cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Unobstructed electron transfer on porous polyelectrolyte nanostructures and its characterization by electrochemical surface plasmon resonance

Abstract Thin organic films with desirable redox properties have long been sought in biosensor research. We report here the development of a polymer thin film interface with well-defined hierarchical nanostructure and electrochemical behavior, and its characterization by electrochemical surface plasmon resonance (ESPR) spectroscopy. The nano-architecture build-up is monitored in real time with SPR, while the redox response is characterized by cyclic voltammetry in the same flow cell. The multilayer assembly is built on a self-assembled monolayer (SAM) of 1:1 (molar ratio) 11-ferrocenyl-1-undecanethiolate (FUT) and mercaptoundecanoic acid (MUA), and constructed using a layer-by-layer deposition of cationic poly(allylamine hydrochloride) (PAH) and anionic poly(sodium 4-styrenesulfonate) (PSS). Electron transfer (ET) on the mixed surface and the effect of the layer structures on ET are systematically studied. Under careful control, multiple layers can be deposited onto the 1:1 FUT/MUA SAM that presents unobstructed redox chemistry, indicating a highly ordered, extensively porous structure obtained under this condition. The use of SPR to trace the minute change during the electrochemical process offers neat characterization of local environment at the interface, in particular double layer region, allowing for better control over the redox functionality of the multilayers. The 1:1 SAM has a surface coverage of 4.1 ± 0.3 × 10−10 mol cm−2 for ferrocene molecules and demonstrates unperturbed electrochemistry activity even in the presence of a 13 nm polymer film adhered to the electrode surface. This thin layer possesses some desirable properties similar to those on a SAM while presenting ∼15 nm exceedingly porous structure for high loading capacity. The high porosity allows perchlorate to freely partition into the film, leading to high current density that is useful for sensitive electrochemical measurements.
d-Ala-d-Lac Binding Is Not Required for the High Activity of Vancomycin Dimers against Vancomycin Resistant Enterococci

Covalent dimerization and oligomerization of vancomycin is an important and extensively used strategy to develop analogues active against vancomycin resistant enteroccoci (VRE). Here, we have carried out investigations to probe the role of peptide binding (Lys-d-Ala-d-Lac) in the high anti-VRE activities of covalently linked vancomycin dimers. Covalent dimers of damaged vancomycin (desleucyl) were prepared, and their anti-VRE activities and binding affinities toward various model peptides were measured. Despite the dramatic loss in affinity toward several model peptides in comparison to the corresponding intact vancomycin dimers, these damaged dimers maintained good activity against VRE. These results strongly suggest that the high anti-VRE activities of covalent vancomycin dimers are conferred from mechanisms other than Lys-d-Ala-d-Lac binding.
Semantic Network Analysis of Islamist Sources Using Time Slices as Nodes and Semantic Similarity as Link Strengths: Some Implications for Propaganda Analysis about Jihad

This research analyzes Muslim nation (MN) networks associated with Jihad for the previous two years. We captured all documents from Lexis-Nexis Academic's BBC International Monitoring -- which contains translated transcriptions of web pages, broadcasts, newspapers, and other content -- for each of 47 Muslim nations (MNs) using the search term: jihad and MN name. We presented a new kind of semantic network time series analysis of this text. Unlike most semantic network analysis, our nodes were time segments, not words. The link strengths were similarity scores of time nodes across 779,192 word pairs. The time nodes were 105 weekly intervals. We created a two-mode matrix. Columns were the frequencies of time slices' word pairs, appearing in a three-word window. Matrix rows were three-quarters of a million word pairs extracted from the aggregate two-year text file. We converted this two-mode matrix to a one-mode matrix by computing the similarity of each pair of time slices across the rows of word pairs. This resulted in a one-mode network of 105 by 105 time units. Pearson correlations were the similarity coefficients. We conducted social network analysis of the time nodes to find the most central ones. Highly central nodes lie more often on the shortest paths between all pairs of time nodes. They therefore contain in their internal lists of highest frequency word pairs the main themes across the two-years of text. The method is highly automated and efficient. In this case only three central nodes provided the basis for an analyst's interpretations of main propaganda themes.
A Matrix Population Model for Mottled Ducks (Anas fulvigula) of the Western Gulf Coast

Abstract According to three surveys performed annually since the mid-late 1980s, the Anas fulvigula (Mottled Duck) population in Texas has declined substantially. Factors contributing to the observed trend are not well understood. Assessing the relative influence of vital rates on the population growth-rate is necessary to make management and conservation decisions regarding Mottled Ducks. We gathered estimates and associated variance estimates for vital rates of Mottled Ducks on the western Gulf Coast. We constructed a matrix population-model based on female vital rates and assumed birth-pulse reproduction, and parameterized it with a pre-breeding census. We calculated mean and standard error estimates for composite vital rates such as population growth rate (λ), fertility, and recruitment using 1000 iterations of the model. We also performed 20 meta-iterations of the population model to obtain mean coefficient of determination (r2) values for the linear regression of each vital rate and composite rates ...
ASTEROIDS : SHATTERED BUT NOT DISPERSED

Abstract We use a combination of scaling laws and direct hydrocode computations that include material strength to show that the impact energy needed to disperse an asteroid is greater than that to thoroughly shatter it for asteroids larger than about 400 m in radius. Thus, asteroids larger than this size should probably be considered to be gravitationally bound, but otherwise strengthless, rubble piles.
An overview of pressure area care and manual handling

Increasing numbers of hospital patients have pressure sores (Hansard, 2005), which cause pain and discomfort and can even lead to death. Most pressure sores can be prevented by effective care. This article aims to enable you to understand why pressure sores develop and to prevent them whenever possible.
Disparities in dental service utilization among Alabama Medicaid children.

Objectives: Access to oral health care and utilization of available services are important factors in minimizing the oral health disparities among underserved minorities. Our objective was to evaluate the racial and other factors related to ‘realized access’ to oral health care among Alabama Medicaid children. Methods: Data were obtained from 308 538 Alabama Medicaid claims submitted in 1995–96 and analyzed using regression analyses. Results: A lower proportion of Blacks (24%) and other racial groups (22%) compared to Whites (31%) and a lower proportion of 15–19-year-olds (15%) compared to younger age groups (30%) obtained dental services (P < 0.05). Odds of males obtaining care were slightly lower compared to females (OR = 0.96; 95% CI = 0.94–0.99). However, there was a significant interaction of race with other factors in determining service utilization. Subjects who were continuously eligible for Medicaid throughout the fiscal year were more likely to obtain care (OR = 2.86; 95% CI = 2.78–2.93). About one-fourth of the visits had an emergency procedure included in the treatment rendered. Availability of a participating dentist within the county of residence and the lower reimbursement-to-charge ratio were among the other related factors for underutilization of services. Conclusions: There is a significant racial disparity in utilization of dental services even among the Medicaid-eligible children. However, this was not a simple function of race, but a complex interaction of race with other factors such as age, gender, and location. Acknowledgment: Supported by CDC grant #U48/CCU 409679.
Two blood pressure/cardiac mass quantitative trait loci on Chromosome 3 in Dahl rats

Interval mapping was used to identify putative quantitative trait loci (QTL) for blood pressure and cardiac mass on Chromosome (Chr) 3 in F1(S × R) × S population of 150 rats raised on an 8% NaCl diet. Two genetic markers 95.7 cM apart, D3Wox3 and D3Mco5 (tightly linked to Edn3), showed ``suggestive'' linkage to blood pressure (LOD = 2.0 and 1.8 respectively). In addition, D3Wox3 showed ``suggestive'' linkage to heart weight (LOD = 2.5), and D3Mco5 showed ``suggestive'' linkage to body weight–adjusted heart weight (LOD = 2.1). Congenic rats (designated S.R-Edn3) were constructed by introgressing the R-rat Edn3 allele (and flanking loci) into the S strain. On a 2% NaCl diet, S.R-Edn3 rats had lower blood pressure (21.4 mm Hg, P= 0.0005) and heart weight (59 mg, P= 0.0038) compared with S rats, confirming the existence of a blood pressure QTL on Chr 3 near Edn3 even though QTL linkage analysis of blood pressure did not achieve stringent statistical criteria for significance. The results of the congenic experiment and the large distance between the two putative QTL suggest the presence of at least two independent blood pressure/cardiac mass QTL detectable on Chr 3 in the Dahl rat model of genetic hypertension.
Membrane localization of v-ErbB is required but not sufficient for ligand-independent transformation.

Abstract The v-ErbB retroviral oncogene is a transduced, mutated copy of the avian EGF receptor gene, and its expression is sufficient to induce tumor formation in vivo. The structural alterations that release the oncogenic potential of the v-ErbB oncogene are similar to EGFR gene mutations described in human tumors. Thus, the study of v-ErbB tumor biology offers a useful model through which we can gain insight into the mechanism of EGFR-induced malignancies. Despite years of study, however, questions remain regarding the domains of v-ErbB required for oncogenicity. We sought to clarify the role of the transmembrane domain of v-ErbB during transformation using S3-v-ErbB, an acutely transforming retroviral oncogene isolated from avian sarcomas. Infection of primary fibroblasts with a retroviral vector containing S3-v-ErbB results in the formation of a transformation-associated phosphoprotein signaling complex, soft agar colony formation, and the rapid induction of highly vascularized sarcomas in vivo. To address contribution of the transmembrane domain of S3-v-ErbB during these processes, we constructed a mutant version of this oncogene with a precise deletion in this domain. Specifically, the S3-v-ErbB-TM− mutant was created through an in-frame deletion of the entire transmembrane domain. Primary fibroblasts expressing this S3-v-ErbB-TM− mutant fail to form a characteristic transformation-associated phosphoprotein complex and do not grow in an anchorage-independent manner. In addition, day-old chicks injected with a helper-independent retrovirus expressing the S3-v-ErbB-TM− mutant exhibit only limited tumor formation in vivo. These results demonstrate that the transmembrane domain and, consequently membrane localization, are essential for S3-v-ErbB-mediated transformation.
Dimensionality crossovers of the sigma plasmon in coaxial carbon nanotubes.

Dimensionality crossovers of plasmons in carbon nanotubes, modeled as curved layered electron-gas superstructures, are investigated. For small wave vectors, the \ensuremath{\sigma} plasmons exhibit a transition from a one- to a three-dimensional character as the number of graphitic shells increases, in correspondence with recent experiments. For large wave vectors, plasmons of two-dimensional character are predicted.
Creating a stable tympanic membrane perforation using mitomycin C.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the ability of topically applied mitomycin C to create a stable tympanic membrane perforation.STUDY DESIGN AND SETTING: Twenty-four rats underwent subtotal removal of the tympanic membranes bilaterally. Forty ears received 0.2 mg/ml of mitomycin C. The remaining 8 received phosphatebuffered saline solution (control). Photographs taken every 3 to 5 days for 44 days were digitally scanned and computer analyzed to calculate the percentage of residual perforation. Application of solutions, photography, and data analysis were performed in a blinded fashion.RESULTS: The mitomycin C treated ears had delayed closure time and healing rate (from day 0 to 25) compared to the control group. All controls healed by day 14. By day 44, 92.5% of the mitomycin C treated ears healed.CONCLUSION: Mitomycin C prolongs the closure and healing rate of myringotomies in rat tympanic membranes.SIGNIFICANCE: Myringotomy with concurrent mitomycin C application may be useful for creating an animal model for chr...
Preliminary Report of Los Alamos Keratoplasty Techniques

Abstract We have found that intrastromal diathermy heat to the cornea spares the epithelium and endothelium, while preferentially allowing contraction of the midstromal corneal collagen. Extensive animal studies have demonstrated a potentially useful dosage range for primate corneal diathermy. We have initiated cautious preliminary human studies utilizing the Los Alamos Keratoplasty unit in the last 12 months to reshape the corneas of keratoconus patients who were referred for penetrating keratoplasty. The steepest area of the cone may be flattened from 4 to 57 diopters, thereby allowing a return to contact lens use. We recommend the technique of Los Alamos Keratoplasty as an alternative to penetrating keratoplasty in patients who have been successful in contact lens wear, but whose cone progression precludes continued satisfactory fitting. The procedure appears effective in this preliminary study. The eventual safety and long-term efficacy of this experimental keratorefractive surgical technique requires extensive further study.
The Nonessential H2A N-Terminal Tail Can Function as an Essential Charge Patch on the H2A.Z Variant N-Terminal Tail

Tetrahymena thermophila cells contain three forms of H2A: major H2A.1 and H2A.2, which make up 80% of total H2A, and a conserved variant, H2A.Z. We showed previously that acetylation of H2A.Z was essential (Q. Ren and M. A. Gorovsky, Mol. Cell 7:1329–1335, 2001). Here we used in vitro mutagenesis of lysine residues, coupled with gene replacement, to identify the sites of acetylation of the N-terminal tail of the major H2A and to analyze its function in vivo. Tetrahymena cells survived with all five acetylatable lysines replaced by arginines plus a mutation that abolished acetylation of the N-terminal serine normally found in the wild-type protein. Thus, neither posttranslational nor cotranslational acetylation of major H2A is essential. Surprisingly, the nonacetylatable N-terminal tail of the major H2A was able to replace the essential function of the acetylation of the H2A.Z N-terminal tail. Tail-swapping experiments between H2A.1 and H2A.Z revealed that the nonessential acetylation of the major H2A N-terminal tail can be made to function as an essential charge patch in place of the H2A.Z N-terminal tail and that while the pattern of acetylation of an H2A N-terminal tail is determined by the tail sequence, the effects of acetylation on viability are determined by properties of the H2A core and not those of the N-terminal tail itself. In eukaryotic cell nuclei, DNA associates with histones to form chromatin. The basic unit of chromatin is the nucleosome core particle consisting of 146 bp of DNA wrapped around an octamer of two of each of the four conserved core histones,
Drug use among maltreated adolescents receiving child welfare services

Abstract This study investigated the impact of child maltreatment, child welfare services, parental substance abuse, and parent–child relationship on adolescents' drug use. In a secondary data analysis of 1799 adolescents, data were extracted from the National Survey of Child and Adolescent Well-Being. Ordered probit regression showed that level of hard drug use within the past 30 days related to adolescents' lifetime use of hard drugs, emotional closeness to parent, sexual maltreatment, and receipt of in-home services. Implications for services and research are discussed.
Observation of sequence‐specific peptide fragmentation using extended tandem mass spectrometry experiments

Reaction-intermediate spectra are reported for peptide mixtures using a hybrid BEQQ and a pentaquadrupole mass spectrometer. In this extended tandem mass spectrometry scan, the protonated molecule and a terminal fragment ion are selected with the first and third mass analyzers, respectively. A subsequent linked scan at constant B/E (hybrid instrument) or a scan of the middle quadrupole (pentaquadrupole instrument) produces the reaction-intermediate spectrum. The resulting spectra are simpler than conventional tandem mass spectrometry daughter-ion spectra and display only sequence ions of one group, viz. A, B and C or X, Y and Z. This information facilitates structural elucidation and is obtainable on nanomole amounts of peptide.
Temperature dependence of hole impact ionization coefficients in 4H and 6H-SiC

Abstract Hole impact ionization coefficients have been accurately measured as a function of temperature in both 4H and 6H-SiC using the pulsed electron beam induced current (P-EBIC) technique. For Chynoweth's equation ( α=a e − b / E ), our measurements gave an a p value of (2.6±0.12)×10 6 /cm and a b p value of (1.5±0.01)×10 7 V/cm for 6H-SiC at room temperature while the values of a p and b p for 4H-SiC were found to be (3.25±0.3)×10 6 /cm and (1.71±0.04)×10 7 V/cm, respectively, at room temperature. The coefficient a p was found to decrease with increasing temperature for both polytypes while the coefficient b p remained constant. Based upon this data, the breakdown voltage of the 4H and 6H-SiC devices is predicted to increase with temperature which is an important desirable characteristic for power devices.
Statistical issues in assessing comorbidity

I define three separate and distinct types of non-random comorbidity: epidemiologic, clinical and familial. These might exist singly or in any combination for a pair of disorders. The focus is on their definition and the measurement and interpretation of the types of comorbidity of most common concern: epidemiologic comorbidity. I discuss certain sources of epidemiologic comorbidity such as shared risk factors, or diagnostic 'fuzziness', and I indicate the directions of research design and analyses to disclose such sources.
Considerations on the Probability of Nuclear Fission

A semiempirical equation for fission thresholds has been extended to include the effects of unpaired nucleons on the rate of spontaneous fission. Excitation functions for the ($\ensuremath{\alpha}, 4n$) reactions of ${\mathrm{Ra}}^{226}$, ${\mathrm{Th}}^{230}$, and ${\mathrm{U}}^{236}$ have been measured. These results and reported cross sections for other ($\ensuremath{\alpha}, 4n$) reactions in the heaviest elements have been analyzed in terms of fission and neutron-emission competition to obtain mean values of $\frac{{\ensuremath{\Gamma}}_{n}}{{\ensuremath{\Gamma}}_{F}}$. These mean values of $\frac{{\ensuremath{\Gamma}}_{n}}{{\ensuremath{\Gamma}}_{F}}$ have been correlated with neutron binding energies and fission thresholds.
Large grain polycrystalline silicon via chemical vapor deposition

Large grain polycrystalline Si films were grown by chemical vapor deposition (CVD) onto TiB2 substrates using the SiCl4–H2 reagent system. A statistically designed processing study was used to correlate the film growth rate, crystallographic orientation, and grain size with deposition temperature, the SiCl4 : H2 ratio, and the level of B doping. Each process variable influenced grain size with temperature having the dominant effect. Grains as large as 15 to 20 μm were achieved for a coating thickness of about 50 μm.
Effects of high-intensity interval training on pulmonary function.

To determine whether high-intensity interval training (HIT) would increase respiratory muscle strength and expiratory flow rates more than endurance training (ET), 15 physically active, healthy subjects (untrained) were randomly assigned to an ET group (n = 7) or a HIT group (n = 8). All subjects performed an incremental test to exhaustion (VO2max) on a cycle ergometer before and after training. Standard pulmonary function tests, maximum inspiratory pressure (PImax), maximum expiratory pressure (PEmax), and maximal flow volume loops were performed pre training and after each week of training. HIT subjects performed a 4-week training program, 3 days a week, on a cycle ergometer at 90% of their VO2max final workload, while the ET subjects performed exercise at 60-70% VO2max. The HIT group performed five 1-min bouts with 3-min recovery periods and the ET group cycled for 45 min continuously. A five-mile time trial (TT) was performed prior to, after 2 weeks, and after completion of training. Both groups showed improvements (P 0.05) between groups. Both groups increased (P 0.05) in expiratory flow rates with training in either group. These data suggest that both whole-body exercise training and HIT are effective in increasing inspiratory muscle strength with HIT offering a time-efficient alternative to ET in improving aerobic capacity and performance.
Welfare Reform and the Well‐Being of Single Female‐Headed Families: A Semi‐Parametric Analysis

Single female-headed families with children (SFHFwC) have historically been the primary recipients of federal public cash assistance payments in the United States. Recent welfare reform initiatives established work requirements and cumulative time limits on public cash assistance payments. Three findings in this paper have significant implications for the long-term efficacy of welfare reform initiatives. First, SFHFwC made significant and broad-based gains in their economic well-being from 1993 to 1999. Second, increased propensities of single mothers to leave welfare and enter the workforce from 1993 to 1999, behavior consistent with incentives created by welfare reform measures, do not account for a major portion of these observed gains. Third, improved area economic conditions and increased educational levels of single mothers account for a major share of gains in well-being.
Dynamic instability of suddenly heated, thick, composite shells☆

Abstract The parametric resonance type of dynamic instability is investigated for suddenly heated, long circular cylindrical shells of composite material. Particular attention is devoted to the effects of thickness shear flexibility and to mid-surface extensibility. Both long-term and short-term responses are investigated.
Relationships among Proactive Coping, Posttrauma Gratitude, and Psychopathology in a Traumatized College Sample

Scant previous research has examined associations of proactive coping and psychopathology, although two preliminary findings suggest that proactive coping might be negatively associated with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and general depression symptom level. This study examined associations of proactive coping with PTSD and anhedonic depression in a sample of 169 traumatized undergraduates. As expected, women tended to report more severe PTSD symptoms and less life threat than men. No other gender differences were found. Most important, proactive coping and posttrauma state gratitude were independently negatively associated with PTSD symptom level, after controlling for trauma history and female gender. Further, proactive coping was independently negatively associated with anhedonic depression, beyond the effect of traumatic life threat. The implications of the findings for models of posttrauma psychopathology development are discussed.
Kidney function in the octopus.

Abstract 1. 1. Analyses are presented of the inorganic composition of the blood, pericardial fluid and kidney sac urine of Octopus dofleini . 2. 2. The pericardial fluid has the composition to be expected of an ultrafiltrate of the blood but the kidney sac urine is modified by both resorption and secretion. 3. 3. At low or moderate blood pressures the rate of formation of pericardial fluid is proportional to the excess of the hydrostatic pressure of the blood in the branchial heart over the colloidal osmotic pressure of the blood. 4. 4. The octopus responds to an increase in the blood volume by an increase in the rate of urine formation.
Case Study of the Nene Code Project

The Nene code project uses minimal but effective processes to develop a physics-based application code for analyzing and predicting complex behaviors and interactions among individual physical systems and particles. Although the expert core development team is anchored at a university as many as 250 individual researchers have contributed from other locations.
Local density band approach to f-electron systems — heavy fermion superconductor UPt3

Abstract A fully relativistic, local density band calculation for the heavy fermion superconductor UPt 3 is presented. The calculated band structure is in excellent agreement with angle resolved photoemission spectra of Arko et al. An analysis of the Fermi surface and the electron-phonon interaction provides a consistent picture which explains several unusual properties of UPt 3 .
H2S gas treatment by iron bioprocess

Abstract A novel process for abatement of hydrogen sulphide from gas streams has been introduced, based on the combined action of a chemical absorption step and a biological oxidation step exploiting the biocatalytic ability of the bacterium Thiobacillus ferrooxidans . In this paper the process is discussed comprehensively, considering its double-stage version, which appeared as the more reliable. In the former stage (chemical step) H 2 S is absorbed in a ferric solution. In the second one (biological step) ferrous ion in the solution is oxidized by the biological action of Thiobacillus ferrooxidans . H 2 S is definitely converted to sulphur in a closed-reaction cycle. Kinetics of biooxidation and absorption with chemical reaction are discussed both on a theoretical basis and examining results of experiments performed in a lab-scale reactor system with fixed-bed bioreactor and bubble column absorber. Performance of the system is evaluated and kinetic models are proposed for the two steps, also including previous findings from the authors and other researchers.
Unconventional optimal open market purchases

Abstract We build a model in which verifiability of private debt and a timing mismatch in debt settlements can lead to a liquidity problem in the financial market. The central bank can respond to the liquidity problem by adopting an unconventional monetary policy that purchases private debts in the open market. This policy is effective if the timing mismatch is nominal (i.e., a settlement participation risk). It is ineffective if the limited participation is driven by a real shock (i.e., preference shock).
A study of the shear viscosity of human whole saliva

A model R-18 Weissenberg Rheogoniometer operating in the continuous shear mode was used to generate shear viscosity vs. shear rate data on male and female human whole saliva. These data were found to accurately follow the Sisko model, $$\mu - \mu _\infty = K\left| {\dot \gamma } \right|^n $$ , whereµ is the shear viscosity at shear rate $$\dot \gamma ,\mu _\infty $$ is the asymptotic shear viscosity at infinite shear rate, andK andn are constants. Data were collected on the effects of food, coffee, caffeine, and aspirin as functions of time. Studies were also made on the effects of emotional stress, donor sex and age. The saliva viscosity increased with time and then decreased to the basal value for most ingested materials. Emotional stress was found to elevate the saliva viscosity. On the other hand, no significant difference was found between the average saliva viscosities of male and female groups. Also, no significant effect of donor age was detected.
Bringing Federal Documents to the Forefront for Library Users: Selective Cataloging Using an OPAC.

This article reviews the value of federal depository document titles, often underutilized as sources of research, and discusses reasons why many of them are worth cataloging. Several approaches to cataloging these titles to make them more readily accessible are profiled. The Adelphi University Library has devised a system, relying on Boolean logic and using an online public access catalog (OPAC), to choose which depository titles are worth cataloging because of their scholarly research value. This has resulted in the enrichment and expansion of the collection of readily available research titles and has contributed significantly to the library’s permanent collection development program.
Simultaneous measurement of the viability, aggregation, and live and dead adherence of Streptococcus crista, Streptococcus mutans and Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans in human saliva in relation to indices of caries, dental plaque and periodontal disease.

Salivary proteins have multiple functions and many share similar functions, which may be why it has been difficult to relate variations in their concentrations to oral health and ecology. An alternative is to focus on variations in the major functions of saliva. An hydroxyapatite-coated microplate model has been developed that simultaneously measures saliva-promoted bacterial viability, bacterial aggregation, and live and dead bacterial adherence, while simulating oral temperature and shearing forces from swallowing. That model was applied to resting whole and stimulated parotid saliva from 149 individuals, using representative strains of Streptococcus crista, S. mutans, and Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans. Two major factors were defined by multivariate analysis (this was successful only for whole-saliva). One factor was correlated with aggregation, live adherence and dead adherence for all three strains; the other was correlated with total viability of all three strains. Participants were grouped 75th percentile for each factor. Those groups were compared for clinical indices of oral health. Caries scores were significantly lower in those with high scores for aggregation-adherence, regardless of whether total viability scores were low or high. Live bacteria always predominated on surfaces when live and dead adherence scores were expressed as ratios. However, participants with high scores for aggregation-adherence showed significantly more dead adherent bacteria than those with low scores (these ratios were uncorrelated with total viability). This finding may indicate that extreme differences in the ability to kill bacteria on surfaces can influence caries risk.
Multiresolutional Pyramidal Knowledge Representation And Algorithmic Basis Of IMAS-2

This paper describes recent research results in the area of autonomous robotics. A multiresolutional (pyramidal) system of world representation is applied to the domain required for Intelligent Mobile Autonomous Systems for outdoor application. Problems of generalization, accuracy, and adequacy of representation are formulated for a system with vision and ultrasonic sensors. A method of nested hierarchical planning is applied for this system of representation. A Pilot with behavioral duality is proven to be efficient for a mobile robot. An execution controller is explored based upon a production system providing near-minimum time operation.
Functional significance of cortical bone distribution in anthropoid mandibles: An in vitro assessment of bone strain under combined loads

Local variation in cortical bone thickness in the postcanine mandibular corpus appears to be stereotypical among anthropoids. Specifically, at sections under the molars, lingually situated cortical bone is typically thinner than that along the lateral aspect. This pattern applies despite phylogenetic, dietary, and allometric differences among the anthropoids sampled to date. Demes et al. (Food Acquisition and Processing in Primates [1984] New York: Plenum Press, p. 369–390) employed a theoretical analysis of mastication in Gorilla and Homo to argue that this pattern could be explained with reference to biomechanical stresses. Specifically, they proposed that the combined effects of torsion and direct shear on the working-side corpus create a condition in which net stresses and strains are reduced along the lingual cortical plate. Demonstration of this effect would suggest a functional linkage between localized differences in bone mass and strain gradients in the facial skeleton. We conducted an empirical evaluation of the effects of the combined loads of torsion and direct shear in vitro on a sample of formalin-fixed human mandibles. Rosette strain gages were affixed to the lateral and medial aspects of the corpus in each specimen, and surface strains were recorded separately under controlled torsional and occlusal loads, and under simultaneous application of these loads. The hypothesis that lingual strains are reduced under combined twisting and occlusal loads was generally supported; however, we observed reduction in surface strains at some sites along the lateral aspect of the corpus under these combined loads as well. These unexpected findings are attributable to unanticipated loading conditions imposed by occlusal forces, which result from sources of stress in addition to direct shear. These experiments provide provisional support for the hypothesis that superposed sources of bone strain produce large strain gradients between buccal and lingual aspects of the mandibular corpus, and that local variation in bone mass may be associated with these gradients. Am J Phys Anthropol, 2003. © 2003 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Wigner functional approach to quantum field dynamics

We introduce the Wigner functional representing a quantum field in terms of the field amplitudes and their conjugate momenta. The equation of motion for the functional of a scalar field points out the relevance of solutions of the classical field equations to the time evolution of the quantum field. We discuss the field in thermodynamical equilibrium and find the explicit solution of the equations of motion for the so-called ``rollover'' phase transition. Finally, we briefly discuss the approximate methods for the evaluation of the Wigner functional that may be used to numerically simulate the initial value problem.
Correlation of behavioral and bioelectrical alterations caused by nitrous oxide.

Abstract Behavioral effects of nitrous oxide in various species led us to use this gas as a tool to investigate correlations between changes in bioelectric activity of the brain and behavioral alterations. We recorded in rats from the cortical surface and hippocampus while the animals inhaled air or nitrous oxide, before and after having learned a temporal discrimination task. Subanesthetic concentrations of nitrous oxide decreased exploratory behavior and reaction to stimuli. Very large amplitude, irregular activity (designated vLIA) prevailed in those rats which seemed most affected. Another form of large amplitude, irregular activity (LIA) was recorded from motionless but alert rats. LIA was smaller than vLIA. Rhythmic slow wave activity (RSA) of 7–11 Hz was unaffected by nitrous oxide. There was a separate RSA of 5–7 Hz which was affected by nitrous oxide. The results suggest that alterations in the EEG correlate with changes in the state of the rat. Possible physiological bases for these effects are discussed.
Event Generator Tuning in the Resonance Region for the MINOS Experiment

In this paper I will discuss the tuning of the NEUGEN event generator for use by the MINOS experiment. I will focus on the tuning of the cross section model in the resonance / DIS overlap region which is of particular importance for this experiment.
Pharmacokinetics and bioavailability of midazolam after intravenous, subcutaneous, intraperitoneal and oral administration under a chronic food-limited regimen: relating DRL performance to pharmacokinetics.

The effects of midazolam on animal behavior often are evaluated under a chronically food-limited regimen, which is used to implement food-reinforced performance, but the corresponding pharmacokinetics are lacking. The present study investigated the pharmacokinetics of midazolam after IV, SC, IP, and PO administration in food-limited rats. A two-compartment model best described the concentration-time profiles for the four routes of administration. The rate of midazolam absorption was rapid, and peak concentrations were attained in less than 7 min for the three extravascular routes. The mean volume of distribution of the central compartment and clearance were 0.77 l/kg and 2.03 l/h per kg, respectively. Midazolam elimination half-lives for the four routes of administration ranged from 23.1 to 49.5 min, and metabolites could not be detected. The mean absolute bioavailability was route-dependent: 39.3% (SC) 19.2% (IP) and 4.6% (PO). The markedly low oral bioavailability found in food-limited rats contrasted to the value reported for free-feeding rats (45%). Although the IP route yielded the highest maximum concentration on occasion, serum midazolam concentration-time profiles were variable, but did correspond to respective sedative responses. DRL 45-s performance after SC, IP, and PO administration further supported the advisability of using the SC route of administration, as opposed to the IP route, for studying midazolam dose-response relations. The bioavailability values assessed from DRL performance also agree with the measured pharmacokinetic values.
Effect of light-cure time on the initial shear bond strength of a glass-ionomer adhesive.

Abstract With the introduction of photosensitive (light-cured) restorative materials in dentistry, various methods were suggested to enhance the polymerization of these materials including layering and the use of more powerful light-curing devices. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of increasing the light-cure time on the initial shear bond strength (in the first half hour) of a resin-modified glass-ionomer adhesive. Eighty-six teeth were divided into 4 groups according to either; (1) the adhesive system used, namely resin, reinforced glass ionomer, or composite, and (2) the light-cure time for the glass ionomer adhesive, namely 40, 45, and 50 seconds. The bonding approach followed the manufacturer's instructions unless otherwise specified. The results of the analysis of variance comparing the 4 experimental groups (F = 19.4) indicated the presence of significant differences between the groups ( P = .0001). In general, the shear bond strength was greater for the composite adhesive system ({x - = 5.2 ± 2.9 MPa), followed by the 2 groups bonded with the resin-reinforced glass-ionomer adhesive and light cured for 50 seconds ({x - = 3.8 ± 1.1 MPa) and 45 seconds ({x - = 3.4 ± 2.7 MPa). On the other hand, the shear bond strength was significantly lower for the group bonded with the glass ionomer adhesive and light cured for 40 seconds only ({x - = 0.4 ± 1.0 MPa). The present findings indicated the following: (1) the resin-reinforced glass-ionomer adhesive has a significantly lower shear bond strength in the first half hour after bonding when compared to a composite resin adhesive; (2) the initial bond strength of the glass-ionomer adhesive was significantly increased by increasing the light-cure time for an additional 5 to 10 seconds; (3) the mean increase in the shear bond strength between 5 and 10 seconds of additional light curing was not significant but the variability was less with the longer cure time. (Am J Orthod Dentofacial Orthop 2000;117:164-8)
Motivating Military Families to Thrive

Since 1973 excellent programs supporting military families have developed. However, a unified program across the Department of Defense (DoD) that meets family needs and connects to communities is elusive. Military Family Life Project data show that participation in many programs is limited, but when the programs are used, they often work well. The data suggest the “coercive bureaucracy” that envelopes the military extends to the family and limits motivation to utilize programs. We propose that the military employ the Self-Determination Theory to motivate families to elevate above basic survival so they can thrive. With 73% of families living outside of military installations, their participation in programs will require community involvement because the government cannot meet the needs of most families by itself. Connecting government and community programs requires a transparent unified program structure. We propose that product life-cycle management will elucidate and integrate existing programs across the entire service life cycle and enhance community connectivity.
In vivo cognitive assessment in bulimia nervosa and restrained eating

The Bulimic Cognition Inventory (BCI) was introduced as an in vivo endorsement method for measuring cognitions characteristic of bulimia nervosa. Cognitions assessed with the BCI included negative and distorted self-statements dealing with food, body image, and low self-efficacy. The BCI was used to assess the cognitions of 15 women with bulimia, 15 women who engage in restrained eating, and 15 non-eating-disordered women in the naturalistic environment when eating, in the naturalistic environment independent of eating, and in the laboratory setting. The external validity of cognitions gathered in a laboratory was also assessed. Results indicated, in all conditions, the bulimic group reported more of the targeted cognitions and rated these cognitions as more intense than the non-eating disordered group. Interesting similarities as well as differences emerged between the bulimic and restrained eater groups. Current findings support the discriminant validity of the BCI for distinguishing women with bulimia nervosa from those who do not have an eating disorder, raise interesting questions regarding restraint theory, and support the use of laboratory procedures to assess the cognitions of women with bulimia nervosa.
Luminal digestion of human milk proteins in suckling and weanling rats

Abstract An increasing body of evidence suggests that human milk proteins may vary in their digestibility within the gastrointestinal tract. Secretory IgA, lactoferrin, and lysozyme have all been detected in substantial quantities in the stool of breast-fed infants and in vitro these proteins possess various degrees of stability at low pH and resistance to hydrolysis by pancreatic proteases. We have evaluated the ontogeny of differential milk protein digestibility in a heterologous system by incubating human milk with luminal fluid flushed from the small intestine of 12-day old suckling and 31-day old weanling rats, followed by analysis of protein profiles by electrophoresis in polyacrylamide gels containing SDS. Luminal fluid from the weanling degraded beta-casein most extensively, followed by lactalbumin, lysozyme, and lactoferrin, respectively. Little or no degradation of immunoglobulin could be detected. By contrast, luminal fluid from suckling rats degraded primarily beta-casein, which it hydrolyzed to a lesser extent than did weanling fluid. Other major milk-proteins were minimally digested. Incubation of luminal fluid with 125 I human casein followed by measurement of radioactivity in trichloroacetic acid-soluble material demonstrated that weanling hydrolytic capacity was approximately 25-fold greater than that of the suckling for this substrate. These preliminary findings in a heterologous system suggest that differential luminal digestibility of human milk proteins may occur in the small intestine and that the susceptibility of individual protein species to hydrolysis may vary during postnatal development.
The selective adaptation of the alcoholics anonymous program by Gamblers Anonymous.

This paper is largely based on a year long observation study of Gamblers Anonymous and Alcoholics Anonymous meetings in northern California. The paper argues, contrary to popular assumption, that Gamblers Anonymous is significantly different from Alcoholics Anonymous. Differences, in members' consciousness for example, are discussed. The paper contends that although there is some12 step consciousness in G.A., the dominant consciousness ispage 17 consciousness. The significant differences are attributed to the selective adaptation of the Alcoholics Anonymous program. Several consequences of these differences, such as the central role of a language of the self in A.A. and not in G.A., are highlighted.
Carbon Nanotubes: From Growth, Placement and Assembly Control to 60mV/decade and Sub-60 mV/decade Tunnel Transistors

This paper presents recent progress on placement and orientation control of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) by both CVD and PECVD growth in electric fields and on single crystal quartz substrates, and post-growth Langmuir Bloddget assembly of close-packed SWNTs. We also present fabrication of nanotube field effect-transistors (FETs) including MOSFET like devices with 60m V/decade switching and ambipolar P-I-N band-to-band tunnel (BTBT) transistors with subthreshold swings down to 25m V/decade.
The influence of hostility on electroencephalographic activity and memory functioning during an affective memory task

Abstract Objective The purpose of this study was to examine the neural correlates of emotional learning and hostility via the use of EEG and the Auditory Affective Verbal Learning Test (AAVL). Methods The Cook–Medley Hostility Scale (CMHO) was used to identify right-handed men ( N = 16) and women ( N = 44) as low or high hostile. Participants were administered the positive and negative word lists of the AAVL lists, and were asked to recall the words during a 5-trial paradigm. EEG data were recorded from 19 scalp sites before and following learning trials; separate bandwidths of the EEG spectrum were analyzed. Results As predicted, completion of the negative AAVL resulted in self-reported negative mood induction. Moreover, primacy and recency effects were demonstrated with the negative and positive versions of the AAVL, respectively. Unexpectedly, high hostiles demonstrated greater right versus left hemisphere high alpha power than low hostile counterparts. Low hostiles evidenced greater alpha power and low beta power than did high hostiles. Conclusions These results suggest differing patterns of hemispheric asymmetry and overall brain activity for low and high hostiles during emotional learning. Significance The findings are important with regard to understanding the relationship between hostility, emotional learning, and associated neural systems.
Targeted dendrimer chemotherapy in an animal model for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma.

Purpose Nanoparticle drug delivery offers a potential solution in the treatment of cancer. Using a heterotopic tumor model for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), tumors of variable folate binding protein–alpha (FBP-α) have been treated to delineate receptor necessity as well as efficacy and toxicity of folate targeted chemotherapy. Materials and Methods University of Michigan Squamous Cell Carcinoma (UM-SCC) and American Type Culture Collection (ATCC) cell lines were screened using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction for FBP-α expression. Acetylated generation 5 dendrimers conjugated to the targeting moiety folic acid and the therapeutic moiety methotrexate were fabricated and administered to severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) CB-17 mice inoculated with UM-SCC-1, UM-SCC-17B, and UM-SCC-22B cancer cells. Mice were injected with targeted therapy, free methotrexate, or saline control and monitored for drug efficacy and toxicity. Results Targeted therapy was effective relative to receptor level expression. Targeted therapy could be delivered in molar doses 3 times that of free drug. The treatment of a high folate expression tumor cell population was noted to have increased efficacy over saline ( P P = .03) as well as decreased systemic toxicity. Conclusions This report represents the first translation of dendrimer-based chemotherapy to HNSCC and underscores its effectiveness as an antitumor agent in human cancer cell lines with lower levels of FBP-α than the in vitro and in vivo models previously reported.