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Fluoride is an impurity in nickel sulfate production, which is required for electric vehicle batteries. Hydrous zirconium oxide (HZO) was evaluated for removing fluoride from nickel sulfate solution. Maximum fluoride removal occurred at pH value 4 and optimal pH value is 4–5, considering Zr solubility. Fluoride availability decreases with pH due to hydrogen fluoride and zirconium fluoride aqueous species. Fluoride removal is initially rapid, with 50 wt.% removal in 7 min, followed by slow removal up to 68 wt.% after 72 h and follows second order rate kinetics. Fluoride removal was dominated by an ion exchange mechanism and resulting Zr–F bonds were observed using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. The presence of nickel sulfate decreased loading capacity compared to a salt-free solution. HZO maintained adsorption capacity through five cycles of loading and regeneration.

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Theory of Mind (ToM) is the capacity to make attributions of mental states such as thoughts, feelings, and beliefs of others. Individuals with autism spectrum disorder are often characterized by delayed or impaired Theory of Mind development and poor social skills. A positive correlation between Theory of Mind skills and social skills exists, but effective interventions that generalize these skills have proven to be a challenge in the field. Furthermore, few effective interventions exist to increase Theory of Mind skills in adolescents with autism spectrum disorder. The Teaching Theory of Mind curriculum is a 12-week intervention aimed at increasing social understanding in children and adolescents with deficits in Theory of Mind. To date, there have not been any empirical studies to test the efficacy of the curriculum. The purpose of this study is to investigate the efficacy of the Teaching Theory of Mind curriculum on adolescents with autism spectrum disorder and explore the impact of the intervention when addressing various domains of social understanding. Results, though tentative, indicated that parents saw improved social understanding following intervention, though direct measures of Theory of Mind with adolescent participants did not change significantly.

The purpose of the study was to examine whether personality traits predict one’s likelihood of basking in reflected glory (BIRGing) and cutting off reflected failure (CORFing) and to what extent team identification would mediate those effects. A path analysis was conducted to empirically test relationships between personality, team identity, and BIRGing/CORFing behaviors using the Honesty-Humility emotionality extraversion agreeableness conscientiousness openness to experience (HEXACO)-Personality Inventory (HEXACO-PI), Sport Spectator Identification Scale, and BIRGing and CORFing scales. The HEXACO-PI provides a theoretical framework to examine the degree to which six broad personality domains and several underlying personality traits influence behavior. A survey utilizing a national sample of 715 participants indicates several narrow underlying personality traits predict BIRGing and CORFing behaviors. Using this personality framework presents a new area of research for sport communication theories. The practical applications and future research examining the role of personality in sport communication and sport marketing is offered in conclusion.

Work disability rates are high among people with rheumatic and musculoskeletal conditions. Effective disability preventive programs are needed. We examined the efficacy of a modified vocational rehabilitation approach delivered by trained occupational therapists and physical therapists on work limitation and work loss over 2 years among people with rheumatic and musculoskeletal conditions. Eligibility criteria for this single‐blind, parallel‐arm randomized trial included ages 21–65 years, 15 or more hours/week employment, a self‐reported doctor‐diagnosed rheumatic or musculoskeletal condition, and concern about staying employed. The intervention consisted of a 1.5‐hour meeting, an action plan, written materials on employment supports, and telephone calls at 3 weeks and 3 months. Control group participants received the written materials. The primary outcome was the Work Limitations Questionnaire (WLQ) output job demand subscale. The secondary outcome was work loss. Intent‐to‐treat analyses were performed. Between October 2011 and January 2014, 652 individuals were assessed for eligibility. A total of 287 participants were randomized: 143 intervention and 144 control participants. In total, 264 participants (92%) completed 2‐year data collection. There was no difference in the mean ± SD WLQchange scores from baseline to 2‐year followup (−8.6 ± 1.9 intervention versus −8.3 ± 2.2 control; P= 0.93). Of the 36 participants who experienced permanent work loss at 2 years, 11 (8%) were intervention participants and 25 (18%) control participants (P= 0.03). The intervention did not have an effect on work limitations but reduced work loss. The intervention can be delivered by trained rehabilitation therapists.

Participation restriction, common among people with knee osteoarthritis (OA), may be influenced by affect. We examined the risk of incident participation restriction over 84 months conferred by positive and negative affect among people with knee OA. Participants were from the Multicenter Osteoarthritis Study and had or were at high risk of knee OA. Participation restriction was measured using the Instrumental Role Limitation subscale of the Late‐Life Disability Index, and affect was measured using the positive affect and depressed mood subscales of the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale. Robust Poisson regression was used to calculate the risk of incident participation restriction over 84 months conferred by combinations of low and high positive and negative affect, adjusting for covariates. Of 1,810 baseline participants (mean age 62.1 years, 56% female), 470 (26%) had incident participation restriction over 84 months. Participants with low positive affect had 20% greater risk of incident participation restriction than those with high positive affect; participants with high negative affect had 50% greater risk of incident participation restriction compared to those with low negative affect. Participants with both low positive and high negative affect had 80% greater risk of incident participation restriction compared to other combinations of positive and negative affect. Low positive and high negative affect, both alone and in combination, increase the risk of participation restriction among adults with knee OA. Efforts aimed at preventing participation restriction in this population should consider these mood states.

Older adults with knee osteoarthritis (OA) who live in environments with mobility barriers may be at greater risk of developing participation restrictions, defined as difficulties in engagement in life situations. We investigated the risk of participation restriction over 5 years due to self‐reported environmental features among older adults with knee OA. Participants from the Multicenter Osteoarthritis (MOST) Study self‐reported participation at baseline, 30 months, and 60 months using the instrumental role subscale of the Late Life Disability Index (LLDI). Data on self‐reported environmental features were from the Home and Community Environment questionnaire administered in the MOST Knee Pain and Disability study, an ancillary study of MOST. The relative risks (RRs) of developing participation restriction at 60 months, indicated by an LLDI score <67.6 out of a possible 100, due to reported high community mobility barriers and high transportation facilitators, were calculated using robust Poisson regression, adjusting for covariates. Sixty‐nine of the 322 participants (27%) developed participation restriction by 60 months. Participants reporting high community mobility barriers at baseline had 1.8 times the risk (95% confidence interval [95% CI] 1.2–2.7) of participation restriction at 60 months, after adjusting for covariates. Self‐report of high transportation facilitators at baseline resulted in a reduced but statistically nonsignificant risk of participation restriction at 60 months (RR 0.7, 95% CI 0.4–1.1). Higher perceived environmental barriers impact the risk of long‐term participation restriction among older adults with or at risk of knee OA. Approaches aimed at reducing the development of participation restrictions in this population should consider decreasing environmental barriers.

ABSTRACTSouth central Texas is one of the most flood-prone regions in the United States on account of its extreme rainfall intensities, hydrologically efficient drainage systems, and high runoff surfaces, both natural and from recent population growth. In the last twenty years the region has experienced devastating floods in 1998, 2001, 2002, 2010, 2013, and 2015, with literally hundreds of homes and numerous lives lost. We analyze the causes of these losses and actions that have been taken to reduce the losses, as well as reasons for the failure to realistically accommodate the regional flood hazards. A major contributor to this problem is the underassessment of rainfall intensities that are still based on Weather Bureau Technical Paper 40. Another factor has been the reluctance of governmental officials to realistically define floodplains because of political pressure based on fears of lowering home and land values and development “opportunities.” Well-heeled developers have had housing projects approved by using earth fill to raise foundations above the legally defined flood elevations. The most positive action has been an increase in flood education and flood warnings.

Mg-3Al-1Zn (AZ31) alloy samples with different starting textures have been processed using Equal Channel Angular Processing (ECAP) at 150°C and 200°C. The common temperature limit for ECAP of wrought AZ31 alloys has been reduced from 200°C to 150°C by suppressing tensile twinning activity. Twinning activity was reduced by either changing the starting texture or increasing the temperature. A crystal plasticity model was utilized to gain a better insight into the operating deformation mechanisms during ECAP. Suppression of tensile twinning and pronounced prismatic slip activity resulted in a crack-free, homogeneous deformation at 150°C. In addition, twinning, when exists, was shown to have a significant effect on the promotion of DRX and shear band formation.

Abstract:This study provides empirical support for the Attributions for Scholastic Outcomes Scale—Black (ASO-B) as an instrument for measuring two latent traits that influence causal reasoning about the Black-White achievement gap: culture-blaming and structure-blaming. Within this conceptual framework, culture-blaming refers to the belief that Black parents cultivate an anti-academic mindset in their children and structure-blaming refers to the belief that racially biased opportunity and reward structures within the U.S. schooling system create racial differences in achievement. Results indicate that culture-blaming and structure-blaming are distinct perspectives that are statistically related to attitudes toward parent education, teaching and enforcing "proper" English, standardized testing, and resource redistribution as methods of closing the gap.

Despite the recommendations to increase recruitment of participants into clinical trials, investigators face costly challenges in trials investigating work disability interventions for people with arthritis and rheumatological conditions. This study aims to evaluate the recruitment costs and outcomes from a randomized controlled trial of an arthritis work disability prevention program conducted between 2011 and 2015, to inform planning and monitoring recruitment in similar studies.

The midbrain periaqueductal gray (PAG) is involved in organizing behavioral responses to threat, stress, and pain. These PAG functions are modulated by cholinergic agents. In the present study, we examined the cholinergic modulation of synaptic transmission in the PAG using whole-cell voltage-clamp recordings from rat midbrain slices. We found that the cholinergic agonist carbachol reduced the amplitude of evoked inhibitory and excitatory postsynaptic currents (IPSCs and EPSCs, respectively) in all PAG neurons, and this was abolished by the muscarinic receptor antagonist atropine. Carbachol increased the paired pulse ratio of evoked IPSCs and EPSCs, and it reduced the rate, but not the amplitude of spontaneous miniature IPSCs. The carbachol inhibition of evoked IPSCs was mimicked by the acetylcholinesterase inhibitor physostigmine and was reduced by the M1 and M1/M3 muscarinic receptor antagonists pirenzepine and 4-diphenylacetoxy-N-methylpiperidine, but not by the M2 and M4 antagonists gallamine and PD-102807 (3,6a,11,14-tetrahydro-9-methoxy-2-methyl-(12H)-isoquino [1,2-b]pyrrolo[3,2-f][1,3]benzoxazine-1-carboxylic acid, ethyl ester). The carbachol inhibition of evoked IPSCs was reduced by the cannabinoid CB1receptor antagonist AM251 (1-(2,4-dichlorophenyl)-5-(4-iodophenyl)-4-methyl-N-1-piperidinyl-1H-pyrazole-3-carboxamide) and the diacylglycerol (DAG) lipase inhibitor tetrahydrolipstatin, and it was abolished in the presence of both AM251 and gallamine. The carbachol inhibition of evoked EPSCs was also reduced in the combined presence of gallamine and AM251. These results indicate that M1 induced inhibition of GABAergic transmission within the PAG is mediated via endocannabinoids, which are produced via the phospholipase C/DAG lipase pathway and activate presynaptic cannabinoid CB1receptors. Thus, presynaptic muscarinic modulation of PAG function is mediated indirectly by M1 receptor-induced endocannabinoid signaling and directly by M2 receptors.

The density, viscosity and conductivity of nine commercially available tetra-alkyl phosphonium ionic liquids (ILs) are presented. The effect of cation volume and symmetry, anion volume, and temperature are observed. The Vogel-Tamman- Fulcher (VTF) equation is used to calculate the theoretical glass transition temperature (To) and the activation energy of conductivity Ea,L. The conductivity of three halo-aluminate ionic liquid systems for mole fractions up to 0.7 AlCl3 is reported.

Natural killer (NK) cells use killer immunoglobulin-like receptors (KIR) that bind to self-class I major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecules to prevent killing of autologous cells. Mismatched allografts, which do not express recipient MHC class I molecules, can therefore be potential targets for NK-cell killing. In our living related-unrelated renal transplantation program, donor-recipient pairs vary in the amount of both HLA and KIR genes they share. This provides us with a unique opportunity to dissect the influence of KIR on NK-cell function after transplantation.

Whole‐cell patch‐clamp recordings were made from neurons in the trigeminal nucleus caudalis and trigeminal ganglion, in vitro, to investigate the cellular actions of the endogenous cannabinoid, anandamide. Anandamide has been shown to act through both the cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1) and the vanilloid receptor 1 (VR1). Anandamide (30 μm) caused a 54 % increase in the rate of miniature excitatory post‐synaptic currents (mEPSCs), without affecting their amplitude. The effect of anandamide was blocked by the VR1 antagonist capsazepine (20 μm), but not by the CB1‐specific antagonist AM251 (3 μm). Application of the VR1 receptor agonist capsaicin (300 nm) caused a 4200 % increase in the mEPSC rate. In dissociated trigeminal ganglion neurons, both anandamide and capsaicin caused an outward current in neurons that were voltage clamped at +40 mV. The maximal outward current produced by anandamide (EC50, 10 μm) was 45 % of that produced by capsaicin (10 μm). Co‐application of the VR1 antagonist capsazepine (30 μm) completely reversed the effects of both capsaicin and anandamide. The anandamide transport inhibitor, AM404 (30 μm) caused a 40 % increase in mEPSC rate in the slice preparation and an outward current in dissociated neurons. The latter current was reversed by the VR1 antagonist iodoresiniferatoxin (1 μm). The fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) inhibitors phenylmethylsulfonyl fluoride (PMSF) (20 μm) and OL53 (1 μm) did not enhance the effect of anandamide in either the slice or dissociated neuron preparations. These results suggest that within the superficial medullary dorsal horn, anandamide (30 μm) acts presynaptically to enhance the release of glutamate via activation of the VR1 receptor.

The vanilloid receptor protein (VR1) is a well‐characterised integrator of noxious stimuli in peripheral sensory neurones. There is evidence for the presence of VR1 in the central nervous system, but little information as to its role there. In this study we have examined the actions of agonists for VR1 receptors in the rat locus coeruleus (LC), using whole‐cell patch‐clamp recordings from acutely isolated neurones and neurones in slices. Superfusion with capsaicin resulted in a concentration‐dependent increase in the frequency of isolated miniature excitatory postsynaptic currents (mEPSCs) in LC neurones. The mean amplitude of the mEPSCs was not affected by capsaicin. The effects of capsaicin (1 μM) were abolished by the VR1 receptor antagonists capsazepine (10 μM) and iodoresiniferatoxin (300 nm). Removal of extracellular Ca2+abolished the capsaicin‐induced increase in frequency of mEPSCs. Capsaicin superfusion had no consistent effects on evoked excitatory postsynaptic currents. Capsaicin superfusion also resulted in the release of an adrenoceptor agonist in the LC but did not affect the membrane currents of acutely isolated LC neurones. These data demonstrate that the VR1 receptor appears to be located presynaptically on afferents to the LC, and that activation of VR1 may serve to potentiate the release of glutamate and adrenaline/noradrenaline in this brain region.

1This study examined the cellular actions of cannabinoids on neurons in the substantia gelatinosa of the spinal trigeminal nucleus pars caudalis, using whole‐cell and perforated patch recording in brain slices.2The cannabinoid agonist WIN55,212‐2 (3 μm) decreased the amplitude of both GABAergic and glycinergic electrically evoked inhibitory postsynaptic currents (IPSCs) by 35 and 41%, respectively. This inhibition was completely reversed by the CB1receptor‐selective antagonist N‐piperidino‐5‐(4‐chlorophenyl)‐l‐(2,4‐dichlorophenyl)‐4‐methyl‐3‐pyrazole‐carboxamide) (SR141716A, 3 μm). WIN55,212‐2 also produced relative facilitation of the second evoked IPSC to paired stimuli.3WIN55,212‐2 decreased the rate of both GABAergic and glycinergic miniature IPSCs by 44 and 34%, respectively, without changing their amplitude distributions or kinetics.4WIN55,212‐2 did not affect the amplitude of electrically evoked non‐NMDA glutamatergic excitatory postsynaptic currents (EPSCs).5WIN55,212‐2 produced no postsynaptic membrane current and had no significant effect on membrane conductance over a range of membrane potentials (–60 to –130 mV).6These results suggest that, within the superficial medullary dorsal horn, cannabinoids presynaptically inhibit GABAergic and glycinergic neurotransmission. At the cellular level, the analgesic action of cannabinoids on these medullary dorsal horn neurons therefore differs from that of μ‐opioids, which have both pre‐ and postsynaptic actions.

1Whole‐cell patch clamp recordings were made from rat rostral ventromedial medulla (RVM) neurons in vitroto investigate the cellular actions of the opioid‐like receptor ORL1 (NOP), ligand nociceptin/orphanin FQ and other putative prepronociceptin products.2Primary and secondary RVM neurons were identified as responding to the κ‐opioid receptor agonist U‐69593 (300 nmto 1 μm) and the μ‐ and δ‐opioid receptor agonist met‐enkephalin (10 μm), respectively. Both primary and secondary RVM neurons responded to nociceptin (3 nmto 1 μm) with an outward current that reversed polarity at –115 mV in brain slices and with inhibition of Ca2+channel currents in acutely isolated cells.3The putative ORL1 antagonist J‐113397 (1 μm) produced no change in membrane current and abolished the outward current produced by nociceptin (100 nm). In contrast, Phe1ψ(CH2‐NH)Gly2]‐nociceptin‐(1‐13)NH2(300 nmto 1 μm) alone produced an outward current and partially reduced the outward current produced by nociceptin (300 nm) when co‐applied.4In brain slices nociceptin (300 nm) reduced the amplitude of evoked GABAAreceptor‐mediated inhibitory postsynaptic currents (IPSCs) but not non‐NMDA receptor‐mediated excitatory postsynaptic currents (EPSCs).5Met‐enkephalin (10 μm), but not nociceptin (300 nm), reduced the rate of spontaneous miniature IPSCs in normal external potassium solution (K+2.5 mm). In high external potassium (K+17.5 mm), nociceptin reduced the rate of miniature IPSCs in the presence (Ca2+2.4 mm, Mg2+1.2 mm) but not in the absence of external calcium (Ca2+0 mm, Mg2+10 mm, Cd2+10 μm). Nociceptin and met‐enkephalin had no effect on the amplitude of miniature IPSCs.6The putative nociceptin precursor products nocistatin (rat prepronociceptin125–132) and rat prepronociceptin154–181had no effect on membrane currents, evoked IPSCs and evoked EPSCs.7These results indicate that nociceptin acts via the ORL1 receptor to directly inhibit both primary and secondary RVM neurons by activating a potassium conductance and by inhibiting calcium conductances. In addition, nociceptin inhibits GABA release within the RVM via a presynaptic Ca2+‐dependent mechanism. Thus, nociceptin has the potential to exert both disinhibitory and inhibitory effects on neuronal action potential firing within the RVM.

Objectives. We investigated the association between HLA class II haplotypes and antiphospholipid syndrome (APS).Methods. HLA DRB1, DQB1 and DQA1 genotypes were determined by the polymerase chain reaction using sequence‐specific primers in 83 Caucasoid British patients with APS. The genotype frequencies were compared between subgroups of patients and 177 healthy controls.Results. DQB1*0604/5/6/7/9‐DQA1*0102‐DRB1*1302 and DQB1*0303‐DQA1*0201‐DRB1*0701 haplotypes showed significantly positive correlations with APS [P=0.0087 and P=0.0012, respectively]. The association of the former was enhanced in primary APS patients with anti‐β2‐glycoprotein I antibodies (anti‐β2GPI) [odds ratio 6.2, 95% confidence interval (2.2–17.6), P=0.0014, corrected P=0.042].Conclusions. These alleles and haplotypes might affect anti‐β2GPI production and APS development in different and heterogeneous fashion.

Avoidance of exposure to indoor allergens is an important element in the treatment of allergic disease. The results of several studies provide strong evidence in support of a role for allergen avoidance; however, strategies that optimize allergen reduction in houses have not been determined. Complex issues regarding the efficacy of physical and chemical measures that target house dust mite, pet, and cockroach allergens in the home are discussed. The greatest challenge is to educate allergic patients so that they can play an important role in controlling their own disease. (J Allergy Clin Immunol 2000;106:787-804.)

Because of the presence of confounding antigens, the assignment of HLA antibody specificity is difficult in highly sensitized patients, and the definition of an acceptable HLA mismatch requires a significant workload per patient. We describe a new ELISA method, monoLISA, for detection of immunoglobulin (Ig)G HLA antibody using single recombinant HLA class I monomers bound to microtiter plates.

1Plasticity in functional connections of expiratory bulbospinal neurones was investigated by measurement of terminal potentials (TPs) and focal synaptic potentials (FSPs), recorded with spike‐triggered averaging in the thoracic spinal cord of anaesthetized, paralysed cats. These measurements were made in normal cats and in those which had previously been subjected to spinal cord lesions that transected the axons of the bulbospinal neurones in the segment below that under investigation, either about 2 weeks or about 16 weeks previously.2In both groups of operated animals bulbospinal neurones with firing properties and conduction velocities similar to normal were present. The extracellular recordings that were averaged to reveal TPs and FSPs were made on two standard grids, each consisting of eight sites spaced 0.25 mm apart on two electrode tracks. One grid was positioned at a rostral and one at a caudal location within one segment (T7‐T9).3In the normal animals TPs and FSPs were larger and/or more common at rostral sites than at caudal sites, by a factor of about 1.7. In both 2 week and 16 week animals, TPs and FSPs were observed, both showing normal time courses and latencies. At rostral sites in both the 2 week and 16 week animals the amplitudes and/or the frequency of occurrence of TPs and FSPs were similar to normal, as was the case for caudal sites in the 2 week animals. However, at caudal sites in the 16 week animals the FSPs were more common and/or significantly larger than normal, with the increase particularly marked on the lateral track, being equivalent to a factor of about 2. A corresponding increase in the amplitude and/or frequency of occurrence of TPs at caudal lateral sites was also seen, but was not significant.4The results are interpreted as evidence for short‐range sprouting of the bulbospinal axons and the formation by them of new connections in the caudal parts of the segments concerned.

Telecommunications networks require a robust set of management features to ensure reliable service to end users. Element management features are needed to monitor, configure, and control the operation of each network element. The Flexent™ Element Management System (EMS) provides element‐level management features to administer the collection of network elements constituting Lucent Technologies' Flexent/AUTOPLEX® wireless network, which provides wireless communications services to Lucent customers worldwide. Web and object‐oriented technologies, commonly used within large enterprise networks, may also be used within element management applications for telecommunications networks. The Flexent EMS leverages standard management protocols, commercial object‐based technology, and an intuitive Web‐based user interface to administer the Flexent/AUTOPLEX wireless network. This paper describes the architecture and features of the Flexent EMS, discusses the unique challenges of element management for wireless networks, and shows how the Flexent EMS uses Internet Web technologies, object‐oriented technologies, and usability engineering techniques to address these challenges.

There are few reports of Guillain–Barré Syndrome (GBS) occurring in families. We have encountered a mother, who developed acute inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy at age 35 years, whose son developed the bulbar form of GBS 7 years later. Both shared HLA DR2.

Abstract. We have established that μ-opioid receptor activation causes a presynaptic inhibition of neurotransmitter release that is mediated by 12-lipoxygenase metabolites of arachidonic acid in midbrain neurons [1]. We further demonstrated that the efficacy of opioids was enhanced synergistically by treatment of brain neurons with inhibitors of the other major enzymes responsible for arachidonic acid metabolism; cyclooxygenase (COX-1) and 5-lipoxygenase. These findings explain a mechanism of analgesic action of NSAIDs in the central nervous system that is both independent of prostanoid release and inhibited by opioid antagonists, as well as the synergistic interaction of opioids with NSAIDs. These findings also suggest new avenues for development of centrally active medications involving combinations of lowered doses of opioids and specific 5-lipoxygenase inhibitors.

The rostral ventromedial medulla (RVM) is thought to play a crucial role in the antinociceptive actions of cannabinoids. This study examined the actions of the cannabinoid receptor agonist, WIN55,212‐2, on membrane properties and GABAergic synaptic transmission in RVM neurons using whole cell patch clamp recordings in brain slices.WIN55,212‐2 (3 μM) had no effect on membrane K+conductance of primary or secondary RVM neurons. Primary neurons responded to the κ‐opioid receptor agonist U69,593 (300 nM–1 μM). Secondary neurons responded to the μ,δ‐opioid receptor agonist met‐enkephalin (10 μM).WIN55,212‐2 reduced the amplitude of electrically evoked (GABAergic) inhibitory postsynaptic currents (IPSCs) in all neurons (58%, pEC50=6.2±0.1). The inhibition was reversed by the CB1receptor selective antagonist, SR141716 (3 μM). WIN55,212‐2 also produced relative facilitation of the second IPSC to paired evoked IPSCs.WIN55,212‐2 and met‐enkephalin reduced the rate of spontaneous miniature IPSCs in all cells (44 and 53%), but had no effect on their amplitude distributions or kinetics.These results suggest that the antinociceptive actions of cannabinoids within RVM are primarily due to presynaptic inhibition of GABAergic neurotransmission. The neuronal substrates of cannabinoid actions in RVM therefore differ from those of opioids, which have both pre‐ and postsynaptic inhibitory actions.

The actions of the neuropeptide nociceptin, the putative nociceptin receptor antagonist [Phe1ψ(CH2‐NH)Gly2]‐nociceptin‐(1–13)NH2(Phe1ψ‐nociceptin1–13) and the putative nociceptin precursor products nocistatin (rat prepronociceptin125–132) and rat prepronociceptin154–181were examined on membrane properties of rat locus coeruleus (LC) neurons using whole cell patch clamp techniques.Nociceptin inhibited IBain all LC neurons, (pD2of 8.9, maximum inhibition 50%). The inhibition of IBaby nociceptin was associated with slowing of the activation of IBaand could be significantly reversed by a strong depolarizing prepulse. Phe1ψ‐nociceptin1–13also inhibited IBain LC neurons (notional pD2of 7.6, maximum inhibition 18%). Application of Phe1ψ‐nociceptin1–13(1 μM) significantly occluded the subsequent effects of a co‐application of nociceptin (3 nM) on IBa.As previously reported for nociceptin, Phe1ψ‐nociceptin1–13caused an outward current in LC neurons voltage clamped at −60 mV (pD2of 7.1, maximum current 50% of that of methionine enkephalin, 10 μM). The Phe1ψ‐nociceptin1–13induced current reversed polarity at −112 mV and exhibited pronounced inward rectification. Phe1ψ‐nociceptin1–13(1 μM) reversibly inhibited the current caused by nociceptin (300 nM) by 30%.Neither nocistatin nor rat prepronociceptin154–181inhibited IBain LC neurons, or prevented the subsequent inhibition by nociceptin. Neither nocistatin or prepronociceptin154–181affected the membrane properties of LC neurons.This study demonstrates that nociceptin modulates somatic IBain rat LC neurons. The putative ORL1 antagonist Phe1ψ‐nociceptin1–13exhibited partial agonist activity at inhibiting IBaand opening K+channels in LC. Other putative nociceptin precursor products were without effect on LC cells.

Background:Mattress and pillow encasings are recommended for patients allergic to dust mites. Many encasements block allergen and are vapor permeable but do not allow free passage of air through the material. Recently, breathable fabrics made from tightly woven synthetic fibers or nonwoven synthetics have been recommend as encasements. Objective:The purpose of this study was to develop a method for testing encasement materials made of breathable fabrics. Methods:Dust samples containing a known quantity of allergen (Der f 1, Der p 1, and Fel d 1) were pulled across a variety of fabrics using a modified dust trap. Airflow through the dust trap was controlled with a vacuum pump. Five minutes after dust was introduced, the pump was shut off. A filter located downstream of the fabric collected allergen passing through the fabric during the test and was assayed with ELISA for the relevant allergen. Fabrics to be tested were obtained from manufacturers and specialty catalogs. Results:As the average pore size decreases, the airflow through a fabric becomes restricted, and the pressure differential created by the vacuum pump increases. Dust mite allergens (Der f 1 and Der p 1) were blocked below detectable limits by fabrics of less than 10 μm in pore size. Fabrics with an average pore size of 6 μm or less blocked cat allergen (Fel d 1). Conclusion:The method we developed provided a rigorous and reliable test for leakage of common indoor allergens through breathable barrier fabrics. Our results show that tightly woven fabrics and nonwoven synthetic fabrics can block common indoor allergens but still allow airflow. (J Allergy Clin Immunol 1999;103:227-31.)

1The actions of selective adenosine A1and A2receptor agonists were examined on synaptic currents in periaqueductal grey (PAG) neurons using patch‐clamp recordings in brain slices.2The A1receptor agonist 2‐chloro‐N‐cyclopentyladenosine (CCPA), but not the A2agonist, 2‐p‐(2‐carboxyethyl)phenethylamino‐5′‐N‐ethylcarboxamidoadenosine (CGS21680), inhibited both electrically evoked inhibitory (eIPSCs) and excitatory (eEPSCs) postsynaptic currents. The actions of CCPA were reversed by the A1receptor antagonist 8‐cyclopentyl‐1,3‐dipropylxanthine (DPCPX).3In the absence or presence of forskolin, DPCPX had no effect on eIPSCs, suggesting that concentrations of tonically released adenosine are not sufficient to inhibit synaptic transmission in the PAG.4CCPA decreased the frequency of spontaneous miniature action potential‐independent IPSCs (mIPSCs) but had no effect on their amplitude distributions. Inhibition persisted in nominally Ca2+‐free, high Mg2+solutions and in 4‐aminopyridine.5The CCPA‐induced decrease in mIPSC frequency was partially blocked by the non‐selective protein kinase inhibitor staurosporine, the specific protein kinase A inhibitor 8‐para‐chlorophenylthioadenosine‐3′,5′‐cyclic monophosphorothioate (Rp‐8‐CPT‐cAMPS), and by 8‐bromoadenosine cyclic 3′,5′ monophosphate (8‐Br‐cAMP).6These results suggest that A1adenosine receptor agonists inhibit both GABAergic and glutamatergic synaptic transmission in the PAG. Inhibition of GABAergic transmission is mediated by presynaptic mechanisms that partly involve protein kinase A.

Abstract:  Recently a new family of non-classical MHC molecules, the MHC class I chain-related protein (MIC), encoded by genes located in the major histocompatability complex have been identified. On the basis of the location of MIC genes and the structure and expression of MIC molecules it has been postulated that MIC may be a susceptibility factor in Behçet's disease (BD). We investigated the association of the 16 described external domain alleles and the transmembrane triplet repeats of MIC-A with BD in a Middle Eastern population. DNA from ninety-five patients and 102 age- and sex-matched controls were analyzed by polymerase chain reaction using allele specific primers. Our results show an increase of MIC-A*009 in the BD patient group 44/95 (46%) compared with controls 24/102 (24%) (χ2=11.3, OR=2.8, P=0.00078). MIC-A*009 was also found to be strongly associated with HLA-B51 in the patients 39/44 (88%) when compared with controls 10/24 (42%) (χ2=4, P=0.04). MIC-A*009 was also found in linkage disequilibrium with HLA-B52, but only in controls. The A6 form of a MIC-A transmembrane triplet repeat was found to be significantly raised in the patients (80/95; 84%;) compared with controls (58/102, 57%) (χ2=17.5, OR=4, P=0.000028). Although the MIC-A associations described are highly significant, the association with HLA-B51 independently remains the most significant factor (χ2=56.8, P<10–6). The data suggests that as both MIC-A*009 and A6 are in strong linkage disequilibrium with HLA-B51, they are unlikely to be the susceptibility gene for BD but may be markers for additional risk factors.

Coherent Doppler lidar appears to hold great promise in contributing to the basic store of knowledge concerning flow field characteristics in the nonprecipitous regions surrounding severe storms. The Doppler lidar, through its ability to measure clear air returns, augments the conventional Doppler radar system, which is most useful in the precipitous regions of the storm.A brief description of the Doppler lidar severe storm measurement system is provided along with the technique to be used in performing the flow field measurements. The application of the lidar is addressed, and the planned measurement program is outlined.

The present lack of a lower atmosphere research satellite program for the 1980s has prompted consideration of the Space Shuttle/Spacelab system as a means of flying sensor complements geared toward specific research problems, as well as continued instrument development. Three specific examples of possible science questions related to precipitation are discussed: 1) spatial structure of mesoscale cloud and precipitation systems, 2) lightning and storm development, and 3) cyclone intensification over oceanic regions. Examples of space sensors available to provide measurements needed in addressing these questions are also presented. Distinctive aspects of low-earth orbit experiments would be high resolution, multispectral sensing of atmospheric phenomena by complements of instruments, and more efficient sensor development through reflights of specific hardware packages.

Summary The long-term effects of partial deafferentation in the neocortex of adult rats were studied in four-month old rats in which the corpus callosum had been completely sectioned when they were one-month old. Quantitative light microscopy was used to identify morphological changes in the auditory cortex resulting from the loss of established callosal connections. Particular attention was directed at those cortical layers known to receive the heaviest callosal projection (layers II and III) and at neurons known to be postsynaptic to callosal afferents (layer V pyramidal neurons). The comparative analysis of both semithin plastic sections and Golgi-impregnated material from long-term, callosally-lesioned rats and age-matched control animals reveals no differences in the overall cortical thickness, the thickness of cortical layers, the numbers of neurons or the density of spines along apical dendrites of layer V pyramidal neurons. However, as a result of the callosal lesion, large diameter apical dendrites are significantly thinner in the callosally deafferented cortex and there is a small increase in the number of neuroglial cells in the deeper cortical layers.

Summary The cell bodies of pyramidal cells in layers II and V of rat auditory cortex were quantitatively examined in groups of rats 3, 6, 15, 23, 27 and 34–36 months of age. The mean diameters of cell bodies of both layer II and layer V neurons, as measured in 1 µm plastic sections, increased between 3 and 15 months of age, then decreased to a diameter that was less in the 36-month-old than in the 3-month-old rats. Morphometry of the nuclei of the cells was done by measuring nuclear area and nuclear envelope length directly on electron micrographs. In the layer II cells, neither parameter changed with advancing age. In the layer V cells, the mean nuclear area decreased significantly in the old animals and the mean envelope length increased. Point-counting techniques were applied to electron micrographs of cell bodies to determine the relative volume of selected organelles, inclusions and ground substance in the perikaryal cytoplasm. In this part of the study the chronological pattern of change in layer II and layer V pyramidal cells was similar. The relative volume of dense bodies increased linearly with advancing age, with a slightly more accelerated rate in layer II cells. The relative volume of ground substance remained essentially constant through 27 months, and then at 34–36 months decreased to 83% and 89% of the three-month level in layer V and layer II, respectively. The relative volume of the rough endoplasmic reticulum (RER) did not change significantly until after 15 months, at which time it began to occupy increasingly a larger fraction of the perikaryal cytoplasm. Finally, the relative volumes of mitochondria, multivesicular bodies and Golgi apparatus did not show clear trends of change during the 33-month period.

Summary Neuroglial cells were examined in the rat auditory cerebral cortex to determine the effects of aging on astrocytes, oligodendrocytes and microglia. The animals ranged in age from 3 months to 29.5 months. Over this age range of 26.5 months none of the neuroglial cells exhibit striking abnormalities in the morphology or the number of their organelles other than each of these cell types accumulates a distinct membrane-bound inclusion material. Astrocytes accumulate considerably more of this material than oligodendrocytes, and demonstrate earlier and more frequent signs of it. Microglia show the most striking alterations in regard to the inclusion material and in animals of increasing age microglial cells engorged with the heterogeneous material become increasingly common. Concurrently there is a slow transformation of the microglial population from an array of multipolar forms to larger, elongated or spherical forms which contain variable amounts of the dense membrane-bound material. These alterations in the microglial cell population do not occur at a chronologically uniform rate, and in animals 18 months and older, examples of the multipolar, the elongated, and the engorged spherical forms of microglia may be encountered.

A difficult laryngeal exposure is made easier by placement of the patient's head and neck into the Boyce-Jackson “sniffing position” and then flexing them further if necessary, by selection of a laryngoscope appropriate to the patient and to the triangular glottic shape, by placement of the laryngoscope along the path of least resistance, by use of a true suspension device in order to apply the force for laryngoscopy towards the larynx and away from the teeth and gums, and by allowing time for the force to work. With these techniques, an easy exposure is made almost perfect. The true vocal folds are exposed from vocal process to anterior commissure without the need for external pressure, the endotracheal tube remains out of sight between the arytenoids, and there is no risk to the teeth, gums, and cervical spine.

Partial endoscopic excision of obstructing laryngeal carcinoma with the CO2laser is an alternative to emergency tracheotomy or emergency laryngectomy whenever the airway control can be initially ensured by endotracheal intubation. The practical advantages of this approach are elimination of the septic complications of tracheotomy, the opportunity for planned preoperative chemotherapy or radiation therapy, and better nutritional and psychologic preparation of the patient for surgery.

1. The actions of opioids on synaptic transmission in rat periaqueductal grey (PAG) neurones were examined using whole‐cell patch‐clamp recordings in brain slices. 2. Methionine enkephalin (ME; 10 microM) inhibited evoked GABAergic inhibitory postsynaptic currents (IPSCs) by 57%, non‐NMDA excitatory postsynaptic currents (EPSCs) by 60%, and NMDA EPSCs by 43% in PAG neurones. This inhibition was associated with an increase in paired‐pulse facilitation, was mimicked by the mu‐agonist DAMGO (1‐3 microM) and abolished by naloxone (1 microM). Neither the kappa‐agonist U69593 (1‐3 microM), nor the delta‐agonist DPDPE (3‐10 microM) had any specific actions on evoked PSCs. 3. ME decreased the frequency of spontaneous miniature, action potential‐independent postsynaptic currents (mIPSCs by 65%, mEPSCs by 54%) in all PAG neurones, but had no effect on their amplitude distributions. The reduction in mIPSC frequency persisted in nominally Ca(2+)‐free, high‐Mg2+ (10 mM) solutions, which also contained Cd2+ (100 microM), or Ba2+ (10 mM). Opioid inhibition of mIPSC frequency is unlikely to be mediated by presynaptic Ca2+ or K+ conductances which are sensitive to extracellular Cd2+ or Ba2+. 4. In a subpopulation of PAG neurones, ME increased a Ba(2+)‐sensitive K+ conductance at potentials below ‐97 mV. Opioids inhibited both GABAergic and glutamatergic synaptic transmission in all PAG neurones, independent of any postsynaptic opioid sensitivity. 5. These observations are consistent with, but only partially support, the opioid disinhibition model of PAG‐induced analgesia. mu‐Opioids also have the potential to modulate the behavioural and autonomic functions of the PAG via modulation of both inhibitory and excitatory presynaptic mechanisms, as well as postsynaptic mechanisms.

Conventional and solid state proton nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) techniques have been used to examine water molecules in the channels of a single crystal of cordierite, (Mg, Fe)2Al4Si5O18, as a function of temperature, magnetic field, and orientation. Only one type of water was found rather than water in two distinct rigid orientations which were indicated by earlier infrared spectral studies. However, the measured dipolar splittings indicate that this water is in rapid motion. Shifts in the dipolar doublet due to Fe2+ impurities indicate that the water molecules are not moving among adjacent channel sites along a channel cavity. A two-site hopping model is proposed involving the major residence time spent with the hydrogen-hydrogen vector parallel to the channels, a minor residence time spent with the hydrogen-hydrogen vector perpendicular to the channels, and a short time (<1 µs) in transit. This model fits both the present NMR data and previously reported infrared absorption data and is compared to previously reported neutron diffraction data.

We implemented screening for squamous cell carcinomas of the oral cavity, pharynx, and larynx with symptom assessment and systematic inspection of the oral mucosa by primary care practitioners at health care sites serving inner-city residents of Boston; 4611 tobacco users older than 40 years were screened, and 313 with specific criteria were referred to otolaryngology for diagnostic evaluations. In these screened patients, the prevalence of oral mucosal lesions was almost 13% and prevalence of persistent hoarseness was more than 11%. Although the identification of these cancers was rare (nearly 3%), abnormal findings were seen in more than 70% of referred patients. These clinical and histologic diagnoses are described. We have documented the range of pathologic conditions in high-risk patients screened for upper aerodigestive tract malignancy. (Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 1997;116:201-8.)

• In a series of 51 cases of stage IV head and neck carcinomas, 12 selected patients were studied retrospectively, in order to determine the role of surgery in their management.Two patients who received a tumoricidal dose of radiation prior to radical neck dissection survived over five years, but no viable tumor was found in either specimen, suggesting a radiation cure. Nine patients died within three years, with either local recurrence or distant metastases; one patient died of asphyxiation, without disease, within five months.It appeared that surgery played no substantial role in improving the survival of the patients with head and neck cancer with fixed nodes.(Arch Otolaryngol 101:645-648, 1975)

The authors have investigated whether genetic abnormalities in two genes, loss of heterozygosity (LOH) of p53 and amplification of the cyclin D1 gene, correlate with clinical outcome in 56 matched pairs of blood and tumor from patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN). Frequency of p53 LOH was 47.4%, of cyclin D1 amplification 33.9%, and of both abnormalities together 23.7%. p53 LOH was associated with T4 (P= 0.003) and stage IV (P= 0.015) tumors. Cyclin D1 amplification was associated with recurrences and/or metachronous tumors (P= 0.007). The total number of p53 and cyclin D1 abnormalities (scored as zero, one, and two) show a pattern that seems to be additive; the increase in the number of these abnormalities is associated with a proportional increase in the frequency of T4, stage IV, presence of recurrences and/or metachronous tumors, and possibly a proportional decrease in the disease‐free interval in the sample. The association of the markers with recurrences and/or metachronous tumors persists if the tumor stage effect is mathematically removed. The combined analysis of the p53 and cyclin D1 abnormalities seems to be more informative than either of them individually and may have predictive value in SCCHN.

We implemented screening for squamous cell carcinomas of the oral cavity, pharynx, and larynx with symptom assessment and systematic inspection of the oral mucosa by primary care practitioners at health care sites serving inner‐city residents of Boston; 4611 tobacco users older than 40 years were screened, and 313 with specific criteria were referred to otolaryngology for diagnostic evaluations. In these screened patients, the prevalence of oral mucosal lesions was almost 13% and prevalence of persistent hoarseness was more than 11%. Although the identification of these cancers was rare (nearly 3%), abnormal findings were seen in more than 70% of referred patients. These clinical and histologic diagnoses are described. We have documented the range of pathologic conditions in high‐risk patients screened for upper aerodigestive tract malignancy.

Screening for HLA-specific antibodies has been performed by complement-dependent lymphocytotoxicity for many years. In recent years, methods involving the use of flow cytometry or ELISA have been developed.