cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effects of methylazoxymethanol-induced micrencephaly on temporal response differentiation and progressive ratio responding in rats

Micrencephalic Sprague-Dawley rats were produced byan injection of 20 mg/kg methylazoxymethanol acetate on gestational Day 14. Brain weights of the offspring were 70% of controls while weights of frontal cortex and hippocampus were approximately 58% ( Ferguson, Racey, Paule, & Holson, 1993 ). Operant perforamnce was measured with particular emphasis on assessment of time estimation. The temporal response differentiation (TRD) and the progressive ratio (PR) tasks, previously used in the NCTR operant test battery for monkeys, were chosen for evaluation. The TRD schedule is notably different from other temporal tasks in that it requires subjects to initiate and maintain a lever press for 10–14 s. The PR task was included as a measure of motivation to work for food reinforcers. Micrencephalics acquired and performed both tasks comparably to controls. During extinction, however, micrencephalics exhibited an increased TRD lever hold duration. This suggests an atypical response perseveration, that is, perserverating the previously correct response. Previously, frontal cortical alterations were suggested to contribute heavily to micrencephalic-induced behavioral alterations (Ferguson et al., 1993). This study provides further evidence that response perseveration, a hallmark of frontal cortical lesions, is expressed in micrencephalic rats.
Fourier series of half-range functions by smooth extension

Abstract This paper considers Fourier series approximations of one- and two-dimensional functions over the half-range, that is, over the sub-interval [0, L] of the interval [−L, L] in one-dimensional problems and over the sub-domain [0, Lx] × [0, Ly] of the domain [−Lx, Lx] × [−Ly, Ly] in two-dimensional problems. It is shown how to represent these functions using a Fourier series that employs a smooth extension. The purpose of the smooth extension is to improve the convergence characteristics otherwise obtained using the even and odd extensions. Significantly improved convergence characteristics are illustrated in one-dimensional and two-dimensional problems.
Effects of storage methods on the recovery of Mycoplasma species from milk samples

Mycoplasma species are fastidious microorganisms causing mastitis in dairy cows. Storage by freezing milk samples affects their viability. The purpose of this study was to compare the effect of alternative storage methods on their recoverability. In Experiment I, mycoplasma counts from fresh milk samples were compared to those same samples stored for 1, 3, and 5 days at refrigerated (5 degrees C) temperatures. Experiment II was done to compare the mycoplasma counts of fresh milk samples with those stored frozen (-20 degrees C) with addition of 0%, 10%, 30% and 50% glycerol (v/v). Two strains of each of 5 species: M. bovis, M. californicum, M. bovigenitalium, M. canadense and M. alkalescens, were selected and inoculated into bulk tank milk free of this pathogen. Compared to those in fresh milk samples, counts were approximately reduced by: 0.3 log(10)CFU/ml in 5 day refrigerated milk (P<0.05) and by 1.0 log(10)CFU/ml in milk frozen without glycerol (P<0.05). Addition of glycerol (10% and 30%, v/v) to milk samples increased the number of recovered Mycoplasma by up to 0.4 log(10)CFU/ml in frozen milk samples (P<0.05). No significant interactions were detected between either Mycoplasma species or starting concentration and survival as effected by storage method. Refrigerating milk samples for 5 days and freezing milk samples lowers the number of recovered Mycoplasma species. The addition of glycerol to achieve 10% and 30% v/v solutions improves the recovery of Mycoplasma species from frozen milk samples. To maximize detection of this pathogen, fresh milk samples should be cultured without storage.
Synthesis of MMP inhibitor radiotracers [11C]methyl-CGS 27023A and its analogs, new potential PET breast cancer imaging agents

[11C]Methyl-CGS 27023A (1a) and its analogs [11C]methyl-2-picolyl-CGS 27023A (1b), [11C]methyl-benzyl-CGS 27023A (1c), [11C]methyl-2-nitro-CGS 27023A (1d), [11C]methyl-3-nitro-CGS 27023A (1e), and [11C]methyl-4-nitro-CGS 27023A (1f), novel radiolabeled matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) inhibitors, have been synthesized for evaluation as new potential positron emission tomography (PET) breast cancer imaging agents. The appropriate precursors for radiolabeling were obtained in four to five steps from starting material amino acid D-valine with moderate to excellent chemical yields. Precursors were labeled by [11C]methyl triflate through 11C–O-methylation method at the aminohydroxyl position under basic conditions and isolated by solid-phase extraction (SPE) purification to produce pure target compounds in 40–60% radiochemical yields (decay corrected to end of bombardment), in 20–25 min synthesis time. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Do not super-excess me!

I have always been puzzled by the ability of normal erythroid cells to produce a stoichiometric amount of α- and β-globin chains in the absence of cross-talk mechanisms that would control and normalize the relative rate of expression of the genes encoding these proteins. The fact that carriers of
Cross-reactivity of fosphenytoin in two human plasma phenytoin immunoassays

The cross-reactivity of fosphenytoin, a phosphate ester prodrug of phenytoin, was investigated in the Abbott phenytoin TDx/TDxFLx fluorescence polarization immunoassay (TDx) and the Behring Diagnostics phenytoin Emit 2000 enzyme-multiplied immunoassay (Emit). The first part of our study investigating cross-reactivity utilized in vitro correlation of the two immunoassays with a validated and specific phenytoin HPLC method used to assay plasma samples prepared in several phenytoin and fosphenytoin concentration combinations. Fosphenytoin cross-reacted with both immunoassays, but to a greater extent with TDx. In the second part of the study, empirically-derived models that best explained the in vitro data were used to predict "immunoassay-derived" phenytoin concentrations in plasma samples collected from actual patients after intravenous (i.v.) or intramuscular (i.m.) fosphenytoin dosing. The greatest degree of phenytoin concentration overestimation occurred at times when fosphenytoin concentrations were highest: within 1 to 2 h after i.v. infusion or during the first 2 to 4 h after i.m. injection. It is recommended that phenytoin concentrations not be monitored using these or other potentially nonspecific immunoanalytical methods for at least 2 h after i.v. fosphenytoin infusion or 4 h after i.m. fosphenytoin injection.
Role of Antimicrobial Therapy in Acute Exacerbations of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

OBJECTIVE:To define the role of antimicrobial therapy in the treatment of acute bronchitic exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) through review of placebo-controlled clinical trials. Specifically, to determine the benefit of antimicrobial therapy on patient outcome.DATA SOURCES:Placebo-controlled clinical trials identified by MEDLINE search (1957–December 1999).STUDY SELECTION AND DATA EXTRACTION:All placebo-controlled clinical trials that included COPD patients with no evidence of pneumonia or underlying asthma were included in the evaluation.DATA SYNTHESIS:The role of antimicrobial agents in the treatment of acute exacerbations of COPD is controversial. Patients with COPD are often chronically colonized with bacteria, and many exacerbations are due to nonbacterial causes. Four placebo-controlled clinical trials and a meta-analysis have demonstrated significant improvements in outcome for patients treated with an antibiotic versus placebo. In contrast, six studies failed to demons...
Anion Relay Chemistry: Access to the Type II ARC Reaction Manifold through a Fundamentally Different Reaction Pathway Exploiting 1-Oxa-2-silacyclopentanes and Related Congeners

Type I and II anion relay chemistry (ARC)[1] exploiting [1,n]-Brook rearrangements[2] (Scheme 1A and B, respectively), comprise an effective set of synthetic tactics that unite multiple components, in a single reaction flask, that permits rapid access to architecturally diverse polyketide and alkaloid molecular arrays.[2]
Theoretical and computational studies of vectorial processes in biomolecular systems

Efficient vectorial processes such as the transduction of bioenergy and signals are characteristics that strikingly distinguish living systems from inanimate materials. Recent developments in biophysical and biochemical techniques have provided new information about the structure, dynamics and interaction of biomolecules involved in vectorial life processes at multiple length and temporal scales. This wealth of data makes it possible to carry out theoretical and computational studied of key mechanistic questions associated with complex life processes at an unprecedented level. Using two “vectorial biomolecular machines”, myosin and cytochrome c oxidase, as examples, we discuss the identification of interesting and biologically relevant questions that require thorough theoretical analysis. Technical challenges and recent progress related to these theoretical investigations are briefly summarized
Ganoderma lucidum extracts inhibit growth and induce actin polymerization in bladder cancer cells in vitro

This study was conducted to investigate chemopreventive effects of Ganoderma lucidum using a unique in vitro human urothelial cell (HUC) model consisted of HUC-PC cells and MTC-11 cells. Ethanol and water extracts of fruiting bodies and spores of the G. lucidum were used to examine growth inhibition, actin polymerization status, and impact of actin remodeling on cell migration and adhesion. Results showed that ethanol extracts had a stronger growth inhibition effect than water extracts. Cell cycle analysis showed that the growth inhibition effect was associated with G2/M arrest. At non-cytotoxic concentrations (40-80 microg/ml), these extracts induced actin polymerization, which in turn inhibited carcinogen 4-aminobiphenyl induced migration in both cell lines. The increased actin polymerization was associated with increased stress fibers and focal adhesion complex formation, however, expression of matrix metalloproteinase-2 and focal adhesion kinase (total and phospholated) were unchanged, which suggests that other mechanisms may be involved.
Melanoma Brain Metastases and Vemurafenib: Need for Further Investigation

Brain metastases are a major cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with advanced melanoma. With the development of targeted agents for the treatment of metastatic melanoma, a great deal of interest has focused on whether selective BRAF inhibitors may play a role in the treatment of brain metastases in lieu of or in addition to surgery and/or radiation therapy. However, relatively little is known about the intracranial effectiveness of vemurafenib, the only US Food and Drug Administration–approved selective BRAF V600E inhibitor, because patients with brain metastases have historically been excluded from vemurafenib clinical trials. We describe 3 patients with BRAF V600E mutation metastatic melanoma in whom treatment with vemurafenib resulted in prompt extracranial disease response but progression of metastatic disease in the brain. Further, we discuss possible mechanisms responsible for the suboptimal central nervous system response observed in these patients and alternative therapies for patients with melanoma metastatic to the brain.
“We are Brothers! Let us Separate!” Jews and Community Building in American Cities during the 19th Century

The article examines the evolution of organized Jewish communities in the United States during the second half of the 19th century. After discussing why the historiography tends to focus on New York, the beginnings of the organized Jewish community in Chicago serves as a case study to highlight the challenges Jewish immigrants faced as they tried to build communities. Landsmanshaft, class, religion, voluntary membership, and the enormous size and diversity of urban Jewish populations after 1850 precluded the recreation of tight-knit European-style communities. By avoiding sources of conflict, notably religion, the traditional social tasks of the community emerged as the smallest common denominator bringing Jews of different backgrounds together on a single platform.
Limitations of pulmonary wedge V waves in diagnosing mitral regurgitation

To study the usefulness of large V waves in pulmonary capillary wedge tracings in establishing the diagnosis of mitral regurgitation, data on 1,021 consecutive cardiac catheterizations were reviewed. Wedge tracings were obtained by Swan-Ganz catheterization in 208 patients, usually because of suspected valve disease. One hundred two patients had no trace of mitral regurgitation angiographically, 69 had mild to moderate and 37 had severe regurgitation. V waves were graded as trivial (less than 5), intermediate (5 to 10) or large (10 or more mm Hg above mean wedge pressure). Of 50 patients with large V waves, 18 (36 percent) had no or trace mitral regurgitation; these included 5 with mitral stenosis, 3 with a mitral valve prosthesis, 4 with coronary disease and congestive failure, 2 with aortic valve disease and congestive failure and 2 with a ventricular septal defect. Of 37 patients with severe mitral regurgitation, 16 (43 percent) had large and 12 (32 percent) had trivial V waves. Thus, mitral regurgitation is the most common cause of large V waves; however, large V waves are neither highly sensitive nor specific for severe regurgitation. Increased left atrial compliance may be associated with trivial V waves in the presence of severe regurgitation. Mitral obstruction, congestive heart failure and ventricular septal defect may all be associated with large V waves in the absence of significant mitral regurgitation.
NEW IMAGING TECHNIQUES FOR ASSESSING CARDIAC FUNCTION

This article covers some of the newer imaging modalities available for assessing cardiac function and anatomy, with an emphasis on applications in patients who are being cared for in an intensive care setting. Some of these imaging modalities can be performed at the bedside, and some require patient transportation to an imaging suite. Among the newer imaging techniques discussed are MR imaging and radionuclide techniques, including bedside assessment of cardiac function using first-pass radionuclide angiography and combined perfusion and function using technetium-based myocardial perfusion tracers and gated tomographic acquisitions. Echocardiography has become an indispensable tool for evaluating cardiac function in critically ill patients. The major advantage of echocardiography is that the machine is portable and imaging can easily be performed at the bedside. The disadvantage is that good ultrasound windows can be difficult to obtain on patients who are critically ill, are on respirators, have chest bandages or tubes, are obese, or have hyperinflated lungs secondary to chronic obstructive lung disease. Overall anatomy of the cardiac chambers and valves can be assessed grossly on echocardiographic studies performed with suboptimal windows, but for accurate assessment of global left or right ventricular function, the ejection fraction numbers are considered clinically more useful. Ejection fraction can be derived from a two-dimensional echocardiographic study either by the "eye-ball" method or using software that quantitates the left ventricular volumes at end-diastole and end-systole using an area length or a Simpson's Rule method, both of which depend on the identification of the entire endocardial surface of the left ventricle in the imaging planes. In very ill patients with technically limited studies, visualization of the endocardial surface is usually incomplete. In addition, the "eye-ball" method for assigning a single number to global left ventricular function can be inaccurate in the presence of regional wall motion abnormalities, which are present in patients with coronary heart disease and in patients with cardiomyopathies or valvular heart disease.
Potential Roles of Angiotensin Receptor–Activating Autoantibody in the Pathophysiology of Preeclampsia

Preeclampsia affects ≈7% of first pregnancies and is one of the leading causes of maternal and neonatal mortality and morbidity in the United States and the world.1–3 The clinical hallmarks of the disorder include hypertension, proteinuria, hypercoagulability, edema, and placental abnormalities. In advanced stages, clinical symptoms include cerebral edema, renal failure, and the hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, low platelets (HELLP) syndrome. The clinical management of preeclampsia is hampered by the lack of reliable diagnostic tests and effective therapy for the disorder. In some cases, termination of pregnancy is the only available option to prevent further deterioration of the fetus and mother. Fifteen percent of all preterm births are indicated early deliveries for preeclampsia.3 The resulting preterm births and the associated increased infant morbidity and mortality are especially disheartening consequences of preeclampsia. Despite being one of the leading causes of maternal death and a major contributor to maternal and perinatal morbidity, the mechanisms responsible for the pathogenesis of preeclampsia are poorly understood. Roberts and colleagues4,5 were among the first to propose that alterations in endothelial cell function by activating agents produced by the placenta initiate the clinical syndromes of preeclampsia. Circulating factors, such as inflammatory cytokines, endothelin, and soluble vascular endothelial growth factor receptor termed soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1), are elevated in preeclamptic women and are proposed to be important links between placental ischemia and endothelial dysfunction.5–9 In particular, recent studies have shown that preeclampsia is associated with the presence of maternal autoantibodies capable of binding to and activating the angiotensin (Ang) receptor type-1 (AT1).10–15 AT1 receptor agonistic antibodies, herein termed AT1-AA, are rarely seen in normotensive pregnant women.10,11 Since the initial discovery of these autoantibodies, considerable evidence supporting a pathophysiological role of AT1-AA in preeclampsia has …
ATM-deficient thymic lymphoma is associated with aberrant tcrd rearrangement and gene amplification

Ataxia telangiectasia mutated (ATM) deficiency predisposes humans and mice to T lineage lymphomas with recurrent chromosome 14 translocations involving the T cell receptor alpha/delta (Tcra/d) locus. Such translocations have been thought to result from aberrant repair of DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) during Tcra locus V(D)J recombination, and to require the Tcra enhancer (Ealpha) for Tcra rearrangement or expression of the translocated oncogene. We now show that, in addition to the known chromosome 14 translocation, ATM-deficient mouse thymic lymphomas routinely contain a centromeric fragment of chromosome 14 that spans up to the 5' boundary of the Tcra/d locus, at which position a 500-kb or larger region centromeric to Tcra/d is routinely amplified. In addition, they routinely contain a large deletion of the telomeric end of one copy of chromosome 12. In contrast to prior expectations, the recurrent translocations and amplifications involve V(D)J recombination-initiated breaks in the Tcrd locus, as opposed to the Tcra locus, and arise independently of the Ealpha. Overall, our studies reveal previously unexpected mechanisms that contribute to the oncogenic transformation of ATM-deficient T lineage cells.
The conversion of tyrosine to catecholamines and the biogenesis of N-acetyl-dopamine in isolated epidermis of the fiddler crab, Uca pugilator.

Abstract 1. 1. A study has been made of the in vitro conversion of tyrosine to N-acetyl-dopamine by enzymes of fiddler crab epidermis. Free tyrosine was shown to be a constituent of the epidermis. 2. 2. The following enzymes were found in crab epidermis: a phenylthiourea sensitive phenol oxidase that converts tyrosine to DOPA, a heat labile decarboxylase that converts DOPA to dopamine, and a p -chloromercuribenzoate sensitive acetyl-CoA-acetyltransferase that converts dopamine to N-acetyl-dopamine. These enzymes are present in the epidermis throughout the molt cycle. 3. 3. This pathway of tyrosine metabolism may be involved in the synthesis of the fiddler crab cuticle hardening agent.
Semantic labeling of track events using time series segmentation and shape analysis

This paper presents a novel framework for applying semantic labels to events within a track. A track is a two-dimensional (2D) or a three-dimensional (3D) signal in time where each point of the signal is the x and y (and z) centroid spatial coordinate of an object at a specific frame of the video. The track may be generated by the movement of a vehicle, person, or object. In the 2D case, the signal is decomposed into x and y time series for use in one-dimensional time series segmentations. Then the results of the two segmentations are combined to produce a 2D signal segmentation of the track which results in unique events to be labeled. The Procrustes measure, from shape analysis, is employed along with template matching to find the most likely trajectory of each individual event. Once each event is labeled with a semantic description from the template, we enhance the label using other basic measurements based on the track. The application of our framework on 4 vehicle tracks from original videos is shown to display the efficacy of our method.
Accuracy issues in electromagnetic induction sensing of soil electrical conductivity for precision agriculture

Soil apparent electrical conductivity (ECa) has been used as a surrogate measure for such soil properties as salinity, moisture content, topsoil depth (TD), and clay content. Measurements of ECa can be accomplished with commercially available sensors and can be used to efficiently and inexpensively develop the dense datasets desirable for describing within-field spatial variability in precision agriculture. The objective of this research was to investigate accuracy issues in the collection of soil ECa data. A mobile data acquisition system for ECa was developed using the Geonics EM38 1 sensor. The sensor was mounted on a wooden cart pulled behind an all-terrain vehicle, which also carried a GPS receiver and data collection computer. Tests showed that drift of the EM38 could be a significant fraction of within-field ECa variation. Use of a calibration transect to document and adjust for this drift was recommended. A procedure was described and tested to evaluate positional offset of the mobile EM38 data. Positional offset was due to both the distance from the sensor to the GPS antenna and the data acquisition system time lags. Sensitivity of ECa to variations in sensor operating speed and height was relatively minor. Procedures were developed to estimate TD on claypan soils from ECa measurements. Linear equations of an inverse or power function transformation of ECa provided the best estimates of TD. Collection of individual calibration datasets within each surveyed field was necessary for best results. Multiple measurements of ECa on a field were similar if they were obtained at the same time of the year. Whole-field maps of ECa-determined TD from multiple surveys were similar but not identical. There was a significant effect of soil moisture and temperature differences across www.elsevier.com:locate:compag
An integrative, multilevel, and transdisciplinary research approach to challenges of work, family, and health

Recognizing a need for rigorous, experimental research to support the efforts of workplaces and policymakers in improving the health and wellbeing of employees and their families, the National Institutes of Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention formed the Work, Family & Health Network (WFHN). The WFHN is implementing an innovative multisite study with a rigorous experimental design (adaptive randomization, control groups), comprehensive multilevel measures, a novel and theoretically based intervention targeting the psychosocial work environment, and translational activities. This paper describes challenges and benefits of designing a multilevel and transdisciplinary research network that includes an effectiveness study to assess intervention effects on employees, families, and managers; a daily diary study to examine effects on family functioning and daily stress; a process study to understand intervention implementation; and translational research to understand and inform diffusion of innovation. Challenges were both conceptual and logistical, spanning all aspects of study design and implementation. In dealing with these challenges, however, the WFHN developed innovative, transdisciplinary, multi-method approaches to conducting workplace research that will benefit both the research and business communities.
Five centuries of changing forest vegetation in the Northeastern United States

Maps of physiognomic classes of vegetation in the northeastern United States before European human impact and for the late 20th century, based on pollen data, closely resemble each other, indicating a robust pattern in the face of the novel and extensive disturbances of the last 500 years. On the other hand, species abundances have changed considerably, with today's vegetation having less Fagus L. and Tsuga Carri?re and more Betula L., Pi cea A. Dietr., and Abies Miller. Picea and Castanea Miller increased from 1700 to 1900, but have decreased in this century. The difference between the main physiognomic classes has remained strong, however, with con tinuously more Picea, Abies and Betula in the north and more Quercus L. and Carya Nutt. in the south, indicat ing the dominance of climate in regulating the relative abundances of these genera. The vegetational patterning within these broad classes has changed in some places and remained stable in others, suggesting differences in local factors that determine relative species abundances. The influence of slight altitudinal gradients, for example, may influence forest composition only after several generations of trees, while substrate differences may be ap parent in the first forest that regenerates after agricultural abandonment or logging. Forests of today, therefore, reflect complex interactions of disturbance and environment, and may be in equilibrium with some but not all features of their current environments.
Effects of Field of View on Judgments of Self-Location: Distortions in Distance Estimations Even When the Image Geometry Exactly Fits the Field of View

This research stems from the casual observation that the image of a television screen with 18° geometric ®eld of view (FOVg) as seen on a real television with 17° real FOV appears much “nearer” than the real television
Forced, Not Voluntary, Exercise Improves Motor Function in Parkinson's Disease Patients

Background. Animal studies indicate forced exercise (FE) improves overall motor function in Parkinsonian rodents. Global improvements in motor function following voluntary exercise (VE) are not widely reported in human Parkinson’s disease (PD) patients. Objective. The aim of this study was to compare the effects of VE and FE on PD symptoms, motor function, and bimanual dexterity. Methods. Ten patients with mild to moderate PD were randomly assigned to complete 8 weeks of FE or VE. With the assistance of a trainer, patients in the FE group pedaled at a rate 30% greater than their preferred voluntary rate, whereas patients in the VE group pedaled at their preferred rate. Aerobic intensity for both groups was identical, 60% to 80% of their individualized training heart rate. Results. Aerobic fitness improved for both groups. Following FE, Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) motor scores improved 35%, whereas patients completing VE did not exhibit any improvement. The control and coordination of grasping forces during the performance of a functional bimanual dexterity task improved significantly for patients in the FE group, whereas no changes in motor performance were observed following VE. Improvements in clinical measures of rigidity and bradykinesia and biomechanical measures of bimanual dexterity were maintained 4 weeks after FE cessation. Conclusions. Aerobic fitness can be improved in PD patients following both VE and FE interventions. However, only FE results in significant improvements in motor function and bimanual dexterity. Biomechanical data indicate that FE leads to a shift in motor control strategy, from feedback to a greater reliance on feedforward processes, which suggests FE may be altering central motor control processes.
Location, location, location?: is the pain of diabetic neuropathy generated by hyperactive sensory neurons?

Pain is a useful sensation. Nociceptive pain provides warning of impending or actual tissue damage and prompts aversive or attentive actions that protect the body from harm. People who do not feel pain, due to mutation of certain ion channels (1), suffer a lifetime of otherwise avoidable injuries. The consequences of losing the ability to feel pain also are highlighted by the symptoms and clinical outcomes of diabetic neuropathy. Sensory neuropathy, in conjunction with vascular disease and impaired wound healing, leads to unattended lesions and ulcers, infection, and amputation (2). However, despite having a predominant neuropathy phenotype of degeneration and sensory loss, a proportion of people with diabetes also report spontaneous tingling, pricking, and pain sensations (3). This neuropathic pain is an enigmatic and disruptive symptom that adds psychological insult to the physical injury of progressive nerve degeneration. The prevalence of neuropathic pain is frequently underestimated, but a recent community-based study found that pain was reported by a third of all participants (4). There are currently only three FDA-approved treatments for painful diabetic neuropathy: the anticonvulsant pregabalin, the serotonin–norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) duloxetine, and the opioid/SNRI tapentadol. All are used to treat diverse pain conditions, are likely to suppress pain perception rather than intervene in pathogenic mechanisms of painful diabetic neuropathy, and have undesirable side effects. None …
Depression of sympathetic preganglionic neurons by clonidine: evidence for stimulation of 5-HT receptors.

In unanesthetized spinal cats, clonidine HCl (5-50 μg/kg, i.v.) rapidly and markedly depressed excitatory transmission through two spinal pathways to sympathetic preganglionic neurons. Depression through either pathway was dose-dependent and persisted for more than 3 hr but could be rapidly antagonized at any stage by tolazoline HCl in a dose-ratio of about 1:100. The two spinal pathways were also depressed transiently by L-dopa and for prolonged periods by 5-HTP; both precursors were shown to act by releasing 5-HT from bulbospinal 5-HT terminals and their depressant effects were also antagonized by tolazoline. In the absence of 5-HT-induced depression, L-dopa only enhanced transmission through both pathways by inducing release of catecholamines from bulbospinal NE terminals. These results indicate that clonidine depresses sympathetic activity by stimulating inhibitory 5-HT receptors on sympathetic preganglionic neurons, a mechanism that adequately accounts for its central vasodepressor effect.
An examination of post-secondary retention and graduation among foster care youth enrolled in a four-year university

Abstract This study uses administrative data from Michigan State University to examine whether students who are former foster youth are more likely to drop out of college than low-income, first generation students who had not been in foster care. Former foster youth were significantly more likely to drop out before the end of their first year (21% vs. 13%) and prior to degree completion (34% vs. 18%) than their non-foster care peers. This difference remained significant even after controlling for gender and race.
Antibiotic Impregnated External Ventricular Drains: Meta and Cost Analysis

Objective To determine whether antibiotic impregnated external ventricular drains (AI-EVDs) are effective in preventing ventriculostomy associated infection (VAI), and to examine their cost effectiveness. Methods A comprehensive literature search was performed for published data through May 2014, including randomized controlled trials and observational cohort studies comparing AI-EVDs with nonimpregnated controls. A meta-analysis of included studies was performed using a random effects model. Historical data at the authors' institution were used to estimate both the incremental price of AI-EVDs and the hospital expenses associated with VAI. Results Three randomized controlled trials and 5 observational studies met inclusion criteria. The analysis demonstrated a statistically significant protective effect of AI-EVDs against VAI (risk ratio = 0.31 [0.15–0.64]; P = 0.002), although there was significant heterogeneity (χ 2 = 18.08; P = 0.01; I 2 = 61%). The number of AI-EVDs needed to prevent one infection (Number needed to treat [NNT]) was 19. Based on $100 as the incremental price, and $30,000 as the estimated expense of one episode of VAI, AI-EVDs would result in an overall savings estimate of $28,100 (range, $26,400–$28,500) per NNT. If a hospital places 150 AI-EVDs annually, savings could range from $109,292 to $278,577 per year. Conclusions Meta-analysis demonstrated a significant protective benefit of AI-EVDs against VAI, and this benefit is likely associated with cost savings. However, current data on AI-EVDs are limited, and overall hospital costs will vary among institutions. Although both the efficacy and cost effectiveness of AI-EVDs are supported by this analysis, further study of AI-EVDs is clearly warranted.
Design of an artificial photosynthetic system for production of alcohols in high concentration from CO2

Artificial photosynthesis of liquid fuels is a potential source for clean energy. Alcohols are particularly attractive products because of their high energy density and market value per amount of energy input. The major challenges in photo/electrochemical synthesis of alcohols from sunlight, water and CO2 are low product selectivity, high membrane fuel-crossover losses, and high cost of product separation from the electrolyte. Here we propose an artificial photosynthesis scheme for direct synthesis and separation to almost pure ethanol with minimum product crossover using saturated salt electrolytes. The ethanol produced in the saturated salt electrolytes can be readily phase separated into a microemulsion, which can be collected as pure products in a liquid–liquid extractor. A novel design of an integrated artificial photosynthetic system is proposed that continuously produces >90 wt% pure ethanol using a polycrystalline copper cathode at a current density of 0.85 mA cm−2. The annual production rate of >90 wt% ethanol using such a photosynthesis system operating at 10 mA cm−2 (12% solar-to-fuel (STF) efficiency) can be 15.27 million gallons per year per square kilometer, which corresponds to 7% of the industrial ethanol production capacity of California.
Valuing Switching Options in International Grain Marketing

An important strategy for commodity trading firms is geographical diversification through acquisitions and greenfield development, often justified with the quest for multiple origins. This strategy can be interpreted as a “switching option” which tend to be undervalued using traditional valuation techniques. This paper develops a stochastic binomial real options model to value networks of export elevators. It is applied to soybean trading for shipments from ports in the United States, Brazil, and Ukraine. The paper estimates the value of the option of being able to switch origins in export trade. This option value is substantial and is determined partly by margin distributions and correlations among these.
Phonological Alexia/Agraphia Reflects Damage to the Dorsal Language Pathway: Evidence from Multimodal Imaging (S18.005)

OBJECTIVE: To identify the neural substrates of phonological alexia/agraphia using multimodal imaging, including structural MRI/CT, diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), and functional MRI (fMRI). BACKGROUND: Contemporary neuroanatomical models of language postulate a dorsal pathway specialized for mapping phonological representations to articulatory networks during speech production and tasks involving phonological working memory. Because maintenance and manipulation of sublexical phonological information plays a critical role in reading/spelling unfamiliar nonwords, we hypothesized that damage to the dorsal pathway should be associated with the clinical profile of phonological alexia/agraphia. DESIGN/METHODS: We conducted voxel-based lesion-symptom mapping (VLSM) in a large group of post-stroke aphasic patients with MRI/CT evidence of left-hemisphere damage (n=70) who were administered a comprehensive reading/spelling battery. In a subgroup with phonological alexia/agraphia, DTI (n=7) and fMRI data during real word and nonword reading (n=5) were also collected. RESULTS: VLSM indicated that impaired nonword reading/spelling and an enlarged lexicality effect (words > nonwords) were associated with damage to the dorsal language pathway, including posterior superior temporal gyrus, supramarginal gyrus, inferior frontal gyrus/operculum, precentral gyrus, and insula. DTI showed that patients with phonological alexia/agraphia sustained damage to white matter tracts connecting these perisylvian cortical regions, including the superior longitudinal/arcuate fasciculus. fMRI revealed reduced activation in dorsal pathway regions compared to controls (n=8) and increased recruitment of extrasylvian cortical areas that are components of the ventral language pathway implicated in lexical-semantic processing. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings confirm that phonological alexia/agraphia results from damage to the dorsal pathway that includes core perisylvian language areas and their connecting white matter tracts. In functional terms, the written language disorder reflects defective engagement of perisylvian cortical networks critical for processing sublexical phonological information during nonword reading/spelling and compensatory over-reliance on a lexical-semantic strategy mediated by preserved ventral pathway regions responsible for mapping phonological and orthographic representations of familiar words to their meanings. Supported by: R01 DC07646. Disclosure: Dr. Rapcsak has received personal compensation in an editorial capacity for Neuropsychological Rehabilitation. Dr. DeMarco has nothing to disclose. Dr. Wilson has nothing to disclose. Dr. Beeson has nothing to disclose.
On the role of 'hot' atoms in plasma-assisted ignition.

This paper discusses the processes leading to the formation of ‘hot’ atoms and radicals possessing excessive translational energy in high-voltage NS pulse discharges. It is shown that the formation of such ‘hot’ atoms occurs efficiently both in the dissociation of molecules by direct electron impact, and in the collisional quenching of electronically excited states. Depending on the magnitude of the reduced electric field in the discharge, reactions of these ‘hot’ atoms increase the initial concentration of radicals in the discharge afterglow two to three times when compared with the values calculated without effects of translational non-equilibrium. The role of thermally non-equilibrium excitation has been demonstrated in the formation of the initial distribution of the chemically active components in the mixture and its influence on the kinetics of ignition initiation at low and high temperatures. It was found that in undiluted mixtures the presence of ‘hot’ atoms can significantly decrease an ignition threshold and accelerate a low-temperature oxidation.
Financial Conflicts of Interest in Research

Abstract Since the passage of the Bayh-Dole Act in 1980, there has been growing recognition in the academic research community that researchers' personal financial interests have the potential to create conflicts of interest that compromise objectivity, the appearance of objectivity, or safety in research. Concern has focused on biomedical research because of the potential for risks to research subjects and future patients. Regulations attempt to address the risks of bias associated with investigators' financial interests and standards promulgated by national professional associations set standards for individual and institutional financial interests in research.
Effectiveness of a federal Healthy Start Program on HIV/AIDS risk reduction among women in Hillsborough County, Florida.

Objectives To examine the impact of the Central Hillsborough Healthy Start Project (CHHS) on human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) diagnosis rates in women in Hillsborough County, Florida. Methods Project records were linked to hospital discharge data and vital statistics (Florida, 1998-2007; N = 1,696,221). The χ(2) test was used to compare rates for HIV/AIDS and pregnancy-related complications for mothers within the CHHS service area with mothers in Hillsborough County and the rest of Florida. Results During a 10-year period, HIV/AIDS diagnosis rates among women in the CHHS service area declined by 56.3% (P = 0.01). The observed decline was most evident among black women. HIV/AIDS diagnosis rates in the rest of Hillsborough County and Florida remained unchanged (P = 0.48). Conclusions Lessons learned from the CHHS Project can be used to develop effective and comprehensive models for addressing the HIV epidemic.
Risk management in psychiatry

This article introduces some basic concepts of psychiatric risk management and demonstrates how risk management and quality assurance can work together. Risk exposure areas and loss prevention issues identified during a review of 98 psychiatric claims managed from 1976 to 1988 by the Risk Management Foundation of the Harvard Medical Institutions are detailed.
The effects of periparturient events on breeding performance of dairy cows.

Many periparturient events affect breeding performance in dairy cows. These events include disorders, high early lactation milk yield, other cow factors, and calf factors. The effects range in severity from "annoying" to "devastating."
What Did Lincoln Really Mean

Paul K. Stockmeyer (stockmeyer@cs.wm.edu) received his B.A. degree from Earlham College, and his graduate degrees from the University of Michigan, all in Mathematics. He has been teaching at the College of William and Mary since 1971, where he has been masquerading as a computer scientist for the past 20 years. Now officially retired, he is finding time to rediscover the joys of mathematics. His interests lie mainly in combinatorics and recreational mathematics, including all aspects of the Tower of Hanoi.
Reducing Mental Illness Stigma in the Classroom

Undergraduates in 3 introductory psychology courses participated in teaching interventions designed to reduce mental illness stigma. Expanding on previous research, the researchers tested the effects of education, video, and contact interventions. Results of the pretest and posttest scores on a social distance measure revealed a statistically significant reduction in social distancing for the contact intervention. The researchers emphasize the use of stigma-reducing pedagogies in teaching psychopathology to undergraduates.
Wielokrotna ablacja alkoholowa przegrody międzykomorowej u młodej pacjentki z kardiomiopatią przerostową

U 16-letniej pacjentki z kardiomiopatią przerostową, dotychczas leczonej za pomocą farmakoterapii (nasilenie objawow wstepnie oceniono jako III stopien wg skali NYHA), przeprowadzono zabieg ablacji alkoholowej przegrody miedzykomorowej mieśnia sercowego. Trzy miesiące poźniej z powodu utrzymujących sie dolegliwości klinicznych chorą poddano drugiej z kolei ablacji alkoholowej przegrody miedzykomorowej mieśnia sercowego. W 4-letniej obserwacji odnotowano ustąpienie objawow klinicznych. (Folia Cardiologica Excerpta 2007; 2: 448–451)
Laryngeal lesions in the young.

When a “crowing” inspiratory stridor occurs in an infant or in a child, the chances are that he has a laryngeal lesion. In newborns and infants, almost all lesions—immature supraglottic cartilages, webs, cysts, laryngoceles, vocal cord paralysis, subglottic stenosis and hemangiomas—are congenital. In older children, infections, trauma or juvenile papillomas are more likely to be responsible.
Numerical Study on Porous Media′s Deformation Due to Natural Gas Hydrate Dissociation Considering Fluid-Solid Coupling

A one-dimensional model for analyzing the porous media′s deformation during and after dissociation of natural gas hydrate(NGH)was developed in which conductive-convective heat transfer,two-phase fluid flow,intrinsic kinetics of NGH dissociation and deformation of solid skeleton were all included.After the certification of the numerical model,aparameter sensitivity analysis was developed.Based on the analysis,main conclusions are as follows:the deformation rate and the final deformation both decrease with the increase of the outlet pressure;the increase of the absolute permeability or the environmental temperature leads to the increase of the deformation rate,but makes no difference to the final deformation.
The Nature of Firms Manufacturing non-industrial non-Communications Microwave Products in the U.S.A.*

AbstractThere are several product areas in the non-industrial, non-communications microwave product field that have developed in the U.S.A. Two of these micro-wave product areas are: (1) home security devices, and (2) microwave ovens.The nature of the firms producing products in these areas appear to cover a wide range in terms of such factors as annual sales, diversity of products, marketing channels used, and years of interest in specific products.The thrust of this study is to present an analysis of the nature of the firms participating in each of these two fields. The data collected were used to test two hypotheses which are stated here:(1) As a consumer product progresses along the growth portion of the life cycle curve the increased potential for substantial sales volume tends to cause product interest to be shown by the larger corporations.(2) As a consumer product progresses along the growth portion of the life cycle curve the pattern of marketing channels used will tend to shift.
“Selfish, Short-Sighted, and Sanctimonious”: Bowdoin College, Alex Schulten, the 1.600 Rule and the Welch Scholarship

In this article, the author examines passage of the National Collegiate Athletic Association’s (NCAA) 1.600 Rule in 1965 and the ramifications of that mandate. In drawing from administrative letters and memoranda available through the George J. Mitchell Department of Special Collections and Archives, the author investigates Bowdoin College’s response to the 1.600 Rule, the influence of the College’s confrontation with the NCAA on its athletes and their ability to compete at the national level, and how the conflict shaped the institution’s operations. Ramifications for Bowdoin College and the NCAA are discussed.