cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Fun & games: on the process of game design

The game design process is largely driven by practice. While some work has been done in academia targeting the definition of a theoretical foundation for the process of game design, these two communities rarely came together to discuss their perspective theories or processes. As a result, both communities work in isolation. The game industry is often involved in game-specific game design methodologies and academics are concerned with theoretical foundations. The goal of this workshop is to start a dialogue between the two communities and generate general themes and underlying theories. These theories will serve to aid game designers in constructing games, and help tool designers build tools that allow designers to focus on critical issue.
Metastable Transitions Observed in a Time‐of‐Flight Mass Spectrometer

A time‐of‐flight mass spectrometer has been employed in the investigation of metastable transitions by using a retarding potential technique. Expressions have been developed which permit a simple, nearly quantitative determination of the masses of the daughter ions arising from these transitions. In addition equations are derived which permit the identification of charge exchange reactions, An++B→Ap++B(n—p)+. Most of the metastable transitions observed using magnetic instruments have either been determined or accounted for by this method in n‐butane, ethyl acetate, trimethyl phosphate, and dimethylmethylphosphonate. In addition, this approach has the unique feature of permitting the observation of new metastable transitions not observed in magnetic instruments. The limitations of the method are recognized and discussed.
Effect of intermediate‐purity factor VIII (FVIII) concentrate on lymphocyte proliferation and apoptosis: transforming growth factor‐β is a significant immunomodulatory component of FVIII

Factor concentrates have been shown to have a variety of immunomodulatory effects in vitro. The presence of plasma-derived factor VIII (pdFVIII) has been shown to diminish lymphocyte proliferative response to mitogens. Recently, we have shown the presence of transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta) as an immunomodulatory component present in plasma-derived FVIII concentrate. However, the addition of neutralizing antibody to TGF-beta did not abrogate the inhibitory effect of pdFVIII on monocyte cytokine production, suggesting the presence of other, as yet undetermined, immunomodulatory agent/s in pdFVIII. To further characterize the immunomodulatory effects of pdFVIII, the in vitro effect of pdFVIII concentrate on proliferation and apoptosis of mitogen-stimulated T cells was studied using whole blood and purified T cells. The presence of pdFVIII increased the apoptosis of phytohaemagglutinn (PHA) -stimulated CD4 and CD8 T-cell subsets as determined by Annexin V binding and DNA fragmentation. T-cell subsets showed a pdFVIII dose-dependent inhibition of entry into S-phase and G(1) arrest. Addition of neutralizing anti-TGF-beta reduced some of these changes. To determine the physiological relevance of these findings, blood samples from five patients receiving FVIII prophylaxis were similarly studied ex vivo and showed significantly increased apoptosis of T-cell subsets as determined by Annexin V staining. TGF-beta has been reported to be a potent inhibitor of T-cell proliferation, arresting the cell cycle in G(1) phase and causing apoptosis. Together, these findings suggest that TGF-beta is a significant immunomodulatory component of pdFVIII concentrates.
Remarks on some statistical properties of the minimum spanning forest

Abstract The paper by Di Gesu and Sacco proposed a test for uniformity (UT) that compares the number of clusters observed in a set of points to the number expected under randomness as a function of distance. This interesting idea is marred by some misstatements about the distribution of the number of clusters which, we believe, invalidate their UT.
Problems in all-paper construction: a pilot study

Abstract The structural properties of paper as low-cost building material are investigated in a pilot study which gives the results of a limited number of tension, creep, and flexure tests. Certain problems encountered in all-paper construction are discussed, the significance of creep is considered, and a mode of failure peculiar to all-paper construction is observed. The structural integrity and flexibility of form available with paper are illustrated by the fabrication and testing of a cylindrical shell.
Solid-phase synthesis and degradation of a model polypeptide by an automated approach.

Abstract The solid-phase synthesis and degradation of a model polypeptide, L -leucyl- L -leucyl- L -leucyl- L -leucyl- L -leucyl- L -alanine, was carried out using a computer-oriented automated approach.Two computer programs were used to generate control paper tapes for the total synthesis and degradation of the model peptide.Encouraging results were obtained in automating the degradation of polypeptides on the solid phase and in carrying out the degradation in a nonaqueous solvent system.The course of the synthesis and the degradation was monitored by amino acid analysis of acid hydrolyzates of the resin which were taken periodically.The automated solid-phase degradation of naturally occurring polypeptides and proteins should be possible through modifications of the described approach.
Phase stability and properties of near-equilibrium TlCaBaCuO superconductors

Abstract High-temperature phase stability limits of TlCaBaCuO superconductors were determined as a function of Tl2O partial pressure at constant O2 partial pressure (≈630 Torr), sample temperature (880°C), and sample Ca:Ba:Cu ratio (1:2:2, 2:2:3, and 3:2:4). Both phases with double CuO2 sheets in the structure, 2122 and 1122, were stable over wide ranges of P(Tl2O) for stoichiometric (1:2:2) samples. At relatively high P(Tl2O), 2122 was also the stable superconducting phase even for the Ca-and Cu-rich stoichiometries. Energy-dispersive X-ray spectra and c-axis differences suggested variable cation stoichiometry in 1122 and 2122 prepared under such a range of conditions. However, the superconducting transition temperatures and a-axes of both 1122 and 2122 were nearly constant for all conditions of preparation, suggesting a nearly constant carrier density. No range of P(Tl2O) was found where either 1223 or 2223 was stable as a single superconducting phase for the P(O2) and temperature employed. Intergrown mixtures of 1223 and 2223 or Tl-free phases were found when P(Tl2O) was below the 2122 formation boundary.
Escherichia coli B 5-methyltetrahydrofolate-homocysteine cobalamin methyltransferase: Catalysis by a reconstituted methyl-14C-cobalamin holoenzyme and the function of S-adenosyl-l-methionine

Abstract A methyl- 14 C-cobalamin (methyl- 14 C-B 12 ) holoenzyme which was reconstituted by binding methyl- 14 C-B 12 to apoenzyme was demonstrated to be catalytically active in the presence of only 5-methyl- 14 C-H 4 4-folate and homocysteine. Synthesis by this reconstituted enzyme was 90% complete within 15 sec at 37 ° under aerobic conditions and amounted to a total turnover of only 18-fold. A 15-sec exposure to homocysteine prior to the 5-methyl- 14 C-H 4 -folate abolished this limited synthesis. The total turnover increased to about 600-fold and was not complete until after 4–5 min with an H 2 atmosphere; however, S -adenosyl- l -methionine (AMe) and FMNH 2 were essential to maintain a steady-state rate of catalysis. Under H 2 gas, the initial turnover rate by the reconstituted methyl- 14 C-B 12 enzyme was faster than its steady-state turnover rale in the presence of both AMe and FMNH 2 . These findings are discussed in relationship to the apparent K m for AMe and the proposed premethylation role (1) for AMe in methionine synthesis.
On locating the obstruction in the upper airway via numerical simulation

The fluid dynamical properties of the air flow in the upper airway (UA) are not fully understood at present due to the three-dimensional (3D) patient-specific complex geometry of the airway, flow transition from laminar to turbulent and flow-structure interaction during the breathing cycle. It is quite difficult at present to experimentally measure the instantaneous velocity and pressure at specific points in the human airway. On the other hand, direct numerical simulation (DNS) can predict all the flow properties and resolve all its relevant length- and time-scales. We developed a DNS solver with the state-of-the-art lattice Boltzmann method (LBM), and used it to investigate the flow in two patient-specific UAs reconstructed from CT scan data. Inspiration and expiration flows through these two airways are studied. The time-averaged first spatial derivative of pressure (pressure gradient), ∂p/∂z, is used to locate the region of the UA obstruction. But the time-averaged second spatial derivative, ∂2p/∂z2, is used to pinpoint the exact location of the obstruction. The present results show that the DNS-LBM solver can be used to obtain accurate flow details in the UA and is a powerful tool to locate its obstruction.
A self-optimizing, nonsymmetrical neural net for content addressable memory and pattern recognition

Abstract A natural, collective neural model for Content Addressable Memory (CAM) and pattern recognition is described. The model uses nonsymmetrical, bounded synaptic connection matrices and continuous valued neurons. The problem of specifying a synaptic connection matrix suitable for CAM is formulated as an optimization problem, and recent techniques of Hopfield are used to perform the optimization. This treatment naturally leads to two interacting neural nets. The first net is a symmetrically connected net (master net) containing information about the desired fixed points or memory vectors. The second net is, in general, a nonsymmetric net (slave net), whose synapse values are determined by the master net, and is the net that actually performs the CAM task. The two nets acting together are an example of neural self-organization. Many advantages of this master/slave approach are described, one of which is that nonsymmetric synaptic matrices offer a greater potential for relating formal neural modeling to neurophysiology. In addition, it seems that this approach offers advantages in application to pattern recognition problems due to the new ability to sculpt basins of attraction. The simple structure of the master net connections indicates that this approach presents no additional problems in reduction to hardware when compared to single net implementations.
Gaussian beams in anisotropic media

It is shown that rigorous beam solutions of the Maxwell field equations in an anisotropic medium can be generated from known field solutions due to dipole or line source excitation by assigning a complex value to the source coordinates. The fields so obtained behave like Gaussian beams in the vicinity of the beam axis, but they provide a valid description also outside the paraxial region. The complex-source-point method, which eliminates the need for spectral decomposition of an impressed Gaussian profile, is developed for media with arbitrary anisotropy, with emphasis on asymptotic descriptions in the paraxial regime. Detailed consideration is then given to the special case of a uniaxially anisotropic medium, for which point and line source solutions are available in closed form; their asymptotic development provides confirmation of the formulas derived for the general case. Because the analytic continuation from real to complex source points can be performed directly on the high-frequency ray fields, the method converts ray solutions into beam solutions without the need of further calculation.
Two electrons in an external oscillator potential: Particular analytic solutions of a Coulomb correlation problem.

The problem of the Schr\"odinger equation for two electrons (interacting with Coulomb potentials) in an external harmonic-oscillator potential is revisited and shown to be solvable analytically for a particular, denumerably infinite set of oscillator frequencies. Solutions are given for ground and excited states in the singlet and triplet spin configurations.
The D/H and C/H ratios in Jupiter from the CH3D phase

A study is made of D/H and C/H ratios in Jupiter from the CH3D phase, noting the previous investigations have yielded inconsistent results. Spectra are analyzed by a comprehensive comparison with realistically computed synthetic spectra generated by the numerical solution of the radiative transfer equation for inhomogeneous Jovian and telluric atmospheric models. Results are presented in terms of: (1) the apparent enhancement of both D and C in Jupiter, (2) the apparent deuterium overabundance, and (3) the variability of the CH3D column abundance.
Fractalkine: moving from chemotaxis to neuroprotection

Microglia are thought to contribute to neurodegeneration. Now ablating the receptor for the chemokine fractalkine is shown to increase microglial inflammatory response and neuronal death in vivo in several models of CNS insult.
V3: an interactive real-time visualization of vocal vibrations

Our voice is an important part of our individuality but the relationship we have with our own voice is not obvious. We don't hear it the same way others do, and our brain treats it differently from any other sound we hear [Houde et al. 2002]. Yet its sonority is highly linked to our body and mind, and deeply connected with how we are perceived by society and how we see ourselves. The V3 system (Vocal Vibrations Visualization) offers a interactive visualization of vocal vibration patterns. We developed the hexauscultation mask, a head set sensor that measures bioacoustic signals from the voice at 6 points of the face and throat. Those signals are sent and processed to offer a real-time visualization of the relative vibration intensities at the 6 measured points. This system can be used in various situations such as vocal training, tool design for the deaf community, design of HCI for speech disorder treatment and prosody acquisition but also simply for personal vocal exploration.
Caregivers' Coping and Self-Forgiveness After the Death of a Care-Receiver

ABSTRACT This study explores the relationship of self-forgiveness with adaptive coping and nonadaptive coping. This study addresses self-forgiveness as part of the grieving process of Alzheimer's disease caregivers. One hundred and thirty-three caregivers who had recently lost a loved one were surveyed. The bivariate analysis revealed a significant relationship between self-forgiveness and adaptive coping and non-adaptive coping. Furthermore, stepwise regression models computed for the study variables revealed that adaptive coping and non-adaptive coping were statistically significant in explaining the variation in self-forgiveness. Based on these findings, future directions in research are explored.
Mitral Valve Replacement with the Modified University of Cape Town (UCT) Prosthesis: Clinical and Hemodynamic Results

Mitral valve replacement with the modified University of Cape Town prosthesis was performed in 42 patients. In 35 the procedure was an isolated one, and the hospital mortality was 6%. The late survival rate was 60%, half of the late deaths being the result of thromboembolism or complications of anticoagulant therapy. The incidence of hemolysis was low, and hemodynamic results demonstrated improvement in cardiac index and lowering of pulmonary artery pressure, pulmonary artery wedge pressure, pulmonary arteriolar resistance, and transvalvular mean gradients. However, the calculated prosthetic valve orifice area was lower than the measured area. Because of complications of thromboembolism, the high incidence of late deaths, and high transvalvular gradients, this prosthetic valve is no longer used in patients requiring mitral valve replacement.
Quantitative measurement of neuronal calbindin-D28k by radioimmunocytochemistry.

Abstract The calcium-binding protein calbindin-D28k (CaBP) has been localized in high concentration in several neuronal populations within the CNS and is believed to act as an intracellular calcium buffer. There has been much interest and speculation concerning its potential neuroprotective function. A radioimmunocytochemistry (RIC) technique for the cellular quantitation of protein has been applied to quantitative measurement of neuronal CaBP in vivo and in vitro. The method permits cellular comparison of CaBP content within tissue sections or cells in culture. Through the use of specific primary antibody, 35S-labeled secondary antibody, and photographic emulsion, RIC combines the simplicity of standard immunocytochemical procedures with the sophistication and power of in situ hybridization, autoradiography, and image analysis. CaBP levels are expressed as mean ± S.E.M. silver grains/cell. CaBP content has been measured and compared in mouse cerebellar Purkinje cells (56.5 ± 6.9 grains/cell), granule cells of the hippocampal dentate gyrus (10.3 ± 2.1 grains/cell), midline ventral tegmental neurons (11.6 ± 2.9 grains/cell), and human SH-SY-5Y neuroblastoma cells in culture (5.1 ± 0.9 grains/cell). As measured by RIC, mouse cerebellar Purkinje cells contain approximately 5-fold more CaBP than granule cells of the hippocampal dentate gyrus/midline ventral tegmental neurons and 10-fold more CaBP than cultured human SH-SY-5Y neuroblastoma cells. Assay reproducibility was demonstrated by comparison of adjacent sections which yielded a 3–9% intra-assay variability. Results were validated and confirmed by comparison to previous radioimmunoassay studies which indicated similar ratios of CaBP levels between brain regions/cell types. The RIC technique can be utilized alone or in combination with other analyses such as in situ hybridization, conventional immunocytochemistry, cell viability /degeneration, or intracellular calcium measurements in cultured cells. Thus, it may prove valuable for the further elucidation of the putative neuroprotective role of CaBP.
Digital modulation challenges for high-capacity Optical Transport Network with 100Gbps channels and beyond

Digital signal processing technologies have great advantages for realizing the high-capacity Optical Transport Network based on over 100 Gbps channels. Novel no-guard-interval OFDM with frequency domain equalization is proposed and shown to offer long-haul transport at over 10Tbps.
A C-terminal basic amino acid motif of Zaire ebolavirus VP35 is essential for type I interferon antagonism and displays high identity with the RNA-binding domain of another interferon antagonist, the NS1 protein of influenza A virus

Abstract The ebolavirus VP35 protein antagonizes the cellular type I interferon response by blocking phosphorylation of IRF-3, a transcription factor that turns on the expression of a large number of antiviral genes. To identify the domain of VP35 responsible for interferon antagonism, we generated mutations within the VP35 gene and found that a C-terminal basic amino acid motif is required for inhibition of ISG56 reporter gene expression as well as IFN-β production. Remarkably, this basic amino acid motif displayed high sequence identity with part of the N-terminal RNA-binding domain of another interferon-antagonist, the NS1 protein of influenza A virus.
Proteolysis-Independent Downregulation of DELLA Repression in Arabidopsis by the Gibberellin Receptor GIBBERELLIN INSENSITIVE DWARF1

This article presents evidence that DELLA repression of gibberellin (GA) signaling is relieved both by proteolysis-dependent and -independent pathways in Arabidopsis thaliana. DELLA proteins are negative regulators of GA responses, including seed germination, stem elongation, and fertility. GA stimulates GA responses by causing DELLA repressor degradation via the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway. DELLA degradation requires GA biosynthesis, three functionally redundant GA receptors GIBBERELLIN INSENSITIVE DWARF1 (GID1a, b, and c), and the SLEEPY1 (SLY1) F-box subunit of an SCF E3 ubiquitin ligase. The sly1 mutants accumulate more DELLA proteins but display less severe dwarf and germination phenotypes than the GA biosynthesis mutant ga1-3 or the gid1abc triple mutant. Interestingly, GID1 overexpression rescued the sly1 dwarf and infertility phenotypes without decreasing the accumulation of the DELLA protein REPRESSOR OF ga1-3. GID1 rescue of sly1 mutants was dependent on the level of GID1 protein, GA, and the presence of a functional DELLA motif. Since DELLA shows increasing interaction with GID1 with increasing GA levels, it appears that GA-bound GID1 can block DELLA repressor activity by direct protein–protein interaction with the DELLA domain. Thus, a SLY1-independent mechanism for GA signaling may function without DELLA degradation.
Empirical Sleep Assessment in the Home: A Convenient, Inexpensive Approach

We have previously reported on a sleep assessment device (SAD) that addresses shortcomings inherent in self-report sleep data and polysomnography. The SAD produces a sleep record by tape recording subjects' verbal responses to auditory cues spaced at fixed intervals throughout the night. In prior studies, the SAD proved to be a reliable and valid assessment tool according to electroencephalographic comparisons. Herein, we report on the unassisted home use of the SAD by eight normal volunteers and four bedmates. Subjects and bedmates completed sleep questionnaires for 12 nights and subjects also employed the SAD the last 6 nights. Comparisons of subjects and bedmates self-report sleep data before and during SAD use indicated that the SAD did not disrupt sleep. Subjects were able to self-administer successfully the SAD in their homes. SAD data closely matched subjects' self-report data. The present study found the SAD to be an accurate, unobtrusive, and easily utilized empirical measure of sleep in the natural environment. In so doing, it extends the demonstrated reliability and validity of the SAD from the sleep laboratory to the home with normal sleepers.
Hospital pharmacy decisions, cost containment, and the use of cost-effectiveness analysis.

The key hypothesis of the study was that hospital pharmacies under the pressure of managed care would be more likely to adopt process innovations to assure less costly and more cost-effective provision of care. We conducted a survey of 103 hospitals and analyzed secondary data on cost and staffing. Compared to the size of the reduction in length of stay, changes in the way that a day of care is delivered appear to be minor, even in areas with substantial managed care share. The vast majority of hospitals surveyed had implemented some form of therapeutic interchange and generic substitution. Most hospitals used some drug utilization guidelines, but as of mid 1995 these were not yet important management tools for hospital pharmacies. To our knowledge, ours was the first survey to investigate the link between hospital formularies and use of cost-effectiveness analysis. At most cost-effectiveness was a minor tool in pharmaceutical decision making in hospitals at present. We could determine no differences in use of such analyses by managed care market share in the hospital's market share. One impediment to the use of cost-effectiveness studies was the lack of timeliness of studies. Other stated reasons for not using cost-effectiveness analysis more often were: lack of information on hospitalized patients and hence on the potential cost offsets accruing to the hospital; lack of independent sponsorship, and inadequate expertise in economic evaluation.
Toward Customizable Radiation Therapy Enhancement (CuRE) With Gold Nanoparticles Released, In Situ, From Gold-Loaded Brachytherapy Spacers

DVHs were generated and compared. Monte Carlo calculations were performed to simulate ISA and to verify plan robustness. Results: On average the total number of seeds compared to the standard plan is 32% and 70% less for hemi and ultra focal plans respectively, whereas the average needles were 38% and 58% less for hemi and ultra focal respectively. Target volume coverage was adequately achieved for all plans with V100 above 97.8%. D90 was increased by 19% and 69% for hemi and ultra focal plans respectively. Meanwhile, D10 of urethral dose was reduced by 7% and 55% for hemi and ultra focal plans respectively. D2cc of rectum was reduced by 28% and 60% for hemi and ultra focal respectively. Plan robustness shows that a random shift in seed position of 4 mm would result in V100 and D90 dropping by 7.2% and 14%, respectively, for standard plans, with a corresponding reduction of 7.3% and 20% for hemi plans and 5% and 32% for ultra focal plans. Despite the fact that seed density is higher for the hemi and ultra focal approaches, ISA has similar effect on DHV parameters. For example, V100 and D90 are reduced by less than 1% and 3%, respectively, for all types of plans. Conclusions: Treatment planning for hemi and ultra focal options is feasible. Dose constraints are easily met with a notable reduction to organs at risk such as the bladder, urethra and rectum. Treating smaller targets, such as for ultra focal, makes seed positioning more critical. This should be taken into consideration during treatment planning. ISA has the same effect on DVH calculations for standard, hemi and ultra focal plans. Author Disclosure: B. Al-Qaisieh: G. Consultant; GE Oncura Ltd. J. Mason: None. A. Henry: None. P. Bownes: None. L. Dickinson: None. A. Hashim: None. M. Emberton: None. S. Langley: None.
The economics of crime: A discipline to be invented and a Nobel Prize to be awarded

KEYWORDS: Globalization of crime; Organized crime markets; Drugs; Human trafficking; Fire arms trafficking; Timber trafficking; Counterfeit shipments; Piracy Language: en
The intramolecular addition of silylated alkynes to aldehydes: Methodology for the construction of cyclic enediynes and its application to dynemicin analogs

Abstract Upon treatment with CsF, silylated alkynes react intramolecularly with aldehydes or iminium ions to form in one step in the presence of electrophilic trapping agents the cyclic enediyne ring system of dynemicin, with provision for the incorporation of various DNA recognition elements.
For combat wounded: extremity trauma therapies from the USAISR.

Abstract : Our focus here is on the future role of the U.S. Army Institute of Surgical Research (USAISR) in reducing the morbidity associated with extremity combat wounds. These wounds are the most frequent and debilitating suffered in Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) and Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF). There have been over 40,000 total American combat casualties in OEF and OIF, and of those severely injured on the battlefield, 82% had at least 1 musculoskeletal extremity wound. USAISR is a subordinate command of the U.S. Army Medical Research and Materiel Command (USAMRMC), and since 1947 it has been located at Fort Sam Houston, San Antonio, TX. The Army Burn Unit has been an integral part of USAISR since 1949. Research on trauma and orthopedics has been a part of USAISR's mission since 1970. The USAISR buildings are contiguous with Brooke Army Medical Center (BAMC), which enables the research organization to have a unique in-depth understanding of the combat injuries and the medical challenges faced by the clinicians who treat them. Our mission is to optimize combat casualty care (CCC). In fulfilling this mission, USAISR provides requirements-driven CCC medical solutions and products for injured warriors from self-aid through definitive care. Research is currently organized in 9 Task Areas, i.e., Extremity Trauma and Regenerative Medicine, Damage Control Resuscitation, Pain Control, Advanced Capabilities for Emergency Medical Monitoring, Critical Care Engineering, Clinical Trials, Eye Trauma, Craniomaxillofacial, and Blood (Coagulopathy), to focus on the most critical aspects of combat wound care from the battlefield to upper echelon hospitals. Our core research program is funded and supported by the USAMRMC through 2 complementary Research Area Directorates, CCC and Clinical and Rehabilitative Medicine. We also receive funding from competitive peer-reviewed grant programs and biotechnology companies.
Evaluation of the carbon dioxide laser for performance of gastrointestinal myotomies

Using a conventional carbon dioxide laser set at 8-W continuous-wave energy, a technique was developed in the animal laboratory to incise only the muscularis of the pylorus leaving the mucosa and submucosa intact. Similar esophageal myotomies were performed with less success, due to the rich submucosal venous plexus causing obscuring hemorrhage and to the reapproximation of the longitudinal esophageal muscle over a 3-week period. The technique for esophageal myotomy requires further refinement, but pyloromyotomy appears applicable for controlled human trials.
Establishment of Carex stricta Lam. seedlings in experimental wetlands with implications for restoration

The loss of Carex dominated meadows due to agricultural drainage in the previously glaciated midcontinent of North America has been extensive. The lack of natural Carex recruitment in wetland restorations and the failures of revegetation attempts underscore the need for information on the establishment requirements of wetland sedges. In this study, seedlings of Carex stricta Lam. were planted in three experimental wetlands in east-central Minnesota, USA to investigate the biotic and abiotic environmental limitations to establishment. Seedlings were planted along an elevational water depth gradient to assess the effects of water depth and water level fluctuation on seedling survival and growth. A different water level fluctuation regime was assigned to each of the experimental wetlands to assess seedling tolerance for seasonal water level changes. The effects of seedling planting density and the presence or absence of non-sedge colonizers on seedling survival and growth were also studied. The experiment was followed for three growing seasons. The results of this study indicate that C. stricta seedlings were sensitive to the timing and duration of inundation during the first growing season. Once established, plants tolerated a broad range of seasonal drying and flooding conditions. Seedling and juvenile growth was slowed by non-sedge colonizers during the first two growing seasons, but by the third growing season, C. stricta was able to out-grow all annual and perennial weeds, except the aggressive perennial, Phalaris arundinacea L. The rapid growth of C. stricta plants, once established, indicates that the use of seedlings is a successful method for (re) introducing this tussock sedge into wetland restorations under a variety of environmental conditions. Comparison with other studies performed under similar conditions suggests that planting of seedlings is a more appropriate method of establishing this species than the use of transplanted rhizomes.
Abstract 2881: E-FABP protects host from tumor development.

Proceedings: AACR 104th Annual Meeting 2013; Apr 6-10, 2013; Washington, DC Epidermal fatty acid-binding protein (E-FABP) is constitutively expressed in many immune cells, including dendritic cells, macrophages and T lymphocytes. However, the role of E-FABP in host immunity against tumor and cancer development is unknown. We hypothesize that E-FABP plays an essential role in host immune responses to ward off tumor challenges. Here we utilize a murine breast cancer model and E-FABP knockout mice to study the function of E-FABP in host immune responses to tumor challenges. It is found that implanted breast cancer cells develops much faster into tumor in E-FABP knockout mice than in wild type ones. It is also discovered that, when compared to wild type mice, F4/80+CD11c+ macrophages in tumor stroma from E-FABP knockout mice show a defective protective immune response to breast cancer cells. Moreover, tumors in E-FABP knockout mice contained much lower numbers of NK cells, CD8+ and CD4+ T cells than those in WT mice. All these results suggest E-FABP protects host from tumor development, implicating a significant role of E-FABP in host immunity against tumor formation. Citation Format: Yuwen Zhang, Enyu Rao, Bing Li. E-FABP protects host from tumor development. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 104th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2013 Apr 6-10; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2013;73(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 2881. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2013-2881
Refractive-index profile measurement of large preforms: a new technique

A number of techniques have been developed to measure the refractive- index profile of optical fiber preforms: interferometric,1,2 focusing,3 and spatial filtering4 methods. Among those techniques, the method described in Ref. 5, which traces the deflection angle of a scanning laser beam injected laterally to preform, is widely used in preform characterization.
APOBECs and virus restriction

The APOBEC family of single-stranded DNA cytosine deaminases comprises a formidable arm of the vertebrate innate immune system. Pre-vertebrates express a single APOBEC, whereas some mammals produce as many as 11 enzymes. The APOBEC3 subfamily displays both copy number variation and polymorphisms, consistent with ongoing pathogenic pressures. These enzymes restrict the replication of many DNA-based parasites, such as exogenous viruses and endogenous transposable elements. APOBEC1 and activation-induced cytosine deaminase (AID) have specialized functions in RNA editing and antibody gene diversification, respectively, whereas APOBEC2 and APOBEC4 appear to have different functions. Nevertheless, the APOBEC family protects against both periodic viral zoonoses as well as exogenous and endogenous parasite replication. This review highlights viral pathogens that are restricted by APOBEC enzymes, but manage to escape through unique mechanisms. The sensitivity of viruses that lack counterdefense measures highlights the need to develop APOBEC-enabling small molecules as a new class of anti-viral drugs.
The fine structure of spermatogenesis in Hymenolepis diminuta (Cestoda) with a description of the mature spermatozoon.

The processes of spermatogenesis and spermiogenesis in Hymenolepis diminuta were studied by electron microscopy using improved preparative techniques. Spermatogonia (Type A) are characterized by nuclei 3.79 (±0.17) μm in diameter, dense cytoplasm packed with free ribosomes, and aggregates of mitochondria. After mitoses, certain spermatogonia (Type B) assume syncytial rosettes containing eight nuclei. Primary spermatocytes maintain the rosette syncytium and have large nuclei (4.28±0.24 μm in diameter), smooth endoplasmic reticulum, and polysomes. The secondary spermatocyte is short-lived and is characterized by nuclei (2.0±0.11 μm in diameter) and perinuclear membranous lamellae. The syncytial spermatid cluster contains avoid nuclei which condense and elongate to a final diameter of 0.22±0.04 μm. Once elongated, these nuclei become delimited from the syncytium by invaginations of the plasma membrane. During delimitation, cortical peripheral microtubules arise beneath the spermatozoon plasmalemma and a 9+1 axoneme extends the length of the mature lance-shaped spermatozoon.
Business process modeling for a highway agency - a demonstration with planning and programming activities

State transportation agencies depend on advancements in information technology to help manage the billions of dollars spent on thousands of construction projects every year. As transportation planning and programming become increasingly complex, communication among different divisions of the agencies is becoming even more important. This paper describes an effort to apply business process modeling to aid the integration of planning and programming of construction projects for a state transportation agency, metropolitan planning organizations, and related agencies. Business process models are developed according to the IDEF modeling standard that is used in Computer Associates AllFusion Process Modeler. IDEF modeling provides structured documentation about the processes of the agency while improving the transparency and validity of agency activities. Furthermore, IDEF modeling helps to determine bottlenecks in the current processes and supports the prioritization of investments in reengineering and associated information technologies. IDEF modeling enables employees at different levels of the agency to understand the business processes of their professional colleagues. Several lessons of the effort are as follows, (i) IDEF modeling can be translated efficiently to simulation models that provided increased detail of critical activities. (ii) The use of information technology is recommended to provide for real-time monitoring of selected planning and programming activities, (iii) Sources of risk to various agency activities need to be modeled explicitly by theoretical extension of the current IDEF methodology. Numerous examples and case studies are provided in the paper.
Psychophysiologic correlates of Type A behavior: Comments on Houston (1983) and Holmes (1983)

Abstract On the basis of a literature review, B. K. Houston (1983, Journal of Research in Personality, 17, 22–39) concluded that there is a reliable but relatively weak association between Type A (coronary-prone) behavior and heightened physiologic reactivity. D. S. Holmes (1983, Journal of Research in Personality, 17, 40–47) contends that by failing to take into account dependent measures yielding null results, Houston overestimated the consistency with which A/B differences have been obtained. In the present article, we show that it is critical to take into account the method used to assess Type A behavior. Structured Interview assessments show a more consistent association with reactivity than those based on the Jenkins Activity Survey. We then point out that, for certain physiologic measures, null effects do not necessarily reflect an absence of A/B differences in sympathetic-adrenomedullary activity. Other issues that are discussed include the role of situational parameters in eliciting hyperresponsiveness in Type A's, the problem of evaluating the magnitude and importance of A/B effects, and the need for a more theoretical approach to the study of Type A behavior.
Hardware/software implementation of PI/PD-like fuzzy controller for high performance motor drives

PI/PD-like fuzzy controller is proposed for control of high performance motor drives. The system utilizes two fuzzy logic (FL) structures to generate a control signal. The first FL mimics PD control and generates an explicit output. The second FL acts in parallel to mimic PI control and generates an incremental output which adds to a previous PI control signal to create an updated PI control signal. The fuzzy PI- and PD-type controllers are combined to cope with different operating conditions. Saturation protection exists before passing the control to the motor drive. A filter creates a reduced noise feedback error signal, and a difference creates a delta error signal between the present filtered error and that of the previous time step. These two inputs feed both FL structures. The rules for both the PI and PD FL structures are given with explanation of the physical meaning. The PI/PD-like fuzzy controller is implemented in MATLAB/Simulink and loaded onto a dSPACE DSP. A suite of tests examines robust control performance under various operating conditions. Experimental results have shown that the fuzzy PI- and PD-Type controllers robustly respond to a wide range of operating conditions.
Gains from commitment in monetary policy: Implications of the cost channel☆

Abstract Many empirical studies find robust evidence that marginal cost of production directly depends on the nominal rate of interest. This relationship induces a cost channel for monetary policy transmission. Although the empirical literature provides ample evidence for a cost channel, studies that evaluate the welfare gains from monetary policy commitment have so far entirely ignored its presence. This study shows that, overlooking the cost channel, one significantly underestimates the welfare gains from monetary policy commitment. I find that there is a robust positive relationship between the size of the cost channel and welfare gains from monetary policy commitment. Using a version of the new Keynesian model calibrated to the US economy, I find that failure to take into account the presence of a cost channel leads to an understatement of the gains from monetary policy commitment by an amount equivalent to a 0.48 percentage points permanent cut in quarterly inflation.
Streamlining Breasts: The Exaltation of Form and Disguise of Function in 1930s’ Ideals

Ideals surrounding the breast at the turn of the twentieth century shifted in ways that epitomized the goal of industrial efficiency and reflected the essence of streamlining-the primacy ofform and the disguise offunction. Although design historians have long acknowledged the influence of organic matter on the streamlined style, cultural historians have just begun to explore the interplay between technology and the presentation and perception of the human body. Exploring the ways in which experts attempted to conceal both mechanical and bodilyfunction through streamlining illuminates the cultural values this style represented. While the machine sewed as the idealfor bodily function, popular culture applied the philosophy behind the design mode of streamlining to breasts. Prescriptive literature presented lactating breasts as technology that could be manipulated into better performance or replaced by perfectible mass-manufactured products. By the 1920s, medicine, new technology andfashion encouraged a singular ideal of youthful, or neutered, femininity. During the 'streamlined decade', undergarments coaxed breasts to conform to thefashionfor 'pointed roundness' popularized by streamlined technology. Ultimately, the ideal breast's aesthetics surmounted the significance of its potential nutritivefunction.
Value of absence of a transient myocardial perfusion defect during stress myocardial perfusion study in patients undergoing major vascular surgery.

Pre-operative cardiac assessment is important in the evaluation of patients undergoing major vascular surgery. Our study aims to evaluate the value of absence of a transient myocardial perfusion defect during radionuclide myocardial perfusion study for prediction of cardiac events (myocardial infarction, sudden cardiac death, unstable angina, coronary artery revascularization and congestive heart failure) in patients undergoing major vascular surgery. We studied 63 consecutive patients (ages 35–83 [avg. 64], male 39, female 24) with radiographically proven, abdominal aortic aneurysm or severe aortofemoral occlusive disease who underwent major vascular surgery (abdominal aortic aneurysm repair [38] or aortofemoral bypass [25]). The subjects all had multiple coronary artery risk factors (hypertension 48, diabetes 10, hyperlipidemia 23, tobacco use 39, family history of coronary artery disease 10), but a negative pre-operative stress myocardial perfusion study for myocardial ischemia. Of these 63 patients, 17 patients were able to exercise and achieve their adequate 85% maximal predicted heart rate. Thirty-eight patients received adenosine infusion of 140 μg/kg/min for 6 min. Six patients received dipyridamole infusion of 0.56 mg/kg over 4 min. Two patients received dobutamine infusion at 5, 10, 20, 30, and 40 mg/kg/min. Of the 63 patients, 60 received 3–4 mCi of thallium-201 (201Tl) and 3 patients received 8–9 mCi of technetium-99 m (99mTc) at rest and 25–30 mCi 99mTc during stress. The subjects all underwent major vascular surgery and were followed up to one year for any cardiac events. Of the 63, who underwent pre-operative cardiac assessment with myocardial perfusion testing, 25 had a fixed myocardial perfusion defect (scar) and none had evidence of transient myocardial perfusion defect (ischemia). One subject had coronary artery bypass grafting 11 months after aortofemoral bypass surgery. One died from a stroke one month after aortofemoral bypass surgery. Of the remaining 61 patients, none had any cardiac events up to one year after major vascular surgery.
Plasma Diagnostics of the Large-Scale Corona with SUMER. I. Measurements at the West Limb

In the present work we analyze the physical properties of the quiet-Sun plasma measured in a 0.5 × 1.8 R☉ region above the west solar limb (R☉ = solar radius). We make use of large scans obtained with the SUMER spectrometer on board SOHO to construct two-dimensional spatial maps of line intensities, electron temperature, emission measure, element abundances, line widths and nonthermal velocities, and photoexcitation effects covering the entire field of view. Electron densities were measured in a more limited portion of the field of view. The aim of the paper is to identify tracers of coronal hole and quiet-Sun plasma at high altitudes that allow us to measure the position of the coronal hole/quiet-Sun boundaries, and to provide a comprehensive, empirical picture of the off-limb solar corona that can provide theoreticians with experimental constraints to their models of the large-scale coronal structure, coronal heating, and solar wind acceleration.
Horizontal and vertical zones of influence for root systems of four Mojave Desert shrubs

Abstract Horizontal and vertical zones of influence for root systems of four Mojave Desert shrubs were characterized using 32P as a nutrient tracer. Larrea tridentata's horizontal zone of influence was sparse near the plant's stem base, with a maximum probability of accessing 32P (Pmax) of 41%. However, its horizontal zone of influence extended beyond 5 m, and the distance from the stem base at which the probability of accessing 32P was half Pmax (L50∼3 m) was significantly greater than the other three shrubs. Ambrosia dumosa's zone of influence was dense near the plant's stem base (Pmax∼78%), but was rare at distances >2 m (L50∼1 m). Zones of influence for Lycium andersonii and Lycium pallidum were intermediate between those of L. tridentata and A. dumosa. For vertical zones of influence, L. tridentata was more likely to obtain 32P from 5 m soil depths than A. dumosa, but L. pallidum was not significantly different from either A. dumosa or L. tridentata. Horizontal zones of influence did not change with treatments that altered soil water and nitrogen availability, but vertical zones of influence increased with a flood irrigation treatment that increased water availability to 5 m soil depth. These differences among species likely reflect compromises between their shoot growth strategies and their need to acquire spatially and temporally limited soil resources, especially through competitive interactions.
Characteristics and Dietary Patterns of Adolescents Who Value Eating Locally Grown, Organic, Nongenetically Engineered, and Nonprocessed Food.

Abstract Objective To examine characteristics of adolescents who value eating locally grown, organic, nongenetically engineered, and/or nonprocessed food and whether they are more likely than their peers to meet Healthy People 2010 dietary objectives. Design Cross-sectional analysis using data from a population-based study in Minnesota (Project EAT: Eating Among Teens). Setting Participants completed a mailed survey and food frequency questionnaire in 2004. Participants Males and females (N = 2516), ages 15-23 years. Main Outcome Measures Dietary intake of fruit, vegetables, fat, grains, calcium, and fast food. Analysis Chi-square tests, logistic regression models adjusting for race/ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and vegetarian status. Results Percentages of adolescents who reported that it was somewhat or very important that their food be locally grown, organic, nongenetically engineered, and nonprocessed were 20.9%, 23.2%, 34.1%, and 29.8%, respectively. Those who valued each practice were more likely than their peers to be nonwhite ( P P P Conclusions and Implications It may beneficial to discuss alternative food production practices as part of nutrition education programs for adolescents.