cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Endogenous ovarian hormones affect mitochondrial efficiency in cerebral endothelium via distinct regulation of PGC-1 isoforms

Mitochondria support the energy-intensive functions of brain endothelium but also produce damaging-free radicals that lead to disease. Previously, we found that estrogen treatment protects cerebrovascular mitochondria, increasing capacity for ATP production while decreasing reactive oxygen species (ROS). To determine whether these effects occur specifically in endothelium in vivo and also explore underlying transcriptional mechanisms, we studied freshly isolated brain endothelial preparations from intact and ovariectomized female mice. This preparation reflects physiologic influences of circulating hormones, hemodynamic forces, and cell–cell interactions of the neurovascular unit. Loss of ovarian hormones affected endothelial expression of the key mitochondrial regulator family, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ coactivator 1 (PGC-1), but in a unique way. Ovariectomy increased endothelial PGC-1α mRNA but decreased PGC-1β mRNA. The change in PGC-1β correlated with decreased mRNA for crucial downstream mitochondrial regulators, nuclear respiratory factor 1 and mitochondrial transcription factor A, as well as for ATP synthase and ROS protection enzymes, glutamate-cysteine ligase and manganese superoxide dismutase. Ovariectomy also decreased mitochondrial biogenesis (mitochondrial/nuclear DNA ratio). These results indicate ovarian hormones normally act through a distinctive regulatory pathway involving PGC-1β to support cerebral endothelial mitochondrial content and guide mitochondrial function to favor ATP coupling and ROS protection.
Susceptibility of immature monarch butterfly, Danaus plexippus (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae: Danainae), to predation by Harmonia axyridis (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae)

Abstract The potential for a classical biological control agent, Harmonia axyridis (Pallas), to have non-target effects on populations of the monarch butterfly, Danaus plexippus (L.), was examined using no-choice predation studies under laboratory and caged field conditions. Three separate laboratory functional response experiments were conducted with adult and larval H. axyridis preying on immature D. plexippus . Nonlinear functional responses for third instar H. axyridis preying on D. plexippus eggs and first instars reached plateaus at about 25 and 15 prey consumed per day, respectively. A linear response resulted for adult H. axyridis preying on D. plexippus eggs. Potted Asclepias syriaca L. placed into large field-cages were infested with first instar D. plexippus and third instar H. axyridis . Survival of first instar D. plexippus was significantly lower in cages with H. axyridis larvae than in cages without H. axyridis larvae. The present experiments identify H. axyridis as a potential stressor to populations of D. plexippus. Further research is needed to assess the likelihood of D. plexippus exposure to H. axyridis in the field and to quantify the likelihood of H. axyridis having an adverse effect on D. plexippus in the presence of other prey, particularly aphids. These data could be used to develop an ecological risk assessment.
Ulnocarpal Epiphyseal Arthrodesis for Recurrent Deformity After Centralization for Radial Longitudinal Deficiency

Purpose To report our results for ulnocarpal epiphyseal arthrodesis for recurrent or late-presenting wrist deformity in patients with radial longitudinal deficiency, using both objective data and long-term subjective follow-up evaluation. Methods A retrospective review of our surgical logs between 1970 and 2007 identified 12 postcentralization patients treated with ulnocarpal epiphyseal arthrodesis, and 1 patient (who had reached skeletal maturity) treated with traditional ulnocarpal arthrodesis. Indications for the arthrodesis included postcentralization recurrence of radial angulation to greater than 45°, an inability to actively extend the wrist to within 25° of neutral (ie, 25° of flexion), or both. We collected objective and radiographic data on all 12 patients by chart review at a mean of 89 months (range, 2–472 mo) after arthrodesis. We collected subjective data from 9 patients at a mean of 160 months (range, 14–602 mo) after arthrodesis. Results Ulnocarpal union was obtained in 11 wrists at an average of 4 months (range, 2–6 mo); the 1 case of nonunion was treated successfully with revision arthrodesis. The mean radial angulation position was 20° after arthrodesis (range, 0° to 35°), an average improvement of 42°. The mean position of wrist fusion was 11° of flexion (range, 0° to 35° of flexion), an average improvement of 7°. The mean postoperative Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand score was 24.5 (SD, 12.3; range, 6.8–36.4). Final postoperative Visual Analog Score rating for function averaged 8 (range, 4–10); for appearance, it averaged 7 (range, 5–10), and for pain, it averaged 1 (range, 0–5). Conclusions Ulnocarpal and epiphyseal arthrodesis are appropriate surgical procedures to stabilize the carpus in postcentralization patients with recurrent or late-presenting wrist deformity. Type of study/level of evidence Therapeutic IV.
Differential contribution of isoaspartate post-translational modifications to the fibrillization and toxic properties of amyloid β and the Asn23 Iowa mutation.

Mutations within the Aβ (amyloid β) peptide, especially those clustered at residues 21–23, are linked to early-onset AD (Alzheimer9s disease) and primarily associated with cerebral amyloid angiopathy. The Iowa variant, a substitution of an aspartic acid residue for asparagine at position 23 (D23N), associates with widespread vascular amyloid and abundant diffuse pre-amyloid lesions significantly exceeding the incidence of mature plaques. Brain Iowa deposits consist primarily of a mixture of mutated and non-mutated Aβ species exhibiting partial aspartate isomerization at positions 1, 7 and 23. The present study analysed the contribution of the post-translational modification and the D23N mutation to the aggregation/fibrillization and cell toxicity properties of Aβ providing insight into the elicited cell death mechanisms. The induction of apoptosis by the different Aβ species correlated with their oligomerization/fibrillization propensity and β-sheet content. Although cell toxicity was primarily driven by the D23N mutation, all Aβ isoforms tested were capable, albeit at different time frames, of eliciting comparable apoptotic pathways with mitochondrial engagement and cytochrome c release to the cytoplasm in both neuronal and microvascular endothelial cells. Methazolamide, a cytochrome c release inhibitor, exerted a protective effect in both cell types, suggesting that pharmacological targeting of mitochondria may constitute a viable therapeutic avenue.
AXAF HRMA mirror ring-focus measurements

We discuss the ring focus measurements for the Advanced X-ray Astrophysics Facility (AXAF) x-ray optics -- the high resolution mirror assembly (HRMA). The HRMA is an assembly of four pairs of nested Wolter Type-I grazing incidence mirrors coated with iridium (Ir). The ring focus measurements are an essential part of the AXAF ground calibration carried out at the X-Ray Calibration Facility (XRCF) at the Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) in Huntsville, Alabama. The ring focus measurements reveal aspects of the test system distortions and the mirror surface figures which are difficult or impossible to detect in the focal plane. The measurement results show periodic modulations of the ring width which was caused by gravity and strain in the epoxy bonds that are part of the mechanical support system. The strongest component of the modulation has 12-fold symmetry due to the 12 flexures that support each mirror shell. We discuss the ring focus model and compare it with the test results to understand the test system distortions an the mirror glass imperfection, and to predict the impact for the AXAF mirror on-orbit performance.© (1997) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Teachers’ perceptions of assessments of their mathematical knowledge in a professional development course

The purpose of the project reported in this article was to evaluate how assessing teachers’ mathematical knowledge within a professional development course impacted from the teachers’ perspective their learning and their experience with the course. The professional development course consisted of a 2-week summer institute and the content focus was geometry. We had decided to assess the mathematical learning of the teachers during this professional development course for various accountability reasons, but were concerned about possible negative by-products of this decision on the teachers and their participation. Thus, we worked to design assessment in ways that we hoped would minimize negative impacts and maintain a supportive learning environment. In addition, we undertook this evaluation to examine the impacts of the assessment, which included homework, quizzes, various projects, and an examination for program evaluation. Seventeen grade 5–9 teachers enrolled in the course participated in the study by completing written reflections and by describing their experiences in interviews. We learned that while our original intent was “to do no harm,” the teachers reported that their learning was enhanced by the assessment. The article concludes by describing the various properties of the assessments that the teachers identified as contributing to their learning of the geometry content, many of which align with current recommendations for assessing and evaluating grade K-16 mathematics students.
UPON THE OPTIMAL GRAPHICAL REPRESENTATION OF FLASH DATA FROM PHOTOCHEMICAL SYSTEMS OBEYING FIRST ORDER KINETICS

— It is recommended that plots of absorbance change vs. log time be considered as a way to represent many decades of flash spectroscopy data when several separate decays are present. The values of the rate constants k, for the decays are easily revealed by nearly linear portions of the plots centered near tj=k−1j, which are inflection points in the graphs. The amplitudes of the decays are easily seen because they are proportional to the slopes of the linear portions of the plots. Such plots introduce no spurious singularities and they are easy to construct using semi-log paper. Examples, including one from bacteriorhodopsin, are presented. A simple mathematical proof of these features is provided.
An Evaluation of a Method for Measuring and a Survey of the Urinary Excretion of Weakly Phenolic Ketone, “Estrone”, in Endocrine Disorders1

THREE ESTROGENIC SUBSTANCES have been identified in human urine: alpha estradiol, estrone and estriol (1). The excretion of these substances as a group and separately by normal individuals and by persons with endocrine disorders has been partially quantified by biological assays (2). Because of the recognized limitations of biological methods, efforts have been made to develop chemical procedures for assaying the estrogens in human urine (3). These chemical methods until recently have been applicable only to the urine of pregnant women. However, in 1940, Talbot, Wolfe, MacLachlan, Karush arid Butler (4) devised a chemical procedure which they reported had sufficient sensitivity to measure the excretion of weakly phenolic ketones in normal women. Since estrone is the only weakly phenolic ketone known to be present in extracts of hydrolyzed human urine, they suggested this test as a means of determining the human excretion of estrone. The assay involves the formation of a colored compound by coupling the ph...
Debating the Burqa in France: the Antipolitics of Islamic Revival

In 2009 a French national commission was created to issue recommendations against “the burqa” and raise the possibility of a ban on the practice in certain public settings. This paper explores the different normative stakes of politicizing the burqa and the form of Islamic Revival with which it is associated. Recent scholarship has sought to overturn orientalist depictions of Islamic movements but has insisted that bodily ethical practices, such as Muslim women’s veiling, constitute forms of politics. Based on ethnographic research in a women’s mosque community in a poor suburb of Lyon, France, I argue that these women are not engaged in a form of politics but rather, antipolitics, a movement originally conceptualized in the 1970s and 80s as a rejection of politics and a valorization of private life. Three components define their antipolitics: a reconfiguration of the private sphere against an intrusive state, a retreat into a moral community, and emphasis on spiritual conditions and achievement of serenity. In interrogating different meanings of politics and antipolitics, this paper suggests a rethinking of the relationship between “political Islam” and piety movements.
Maintaining placement for troubled and disruptive adolescents in voluntary residential care: The role of reduced youth-to-staff ratio

We evaluated a program to protect the placements of 23 highly troublesome youth in voluntary residential care by reducing youth-to-staff ratios. Specifically, the youth were moved from regular program homes (with eight youth) to reduced ratio homes (with only four youth) instead of being terminated from the program. We provide evidence supporting the assertion that youth in the study sample were highly troublesome and at high risk for program failure and more restrictive placements. Placement in the reduced ratio homes protected the trouble youths' placement, resulting in an additional mean length of stay of 950 day without an increase in program restrictiveness. Further, the reduced ratio homes increased the chances of success in the program for the study sample to a level equivalent to that for the much less troubled comparison sample. Cost estimates are also provided.
Tensile GaAs(111) quantum dashes with tunable luminescence below the bulk bandgap

Strain-based band engineering in quantum dots and dashes has been predominantly limited to compressively strained systems. However, tensile strain strongly reduces the bandgaps of nanostructures, enabling nanostructures to emit light at lower energies than they could under compressive strain. We demonstrate the self-assembled growth of dislocation-free GaAs quantum dashes on an InP(111)B substrate, using a 3.8% tensile lattice-mismatch. Due to the high tensile strain, the GaAs quantum dashes luminesce at 110–240 meV below the bandgap of bulk GaAs. The emission energy is readily tuned by adjusting the size of the quantum dashes via deposition thickness. Tensile self-assembly creates new opportunities for engineering the band alignment, band structure, and optical properties of epitaxial nanostructures.
Refluxing megaureter for the Mitrofanoff channel using continent extravesical detrusor tunneling procedure.

ABSTARCTPurpose: We present a variation on the continent procedure using the refluxing megaureter for the Mitrofanoff channel, and its results.Materials and Methods: The Mitrofanoff procedure using the refluxing megaureter was performed in 35 patients (valve bladder syndrome 15, neurogenic bladder 10, nonneurogenic bladder 10) between 1995 and 2001. Mean patient age was 5.9 years. In 5 patients the distal segment of the megaureter was used after nephrectomy, and in 30 patients the proximal segment of the megaureter was simultaneously reimplanted unilaterally. The distal segment of the megaureter was inserted under the detrusor close to the native hiatus, pulled through the tunnel between the unresected detrusor and the mucosa, and subsequently brought to the abdominal wall. The ureterovesical junction was left intact.Results: In all of our patients we obtained sufficient length and good vascularization of both ureteral segments. Satisfactory tunnel length was achieved in 29 patients. In 6 cases the tunnel...
'Streaming' Best Practices: Using Digital Video-Teaching Segments in the FL/ESL Methods Course

ABSTRACT: Using technology in the form of “streaming” Internet video segments to provide additional instruction in an already overloaded foreign language/English as a Second Language (FL/ESL) methods course is the focus of this article. Using a digital camcorder, the course instructors videotaped the teaching of listening, speaking, reading, writing, culture, and essential course principles and converted the footage to QuickTime/RealPlayer movies that highlight best practices for students in the FL/ESL methods course. Students view the videos via the Internet and work through a series of reflective case studies aimed at improving their teaching skills. Students can watch peers' and professors' videos housed on the course Web page at any time. An explanation of the technology required and how to produce such material is discussed.
An Application of Quadratic Programming to the Deregulation of Natural Gas

This paper examines the issue of natural gas deregulation within the context of the linear complementarity programming (LCP) format. The LCP model forecasts United States oil, natural gas, and coal prices and quantities for both the demand and the supply side. Forecasts are presented on a regionalized level. Validation of the LCP model is achieved by forecasting historical prices and quantities. In addition, the model examines several scenarios concerning the various policy options for the decontrol of natural gas.
Deformation Domains Around Burning Springs Anticline of Central Appalachians: ABSTRACT

Under a contract with the Gas Research Institute, the West Virginia Geological and Economic Survey has begun a two-year project to determine the relationship between Devonian shale production and certain geologic and technical factors, such as geologic structure. Six counties in western West Virginia were selected for study. The north-south-trending Burning Springs anticline bisects those counties and marks the western edge of the Salina salt basin. Two horizons were selected for structural datums--the base of the Huron Shale Member of the Ohio Shale (Upper Devonian), and the base of the Mississippian Greenbrier Group. Point-to-point contouring methods, rather than generalization, revealed deformation containing differing structural styles (domains) throughout the study a ea, and those domains may have a relationship to the Salina salt basin (Late Silurian). Structural cross sections reveal that the southern end of the Burning Springs anticline is a gentle fold amplified by thrust faults, probably ramping up from a sole fault in the Salina salt beds. Mississippian, Pennsylvanian, and Permian strata are draped over those thrusts. Lineaments, as defined by structure contours, mark the boundaries of subthrust sheets along the Burning Springs anticline. Orientations of those structural lineaments coincide with orientations of mapped surface lineaments. Oil production from the Devonian shales is confined to the eastern flank of the Burning Springs anticline in areas overlying the Salina salt basin, and may be related to fracturing caused by intense deformation, in contrast to less intense deformation of rocks west of the salt basin. End_of_Article - Last_Page 1449------------
On the regimes of premixing

Abstract The conditions of the MAGICO-2000 experiment are extended to more broadly investigate the regimes of premixing, and the corresponding internal structures of mixing zones. With the help of the data and numerical simulations using the computer code PM-ALPHA, we can distinguish extremes of behavior dominated by inertia and thermal effects—we name these the inertia and thermal regimes, respectively. This is an important distinction that should guide future experiments aimed at code verification in this area. Interesting intermediate behaviors are also delineated and discussed.
Catching a Moving Target

Seasonal influenza viruses persist as important human pathogens because of their ability to constantly change the structure of a key protein, the viral hemagglutinin, which is needed to invade cells and is a major target of immune defenses. This shiftiness dictates a hefty vaccine regimen: Ideally, patients are vaccinated each year with updated formulations that protect them against new virus strains. Recent research, however, has raised the possibility of developing a universal flu vaccine that would not have to be updated. In mice and humans, researchers have identified “broadly neutralizing antibodies” (bnAbs) ( 1 – 8 ) that have the potential to make influenza less of a moving target. Two papers in this issue, by Ekiert et al. ( 9 ) on page 843 and Corti et al. ( 10 ) on page 850, describe novel bnAbs that protect animals against influenza and show how they bind to the viral hemagglutinin protein.
The molecular perspective: The multidrug transporter

cer cell today. Cancer cells must survive surgical removal, exposure to lethal radiation, and poisoning by a plethora of chemotherapeutic drugs. But cancer cells are not passive targets—like all living things, they fight back. Cancer cells, since they are derived from normal human cells, have access to many of our natural defensive strategies. They pirate our normal defenses, using them against us to fight the challenges posed by modern medicine. The multidrug transporter, or P-glycoprotein, is one defensive mechanism that has been forced into use for the defense of cancer cells. The transporter evolved to protect our cells from xenobiotic (“strange biological”) substances. It is found immersed in the cell membrane, where it searches out and ejects these dangerous molecules. The transporter is normally found in several key places in the body: in cells lining the digestive tract, where it reduces absorption of toxic compounds in the diet; in the kidney and liver, where it aids in the excretion of these compounds; and in cells lining capillaries in the brain, forming one line of defense in the blood-brain barrier. In tumor cells, the multidrug transporter provides resistance, and cross-resistance, to chemotherapeutic drugs. When treated, cancer cells express higher levels of the multidrug transporter, increasing the efficiency by which the drugs are ejected from the cell. The transporter is fairly promiscuous, acting on a wide variety of drugs, as shown in Figure 1, so the resistance provided by the transporter against one drug will simultaneously confer cross-resistance against a wide range of other drugs. Biochemical results suggest that the transporter never allows these molecules to enter the cell at all. Instead, the toxic molecules are swept up while they are still in the membrane, and forcibly ejected under the power of ATP hydrolysis. The Molecular Perspective: The Multidrug Transporter
Polymorphonuclear Neutrophil in Brain Parenchyma After Experimental Intracerebral Hemorrhage

Polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMNs) infiltration into brain parenchyma after cerebrovascular accidents is viewed as a key component of secondary brain injury. Interestingly, a recent study of ischemic stroke suggests that after ischemic stroke, PMNs do not enter brain parenchyma and as such may cause no harm to the brain. Thus, the present study was designed to determine PMNs’ behavior after intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). Using the autologous blood injection model of ICH in rats and immunohistochemistry for PMNs and vascular components, we evaluated the temporal and spatial PMNs distribution in the ICH-affected brain. We found that, similar to ischemia, there is a robust increase in presence of PMNs in the ICH-injured tissue that lasts for at least 1 to 2 weeks. However, in contrast to what was suggested for ischemia, besides PMNs that stay in association with the vasculature, after ICH, we found abundance of intraparenchymal PMNs (with no obvious association with vessels) in the ICH core and hematoma border, especially between 1 and 7 days after the ictus. Interestingly, the increased presence of intraparenchymal PMNs after ICH coincided with the massive loss of microvascular integrity, suggesting vascular disruption as a potential cause of PMNs presence in the brain parenchyma. Our study indicates that in contrast to ischemic stroke, after ICH, PMNs target not only vascular compartment but also brain parenchyma in the affected brain. As such, it is possible that the pathogenic role and therapeutic implications of targeting PMNs after ICH could be different from these after ischemic stroke. Our work suggests the needs for more studies addressing the role of PMNs in ICH.
Methadone maintenance treatment may improve completion rates and delay opioid relapse for opioid dependent individuals under community corrections supervision.

Abstract Aims Several studies have demonstrated the importance of agonist therapies such as methadone and buprenorphine for preventing relapse for individuals being released from jail or prison to the community. No studies have examined the impact of methadone for increasing the completion of community supervision requirements and preventing opioid relapse for individuals under community corrections supervision. This observational study compared the community corrections completion rate and opioid relapse rate of individuals receiving methadone maintenance therapy (MMT) to individuals who did not. Methods Of the 2931 individuals enrolled under criminal justice supervision in the community, Treatment Accountability for Safer Communities (TASC), and who met criteria for opioid dependence, 329 (11%) individuals reported receiving MMT in the community. Results The majority of participants were White (79.8%) and male (63.5%), with a mean age of 31.33 years ( SD = 9.18), and were under supervision for 10.4 months ( SD = 9.1). MMT participants were less likely to fail out of supervision compared to individuals not in MMT (39.0% vs. 52.9%, p SD = 158.9) compared to the relapse rate (55.9%) and time to relapse (average days = 60.5, SD = 117.9) of those not on MMT. Conclusions While the observational nature of this study prevents causal inferences, these results suggest that utilization of MMT in community corrections may increase the likelihood of completing supervision requirements and delay time to opioid relapse. Providing agonist therapies to opioid dependent individuals under supervision appears to be a critical strategy in this important population.
The Effects of Eszopiclone on Sleep Spindles and Memory Consolidation in Schizophrenia: A Randomized Placebo-Controlled Trial

Study objectives In schizophrenia there is a dramatic reduction of sleep spindles that predicts deficient sleep-dependent memory consolidation. Eszopiclone (Lunesta), a non-benzodiazepine hypnotic, acts on γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) neurons in the thalamic reticular nucleus where spindles are generated. We investigated whether eszopiclone could increase spindles and thereby improve memory consolidation in schizophrenia. Design In a double-blind design, patients were randomly assigned to receive either placebo or 3 mg of eszopiclone. Patients completed Baseline and Treatment visits, each consisting of two consecutive nights of polysomnography. On the second night of each visit, patients were trained on the motor sequence task (MST) at bedtime and tested the following morning. Setting Academic research center. Participants Twenty-one chronic, medicated schizophrenia outpatients. Measurements and results We compared the effects of two nights of eszopiclone vs. placebo on stage 2 sleep spindles and overnight changes in MST performance. Eszopiclone increased the number and density of spindles over baseline levels significantly more than placebo, but did not significantly enhance overnight MST improvement. In the combined eszopiclone and placebo groups, spindle number and density predicted overnight MST improvement. Conclusion Eszopiclone significantly increased sleep spindles, which correlated with overnight motor sequence task improvement. These findings provide partial support for the hypothesis that the spindle deficit in schizophrenia impairs sleep-dependent memory consolidation and may be ameliorated by eszopiclone. Larger samples may be needed to detect a significant effect on memory. Given the general role of sleep spindles in cognition, they offer a promising novel potential target for treating cognitive deficits in schizophrenia.
IFLA satellite pre‐conference: open access to science information: trends, models and strategies for libraries

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to disseminate information about the IFLA pre‐conference in Chania, Crete, Greece on the subject of open access in libraries.Design/methodology/approach – Report on visit.Findings – The main focus of the meeting was open access. Much information was shared.Originality/value – This is an original work with some quoted material.
Chemical stability, enzymatic hydrolysis, and nasal uptake of amino acid ester prodrugs of acyclovir

The objective of this work was to improve nasal absorption of relatively impermeable small drug molecules via an amino acid prodrug approach. Acyclovir was selected as a model drug. L-Aspartate beta-ester, L-lysyl, and L-phenylalanyl esters of acyclovir were synthesized to investigate their effectiveness in enhancing nasal absorption of acyclovir. A stability study was conducted in phosphate buffer under various pH conditions at 25 and 37 degrees C. Enzymatic hydrolysis in rat nasal washings and plasma was conducted at 37 degrees C. A rat in situ nasal perfusion technique was utilized in this investigation to examine the rate and extent of nasal absorption of amino acid prodrugs. The remaining analyte concentrations in the nasal perfusate were quantitated by reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography. The results revealed that the L-lysyl and L-phenylalanyl esters were less stable than L-aspartate beta-ester. The stability of all three esters decreased with increasing pH and temperature. L-phenylalanyl ester is highly susceptible to plasma esterases, with an in vitro half-life 1.33 min. The rat in situ nasal perfusion study revealed that the extent of nasal absorption of acyclovir, L-lysyl and L-phenylalanyl esters was not significant (p < 1%). L-Aspartate beta-ester was absorbed to the extent of approximately 8% over 90 min of perfusion at an initial drug concentration of 100 microM. Nasal absorption of L-aspartate beta-ester of acyclovir was inhibited by L-asparagine but not by a dipeptide glycylsarcosine (Gly-Sar). The enhancement of acyclovir nasal absorption from the L-aspartate beta-ester prodrug suggests that nasal uptake of this prodrug probably involves an active transport system.
Corporate Social Responsibility and Sustainable Development: The European Union Initiative as a Case Study

Multinational enterprises (MNEs) are prime drivers of the trend of globalization. As such, they can be held responsible for the success or failure of sustainable development as it relates to continued economic growth without detriment to the environment and exploitation of the human workforce through inadequate labor standards. Corporate social responsibility is an initiative that has been touted as a possible remedy for the ills of globalization that hinder the realization of sustainable development—that is, inequities in wealth, environmental degradation, and unfair labor practices that are endemic of globalization. This Note outlines the concepts of corporate social responsibility, globalization, and sustainable development and describes the role of multinational enterprises with regard to these concepts. It also summarizes previous methods that have proved inadequate in ensuring that sustainable development becomes a reality, including national approaches, international agreements, and private initiatives. The Note then considers corporate social responsibility as a potential solution that could lead to the achievement of sustainable development. In doing this, the note examines the implications of adopting a corporate social responsibility regime for a multinational enterprise. The European Union’s (EU) initiative in creating corporate social responsibility guidelines is used as a detailed case study for scrutinizing the potential of corporate social responsibility as a viable solution. After analyzing the concept of corporate social responsibility and the need for sustainable development in light of globalization, the Note concludes that while corporate social responsibility may indeed lead to the desired goal—
Mechanics of Spatulated End-to-End Artery-to-Vein Anastomoses

It previously has been shown that in straight end-to-end artery-to-vein anastomoses, maximum dimensions are obtained with an interrupted suture line. Nearly equivalent dimensions are obtained with a continuous compliant polybutester suture (Novafil), and the smallest dimensions are obtained with a continuous noncompliant polypropylene suture (Surgilene). The present study was undertaken to examine these suture techniques in a spatulated or beveled anastomosis in living dogs. Anastomoses were constructed using continuous 6–0 polypropylene (Surgilene), continuous 6–0 polybutester (Novafil), or interrupted 6-0 polypropylene or polybutester. Thirty minutes after construction, the artery, vein, and beveled anastomoses were excised, restored to in situ length and pressurized with the lumen filled with a dilute suspension of barium sulfate. High resolution radiographs were obtained at 25 mmHg pressure increments up to 200 mmHg. Dimensions and compliance were determined from the radiographic images. Results showed that, unlike straight artery-to-vein anastomoses, there were no differences in the dimensions or compliance of spatulated anastomoses with continuous Surgilene, continuous Novafil, or interrupted suture techniques. Therefore a continuous suture technique is acceptable when constructing spatulated artery-to-vein anastomoses in patients.
Generic strategies after two decades: a reconceptualization of competitive strategy

Purpose – Current RBV‐grounded research has provided keen and valuable insight into the business‐strategy‐performance relationship. However, the accompanying shift away from the continued refinement of generic business strategy typologies has left a number of research opportunities uncultivated. This paper seeks to demonstrate how the generic strategy approach to strategy formulation can be applied today, especially in the development of parsimonious, prescriptive, and relevant tools for strategic managers.Design/methodology/approach – A new business strategy typology is developed and grounded in recent developments in the literature and in business practice.Findings – Building on Porter's low cost‐differentiation framework, this paper integrates research founded on the resource‐based view of the firm, and proposes value and market control as the two prominent overarching factors in business strategies.Practical implications – The framework proposed in this paper incorporates several research perspectives...
The TN5 Transposon

The bacterial transposon Tn5 encodes two proteins, the transposase and a related protein, the transposition inhibitor, whose relative abundance determines, in part, the frequency of Tn5 transposition. The synthesis of these proteins is programmed by a complex set of genetic regulatory elements. The host DNA methylation function, dam, inhibits transposase promoter recognition and indirectly enhances the transposition inhibitor promoter. The inhibitor lacks the N-terminal 55 amino acids of the transposase, suggesting that this sequence plays a key role in the transposition process. An intact N-terminal sequence is required for the transposase's recognition of the 19-bp end DNA sequences. This is the first critical step in the transposition process. Transposase-end DNA interaction is itself regulated by an intricate series of reactions involving several host proteins: DnaA, Dam, and Fis. The transposase is a unique protein in that it acts primarily in cis and inhibits its own activity in trans. Models to explain these properties are described. Finally circumstantial evidence suggests that transposition occurs preferentially from newly replicated DNA that has yet to be partitioned to progeny cells. This timing of transposition is likely to have a selective advantage for the host and the transposable element.
Clinicians' assessments of bipolar disorder and substance abuse as predictors of suicidal behavior in acutely hospitalized psychiatric inpatients.

Background Suicide is a major risk for those with bipolar disorder, a risk amplified by comorbid substance abuse in some, but not all, previous studies. To further explore the relationships of substance abuse, suicide, and bipolarity as they present in clinical practice, we analyzed standardized clinical data from a large acute psychiatric inpatient service. Methods Standardized clinical evaluations of 7819 patients with diagnoses of bipolar depression ( n = 990), bipolar mania ( n = 948), unipolar depressive episode ( n = 3626), or schizophrenia-schizoaffective disorders ( n = 2255) were analyzed to evaluate the relationship between current substance-use problems, substance-induced symptoms, and a current suicide crisis, as well as lifetime suicide attempts, with logistic regressions adjusting for age, gender, and ethnicity. Results Across the combined groups, current substance-use problems were significantly associated with a lifetime suicide attempt (odds ratios [ORs] 1.6–2.5) and to a lesser degree to the admission suicide crisis (ORs 1–2.2). Among bipolar (depressed/manic) patients, but not other diagnostic groups, those with both current substance-use problems and substance-induced symptoms had even higher rates of a recent suicide crisis (ORs 1.5–3.1) and of a lifetime attempt (ORs 2.5–3.4). Conclusions In bipolar patients, substance use disorder doubled and substance use disorder plus substance-induced symptoms tripled the suicidal risk. Implications for future research are discussed.
Dimerization of resveratrol trimethyl ether by phosphotungstic acid, structure confirmation of resformicol A and B

Abstract Dimerization of the trimethyl ether of resveratrol catalyzed by phosphotungstic acid gave two tetralins and a naphthalene derivative. The structure of the tetralins was obtained by X-ray crystallography and confirms the reported stereochemical configuration of resformicol A and B.
How endangered is dynamic psychiatry in residency training

The future of psychodynamic psychotherapy in residency training is in jeopardy. New priorities and forces currently aligned in academic psychiatry challenge the importance of psychodynamic psychotherapy and, by extension, its core concepts of the unconscious, defense and resistance, transference and countertransference, and the past repeating itself in the present. The exit of psychoanalysts from academic centers in the last quarter of the past century was propelled by forces including biological psychiatry, managed care, and competition from other mental health disciplines. ACGME psychotherapy competencies introduced in 2001 renewed the focus on psychotherapy training in residency and set a residency training standard for psychotherapy competency. A recent shift in academia prioritizing evidence-based medicine and a shortage of psychiatrist researchers may threaten those gains.
Splitting the sensor node

The current trend of computationally intensive applications such as audio capture, FFT, image sensing, motion detection, feature extraction and cepstrum calculations being ported to the sensor domain, alludes towards the need to handle copious amounts of data in comparison to rudimentary temperature and humidity sensing applications. Developing a split architecture based sensor platform is an effective and efficient methodology to reach the crucial goal of in-situ processing of data. Resulting in a direct reduction in the amount of information needed to be transmitted over the wireless links. The Split-Node-Architecture (SNA) which we develop addresses this very crucial aspect of sensor network design. The suitability of employing the SNA architecture is demonstrated by its performance metrics obtained by running a 128point FFT benchmark. The higher throughput, of the SNA architecture enables faster data processing upto 24 times that of the Atmel AVR architecture (MICA). Additionally a 29% improvement in power efficiency vis a vis popular sensor platforms, tilts the scales unambiguously in favor of the SNA. The low power consumption of the Co-S module, a part of SNA, results in savings upto 6uJ per 128 point FFT operation when compared to the Stargate (Intel PXA 255).
Planar polarization of Vangl2 in the vertebrate neural plate is controlled by Wnt and Myosin II signaling

The vertebrate neural tube forms as a result of complex morphogenetic movements, which require the functions of several core planar cell polarity (PCP) proteins, including Vangl2 and Prickle. Despite the importance of these proteins for neurulation, their subcellular localization and the mode of action have remained largely unknown. Here we describe the anteroposterior planar cell polarity (AP-PCP) of the cells in the Xenopus neural plate. At the neural midline, the Vangl2 protein is enriched at anterior cell edges and that this localization is directed by Prickle, a Vangl2-interacting protein. Our further analysis is consistent with the model, in which Vangl2 AP-PCP is established in the neural plate as a consequence of Wnt-dependent phosphorylation. Additionally, we uncover feedback regulation of Vangl2 polarity by Myosin II, reiterating a role for mechanical forces in PCP. These observations indicate that both Wnt signaling and Myosin II activity regulate cell polarity and cell behaviors during vertebrate neurulation.
Incorporation of radioarsenate into proteins and nucleic acids of the Ehrlich Lettré ascites carcinoma in vitro.

Incorporation of Radioarsenate into Proteins and Nucleic Acids of the Ehrlich Lettre Ascites Carcinoma In Vitro
On the minimum of extended dissipation in viscous nematodynamics

This paper develops the variational principle of minimum “extended” dissipation for slow (low Reynolds number) flows of nematic liquids as described by the five parametric Leslie–Ericksen–Parodi (LEP) constitutive equations. It is shown that the Euler’s equations for minimizer of the extended dissipative functional are the Stokes equations for the LEP fluid. When the molecular (including magnetic) field is absent, the extended dissipative functional coincides with the true dissipative functional, whose Euler equations are the Stokes equations for the Ericksen fluid.
Alternative methods of exposure minimize cardiopulmonary risk in experimental animals during minimally invasive surgery.

Background: Alternative methods of exposure are needed for minimally invasive surgery to avoid hypercarbia and acidosis associated with carbon dioxide (CO2) abdominal insufflation. The goals of this study were to determine the pulmonary and hemodynamic effects of both helium (HE) abdominal insufflation and placement of a mechanical abdominal wall-lifting device (lifter) during laparoscopy. Methods: Sixteen adult domestic pigs under general endotracheal anesthesia underwent baseline measurements of pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (PCWP), cardiac output (CO), and arterial blood gas. Six pigs underwent standard CO2 abdominal insufflation, five pigs underwent abdominal insufflation with HE, and a lifter was used for exposure in five other animals. Sequential readings of PCWP, CO, and arterial blood gas were recorded at 20-min intervals for 60 min in all 16 animals. Results: No significant changes from baseline values were noted in arterial pCO2 or pH in animals who underwent placement of the lifter at any time point. After undergoing HE insufflation, animals experienced modest but significant acidosis and little change in pCO2. There was a significant rise in arterial pCO2 and decrease in pH from baseline values at all time points in animals undergoing CO2 insufflation. Conclusions: This study shows that neither HE abdominal insufflation or the lifter have significant deleterious pulmonary or hemodynamic effects on experimental animals during laparoscopy. Gasless laparoscopy or HE insufflation may provide a safer alternative method of exposure for minimally invasive surgery in patients with pre-existing pulmonary or cardiac dysfunction. By minimizing risk in these patients, costly invasive monitoring may be avoided.
A Shortest Augmenting Path Algorithm for the Semi-Assignment Problem

The objective of this study is to develop a shortest augmenting path algorithm for solving the semi-assignment problem and conduct an extensive computational comparison with the best alternative approaches. The algorithm maintains dual feasibility and complementary slackness and works toward satisfying primal feasibility. Effective heuristics arc used to achieve an excellent advanced start, and convergence is assured via the use of the shortest augmenting path procedure using reduced costs for arc lengths. Unlike other algorithms, such as the primal simplex or the auction algorithm, each iteration during the final phase of the procedure also known as the end-game achieves one additional assignment. The software implementations of our algorithm are fastest for the semi-assignment problems that we tested. Our dense code is also faster than the best software for assignment problems. In addition, the algorithm has the best polynomial worst-case running time bound that we have seen; and the memory requirements are relatively small.
Electrophoretic and Histological Evidence for Muscle Regeneration in Ovine Muscular Dystrophy

Electrophoretic and Histological Evidence for Muscle Regeneration in Ovine Muscular Dystrophy
Wide area adaptive spectrum applications

This paper examines spectrum opportunistic systems in which the currently assigned spectrum is monitored in real time for idle bands, specific waveform types are dynamically created to utilize the idle portions of spectrum, and those portions of the spectrum are used until the primary user needs them. This application operates over significantly expanded geographic areas without the typical structure encountered in today's cellular/personal-communication-system (PCS) applications. Current spectrum policy may not yet support this type of operation in the frequency bands required for the expanded coverage. However, the approach has potential for enhanced spectrum reuse together with applications for emergency and transient scenarios in which spectrum coordination may be difficult to obtain within the operational time limits. The focus of this paper is to examine the technical performance achievable by non-overlaid, loosely structured architectures that employ multi-carrier implementations to dynamically adapt to a changing spectrum environment without predefined channel structures. For the case of assigned but unused spectrum, this architecture extends to continuous use applications representative of classical reuse scenarios.
Legal Writing Is Not What It Should Be

This Article presents and discusses nine reasons that legal writing is not as good as it should be. The reasons include inadequate preparation in college and law school, over-reliance on forms, complacency, a misguided sense of professionalism, and time pressure. The Article concludes by offering four recommendations: continue to improve law-school legal-writing programs and begin including legal drafting and plain English, train new lawyers in editing, require legal-writing training in continuing legal education, and encourage lawyers to take more individual responsibility for improvement.
Note-Taking Skills of University Students With and Without Learning Disabilities

The notes of 30 university students with learning disabilities (LD) and 30 nondisabled university students were compared on the number of cued and noncued information units recorded and the number and type of abbreviations used. Results showed that the university students with LD performed significantly lower on all variables. Implications for practitioners are provided and future research discussed.