cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Neocortical seizure foci localization by means of a directed transfer function method.

Summary Purpose: Determination of the origin of extratemporal neocortical onset seizures is often challenging due to the rapid speed at which they propagate throughout the cortex. Typically, these patients are poor surgical candidates and many times experience recurrences of seizure activity following resection of the assumed seizure focus. Methods: We applied a causal measurement technique—the directed transfer function (DTF)—in an effort to determine the cortical location responsible for the propagation of the seizure activity. Intracranial seizure recordings were obtained from a group of 11 pediatric patients with medically intractable neocortical-onset epilepsy. Time windows were selected from the recordings following onset of the ictal activity. The DTF was applied to the selected time windows, and the frequency-specific statistically significant source activity arising from each cortical recording site was quantified. The DTF-estimated source activity was then compared with the seizure-onset zone(s) identified by the epileptologists. Results: In an analysis of the 11 pediatric patients, the DTF was shown to identify estimated ictal sources that were highly correlated with the clinically identified foci. In addition, it was observed that in the patients with multiple ictal foci, the topography of the casual source activity from the analyzed seizures was associated with the separate clinically identified seizure-onset zones. Discussion: Although localization of neocortical-onset seizures is typically challenging, the causal measures employed in this study—namely the directed transfer function—identified generators of the ictal activity that were highly correlated with the cortical regions identified as the seizure-onset zones by the epileptologists. This technique could prove useful in the identification of seizure-specific propagation pathways in the presurgical evaluation of patients with epilepsy.
The propensity to adopt evidence-based practice among physical therapists

Background Many authors, as well as the American Physical Therapy Association, advocate that physical therapists adopt practice patterns based on research evidence, known as evidence-based practice (EBP). At the same time, physical therapists should be capable of integrating EBP within the day-to-day practice of physical therapy. The purpose of this study was to determine the extent to which personal characteristics and the characteristics of the social system in the workplace influence the propensity of physical therapists to adopt EBP.
Measuring the optical properties of astrophysical dust analogues: instrumentation and methods

Dust is found throughout the universe and plays an important role for a wide range of astrophysical phenomena. In recent years, new IR facilities have provided powerful new data for understanding these phenomena. However, interpretation of these data is often complicated by a lack of complementary information about the optical properties of astronomically relevant materials. The Optical Properties of Astronomical Silicates with Infrared Techniques (OPASI-T) program at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center is designed to provide new high-quality laboratory data from which we can derive the optical properties of astrophysical dust analogues. This program makes use of multiple instruments, including new equipment designed and built specifically for this purpose. The suite of instruments allows us to derive optical properties over a wide wavelength range, from the near-IR through the millimeter, also providing the capability for exploring how these properties depend upon the temperature of the sample. In this paper, we discuss the overall structure of the research program, describe the new instruments that have been developed to meet the science goals, and demonstrate the efficacy of these tools.
Co-operation by Male Protection of Ovipositing Female in the Diptera

SOME species of Diptera utilize freshly dropped cattle dung (cow pats) not only as an oviposition site and larval habitat but also as a male aggregation site where mating occurs1,2. The present investigation shows that the males of some of these species protect their mates, thus preventing the mating activity of the preponderant and aggressive unpaired males from interfering with oviposition. Such co-operative behaviour is most striking in the cosmopolitan yellow dung fly, Scatophaga stercoraria (L.) (Anthomyiidae), but also exists in Saltella sphondylii (Schrank) (Sepsidae) and Copromyza atra (Meigen) (Sphaeroceridae); these three species are closely related only in an ecological sense.
243 - Brain dopaminergic neurons: In vivo electrochemical information concerning storage, metabolism and release processes☆

The potential usefulness of modern voltammetric techniques for investigations of brain neuronal functioning has gained increased interest in recent years. The advantages of the approach are basic: it enables one to measure concentrations of species directly, and it does this simply., quickly and in the presence of numerous other components in a complex system, negating the need to first isolate the molecular species of interest. Compensation for interfering species can be made in most cases. Voltammetric microelectrodes have the additional advantage of making measurements possible for the first time in vivo under conditions that approach normalcy, and in addition, of being instantaneous, localized, non-destructive, and selective towards the fluid phase. In this paper, cyclic voltammetry and differential pulse voltammetry at graphite paste electrodes are evaluated for their ability to detect the chemical neurotransmitter, dopamine, and its major metabolites, homovanillic acid and 3-methoxytyramine, in mammalian brain. Results are presented demonstrating the applicability of the methods developed to studies of transmitter storage, metabolism and release processes following selective pharmacological manipulations of the nigrostriatal dopaminergic projection. Certain problems inherent with such measurements in brain tissues are discussed.
Phorbol diacetate potentiates Na+-K+ ATPase inhibition by a putative endogenous ligand, marinobufagenin

Several vasoconstrictor agents can regulate the phosphorylation status of the Na + -K + ATPase (NKA). We have recently demonstrated that mammalian tissues contain an endogenous bufadienolide, digitalis-like α 1 -NKA–selective ligand, marinobufagenin (MBG). Protein kinase C induces phosphorylation of the α 1 -NKA isoform, the major isoform in vascular smooth muscle, kidney, and heart cells. We hypothesized that protein kinase C–induced phosphorylation of NKA can potentiate the effect of endogenous digitalis-like ligands, and that such potentiation can occur in an NKA isoform–specific fashion. A protein kinase C activator, phorbol 12,13-diacetate (PDA, 50 nmol/L), induced phosphorylation of the α 1 -NKA from human mesenteric artery (HMA) sarcolemma and rat kidney but not that of the α 3 -NKA from rat fetal brain. In HMA sarcolemma, which predominantly contains α 1 -NKA, PDA (50 nmol/L) potentiated the NKA-inhibitory effect of MBG at the level of high-affinity binding sites (0.05±0.03 nmol/L versus 4.0±1.7 nmol/L, P 3 -NKA ligand. In isolated endothelium-denuded HMA artery rings, 50 nmol/L PDA potentiated the MBG-induced vasoconstriction (EC 50 , 17±6 nmol/L versus 150±40 nmol/L; P 1 -isoform–specific NKA inhibition by the endogenous digitalis-like ligand, MBG, is substantially enhanced via NKA phosphorylation by protein kinase C. Thus, an interaction of protein kinase C–dependent phosphorylation and MBG on NKA activity may underlie the synergistic vasoactive effects of MBG and other endogenous vasoconstrictors in hypertension.
Separation-individuation from family of origin and marital adjustment of recently married couples

Abstract An optimal level of individuation from parents is believed to be necessary for healthy adjustment of newly married young adults. To explore this assertion, applications for marriage licenses were used to identify 25 heterosexual couples between the ages of 19 and 30, married between 6 and 13 months. Spouses completed surveys containing the Psychological Separation Inventory (J. A. Hoffman, 1984), with ratings for both parents on four scales of separation-individuation, and the Dyadic Adjustment Scale (G. B. Spanier, 1976, 1989), measuring marital satisfaction. Linear and curvilinear correlations suggested that husbands' broad individuation from their mothers and functional individuation from their fathers has an important influence on both the husbands' and the wives' adjustment to the new marriage. Curvilinear, but not linear significant relationships were found between wives' individuation from parents and husbands' marital satisfaction.
VLF observations of auroral beams as sources of a class of emissions

AN interesting very low frequency (VLF) phenomenon which I shall call auroral V-emissions (AVEs) has been known for a number of years, although few reports have been published. The phenomenon has also been known informally as “short saucers” and “splashes”. The dynamic spectra of a collection of AVEs are shown in Fig. 1a. The AVEs shown here have a fairly low frequency minimum, near 0.5 kHz, and have time scales of the order of 10 s. The broader form at the upper part of the record may perhaps be an example of an AVE, but in this paper it will not be considered as an AVE. The name auroral V-emission is based on the region of observation and the V-shaped or hyperbolic spectral appearance. The hyperbolic shape is often quite symmetrical, particularly for the AVEs with shorter time scales. AVEs have only been observed in satellites, usually near the auroral zone. Noise bands with distinct intensity minima at harmonics of the local proton frequency are often observed at the centre of an AVE, especially for observations at relatively high altitude (3,000 km) and for AVEs with a low frequency minimum. The phenomena reported here have a much shorter time scale and a more well defined spectral appearance than the “V-type VLF hiss”1,2.
Substance P regulates natural killer cell interferon-γ production and resistance to Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection

Studies have shown that after Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) corneal infection, BALB/c mice that are capable of resolving the disease, locally produce IFN-gamma. As T cells are not detected in the infected cornea of these mice, antibody depletion was used to test whether NK cells produce the cytokine. After depletion, decreased corneal IFN-gamma mRNA and increased disease severity, bacterial load, and PMN infiltrate resulted. Further work determined if substance P (SP), a pro-inflammatory neuropeptide, participated in regulation of this response. To this end, mice were treated with the SP antagonist, spantide I that blocks SP interaction with neurokinin-1, its major receptor. The treatment significantly decreased corneal IFN-gamma and IL-18 protein levels and corneal perforation resulted. In vitro experiments using isolated splenic NK cells confirmed their ability to respond to IL-18 and SP and to secrete IFN-gamma protein. We conclude: that for development of the BALB/c resistance response, NK cells are required to produce IFN-gamma; that the cells express the neurokinin-1 receptor; and that SP directly regulates IFN-gamma production through this receptor. The data suggest a unique link between the nervous system and development of innate immunity in the cornea.
An Approach to Assessing the Reliability of Anthropometrics in Elderly Patients

Although anthropometrics have traditionally been utilized in the assessment of protein-energy malnutrition, little is known of the reliability of these measurements in elderly patient populations. In this study, the reliability of an anthropometric measurement protocol, designed for ease in measurement of both independent and functionally debilitated elderly patients, is evaluated. An analysis of variance technique was used to calculate the test-retest variance for each of three observers. Although the experience of the three observers was equivalent, the precision of their measurements varied considerably. After repeat practice sessions, improved measurement reliability was demonstrated. For all the observers, the test-retest variance was found to be proportional to the size of the measurement and to be influenced by the accuracy in which the site for each measurement was located. Based on this study, we conclude that when using anthropometrics it is important to know the reliability of each observers' measurements. Because of the correlation between the test-retest variance and the measurement value, we suggest that the variance be expressed as a percentile. A method for transforming the variances is presented.
Cure of Signs of Egg White Disease by Corn Oil Patty Acids and Vitamin B6

SummaryEgg white injury or acrodynia in the albino rat, which occurs when commercial dried egg white is included in the diet of this animal in a substantial amount develops much more slowly if 10% of the fat in the diet is in the form of corn oil instead of Crisco. If vitamin B6 is injected into corn oil fed rats the signs and symptoms of the egg white acrodynia almost entirely disappear.
Polycystic kidney disease: new understanding in the pathogenesis.

Abstract Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is a disease of the nephron, characterized by the formation of multiple renal tubular cysts, leading to endstage renal failure. The most common form is autosomal dominant PKD (ADPKD) and is caused by mutations in the PKD1 gene in 85% of cases or in PKD2 in 10–15%. Rarer forms include autosomal recessive PKD (ARPKD) and nephronophthisis with high mortality and morbidity in children. Recent advances suggest that the PKD1-encoded protein, polycystin-1, is a renal epithelial cell membrane mechanoreceptor, sensing morphogenetic cues in the extracellular environment at the basal surface in focal adhesion complexes; at the lateral surface in cell adherens junctions; and in the lumen at the apical primary cilium. Activation via multiprotein complex formation, intracellular signal transduction cascades and regulation of fetal gene transcription leads to appropriate renal tubule epithelial cell division and differentiation in normal kidneys, but is disrupted in PKD resulting in cyst formation.
Ten Reasons to Take Peak Oil Seriously

Forty years ago, the results of modeling, as presented in The Limits to Growth, reinvigorated a discussion about exponentially growing consumption of natural resources, ranging from metals to fossil fuels to atmospheric capacity, and how such consumption could not continue far into the future. Fifteen years earlier, M. King Hubbert had made the projection that petroleum production in the continental United States would likely reach a maximum around 1970, followed by a world production maximum a few decades later. The debate about "peak oil", as it has come to be called, is accompanied by some of the same vociferous denials, myths and ideological polemicizing that have surrounded later representations of The Limits to Growth. In this review, we present several lines of evidence as to why arguments for a near-term peak in world conventional oil production should be taken seriously—both in the sense that there is strong evidence for peak oil and in the sense that being societally unprepared for declining oil production will have serious consequences.
A source tracking sensor array testbed

Abstract The University of Wyoming Source Tracking Array Testbed (UW STAT) was developed as a platform to experimentally investigate recent advances in sensor array source tracking algorithms. UW STAT is a six sensor array with one or more sources which may be moving. This system is unique in its compactness and its emphasis on the source tracking problem with the ability to precisely know the true source location for comparison with array tracking algorithm results. Experimental tracking results are presented to demonstrate the performance of the system. Experimental data, along with information about UW STAT, is available on the World Wide Web (http://wwweng.uwyo.edu/electrical /array.html) for other researchers to test their tracking algorithms.
DNA-degradation and excision repair in gamma-irradiated Chinese hamster ovary cells.

THE removal from the DNA of cyclobutane-type photo-dimers following exposure to ultraviolet irradiation has been demonstrated in human cells1,2. No excision of photo-dimers has, however, been observed in rodent cells3–6 or in cells from patients with the hereditary disease xeroderma pigmentosum2,7. Recently, it has been recognised that damage to the nucleic acid bases may also constitute a major portion of the damage introduced into DNA by ionising radiation (refs 8, 9 and J. L. Swinehart, W.-S. Lin, J. Roti Roti, R. B. Painter and P. A. C., unpublished). The following evidence suggests that excision repair processes may occur following exposure to ionising radiation. The insertion of short patches of nucleotides into the DNA in γ-irradiated mammalian cells has been observed in the form of repair replication and unscheduled DNA synthesis10. These processes are best understood in molecular terms if it is assumed that damaged and undamaged residues are first removed from the DNA in early steps of postirradiation repair. Endonuclease activities which appear to recognise γ-ray-induced nucleotide damage in in vitro systems have recently been identified. A partially purified preparation from Micrococcus luteus has been studied by Carrier and Setlow11 and an endonuclease activity in crude HeLa cell extracts by Brent12. Such enzyme activities could be involved in the excision repair of γ-ray damaged residues. We report here that Chinese hamster ovary cells (CHO) undergo limited DNA degradation following exposure to γ rays and we demonstrate by direct chemical analysis the excision of damaged thymine residues from the DNA during post-radiation incubation.
NHERF1/EBP50 Controls Morphogenesis of 3D Colonic Glands by Stabilizing PTEN and Ezrin-Radixin-Moesin Proteins at the Apical Membrane

Na(+)/H(+) exchanger 3 regulating factor 1/ezrin-radixin-moesin (ERM)-binding phosphoprotein 50 (NHERF1/EBP50), an adaptor molecule that interacts with the ERM-neurofibromatosis type 2 family of cytoskeletal proteins through its ERM-binding region and with phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) and β-catenin through its PDZ domains, has been recently implicated in the progression of various human malignancies, including colorectal cancer (CRC). We report here that NHERF1 controls gland morphogenesis, as demonstrated in three-dimensional (3D) human intestinal glands developing from a single nonpolarized cell. Starting from the early two-cell developmental stage, NHERF1 concentrates at the cellular interface in a central membrane disc that marks the apical pole delimiting the forming lumen. NHERF1 depletion leads to severe disruption of the apical-basal polarity, with formation of enlarged and distorted cell spheroids devoid of a central lumen. This characteristic and the increased number of mitoses in NHERF1-depleted spheroids, including multipolar ones, mimic high-grade dysplasia lesions observed in CRC progression. NHERF1 ERM-binding or PDZ-domain mutants fail to localize apically and impair gland formation most likely by outcompeting endogenous ligands, with the latter mutant completely aborting gland development. Examination of NHERF1 ligands showed that even if both ezrin and moesin colocalized with NHERF1 at the apical membrane, moesin but not ezrin depletion disrupted morphogenesis similarly to NHERF1. NHERF1 depletion resulted also in membrane displacement of PTEN and nuclear translocation of β-catenin, events contributing to polarity loss and increased proliferation. These findings reveal an essential role of NHERF1 in epithelial morphogenesis and polarity and validate this 3D system for modeling the molecular changes observed in CRC.
Predicting Intentions of Romantic Partner Abuse with the Theory of Planned Behavior

From the theory of planned behavior, attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control were identified as predictors of intentions for verbal, physical, and sexual abuse toward romantic partners. Relationships among the three predictors across the three types of abuse were examined with responses from undergraduates involved in romantic relationships. The theory of planned behavior accounted for substantial variance associated with intentions to abuse romantic partners. Moreover, the components of the theory of planned behavior were differentially predictive of the three forms of abuse, which also varied by sex. A recommendation is that interventions should target different components of the theory of planned behavior depending on the type of abuse they are attempting to prevent.
Identification of downstream targets of the putative tumor suppressor gene on 8p by differential gene expression analysis

Identification of downstream targets of the putative tumor suppressor gene on 8p by differential gene expression analysis
SCANNING ELECTRON MICROSCOPY OF THE Theobroma cacao SEED

Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) of raw, roasted, unfermented and fermented cocoa beans (Theobroma cacao L.) revealed differences in morphology as a result of treatment. A 6-day microbial fermentation caused the testa to change from a leathery and continuous, closely adhering skin to a friable, more easily removable shell. Changes in the cotyledons were less obvious. When beans were roasted at 150°C for 20 min, the testa and endosperm became porous and brittle, and cellular contents of the germ and cotyledon became thermally coagulated. Also noted in the roasted shell were dissolution of the cutin layer accompanied by hairline fissures in the surface. Both these developments, as well as the increase in porosity, undoubtedly contribute to shell brittleness, and facilitate shell removal. Observations by SEM of the cocoa bean during various treatments may be considered useful in future quality control evaluations.
Characterization of Fe/KClO4 Heat Powders and Pellets

Pellets of Fe/KClO4 mixtures are used as a heat source for thermally activated (“thermal”) batteries. They provide the energy necessary for melting the electrolyte and bringing the battery stack to operating temperature. The effects of morphology of the Fe and the heat-pellet density and composition on both the physical properties (flowability, pelletization, and pellet strength) and the pyrotechnic performance (burn rate and ignition sensitivity) were examined using several commercial sources of Fe.
Aiolos promotes TH17 differentiation by directly silencing Il2 expression

CD4(+) interleukin 17 (IL-17)-producing helper T cells (T(H)17 cells) are instrumental in the immune response to pathogens. However, an overactive T(H)17 response results in tissue inflammation and autoimmunity, and therefore it is important to identify the molecular mechanisms that control the development of T(H)17 cells. IL-2 suppresses such development, but how IL-2 production is actively suppressed during T(H)7 differentiation is not understood. Here we report that under T(H)17-polarizing conditions, the transcription factors STAT3 and AhR upregulated the expression of Aiolos, a member of the Ikaros family of transcription factors. Using Aiolos-deficient mice, we demonstrated that Aiolos silenced the Il2 locus, promoting T(H)17 differentiation in vitro and in vivo. Thus, we have identified a module in the transcriptional program of T(H)17 cells that actively limits IL-2 production and promotes their differentiation.
Simplifying algorithm animation with Tango

A conceptual framework for algorithm animation to modularize and simplify the animation design process is presented. The framework introduces the path-transition paradigm, a model consisting of abstract data types appropriate to create smooth, continuous image movement. An animation design language specifically intended to simplify the task of producing animations is introduced. The path-transition paradigm is composed of location, image, path, and transition data types. An algorithm animation system called transition-based animation generation (Tango) which is based on the framework is developed. Tango supports color, two-dimensional animation views within a workstation-based windowing system. >
Iron deficiency: impaired liver growth and DNA synthesis in the rat.

Summary. This study deals with liver growth and DNA synthesis in young, rapidly growing rats weaned to an iron deficient diet. Shortly after the development of anaemia there was a depression in the rate of liver growth that was more profound than that of body growth. The rate of increase in total liver DNA was similarly depressed, in comparison with iron-supplemented animals. Paradoxically, in the deficient rats, two normally sensitive indices of DNA synthesis, incorporation of [3H]thymidine into DNA and activity of thymidine kinase, were unaffected. This was also the case in animals acclimated to a 4 hr/day restricted feeding regimen in order to control for possible variations in feeding patterns. Although [3H]thymidine incorporation was normal throughout a 24 hr period, incorporation of 32P into liver DNA was depressed in the iron deficient rats. The results indicate changes in liver DNA synthesis due to iron deficiency that are distinct from those seen in starvation and protein-calorie malnutrition. Probably DNA synthesis in iron deficiency is modified through a depression of de novo synthesis, in the presence of normal salvage pathway activity.
Bathing in reeking wounds: The liberal arts, beauty, and war

A historic dialectic exists between the beautiful and the bestial. The bestial destroys the beautiful, but in a bloody miracle, the beautiful emerges from the womb of the bestial, the ‘terrible bea...
Real-Time Politics: The Internet and the Political Process

Research on the Internet's role in politics has struggled to transcend technological determinism--the assumption, often inadvertent, that the technology simply imprints its own logic on social relationships. An alternative approach traces the ways, often numerous, in which an institution's participants appropriate the technology in the service of goals, strategies, and relationships that the institution has already organized. This amplification model can be applied in analyzing the Internet's role in politics. After critically surveying a list of widely held views on the matter, this article illustrates how the amplification model might be applied to concrete problems. These include the development of social networks and ways that technology is used to bind people together into a polity.
Nitrate and ammonium losses from surface-applied organic and inorganic fertilizers

Animal manures are a valuable resource, providing readily available plant nutrients; however, runoff from lands receiving animal manure has been shown to contribute to water pollution. Understanding the loss of nutrients from slow release fertilizers, such as animal manure, after application is critical in determining and designing practices to reduce and/or control the temporal availability and potential offsite transport of NO3-N and NH4-N after application. A block study was designed to compare and contrast the temporal losses of NO3-N and NH4-N from three slow release fertilizers (sulphur-coated urea, composted dairy manure, and poultry litter) and one fast release fertilizer (ammonium nitrate) applied to bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon L. Pers.) turf. Cumulative NO3-N loss from plots receiving application of the manufactured (NH4NO3 and sulphur-coated urea) products was significantly (P 0·05) were measured across treatments. Significant differences (P<0·05) in NH4-N and NO3-N loss through time were measured for the four treatments. The findings of the present study indicate that land-applied animal manures are less susceptible to initial losses of N when compared to manufactured fertilizers.
White-Light Transmission Color Holographic Imaging

Recent methods of color holographic imaging utilizing white-light processing techninues are presented. These methods consist of rainbow holography, spatial holographic encoding, coherent and whitelight speckle effects, double-aperture encoding technique, dual-beam encoding principle, incoherent spatial encoding method and source encoding concept. The details of holographic construction and reconstruction processes are provided. The advantages and disadvantages of these color holographic imagings are discussed. The experimental demonstrations of these techniques are given.© (1983) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Multiple Legionella pneumophila Type II Secretion Substrates, Including a Novel Protein, Contribute to Differential Infection of the Amoebae Acanthamoeba castellanii, Hartmannella vermiformis, and Naegleria lovaniensis

Type II protein secretion (T2S) by Legionella pneumophila is required for intracellular infection of host cells, including macrophages and the amoebae Acanthamoeba castellanii and Hartmannella vermiformis. Previous proteomic analysis revealed that T2S by L. pneumophila 130b mediates the export of >25 proteins, including several that appeared to be novel. Following confirmation that they are unlike known proteins, T2S substrates NttA, NttB, and LegP were targeted for mutation. nttA mutants were impaired for intracellular multiplication in A. castellanii but not H. vermiformis or macrophages, suggesting that novel exoproteins which are specific to Legionella are especially important for infection. Because the importance of NttA was host cell dependent, we examined a panel of T2S substrate mutants that had not been tested before in more than one amoeba. As a result, RNase SrnA, acyltransferase PlaC, and metalloprotease ProA all proved to be required for optimal intracellular multiplication in H. vermiformis but not A. castellanii. Further examination of an lspF mutant lacking the T2S apparatus documented that T2S is also critical for infection of the amoeba Naegleria lovaniensis. Mutants lacking SrnA, PlaC, or ProA, but not those deficient for NttA, were defective in N. lovaniensis. Based upon analysis of a double mutant lacking PlaC and ProA, the role of ProA in H. vermiformis was connected to its ability to activate PlaC, whereas in N. lovaniensis, ProA appeared to have multiple functions. Together, these data document that the T2S system exports multiple effectors, including a novel one, which contribute in different ways to the broad host range of L. pneumophila.
Microbial reductive dechlorination of hexachloro-1,3-butadiene in a methanogenic enrichment culture

Abstract Sequential reductive dechlorination of hexachloro-1,3-butadiene (HCBD) was achieved by a mixed, methanogenic culture enriched from a contaminated estuarine sediment. Both methanol and lactate served as carbon and electron sources. Methanol was stoichiometrically converted to methane, whereas lactate was fermented to propionate and acetate and then to methane. Lactate and propionate fermentation, as well as methanogenesis were not inhibited at 0.4 mg HCBD/l, the normal enrichment culture HCBD feeding level. At a higher initial HCBD level of 1.5 mg HCBD/l, propionate fermentation and acetoclastic methanogenesis were inhibited while, after a lag time, enhanced HCBD dechlorination rates were observed. While lactate fermentation was not inhibited at high concentrations (>25 mM) of 2-bromoethanesulfonate (BES), both propionate fermentation and methanogenesis were completely inhibited, although the HCBD dechlorination rate was not affected. Therefore, methanogens were not likely responsible for the observed dechlorination of HCBD in the enrichment culture. The predominant HCBD dechlorination products were isomers of tri- and dichloro-1,3-butadiene. Traces of a monochloro-1,3-butadiene isomer were also detected. Although extensive dechlorination of HCBD was achieved by the enrichment culture, the detoxification efficiency of this process remains unclear because the potential inhibitory effect of the HCBD transformation products is unknown.
Patterns of Anticoagulation Use and Cardioembolic Risk After Catheter Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation

Background There is significant practice variation in oral anticoagulation (OAC) use following catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation. It is not clear whether the risk of cardioembolism increases after discontinuation of OAC following catheter ablation. Methods and Results We identified 6886 patients within a large national administrative claims database who underwent catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation between January 1, 2005, and September 30, 2014. We assessed the effect of time off of OAC by CHA2DS2‐VASc score (after adjusting for other comorbidities) on risk of cardioembolism, using Cox proportional hazards models. There was an increase in the use of non–vitamin K OAC after ablation from 0% in 2005 to 69.8% in 2014. OAC discontinuation was high, with only 60.5% and 31.3% of patients remaining on OAC at 3 and 12 months, respectively. The rate of discontinuation was higher in low‐risk patients (82% versus 62.5% at 12 months for CHA2DS2‐VASc 0–1 versus ≥2, respectively; P <0.001). Stroke occurred in 1.4% of patients with CHA2DS2‐VASc ≥2 and 0.3% of those with CHA2DS2‐VASc 0 or 1 over the study follow‐up. The risk of cardioembolism in the first 3 months after ablation was increased among those with any time off OAC (hazard ratio 8.06 [95% CI 1.53–42.3], P <0.05). The risk of cardioembolism beyond 3 months was increased with OAC discontinuation among high‐risk patients (hazard ratio 2.48 [95% CI 1.11–5.52], P <0.05) but not low‐risk patients. Conclusion The overall risk of stroke in postablation patients is low; however, OAC discontinuation after ablation is common and is associated with increased risk of cardioembolism for all patients within the first 3 months and for high‐risk patients in the long term. Continuing OAC for at least 3 months in all patients and indefinitely in high‐risk patients appears to be the safest strategy.
Individual Learning in Team Training Self-Regulation and Team Context Effects

Although many analysts recognize that team-level learning is reliant on the acquisition of learning content by individuals, very little research has examined individual-level learning during team t...
Why International Trusteeship Fails: The Politics of External Authority in Areas of Limited Statehood

International trusteeship is widely touted as a solution to the problem of failed states, an extreme form of limited statehood. Current theories of legitimacy and statebuilding suggest that trusteeships should produce more capable states. These theories, however, fail to take into account the self-interest and political strategies available to trustees and politicians within new states. We pose a more political model of statebuilding by the international community, the trustee, and national politicians that predicts that trusteeship will fail to produce states with greater capacity. We test for the effects of trusteeship on state capacity, measured by service provision, by creating a matched sample of countries. We find that there is no evidence that states under trusteeship develop greater capacity leading to better provision of public goods than comparable states not under trusteeship. Would-be statebuilders must be more aware of the political incentives of all parties involved in the process.
Temperature‐controlled open‐top chambers for global change research

To enable experiments on the interactive effects of elevated atmospheric CO2 and increased air temperature on physiological processes in trees to be carried out, we altered the standard design of open-top chambers by replacing blowers with evaporative coolers and in-line heaters, with a feedback control system to maintain ambient or elevated air temperatures within the chambers. Ambient and elevated (+ 4 °C) temperature regimes were attained consistently and reliably throughout the growing season, with high reproducibility between chambers. From May through December the average of nearly 300,000 temperature measurements was 18.5 °C in ambient air, 18.9 ± 0.6 °C in six ambient chambers, and 22.4 ± 0.9 °C in six elevated temperature chambers. The difference in soil temperature between ambient and elevated chambers was 1.2 °C. Absolute humidity (vapour pressure) in the chambers was higher than that of ambient air, but it was generally similar between temperature treatments. Vapour pressure deficit therefore was higher in elevated temperature chambers than in ambient chambers, and this difference is considered an inseparable part of the temperature treatment. The addition of a temperature control system to open-top chambers removes what has been an important flaw in this important tool for global change research.
Synapsis in Phage Bxb1 Integration: Selection Mechanism for the Correct Pair of Recombination Sites

Recombination by site-specific recombinases is a highly concerted process that requires synapsis of the correct pair of DNA substrates. Phage-encoded serine-integrases are unusual among the serine-recombinase family, which includes transposon resolvases and DNA invertases, in that they utilize two simple but different DNA substrates (attB and attP) and do not require accessory sites, additional proteins, or DNA supercoiling. Synapsis must therefore be directed solely by integrase–DNA interactions. We show here that the Bxb1 serine-integrase binds as a dimer to its two DNA substrates (attB, attP) and recombinant products (attL, attR) with similar affinities. However, synapsis occurs only between attP and attB, and not between any of the other nine possible site combinations. The Bxb1 integrase domain structure, the unusual DNA-binding properties of the integrase, and the characterization of a mutant protein with altered site-discrimination, are consistent with synaptic selectivity being derived from DNA sequence-induced changes in the conformations of integrase–DNA complexes.
Effects of Bracing on Human Kinematics in Low-Speed Frontal Sled Tests

Continued development of computational models and biofidelic anthropomorphic test devices (ATDs) necessitates further analysis of the effects of bracing on an occupant’s biomechanical response in automobile collisions. A total of 20 dynamic sled tests were performed, 10 low (2.5 g, Δv = 4.8 kph) and 10 medium severity (5.0 g, Δv = 9.7 kph), with five male human volunteers of approximately 50th percentile male height and weight. Each volunteer was exposed to two impulses at each severity, one relaxed and one braced prior to the impulse. A Vicon motion analysis system, 12 MX-T20 2 megapixel cameras, was used to quantify subject 3D kinematics (±1 mm) (1 kHz). Excursions of select anatomical regions were normalized to their respective initial positions and compared by test condition. At the low severity, bracing significantly reduced (p < 0.05) the forward excursion of the knees, hips, elbows, shoulders, and head (average 35–70%). At the medium severity, bracing significantly reduced (p < 0.05) the forward excursion of the elbows, shoulders, and head (average 36–69%). Although not significant, bracing at the medium severity considerably reduced the forward excursion of the knees and hips (average 18–26%). This study illustrates that bracing has a significant influence on the biomechanical response of human occupants in frontal sled tests and provides novel biomechanical data that can be used to refine and validate computational models and ATDs used to assess injury risk in automotive collisions.
Infectivity of a Human Respiratory Syncytial Virus Lacking the SH, G, and F Proteins Is Efficiently Mediated by the Vesicular Stomatitis Virus G Protein

To examine the requirements of the human respiratory syncytial virus (HRSV) SH (small hydrophobic), G (attachment), and F (fusion) proteins for virus infectivity and morphology, we used the prototype A2 strain of HRSV to generate a series of cDNAs from which (i) the SH open reading frame (ORF), (ii) the SH and G ORFs, or (iii) the SH, G, and F ORFs were deleted. Each deleted ORF was replaced as follows: the SH ORF was replaced with that of green fluorescent protein; the G ORF was replaced with that of Gvsv, a chimeric glycoprotein consisting of the vesicular stomatitis Indiana virus (VSIV) G protein ecto- and transmembrane domains coupled to the HRSV F cytoplasmic tail; and the F ORF was replaced with that of marker protein β-glucuronidase. The number of genes and the intergenic junctions in the constructs were kept as found in A2 virus in order to maintain authentic levels of transcription. Infectious viruses were recovered from all three engineered cDNAs and designated RSΔsh, RSΔsh,g/Gvsv, and RSΔsh,g,f/Gvsv, respectively. Low-pH-induced syncytium formation was observed in cells infected with viruses RSΔSH,G/Gvsv and RSΔSH,G,F/Gvsv, indicating that Gvsv was expressed and functional. Neutralization of infectivity by anti-VSIV G antibodies and inhibition of entry by ammonium chloride showed that RSΔSH,G,F/Gvsv infectivity was mediated by Gvsv and that an acidification step was required for entry into the host cell, similar to VSIV virions. All three engineered viruses displayed growth kinetics and virus yields similar to a wild-type A2 virus, both in Vero and HEp-2 cells. Abundant virus-induced filaments were observed at the surface of cells infected with each of the three engineered viruses or with virus A2, indicating that neither the SH and G proteins nor the F protein ecto- and transmembrane domains were required for the formation of these structures. This is the first report of the recovery of an infectious HRSV lacking a fusion protein of the Paramyxoviridae family and of manipulation of the HRSV entry pathway via incorporation of a nonparamyxoviral transmembrane glycoprotein.
The Current Status of Planning for Pandemic Influenza and Implications for Health Care Planning in the United States

The United States needs to be better prepared for a large-scale medical catastrophe, be it a natural disaster, a bioterrorism act, or a pandemic. There are substantial planning efforts now devoted to responding to an influenza pandemic. Here, we review these efforts and identify some harsh realities: (1) the US health care system is private, competitive, broke, and at capacity, so that any demand for surge cannot be met with existing economic resources, hospital beds, manpower, or supplies; (2) the emphasis placed on the development and rapid production of an effective vaccine is excellent, but the effort is underfunded to meet global demand; (3) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's community mitigation measures, such as the use nonpharmacological and social interventions (e.g., use of face masks or respirators, social distancing, and closure of schools), lack validation and could have substantial indirect and unintended consequences. Finally, international collaborations are essential for disease surveillance and to assure investigator access to influenza strains, equitable vaccine distribution, and availability of critical supplies from offshore sources.
Exceeding the dataflow limit via value prediction

For decades, the serialization constraints induced by true data dependences have been regarded as an absolute limit--the dataflow limit--on the parallel execution of serial programs. This paper proposes a new technique--value prediction--for exceeding that limit that allows data dependent instructions to issue and execute in parallel without violating program semantics. This technique is built on the concept of value locality, which describes the likelihood of the recurrence of a previously-seen value within a storage location inside a computer system. Value prediction consists of predicting entire 32- and 64-bit register values based on previously-seen values. We find that such register values being written by machine instructions are frequently predictable. Furthermore, we show that simple micro- architectural enhancements to a modern microprocessor implementation based on the PowerPC 620 that enable value prediction can effectively exploit value locality to collapse true dependences, reduce average result latency, and provide performance gains of 4.5%-23% (depending on machine model) by exceeding the dataflow limit.
Intrapartum avulsion of the round ligament

Abstract Postpartum shock that occurs without profuse external blood loss in a patient who has a history of cortisone medication will unfortunately be treated as adrenal failure first when hemorrhage is still the most likely cause. Our case presentation of intrapartum avulsion of the round ligament causing massive intraperitoneal bleeding demonstrates this point and re-emphasizes the importance of intravenous hydrocortisone as a valuable aid in the initial treatment of hemorrhagic shock even though its use can confuse the clinical picture.
Intracranial Angioplasty and Stenting

The application of endovascular technology to the treatment of severe intracranial atherosclerotic occlusive disease derives from the recognition of the grave prognosis for such patients once they become symptomatic and from the lack of an established mode of effective treatment. It is thought, based on various sources, that intracranial atherosclerotic stenotic lesions carry a risk of stroke of 7% to 56% per year and a strong correlation with high risk of death from ischemic heart disease, but the studies supporting these assumptions are mostly small and retrospective or nonrandomized in methodology.1–5 The efficacy of medical treatment of such lesions with antiplatelet therapy and/or warfarin is not yet firmly established, and external carotid artery to internal carotid artery surgical bypass does not seem to be effective for most patients.6 A small, retrospective study of warfarin versus aspirin in the treatment of intracranial stenosis indicates a slightly greater efficacy from warfarin in symptomatic patients. Rates of major vascular events of 8.4% (stroke 3.6%) with warfarin and 18.1% (stroke 10.4%) per year with aspirin were seen.? Evidence supporting a slightly greater efficacy for warfarin compared with antiplatelet medication was also seen in an observational study of symptomatic intracranial atherosclerotic disease, in which a 31% and 55.8% risk of ischemic events was seen in patients taking warfarin or antiplatelet agents, respectively.5 Follow-up studies indicate that intra-cranial atherosclerotic disease once detected is also likely to have a progressive course.5’8 In summary, the prospective management of a patient with severe intracranial atherosclerotic disease, particularly once it becomes symptomatic, is still a dilemma.
Book Note: The Other Side of the Coin: Implications for Policy Formation in the Law of Judicial Interpretation: A Review of 'A Matter of Interpretation', by Antonin Scalia

Justice Scalia defends textualism as the only form of interpretation that should govern judicial interpretation of statutes and the Constitution. The book begins with an essay by Justice Scalia establishing the framework of his interpretive model and arguing that his model is mandated to achieve institutional legitimacy in a constitutional system of separated powers and for the protection of democracy. Comments to this essay follow from four distinguished scholars. Each comment is addressed in the final pages by a response from Justice Scalia. This Article presents an overview of Justice Scalia's argument, the arguments embodied in the comments, and discusses Justice Scalia's responses to these arguments. It then sets forth the insights contained in the book on the impact of an accepted method of statutory interpretation on the incentives of legislators in drafting and formulating statutory law. This Article then analyzes those insights and argues that widespread adoption of Justice Scalia's method of statutory interpretation would alter legislative behavior in an advantageous way. Its unique contribution involves a law and economics analysis of the incentives to pad the legislative history with individual interpretations of a law would be severely diminished and why legislatures should find it necessary to use clearer language in statutes. The increase in clarity and decrease in attempts to shape legislation in a specific way would decrease the effectiveness of rent-seeking behavior that is most often injurious to the public interest.