cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Array biosensor for simultaneous detection of multiple analytes

A fluorescence-based immunosensor has been developed for simultaneous analysis of multiple samples. A patterned array of recognition elements immobilized on the surface of a planar waveguide is used to capture analyte present in samples; bound analyte is then quantified by means of fluorescent detector molecules. Upon excitation of the fluorescent label by a small diode laser, a CCD camera detects the pattern of fluorescent antigen:antibody complexes on the sensor surface. Image analysis software correlates the position of fluorescent signals with the identity of the analyte. This immunosensor was used to detect physiologically relevant concentrations of staphylococcal enterotoxin B (SEB), F1 antigen from Yersinia pestis, and Ddimer, a marker of sepsis and thrombotic disorders, in spiked clinical samples. Analysis of blind samples also demonstrated the capability of the sensor to analyze for bacteria, viruses, and proteins in simultaneous assays.
Dansgaard–Oeschger events: is there a signal off the Hudson Strait Ice Stream?

Abstract It is generally accepted that the dramatic Heinrich (H-) events were principally sourced from the major Hudson Strait drainage basin of the Laurentide Ice Sheet, but it is not known whether the higher frequency Dansgaard–Oeschger (D–O) events have an imprint on sediments deposited during the inter-H intervals in ice-proximal slope sediments. This paper examines this question by an analysis of data from cores on the SE Baffin slope. Because the proxies for Heinrich events are so massive in scale, we removed the major H- events (H-1, H-2 and H-4) from the records so as to better examine the structure of data in the intervening hemipelagic sediments. The period of interest extends between ∼15 and 40 cal ka (interstadial events 2–8); resolution varies with the proxy to between 210 and 700 yrs per sample. In HU87033-009 from the lower slope, a total of twelve variables (for example, δ18O, mass magnetic susceptibility, calcite/dolomite ratio, number of IRD >2 mm), show a variety of multi-millennial oscillations, although not all of the same amplitude nor frequency; several parameters show little correlation with the GISP2 δ18O record. However, a comparison of CIE* sediment color (L) from HU87033-009 and HU97048-007 (from the upper slope) with the GISP2 oxygen isotope record, suggests that a substantial correlation exists between the records. Such changes might be associated with either detrital carbonate content or foraminiferal concentrations. Analysis suggests, however, that the first possibility is correct, hence suggestive of a glaciological response of the Hudson Strait Ice Stream with D–O events. In the NW Labrador Sea, the sediment records from around H-3 time (∼30 cal ka) show excursions which might be correlative within this event, but its amplitude is not unusual compared to events both before and after. This reaffirms the argument that H-3 represents a different glaciological response. A significant issue discussed in this paper is the inherent ambiguity of correlating records whose errors in the time domain approach that of a dominating periodicity, in this case ca. 1.5 kyr.
Gene expression profiling in Arabidopsis using DNA microarrays

The microarray facility at MSU is part of the Arabidopsis Functional Genomics Consortium (AFGC), a collaboration recently funded by the National Science Foundation. Together with Shauna Sommerville at Carnegie Institute and Mike Cherry at Stanford University our goal is to make DNA microarray technology available to the academic community through the WWW. The first year of our project will be devoted to optimisation of the technology and preparation of the microarrays containing thousands of Arabidopsis cDNAs. The DNA fragments spotted on the microarray will be amplified from the collection of cDNA clones sequenced by Tom Newman. By hybridising these arrays with probes corresponding to mRNA extracted from different tissues and organs or from plants subjected to different stimuli, global gene expression patterns can be investigated. We will also examine the expression of plant specific genes of unknown function under a set of standardised conditions. The microarray facility is scheduled to begin providing service to academic researchers in year two of our project and the service will be continued in year three. Other investigators in the AFGC will establish a gene knockout facility. Together these technologies should provide the scientific community with a set of powerful tools that can be used in their efforts to understand the function and interrelationships of the genes of Arabidopsis and other plants.
Isolation of α- and β- tubulin genes of Plasmodium falciparum using a single oligonucleotide probe.

Abstract An oligonucleotide probe (315) specific for the α- and β-tubulin genes of Plasmodium falciparum was synthesized utilizing codon usage of P. falciparum determined from published gene sequences. By screening genomic and cDNA libraries with the oligonucleotide probe, α- and β-tubulin clones were isolated. Positive clones were identified by partial sequencing and comparing the deduced amino acid sequence with the chicken brain α- and β-tubulin amino acid sequences. The β-tubulin gene was completely sequenced at the genomic level and partially at cDNA level. The deduced polypeptide is 445 amino acids long, shares 88% homology with chicken brain β-tubulin, and contains two introns of 362 and 163 bp long, respectively. α- and β-tubulin genes of P. falciparum are unlinked and dispersed; more than one copy of each gene may be present. Northern blot analysis of total RNA of the blood-stage parasite indicates the presence of three transcripts of α-tubulin (3.3 kb, 2.6 kb, 1.9 kb) and three transcripts of β-tubulin gene (3.6 kb, 2.9 kb, 2.0 kb). The significance of these transcripts is presently unknown.
Applications of the effective-medium approximation to cubic geometries

The effective-medium approximation (EMA) is extended to crystallites of arbitrary shape. A general formula is derived for the percolation threshold as a function of the normal modes and weights characterizing the shape of the constituent particles. The percolation exponents s and t remain equal to unity. For a lattice of cubic particles, ${p}_{c}$ is shown to fall within 0.01 of the volume fraction obtained by computer simulations on a site-diluted resistor lattice. The predicted ac properties are little changed from the usual EMA for spherical particles.
Strawson and Persons and their bodies

In recent articles in this joumal, Mrindal Miril and Victor Balowitz2 have argued that various difficulties confront a thought experiment proposed by P.F. Strawson. I shall argue that the objections raised by Miri and Balowitz can be answered. In Section 2 of 'Persons' in Individuals, Strawson mentions three groups of empirical facts on which visual experience depends. What a person sees depends on (1) whether his eyes are open, (2) the orientation of his head and eyes, and (3) the location of his body, especially his head. After distinguishing these three groups of facts, Strawson asserts that the following case is possible to imagine:
Ignition of a solid polymeric fuel in a hot oxidizing gas stream

The ignitability of a solid fuel by a hot oxidizing gas stream was studied experimentally in a hot-gas wind tunnel of the shock-tube type, with a flat-plate fuel specimen placed parallel to the flow. The problem was analyzed theoretically as a boundary-layer flow field adjacent to the fuel surface, in which the thin reaction zone grows more intense with time. Two alternative mechanisms were postulated as responsible for the development of ignition, one an exothermic gas-phase reaction in the boundary layer, and the other a heterogeneous reaction at the solid surface. Each of the two theories takes into account the changing profiles within the boundary layer during the induction period prior to ignition, the simultaneously changing thermal profile below the surface of the fuel due to convective heating, and the gradually rising rate of reaction. Ignition is said to occur at that time and at that location at which the reaction rate reaches a suitably defined runaway condition. The surface-reaction model predicts that ignition will always occur near the leading edge of the plate of fuel; although the ignition time is sensitive to the oxygen concentration, gas temperature, and other physical parameters, the location of ignition is not. The gas-phase model, however, predicts that ignition will occur at some downstream position, the distance increasing with increasing flow velocity and with decreasing oxygen concentration. Observations of the onset of ignition and of boundary-layer events during the induction period were made with submillisecond resolution times with high-speed cine-shadow-photography and with UV-filtered photocells focused on the fuel plate. The photographs depict the development of the ignition reaction with exceptional clarity. The findings as to location of ignition conform to the predictions of the gas-phase reaction theory and not the surface reaction theory. It is concluded that ignition of a solid polymeric hydrocarbon fuel (PBAA) in hot oxygen/nitrogen mixtures occurs mainly by means of a gas-phase reaction in the boundary layer, the reactants being the oxygen of the hot-gas stream and the fuel-like gases evolved from the pyrolytic heating of the solid fuel.
Tapered fiber tips for fiber optic biosensors

Tapered fiber tips with different geometries are fabricated for developing a fiber optic biosensor. Fluorescence experiments are performed to compare the coupling efficiency of light for different fiber tip configurations. When light is generated in a "thick" layer (> 1 μm) around a fiber core, the continuously tapered tip with the steepest taper collects light more efficiently than the longer combination tapered tip. To demonstrate the applicability of our results, we have successfully detected weak chemiluminescent signal collected by a bundle of fibers with the short continuously tapered tips using a cooled CCD array detector. The chemiluminescence reaction was catalyzed by alkaline phosphatase immobilized on the fiber tips by a sol-gel technique.
Hospital resource use following carotid endarterectomy in 2006: analysis of the nationwide inpatient sample.

To explore the relationships among patient age and length of stay (LOS), hospital costs, and discharge disposition following carotid endarterectomy (CEA), we identified discharge records from the 2006 Nationwide Inpatient Sample (NIS). The primary outcome was LOS from the surgical procedure to discharge. We examined LOS from procedure to discharge because the time from procedure to discharge may better reflect hospital stay due to the procedure itself for subjects with symptomatic carotid artery disease compared with the inclusion of days hospitalized for stroke recovery. Secondary endpoints included total LOS, discharge disposition, and cost of hospitalization. More than 90% of the 118,218 discharge records for CEA examined were for patients with asymptomatic carotid disease. The LOS from procedure to discharge and total LOS increased per decade, starting at age 70-79 years. Age per decade increased the likelihood of needed an LOS from procedure to discharge of >1 day. The same trend was seen for the likelihood of needing a >2-day postoperative stay; patients age ≥80 years required the longest postoperative LOS (odds ratio [OR] = 1.45 for >1 day and 1.45 for >2 days; both P
A preliminary study of space- and ground-grown insulin crystals by X-ray diffraction and by light scattering tomography

Abstract For the first time, both X-ray diffraction and light scattering tomography were used to study the same set of space- and ground-grown protein crystals. X-ray diffraction of the insulin crystals grown from T6 insulin solutions by temperature reduction showed that space-grown crystals diffract to higher resolution then those grown on the ground. The light scattering tomographs revealed that the space-grown crystals contained very few spherical micro-defects while the ground-grown ones had large numbers of extended micro-defects and dislocations. The tomographs also gave insight into the methods of defect formation. This study marks the beginning of qualification of light scattering tomograph as a tool for determining the suitability of a protein for use in X-ray diffraction studies.
Reliability of background current subtraction in anodic stripping voltammetry at mercury film electrodes

Abstract The effectiveness and accuracy of the correction for background current in subtractive anodic stripping voltammetry at rotating mercury film electrodes are discussed. The effects of different experimental parameters on the subtracted baseline are examined. Long deposition periods, at extreme potentials, result in large errors in the background correction. The incomplete background correction is attributed mainly to changes in the morphology of the working electrode. Different approaches for obtaining the subtractive stripping response are compared. Errors are reduced when subtractive differential pulse stripping is used at different convection rates, resulting in a detection limit of 2 × 10-9 M cadmium with 1-min deposition. Cadmium, lead, and zinc ions at nano molar concentrations were used as test ions.
Transformations among large c conformal field theories

Abstract We show that there is a set of transformations that relates all of the 24 dimensional even self-dual (Niemeier) lattices, and also leads to non-lattice objects some of which can perhaps be interpreted as a basis for the construction of holomorphic conformal field theory. In the second part of this paper, we extend our observations to higher-dimensional conformal field theories build on extremal partition functions, where we generate c = 24 k theories. We argue that there exists generalizations of the c = 24 models based on Niemeier lattices and of the non-Niemeier spin-1 theories. The extremal cases have spectra decomposable into the irreducible representations of the Fischer–Griess Monster. This additional symmetry leads us to conjecture that these extremal theories, as well as the higher-dimensional analogs of the group lattice bases Niemeiers, will eventually yield to a full construction of their associated CFTs. We observe interesting periodicities in the coefficients of extremal partition functions and characters of the extremal vertex operator algebras.
The National Forests

National forests are a valuable national asset. They produce important amounts of wood, recreation, wilderness, wildlife, and water, but good management could produce much more of each kind of output. The national forests are a major business enterprise, with $42 billion of assets and an annual cash revenue of $400 million to $500 million, but they have never been studied as business enterprises. The national forests are capital-intensive, but the capital is used wastefully, in large part because no charge is made for its use. Funds for management and investment are spent in economically unrewarding regions, forests, and sites. The availability of so much of their output at little or no cost to users seriously distorts management decisions. Major reforms in the management of the national forests are needed. If carried out, these could make the national forests much more useful to the American public.
Capacity of human oral leucocytes to mediate antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity.

Abstract The ability of human oral leucocytes to mediate antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC) was studied using a 51 chromium ( 51 Cr)-release assay. Oral leucocyte or peripheral blood leucocyte effector cells were reacted with antiserum-treated 51 Cr-labelled murine lymphoma target cells and 51 Cr release was measured. Morphologically-comparable, neutrophil-rich leucocyte populations from either peripheral blood or the mouth were capable of mediating ADCC, the difference in capacity of the 2 groups being reflected by the amount of lysis seen at different effector cell:target cell ratios. The ADCC mediating property of leucocytes may help to explain immune injury in oral tissue.
Environmentally Friendly Multifunctional Treatments of Textiles with Photo-Active Colorants

As an effort to develop environmentally friendly light-induced functional treatments for fabrics, certain acid dyes were incorporated onto different fabrics. The treated fabrics demonstrated powerful and durable antimicrobial and oxidative detoxifying functions after light exposure. In this presentation, we will report the latest progresses in using certain anthraquinone compounds in treatments of wool, nylon, silk and cotton fabrics. The dyed fabrics could demonstrate antimicrobial functions upon exposed to UVA (365 nm) and fluorescent light. However, it was more interesting to observe that the surfaces of the dyed wool fibers became polished with scales removed after being exposed to UV or day light for certain time. The chemical structures and thermal properties of the dyed fabrics were investigated by using different instrumentation such as SEM, FTIR, and other instruments, and the results verified the proposed oxidation reactions of the fibers. This research proves that dyeing fabrics with photo-active dyes could be a new green functional treatment on textiles.
Phase diagram and magnetocaloric effects in Ni1-xCrxMnGe1.05

The structural and magnetic properties of the Ni1−xCrxMnGe1.05 system (for x = 0, 0.035, 0.070, 0.105) have been studied by x-ray diffraction (XRD), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and magnetization measurements. A change in crystal structure from orthorhombic to hexagonal was observed in the XRD data at chromium concentrations of x = 0.035, 0.070, and 0.105. The values of the cell parameters and volume of the unit cell for orthorhombic and hexagonal phase were determined. It was found that the partial substitution of Cr for Ni in Ni1−xCrxMnGe1.05 results in a first order magnetostructural transition from antiferromagnetic to ferromagnetic (FM) at TM = 132 K for x = 0.105. A FM to paramagnetic second order transition has been observed at TC = 204 K. A magnetic entropy change of |ΔSM| = 4.5 J/kg K for ΔH = 5 T was observed in the vicinity of TC and TM for x = 0.105. The values of the latent heat (L = 2.2 J/g) and corresponding total entropy changes (ΔST = 16 J/kg K) have been determined from DSC m...
Sequential Michael-Michael-Ring Closure reactions for 3-different-component, one-pot, 2+2+2 construction of acylcyclohexenes and an acylcyclohexanol

Summary Two different ketones and a vinylphosphonium salt, separately two different ketones and an acrylate-type ester, and separately a ketone, an unsaturated lactone and a vinylphosphonium salt are linked together in one pot to form new 6-membered carbocycles with average yields of 60–83% per each of three new carbon-carbon bonds (eqs. 2–6).
Remarks on maximally embedded self-dual monopoles

From the solution of Ganoulis, Goddard, and Olive to the maximally embedded self-dual monopoles we develop a more explicit technique for calculating the solution applicable for most simple Lie groups. We also investigate the asymptotic behavior of the $\stackrel{\ensuremath{\rightarrow}}{\mathrm{B}}$ field and its relation to the asymptotic behavior of the Higgs field.
How Cities in California Have Responded to Fiscal Pressures Since Proposition 13

Fiscal pressures on California cities have been severe since the passage of Proposition 13. Federal and state aid policies have, in fact, exacerbated an already wrenching pattern of revenue losses since FY 77-78. State aid, in particular, has perversely dropped the most for those cities hit hardest by reductions in other revenues outside their direct control. Despite this, California cities have kept total real per capita revenues and expenditures constant over this period by increasing revenues from a variety of local sources—and especially from current service charges for enterprise activities. Furthermore, cities hit hardest by exogenous revenue losses have increased locally raised revenues the most. In short, cities in California have responded to reductions in revenues outside their direct control by increasing revenues from sources within their direct control, rather than by reducing expenditures and their revenue-increasing responses have tended to be in proportion to the losses they have faced in exogenous revenues.
Temperature anisotropy instabilities driven by Whang's ion model

The behavior of four temperature anisotropy instabilities in a single-component space plasma is investigated theoretically using the solar wind model (i.e., heat flux modified non-Maxwellian velocity distribution functions) proposed by Whang (1972). The linear dispersion properties are studied in an infinite Vlasov plasma where the proton distribution is assumed to consist of one warm slow-speed component and where the electron background is isotropic. It is shown that the fire hose, mirror, and Harris instability do not occur under these conditions, and that only the ion cyclotron instability is of importance in Whang's ion model. Growth rates are shown to have values between 0.021 and 0.00011. Increasing temperature anisotropy causes the range frequencies where wave particle interaction occurs to be shifted toward the ion gyrofrequency.
Replacing Versus Not Replacing Laying Hens Removed from Cages

Abstract A commercial strain of White Leghorn-type pullets, housed in colony cages at two densities (364 cm.2 and 728 cm.2 floor area per hen) were subjected to replacement or nonreplacement of natural and simulated mortalities. Simulated mortalities tested were a bird per cage every 8 wk. (total of 4) from 16-bird cages or one per cage every 16 wk. (total of 2) from 8-bird cages. Of the main effects, only bird density significantly affected egg production. Birds housed at high density laid fewer eggs than those housed at low density (62.7 to 70.7%). Birds in pens with removed birds not replaced matured earlier than those in pens where those removed were replaced (26.1 to 26.4 wk.). But lack of significant effects on egg production or mortality indicates that strangers may be periodically added to cage populations without adversely affecting performance.
Lactulosucrose (4F-β-galactosylsucrose), a new trisaccharide synthesized by cultures of Leuconostoc mesenteroides strain K (NRRL B-1299)

Abstract Leuconostoc mesenteroides strain K has been found to synthesize a new nonreducing trisaccharide of melezitose-planteose type, lactulosucrose. This trisaccharide has been isolated in crystalline form and shown to have the structure, O -β- d -galactopyranosyl-(1 → 4)- O -β- d -fructofuranosyl-(2 → 1)-α- d -glucopyranoside (4 F -β-galactosylsucrose). An experiment with C 14 -sucrose established that lactulosucrose is formed by α-glucosyl transfer from sucrose to the anomeric carbon of lactulose (β-fructofuranose form). Discovery of the new saccharide followed an unsuccessful attempt to confirm a recent report that L. mesenteroides K (or B-1299) converts a mixture of sucrose and lactose to lactsucrose (4 G -β-galactosylsucrose). Synthesis of the latter saccharide was verified in the case of the NRRL B-512 strain of L. mesenteroides , and would be due to levansucrase -catalyzed β-fructosyl transfer from sucrose to lactose in this culture.
Micro-structural optimization of supported γ-alumina membranes

Abstract The micro-structural integrity of meso-porous inorganic membranes is of critical importance in their prolonged application. Inspection by transmission electron microscopy of state-of-the-art γ-alumina membrane cross-sections, made by focused ion beam milling, reveals structural defects which adversely affect performance, reproducibility, and lifetime. It is shown that the use of macro-porous supports with a smooth, defect-free deposition surface for membrane dip coating, in combination with purified precursor sols and clean processing, leads to major improvements in micro-structural homogeneity and properties of the membranes. Large particle contaminants/agglomerates can be effectively removed from precursor sols by high-speed centrifugation or ultrasound-assisted screening. While centrifugation is the most practical method for routine use, filter screening provides a more complete removal of agglomerates and larger particles (>80 nm O). Application of the purified membrane precursor sols results in membranes in which connected pore defects (pinholes) are no longer detectable for a membrane thickness of >500 nm thick. The almost complete absence of connected pinholes, obtained with improved membrane processing, is demonstrated by near-100% retention of CaCl 2 in aqueous solution by nano-filtration. The γ-alumina processing experience, collected in our group in the years 2002–2006, is accumulated in a 34-step processing protocol for γ-alumina membranes with a >500 nm single layer thickness.
Repression of NF-κB and Activation of AP-1 Enhance Apoptosis in Prostate Cancer Cells

TNFalpha and TRAIL, 2 members of the tumor necrosis factor family, share many common signaling pathways to induce apoptosis. Although many cancer cells are sensitive to these proapoptotic agents, some develop resistance. Recently, we have demonstrated that upregulation of c-Fos/AP-1 is necessary, but insufficient for cancer cells to undergo TRAIL-induced apoptosis. Here we present a prostate cancer model with differential sensitivity to TNFalpha and TRAIL. We show that inhibition of NF-kappaB or activation of AP-1 can only partially sensitize resistant prostate cancer cells to proapoptotic effects of TNFalpha or TRAIL. Inhibition of NF-kappaB by silencing TRAF2, by silencing RIP or by ectopic expression of IkappaB partially sensitized resistant prostate cancer. Similarly, activation of c-Fos/AP-1 only partially sensitized resistant cancer cells to proapoptotic effects of TNFalpha or TRAIL. However, concomitant repression of NF-kappaB and activation of c-Fos/AP-1 significantly enhanced the proapoptotic effects of TNFalpha and TRAIL in resistant prostate cancer cells. Therefore, multiple molecular pathways may need to be modified, to overcome cancers that are resistant to proapoptotic therapies.
Lost in Place: An Adolescent Case of Gender Fluidity and Secondary Trauma

This article presents the case of a gender variant adolescent with a history of traumatic stress. Embracing a gender nonconforming identity was a source of strength and pride for this individual. However, symptoms related to relational and secondary traumatic stress significantly impinged on this client's quality of life. This case is intended to illustrate case formulation and treatment from within a traumatogenic framework that is also affirming of gender variance and exploration.
Uterine vascular degeneration is present throughout the uterine wall of multiparous mares. Colinearity between elastosis, endometrial grade, age and parity.

Vascular degeneration is present in endometrial vessels of multiparous aged mares. The lesions associated with vascular degeneration consist of enlargement, duplication and splitting of the membrana elastica interna and perivascular deposits of elastin. However, there are no similar data available for deep myometrial vessels and the vascular layer. The objectives of the present study were to characterize the status of vasculature in full-thickness uterine necropsy samples and to correlate these findings to endometrial grade, age, and parity. Elastosis was present in myometrial vessels, as well as in large arteries and veins located between the circular and longitudinal myometrial layers. Vascular degeneration was associated with number of foals (P 0.05). Endometrial grade was associated with age (P 0.05). The presence of elastosis in the myometrial vessels was related to problems associated with chronic uterine infection (CUI) and delayed uterine clearance (DUC) of infertile mares. Uterine contractility was impaired in mares affected by CUI and/or DUC and could be related to a lack of myometrial blood flow. Additionally, degeneration of large vessels in the vascular layer may indicate a general compromise in uterine blood flow and fertility. The main conclusions were the presence of vascular elastosis in large deep myometrial vessels as well as in endometrial vessels, and that the factor with the strongest association with vascular degeneration was number of foals (P < 0.001), followed by endometrial grade (P < 0.05), but no association with mare age.
Modeling of Gunn domain effects in the output conductance of the high-frequency small-signal GaAs MESFET equivalent circuit

A time-delay element associated with the output conductance has been included in the small-signal GaAs MESFET equivalent circuit to model Gunn domain effects. From experimental data collected to 36 GHz, these effects primarily contribute to decrease of the output conductance (gds) with increasing frequency which significantly affects the magnitude of the S-parameter S22. © 1992 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
The length spectrum of Riemannian two-step nilmanifolds

Abstract This paper has three main theorems. First, we express the length spectrum of a Riemannian two-step nilmanifold in terms of metric Lie algebra data. We use the length spectrum to motivate the definition of a new family of two-step nilpotent metric Lie algebras, which we call Heisenberg-like. This leads to our next result, the explicit computation of the length spectrum of all Heisenberg-like manifolds. Using a variety of characterizations of Lie algebras of Heisenberg type, we show that Heisenberg-like Lie algebras are their natural generalization. Finally, as an application in spectral geometry, we show that all known examples of two-step nilmanifolds that have the same Laplace spectrum on functions must also have the same length spectrum.
The Palliative Efficacy and Mechanism of Action of CAM Modalities for Advanced Dementia Care (TH317-B)

Objectives 1. Describe the biologic mechanism of action underlying manual CAM modalities. 2. Compare the palliative efficacy of two commonly used CAM modalities. Background. Despite limited empirical support, complementary therapies (CAM) have become an important part of palliative care for older adults with dementia. Previous studies evaluating CAM in older adult patients with end stage dementia are limited and tend to focus on subjective measures or behavioral indicators of distress. Knowledge regarding the specificity and mechanism of action underlying these interventions is lacking, particularly the complex interactions among biological and behavioral outcomes. Research Objectives. The aim of this proof of concept trial was to evaluate the neuroendocrine effect of two commonly used CAM modalities (reflexology and Swedish massage) in a sample of end stage dementia patients and explore the palliative efficacy of these modalities for reducing pain and behavioral symptoms of agitation. CAM modalities are hypothesized to promote palliation of symptoms in dementia patients by down-regulating hypothalamic/pituitary/adrenal (HPA)/sympathetic nervous system (SNS) activity through the stimulation of C-fiber polymodal nociceptors. Method. Using a within-subject longitudinal design, biologic and behavioral measures were collected four times daily from 60 adults with advanced stage dementia aged 70 to 102. Subjects were followed across three conditions: no treatment, four weekly sessions of reflexology, and four weekly sessions of Swedish massage. Measures included observations of behavior and pain, and collection of salivary assays for measurement of HPA/SNS activity across the study period. Mixed-model analysis was used to test the association between biologic and behavioral measures. Result. Improvements were noted in measures of HPA/SNS activity (F 1⁄47.5, P 1⁄4.008), and observed pain (F 1⁄4 3.6, P 1⁄4 .031) in response to both modalities. Conclusion. These findings contribute a preliminary understanding of the palliative benefit of CAM and new data on underlying mechanisms by which improvements are achieved. Implications for Research, Policy, or Practice. As a cure is not imminent, there is a critical need to advance efficient nonpharmacologic strategies to manage the palliative needs that are almost universal among dementia patients.
ARE ACADEMIC MODELS OF URBAN SERVICE DISTRIBUTIONS RELEVANT TO PUBLIC POLICY?: LESSONS FROM NEW YORK

Studies identifying and explaining the patterns of service allocations within cities have proliferated in recent years. Methodologies have been refined and the quality of data has improved. Theories of service distribution tested in the research are largely of three types: (1) those that stress “underclass” explanations of racial, economic and/or political discrimination; (2) those that stress service conditions or neighborhood needs; and (3) those that stress bureaucratic decision rules. This article presents findings on the determinants of intra-city distribution patterns for sanitation, fire and police services in New York. These findings highlight some of the difficulties of existing explanations and suggest that a bureaucratic decision rule (BDR) model provides more guidance in interpreting frequently confusing and contradictory results. Though specific rules are hard to identify, use of the BDR model enables more meaningful policy recommendations.
A Markov chains model of medical specialty choice

Data from 118 members of three consecutive cohorts of students at a private Southern medical school are employed to develop a discrete parameter stationary Markov chains model of the medical specialty choice process. This model was then tested on independent subsamples from the same population, generating a series of predicted specialty choices which did not differ from observed choices by more than chance expectations. Suggestions for future research, beyond the present demonstration of the utility of a simple Markovian model of a choice process, are offered.
PHYCOBILISOMES OF PORPHYRIDIUM CRUENTUM : I. Isolation

A procedure was developed for the isolation of phycobilisomes from Porphyridium cruentum. The cell homogenate, suspended in phosphate buffer (pH 6.8), was treated with 1% Triton X-100, and its supernatant fraction was centrifuged on a sucrose step gradient. Phycobilisomes were recovered in the 1 M sucrose band. The phycobilisome fraction was identified by the characteristic appearance of the phycobilisomes, and the absorbance of the component pigments: phycoerythrin, R-phycocyanin, and allophycocyanin Isolated phycobilisomes had a prolate shape, with one particle axis longer than the other. Their size varied somewhat with their integrity, but was about 400–500 A (long axis) by 300–320 A (short axis). Phycobilisome recovery was determined at six phosphate buffer concentrations from 0.067 M to 1.0 M. In 0.5 M phosphate, phycobilisome yield (60%) and preservation were optimal. Such a preparation had a phycoerythrin 545 nm/phycocyanin 620 nm ratio of 8.4. Of the detergents tested (Triton X-100, Tween 80, and sodium deoxycholate), Triton X-100 gave the best results Freezing of the cells caused destruction of phycobilisomes.
The impact of campus traditions and event-specific drinking

OBJECTIVE: Specific events (e.g., Spring Break, holidays) are associated with greater college student drinking. However, the ways in which specific events are celebrated at specific campuses may impact students' beliefs about the social acceptability of drinking during these events, which may impact students' event-specific drinking. The present study investigated whether two campuses with different traditions regarding St. Patrick's Day and Mardi Gras differed on event-specific normative beliefs, intent to drink, and actual alcohol consumption. METHOD: Undergraduate students at two campuses (N=570, 59% female) were surveyed pre- and post-events. Campus 1 has specific campus-wide traditions regarding St. Patrick's Day whereas Campus 2 has specific campus-wide traditions regarding Mardi Gras. Prior to the events, participants were asked to indicate how much they expected their peers to drink and how much alcohol they intended to drink themselves during these events. After the events, students reported how much alcohol they actually consumed during the events. RESULTS: Campus 1 reported greater intent to drink and actual drinking during St. Patrick's Day than Campus 2, whereas Campus 2 reported greater intent to drink and actual drinking during Mardi Gras than Campus 1. Campus 1 reported greater norms during SPD than Campus 2, whereas Campus 2 reported greater norms during MG than Campus 1. Event-specific norms did not moderate the relation between event and student event-specific drinking. CONCLUSION: Campuses with different event-specific traditions differed in intent to drink and actual event-specific drinking. FINDINGS have important implications for campus-wide interventions and individual treatment. Language: en
Peyronie's disease: a modified treatment

We evaluated 93 patients with complaints of sexual dysfunction and evidence of Peyronie's disease. Duplex ultrasonography (10-MHz probe and 4.5-MHz pulsed Doppler test) in 87 enabled definition of their penile vascular response to an intracorporeal injection of a vasoactive agent. Vascular disease was present in 70 percent of the study population. Forty-four patients had a surgical procedure. Nineteen had plications using a simultaneous pharmacological erection, 3 had dermal grafts, and 3 with severe vascular disease had primary placement of a prosthesis. One patient underwent a single Nesbit procedure. In 18 patients, we incised the plaque and grafted a segment of the deep dorsal vein, using the expertise gained from penile venous surgery. In the vein-grafted patients, rapid return of suppleness of the penile shaft, use of only a single incision, and use of the patient's own tissue, with the possible beneficial effect of endothelial-derived substances (nitric oxide) decreasing the risk of hematoma below the graft, support our belief that this modified technique may be superior to those presently in common use.
Once-daily administration of acebutolol in treatment of hypertension

A comparison of once-daily and twice-daily regimens of treatments with a beta-adrenoceptor-blocking agent, acebutolol, was carried out in patients with mild to moderate essential hypertension. Following an initial placebo phase, all patients entered an open 9-week period during which the dose of acebutolol, given on a twice-daily basis to all patients, was titrated to reduce seated diastolic blood pressure to less than 90 mm Hg or to decrease it by at least 10 mm Hg. After a further 4-week maintenance period, patients whose blood pressure had been successfully controlled entered a 3-month double-blind study in which they were randomly divided into three groups: those receiving continuation of twice-daily treatment (n = 47); those receiving once-daily treatment (using the same total daily dose as in the earlier twice-daily phase (n = 97); and those receiving placebo twice daily (n = 48). By the end of the study, 78% of the once-daily treatment group were still under control, a result similar to that of 72% in the twice-daily treatment group. In contrast, only 39% of the placebo patients remained under control. Moreover, the blood pressure in this group was significantly higher than in the other two groups. Acebutolol is an efficacious antihypertensive agent when used on a once-daily basis.
An improved method of quadriceps thermocouple implantation.

An improved method of quadriceps thermocouple implantation utilizing a commercially available teflon venous catheter is described. This catheter possesses an inner protruding steel needle, which can be withdrawn after catheter implantation, and a leur fitting which allows syringe attachment and infusion of pain blocker during catheter implantation. Compared to other methods of thermocouple implantation, the present method appears to minimize discomfort to subjects, significantly increases thermocouple longevity, and permits thermocouple replacement during exercise. We believe this technique will facilitate research involving the continuous measurement of muscle temperature during exercise.
Effects of a high-fat meal on pulmonary function in healthy subjects.

Obesity has important health consequences, including elevating risk for heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. A high-fat diet is known to contribute to obesity. Little is known regarding the effect of a high-fat diet on pulmonary function, despite the dramatic increase in the prevalence of respiratory ailments (e.g., asthma). The purpose of our study was to determine whether a high-fat meal (HFM) would increase airway inflammation and decrease pulmonary function in healthy subjects. Pulmonary function tests (PFT) (forced expiratory volume in 1-s, forced vital capacity, forced expiratory flow at 25–75% of vital capacity) and exhaled nitric oxide (eNO; airway inflammation) were performed in 20 healthy (10 men, 10 women), inactive subjects (age 21.9 ± 0.4 years) pre and 2 h post HFM (1 g fat/1 kg body weight; 74.2 ± 4.1 g fat). Total cholesterol, triglycerides, and C-reactive protein (CRP; systemic inflammation) were determined via a venous blood sample pre and post HFM. Body composition was measured via dual energy X-ray absorptiometry. The HFM significantly increased total cholesterol by 4 ± 1%, and triglycerides by 93 ± 3%. ENO also increased (p 0.05) with the HFM. These results demonstrate that a HFM, which leads to significant increases in total cholesterol, and especially triglycerides, increases exhaled NO. This suggests that a high-fat diet may contribute to chronic inflammatory diseases of the airway and lung.
Double nondisjunction during karyotypic progression of chemically induced Syrian hamster cell lines.

Abstract The karyotypic evolution of three chemically induced cell lines of Syrian hamster embryo cells in culture are described. The only karyotypic alteration of one clone was a trisomy of chromosome #11, which presumably arose by nondisjunction after carcinogen treatment. A pure population of cells with the trisomy was observed repeatedly upon karyotyping of cells at the first three passages after cloning. However, at a late passage, apparently normal diploid cells appeared in the culture, which we propose resulted from a second nondisjunction of one chromosome #11, reverting the cells from trisomy 11 to disomy 11. The karyotypic evolution of two other cell lines also involved double nondisjunction, which resulted in duplication of a translocated chromosome and concurrent loss of the normal nonrearranged chromosome. Taken together with the reported findings of others, the results indicate that double nondisjunction is a mechanism in karyotypic progression during neoplastic development.
Design criteria for superlubricity in carbon films and related microstructures

Abstract Carbon offers the kind of flexibility that one needs in the design and production of chemically unique microstructures with properties ranging from superlubricity to super-hardness and/or -softness. This flexibility can be exploited for numerous tribological applications, ranging in sizes from nano-scale electromechanical systems to meso-scale engine parts and components. Recently, carbon was used in our laboratory to produce nearly frictionless carbon (NFC) films having friction coefficients as low as 0.001 and wear rates of 10−11–10−10 mm3/N m even under dry sliding conditions and at very high contact pressures. Using advanced fabrication and chemical vapor deposition methods, our research team has pioneered the development of other unique microstructures possessing exceptional physical, chemical, mechanical, electrical, and tribological properties. The combination of such exceptional properties in one material is rather rare, but urgently needed by the industry to meet the increasingly multifunctional needs of advanced mechanical systems and devices. This paper provides an overview of recent progress in the study and understanding of the tribological properties of carbon-based coatings. The design and surface engineering aspects of such coatings are discussed and the principles of superlubricity in these films are presented. Examples of current and future applications for two- and three-dimensional carbon-based structures are also provided.
HIV Risk Behavior among Outpatients at a State Psychiatric Hospital: Prevalence and Risk Modeling.

The purpose of this archival study was to determine the prevalence and correlates of HIV-related risk behavior among adults with a severe and persistent mental illness (SPMI). Hospital records at a public psychiatric hospital were reviewed to obtain data on demographic and psychiatric characteristics, sexual behavior, and substance use. Data were available from 889 (73%) of 1,214 eligible outpatients. Of these 889 patients, 49% were sexually active, 52% used alcohol, and 18% used street drugs during the past year. Eleven percent were at high risk for HIV infection: 7% reported having three or more sexual partners, 3% had been infected with a sexually transmitted disease (STD), 3% had traded sex, and fewer than 1% had shared injection equipment. HIV-risk status was modeled with logistic regression using diagnosis, type of residence, drug and alcohol use, and demographic variables; five- and six-predictor models were derived for two HIV-risk indicators. A bootstrap simulation supported the reliability of each model. We concluded that approximately half of the adults living with a SPMI are sexually active, and a minority engages in behaviors that increase risk of HIV infection. Routine screening for HIV risk in psychiatric settings can identify patients who may benefit from risk-reduction programs.
Space Technology and the Benthic Boundary Layer: Project HEBBLE

Experience and technology gained in exploring the planets are directly applicable to long-term experiments in the deep ocean, where new avenues of investigation are being explored which use unattended autonomous systems for the study of the transport of sediments by the high energy benthic boundary layer in Project HEBBLE. The use of spacecraft-derived technology in the design and implementation of these instrument systems is illustrated by the use of a microprocessor-based data subsystem to sample and control the individual instruments. One such instrument system to be deployed for HEBBLE is the Benthic Water Tunnel. This facility is being designed to examine the in situ processes of erosion and deposition of marine sediments in the deep ocean as a function of stress in the imposed boundary layer. Instruments on this facility will monitor the particle concentration, and the fluid velocity and stress fields.
High X-ray conversion efficiency with target irradiation by a frequency tripled Nd : Glass laser

Abstract High conversion efficiency of laser energy into X-rays from a laser irradiated target is of great interest for a variety of dynamical (pulsed) studies, e.g.: radiography of laser-imploded targets, structure determination by diffraction and absorption fine-structure, and X-ray laser pumping. We report here on a frequency tripled Nd : glass laser used to irradiate targets of various materials at ∼5 x 1014W/cm2. We find conversion efficiencies of between 1% and 0.1% (with respect to the incident laser energy) for individual X-ray lines between 1.8 and 7.8 keV. These efficiencies are more than an order of magnitude higher than whose achieved with 1.06 μm lasers.