation of QH − . In the presence of a stronger proton donor (benzenethiol) protonation of the intermediate anion radical (Q − ) gives QH ·, which is more readily reduced than the quinone. The final product of the reduction is the corresponding hydroquinone. Dual pathways of reduction are noted when HClO 4 is added to the system. In addition to causing the two-electron reduction of protonated quinone to the hydroquinone, the acid also facilitates the recyclization of the quinone and the subsequent dehydration of the electroinactive, hemiketal intermediate. The carbonium ion which results from these processes is reduced to the chromanol in a two-electron process at a potential less cathodic than the reduction of the protonated quinone. No evidence could be found to suggest that the chromanol is a reduction product when the quinone is the electroactive species.
Population genetic study of the U.S. federally listed Illinois cave amphipod, Gammarus acherondytes

Worldwide, conservation personnel must balance the needs of endangered species and humans. Studies that provide information of a species’ genetic structure can identify conservation units and help prioritize populations. We used a region of the cytochrome c oxidase subunit I gene to examine the population genetics of the U.S. federally listed Illinois cave amphipod, Gammarus acherondytes. Eleven unique haplotypes were identified from nine populations in two hydrologically separate subregions, each of which contained genetically distinct populations. This conclusion is based on (i) subregions form clades in the interspecific phylogeographic analyses; (ii) the between-subregions component in the Analysis of Molecular Variance accounted for a significant fraction (81.45%) of the genetic variation; and (iii) no haplotypes were shared between subregions. These results coincide with the known distribution of G. acherondytes and regional hydrology. We recommend future recovery efforts avoid mixing individuals between subregions to prevent the breakdown of local adaptive gene complexes.
ANISOTROPY AND NMR OF MACROMOLECULES

A new approach for studying high molecular weight macromolecules and macromolecular complexes is coming to the fore. Such biological systems have traditionally been very difficult to structurally characterize, because of long global correlation times, light scattering, difficulty to crystallize, and more. For biological solid state NMR these are either advantages or at the least they are not serious problems. While this spectroscopy has been around for more than two decades, due to the complexity of the instrumentation and the spectroscopy only a modest number of functional questions have been effectively studied with this approach. Now these excuses for avoiding solid state NMR are fading and exciting data relating to functional properties of macromolecules are being generated by those using the technique. Biological solid stateNMR spectroscopy has been pioneered and promoted over the years by scientists such as: Myer Bloom (Nezil and Bloom, 1992), Robert Griffin (McDermott et al., 199 1 ), Eric Oldfield (Oldfield, et al., 1991 ), Stanley Opella (Bechinger et al., 1992), and Jacob Schaefer (Marshall et al., 1990) to name a few. Many others, including Christopher Dobson (Taguchi et al., this issue) and Charles McDowell (Challoner et al., this issue) have made significant contributions to the development ofthis form ofNMR for biological studies. 'Solid state' in solid state NMR refers to the observation of nuclear sites in anisotropic environments which may
Evidence-informed management of chronic low back pain with epidural steroid injections.

Abstract Editors' preface The management of chronic low back pain (CLBP) has proven very challenging in North America, as evidenced by its mounting socioeconomic burden. Choosing amongst available nonsurgical therapies can be overwhelming for many stakeholders, including patients, health providers, policy makers, and third-party payers. Although all parties share a common goal and wish to use limited health-care resources to support interventions most likely to result in clinically meaningful improvements, there is often uncertainty about the most appropriate intervention for a particular patient. To help understand and evaluate the various commonly used nonsurgical approaches to chronic low back pain, the North American Spine Society has sponsored this special focus issue of The Spine Journal , titled Evidence-Informed Management of Chronic Low Back Pain Without Surgery. Articles in this special focus issue were contributed by leading spine practitioners and researchers, who were invited to summarize the best available evidence for a particular intervention and encouraged to make this information accessible to nonexperts. Each of the articles contains five sections (description, theory, evidence of efficacy, harms, and summary) with common subheadings to facilitate comparison across the 24 different interventions profiled in this special focus issue, blending narrative and systematic review methodology as deemed appropriate by the authors. It is hoped that articles in this special focus issue will be informative and aid in decision making for the many stakeholders evaluating nonsurgical interventions for CLBP.
Cultural Solidarity and the Free Space of the Black Fraternity

This article analyzes and broadens discourse on the impact and links between culture and the emergence of social movements drawing upon the idea of cycle of protests to explain how African Americans were able to materialize, communicate, and ultimately sustain separate identities under antagonistic social conditions. The role “free space is critical to the understanding of this work in the shaping the identity of African Americans and the social movement which occurred as a result of their actions. Specifically, this article is a multifaceted account of Black Greek-letter organizations in how they formed in the Black community in relationship to how internal conflicts, hostile social and political environments, the creation of new organizations, and the dissemination of community grievances combined to create a conscious identity in the African American community.
Stimulant Medication and Reading Performance Follow-up on Sustained Dose in ADHD Boys with and Without Conduct Disorders

The study examined the sustained effects of methylphenidate on reading performance in a sample of 42 boys, aged 8 to 11, with attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Two subgroups were formed based on the presence or absence of co-occurring conduct disorders. Subjects were selected on the basis of their positive response to methylphenidate as determined in a series of original medication trials (Forness, Cantwell, Swanson, Hanna, & Youpa, 1991). For the purpose of this study, subjects were placed on their optimal dose of medication for a 6-week period and then tested on measures of oral reading and reading comprehension equivalent to those used in the original trials, retested after a week without medication (placebo), then tested again the following week after return to medication. Only the subgroup with conduct disorders responded, and this response was limited to reading comprehension improvement in only those subjects who also demonstrated improvement in oral reading on original trials. No response differences were found between subjects with or without learning disabilities.
Spinach latent virus Infecting Tomato in Virginia, United States.

Plants in a single field of commercial tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) of unidentified cultivars in Virginia in July, 2012, were observed showing stunting, leaf distortion, twisting and thickening, discoloration, and color streaking and ringspots on fruits. Serological tests were negative for Cucumber mosaic virus, Groundnut ringspot virus, Tomato spotted wilt virus, Tomato chlorotic spot virus, Impatiens necrotic spot virus, Tobacco mosaic virus, and Tomato bushy stunt virus (Agdia, Inc., Elkhart, IN). Using a membrane-based macroarray (3), hybridization was observed to 8 of 9 70-mer oligonucleotide probes of Spinach latent virus (SpLV; genus Ilarvirus, family Bromoviridae). To confirm the hybridization results, complementary DNA (cDNA) was synthesized using random hexamers and MMLV reverse transcriptase (Promega, Madison, WI), followed by PCR amplification using ilarvirus degenerate primers (4). Fragments of approximately 380 bp were amplified and directly sequenced (GenBank Accession KC_466090); a BLAST ...
HIV-induced kidney cell injury: role of ROS-induced downregulated vitamin D receptor.

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) have been demonstrated to contribute to HIV-induced tubular cell injury. We hypothesized that HIV-induced ROS generation may be causing tubular cell injury through downregulation of vitamin D receptor (VDR) and associated downstream effects. In the present study, HIV not only downregulated tubular cell VDR expression but also inflicted DNA injury. On the other hand, EB-1089, a VDR agonist (VD), inhibited both downregulation of VDR and tubular cell DNA injury in the HIV milieu. H2O2 (an O− donor) directly downregulated tubular cell VDR, whereas catalase, a free radical scavenger, inhibited HIV-induced downregulation of tubular cell VDR expression. HIV also stimulated the tubular cell renin-angiotensin system (RAS) through downregulation of VDR. Because losartan (an ANG II blolcker) partially inhibited HIV-induced tubular cell ROS generation while ANG II directly stimulated tubular cell ROS generation, it appears that HIV-induced ROS production was partly contributed by the RAS activation. VD not only inhibited HIV-induced RAS activation but also attenuated tubular cell ROS generation. Tubular cells displayed double jeopardy in the HIV milieu induction of double-strand breaks and attenuated DNA repair; additionally, in the HIV milieu, tubular cells exhibited enhanced expression of phospho-p53 and associated downstream signaling. A VDR agonist and an ANG II blocker not only preserved expression of tubular cell DNA repair proteins but also inhibited induction of double-strand breaks. In in vivo studies, renal cortical sections of Tg26 mice displayed attenuated expression of VDR both in podocytes and tubular cells. In addition, renal cortical sections of Tg26 mice displayed enhanced oxidative stress-induced kidney cell DNA damage. These findings indicated that HIV-induced tubular cell downregulation of VDR contributed to the RAS activation and associated tubular cell DNA damage. However, both VD and RAS blockade provided protection against these effects of HIV.
Explorable images for visualizing volume data

We present a technique which automatically converts a small number of single-view volume rendered images of the same 3D data set into a compact representation of that data set. This representation is a multi-layered image, or an explorable image, which enables interactive exploration of volume data in transfer function space without accessing the original data. We achieve this by automatically extracting layers depicted in composited images. The layers can then be recombined in different ways to simulate opacity changes and recoloring of individual features. Our results demonstrate that explorable images are especially useful when the volume data is too large for interactive exploration, takes too long to render due to the underlying mesh structure or desired shading effect, or if the original volume data is not available. Explorable images can offer real-time image-based interaction as a preview mechanism for remote visualization or visualization of large volume data on low-end hardware, within a mobile device, or a Web browser.
Local Activation of Dendritic Cells Alters the Pathogenesis of Autoimmune Disease In the Retina

Interest in the identities, properties, functions, and origins of local APC in CNS tissues is growing. We recently reported that dendritic cells (DC) distinct from microglia were present in quiescent retina and rapidly responded to injured neurons. In this study, the disease-promoting and regulatory contributions of these APC in experimental autoimmune uveoretinitis (EAU) were examined. Local delivery of purified, exogenous DC or monocytes from bone marrow substantially increased the incidence and severity of EAU induced by adoptive transfer of activated, autoreactive CD4 or CD8 T cells that was limited to the manipulated eye. In vitro assays of APC activity of DC from quiescent retina showed that they promoted generation of Foxp3(+) T cells and inhibited activation of naive T cells by splenic DC and Ag. Conversely, in vitro assays of DC purified from injured retina demonstrated an enhanced ability to activate T cells and reduced induction of Foxp3(+) T cells. These findings were supported by the observation that in situ activation of DC before adoptive transfer of β-galactosidase-specific T cells dramatically increased severity and incidence of EAU. Recruitment of T cells into retina by local delivery of Ag in vivo showed that quiescent retina promoted development of parenchymal Foxp3(+) T cells, but assays of preinjured retina did not. Together, these results demonstrated that local conditions in the retina determined APC function and affected the pathogenesis of EAU by both CD4 and CD8 T cells.
Anticonvulsant activity and neurotoxicity of piperonyl butoxide in mice.

Summary: Piperonyl butoxide, a microsomal monooxygenase inhibitor, administered intraperitoneally to mice exerts peak anti-maximal electroshock activity and peak neurotoxicity at 5 and 7 h, respectively. The median neurotoxic dose is 1,690 mg/kg. In the maximal electroshock seizure test, the median effective dose (ED50) is 457 mg/kg and the protective index (PI) is 3.69. In the subcutaneous pentylenetetrazol test, the ED50 is 443 mg/kg and the PI is 3.81. Piperonyl butoxide prevents seizure spread and elevates seizure threshold. Its PI compares favorably with Pls of clinically useful anticonvulsants. ZUSAMMENFASSUNG Wenn man Piperonyl-Butoxyd, einen mikrosomalen Monooxygenase-Inhibitor Mausen intraperitoneal verabfolgt, so entfaltet er seine starkste antimaximale Elektroschockaktivitat und Neurotoxizitat nach 5 bzw. 7 Stunden. Die mittlere Neurotoxizitatdosis betragt 1690 mg/kg. Im maximalen Elektroschocktest betragt die mittlere effektive Dosis (ED50) 457 mg/kg und der Schutzindex (PI) 3,69. Im subkutanen Pentylenetetrazoltest betragen die ED50 443 und der Schutzindex 3,81. Piperonyl-Butoxyd verhindert die Anfallsausbreitung und erhoht die Krampfschwelle. Sein Schutzindex ist wohl vergleichbar mit den Indices klinisch gebrauchlicher Antikonvulsiva.
Pharmaceutical characteristics that influence the clinical efficacy of inhaled corticosteroids.

Background Inhaled corticosteroids (ICSs) are the most effective therapy for the management of persistent asthma. The aim of ICS therapy is to achieve a high anti-inflammatory effect in the airways with a concomitant low risk of unwanted local and systemic effects. Direct estimates of clinical efficacy and potency based on studies in humans are difficult to interpret. Objective To examine the challenges of using alternative estimates of ICS efficacy and potency, including pharmaceutical characteristics. Data Sources and Study Selection Articles published from 1990 to 2002 on the potency, efficacy, and tolerability of ICSs were identified using MEDLINE and in-house databases and were then reviewed. Search terms included inhaled corticosteroid , budesonide , fluticasone , beclomethasone , mometasone , and potency . Results Differences among ICSs can be readily shown using preclinical measures, such as glucocorticoid receptor binding or skin blanching tests. However, pharmaceutical (delivery and pharmacokinetic) differences of ICSs can have a greater impact on clinical efficacy than in vitro potency differences. For example, the unique esterification of budesonide in the airways prolongs its local activity and may contribute positively to its efficacy and therapeutic index. Although comparative clinical trials suggest 6-fold differences in potencies among ICSs, there is currently no evidence to support differences in efficacy when they are administered at equipotent dosages. Conclusions Greater preclinical potency of an ICS does not imply greater clinical efficacy. Pharmacokinetic factors can have a significant impact on relative clinical efficacy.
Exploiting Spatial Locality and Heterogeneity of Agents for Search and Rescue Teamwork

We propose coordination mechanisms for multiple heterogeneous physical agents that operate in city-scale disaster scenarios, where they need to find and rescue people and extinguish fires. Large-scale disasters are characterized by limited and unreliable communications; dangerous events that may disable agents; uncertainty about the location, duration, and type of tasks; and stringent temporal constraints on task completion times. In our approach, agents form teams with other agents that are in the same geographical area. Our algorithms either yield stable teams formed up front and never change, fluid teams where agents can change teams as need arises, or teams that restrict the types of agents that can belong to the same team. We compare our teaming algorithms against a baseline algorithm in which agents operate independently of others and two state-of-the-art coordination mechanisms. Our algorithms are tested in city-scale disaster simulations using the RoboCup Rescue simulator. Our experiments with different city maps show that, in general, forming teams leads to increased task completion and, specifically, that our teaming method that restricts the types of agents in a team outperforms the other methods.
Psychogenic Movement Disorders and Motor Conversion: A Roadmap for Collaboration Between Neurology and Psychiatry

Background There are a host of vague terms to describe psychologically-mediated symptoms that mimic neurological disease, such as “functional,” “non-organic,” “psychogenic,” or “medically unexplained.” None of these terms has a direct translation in psychiatric classification, and psychiatrists are often faced with patients who do not believe in a psychological origin for their symptoms. Objective Within the framework of psychogenic movement disorders, we discuss the roadblocks to effective collaboration and treatment in these patients and the current state of the literature regarding diagnosis and treatment. Results We describe the approach to these patients from the perspective of neurology and psychiatry, illustrating the differences in terminology and categorization. Conclusion Psychogenic movement disorders represent a unique opportunity for these fields to collaborate in the care of a potentially curable but significantly disabling disorder.
The Toxicity of Dimethylamine in F-344 Rats and B6C3F1 Mice following a 1-Year Inhalation Exposure

Abstract Dimethylamine is a widely used commodity chemical, for which there are few chronic toxicity data. Male and female F-344 rats and B6C3F1 mice were exposed by inhalation to 0, 10, 50, or 175 ppm dimethylamine (DMA) for 6 hr/day, 5 days/week for 12 months. Groups of 9–10 male and female rats and mice were necropsied after 6 and 12 months of exposure. No male mice were sacrificed at 12 months due to a high incidence of early deaths in that group. The mean body weight gain of rats and mice exposed to 175 ppm DMA was depressed to approximately 90% of control after 3 weeks of exposure. The only other treatment-related changes were concentration-related lesions in the nasal passages. Two distinct locations in the nose were affected: the respiratory epithelium in the anterior nasal passages, and the olfactory epithelium, especially that lining the anterior dorsal meatus. There was focal destruction of the anterior nasoturbinate and nasal septum, local inflammation, and focal squamous metaplasia of the respiratory epithelium in rats and mice. Mild goblet cell hyperplasia was observed only in rats. The olfactory epithelium exhibited extensive loss of sensory cells with less damage to sustentacular cells. There was also loss of olfactory nerves, hypertrophy of Bowman's glands, and distension of the ducts of these glands by serocellular debris in regions underlying degenrating olfactory epithelium. At the 175-ppm exposure level, rats had more extensive olfactory lesions than mice, with hyperplasia of small basophilic cells adjacent to the basement membrane being present in rats but not mice. After 12 months of exposure to 10 ppm DMA, minimal loss of olfactory sensory cells and their axons in olfactory nerve bundles was observed in the nasal passages of a few rats and mice. These results indicate that the olfactory sensory cell is highly sensitive to the toxic effects of DMA, with minor lesions being produced in rodents even at the current threshold limit value of 10 ppm.
Small bowel CT fat density target sign in chronic radiation enteritis

On CT, a thickened intestinal wall configured with a middle layer of low attenuation surrounded on each side by layers of higher attenuation has been termed the target sign. The presence of fat within the submucosal layer of the small intestine is a well-known manifestation of Crohn's disease, but has not been reported in other chronic intestinal diseases. We describe CT findings of fat density target sign in a patient with prior radiation.
Environmental Exposures and the Risk for Alzheimer Disease Can We Identify the Smoking Guns

Over the past 3 decades, the focus on the molecular pathogenesis of Alzheimer disease (AD) has led to remarkable advances in our understanding of the emergence of symptoms and the course of the disease.1 Biomarkers derived from growing knowledge of the pathobiology have enabled identification of amyloid plaques in both symptomatic and cognitively normal individuals,2 the latter potentially identifying a population at high risk for dementia. About 20 genes have been identified as being associated with increased or decreased risk for late-onset AD (LOAD).3 Most of these linked genes have been identified by genome wide association studies and meta-analyses.3 Each new gene linked to LOAD fills in another gap in our understanding of AD pathogenesis and also serves as a new potential therapeutic opportunity.