cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Identification of F-actin as the Dynamic Hub in a Microbial-Induced GTPase Polarity Circuit

Polarity in mammalian cells emerges from the assembly of signaling molecules into extensive biochemical interaction networks. Despite their complexity, bacterial pathogens have evolved parsimonious mechanisms to hijack these systems. Here, we develop a tractable experimental and theoretical model to uncover fundamental operating principles, in both mammalian cell polarity and bacterial pathogenesis. Using synthetic derivatives of the enteropathogenic Escherichia coli guanine-nucleotide exchange factor (GEF) Map, we discover that Cdc42 GTPase signal transduction is controlled by the interaction between Map and F-actin. Mathematical modeling reveals how actin dynamics coupled to a Map-dependent positive feedback loop spontaneously polarizes Cdc42 on the plasma membrane. By rewiring the pathogenic signaling circuit to operate through β-integrin stimulation, we further show how Cdc42 is polarized in response to an extracellular spatial cue. Thus, a molecular pathway of polarity is proposed, centered on the interaction between GEFs and F-actin, which is likely to function in diverse biological systems.
An authentication and validation mechanism for analyzing syslogs forensically

This research proposes a novel technique for authenticating and validating syslogs for forensic analysis. This technique uses a modification of the Needham Schroeder protocol, which uses nonces (numbers used only once) and public keys. Syslogs, which were developed from an event-logging perspective and not from an evidence-sustaining one, are system treasure maps that chart out and pinpoint attacks and attack attempts. Over the past few years, research on securing syslogs has yielded enhanced syslog protocols that focus on tamper prevention and detection. However, many of these protocols, though efficient from a security perspective, are inadequate when forensics comes into play. From a legal perspective, any kind of evidence found at a crime scene needs to be validated. In addition, any digital forensic evidence when presented in court needs to be admissible, authentic, believable, and reliable [4]. Currently, a patchy log on the server side and client side cannot be considered as formal authentication of a wrong doer [5]. This paper presents a method that ties together, authenticates, and validates all the entities involved in the crime scene---the user using the application, the system that is being used, and the application being used on the system by a user. This means that instead of merely transmitting the header and the message, which is the standard syslog protocol format, the syslog entry along with the user fingerprint, application fingerprint, and system fingerprint are transmitted to the logging server. The assignment of digital fingerprints and the addition of a challenge response mechanism to the underlying syslogging mechanism aim to validate generated syslogs forensically.
Motivational interviewing and colorectal cancer screening: a peek from the inside out.

Abstract Objective This article focuses on design, training, and delivery of motivational interview (MI) in a longitudinal randomized controlled trial intended to assess the efficacy of two separate interventions designed to increase colorectal screening when compared to a usual care, control group. One intervention was a single-session, telephone-based MI, created to increase colorectal cancer screening within primary care populations. The other was tailored health counseling. We present the rationale, design, and process discussions of the one-time motivational interviewing telephone intervention. We discuss in this paper the training and supervision of study interventionists, in order to enhance practice and research knowledge concerned with fidelity issues in motivational interview interventions. Methods To improve motivational interviewing proficiency and effectiveness, we developed a prescribed training program adapting MI to a telephone counseling session. Results The three interventionists trained in MI demonstrate some MI proficiency assessed by the motivational interviewing treatment integrity scale. In the post-intervention interview, 20.5% of the MI participants reported having had a CRC screening test, and another 19.75% (n = 16) had scheduled a screening test. Almost half of the participants (43%) indicated that the phone conversation helped them to overcome the reasons why they had not had a screening test. Conclusions Ongoing supervision and training (post-MI workshop) are crucial to supporting MI fidelity. The trajectory of learning MI demonstrated by the interventionists is consistent with the eight stages of learning MI. The MI road map created for the interventionists has shown to be more of a distraction than a facilitator in the delivery of the telephone intervention. MI can, however, be considered a useful tool for health education and warrants further study. Practice implications MI training should include consistent training and process evaluation. MI can, however, be considered a useful tool for health education and warrants further study. MI can also be adapted to diverse health promotion scenarios.
Effects of physiological manipulations on locus coeruleus neuronal activity in freely moving cats. I. Thermoregulatory challenge

Insulin-induced hypoglycemia and the subsequent administration of glucose were examined for their effects on single unit activity of locus coeruleus noradrenergic (LC-NE) neurons in unanesthetized, unrestrained cats. LC-NE neuronal activity showed an inverse relationship to blood glucose levels. The activity of most cells increased during sustained hypoglycemia, and then decreased following glucose administration. Some neurons were unaffected by hypoglycemia, but were inhibited following glucose. The activation of LC-NE neurons in response to insulin administration generally paralleled the increase in plasma epinephrine, although the adrenal response was more sensitive. These data, together with those reported in the preceding papers, suggest the following general conclusions: (1) physiological stimuli can influence the activity of LC-NE neurons in unanesthetized subjects (although they do so less strongly than environmental stimuli); (2) these effects of physiological stimuli upon LC-NE neurons can be exerted independent of changes in behavioral state; (3) LC-NE neurons do not appear to play a specific role in the regulation of any of the systems examined, but may instead play a more global role in the response to physiological challenges in general; (4) LC-NE neurons are generally co-activated with both the neural and hormonal components of the sympatho-adrenal system, although sympathetic activation can occur in the absence of increased LC-NE activity. A previously hypothesized role for LC-NE neurons in facilitating the behavioral response to environmental stressors may thus be extended to include the response to physiological challenges, and perhaps facilitation of the physiological as well as the behavioral components of the stress response.
To e or not to e in poisson image reconstruction

In photon-limited image reconstruction, observations can be modeled as y ∼ Poisson(f), where f := eg is the intensity of interest and g is the log-intensity. Previous work in this area has considered applying regularizers such as the total variation semi-norm to either f or to g := log f. The former is less stable at very low intensity levels and makes selecting tuning parameters challenging. The latter is more amenable to tuning via cross-validation, particularly at low intensity levels, but exhibits numerical instabilities and slow convergence at high intensity levels. This paper describes a novel hybrid approach in which the regularization mode is locally adapted to the signal intensity level. The resulting method yields strong empirical performance relative to previous approaches.
Evolutionary Scenarios, Homology and Convergence of Structural Specializations for Vertebrate Viviparity

SYNOPSIS. Viviparity has evolved many times in many lineages of vertebrates. Many evolutionary scenarios for the evolution of viviparity, or structures associated with it, have been proposed. Many of these are testable using methodologies developed recently. Some structures that facilitate viviparity (e.g., corpora lutea and oviducts) are homologous, for they are inherited from an ancestor in a lineage. More such structures (e.g., placentas and placental analogues) are convergences, for they appear in diverse lineages but are not traceable to a common ancestor. Conservatism and constraint characterize many, but not all, such convergences. A phylogenetic hypothesis facilitates identification of homologies and convergences, and the testing of evolutionary scenarios.
NAD(P)H utilization in the reduction of pyruvate to lactate in a glycogen-containing subline of Ehrlich ascites tumour cells

The possible pathways of utilization of glucose-6-phosphate (G-6-P) produced from glycogen breakdown have been investigated in a glycogen-containing subline of Ehrlich ascites tumour cells. Addition of either mitochondrial inhibitors or pyruvate to ascites cells metabolizing endogenous substrates enhances the rate of lactate production. However, only in the former condition such effect is abolished by iodoacetate (IAA). In pyruvate-supplemented cells mitochondrial inhibitors cause a further increase in lactate production which becomes insensitive to IAA when the cells are depleted of endogenous substrates. Measurements of the glycogen content show that either in the presence of mitochondrial inhibitors or pyruvate there is a stimulation of glycogenolysis. Significant changes (about 10–20 fold increase) of the G-6-P level are observed only in the presence of both mitochondrial inhibitors and IAA, irrespective of pyruvate addition. However, with pyruvate the accumulation of G-6-P becomes lower if the cells are starved. The results obtained indicate that in our conditions G-6-P which is produced during glycogenolysis may be oxidized either through the Embden-Meyerhof pathway or the phosphogluconate pathway. Indeed, whereas mitochondrial inhibitors promote the utilization of this metabolite through the first route by enhancing the activity of phosphofructokinase, added pyruvate favours the other route by lowering the cytosolic NADPH/NADP+ ratio.
Preparation and properties of highly purified alkaline kidney phosphatase

Abstract A relatively simple method was developed for the preparation of purified alkaline phosphatase from swine kidneys. The most active preparation had a specific activity of 11,600 and hydrolyzed a variety of monophosphoric acid esters, showing no substrate specificity. A product with a specific activity of 9400 was found to be 87% homogeneous by electrophoretic analysis. Inactivation and reactivation studies failed to support claims that there exists an easily removable, dialyzable cophosphatase. The Michaelis constant for swine kidney alkaline phosphatase with phenyl phosphate as substrate and in the presence of magnesium ions was determined as 3.8 ± 0.2 × 10 −3 at pH 10.1 and 37 °.
Natural Language Processing in the Electronic Medical Record: Assessing Clinician Adherence to Tobacco Treatment Guidelines

Background Comprehensively assessing care quality with electronic medical records (EMRs) is not currently possible because much data reside in clinicians’ free-text notes. Methods We evaluated the accuracy of MediClass, an automated, rule-based classifier of the EMR that incorporates natural language processing, in assessing whether clinicians: (1) asked if the patient smoked; (2) advised them to stop; (3) assessed their readiness to quit; (4) assisted them in quitting by providing information or medications; and (5) arranged for appropriate follow-up care (i.e., the 5A’s of smoking-cessation care). Design We analyzed 125 medical records of known smokers at each of four HMOs in 2003 and 2004. One trained abstractor at each HMO manually coded all 500 records according to whether or not each of the 5A’s of smoking cessation care was addressed during routine outpatient visits. Measurements For each patient’s record, we compared the presence or absence of each of the 5A’s as assessed by each human coder and by MediClass. We measured the chance-corrected agreement between the human raters and MediClass using the kappa statistic. Results For “ask” and “assist,” agreement among human coders was indistinguishable from agreement between humans and MediClass (p>0.05). For “assess” and “advise,” the human coders agreed more with each other than they did with MediClass (p Conclusions MediClass performance appears adequate to replace human coders of the 5A’s of smoking-cessation care, allowing for automated assessment of clinician adherence to one of the most important, evidence-based guidelines in preventive health care.
Planetary science: A chunk of ancient Mars

Analysis of a meteorite found in northwest Africa, prosaically named NWA 7533, indicates that it is the first sample of the regolith, or 'soil', of Mars, and is derived from the earliest Martian igneous crust yet identified. See Letter p.513 This paper identifies the NWA 7533 meteorite from Northwest Africa as the first sample of Martian highlands rock in the meteorite collection. Munir Humayun and co-authors show that NWA 7533 has a composition indicative of a highlands breccia. It also contains zircons more than 4.4 billion years old, implying that early crustal differentiation on Mars occurred in the first 100 million years of its history, coeval with earliest crust formation on the Moon and the Earth.
Methylmercury alters Eph and ephrin expression during neuronal differentiation of P19 embryonal carcinoma cells.

Abstract Developmental exposure to methylmercury (MeHg) induces a spectrum of neurological impairment characterized by cognitive disturbance, sensory/motor deficit, and diffuse structural abnormalities of the brain. These alterations may arise from neural path-finding errors during brain development, resulting from disturbances in the function of morphoregulatory guidance molecules. The Eph family of tyrosine kinase receptors and their ligands, the ephrins, guide neuronal migration and neurite pathfinding mainly via repulsive intercellular interactions. The present study examined the effects of MeHg on mRNA and protein expression profiles of Ephs and ephrins in the P19 embryonal carcinoma (EC) cell line and its neuronal derivatives. Undifferentiated control P19 cells displayed low- to undetectable levels of mRNA for ephrins or Ephs, with the sole exception of EphA2 which was highly expressed. Upon differentiation into neurons, the ephrin expression increased progressively through day 10. Similarly, expression of the Ephs, including EphsA3, -A4, -A8, -B2, -B3, -B4, and -B6, increased significantly. In contrast, EphA2 expression decreased in day 2, 6 and 10 control neurons. Treatment with MeHg did not affect the expression of mRNA for ephrins or Ephs in undifferentiated P19 cells. However, treatment of differentiating neurons with MeHg for 24 h caused consistent increases in ligand mRNA expression, particularly ephrin-A5, -A6, -B1, and -B2. Similarly, MeHg induced variable increases in mRNA expression of receptors EphA2, -A3, -B3, and -B6. A trend toward a concentration–response relationship was observed for the alterations in Eph receptor mRNA expression although increases at the low and mid concentrations did not reach statistical significance. Immunoblots for ligand and receptor proteins mirrored the increases in the mRNA levels at the 0.5 and 1.5 μM MeHg concentrations but showed decreased protein levels compared to controls at the 3.0 μM concentration. Alterations in the Eph/ephrin family of repulsion molecules may represent an important mechanism in developmental MeHg neurotoxicity.
Computer Program for Filter Media Design Optimization

Abstract This paper presents a computational approach for designing, mixed fiber filter media for depth filtration. The goal is to find an optimum solution, given the range, for a set of design parameters: thickness of the media, diameter of microfiber, and diameter of nanofiber, surface area ratio of nanofiber to microfiber and mass of microfiber. The objective of this work is to develop a software program that can be used as an aid to accelerate filter design and reduce the number of laboratory experiments. This program applies a Genetic Algorithm to search for an optimum filter media design based on quality factor which quantifies the filter performance. A user friendly computer program is developed that provides inputs, outputs and controls to design a filter media. The program provides a starting point for constructing filter media for testing and design for particular applications.
Yes, Virginia, Chemo Brain is Real.

Introduction Twenty years ago, while interviewing a newly assigned patient on our hospital’s oncology unit, she apologized to me for “being stupid.” Startled at this self-deprecating response to a medical history question I had just asked, I put down my pen and met her eyes. “What makes you think you’re stupid?” Embarrassed, she blushed with her answer. “Ever since getting chemo, I feel like I’m forgetting everything. I never used to be like that. Now I can’t remember names of people or things. At work I can’t find the right words or write the drafts I’ve been doing for years . or spell or type. I’m sure I (appear) as though I’m not educated.” This was my first introduction to “chemo brain,” also described as “brain fog.” What we know currently is that this phenomenon is a toxicity of the nervous system causing cognitive impairment in verbal ability, visuospatial ability, problem solving, and affecting concentration and memory. Until around 1995, medical practitioners referred a patients’ concern with these symptoms to the commonly known chemotherapy side effects such as anemia, fatigue, depression, and hormonal changes. Primarily it was breast cancer patients who voiced concerns: studies during early acknowledgment of this phenomenon were noted only as a supplement to pharmaceutical clinical study and not specifically addressed. However, research now indicates that men with prostate cancer and subsequent treatment with hormonal therapy, such as leuprolide and goserelin, can be at risk for cognitive side effects, particularly memory maintenance. Tamoxifen, an oral drug long used to inhibit estrogen in hormone receptorpositive breast cancer, might cause neurological function changes such as concentration and planning ability. Besides chemotherapy and radiation, immunotherapy (interleukin-1 and interleukin-6) can generate increased inflammation and fatigue, both thought to contribute to cognitive dysfunction.
Quality of life of low-vision patients and the impact of low-vision services

Abstract PURPOSE: To investigate the functional status and quality of life of patients at a low-vision clinic and to evaluate the impact of low-vision services. METHODS: Interviews, including the Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short Form (SF-36), the Visual Function-14 (VF-14), and the 51-item Field Test Version of the National Eye Institute Visual Functioning Questionnaire (NEI-VFQ), were administered to 156 consecutive patients 1 week before and 3 months after their low-vision clinic visit. RESULTS: Low-vision patients scored lower ( P P P CONCLUSIONS: The SF-36, VF-14, and NEI-VFQ demonstrate that low-vision clinic patients perceive marked impairment of functional status and quality of life. Low-vision services are associated with high patient satisfaction. Vision-targeted questionnaires are more sensitive than general health-related quality of life questionnaires to changes in functional status and quality of life after low-vision services, and they may help elucidate the outcomes of low-vision services.
Molecular Mechanisms of Action and Therapeutic Uses of Pharmacological Inhibitors of HIF–Prolyl 4-Hydroxylases for Treatment of Ischemic Diseases

Abstract Significance: In this review, we have discussed the efficacy and effect of small molecules that act as prolyl hydroxylase domain inhibitors (PHDIs). The use of these compounds causes upregulation of the pro-angiogenic factors and hypoxia inducible factor-1α and -2α (HIF-1α and HIF-2α) to enhance angiogenic, glycolytic, erythropoietic, and anti-apoptotic pathways in the treatment of various ischemic diseases responsible for significant morbidity and mortality in humans. Recent Advances: Sprouting of new blood vessels from the existing vasculature and surgical intervention, such as coronary bypass and stent insertion, have been shown to be effective in attenuating ischemia. However, the initial reentry of oxygen leads to the formation of reactive oxygen species that cause oxidative stress and result in ischemia/reperfusion (IR) injury. This apparent “oxygen paradox” must be resolved to combat IR injury. During hypoxia, decreased activity of PHDs initiates the accumulation and activation of HIF-1α, ...
Synthesis of Mg2X (X = Si, Ge, or Sn) intermetallics by mechanical alloying

Abstract Mg 2 X (X = Si, Ge, or Sn) intermetallic phases have been synthesized by mechanical alloying of blended elemental powders for the first time. The phases produced have a cubic structure with the lattice parameters almost the same as those reported in the literature. In the Mg-Sn system, a metastable orthorhombic Mg 2 Sn phase was also observed in the as-milled condition.
Determination of two Fenamates in Plasma by High-performance Liquid Chromatography

A high-performance liquid chromatographic determination of two fenamates in human plasma is described. Plasma samples, 1.0 ml, to which 4 μg of internal standard had been added, were extracted with carbon tetrachloride under acidic conditions. Portions of the organic layer were transferred and evaporated to dryness under nitrogen. Residues were dissolved in methanol, and an aliquot was injected into the liquid chromatograph. An intermediate polarity, bonded cyanopropylsilane column was used with a mobile phase of water-acetonitrile-acetic acid (60:30:10 v/v/v). The flow rate was 1 ml/min, and the effluent was monitored at 254 nm. Flufenamic acid and mefenamic acid had retention times of 10.4 and 9.2 min, respectively. In the 1-10-μg range, the mean flufenamic acid recovery from control plasma was 100.7 ± 3.4% (n = 18). A typical calibration curve had a regression equation of y = 0.132x − 0.04 with γ2 = 0.99. Preliminary stability tests showed that flufenamic acid is stable for at least 2 weeks in plasma after freezing.
Assessment of Problem-Solving: A Key to Successful Diabetes Self-Management

Problem-solving skill is important for chronic illness self-management. This project prospectively evaluated a measure of diabetes problem-solving skill for its reliability, convergent validity, sensitivity to intervention, and relationship to change in behavior. Postmenopausal women with type 2 diabetes (N = 279) participated in a RCT to evaluate a lifestyle modification program. The 9-item Diabetes Problem-Solving Inventory (DPSI) was used to assess how patients cope with challenges to diabetes self-care. The DPSI was found to have good inter-rater reliability and internal consistency for a brief scale, be moderately stable over time, and relate significantly to hypothesized variables. DPSI scores improved significantly more in the lifestyle change condition than in controls and were related to improved outcomes. Mediation analyses indicated that the increase in problem-solving was a partial mediator of outcomes. Results support the reliability, predictive ability, and sensitivity to change of the DPSI. Directions for future research on problem-solving and chronic illness are discussed.
Comparative effects of dietary regimens on the levels of enzymes regulating the synthesis of fatty acids and cholesterol in rat liver.

Abstract The activities, in subcellular fractions of rat liver, for acetyl-CoA carboxylation, fatty acid synthesis, and β-hydroxy-β-methylglutaryl-CoA reduction and for the overall conversion of acetate to cholesterol were determined for animals in different nutritional states. Acetyl-CoA carboxylase and fatty acid synthetase activities increased or decreased together whenever the nutritional state was changed. A similar relationship was observed between β-hydroxy-β-methylglutaryl-CoA reductase activity and the synthesis of cholesterol from acetate. Feeding a fat-free diet after either a normal or fasted regimen increased the activity of acetyl-CoA carboxylase and fatty acid synthetase but suppressed the activities for β-hydroxy-β-methylglutaryl CoA reduction and cholesterol synthesis. Thus, the quantity of fat in the diet apparently regulates the levels of activity of the key enzymes of two divergent pathways in an opposite manner. The levels of these enzymes in turn control the proportion of acetyl-CoA used by each pathway. When a diet containing 2% cholesterol is fed, the levels of β-hydroxy-β-methylglutaryl-CoA reductase activity and cholesterol synthesis in liver are markedly depressed. In contrast, the levels of acetyl-CoA carboxylase and fatty acid synthetase activities are unaffected. These results suggest that cholesterol and fat exert their effects on the cholesterol-synthesizing and fatty acid-synthesizing pathways by different mechanisms.
Solid-state 27Al NMR investigation of thermal decomposition of LiAlH4

Abstract Solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance is used to study the thermal decomposition of lithium tetrahydroaluminate into metallic aluminum, hydrogen and trilithium hexahydroaluminate. Aluminum sites in LiAlH 4 and Li 3 AlH 6 were characterized using static, magic angle spinning (MAS) and multiple-quantum MAS NMR. By applying the in situ NMR method, it has been demonstrated that melting is not a prerequisite for the decomposition of LiAlH 4 . Based on the observed data, a decomposition path has been established that is consistent with the concentrations of observed Al species at various stages of the thermally induced reaction.
Chemical Stabilization of Hanford Tank Residual Waste

Three different chemical treatment methods were tested for their ability to stabilize residual waste from Hanford tank C-202 for reducing contaminant release (Tc, Cr, and U in particular). The three treatment methods tested were lime addition [Ca(OH)2], an in situ Ceramicrete waste form based on chemically bonded phosphate ceramics, and a ferrous iron/goethite treatment. These approaches rely on formation of insoluble forms of the contaminants of concern (lime addition and Ceramicrete) and chemical reduction followed by co-precipitation (ferrous iron/goethite incorporation treatment). The results have demonstrated that release of uranium from tank residual wastes can be dramatically reduced after treatment compared to contact with simulated grout porewater without treatment. All three treatments methods reduced the leachable uranium concentrations by well over three orders of magnitude. In the case of uranium and technetium, released concentrations were well below their respective Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) for the wastes tested. For tank C-202 residual waste, chromium release concentrations were above the MCL but were considerably reduced relative to untreated tank waste. This innovative approach has the potential to revolutionize Hanford’s tank retrieval process, by allowing larger volumes of residual waste to be left in tanks while providing an acceptably low level of risk with respect to contaminant release that is protective of the environment and human health. Such an approach could enable DOE to realize significant cost savings through streamlined retrieval and closure operations.
US-EC agricultural policies and GATT negotiations.

The fundamental contradictions between the United States and the European Community in the Uruguay Round of Multilateral Trade Negotiations lie in the foundations of their respective agricultural policies. Their proposals call for a reduction of agricultural price supports, tariffication of nontariff barriers, elimination of export subsidies, and rebalancing of agricultural protection. They address four key issues in agricultural trade: internal farm income support, import access, export competition, and recognized standards for plant and animal health. Policy changes already taken to reduce budgetary expenditures in both trading blocs may provide an opportunity to compromise on the final GATT agreement.
Evaluation of the 21-day outpatient heroin detoxification.

There is a paucity of studies in the literature documenting failure rates of outpatient detoxification from heroin. This study reports on the results of the 21-day ambulatory treatment program at the Miami Veterans Administration Hospital. Heroin users with less than a 2-year history of opiate use must complete the detoxification process within 21 days according to federal regulations. The results of this study indicate 100% “unsuccessful drug rehabilitation” utilizing the 21-day outpatient detoxification treatment modality, a finding similar to studies conducted to evaluate results of inpatient methadone treatment programs.
Breaking down the communication barrier.

Dr. Hawkins addresses the problem of how QA managers can best persuade physicians of the importance of QA programs. Since communication is the basis of educating clinicians, the author analyzes the diametrically opposite perspectives of QA managers and physicians even as they pursue the common goal of quality healthcare. While doctors are primarily loyal to patients and peers with an immediate care focus, process-oriented QA managers emphasize the institution and its longer-term goals. To overcome physician resistance to change, Dr. Hawkins offers an adult learner model that stresses understanding the medical staff's viewpoint, negotiation and respect. Physicians are enthusiastic about QA when it helps solve “the endemic daily system problems.” The author concludes by recommending that QA managers join physicians on their clinical rounds to bridge the gap between their different approaches.
Cognitive radar: A way forward

The desire to autonomously anticipate, find, fix, track, target, engage, and assess, anything, anytime, anywhere (AF2T2EA4) in spectrally dense environments will require changes to how we build, modify, and deploy radar and radio frequency systems. These spectrally dense environments coupled with the twenty-first century threat are already causing havoc throughout the world.
The fallacy of fallacies

Several of the so-called “fallacies” in Aristotle are not in fact mistaken inference-types, but mistakes or breaches of rules in the questioning games which were practiced in the Academy and in the Lyceum. Hence the entire Aristotelian theory of “fallacies” ought to be studied by reference to the author's interrogative model of inquiry, based on his theory of questions and answers, rather than as a part of the theory of inference. Most of the “fallacies” mentioned by Aristotle can in fact be diagnosed by means of the interrogative model, including petitio principii, multiple questions, “babbling’, etc., and so can Aristotle's alleged anticipation of the fallacy of argumentum ad hominem. The entire Aristotelian conception of inquiry is an interrogative one. Deductive conclusions caught Aristotle's attention in the form of answers that every rational interlocutor must give, assuming only his own earlier answers. Several features of Aristotle's methodology can be understood by means of the interrogative model, including the role of endoxa in it. Theoretically, there is also considerable leeway as to whether “fallacies” are conceived of as mistakes in questioning or as breaches of the rules that govern questioning games.
Coiled crystals of gallium arsenide

Abstract In a variation of the open tube chloride method for the deposition of GaAs, coiled crystals of gallium arsenide were obtained in the furnace exhaust region. The formation of coiled crystals is favored by a high flow rate of AsCl 3 , with consequent transport of excess gallium downstream. The coils grow by the VLS mechanism, a common growth mechanism for II–VI, III–V and IV-IV compounds.
Managers' and Investors' Responses to Media Exposure of Board Ineffectiveness

We analyze the impact of the press on the behavior of various economic agents by examining how media exposure of board ineffectiveness affects corporate governance, investor trading behavior, and security prices. The results suggest that media releases of (noisy) information have significant economic consequences. In particular, media exposure of board ineffectiveness forces the targeted agents to take corrective actions and enhances shareholder wealth. Individual investors appear to react negatively to the media exposure whereas investment firms act as if they anticipate the targeted firms' corrective actions.
The Bovine Papillomavirus E6 Protein Binds to the LD Motif Repeats of Paxillin and Blocks Its Interaction with Vinculin and the Focal Adhesion Kinase

The bovine papillomavirus type 1 (BPV-1) E6 oncoprotein can transform fibroblasts and induce anchorage-independent growth and disassembly of the actin stress fibers. We have previously shown that the E6 protein interacts with the focal adhesion protein, paxillin, suggesting a direct role of E6 in the disruption of the actin cytoskeleton. We have now mapped the E6 binding sites on paxillin to the LD motif repeats region, which has been implicated in mediating paxillin binding to two other focal adhesion proteins, vinculin and the focal adhesion kinase. The five LD motif repeats identified in paxillin do not contribute equally to its interaction with E6. The first LD repeat is most critical for paxillin binding to E6 both in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, the binding of recombinant wild-type E6 protein to paxillin blocked the interaction of several cellular proteins with paxillin, including vinculin and the focal adhesion kinase. A mutant E6 protein (H105) which does not bind to paxillin had no effect on the binding of these cellular proteins to paxillin. These data suggest that E6 disruption of the actin stress fibers occurs through blocking the interaction of paxillin with its cellular effectors such as vinculin and the focal adhesion kinase.
A sharper image? Estimates of the precision of nighttime lights as a proxy for economic statistics

Much aggregate social-science analysis relies upon the standard national income and product accounts as a source of economic data. These are recognized to be defective in many poor countries, and are missing at the regional level for large parts of the world. Using updated luminosity (or nighttime lights) data, the present study examines whether such data contain useful information for estimating national and regional incomes and output. The bootstrap method is used for estimating the statistical precision of the estimates of the contribution of the lights proxy. We conclude that there may be substantial cross-sectional information in lights data for countries with low-quality statistical systems. However, lights data provide very little additional information for countries with high-quality data wherever standard data are available. The largest statistical concerns arise from uncertainties about the precision of standard national accounts data.
Financing Peacekeeping: Politics and Crisis

The differences which have been building up within the United Nations in recent years over the financing of peacekeeping have reached a point where strenuous measures are needed to rescue the Organization from its divisions and paralysis.
Purification of the 230-kD bullous pemphigoid antigen (BP230) from bovine tongue mucosa: structural analyses and assessment of BP230 tissue distribution using a new monoclonal antibody

In the epidermis the autoantigen BP230 is a component of the hemidesmosomal plaque. We have developed a procedure for the isolation of BP230 from bovine tongue mucosa using chromatographic means. The identity of the isolated protein was confirmed by its recognition by bullous pemphigoid autoantibodies. A monoclonal antibody (MoAb230), generated against the purified protein, localizes to the region of the plaque of the hemidesmosome with which keratin bundles interact. Furthermore, the tissue distribution of BP230, assessed using MoAb230, suggests that BP230 or an immunologically related protein is a component of all hemidesmosomes. Ultrastructural analyses of the BP230 preparation reveal that the BP230 molecules assemble into macro-molecular aggregates. The few images of individual intact molecules that we have observed in platinum replicas of rotary shadowed BP230 preparations suggest that BP230 is an elongate rod-shaped molecule. This is consistent with predictions based on the primary sequence of BP230 deduced from BP230 cDNAs reported by others. We discuss our results in relation to the potential function of BP230. Isolation of BP230 should now allow more rigorous biochemical analyses of potential protein-protein interactions of BP230 in the hemidesmosome.
Performance Comparison of Mesoscale Refrigeration Technologies for Electronics Packaging

Utilizing refrigeration is one alternative to improve the operating performance of microelectronic devices. Unless large-scale refrigeration systems are acceptable, it is likely that miniature, or mesoscale, refrigerators will be required that can be directly incorporated into electronic packaging. The present study builds on the authors’ previous investigation of mesoscale refrigerators, which emphasized how only thermoelectric coolers (TEC’s) are capable of being miniaturized in the near future. Many other refrigeration systems, however, are being examined for their potential to be miniaturized, including the vapor-compression, Stirling, and pulse-tube cycles. Here a simple analysis is presented that shows the feasibility of utilizing these systems in electronics packaging. One finding is that, provided a suitable mesoscale compressor can be constructed, a vapor-compression refrigerator may yield the best performance of the investigated systems.© 2003 ASME
Improved high-throughput sunflower and cotton genomic DNA extraction and PCR fidelity

The extraction of high-quality genomic DNA for PCR amplification from sunflower (Helianthus annuus) and cotton (Gossypium spp.) is challenging because of the presence of polysaccharides, secondary metabolites, and polyphenolics in the tissues. A high-throughput DNA extraction protocol was needed in our laboratory for simple sequence repeats (SSR)-marker screening and other molecular analyses that do not require organic extraction steps of phenol or chloroform. Here we describe 2 improved highthroughput protocols for DNA extraction and in-PCR modification that result in successful PCR amplification of sunflower and cotton. While the sunflower DNA extraction protocol uses reducing agents such as sodium metabisulfite and dithiothreitol (DTT), the cotton protocol uses polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) in PCR reactions and reducing agents in the DNA extraction procedure.
Adverse Drug Event Detection in Pediatric Oncology and Hematology Patients: Using Medication Triggers to Identify Patient Harm in a Specialized Pediatric Patient Population

Objective To investigate the use of a trigger tool for the detection of adverse drug events (ADE) in a pediatric hospital specializing in oncology, hematology, and other catastrophic diseases. Study design A medication-based trigger tool package analyzed electronic health records from February 2009 to February 2013. Chart review determined whether an ADE precipitated the trigger. Severity was assigned to ADEs, and preventability was assessed. Preventable ADEs were compared with the hospital's electronic voluntary event reporting system to identify whether these ADEs had been previously identified. The positive predictive values (PPVs) of the entire trigger tool and individual triggers were calculated to assess their accuracy to detect ADEs. Results Trigger occurrences (n = 706) were detected in 390 patients from 6 medication triggers, 33 of which were ADEs (overall PPV = 16%). Hyaluronidase had the greatest PPV (60%). Most ADEs were category E harm (temporary harm) per the National Coordinating Council for Medication Error Reporting and Prevention index. One event was category H harm (intervention to sustain life). Naloxone was associated with the most grade 4 ADEs per the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events v4.03. Twenty-one (64%) ADEs were preventable, 3 of which were submitted via the voluntary reporting system. Conclusion Most of the medication-based triggers yielded low PPVs. Refining the triggers based on patients' characteristics and medication usage patterns could increase the PPVs and make them more useful for quality improvement. To efficiently detect ADEs, triggers must be revised to reflect specialized pediatric patient populations such as hematology and oncology patients.
A social network analysis of South Central Kansas Workforce Innovations in Regional Economic Development

Purpose – The purpose of this study is to evaluate the composition and strengths/weaknesses and major actors of a coalition of regional economic leaders in the composites participating in the Workforce Innovations in Regional Economic Development (WIRED) project aimed at supporting high-skilled and high-wage careers. Design/methodology/approach – Social network analysis (SNA) was used to assess south-central (SC) Kansas WIRED coalition (n = 81) based on three surveys question: Who do you know? Who do you communicate with? and Who do you collaborate with? All the surveys were administered online in two waves. Findings – SC Kansas WIRED network has a strong core, well-defined periphery and is immune to key actor losses, which suggests that they are well developed and sustainable. The well-defined periphery positions the collaborative to reach out to resources outside of the network and innovation. Practical implications – SC Kansas WIRED Leadership team used the SNA to identify opportunities for further col...
Simazine: Degradation by Corn Seedlings

The herbicide 2-chloro-4,6-bis(ethylamino)-s-triazine (simazine) is converted to 2-hydroxy-4,6-bis(ethylamino)-s-triazine (hydroxysimazine) in vivo by corn seedlings and in vitro by corn extracts. Hydroxysimazine is considered to be a detoxified form of the herbicide. In vitro conversion was produced by reacting simazine with either a cyclic hydroxamate (2,4-dihydroxy-3-keto-7-methoxy-1,4-benzoxazine) or its glucoside. The latter compounds may mediate at least some of the in vivo conversion in corn.
New directions in eHealth communication: Opportunities and challenges

Abstract Objective This article reviews key communication issues involved in the design of effective and humane eHealth applications to help guide strategic development and implementation of health information technologies. Background There is a communication revolution brewing in the delivery of health care and the promotion of health fueled by the growth of powerful new health information technologies. Conclusion The development, adoption, and implementation of a broad range of new eHealth applications (such as online health information websites, interactive electronic health records, health decision support programs, tailored health education programs, health care system portals, mobile health communication programs, and advanced telehealth applications) holds tremendous promise to increase consumer and provider access to relevant health information, enhance the quality of care, reduce health care errors, increase collaboration, and encourage the adoption of healthy behaviors. Practice implications With the growth of new and exciting health information technology opportunities, however, comes the daunting responsibility to design interoperable, easy to use, engaging, and accessible eHealth applications that communicate the right information needed to guide health care and health promotion for diverse audiences.
Gap Formation in Transpatellar Patellar Tendon Repair Pretensioning Krackow Sutures Versus Standard Repair in a Cadaver Model

Background: Postfixation loosening within the Krackow stitch—tendon construct may be associated with gap formation in patellar tendon repair.Hypothesis: Pretensioning the Krackow stitch—tendon construct decreases postfixation gap formation in transpatellar patellar tendon repair.Study Design: Controlled laboratory study.Methods: Patellar tendon rupture was simulated in 8 pairs of cadaveric knees. Standard manual traction was used in all specimens to remove Krackow stitch slack. In the experimental group, specimens were pretensioned with a simulated active concentric quadriceps contraction with cycling of the knee 10 times from 90° to 5° of flexion. All specimens were then cycled at 0.25 Hz from 90° to 5° for 1000 cycles until failure, which was defined as 3 or 5 mm of gap formation.Results: A 3-mm gap occurred at 1 cycle (mean, 3.5 mm) and 35 cycles (4.0 mm) in the control and experimental groups, respectively. Gapping of 5 mm occurred at 35 (5.9 mm) and 100 cycles (5.0 mm) in the control and experimental...
TRACE AUTOSHAPING: ACQUISITION, MAINTENANCE, AND PATH DEPENDENCE AT LONG TRACE INTERVALS

The pigeon's tendency to acquire and maintain signal-directed key pecking under a trace conditioning procedure was parametrically examined. In Experiment 1, the percentage of CS trials with a key peck response was a decreasing function of the trace interval for separate groups of pigeons. The majority of subjects acquired signal-directed key pecking with trace intervals as long as 36 sec. In Experiment 2, differential maintenance of key pecking occurred across trace intervals in a within-subject procedure. Maintenance of key pecking at 36- and 60-sec trace intervals was path dependent in that responding depended on the subject's performance under the preceding trace interval.
Endocrine mechanisms mediating temperature-induced reproductive behavior in red-sided garter snakes (Thamnophis sirtalis parietalis).

SUMMARY We investigated the mechanisms by which temperature induces seasonal reproductive behavior in red-sided garter snakes ( Thamnophis sirtalis parietalis ). Specifically, we addressed whether elevated temperatures during winter dormancy influence (1) diel melatonin and corticosterone rhythms; (2) sex steroid hormone and corticosterone profiles; and (3) the expression of reproductive behavior following emergence. Elevated hibernation temperatures (i.e. 10°C versus 5°C) significantly increased overall melatonin and decreased corticosterone concentrations of snakes. The temperature-induced differences in melatonin rhythms between the 5°C and 10°C treatment groups persisted even after both groups were again acclimated to 10°C, indicating that cold temperature exposure has a lasting influence on melatonin rhythms. Elevated hibernation temperatures also significantly altered androgen and corticosterone profiles of snakes, providing a potential mechanism to explain reported annual variation in steroid hormones. Although previous studies indicate that male red-sided garter snakes exhibit a dissociated reproductive strategy, we demonstrate the presence of intersexual variation in sex steroid hormone profiles, as estradiol concentrations of female snakes increased significantly prior to spring mating activity. Importantly, the percentage change in body mass did not differ significantly between snakes in the hibernation treatments, indicating that the observed changes in hormone profiles are indeed temperature induced and not simply an indirect result of significant changes in the energy balance of snakes. Finally, in males maintained at 10°C during winter dormancy the onset of courtship behavior following emergence was delayed. Our results suggest that environmental temperatures induce reproductive behavior, in part, via changes in diel melatonin and/or corticosterone rhythms in this seasonally breeding reptile.