cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A comparison of commercially available demineralized bone matrix for spinal fusion

In an effort to augment the available grafting material as well as to increase spinal fusion rates, the utilization of a demineralized bone matrix (DBM) as a graft extender or replacement is common. There are several commercially available DBM substances available for use in spinal surgery, each with different amounts of DBM containing osteoinductive proteins. Each product may have different osteoinductivity potential due to different methods of preparation, storage, and donor specifications. The purpose of this study is to prospectively compare the osteoinductive potential of three different commercially available DBM substances in an athymic rodent spinal fusion model and to discuss the reasons of the variability in osteoinductivity. A posterolateral fusion was performed in 72 mature athymic nude female rats. Three groups of 18 rats were implanted with 1 of 3 DBMs (Osteofil, Grafton, and Dynagraft). A fourth group was implanted with rodent autogenous iliac crest bone graft. The rats were sacrificed at 2, 4, 6, and 8 weeks. A dose of 0.3 cm3 per side (0.6 cm3per animal) was used for each substance. Radiographs were taken at 2 weeks intervals until sacrifice. Fusion was determined by radiographs, manual palpation, and histological analysis. The Osteofil substance had the highest overall fusion rate (14/18), and the highest early 4 weeks fusion rate of (4/5). Grafton produced slightly lower fusion rates of (11/17) overall, and lower early 4 weeks fusion rate of (2/5). There was no statistically significant difference between the rate of fusion after implantation of Osteofil and Grafton. None of the sites implanted with Dynagraft fused at any time point (0/17), and there was a significantly lower fusion rate between the Dynagraft and the other two substances at the six-week-time point and for final fusion rate (P = 0.0001, Fischer’s exact test). None of the autogenous iliac crest animals fused at any time point. Non-decalcified histology confirmed the presence of a pseudarthrosis or the presence of a solid fusion, and the results were highly correlated with the manual testing. Although all products claim to have significant osteoinductive capabilities, this study demonstrates that there are significant differences between some of the tested products.
Zanthoxylum (Rutaceae) in North America North of Mexico

A key and descriptions are provided for the seven species ofZanthoxylum occurring in the United States and Canada.
The effect of carbon on the reducibility of rhenium in PtReAl2O3 catalysts

Abstract The oxidation states of Re in three catalysts (0.4 wt% Pt + 0.6 wt% Re Al 2 O 3 , 2.4 wt% Pt + 2.7 wt% Re Al 2 O 3 , and 2.4 wt% Re Al 2 O 3 ) were evaluated with X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Reduction of the bimetallic catalysts with hydrogen at 500 °C and 1 atm gave predominantly Re(+4). Addition of small amounts of water to the hydrogen feed resulted in the reduction of the rhenium to Re(0) with complete chloride removal from the PtRe Al 2 O 3 samples. Reduction of the bimetallic catalysts in butane + hydrogen at 500 °C gave Re(0) without significant chloride removal. The 0.4 wt% Pt + 0.6 wt% sol Re Al 2 O 3 catalyst with Re in the +4 oxidation state also underwent reduction to give Re(0) in the presence of butane + hydrogen at 500 °C. In contrast, under identical conditions, the Re in the Re Al 2 O 3 catalyst was reduced to Re(+4), which indicates that Pt is necessary for the complete reduction of the Re with butane + hydrogen at 500 °C. These results suggest that rhenium is present predominantly as the zerovalent metal in the bimetallic reforming catalyst under reaction conditions.
IMPACT OF LECTURE SIZE ON STUDENT-BASED RATINGS OF INSTRUCTION

The study compared “small” and “large” size lecture classes on 35 ratings of instructional effectiveness. Group Interaction/Intimacy items were rated lower in classes with enrollments of 50 or more students.
Food concentrations on Georges Bank: non-limiting effect on development and survival of laboratory reared Pseudocalanus sp. and Paracalanus parvus (Copepoda: Calanoida)

Laboratory and field studies were used to show that development rate and survival of the copepods Pseudocalanus sp. and Paracalanus parvus are generally not food limited on Georges Bank. Copepods were reared in the laboratory at a series of phytoplankton concentrations (25 to 200 μg carbon l-1) spanning the range of particulate carbon and nitrogen measured on Georges Bank in October, 1978 and February, 1979. Pseudocalanus sp. and P. parvus were reared at 5° and 12°C, respectively. Development rate and survival in both species were not affected at Georges Bank food concentrations but were reduced at lower food levels. Development times from hatching to adulthood was 60 to 70 d for Pseudocalanus sp. and 25 to 30 d for P. parvus.
Tau-ubiquitin protein conjugates in a human cell line

Abstract The microtubule-associated protein tau, and the cytoplasmic protein ubiquitin, are constituents of pathological neurofibrillary tangles found in Alzheimer's disease. In order to see if there is any physiological relationship between these proteins in a functioning human system, human neuroblastoma (LAN-5) cells were grown in vitro and differentiated to a neuronal phenotype. Cell extracts were analyzed by SDS-PAGE, immunoblot, and immunoprecipitation techniques. The colocalization of ubiquitin and tau immunoreactvity was noted in 12- and 35-kDa bands, predominantly located in a cell membrane fraction. The brands were also isolated by immunoprecipitation with the Alz-50 antibody and then identified with a ubiquitin antiserum. These findings show a relationship between tau and ubiquitin in a human neural cell line. This interaction suggests that tau may normally be degraded by an ubiquitin-dependent mechanism and alterations in it may contribute to the formation of neuro-fibrillary pathology.
Teaching students java bytecode using lego mindstorms robots

Assbly language is a valuable subject to teach, yet one of the most underappreciated by students. Students do not see the need for assbly language and they get through it as quickly as possible. Given the time in a computer organization course to teach assbly language, assignments -- either quick-and-easy ones or those contrived-to-teach-a-point -- contribute to this attitude of malaise. This paper documents a project to inject some fun into the teaching of assbly language. First, we switch the language to Java bytecode. Second, we use unique assignments to use Java bytecode with Lego Mindstorms robotics.
Numerical calculations using the full MHD equations in toroidal geometry

A computer code has been constructed that solves the full magnetohydronamic (MHD) equations in toroidal geometry. The code is applicable to toroidal devices, including tokamaks, stellarators, and reversed field pinches. A fully implicit numerical technique is used that allows linear eigenvalues and eigenfunctions to be found in a very few computational steps. Althought the present work describes the solution of the linearized equations, generalization of the numerical method to the solution of the nonlinear problem is straightforward. Use of the code is illustrated by calculating the n = 1 instability for a tokamak configuration. The results show the structural changes in the eigenfunctions as the plasma pressure is increased.
Effects of various irrigation solutions on microleakage of Class V composite restorations.

Abstract Statement of the problem Irrigation solutions used in the preparation of composite restorations have been reported to contain potential contaminants that may interfere with, and compromise, composite bonding. Purpose The purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate microleakage of Class V composite restorations after irrigation of acid conditioner with various solutions. Material and methods Standardized Class V preparations (5 mm wide, 4 mm high and 2 mm deep) were made at the cemento-enamel junction on available buccal, lingual, mesial, and distal surfaces of extracted human posterior teeth. The prepared teeth, separated into 7 groups (n=10), were etched for 10 seconds with a 37% phosphoric acid gel. Each group was irrigated with 1 of the following solutions: (1) tap water, (2) sterile water, (3) sodium chloride solution, (4) filtered water, (5) chlorhexidine, (6) sodium hypochlorite, and (7) distilled water. Each preparation was treated with a bonding agent (Opti-Bond Solo) and then restored with a hybrid composite (Herculite XRV). The restorations were polished with Soflex polishing disks and then thermal cycled for 1000 cycles between 5°C and 55°C with a 20-second dwell time. Assessment of microleakage was performed by application of a dye penetrant, sectioning of the teeth, and examination at original magnification×20. The nonparametric Kruskal-Wallis test (α=.05) was used for statistical analysis. Results Microleakage ranging from 10% to 30% was observed in all groups tested. Tap water exhibited the highest incidence of leakage, sterile water the least, with the other irrigation solutions leading to intermediate leakage. However, there was no significant difference in microleakage resulting from any of the irrigation solutions tested. Conclusion The effect of irrigation solutions used in this in vitro study was not significant.
Hospitalization for Community-Acquired Pneumonia: The Pneumonia Severity Index vs Clinical Judgment

Study objectives (1) To define clinical factors that could justify hospital admission among patients with community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) with risk classes of I or II. (2) To determine the positive predictive value of the pneumonia severity index as the sole indicator for detecting inappropriate hospitalizations among patients with CAP. Design Retrospective observational study. Setting University of Louisville Hospital and the Veterans Affairs Medical Center of Louisville, KY. Patients Consecutive adult patients fulfilling the criteria for CAP who were admitted to the hospital between October 1997 and May 2000. Measurements and results The medical records of hospitalized patients with CAP having a risk class of I or II were identified and further reviewed to determine whether there existed a clinical basis to justify hospitalization. Of a total of 328 patients, 86 had a risk class of I or II. Among these, 72 had clinical factors that justified their hospital admission. These factors, in frequency of occurrence, included the following: medical conditions other than CAP that required hospitalization, 31 patients (43%); social needs, 13 patients (18%); oral intolerance, 10 patients (14%); failure of outpatient therapy, 10 patients (14%); noncompliance, 6 patients (9%); suspicion of sepsis, 1 patient (1%); and hypoxemia, 1 patient (1%). Among the 86 patients with low risk classes (ie, classes I or II), 14 were found to be inappropriately hospitalized, yielding a positive predictive value of 16%. Conclusions The pneumonia severity index, used as the sole indicator for detecting inappropriate hospitalizations, has an unacceptably low positive predictive value. This is due primarily to the severity of comorbid conditions requiring in-hospital care in patients with a nonsevere pneumonia. According to our study, the pneumonia severity index should not be used as the sole indicator with which to define inappropriate hospitalization.
Androgenic-anabolic steroid abuse and platelet aggregation: a pilot study in weight lifters.

The abuse of anabolic-androgenic steroids by athletes has recently been associated with the development of myocardial infarction and stroke. Because platelets play a pathogenic role in these disorders, the authors hypothesized that androgenic steroid abuse among weight lifters was associated with increased platelet aggregation as measured in vitro. Twenty-eight study participants were recruited. Twelve denied current androgen use. However, 8 of these 12 tested positive for urinary androgens. Nonsignificant trends toward increased platelet counts and increased platelet aggregation to adenosine diphosphate were noted when androgen users were compared to nonusers. However, when stratified by age, older (> 22 years) androgen users required lower concentrations of collagen to produce 50% aggregation of test platelets than did younger (≤ 22 years) androgen users (1.47 versus 3.35 μg/ml; p = .01). Further subgroup analysis revealed nonsignificant trends toward increased adenosine diphosphate-induced aggregability and nonsignificant trends in the platelet count in older weight lifters. Subsequent studies using collagen threshold aggregometry revealed no age-dependent effect in 17 other men (aged 18 to 46 years) not specifically selected for activity (r = .17). This study suggests an association between androgen use, age, and increased platelet sensitivity to collagen in weight lifters and may be helpful in explaining recent thrombotic disease in androgen users. It additionally calls into question the validity of subjective reporting when assessing androgen use among weight lifters.
Oyster Hemocyte Mobilization and Increased Adhesion Activity After β-Glucan Administration

ABSTRACT In the Eastern oyster (Crassostrea virginica) hemocytes are important effector cells for maintenance of defense against pathogenic microorganisms. Various forms of β-glucans have been suggested for use in shrimp and fish aquaculture because of their potential to enhance disease resistance via hemocyte activation. To gain insight to the effects of these compounds in molluscs, changes in circulating oyster hemocyte numbers, population profiles, and adhesion were quantified after injection of β-1, 3-glucans. These agents included zymosan A or MacroGard, an immune stimulant suggested for aquaculture applications. Results were compared with those from estuarine water-injected control oysters at daily intervals for 3 days. MacroGard produced a rapid (by 1 day) elevation of total circulating hemocytes, which remained significant for 3 days; zymosan A stimulation of this response was not statistically significant. MacroGard administration resulted in a sustained increase in percent granulocytes in circul...
After the Holocaust: The History of Jewish Life in West Germany

In July 1945, Rabbi Leo Baeck remarked that the Third Reich had destroyed the historical basis of German Jewry. ‘The history of Jews in Germany has found its end. It is impossible for it to come back. The chasm is too great’. Heinz Galinski, a survivor of Auschwitz who led West Berlin’s Jewish community until his death in 1992, could not have disagreed more strongly. ‘I have always held the view’, he observed, ‘that the Wannsee Conference cannot be the last word in the life of the Jewish community in Germany’. As these diverging views suggest, opting to live in the ‘land of the perpetrators’ represented both an unthinkable and a realistic choice. In the decade after the Holocaust, about 12,000 German-born Jews opted to remain in the Federal Republic of Germany (FRG) and comprised about half of its Jewish community. Rooted in the German language and typically married to non-Jewish spouses, they still had some connections to Germany. xSuch cultural and personal ties did not exist for the other half of West Germany’s Jewish community – its East European Jews. Between 1945 and 1948, 230,000 Jews sought refuge in occupied Germany from the violent outbursts of antisemitism in eastern Europe. Although by 1949 only 15,000 East European Jews had taken permanent residence in the FRG, those who stayed behind profoundly impacted upon Jewish life. More religiously devout than their German-Jewish counterparts, they developed a rich cultural tradition located mostly in southern Germany. But their presence also complicated Jewish life. From the late nineteenth century, relations between German and East European Jews historically were tense and remained so in the early postwar years; the highly acculturated German Jews looked down upon their less assimilated, Yiddish-speaking brothers. In the first decade after the war, integrating these two groups emerged as one of the most pressing tasks for Jewish community leaders.
Langmuir-Blodgett films and non-linear optics

Abstract Recent work on the non-linear optical and electro-optical properties of Langmuir-Blodgett monolayers and multilayers is reviewed. The fundamental theory of non-linear optical susceptibilities and interactions is discussed, as well as their relationship to molecular hyperpolarizabilities. Among the non-linear optical experiments discussed are second and third harmonic generation, d.c. electric field induced second harmonic generation and the Pockels linear electro-optic effect. It is shown that surface second harmonic generation is a powerful tool for studying the orientation of molecules and their hyperpolarizabilities. Second harmonic generation from multilayers is also useful in understanding their structure and interactions. The interactions between monolayers and metallic surfaces are also studied by surface-plasmon-enhanced second harmonic generation. Finally, third harmonic generation is used to study the electronic spectra and resonances (two- and three-photon absorption) on very thin multilayers of polydiacetylenes. It is concluded that non-linear optics is a powerful and useful tool for the study of Langmuir-Blodgett films, and that there is a good understanding of fundamental theoretical and experimental problems. However, the details of the interpretation of non-linear optical experiments are not fully understood. Consistent results are not always obtained from the same sample. The internal optical electric field needs to be understood more fully. Electro-optic studies are still in their infancy, and they would complement the non-linear optical studies.
The Arm Climate Research Facility: A Review of Structure and Capabilities

The Atmospheric Radiation Measurement (ARM) Climate Research Facility (www.arm.gov) provides atmospheric observations from diverse climatic regimes around the world. Because it is a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) user facility, ARM data are freely available to anyone through the ARM Data Archive. With 20 years of operations, the facility recently added two mobile facilities and an aerial facility to its network of fixed-location sites. Research using ARM data has led to advances in areas ranging from radiative transfer to cloud microphysics. The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 allowed ARM to enhance its observational capabilities with a broad array of new instruments at its fixed and mobile sites and the aerial facility. Instruments include scanning radars; water vapor, cloud/aerosol extinction, and Doppler lidars; aerosol instruments for measuring optical, physical, and chemical properties; and aircraft probes for measuring cloud and aerosol properties. Taking full advantage of these inst...
The Use of Flexible Manufacturing Capacity in Pharmaceutical Product Introductions

This work considers the value of the flexibility offered by production facilities that can easily be configured to produce new products. We focus on technical uncertainty as the driver of this value, while prior works focused only on demand uncertainty. Specifically, we evaluate the use of process flexibility in the context of risky new product development in the pharmaceutical industry. Flexibility has value in this setting due to the time required to build dedicated capacity, the finite duration of patent protection, and the probability that the new product will not reach the market due to technical or regulatory reasons. Having flexible capacity generates real options, which enables firms to delay the decision about constructing product-specific capacity until the technical uncertainty is resolved. In addition, initiating production in a flexible facility can enable the firm to optimize production processes in dedicated facilities. The stochastic dynamic optimization problem is formulated to analyze the optimal capacity and allocation decisions for a flexible facility, using data from existing literature. A solution to this problem is obtained using linear programming. The result of this analysis shows both the value of flexible capacity and the optimal capacity allocation. Due to the substantial costs involved with flexibility in this context, the optimal level of flexible capacity is relatively small, suggesting products be produced for only short periods before initiating construction of dedicated facilities.
Electronic Structure of Small Iron Clusters

We report calculations of energy levels and the charge and spin densities for small free (not embedded) clusters of iron atoms. Our method uses spin-density-functional theory in the local approximation. Single-particle functions are expanded in a basis set of symmetrized linear combinations of Gaussian orbitals. Matrix elements of the electrostatic potential are computed with the aid of a fit to the electron density, again with the use of symmetrized combinations of Gaussian orbitals. The matrix elements of the exchange-correlation potential are evaluated by direct numerical integration using a grid developed for this purpose. The clusters considered are ${\mathrm{Fe}}_{7}$, ${\mathrm{Fe}}_{9}$, and ${\mathrm{Fe}}_{15}$. Our results are compared with those obtained by other calculational procedures. The ionization potential of the ${\mathrm{Fe}}_{9}$ cluster is determined by a transition-state calculation and is compared with experiment.
Ion–surface collisions in mass spectrometry: Where analytical chemistry meets surface science

Abstract This article presents a personal perspective regarding the development of key concepts in understanding hyperthermal collisions of polyatomic ions with surfaces as a unique tool for mass spectrometry applications. In particular, this article provides a historic overview of studies focused on understanding the phenomena underlying surface-induced dissociation (SID) and mass-selected deposition of complex ions on surfaces. Fast energy transfer in ion–surface collisions makes SID especially advantageous for structural characterization of large complex molecules, such as peptides, proteins, and protein complexes. Soft, dissociative, and reactive landing of mass-selected ions provide the basis for preparatory mass spectrometry. These techniques enable precisely controlled deposition of ions on surfaces for a variety of applications. This perspective article shows how basic concepts developed in the 1920s and 1970s have evolved to advance promising mass-spectrometry-based applications.
Field Applications of Host-Searching Kairomones to Enhance Parasitization of the Pink Bollworm (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae)

Foliar applications of highly laboratory-bioactive hexane body scale extract from Phthorimaea operculella (Zeller) and methanol scale extract from Spodoptera exigua (Hubner) at rates of 9.4 and 4.7 g scale equivalents per ha, respectively, on pesticide-free cotton fields infested with Pectinophora gossypiella (Saunders) produced no significant effect on parasitization of this host by the egg-larval parasite, Chelonus sp. nr. curvimaculatus Cameron. The substantial foliar coverage with the kairomone may have caused parasite distraction on host egg-free foliage, habituation from prolonged kairomone exposure without the reinforcement of host finding and early dispersal from treated plots.
Liver tumor ablation: Percutaneous and open approaches†

The global incidence of liver cancer is greater than a million cases a year. Surgical resection where applicable is still the standard of care for these patients. Various liver-directed regional therapies have been developed in an effort to treat the vast majority of unresectable liver tumors. This article reviews the principles behind various ablation therapies currently available for malignant liver tumors and their outcomes.
A multiple target gas-jet system for light-ion bombardments of heavy targets

Abstract A target chamber was developed which allows the use of up to 25 heavy element targets concurrently for light ion bombardments, compensating for the low recoil range of the compound nuclei. A KCl-aerosol/He-jet transport system transports the recoiling compound nucleus activities away from the target system with greater than 90% yield. The target system is designed so that the gas-jet yield of unwanted fission products is very low, which strongly suppresses the β-γ interference associated with fission fragments. The target system can accept high beam fluxes safely.
An Atom-Probe Tomographic Study of Arc Welds in a Multi-Component High-Strength Low-Alloy Steel

An experimental plate steel with the composition Fe-1.39Cu-2.7Ni-0.58Al-0.48Mn-0.48Si-0.065Nb-0.05C (wt pct) or alternatively Fe-1.43Cu-2.61Ni-1.21Al-0.48Mn-0.98Si-0.039Nb-0.23C at. pct has been recently produced at Northwestern University for use in Naval hull and deck applications—it is designated NUCu-140. To understand the microstructural changes occurring in NUCu-140 steel after gas-metal arc welding (GMAW), a detailed study of the heat-affected and fusion zones was performed throughout the weld cross section using microhardness, metallographic, chemical, and atom-probe tomographic analyses. Local-electrode atom-probe (LEAP) tomography was employed to measure the morphology and compositions of Cu-rich precipitates from each region. The mean radius, number density, volume fraction, and compositions of the precipitates, as well as the interfacial concentration profiles, are measured. The Cu precipitates dissolve partially from the heat-affected zone (HAZ) thermal cycle, and freshly formed sub-nanometer radius Cu-rich precipitates nucleate in both the HAZ and fusion zone (FZ) during cooling; however, the precipitation of Cu during cooling in the HAZ and FZ is not sufficient to restore the lost strength. The precipitation in the FZ is reduced compared to the HAZ due to a mismatched Cu composition of the weld. Multi-pass welding is suggested to restore strength in the GMAW sample by promoting Cu precipitate nucleation and growth in the HAZ and FZ.
Model-Free Spectral Density Mapping Applied to Dynamics of Rhodopsin in Solid-State NMR Spectroscopy

Crystal structures of rhodopsin are available, yet details of the activation mechanism remain unknown [1,2]. We applied solid-state 2H NMR to investigate structural and dynamical changes occurring in the process of rhodopsin activation. From the 2H NMR spectra, molecular mobility can be obtained by calculating the segmental order parameters from the residual quadrupolar couplings (RQCs). Moreover 2H nuclear spin relaxation rates related to the dynamics can be measured together with the RQCs [2]. Site-specific 2H labels were introduced into different methyl groups of retinal, and relaxation rate measurements were performed as a function of temperature (−30 to −150°C) [3]. Model-free analysis employed an irreducible representation of the combined 2H NMR line shape and relaxation data. Fluctuations of the irreducible components with respect to the average values are characterized by the individual spectral densities of motion evaluated at characteristic frequencies: J0(0), J1(ω0), and J2(2ω0), where ω0 is the nuclear resonance frequency [4]. Differences in the spectral densities manifest details of the methyl group motions within the retinal binding pocket at low temperature. At the high temperature limit, J1(ω0) and J2(2ω0) are insensitive to details of motion and collapse to a universal curve, thus substantiating the validity of the model-free analysis. Further analysis of J1(ω0) and J2(2ω0) involved simultaneous temperature-dependent fitting in terms of both diffusion and jump models for the methyl group dynamics. We conclude that spectral density analysis in terms of fluctuations of nuclear spin Hamiltonian will help us understand the activation mechanism and molecular dynamics of rhodopsin and related G protein-coupled receptors.[1] A.V. Struts et al. (2011) PNAS 108, 8263-8268. [2] M.F. Brown et al. (2010) BBA 1798, 177-193. [3] A.V. Struts et al. (2011) NSMB 18, 392-394. [4] M.F. Brown (1982) JCP 77, 1576-1599.
Drosophila filamin encoded by the cheerio locus is a component of ovarian ring canals.

Abstract Background: The ring canals in the ovary of the fruit fly Drosophila provide a versatile system in which to study the assembly and regulation of membrane-associated actin structures. Derived from arrested cleavage furrows, ring canals allow direct communication between cells. The robust inner rim of filamentous actin that attaches to the ring-canal plasma membrane contains cytoskeletal proteins encoded by the hu-li-tao shao ( hts ) and kelch genes, and is regulated by the Src64 and Tec29 tyrosine kinases. Female sterile cheerio mutants fail to recruit actin to ring canals, disrupting the flow of cytoplasm to oocytes. Results: We have cloned cheerio and found that it encodes a member of the Filamin/ABP-280 family of actin-binding proteins, known to bind transmembrane proteins and crosslink actin filaments into parallel or orthogonal arrays. Antibodies to Drosophila Filamin revealed that Filamin is an abundant ring-canal protein and the first known component of both the outer and inner rims of the ring canal. The cheerio gene also encodes a new Filamin isoform that lacks the actin-binding domain. Conclusions: Localization of Filamin to nascent ring canals is necessary for the recruitment of actin filaments. We propose that Filamin links filamentous actin to the plasma membrane of the ring canal. Although loss of Filamin in human cells supports a role for Filamin in organizing orthogonal actin arrays at the cell cortex, the cheerio mutant provides the first evidence that Filamin is required in membrane-associated parallel actin bundles, such as those found in ring canals, contractile rings and stress fibers.
CSR and environmental responsibility: motives and pressures to adopt green management practices

This paper examines the diffusion of environmental management initiatives in business and the motives and pressures reported by senior executives to adopt these practices in one industry. We frame these sustainable practices under the umbrella of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and examine the causal drivers of environmental behavior. This study used a mixed-methods approach and included a survey and 17 in-depth interviews with professional sports team and league executives. Data revealed both strategic and legitimacy motives to adopt environmental management practices. More specifically, the analysis suggested that strategic motives were the primary reason for adopting an environmental CSR focus. Motives to address institutional pressures were also found, although to a lesser extent. The paper discusses the role and relevance environmentally focused CSR plays in professional sport organizations in North America and presents suggestions for future research in this area. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment.
Probing Electronic Transitions in Individual Carbon Nanotubes by Rayleigh Scattering

Rayleigh scattering spectra were obtained from individual single-walled carbon nanotubes with the use of a laser-generated visible and near-infrared supercontinuum. This diagnostic method is noninvasive and general for nanoscale objects. The approach permits clear identification of excited states in arbitrary metallic and semiconducting nanotubes. We analyzed spectral lineshapes in relation to the role of excitonic effects and correlated the results with Raman scattering data on individual tubes. The nanotube structure remained the same over distances of tens of micrometers. Small nanotube bundles retained distinct Rayleigh spectroscopic signatures of their component nanotubes, thus allowing the probing of nanotube-nanotube interactions.
Real-time vehicle navigation using a holographic memory

We describe an optoelectronic information processing system that is capable of real-time vehicle navigation and target acquisition. The system uses a holographic database, based on the DuPont HRF-150 photopolymer, to perform the desired tasks. The architecture and the performance of the system are discussed in detail.
Approaches to the synthesis of a novel, anti-HIV active integrase inhibitor.

The novel HIV-1 integrase inhibitor 1, discovered in our laboratory, exhibits potent anti-HIV activity against a diverse set of HIV-1 isolates and also against HIV-2 and SIV. In addition, this compound displays low cellular cytotoxicity and possesses a favorable in vitro drug interaction profile with respect to isozymes of cytochrome P450 (CYP) and uridine 5′-diphospho-glucuronosyltransferase (UGT). However, the total synthesis of this significant HIV integrase inhibitor has not been reported. This contribution describes an optimized, reproducible, multi-step, synthetic route to inhibitor 1. The yield for the separate steps averaged about 80%. The methodologies utilized in the synthesis were, among others, a palladium-catalyzed cross-coupling reaction, a crossed-Claisen condensation, and a hydrazino amide synthesis step. Successful alternative synthetic methodologies for some of the steps are also described.
Effect of isoflurane and halothane on in vivo ischemia-induced dopamine release in the corpus striatum of the rat : a study using cerebral microdialysis

Background Dopamine is released in large quantities into the corpus striatum during cerebral ischemia and may exacerbate tissue damage. Methods Using cerebral microdialysis, the effect of isoflurane on in vivo ischemia-induced dopamine release was studied in rat corpus striatum. Reversible cerebral ischemia was induced using carotid ligatures and induced hypovolemia and was monitored with laser-Doppler flowmetry. Following baseline measurements, 28 normothermic, anesthetized rats were subjected to cerebral ischemia followed by reperfusion. The rats were divided into four groups. Group 1 (n = 10) was anesthetized using chloral hydrate. Groups 2 and 3 received 1.5% end-tidal isoflurane. In group 2 (n = 6), hypotension was left untreated during the reperfusion period, and in group 3 (n = 6), mean arterial pressure was maintained using phenylephrine. Group 4 (n = 6) received 1-1.2% end-tidal halothane. Results Compared with pre-ischemic levels, large quantities of dopamine (350 x baseline levels) were released in group 1 animals during cerebral ischemia. Compared with group 1, ischemia-induced dopamine release was significantly reduced in group 2 (by 58%) and in group 3 (by 56%), but not in group 4. Group 2 animals were uniformly hypotensive during reperfusion and continued to release substantial amounts of dopamine (8 x baseline levels). In groups 1, 3, and 4, dopamine release decreased to near baseline levels during reperfusion. In group 3, dopamine metabolite production was significantly increased during ischemia, suggesting that enzymatic function and neuronal reuptake of dopamine was preserved. Conclusions Isoflurane, compared with chloral hydrate and halothane, inhibits the release of the neurotransmitter dopamine during cerebral ischemia.
Urinary oligosaccharide screening in patients with beta-galactosidase deficiency.

Following ion-exchange chromatography and subsequent thin-layer chromatography, 3 peculiar oligosaccharide excretion patterns were distinguished in 3 patients with β-galactosidase deficiency. Each patient differed clinically and it is proposed that this method may be of use in characterising various forms of β-galactosidase deficiency.
Fluctuation-based computer calculation of partial molar properties. II. A numerically accurate method for the determination of partial molar energies and enthalpies

A new operational definition of the partial molar energy is derived invoking the grand canonical ensemble formalism. This expression, used in conjunction with the fluctuation‐explicit form of the Kirkwood–Buff relation for partial molar volumes, allows the accurate computer calculation of all mechanical partial molar properties in a multicomponent system. The method satisfies two independent consistency checks. Property values for all components in a mixture are obtained simultaneously, and the length of a simulation is independent of the number of species in the system.
An explicit spine for the Picard modular group over the Gaussian integers

Abstract Let Γ \ D be an arithmetic quotient of a symmetric space of non-compact type. A spine D 0 is a Γ -equivariant deformation retraction of D with dimension equal to the virtual cohomological dimension of Γ . We explicitly construct a spine for the case of Γ = SU ( 2 , 1 ; Z [ i ] ) . The spine is then used to compute the cohomology of Γ \ D with various local coefficients.
Defining lipid-interacting domains in the N-terminal region of apolipoprotein B.

Apolipoprotein B (apoB) is a nonexchangeable apolipoprotein that dictates the synthesis of chylomicrons and very low density lipoproteins. ApoB is the major protein in low density lipoprotein, also known as the “bad cholesterol” that is directly implicated in atherosclerosis. It has been suggested that the N-terminal domain of apoB plays a critical role in the formation of apoB-containing lipoproteins through the initial recruitment of phospholipids in the endoplasmic reticulum. However, very little is known about the mechanism of lipoprotein nucleation by apoB. Here we demonstrate that a strong phospholipid remodeling function is associated with the predicted α-helical and C-sheet domains in the N-terminal 17% of apoB (B17). Using dimyristoylphosphatidylcholine (DMPC) as a model lipid, these domains can convert multilamellar DMPC vesicles into discoidal-shaped particles. The nascent particles reconstituted from different apoB domains are distinctive and compositionally homogeneous. This phospholipid remo...
On the classifying spaces of discrete monoids

This is proved by constructing directly, for each connected simplicial complex X, a monoid M such that BM = X. The monoid M has one generator for each simplex (+ outside of a maximal tree in X. This generator is invertible if dim (+ = 1, and idempotent if dim (+ > 1. There are other relations corresponding to the inclusions (T c T. We will also prove the following result, using an idea of Heller. THEOREM 2. Given a group G together with a perfect normal subgroup P of G, there is a monoid M, containing G as its maximal subgroup, such that the inclusion G 4 M induces a homology equivalence BG 4 BM and an isomorphism G/P = 7rlBM.
Production of powders and films by the rapid expansion of supercritical solutions

A new process utilizing the rapid expansion of supercritical fluid solutions (RESS) is described for the production of fine powders and thin films by the rapid nonequilibrium precipitation of nonvolatile compounds from dense gas solutions upon expansion. A variety of the fluid solution expansion parameters, including solute and solvent identity, solute concentration, expansion temperature, and expansion nozzle configuration, has been shown to affect the product characteristics of materials formed during the RESS process. Conditions favouring thin film formation include very dilute solutions and short nozzles minimizing residence time during expansion. Particle formation is favoured by more concentrated solutions. The process has been demonstrated to produce products of widely varying morphology by the adjustment of RESS parameters, and examples of SiO2 GeO2 and various polymeric materials are presented. Unique features of the RESS process relevant to other powder and film production methods are described and potential applications are discussed.
Nanoparticle stability in semidilute and concentrated polymer solutions.

The wetting of PDMS-grafted silica spheres (PDMS-g-silica) is connected to their depletion restabilization in semidilute and concentrated PDMS/cyohexane polymer solutions. Specifically, we found that a wetting diagram of chemically identical graft and free homopolymers predicts stability of hard, semisoft, and soft spheres as a function of the bulk free polymer volume fraction, graft density, and the graft and free polymer chain lengths. The transition between stable and aggregated regions is determined optically and with dynamic light scattering. The point of demarcation between the regions occurs when the graft and free polymer chains are equal in length. When graft chains are longer than free chains, the particles are stable; in contrast, the particles are unstable when the opposite is true. The regions of particle stability and instability are corroborated with theoretical self-consistent mean-field calculations, which not only show that the grafted brush is responsible for particle dispersion in the ...
Microbial populations on Douglas fir needle surfaces.

The surface microflora on Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii (Mirb.) Franco.) foliage from old-growth trees in western Oregon has been examined by epifluorescence and scanning electron microscopy. Colonies of microorganisms on both upper and lower surfaces of 1-, 3-, 5-, and 8-year-old needles from three heights in the canopy of a single tree have been counted in belt transects, and the relative abundance of various categories of microorganisms has been computed. Aggregations of microbial cells are prevalent in the midrib depression along the upper surface and in stomatal cavities and gutters between rows of epidermal cells on the lower surface. Darkly pigmented hyphae and clumps of cells occur, in general, more frequently on the upper needle surface, a habitat more subject to desiccation and UV exposure.Protococcus colonies become abundant on both upper and lower surfaces of older needles. Microbial cover was found to be significantly higher on the bottom of the needle than on the top. The factors involved in this effect are considered and discussed.
Groups Would Do Better without Humans

A recent article entitled "Humans Would Do Better With- out Groups" (Buys, 1978) presented a misleading review of the small group literature. Positive effects of group membership were not reviewed nor did the author indicate how badly individuals behave when alone. The point is that small group theory can specify the structure of a near perfect group except for the "error" which occurs when inefficient, insecure, and illogical humans are added. Hence, it could be concluded that groups would do better without humans.
THE ONCOLOGIST'S EXPANDING ROLE

Advances in the assessment and management of pain have made it possible for over 90% of oncology patients to have a pain free death at home. Oncologists have a unique opportunity, as clinical role models, teachers, and participants in research, to insure proper management of patients' symptoms at diagnosis, during treatment, and as death approaches.
Role of Cytoplasmic Dynein in Melanosome Transport in Human Melanocytes

Cytoplasmic dynein is a microtubule-associated retrograde-directed motor molecule for transport of membrane-bound organelles. To determine whether cytoplasmic dynein is expressed in melanocytes, we performed reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction using melanocyte cDNA and primers complementary to human brain cytoplasmic dynein heavy chain. A polymerase chain reaction product of the expected molecular size was generated and the identity was confirmed by sequence analysis. Western blotting of total melanocyte proteins reacted with an anti-intermediate chain cytoplasmic dynein antibody identified the appropriate 74 kDa band. To determine whether cytoplasmic dynein plays a role in melanosome transport, duplicate cultures were treated with cytoplasmic dynein antisense or sense (control) oligodeoxynucleotides and the cells were observed by high-resolution time-lapse microscopy, which allows visualization of melanosomal aggregates and individual melanosomes. Antisense-treated melanocytes demonstrated a strong anterograde transport of melanosomes from the cell body into the dendrites, whereas melanosome distribution was not affected in sense-treated melanocytes. To determine whether ultraviolet irradiation modifies cytoplasmic dynein expression, melanocyte cultures were exposed to increasing doses of solar-simulated irradiation, equivalent to a mild to moderate sunburn exposure for intact skin. Within 24 h, doses of 5 and 10 mJ per cm 2 induced cytoplasmic dynein protein, whereas doses of 30 mJ per cm 2 or more were associated with decreased levels of cytoplasmic dynein compared with sham-irradiated controls. Our data show that cytoplasmic dynein participates in retrograde melanosomal transport in human melanocytes and suggest that the altered melanosomal distribution in skin after sun exposure is due, at least in part, to decreased cytoplasmic dynein levels resulting in augmented anterograde transport.
Massive bleeding during spine surgery in a patient with ankylosing spondylitis

Purpose Ankylosing spondylitis is associated with pathophysiology that has important anaesthetic implications. We report a case where the sequelae of ankylosing spondylitis may have been responsible for massive bleeding during emergency spine surgery.
Mass dependence of pion double charge exchange

Data are presented for pion double charge exchange on targets of /sup 44/Ca, /sup 56/Fe, /sup 58/Ni, /sup 80/Se, /sup 90/Zr, and /sup 118/Sn. These and earlier data are used to examine the mass dependence of double-isobaric-analog transitions and nonanalog ground-state-to-ground-state transitions in the energy region T/sub ..pi../ = 100 to 300 MeV. The implications of the mass dependence to the interpretations of the underlying reaction mechanisms of double charge exchange are discussed.
Lateral lattice parameter variation measurement by means of a double crystal X-ray method with oscillating slit

A relatively simple and highly sensitive X-ray double crystal method with the oscillating slit has been described and shown to be suitable for lateral lattice parameter variation measurements. The applicability of the method to crystal defects investigations has been suggested.
Bypass in the absence of ipsilateral greater saphenous vein: safety and superiority of the contralateral greater saphenous vein.

Abstract Purpose: The purposes of this study were to evaluate the long-term results of different autogenous conduits used for infrainguinal bypass when ipsilateral greater saphenous vein (IGSV) is absent or inadequate and to determine the impact on the contralateral lower extremity. Methods: The study was performed as a retrospective evaluation of a prospective vascular registry together with review of patient records and telephone follow-up. Results: From January 1990 to June 2000, 226 autogenous infrainguinal reconstructions were performed in 203 patients without adequate IGSV. The patients consisted of 128 men and 98 women, with a mean age of 69 years. Prevalent risk factors included diabetes (51%) and prior coronary bypass (46%). Limb salvage was the predominant indication (93%), and 59% of the procedures were secondary reconstructions. All bypasses were completed with autogenous vein, which included contralateral greater saphenous vein (CGSV; 31%), single-segment lesser saphenous vein (5%), single-segment arm vein (19%), and autogenous composite vein (45%). Bypasses were performed to the tibial and pedal arteries in 84% of the cases. The 30-day mortality and graft occlusion rates were 1% and 9%, respectively. The overall postoperative morbidity rate was 24%, with a 7% rate of major complications. Follow-up was complete in 95% of patients over a mean period of 24 months (range, 0.1 to 106 months). The 5-year primary patency rates were significantly better for CGSV compared with autogenous composite vein grafts (61% ± 7% versus 39% ± 6%; P Conclusion: For most patients with inadequate IGSV, the CGSV is the alternative conduit of choice because of its length, superior performance, ease of harvest, and minimal risk to the donor limb. (J Vasc Surg 2002;35:1085-92.)
An FTIR, SEM and EDS investigation of solidification/ stabilization of chromium using portland cement Type V and Type IP

Abstract The characterization of chromium-doped ordinary portland cement (Cr-OPC) before and after leaching has been carried out using Fourier transform infrare