cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Variation in stand structure, light and seedling abundance across a tropical moist forest chronosequence, Panama

. We asked whether forest structure and understory light environments across a tropical moist forest chronosequence followed predictions of a 4-phase model of secondary succession (establishment, thinning, transition and steady-state) and whether seedling density and diversity were functions of light availability as predicted by this model. Using aerial photographs, we identified eight second-growth stands (two each aged ca. 20, 40, 70, and 100 yr) and two old-growth stands within Barro Colorado Nature Monument, Panama. Trees and seedlings were sampled in nested, contiguous quadrats in 2 160-m transects in each stand. Light was measured as percent transmittance of diffuse photosynthetically active radiation (TPAR) at each seedling quadrat and by estimation of percent total incident radiation during the growing season from hemispherical canopy photographs. Basal area, tree density, and canopy height followed predictions of the 4-phase model. Percent total radiation, but not TPAR, declined with stand age as did seedling density. While seedlings were more likely to occur in quadrats at higher light levels, much variation in seedling density was not related to light availability. Seedling patch sizes were small irrespective of light patches, estimated as semivariance ranges. Seedling species richness was a function of seedling density; estimates of species diversity unbiased by density did not vary systematically as a function of stand age. Proximate seed sources, efficient dispersal mechanisms, and appropriate establishment conditions can promote establishment of species-rich communities early in successions of heterogeneous tropical moist forest.
Transcription initiation sites of prototype and variant JC virus early and late messenger RNAs

The locations of the authentic viral transcription initiation sites utilized during the course of a JCV(Mad1) infection of primary human fetal glial (PHFG) cells have been identified using the S1 nuclease and primer extension techniques. Early viral mRNA start sites were located 20 to 30 nucleotides (positions 89-92 and 5115-5125) downstream from the two TATA elements present within the promoter-enhancer region of the JCV(Mad1) strain. Absence of the distal TATA element, as seen in the JCV(Mad4) promoter-enhancer, resulted in the alteration of the position and intensity of these sites. Several start sites were observed for late viral mRNAs; two sites were located 25 and 35 nucleotides (positions 191-192 and 200-203) downstream from a potential surrogate TATA signal. To determine whether the presence of constitutively expressed JCV large T protein would alter the pattern of transcription initiation, RNA isolated from JCV(Mad1)-infected POJ cells was analyzed. Although the positions of the early and late viral mRNA start sites were similar to those observed in JCV(Mad1)-infected PHFG cells, they were detected earlier in the course of the infection.
Thinking tools for moving across boundaries

An interdisciplinary team (from Design, Community Development, Computer Science, and Rhetoric & Writing) created an interactive, updateable timeline showing the Evolution of Participatory Practices (EPP) in five disciplines over 50 years; the team members also documented and reflected on their own participatory practices. This Experience Report describes how the EPP timeline was created and what the team learned about interdisciplinary work in the process. It offers insights that may help other interdisciplinary groups overcome communication differences ranging from the simple (different vocabularies), to the complex (different definitions of shared terms), to the nearly invisible (the powerful, tacit epistemological assumptions underlying each discipline) by conceptualizing the work process in terms of an interdisciplinary rationality island and seeing the timeline as a boundary object. It also describes how making the process itself an object of study ensured that the reflective work necessary to effective teamwork got done.
Describing and Categorizing Disk-Avoiding Anti-Forensics Tools

ABSTRACT Disk-avoiding anti-forensics tools are now being used to prevent current forensics tools from detecting their activities. These new tools must be described and categorized in order for forensics investigators to be aware of and therefore able to detect the tools and collect the information they produce. This article builds upon existing categories used to classify anti-forensics methods, such as evidence source elimination and data contraception, and provides useful information for understanding the current and anticipated trends in anti-forensics.
An infrared spectroscopic study of polyethylene terephthalate degradation in polyester fiber/nitrile rubber composites

Abstract Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) was used to study the degradation mechanism of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) fibers in rubber composites. The mechanisms of chemical failure were postulated by comparing the FT-IR spectra of samples obtained from in-service use and under laboratory conditions. Amines from the rubber diffused into the fiber causing uniform degradation (aminolysis). Aminolysis was the predominant mechanism of polyester decomposition. Hydrolysis, known to occur primarily at the surface of the PET fiber, was apparently not appreciable.
Wavelet transform EXAFS analysis of mono- and dimolybdate model compounds and a Mo/HZSM-5 dehydroaromatization catalyst.

The local structure of molybdate ions in the crystalline materials MgMoO4 and MgMo2O7 and in Mo/HZSM-5 (2 wt% Mo, Si/Al = 15) was explored by EXAFS at the Mo K-edge, using both Fourier and wavelet transforms. For the two model compounds, curve fitting analysis of the FT-EXAFS reveals the need to include several single- and multiple-scattering paths in order to locate the Mo–Mo paths accurately. Some of these overlapping paths can be identified using WT-EXAFS analysis. Indeed, the positions of WT maxima can be predicted fairly accurately, allowing for qualitative identification of the paths required for curve fitting in samples of unknown structure and providing additional criteria for distinguishing statistically similar curve fits. The application of the WT analysis technique to the heterogeneous catalyst Mo/HZSM-5 clearly shows the presence of dimolybdate ions, although with structures perturbed by their interactions with the zeolite framework.
Abstract 4296: Ultrasmall gadolinium-loaded polymer nanoparticles for imaging in glioblastoma

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is a devastating disease for which prognosis remains exceptionally poor even with maximal intervention. A central challenge in the treatment of GBM is realizing effective drug delivery to the tumor and surrounding brain tissue, due to the inability of many drugs to cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB). The use of nanoparticles comprised of biodegradeable polymer as vehicles for intracranial drug delivery circumvents the BBB and allows for sustained, controlled release of drug in a targeted area. Nanoparticle encapsulation also protects therapeutic payloads from premature degradation in the microenvironment. However, effective distribution of nanoparticles in brain tissue has emerged as a potential hurdle to therapeutic efficacy. To this end we have synthesized ultrasmall poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles 60-80nm in size, which demonstrate pronounced improvement in volume of distribution relative to larger particles. This enables particle diffusion into normal brain tissue, where the pore size of the extracellular matrix is limited to 38-64nm, allowing for drug delivery to the infiltrative edge to the tumor. Further, as the utility of these nanoparticles lies in their ability to deliver drug in a clinically relevant area, it is vital to develop a translatable means of imaging intracranial particle delivery to ensure adequate distribution. To address this issue we have developed gadolinium-loaded ultrasmall PLGA nanoparticles. These particles are detectable by MRI and distribute over a wide area when administered with the aid of convection-enhanced delivery (CED). These particles, composed entirely of FDA-approved materials, provide a diagnostic means to visualize distribution of nanoparticles in a clinically applicable capacity. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 103rd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2012 Mar 31-Apr 4; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2012;72(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 4296. doi:1538-7445.AM2012-4296
Casbene: An anti-fungal diterpene produced in cell-free extracts of Ricinus communis seedlings

Abstract The capacity of cell-free extracts of 2·5-day-old castor bean seedlings for synthesis of casbene from mevalonic acid were compared for seedings which had been germinated under sterile conditions and seedlings which were intentionally exposed to fungal cultures. Extracts from seedlings exposed to cultures of Rhizopus stolonifer , Aspergillus niger or Fusarium moniliforme produced much higher levels of casbene than extracts from sterile controls; the initial rates of casbene synthesis were 20–40 times higher in the extracts of seedlings that had been exposed to fungus. Although some variation in the capacity for synthesis of other diterpene hydrocarbons from mevalonic acid was seen in the two types of extracts, no consistent or striking stimulation in the synthesis of any of these was noted under these conditions of exposure of the seedlings to fungi. The potato-dectrose agar used as a fungal growth medium did not itself evoke the increase in casbene synthesis. Intact mycelia and cell-free extracts of mycelia of Rhizopus stolonifer gave no indication of diterpene biosynthesis from mevalonic acid. Purified casbene at concentrations of 10 μg ml −1 or greater retarded the development of A. niger on potato-dextrose medium. Casbene was also found to inhibit the endogenous and gibberellic acid-stimulated growth of leaf sheaths of the dwarf -5 mutant of Zea mays and of the growth of the K-12 strain of Escherichia coli on glucose-minerals medium. It is suggested that casbene may serve the castor bean plant as a phytoalexin.
Semantic and phonological performance in adults learning novel object and action words

Twenty normal adults participated in two training sessions designed to teach eight novel object words and eight novel action words. Each subject received comprehension and production training and was probed at the end of each session to determine the ability to retrieve lexical items in a naming task. The probe data were also analyzed for phonological accuracy. Reaction time measures for the production probes were recorded to determine differences between action and object words in terms of retrieval difficulty. The results demonstrated a significant difference in early learning of action and object words during comprehension training and production training and in production probes. Object words tended to be learned more easily in both comprehension and production training, and they were retrieved correctly more often in production probes. There were no significant differences in the phonological accuracy between the word types. Reaction time data indicated significant differences in early as well as later learning between action and object words, with object words having significantly shorter rection times as compared with action words. Results are discussed in the context of prior research.
Damage Tolerant Design and Nondestructive Inspection - Keys to Aircraft Airworthiness

Abstract Damage tolerant design and nondestructive inspection are key tasks for ensuring aircraft airworthiness. Damage tolerance is the ability to resist fracture from preexistent damage for a given period of time and is an essential attribute of components whose failure could result in catastrophic loss of life or property. Nondestructive inspections define the maximum size of life-limiting defects that could be present at a given time. Inspection requirements are determined by the anticipated service loads, the desired service life, and by the damage tolerance designed into the structure. This paper discusses how damage tolerance and nondestructive inspection work together to ensure airworthiness by preventing failure from undetected manufacturing and/or service-induced damage.
Sojourn times, manifolds with infinite cylindrical ends, and an inverse problem for planar waveguides

We prove that two particular entries in the scattering matrix for the Dirichlet Laplacian on ℝ × (−γ, γ) \( \mathcal{O} \) determine an analytic strictly convex obstacle \( \mathcal{O} \). With an additional symmetry assumption, one entry suffices. Part of the proof is an integral identity involving an entry in the scattering matrix and a distribution related to the fundamental solution of the wave equation. This identity holds for general manifolds with infinite cylindrical ends. A consequence of this is a relationship between the singularities of the Fourier transform of an entry in the scattering matrix and the sojourn times of certain geodesics.
Dermatoglyphics and acute lymphocytic leukemia in children.

Cellular features of acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) in children suggest that it originates in abnormal embryogenesis. Because palmar flexion creases develop in the embryo at the same time as the blood-forming cells, and because both arise from mesodermal tissue, insults to the embryo that may lead to leukemic changes in the blood-forming cells may also result in aberrant palmar crease patterns. This study investigated the relationship between aberrant palmar creases and ALL in children who developed leukemia at age 6 years or younger. Odds ratios and chi squares demonstrated significant differences in bilateral aberrant palmar creases between ALL children and relatives (P < .025). Differences were not explained by familial clustering of aberrant creases. These results support the theory that the insult occurred during pregnancy, probably in the first trimester. There were no significant differences in either bilateral or unilateral aberrant palmar creases between ALL children and their siblings. All chi...
Algorithm Selection and Model Adaptation for ESL Correction Tasks

We consider the problem of correcting errors made by English as a Second Language (ESL) writers and address two issues that are essential to making progress in ESL error correction - algorithm selection and model adaptation to the first language of the ESL learner. A variety of learning algorithms have been applied to correct ESL mistakes, but often comparisons were made between incomparable data sets. We conduct an extensive, fair comparison of four popular learning methods for the task, reversing conclusions from earlier evaluations. Our results hold for different training sets, genres, and feature sets. A second key issue in ESL error correction is the adaptation of a model to the first language of the writer. Errors made by non-native speakers exhibit certain regularities and, as we show, models perform much better when they use knowledge about error patterns of the non-native writers. We propose a novel way to adapt a learned algorithm to the first language of the writer that is both cheaper to implement and performs better than other adaptation methods.
The Application of Optimization Techniques to Problems of Automotive Crashworthiness

A method for automating the selection of front-end structural stiffnesses for barrier impact standards is presented. Presently the standard analysis tool is the impact simulation method in which static nonlinear force-deformation curves of components are used in a computer integration of the equations of motion. Current design methods involve manually modifying the force-deformation curves to produce an acceptable design. This process may be significantly improved by the use of optimization methods. An improved impact simulation model which calculates the steering column envelopment is introduced. To express the effect of passenger compartment deceleration on potential injury, a vehicle crash severity index is introduced and is shown to be positively correlated with potential injury based on the chest severity index. An optimization technique is used to find a set of design variables which will satisfy constraints placed on the above measures of crashworthiness; namely, the steering column envelopment and the vehicle crash severity index. The shape similarity of force-deformation curves from car to car for a given component suggests the use of a scale factor on the curves as a design variable.
Effects of pupil size and facial angle on preference for photographs of a young woman.

This study attempted to determine the effects of pupil size and an additional facial characteristic, i.e., facial angle, on preference for selected photographs of an attractive young woman. Preference was measured using a rating scale. The results showed a significant effect for facial angle but not for pupil size.
Impulsivity and inhibitory control deficits are associated with unhealthy eating in young adults

Heightened impulsivity and inefficient inhibitory control are increasingly recognized as risk factors for unhealthy eating and obesity but the underlying processes are not fully understood. We used structural equation modeling to investigate the relationships between impulsivity, inhibitory control, eating behavior, and body mass index (BMI) in 210 undergraduates who ranged from underweight to obese. We demonstrate that impulsivity and inhibitory control deficits are positively associated with several facets of unhealthy eating, including overeating in response to external food cues and in response to negative emotional states, and making food choices based on taste preferences without consideration of health value. We further show that such unhealthy eating is, for the most part, associated with increased BMI, with the exception of Restraint Eating, which is negatively associated with BMI. These results add to our understanding of the impact of individual differences in impulsivity and inhibitory control on key aspects of unhealthy eating and may have implications for the treatment and prevention of obesity.
Using Narrative Communication as a Tool for Health Behavior Change: A Conceptual, Theoretical, and Empirical Overview

Narrative is the basic mode of human interaction and a fundamental way of acquiring knowledge. In the rapidly growing field of health communication, narrative approaches are emerging as a promising set of tools for motivating and supporting health-behavior change. This article defines narrative communication and describes the rationale for using it in health-promotion programs, reviews theoretical explanations of narrative effects and research comparing narrative and nonnarrative approaches to persuasion, and makes recommendations for future research needs in narrative health communication.
Towards understanding the usage pattern of web-based electronic medical record systems

The benefits and importance of electronic medical record (EMR) systems have been well recognized in the health-care industry. Yet, their wide adoption still face significant barriers in providing on-demand secure medical information access while preserving patients' privacy. Understanding the usage pattern of an EMR system is the first essential step towards building such environment. This paper conducts an in-depth trace analysis of a large-scale EMR system that has been in operation for more than a decade at the Vanderbilt Medical Center. Our study demonstrates several important characteris- tics of EMR system usage from the perspective of user-initiated sessions. First, the workload of the EMR system is highly stable and consistent with a weekly pattern. Second, EMR behavior varies between users, but each user's behavior tends to be consistent with a slow rate of migration across sessions. Finally, the degree of access between users and medical records is sparse, echoing the limits of patient-caregiver relationships that manifest in real healthcare operations. We believe these observations can assist in the development of system security measures, such as EMR-specific anomaly detection systems, and facilitate system performance optimization.
Relations of trait depression and anxiety to low lipid and lipoprotein concentrations in healthy young adult women.

OBJECTIVE Recent evidence suggests that naturally occurring low cholesterol concentrations (<4.14 mmol/liter) are associated with depression as well as poor psychological health. For the most part, these associations have been observed in men. The current study assessed the relation of naturally occurring low lipid and lipoprotein concentrations to trait measures of depression and anxiety in 121 healthy young adult women. METHODS Fasting lipid samples were collected at the same time as health history. Trait depression and anxiety were assessed using the Neuroticism, Extraversion, Openness-Personality Inventory (NEO-PI) depression subscale and Spielberger's Trait Personality Inventory (STPI) anxiety subscale. Analyses were conducted using both univariate and multivariate procedures. RESULTS NEO depression was inversely associated with total cholesterol (p = .027), triglycerides (p = .012), and the ratio of total cholesterol to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (p = .059). Similarly, STPI anxiety was inversely associated with total cholesterol (p = .002), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (p = .016), triglycerides (p = .024), and ratio of total cholesterol to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (p = .075). These associations were significant after adjustment for age, body mass index, physical activity, oral contraceptive use, and hostility. Neither depression nor anxiety was associated with high-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Univariate analyses indicated that women with low total cholesterol concentrations (<4.14 mmol/liter), relative to those with moderate to high cholesterol levels, were more likely to have higher scores on the NEO depression subscale (27 of 69 (39%) vs. 10 of 52 (19%)) and STPI anxiety subscale (24 of 69 (35%) vs. 11 of 52 (21%)). CONCLUSIONS In healthy young adult women, low lipid and lipoprotein concentrations are inversely associated with trait measures of depression and anxiety. These findings are independent of age, body mass index, physical activity, and other factors known to influence lipid concentrations.
Detection of Viral Hemorrhagic Septicemia Virus (VHSV) from Diporeia spp. (Pontoporeiidae, Amphipoda) in the Laurentian Great Lakes, USA

The mode of viral hemorrhagic septicemia virus (VHSV) transmission in the Great Lakes basin is largely unknown. In order to assess the potential role of macroinvertebrates in VHSV transmission, Diporeia spp., a group of amphipods that are preyed upon by a number of susceptible Great Lakes fishes, were collected from seven locations in four of the Great Lakes and analyzed for the presence of VHSV. It was demonstrated that VHSV is present in some Diporeia spp. samples collected from lakes Ontario, Huron, and Michigan, but not from Lake Superior. Phylogenetic comparison of partial nucleoprotein (N) gene sequences (737 base pairs) of the five isolates to sequences of 13 other VHSV strains showed the clustering of Diporeia spp. isolates with the VHSV genotype IVb. This study reports the first incidence of a fish-pathogenic rhabdovirus being isolated from Diporeia, or any other crustacean and underscores the role macroinvertebrates may play in VHSV ecology.
Language Use and Personality during Crises: Analyses of Mayor Rudolph Giuliani's Press Conferences

During his years as mayor of New York City, Rudolph Giuliani was perceived as undergoing changes in personality as a result of a number of personal crises and, later, the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001. One method by which to study individual differences is to explore the natural use of language of an individual. Giuliani's use of language was measured from 35 of his press conferences between his election in 1993 and late 2001. Significant changes in his linguistic style were found in the ways he identified with others, expressed emotions, and exhibited cognitive complexity. Implications for using an analysis of linguistic styles to understand personality are discussed.
On the Use of Optimization for Data Mining: Theoretical Interactions and eCRM Opportunities

Previous work on the solution to analytical electronic customer relationship management (eCRM) problems has used either data-mining (DM) or optimization methods, but has not combined the two approaches. By leveraging the strengths of both approaches, the eCRM problems of customer analysis, customer interactions, and the optimization of performance metrics (such as the lifetime value of a customer on the Web) can be better analyzed. In particular, many eCRM problems have been traditionally addressed using DM methods. There are opportunities for optimization to improve these methods, and this paper describes these opportunities. Further, an online appendix (mansci.pubs.informs.org/ecompanion.html) describes how DM methods can help optimization-based approaches. More generally, this paper argues that the reformulation of eCRM problems within this new framework of analysis can result in more powerful analytical approaches.
THERAPEUTIC USAGES OF OXYGEN RADICAL SCAVENGERS IN HUMAN DISEASES: MYTHS AND REALITIES

Some distinct advances in pharmacologic manipulation of oxygen radical scavengers have been made which could ultimately greatly enhance the use of these reagents as drugs, as well as some innovative techniques for drug delivery. Unfortunately, most of the therapeutic reports in the literature, almost all of which are based on usage of standard (native) SOD and/or catalase, are still anecdotal and/or uncontrolled. A review of the human disedse/treatment literature suggests that further tightening of the scientific design of such trials is stjll badly needed; hopefully better experimental design will be applied when products such as PEG conjugates or genetically engineered polymers are ready for testing.
Multi-stage infrared stationary human detection

Detecting stationary human targets is crucial in ensuring safe operation of unmanned ground vehicles. In this paper, a multi-stage detection algorithm for stationary humans in infrared imagery is proposed. This algorithm first applies an efficient feature-based anomalies detection algorithm to search the entire input image, which is followed by an eigen-neural-based clutter rejecter that examines only the portions of the input image identified by the first algorithm, and culminates with a simple evidence integrator that combines the results from the two previous stages. The proposed algorithm was evaluated using a challenging set of infrared images, and the results support the usefulness of this multi-stage human detection architecture.
Processing and characterization of electrospun Y2O3-stabilized ZrO2 (YSZ) and Gd2O3-doped CeO2 (GDC) nanofibers

The technique of electrospinning was employed to fabricate uniform one-dimensional (1-D) inorganic–organic composite nanofibers from alcoholic solutions containing polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP) and suitable aqueous precursors of yttrium and zirconium ions in one case and gadolinium and cerium ions in the other. Upon firing and sintering under carefully pre-selected time–temperature profiles (heating rate, temperature and soak time), ceramic nanofibers retaining the original morphological features observed in the as-spun composition were obtained. Analytical tools, such as simultaneous TG–DSC, Raman spectroscopy and SEM were employed to elucidate the pathway of ceramic phase formation and the systematic evolution of morphological features in the spun and the processed fibers. X-ray diffraction was used to identify the crystalline fate of the final products. It was found that several millimeter long, uniform YSZ and GDC nanofibers of high phase purity could be fabricated.
Implementation of nonlocal model for impact-ionization current in bipolar circuit simulation and application to SiGe HBT design optimization

A nonlocal characterization of impact-ionization current is implemented in a compact but physical bipolar transistor model for predictive circuit simulation. The charge-based model, which is applicable to SiGe-base HBT's as well as Si BJT's, provides at each bias point, including ones in quasisaturation, the electric field distribution E(x) in the epi-collector, and a simplified form of the energy-balance equation enables characterization of carrier temperature T/sub e/(x) from E(x). Numerical spatial integration of the T/sub e/-dependent ionization rate yields the impact-ionization current as post-processing in the model routine. The nonlocal model is verified by applications to two advanced bipolar (HBT and BJT) technologies in which the device breakdown voltages, which are underestimated by the local-field model, are predicted. The utility of the nonlocal model in assessing design tradeoffs involving impact ionization (i.e., device breakdown versus circuit performance) is demonstrated by simulations based on the two mentioned technologies. >
Unleashing the power of meta-threading for evolution/structure-based function inference of proteins.

Protein threading is widely used in the prediction of protein structure and the subsequent functional annotation. Most threading approaches employ similar criteria for the template identification for use in both protein structure and function modeling. Using structure similarity alone might result in a high false positive rate in protein function inference, which suggests that selecting functional templates should be subject to a different set of constraints. In this study, we extend the functionality of eThread, a recently developed approach to meta-threading, focusing on the optimal selection of functional templates. We optimized the selection of template proteins to cover a broad spectrum of protein molecular function: ligand, metal, inorganic cluster, protein and nucleic acid binding. In large-scale benchmarks, we demonstrate that the recognition rates in identifying templates that bind molecular partners in similar locations are very high, typically 70-80%, at the expense of a relatively low false positive rate. eThread also provides useful insights into the chemical properties of binding molecules and the structural features of binding. For instance, the sensitivity in recognizing similar protein-binding interfaces is 58% at only 18% false positive rate. Furthermore, in comparative analysis, we demonstrate that meta-threading supported by machine learning outperforms single-threading approaches in functional template selection. We show that meta-threading effectively detects many facets of protein molecular function, even in a low sequence identity regime. The enhanced version of eThread is freely available as a webserver and stand-alone software at www.brylinski.org/ethread.
Localization of biologically important regions on toxic shock syndrome toxin 1

Toxic shock syndrome toxin 1 (TSST-1) contains a long central alpha helix that forms the base of two grooves on opposite sides of the molecule. Previous studies indicated that residues 132, 135, and 140 along the back of the central alpha helix are important in the biological activities. We made mutations of additional central alpha-helix residues exposed along this groove on the back of TSST-1. The proteins were purified, shown not to have gross alteration in structure, and tested for both superantigenicity and ability to elicit lethal TSS, using the superantigenicity, likely to because of alteration in T-cell receptor binding. Mutants H135A, Q136A, and E132K/ Q136K lost the ability to induce lethal TSS. The mutant Q136A was most increasing because it was superantigenic, yet nonlethal.
Pravastatin therapy is associated with reduction in coronary allograft vasculopathy in pediatric heart transplantation.

Abstract Background Hydroxymethylglutaryl CoA reductase inhibitors (statins) have been demonstrated to reduce the risk of developing coronary allograft vasculopathy (CAV) following heart transplantation in adults and are used routinely in many centers. CAV and lipid abnormalities have been reported to be less prevalent in pediatric heart transplant recipients. It is not known whether statins reduce the risk of CAV in this population Methods A retrospective review was performed to analyze the risk factors for developing CAV following pediatric heart transplantation with particular attention to the impact of pravastatin therapy. The study population was comprised of 129 pediatric patients who underwent 142 heart transplants at our institution from 1988 to 2003. The outcome variable was freedom from CAV, CAV being determined by coronary angiography or autopsy. Results CAV was identified in 25 recipients at a median of 3.7 years after transplantation. There were 331 patient-years of pravastatin therapy. Pravastatin therapy resulted in a reduction in total cholesterol levels, 162 ± 29 to 137 ± 20 mg/dl, p = 0.01. In multivariate analysis the use of pravastatin was associated with a lower incidence of CAV ( p = 0.03), whereas an increased frequency of late rejection ( p = 0.003) and earlier year of transplantation ( p = 0.04) were associated with increased risk of CAV. Conclusions The routine use of pravastatin was associated with a lower risk following pediatric heart transplantation. Further studies into the relationship between lipid abnormalities, inflammation and rejection, and the development of CAV in children are warranted.
THE ROLE OF THE THYMUS IN DEVELOPMENT OF IMMUNOLOGIC CAPACITY IN RABBITS AND MICE

In rabbits, complete thymectomy before the age of 5 days produced immunologic deficiency in the adult animals, as indicated by reduced antibody production to bovine serum albumin and bacteriophage T(2). Homotransplantation immunity was unaffected, however. In an inbred strain of mice, complete neonatal thymectomy resulted in complete inability of the 60-day-old animals to form antibody to bacteriophage T(2). Inbred mice, completely thymectomized at birth, had a deficient homograft response, indicated by acceptance of skin homografts from strains differing in both the weaker and stronger (H-2) histocompatibility antigens. Tumor transplants (mammary adenocarcinoma) were also successful across the H-2 genetic barrier in mice thymectomized at birth. Neonatal thymectomy also eliminated the Eichwald-Silmser phenomenon, rendering female mice capable of accepting isografts of male skin. Transplantation immunity in mice was also affected by later thymectomy, at 30 days of age, in certain strain combinations involving weak histocompatibility differences. Spleen and lymph node cells from mice thymectomized at birth or at 6 days of age, and sacrificed 2 months later, did not produce a graft versus host reaction in appropriate F(1) hybrid recipients, indicating that such cells are immunologically inactive. Neonatal thymectomy of F(1) hybrid mice, and in one strain combination thymectomy at 40 days of age, produced animals with inordinate susceptibility to runt disease (homologous disease) following injection of parent strain spleen cells 35 days (neonatal surgery) and 10 days (surgery at 40 days) later. Mice thymectomized at birth also showed growth failure and were short-lived. Studies of newborn mice indicated that they have true lymphocytes only in the thymus, and lack such cells in the spleen, lymph nodes, and gut. In normal mice, adult lymphoid structure develops gradually, beginning during the 1st week of life and continuing for the next month. In contrast, mice thymectomized at birth do not develop mature lymphoid structure: the lymph nodes and spleens tend to be small and poorly organized, and show a quantitative deficiency in lymphoid cells. It is our current working hypothesis that the thymus makes a major contribution toward the centrifugal distribution of lymphoid cells which, in turn, is essential to the full expression of immunologic capacity.
A New Technique for the Study of Cloud Microstructure

Abstract A technique is described by which the spacing of cloud particles can be measured using existing data from a cloud particle measurement probe. The monitor circuit used in this application is inexpensive and easy to build and connects easily to data systems already interfaced to particle measuring probes. Preliminary results show excellent agreement between predicted and measured spatial distributions of cloud droplets in adiabatic cloud regions but not always in mixed cloud regions on 10-m scales. This technique promise to be a valuable tool for the investigation of entrainment and other small-scale cloud microphysical processes.
Design and Evaluation of the Kinect-Wheelchair Interface Controlled (KWIC) Smart Wheelchair for Pediatric Powered Mobility Training.

Background: Children with severe disabilities are sometimes unable to access powered mobility training. Thus, we developed the Kinect-Wheelchair Interface Controlled (KWIC) smart wheelchair trainer that converts a manual wheelchair into a powered wheelchair. The KWIC Trainer uses computer vision to create a virtual tether with adaptive shared-control between the wheelchair and a therapist during training. It also includes a mixed-reality video game system. Methods: We performed a year-long usability study of the KWIC Trainer at a local clinic, soliciting qualitative and quantitative feedback on the device after extended use. Results: Eight therapists used the KWIC Trainer for over 50 hours with 8 different children. Two of the children obtained their own powered wheelchair as a result of the training. The therapists indicated the device allowed them to provide mobility training for more children than would have been possible with a demo wheelchair, and they found use of the device to be as safe as or safe...
Substance P modulates autonomic nerve activity in canine hearts.

We examined the hypothesis that substance P (SP) acts as an “afferent neuromodulator” in the heart regulating the response of the cardiac autonomic nerves to reflexes originating in the heart. We employed the acute, isovolumic canine heart preparation in which the amplitude of the chamber pressure accurately reflects changes in contractility. The heart was decentralized except for one-half of the right vagus, which was left intact to permit afferent communication with the central nervous system, while the remaining one-half was tightly ligated so that the distal part could be used for efferent stimulation. SP was injected in doses of 2–10 micrograms ic. There were no significant inotropic responses to 2 and 5 micrograms SP, whereas 10 micrograms produced positive inotropy of 5–15%. When vagal tone was elevated with sustained vagal stimulation, the same doses of SP increased contractility by 12–28%. Similarly, during right stellate ganglion stimulation (SS), SP decreased contractility 8–22%. After the intact half of the right vagus was sectioned, SP modulation of vagal responses was unaffected, while modulation of atrial, but not ventricular, responses to SS was significantly attenuated. When tested on a series of cardiac-denervated dogs, SP had no effect on cardiac inotropy at any dose. However, when contractility was increased with isoproterenol infusion, SP caused a small decrease in ventricular contractility. These results suggest that SP acts as a modulator of cardiac autonomic neural tone. It is possible that the neuropeptide is released from intramyocardial afferent collateral fibers and inhibits the elevation in vagal or sympathetic nerve activity initiated by activation of cardiac primary afferent nerves.
Feeding Behavior of Lesser Cornstalk Borer Larvae in Simulations of No-Tillage, Mulched Conventional Tillage, and Conventional Tillage Corn Cropping Systems

Feeding behavior of Elasmopalpus lignosellus (Zeller) larvae was altered in simulations of no-tillage and mulched conventional tillage when compared to simulated conventional tillage. Larvae released in 32P-labeled dead wheat or rye stalks assimilated significant amounts of radioactivity. Gut contents of larvae retained on dead wheat stalks indicated that dead organic matter was ingested.
The Effects of Defendant Profit Information on Compensatory and Punitive Damage Awards in Civil Litigation

Three experiments were conducted in order to examine the effects of defendant wealth on civil litigation damage award decisions. Wealth was manipulated in each experiment by presenting participants with either high or low company profit information for that year. All participants read three trial scenarios in which the defendant Manufacturer was found responsible for the plaintiffs injuries. Fifty-two participants awarded economic damages in the first experiment. Contrary to law, profit information influenced the economic awards, such that high profits resulted in significantly higher award amounts and award variances. In the second experiment, 50 participants awarded pain and suffering awards. These awards were not influenced by profit information. The final experiment (n=55) involved punitive damage awards. Higher profits increased both the magnitude and variability of punitive awards.
Wellness and Distress in LGBTQ Populations: A Meta-Analysis

A random-effects, correlation-based metaanalysis of 27 effect-size estimates resulted in identification of a small to moderate effect between indices of wellness and of psychosocial distress in samples of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) people. This outcome was moderated by whether study measures were validated with LGBTQ populations and by type of LGBTQ population sampled. Implications for practice and future research are discussed.
A Computational Approach of Preventive Control Strategy With Multi-Contingency Constraints for Power Grid Transient Stability

A computational approach of preventive control strategy with multi-contingency constraints for power grid transient stability is proposed. Firstly, through topology analysis on the locations of preconceived faults the faults causing instability are decoupled; secondly, based on the fault severity an appropriate control sequence to cope with the multi-contingencies is drafted, thus the preventive control problem with multi-contingency constraints is decomposed into several stability control and decision problems for the single fault; finally the preventive control and adjustment strategy satisfying all transient stability constraints is achieved. To each contingency, the trajectory sensitivities of relative rotor angles to the mechanical power of each candidate generator are calculated and used to determine the prior dispatching order of the generators. During the adjustment process the economy of preventive control is taken into account. Integrating with parallel computing technique, the proposed algorithm possesses the feasibility of on-line application. The correctness of the proposed computational approach of preventive control strategy is validated by simulation results of IEEE 39-bus New England test system and a certain actual trans-regional interconnected power grid.
Development Studies: Enduring Debates and Possible Trajectories

How should we understand current debates in development studies? More specifically, how should we understand the way in which these debates have been seen through the eyes of scholars from a range of disciplines who have been associated with Studies in Comparative International Development (SCID)? Building on an analysis of the distribution of topics, disciplines, and regions covered by articles in SCID over the past 50 years, this essay coveys a vision of development studies as seen through the lens of SCID. The four articles that follow this one help us interrogate a series of substantive issues central to development studies and their interrelationships – democracy, inequality, and the effects of the international context. We also explore two topics not covered in the articles – the role of the state in the economy and broader aspects of the international context. We conclude by speculating on how these arenas of development studies might evolve in the future.
Syndecan-1 restitution by plasma after hemorrhagic shock.

Over the past seven years, there have been a number of retrospective studies demonstrating that the early and empiric use of fresh frozen plasma to patients in hemorrhagic shock and receiving a massive transfusion is beneficial.1–3 More recently a prospective observational multicenter massive transfusion study (PROMMTT), confirmed that increased ratios of plasma to red blood cells and platelets to red blood cells decreased early mortality from hemorrhage.4 A prospective randomized optimum platelet and plasma ratios (PROP:P:R) study was recently completed and currently under analysis. Results of these studies have dramatically changed the manner in which bleeding trauma patients are resuscitated5, though the mechanism of protection remains unclear. We hypothesized that central to plasma’s protection is the endothelium. The important role of the endothelium to the pathophysiology of hemorrhagic shock has been coined the endotheliopathy of trauma.6 Injury to the endothelium from trauma and hemorrhage results in alterations in coagulation, inflammation, vasoregulation, and organ-specific barrier integrity. This review will focus on the endothelium as a therapeutic target to mechanistically explain the protection provided by plasma to the endothelium.
Types of Visualization and Modeling

After completing this module, a student should be able to: Describe the conditions under which computer models may not be completely reliable. Compare and contrast two different types of modeling: agent-based and dynamic systems modeling.
Which Fecal Immunochemical Test Should I Choose

Objectives: To summarize the fecal immunochemical tests (FITs) available in the United States, the 2014 pathology proficiency testing (PT) program FIT results, and the literature related to the tes...
An In Vitro Model for Studying Cellular Transformation by Kaposi Sarcoma Herpesvirus

Kaposi sarcoma (KS) is an unusual tumor composed of proliferating spindle cells that is initiated by infection of endothelial cells (EC) with KSHV, and develops most often in the setting of immunosuppression. Despite decades of research, optimal treatment of KS remains poorly defined and clinical outcomes are especially unfavorable in resource-limited settings. KS lesions are driven by pathological angiogenesis, chronic inflammation, and oncogenesis, and various in vitro cell culture models have been developed to study these processes. KS arises from KSHV-infected cells of endothelial origin, so EC-lineage cells provide the most appropriate in vitro surrogates of the spindle cell precursor. However, because EC have a limited in vitro lifespan, and as the oncogenic mechanisms employed by KSHV are less efficient than those of other tumorigenic viruses, it has been difficult to assess the processes of transformation in primary or telomerase-immortalized EC. Therefore, a novel EC-based culture model was developed that readily supports transformation following infection with KSHV. Ectopic expression of the E6 and E7 genes of human papillomavirus type 16 allows for extended culture of age- and passage-matched mock- and KSHV-infected EC and supports the development of a truly transformed (i.e., tumorigenic) phenotype in infected cell cultures. This tractable and highly reproducible model of KS has facilitated the discovery of several essential signaling pathways with high potential for translation into clinical settings.