cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Mass mortality of a Caribbean sea urchin: Immediate effects on community metabolism and other herbivores

The echinoid Diadema antillarum Philippi was an important herbivore in many areas of the Caribbean prior to the mass mortality that eliminated 95-99% of the individuals throughout the Caribbean in 1983-84. Five days after the mass mortality in St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands, algal biomass increased by 20% and algal community primary productivity dropped on both a per unit area basis (37% decrease) and per unit algal biomass basis (61% decrease). This accompanied a 50% decrease in the amount of algal biomass removed by herbivores. Concurrent with the changes in the algal community were increases in the rates of grazing by herbivorous fishes, suggesting that exploitative competition for food was occurring between D. antillarum and some herbivorous fish species. These results suggest that D. antillarum has an important role in structuring both the producer and consumer components of Caribbean coral reef ecosystems.
Instantiation is not partial identity

In order to avoid the problems faced by standard realist analyses of the “relation” of instantiation, Baxter and, following him, Armstrong each analyze the instantiation of a universal by a particular in terms of their partial identity. I introduce two related conceptions of partial identity, one mereological and one non-mereological, both of which require at least one of the relata of the partial identity “relation” to be complex. I then introduce a second non-mereological conception of partial identity, which allows for both relata to be simple. I take these three conceptions to exhaust the plausible ways of construing two entities as being partially identical. I then argue that there is no analysis (including those offered by Baxter and Armstrong) of a universal and a particular as being partially identical consistent with any of these three conceptions that (i) is coherent, (ii) is consistently realist, (iii) does not lead to absurd consequences, and (iv) offers a “solution” to the problem of instantiation that avoids the problems with the other standard realist responses. In so arguing, I offer a criticism of the analysis of instantiation as partial identity that is independent of the standard criticism that it entails the necessity of predication.
The adhesion GPCR Gpr56 regulates oligodendrocyte development via interactions with Gα12/13 and RhoA.

The adhesion class of G protein-coupled receptors (aGPCRs) is essential for peripheral nervous system myelination, but functions in central nervous system myelination are less understood. Here the authors show that the aGPCR Gpr56 plays a role in the development of myelinating oligodendrocytes and that this function is mediated by Gα12/13 proteins and Rho activation.
Properties of the +70 Kilometers per Second Cloud toward HD 203664

I present high-resolution International Ultraviolet Explorer (IUE) spectra of the ultraviolet absorption in an intermediate-velocity interstellar cloud (nu(sub LSR) approximately equal to +70 km/s) toward HD 203664. The combined, multiple IUE images result in spectra with S/N = 15-40 and resolutions of approximately 20-25 km/s. The intermediate-velocity cloud absorption is present in ultraviolet lines of C II, C II(sup *), C IV, N I, O I, Mg I, Mg II, Al II, Al III, Si II, Si III, Si IV, S II, Cr II, Mn II, Fe II, and Zn II. The relative abundances of low-ionization species suggest an electron density of 0.15-0.34/cu cm and a temperature of 5300-6100 K in the neutral and weakly ionized gas. Given the presence of high-ionization gas tracers such as Si IV and C IV, ionized portions of the cloud probably contribute to the relatively large values of n(sub e) derived from measurements of the lower ionization species. The high-ionization species in the cloud have an abundance ratio, N(C IV)/N(Si IV) approximately equal to 4.5, similar to that inferred for collisionally ionized cloud interfaces at temperatures near 10(exp 5) K along other sight lines. When referenced to sulfur, the abundances of most elements in the cloud are within a factor of 5 of their solar values, which suggests that the +70 km/s gas has a previous origin in the Galactic disk despite a recent determination by Little et al. that the cloud lies at a distance of 200-1500 pc below the Galactic plane. I have checked this result against a model of the ionization for the diffuse ionized gas layer of the Galaxy and find that this conclusion is essentially unchanged as long as the ionization parameter is low as implied by the abundances of adjoining ionization states of aluminum and silicon. The processes responsible for the production of highly ionized gas in the +70 km/s cloud appear to be able to account for the inferred dust grain destruction as well.
To Drain or Not To Drain: A Retrospective Study of Closed-Suction Drainage Following Radical Hysterectomy with Pelvic Lymphadenectomy

The records of 115 patients were reviewed following radical hysterectomy with pelvic lymphadenectomy for early stage (IA2 to IIB) cervical cancer to determine the effectiveness of closed-suction drainage in decreasing postoperative morbidity. In Group 1 (n = 67), closed-suction (Jackson-Pratt) drains were placed bilaterally in the pelvic lymphadenectomy sites, whereas in Group 2 (n = 48), no drains were utilized. The groups were similar for mean age, tumor histology, disease stage, and preoperative serum albumin and total protein. There was no difference in the mean operative time, mean estimated blood loss, or transfusion rate. Likewise, febrile morbidity rates, incidence of pelvic cellulitis, length of postoperative ileus, and total hospital stay were similar. Group 1 had an increased rate of rehospitalization and morbidity directly related to the presence of the drains. The data suggest that prophylactic surgical drainage may not be necessary to prevent postoperative morbidity following radical hysterectomy with pelvic lymphadenectomy and on occasion contributes to postoperative complications.
The effect of using problem-solving software tutors on the self-confidence of female students

We examined whether using problem-solving software tutors in Computer Science I can help improve the self-confidence of female students. We analyzed the data collected by five software tutors in spring 2006. We found that 1) the self-confidence of female Computer Science I students before using the software tutors was in many cases lower than that of male students, as has been stated in prior literature; 2) Using problem-solving software tutors improved the self-confidence of female students to be on par with that of male students when female students started with lower prior self-confidence. Since researchers have suggested that self-confidence is one of the factors contributing to the shrinking pipeline, problem-solving software tutors can be used to improve the retention of female students in Computer Science.
Neonatal CNS Injury and Developmental Outcome after Prolonged Premature Rupture of Membranes

Neonatal CNS Injury and Developmental Outcome after Prolonged Premature Rupture of Membranes
Oxidation of pesticides by purified microsomal FAD-containing monooxygenase from mouse and pig liver

The ability of purified microsomal FAD-containing monooxygenase from mouse and pig liver to oxidize pesticides has been investigated. The kinetic constants, Km and Vmax, were determined for a number of pesticide substrates including thioether-containing organophosphorus compounds and carbamates as well as (di)alkyldithiocarbamates. In general, the mouse liver enzyme had Km values higher than those of the pig liver enzyme. Values for Vmax were similar regardless of substrate, although the Vmax typical of the mouse liver enzyme was approximately twice that of the pig liver enzyme. The thioether-containing organophosphorus compounds were the best substrates for both enzymes followed by the thioether-containing carbamates. The (di)alkyldithiocarbamates were relatively poor substrates for both pig and mouse liver microsomal FAD-containing monooxygenases.
Elevated oxidation of docosahexaenoic acid, 22:6 (n − 3), in brain regions of rats undergoing ethanol withdrawal

Abstract Ethanol withdrawal is a serious clinical problem owing in part to over stimulation of ionotropic glutamate receptors in the brain and is linked to elevated oxidative damage. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that lipid peroxidation is elevated in the brain tissue of rats fed an ethanol-containing diet for 6 weeks followed by 24 h of withdrawal. We measured F 2 -isoprostanes (IsoPs), as products of arachidonic acid (20:4, n − 6) oxidation and F 4 -neuroprostanes (NeuroPs), as products of docosahexaenoic acid (22:6, n − 3; DHA) oxidation. Levels of NeuroPs were significantly elevated in the cerebral cortex (97%) and brainstem (68%) of animals undergoing ethanol withdraw versus control. In contrast, elevations in IsoP content (39%) occurred only in the cerebellum of animals in withdrawal versus control animals. These data demonstrate that DHA, versus arachidonic acid, is particularly vulnerable to oxidative damage in ethanol withdrawal.
USE OF STATISTICAL METHODS FOR TIME STUDY OF BATCH PROCESSES

(1989). USE OF STATISTICAL METHODS FOR TIME STUDY OF BATCH PROCESSES* Quality Engineering: Vol. 2, No. 1, pp. 103-111.
Electrically stimulated detrusor myoplasty.

Purpose: Many children with spina bifida and other causes of neurogenic bladder rely on clean intermittent catheterization to empty the hyporeflexic or areflexic bladder. Direct bladder and sacral nerve root stimulation have been met with limited success. We studied the electrical stimulation of a rectus abdominis muscle flap wrapped around the bladder to achieve bladder contractility and emptying.Materials and Methods: The feasibility of performing rectus detrusor myoplasty in humans was first studied in 8 cadavers. In male and female cadavers it was possible to wrap the distended bladder completely with the rectus abdominis muscle. The rectus abdominis muscle was surgically dissected with preservation of its insertion on the pubis bone and rotation of its mid section behind the bladder to effect a complete bladder wrap. The deep inferior epigastric artery and veins, and 2 most caudal intercostal nerves were preserved. This unilateral rectus abdominis muscle flap was then electrically stimulated with 2 p...
The Political Dynamics of Tobacco Control in Australia and New Zealand: Explaining Policy Problems, Instruments, and Patterns of Adoption

Recent comparative studies of the politics of tobacco control have ranked Australia and New Zealand as two of the most restrictive regimes in the world. Yet traditionally Australia and New Zealand were tobacco-growing countries in which the government supported tobacco agriculture with a variety of subsidies. Despite a slow start in comparison to some other countries, by the 1990s these two had developed strong tobacco-control regimes. This paper addresses the rise of tobacco as a policy agenda problem, what policy instruments were utilised to deal with it, the pattern of adoption of policies between the two countries, and what explains the rapid progress of tobacco-control restrictions in these two countries, based on a comparative perspective.
Adaptation of the entomopathogenic nematode, Steinernema carpocapsae, to insect food plant

Abstract We conducted assays to determine if characteristics of entomopathogenic nematodes vary in response to continued exposure to a particular insect/host plant combination, and whether selection results in changed performance on other insect/host plant combinations. Three isolates of Steinernema carpocapsae (Weiser) (Agriotos, Mexican, and Hybrid) were continuously cultured in corn-fed ( Zea mays L.) or squash-fed ( Cucurbita pepo L.) southern corn rootworm, Diabrotica undecimpunctata howardi Barber for 25 passages. The rootworm-selected nematodes were compared to the same isolates maintained on Galleria mellonella (L.) (“unselected”). There was no increase in the ability to kill rootworms in selected nematodes compared to unselected nematodes. Among rootworm-selected nematodes, there were changes based on the host plant on which the rootworms had fed. The ability of nematodes selected on corn-fed rootworms to kill corn-fed rootworms compared to squash-fed rootworms improved in the Mexican and Agriotos isolates. The squash-selected Mexican isolate lost virulence against rootworms. Virulence of the Hybrid isolate did not change in response to selection on rootworms or host plant/rootworm combination. In general, changes in infective juvenile (IJ) production were not related to number of passages through rootworms. Using computer-aided image analysis, we measured the effects of selection on length and neutral lipid density and area in IJ. IJ selected on corn-fed rootworms were longer than those selected on squash-fed rootworms or maintained in G. mellonella . Length of IJ was positively correlated with the area of stained neutral lipids. The Hybrid isolate had a greater area and density of stained lipids than the Agriotos or Mexican isolates. IJ from nematodes selected on corn-fed rootworms tended to have a greater area of stained lipids, but not lipid density, compared with IJ selected on squash-fed rootworms or maintained in G. mellonella . There was a pattern for an inverse relationship between numbers of IJ produced and measures of lipid content. This pattern is discussed with reference to trade-offs in life history characteristics. Our results suggest that some characteristics of entomopathogenic nematodes can respond to selection on insect host plant, but that changes are dependent on the nematode isolate and the particular host plant on which the insect feeds.
Skin design studies for variable camber morphing airfoils

This paper identifies the desirable attributes of a flexible skin of a morphing wing. The study is conducted using airfoil camber morphing as an example. The ideal flex-skin would be highly anisotropic, having a low in-plane axial stiffness but a high out-of-plane flexural stiffness. Reduced skin axial stiffness allows morphing at low actuation cost. However, for some substructure and actuation designs, a lower limit on the skin's in-plane axial stiffness may be required to prevent unacceptable global camber deformation under aerodynamic loads. High flexural stiffness prevents local deformation of skin sections between supports due to aerodynamic pressure loads, and avoids buckling of skin sections under compression as the airfoil cambers under actuation force. For the camber morphing application the strain levels in the flex-skin are not expected to exceed around 2%. If the axial stiffness of the flex-skin is reduced significantly, it may be necessary to consider aerodynamic stiffness (negligible vis-a-vis structural stiffness for classical airfoils) to accurately calculate deformation under loading. The approach followed in the study can be used to identify specifications for the skin and then reverse engineer and design highly anisotropic composite skins that meet the specifications.
An organocatalytic rearrangement of 2-(N-alkyl-/aryl-)amino-4-oxo-4H-1-benzopyran-3-carbaldehyde

2-(Arylamino)-4-oxo-4H-1-benzopyran-3-carbaldehyde rearranges to 4-oxo-4H-1-benzopyran-3-carbanilide when treated with glycine in the presence of formalin, but under similar conditions 2-(alkylamino)-4-oxo-4H-1-benzopyran-3-carbaldehyde rearranges to 3-alkylaminomethylenechroman-2,4-dione.
Language, Charisma, and Creativity: The Ritual Life of a Religious Movement; The Globalization of Charismatic Christianity: Spreading the Gospel of Prosperity

The Globalization of Charismatic Christianity: Spreading the Gospel of Prosperity. Simon Coleman. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 2000. xii + 264 pp., photographs, references, index. Language, Charisma, and Creativity: The Ritual Life of a Religious Movement. Thomas J. Csordas. Berkeley: University oi California Press, 1997. xxii + 320 pp., illustrations, tables, appendix, notes, reference, index.
Study of the 37Cl(d, t)36Cl reaction

Abstract Angular distributions of vector analyzing power and cross section for the 37 Cl( d , t) 36 Cl reaction leading to the first five positive parity levels in 36 Cl and the deuteron elastic scattering 3 Cl( d , d 0 ) have been measured at an incident deuteron energy of 12.0 MeV. Deuteron optical model parameters were obtained by fitting the cross section and analyzing power of the measured deuteron elastic scattering. The DWBA analysis of the ( d , t) results shows that the ground state and the first excited state are populated mainly by a l n = 2, j n = 3 2 neutron transfer while for the higher excited states several values of j n contribute significantly.
Coding for cooperation and relaying

Cooperative communications refers to network communication where nodes cooperate, rather than compete, to transmit data for themselves and others. The main goal of this talk is to review basic strategies for cooperative communications with particular emphasis on a method called “compress-and-forward”. This method has recently been used successfully to treat a variety of theoretical problems concerning relaying, e.g., determining antenna-clustering capacities, the diversity-multiplexing tradeoff, scaling laws of networks, oblivious communication rates, and suggesting problems for which cut-set bounds can be improved. Some of these results are reviewed in detail.
Serologic and molecular evidence of human herpesvirus 8 activation in renal transplant recipients.

This study was designed to determine whether there is serologic or molecular evidence of human herpesvirus 8 (HHV-8) activation in renal transplant patients, an immunocompromised population at risk for development of Kaposi's sarcoma. Indirect immunofluorescence for detection of HHV-8 serum antibody and Southern blot polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for detection of viral DNA in whole blood were used. Seroprevalence and geometric mean titer (GMT) were significantly increased in the transplant group compared with healthy adults and were comparable to those in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive adults (transplant patients, 50% [GMT 1:210]; healthy adults, 7% [GMT 1:44]; HIV-positive patients, 73% [GMT 1 :172]). Viral DNA was present in the blood of some renal transplant patients (3133 PCR-positive) but in none of 20 healthy adults. Thus, there is both serologic and molecular evidence of HHV-8 activation in the renal transplant population compared with healthy adults (P< .01). The serologic results approximate those obtained for HIV-positive adults.
From change and challenge to new directions for school leadership

Abstract Reflecting on the countries represented in this issue, this chapter analyzes the topics and problems raised and suggests, through comparative analysis, new directions for school leadership. The role of the school site leader, be the headteacher or principal, is a role laden with more responsibility than ever before. One difference between the countries is the amount of attendant authority that is linked with devolved responsibility. To varying degrees in the four countries discussed, there are issues that present a quandary for school leaders, such as centralization of some key decisions (particularly concerning curriculum) and decentralization of managerial responsibility. These international themes have implications for policymaking and for those who prepare leaders and provide ongoing professional support.
Experimental determination of the hydrothermal solubility of ReS2 and the Re–ReO2 buffer assemblage and transport of rhenium under supercritical conditions

To understand the aqueous species important for transport of rhenium under supercritical conditions, we conducted a series of solubility experiments on the Re–ReO2 buffer assemblage and ReS2. In these experiments, pH was buffered by the K–feldspar–muscovite–quartz assemblage; in sulfur-free systems was buffered by the Re–ReO2 assemblage; and and in sulfur-containing systems were buffered by the magnetite–pyrite–pyrrhotite assemblage. Our experimental studies indicate that the species ReCl40 is dominant at 400°C in slightly acidic to near-neutral, and chloride-rich (total chloride concentrations ranging from 0.5 to 1.0 M) environments, and ReCl3+ may predominate at 500°C in a solution with total chloride concentrations ranging from 0.5 to 1.5 M. The results also demonstrate that the solubility of ReS2 is about two orders of magnitude less than that of ReO2. This finding not only suggests that ReS2 (or a ReS2 component in molybdenite) is the solubility-controlling phase in sulfur-containing, reducing environments but also implies that a mixing process involving an oxidized, rhenium-containing solution and a solution with reduced sulfur is one of the most effective mechanisms for deposition of rhenium. In analogy with Re, TcS2 may be the stable Tc-bearing phase in deep geological repositories of radioactive wastes.
Iclaprim: a novel dihydrofolate reductase inhibitor for skin and soft tissue infections

Antibiotic resistance is an ever-increasing concern in the treatment of severe skin and skin-structure infections, pneumonia, bacteremia and other serious infections caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, vancomycin-resistant S. aureus, group A Streptococcus and vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus. In this review, we summarize the current status of both US FDA-approved and investigational agents aimed at this group of pathogens. We also describe, in detail, the chemistry, mechanism of action, pharmacokinetic properties and spectrum of microbiological activity of iclaprim, a novel dihydrofolate reductase inhibitor recently awarded fast-track approval status by the FDA. Finally, we review the clinical efficacy of iclaprim compared with linezolid for skin and skin-structure infections as demonstrated in Phase III randomized, controlled trials, and comment on its potential role in the treatment of other severe infections with drug-resistant Gram-positive pathogens.
Reconfiguring the Supply Network Using Current Performance Data

Reconfiguration of the supply chain network from time to time is essential for businesses to retain their competitive edge. This paper presents a methodology for reconfiguration of an existing supply chain network. The methodology is characterized by two decision levels. In the first level, the current network performance is evaluated and efficient practices are identified. In the next level, a model that incorporates efficient practices is developed to reconfigure the network. This integrated methodology allows for decision maker (DM) input throughout the process. The methodology has been implemented and tested in the reconfiguration of an outbound petroleum supply chain network for CountryMark Cooperative, Inc. In this case study, Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) is used to analyze current operations and an integer programming (IP) model that incorporates efficiency metrics is developed for selection of distribution facilities and allocation of resources to the facilities. Use of this methodology can lead to improved operations and reduced operating expenses.
X‐linked olivopontocerebellar atrophy

We present a kindred with a relatively pure cerebellar degeneration that demonstrates X-linked recessive inheritance. The unique clinical picture of affected patients in our kindred is characterized by an infantile onset of ataxia; very slow rate of progression; normal strength, reflexes, and sensation; and cerebellar degeneration with involvement of the olive and pons demonstrated by neuroimaging techniques. The distinction between this and other reported olivopontocerebellar degenerations is made on the basis of the clinical features and mode of inheritance. It is not clear if the distinct clinical pattern in this kindred represents variable expression of a previously reported condition, allelic variance of previously reported kindreds, or a separate clinical entity. Molecular analysis, currently underway, may help settle the issue.
A Valued Medicinal Plant - Chitrak ( Plumbago zeylanica Linn.) : Successful Plant Regeneration Through Various Explants and Field Performance

Protocols for plant propagation through axillary bud proliferation and organo-genesis were established for Chitrak - Plumbago zeylanica Linn. (Plumbaginaceae). MS medium with 4.4 mg/l BA and 1.4 mg/l IAA elicited the maximum number of shoots (12 multiple shoots) from nodal explants. Leaf based callus differentiated into more than 30 shoots on MS with 160 mg/l adenine sulphate. The regenerated shoots were rooted on MS with 1.2 mg/l IBA within ten days. Almost, 96% of the rooted shoots survived hardening when transferred to the field. The regenerated plants did not show any morphological change and variation in levels of secondary metabolite when compared with the mother stock. Key words: Medicinal plant, Regeneration, Field performance DOI = 10.3329/ptcb.v16i2.1108 Plant Tissue Cult. & Biotech. 16(2): 77-84, 2006 (December)
Transition Probabilities for Ionized Atoms

The graphical analysis of systematic trends along iso-electronic sequences has proved to be an invaluable tool for organizing and evaluating f-value data [1, 2]. While formally these graphs encompass an entire sequence, the main interest up till now has really been in the moderately ionized regime, up to say 10 or 15 times ionized. The behavior of very highly ionized species has been used mainly to establish the ultimate systematic trend.
Fabrication of Bio-Inspired Elastomer Nanofiber Arrays with Spatulate Tips using Notching Effect

In this paper, a fabrication method for nanoscale elastomer fiber arrays with spatulate tip endings as gecko foot- hairs inspired nanoscale fibrillar dry adhesives is proposed. A master mold is fabricated with silicon-on-insulator (SOI) wafer using the interference lithography and the notching effect during deep reactive ion etch process. Liquid polymer is poured over the mold in vacuum chamber and cured. Final nanoscale elastomer fiber arrays are released after etching the SOI master mold. Fabricated polyurethane nanofiber arrays with 410 nm fiber diameter and 2 mum height demonstrated macroscale adhesion pressures up to 14.1 N/cm2 on a 1 mm diameter silicon flat disk for a preload pressure of 6.7 N/cm2.
Gender Differences in the Membrane Transport of Endogenous and Exogenous Compounds

Gender differences have been well described in pharmacokinetics and contribute to the interindividual variation in drug disposition, therapeutic response, and drug toxicity. Sex-related differences in the membrane transport of endogenous substrates and xenobiotics have been reported in various organs of the body including kidney, liver, intestine, and brain. These gender-related differences in transport systems could also contribute to interindividual variability in pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics. This review will focus on current knowledge of gender-associated differences in the transport of endogenous and exogenous compounds in a variety of body organs and will discuss the implications and the clinical significance of these observations.
Corrosion Behavior of Model Zirconium Alloys in Deaerated Supercritical Water at 500°C

Abstract Several zirconium alloys with differing weight percentages of Cr, Fe, Cu, and Mo were exposed to flowing, pure supercritical water at 500°C for up to 150 days in an effort to determine their corrosion behavior for consideration in the supercritical water reactor. The weight gains of the alloys were measured, and oxides were characterized after various times. The test results showed a wide range of corrosion behavior depending on the alloy composition and process temperature. The alloys most resistant to corrosion were those containing Cr and Fe, three of which showed protective stable oxides, low corrosion rates, and no breakaway behavior. The ZrCr, ZrCu, ZrMo, and ZrCuMo alloys all exhibited high corrosion rates and nonprotective oxides. Analysis of the oxide layer showed that the oxide consisted mostly of monoclinic zirconia (ZrO2). The structure of the oxide-metal interface in the five protective alloys exhibited characteristics that were also seen in protective oxides formed at low temperatur...
Chronic ethanol self-administration in macaques shifts dopamine feedback inhibition to predominantly D2 receptors in nucleus accumbens core

Abstract Background Given the high level of homology between nonhuman primates and humans in regard to anatomy, physiology and ethanol drinking patterns, nonhuman primates represent an unparalleled preclinical model for examining the neurobiological basis of ethanol abuse. Methods Here we examined the neurochemical consequences of chronic daily ethanol use using fast-scan cyclic voltammetry in brain slices containing the nucleus accumbens core or dorsolateral caudate taken from male cynomolgus macaques following ethanol drinking. Results We found that in both regions the ability of ethanol to decrease dopamine release was unchanged, indicating that ethanol self-administration does not produce tolerance or sensitization to ethanol effects on dopamine release at the dopamine terminal at this time point. We also found that in the nucleus accumbens core, autoregulation of dopamine release was shifted from equal D2 and D3 receptor involvement in control animals to primarily D2 receptor-mediated in drinkers. Specifically, the effect quinpirole, a D2/D3 receptor agonist, on dopamine release was equal across groups; however, dopamine signals were reversed to a greater extent by the selective D3 receptor antagonist SB-277,011A in control animals, indicating a greater contribution of D2 receptors in quinpirole-induced inhibition following ethanol self-administration. In the dorsolateral caudate, the effects of quinpirole and reversal with SB-277,011A was not different between ethanol and control slices. Conclusions This work provides novel insight into the dopaminergic adaptations resulting from chronic ethanol use in nonhuman primates and indicates that alterations in D2/D3 dopamine autoreceptor signaling may be an important neurochemical adaptation to ethanol consumption during early use.
Home on the Range: Establishment of a Canada Thistle Biocontrol Agent

I nvasive weeds are one of the worst scourges within rangelands, and it is often dif cult to control them using conventional approaches such as herbicides or mowing. But all is not lost—insect allies can help us combat these noxious plants! We are talking about insect biocontrol agents, or plant-eating bugs that feed on weeds. However, there are hurdles these insects must overcome to successfully control weed populations; the rst is establishing a viable population after being released. In this article we fo- cus on one such ecological drama, which is the biocontrol of Canada thistle in North Dakota with a stem-mining weevil. DOI: 10.2458/azu_rangelands_v34i5_prischmann-voldseth
Sedimentology and Structure of Franciscan Assemblage, Yolla Bolly Terrane, Northern California: ABSTRACT

The Yolla Bolly terrane of the Franciscan assemblage in northern California is a typical subduction complex that has undergone penetrative deformation and metamorphism to the high-pressure/low-temperature blueschist facies. Detailed mapping combined with sedimentologic analysis has enabled us to: (1) reconstruct a probable paleosedimentary environment; (2) analyze the interaction between deformation and metamorphism during and after subduction; and (3) speculate on subsequent deformational history including tectonic accretion to North America. The Yolla Bolly terrane consists of several thrust-bound lithologic units: a lower unit of disrupted mudstone and thin-bedded sandstone (broken formation) containing scarce volcanic flows and beds of radiolarian chert; a middle unit of predominantly thick-bedded to massive sandstone (metagraywacke) that includes several zones of radiolarian chert; and an upper unit of mudstone and thin-bedded sandstone (broken formation) containing numerous intrusive and extrusive volcanic rocks as well as rare radiolarian chert. Coeval ages (Tithonian to Valanginian) on radiolarians from all three units, together with the sedimentologic data, suggest that the rocks represent a continent-derived submarine fan, deposited in a complex transform graben possibly similar to the present-day Gulf of Californ a or basins in the California continental borderland. Radiometric ages of approximately 100 m.y. on metagraywacke containing lawsonite and aragonite indicate that these rocks were subducted and metamorphosed to a high-pressure/low-temperature mineral assemblage about 30 m.y. after they were formed. Closely following subduction, the rocks were probably involved in a collision that imbricated and tectonically returned the subduction complex to the surface. End_of_Article - Last_Page 902------------
Mechanism-based inactivation of γ-aminobutyric acid aminotransferase by 3-amino-4-fluorobutanoic acid

The mechanism of inactivation of the pyridoxal 5'-phosphate (PLP)-dependent enzyme gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) aminotransferase by 3-amino-4-fluorobutanoic acid (2) has been investigated. As in the case of the homologue, 4-amino-5-fluoropentanoic acid (1), 2 equiv of radiolabeled inactivator become covalently attached to the enzyme, and no transamination, as determined by the lack of conversion of [1-14C] alpha-ketoglutarate into [1-14C] glutamate during inactivation, was observed. In the case of 1, the conclusion was that inactivation was completely the result of modification of the coenzyme and that there was no metabolic turnover; every enzyme molecule catalysed the conversion of one molecule of inactivator to the activated species, which inactivated the enzyme by an enamine mechanism. With 2, however, 6.7 +/- 0.7 equiv of fluoride ions were released during inactivation, and it took 7.6 +/- 0.7 inactivator molecules to inactivate each enzyme dimer. Since no transamination was occurring, another metabolic event besides inactivation must result from the PLP form of the enzyme. Inactivation of GABA amino-transferase with [1,2-14C]-2 produced [14C] acetoacetic acid (about 5.5 equiv) as the metabolite. The 1.93 +/- 0.25 equiv of radioactivity covalently bound to the enzyme after inactivation with [1,2-14C]-2 and gel filtration were completely released by base treatment. HPLC analysis showed that three radioactive compounds, identified as 2, the product of reaction of PLP with acetone (3), and the product of reaction of PLP with acetoacetate (4), were detected. The release of 3 and 4 and the prevention of release of radioactivity by treatment with sodium borohydride are consistent with the formation of covalent intermediates that have beta-carbonyl-like character, such as 6 and/or 7 (Scheme 2). Inactivation of [3H] PLP-reconstituted GABA aminotransferase with 2 followed by gel filtration then base denaturation released all of the radioactivity as a mixture of PLP, 3, and 4. Inactivation with [1,2-14C]-2 resulted in the release of 1.37 equiv of 14CO2, which was shown to be the result of decarboxylation of the acetoacetate/4 after release from the enzyme. These results are not consistent with a Michael addition mechanism (Scheme 3), but are consistent with inactivation by an enamine mechanism; release of the enamine five out of seven turnovers accounts for the formation of acetoacetate as the metabolite. To account for the detection of PLP and 2 after denaturation, it is suggested that a nonproductive formation of the Schiff base of PLP with 2 occurs in the second subunit of the enzyme; this complex is released and hydrolysed to PLP and 2 upon base denaturation.
Comparison of Results from the MCNP™ Criticality Validation Suite Using ENDF/B-VI and Preliminary ENDF/B-VII Nuclear Data

The MCNP Criticality Validation Suite is a collection of 31 benchmarks taken from the International Handbook of Evaluated Criticality Safety Benchmark Experiments. MCNP5 calculations clearly demonstrate that, overall, nuclear data for a preliminary version of ENDF/B‐VII produce better agreement with the benchmarks in the suite than do corresponding data from ENDF/B‐VI. Additional calculations identify areas where improvements in the data still are needed.
Slotline annular ring elements and their applications to resonator, filter and coupler design

A slotline type of annular ring element has been developed as a new circuit component for resonator, filter, and hybrid coupler applications. Various coupling methods were devised for the use of this slotline ring in many applications. A new type of slotline dual-mode filter has been developed with a bandwidth of 12.3% and a stopband attenuation of more than 30 dB at the center frequency of 3.5 GHz. Another slotline type of cross-over hybrid ring coupler which utilized a slotline T-junction and a resistively-coupled slotline ring has also been developed with a bandwidth of more than 80%, an excellent power dividing balance of +or-0.2 dB, and a fairly good isolation of 35 dB. With the ease of adding series and shunt components, the slotline annular ring element should have many applications for MICs and MMICs. >
Project management: methodologies versus madness in the 21st Century

This paper is a catalogue of seven inter-locked propositions about the future of software project management as a tool for getting software products out of the door. The authors claim that, while software project management is here to stay, the day-to-day activities of project managers are likely to dramatically change over the next ten years, and that the current methods of training project managers may not be giving students the most immediately usable skills.
Aminophylline for the prevention of apnea during prostaglandin E1 infusion.

Background. Apnea is associated with prostaglandin E 1 infusion (PGE 1 ) used in the palliation of ductal-dependent congenital heart lesions. Hypothesis. Aminophylline is a central respiratory stimulant and will decrease the incidence of PGE 1 -associated apnea and the need for intubation for apnea in infants with ductal-dependent congenital heart disease. Methods. Informed consent was obtained for all patients. In a prospective, double-blinded, placebo-controlled study, newborn infants with ductal-dependent congenital heart disease were randomized to receive either aminophylline or placebo during initiation and maintenance of PGE 1 , which was started at 0.01 μg/kg/min and increased to 0.03 μg/kg/min. Aminophylline was given as a bolus dose of 6 mg/kg before or during initiation of PGE 1 , and continued at 2 mg/kg dose every 8 hours for 72 hours. Serum aminophylline levels were checked at 18 and 36 hours. The primary study endpoint was intubation for apnea, with a secondary endpoint of apnea, as defined as acute cessation of breathing with associated hypoxia and bradycardia. Results. The study evaluated 42 infants. The 2 groups were similar for gestational age, weight, hematocrit, and use of sedation. In the aminophylline group, serum levels were 7.6 ± 1.2 μg/mL. No significant side effects of aminophylline were seen. Infants receiving aminophylline ( n = 21) were less likely to have apnea (2 vs 11) or be intubated for apnea (0 vs 6). Length of postoperative stay and survival to discharge were similar between the 2 groups. Conclusions. Aminophylline was effective for the prevention of apnea and intubation for apnea associated with PGE 1 in infants with ductal-dependent congenital heart disease.
Personal Selling and Sales Management Abstracts

Raj AgnihotriUniversity of Texas ArlingtonAlexander HaasUniversity of GiessenEdward NowlinKansas State UniversityFrederik BeukUniversity of AkronFernando JaramilloUniversity of Texas ArlingtonCindy...
Dynamic scan clock control for test time reduction maintaining peak power limit

We dynamically monitor per cycle scan activity to speed up the scan clock for low activity cycles without exceeding the specified peak power budget. The activity monitor is implemented either as on-chip hardware or through pre-simulated and stored test data. In either case a handshake protocol controls the rate of test data flow between the automatic test equipment (ATE) and device under test (DUT). The test time reduction accomplished depends upon an average activity factor α. For low α, about 50% test time reduction is analytically shown. With moderate activity, α = 0.5, simulated test data gives about 25% test time reduction for ITC02 benchmarks. For full scan s38584, the dynamic scan clock control reduced the test time by 19% when fully specified ATPG vectors were used and by 43% for vectors with don't cares. BIST with dynamic clock showed about 19% test time reduction for the largest ISCAS89 circuits in which the hardware activity monitor and scan clock control required about 2–3% hardware overhead.
Crystallization in oriented polymers: A framework for analyzing orientation distributions

A framework is presented for analyzing the changes that occur in the orientation distribution of polymer segments when crystallization occurs in an initially amorphous precursor. Existing theories which relate crystalline orientation distribution to that of the precursor can be incorporated in this framework in a straightforward manner. The orientation distribution of segments that remain uncrystallized is inferred from a kinetic analysis of the incorporation of precursor segments into growing crystals. The relevance of such a framework in understanding polymer fabrication processes is discussed briefly with examples in fiber formation from the melt.
Which Came First, the Doer or the Deed?

Two theories of action—methodological individualism and composite agency theory—are compared, together with their associated concepts of moral responsibility. They agree that deeds are done by doers, and that moral responsibility for a deed lies with its doer, but they differ on the definition of the doer. Methodological individualism holds that doers are limited to human individuals. Composite agency theory, noting that most deeds can be done only by humans working in concert with nonhumans (this is especially clear when computers are involved), defines a doer as whatever combination of human and nonhuman entities is necessary to accomplish a deed. Methodological individualism limits moral responsibility to human individuals while composite agency theory attributes it to the combination of humans and nonhumans that did the deed. Objections to this view of moral responsibility, and responses to them, are discussed. In the West, methodological individualism is shown to be rooted in humanistic modernity, while composite agency theory emerges from postmodernity. Nonwestern examples similar to both composite agency theory and methodological individualism are reviewed.
Patenting Tax Strategies: Controversial Subject Matter

An observer has noted: “the successful patenting of tax strategies now limits Congress’ ability to shape economic policy through legislation and places that power in the hand of individual patent holders.” It is unlikely that Congress could have intended such a possible result; and, it is equally unlikely that Congress intended to allow tax patents that can undermine the equal application and administration of tax law. Given these growing concerns, Congress should carefully observe recent developments in the area of tax strategy patents and determine if generally applicable patent standards are sufficient to deal with the unique problems that this particular group of patents presents.In Part II, this paper will examine the rationale underlying patents and will discuss the requirements for obtaining this legal status. Part III will detail the progeny of the “business method patent” in State Street Bank & Trust Co. v. Signature Financial Group, Inc. and will examine some patents falling within this grouping. Part IV will set forth the views of groups acutely affected by tax patents and examine actions they have taken in this area of the law. Part V will explore recent legislative developments regarding tax strategy patents and will argue their effectiveness in balancing the goals of patent and tax law. Part VI will examine new precedent in the area of “business method patents” set by In Re Bilski and will explain how it shapes the patentability of tax strategies going forward.
Is acute appendicitis a surgical emergency

Urgent appendectomy has become the basis of management for acute appendicitis because of the disparity in morbidity and mortality rates between perforated and nonperforated appendicitis. Immediate surgery results in the confirmation of diagnosis and the control of sepsis without the risk of recurrent appendicitis. However, when notified by the emergency room of the diagnosis, many surgeons are opting to begin antibiotics and intravenous fluids and to schedule the appendectomy at their convenience. We hypothesize that using intravenous antibiotics and hydration to delay appendectomy until "normal business hours" has a negative impact on patient morbidity and mortality. During a 23-month period, the medical records of 81 patients at a single institution who underwent appendectomy were reviewed. All patients had preoperative CT scans and all operations were performed by one of two surgeons. Group A included those patients who underwent appendectomy within 10 hours of CT diagnosis and group B included those appendectomies performed greater than 10 hours after diagnosis. Wound complications, antibiotic use, total analgesic requirements, length of operation, and hospital length of stay were used for comparison. The average time to operation (3.18 vs 15.85 hours), operative time (54.1 vs 55.7 minutes), length of stay (2.65 vs 2.09 days), wound infections (4 vs 0), and antibiotic use at discharge (19 vs 3) for group A and B were not statistically different. This data suggests that delaying operative intervention for acute appendicitis to accommodate a surgeon's preference or to maximize a hospital's efficiency does not pose a significant risk to the patient.
Schüchternheit – die Entdeckung und Bekämpfung einer »Volkskrankheit«

Schuchternheit ist »kein harmloses Problem«, lasst uns ein einschlagiger Ratgeber wissen, das im Jahr 2007 erschienene »Buch fur Schuchterne« (Bandelow 2007, S. 18), das den Betroffenen im Untertitel »Wege aus der Selbstblockade« verspricht.
A Single Molecule Level Study of the Temperature-Dependent Kinetics for the Formation of Metal Porphyrin Monolayers on Au(111) from Solution

Scanning tunneling microscopy was used to make the first molecular scale measurements of the temperature dependence of composition of an adlayer at the solution–solid interface. We conclusively demonstrate that metal porphyrins adsorb very strongly on Au(111) at the solution solid interface such that the monolayer composition is entirely kinetically controlled below about 100 °C. The barrier for desorption is so great in fact that a temperature of 135 °C is required to induce desorption over a period of hours. Moreover, cobalt(II) octaethylporphyrin (CoOEP) and NiOEP desorb at different rates from different sites on the surface. We have measured the rate constant for desorption of CoOEP into phenyloctane to be 6.7 × 10–5/s at 135 °C. On the basis of these measurements, an upper bound can be set for the desorption rate of NiOEP into phenyloctane as 6.7 × 10–4/s at 135 °C. For solutions of the order of 100 μM in NiOEP or CoOEP, a dense monolayer is formed within seconds, and the adsorption rate constants fa...
Disposal of saline wastewater from electrical power plants

Saline wastewater from a coal-fired Utah Power Plant has been applied in central Utah, USA, since 1987, to irrigate various agricultural crops. The primary goals of this research: to dispose of saline wastewater by maximising actual evapotranspiration (ETa) and to prevent contamination of surface and groundwater by eliminating runoff and throughout the years (1987-2005). Plots were established where the effects of irrigation on water and salt budgets and crop yield could be carefully monitored. Results indicate that yield and ETa are likely to decrease only slightly for the coming years if saline wastewater is used for irrigation.