text:
Biomaterials (v.27, #21)
Calendar (I).
Editorial board (CO2).
The integrity of welded interfaces in ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene: Part 2—Interface toughness by David W. Haughie; C. Paul Buckley; Junjie Wu (3875-3881).
In Part 2 of a study of welding of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE), experiments were conducted to measure the interfacial fracture energy of butt welds, for various welding times and temperatures above the melting point. Their toughness was investigated at 37 °C in terms of their fracture energy, obtained by adapting the essential work of fracture (EWF) method. However, a proportion of the welded samples (generally decreasing with increasing welding time or temperature) failed in dual ductile/brittle mode, hence invalidating the EWF test. Even those failing in purely ductile mode showed a measurable interface work of fracture only for the highest weld temperature and time: 188 °C and 90 min. Results from the model presented in Part 1 show that this corresponds to the maximum reptated molecular weight reaching close to the peak in the molar mass distribution. Hence this work provides the first experimental evidence that the slow rate of self-diffusion in UHMWPE leads to welded interfaces acting as low-toughness crack paths. Since such interfaces exist around every powder particle in processed UHMWPE this problem cannot be avoided, and it must be accommodated in design of hip and knee bearing surfaces made from this polymer.
Keywords: Adhesion; Fracture toughness; Interface; Joint replacement; Polyethylene;
Comparison of VEGF-producing cells in periprosthetic osteolysis by J.P. Spanogle; K. Miyanishi; T. Ma; N.J. Epstein; R.L. Smith; S.B. Goodman (3882-3887).
The pro-angiogenic cytokine vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) has been implicated in periprosthetic osteolysis and subsequent aseptic loosening of implants following total hip arthroplasty (THA). The goal of this study was to investigate whether increased VEGF at the bone–implant interface is secondary to a greater number of VEGF-producing cells or to increased VEGF production by individual cells. Real time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) techniques were used to assess the expression of VEGF mRNA (isoforms 121, 165, 189) in periprosthetic tissues from revision THAs. Immunofluorescence was used to determine both differences in overall cellularity and in VEGF-producing cell type (macrophages, fibroblasts, endothelial cells) between patients with periprosthetic osteolysis (OL) and a control group undergoing primary THA for osteoarthritis (OA). Quantitative analysis of VEGF release in periprosthetic membranes via RT-PCR demonstrated no significant difference in the per-cell mRNA production of VEGF isoforms 121 165, or 189 between OL and OA patient groups. Immunofluorescence showed both higher cellularity and higher overall VEGF expression in the OL group. Immunofluorescence also showed a significant increase in macrophages in the OL group, but no significant difference in the proportion of fibroblasts or endothelial cells between the OL and OA groups. Co-localization of CD68+ and CD11b+ macrophage fluorescent signals with VEGF signal was greater in the OL group than in the OA group. Our results demonstrate that increased VEGF in OL periprosthetic tissue compared to OA synovium is correlated to increased numbers of VEGF-producing CD68+ and CD11b+ macrophages. Impact statement: Aseptic loosening, caused in large part by OL, remains the major cause of failed THAs leading to revision surgery. At the bone–implant interface, we found increased numbers of macrophages—cellular mediators of OL—and increased VEGF expression. VEGF may be a possible target for therapeutic intervention in mitigating OL.
Keywords: Osteolysis; Macrophage; VEGF (Vascular endothelial growth factor); Fibroblast; Endothelium; Fluroscence;
The effect of particulate material on the regulation of chemokine receptor expression in leukocytes by Keiko Fujiyoshi; John Alan Hunt (3888-3896).
Cellular chemotaxis is one of the most significant components of the host response to implanted materials. However, the effect of materials and their particulates on the regulation of chemokine receptor expression is not well known. This study investigated the effects of alloy particulates on the regulation of CXCR1 and CXCR2 expression on leukocytes from whole blood and purified leukocyte cultures. The volumetric particle concentration and opsonisation dependent manner of CXCR1 and CXCR2 expression on neutrophils and CCR1 and CCR2 expression on monocytes/macrophages was analysed using both flow cytometry (FACS) and real time-PCR. Variation in volumetric concentrations of particulates demonstrated that cell:particulate ratios of 1:1 of non-opsonised NiCr alloy induced the down regulation of CXCR1, and 1:0.25 of opsonised NiCr induced the up regulation of CXCR2. CoCr alloy particulates had no effect on CXCR expression. This study demonstrated that the regulation of chemokine receptor expression could be effected by the properties of materials and the expression of these receptors may contribute to host cellular reactions such as chemotaxis. This study also demonstrated that the response of leukocytes can be demonstrated using a whole blood assay for the study of chemokine receptor expression after direct contact with materials.
Keywords: Neutrophil; Chemokine receptors; Particulate material;
Mechanical and histological evaluation of a PMMA-based bone cement modified with γ-methacryloxypropyltrimethoxysilane and calcium acetate by Tadashi Tsukeoka; Masahiko Suzuki; Chikara Ohtsuki; Atsushi Sugino; Yoshikazu Tsuneizumi; Jin Miyagi; Kouichi Kuramoto; Hideshige Moriya (3897-3903).
Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) bone cement is widely used for prosthetic fixation in orthopaedic surgery; however, the interface between bone and cement is a weak zone. We developed a bioactive PMMA cement through modification with γ-methacryloxypropyltrimethoxysilane (MPS) and calcium acetate. The purpose of this study was to compare the handling, mechanical and histological properties of the modified bone cement with those of the conventional cement. The modified specimens exhibited higher bonding strength between bone and implant. Histological observation and micro-focus X-ray computed tomogram (micro-CT) images showed that the modified cement exhibited osteoconduction, which the conventional PMMA bone cement lacked. The modification was found to be effective in enabling osteoconduction with PMMA bone cement, thus providing stable fixation for a long period after implantation.
Keywords: Bioactivity; Bone cement; Mechanical property; In vitro test; In vivo test;
Bioactivity and cytocompatibility of zirconia (ZrO2) films fabricated by cathodic arc deposition by Xuanyong Liu; Anping Huang; Chuanxian Ding; Paul K. Chu (3904-3911).
Zirconium oxide thin films were fabricated on silicon wafers using a filtered cathodic arc system in concert with oxygen plasma. The structure and phase composition of the zirconium oxide thin films were characterized by atomic force microscopy (AFM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Rutherford backscattering spectrometry (RBS), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The bioactivity was assessed by investigating the formation of apatite on the film surface after soaking in simulated body fluids. Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMMSC) were used to further evaluate the cytocompatibility of the materials. The results indicate that the films are composed of stoichiometric ZrO2 and the composition is quite uniform throughout the thickness. Bone-like apatite can be formed on the surface of the ZrO2 thin film in our SBF immersion experiments, suggesting that the surface is bioactive. The outermost layer of the ZrO2 thin film comprises nano-sized particles that can be identified by AFM images taken on the thin film surface and TEM micrographs obtained from the interface between the ZrO2 thin film and apatite layer. The nanostructured surface is believed to be the key factor that apatite is induced to precipitate on the surface. Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells are observed to grow and proliferate in good states on the film surface. Our results show that ZrO2 thin films fabricated by cathodic arc deposition exhibit favorable bioactivity and cytocompatibility.
Keywords: ZrO2 thin film; Cathodic arc deposition; Bioactivity; Apatite;
Osteoblast functions on functionalized PMMA-based polymers exhibiting Staphylococcus aureus adhesion inhibition by Fani Anagnostou; Aurore Debet; Graciela Pavon-Djavid; Zakaryia Goudaby; Gérard Hélary; Véronique Migonney (3912-3919).
Staphylococcus aureus adhesion and osteoblast functions were assessed on functionalized poly(methyl methacrylate)-based terpolymers bearing randomly distributed carboxylate and sulfonate groups. These terpolymers were synthesized by radical polymerization, characterized by nuclear resonance spectroscopy and classified by the ratio R=[COO−/COO−+SO3 −] in the range 0.5–0.8. Bacterial adhesion study showed that fibronectin-coated terpolymers with R varying from 0.5 to 0.8 exhibited inhibition rate of S. aureus adhesion from 90% to 98% as compared to the adhesion on unfunctionalized poly(methyl methacrylate). In contrast, the adhesion of osteoblasts onto the same functionalized terpolymers was decreased by 20% when compared to the results obtained on poly(methyl methacrylate). While the amount of attached osteoblasts are similar onto all the functionalized terpolymers whatever its R value, the cell proliferation was different and was found to vary with R in the range 0.5–0.8. Osteoblast proliferation, alkaline phosphatase activity and accumulation of calcium in the extracellular matrix of these cells, cultured on the functionalized terpolymers with R equal to 0.7–0.8 were similar to that observed onto non-functionalized poly(methyl methacrylate). In contrast, osteoblast proliferation was inhibited on terpolymers with an R value around 0.6. These results provide evidence that functionalized poly(methyl methacrylate)-based terpolymers with R ratio equaling 0.7–0.8 simultaneously inhibit bacteria adhesion and support osteoblast functions pertinent to new bone formation. These functionalized polymers could, therefore, be used as coating or grafted on orthopedic and dental implants to render them both bone compatible and able to prevent bacterial infection.
Keywords: Functionalized PMMA-based polymers; Osteoblast proliferation; Osteoblast phenotype; Bacterial adhesion; S. aureus;
Enzymatic degradation of poly(ether urethane) and poly(carbonate urethane) by cholesterol esterase by Elizabeth M. Christenson; Sachin Patel; James M. Anderson; Anne Hiltner (3920-3926).
This study examined the effect of cholesterol esterase (CE) on the degradation of commercial poly(ether urethane) (PEU) and poly(carbonate urethane) (PCU). Unstrained PEU and PCU films were incubated in 400 U/mL CE solution or a buffer control for 36 days. The study used a concentration of cholesterol esterase that was considerably higher than the estimated physiological level in order to accelerate degradation. However, characterization of treated polyurethane films with SEM, attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) and GPC analysis revealed only a small loss in surface soft segment content. Comparison with implanted PEU and PCU films led to the conclusion that any effect of enzymatic hydrolysis was confined to the immediate surface, and the magnitude of the effect was too small to contribute significantly to in vivo degradation. The study confirmed that oxidation, rather than enzymatic hydrolysis, is the primary mechanism responsible for the observed biodegradation of PEU and PCU. The oxidative H2O2/CoCl2 treatment continues to accurately predict the long-term biostability of polyurethanes.
Keywords: Poly(carbonate urethane); Poly(ether urethane); Biodegradation; Cholesterol esterase; In vivo; In vitro;
Ectopic bone formation in mice associated with a lactic acid/dioxanone/ethylene glycol copolymer–tricalcium phosphate composite with added recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2 by Minori Kato; Takashi Namikawa; Hidetomi Terai; Masatoshi Hoshino; Shimpei Miyamoto; Kunio Takaoka (3927-3933).
A new putty-like material with bone-inducing capacity was made by combining a block copolymer of poly d,l-lactic acid with randomly inserted p-dioxanone and polyethylene glycol (PLA-DX-PEG) and beta-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) powder with added recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2 (rhBMP-2). To optimize the material's efficacy for bone formation, we formulated the optimal composition ratio of the respective constituent that gives the greatest osteoinductive efficacy in a mouse model of ectopic bone formation.In this series of studies, we investigated the size of ectopic bone mass induced 3 and 6 weeks after implantation of the materials composed of 30 mg of PLA-DX-PEG with 2 μg of rhBMP-2 and 0, 15, 30, or 60 mg of β-TCP powder. An additional experiment was designed to investigate how content ratios of β-TCP powder in 30 mg-putty implants (0%, 16.7%, 33.3%, 50%, 66.7%, 83.3%, or 100%) for a fixed dose (5 μg) of the rhBMP-2 altered the size of the induced ossicle.The results from the first experiment indicated that the bone yields were linearly dependent on the amount of additional β-TCP powder. In the second experiment, the largest ossicles induced by 5 μg of rhBMP-2 were obtained when the polymer/β-TCP ratio was 1/2 in mice. The data provide important insights into the fabrication of implants that provide efficacious delivery of rhBMP-2. The new putty-like material may be valuable for repairing or regenerating bone in a clinical setting.
Keywords: Bone morphogenetic protein (BMP); Biodegradation; Bone; Bone repair; Drug delivery;
Electrospinning of chitin nanofibers: Degradation behavior and cellular response to normal human keratinocytes and fibroblasts by Hyung Kil Noh; Sung Won Lee; Jin-Man Kim; Ju-Eun Oh; Kyung-Hwa Kim; Chong-Pyoung Chung; Soon-Chul Choi; Won Ho Park; Byung-Moo Min (3934-3944).
An electrospinning method was used to fabricate chitin nanofibrous matrices for biodegradability and cell behavior tests. The morphology of as-spun chitin nanofibers (Chi-N) and commercial chitin microfibers (Beschitin W®; Chi-M) was investigated by scanning electron microscopy. From the image analysis, the average diameters of Chi-N and Chi-M were 163 nm and 8.77 μm, respectively. During in vitro degradation for 15 days, the degradation rate of Chi-N was faster than that of Chi-M, likely due to higher surface area of Chi-N. Chi-N that was grafted into rat subcutaneous tissue had almost degraded within 28 days, and no inflammation could be seen on the nanofiber surfaces or in the surrounding tissues (except in the early stage wound). To assay and compare the cytocompatibility and cell behavior with Chi-N and Chi-M, cell attachment and spreading of normal human keratinocytes and fibroblasts seeded on chitin matrices and the interaction between cells and chitin fibers were studied. Relatively high cell attachment and spreading of all the cells tested were observed on Chi-N in comparison to Chi-M, and Chi-N treated with type I collagen significantly promoted the cellular response. Our results indicate that the Chi-N, alone or with extracellular matrix proteins (particularly type I collagen), could be potential candidates for the cell attachment and spreading of normal human keratinocytes and fibroblasts. This property of Chi-N might be particularly useful for wound healing and regeneration of oral mucosa and skin.
Keywords: Electrospinning; Chitin nanofibers; Degradation; Extracellular matrix protein; Cell behavior;
The effect of environmental factors on the response of human corneal epithelial cells to nanoscale substrate topography by Ana I. Teixeira; George A. McKie; John D. Foley; Paul J. Bertics; Paul F. Nealey; Christopher J. Murphy (3945-3954).
We have previously shown that human corneal epithelial cells sense and react to nanoscale substrate topographic stimuli [Teixeira AI, Abrams GA, Bertics PJ, Murphy CJ, Nealey PF. Epithelial contact guidance on well-defined micro- and nanostructured substrates. J Cell Sci 2003;116(10):1881–92; Karuri NW, Liliensiek S, Teixeira AI, Abrams G, Campbell S, Nealey PF, et al. Biological length scale topography enhances cell-substratum adhesion of human corneal epithelial cells. J Cell Sci 2004;117(15):3153–64]. Here we demonstrate that cellular responses to nanoscale substrate topographies are modulated by the context in which these stimuli are presented to cells. In Epilife medium, cells aligned preferentially in the direction perpendicular to nanoscale grooves and ridges. This is in contrast to a previous study where cells cultured in DMEM/F12 medium aligned in the direction parallel to nanoscale topographic features [Teixeira AI, Abrams GA, Bertics PJ, Murphy CJ, Nealey PF. Epithelial contact guidance on well-defined micro- and nanostructured substrates. J Cell Sci 2003;116(10):1881–92]. Additionally, cell alignment in Epilife medium was dependent on pattern pitch. Cells switched from perpendicular to parallel alignment when the pitch was increased from 400 to 4000 nm. There was a transition region (between 800 and 1600 nm pitch) where both parallel and perpendicular alignments were favored compared to all other cellular orientations. Cells formed focal adhesions parallel to the substrate topographies in this transition region. On the nano- and microscale patterns, 400 and 4000 nm pitch, focal adhesions were almost exclusively oriented obliquely to the topographic patterns.
Keywords: Nanotopography; Grooves and ridges; Alignment; Focal adhesions; Corneal epithelial cells;
Cellulose-based scaffold materials for cartilage tissue engineering by Frank A. Müller; Lenka Müller; Ingo Hofmann; Peter Greil; Magdalene M. Wenzel; Rainer Staudenmaier (3955-3963).
Non-woven cellulose II fabrics were used as scaffolds for in vitro cartilage tissue engineering. The scaffolds were activated in a saturated Ca(OH)2 solution and subsequently coated with a calcium phosphate layer precipitated from a supersaturated physiological solution. Chondrocyte cell response and cartilage development were investigated. The cell adherence was significantly improved compared to untreated cellulose fabrics, and the proliferation and vitality of the adhered chondrocytes were excellent, indicating the biocompatibility of these materials. A homogeneous distribution of the seeded cells was possible and the development of cartilageous tissue could be proved. In contact with a physiological chondrocyte solution, calcium is expected to be leached out from the precipitated layer, which might lead to a microenvironment that triggers the development of cartilage in a way similar to cartilage repair in the vicinity of subchondral bone.
Keywords: Cellulose; Calcium phosphate; Biomimetic apatite; Chondrocytes; Tissue engineering; Cartilage;
Framework for optimal design of porous scaffold microstructure by computational simulation of bone regeneration by Taiji Adachi; Yuki Osako; Mototsugu Tanaka; Masaki Hojo; Scott J. Hollister (3964-3972).
In bone tissue engineering using a biodegradable scaffold, geometry of the porous scaffold microstructure is a key factor for controlling mechanical function of the bone–scaffold system in the regeneration process as well as after the regeneration. In this study, we propose a framework for the optimal design of the porous scaffold microstructure by three-dimensional computational simulation of bone tissue regeneration that consists of scaffold degradation and new bone formation. The rate of scaffold degradation due to hydrolysis, that leads to decrease in mechanical properties, was simply assumed to relate to the water content diffused from the surface to the bulk material. For the new bone formation on both bone and scaffold surfaces, the rate equation of trabecular surface remodeling driven by mechanical stimulation was applied. Solving these two phenomena in the same time frame, the bone regeneration process in the bone–scaffold system was predicted by computational simulation using a voxel finite element method. The change in the mechanical function of the bone–scaffold system during the regeneration process was quantitatively evaluated by measuring the change in total strain energy, and this was used for the evaluation function to optimize the scaffold microstructure that provides the desired mechanical function during and after the bone regeneration process. A case study conducted for the scaffold with a simple microstructure demonstrated that the proposed simulation method could be applied to the design of a porous scaffold microstructure. In addition, the regeneration process was found to be very complex even though the simple rate equations for scaffold regeneration and new bone formation were used because of the coupling effects of these phenomena.
Keywords: Bone tissue engineering; Porous scaffold; Optimal design; Computational biomechanics;
Bone regeneration on computer-designed nano-fibrous scaffolds by Victor J. Chen; Laura A. Smith; Peter X. Ma (3973-3979).
The ability to control architectural features in tissue engineering scaffolds is critical to the success of neo-tissue regeneration. In this work, reverse solid freeform fabrication and thermal phase separation of poly(l-lactic acid) (PLLA) solutions were used to create three-dimensional nano-fibrous (NF) scaffolds with complex geometries on the macro- and micro-scales. This approach allows for the fabrication of NF matrices while having precise control of internal pore size and structure, as well as external scaffold shape including architectures generated from computed-tomography scans and histological sections. In vitro cell cultivation experiments with MC3T3-E1 preosteoblasts were performed on NF scaffolds and on similarly designed solid-walled (SW) scaffolds that did not have nano-fibers. Proliferation studies showed significantly more cells on NF scaffolds after 7 d. In differentiation studies, the NF scaffolds displayed more uniform matrix and mineral production throughout. Real-time PCR also showed significantly higher expression of osteocalcin and bone sialoprotein mRNAs after 2 and 6 weeks in the NF scaffolds. Expression of type I collagen mRNA was lower in NF scaffolds which possibly indicates quicker differentiation on the NF substrate. In summary, we controlled the geometry of NF PLLA scaffolds at multiple size scales, and the in vitro results showed that these NF scaffolds were advantageous to control scaffolds for bone tissue engineering.
Keywords: Polylactic acid; Rapid prototyping; Tissue engineering; 3-D printing; Nano fiber; Osteoblast;
Porogen-induced surface modification of nano-fibrous poly(l-lactic acid) scaffolds for tissue engineering by Xiaohua Liu; Youngjun Won; Peter X. Ma (3980-3987).
In addition to suitable pore architecture of a tissue-engineering scaffold, surface modification after scaffolding fabrication is often needed to enhance the interactions between cells and the synthetic material. In this study, a novel one-step process was developed to fabricate surface-modified nano-fibrous poly(l-lactic acid) (NF-PLLA) scaffolds. First, gelatin spheres with smooth surface were prepared by non-surfactant emulsification, solvent extraction, and freeze-drying. A three-dimensional NF-PLLA scaffold was then fabricated by using gelatin spheres as porogen. Gelatin molecules were entrapped onto the scaffold surface during the fabrication process. Attenuated total reflectance-Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis demonstrated the existence of gelatin molecules on the surface of the polymer scaffold. The amount of gelatin on the scaffold surface was controlled by the composition of the solvent mixture of gelatin solution. The compressive modulus of scaffold prepared with gelatin spheres was more than three times higher than that prepared with irregular gelatin particles of the same size range. The surface modification significantly improved initial cell adhesion and proliferation over a 2-week culture. SEM images indicated that cells spread on the gelatin-entrapped scaffolds in contrast to spherical or spindle morphology on the control 1 day after cell seeding. Furthermore, more matrix secretion was observed on the surface-modified scaffolds than on the control after 2 weeks of in vitro cultivation. In conclusion, this approach provides a simple one-step process to fabricate surface-modified collagen-like NF-PLLA scaffolds, which have improved cell adhesion and proliferation.
Keywords: Gelatin; Nano fiber; Surface modification; Scaffold; Bone regeneration; Polymer;
The influence of surface coatings of dicalcium phosphate (DCPD) and growth and differentiation factor-5 (GDF-5) on the stability of titanium implants in vivo by Hans-Georg Simank; Marco Stuber; Ronny Frahm; Lars Helbig; Harry van Lenthe; Ralph Müller (3988-3994).
Mechanical stability of implants is usually tested by pull out or push out tests which destroy the interface between the implant and bone. Pull out tests do not ideally reflect the clinical situation. In contrast, applying submaximal load leads to more physiologic micro-displacement between implant and bone. The aim of this study was to evaluate a new non-destructive mechanical testing device on different modifications of titanium implants. In 18 rabbits we investigated the influence of a dicalcium phosphate (DCPD) coating, or of a growth and differentiation factor-5 (GDF-5) coating, or a combination of both on the stability of titanium implants. The stability of implant was assessed by a non-destructive micro-measurement. In the same specimens the interface was investigated by micro-CT and histological evaluation. Surface modifications had a positive effect on the implant stability regarding displacement ( p = 0.001 ). Mechanical stability correlated with the quality of peri-implant tissue. Micro-displacement correlated negatively with the bone formation around the implants in histomorphometric evaluation ( p = 0.02 ). Amount of peri-prosthetic soft tissue showed a positive correlation with micro-displacement ( p = 0.01 ). Our findings indicate the positive effect of DCPD and GDF-5 coatings on stability of titanium implants. Results demonstrate the non-destructive testing to be an effective method to evaluate mechanical stability of implants.
Keywords: Bone ingrowth; Histomorphometry; Mechanical test; Micromotion; Titanium;
Antibacterial activity of dental composites containing quaternary ammonium polyethylenimine nanoparticles against Streptococcus mutans by Nurit Beyth; Ira Yudovin-Farber; Ran Bahir; Abraham J. Domb; Ervin I. Weiss (3995-4002).
The antibacterial activity of quaternary ammonium polyethylenimine (PEI) nanoparticles embedded at 1% w/w with clinically used bonding, flowable and hybrid dental composite resins and cured by light polymerization was studied. The antibacterial activity was tested with Streptoccocus mutans by: (i) the agar diffusion test (ADT); (ii) the direct contact test; (iii) bacterial growth in the materials elute; (iv) and scanning electron microscope (SEM). Using the direct contact test, antibacterial activity (p<0.001) was found in all three types of composite resins incorporated with the synthesized nanoparticles. The effect lasted for at least 1 month. SEM demonstrated bacterial debris and no streptococcal chains at 24 h of bacterial contact. The addition of 1% w/w of nanoparticles did not affect the flexural modulus and the flexural strength of the dental composite materials.The results indicate that quaternary ammonium PEI nanoparticles immobilized in resin-based materials have a strong antibacterial activity upon contact without leach-out of the nanoparticles and without compromise in mechanical properties.
Keywords: Quaternary ammonium; Nanoparticles; Antibacterial; Dental composite; Polyethylenimine;
Biomimetic modification of titanium dental implant model surfaces using the RGDSP-peptide sequence: A cell morphology study by Martin Schuler; Gethin Rh. Owen; Douglas W. Hamilton; Michael de Wild; Marcus Textor; Donald M. Brunette; Samuele G.P. Tosatti (4003-4015).
Surface topography and (bio)chemistry are key factors in determining cell response to an implant. We investigated cell adhesion and spreading patterns of epithelial cells, fibroblasts and osteoblasts on biomimetically modified, smooth and rough titanium surfaces. The RGD bioactive peptide sequence was immobilized via a non-fouling poly(l-lysine)-graft-poly(ethylene glycol) (PLL-g-PEG) molecular assembly system, which allowed exploitation of specific cell–peptide interactions even in the presence of serum. As control surfaces, bare titanium and bio-inactive surfaces (scrambled RDG and unfunctionalized PLL-g-PEG) were used. Our findings demonstrated that surface topography and chemistry directly influenced the attachment and morphology of all cell types tested. In general, an increase in cell number and more spread cells were observed on bioactive substrates (containing RGD) compared to bio-inactive surfaces. More fibroblasts were present on smooth than on rough topographies, whereas for osteoblasts the opposite tendency was observed. Epithelial cell attachment did not follow any regular pattern. Footprint areas for all cell types were significantly reduced on rough compared to smooth surfaces. Osteoblast attachment and footprint areas increased with increasing RGD-peptide surface density. However, no synergy (interaction) between RGD-peptide surface density and surface topography was observed for osteoblasts neither in terms of attachment nor footprint area.
Keywords: Titanium oxide; Surface topography; Surface modification; Biomimetic material; Peptide; Cell morphology;
Preparation, properties and controlled release behaviors of pH-induced thermosensitive amphiphilic gels by Yu-Yang Liu; Ying-Hui Shao; Jian Lü (4016-4024).
Two pH-induced thermosensitive amphiphilic gels for controlled drug release were constructed with thermosensitive poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAm) and hydrophobic poly(ethyl acrylate) (PEA) by interpenetrating polymer network (IPN) technology. To obtain pH-induced thermosensitive functionality at physiological temperature, 5 mol% of acrylic acid (AAc) and N, N-dimethyl aminoethyl methacrylate (DMA) were incorporated into PNIPAm chain by their copolymerization. It is found that the IPN hydrogels show pH-induced thermosensitivity at physiological temperature. When the amphiphilic gels with IPN structure were immersed in water, the hydrophobic moieties formed by PEA have the potential to act as reservoirs for hydrophobic drugs, from which drug may be released slowly. Using drug daidzein (DAI) as a model molecule, controlled release behaviors of the IPNs were investigated. It is found that the presence of permanently hydrophobic PEA network can indeed slow the release rate of DAI and to some extent overcome disadvantageous burst effect of PNIPAm-based networks in hydration state. The release kinetics of DAI from the IPNs seems to follow pseudo-zero-order release character, regardless of the hydrogels in swollen or shrunken state.
Keywords: pH-induced thermosensitivity; Amphiphilic hydrogel; Interpenetrating polymer networks; Controlled release;
The drug encapsulation efficiency, in vitro drug release, cellular uptake and cytotoxicity of paclitaxel-loaded poly(lactide)–tocopheryl polyethylene glycol succinate nanoparticles by Zhiping Zhang; Si-Shen Feng (4025-4033).
Paclitaxel is one of the most effective antineoplastic drugs. Its current clinical administration is formulated in Cremophor EL, which causes serious side effects. Nanoparticle (NP) technology may provide a solution for such poisonous adjuvant problems and promote a sustained chemotherapy, in which biodegradable polymers play a key role. Our group has successfully synthesized novel poly(lactide)–tocopheryl polyethylene glycol succinate (TPGS) (PLA–TPGS) copolymers of desired hydrophobic–hydrophilic balance for NP formulation of anticancer drugs. The present work is focused on effects of the PLA:TPGS composition ratio on drug encapsulation efficiency, in vitro drug release, in vitro cellular uptake and viability of the PLA–TPGS NP formulation of paclitaxel. The PLA–TPGS copolymers of various PLA:TPGS ratios were synthesized by the ring-opening polymerization method and characterized by GPC and 1H NMR for their molecular structure. Paclitaxel-loaded PLA–TPGS NPs were prepared by a modified solvent extraction/evaporation method and characterized by laser light scattering for size and size distribution, scanning electron microscopy for surface morphology and zeta potential for surface charge. High performance liquid chromatography was used to measure the drug encapsulation efficiency and in vitro drug release profile. Cancer cell lines HT-29 and Caco-2 were used to image and measure the cellular uptake of fluorescent PLA–TPGS NPs. Cancer cell viability of the drug-loaded PLA–TPGS was measured by MTT assay. It was found that the PLA:TPGS composition ratio has little effects on the particle size and size distribution. However, the PLA–TPGS NPs of 89:11 PLA:TPGS ratio achieved the best effects on the drug encapsulation efficiency, the cellular uptake and the cancer cell mortality of the drug-loaded PLA–TPGS NPs. This research was also carried out in close comparison with the drug-loaded PLGA NPs.
Keywords: Biodegradable polymers; Cancer; Cancer nanotechnology; Chemotherapy; Taxol®;
Fabrication of polymeric microparticles for drug delivery by soft lithography by Jingjiao Guan; Nicholas Ferrell; L. James Lee; Derek J. Hansford (4034-4041).
Soft lithographic techniques were used to fabricate polymeric microparticles for drug delivery applications. The microparticles were made of thermoplastics and thermosets from different types of precursors including reactive resin and polymer solutions in organic solvents or water. The microparticles produced using these methods were made of widely used polymers for drug delivery with highly uniform sizes, plate-like morphology, and well-defined lateral sizes and shapes, making them potentially useful for drug delivery applications and as platform for the construction of multi-functional drug delivery devices.
Keywords: Drug delivery; Soft lithography; Microfabrication; Microparticle;
Multilayered construction of glucose oxidase and silica nanoparticles on Au electrodes based on layer-by-layer covalent attachment by Yingying Sun; Feng Yan; Wensheng Yang; Changqing Sun (4042-4049).
A feasible approach to construct multilayer films of aminated silica nanoparticles/glucose oxidase (ASNPs/GOx) on the Au electrode surface using a glutaraldehyde as a covalent attachment cross-linker is described. The covalent attachment processes were followed and confirmed by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), which demonstrated that the ASNPs/GOx multilayer films are formed in a progressive and uniform manner. The gold electrodes modified with the ASNPs/GOx multilayer films were studied by cyclic voltammetry (CV) and showed excellent electrocatalytical response to the oxidation of glucose when ferrocenemethanol was used as an artificial redox mediator. From the analysis of voltammetric signals, the coverage of active enzyme on the electrode was estimated, which showed a linear relationship with the number of ASNPs/GOx bilayers. This suggests that the analytical performance such as sensitivity, detection limit is tunable by controlling the number of attached bilayers. The linear response range of the biosensor constructed with four bilayers of ASNPs/GOx to the concentration of glucose can extend at least to 8 mm and reached 95% of the steady-state current in less than 4 s with the sensitivity of 5.11 μA/mm cm2 and the detection limit of 9 μm. In addition, the sensor exhibited good stability and long-term life.
Keywords: Glucose oxidase; Aminated silica nanoparticles; Layer-by-layer covalent attachment; Multilayered enzyme construction; Biosensors;
A hypothetical mechanism of bone remodeling and modeling under electromagnetic loads by Chuanyong Qu; Qing-Hua Qin; Yilan Kang (4050-4057).
A hypothetical regulation mechanism for bone modeling and remodeling under electromagnetic field is proposed. In this hypothesis, the bone modeling and remodeling mechanism is described as follows: the circular loads that we bear during ordinary daily activities generate micro-damage in cortical bone and these micro-cracks are removed by osteoclasts. Then growth factors, which are in latent forms in osteocytes, are activated by osteoclasts and released into bone fluid. These growth factors stimulate osteoblasts to refill the cavities. An electromagnetic field can stimulate the multiplication of growth factors and accelerate the bone remodeling process indirectly. It can be seen that many features reported in adaptive bone modeling and remodeling are explained by the proposed hypothesis. Further, a computational model is established based on the hypothesis, which can simulate the bone modeling and remodeling process under multi-field loads.
Keywords: Bone modeling and remodeling; Electromagnetic field; Biomaterial; Biomechanics;
Erratum to "Attenuated alloreactivity of dendritic cells engineered with surface-modified microspheres carrying a plasmid encoding interleukin-10" by Liang Jia; Jeffrey R. Kovacs; Ying Zheng; Ellen S. Gawalt; Hongmei Shen; Wilson S. Meng (4058).


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This review is from: Cooler Master ThermalFusion 400 - High Performance Thermal Compound
Pros: I had to replace the stock thermal solution on my i7 920 which I still run with the heatsink it came with. Picked up this one from Cooler Master and so far it has done exactly what it's supposed to do - to keep a close contact between the heat-spreader of the CPU and the heatsink base.
The solution itself is very easy to apply, spreads nicely and effortlessly than many other of its class. Neither is very sticky nor does ooze out - ideal to work with. The included spatula thing really came very handy to administer a thin layer, a nice addition indeed!
I noticed the temps came down from 60*C/65*C to an acceptable and steady 56*C under load. I have a cramped CM Elite 335 case without much air-circulation, so that's a good result for me.
Cons: Not much except I've a good amount leftover which I have no use of right now. Well, maybe next build!
Other Thoughts: Overall the ThermalFusion is a very easy to work with compound and for the price does its job very well. Under the stock fan-sink I don't think this compound (or any other in the market for that matter) will help reduce the temperatures dramatically as that's not the thermal agent's primary function. People claiming temp-drops of ~10*C by just changing thermal paste brand either don't understand how thermodynamics works or just attributing credits to the wrong recipient!READ FULL REVIEW
This review is from: AOC Value 2436Vwa Black 24" (23.6" viewable) 5ms Widescreen LCD Monitor 300 cd/m2 60000:1
Pros: I have this monitor for more than a year and I'm quite satisfied with this model. This is my first AOC and honestly, was somewhat skeptical about what I could expect from this panel. But this one proved to be a very good performer for the price. The monitor is very bright and crisp but the brightness is not to level of being irritating as I find in some newer LEDs. The colors are just about right for my taste, not too saturated and by no means dull. I set it to the neutral (?) color scheme in the menu to produce faithful colors but can change the profile anytime to sRGB or warm/cool tones. Viewing angle is nothing spectacular given the fact that it's a TN panel but still, the colors look fairly well from odd viewing angles which was a nice surprise to me. I've seen much worse in higher priced TN monitors. This one also has USB but never bothered about that. I'm using this monitor for gaming/modding and image viewing/editing (non pro) and I'm content with what I see!
Cons: Nothing major but still there are some flaws and the back-light bleeding is one of them. While not terrible, it rares its ugly head more often than I'd like. There is also a good deal of uneven back-light distribution which is prominent when looked at from the sides. My brother has an AOC 2236VW and that one is also prone to these issues! But since these symptoms are generic to entry-level LCDs I can't blame AOC much. The lack of HDMI doesn't bother me either as I use DVI for display and have no complain there. This panel is not as thin as the some LED ones but that's understandable.
Other Thoughts: As I mentioned earlier, this monitor isn't going to win any contest for visual excellence but this is not what you're looking for in this price segment to begin with. For performance and reliability I can't complain and those what matter me most. I run this monitor in a gaming rig with an i7 920 CPU and MSI 6870 Radeon and it has complemented the rest of the system nicely thus far. Next time I upgrade my display I'll definitely consider AOC again.READ FULL REVIEW

subset: commoncrawl


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Orange Park, Fla. - Sophomore Alexandria Buelow (Palm City, Fla.) shot one over par 73 in the second round of the JMU Eagle Landing Invitational on Saturday, moving up into a tie for sixth on the individual leaderboard at three over par after 36 holes. The Stetson women's golf team sits in eighth place at 32 over par with one round to go.
Junior Lauren Cate (St. Augustine, Fla.) tied Buelow as low Hatter on the day with a 73; Cate rebounded strongly from an 80 in the first round and is now tied for 34th place. Freshman Mallory Viera (Howey-in-the-Hills, Fla.) is tied for 28th at seven over par overall; she had an 80 on Saturday. Senior Alex Banham (Peterborough, England) and freshman Jenna Hoecker (Rochester, N.Y.) rounded out the team contingent with a 79 and an 81, respectively. Freshmen Ryan Ashburn (Largo, Fla.) and Claudia Redinger (Durban, South Africa), competing as individuals this weekend, carded respective scores of 79 and 95.
Although Stetson slipped from second place to eighth place in the team standings, the Hatters (+32) are just five strokes out of third with 18 holes left. #34 Chattanooga leads the tournament at five over par, 13 strokes ahead of East Carolina and 22 shots up on third place Campbell. USF, Illinois and Miami (Fla.) are tied for fourth at 28 over par with Maryland (+30) two strokes ahead of Stetson. UNC Greensboro (+35), host James Madison (+37), Longwood (+38), Kennesaw State (+39), Central Arkansas (+44), Elon (+45), Illinois State (+46), FGCU (+46), Georgetown (+48) and Jacksonville (+59) round out the field.The final round of the JMU Eagle Landing Invitational is set for Sunday; live scoring can be found here: http://www.golfstatresults.com//public/leaderboards/team/static/team_players_2469.html


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The Military Balance of Faith and Freedom
A West Point cadet resigns over religiosity at the academy, but other cadets have rights too.
Blake Page had planned on graduating from West Point in the spring, but no more. Earlier this month, the cadet took to the Huffington Post to announce his resignation from the military academy and attack it for "unconstitutional proselytism, discrimination against the nonreligious and establishing formal policies to reward, encourage and even at times require sectarian religious participation."
If this sounds familiar, it is. Seven years ago, a group of Air Force Academy cadets complained about widespread pressure to convert to Christianity. Both controversies have centered on prayers by chaplains at formal events and evangelism by officers of their subordinates.
Many Americans who identify themselves as having no religious affiliation—20% in the most recent Pew poll—are likely to applaud these dust-ups as evidence that nonbelievers are finally willing to stand up against an atmosphere of enforced faith in the military. Those who are more sympathetic to public expressions of faith see a campaign to stamp out expressions of traditional belief.
Although both sides rightly see the military controversies as a microcosm of the country's growing debates about religious freedom, there also are radical differences. The military isn't simply a profession—it's a life. The line between public and private is vanishingly small. (This is one reason why the military can still punish misbehavior like adultery.) Mr. Page therefore has a powerful point when he complains that he had no way to avoid proselytizing comments and prayers by chaplains at formal West Point events. But his Christian colleagues are in a similar bind. There is nowhere else for them to take their faith.
Military chaplains are a key player in this matter. Isn't it a First Amendment-violating "establishment of religion" for the military to appoint religious officials? No, it isn't, because if the military didn't provide chaplains, religious believers would be cut off from public worship in many military settings. The chaplains exist not for the military or the government generally, but to give military men and women access to their religion.
The problem is how to achieve this objective without creating an environment that seems to associate the military with particular religious views. One partial solution is to provide chaplains for a variety of religions. The military has done that (even Buddhist chaplains have been approved), but there are practical obstacles to how many chaplains can be accommodated. Additional help comes from existing constitutional-law doctrine.
Start with officers who wish to share their religious views with those around them. Although military personnel can't be forced to muffle their religious beliefs, courts have long given the military more flexibility than other employers to regulate freedom of expression. The military can therefore discourage officers from expressing their faith in ways that create pressure on their subordinates, as it did in response to the Air Force Academy fracas.
The military could avoid complaints about chaplains' prayers by removing the prayers from formal events, but it clearly isn't required to do this. The Supreme Court has upheld nonproselytizing prayers by chaplains opening legislative sessions, pointing to the long history of these prayers and their role. But a bit of hairsplitting is involved: The chaplains are allowed to invoke God but not to promote Jesus. As First Amendment scholars Ira Lupu and Robert Tuttle have written, the chaplains' words are "a solemnizing event that 'harmonizes' with the religious activity of prayer," but they are not a religious prayer.
Only if the prayers advocate a particular religion and thus can be seen as linking the military to that religion would they violate the Establishment Clause, for much the same reason that public prayers at high-school football games have been ruled impermissible. The Supreme Court casts an especially skeptical eye on public prayer if the event is mandatory (as with military events) or nearly so (high-school football in the state of "Friday Night Lights").
If history is a guide, the military's handling of its recent religious challenges may put the rest of us to shame. Although the military has lagged behind in its response to some social concerns, the reverse has been true with others. In the second half of the 20th century, the military integrated more fully and effectively than other parts of America society, as Colin Powell's career attests.
The military's chaplain program has itself often been a model of religious pluralism. One famous episode during World War II involved four chaplains—two Protestants, a Catholic and a Jewish rabbi—who served on a ship in the North Atlantic at a time when Catholics and Jews still faced serious discrimination. When the ship was torpedoed, the four chaplains gave up their life jackets and perished together, worshiping God arm in arm.
Mr. Skeel, a professor at the University of Pennsylvania Law School, is author of "The New *Financial Deal: Understanding the Dodd-Frank Act and Its (Unintended) Consequences" (Wiley, 2011).


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By any measure it was a big day at Buckingham Palace. The Duke of Cambridge was undergoing a royal rite of passage as he conducted an Investiture ceremony for the first time, while Andy Murray was receiving his OBE for services to tennis.
For the Duke, nothing had been left to chance after he practised extensively beforehand.
As for the Wimbledon champion - well, not much had been left to chance. Suit ready, shoes cleaned, taxi booked for the Palace.
Still, he probably could have done without anti-doping officials turning up for a random drugs just as he was preparing to


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About UW Laramie Hotel Travel Visit Laramie
Welcome to the University of Wyoming!
The University of Wyoming provides quality undergraduate and graduate education to 13,000 students from all 50 states and more than 75 countries. Established in Laramie, WY in 1886, UW is a nationally recognized research institution with accomplished faculty and world-class facilities. Offering 190 areas of study through traditional and distance learning opportunities, UW provides an environment for success


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In California, Prices on Foreclosed Homes May Be Firming
BusinessWeek's Mara Der Hovanesian reports today on what passes for good news in the housing market. She's attending JPMorgan Chase's annual investor conference in New York.
Charlie Scharf, head of retail financial services at JPM, said today that the discounts for their real-estate-owned sales in California fell in 2008. That means the percentage they have to mark down a foreclosed house to sell got smaller. The number of days that foreclosed houses stay on the market before being sold shrank as well, Scharf says. Loss-severity numbers rose but appeared to stabilize in the second half. January 2009 was worse than December 2008, but not by a lot.
Scharf's hopeful bottom line: "There seems to be some bottoming in California. It's one place where we see a meaningful [stabilization of] … house price deterioration."
Discounts for JPM Chase's owned or confiscated homes in California fell from 17.7% in January 2008 to 3.8% in December 2008, before ticking up to 5.6% in January 2009. Average days on market fell from 153 to 104 in December 2008, then crept back to 120 in January 2009. The percent of loss severity rose from 16.5% to 42.%, but that number has hovered from 36% in August to 41.6% in January 2009.
It's way too soon to call a bottom in the housing market in California, much less the nation as a whole. Not with the Commerce Dept. reporting today that sales of new homes nationwide dropped 10% in January to an annual pace of 309,000, the lowest level since data began in 1963. On the other hand, as Hot Property blogger Prashant Gopal observed recently, housing starts are extremely depressed. Whenever housing turns around, you can expect a "massive" jump in starts.


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PICTURE: Yukon beat Kentucky for the national title
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SP's NCAA Basketball page
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The graph shown is a boiling point-composition curve for a mixture of cyclohexane and toluene. The lower curve is the liquid curve and the upper curve is the vapor curve.
If a mixture consisting of10% cyclohexane and90% toluene were distilled in a fractional distillation apparatus having3theoretical plates, what would the composition of cyclohexane be in the first drop of distillate? (%)


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"WorleyParsons also announced today it would increase its investment in its Chinese business, MaisonWorleyParsons, to 80 per cent. But it said it would not take up any more contracts in Iran. ''It will complete existing contracts, subject to ensuring it does not breach any sanctions,'' WorleyParsons said." (The Sydney Morning Herald, "WorleyParsons profit stumbles admit project delays," 8/25/2010)
"Australian engineering house WorleyParsons has signed an agreement with China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC) to review a front-end engineering and design job left behind by departing French giant Total for Iran's South Pars (SP) Phase 11 gas project.
The three-month job, which involves reassessment of the FEED by Total before it withdrew from the project last year, is at least the second for Worley-Parsons in Iran in 2010. It also coincides with an escalating campaign by the US to isolate the country…. China is aggressively pursuing energy development in Iran, where Western oil companies are reluctant to get involved amid the threat of possible United Nations sanctions against its nuclear enrichment program.
At the turn of this year, WorleyParsons teamed up with Linde of Germany to carry out a FEED for China National Offshore Oil Corporation's (CNOOC's) planned liquefied natural gas plant at the North Pars gas project. Both WorleyParsons and Linde worked in Iran before the intensification of Western sanctions against the country in the second half of the decade." (Upstream, "New Player Set to Review Iran's South Pars 11 FEED," 5/9/2010)
"Iran LNG Company (Iran LNG) has lined up two consortia to contend for a EUR700 million contract to construct the liquefaction units at the center of the twin-train 10.5 million tons per year Iran LNG export scheme. The two consortia were: Pars International Development and Engineering Company (PIDECO) and WorleyParsons Limited; Farab Company and Hua Fu Engineering Company (HFEC)." (Energy Business Review, "Iran LNG Lines Up Two Consortia For EUR700 Million Contract To Construct Liquefaction Units," 5/12/09)
"Iran Offshore Engineering & Construction (IOEC) has awarded a sub-contract to Australia's Worley Parsons for the detailed design of elements of the platforms on phase 12 development of the giant South Pars gas field. It follows IOEC winning a $ 380 mm contract late last year to construct the top part of the platforms on the offshore rigs, known as topsides.
Houston gas specialist Intec, which was recently acquired by Worley Parsons, previously won an engineering contract for three undersea pipelines totaling 440 km for phase 12. Earlier this year Petropars, a subsidiary of National Iranian Oil Company (NIOC) and the developer of South Pars, awarded a $ 284 mm engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contract to the local Aras consortium for phase 12. NIOC expects to award two further EPC deals, to a local and foreign consortium respectively, in May.
Most of the gas produced from South Pars phase 12 will be used to feed NIOC's planned Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) plant. However, part of the output will also be pumped into the domestic gas network for use in petrochemical projects and reinjection to maintain pressure on oil fields." (Alexander's Gas and Oil Connections, "Iran awards South Pars design deal to Worley Parsons ," 4/22/08)


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The National Weather Service has canceled all severe weather watches for southeast Wisconsin.
The views expressed are not those of this site, this station or its affiliated companies. By posting your comments you agree to accept our terms of use.blog comments powered by Disqus


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Northwest NEWS
ovember 18, 2002
From the Herbfarm - Oyster Stew with Leeks, Ginger and Tarragon
Recipe by Jerry Traunfeld
I came up with this variation of classic oyster stew while camping on the northern coast of the Olympic Peninsula. It's such a simple and gratifying supper dish that I've made it time and again since then in my home kitchen.
2 Tbsp. unsalted butter
1/2 leek, white part only, washed and thinly sliced (about 1 cup)
1 Tbsp. finely chopped fresh ginger
1/4 c. white wine
1/2 c. heavy cream
1 (10 ounce) jar freshly shucked extra-small oysters
1/2 tsp. salt
1 Tbsp. coarsely chopped fresh tarragon
1 Tbsp. freshly squeezed Lemon juice
Melt the butter in medium sized saucepan over medium heat.
Add the leek and cook, stirring often, until softened, about 3 minutes.
Add the ginger, cook another minute, then pour in the wine and simmer for an additional half minute. Pour in the cream and when the liquid simmers again stir in the oysters. Cook over gentle heat until the oysters firm up and are warmed through, about 3 minutes. Stir in the salt, tarragon, and lemon juice. Eat right away with crusty bread.
2 servings


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WWE: Brock Lesnar destroys John Cena: Summerslam 2014 results and analysis
So with the theoretical second-biggest show of the year in the bag, the question becomes where do we go from here?
At the 2014 edition of WWE Summerslam, Brock Lesnar did the impossible and essentially squashed WWE World champion John Cena like a proverbial bug, winning the title and crushing the dreams of teenaged girls in the audience everywhere. It was actually the kind of dominant heel performance you very rarely see WWE attempt anymore, because they're so ridiculously protective of their top guys and seemingly unwilling to tell this kind of story. I've been saying for years that they should start ripping off Rocky III and this was as close to that particular screenplay as you're going to see. Well, except that people actually liked Stallone and in this case 90% of the audience was cheering while Cena was getting dropped on his head repeatedly, but they're TRYING.
Obviously this sets up Night of Champions with Brock Lesnar defending his newly won prize against a rededicated John Cena, and he's probably going to drop it back to him because they do not want to run house shows for the next nine months without a champion on top. And Brock only works 3 or 4 shows a year. You'd think after 10 years it might be time to pull the plug on John Cena for a while, but there's Network subscriptions to be sold, only $9.99 a month! (Price may vary in Canada, and don't even get me started on the version of the WWE Network we get up here.)
Overall, I thought it was a thumbs up show, solid up and down the card, and since I already got my $60 worth out of Wrestlemania and Extreme Rules, this was pretty much a freebie anyway. The results and my thoughts, with star ratings out of five:
Dolph Ziggler defeated The Miz to win the Intercontinental title in 7:55 with the Zig Zag. Quite a surprising opener in that Dolph hasn't won a major match in months and Miz is the new golden boy for them. Solid opener with good action, and it didn't go long enough for Miz to annoy me. **3/4
Paige defeated AJ Lee with the "Ram-Paige" DDT to regain the Divas title at 5:00. Another surprise in that they had seemingly cooled on Paige in recent months and AJ is the much bigger star. These two continue to work well together and it was wisely kept short and energetic. **1/2
Rusev defeated Jack Swagger by submission with the Accolade (camel clutch) in a flag match at 8:55. Much better than the buildup would have you think it would be, as Swagger injured Rusev's ankle early and the story of the match became the Russian monster having to overcome that to win anyway. It's kind of crazy that Swagger was falling completely off the company's radar shortly after Wrestlemania in favor of partner Cesaro, and now their fortunes have reversed in dramatic fashion. I still don't think Zeb Colter and the "Rah rah 'murica!" act has any legs after this wraps up, but if nothing else this sets them up for one big showdown at Night of Champions to settle it for good. I wasn't fond of the match from a technical standpoint, but the drama with the ankle injury and Swagger valiantly fighting for his country made it worth watching. **
Seth Rollins defeated Dean Ambrose in a lumberjack match via briefcase to the head at 10:54. Man, they tried HARD to steal the show with this one, but they were just handicapped by the stipulation, as the fans wanted crazy brawling in the arena and the match is designed to keep both guys in the ring. Another one where it was better and more entertaining than the technical aspect of the wrestling would lead you to believe, as the chaotic brawling into the crowd and Dean's manic energy almost carried it into becoming something special. Almost, but not quite. Ambrose loses yet again and is apparently taking time off to film a terrible WWE Studios movie production, but he's so awesome that he might just salvage that disaster as well. Compare the fans' reactions to him in this match with the tepid response that chosen one Roman Reigns got later in the night and you tell me who they should be fast-tracking to Wrestlemania next year. ***
Bray Wyatt defeated Chris Jericho via pinfall after Sister Abigail at 12:55. This was the one to really bring the crowd down, as Jericho is getting visibly slower and older in the ring and the fans don't really know how to react to Wyatt any longer. Clearly he's being positioned for a babyface run, but he's still a heel despite people reacting to his catchphrase and lighting up the arena with cell phones during his entrance. A slow moving match, not actively bad but certainly nothing memorable. **
Stephanie McMahon defeated Brie Bella via pinfall after a Pedigree at 11:05. As expected, the booking took the dumbest route possible and Brie's twin sister Nikki turned on her to give the bad guys the win. The match and buildup were over-wrought nonsense, but Stephanie was a revelation here, clearly the best heel in the business right now. Despite not working a match in over 10 years she carried Brie on her back and had better timing than anyone else in the women's division, while Brie struggled to throw punches properly and couldn't even time her kicks so that fans could go "Yes! Yes! Yes!" like Daniel Bryan. The match wasn't good or anything, but Stephanie is so entertaining in this role that it ended up being worthwhile for her alone. I feel like they should sign Stephanie v. Ronda Rousey for Wrestlemania, because how could it not be awesome? *1/2
Roman Reigns defeated Randy Orton after a spear at 16:12. Really, the actual result of the match was secondary to the reaction of the fans, as Reigns is being positioned to be the guy to replace John Cena, and for me this just didn't get him to that level. They've still got lots of time, but things could get ugly if Daniel Bryan returns and fans are expected to buy him at a level below Reigns. The match was pretty solid, if the usual dull Orton affair most of the way, but the finishing sequence was good. **1/2
Brock Lesnar turned John Cena into a pile of blood, urine, and vomit to win the WWE World title at 16:02. So as noted, this was totally unlike anything you'll ever see in the main event of a WWE show, as Cena was essentially sacrificed to Brock in order to build him up as the most dominant beast since, like, Hercules in Greek mythology. Cena had almost no offense and took a total of 16 german suplexes, most of them on his head, on route to Lesnar destroying him to win the title. Now this is exactly what they should have done with Brock in the first place. ***1/4 The only problem now is that Brock appears so completely dominant that no human being can possibly beat him for the title, but then we thought that about Clubber Lang as well. Rocky III, baby, greatest movie ever. Show it to your children at a young age.
As noted, for me it was a thumbs up show because although nothing was great as such, everything was at least good or worthwhile in some way, and I was entertained for the entire three hours. The biggest question is now: Will Brock now retreat to his farm with the title and hold it hostage? And can Night of Champions actually convince all 600,000 subscribers to renew the WWE Network?
For a more detailed review of the show, check out the full version over at my blog, here.
Scott Keith sends his condolences to the family of John Cena after the beating he took tonight. It was still great to watch, though. Check out Scott's blog at rspwfaq.net.


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Here are some more images of work on show at the So Watt! exhibition that opened in Paris today.
Top image: Liberty by Positive Flow - proposal for a wind turbine attached to the Statue of Liberty. Above: Wind-it by Encore Heureux - power-generating sails mounted on electricity pylons.
Above: Rozetkus by Art Lebedev - a multi-socket adaptor than can take 13 plugs in endless configurations
Above and below: Cable Jewellery by Bless
Below: another image of Solar Lamp by Damian O'Sullivan
The exhibition feature forty designs that explore issues of energy use and conservation.
Above: Containership Powersupply by Griffin Termeer - power adaptors serve as containers on the ship's deck while the cables form its wake.
More info and images in our previous post. Below: exhibition poster
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I'm not following it either, unless it's just a simple comparison that both are defensive minded d-men. The similarities really end there, though. DeKeyser is a terrific skater and puck mover. Stuart was physical and a great shot blocker on the PK. Two pretty different players and skill sets, IMO.
That's exactly what I'm pointing at. Id like to see DD bulk up and be our new stewie. I don't think he'll ever be an O minded guy.


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Team launches SC901 with stepwise swivel cap
Team launches SC901 with stepwise swivel cap
Lightweight at hand and sweet in heart
"Slim and lightweight" has become a fashion for USB disks! Continuing the success of the Diamond, Team Group Inc. launches the brand new slim and lightweight USB disk SC901 to capture young consumers and students with its mini and exquisite appearance and candy-like cute pastel colors. With SC901, users can freely express themselves. Together with the thoughtful and smart swivel cap design to prevent losing the cap, SC901 just makes people feel sweet from its appearance and features.
Equipped with the stepwise swivel cap design, with a simple push, you can insert this PnP USB disk in your computer at any angle that pleased you. More importantly, you will never need to worry about losing the cap! Mini in size, the SC901 comes in 3 models by capacity: 2GB, 4GB and 8GB; and 3 colors: blueberry blue, mint green, and pudding yellow to meet the multiple needs of users. With the USB2.0 interface, SC901 allows users to store a large amount of photos, media files and any electronic files. Desktops, laptops or car audios, as far as there is a USB port, you can enjoy fun with SC901. With different colors, users can well-organize files by type or choose any one that suits their moods.
Team Group Inc. is a leading manufacturer of memory storage products, and provides the ultimate solution to satisfy consumer need for storing and sharing media and data. Team Group offers a lifetime warranty and repair/replacement service on all memory cards. For more product information, please visit the Team Group website at http://www.teamgroup.com.tw.
About Team Group
Team Group Inc. is a manufacturer of computer products and consumer electronics, established in Taipei, Taiwan in 1994. We manufacture and distribute high quality Memory modules, Memory cards, USB dick, and SSD. Team Group is recognized as one of the leading memory products and consumer electronic manufacturers in the industry. We cover most business regions in the world. Team provides the highest quality products to customers in volume with competitive prices and the best possible after services. Through many years of the close and direct relationships with the leading manufacturers and OEMs, we are able to provide various products even during the shortage and allocation periods. As we continue to grow, we are committed to supporting our customers with superior products, first class service and excellent business growth.
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XE Currency Charts (CHF/IMP)
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This CHF/IMP Chart lets you see this pair's currency rate history for up to 10 years! XE uses highly accurate, live mid-market rates.
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Sofia is a low waist, truly girly pair of jeans. And she likes it. So do we. Celebrate your inner fille, girl, flicka, mädchen, pige with Sofia.
colour: Rough ridin' rinse
In a size small the inner leg length is 78 cm and the waist width is 75 cm.


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This is the perfect accompaniment to your adventurous pup on your next walk. Tough guys and girls will love the feeling they get from wearing this harness. At first glance, the rubber Puppia label catches your eye, and you know your looking at the best in style and comfort. Attaching a leash to a harness rather than a collar reduces pressure on your dog's trachea. This harness is also made from a breathable, polyester air-mesh to keep your dog at a comfortable temperature. Further adding to the comfort qualities, there is an adjustable belt at the chest to tailor the harness to your dog's body. Match it two one of our Two Tone Leads to complete the look.
Jacqui - I loved this harness. I had it for my pug from about 2 yrs old . I found it very soft and it seemed very comfortable. My Odie would drag his harness out and always lifted his leg to assist in putting it on, he loved his walks. Poor Odie has passed on and I am now looking to purchase the same harness for my new pug.
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Good morning, friends! I got this email from Director of New Student Programs & Family Outreach, Kris Winter, reminding us of this year's START dates. If you are planning to attend this fall as an incoming first year or transfer student, you MUST register for and attend a START session. Remember, you need to have paid your ATD in order to attend START.
Please note that START dates this year are as follows:
June 23-24 (first-year students)
June 26-27 (first-year students)
June 29-30 (first-year students.) *The parent/family portion of this program will be offered in both English and Spanish (La parte para la familia estará en inglés y español).
July 9 (transfer students)
July 10-11 (first-year students)
July 14-15 (first-year students)
July 18 (transfer students)
July 21-22 (first-year students)
July 25 (transfer students)
Hopefully we'll see you all this summer!


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No, not because the decidedly Democratic city suddenly will swing Republican. And not because redrawn districts representing its reduced population will provide less of a counter-punch to West Michigan conservatives.
Beyond its voting base, Detroit might be an actual issue on the campaign trail, serving rival agendas as both a symbol of failed Democratic leadership and successful government intervention.
Here are four ways Detroit could play a large role on the campaign trail
1. The Newt Gingrich meme: Less than a week into his campaign, former House Speaker Newt Gingrich has taken a popular internet meme (Detroit in RUINS!, anyone?) and turned Detroit into a talking point. First on Fox News and later on Meet the Nation, the Republican hopeful claimed that President Barack Obama's "left-wing policies" will make the nation look like Detroit. As we pointed out yesterday, Gingrich's claim is far from factual, but he appears content to repeat the statement enough times that his followers believe it's true.
2. High-speed rail investment: U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood visited Detroit last week, where he announced $200M in high-speed rail funding for Michigan. The state won the grant after Florida's Republican governor rejected the federal funding, a political angle LaHood was sure to mention. Bill Shea of Crain's Detroit speculated that the rail announcement laid the groundwork for an Obama visit prior to November 2012, where he might argue the positive effects of his federal spending initiatives.
May 10, CrainsDetroit.com: Any Obama message delivered in Detroit about the success of rail funding won't necessarily be directed at the city's voters — it's not as if there's any legitimate worry he's not going to carry Southeast Michigan in 2012. Instead, it will be a message directed at a national audience using Detroit as evidence of the effectiveness of his administration's spending priorities. Again, if they get built, or at least are seriously under construction.3. Auto recovery: While the so-called auto bailout began under the watch of former President George W. Bush, Obama ramped up the effort and has not been shy about taking partial credit for the dramatic recovery of the Big Three. Speaking at a Chrysler plant in Detroit last summer, Obama reminded workers that "leaders of the just-say-no crowd in Washington" (see: Republicans) didn't think the investment was a good idea.
I've spoken with several local transit insiders, and they agree that there are political factors in play when it comes to Detroit and the rail money, and they expect an Obama visit, too.
Obama appears poised to make the recovery of the auto industry "a central issue of the 2012 campaign," according to Poltico, which reports the Democratic party is looking to tout the success of federal intervention in Michigan and other swing states, including Ohio, Indiana and Pennsylvania.
4. Native son Mitt Romney: Romney is a Detroit native (we assume) and, should he win the Republican nomination, might have the hardest time explaining why he opposed the auto bailout so vociferously back in 2008. The son of a Michigan governor, Romney essentially told Detroit automakers to drop dead -- only months after calling for federal assistance during a campaign stop in Ypsilanti. The apparent flip-flop should sound familiar to anyone who heard his speech last week in Ann Arbor, where he said he would attempt to "repeal and replace" Obama's healthcare package inspired by the one he signed into law as governor of Massachusetts.


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This conference is designed to further conversations begun at previous
conferences among historians of science, medicine, and technology.
Together we can promote greater interchange among a variety of
disciplines while recognizing the uniqueness of each.
"Power and Expertise"
This plenary session is designed to explore the dynamics between history
and practice. Each of the disciplines will be represented by a
practitioner and an historian.
Medicine: Margaret Marsh/Wanda Ronner
Technology: Ruth Schwartz Cowan/Jill Tietjen
Science: Margaret Rossiter/Neena Schwartz
"Shaping the Future of History"
The focus of this session will be on the projected role of gender in
future scholarship and will be conducted in a roundtable format with
general introductory comments. Participants will then have the
opportunity to discuss the various themes within smaller groups.
Moderators: Rima Apple, Charlotte Borst, Sally Gregory Kohlstedt, Nina
Lerman, Arwen Mohun
Ruth E. Davis and Melissa McClaren, "Engaging Women's Visions for Useful
Technology Innovations"
Susan Fitzpatrick, "Organizations of Women in Science: To Belong or Not
To Belong?"
Barbara Lazarus, "Cultural Change through Undergraduate Research"
Judith McGaw, "Why Not Outhouses? Technological Change through Women's
These papers cover a wide range of topics within the history of science,
medicine, and technology. For a complete schedule of sessions and
presenters, see the website (address below)
Contact the Hyatt Regency at Union Station at (314) 231-1234 for hotel
accomodations. Be sure to mention the Women in Science, Medicine, and
Technology conference at Saint Louis University to receive the
conference rates.
Shuttle service will be provided between the hotel and the Saint Louis
University campus.
For more information, contact us via email, phone, or website, listed below.


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Ask a Doc: What are the treatment choices for early stage breast cancer?
Our answer comes from Dr. Brad Gray of HMC General Surgeons.
Question: What are the treatment choices for early stage breast cancer?
Answer: The treatment options for early stage breast cancer include usually surgery as a first step. There are two basic surgical options, which are lumpectomy (breast conserving surgery) or mastectomy (breast removal surgery). Breast conserving surgery needs to be combined with radiation therapy after the surgery is complete. The choice for surgery is dependant upon several different factors and a lumpectomy is not always an option, but typically for early stage breast cancer it is. The things that would prohibit breast conserving surgery would be the size of the tumor compared to the overall volume of the breast.
To see video of Dr. Brad Gray and other clinical professionals answering frequently asked questions around breast cancer, visit http://www.holyokehealth.com/MultimediaCenter.aspx
For more information or to speak with the HMC breast cancer patient navigator, contact HMC's Oncology Department at 413-534-2543.
Ask a Doc' is a weekly post by Holyoke Medical Center. To ask a question, please feel free to submit to email@example.com and we will do our best to answer it.


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This set contains a list of all iPods avilable on the market.
iPod Classic Second Generation
Touch-sensitive wheel. FireWire port had a cover. Hold switch revised.
iPod Classic Third Generation
First complete redesign with all-touch interface, dock connector, and slimmer case.
iPod Classic Fitfth Generation
Second full redesign with a slimmer case, and larger screen with video playback.
iPod Classic Sixth Generation
Introduced the "Classic" suffix. New interface and anodized aluminum front plate.
iPod Mini Second Generation
Brighter color variants with longer battery life. Click Wheel lettering matched body color. Later replaced by iPod Nano.
iPod Nano First Generation
Replaced Mini. Available in black or white and used flash memory. Color screen for picture viewing.
iPod Nano Third Generation
2" QVGA screen, colors refreshed with chrome back, new interface, video capability, smaller Click Wheel.
iPod Nano Fourth Generation
Revert to tall form and all-aluminum enclosure with 9 color choices, added accelerometer for shake and horizontal viewing.
iPod Shuffle Second Generation
Smaller clip design with anodized aluminum casing. 4 color options added later. Colors were later refreshed twice.
iPod Touch First Generation
First iPod with Wi-Fi and a Multi-Touch interface. Features Safari browser and wireless access to the iTunes Store and YouTube.


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text: Sandals Carlyle Quick Specs Commissions 10.0%Year Built 1968Year Renovated 2009 View Large Interactive Map Address Kent Ave PO Box 412Montego Bay, Jamaica Web http://www.sandals.com/main/inn/in-home.cfm Phone + 1 876-952-4140 Fax + 1 876-952-6913 Toll-free 888-SANDALS Email email@example.com OverviewMeeting SpecsPhotos & videosRatings & Reviews Description Intimate All-Inclusive couples-only resort situated across from beach.Year Built: 1968Year Renovated: 2009Check in Time: 3:00 PMCheck out Time: 11:00 AMNumber of Floors: 3Total Number of Rooms: 52Commissions: Room Only 10.0%Chain: Sandals ResortsChain Website: http://www.sandals.com Sandals Carlyle Location & NeighborhoodBeach. Sandals Carlyle Rates & PoliciesCredit Cards Are AcceptedReservations must be guaranteed with a credit cardDeposit Policy: Full payment due at time of bookingCancellation Policy: Penalty apply if cancelled 45 days or less prior to arrivalRestrictions: Couples only; no children; 2-night minimum stayHotel Discounts offered: Group discountGovernment/ Military discountTravel Agents 20.0%Airline Personnel 20.0% Nearby AirportsSangster Intl (0 mile northeast)Norman Manley Intl (84 miles southeast)Sierra Maestra (135.25 miles northeast)More Airports » Sandals Carlyle Room AmenitiesSandals Carlyle amenities are in All rooms unless noted otherwiseAir ConditioningBalcony/Terrace (some)CoffeemakerDaily Maid ServiceIron/Ironing BoardMini-Bar (some)TelephoneVoicemailRefrigeratorSafe (In Room)Cable/Satellite TelevisionTelevisionInternet Access (Wireless) Guest ServicesBarber/Hair StylistCar RentalComplimentary CoffeeComplimentary TransportationCurrency ExchangeGift ShopLaundry/Dry Cleaning ServiceMulti-lingual StaffFree Onsite ParkingRoom ServiceWheelchair Access to Common/Public AreasCommon Area Internet Access (High Speed & Wireless) (additional fee) Security ServicesParking Area Well LitSmoke Alarm in RoomsSprinkler in RoomsUniformed SecuritySurveillance Cameras On Site Nearby SightseeingRocklands Feeding Station (1 mile southeast)More sightseeing »DiningThe Bay Window (Onsite)The Carlyle (Onsite)Nibbles (Onsite)More dining options » On-Site RecreationBeachGame RoomHealth ClubHealth Spa/MassageHot TubPool (Outdoor Pool)Nearby RecreationBicyclingBoating/SailingFishingGolf CourseHorseback RidingScuba DivingShopping Mall/AreaSnorkelingTennis (Outdoor Tennis)Water Skiing Sandals Carlyle Meeting Rooms & Events0 Meeting Rooms Sandals Carlyle Business ServicesFax Sandals Carlyle Images, Videos, & Virtual Tours Photos & Videos Sandals Carlyle ExteriorSandals Carlyle ExteriorSandals Carlyle ExteriorSandals Carlyle LobbySandals Carlyle RoomSandals Carlyle RoomSandals Carlyle RoomSandals Carlyle PoolSandals Carlyle PoolSandals Carlyle RestaurantSandals Carlyle RestaurantSandals Carlyle RestaurantSandals Carlyle SuiteSandals Carlyle SuiteSandals Carlyle BeachSandals Carlyle BeachSandals Carlyle OtherSandals Carlyle Other Images Powered by Ice Portal travel42 Review for Sandals Carlyle Want to read the full Sandals Carlyle travel42 Review? For access to this review as well as 10,000 others, visit www.travel-42.com or call 1.866.566.8136 to subscribe. The Sandals Carlyle Inn is Sandals' smallest couples-only resort, a hip-pocket hotel priced well below its grander siblings. Uninitiated travelers should be aware that this is a 50-room boutique-hotel with limited on-site services, and frankly space, but the vibe is intimate and fun, and a shuttle transports guests to two nearby siblings where your wristband enables you to take advantage of a long roster of additional activities and dining options. (The hourly shuttle is free and operates unt... Subscribe to travel42 to read the full review » Copyright (c) 2016 Northstar Travel Media, LLC. travel42. Nearby Montego Bay Hotels More Nearby Hotels El Greco ResortCasa Blanca Beach HotelRelax ResortToby's ResortLost Beach ResortBlue Harbour HotelCoyaba Beach Resort & ClubDoctors Cave Beach HotelHoliday Inn Resort Montego BayHotel Riu Montego BayHotel Riu Palace JamaicaMontego Bay HotelRose Hall Resort & Spa, A Hilton ResortRoyal Decameron Montego BeachSunset Beach Resort Spa & WaterparkIberostar Rose Hall Beach Hoteliers! Is your listing up to date? With over 130,000 hotels in our database, no other source compares to our depth of information. Click here to review and be sure the travel professional knows your hotel's latest details.


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Lighthouse abseilers drop in to help charity
The first ever abseil from the top of Douglas Head Lighthouse took place on Saturday (April 12) to raise funds for The Children's Centre. Twenty-two took part, including MHKs Laurence Skelly and Kate Beecroft, with the fundraising total for the event expected to be around £5,000 when all the sponsorship money is collected.
Participants made the daring 80-foot descent after receiving expert instruction and training from The Children's Centre's MOBEX outdoor pursuits team. Permission to use the lighthouse was granted by the Northern Lighthouse Board and the owners of the two cottages at the foot of the lighthouse. Mark Eastham, Fundraising Co-ordinator for The Children's Centre, said:
"It was a great day and all of the abseilers did brilliantly following expert advice from our MOBEX team. Thanks to everyone who took part, and the sponsors who all contributed to such a fantastic fundraising total. We'd also like to say a big thank you to the Northern Lighthouse Board, and Jim and Maggie Shutler and John and Tina Mather who are the owners of the cottages, for allowing us to use such an iconic building."
All proceeds go to The Children's Centre's charitable projects including Mobex, Out2Play, Child Contact Centre, Community Development and the Community Farm. The Children's Centre has organised several abseiling events in recent years to raise funds – including descents from the top of the Strand Shopping Centre, the RBS International building in Douglas, and last year from the top of the Point of Ayre Lighthouse.
Saturday's event was originally scheduled to take place on April 5, but it had to be postponed due to heavy rain and high winds. Eight fundraisers who had signed up for the event, but who were unable to take part on the rescheduled date, will complete their abseil challenge in May.
SEE OUR LATEST OFFSHORE JOBS: All Offshore Jobs | Isle of Man Jobs | Jersey Jobs | Guernsey Jobs


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Youth Photo Show at Suede Studios in Los Angeles
Last night me and my luscious lady ventured up to the Suede Studios in Los Angeles to take a peek at the Youth photo gallery that featured photos from Sagan Lockhart, Natalia Mantini and Josh Terris. The show featured a heavy mix of everyday life in youth culture curled in with party shenanigans and a twist of celebrity. Being around the block for a bit in the street and skate game, I was surprised to see how many young bucks were there that were well below 19 years old. Maybe I wasn't cultured enough at that age to give a shit about a photo/art show or maybe I was too worried about partying with the homies or maybe I was too naive at the time to realize that the art gallery scene was a big party. Whatever the reason, I am happy that I actually take the time now to appreciate others work they put into their arts. Whatever, you don't care, here are some photos from the night.
OFWGKTA was in full effect.
Boosh his friend and Justin Williams from ELM.
The photographers for the night Sagan Lockhart, Natalia Mantini and Josh Terris.
Natalia Mantini, Kristina Rose and Van Styles
My lady Alisha with fellow Rad Collector columnist, Cullen Poythress, Kristina Rose and Van Styles.
Scotty from The Hundreds new fresh ink after shaving off his tie-dye hair.
Shad Lambert from The Skateboard Mag and Yoon Sol rolled in.
Cullen Poythress and Sagan Lockhart
Kristina Rose and Scotty from The Hundreds
After the photo show me and Alisha rolled down to Santa Monica to check out our friends band Mandelenda play at The Trip. They are small at the moment and just started playing shows after 8 years of playing togehter, so as you could imagine they play very tight and kill it. They're an instrumental band and have the sound similarity of Explosions in the Sky. Check em' out they rip.
Story and photos by Brian Jones.


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Boot Skirt
Buy Loes Hinse Designs 5009 for $16.00 Add To Cart
Loes Hinse Design Boot Skirt No. 5009 - Petite through Plus
Description:View A: Slightly pegged long skirt with front vent and back darts. Elastic waist. View B: Long double layered skirt with four seams and four slits. Back darts and elastic waist. View C: Slightly pegged 26� skirt with darts and elastic waist. All views hip ease is 1�.
Suggested Fabric: View A & C: Lightweight tweeds, wool, rayon, microfiber, velvet, gabardine, drapey linen and double knits. View B: Lightweight rayon, microfiber, silk, chiffon, lace, velvet, cut velvet, and fine knits. Lining of any choice. This skirt can be made in a single layer. Use fabrics from view A & C.
Notions:Approximately 1 yard (92 cm) of 1� (2.5 cm) elastic that expands to twice it�s length.
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Pattern Details
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We Put Families Back Together Again!
Adolescent Residential Inpatient Program
Is the disease of addiction different from that of adults?
The central nature of the disease of addiction, the dysfunction of the mesolimbic reward system in the brain, is the same for adults as for adolescents. The speed of onset, however, can be dramatically different.
One scientist, Dr. Anna Childress of the University of Pennsylvania, describes a "stop," "go" mechanism in the brain. The "go" system is the primal older part of the brain that responds to pleasure and pain – the mesolimbic reward system. The "stop" system is located in the frontal lobes of the brain and helps manage our impulses toward immediate rewards. The frontal lobes of adolescents, however, continue to develop into their twenties so that their initial reaction to alcohol/drugs, when pleasurable, is often not interrupted by the voice of reason. If the predisposition to addiction is present, the disease may then develop instantly. The disease and its physical, behavioral, and spiritual consequences are the same, but the onset is usually much more rapid than in an adult. Once addicted, however, adolescents should receive much the same treatment as adults.
Following assessment, a patient is admitted and welcomed to the community. If an adolescent needs medical detoxification, he/she can be treated for the medically necessary period at our Kirkland facility. The patient is assigned a "buddy," a patient who is involved successfully in the program, to familiarize the new patient to the facility and the program. More than likely, the new patient will attend their first group within hours of admission.
The Nature of the Treatment Community
The strongest influences for adolescents, for better or worse, are the peers that dictate the behavior of the group. Most adolescents who are addicted and in need of treatment have adopted a group in which drugs and drug taking are the norm. Treatment begins with exposure to another peer group, a group of adolescents who believe there is a better way to act, think and believe. The milieu at the adolescent unit is designed to promote that better way and to help patients begin acting, feeling and thinking their way to sobriety.
A Highly Structured Routine
Drug addicted adolescents, like adults, lose all sense of self-discipline and structure in the grip of the disease. They become impulsive, dangerously risk-taking and resistant to any authority.
The staff of the adolescent unit understands both adolescents and the disease of addiction. Patients are asked to adopt a structured day of education, group counseling, recreation and exposure to 12-step programs. While there is often initial resistance to structure, patients gradually are attracted to the benefits attested to in daily groups – a letting go of shame and guilt, a new and different kind of energy to move forward, meaningful relationships built in trust and mutual sharing.
Involved Parents
Addiction splinters relationships. As drug taking becomes foremost in the addict's thoughts or behavior, the adolescent usually becomes a stranger to parents. Parents often believe at some level that they must have done something wrong for their child to have become so isolated from them and other meaningful friends and family.
It is critical that parents understand the disease of addiction and its progression. For this reason, we provide education sessions two times a week and a communication workshop on Saturday following visiting hours.
Academic Tutoring
A local school district provides tutoring for patients during their stay. The tutor oversees the adolescents continuing involvement in class work from their schools. The tutor will also coordinate with the adolescents schools to provide a smooth transition back into their grade level.
From the physician who oversees the medical program to the maintenance and dining room staff, we are careful to choose employees who not only understand addiction but also like working with adolescents. The staff collectively knows when the patients need words of support and when they need to be reminded of their responsibilities in the community. Part of the treatment experience for adults and adolescents is a modeling process – watching and learning from recovering adults who have become well adjusted decision makers.
Continuing Care
Returning to daily life after treatment is precarious for any addict without a solid plan to stay in recovery. It is imperative for adolescents to have a structured routine that includes solid support for the new behaviors learned in treatment. We believe in the process of continuing care so strongly that we have twice weekly groups available for as long as medically necessary to adolescents who complete primary treatment. Meaningful involvement in a 12-step program provides another piece of an armament to protect against relapse.
Contact us now at Lakeside-Milam Recovery Centers for FREE Drug & Alcohol evaluations…
Call local: (425) 823-3116 or toll free: (800) 231-4303 or email us confidentially email@example.com


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Featured Golf News
Four Set Pace on Champions Tour
There's a four-way tie heading into Sunday's final round of the Mississippi Gulf Resort Classic. The $1.6 million, 54-hole Champions Tour event began Friday at the Fallen Oak course in Biloxi, Miss.
Sharing the leaderboard's top spot at 8-under 136 are Germany's Bernhard Langer (65), England's Roger Chapman (67) and Americans Joe Daley (66) and Corey Pavin (67). Chapman, Pavin, Hal Sutton and Steve Elkington held the 18-hole lead.
Tied for fifth at 137 are Mexico's Esteban Toledo (65), Tom Pernice, Jr. (65) and Gene Sauers (66). Sharing eighth another stroke back are defending champion Fred Couples (66), Duffy Waldorf (67), Australia's Peter Senior (67) and Michael Allen (68).
Taiwan's Chien Soon Lu (68), Olin Browne (69) and Andrew Magee (68) are in 12th at 139. Elkington, a Champions Tour rookie, carded a 1-under 71 Saturday and now shares 15th with Dan Forsman (68), Jay Don Blake (66), David Eger (69) and Mark O'Meara (70).
Sutton posted an even-par 72 to drop into a tie for 20th at 3-under 141 with six others, including David Frost (71), the winner of the senior circuit's previous tournament, last week's Toshiba Classic.
If the 55-year-old Langer emerges as the victor Sunday, it will be his 18th title on the Champions Tour.
For all the scores, visit http://www.pgatour.com/champions/leaderboard.html.
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