cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Measurement of voriconazole in serum and plasma.

Abstract Objectives: Voriconazole is an antifungal agent structurally related to fluconazole. While regular drug monitoring is not indicated in most patients, it may help guide dosing in patients with reduced hepatic/renal function, on concurrent therapy with drugs that affect CYP2C9, with altered CYP2C9 genotypes, or during adverse drug reactions. Here we describe an HPLC method for determination of voriconazole. Methods: Samples, calibrators and controls were extracted using a liquid/liquid extraction. Chromatographic separation achieved using gradient solvent delivery with detection at 254 nm with a run time of 10 min. Concentration was calculated by comparison of peak height ratio of the drug with that of internal standard (IS) against a standard curve. Results: The assay is linear from 0.29 to 57 μmol/L (0.1–20 μg/mL) and shows good linearity ( y = 0.98 x + 0.36, r 2 = 0.9978). The assay has inter- and intra-day precisions of Conclusions: This describes a robust method for the determination of voriconazole in serum and plasma.
A Report on the Accuracy of Some Widely Used Least Squares Computer Programs

Abstract Linear least squares test problems based on fifth degree polynomials have been run on more than twenty different computer programs in order to assess their numerical accuracy. The programs tested, all in present-day use, included representatives from several statistical packages as well as some from the SHARE library. Essentially five different algorithms were used in the various programs to obtain the coefficients of the least squares fits. The tests were run on several different computers, in double precision as well as single precision. By comparing the coefficients reported, it was found that those programs using orthogonal Householder transformations, classical Gram-Schmidt orthonormalization or modified Gram-Schmidt orthogonalization were generally much more accurate than those using elimination algorithms. Programs using orthogonal polynomials (suitable only for polynomial fits) also proved to be superior to those using elimination algorithms. The most successful programs accumulated inner...
Incorporating Issues of Sexual Orientation in the Classroom: Challenges and Solutions

Family studies faculty have an opportunity and a responsibility to address issues related to the development and family lives of sexual minority individuals in graduate and undergraduate courses, This article identifies and discusses 6 challenges involving the incorporation of sexual orientation issues into the classroom: lack of student exposure to accurate information about sexual orientation, selecting a lecture topic, attitudes of intolerance among students, avoiding generalizations, making the topic of sexual orientation relevant to the lives of students, and instructor comfort level concerning the topic of sexual orientation.
Robotic mitral valve surgery

Currently, cardiac surgery is an evolving field. Not only has there been a technological explosion, but there also is a strong interest in minimally invasive operations. Mitral valve surgery can now be performed with the use of sophisticated robotic systems through small incisions. The patient of today and the future will demand minimally invasive operations. Initial clinical experience with robotic systems will allow for further developments that, ultimately, may result in completely endoscopic heart surgery. In this rapidly evolving field, we review the recent history and clinical results of robotically assisted mitral valve surgery at our institution.
Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi associated with Populus-Salix stands in a semiarid riparian ecosystem

Summary • This study examined the activity, species richness, and species composition of the arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal (AMF) community of Populus–Salix stands on the Verde River (Arizona, USA), quantified patterns of AMF richness and colonization along complex floodplain gradients, and identified environmental variables responsible for structuring the AMF community. • Samples from 61 Populus–Salix stands were analyzed for AMF and herbaceous composition, AMF colonization, gravimetric soil moisture, soil texture, per cent organic matter, pH, and concentrations of nitrate, bicarbonate phosphorus and exchangeable potassium. • AMF species richness declined with stand age and distance from and elevation above the channel and was positively related to perennial species cover and richness and gravimetric soil moisture. Distance from and elevation above the active channel, forest age, annual species cover, perennial species richness, and exchangeable potassium concentration all played a role in structuring the AMF community in this riparian area. • Most AMF species were found across a wide range of soil conditions, but a subset of species tended to occur more often in hydric areas. This group of riparian affiliate AMF species includes several not previously encountered in the surrounding Sonoran desert.
Ureteral sciatic hernia.

Sciatic hernia, the protrusion of pelvic contents through the greater sacrosciatic foramen, is the rarest of all hernias. Herniation of the ureter through this foramen is rarer still. Five cases have been reported, only one other in a child. The anatomy and characteristic roentgenographic appearance of this entity are described.
Electrode effects in a seeded plasma.

Current-voltage characteristics of stagnation point electrodes embedded in a cylindrical probe were obtained for a lightly ionized, atmospheric pressure plasma. The probe characteristics were determined as functions of electrode temperature and seed material. A seeded ethyl alcohol-air flame exhausting into the atmosphere served as the plasma source. Saturation currents were measured which were independent of the electrode temperature below 600 °K and increased rapidly when the electrode temperature was increased above 600°K. The properties of the combustion products are calculated using measured temperatures and including partial dissociation of the seed molecules and electron attachment to the hydroxyl radical. Resistances calculated from the freestream electrical conductivity are in good agreement with the measured values. The dependence of the saturation currents on the electrode temperature is explained by thermal emission of electrons from the electrodes. The magnitude of the saturation currents for temperatures greater than 600 °K is in agreement with the Richardson equation if the work function of the steel electrodes is taken to be 1.8 v.
Adhesion molecule cascades direct lymphocyte recirculation and leukocyte migration during inflammation

Leukocyte inter actions with vascular endothelium are high lyorchestrated processes that include the capture of free-flow ing leukocytes from the blood with subsequent leukocyte rolling, arrest, firm adhesion, and ensuing diapedesis. These interactions occur under high shear stresses within venules and depend on multiple families of adhesion molecules. Many of the adhesion molecules involved are now identified. In addition, precise mechanisms underlying their regulation and our understanding of how different families of adhesion molecules work together is becoming clearer. Specifically, leukocyte/endothelial cell interactions such as capture, rolling, and firm adhesion can no longer beviewed asoccurring in discrete steps mediated by individual families of adhesion molecules, but rather as a series of overlapping synergistic interactions among adhesion molecules resulting in an adhesion cascade. Although long thought to be mediated by distinct adhesion pathways, overlapping adhesion cascades mediate normal lymphocyte recirculation to peripheral lymphoid tissues and inflammation-induced leukocyte migration. These cascades thereby direct leukocyte migration, which is essential for the generation of effective inflammatory responses and the development of rapid immune responses.
Potential cost-effectiveness of C-reactive protein screening followed by targeted statin therapy for the primary prevention of cardiovascular disease among patients without overt hyperlipidemia

Abstract Background Evidence suggests that statin therapy reduces the rate of cardiovascular events among patients with low lipid levels but elevated C-reactive protein levels. However, no cost-effectiveness analyses have been performed to assist in determining whether large-scale randomized trials are merited to test this hypothesis. Methods We used a Markov model to estimate the benefits, costs, and incremental cost-effectiveness of C-reactive protein screening followed by targeted statin therapy for elevated C-reactive protein levels, compared with dietary counseling alone, for the primary prevention of cardiovascular events among patients with low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels Results The potential incremental cost-effectiveness ratio for screening followed by statin therapy compared with no screening and no statin therapy was $48,100 per quality-adjusted life-year (QALY) for 58-year-old men and $94,400 per QALY for 58-year-old women. Screening was most cost-effective for 65-year-old men ($42,600 per QALY) and least cost-effective for 35-year-old women ($207,300 per QALY). Our results were most sensitive to the baseline risk of coronary heart disease, the cost of statin therapy, and the efficacy of statin therapy for preventing myocardial infarction in patients with high C-reactive protein levels. If a 58-year-old man who smokes and is hypertensive was considered, screening for C-reactive protein followed by statin therapy would be cost saving if the cost of statin therapy was reduced to $500 per year. If the cost of statin therapy was reduced to $1 per day, the cost-effectiveness of screening would be $4900 per QALY for 58-year-old men and $19,600 per QALY for women of the same age. If the costs associated with elective revascularization (percutaneous coronary intervention or coronary artery bypass surgery) were included in the base case analyses, the incremental cost-effectiveness ratios for screening would be $40,100 per QALY for 58-year-old men and $87,300 per QALY for women. Conclusion A strategy involving C-reactive protein screening to target statin therapy for the primary prevention of cardiovascular disease among middle-aged patients without overt hyperlipidemia could be relatively cost-effective and, in some cases, cost saving.
Physiologic valve regurgitation in normal cats.

Abstract Objective The purpose of this study was to evaluate echocardiograms from normal cats for the presence of physiologic valve regurgitation (PVR). Background PVR occurs commonly in normal dogs, however, the percentage of normal cats with PVR has not been previously reported. Animals, materials and methods Echocardiograms were retrospectively and prospectively evaluated from clinically normal cats without echocardiographic evidence of cardiac disease. PVR was diagnosed if the valve was structurally normal and regurgitant color flow was subjectively trivial. The color jet area was expressed as a percentage of the chamber area. Results are expressed as mean ± SD. Results Retrospective study: The 46 cats were 2.1 ± 1.5 years (range 0.3–7 years) and were purebred. Four cats (9%) had physiologic mitral regurgitation (PMR) (area of 4%). One cat (2%) had physiologic pulmonary regurgitation (PPR). Twenty-seven cats (57%) had physiologic tricuspid regurgitation (PTR) (area of 6 ± 3% to 11 ± 8% depending on view). Prospective study: The 58 cats were 4.9 ± 2.8 years (range 1–12 years), weighed 5.2 ± 1.2 kg and were of various breeds. Three cats (5%) had PMR (area of 10 ± 2%). One cat (2%) had PPR. Forty-one cats (71%) had PTR (area of 9 ± 5% to 11 ± 6% depending on view). Retrospective and prospective data were pooled (104 cats) and 7 cats (7%) had PMR, 2 cats (2%) had PPR and 68 cats (65%) had PTR. Conclusions PTR is common in normal cats and the average regurgitant jet area is small compared to the chamber area.
Detection of Salmonella enteritidis in Feces from Poultry Using Booster Polymerase Chain Reaction and Oligonucleotide Primers Specific for All Members of the Genus Salmonella

Abstract Salmonella enteritidis was identified in feces from hens using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and oligonucleotide primers specific for all members of the genus Salmonella. Feces from specific-pathogen-free Leghorn hens were determined to be negative for Salmonella by microbiological culture and by the PCR. Fecal samples were inoculated with known numbers of colony-forming units of S. enteritidis. The DNA was extracted from fecal samples and amplified by the PCR using genus-specific primers. Salmonella were detected in all samples known to be positive; the sensitivity of the assay extended to 1 cfu of S. enteritidis/ g feces. Feces that were not inoculated with Salmonella were negative. Microbiological culture was less sensitive than the PCR assay; results of culture of feces with less than 102 cfu/g were negative. Although S. enteritidis was used in this study, the oligonucleotide primers used in this study have been previously demonstrated to be genus-specific for Salmonella.
Shape of ultra-violet inactivation curves of transforming deoxyribonucleic acid.

IN analysing the effects of radiation on biological systems, it is customary to plot the logarithm of the surviving fraction (or of the fraction of the biological activity remaining) against the applied dose. When such a plot gives a straight line passing through the origin, the radiation sensitivity of the system may be characterized by a single constant, which is conveniently taken as the negative slope of the logarithmic inactivation curve. Such a curve is consistent with the assumption that the inactivation results from independent, single events (inactivating ‘hits’) occurring at random1.
Inhibition of mitochondrial Na+/Ca2+ exchange by 7-chloro-5-(2-chlorophenyl)-1,5-dihydro-4,1-benzothiazepin-2(3H)-one attenuates free fatty acid efflux in rat cerebral cortex during ischemia-reperfusion injury

We evaluated the effects of 7-chloro-5-(2-chlorophenyl)-1,5-dihydro-4,1-benzothiazepin-2(3H)-one (CGP-37157) (50 muM), a specific inhibitor of mitochondrial Na(+)/Ca(2+) exchange, applied topically onto rat cerebral cortex during ischemia-reperfusion injury. Free fatty acid (FFA) levels in cortical superfusates, withdrawn at 10 min intervals from bilateral cortical windows, were analyzed by high performance liquid chromatography. During a 20 min period of ischemia in control animals, there were significant increases in all FFAs. Following reperfusion, FFA levels remained significantly elevated. Application of CGP-37157 significantly inhibited effluxes of all FFAs during both ischemia and reperfusion. These data indicate that inhibition of mitochondrial Na(+)/Ca(2+) exchange likely prevented the activation of phospholipases that usually occurs following an ischemic insult as evidenced by its attenuation of FFA efflux.
Biology of Cosmobaris amertcana Casey, a Weevil Attacking Sugarbeets

Adult and larval feeding on the petioles of sugarbeets, Beta vulgaris L., by Cosmobaris americana Casey, a weevil that attacks betaceous crops and several weeds, chiefly members of Amaranthaceae and Compositae, interfered with the translocation processes; larval feeding also caused injured petioles to wither and die. In the Northwest, adults first appeared in May and lived 3-4 months; eggs were first deposited in feeding pits in late May, and eggs started hatching in June. The larvae developed slowly, but became full grown in August; those that were not full grown by October died during the winter. Full-grown larvae overwintered in old feeding galleries in weed hosts and only rarely in sugarbeets; pupae and adults were both produced mostly in May. There was 1 generation. The suitability of various plants for completion of the weevil's life cycle depended largely on the moisture in the parenchymous tissues mined by the larvae. Larvae feeding in watery petioles of sugarbeets drowned in decomposing tissues or starved after the injured part dried and died; larvae feeding in woody stems of weeds were not so affected.
Synthesis of 2-[18F]fluoroadenosine (2-[18F]FAD) as potential radiotracer for studying malignancies by PET

2-[18F]fluoroadenosine (2-[18F]FAD), a potential radioligand for assessment of adenylate metabolism, was synthesized by carrier-added and no-carrier-added procedures via nucleophilic radiofluorination of 2-fluoroadenosine and 2-iodoadenosine. The radiochemical yield, specific radioactivity and radiochemical purity of carrier-added and no-carrier-added 2-[18F]FAD were 5%, 22–30 mCi/µmol and 99%, and 0.5%, 1200–1700 mCi/µmol and 99%, respectively. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Phase 1 study of pandemic H1 DNA vaccine in healthy adults.

Background A novel, swine-origin influenza A (H1N1) virus was detected worldwide in April 2009, and the World Health Organization (WHO) declared a global pandemic that June. DNA vaccine priming improves responses to inactivated influenza vaccines. We describe the rapid production and clinical evaluation of a DNA vaccine encoding the hemagglutinin protein of the 2009 pandemic A/California/04/2009(H1N1) influenza virus, accomplished nearly two months faster than production of A/California/07/2009(H1N1) licensed monovalent inactivated vaccine (MIV).
Design, Implementation, and Evaluation of Novel Discussion Exercises for First-Year Chemistry Students

In the Fall of 1999, Illinois State University (ISU) piloted a new General Chemistry I course. This course now includes cooperative learning exercises that were developed and implemented in biweekly discussion sections over the past four semesters. We now have discussion exercises all taught by six different tenured and tenure-track faculty members. This study focuses on the effect on student behaviors and learning in General Chemistry I. Data were obtained from student surveys, student interviews, instructor feedback, and examination results. The results obtained in this study show that student interest in chemistry can be maintained or increased by the incorporation of cooperative learning into the general chemistry curriculum. In addition, this cooperative learning approach promoted attendance, was enjoyable for many students, and seemed to have some positive effect on achievement.
Regional anthropometric measures and hepatic fibrosis in patients with nonalcoholic Fatty liver disease.

Background & Aims In overnourished individuals, impaired peripheral fat storage (ie, reduced fat mass in extremities) can increase delivery of surplus calories to the organs other than peripheral adipose tissues, including the liver (ie, lipid overload), and facilitate disease progression in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). We investigated whether peripheral and/or abdominal adipose depot size correlates with stage of hepatic fibrosis in patients with NAFLD in sex- and/or menopausal stage–specific manners. Methods We performed a cross-sectional analysis of 537 adult patients with NAFLD. Peripheral adipose depot size was defined as the sum of z-scores of 2 anthropometric parameters (middle upper arm circumference and hip circumference, relative to total body size) and expressed as extremity size. Abdominal adipose depot size was defined as waist circumference. Peripheral and abdominal adipose depot sizes were associated with fibrosis stage(s) (F0–F4) using multivariable analyses separately for men and pre- and post-menopausal women. Results After adjusting for caloric intake and energy expenditure during physical activity (MET; hours/week), peripheral and/or abdominal adipose depot sizes were differentially associated with fibrosis stages in men and pre- and post-menopausal women. Men with smaller extremity size, premenopausal women with larger extremity size, and postmenopausal women with larger abdominal size were more likely to have higher stages of fibrosis. Conclusions In patients with NAFLD, regional anthropometric measures are associated with fibrosis severity in a sex- and menopausal stage–specific manner. Unlike premenopausal women, men with NAFLD who have small peripheral adipose depots are at an increased risk of having advanced fibrosis.
Thermal footprint of an eroded thrust sheet in the southern Appalachian thrust belt, Alabama, USA

Erosion of the leading hanging-wall cutoffs of thrust sheets commonly obscures the magnitude of thrusting. The Jones Valley thrust fault in the southern Appalachian thrust belt in Alabama, USA, is exposed along a northwest-directed, large-scale frontal ramp, and the leading part of the thrust sheet has been eroded. Previously published and newly collected vitrinite reflectance data from Pennsylvanian coal beds document a distinct, northeast-trending, elongate, oval-shaped thermal anomaly northwest of the trace of the Jones Valley fault. The northwest edge of the thermal anomaly is ~18 km northwest of the fault trace, suggesting the original extent of the eroded thrust sheet. The anomaly ends both northeastward and southwestward along strike at lateral ramps. The southeast edge of the anomaly corresponds to the location of a footwall frontal ramp. A three-dimensional heat conduction model for simultaneous horizontal (two-dimensional) and vertical heat flow in a rectangular thrust sheet is designed to test whether the documented thermal anomaly (%Ro = 1.0–1.6) may reflect the former extent of thrust-sheet cover. The model uses a 3-km-thick thrust sheet with horizontal dimensions of 10 x 30 km, as well as a three-dimensional analytical solution to the heat conduction equation, whereby the thrust sheet cools both laterally and vertically. The model reproduces the magnitude and oval shape of the vitrinite reflectance anomaly at 100–500 k.y. after thrust emplacement. The geothermal gradient reaches a steady state at ~2 m.y., and is never fully reestablished even for long times because of lateral cooling in the hanging wall. Thickness and extent of the thrust sheet from the thermal model are consistent with balanced and restored cross sections of the Jones Valley thrust sheet based on geologic data; a thrust sheet ~3 km thick was emplaced ~18 km onto the foreland over the site of the thermal anomaly. The three-dimensional thermal evolution of both the hanging wall and the footwall is distinct from that predicted from one-dimensional models; a three-dimensional model predicts less heating of the footwall because of horizontal heat loss across bounding ramps.
Role for the epidermal growth factor receptor in neurofibromatosis-related peripheral nerve tumorigenesis

Benign neurofibromas and malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors are serious complications of neurofibromatosis type 1. The epidermal growth factor receptor is not expressed by normal Schwann cells, yet is overexpressed in subpopulations of Nf1 mutant Schwann cells. We evaluated the role of EGFR in Schwann cell tumorigenesis. Expression of EGFR in transgenic mouse Schwann cells elicited features of neurofibromas: Schwann cell hyperplasia, excess collagen, mast cell accumulation, and progressive dissociation of non-myelin-forming Schwann cells from axons. Mating EGFR transgenic mice to Nf1 hemizygotes did not enhance this phenotype. Genetic reduction of EGFR in Nf1(+/-);p53(+/-) mice that develop sarcomas significantly improved survival. Thus, gain- and loss-of-function experiments support the relevance of EGFR to peripheral nerve tumor formation.
The Taylor Creek Rhyolite of New Mexico: a rapidly emplaced field of lava domes and flows

The Tertiary Taylor Creek Rhyolite of southwest New Mexico comprises at least 20 lava domes and flows. Each of the lavas was erupted from its own vent, and the vents are distributed throughout a 20 km by 50 km area. The volume of the rhyolite and genetically associated pyroclastic deposits is at least 100 km3 (denserock equivalent). The rhyolite contains 15%–35% quartz, sanidine, plagioclase, ±biotite, ±hornblende phenocrysts. Quartz and sanidine account for about 98% of the phenocrysts and are present in roughly equal amounts. With rare exceptions, the groundmass consists of intergrowths of fine-grained silica and alkali feldspar. Whole-rock major-element composition varies little, and the rhyolite is metaluminous to weakly peraluminous; mean SiO2 content is about 77.5±0.3%. Similarly, major-element compositions of the two feldsparphenocryst species also are nearly constant. However, whole-rock concentrations of some trace-elements vary as much as several hundred percent. Initial radiometric age determinations, all K−Ar and fission track, suggest that the rhyolite lava field grew during a period of at least 2 m.y. Subsequent 40Ar/39Ar ages indicate that the period of growth was no more than 100 000 years. The time-space-composition relations thus suggest that the Taylor Creek Rhyolite was erupted from a single magma reservoir whose average width was at least 30 km, comparable in size to several penecontemporaneous nearby calderas. However, this rhyolite apparently is not related to a caldera structure. Possibly, the Taylor Creek Phyolite magma body never became sufficiently volatile rich to produce a large-volume pyroclastic eruption and associated caldera collapse, but instead leaked repeatedly to feed many relatively small domes and flows.
A study of the minor element concentrations of spinels from two type B calcium-aluminum-rich inclusions: An investigation into potential formation conditions of calcium-aluminum-rich inclusions

We have conducted an electron microprobe study of minor element distributions among spinels from two type B1 calcium-aluminum-rich inclusions (CAIs): Allende TS-23 and Leoville 3537–2. We show that by maintaining the petrologic context (edge, middle, and center of the inclusion plus their host silicate phase), four populations of spinels are resolvable based on their minor element contents. One population resides within the edge area (mainly mantle melilite) and is characterized by the highest V contents. Unlike Leoville 3537–2, many edge grains from Allende TS-23 also have high-Fe contents (up to 4.0 wt%) and low-Cr values. Based on their V and Ti concentrations (which is positively correlated), middle and center grains define a trend that is divided into three populations: spinels enclosed by melilite, fassaite, and anorthite. The overall range in Ti concentration based on fractional crystallization should be much less than a factor of 2; however, the observed range is considerably larger. The minor element contents of these grains are interpreted as recording alteration, primary fractional crystallization, and a complex igneous history that may involve remelting and recrystallization. From our data, Allende TS-23 has experienced more alteration than Leoville 3537–2, which is consistent with previous petrologic studies of silicates within these objects; yet both objects have likely been remelted (at least one additional melting event, possibly two, postdating the initial formation of these CAIs). By invoking a remelting history, the large range ir Ti concentrations and the different populations of spinels can be explained. Although our data suggest that more than one generation of spinels exist within these objects, we are unable to establish any population of relic spinel grains that predate the initial melting event.
A Critique of Kaufman's “Myth and Reality in the Family Patterns and Treatment of Substance Abusers”

In questioning many of the myths in this field, Kaufman has made an important contribution to the literature. Much of the material he presents deserves wider dissemination. However, at least four of his 21 “realities” are overstated, and another four are not well founded or are amenable to alternative explanations. The present paper is generally supportive of Kaufman's presentation while also attempting to place certain of the issues in perspective so as to avoid the creation of new myths.
Human brightness perception near sharp contours.

The appearances of fields that contain luminance discontinuities (e.g., the contour between a bright and a dark region) do not conform satisfactorily to predictions from models of spatial brightness interaction. Yet when the luminance distribution is systematically varied in regions separated by sharp contours, Mach-band-like gradients near the contours vary as predicted. A mechanism acting after spatial interaction may be important when fields contain contours.
Effects of NO2 on the lungs of aging rats: II. Cell proliferation

Abstract This research was undertaken to study the proliferative response of damaged lung tissue of aging rats during exposure to NO2. Male rats 1, 3, 11, 19, and 25 months old were exposed to NO2 for up to 15 days. Dividing cells were labeled with tritiated thymidine and studied with autoradiographic techniques by light microscopy. The results showed the proliferative response had the same general pattern in all age groups. However, in older rats the onset of cell proliferation was slower and the magnitude of Type 2 cell proliferation was much greater than in young rats. This was in agreement with the morphological findings indicating that older rats had more tissue damage during exposure to NO2 than young rats and that repair began later in the older rats. After repair of the injury, rats in all age groups were able to tolerate continuous exposure to NO2.
Inter-industry technology flows in the US food-processing industries

The study examines the origins of technology important to improving productivity in the food-processing industries. Technology flows were measured both by patents in patent classes closely identified with six food industries, and by a sample of significant food-processing innovations. These data are consistent with the hypothesis that interindustry technology flows are the most significant determinant of productivity improvements in the food industries. These findings solve the enigma that the food-processing industries have enjoyed rapid improvements in productivity despite making very modest investments in research and development.
The Repertoire Selection Practices of High School Choral Directors

The purpose of this study was to research the repertoire selection practices of high school choral directors. The 104 directors who participated in the study were selected from two groups: (a) dire...
Reflections on the future understanding of planning practice

Abstract This paper discusses the planning academy's avoidance of issues of power and value while discussing the author's strategies of research on planning practice as they have developed socially and historically. The analysis of planning, these days, is not in crisis but in denial. Not only do many analyses of planning end where they should begin, with the recurrent discovery that power shapes practice, they also fail to address better and worse approaches to acting in the face of power. Such facile treatments of ‘power’ actually make action in a real world of power relations more difficult, and by failing to assess strategies to empower weaker voices, such analyses effectively and conservatively strengthen established power. Further, many analyses of planning presume that ‘better’ and ‘worse’ are undiscussable matters of personal, subjective opinion. The resulting avoidance of value inquiry and value‐critical argumentation hinders planners in their inevitably evaluative work, confuses respect for diff...
Aqueous Phase Glycerol Reforming with Pt and PtMo Bimetallic Nanoparticle Catalysts: The Role of the Mo Promoter

The turnover rate (TOR, normalized to sites measured by CO chemisorption before reaction) and selectivity for the aqueous phase reforming of glycerol have been determined for Pt/C and PtMo/C catalysts. While the TOR of PtMo/C is higher than that of Pt/C by about 4 times at comparable conversion, the selectivity to C–O bond cleavage is higher, thus reducing the H2 yield at high conversion. Under reaction conditions on Pt/C, CO is observed as the most abundant Pt surface species with a fractional coverage of about 0.6 using operando X-ray absorption spectroscopy. Since there is little CO in the effluent (CO2:CO ratios > 100:1, when CO is detected), it is thought that surface CO is converted to H2 and CO2 by the water gas shift reaction. DFT calculations suggest that the role of metallic Mo is to alter the electronic properties of Pt lowering the binding energy of CO and reducing the activation energies of dehydrogenation and C–O bond cleavage. Because the activation energy for C–O cleavage is lowered more than for dehydrogenation, the selectivity for C–O bond cleavage is increased, ultimately lowering the H2 yield compared to Pt/C.
Exchanges are not equally able to enhance meiotic chromosome segregation in yeast.

Abstract Homologous chromosomes pair, and then migrate to opposite poles of the spindle at meiosis I. In most eukaryotic organisms, reciprocal recombinations (crossovers) between the homologs are critical to the success of this process. Individuals with defects in meiotic recombination typically produce high levels of aneuploid gametes and exhibit low fertility or are sterile. The experiments described here were designed to test whether different crossovers are equally able to contribute to the fidelity of meiotic chromosome segregation in yeast. These experiments were performed with model chromosomes with which it was possible to control and measure the distributions of meiotic crossovers in wild-type cells. Physical and genetic approaches were used to map crossover positions on model chromosomes and to correlate crossover position with meiotic segregation behavior. The results show that crossovers at different chromosomal positions have different abilities to enhance the fidelity of meiotic segregation.
Synthesis of chiral N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC) ligand precursors and formation of ruthenium(II) complexes for transfer hydrogenation catalysts

Abstract The S enantiomers of ester functionalized NHC ligand precursors, 1-[(2S)-1-ethoxy-3-methyl-1-oxobutan-2-yl]-3-ethyl-1H-imidazol-3-ium bromide (3a) and the methyl ester analog 3b, were synthesized from l -valine and fully characterized. The absolute stereochemistry of the chiral center was confirmed by single crystal X-ray diffraction (for 3a) and enantiopurity (of 3a and 3b) was determined by micellar electrokinetic chromatography. Deprotonation of this NHC ligand precursor (3a or 3b) and coordination to [RuCl2(p-cymene)]2 resulted in the isolation of a monodentate complex (with only NHC coordination) (4a or 4b) and a bidentate complex (5). In the bidentate complex, in addition to NHC coordination, a carboxylate donor group (from in situ hydrolysis of the ester) coordinates to Ru. All ruthenium complexes have been characterized by spectroscopic and analytical methods, plus single crystal X-ray diffraction for 4a and 5. The evidence shows that both Ru complexes are racemic, but with alternate synthetic methods perhaps racemization during complexation of 3a or 3b to metals could be avoided. The ruthenium complexes described herein serve as catalysts for ketone transfer hydrogenation in basic isopropanol.
ON THE DYNAMIC RESPONSE OF SUBMERGED CYLINDRICAL SHELLS

Abstract : Various methods of solution for the dynamic response of infinitely long, circular, cylindrical shells submerged in an infinite acoustic medium are discussed. Two new approximations for transient response are introduced, along with a criterion for testing the validity of some approximate solutions for other than very short times. One new approximation is based on the natural frequencies of the shell-fluid system, while the other introduces an approximation for the dependence of the fluid on the axial coordinate. This dependence has been neglected in previous investigations. Results based on new approximations are compared with those previously published. (Author)
Utilization of Micelle-Mimetic Intramolecular Ionene Aggregates as the Mobile Phase in Pseudophase Thin-Layer Liquid Chromatography.

The use of aqueous or aqueous methanolic ionene (cationic polyelectrolytes consisting of dimethylammonium charge centers interconnected by alternating alkyl chain segments containing x and y methylene groups) solutions as mobile phases in thin layer chromatography (TLC) is described. The ortho, meta and para isomers of chlorobenzoic acid and phenylphenol as well as dinitroanilines and 1- and 2-naphthol were successfully chromatographed using aqueous solutions of [3, 16]-ionene with polyamide thin layer sheets. Some quinones were successfully resolved using this same aqueous ionene mobile phase but with cellulose thin layer plates. For some analytes, the TLC retention results obtained with the [3, 16]-ionene were compared to that obtained with [3, 6]-ionene, which does not form intramolecular aggregated species. The relevant properties of micelle-mimetic intramolecular ionene aggregates are described as are their possible advantages over conventional normal surfactant micelle systems. A brief prospectus on the future use of such micelle-mimetic ionene aggregates in separation science is presented.
Excimer formation in cofacial and slip-stacked perylene-3,4:9,10-bis(dicarboximide) dimers on a redox-inactive triptycene scaffold

Excitation energy transfer in perylene-3,4:9,10-bis(dicarboximide) (PDI) aggregates is of interest for light-harvesting applications of this strongly absorbing and π–π stacking chromophore. Here we report the synthesis and characterization of two PDI dimers in which the chromophores are covalently linked by a redox-inactive triptycene bridge in orientations that are cofacial (1) and slip-stacked along their N–N axes (2). Femtosecond transient absorption experiments on 1 and 2 reveal rapid exciton delocalization resulting excimer formation. Cofacial π–π stacked dimer 1 forms a low-energy excimer state absorption (λmax = 1666 nm) in τ = ∼2 ps after photoexcitation. Inserting a phenyl spacer on the bridge to generate a slip-stacked PDI–PDI geometry in 2 results in a less stable excimer state (λmax = 1430 nm), which forms in τ = ∼12 ps due to decreased electronic coupling. The near-infrared (NIR) excimer absorption of cofacial dimer 1 is ∼120 meV lower in energy than that of slip-stacked dimer 2, further highlighting electronic differences between these states.
An experimental study of the flow structure within a dense gas plume

Abstract A wind tunnel study was conducted to examine how a dense gas plume could affect the mean flow and turbulence structure of the boundary layer containing the plume. For this, a neutral atmospheric boundary layer developing over an aerodynamically rough surface was simulated in the US EPA's Meteorological Wind Tunnel. The dense gas plume was created by releasing CO2 through a small circular source at ground level. A procedure was developed to make reasonably accurate mean velocity and turbulence measurements within the dense gas plumes by using hot-film anemometry in a range where the probe response was insensitive to the concentration of CO2. Both the flow visualization and quantitative measurements of concentration and velocity fields indicated that, at low wind speeds, the dense gas plumes exhibited significant buoyancy effects on the flow structure. Within the dense plumes, mean velocity profiles were observed to have changed significantly in shape, with reduced speeds near the surface and increased velocities farther away from the surface. Consistent with these changes in mean velocity profiles, significant reductions in the roughness length and friction velocity were observed. Both the longitudinal and vertical turbulence intensities were also found to be greatly reduced within the dense plumes at low wind speeds. These changes in mean flow and turbulence structure were not only related to the dense-gas concentrations, but also to the local velocity gradients and the growth of the dense plumes with distance from the source. The local gradient Richardson number is found to be the most appropriate parameter for describing the changes in the mean flow and turbulence structure. Significant dense gas effects were observed when the Richardson number increased beyond its critical value (0.25) for the dynamic stability of a stratified flow. Our experimental results show that, in an existing turbulent flow, turbulence is not completely suppressed even when the gradient Richardson number exceeds one.
From Rock, Paper, Scissors to Street Fighter II: proof by construction

Competitive fighting games, where players choose a rapid sequence of actions designed to trump an opponent's simultaneous actions, are more complex, real-time adaptations of the well-known game Rock, Paper, Scissors. We present an analysis of Rock, Paper, Scissors's gameplay, as well as real-time variations. These variations comprise a constructive argument that competitive fighting games, such as Capcom's Street Fighter II, are indeed also variants of Rock, Paper, Scissors.
Modeling and Simulation of Paraplegic Ambulation in a Reciprocating Gait Orthosis

We developed a three dimensional, four segment, eight-degree-of-freedom model for the analysis of paraplegic ambulation in a reciprocating gait orthosis (RGO). Model development was guided by experimental analysis of a spinal cord injured individual walking in an RGO with the additional assistance of arm crutches. Body forces and torques required to produce a dynamic simulation of the RGO gait swing phase were found by solving an optimal control problem to track the recorded kinematics and ground reaction forces. We found that high upper body forces are required, not only during swing but probably also during double support to compensate for the deceleration of the body during swing, which is due to the pelvic thrust necessary to swing the leg forward. Other simulations showed that upper body forces and body deceleration during swing can be reduced substantially by producing a ballistic swing. Functional neuromuscular stimulation of the hip musculature during double support would then be required, however, to establish the initial conditions needed in a ballistic swing.
Frequent loss of heterozygosity of chromosome 1q in esophageal adenocarcinoma: loss of chromosome 1q21.3 is associated with shorter overall survival.

BACKGROUND: Previous microarray expression profiling studies have shown that genes located on chromosome region 1q21-23 were down-regulated in the progression of Barrett esophagus to esophageal adenocarcinoma and that, among patients with the latter condition, these genes were differentially expressed between responders and nonresponders of preoperative chemoradiation therapy. It was unclear whether this difference was due to loss of heterozygosity (LOH) or to other genetic alterations at this locus. METHODS: The status of chromosome 1q LOH was retrospectively evaluated in formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded pretreatment biopsy specimens from 33 patients with locally advanced esophageal adenocarcinoma who were treated with preoperative neoadjuvant therapy, and the findings were correlated with clinicopathologic features and overall survival duration. LOH was determined by polymerase chain reaction analysis of 7 dinucleotide microsatellite markers that spanned chromosomal region 1q21-23. RESULTS: Allelic loss of chromosome 1q with any marker was found in 66% of tumors; 58% of tumors demonstrated loss of chromosome 1q21, and 45% of tumors demonstrated loss of chromosome 1q23. Patients with loss of chromosome 1q21.3 had shorter overall survival duration than patients without loss of chromosome 1q21.3 (P = .02). The difference in survival with loss of the chromosome 1q21.3 region was also found to be significant in a subset of patients with incomplete pathologic response to preoperative therapy (P = .024). CONCLUSIONS: Loss of chromosome 1q was a frequent finding in esophageal adenocarcinoma cases, and loss of the 1q21.3 region was associated with shorter overall survival duration. Cancer 2009. © 2009 American Cancer Society.
Individual and provider effects on mental health outcomes in child welfare: A three level growth curve approach

Abstract Approaches for treating children and adolescents with emotional and behavioral disorders within their communities have been implemented in counties, cities, and states throughout the United States. The goal of this study was to model course of improvement for individuals enrolled in a statewide community treatment program. Five hundred and sixty three children and adolescents (mean = 11.6 years at time of initial contact) receiving community-based services from 26 different agencies throughout Illinois were evaluated using the Child and Adolescent Needs and Strengths (CANS) measure. Hierarchical linear modeling (HLM) was applied to three levels of data: time (months in care), child-level (clinical, demographic data), and provider agency; the problem behaviors factor score of the CANS served as the measure of outcome. The results indicated that months in care, time 1 problem behavior score, caregiver needs and strengths, youth strengths, and school problems predicted course of improvement at the child level. Results also indicated that agencies (level 3) differed in client problem behavior reduction; however, this effect was much smaller than has been observed in other populations. Implications for service organization and delivery are discussed.
Clinicians' reasons for deviations from recommended dosing practices for antipsychotic medications.

Objective This study was designed to investigate clinician rationales for prescribing higher than recommended dosages of antipsychotic medications in patients with schizophrenia. Methods Prescribers for all patients at two VA medical centers whose dosage exceeded PORT recommendations were interviewed. Results For 91/107 (85%) of patients, the prescriber responded that the current dosage should not be decreased. Positive symptoms were the most common target symptoms (94%), followed by negative symptoms (26%), anxiety (23%), and insomnia (13%). Conclusions In patients receiving higher than recommended dosages of antipsychotics, clinicians were frequently able to cite specific target symptoms.
Acetazolamide specifically inhibits lingual trigeminal nerve responses to carbon dioxide

The goal of this study was to examine the role of the enzyme, carbonic anhydrase, in oral trigeminal chemoreception with particular regard to the reception of CO2. Using both single and multiunit recordings of trigeminal neurons in the lingual nerve of rat, we measured responses to cool (24 degrees C), noxiously hot (55 degrees C) and cold (8 degrees C) H2O, NH4Cl and supersaturated solutions of CO2 (24 degrees C and 33 degrees C). The importance of peripheral carbonic anhydrase was tested by inhibiting enzyme activity with acetazolamide (15 mg/kg b.w.). Single unit responses to CO2 and HCl suggest that neural sensitivity to CO2 is not simply a function of extraepithelial pH. Responses to CO2 were significantly inhibited by acetazolamide while the responses to thermal stimuli and NH4Cl were not. The results support a role for carbonic anhydrase in trigeminal responses to CO2. Furthermore, the results suggest that intraepithelial acidification mediated by carbonic anhydrase may be the basis for sensitivity to CO2.